4
HK 990
Introduction
Congratulations
on your choice of the Harman Kardon
®
HK 990 Integrated Amplifier.
In order to obtain the best performance from this integrated amplifier, please be sure to
read this owner’s manual and use your integrated amplifier only in accordance with its
instructions.
In terms of raw power, the HK 990 is the most muscular amplifier ever to carry the
Harman Kardon name, more than capable of driving the most demanding loudspeaker
loads without breaking a sweat. But the HK 990’s awesome power is nothing if not highly
refined, extending beyond watts and amps. With a choice of discrete optical or coaxial
inputs or an analog-only signal path, as well as fourth-generation Real-Time Linear
Smoothing (RLS IV), 2.2-channel EzSet / EQ
™
room optimization, dual subwoofer outputs
and an audiophile-quality phono preamp section, the HK 990 offers a combination of
features you will find irresistible. Others, of course, may simply hunger for all that power.
We understand completely.
The special features of this unit include:
High-current capability to provide the instantaneous current necessary to drive and •
control nearly any loudspeaker system precisely
Ultrawide-bandwidth amplifier design for improved transient accuracy and phase •
linearity
Low negative feedback for further improved dynamic accuracy •
Use of discrete electronic circuitry to provide the highest performance level •
Dual-path technology for pure analog or pure digital audio processing within the same •
product
EzSet / EQ room optimization for quick and accurate system setup, optimized for two •
channels and two subwoofers
Symmetric (balanced) XLR analog inputs for lower noise levels and higher signal-to- •
noise performance
RLS IV digital-to-analog conversion technology, with dual conversion using two stereo •
AD1955 high-grade DACs in dual mono configuration
HRS link for Harman Kardon CD players to lock themselves to the external clock of •
the amplifier for a jitter-free connection, similar to having CD playback inside the
amplifier
Dual differential input stages with their own high-voltage supply, resulting in high gain •
and low noise as well as high channel separation
Cascoded predriver stage to reduce high-frequency distortion, allowing crystal-clear •
high frequencies, free from any harsh sound
Thermal Tracking Mechanism using ThermalTrak •
™
output stage transistors that include
internal temperature sensors to bias the current of the output stage in real time
Sophisticated electronic-protection circuitry to guard the amplifier from short-circuit •
or from damaged speakers and wires, without impairing sound quality, by using
current limiting or output relays
DC servo to ensure that the DC level of the amplifier output will stay within a specified •
limit at any condition
Multiple protection circuits to switch the amplifier off in case overcurrent, overvoltage, •
overtemperature or DC protection is detected
Dual toroidal transformers and up to 15,000µF of supply filtering per channel for high •
channel separation and tight bass control, even with low-impedance loads
Dual-line dot-matrix display •
Record out available in both digital and analog domains (two analog outputs and one •
coaxial digital output)
A/B speaker switching •
IR remote extension jacks for control of the amplifier when placed in a cabinet •
Harman Kardon system remote for control of compatible Harman Kardon CD players •
and tuners
Accessory List
Owner’s Manual •
Remote Control + 4 AAA batteries •
EzSet microphone •
Power cord •