OWNER’ S MANUAL

THE SONIC FRONTI ERS SFL-2 PREAMPL IFIER AND POWER SUPPLY
 A B C D E F G H I J

K L M

OPERATION, CONNECTIONS AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

A- Power Input Socket - Plug the Preamplifier Power Cord (M) from H- RCA Single-Ended Compact Disc Input - This input accepts a
the Power Supply into this socket. Simply align the plug and socket so single-ended input connection from a compact disc player or a digital
the plug inserts easily and freely when pushing the connection together. -to-analog processor such as our SFD-1 or SFD-2.
Screw on locking ring allowing it to “click” to secure the connection I- Direct RCA Single-Ended Input - This input accepts a single-
(see Figure 1). ended input connection from any source to achieve the highest possi-
B- Sets 1 & 2 of the XLR Balanced Outputs - These outputs are ble sonic performance, bypassing the Balance Control (Q) and the
balanced and should be used when connecting outputs to another Record/Off Switch (O).
balanced unit. These two outputs allow for easier biamping and J- Direct XLR Balanced Input - This input accepts a balanced
greater flexibility when dealing with components such as electronic input connection from any source to achieve the highest possible sonic
crossovers, etc. As with all outputs and inputs on this Preamplifier the performance, bypassing the Balance Control (Q) and the Record/Off
left channel is situated on the upper row of connectors and the right Switch (O).
channel is on the lower row. K- Detachable Power Cord Socket - Plug the Power Supply’s
C- Sets 1 & 2 of the RCA Single-Ended Outputs - These unbal- Detachable Power Cord into this socket (see Figure 2). The SFL-2 is
anced outputs are single ended and should be used when connecting factory set for the correct operating voltage for the area in which it is
the outputs to another single-ended unit. These two outputs, as with the sold (see shipping box for voltage setting). If a different operating volt-
XLR outputs (B), allow for easier biamping and greater system flexibility. age is required, please contact an authorized Sonic Frontiers dealer,
D- RCA Single-Ended Tape Output - These outputs connect to the distributor or the factory directly.
inputs of a tape deck. When not recording these outputs should be L- AC Line Fuses - These are the left and right channel AC fuses. They
muted via the Record/Off Switch (O). may be accessed with a small slot screwdriver by turning a 1/2 turn
E- RCA Single-Ended Auxiliary Input - This input will accept a counterclockwise to unlock a spring that ejects the fuse holders out.
single-ended input connection from a high-level source such as a The unit is factory installed with “fast-blo” 1.5 Amp 250V (0.25” x
VCR or a step-up device for a moving coil or moving magnet phono 1.25”) or 0.75 Amp 250V (0.25” x 1.25”) for European
cartridge such as our SFP-1or SFP-1 Signature Phono Stage. and Asian versions.
F- RCA Single-Ended Tape Input - This input accepts a single- M-Power Supply Umbilical Cord - This Umbilical Cord exits the
ended input connection from a tape source. Power Supply to plug into the Power Input Socket (A) on the SFL-2
G- RCA Single-Ended Tuner Input - This input accepts a single- Preamplifier (see Figure 1 for connection). It does not disconnect from
ended input connection from a tuner source. the Power Supply.
 N O P Q R S T

U V W X

N- Selector Switch - This knob is turned to select an input (E) through (J). U- Operate/Standby Switch - When this toggle switch is in the
O- Record/Off Switch - This toggle switch turns the outputs off and operate position and the Power Supply Switch (X) is on, the
prevents the main preamp outputs from being loaded down by the Preamplifier is fully functional. In the standby “resting” mode, power is
non-linear load of most tape decks when the record functions are not still supplied to the tube filaments, but the high voltage power supplies
in use. To record, move the switch to the record position and wait a are disconnected from the audio circuitry.
short delay (5 seconds) for the protective muting function to clear and V- LED Power Supply - This LED lights when the Power Supply is on.
connect the tape outputs. W-LED Preamplifier - This LED lights when the Preamplifier is on
P- 180°/0° Switch - This toggle switch allows the user to invert the and flashes during warmup, muting, or low voltage from the A.C.
system phasing easily and safely. Depending upon the methods used power source.
in producing the recording, the user may prefer listening to a given X- On/Off Switch - In the “on” position, this toggle turns the
recording in either phase position - let your ears be your guide. Power Supply on. In the “off” position, the Power Supply and
Q- Balance Control - This knob controls the relative balance of the left Preamplifier are off.
and right channels to compensate for any discrepancies caused by Note: Be sure the Power Supply Umbilical Cord (M) that is attached
speaker placement, source imbalance, etc. to the Power Supply chassis is plugged into the Preamplifier chassis
R- Mute/Operate Switch - In the mute position, this toggle switch before the On/Off Switch (X) is turned on. Failure to do this may
cuts off the signal to the SFL-2 outputs (Band C); the LED (W) flashes as cause damage to the SFL-2.
a reminder. In the operate mode, the outputs are connected.
S- -1.5 dB/0 dB Switch - This toggle allows for greater volume
control over the 23-step/3 dB per step Volume Attenuator (T). In the
-1.5 dB position the volume level will be reduced by 1.5 dB. This fea-
ture provides the attenuator with a total of 46 discrete steps, allowing
the user a wide, precise volume control range.
T- 23-Step Precision Balanced Volume Attenuator Control -
This knob controls the balanced attenuator. The attenuator is manufac-
tured with a ladder of precision metal film resistors that give precise
control over left and right channel levels in 3 dB steps over 23 posi-
tions. Turn it clockwise and the music gets louder!
 A
M
WARNING
DO NOT ADJUST the controls represented in the shaded box
shown in Figure 3 below. These controls have been factory set
for the optimum performance (both sonically and electrically) of
the SFL-2 Preamplifier. Do not adjust these controls - doing so
will degrade the performance of the SFL-2. They may only be
Figure 1 - Align pins in receptacle (A) to pin holes in connector (M), adjusted using specialized test equipment that only authorized
align notches to ridges and push together. Turn locking ring clockwise until service depots, distributors or the Sonic Frontiers factory have
it “clicks” indicating it is locked. for this purpose.

Figure 2 - Align socket pins to corresponding holes and push together.

Top view of tube socket order

( Front (faceplate) of the SFL-2 )

Note the larger space

between two of the pins and
holes for proper alignment Figure 3 - Tube and tube socket order.
of tube and socket.

WARNING
Figure 4 - Tube pin alignment with the socket. DISCONNECT the AC Detachable Power Cord from
the SFL-2 Power Supply before removing the Preamplifier
chassis cover.
INSERTION OF THE TUBES REPLACEMENT OF THE TUBES
The SFL-2 comes with eight 6922 (6DJ8-type) tubes, individual- Sonic Frontiers strongly discourages non-factory replacement of
ly boxed and bagged along with a cotton glove, allen key, the tubes. The eight 6922 (6DJ8-type) tubes are measured,
PearlTM Tube Coolers and screws for fastening the SFL-2 cover. selected, and matched in balanced pairs - channel to channel
and triode section to triode section - for optimum performance.
Please read and follow these instructions carefully. Great care
was taken in the testing, selection and matching of the supplied If replacement tubes are needed or desired, contact Sonic
tubes in order to ensure proper operation of the unit. Failure to Frontiers for assistance.
follow these instructions will cause the SFL-2 Preamplifier to
suffer in performance and sound quality.
SFL-2 PREAMPLIFIER AND
1. Be sure that the AC Detachable Power Cord is disconnected POWER SUPPLY PLACEMENT
from the SFL-2 Power Supply before removing the Preamplifier Under no circumstance should the SFL-2 Power Supply be
chassis cover. placed directly on top of the SFL-2 Preamplifier. This will not
allow adequate ventilation, and overheating will result.
2. Using the allen key, remove the cover of the SFL-2
Preamplifier. For convenience, there will be only two screws The units may be stacked if the Preamplifier is situated on top
holding it in place. of the Power Supply. A better arrangement would be to place
the units side by side or on separate shelves and free from
3. When handling the tubes, it is recommended the cotton obstruction which may inhibit adequate ventilation.
gloves provided be worn to prevent skin oils from depositing
on the glass surface and possibly causing the tube to become Allow at least 6” (15 cm) of clear space above the
prematurely “gassy”, thereby shortening the tube’s useful oper- Preamplifier chassis for proper ventilation.
ating life.

4. Inspect the tubes for code markings. They will be coded TROUBLE SHOOTING
individually, each with one of the following codes: LV1, LV2, If the SFL-2 Preamplifier is not producing sound, please check
LV3, LV4, V1, V2, V3 and V4. each of the following:

5. Inspect the tube sockets in the SFL-2 Preamplifier for the 1. Check that the AC Detachable Power Cord is plugged into
codes matching the codes on the tubes. The coding is printed the SFL-2 Power Supply’s Detachable Power Cord Socket (K)
on the PCB circuit board beside the tube sockets. See Figure 3 and is connected to a live source of AC power. For instance, if
for further clarification. using a power bar, check that the bar is turned on.

6. Take the LV1 tube and inspect the pins noting the larger 2. Be sure that the Operate/Standby Switch (U) on the Power
space between two of the pins. This space will align with the Supply chassis is in the “up” (operate) position.
same larger space between two of the pin holes on the socket.
Insert the LV1 tube into the LV1 tube socket, making sure all 3. Check that the proper input has been selected with the
pins and pin holes are aligned (see Figure 4). Do not force the Selector Switch (N) on the Preamplifier chassis.
tube into the socket. Rock the tube gently while pushing slowly
until the tube is firmly seated. Repeat this step for the remaining 4. Ensure that the Mute/Operate Switch (R) is in the “down”
tubes, LV2 tube to the LV2 tube socket, LV3 tube to the LV3 (operate) position.
tube socket, LV4 tube to the LV4 tube socket, V1 tube to the V1
tube socket, V2 tube to the V2 tube socket, V3 tube to the V3 5. Check that both AC Line Fuses (L) at the rear of the Power
tube socket and V4 tube to the V4 tube socket. Supply chassis are good. Be sure to first unplug the AC
Detachable Power Cord from the Power Supply.
7. Install the supplied PearlTM Tube coolers over each tube,
keeping the bottom edge of the cooler away from the top sur- 6. Check to be sure that all eight 6922 tubes are correctly and
face of the socket. Next, install the supplied rubber “O”-rings - firmly seated in their tube sockets and that all nine contact pins
2 rings per cooler, evenly spaced at 1/3 from the bottom and are inserted in each socket (i.e. no pins are bent over). Verify
1/3 from the top to clamp the cooler firmly around the tube. that an orange glow is visible from inside of each tube when
the unit is on.
8. Replace the cover and fasten it with the screws provided.
The SFL-2 Preamplifier is now ready for operation. 7. If you are still experiencing any difficulty with your SFL-2
Preamplifier, contact your dealer or distributor for assistance.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS LIMITED FIVE YEAR WARRANTY
1. Ventilation - Although your SFL-2 Preamplifier generates only Sonic Frontiers, Inc. warrants to the purchaser that each SFL-2
nominal heat in use, be sure that the ventilation slots in the top Preamplifier and Power Supply is free of manufacturing defects
cover have at least 6” of unobstructed air space above them. for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase. This
five (5) year limited non-transferable warranty excludes all vacu-
2. Water and Moisture - This product should not be used near um tubes, which we warrant for a period of twelve (12)
water. Do not expose this product to rain or moisture to prevent months. To receive this warranty, the original purchaser must
fire or shock hazard. complete and mail to Sonic Frontiers, within thirty (30) days
from the date of purchase, the enclosed Warranty Registration
3. Heat - This product should be situated away from heat Form. Sonic Frontiers, Inc. will then validate the warranty to the
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appli- original purchaser. This warranty is subject to the following
ances which produce heat. conditions and limitations:

4. Power Sources - This product should be connected to an AC 1. Warranty applies only to the original purchaser.
power source of the proper rated voltage. The original ship-
ping containers will stipulate the AC voltage this unit can oper- 2. This warranty is void and inapplicable if the product has
ate with correctly. been handled other than in accordance with the instructions in
this Owner’s Manual, abused or misused, damaged by acci-
5. Cleaning - A regular dusting with a soft, non-abrasive cloth dent or neglect or in being transported, or the defect is due to
will generally keep the finish of the faceplate and chassis look- the product being tampered with, modified or repaired by any-
ing like new. At no time should you allow any liquid to come in one other than Sonic Frontiers, Inc. or an authorized Sonic
contact with the SFL-2 Preamplifier and Power Supply; it may Frontiers repair depot.
run into the electronic circuitry and cause damage which will
not be covered under your warranty. 3. Warranty does not cover normal maintenance.

6. Servicing - Do not open this product. No user serviceable 4. Sonic Frontiers, Inc. shall not be responsible in any way for
parts inside. Refer servicing to an authorized service technician. consequential or indirect damages or liabilities resulting from
the use and operation of the product covered herein or result-
7. Non-Use Periods - The power cord of this product should be ing from any breach of this warranty or any implied warranty
unplugged from the outlet when left unused for an extended relating to said product.
period of time.
During this period, Sonic Frontiers, Inc. will repair or replace
8. Do not remove Preamplifier or Power Supply covers while any defective components free of charge. A Return Authoriza-
unit is “on”, in “standby” or connected to an AC power source. tion Number (RAN) is required before any product is returned
Cover screws could fall through ventilation slots which may to our factory for any reason. This number must be visible on
cause damage (electrical shorts) to the SFL-2. the exterior of the shipping container(s) for Sonic Frontiers to
accept the return.

PACKING MATERIALS Units shipped to us without a Return Authorization Number or

We recommend that you retain all of the packing material and without a visible RAN on the exterior of the shipping contain-
shipping boxes for your SFL-2 Preamplifier and Power Supply. er(s) will be returned to the sender, freight collect.
They are custom designed to prevent shipping damage from
occurring. Sonic Frontiers, Inc. will accept no responsibility for Units to be repaired by Sonic Frontiers, Inc. must be sent ship-
any damage occurring to an SFL-2 Preamplifier and Power ping and insurance prepaid by the original purchaser in the
Supply that is shipped in packing material other than the origi- original packing material. A returned product should be accom-
nal Sonic Frontiers packing material. panied by a written description of the defect. Repaired units
will be returned by Sonic Frontiers, Inc. shipping and insurance
prepaid.
DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
Under no circumstances does Sonic Frontiers, Inc. assume lia- All other warranties or conditions either written or implied
bility or responsibility for injury or damages sustained in the use are void.
or operation of this equipment or for damages to any other
equipment connected to it. Note: In foreign markets (anywhere outside of Canada and the
USA), the warranty is supplied by the authorized International
Sonic Frontiers, Inc. reserves the right to make design changes Distributor. Exact terms and conditions may vary.
or improvements without the obligation to revise prior versions.
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Frequency Response 2 Hz to 100 kHz ±0.5 dB

(100K load) > 350 kHz -3.0 dB

THD & N < 0.1% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz

(@ 1 V output) typically < 0.03% @ 1 kHz

Gain 22 dB @ 1 kHz (single-ended)

28 dB @ 1 kHz (balanced)

Noise 120 uV unweighted (balanced outputs,

volume control @ 12 o’clock)
-85 dB below @ 2 Volt R.M.S. output

SMPTE (IMD) < 0.05%, typically 0.03% (balanced)

@ 2 V output

Input Impedance 50 K ohms (single-ended)

100 K ohms (balanced)

Output Impedance 160 ohms @ 1 kHz (single-ended)

320 ohms @ 1 kHz (balanced)
Minimum Recommended Load Impedance 10 K ohms

Output Voltage Maximum 30 V R.M.S. (single-ended)

(100K/100pf & Maximum 60 V R.M.S. (balanced)
10K/1000pf loads)

Maximum Input 2.5 V R.M.S. (Volume control fully clockwise)

Stereo Separation 70 dB @ 1 kHz (single-ended)

(Crosstalk) 75 dB @ 1 kHz (balanced)

Power Requirements 135 VA (75 VA in standby mode) 50/60 Hz

1.1 Amps @ 120 V A.C.

Fuse Requirements (2) 1.5 Amp 250 V fast-blo This symbol is intended to alert the
(100 V to 120 V Countries) user to the presence of uninsulated
0.75 Amp 250 V fast-blo “dangerous voltage” within the
(200 V to 240 V Countries) product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
Tube Complement 8 - 6922 (6DJ8 types)

Dimensions 19” Wide x 13” Deep x 4.5” High

(each chassis) (48 cm x 33 cm x 11.5 cm)
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
Weight 55 lbs (25 kg) - unpacked
operating and maintenance (servicing)
62 lbs (28 kg) - factory packed
instructions in the literature accompany-
ing the appliance.
NOTE: All measurements performed with an Audio Precision System One test center.
We at Sonic Frontiers are sure that you will derive many years of
listening pleasure with your new SFL-2 Preamplifier and Power
Supply. This Owner’s Manual contains important information
regarding the operation and care of the SFL-2. Be sure to read
this manual carefully and follow these instructions in order to
keep it looking, operating and sounding its best.

2790 Brighton Road, Oakville, Ontario, Canada, L6H 5T4 Telephone: (905) 829-3838 Facsimile: (905) 829-3033
Sonic Frontiers can be reached from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, or 24 hours a day by facsimile.