Denon AVR-987 User Manual

AV SURROUND RECEIVER

AVR-987

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

I

2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PAR TS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

1. Read Instructions – All the safety and operating instructions should be
read before the product is operated.

2. Retain Instructions – The safety and operating instructions should be
retained for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings – All warnings on the product and in the operating
instructions should be adhered to.

4. Follow Instructions – All operating and use instructions should be
followed.

5. Cleaning – Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.

6. Attachments – Do not use attachments not recommended by the
product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

7. Water and Moisture – Do not use this product near water – for
example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in
a wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.

8. Accessories – Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury
to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with
a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the
manufacturer, or sold with the product. Any
mounting of the product should follow the
manufacturer’s instructions, and should use a
mounting accessory recommended by the
manufacturer.

9. A product and cart combination should be moved
with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and
uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart
combination to overturn.

10. Ventilation – Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for
ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to
protect it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked
or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the
product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product
should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or
rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s
instructions have been adhered to.

11. Power Sources – This product should be operated only from the type
of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of
the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer
or local power company. For products intended to operate from
battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.

12. Grounding or Polarization – This product may be equipped with a
polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade wider
than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way.
This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into
the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit,
contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat
the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

13. Power-Cord Protection – Power-supply cords should be routed so that
they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon
or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
product.

15. Outdoor Antenna Grounding – If an outside antenna or cable system
is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is
grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges
and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding
of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to
an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of
antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding electrode. See Figure A.

16. Lightning – For added protection for this product during a lightning
storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of
time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or
cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to
lightning and power-line surges.

17. Power Lines – An outside antenna system should not be located in
the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power
circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When
installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to
keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them
might be fatal.

18. Overloading – Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or
integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or
electric shock.

19. Object and Liquid Entry – Never push objects of any kind into this
product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage
points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

20. Servicing – Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening
or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other
hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

21. Damage Requiring Service – Unplug this product from the wall outlet
and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:
a) When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged,
b) If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product,
c) If the product has been exposed to rain or water,
d) If the product does not operate normally by following the operating

instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the
operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls
may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a

qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation,
e) If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way, and
f) When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this

indicates a need for service.

22. Replacement Parts – When replacement parts are required, be sure
the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the
manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other
hazards.

23. Safety Check – Upon completion of any service or repairs to this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to
determine that the product is in proper operating condition.

24. Wall or Ceiling Mounting – The product should be mounted to a wall
or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

25. Heat – The product should be situated away from heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

FIGURE A

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING

AS PER NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE

GROUND
CLAMP

ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT

ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

II

2 NOTE ON USE / OBSERVATIONS RELATIVES A L’UTILISATION

•Avoid high temperatures.
Allow for sufficient heat
dispersion when installed in a
rack.

• Eviter des températures
élevées.
Tenir compte d’une dispersion
de chaleur suffisante lors de
l’installation sur une étagère.

• Handle the power cord carefully.
Hold the plug when unplugging
the cord.

• Manipuler le cordon
d’alimentation avec
précaution.
Tenir la prise lors du
débranchement du cordon.

• Keep the apparatus free from
moisture, water, and dust.

•Protéger l’appareil contre
l’humidité, l’eau et la poussière.

• Unplug the power cord when
not using the apparatus for long
periods of time.

• Débrancher le cordon
d’alimentation lorsque l’appareil
n’est pas utilisé pendant de
longues périodes.

* (For apparatuses with ventilation holes)

• Do not obstruct the ventilation
holes.

• Ne pas obstruer les trous
d’aération.

• Do not let foreign objects into
the apparatus.

• Ne pas laisser des objets
étrangers dans l’appareil.

• Do not let insecticides,
benzene, and thinner come in
contact with the apparatus.

• Ne pas mettre en contact des
insecticides, du benzène et un
diluant avec l’appareil.

• Never disassemble or modify
the apparatus in any way.

• Ne jamais démonter ou modifier
l’appareil d’une manière ou
d’une autre.

FCC INFORMATION (For US customers)

1. PRODUCT

This product complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this product may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this product must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

2. IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS PRODUCT

This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained
in this manual, meets FCC requirements. Modification not expressly
approved by DENON may void your authority, granted by the FCC, to
use the product.

3. NOTE

This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation.
This product generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this product does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the product
OFF and ON, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the product into an outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the local retailer authorized to distribute this type of
product or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This Class B apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB­003 du Canada.

III

2

We greatly appreciate your purchase of the AVR-987.

2

To be sure you take maximum advantage of all the features the AVR-987 has to offer, read
these instructions carefully and use the set properly. Be sure to keep this manual for future
reference should any questions or problems arise.

“SERIAL NO.

PLEASE RECORD UNIT SERIAL NUMBER ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE CABINET FOR

FUTURE REFERENCE”

MEMO

1

Getting Started

Contents

Getting Started

Thank you for choosing the DENON AVR-987 AV Surround Receiver. This remarkable component has been engineered to provide
superb surround sound listening with home theater sources such as DVD, as well as providing outstanding high fidelity reproduction
of your favorite music sources.
As this product is provided with an immense array of features, we recommend that before you begin hookup and operation that you
review the contents of this manual before proceeding.

Accessories ··············································································3
Before using·············································································3
Cautions on installation ·························································3
About the remote control unit ··············································3
Inserting the batteries ····························································3
Operating range of the remote control unit ························3
Part names and functions

Front panel··············································································4
Display ····················································································4
Rear panel···············································································5
Remote control unit····························································5, 6

Easy to setup flow ··································································6
Speaker layout [Basic layout] ················································6
Speaker connections ······························································7
Connecting a DVD player and monitor·································8
Auto Setup/Room Equalizer (Room EQ) Functions ············9

q Connecting a microphone ··················································9
w Before performing the Auto Setup procedure·················10
e Perform the Auto Setup procedure ·································10
r Assigning power amplifiers ·············································10
t Switching the front speaker·············································10
y Preliminary measurements ··············································11
u Speaker measurements···················································11
i Checking and storing the measurement results··············12

Error messages ····································································12

Cable indications···································································13
The video conversion function ············································14

Relationship between the video input signal
and monitor output according to
the video convert settings··············································14, 15

Playing the input source ······················································23

Selecting the room equalizer mode ····································24
Turning the sound off temporarily (MUTING)·······················24
Listening over headphones ··················································24
Switching the front speakers ··············································24
Checking the currently playing program source, etc.···········24
Switching the brightness of the display ·······························24

Basic Operation

Getting Started

Easy Setup Procedure

Connecting Other Sources

Night mode············································································38
User mode function ······························································38
Combining the currently playing sound
with the desired image (VIDEO SELECT function)············38
Personal memory plus function ··········································38
Playing the iPod ····································································39

Listening to music ································································39
Viewing still pictures and videos (only for iPods
equipped with the slideshow / video function) ····················39
Disconnecting the iPod·························································39

Multi zone music entertainment system

Multi-zone playback using the ZONE2 output terminals······40
Multi-zone playback using the SPEAKER terminals ············40
Outputting a program source to amplifier, etc.,
in the ZONE2 room (ZONE2 SELECT mode) ·······················41
Remote control unit operations
during multi-source playback················································41

Recording (audio and/or video)···········································42
About the memory functions ··············································42
Initialization of the microprocessor ····································42

The analog video to HDMI conversion function ················15
Connecting equipment with HDMI terminals
[To convert analog video signals to HDMI signals] ···········16
Connecting a TV tuner ·························································16
Connecting a DBS tuner·······················································16
Connecting the external inputs (EXT. IN) terminals··········17
Connecting a video camera or video game···························17
Connecting a CD player························································17
Connecting a turntable·························································17
Connecting a DVD recorder ·················································18
Connecting a VCR ·································································18
Connecting a tape deck························································18
Connecting a CD recorder or MD recorder·························19
Connecting equipment with HDMI terminals ····················19
Connecting the antenna terminals······································20
Connecting the XM terminal ···············································20
Connecting the iPod ····························································21
Connecting the RS-232C terminal ·······································21
Connecting the TRIGGER OUT jacks ··································21
Connecting the MULTI ZONE terminals

ZONE2 out connections ·······················································21
ZONE2 speaker out connections··········································22

Connecting the PRE OUT terminals····································22
Connecting the power supply cord·····································22

Using the surround modes

Types of surround modes and their features·······················25
Selecting the play mode
(PURE DIRECT / DIRECT / STEREO)····································25
Selecting the Dolby Digital and DTS Surround mode
(only with digital input) ···················································26, 27
Selecting the Dolby Pro Logic IIx (Pro Logic II) mode ·········27
Selecting the DTS NEO:6 mode···········································28
Checking the input signals ···················································28
Surround modes and parameters ································29 ~ 31

Using the DENON original surround modes

Types of surround modes and their features·······················32
Selecting the DSP surround simulation································33
Setting the tone control························································34
Adjusting the speaker volume··············································34
Using the fader function·······················································35

Listening to the radio

Auto tuning ···········································································35
Manual tuning·······································································35
Preset memory·····································································35
Checking the preset stations················································36
Recalling preset stations ······················································36

XM Satellite Radio ································································36

Checking the XM signal strength and Radio ID ···················37
Channel selection ·································································37
Category search····································································37

Advanced Operation

Getting Started Getting Started

2

System setup items and default values·····················43 ~ 45
Navigating through the System Setup Menu····················46
About the display··································································46
Audio Input Setup

Setting the Digital In Assignment·········································47
Setting the EXT. IN Subwoofer Level ··································47
Setting the iPod Assignment ···············································47
Setting the Input Function Level ··········································48
Setting the Function Rename···············································48
Setting the Tuner Presets···············································48, 49

Video Setup

Setting the HDMI In Assignment···································49, 50
Setting the Component In Assignment································50
Setting the Video Convert ····················································50
Setting the HDMI Out Setup················································51
Setting the Audio Delay························································51
Setting the On Screen Display (OSD) ··································52

Advanced Playback

Setting the 2ch Direct/Stereo···············································52
Setting the Dolby Digital Downmix Option Setup················53
Setting the Auto Surround Mode ·········································53
Setting the Manual Equalizer Setup ······························53, 54

Option Setup

Setting the Power Amplifier Assignment·····························54
Setting the Volume Control ··················································55
Setting the Trigger Out ·························································55
Setting the Setup Lock·························································56

Speaker Setup

Setting the Speaker Configuration ·································56, 57
Setting the Subwoofer Setup···············································57
Setting the Distance·······················································57, 58
Setting the Channel Level ··············································58, 59
Setting the Crossover Frequency·········································59

Others Setup

Setting the Room Equalizer Setup ·······································60
Setting the Direct Mode Setup ············································60
Setting the MIC Input Select················································61
Check the parameter····························································61

Troubleshooting······························································

69, 70

Additional Information·················································

66 ~ 68

Specifications ········································································

70

List of preset codes ····································End of this manual

Operating DENON audio components································62
Setting the preset memory function ··································62
Operating a component stored in the preset memory····63, 64
Setting the punch through function ···································65

Advanced Setup – Part 2

Advanced Setup – Part 1 Operating the remote control unit

3

Getting Started Getting Started

Before using

Pay attention to the following before using this unit:

• Moving the unit

To prevent short-circuits or damaged wires in the connection
cables, always unplug the power supply cord and disconnect
the connection cables between all other audio components
when moving the unit.

•Before turning the power switch on

Check once again that all connections are correct and that there
are not problems with the connection cables. Always set the
power switch to the standby position before connecting and
disconnecting connection cables.

• Store these instructions in a safe place.

After reading, store this instructions along with the warranty
card in a safe place.

• Whenever the power switch is in the STANDBY state, the
unit is still connected to AC line voltage.
Please be sure to turn off the power switch or unplug the
cord when you leave home for, say, a vacation.

• Note that the illustrations in these instructions may differ
from the actual unit for explanation purposes.

About the remote control unit

In addition to controlling the AVR-987, the attached remote
control unit (RC-1051) can also be used to control the following
products:

q DENON component products
w Component products other than DENON:

• Set using the preset memory function ( page 62, 63).

Cautions on installation

Wall

Note

Note:
For heat dispersal, do not install this unit in a confined space
such as a bookcase or similar enclosure.

Inserting the batteries

q Remove the remote control

unit’s rear cover.

w Set 2 R6P/AA batteries in

the battery compartment in
the indicated direction.

e Put the rear cover back on.

Notes on batteries:

• Replace the batteries with new ones if the set does not
operate even when the remote control unit is operated
nearby the unit. (The attached batteries are only for verifying
operation.)

• When inserting the batteries, be sure to do so in the proper
direction, following the “<” and “>” marks in the battery
compartment.

•To prevent damage or leakage of battery fluid:

• Do not use a new battery together with an old one.

•Do not use two different types of batteries.

• Do not short-circuit, disassemble, heat or dispose of

batteries in flames.

• Remove the batteries from the remote control unit when
you do not plan to use it for an extended period of time.

•If the battery fluid should leak, carefully wipe the fluid off the
inside of the battery compartment and insert new batteries.

•When replacing the batteries, have the new batteries ready
and insert them as quickly as possible.

Accessories

Check that the following parts are attached in addition to the
main unit:

q Operating instructions ......................................................1

w Warranty (for North America model only) .............................1

e Service station list.............................................................1

r Power supply cord (Approx.7-31/64 ft / 1.9 m).................1

t Remote control unit (RC-1051) .........................................1

y R6P/AA batteries ..............................................................2

u AM loop antenna ..............................................................1

i FM indoor antenna............................................................1

o Setup microphone (DM-S205) (Approx. 23-5/8 ft / 6 m)...1

rty

uio

Operating range of the remote control unit

30°

30°

Approx. 23 feet/7 m

• Point the remote control unit at the remote sensor when
operating it.

• The remote control unit can be used from a distance of
approximately 23 feet/7 meters, at a horizontal angle of up to
30° with respect to the sensor.

NOTE:

• It may be difficult to operate the remote control unit if the

remote sensor is exposed to direct sunlight or strong
artificial light.

4

Getting Started Getting Started

Display

q

Input signal indicator

w

Input signal channel indicator

• The audio channel(s) included in the input
signal light(s).

• This lights when the digital signal is inputted.

e

Information display

r

Output signal channel indicator

The audio channels that can be output light.

t

Speaker indicator

This lights corresponding to the settings of
the surround speakers of the various
surround modes.

y

Master volume indicator

This displays the volume level.
The Setup item number is displayed in
System Setup.

u

MULTI (zone) indicator

ZONE2 mode is selected in ZONE2/REC
SELECT.

i

REC indicator

REC OUT mode is selected in ZONE2/REC
SELECT.

o

AL24 indicator

This lights when the following mode is
selected while inputting digital (PCM)
signals.
PURE DIRECT / DIRECT / STEREO /
MULTI CH PURE DIRECT /
MULTI CH DIRECT / MULTI CH IN

!0

Input mode indicator

!1

AUTO indicator

This lights when the broadcast station is
selected in the AUTO tuning mode.

!2

TUNED indicator

This lights when an FM/AM broadcast has
been received.

!3

STEREO indicator

This lights when an FM stereo broadcast has
been received.

Part names and functions

Front panel

For details on the functions of these parts, refer to the pages given in parentheses ( ).

q

Power ON/STANDBY button··············(10)

w

Power indicator····································(10)

e

Power switch········································(10)

r

Headphones jack (PHONES) ···············(25)

t

V.AUX INPUT terminals ······················(17)

y

SETUP MIC jack ·····································(9)

u

USER MODE buttons···························(38)

i

MASTER VOLUME control knob ········(23)

o

Master volume indicator

!0

Display

!1

MultEQ XT indicator····························(24)

!2

NIGHT indicator ···································(38)

!3

Remote control sensor··························(3)

!4

FUNCTION knob···································(23)

!5

SOURCE button ···································(23)

!6

TUNING PRESET button ·····················(36)

!7

ZONE2/REC SELECT button ·········(41, 42)

!8

VIDEO SELECT button·························(38)

!9 NIGHT button ·······································(38)
@0 PURE DIRECT button ···························(25)
@1

DIRECT/STEREO button······················(25)

@2

STANDARD button ······························(26)

@3

7CH STEREO button ····························(33)

@4

DSP SIMULATION button ···················(33)

@5

CH SELECT/ENTER button ···········(10, 34)

@6

SURROUND PARAMETER button ······(26)

@7

TONE DEFEAT button··························(34)

@8

DIMMER button ···································(24)

@9

STATUS button ····································(24)

#0

ROOM EQ button·································(24)

#1

SURROUND BACK button ··················(26)

#2

Cursor (DD, HH, FF, GG) buttons ···············(10)

#3

SYSTEM SETUP button ······················(10)

#4

EXT. IN button ······································(23)

#5

ANALOG button···································(23)

#6

INPUT MODE button ···························(23)

@0@0

@1@1

@2@2

@3@3

@4@4!9!9 @5@5

@6@6@7@7@8@8@9@9#0#0

!4 !0 oi!1!3@0!2

@1@2@3

@4

!9 @5

@6@7@8@9#0

q w e r

t u

#6

#5#4#3 #1

#2

y

!5

!8!7

!6

yuio!0!1!2!3

e

r t

q

w

5

Getting Started Getting Started

Remote control unitRear panel

q

DIGITAL terminals

(Optical/Coaxial) ·······································(8)

w

AUDIO terminals ····································(8)

e

PRE OUT terminals ······························(22)

r

SIGNAL GND terminal·························(17)

t

TRIGGER OUT jacks·····························(21)

y

Speaker terminals··································(7)

u

AC outlets ·············································(22)

i

AC inlet ·················································(22)

o

COMPONENT VIDEO terminals············(8)

!0

VIDEO/S-VIDEO terminals ····················(8)

!1

REMOTE CONTROL jacks····················(21)

!2

RS-232C terminal ·································(21)

!3

EXT. IN terminals ·································(17)

!4

HDMI MONITOR terminals··················(19)

!5

ANTENNA terminals····························(20)

!6

DOCK CONTROL jack ··························(21)

!7

XM terminal··········································(20)

To operate the AVR-987, use the mode selector switches to select “TAPE” “CD-R/MD” or “CD”,
mode.

q!7 ew r t y u!6

io!0!2!3 !1!4!5

Front

Tuner system/System
buttons·······················(35)

Function buttons

····································(23)

System buttons

····································(64)

Master volume control
buttons·······················(23)

CH SELECT/ENTER
button···················(10, 34)

USER MODE buttons

····································(38)

ON SCREEN/DISPLAY
button···················(24, 64)

Indicator

····································(62)

Remote control signal
transmitter···················(3)

Power buttons

····································(10)

MUTING button

····································(24)

V.SELECT/SETUP
button·························(64)

MODE selector
switches ·····················(63)

NIGHT/AUDIO button

····································(38)

Cursor buttons

····································(10)

Room EQ/RETURN
button·························(24)

SPEAKER/MENU button

····································(24)

6

Getting Started

Speaker layout [Basic layout]

Example of basic layout with 8 speakers and a monitor.

Subwoofer Center speaker

Surround speaker

Surround back speaker

Front speaker

Set these at the sides of the monitor or
screen with their front surfaces as flush with
the front of the screen as possible.

• This section contains the basic steps necessary to configure the AVR-987 according to your
listening room environment and the source equipment and loudspeakers you are using.

•To set the sound field manually, see pages 56 ~59.

Easy to setup flow

Easy Setup Procedure

Placing the speakers.

Connecting the

speakers.

Connecting a monitor

and a DVD player.

Starting the Auto

Setup.

Playing a DVD with

surround sound.

Auto setup flow

1) Speaker Configuration

2) Distance

3) Channel Level

4) Crossover Frequency

5) Room Equalizer

1) Measuring the background noise (noise in the
room)

2) Determining whether or not speakers are
connected

3) Checking the polarities of the speakers

Connecting a microphone.

Preliminary measurement.

Measurement of the speakers

in the listening position.

Speaker measurement check

and storage in memory.

Rear

Tuner system/System
buttons·······················(35)

ZOOM2 buttons

···································(41)

ZOOM1 (MAIN) buttons

···································(41)

Surround buttons

···································(25)

Cursor buttons

···································(10)

Function/Number
buttons

·····························(23, 64)

TEST TONE/DISPLAY
button·························(56)

SURRONUD
PARAMETER/
AUDIO button ··········(23)

INPUT MODE/RETURN
button ·······················(23)

SYSTEM SETUP/SETUP
buttons······················(10)

ENTER button

·····························(10, 34)

NOTE:

• If buttons on the front or rear are pressed strongly, the button on the opposite side will be
activated too.

><>< ><><

><

><><><><

IN

(L) (R) (L) (R)

(L) (R) (L) (R)

ImpedanceSpeaker

7

Easy Setup Procedure Easy Setup Procedure

Connecting the speaker cables

2 Connections

•With the AVR-987, up to 10 speakers can be connected for surround playback.

• When making connections, also refer to the operating instructions of the other components.

When using only one surround back
speaker, connect it to the left channel.

Connection
terminal for
subwoofer
with built-in
amplifier.

Speaker connections

Connect the speaker terminals with the
speakers making sure that like polarities are
matched (<with <, >with >).

2 Speaker impedance

Note on speaker impedance

When using speakers with an impedance
below the designated value (for example 4
Ω/ohms), playing for long periods of time
with the volume high could cause the
temperature to rise, activating the protection
circuit.
When the protection circuit is activated, the
output to the speakers is cut off and the
power indicator blinks. If this happens,
unplug the power cord, wait for the set to
cool off and improve ventilation around the
unit. Also check the wiring of the input
cables and the speaker cables. After doing
this, plug the power cord back in and turn
the unit’s power back on.
If the protection circuit is activated again
even though there are no problems with the
wiring or the ventilation around the unit,
switch off the power and contact a DENON
service center.

NOTE:
When making connections, take care that
none of the individual conductors of the
speaker cable come in contact with
adjacent terminals, with other speaker
cable conductors, or with the rear panel
and screws.
NEVER touch the speaker terminals
when the power is on. Doing so could
result in electric shocks.

1. Loosen by turning
counterclockwise.

Either tightly twist or terminate the

core wires.

2. Insert the cable.

3. Tighten by turning
clockwise.

Front speaker

(B)

Surround speaker

Front speaker

(A)

Subwoofer

Surround back speaker

Center speaker

6 ~ 16 Ω/ohms

Center

Surround

Surround back

6 ~ 16 Ω/ohmsFront A, B

8 ~ 16 Ω/ohmsFront A+B

Connecting banana plugs

Turn clockwise to tighten,
then insert the banana plug.

8

Easy Setup Procedure Easy Setup Procedure

• For best picture quality (especially with progressive DVD and other high definition sources),
choose the component video or HDMI connection to your monitor. S-Video and composite video
outputs are also provided if your monitor does not have component video inputs.

Connecting a DVD player and monitor

•To connect the video output from the DVD player to the AVR-987, you only need to choose one
connection type. For more information about the video up conversion function ( page 14, 15).

•To connect the digital audio output from the DVD player, you can choose from either the coaxial
or optical connections. If you choose to use the optical connection, it needs to be assigned. For
more information about Digital Input Assignment ( page 47).

Audio signal flow is shown with white arrows, video signal flow is shown with gray arrows.

• The AVR-987 is equipped with another set of input terminals for a non-DVD video disc player
(such as laser disc, VCD/SVCD, or future high definition disc player). The above connection
guidelines for DVD also apply to the VDP input.

• The AVR-987 is equipped with HDMI terminals, so it can be connected to a DVD player or monitor
using an HDMI cable.

• The component video input and/or output terminals may be labelled differently on some monitors
or video components. Check the owner’s manuals for other components for further information.

• The COMPONENT MONITOR OUT-1 and the COMPONENT MONITOR OUT-2 can be used
simultaneously.

• Audio signals are only output from the HDMI monitor out terminal when audio signals are input
to the HDMI input terminal.

• When connecting the AVR-987 and DVD player using an HDMI cable, also connect the AVR-987
and monitor using an HDMI cable ( page 19).

DVD player

S VIDEO

OUT

COAXIAL

OUT

R

L

AUDIO OUT

VIDEO

OUT

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

Y

P

B

PR

OPTICAL

OUT

HDMI

OUT

R

L

R

L

F

H

G

A

C

D

I

Monitor

S VIDEO

IN

VIDEO

IN

COMPONENT VIDEO IN

Y

P

B

PR

HDMI

IN

F

H

G

I

Easy Setup Procedure Easy Setup Procedure

9

Auto Setup/Room Equalizer (Room EQ) Functions

• The AVR-987’s auto setup and room equalizer functions use the
attached microphone to measure the acoustic properties in the
room and automatically make the optimum settings.

• The optimum listening environment at all listening positions in
the home theater is achieved so multiple listeners can enjoy
listening at the same time.
As shown in Example q, as you make the measurements,
move the microphone successively to the different positions in
which the members of the family sit within the listening area
surrounded by the speakers. For best results, make the
measurements at 6 locations.
Even if the home theater is only used by a small number of
people, as in Example w, more effective equalization can be
achieved by taking the measurements in the area around the
listening position.

• When the auto setup procedure is performed, one of the
following 3 correction curves can be selected for the room
equalizer function.

Audyssey:

The frequency response of all the speakers is adjusted to
achieve the optimum environment for the room’s acoustics.

Front:

This adjusts the characteristics of each speaker to the
characteristics of the front speakers.

Flat:

This the frequency response of all speakers flat. This mode is
optimum for playing multi-channel signal music.

2 About the main listening position (*M)

The “main listening position” refers to either the center of the
listening position or the position in which the user sits when
using the system alone. The distance to the speakers is
measured from this position.

•To make the sound field settings manually, see pages 56 ~ 59.

Example: q

*

M

Example: w

ENTER

D

H F

G

[OFF]

[ON]

<ON/STANDBY>

SYSTEM SETUP

D H F G

<POWER> ENTER <SETUP MIC>

( : Measurement positions)

q Connecting a microphone

Connect the attached setup microphone to

<

SETUP MIC

>

.

Mount the setup microphone on a camera tripod,
etc., and set with the receptor pointing towards
the ceiling.

Microphone

NOTE:

• Once the settings are completed, disconnect the setup
microphone.

Place the setup microphone’s sound receptor at the height
of the ears in the listening position.
Be sure that at the beginning, the measurement is started
with the microphone set up at the main listening position.
It is not possible to measure properly if there are any
obstacles between the speakers and microphone. Check
that there are no obstacles.

About the button names in this explanation

<>: Buttons on the main unit
[]: Buttons on the remote control unit

Button name only :

Buttons on the main unit and remote control unit

Sound receptor

1

2

D H F G

SYSTEM

SETUP

ENTER

M

*

10

Easy Setup Procedure Easy Setup Procedure

Press

<

ON/STANDBY

>

or [ON].

• The power indicator blinks green and the power turns on.

Press

<

POWER

>

.

£ OFF:

The power turns off and the indicator is off.

¢ ON:

The power indicator lights red.

Turn on your subwoofer.

Set the volume to halfway and set the crossover frequency
to the maximum or Low pass filter off if your subwoofer can
adjust the output volume and the crossover frequency.
Some subwoofers have a standby mode. Be sure to turn
this function off before performing the Auto Setup
procedure.

Turn on your monitor.

w Before performing the Auto Setup

procedure

1

2
3

4

e Perform the Auto Setup procedure

Press

DD HH

to select “Auto Setup / Room EQ”,

then press ENTER.

Press SYSTEM SETUP.

Press

DD HH

to select “Auto Setup”, then press

ENTER.

The message “Connect Microphone” is displayed if no
microphone is connected. If so, connect the auto setup
microphone.

1
2

3

• “System Setup Menu” is not displayed when using
headphones.

1

2

3

r Assigning power amplifiers

Press

DD HH

to select “Power Amp Assign”, then press

FF GG

to set.

The surround back output can be assigned to the “Front” or
“ZONE2” output.

Front A, Front B:

Assign to use the “Front A” (or “Front B”) speakers with bi­amp connections.

Surround Back:

Assign to use as surround back speaker.

When assigned to “Front”, skip the surround back channel
measurement.
During the auto setup procedure, test tones are not output
to “ZONE2”.

ZONE2:

Assign to use as “ZONE2” speakers.

t Switching the front speaker

Press

DD HH

to select “Front Sp”, then press

FF GG

to

select the speaker.

Front A

Front A+B

Front B

(After completion of

measurement for first point)

(After measurement

completed)

11

Easy Setup Procedure Easy Setup Procedure

y Preliminary measurements

This procedure is used to automatically determine the
background noise, whether or not speakers are connected, and
the polarities of the connected speakers.

Press

DD HH

to select “Start”, then press FF.

• The preliminary measurements start.

1

1

• If the results are not as expected or if an error message is
displayed, select “Retry” and perform the measurements again
( page 12).

• If the results of remeasurement are still not as expected or if an
error message is displayed, turn off the power switch and
check the speaker connections. Then start the measurements
again from the beginning.

Press ENTER again.

Cautions during measurements:

• Loud test tones are output during the measurements. Be
careful for example when small children are nearby.

•Proper measurements may not be possible if there are
obstacles between the speaker and the setup microphone.

• During the measurements, do not stand between or near
the speakers and setup microphone.

•To avoid influencing the measurements, turn off the power
of air-conditioners or any other equipment producing sound
in the room. Perform the measurements with the room as
quiet as possible.

•Measurement is cancelled when VOLUME is operated while
the Auto Setup is performed.

3

u Speaker measurements

Press

DD HH

to select “OK Start”, then press FF.

•Measurements for the first point start.

With these measurements, the “Speaker Configuration”,
“Distance”, “Channel Level”, “Crossover Frequency” and
“Room EQ” settings are analyzed automatically. The main
listening position is measured first, so leave the microphone
where it is.

1

Perform step 2 repeatedly.

Measurements can be ended when there are 6 or less
measurement locations; however, to obtain better results,
measurements at 6 locations is recommended.

Press

DD HH

to select “Calculate”, then press FF.

• The speaker is analyzed.

Once the calculations are completed, a screen for
confirming the results of the measurements appears.
The amount of time required for the analysis depends on the
number of speakers and the number of measuring points.
The greater the number of speakers and measuring points,
the longer the time required.

Move the microphone to the second point and
press FF.

•Measurements for the second point start.

Once the measurements are finished, the results of the
measurements for the second point are displayed.

2

3

4

1

hh

NOTE:

• Do not change the speaker connections or subwoofer
volume after making the measurements.

4

hh

Press

DD HH

to select “Speaker Detect Check”, then

press ENTER.

2

2

hh

hh

(Press ENTER.)

(Screen after initial measurement)

2

hh

Measures

Cause

Example

12

Easy Setup Procedure Easy Setup Procedure

i Checking and storing the measurement

results

Press

DD HH

to select the item, then press ENTER.

Press ENTER to switch to the second screen.

The measurement results displayed at “u Speaker measurements”
can be checked and stored in the memory.

1

Store:

All the settings are stored in the memory.

After checking, press ENTER, then press

DD HH

to

set.

When “Store” is selected:
Press FF.

• After the data is stored, the “Auto Setup / Room EQ”
screen appears automatically.

Cancel:

Cancel the auto setup settings.

• When measurements have been made using the measurement
microphone, speakers with a built-in filter such as subwoofers
might be set with a value that differs from the physical distance
because of the internal electrical delay.

NOTE:

• Do not turn off the power while the data is being stored.

2

3

1

2

q The speakers required for producing suitable

reproduction have not been detected.

If multiple errors occur, press

FF GG

to check the

contents.

• Check that the pertinent speakers are properly
connected.

w The speaker polarity is connected in reverse.

If multiple errors occur, press

FF GG

to check the

contents.

• Check the polarity of the pertinent speakers.

• For some speakers, the screen below may be
displayed even though the speakers are
properly connected.
If so, select “Skip

0

”.

e There is too much ambient noise in the room and the

measurements cannot be made accurately.

r The sound level that is output from the speakers and/or

subwoofer is too low.

• Either turn off the power of the device that
generated the noise during the measurements
or move the device away.

•Try again at a time when it is quieter.

• Check the placement and orientation of the
loudspeakers.

• Adjust the subwoofer’s output level.

t The measurement microphone is not connected, or all

of speakers have not been detected.

• Connect the attached setup microphone to

<

SETUP MIC>.

• Check the speaker connection.

Error messages

An error message is displayed if the measurements could not be completed automatically due to the speaker layout, the measuring
environment, etc. Please check the following matters, reset the pertinent items, and measure again.
Be sure to turn off the AVR-987’s power before checking the speaker connections.

13

Connecting Other Sources

Cable indications

Signal direction

Audio and Video cable

The hookup diagrams on the subsequent pages assume the use of the following optional connection cables (not supplied).

Video cableAudio cable

NOTE:

• Do not plug in the power supply cord until all connections
have been completed.

• When making connections, also refer to the operating
instructions of the other components.

• Be sure to connect the left and right channels properly (left
with left, right with right).

• Do not bundle power cords together with speaker cables.
Doing so could result in humming or noise.

Analog terminal (Stereo)

A

R

L

R

L

(Orange)

Pin-plug cable

Analog terminal (Monaural, for subwoofer)

B

Pin-plug cable

Digital terminal (Coaxial)

C

Coaxial cable (75 Ω/ohms pin-plug cable)

(Yellow)

Digital terminal (Optical)

D

Optical cable (Optical fiber cable)

Speaker terminal

E

Speaker cable

Video terminal

F

HDMI terminal

I

HDMI cable

Video cable (75 Ω/ohms video pin-plug cable)

S-Video terminal

G

S-Video cable

Audio signal

Video signal

(White)

(Red)

Component video terminal

H

Component video cable

(Y)

(P

B/CB)

(PR/CR)

(Green)

(Blue)

(Red)

IN OUT OUT IN

IN OUT OUT IN

Connecting Other Sources

VIDEOS-VIDEOCOMPONENTHDMI

MONITOR OUT

VIDEOS-VIDEOCOMPONENTHDMI

Input signals

Video convert

14

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

• Even if the formats of the video signals from the various players
differ, the different formats can be converted and the signals
output to the monitor from a single video output terminal. We
recommend outputting with the format offering the highest
quality video signals possible.

•With analog video signal connections, generally quality is higher
in the order shown below.

The flow of the video signals.

This unit’s input

terminals

This unit’s output

terminals

: only MAIN ZONE 480i/576i

(Component Video

terminals)

(Component Video

terminals)

(S-Video terminal)

(Video terminal)

The video conversion function

(HDMI terminal)

(HDMI

terminal)

(S-Video terminal)

(Video terminal)

ON

EE

✳3

S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

EE

VIDEO
S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

COMPONENT
COMPONENT

COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳1

S-VIDEO

COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳2

S-VIDEO

COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳2

EE
EE
EE
EE

CC

(1080p)

CC

(480i/576i)

EE EE
EE CC
CC EE
CC CC
EE EE

CC

(480p ~ 720p)

EE EE
EE EE

EE
EE
EE
EE
EE
EE
EE

EE

VIDEO
S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

COMPONENT

COMPONENT

EE EE

VIDEO VIDEO
S-VIDEO S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO S-VIDEO

EE EE

COMPONENT

EE EE

COMPONENT COMPONENT

EE

EE

CC

(1080p)

CC

(480p ~ 720p)

CC

(480i/576i)

CC

(480p ~ 720p)

EE CC
EE CC
EE CC

CC

(1080p)

CC EE
CC EE

EE
EE
EE
EE
EE

COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳1

COMPONENT ✳2

VIDEO VIDEO

VIDEO

COMPONENT VIDEO

COMPONENT ✳2

S-VIDEO S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

VIDEO

CC

(480i/576i)

CC

(1080p)

CC

(480p ~ 720p)

EE

CC EE
CC CC
CC CC

CC

(480i/576i)

CC CC
EE EE

EE

EE
EE

CC

EECC

COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳2

EE

S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

COMPONENT ✳2

S-VIDEO

EE EE

HDMI

EE
EE

CC

(480i/576i)

EE CC
CC EE
CC CC

CC

(Other than 480i/576i)

EE EE
EE EE

CC
CC
CC
CC
CC

VIDEO
S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO

COMPONENT

VIDEO VIDEO
S-VIDEO S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO S-VIDEO

COMPONENT

EE EE

COMPONENT COMPONENT

HDMI ✳1
HDMI ✳2
HDMI ✳2

HDMI
HDMI

CC

(480p ~ 720p)

CC

(480i/576i)

CC

(Other than 480i/576i)

CC

(Other than 480i/576i)

EE

EE

CC
EE CC
CC EE

CC

(480i/576i)

CC EE
CC CC

CC
CC
CC
CC
CC

COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳2

COMPONENT ✳2

EE

✳3

VIDEO

COMPONENT VIDEO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO S-VIDEO

COMPONENT ✳2

S-VIDEO S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO S-VIDEO

HDMI ✳1

HDMI ✳1

HDMI ✳1
HDMI ✳2
HDMI ✳2
HDMI ✳2

CC

(480i/576i)

CC

COMPONENT ✳2

S-VIDEO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

HDMI ✳2

CC

CC

CC

Relationship between the video input signal and monitor output according to the video
convert settings

CC

(1080p)

EE

: Not output

✳1:On screen display superimposed on video signal and

output.

✳2:On screen display superimposed on S-Video signal

and output.

✳3:Video signals are output when the “Analog to HDMI

convert” is set to “OFF”.

COMPONENT : On screen display only displayed for SYSTEM SETUP,

SURROUND PARAMETER and ON SCREEN buttons.

HDMI : The on screen display is displayed when the “Analog

to HDMI convert” is set to “ON”.

:Video signals are not output when the “Analog to

HDMI convert” is set to “OFF”.

CC

: Signal input

EE

: No signal

480p ~ 720p : 480p/576p/1080i/720p

•

The MAIN ZONE video conversion function is compatible with the
following format: NTSC, PAL, SECAM, NTSC4.43, PAL-N, PAL-M and
PAL-60.

• When SECAM signals of video input are up-converted, the signals are

output in PAL format from the S-Video terminal.

• When the input signal is a component 480p, 576p,1080i or 720p signal,

the signal up-converted to HDMI is output with that resolution.

• When the input signal is a video, S-Video or component 480i or 576i

signals, the signal up-converted to HDMI is output according to the
setting made at “i/p Convert” under “HDMI Out Setup” ( page 51).

• Signals up-converted to HDMI are output to the HDMI monitor with the

resolution at which they are input. Note that resolutions of 1080p are not
handled.

VIDEOS-VIDEOHDMI COMPONENT

MONITOR OUT

VIDEOS-VIDEOCOMPONENTHDMI

Input signals

S-VIDEO

MONITOR OUT

Video convert

15

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

2 On screen display for component video outputs

and HDMI output

• When viewing component video signals or HDMI signals via
the AVR-987, the on screen display is displayed on the monitor
when the “System Setup” operations are performed and when
the remote control unit’s ON SCREEN button is operated.

• When only component video signals are input to the AVR-987,
the characters of the on screen display are not displayed over
the picture.

• The AVR-987’s video up-conversion function lets you output
analog video input signals (component – 480i/576i, 480p/576p,
1080i or 720p; S-Video and composite video – 480i/576i) to the
HDMI monitor output terminal.

• On the AVR-987, it is possible to convert 480i/576i component
video, S-Video and composite video input signals to 480p/576p
format and output them from the HDMI monitor output
terminal.

• The resolutions with which the monitor is compatible can be
checked using the STATUS button on the main unit or the ON
SCREEN button on the remote control unit.

• It is not possible to down-convert from HDMI input signals to
the component, S-Video or composite video monitor output
terminals.

• If you do not want to use the function for converting analog
video signals to HDMI signals, select “OFF” for “Analog to
HDMI Convert” at “Setting the HDMI Out Setup”( page

51).

•Video down conversion to the MAIN ZONE’s monitor output is
only possible when the component video input resolution is
480i (interlaced standard definition video – NTSC format, for
North America) or 576i (interlaced standard definition video –
PAL format, for Europe and other countries).

•To set the video conversion function for the MAIN ZONE to
“OFF” ( page 50).

The analog video to HDMI conversion
function

OFF

–
–

EE
EE

EE
EE
EE

EE

EE
EE

HDMI
HDMI
HDMI
HDMI
HDMI
HDMI

EE
EE
EE
EE
EE

CC

EE EE
EE CC
CC EE
CC CC
CC CC

CC EE EE

EE CC

EE
EE
EE
EE
EE
EE
EE

EE
EE
EE
EE
EE

COMPONENT ✳1

EE EE
EE

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

EE

S-VIDEO

VIDEO ✳2

– VIDEO

COMPONENT

EE EE
EE

VIDEO

EE

EE

CC
CC
CC

EE

CC EE
CC CC
CC

CC

EE EE EE

EE CC

EE
EE

EE
CC
CC

COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳1

EE

S-VIDEO

EE

S-VIDEO

VIDEO ✳2

– VIDEO

EE EE EE

EE

VIDEO

EE
EE
EE

CC EE
CC CC
CC CC

CC EE EE

CC
CC
CC
CC

EE
EE
EE

S-VIDEO

EE

S-VIDEO

VIDEO ✳2

– VIDEO

COMPONENT

EE EE

–

Used

Not used

–
–
–

Used

Not used

–
–

Used

Not used

–

–

HDMI

HDMI
HDMI

CC

CC

EE CC
CC EE
CC CC

CC CC CC

CC
CC
CC
CC

COMPONENT ✳1
COMPONENT ✳2
COMPONENT ✳2

EE

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

EE

S-VIDEO

VIDEO ✳2

COMPONENT ✳1

– VIDEO

–
–

Used

Not used

CC

HDMI

EE

: Not output

✳1:On screen display superimposed on video

signal and output.

✳2:On screen display superimposed on S-Video

signal and output.

COMPONENT : On screen display only displayed for SYSTEM

SETUP, SURROUND PARAMETER and ON SCREEN
buttons.

HDMI : The on screen display is displayed when the

“Analog to HDMI convert” is set to “ON”.

CC

: Signal input

EE

: No signal

16

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

Connecting equipment with HDMI terminals
[To convert analog video signals to HDMI signals]

• The AVR-987 is equipped with a function for converting analog video signals into HDMI signals.
You can do this by either a component or a video or a S-Video connection.

•Audio signals are not output from the HDMI monitor output terminal, so also make analog or
digital audio connections. To play sound using digital audio connections, assign the digital terminal
(coaxial or optical) at “Setting the Digital In Assignment” ( page 47).

Connecting a TV tuner

• For best picture quality choose the component video connection to your TV tuner. S-Video and
composite video outputs are also provided if your TV tuner does not have component video
inputs.

•To connect the digital audio output from the TV tuner, you can choose from either the coaxial or
the optical connections. If you choose to use the coaxial or the optical connection, it needs to be
assigned. For more information about Digital Input Assignment ( page 47).

Connecting a DBS tuner

• For best picture quality choose the component video connection to your DBS tuner. S-Video and
composite video outputs are also provided.

•To connect the digital audio output from the DBS tuner, you can choose from either the coaxial
or optical connections. If you choose to use the coaxial connection, it needs to be assigned. For
more information about Digital Input Assignment ( page 47).

• When “OFF” is set at “i/p Convert” under “Setting the HDMI Out Setup”, use a monitor
compatible with input resolutions of 480i/576i.

• If your monitor is not equipped with an HDMI terminal, connect the AVR-987 to the monitor using
the component video, S-Video, or composite video terminals.

I

HDMI

IN

DVD player

Monitor

H

F

G

D

C

A

L

R

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO OUT

L

R

Y

P

B

PR

VIDEO

OUT

S VIDEO

OUT

OPTICAL

OUT

COAXIAL

OUT

L

R

TV tuner

H

G

F

A

L

R

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO OUT

L

R

Y

P

B

PR

S VIDEO

OUT

VIDEO

OUT

L

R

DBS / BS Tuner

H

G

F

A

L

R

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO OUT

L

R

Y

P

B

PR

S VIDEO

OUT

VIDEO

OUT

L

R

D

OPTICAL

OUT

17

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

Connecting a video camera or video game

Connecting the external inputs (EXT. IN) terminals

• These terminals are for inputting multi-channel audio signals from an outboard decoder, or a
component with a different type of multi-channel decoder, such as a DVD-Audio player, or a multi­channel Super Audio CD player, or other future multi-channel sound format decoder.

• The video signal connection is the same as that for a DVD player ( page 8).

• For instructions on playback using the external input (EXT. IN) terminals ( page 23).

•With discs on which special copyright protection measures have been taken, however, the digital
signals may not be output from the DVD player. In this case, connect the DVD player’s analog
multi-channel output to the AVR-987’s EXT. IN terminals for playback. Also refer to your DVD
player’s operating instructions.

NOTE:

• If humming or other noise is generated when the ground wire is connected to the SIGNAL
GND terminal, disconnect the ground wire.

Connecting a turntable

Connecting a CD player

To connect the digital audio output from the CD player, you can choose from either the coaxial or
optical connections. If you choose to use the optical connection, it needs to be assigned. For more
information about Digital Input Assignment ( page 47).

• The phono input can accept signals from moving magnet (MM) and high output moving coil (MC)
phono cartridges. If your turntable is equipped with a low output MC cartridge, you will need to
use a separate MC head amplifier or step-up MC transformer.

DVD Audio-Video /

Super Audio CD Player /

External decoder

A

L

R

7.1ch AUDIO OUT

L

R

B

FRONT

L

R

CENTER

A

L

R

D

C

CD player

AUDIO OUT

L

R

L

R

OPTICAL

OUT

COAXIAL

OUT

A

L

R

A

L

R

B

SURROUND

L

R

L

R

BACK

L

R

SURROUND

L

R

SUB-

WOOFER

Video camera /

F

A

L

R

D

G

Video game

AUDIO OUT

L

L

R

R

OPTICAL

S VIDEO

VIDEO

OUT

OUT

OUT

Turntable

(MM cartridge)

A

L

R

AUDIO OUT

GND

18

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

Connecting a DVD recorder

• For best picture quality choose the component video connection to your DVD recorder. S-Video
and composite video outputs are also provided. If you choose to use the component video
connection, it needs to be assigned. For more information about Component Input Assignment
( page 50).

•If you wish to perform analog dubbing from a digital sources, such as a DVD recorder to an analog
recorder such as a cassette deck, you will needs connect the analog inputs and outputs as shown
below, in addition to the digital audio connections.

NOTE:

• Do not connect the output of the component connected to the OPTICAL 3 OUT terminal on

the AVR-987’s rear panel to any terminal other than the OPTICAL 3 IN terminal.

Connecting a VCR

There are 2 sets of video deck (VCR) terminals, so 2 video decks can be connected for
simultaneous recording or video copying.

• When recording to a VCR, it is necessary that the type of cable used with the playback source
equipment be the same type that is connected to the AVR-987 VCR-1 (to 2) OUTPUT terminal.

Example: VCR-2 IN → S-Video cable : VCR-2 OUT → S-Video cable

VCR-2 IN → Video cable : VCR-2 OUT → Video cable

•When recording to a DVD recorder, it is necessary that the type of cable used with the playback
source equipment be the same type that is connected to the AVR-987 VCR-1 (to 2) OUTPUT
terminal.

Example: VCR-1 IN → S-Video cable : VCR-1 OUT → S-Video cable

VCR-1 IN → Video cable : VCR-1 OUT → Video cable

Connecting a tape deck

DVD recorder

S VIDEO

OUT

S VIDEO

IN

R

L

AUDIO IN

R

L

AUDIO OUT

VIDEO

OUT

VIDEO

IN

OPTICAL

IN

OPTICAL

OUT

R

L

R

L

F

F

G

G

A

R

L

R

L

A

D

D

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

Y

P

B

PR

H

Video deck

R

L

AUDIO IN

R

L

AUDIO OUT

VIDEO

IN

S VIDEO

OUT

S VIDEO

IN

VIDEO

OUT

R

L

R

L

F

G

F

G

A

R

L

R

L

A

R

L

AUDIO IN

R

L

AUDIO OUT

Tape deck

R

L

R

L

A

R

L

R

L

A

19

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

Connecting a CD recorder or MD recorder

If you wish to perform analog dubbing from a digital source, such as a CD or MD recorder to an
analog recorder such as a cassette deck, you will need to connect the analog inputs and outputs
as shown below, in addition to the digital audio connections.

NOTE:

• Do not connect the output of the component connected to the OPTICAL 4 OUT terminal on

the AVR-987’s rear panel to any terminal other than the OPTICAL 4 IN terminal.

Connecting equipment with HDMI terminals

•A simple 1-cable connection (using a commercially available cable) with a device having an HDMI
(High-Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal allows digital transfer of the digital images of DVD­Video and other sources, and the multi-channel sound of DVD-Audio and DVD-Video.

•To provide audio output from AVR-987’s audio output terminal, select “Amp” at the “HDMI In
Assign”.
To provide audio output from the TV, select “TV” at the “HDMI In Assign” ( page 49, 50).

Input signals

CC

DVD-Video

LINEAR PCM

DTS

Dolby Digital

DVD-Audio

CC

LINEAR PCM

PACKED PCM

(with CPPM /

without CPPM)

CC

CC

CC

CD LINEAR PCM

EE

Super Audio

CD

Multi area

CD area

Stereo area

EE
CC

2 Copyright Protection System

To play back the digital video and audio of DVD­Video and DVD-Audio through an HDMI/DVI-D
connection, both the connected player and
monitor are required to support a copyright
protection system called HDCP (High­bandwidth Digital Content Protection System).
HDCP is copy protection technology that
comprises data encryption and authentication
of the partner equipment.
The AVR-987 supports HDCP. Please see the
user’s manual of your video display for more
information about this.

The AVR-987 is HDMI Ver. 1.1 compatible.

• If your digital monitor or DVD player only supports DVI-D, please obtain and use an HDMI-DVI
conversion cable or adaptor, available from your dealer.

2 Connections with an HDMI/DVI-D conversion cable (adapter)

• The HDMI video stream signals (video signals) are theoretically compatible with DVI-D. When
connecting to a monitor, etc., equipped with DVI-D terminals, it is possible to connect using an
HDMI/DVI-D conversion cable, but depending on the combination of devices used the image
might not be output.

• When using an HDMI/DVI-D conversion adapter, the image may not be output properly due to
poor contact with the connected cable, etc..

NOTE:

• The audio signals on the multi/stereo area of Super Audio CDs are not output. If the Super

Audio CD is a hybrid CD, only the audio signals in the CD area are output.

• Use a compatible player to play DVD-Audio discs that are copyright protected by CPPM.

• Among the devices that support HDMI, some devices can control other devices via the HDMI

terminal; however, the AVR-987 cannot be controlled by another device via the HDMI
terminal.

• The audio signals from the HDMI terminal (including the sampling frequency and bit length)

may be limited by the equipment that is connected.

• The video signals are not output properly if a device not compatible with HDCP is used.

• When “OFF” is set at “i/p Convert” under “Setting the HDMI Out Setup”, use a monitor

compatible with input resolutions of 480i/576i.

• The video signals input from the HDMI input terminals are output to the HDMI monitor with

their original resolution, so the image will not be displayed if the resolutions of the input signal
and the monitor being used are not matched. In this case, change the setting of the resolution
on the source device (player) to one which the monitor can handle.

• For stable signal transfer, we recommend using cables that are a maximum of 5 meters in

length.

R

L

AUDIO IN

R

L

AUDIO OUT

CD recorder /

MD recorder

OPTICAL

OUT

OPTICAL

IN

R

L

R

L

A

R

L

R

L

A

D

D

DVD player

HDMI

OUT

Monitor

HDMI

IN

I

I

20

Connecting Other Sources Connecting Other Sources

1

4

2

3

2 AM loop antenna assembly

Connect to the AM

antenna terminals.

Remove the vinyl tie
and take out the
connection line.

Bend in the reverse
direction.

a. With the antenna

on top any stable
surface.

b. With the antenna

attached to a wall.

Mount

Installation hole Mount on wall, etc.

NOTE:

• Do not connect 2 FM antennas
simultaneously.

•Even if an external AM antenna is used, do
not disconnect the AM loop antenna.

• Make sure the AM loop antenna lead
terminals do not touch metal parts of the
panel.

An FM antenna cable plug can be connected directly.

Connecting the antenna terminals

Direction of broadcasting station

75 Ω/ohms

Coaxial cable

FM antenna

FM indoor antenna

(Supplied)

AM loop antenna

(Supplied)

AM outdoor antenna

Ground

Connection of AM antennas

1. Push the

lever.

2. Insert the
conductor.

3. Return the
lever.

Note to CATV system installer:

This reminder is provided to call the CATV
system installer’s attention to Article 820-40
of the NEC which provides guidelines for
proper grounding and, in particular, specifies
that the cable ground shall be connected to
the grounding system of the building, as
close to the point of cable entry as practical.

Connecting the XM terminal

•AVR-987 is the XM Ready® receiver. You can receive XM Satellite Radio® by connecting to the
XM Connect-and-PlayTM(sold separately) and subscribing the XM service.

• Plug the XM Connect-and-Play antenna into XM connector on the rear panel.

• Position the XM Connect-and-Play antenna near a south-facing window to receive the best signal.
For details, see “XM Satellite Radio” ( page 36, 37).
When making connections, also refer to the operating instructions of the XM Connect-and-Play
antenna.

NOTE:

• Keep the power supply cord unplugged until the XM Connect-and-Play antenna connection

have been completed.

XM Connect-and

-Play Antenna

X

M