Leema-acoustics Pyxis Manual - page 8
PYXIS
8
Connecting LIPS
LIPS stands for “Leema Intelligent Protocol system”. This is an open architecture (I.e. the architecture is published to
enable third party suppliers to support it) communication stream that connects the control processors in each unit and
passes information between them, allowing for a high degree of control sophistication. A degree of intelligence is
instilled into each unit enabling the devices to make informed decisions based on user requirements and or system
configuration. For example, in a multi-channel system the components ‘know’ which of them is required for normal
stereo material and which are required for multi-channel playback. When the user switches between input formats, the
units and power amps respond by powering up or down as required. In this way, the system is made much easier to
use and valuable energy is not wasted powering units that are not required for the current mode. Pyxis adds consider-
ably to the versatility of the LIPS concept and can control other LIPS enabled units. Thus enabling the majority of the
system to be hidden away if required.
There are two types of physical connection for the LIPS system. LIPS1 uses simple 3.5mm jack cables for local units while
LIPS2 uses balanced XLR-5 cables for connections to power amplifiers at greater distances.
The audio units, Antila, Pyxis, Corvus and so on, are connected in a daisy chain fashion using simple 3.5mm jack
cables. When the Pyxis is powered on, the other units in the chain receive instructions as to which input has been
selected, which units also need to switch themselves on and what the current volume setting is etc.
The LIPS language is designed to encompass the requirements of other Leema devices as they become available. For
instance, simply switching on the Leema Antila CD player will cause the Pyxis to switch out of stand-by and automati-
cally select it's CD input ready to play.
Connecting LIPS
The LIPS1cables are directional and must be connected the right way round for the system to operate. No harm will be
done if cables are connected the wrong way round, the system will simply not work correctly. The black plug is inserted
in to the sending unit and the red plug in to the receiving unit. The chain will normally be:
Pyxis > Hydra(s) > Optional Accessories.
If you have purchased Leema Altair power amplifiers the LIPS connection to these will be made using LIPS2 XLR-5
cables.
Only one Pyxis is allowed in the system and the chain normally starts here unless a Leema player and/or home automa-
tion controller is to be installed. In these cases, the order would be:
Controller > Player > Pyxis > Accessories
Multi-channel installations can become quite complex and are best performed by a Leema dealer.
LIPS2
LIPS2 is a fully balanced version specifically designed for robust communication. IT uses locking connectors and a
balanced line driver to ensure control signal integrity over distances of up to 500 meters
BI-AMPING
What is Bi-Amping?
Bi-amping, literally meaning two amplifiers, is a connection method where a different amplifier is used to drive each
section of a two-way loudspeaker system. One amplifier drives the woofer and the other drives the tweeter. The advan-
tage of this configuration, is that the loudspeaker section only draws power from the amplifier within a limited band of
frequencies, i.e., the tweeter section will only draw power from around 1 to 3KHz upwards. Below this frequency, no
power is drawn and so the amplifier has a much easier time. Similarly, the woofer section will only draw power from low
frequencies up to around 1 to 3KHz. The result is a reduction in distortion caused by the interaction of these two
frequency bands called ‘inter-modulation distortion’. The improvement is perceived as increased ‘sweetness’ and
transparency in the midband and treble. Imaging may also be improved.
The loudspeakers must be suitable for bi-amping, this is normally the case where there are two pairs of binding post
connections available on the rear of the loudspeaker cabinets. When bi-amping, it is Vital to remove the bridging links
from the connection panel on the rear of the speakers, otherwise the outputs of the two stereo amplifiers will be