Leema-acoustics Pyxis Manual - page 12
PYXIS
12
Analogue Connections
The AV DIRECT input is provided for those people using a dedicated external multi-channel processor equipped with a
volume control over its outputs. Sources with fixed output levels such as CD and DVD players MUST NOT be connected
here. When AV is selected, the volume setting defaults to a low level and then slowly rises to a pre-set unity gain point. If
further Leema units such as a Corvus centre channel amplifier and bass manager and Hydra or Altair power amplifiers
are connected via LIPS to the Pyxis then the volume setting of all units will follow that of the Pyxis.
Selecting another input on the Pyxis then re-selecting the AV-DIRECT input will reset the unity gain point.
For a more detailed description of how to connect the system in AV Direct mode please refer to the Corvus handbook.
TAPE IN
The Pyxis TAPE input should be connected directly to the analogue outputs (usually marked left/right and colour coded
white/red) of a recording device such as a tape machine or PC audio card.
DO NOT connect any available digital outputs from the source player to the input terminals of the Pyxis since damage
to the loudspeakers is likely to occur.
Output Connections
TAPE OUT
Any input selection other than TAPE will automatically be fed to the tape record outputs. The Pyxis volume control has
no effect on the record output level. When TAPE is selected as the pre-amplifier source the tape record output feed is
disconnected to prevent feedback. The tape input and record loop are also suitable for other recording formats, for
example MP3 devices, mini disk recorders, CD-R disk recorders or DVD-Recorders
LIPS / VARIABLE Push Switch
Variable = switch protruding = variable PREAMP OUTPUT gain
LIPS = switch pressed in = PREAMP OUTPUT gain is fixed
Pyxis operates in conjunction with gain control elements in one of two modes. By default, volume control adjusts the
internal gain control. I.e. the pre-amplifier outputs are variable. However, in order to maintain optimal signal-to-noise
performance, resolution and dynamic range it is desirable to maintain full line level to the power amplifier(s). Leema
Acoustics power amplifiers such as Hydra and Altair feature precision gain adjustment, remote controlled via LIPS.
When Pyxis is used in conjunction with these power amplifiers, although the user interface is the same, I.e. turning the
gain knob on Pyxis varies the level, the signal sent from the pre-amplifier is always at optimum (full) level. In this case the
actual gain control takes place in the power amplifier(s). Balance control is achieved in the same way.
Volume and balance control are system wide. Balance does not affect the record outputs. The gain (not VOLUME)
adjustment setting is applied to to the record out in both fixed and variable listen output modes.