Harman-Kardon AVR 7550HD User Manual
AVR 7550HD
AUDIO/VIDEO RECEIVER
OWNER’S MANUAL
SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. The A/V receiver’s cabinet may be cleaned by gently wiping with a soft
cotton or microfiber cloth. Do not use water or any liquid cleaners.
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type
plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety.When the
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly
at plugs, convenience receptacles and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.
11. Only use the attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use
caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus,
the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
Wet Location Marking
Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects
filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
Service Instructions
CAUTION – These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service
personnel only.To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any
servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions, unless
you are qualified to do so.
Outdoor Use Marking
WARNING – To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this
apparatus to rain or moisture.
2
SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Verify Line Voltage Before Use
Your AVR 7550HD 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.
Do Not Use Extension Cords
To avoid safety hazards, use only the power cord supplied with 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 warranty. 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 7550HD and the heat generated by the
amplifiers, there is the remote possibility that the rubber padding on the
bottom of the 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 our 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.
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 frontpanel lens. Leaving the film in place will affect the performance of your
remote control.
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 SAFETY INFORMATION
5 INTRODUCTION
7 FRONT- PANEL CONTROLS
9 REAR - PANEL CONNECTIONS
12 MAIN REMOTE CONTROL
FUNCTIONS
15 ZONE 2 REMOTE CONTROL
FUNCTIONS
17 INTRODUCTION TO HOME THEATER
18 CONNECTIONS
18 Speaker Connections
18 Subwoofer
18 Connecting Source Devices to the AVR
18 Audio Connections
18 Digital Audio
19 Analog Audio
19 Video Connections
19 Digital Video
19 Analog Video
20 Antennas
20 RS-232 Serial Port
21 SPEAKER PLACEMENT
22 GE TTING STARTED
24 INSTALLATION
29 INITIAL SETUP
29 Using the On-Screen Menu System
29 Configure the AVR 7550HD, Using EzSet/EQ™II Technology
30 Set Up Sources
33 OPERATION
33 Turning On the AVR 7550HD
33 Volume Control
33 Dolby Volume
34 Mute Function
34 Sleep Timer
34 Audio Effects
34 Video Modes
34 Headphones
34 Source Selection
34 Using the Tuner
35 XM®Radio Operation
36 USB Playback
36 Internet Radio
37 Network Playback
37 Recording
37 Using Docking Station
39 Selecting a Surround Mode
40 ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
40 Audio Processing and Surround Sound
40 Analog Audio Signals
40 Digital Audio Signals
40 Surround Modes
41 Dolby®Surround Settings
41 Manual Speaker Setup
44 Audio Effects
45 Video Adjustments
47 Multizone Operation
47 System Settings
48 Advanced Remote Control Functions
51 Processor Reset
51 Memory
52 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
53 APPENDIX
67 Trademark Acknowledgments
67 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
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.
4
INTRODUCTION
Please register your AVR 7550HD at
www.harmankardon.com.
NOTE: You’ll need the product’s serial number. At the same
time, you can choose to be notified about new products and/or
special promotions.
Thank you for choosing a Harman Kardon
®
product!
For more than fifty years, the Harman Kardon®mission has been to
share a passion for music and entertainment, using leading-edge
technology to achieve premium performance. Harman Kardon, Inc.,
invented the receiver, a single component designed to simplify
home entertainment without compromising performance. Over
the years, Harman Kardon products have become easier to use,
while offering more features and sounding better than ever.The
AVR 7550HD multizone 7.2-channel digital audio/video receiver
continues this tradition with some of the most advanced audio and
video processing capabilities yet, and a wealth of listening and
viewing options.
To obtain the maximum enjoyment from your new receiver, please
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 Harman Kardon retailer or custom
installer, or visit the Web site at www.harmankardon.com.
Harman Kardon AVR 7550HD 7.2-Channel
Audio/Video Receiver
Audio Section
• 105 Watts x 7, seven channels driven at full power at 8 ohms,
20Hz – 20kHz, <0.07% THD, 735 watts total
• High-current capability, ultrawide-bandwidth amplifier design with
low negative feedback
• All-discrete amplifier circuitry
• Quadruple-crossover bass management with DVD-Audio bass
management capability
• Dual 32-bit TI DA 710 DSP processors
• 192kHz/24-bit A/D and D/A conversion
• Sampling upconversion to 96kHz
®
• Dolby
Volume processing
Surround Modes
• Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD
®
• Dolby Pro Logic
• Dolby Virtual Speaker Version 2 (Reference or Wide, 2-channel)
• Dolby Headphone Version 2, up to 96kHz
• DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
• DTS®(5.1; DTS Stereo; DTS-ES®6.1 Discrete and Matrix)
• DTS 96/24™(DTS Stereo)
• DTS Neo:6®(Cinema 5-, 6- or 7-channel; Music 5-, 6- or
7-channel), up to 96kHz
• Logic 7®(Movie, Music and Game), up to 96kHz
• 5- or 7-Channel Stereo, up to 96kHz
• Surround Off (DSP or Analog Bypass)
II and IIx (Movie, Music and Game), up to 96kHz
™
, DTS-HD Master Audio
™
5
INTRODUCTION
Audio Inputs
• AM/FM/XM®* tuner
• Analog Audio 1 through 5
• Front-panel Analog Audio
• 6-/8-Channel Analog Audio
Audio/Video Inputs
• Three Analog Video
• Front-panel Analog Video
• Three Component Video 100MHz
• Four HDMI™(V.1.3a with Deep Color)
• Faroudja DCDi Cinema
Transcodes composite and S-video to component video
Transcodes 480i video to component video format, with
™
video processing
upscaling to 1080i
Transcodes 480i video to HDMI output, with upscaling
to 1080p
• dock for iPod** connectivity with audio/video playback
• Ethernet port for Internet Radio and Network
• USB Port for audio and still-image playback from compatible
storage devices
Digital Audio Inputs
• Coaxial: three rear-panel/one front-panel
• Optical: three rear-panel/one front-panel
Outputs
• 7.2-Channel preamp outputs
• Analog Audio 3 and 4
• Analog Video 2 (composite and S-video)
• Video Monitor (composite, S-video and component)
• Digital Audio (one coaxial, one optical)
• HDMI (V.1.3a with Deep Color)
• Multizone Audio: speaker- and two line-level (one dedicated,
one shared with surround back channels)
• Multizone Video: composite
• A-BUS
• Headphone
®
port
Ease of Use
• EzSet/EQ™II automated setup (microphone supplied)
• Full-color user interface and setup menu, generated in
high-definition video
• Text-based on-screen menus available to Zone 2
• Two-line dot-matrix front-panel display
• Color-coded connections
• Programmable, learning seven-device main remote control
(includes AVR control over The Bridge II)
• Source input renaming
• Lip Sync Delay (up to 180msec)
• RS-232 serial port for system control
• System upgradeable from USB device
• Switched accessory power outlet
• Remote infrared (IR) input and output
• Zone 2 IR input and Carrier IR output
• Two trigger outputs (3–30V DC) for auto turn-on of other
system components
• IEC detachable AC power cord for easy installation
Supplied Accessories
The following accessory items are supplied with the AVR 7550HD.
If any of these items are missing, please contact Harman Kardon
customer service at www.harmankardon.com.
• System and Zone 2 remote controls
• EzSet/EQ II microphone
• Extension rod for EzSet/EQ II
microphone
• docking station for iPod
• AM loop antenna
• FM wire antenna
• Six AAA batteries
• AC power cord
XM antenna module and subscription to XM service required. Hardware and
*
service sold separately. XM service is not available in Alaska or Hawaii.
Compatible with most docking iPod models, 4G and later. Video and still-image
**
viewing requires an iPod that supports video browsing.
6
FRONT- PANEL CONTROLS
Volume
Message DisplayPower
USB
Input
EzSet/EQ II
Microphone
Front)
Video Inputs
(S- and Composite
Digital
(Optical and
Audio Inputs
USB Port
OK
Back/Exit
Front Inputs
Analog Audio
Coaxial Front)
Jack
Headphone
/
/
Navigation
Remote
IR Sensor
Indicator
Main
List
Source
Video
Modes
Resolution
AVR
Settings
Power
Switch
Menu
Modes
Surround
Audio
Effects
Info
Settings
Switch
Standby/On
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.
7
FRONT- PANEL CONTROLS
Power Indicator: This LED has three possible modes:
• Main Power Off: When the AVR is unplugged or the Main
Power Switch is off, this LED is off.
• Standby: Amber indicates that the AVR is ready to be turned on.
• On: When the AVR is turned on, this LED turns white.
NOTE: If the PROTECT message ever appears, turn off the
AVR and unplug it. Check all speaker wires for a possible short.
If none is found, bring the unit to an authorized Harman Kardon
service center for inspection and repair before using it again.
Standby/On Switch: This electrical switch turns the
receiver on, or places it in Standby mode for quick turn-on.
Front-Panel Door (not shown): Most of the controls
and connectors described below are hidden behind this door.To
open it, gently grab the right or left edge of the door and pull it
forward and down.
Main Power Switch: This mechanical switch turns the
power supply on or off. It is usually left on, and cannot be turned
on or off using the remote control.
AVR Settings Button: Press this button to access the
AVR’s main menu.
Info Settings Button: Press this button to directly access
the AVR’s Source Info submenu, which contains the settings for the
current source.
Resolution: Press this button to access the AVR’s video output
resolution setting: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i or 1080p.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If the AVR’s video output resolution
is set higher than the capabilities of the actual connection,
you will not see a picture. If the best available video connection
from the AVR to the TV is either composite or S-video, press
this button and change the resolution to 480i.
Audio Effects: Press this button to directly access the Audio
Effects submenu, which allows adjustment of the tone and other
audio controls. See the Initial Setup section for more information.
Video Modes: Press this button for direct access to the Video
Modes submenu, which contains settings that may be used to
improve the picture, if necessary, after you have adjusted the
picture settings using the video display or TV.
Menu Button: Press to display the menus for the tuner, the
USB device, The Bridge II, the Network or Internet Radio, when any
of those sources is in use.
Back/Exit: Press this button to return to the previous menu,
or to exit the menu system.
1/57/3 Navigation: These buttons are used to navigate the
AVR’s menus, including the menus for the tuner, the USB device,
The Bridge II, the Network and Internet Radio.
OK: Press this button to select the currently highlighted item.
Headphone Jack: Plug a 1/4" stereo headphone plug into
this jack for private listening.
USB Port: Connect a USB flash drive, to play audio files in
the MP3 or WMA format or still images in the JPEG format. DO NOT
connect a PC, keyboards, pointing devices or other peripheral products to the AVR 7550HD. Do not connect an iPod here; use The
Bridge II instead. Do not connect a USB hub or multi-card device.
Digital Audio, Video and Analog Audio Front
Inputs: Connect a source component that will only be used
temporarily, such as a digital camera or game console, to these
jacks. Use only one type of audio and one type of video connection.
NOTE: The AVR’s menus refer to these jacks as the Optical
Front, Coaxial Front, Composite Front, S-Video Front and
Analog Front inputs.
EzSet/EQ II Microphone Input:This jack is used to
connect the supplied microphone for the EzSet/EQ II procedure
described in the Initial Setup section.
Volume Knob:Turn this knob to raise or lower the volume.
Message Display: Various messages appear in this two-line
display in response to commands and changes in the incoming signal.
In normal operation, the current source name appears on the upper
line, while the surround mode is displayed on the lower line. When
the on-screen display menu system (OSD) is in use, the current
menu settings appear.
Remote IR Sensor: This sensor receives infrared (IR)
commands from the remote control. It is important to ensure that it
is not blocked. If covering the sensor is unavoidable, use an optional
Harman Kardon HE 1000, or other infrared receiver, connecting it to
the Remote IR Input on the AVR 7550HD’s rear panel.
Surround Modes: Press this button to select a surround
sound (e.g., multichannel) mode. The Surround Modes menu will
appear on screen, and the menu line will appear in the front-panel
display. See the Advanced Functions section for more information
on surround modes.
Source List: Press this button to select a source device,
which is a component where a playback signal originates, e.g., DVD.
8
REAR - PANEL CONNECTIONS
MODEL NO
A
VR 7550HD
NORTHRIDGE
CALIFORNIA, USA
MADE IN CHINA
Class 2 ovided the audio output power exceeds 10W per channel under
normal operating conditions or the apparatus is intended to be installed or interconnected
in the field by a skilled person.
PRE OUT
FL
FR
SL
SR
CENTER
SBL
SBR
A-BUS
SUBWOOFER 1
SURR. RIGHT SURR. LEFT FRONT RIGHT FRONT LEFT
SURR. LEFT FRONT RIGHT FRONT LEFT
SBL
SBR
ZONE 2
LEFT
or
ZONE 2
RIGHT
or
SPEAKERS 8
( )
CENTER
COMPOSITE S-VIDEO
AC INPUT
~120V/60Hz 600W
AC OUTLET
~120V/60Hz SWITCHED
100W, 1A MAX
Pr
Pb
Y
1 32
COMPONENT COMPONENT COMPONENT
MONITOR OUT
MONITOR OUT
REMOTE
CARRIER
OUT
OUT
123
VIDEO
VIDEO
VIDEO
IN
OUT
ZONE 2 OUT
3
2
1
4
MONITOR
OUT
TRIGGER OUT ZONE 2
1 2 IN IN
RS 232
THE BRIDGE
XM
OPTICAL OPTICAL OPTICAL
COAXIAL COAXIAL COAXIAL OUT
OPTICAL OUT
3
2
2
DIGITAL AUDIO
13
NETWORK
6/8
CHANNEL
INPUT
COAXIAL
FL SL CENTER SBL
FR SR SBRSUBWOOFER
1
ANALOG AUDIO
L
R
FM 75 GROUND AM
ANALOG IN ANALOG IN
ANALOG IN
OUT
12
3
ZONE 2 OUT
SUBWOOFER 2
ANALOG IN
4
ANALOG IN
OUT
SURR. RIGHT
5
RADIO ANTENNAS
SPEAKERS 8
( )
VIDEO COMPONENT VIDEO
.
LR 46800
EP Patent # 1004222
US Patent # 7,181,023, 6,389,139
6,516,132; 6,381,747; & 6,836,549.
US Patent Nos. 5,315,448;
AVR7550HD
6-/8-Channel
Inputs
Analog 1-5
Inputs
Analog 3
Outputs
Analog 4
Outputs
Coaxial 1, 2 & 3
Digital Audio
Optical 1, 2 & 3
Digital Audio
Coaxial Digital
Audio Output
Network
Optical Digital
Audio Output
Trigger Outputs
1 & 2
Remote IR
Input
Carrier IR
Output
S-Video
1, 2 & 3
HDMI 1, 2, 3 & 4
HDMI Monitor
Output
AC Power
Input
Switched AC
Accessory Outlet
Center
Speaker
Outputs
Component
Video Monitor
Outputs
Video Monitor
Outputs
Component
1, 2 & 3
Composite
1, 2 & 3
Surround
Back/
Zone 2
Speaker
Outputs
S-Video 2
Output
Zone 2 Video
Output
Fan Vents
The Bridge II
Front
Speaker
Outputs
Subwoofer 2
Output
Zone 2
Audio
Outputs
AM Antenna
FM Antenna
Surround
Speaker
Outputs
A-BUS
P
ort
Subwoofer 1
Output
Preamp
Outputs
Remote IR
Output
XM Antenna
RS-232 Port
Zone 2
IR Input
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
6-/8-Channel Inputs: Connect the multichannel analog
audio outputs of a non-HDMI player (DVD-Audio, SACD™, Blu-ray
Disc™or HD-DVD, or any other external decoder) to these jacks.
Coaxial 1/2/3 and Optical 1/2/3 Digital Audio
Inputs: If a source has a compatible digital audio output, and
if you are not using an HDMI connection for audio for the device,
connect it to one of these jacks to hear digital audio formats, such
as Dolby Digital, DTS and linear PCM. Use only one type of digital
audio connection for each source.
Coaxial and Optical Digital Audio Outputs: If
a source is also an audio recorder, connect one of the Digital Audio
Outputs to the recorder’s matching input for improved recording
quality. Only PCM digital audio signals are available for recording.
Both coaxial and optical digital audio signals are available at either
Digital Audio Output.
XM Antenna Jack: Plug in an XM Connect-and-Play or
Mini-Tuner antenna module here.
Network Jack: Plug in an RJ-45-compatible cable that con-
nects to a personal computer (PC), router or Internet access. When
connected to a PC, the AVR 7550HD is capable of playing audio and
JPEG files stored on the PC. When connected to the Internet, the
AVR 7550HD may be used to enjoy Internet Radio. See pages 36
and 37 for more information.
RS-232 Serial Port: This bi-directional port may be used
to control the AVR 7550HD using an RS-232 serial control link to a
compatible computer or programmable remote control system. Due
to the complexity of programming RS-232 commands, connections
and programming for control purposes should be performed by a
qualified custom installer.
Trigger 1 and 2 Outputs: Connect these control jacks
to the trigger input jack of an external component, such as an audio
power amplifier, that you want to power on any time the AVR 7550HD
is turned on, without using the AVR’s Switched Accessory Outlet for
power.When this connection is used, the AVR 7550HD will automatically send a low-voltage signal to the connected device that triggers it to turn on when the AVR 7550HD is on, and off when the
AVR 7550HD is placed in the Standby Mode. The connected component must respond to 6-volt presence as the control signal.
The Trigger 2 Output may be programmed to transmit its signal only
when certain of the AVR’s source inputs are selected. For example,
to lower a screen when watching a DVD movie, but not while listening to the tuner, connect the Trigger 2 Output to the screen and program it to be on when the DVD source is selected, but off when the
AM, FM or XM bands are in use. See the Initial Setup section for
more information on programming this setting in the Info Settings
menus for each source.
Zone 2 Infrared (IR) Input: Connect a remote IR receiver
located in the remote zone of a multizone system to this jack to
control the AVR (and any source devices connected to the Remote
IR Output) from the remote zone.
Remote Infrared (IR) Input and Output: When the
remote IR receiver on the front panel is blocked, connect an optional
IR receiver to the Remote IR Input jack. The Remote IR Output may
be connected to the Remote IR Input of a compatible product to
enable remote control through the AVR.
Remote IR Carrier Output: This output is similar in
function to the Remote IR Output, with the difference that this jack
outputs the full infrared signal as received by the AVR’s IR sensor
or the Remote IR Input, while the Remote IR Output jack outputs a
“stripped” signal that has no carrier frequency.
HDMI Inputs and Output: HDMI (High-Definition
Multimedia Interface) is a connection for transmitting digital audio
and video signals between devices. Connect up to four HDMIequipped source devices to the HDMI inputs using a single-cable
connection.
When you connect the HDMI Output to your video display, the
AVR 7550HD will automatically transcode analog video signals to
the HDMI format, upscaling to as high as 1080p.
NOTES: When connecting a DVI-equipped display to one of
the HDMI Outputs:
• Use an HDMI-to-DVI adapter.
• Make sure the display is HDCP-compliant. If it isn’t, do not
connect it to an HDMI Output; use an analog video connection
instead.
• Always make a separate audio connection.
Analog 1 – 5 Inputs: Connect the left and right analog
audio outputs of a source device to any of these inputs. These
inputs may be paired with any video inputs.
NOTES:
• The Analog 3 and 4 inputs are each associated with a set
of outputs. Consider using these connectors for an audio or
video recorder.
• You may optionally connect a source to both an analog and
digital audio input. This is useful for making recordings, for
multizone applications or simply as a backup.
Analog 3 and 4 Outputs: Connect either of these analog
audio outputs to the analog audio inputs of a recording device.
A signal is available at these outputs whenever an analog audio
source is playing.
Zone 2 Audio Outputs: Connect these jacks to an external
amplifier to power the speakers in the remote zone of a multizone
system.
Subwoofer 1 and 2 Outputs: If you have a powered
subwoofer with a line-level input, connect it to the Subwoofer 1
Output. For improved performance, connect a second powered
subwoofer to the Subwoofer 2 Output.
The Bridge II Input: Connect the included Harman Kardon
docking station to this input for use with most docking
iPod models, 4G and later (not included).Turn the receiver off
(Standby mode) when connecting The Bridge II.
10
REAR - PANEL CONNECTIONS
Fan Vents: This area contains vents used by the AVR 7550HD’s
fan to cool the system. Maintain a clearance of at least 3 inches
from the nearest surface to avoid overheating the unit. It is normal
for the fan to remain off at most normal volume levels. An automatic
temperature sensor turns the fan on only when it is needed.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Never block the fan vents, as doing
so could allow the AVR to overheat to dangerous levels.
Zone 2 Video Output: Connect this composite video jack
to a video display located in the remote zone of a multizone system.
When the multizone system is in use, viewers in the remote zone
will be able to see the AVR’s on-screen text menus and any available
source video, as long as the source is connected to a Composite
Video Input, and that input is specified for that source in the Zone 2
Video setting of the Info Settings menu.
Composite and S-Video 1, 2 and 3 Video Inputs:
Use these jacks to connect your video-capable source components
(e.g., VCR, DVD player, cable TV box) to the receiver. Use only one
type of video connection for each source.
Composite and S-Video 2 Outputs: Connect one of
these analog video outputs to the composite or S-video inputs of
a recording device. A signal is available at these outputs whenever
an analog video source is playing.
Composite and S-Video Monitor Outputs: If any
of your sources use composite or S-video connections, connect one
or both of these monitor outputs to the corresponding inputs on
your video display. If your video display is equipped with HDMI or
component video inputs, these connections are unnecessary, as the
AVR 7550HD will convert the composite or S-video source signal
to the correct format for a single video-cable connection to the TV.
Preamp Outputs: Connect these jacks to an external
amplifier if more power is desired. The Surround Back/Zone 2
Preamp Outputs may be used with an external amplifier to power
the remote zone of a multizone system.
A-BUS Port: Use a Category 5/5e cable to connect this port to
optional A-BUS equipment for multizone operation. When the A-BUS
system is used, it is possible to have a full 7.2-channel system in
the main listening room at the same time the multizone system is
in use.
Front, Center and Surround Speaker Outputs:
Use two-conductor speaker wire to connect each set of terminals
to the correct speaker. Remember to observe the correct polarity
(positive and negative connections).
Surround Back/Zone 2 Speaker Outputs: These
speaker outputs are used for the surround back channels in a
7.2-channel home theater, or may be reassigned to a remote room
for multizone operation.
Switched AC Accessory Outlet: You may plug the
AC power cord of one source device into this outlet, and it will turn
on whenever you turn on the receiver. Do not use a source that
consumes more than 50 watts of power.
AC Power Input: After you have made all other connections,
plug the AC power cord into this receptacle and into an unswitched
wall outlet.
Component Video 1, 2 and 3 Inputs: If a video
source has analog component video (Y/Pb/Pr) capability, and if you
are not using an HDMI connection, connect the component video
outputs of the source to one of the sets of component video inputs.
Do not make any other video connections to that source.
Component Video Monitor Outputs: If you are
using one of the Component Video Inputs and your television or
video display is component-video-capable (but does not have
HDMI), connect these jacks to the video display.
NOTES:
• Due to copy-protection restrictions, there is no output at
the Component Video Monitor Outputs for copy-protected
sources.
• Composite and S-video signals are upscaled to as high as
1080i and available at these outputs. If your video display’s
best connection is component video, it is the only video
connection required from the AVR to the display.
AM and FM Antenna Terminals: Connect the included
AM and FM antennas to their respective terminals for radio reception.
11
MAIN REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS
IR Transmitter Lens
AVR Power Off
AVR Power On
Source Selectors
Audio Effects
Alphanumeric Keys
Last
Back/Exit
Device Power On
Device Power Off
LCD Display
Video Modes
Surround Modes
Activity
Menu
Navigation
OK
Light
Soft Keys
Volume
Mute
Record
Info Settings
AVR Settings/Remote Menu
Zone Selector
Disc Menu
Channel
Transport Controls
Source Settings
Sleep Settings
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.
12
MAIN REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS
The AVR 7550HD remote is capable of controlling up to 14 devices,
including the AVR itself, an iPod docked in the included The Bridge II,
a USB device and a Network device (see page 37 for details). During
the installation process, you may program the codes for your source
components into the remote. To operate a component, press its
Selector button to change the device mode. The device mode will
appear on the top line of the remote’s LCD Display.
NOTE: Four of the sources do not have dedicated Source
Selectors: Source A, Source B, Source C and Source D. To
select one of these sources, first press the AVR Settings Button,
then press the appropriate Soft Key: Red for Source A, Green
for Source B, Yellow for Source C and Blue for Source D. These
sources may also be selected using the AVR Settings menu.
Each Source 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 AUX and Cable/SAT Source Selectors may be used for multiple
device types. All of the external Source Selectors may be reassigned
to other device types (see Initial Setup section).
AUX Source Selector: CD player, VCR, HDTV set-top box,
PVD or TiVo®set-top box.
Cable/SAT Source Selector: Cable set-top box or satel-
lite set-top box.
IMPORTANT NOTE: All of the AVR 7550HD’s audio and
video inputs are independently assignable. Select the inputs
to which the device is physically connected during Initial
Setup. Any device may be connected to any compatible input
and given any name (e.g., DVD or Game).
Most of the buttons on the remote have dedicated functions,
although the precise codes transmitted vary, depending on the
device mode. Due to the wide variety of functions for various source
devices, only a few of the most-often used functions on the remote
have been included: alphanumeric keys, transport controls, televisionchannel control, menu access, and power on and off.
Buttons dedicated to the AVR are available at any time, even in
another device mode: AVR Power On and Off, Audio Effects, Video
Modes, Surround Modes, Volume, Mute and Sleep Settings. Press
the AVR Settings Button near the bottom of the remote to return it
to AVR mode.
A button’s function depends on which component is being controlled. See Table A14 in the appendix for listings of the functions
for each type of component.
IR Transmitter Lens: As buttons are pressed on the
remote, infrared codes are emitted through this lens.
AVR Power On Button: Press to turn on the AVR. The
Master Power Switch behind the front-panel door must be on.
AVR Power Off Button: Press to turn off the AVR 7550HD.
Device Power On Button: Press a device’s Source
Selector, then press this button to turn on the device.
Device Power Off Button: Press a device’s Source
Selector, then press this button to turn off the device.
LCD Display: This two-line text display informs you of the
current device mode (i.e., which source is active) on the upper line.
When you press a key, the command will appear briefly on the
lower line.
Source Selectors: Press one of these buttons to select a
source device, e.g., DVD, CD, cable TV, satellite or HDTV tuner. This
will also turn on the receiver and switch the remote’s device mode
to operate the source. The first press of the Radio Selector switches
the AVR to the last-used tuner band (AM, FM or XM). Each successive press changes the band. Similarly, the Network Button toggles
between the Network and Internet Radio sources.
Audio Effects: Press to directly access the Audio Effects
submenu, which allows adjustment of the AVR’s tone and other
audio controls. See the Initial Setup section for more information.
Video Modes: Press for direct access to the Video Modes
submenu, which contains picture settings to be used after you
have adjusted the picture settings on the video display or TV.
See the Advanced Functions section for more information.
Surround Modes: Press to directly access the Surround
Modes submenu. Scroll to the lines for the Surround Mode categories:
Auto Select, Virtual Surround, Stereo, Movie, Music or Video Game.
The surround mode will change when the menu line is highlighted.
To change the surround mode for the selected category, press the
OK Button when the menu line for the Surround Mode category
matching the audio program is highlighted, and select one of the
available surround mode options using the 1/5 Buttons. Press the
OK Button.
See the Advanced Functions section for more information on
surround modes.
Alphanumeric Keys: Use these buttons to enter numbers
for radio station frequencies or channels, or to select station presets.
Last Channel: When controlling the tuner; a cable, satellite
or HDTV set-top box; or a TV, press this button to return to the
previous station or channel. For Internet Radio, this is only available
to toggle between stations previously saved as presets.
Activity: With this button, up to 11 Activities may be pro-
grammed to transmit a series of commands with a single press.
Execute an Activity by pressing this button, then the Alphanumeric
Key (or the AVR Power On or Off Button by themselves) into which
it was programmed. See the Advanced Functions section for more
information on Activities.
Back/Exit: Press to return to the previous menu or to exit the
menu system.
Menu Button: This button is used within the Now Playing
menu for the tuner (including XM Radio), USB,The Bridge II, Internet
Radio and the Network, and to display the main menu on some
source devices. To display the AVR 7550HD’s main menu, press the
AVR Settings Button.
Navigation
are used to make selections within the menu system and to operate
the tuner.
(
1/57/3
)
and OK Buttons: These buttons
13
MAIN REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS
Light: Press to illuminate the buttons on the remote. Press it
again to turn the back light off, or wait 10 seconds after the last
button press for the light to turn off on its own.
Disc Menu: While a DVD is playing, press the DVD Source
Selector, then this button, to display the disc’s menu.
Soft Keys: These buttons are used to select sources A, B, C
and D (see note on page 13), or for other functions with some
source devices. See Table A14 in the appendix for details. They
are also used with a Teletext-capable television if your broadcast,
cable or satellite provider offers Teletext service.
Volume Control: Press to raise or lower the volume.
Mute Button: Press to mute the AVR 7550HD’s speaker and
headphone outputs. To end the muting, press this button, adjust the
volume, or turn off the receiver.
Channel/Page Control: When the tuner has been selected,
this control changes the station. When using The Bridge II or a USB
drive, this control allows you to scroll a page at a time through a
long list of content. While operating a cable, satellite or HDTV settop box or a television, press these buttons to change channels.
Transport Controls: These buttons are used to control
source playback.
Record Button: Use this button to make recordings when
an audio or video recorder is in use.
AVR Settings/Remote Menu Button: Press to
display the AVR’s Main Menu, or to switch the remote to AVR device
mode. Press and hold for 3 seconds to access the menu for the
remote control. The menu commands and options will appear in
the LCD Display.
The functions are: program the codes for a device, learn codes
for an individual key, change the device type of a selector, program
an activity (macro), program punch-through functions for channel
control or transport control, rename a device or a key’s function,
change the brightness of the back light, reset the remote to its
factory-default status, or exit the remote menu. See the Initial
Setup section for details on programming the remote, and see
the Advanced Functions section for further information.
Info Settings Button: Press to display the AVR’s Info Menu,
which contains the settings for the current source.
Source Settings Button: Press a Source Selector and
then this button to display a source device’s settings menu.
Sleep Settings Button: Press to activate the sleep timer,
which turns off the receiver after a programmed period of time of
up to 90 minutes. Each press decreases the timer by 10 minutes,
ending with the “Sleep Off” message.
Zone Selector: Use this switch to select whether AVR commands
will affect the main listening area (Zone 1) or the remote zone of a
multizone system (Zone 2). For normal operation, leave the switch
in the Zone 1 position.
14
ZONE 2 REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS
IR Transmitter
Power Off
Back/Exit
Volume Controls
Zone Selector
USB
Network
BACK/EXIT MENU
Mute
Source Selectors
Sleep Settings
AVR Settings
Menu
Navigation
OK
Transport Controls
Zone Indicator
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.
15
ZONE 2 REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONS
The Zone 2 remote control is used in the remote zone of a multizone
system with an IR receiver connected to the Zone 2 IR Input or an
A-BUS device. It may be used to control the power, volume and
mute functions or to select a source input for the remote zone, and
to control a Harman Kardon source connected to one of the AVR’s
Remote IR Outputs or the A-BUS IR Output.
The Zone 2 remote may also be used in the main listening room
to directly control the AVR 7550HD and Harman Kardon DVD, CD or
tape players. When the Zone Selector is pressed to switch the remote
to Zone 1 mode (the Zone Indicator will turn green), the power,
volume and mute controls will only affect the main listening area.
To control operation for the remote zone, press the Zone Selector
so that the Zone Indicator turns red.
The Zone 2 remote requires two AAA batteries (included) that are
installed in the battery compartment on the back of the remote. Make
sure to observe proper polarity by matching the + and – symbols
on the batteries to the symbols printed inside the compartment.
IR Transmitter: This lens emits infrared codes when buttons
on the remote are pressed.
Power: Press to turn the AVR 7550HD on or off.The AVR also
turns on its multizone system automatically when any of the Input
Selectors is pressed, even if the AVR itself is in Standby mode.
When in the main listening room, press any Input Selector or the
AVR Selector to turn on the AVR 7550HD.
Menu Button: This button is used within the Now Playing
menu for the tuner (including XM Radio), USB,The Bridge II, Internet
Radio and the Network, and to display the main menu on some
source devices. To display the AVR 7550HD’s main menu, press the
AVR Settings Button.
Navigation
are used to make selections within the menu system and also to
operate the tuner, USB, The Bridge II, Internet Radio and the
Network device.
(
1/57/3
)
and OK Buttons: These buttons
Zone Selector and Zone Indicator: Each press
of the Zone Selector determines whether the AVR commands will
affect the main listening area (Zone 1) or the remote zone (Zone 2).
The Zone Indicator will turn green when Zone 1 has been selected,
and red for Zone 2. The Zone Indicator will also light briefly whenever any button is pressed.
Volume Controls: Press to raise or lower the volume level
in the remote zone.
Mute: Press to mute the AVR 7550HD’s remote zone speakers
temporarily.To end the muting, press this button, adjust the volume,
or turn off the multizone system. Make sure to switch the remote
to Zone 2 mode, so that only the remote zone will be affected.
Source Selectors: Press one of these buttons to select a
source device for the remote zone. It will also turn on the multizone
system and switch the remote to the source’s device mode. You
may select a different external source device than that for the main
room, but not different internal sources (the tuner, USB, Internet
Radio or the Network). If you select the same source as that for
the main room, then any commands sent to the source will affect
both zones. The first press of the Radio Selector switches the AVR
to the last-used tuner band (AM, FM or XM). Each successive press
changes the band. Each press of the Network Button toggles
between the Network and Internet Radio sources.
Transport Controls: These buttons are used to control
many source components.
AVR Settings Button: Press to display the AVR’s Main
Menu. It is also used to switch the remote to AVR device mode.
Sleep Settings Button: Press to activate the sleep timer,
which turns off the receiver after a programmed period of time of
up to 90 minutes. Each additional press decreases the timer by
10 minutes, ending with the “Sleep Off” message.
Back/Exit: Press to return to the previous menu or to exit the
menu system.
16
INTRODUCTION TO HOME THEATER
This introductory section will help you to familiarize yourself with
some basic concepts unique to multichannel surround sound
receivers, which will make setup and operation smoother.
Ty pical Home Theater System
A home theater typically includes an audio/video receiver, which
controls the system; a disc player; a source component for television
broadcasts (cable box, satellite dish receiver, HDTV tuner or antenna
connected to the TV); a video display (television); and loudspeakers.
Multichannel Audio
The main benefit of a home theater system is the placement of
loudspeakers around the room to produce “surround sound.”
Surround sound immerses you in the presentation for increased
realism.
The AVR 7550HD may have up to seven speakers connected directly
to it (plus up to two subwoofers). Each main speaker is powered by
its own amplifier channel inside the receiver.A system with more
than two speakers is called a multichannel system.
• Front Left and Right – The main speakers are used as
in a 2-channel system. In many surround modes, these speakers
are secondary, while the main action, especially dialogue, is
moved to the center speaker.
• Center – The center speaker is used for dialogue in movies
and television programs, allowing the dialogue to originate near
the actors’ faces, for a more natural sound.
• Surround Left and Right – The surround speakers
improve directionality of ambient sounds. In addition, more loudspeakers play dynamic soundtracks without risk of overloading
any one speaker.
power of an explosion, adding realism and excitement to your
home theater. Some people use two subwoofers, 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 information to the speakers. A variety of
algorithms have been developed in an effort to reproduce the way we
hear sounds in the real world, resulting in a rich variety of options.
Several companies have taken surround sound in different directions:
• Dolby Laboratories – Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus,
Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic II and IIx, Dolby
Virtual Speaker, Dolby Headphone
• DTS – DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio,
DTS, DTS-ES (Discrete and Matrix), DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24
• Harman International (the Harman Kardon
parent company) – Logic 7
• Stereo Modes – Generic modes that expand upon conven-
tional 2-channel stereo, including 5- and 7-channel stereo
Table A13 in the appendix contains detailed explanations of the
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 HDTV, Blu-ray Disc media
and digital cable or satellite television. Other modes may be used
with 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.
• Surround Back Left and Right – Additional surround
speakers may be placed behind the listening position, improving the
precision of ambient sounds and allowing for more realistic pans.
The surround back speakers are used with surround modes
designed for 7.1-channel systems, such as Dolby Digital EX,
Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-ES (Discrete and Matrix),
DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio and Logic 7
(7.1 and 7.2 modes). The surround back speakers are optional,
and the AVR 7550HD may be set up with a 5.1- or 5.2-channel
system in the main listening area, and the surround back channels
reassigned to a multizone system, where the surround back
channels power loudspeakers located in another room.
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 designed to play only the lowest
frequencies (the bass). It augments smaller, limited-range satellite
speakers used for the other channels. Many digital-format programs,
such as movies recorded in Dolby Digital, contain a low-frequency
effects (LFE) channel which is directed to the subwoofer. The LFE
channel packs the punch of a rumbling train or airplane, or the
17
CONNECTIONS
SubwooferPreout
12 3
There are different types of audio and video connections used
to connect the receiver, the speakers, the video display, and the
source devices. The Consumer Electronics Association has established the CEA®color-coding standard. See Table 1.
Table 1 – Connection Color Guide
Audio Connections
Left Right
Front (FL/FR)
Center (C)
Surround (SL/SR)
Surround Back (SBL/SBR)
Subwoofer (SUB)
Digital Audio Connections
Coaxial
Optical
Video Connections
Component Y Pb Pr
Composite
S-Video
HDMI™ Connections (digital audio/video)
HDMI
White Red
Green
Blue Gray
Brown Tan
Purple
Orange
Input Output
Green Blue Red
Yellow
Speaker Connections
Speaker cables carry an amplified signal from the receiver’s speaker
terminals to each loudspeaker. They contain two wire conductors,
or leads, inside plastic insulation, that are differentiated in some
way, such as with colors or stripes.
The differentiation preserves polarity, without which low-frequency
performance can suffer. Each speaker is connected to the receiver’s
speaker-output terminals using two wires, one positive (+) and one
negative (–). Always connect the positive terminal on the speaker,
which is usually colored red, to the positive terminal on the receiver,
which is colored as indicated in the Connection Color Guide above
(Table 1). The negative terminals are both black.
The AVR 7550HD uses binding-post
speaker terminals that can accept
banana plugs or bare-wire cables.
+
Banana plugs are inserted into the
hole in the middle of the terminal
cap. See Figure 1.
Figure 1 – Binding-Post Speaker Terminals With Banana Plugs
Bare wire cables are installed as follows (see Figure 2):
1. Unscrew the terminal cap until the pass-through hole is revealed.
2. Insert the bare end of the wire into the hole.
3. Hand-tighten the cap until the wire is held snugly.
Subwoofer
The subwoofer is dedicated to the low frequencies (bass), which
require more power.To obtain the best results, most speaker
manufacturers offer powered subwoofers that contain their own
amplifier. Usually, 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. The AVR 7550HD offers
the option of connecting two subwoofers to independent outputs,
which enables the EzSet/EQ II process to configure each subwoofer
precisely to account for its unique characteristics and placement
within the room.
Although the purple subwoofer outputs look similar to full-range
analog audio jacks, they are filtered to allow only the low frequencies to pass. Don’t connect these outputs to any other devices.
Figure 3 – Subwoofer
CONNECTING SOURCE DEVICES
TO THE AVR
Audio and video signals originate in “source devices,” including
your Blu-ray Disc or DVD player, CD player, DVR (digital video
recorder) or other recorder, tape deck, game console, cable or
satellite television box, MP3 player, USB drive or network device.
The AVR’s tuner also counts as a source, even though no external
connections are needed, other than the FM and AM antennas
and the XM antenna module.
Separate connections are required for the audio and video portions
of the signal, except for digital HDMI connections. The types of
connections used depend upon the capabilities of the source device
and video display.
Audio Connections
There are two types of audio connections: digital and analog.
Digital audio signals are required for listening to sources encoded
with digital surround modes, such as Dolby Digital and DTS, or for
noncompressed PCM digital audio. There are three types of digital
audio connections: HDMI, coaxial and optical. Do not use more
than one type of digital audio connection for each source device.
However, it’s okay to make both analog and digital audio connections to the same source.
NOTE: HDMI signals may carry both audio and video. If your
video display device has an HDMI input, make a single HDMI
connection from each source device to the AVR. Usually, a
separate digital audio connection is not required. Turn the
volume on your television all the way down.
Figure 2 – Binding-Post Speaker Terminals With Bare Wires
18
Digital Audio
The AVR 7550HD is equipped with four HDMI (High-Definition
Multimedia Interface) inputs, and one output. HDMI technology
enables digital audio and video information to be carried using
a single cable, delivering the highest quality picture and sound.
The AVR 7550HD uses HDMI (V.1.3a with Deep Color) technology
and is capable of processing both the audio and video components
CONNECTIONS
THE BRIDGE
A
Optical
Optical digital
audio cable
of the HDMI data, minimizing the number of cable connections
in your system. The AVR 7550HD implements Deep Color, which
increases by an order of magnitude the shades of color that can
be displayed, and the latest lossless multichannel audio formats,
including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
NOTE: Some DVD-Audio, SACD, Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD
players only output multichannel audio through their multichannel analog outputs. Make a separate analog audio connection in addition to the HDMI connection, which is still used
for video and to listen to Dolby Digital, DTS or PCM materials
that may be stored on the disc.
The AVR 7550HD converts analog video signals to the HDMI format,
including its on-screen menus, upscaling to high-definition 1080p
resolution.
The HDMI connector is shaped for easy plug-in (see Figure 4). If
your video display has a DVI input and is HDCP-compliant, use an
HDMI-to-DVI adapter (not included). A separate audio connection is
required. HDMI cable runs are limited to about 10 feet.
Figure 4 – HDMI Connection
If your video display or source device is not HDMI-capable, use one
of the analog video connections (composite, S- or component video)
and a separate audio connection.
Coaxial digital audio jacks are usually color-coded in orange.
Although they look similar to analog jacks, you should not connect
coaxial digital audio outputs to analog inputs or vice versa. See
Figure 5.
Coaxial digital
audio cable
Figure 5 – Coaxial Digital Audio
Coaxial
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 6.
You may only record materials from DVDs or other copy-protected
sources using analog connections. Remember to comply with all copyright laws, if you choose to make a copy for your own personal use.
nalog audio
cable (RCA)
Figure 7 – Analog Audio
L
R
Multichannel analog connections are used with high-definition
sources that decode the copy-protected digital content, such as
some DVD-Audio, SACD, Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD players. See
Figure 8. The multichannel analog audio connection is not required
for players compliant with HDMI version 1.1 or better, or that output
linear PCM signals via an HDMI connection. Consult the owner’s
guide for your disc player for more information.
Front Surround Center
Multichannel
analog audio
cable (RCA)
Figure 8 – Multichannel Analog Audio
White
Blue Green
Subwoofer
Red Gray Purple
The AVR 7550HD also includes a proprietary, dedicated audio connection for The Bridge II docking station for iPod. If you own a docking iPod (most models, 4G or later), connect The Bridge II (included)
to The Bridge II port on the receiver. See Figure 9. Dock your iPod
(not included) in The Bridge II, and you may listen to your audio
materials through your high-performance audio system. You may
view still images or video materials stored on a photo- or videocapable iPod that supports video browsing. Use the AVR 7550HD
remote to control the iPod, with navigation messages displayed on
the front panel and on a video display connected to the AVR.The
Bridge II outputs analog audio to the AVR 7550HD, and is available
to the multiroom system.
Figure 6 – Optical Digital Audio
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. See Figure 7.
For sources that are capable of both digital and analog audio, you
may make both connections.
The analog audio connection is required for multizone operation,
as the AVR 7550HD’s multizone system is not capable of converting
a digital signal to analog format. Use the analog audio connections
even with the Surround Back/Zone 2 speaker outputs, in case
another 2-channel digital audio source is in use in the main listening area. The AVR 7550HD is only capable of processing one PCM
source at a time.
Figure 9 – The Bridge II port
Video Connections
Many sources output both audio and video signals (e.g., Blu-ray
Disc or DVD player, cable television box, HDTV tuner, satellite box,
VCR, DVR). In addition to the audio connection, make one type of
video connection for each of these sources (only one at a time for
any source).
Digital Video
If you have already connected a source device to one of the HDMI
inputs, you have automatically made a video connection, as the
HDMI signal includes both digital audio and video components.
Analog Video
There are three types of analog video connections: composite video,
S-video and component video.
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CONNECTIONS
S-video cable
Composite video is the basic connection most commonly available.
The jack is usually color-coded yellow, and looks like an analog
audio jack. 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. Align the plug correctly when you insert it into the
jack. See Figure 11.
Figure 11 – S-Video
Component video separates the video signal into three components – one luminance (“Y”) and two sub-sampled color signals
(“Pb” and “Pr”) – that are transmitted using three separate cables.
See Figure 12.
Green
Y
Component
video cable
Figure 12 – Component Video
Pb
Blue
Red
Pr
If it’s available on your video display, an HDMI connection is recommended as the best quality connection, followed by component
video, S-video and then composite video.
The AM loop antenna needs to be assembled. Connect the two leads
to the spring terminals on the receiver. The AM antenna leads have
no polarity, and you may connect them to either terminal. See
Figure 14.
Figure 14 – AM Antenna
To enjoy XM satellite radio, purchase an XM Ready antenna module
and a subscription to the XM service. The XM Mini Tuner and Home
Dock Bundle, available at www.xmradio.com, is recommended.
The older Connect-and-Play module is also compatible with the
AVR 7550HD, but it may no longer be available. Although you may
use a module with standard audio connections, labeled for “car
and home use,” you will not be able to enjoy the AVR 7550HD’s
ease of control.
RS-232 SERIAL PORT
The RS-232 serial port may be connected to an external computer
or control device to allow the external device to transmit control
commands to the AVR.The port is bidirectional, so that the AVR can
transmit status updates to the control device. Connecting and using
the RS-232 port requires technical knowledge, and is best left to
a professional custom installer.
NOTES:
• Copy-protected sources are not available at the Component
Video Monitor Outputs.
• Standard and high-definition analog video signals may
be upscaled to 1080i resolution for the Component Video
Monitor Outputs. For improved video performance, consider
upgrading to an HDMI-capable video display with 1080p
resolution.
ANTENNAS
The AVR 7550HD uses separate terminals for the included FM and
AM antennas.
The FM antenna uses a 75-ohm F-connector. See Figure 13.
Figure 13 – FM Antenna
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SPEAKER PLACEMENT
C
90°
150°
90°
150°
30° 30°
SBRSBL
FR
FL
SL
SR
Green
Purple Purple
Red
Gray
Tan
Brown
Blue
White
SUB1 SUB2
C
Alternate placement
for Side Surround
Left Speaker
(Blue)
Alternate placement
for Side Surround
Right Speaker
(Gray)
110°
150°
110°
150°
30° 30°
SUB1
FR
FL
SL
SR
Green
Purple
SUB2
Purple (Optional)
Red
Gray
Blue
White
Optimally, the speakers should be placed in a circle with the listening
position at its center.The speakers should be angled so that they
directly face the listening position.
Front Speaker Placement
The center speaker is placed either on top of, below or mounted on
the wall above or below the video display screen.
The front left and right speakers are placed along the circle, about
30 degrees from the center speaker and angled toward the listener.
Place the front left/right and center speakers at the same height,
preferably at about the same height as the listener’s ears. The
center speaker should be no more than 2 feet above or below
the left/right speakers. If you’re using only two speakers with the
AVR 7550HD, place them in the front left and right positions.
Placement of the surround speakers depends on the number of
speakers in your system.
Figure 16 – Speaker Placement (7.1- or 7.2-Channel System)
Figure 15 – Speaker Placement (5.1- or 5.2-Channel System)
Placement of Surround Speakers in a
5.1- or 5.2-Channel System
The side surround speakers should be placed 110 degrees from
the center speaker, slightly behind and angled toward the listener.
Alternatively, place them behind the listener, with each surround
speaker facing the opposite-side front speaker. See Figure 15.
The surround speakers may be placed a little higher than the
listener’s ears.
Placement of Surround Speakers in a
7.1- or 7.2-Channel System
In a 7.1- or 7.2-channel system, the side surround speakers are
placed 90 degrees from the center speaker, directly to either side of
the listening position. The surround back left and right speakers are
placed 150 degrees from the center speaker, or directly facing the
opposite-side front speaker. See Figure 16.
NOTE: Some speaker manufacturers offer 6.1-channel
speaker systems, for 6.1-channel surround sound formats,
such as Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES Discrete and Matrix modes
and DTS Neo:6 mode. Using the AVR 7550HD in a 6.1-channel
configuration is not recommended. The 6.1-channel formats
will sound better when played through a 7.1-channel system.
The same surround back channel information is played
through both surround back speakers, but with twice the
power and clarity.
To use the AVR 7550HD with a 6.1-channel speaker system,
place the single surround back speaker directly behind the
listener, but do not connect it until after you have run the
EzSet/EQ II procedure for a 5.1-channel system. After the
EzSet/EQ II process finishes, connect the surround back
speaker to the Surround Back Left Speaker Output. Then
follow the directions in the Advanced Features section for
manual setup of the surround back speaker.
Subwoofer Placement
Placement of the subwoofers is less critical, since low-frequency
sounds are omnidirectional. Placing each subwoofer close to a wall
or in a corner will reinforce the low frequencies, and may create
a “boomy” sound. Temporarily place one subwoofer where the
listener normally sits, then walk around the room until the low
frequencies sound best. Place the subwoofer in that spot. To place
the optional second subwoofer, you may continue this method for
finding a second optimal location, or place each subwoofer near
the front left and right speakers, as shown in the diagrams.
NOTE: Your receiver will sound its best when the same
model or brand loudspeaker is used for all positions.
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