Harman-Kardon AVR 146 User Manual

4.5 (4)

AVR 146

AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER OWNER’S MANUAL

SAFETY INFORMATION

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. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

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 bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub; in a wet basement; near a swimming pool; or 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.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.

14.Nonuse Periods. The power cord of the product should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for long periods of time.

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. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or b. Objects have fallen onto, or liquid has been spilled into, the

product; or

c. The product has been exposed to rain or water; or

d. The product does not operate normally when 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; or

e. The product has been dropped or damaged in any way; or f. 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 that 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.

Figure A. Example of Antenna Grounding as per

National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70

Antenna Lead-In Wire

Ground Clamp

Antenna Discharge Unit (NEC Section 810-20)

Grounding Conductors (NEC Section 810-21)

Electric Service Equipment

Ground Clamps

Power Service Grounding Electrode System

(NEC Art 250, Part H)

2

SAFETY INFORMATION

Important Safety Information

Verify Line Voltage Before Use

Your AVR 146 has been designed for use with 120-volt AC current. Connection to a line voltage other than that for which it is intended can create a safety and fire hazard and may damage the unit.

If you have any questions about the voltage requirements for your specific model, or about the line voltage in your area, contact your selling dealer before plugging the unit into a wall outlet.

unit’s feet may leave marks on certain wood or veneer materials. Use caution when placing the unit on soft woods or other materials that may be damaged by heat or heavy objects. Some surface finishes may be particularly sensitive to absorbing such marks, due to a variety of factors beyond Harman Kardon's control, including the nature of the finish, cleaning materials used, and normal heat and vibration caused by the use of the product, or other factors. We recommend that caution be exercised in choosing an installation location for the component and in normal maintenance practices, as your warranty will not cover this type of damage

to furniture.

Do Not Use Extension Cords

To avoid safety hazards, use only the power cord attached to your unit. We do not recommend that extension cords be used with this product. As with all electrical devices, do not run power cords under rugs or carpets or place heavy objects on them. Damaged power cords should be replaced immediately by an authorized service center with a cord meeting factory specifications.

Handle the AC Power Cord Gently

When disconnecting the power cord from an AC outlet, always pull the plug; never pull the cord. If you do not intend to use the unit for any considerable length of time, disconnect the plug from the AC outlet.

Do Not Open the Cabinet

There are no user-serviceable components inside this product. Opening the cabinet may present a shock hazard, and any modification to the product will void your guarantee. If water or any metal object such as a paper clip, wire or staple accidentally falls inside the unit, disconnect it from the AC power source immediately, and consult an authorized service center.

CATV or Antenna Grounding

If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to this product, be certain that it is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70-1984, provides information with respect 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 of the grounding electrode.

NOTE TO CATV SYSTEM INSTALLER: This reminder is provided to call the CATV (cable TV) 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 possible.

Installation Location

To ensure proper operation and to avoid the potential for safety hazards, place the unit on a firm and level surface. When placing the unit on a shelf, be certain that the shelf and any mounting hardware can support the weight of the product.

Make certain that proper space is provided both above and below the unit for ventilation. If this product will be installed in a cabinet or other enclosed area, make certain that there is sufficient air movement within the cabinet. Under some circumstances, a fan may be required.

Do not place the unit directly on a carpeted surface.

Avoid installation in extremely hot or cold locations, or in an area that is exposed to direct sunlight or heating equipment.

Avoid moist or humid locations.

Do not obstruct the ventilation slots on the top of the unit, or place objects directly over them.

Due to the weight of the AVR 146 and the heat generated by the amplifiers, there is the remote possibility that the rubber padding on the bottom of the

Cleaning

When the unit gets dirty, wipe it with a clean, soft, dry cloth. If necessary, and only after unplugging the AC power cord, wipe it with a soft cloth dampened with mild soapy water, then a fresh cloth with clean water. Wipe it dry immediately with a dry cloth. NEVER use benzene, aerosol cleaners, thinner, alcohol or any other volatile cleaning agent. Do not use abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the finish of metal parts. Avoid spraying insecticide near the unit.

Moving the Unit

Before moving the unit, be certain to disconnect any interconnection cords with other components, and make certain that you disconnect the unit from the AC outlet.

Important Information for the User

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class-B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. The limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment 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 communication. However, there is no guarantee that harmful interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment 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 equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

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

NOTE: Changes or modifications may cause this unit to fail to comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Unpacking

The carton and shipping materials used to protect your new receiver during shipment were specially designed to cushion it from shock and vibration. We suggest that you save the carton and packing materials for use in shipping if you move, or should the unit ever need repair.

To minimize the size of the carton in storage, you may wish to flatten it. This is done by carefully slitting the tape seams on the bottom and collapsing the carton. Other cardboard inserts may be stored in the same manner. Packing materials that cannot be collapsed should be saved along with the carton in a plastic bag.

If you do not wish to save the packaging materials, please note that the carton and other sections of the shipping protection are recyclable. Please respect the environment and discard those materials at a local recycling center.

It is important that you remove the protective plastic film from the front-panel lens. Leaving the film in place will affect the performance of your remote control.

3

STAPLE INVOICE HERE

4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2 SAFETY INFORMATION

6 INTRODUCTION

8 FRONT-PANEL CONTROLS

10 REAR-PANEL CONNECTIONS

12 REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS

15INTRODUCTION TO HOME THEATER

16CONNECTIONS

16 Speaker Connections

16 Subwoofer

16Connecting Source Devices to the AVR

17Audio Connections

17

Digital Audio

17

Analog Audio

17

Video Connections

17

Digital Video

18

Analog Video

18Antennas

19SPEAKER PLACEMENT

20INSTALLATION

20 Step One – Connect the Speakers

20 Step Two – Connect the Subwoofer

20 Step Three – Connect the Antennas

20 Step Four – Connect the Source Components

23Step Five – Connect the Video Display

24Step Six – Plug in AC Power

24 Step Seven – Insert Batteries in Remote

24 Step Eight – Program Sources Into the Remote

26Step Nine – Turn On the AVR 146

27INITIAL SETUP

27Using the On-Screen Menu System

27Step One – Determine Speaker Size

28Step Two – Measure Speaker Distances

28Step Three – Manual Setup Menu

28Speaker Size Menu

29Speaker Crossover Menu

30Delay Adjust Menu

30 Step Four – Output Level Calibration

32 Step Five – Configure Sources

34 OPERATION

34Turning On the AVR 146

34Sleep Timer

34Volume Control

35Mute Function

35 Tone Controls

35 Headphones

35Source Selection

36Audio Input Selection

36Video Input Selection

366-Channel Direct Inputs

37Using the Tuner

38Recording

38

Using

TheBridgeTM

 

38

Selecting a Surround Mode

40

ADVANCED FUNCTIONS

40

Audio Processing and Surround Sound

40

Analog Audio Signals

40Digital Audio Signals

41Surround Modes

42Dolby Surround Settings

42

Default Modes

45

System Settings

45 Dim Function

45 Advanced Remote Control Functions

45Punch-Through Programming

46Macros

47Resetting the Remote

47 Processor Reset

47Memory

48TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

49TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

49Trademark Acknowledgements

50APPENDIX

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.

For Canadian model

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

For models having a power cord with a polarized plug: CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.

Modèle pour les Canadien

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

Sur les modèles dont la fiche est polarisee: ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame la plus large de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqu’au fond.

5

INTRODUCTION

Please register your product on our Web site at www.harmankardon.com.

Note: You’ll need the product’s serial number. At the same time, you can choose to be notified about our new products and/or special promotions.

WWW.HARMANKARDON.COM

Thank you for choosing Harman Kardon®!

In the years since Harman Kardon invented the high-fidelity receiver, we have taken to heart the philosophy of bringing the joy of home entertainment to as many people as possible, adding performance and ease-of-use features that enhance the home entertainment experience. In the years since our first single-channel component was introduced, Harman Kardon has offered a number of receiver models, each an improvement upon its predecessors, leading to the AVR 146, a 5.1- channel digital audio/video receiver that offers a wealth of listening and viewing options, all in an elegant package.

AVR 146 5.1-Channel Audio/Video Receiver

Audio Section

30 Watts x 5, five channels driven at full power at 8 ohms,

20Hz – 20kHz, <0.07% THD, (surround modes); 150 watts total

40 Watts x 2, two channels driven at full power at 8 ohms,

20Hz – 20kHz, <0.07% THD, (surround off mode); 80 watts total

High current capability, ultrawide bandwidth amplifier design with low negative feedback

All-discrete amplifier circuitry

Dual independent power supplies, for front and surround channels

Triple crossover bass management

24-Bit, twin-core Cirrus Logic® CS 49510 DSP processor with 32-bit post processor

192kHz/24-bit D/A conversion

Sampling upconversion to 96kHz

To obtain the maximum enjoyment from your new receiver, we urge you to read this manual and refer back to it as you become more familiar with its features and their operation.

If you have any questions about this product, its installation or its operation, please contact your retailer or customer installer, or visit our Web site at www.harmankardon.com.

Surround Modes

Dolby® Digital

Dolby Pro Logic® II (Movie, Music and Game)

Dolby Virtual Speaker Version 2 (Reference 2- or 3-speaker; Wide 2-, 3-, 4- or 5-speaker)

Dolby Headphone Version 2

DTS® (5.1; DTS Stereo)

DTS 96/24(DTS Stereo)

DTS Neo:6® (Cinema 3- or 5-channel; Music 5-channel)

Logic 7® (Cinema, Music and Enhance)

Hall 1 and Hall 2

Theater

5-Channel Stereo

Surround Off (DSP or Analog Bypass)

6

Audio Inputs

AM/FM tuner

CD

Tape

6-Channel direct

TheBridgeTM /DMP for iPod* audio/video/connectivity

Audio/Video Inputs (With S-Video)

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

DVD

Two 100MHz assignable component video inputs

Simplay HD-verified HDMI1 and 2 (switching only)

Digital Audio Inputs

Coaxial: Two rear-panel/one front-panel

Optical: Two rear-panel/one front-panel

Outputs

Subwoofer output

Tape (analog audio)

Video 1 (analog audio and video)

Video Monitor (composite, S-video and component)

Digital Audio: (one coaxial)

Simplay HD-verified HDMI (switching only)

Headphone

INTRODUCTION

Ease of Use

On-screen display with composite and S-video; choice of blue or black background

Two-line dot-matrix front-panel display

Color-coded connections

Programmable ten-device main remote control

Source input renaming

A/V Sync Delay

The AVR 146 is Simplay HD-verified for compatibility via the HDMI connection with other Simplay HD-verified products.

Supplied Accessories

The following accessory items are supplied with the AVR 146. If any of these items are missing, please contact Harman Kardon customer service at www.harmankardon.com.

System remote control

AM loop antenna

FM wire antenna

Three AAA batteries

Two covers for front-panel jacks

*Compatible with all iPod models equipped with a dock connector. Not compatible with iPod shuffle models. Images and videos stored on iPod photo and video models may be viewed.

7

FRONT-PANEL CONTROLS

Main Power Switch: This mechanical switch turns the power supply on or off. It is usually left pressed in (On position), and cannot be turned on using the remote control.

Standby/On Switch: This electrical switch turns the receiver on for playback, or leaves it in Standby mode for quick turn-on using this switch or the remote control.

Power Indicator: This LED has three possible modes. When main power is turned off, the LED is dark and the receiver won’t respond to any button presses. When main power is turned on, but before the Standby/On Switch is used, the LED turns amber to indicate that the receiver is in standby mode and ready to be turned on. When the receiver is turned on, the LED turns blue.

Source Select: Press this button to select a source device, which is a component where a playback signal originates, e.g. DVD, CD, cable TV, satellite or HDTV tuner.

Source Indicators: The name of the current source input lights up. The indicated input changes each time the Source Select button is pressed.

Volume Knob: Turn this knob to raise or lower the volume, which will be shown in decibels (dB) in the Message Display.

Message Display: Various messages appear in this two-line display in response to commands and changes in the incoming signal. When the on-screen display menu system (OSD) is in use, the message OSD ON will appear to remind you to check the video display.

Tuner Band: Press this button to select the tuner as the source, or to switch between the AM and FM bands.

Tuning: Press either side of this button to tune a radio station.

Tuning Mode: This button toggles between manual (one frequency step at a time) and automatic (seeks frequencies with acceptable signal strength) tuning mode. It also toggles between stereo and mono modes when an FM station is tuned.

Preset Stations: Press this button to select a preset radio station.

Headphone Jack: Plug a 1/4" headphone plug into this jack for private listening.

Surround Mode: Press this button to select a surround sound (e.g., multichannel) mode group. Choose from the Dolby modes, DTS modes, Logic 7 modes, DSP modes or Stereo modes.

Surround Select: After you have selected the desired surround mode group, press this button to select a specific mode.

Surround Mode Indicators: One or more of these icons may light up as you select different surround modes. The Message Display also indicates the surround mode.

Analog Audio, Video and Digital Audio Inputs: Connect a source component that will only be used temporarily, such as a camera or game console to these jacks. Remember to use only one type of audio and one type of video connection.

Speaker/Channel Input Indicators: The box icons indicate which speaker positions you have configured, and the size (frequency range) of each speaker. When a digital audio input is used, letters will light inside the boxes to indicate which channels are present in the incoming signal.

8

Message Display

Source

 

 

 

 

Indicators

 

 

 

 

Surround Mode

Speaker/Channel

 

 

 

 

Indicators

 

 

Volume

 

Input Indicators

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Power

 

Surround

Tuning

Preset Stations

Headphone

Digital

 

Video 3

Indicator

Mode

 

 

Jack

Audio Inputs

 

 

 

 

Analog Audio

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Optical 3 and

 

Standby/On

Main Power

Surround

Tuner Band

Source

Tuning

Video 3

Inputs

Coaxial 3)

Switch

Switch

Select

 

Select

Mode

 

Video Inputs

 

NOTE: To make it easier to follow the instructions throughout the manual that refer to this illustration, a copy of this page may be downloaded from the Product Support section at www.harmankardon.com.

9

REAR-PANEL CONNECTIONS

AM and FM Antenna Terminals: Connect the included AM and FM antennas to their respective terminals for radio reception.

Front, Center and Surround Speaker Outputs: Use twoconductor speaker wire to connect each set of terminals to the correct speaker. Remember to observe the correct polarity (positive and negative connections). Always connect the positive lead to the colored terminal on the receiver and the red terminal on the speaker. Connect the negative lead to the black terminal on both the receiver and the speaker. See the Connections section for more information on connecting your speakers.

Subwoofer Output: If you have a powered subwoofer with a line-level input, connect it to this jack.

Video 1, Video 2 and DVD Audio/Video Inputs: These jacks may be used to connect your video-capable source components (e.g., VCR, DVD player, cable TV box) to the receiver. Remember to use only one type of video connection for each source. See the Connections section for more information on audio and video connection options for each source component.

Video 1 Audio/Video Outputs: These jacks may be used to connect your VCR or another recorder.

Composite and S-Video Monitor Outputs: If some of your sources use composite or S-video connections, connect one or both of these monitor outputs to the corresponding inputs on your television or video display to view them.

CD and Tape Audio Inputs: These jacks may be used to connect audio-only source components (e.g., CD player, tape deck). Do not connect a turntable to these jacks unless you are using it with a phono preamp.

Tape Outputs: These jacks may be used to connect a CDR or another audio-only recorder.

Coaxial and Optical Digital Audio Inputs: If your source has a compatible digital audio output, connect it to one of these jacks for improved audio performance. Remember to use only one type of digital audio connection for each source.

Coaxial Digital Audio Output: If a source is also an audio recorder, you may connect the coaxial digital audio output to the recorder’s coaxial digital input for improved recording quality.

The Bridge/DMP Input: Connect the optional Harman Kardon TheBridgeTM to this input for use with your iPod (not included). Make

sure the receiver is turned off (in Standby mode) when connecting The Bridge.

6-Channel Inputs: Connect the multichannel analog audio outputs of a DVD-Audio, SACD, Blu-ray Discor HD-DVD player (or any other external decoder) to these jacks to enjoy these proprietary formats.

Component Video Inputs: If both your video source (e.g., DVD player or HDTV tuner) and your television or video display have analog component video (Y/Pb/Pr) capability, then you may connect the component video outputs of your source to one of the two component video inputs. Do not make any other video connections to that source.

Component Video Monitor Outputs: If you are using either of the Component Video Inputs and your television or video display is component-video-capable, you may connect these jacks to the corre-

sponding inputs on your video display. You will also need to connect the composite and/or S-video monitor outputs to your video display if some of your sources use those types of video connections, and to view the AVR 146’s on-screen displays.

HDMI Inputs and Output: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a newer type of connection for transmitting digital audio and video signals between devices. Although the AVR 146 is not capable

of processing HDMI signals, if your video display is HDMI-capable, you may connect up to two HDMI sources here, and then connect the HDMI output to your video display for improved video performance. It is recommended that you disable the HDMI audio function of your video display, and make a separate digital audio connection from the source device to one of the AVR’s coaxial or optical digital audio inputs to benefit from the AVR 146’s multichannel audio processing.

The AVR 146 has been tested and is SimPlay HDverified, which guarantees compatibility via the HDMI connection with other products that also bear the SimPlay HD logo.

NOTE: The AVR 146 will not convert other types of video to HDMI, and you will not be able to view the on-screen displays using the HDMI connection.

10

Harman-Kardon AVR 146 User Manual

 

Video 2

Video 1

Video

 

 

Component

HDMI

 

HDMI

 

A/V

A/V

Monitor

 

 

Video Monitor

 

FM Antenna

Inputs

Inputs

Outputs

 

 

Outputs

Input 1

 

Input 2

 

Video 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A/V

DVD A/V

Component Video

The Bridge/

 

HDMI

AM Antenna

Outputs Inputs

 

Inputs (1 & 2)

DMP Input

 

Output

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CD

Tape

 

Front

 

Surround

Center

Coaxial Digital

Inputs

Inputs

Speaker

 

Speaker

Speaker

Audio Inputs

 

 

 

Outputs

 

Outputs

Outputs

(1 & 2)

 

Tape

Subwoofer

 

6-Channel

Coaxial Digital

Optical Digital

 

Outputs

Output

 

Inputs

Audio Output

Audio Inputs (1 & 2)

NOTE: To make it easier to follow the instructions throughout the manual that refer to this illustration, a copy of this page may be downloaded from the Product Support section at www.harmankardon.com.

11

REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS

The AVR 146 remote is capable of controlling up to ten devices, including the AVR itself and an iPod docked in the optional The Bridge accessory. During the installation process, you may program the codes for each

of your source components into the remote. Each time you wish to use the codes for any component, first press the Selector button for that component. This changes the button functions to the appropriate codes for that product.

NOTE: Several of the Input Selectors are shared between two devices. Each press of those Input Selectors will toggle between the device whose name is printed on the button (selector lights in red) and the device whose name is printed above the button (selector lights in green).

Each Input Selector has been preprogrammed to control certain types of components, with only the codes specific to each brand and model changing, depending on which product code is programmed. The device types programmed into each selector, except the HDMI 1 and 2 selectors, may not be changed.

DVD: Controls DVD players and recorders.

CD: Controls CD players and recorders.

Tape: Controls cassette decks.

Video 1: Controls VCRs, TiVo and DVRs.

Video 2: Controls cable and satellite television set-top boxes.

Video 3: Controls televisions and other video displays.

HDMI 1 and 2: Each code set controls a source device (VCR/PVR, DVD player or cable/satellite set-top box) connected to one of these two inputs.

The Bridge/DMP: Controls an iPod docked in The Bridge.

For example, if you have inserted a disc in your CD player and you would like to skip ahead three tracks, but you then find that the volume is too loud, you would follow this procedure:

1.Press the CD Input Selector to switch to the codes that control your CD player.

2.Press the Play Button (in the Transport Controls section) if the disc is not already playing.

3.Press the Skip Up Button three times to advance three tracks.

4.Press the AVR Button so that you can access the Volume Controls.

5.Press the Volume Down Button until the volume level is satisfactory.

Any given button may have different functions, depending on which component is being controlled. Some buttons are labeled with these functions. For example, the Sleep and DSP Surround Buttons are labeled for use as Channel Up/Down Buttons when controlling a television or cable box. See Table A8 in the appendix for listings of the different functions for each type of component.

IR Transmitter Lens: As buttons are pressed on the remote, infrared codes are emitted through this lens. Make sure it is pointing toward the component being operated.

Power On Button: Press this button to turn on the AVR or another device. The Master Power Switch on the AVR 146’s front panel must first have been switched on.

Mute Button: Press this button to mute the AVR 146’s speaker and headphone outputs temporarily. To end the muting, press this button or adjust the volume. Muting is also canceled when the receiver is turned off.

Program Indicator: This LED lights up or flashes in one of three colors as the remote is programmed with codes.

Power Off Button: Press this button to turn off the AVR 146 or another device.

AVR Selector: Press this button to switch the remote to the codes that operate the receiver.

Input Selectors: Press one of these buttons to select a source device, which is a component where a playback signal originates, e.g., DVD, CD, cable TV, satellite or HDTV tuner, or an iPod docked in the optional The Bridge. This will also turn on the receiver and switch the remote’s mode to operate the source device.

AM/FM Button: Press this button to select the tuner as the source, or to switch between the AM and FM bands.

6-Channel Input Selector: Press this button to select the 6-Channel Inputs as the audio source. The receiver will use the video input and remote control codes for the last-selected video source.

Test Tone: Press this button to activate the test tone for manual output-level calibration.

TV/Video: This button has no effect on the receiver, but is used to switch video inputs on some video source components.

Sleep Button: Press this button to activate the sleep timer, which turns off the receiver after a programmed period of time of up to 90 minutes.

Volume Controls: Press these buttons to raise or lower the volume, which will be shown in decibels (dB) in the Message Display.

DSP Surround: Press this button to select a DSP surround mode (Hall 1, Hall 2, Theater).

On-Screen Display (OSD): Press this button to activate the on-screen menu system.

Channel Level: Press this button to adjust the output levels for each channel so that all speakers sound equally loud at the listening position. Usually this is done while playing an audio selection, such as a favorite CD, after you have configured the speakers, as described in the Initial Setup section.

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12

IR Transmitter Lens

Power On

Program Indicator

AVR Selector

AM/FM

Test Tone

Sleep

DSP Surround

On-Screen Display

Channel Level

Digital Input

Tuning Mode

Direct Station Entry

Tuning

Tone Mode

Night Mode

Track Skip

Transport Controls

Mute

Power Off

Input Selectors

6-Channel Input Selector

TV/Video

Volume Controls

Not Used

Speaker Setup

Navigation

Set

Delay

Numeric Keys

Memory

Clear

Preset Stations Selectors

Disc Skip

Macros

Surround Mode Selectors

Dim

NOTE: To make it easier to follow the instructions throughout the manual that refer to this illustration, a copy of this page may be downloaded from the

Product Support section at www.harmankardon.com.

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REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS

Speaker Setup: Press this button to configure speaker sizes, that is, the low-frequency capability of each speaker. Usually this is done using the on-screen menu system, as described in the Initial Setup section.

Navigation (/¤//) and Set Buttons: These buttons are used to make selections within the on-screen menu system, or when accessing the functions of the four buttons surrounding this area of the remote – Channel Level, Speaker Setup, Digital Input or Delay.

Digital Input Select: Press this button to select the specific digital audio input (or analog audio input) you used for the current source.

Delay: Press this button to set delay times that compensate for placing the speakers at different distances from the listening position, or to resolve a “lip sync” issue that may be caused by digital video processing. This may also be done using the on-screen menu system, as described in the Initial Setup section.

Numeric Keys: Use these buttons to enter radio station frequencies or to select station presets. Press the Direct button before entering the station frequency.

Tuning Mode: This button toggles between manual (one frequency step at a time) and automatic (seeks frequencies with acceptable signal strength) tuning mode. It also toggles between stereo and mono modes when an FM station is tuned.

Memory: After you have tuned a particular radio station, press this button, then the numeric keys, to save that station as a radio preset.

Tuning: Press these buttons to tune a radio station. Depending on whether the tuning mode has been set to manual or automatic, each press will either change one frequency step at a time, or seek the next frequency with acceptable signal strength.

Direct: Press this button before using the Numeric Keys to directly enter a radio station frequency.

Clear: Press this button to clear a radio station frequency you have started to enter.

Preset Stations Selector: Press these buttons to select a preset radio station.

Tone Mode: Press this button to access the tone controls (bass and treble). Use the Navigation Buttons to make your selections.

Disc Skip: This button has no effect on the receiver, but is used with some optical disc changers to skip to the next disc.

Macros: These buttons may be programmed to execute long command sequences with a single button press. They are useful for programming the command to turn on or off all of your components, or for accessing specialized functions for a different component than you are currently operating.

Surround Mode Selectors: Press any of these buttons to select a type of surround sound (e.g., multichannel) mode. Choose from the Dolby modes, DTS modes, Logic 7 modes or Stereo modes. Each

press of a button will cycle to the next available variant of that mode. Not all modes or mode groups are available with all sources.

Night Mode: Press this button to activate Night mode with specially encoded Dolby Digital discs or broadcasts. Night mode compresses the audio so that louder passages are reduced in volume to avoid disturbing others, while dialogue remains intelligible.

Track Skip: These buttons have no effect on the receiver, but are used with many source components to change tracks or chapters.

Dim: Press this button to partially or fully dim the front-panel display.

Transport Controls: These buttons have no effect on the receiver, but are used to control many source components. By default, when the remote is operating the receiver, these buttons will control a DVD player.

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INTRODUCTION TO HOME THEATER

The AVR 146 may be the first multichannel surround sound receiver you have owned. Although it has more connections and features than two-channel receivers, many of the principles are similar and the new concepts are easy to understand. This introductory section will help you to familiarize yourself with the basic concepts, which will make setup and operation smoother.

If you are already familiar with home theater, you may skip this section and proceed to the Connections section on page 16.

Typical Home Theater System

A home theater typically includes your audio/video receiver, which controls the system; a DVD player; a source component for television broadcasts, which may be a cable box, a satellite dish receiver, an HDTV tuner or simply an antenna connected to the TV; a video display (television); and loudspeakers.

All of these components are connected by various types of cables for audio and video signals.

Multichannel Audio

The main benefit of a home theater system is that several loudspeakers are used in various locations around the room to produce “surround sound.” Surround sound immerses you in the musical or film presentation for increased realism.

The AVR 146 may have up to five speakers connected directly to it (plus a subwoofer). Each speaker is powered by its own amplifier

channel inside the receiver. When more than two speakers are used, it is called a multichannel system.

Front Left and Right – The main speakers are used the same way as in a two-channel system. However, you may notice that in many surround modes, these speakers are used more for ambient sound while the main action, especially dialogue, is moved to the center speaker.

Center – The center speaker is usually placed above or below the video screen, and is used mostly for dialogue in movies and television programs. This placement allows the dialogue to originate near the actors’ faces, for a more natural sound.

Surround Left and Right – The surround speakers are used to improve directionality of ambient sounds. In addition, by using more loudspeakers in the system, more dynamic soundtracks may be played without risk of overloading any one speaker.

Many people expect the surround speakers to play as loudly as the front speakers. Although all of the speakers in the system will be calibrated to sound equally loud at the listening position, most artists use the surround speakers for ambient effects only, and they program their materials to steer very little sound to these speakers.

Subwoofer – A subwoofer is a special-purpose speaker designed to play only the lowest frequencies (the bass). It may be used to augment smaller, limited-range satellite speakers used for the other channels. In addition, many digital-format programs, such as movies

recorded in Dolby Digital, contain a special low-frequency effects (LFE) channel which is directed only to the subwoofer. The LFE channel packs the punch of a rumbling train or airplane, or the power of an explosion, adding realism and excitement to your home theater. Many people use two subwoofers, placed on the left and right sides of the room, for additional power and even distribution of the sound.

Surround Modes

There are different theories as to the best way to present surround sound and to distribute soundtrack information among the various speakers. A variety of algorithms have been developed in an effort to accurately reproduce the way we hear sounds in the real world. The result is a rich variety of surround mode options. Some modes are selected automatically, depending on the signal being received from the source. In many cases, you may select a surround mode manually.

Several companies have taken surround sound in slightly differing directions. It is helpful to group the numerous surround modes either by their brand name, or by using a generic name:

Dolby Laboratories, Inc. Modes – Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby Virtual Speaker, Dolby Headphone

DTS Modes – DTS, DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24

Harman International (Harman Kardon’s Parent Company) –

Logic 7

DSP Modes – Generic modes that include Hall 1, Hall 2 and Theater

Stereo Modes – Generic modes that expand upon conventional twochannel stereo, including DSP Surround Off, Analog Bypass Surround Off and 5-Channel Stereo

Table 5 on pages 43 – 44 contains detailed explanations of the differences between the various mode groups, and the mode options available within each group. Digital modes, such as Dolby Digital and DTS, are only available with specially encoded programs, such as DVDs and digital television. Other modes may be used with various digital and analog signals to create a different surround presentation, or to use a different number of speakers. Surround mode selection depends upon the number of speakers in your system, the materials you are watching or listening to, and your personal tastes.

Feel free to experiment.

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CONNECTIONS

There are different types of audio and video connections used to connect the receiver to the speakers and video display, and to connect the source devices to the receiver. To make it easier to keep them all straight, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has established

a color-coding standard. Table 1 may be helpful to you as a reference while you set up your system.

Table 1– Connection Color Guide

Audio Connections

Left

Right

Front (FL/FR)

 

Center (C)

 

Surround (SL/SR)

 

Subwoofer (SUB)

 

Digital Audio Connections

Coaxial

Optical Input

Video Connections

Component

Y

Pb

Pr

Composite

 

 

 

S-Video

 

 

 

HDMIConnections (switching only)

HDMI

Types of Connections

This section will briefly review different types of cables and connections that you may use to set up your system.

Speaker Connections

Speaker cables carry an amplified signal from the receiver’s speaker terminals to each loudspeaker. Speaker cables generally contain two wire conductors, or leads, inside plastic insulation. The two conductors are usually differentiated in some way, by using different colors, or stripes, or even by adding a ridge to the insulation. Sometimes the actual wires are different, one being copper-colored and the other silver.

The differentiation is important because each speaker must be connected to the receiver’s speaker-output terminals using two wires, one positive

(+) and one negative (–). This is called speaker polarity. It’s important to maintain the proper polarity for all speakers in the system. If some speakers have their negative terminals connected to the receiver’s positive terminals, performance can suffer, especially for the low frequencies.

Always connect the positive terminal on the loudspeaker, which is usually colored red, to the positive terminal on the receiver, which is colored as shown in the Connection Color Guide (Table 1). Similarly, always connect the black negative terminal on the speaker to the black negative terminal on the receiver.

+

Figure 1 – Binding-Post Speaker

Terminals With Banana Plugs

The AVR 146 uses binding-post speaker terminals that can accept banana plugs or bare-wire cables.

Banana plugs are simply plugged into the hole in the middle of the terminal cap. See Figure 1.

Bare wire cables are installed as follows (see Figure 2):

1.Unscrew the terminal cap until the pass-through hole in the collar is revealed.

2.Insert the bare end of the wire into the hole.

3.Screw the cap back into place until the wire is held snugly.

1

2

3

Figure 2 – Binding-Post Speaker Terminals With Bare Wires

Subwoofer

The subwoofer is a specialized type of loudspeaker that is usually connected in a different way. The subwoofer is used to play only the low frequencies (bass), which require much more power than the other speaker channels. In order to obtain the best results, most speaker manufacturers offer powered subwoofers, in which the speaker contains its own amplifier on board. Sometimes the subwoofer is connected to the receiver using the front left and right speaker outputs, and then the front left and right speakers are connected to terminals on the subwoofer. More often, a line-level (nonamplified) connection is made from the receiver’s Subwoofer Output to a corresponding jack on the subwoofer, as shown in Figure 3.

Although the subwoofer output looks similar to the analog audio jacks used for the various components, it is filtered and only allows the low frequencies to pass. Don’t connect this output to your other devices.

Although doing so won’t cause any harm, performance will suffer.

Pre-out Subwoofer

Figure 3 – Subwoofer

Connecting Source Devices to the AVR

The AVR 146 is designed to process audio and video input signals, playing back the audio and displaying the video on a television or monitor connected to the AVR. These signals originate in what are known as “source devices,” including your DVD player, CD player, DVR (digital video recorder) or other recorder, tape deck, game console, cable or satellite television box or MP3 player. Although the tuner is built into the AVR, it also counts as a source, even though no external connections are needed, other than the FM and AM antennas.

Separate connections are required for the audio and video portions of the signal. The types of connections used depend upon what’s available on the source device, and for video signals, the capabilities of your video display.

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CONNECTIONS

Audio Connections

There are two formats for audio connections: digital and analog. Digital audio signals are of higher quality, and are required for listening to sources encoded with digital surround modes, such as Dolby Digital and DTS. There are two types of digital audio connections: coaxial and optical. Either type of digital audio connection may be used for each source device, but never both simultaneously for the same source. However, it’s okay to make both analog and digital audio connections at the same time to the same source.

NOTE: Although HDMI cables are capable of carrying digital audio signals, the AVR 146 is not designed to process those signals. Therefore, if your source and video display are both HDMI-capable, use the HDMI connections for video only. Make a separate audio connection from the source device to the AVR 146, and turn the volume on your TV all the way off.

Digital Audio

Coaxial digital audio jacks are usually color-coded in orange. Although they look similar to analog jacks, they should not be confused, and you should not connect coaxial digital audio outputs to analog inputs or vice versa. See Figure 4.

Coaxial digital Coaxial audio cable

Figure 4 – Coaxial Digital Audio

Optical digital audio connectors are normally covered by a shutter to protect them from dust. The shutter opens as the cable is inserted. Input connectors are color-coded using a black shutter, while outputs use a gray shutter. See Figure 5.

Optical

Optical digital

audio cable

Figure 5 – Optical Digital Audio

Due to the nature of digital signals as binary bits, they aren’t subject to signal degradation the way analog signals are. Therefore, the quality of coaxial and optical digital audio connections should be the same,

although it is important to limit the length of the cable. Whichever type of connection you choose, Harman Kardon recommends that you always select the highest quality cables available within your budget.

Analog Audio

Analog connections require two cables, one for the left channel (white) and one for the right channel (red). These two cables are often attached to each other for most of their length. See Figure 6. Most sources that have digital audio jacks also have analog audio jacks, although some older types of sources, such as tape decks, have only analog jacks. For sources that are capable of both digital and analog audio, you may wish to make both connections. If you wish to record materials from DVDs or other copy-protected sources, you may only be able to do so using analog connections. Remember to comply with all copyright laws if you choose to make a copy for your own personal use.

Analog audio

L

 

cable (RCA)

R

Figure 6 – Analog Audio

Multichannel analog connections are used with some high-definition sources where the copy-protected digital content is decoded inside the source. These types of connections are usually used with DVDAudio, SACD, Blu-ray Disc, HD-DVD and other multichannel players. See Figure 7.

Front Surround Center

Multichannel analog audio cable (RCA)

Subwoofer

Figure 7 – Multichannel Analog Audio

Harman Kardon receivers also include a proprietary, dedicated audio connection called “The Bridge/DMP”. If you own an iPod with a dock connector, you may purchase The Bridge separately and connect it to The Bridge/DMP port on the receiver. See Figure 8. Dock your iPod (not included) in The Bridge, and you may play your audio and video materials through your high-performance system. You may even use the AVR 146 remote to control the iPod, with navigation messages displayed on the front panel and on the screen of a video display connected to the AVR.

Figure 8 – The Bridge

Video Connections

Although some sources produce an audio signal only (e.g., CD player, tape deck), many sources output both audio and video signals (e.g., DVD player, cable television box, HDTV tuner, satellite box, VCR, DVR). In addition to the audio connection, you will need to connect one type of video connection for each of these sources (never more than one at the same time for any source).

Digital Video

The AVR 146 is equipped with two HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) inputs, and one output. HDMI is capable of carrying digital audio and video information using a single cable, thus delivering the highest possible quality picture and sound.

There are different versions of HDMI, depending on the capability of the source device and the type of signal it is capable of transmitting via the HDMI connection.

In addition, receivers and processors such as the AVR 146 may handle the incoming signal in several different ways, depending on their capability as well. The AVR 146 is only capable of switching the HDMI data. That is, the incoming audio and video data, including 1080i and 1080p video, will be passed directly to your HDMI-capable video display, without the

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CONNECTIONS

AVR 146 processing any of the data. Although this enables the AVR 146 to be compatible with virtually any HDMI-capable source device and video display, it requires a separate audio connection for each source since the AVR 146 doesn’t have access to the audio data in the HDMI stream.

The AVR 146 has been tested and is Simplay HD-verified, which guarantees compatibility via the HDMI connection with other products that also bear the Simplay HD logo.

The AVR 146 will not convert analog video signals to the HDMI format, and the on-screen displays are not visible when using an HDMI source. Therefore, you will need to connect the composite or S-video monitor output to your video display (or both, depending on which video connections your sources use) to view the on-screen menus.

The physical HDMI connection is simple. The connector is shaped for easy plug-in (see Figure 9). If your video display has a DVI input, you may use an HDMI-to-DVI adapter (not included) to connect it to the AVR’s HDMI Output.

Figure 9 – HDMI Connection

Analog Video

There are three types of analog video connections: composite video, S-video and component video.

Composite video is the basic connection most commonly available. The jack is usually color-coded yellow, and looks like an analog audio jack, although it is important never to confuse the two. Do not plug a composite video cable into an analog or coaxial digital audio jack, or vice versa. Both the chrominance (color) and luminance (intensity) components of the video signal are transmitted using a single cable. See Figure 10.

Composite video cable

Figure 10 – Composite Video

S-video, or “separate” video, transmits the chrominance and luminance components using separate wires contained within a single cable. The plug on an S-video cable contains four metal pins, plus a plastic guide pin. Be careful to line up the plug correctly when you insert it into the jack on the receiver, source or video display. See Figure 11.

S-video cable

Figure 11 – S-Video

Component video separates the video signal into three components – one luminance (“Y”) and two subsampled color signals (“Pb” and “Pr”) – that are transmitted using three separate cables. The “Y” cable is color-coded green, the “Pb” cable is colored blue and the “Pr” cable

is colored red. See Figure 12.

Component video cable

Figure 12 – Component Video

If it’s available on your video display, HDMI is recommended as the best quality connection, followed by component video, S-video and then composite video.

NOTE: A composite or S-video connection to your TV is required to view the AVR’s on-screen displays.

Antennas

The AVR 146 uses separate terminals for the included FM and AM antennas that provide proper reception for the tuner.

The FM antenna uses a 75-ohm F-connector. See Figure 13.

Figure 13 – FM Antenna

The AM loop antenna needs to be assembled. Then connect the two leads to the screw terminals on the receiver. See Figure 14.

Figure 14 – AM Antenna

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