JDS LABS ATOM AMP+ Headphone Amplifier Instruction Manual

: June 6, 2024
: JDS LABS

Table of Contents

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS | AMPLIFIERS
CONFIGURATION
Preamp-Output Functionality
Troubleshooting
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

JDS LABS ATOM AMP+ Headphone Amplifier

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS | AMPLIFIERS

STEP 01

Connect AC power adapter to rear power jack, then connect power adapter to wall outlet.

STEP 02

Connect a cable from your audio player to the RCA or 3.5mm input jack. Press the front `INPUT’ button to select 3.5mm input, or depress to select RCA.

STEP 03

Connect headphones to the front headphone output jack.

STEP 04

Turn the volume knob clockwise to power on.

STEP 05

Slowly raise the volume knob to an appropriate listening level. See listening tips on page 5.

CONFIGURATION

Connectivity

Atom Amp+ provides two inputs. Press the `INPUT’ button inward to listen via 3.5mm, or leave unpressed to listen via RCA input.

RCA Preamp Outputs are only active while headphones are unplugged. Make sure Atom Amp+ is set to low gain (unpressed = low gain, pressed = high gain) when using RCA output. The volume knob adjusts RCA output.

Maximum RCA Analog Input Level (High Gain):	2.10 VRMS (+8.6 dBU)
Maximum RCA Analog Input Level (Low Gain):	8.65 VRMS (+20.1 dBu)

Setting Gain

Press the gain button to toggle between low or high gain amplification. Always use the lowest gain necessary. When the button is in its unpressed, outward position, Atom Amp+ is set to low gain. Press the button inward to set high gain.

Switch to high gain only when you’re unable to achieve desired listening volume at low gain.

Source Safety

Atom Amp+ is DC coupled for maximum signal quality and requires an input source with < 4.5mV of DC offset for safe operation. All JDS Labs DACs and consumer audio sources are safe to use.

If you experience warm headphones, a loud pop when changing gain, or severe rustling sounds while adjusting volume, immediately power off and contact the manufacturer of your audio source to ensure DC offset is below 4mV.

Preamp-Output Functionality

HEADPHONES CONNECTED

HEADPHONES DISCONNECTED
The volume knob adjusts RCA preamp output. Use Low Gain. Be sure to reduce volume level before connecting headphones!

Inputs vs Outputs

Your audio sources connect to your amp’s input. These are common audio sources:

Your headphones or speakers connect to your amp’s output.

Listening Tips

Listen safely to conserve your hearing: www.hearingloss.org

Operating Care

Atom Amp+ uses a high current, linear power supply design and runs warm to the touch.
Do not turn knob beyond its limits or press buttons with excessive force.
To ensure an optimal noise floor, always position audio equipment as far away as possible from wireless devices.
Atom Amp+ can be safely powered on 24/7.
Use gentle force when inserting or removing cables.

Troubleshooting

Amplifier does not turn on
Cause: Disconnected, damaged, or incorrect power adapter.
Solution: Please ensure AC adapter is firmly connected to power jack and wall outlet.

Amplier does not turn off
Cause: On rare occasion, mechanical relays can stick.
Solution: Tap or knock top of enclosure with moderate force to disengage.

No sound, but light is on
Cause: Wrong input mode selected, or cable/source problem.
Solution: Input button must be depressed for RCA input, or pressed for 3.5mm input.

Audio plays in only one channel
Cause: Bad cable or adapter, or incorrect source setup.
Solution: Try another input cable, and headphones with a native 1/4″ connector.

For more help, please visit: www.jdslabs.com/troubleshooting

Power Adapters
ATTENTION: Incorrect power adapters can result in capacitor explosion hazards and device damage. Only use the power adapter included with your Atom Amp+: