Fezz MM-MC Evolution Gratia Prestige User Manual
- June 10, 2024
- fezz
Table of Contents
Fezz MM-MC Evolution Gratia Prestige
TECHNICAL DATA
Type: Vacuum tube phono stage
Model: Gratia Prestige, Line: Evolution
Tubes type: 2x ECC82/12AU7
AC supply: Stabilized + toroidal Supreme Audio Grade transformer by Toroidy.pl
Gain MM/MC: 42 dB / 60 dB
Nominal output level: 0,5 V
Input sensitivity MM/MC: 0,5 mV / 4 mV
Total harmonic distortion: <0,1%
Stereo crosstalk MM/MC: >88 dB / >82 dB
Signal-noise ratio MM/MC: >90dB / >86dB
Power consumption: 20W
Net weight 8 kg
Dimensions 355x380x95mm
SAFETY TIPS
To obtain the highest possible sound reproduction quality and for the sake of your own safety, please kindly refer to the following.
- Never place the preamplifier near heat sources, such as radiators, heaters or direct sunlight. Ensure adequate ventilation and airflow
- We also warn against exposure of the preamplifier to conditions such as very low temperatures and/or high humidity.
- The preamplifier should be plugged directly into a wall socket. If you must use an extension cord, please make sure that it has load parameters sufficient to ensure proper handling of current delivery to the device.
- When cleaning, always disconnect the preamplifier from the power source. Use a dry, soft cloth. Do not use water or cleaning agents.
- If your preamplifier starts to misbehave or to work incorrectly, if it’s temperature gets too high or you start feeling smoke – immediately disconnect the device from the mains.
- Due to the risk of exposure to high voltages – please do not open the lid of the preamplifier. ATTENTION: This warning remains in force also in a situation where the device is already disconnected from the wall outlet.
- Always replace fuses following the original, intended specification.
- Do not make repairs on your own, or adjustments beyond those as described in this manual. Execution of any unauthorized repairs or modifications of the device results in a loss of warranty.
INTRODUCTION
Completely rebuilt, vacuum tube version of Fezz Gratia phono stage. The step signal amplification section is based on well known operational amplifier – Burson Supreme Sound Opamp V5i and two low-noise 12AU7 vacuum tubes. The special design power supply is based on the Supreme Audio Toroidy.pl transformer. Thanks to the easily accessible vacuum tubes, located under the sliding glass on the top panel, the unit allows creating and adjusting sound tone according to your own taste. It`s brilliant dynamics, improved bass response and greater resolution of details make Gratia Prestige an undeniable upgrade compared to the previous model. The distinct character of vacuum tubes reveals a unique flavor to your audio, elevating your listening sessions to a level of sophistication that is synonymous with our brand.
INSTALLATION
UNPACKING
Please kindly check if the packaging of the Gratia Prestige phono stage has
not been damaged during transit. If you find any damages, please immediately
contact your dealer. Remove the preamplifier and accessories from the
packaging. Make sure that the content is not damaged.
- Do not connect the device to the power supply if it has visible signs of damage on it. Please do not dispose the original packaging, so as to facilitate possible shipment of the device in the future.
CONTENTS OF THE PACKAGE
Package contains:
- Gratia Prestige vacuum tube phono stage
- Power cord
- User`s manual
- If any of the above items are missing in your package, contact your dealer.
INTERCONNECTIONS
- Main fuse
- Power switch
- Voltage selector
- Ground loop switch 5 Audio output
- MM source input
- MC source input
- IEC power socket
- Mono/stereo switch 10 Gain low/high switch 11 Subsonic filter
- MM / MC selector
- Grounding
The figures above show the rear panel view of the Fezz Gratia Prestige phono stage.
- To avoid electrostatic shock to the components of your audio system, please touch a grounded conductive surface before making any connections. All connections must be made whilst the device is disconnected from the mains power supply. Before making any such connections, make sure that the amplifier is switched off.
- Follow the instructions below to connect your sound system correctly.
STEP 1 INTERCONNECTIONS
Connect the record player equipped with MM/MC HO cartridge to the MM INPUT of the phono stage. If your record player is equipped with an MC cartridge, connect the signal wire to the MC INPUT of the phono stage. Connect the earthing wire to the screw terminal GND in the phono stage. Connect the OUTPUT of the phono stage to a line input (AUX, CD, Tuner, Tape, or Video) on your amplifier. Make sure that the amplifier is switched off. Connect the power cord to the IEC socket on the rear panel of the phono stage.
Gratia phono stage is equipped with a subsonic filter – you can use it to reduce or eliminate rumble caused by vinyl imperfections
- Mono/Stereo mode switch
- Audio ground loop switch
STEP 2 / POWER CORD CONNECTION
Make sure that the device is switched off. Connect the power cord to the IEC
socket on the rear panel of the device. The Gratia Prestige is designed to
operate at a rated switchable voltage of ~115-120 V or ~230-240 V 50-60Hz.
Please check the parameters of your mains network, if needed switch to the
right voltage using the switch at the back. Please ensure that you have
installed a suitable fuse for the desired voltage. Connecting the device to a
mains network with incorrect parameters can lead to damage that is not covered
by the manufacturer’s warranty.
GET TING STARTED
Make sure all cables are connected as described above. Select the signal source using the selector located on the front panel of the amplifier. Set the volume knob to a minimum. Power on the Gratia preamplifier. Make sure the turntable is turned on and gradually increase the volume with the volume knob at your amplifier. Please choose optimal settings at the preamplifier that suit to your phono cartridge.
VACUUM TUBE REPLACEMENT
Power down the equipment and unplug it from the electrical outlet. This step is crucial to prevent electric shock or damage to the device. Vacuum tubes can become very hot during operation. Allow sufficient time for the tubes to cool down before attempting to handle them. Fezz Gratia Prestige is equipped with two 12AU7/ECC82 vacuum tubes. You can easily change the tubes by gently pushing and moving the sideway plexiglass window at the top of the device. You can move it to the left or right side. Carefully remove the vacuum tube from its socket. Take the replacement tube and align the pins with the socket. Gently push the tube into the socket, ensuring that each pin goes into its corresponding hole. Carefully double-check all connections to ensure that the new tube is properly seated in the socket and that none of the pins are bent or misaligned. Once you’ve replaced the tubes and confirmed all connections, close the plexiglass window, power up the equipment, and check for proper operation. If there are any issues, double-check the tube placement and connections.
TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE
If your preamplifier does not work as it is supposed to, it is fairly easy to diagnose and remedy some of the common malfunctions,
| THE PROBLEM | PROBABLE REASON | SOLUTION |
|---|
After turning the power switch to the ON position, the amplifier does not switch on.| A blown fuse| Please exchange to faulty fuse for a new one (T0,8 A for 230-240V / T1,6 A for115V-120V),
within the fuse holder as depicted with index 2 on
page 4 of this user’s manual.
An improper connection of the mains cable| Please check if the plugs of the mains cable are properly inserted into the electrical mains socket and to the socket as depicted with index 11 on page 4 of this user’s manual.