Harman-Kardon SIGNATURE20 User Manual

2.0 Processor/Tuner
Owner’s Manual

Owner’s Manual

Signature 2.0 Processor/Tuner

Table of Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–3

Unpacking and Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Quick Start Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–7

Front Panel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9

Rear Panel Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10–11

Remote Control Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12–15

Remote Control Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16–18

System Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19–21

System Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22–26

Source Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27–31

Advanced Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32–34

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35–51

Troubleshooting Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52–54

Appendix A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Appendix B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Appendix C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57–61

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62–63

Figure Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Subject Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

80 Crossways Park West
Woodbury, NY 11797

www.harmankardon.com

©1997 Harman Kardon, Incorporated

Staple or clip your original invoice here.

¤

Signature 2.0

Mute

TuneSurroundSource

2.0

Standby

On/Off

DVD Vol

Dolby Digital 10

Congratulations! With the purchase of a Harman
Kardon Signature Series product you are about to begin
many years of listening enjoyment. The Model 2.0
Processor/Tuner has been designed to provide all the
excitement and detail of motion picture soundtracks and
reproduce every subtle nuance of your favorite musical
selection. On-board Dolby* Digital decoding enables the

2.0 to deliver six channels of fully discrete sound from
today’s DVD releases and tomorrow’s HDTV broadcasts,
while a wide selection of matrix decoding modes delivers
full compatibility with conventional Dolby Surround
stereo and mono programs. The 2.0 is also ready to
accept future surround systems through the use of six­channel direct inputs that accommodate optional
outboard decoders for future surround systems.

the meaning of the on-screen and front panel display
messages will enable you to take advantage of all the
power the Signature 2.0 is able to deliver.

Harman Kardon has been a part of the audio world
since it invented the first high-fidelity receiver over forty­five years ago. With the combination of state-of-the-art
circuitry and time honored design philosophies, the
Signature 2.0 is one of the most innovative products
ever offered by Harman Kardon. Should you have any
questions about this product, its operation or installation
that are not answered in this manual please contact your
retailer or custom installer. They are your best source for
product information. You may also contact Harman Kardon
via the World Wide Web at www.harmankardon.com

Introduction

While complex digital circuits are hard at work within
the 2.0, a simple on-screen menu system and learning
remote control make the unit easy to install and operate.

In addition to selecting from a variety of audio/video
sources, the Signature 2.0 is equipped with the latest
in tuner technology, including the RDS data system
that automatically identifies FM stations transmitting
special data and provides information they transmit
about the station’s programming. The RDS system even
lets you automatically search for a station with a specific
program type from the participating stations in your
reception area.

To obtain maximum benefit from the Signature 2.0’s
many features we urge you to take a few minutes to read
through this manual. That will ensure that connections
to playback sources, power amplifiers and other external
devices are made properly. In addition, a few minutes
spent learning the functions for the various controls and

The following are among the 2.0’s many features:

■ On-Board Dolby Digital Decoding

■ Multiple Coax and Optical Digital Inputs

■ Composite and S-Video Switching

■ Easy-To-Use On-Screen Menu Control System

■ FM Stereo/AM Tuner With RDS Data System

and 30 Presets

■ Learning Remote Control Pre-Programmed With

Harman Kardon and RC-5 Control Codes

■ Trigger Output For Automatic Control of Signature

Series Power Amplifiers

■ RS-232 Control Port For Connection To External

Automation Systems

■ Six-Channel Direct Inputs For Use With External

Audio Adapters or Decoders.

1

Signature 2.0

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE

COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER

SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE

BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

ATTENTION:

POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, INRODUIRE LA

LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE

LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU'AU FOND.

The lightning flash with arrowhead
symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is

intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to

alert the user to the presence of
important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

Important Safety Information

Verify Line Voltage Before Use

This Signature 2.0 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.

Safety Information

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 with cords
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 a staple accidentally falls inside
the unit, disconnect it from the AC power source
immediately, and consult an authorized service station.

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
that 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 assure 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 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.

2

Signature 2.0

Cleaning

When the unit gets dirty, wipe it with a clean, soft dry
cloth. If necessary, wipe it with a soft cloth dampened
with mild soapy water, then a fresh cloth with clean
water. Wipe 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

NOTE: 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:

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 and Installation

The carton and shipping materials used to protect your
new 2.0 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
down to a more two-dimensional appearance. 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.

Typographic Conventions

In order to help you use this manual with diagrams of
the remote control, front panel controls, rear panel
connections and on-screen menus, certain conventions
have been used.

Safety Information

■ 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.

Example

remote control or front panel button, or rear panel
connection jack

Example

visible through the on-screen menu system or on the
front panel information display

1

– (number in a square) indicates a specific front

panel control

a

on the remote

¡

– (number in a circle) indicates a rear panel connection

3

– (bold type) indicates a specific

– (OCR type) indicates a message that is

– (number in an oval) indicates a button or indicator

Signature 2.0

4

Signature 2.0

Quick Start Instructions

The Signature 2.0 is a powerful, yet easy-to-use product.
In order to obtain the maximum benefit from its many
features and options, it is strongly recommended that
you take the time to carefully read the instructions in this
manual. It contains a wealth of information that will help
you to safely and properly install and use this product.

We realize, however, that you may be anxious to use
your system, so the following steps are provided to out­line the minimum instructions needed to get everything
connected and “on the air.” Please follow the directions
carefully in order to avoid damage to the Signature 2.0
or other components in your system.

If you choose to take advantage of these Quick
Start instructions we nevertheless urge you to read
through the Owner’s Manual at a later time so that
your system may be adjusted for optimal performance.
That small investment of your time will yield major
dividends in the long term in the form of hours of
greater listening pleasure.

Equipment Required for Quick Start
Installation:

✓ Signature 2.0 Processor/Tuner and Supplied

Accessories

✓ Front Left, Center and Right Speakers
✓ Left and Right Surround Speakers
✓ Five Channels of Audio Power Amplification
✓ Powered Subwoofer or Passive Subwoofer and

External Amplifier

✓ Source Equipment (e.g., VCR, DVD, CD, Satellite

Receiver, etc.)

✓ Interconnect and Speaker Cables

NOTE: If your equipment does not match the list
above you should NOT use the Quick Start instructions,
as additional settings must be made beyond those shown
on the next two pages. For complete installation
instructions, see page 19.

Quick Start Instructions

5

DIGITAL AUDIO DATA INPUTS

ANTENNA

SUB

123456SURRCENTER SURRCENTERFRONT

1234

65

32

RS-232

115V

~

60Hz

75 WATTS

IRINIR

OUT

TRIGGER
OUTPUT

FM AM

ANALOG AUDIO INPUTS

AUDIO OUTPUTS

REC OUTPUTS6-CH DIRECT INPUTS

EXTERNAL CONTROLS

L

R

L

R

FRONT

1

1

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation. "Dolby", "AC-3", "Pro Logic" and the Double-D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Copyright 1992 Dolby Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.

SERIAL NUMBER

MODEL NO.: SIGNATURE SERIES 2.0
HARMAN KARDON
NORTHRIDGE
CALIFORNIA, USA
MADE IN USA

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING:

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

OUT

MAIN

OUT

IN

MAIN

4

56

2

S – VIDEO

COMPOSITE VIDEO

REC

REC

SUB

IN

®

NRTL /C

LR110480

CSA E65

Connect to output
of composite
video sources

Connect 75-ohm
FM antenna here

Connect AM loop
antenna here

Connect to coaxial
digital audio output
of A/V sources, DVD,
HDTV, CD, etc.

Connect to optical
digital audio output
of A/V sources, DVD,
HDTV, CD, etc.

Connect to
composite
video input of
main monitor

Connect to
composite
video input
of VCRs

Connect to
S-Video input
of main monitor

Connect to
S-Video input
of VCRs

Connect to analog audio
output of A/V sources,
CD, tuner, etc.

Connect to audio
input of VCR or
audio recorders

Connect to
a powered
subwoofer
or subwoofer
amplifier

Connect to
inputs of audio
power amplifiers

Connect to "Trigger
In" jack on Signature
Series or other compatible
power amplifier

Connect AC Power
to non-switched

wall outlet
Connect to
S-Video
output
sources

Quick Start Connection and Setup

Quick Start Instructions

Signature 2.0

1. Before proceeding, make certain that all equipment, including the 2.0, is unplugged from AC power. This will prevent
any damage due to the unintended activation of automatic turn-on circuits.

2. Using high-quality audio interconnect cables, connect the audio and video output (including the “Play/Out” outputs of
VCR or cassette decks) on your source equipment according to the following chart. If your equipment list requires different
connections, you will need to make some setup changes as detailed on page 28 of this manual.

3. Connect the video “Record Inputs” of your VCR to the

Composite

4. Connect the audio “Record Inputs” of your VCR
and/or audio tape recorder to the
the rear of the 2.0. There is no problem in sending the
feed to both recorders and two recordings may be made
at one time from the same source.

Source Equipment

Cable Box, TV or Satellite

VCR

DVD

Laser Disc Player

CD Player with Coax Output

Tape Deck

Auxiliary Device

or

S-Video “Rec” Outputs

“Rec” Outputs

Video Input Connections

Composite Video 2
Composite Video 1

S-Video 1
S-Video 2

N/A
N/A

Composite Video 1

.

on

5. Connect the

Outputs

on your TV monitor or projector.

6. Connect the AM and FM antennae supplied with the

2.0 to the proper antenna connections on the rear panel.

Audio Input Connections

Analog Audio Input 2
Analog Audio Input 1

Digital Audio Input 1

Composite

to the matching Composite or S-Video input

Digital Audio Input 2

Digital Audio Input 3
Analog Audio Input 5
Analog Audio Input 4

or

S-Video “Main”

6

Signature 2.0

7. If a Signature Series audio power amplifier, or other
compatible amplifier, is being used, connect the power
trigger cable supplied with the 2.0 to the

Output

Trigger Input.

8. Connect the
of your five-channel power amplifier. Be certain that
channels are properly matched (e.g., connect left to left,
right to right, etc.) Connect the
mono “line level” input of a powered subwoofer, or to
the audio input of the amplifier channel feeding a passive
subwoofer. Connect the audio amplifier to the speakers,
carefully following the instructions provided with the
speaker and amplifier, and ensure that polarity is
matched between the speaker and amplifier when
connections are made.

9. Install the batteries in the remote control, being careful
to observe the (+) and (–) polarity indicators on the
remote and the batteries.

10. Connect all devices, including the 2.0, to AC
power and turn everything on EXCEPT for the 2.0
and any audio amplifier not connected to the 2.0’s
triggered output.

on the 2.0 and the amplifier’s compatible

Audio Outputs

Sub Output

Trigger

of the 2.0 to the inputs

to the

go out and be replaced by blue illumination behind the
word “Signature” on the front panel. A message will
briefly appear in the on-screen display with the source,
surround mode and volume.

•

If you are using a Signature Series amplifier or another
compatible amplifier connected to the

Output

as the 2.0 is turned on. Note that with most amplifiers
there will be a short, intentional delay between the
turn-on signal and when the amplifier sends signals
to the speakers. This is a normal function designed to
prevent damage to your speakers.

•

If you are using an amplifier not controlled by the 2.0’s

Trigger Output

AFTER the 2.0 is turned on.

13. You may change the input source by pressing the
front panel
buttons on the remote. Volume for the 2.0 may be raised
or lowered using the front panel

Volume Up/Down

change the surround mode, press
the
the remote.

jack, it will receive a turn-on signal as soon

, turn it on at least 10 seconds

Source

Mono +, Music, Movies

buttons or any of the

Volume

buttons on the remote. Finally, to

or

Trigger

Source

knob or the

Surround

Stereo

buttons or

buttons on

Quick Start Instructions

11. Press the
it latches and is flush with the front panel. An amber
standby LED will light, and the front panel

Display

version installed in your unit and then a

Standby

go into the Standby mode.

•

To use the On-Screen Menu System, make certain that
your TV or other video display device is turned on and
switch to the proper video input at this point.

12. To turn the 2.0 on, press either the front panel

Standby

or any of the source buttons on the remote (e.g., TV,

Vid 1, Tuner
Display

Master Power Switch

will come on briefly to display the software

message will show briefly. The unit will then

button, the

, etc.). The front panel

will illuminate, the amber standby LED will

Main On

on the 2.0 in until

Information

Power Off

button on the remote,

Information

At this point you are “on the air!” Sit back and enjoy the
best in home entertainment.

Of course, this is only the tip of the iceberg. Although
you have successfully completed a minimal installation
we strongly recommend that you take time to read this
manual thoroughly. It will show you how to use the
many features, modes and controls that are a vital part of
the Signature 2.0. Correct setup and installation is impor­tant to optimizing the sound quality of your new con­troller, and will also make it easier to operate. A few
minutes spent reading the manual and making certain
that your new 2.0 is set up to meet the individual
characteristics of your system and listening room will
enable the 2.0 to deliver all the performance it is
capable of.

7

Mute

TuneSurroundSource

2.0

Standby

On/Off

DVD Vol

Dolby Digital 10

12 34 7

9!)

85 6

Front Panel Controls

Front Panel Controls

Signature 2.0

1 Master Power Switch

2 Standby Switch

3 Source Selectors

4 Surround Selectors

1 Master Power Switch:

This is the main power

5 Standby LED

6 Power Indicator

7 Tune Buttons

8 Mute Button

control for the 2.0. To turn the unit on, press this switch
in until it latches and is flush with the front panel. To
turn the unit off press in briefly, and the switch will
unlatch and pop out. Once this switch is in the “ON”
position you may leave it there and use the remote
control or standby switch to turn the 2.0 on or off.

NOTE: Even when the

Master Power Switch

is in
the “OFF” position, the 2.0 is still connected to the AC
power source.

2 Standby Switch:

Press this switch to turn the unit
on from the Standby mode. Press it again to return to
the Standby mode. Note that in order for this switch to
operate the 2.0, the
be in the “ON” position, as indicated by the amber

Standby LED 5
3 Source Selectors:

Master Power Switch 1

.

Press these buttons to change

must

the input source selection. Use them to scroll through the
list of sources you watch and listen to.

9 Volume Control

) Information Display

! Remote Sensor Window

4 Surround Selectors:

Press these buttons to
change the surround mode in use. Note that the list
of modes available is different for digital or analog
audio sources.

5 Standby LED:

When this indicator lights in an
amber color, the 2.0 is in the Standby mode, and it is
ready to be turned on or off when the

Switch 2

pressed. When the

Power Indicator 6

, or the remote

Standby LED

is illuminated in blue, the unit is

Main On/Off a

Standby

are

is out, but the

on. When both of these indicators are dark, the 2.0 is
fully off, indicating that the
is in the “OFF” position or the 2.0 is not plugged into a
live AC power source.

6 Power Indicator:

Master Power Switch 1

This indicator is illuminated
in blue when the 2.0 is in full operation. If it is not lit,
and the
Standby mode. When neither indicator is lit, the

Standby LED 5

is amber, the unit is in the

2.0 is off, or the unit is not connected to a live AC
power source.

8

Signature 2.0

7 Tune Buttons:

is the input source to select the station being listened to
from the frequencies previously entered into the preset
memories.

8 Mute Button:

silence the audio output. Press the button again, or
change the volume level to return to normal operation.
Note that when the Mute function is activated, the feed
to any recorders connected to the
will remain uninterrupted. When Mute is engaged a
reminder message will appear in the on-screen display
(see figure OSD-15 on page 36) and the word
replace the volume level in the

)

(see figure FPD-9 on page 36).

9 Volume Control:

left to raise or lower the volume. This is an electronic
volume control, so unlike the conventional volume
controls you may be used to, it does not have a start or
end point to its rotation. Volume indications are provided

Press these buttons when the tuner

Press this button to temporarily

Record Outputs £

Mute

will

Information Display

Turn this knob to the right or

in both the front panel
and the on-screen control system (see figure OSD-13
on page 36) to provide information about the relative
volume setting.

) Information Display:

your window into the status and operation of the 2.0.
In normal operation it displays the current input source
and surround mode at the left side of the display, and the
volume level on the right side. When the tuner is in use
the top line of the display will show the preset number
and frequency of the station being listened to. Additional
messages will be displayed depending on which input or
mode is in use, including RDS data from the FM tuner,
and abbreviated versions of the on-screen menus used
during installation, setup and configuration.

! Remote Sensor Window:

sensor that receives commands from the Signature 2.0’s
infrared remote control. Make certain that it is not
blocked by cabinets, smoked glass or doors or other
objects that may interfere with the line of sight from
the remote.

Information Display )

This two-line display is

This area contains the

Front Panel Controls

9

Rear Panel Connections

DIGITAL AUDIO DATA INPUTS

ANTENNA

SUB

123456SURRCENTER SURRCENTERFRONT

1234

65

32

RS-232

115V ~ 60Hz

75 WATTS

IRINIR

OUT

TRIGGER
OUTPUT

FM AM

ANALOG AUDIO INPUTS

AUDIO OUTPUTS

REC OUTPUTS6-CH DIRECT INPUTS

EXTERNAL CONTROLS

L

R

L

R

FRONT

1

1

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation. "Dolby", "AC-3", "Pro Logic" and the Double-D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Copyright 1992 Dolby Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.

SERIAL NUMBER

MODEL NO.: SIGNATURE SERIES 2.0
HARMAN KARDON
NORTHRIDGE
CALIFORNIA, USA
MADE IN USA

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING:

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

OUT

MAIN

OUT

IN

MAIN

4

56

2

S – VIDEO

COMPOSITE VIDEO

REC

REC

SUB

IN

®

NRTL /C

LR110480

CSA E65

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 any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Double Insulated – When servicing
use only identical replacement parts.

¡

™£¢∞ ¶•ª§

‚⁄‹¤fi›°

‡fl·a

6-CH DIRECT INPUTS ANALOG AUDIO INPUTS REC OUTPUTS

EXTERNAL CONTROLS

AUDIO OUTPUTS

SUB

IMPORTANT NOTE: Never make or remove any connections to the Signature 2.0 with the Master Power Switch in the
“ON” position. It is also a good practice to make certain that the power amplifiers connected to the 2.0 are also turned
off when making or removing any connections. This eliminates the risk of possible damage to your speakers or other
system components.

When making connections to the Signature 2.0 make certain that the plugs are firmly seated into the jacks. This prevents
intermittent connections which may interfere with performance.

Rear Panel Connections

Signature 2.0

¡ 6-CH Direct Inputs

™ Analog Audio Inputs

£ Record Outputs

¢ Main Channel Audio Outputs

∞ Subwoofer Output

§ RS-232 Control Port

¶ IR Input

¡ 6-CH Direct Inputs:

connections to optional, external audio adapters. To
select a device connected to these jacks, the audio input
for a source must be changed to “6-CH Direct” using the

Source Menu

(see figure OSD-6 on page 29).

™ Analog Audio Inputs:

analog audio devices to these inputs. Note the left
channel input is on top, and the right channel input is
on the bottom. Once the inputs have been connected
they may be assigned to any of the 2.0’s seven source
positions using the
OSD-6 on page 29).

Source Menu

Use these inputs for

Connect the output of

(see figure

• IR Output

ª Trigger Output

‚ AC Power Cord

⁄ S-Video Record Output

¤ S-Video Main Output

‹ S-Video Inputs

› Composite Video Record Output

£ Record Outputs:

jacks carries the identical audio signal, which is the
audio output selected through the
menu (see figures OSD-35 and OSD-36 on pages 48 and

49). Connect these jacks to the “REC IN” input of a VCR,
cassette recorder, DAT, reel-to-reel recorder, or another
audio recording device.

¢ Main Channel Audio Outputs:

jacks to the input of the audio power amplifier. When
making connections to an amplifier make certain that
channels are connected to a matching input on the amp.
(e.g., front left to front left, center to center, etc.).

fi Composite Video Main Output

fl Composite Video Inputs

‡ Optical Digital Audio Inputs

° Coax Digital Audio Inputs

· AM Antenna Input

a FM Antenna Input

Each of these two pairs of

Record Outputs

Connect these

10

Signature 2.0

∞ Subwoofer Output

line level mono input of an optional powered sub­woofer, or the audio input of an external amplifier used
to drive a passive subwoofer. If you are using a passive
subwoofer that has both left and right inputs and no
indication of which to use for mono subwoofer inputs,
it is advisable that a “Y” cable be used so that the signal
is fed to both inputs.

§ RS-232 Control Port:

permit operation of the Signature 2.0 by computers or
home automation systems. The use of this control port
requires additional optional software and it is strongly
recommended that a Harman Kardon dealer be consulted
before any connections are made.

¶ IR Input:

due to cabinet doors or other obstructions, an external IR
sensor may be used. Connect the output of the sensor to
this jack.

• IR Output:

compatible Harman Kardon products so that they
will receive infrared commands captured by the 2.0’s
remote sensor.

ª Trigger Output:

Harman Kardon audio power amplifier will be used with
the 2.0, connect the amplifier connection cable supplied
with the 2.0 between this jack and the “Trigger Input” of
the amplifier. When connected by a properly trained
dealer or installer, this output may also be used to control
other devices designed to accept a 6- to 12-volt “Power
On” trigger signal, such as projection television screens or
automatic blinds. The MAXIMUM current draw for all
circuits connectd to this output is 150 milliamperes.

‚ AC Power Cord:

unswitched, wall-mounted AC outlet.

⁄ S-Video Record Output:

S-Video “REC-IN” input of a VCR.

If the 2.0’s front panel IR sensor is blocked

This jack may be connected to other

Connect this jack to the

This jack is provided to

If a compatible Signature Series or

Connect this plug to an

Connect this jack to the

¤ S-Video Main Output:

S-Video input of the TV, video monitor, projector or
display that will be used to view the On-Screen Control
Menus of the 2.0 along with any selected S-Video input.

‹ S-Video Inputs:

sources to these input jacks. Once the inputs have been
connected they may be assigned to any of the 2.0’s seven
source positions using the
OSD-5 on page 27).

› Composite Video Record Output:

jack to the composite video “REC-IN” input of a VCR.

fi Composite Video Main Output:

jack to the composite video input of a TV set, video
monitor, projection television or other video display
device that will be used to view the On-Screen Control
Menus of the 2.0 along with the selected video input.

fl Composite Video Inputs:

composite video sources to these input jacks. Once the
inputs have been connected they may be assigned to any
of the 2.0’s source positions using the
(see figure OSD-5 on page 27).

‡ Optical Digital Audio Inputs:

Optical (TosLink) digital audio output of audio sources
to these jacks. Once the inputs have been connected
they may be assigned to any of the 2.0’s source
positions using the
OSD-5 on page 27).

° Coax Digital Audio Inputs:

digital audio output of audio sources to these jacks. Once
the inputs have been connected they may be assigned to
any of the 2.0’s source positions using the

Menu

(see figure OSD-5 on page 27).

· AM Antenna Input:

supplied with the 2.0 to these terminals. An external AM
antenna may also be connected here.

a FM Antenna Input:

to these terminals. Note that the supplied 300-ohm to
75-ohm adapter is required for connections from twin­lead dipole antennas.

Source Menu

Connect this jack to the

Connect the output of S-Video

Source Menu

Connect the output of

Connect the coax

Connect the AM loop antenna

Connect an FM antenna

(see figure

Connect this

Connect this

Source Menu

Connect the

(see figure

Source

Rear Panel Connections

11

Use Learn

TV

Vid 1

Mono

+

Display

Music Movies Stereo

123

456

789

Disc/Track

0 Enter

Store RDS Type

Source

Off

SourceOnMain

Off

Main

On

Presets

Vid 2

Vid 3

Simul

Tuner

CD

Tape

Aux

Menu

Treble

Bass

Center

Surr

Volume

Mute

TV

Volume

Sending Learning

Balance

Sub

i

j

b

c

d

f

g

h

e

k

l

n

pqo

m

r

s

t

u

v

w

x

y

z

`

Presets

a

Remote Control Operation

Remote Control Operation

Signature 2.0

a Main Power On/Off

b Learn LED

c IR Transmitters

d Sending LED

e Use/Learn Switch

f Source Power On/Off

g Source Selection

h Simulcast Button

i Menu Control Buttons

j Menu Button

k Treble Cut

l Subwoofer Trim

m Bass Boost

n Balance Control

o Center Mode

p Surround Control

q TV Volume

r Main Volume Controls

s Mute

t Transport Controls

u Disc/Track

v Enter

w Numeric Keys

x Display

y Surround Mode Selectors

z Preset Tuning

` RDS Type Search

RDS ID/Text

Store

Battery Compartment

12

Signature 2.0

Although the basic functions of the Signature 2.0 may
be operated from the front panel, most operation will
be controlled through the wireless remote. The remote
is a powerful tool, and it is worth taking a few minutes
to familiarize yourself with the interaction of the various
controls. In addition to the functions listed below, the

2.0’s remote may be programmed to operate most
infrared controlled products on the market. For complete
information on how to program the remote, read
pages 17-18.

a Main Power On/Off:

the 2.0 on or to place it in the standby mode.

NOTE: The
“ON” position for these, or any other buttons on the
remote to operate any function on the 2.0.

b Learn LED:

a button on the remote is being programmed with
signals from another remote during the “learning” mode.
The light will go out when the signal is received
and memorized.

c IR T ransmitters:

are the infrared transmitters that send signals from the
remote unit to the 2.0. When pressing buttons to issue
commands, point this area towards the 2.0.

d Sending LED:

time a button is pressed to confirm that a command is
being sent to the receiver of another unit. If the light is
dim or does not illuminate when a button is pressed the
batteries in the remote should be replaced.

e Use/Learn Switch:

operation mode of the remote control. Slide it to the
left for normal operation. Slide it to the right when the
remote is being programmed.

Master Power Switch1

This indicator will illuminate when

Press these buttons to turn

must be in the

Behind this translucent panel

This indicator should flash any

This switch selects the

g Source Selection:

select the input source for the 2.0. It will also activate the
transport and numeric control buttons associated with
that device, enabling control of the source with the

2.0 remote. If the 2.0 is in the Standby mode when one
of these buttons is pressed, the unit will automatically
turn on and switch to the selected input.

h Simulcast Button:

to listen to one source while you watch the video from
another. To use the Simulcast feature, first press the

Source Selection

source, followed immediately by pressing this button.
Release the
audio source within 5 seconds.

i Menu Control Buttons:

the location of the on-screen cursor to select items from
on-screen menus, and they also act to select, move,
increase or decrease items from control functions. The

›

button is often used to move from a main menu to
a sub-menu, the ‹and ›buttons are used to select
choices within menus, and the ⁄and¤buttons are
used to move up and down through lists of selections.

j Menu Button:

On-Screen Menu Control System when it is not being
used, or to enter selections and exit from the control
system when it is active.

k Treble Cut:

Cut feature. When the button is pressed a menu will
appear on the screen (see figure OSD-19 on page 40), and
you may reduce the high-frequency level of the output
by pressing the ‹or
When you have completed the adjustment, press this
button again to enter the setting and remove the menu
from the screen.

Simulcast

Press this button to activate the Treble

Pressing these buttons will

Using this button enables you

button gfor the desired video

button, and press the desired

These buttons control

This button is used to activate the

› Menu Control

buttons i.

Remote Control Operation

f Source Power On/Off:

will send a turn-on, turn-off command to the source
device last accessed by pressing one of the

Selection

may require programming of the remote control as
explained on pages 17-18.

buttons

g. Note that these commands

Pressing these buttons

Source

l Subwoofer T rim:

the Subwoofer Trim feature. When the button is pressed
a menu will appear on the screen (see figure OSD-21
on page 40) and you may adjust the subwoofer output
volume by pressing the ‹or
buttons i. When you have completed the adjustment,
press this button again to enter the setting and remove
the menu from the screen.

13

Press this button to activate

› Menu Control

Signature 2.0

m Bass Boost:

Boost feature. When the button is pressed a menu will
appear on the screen (see figure OSD-20 on page 40)
and you may adjust the subwoofer output volume by
pressing the ‹or
you have completed the adjustment, press this button
again to enter the setting and remove the menu from
the screen.

n Balance Control:

Balance Control feature. When the button is pressed a
diagram will appear on the screen (see figure OSD-9
on page 31) that shows a small circle as the current

Remote Control Operation

listening position. To adjust the front/back fade and
left/right balance use all four

i

to “move” the listening position with respect to the
center of the room. Press this button again to enter the
setting and remove the diagram from the screen.

o Center Mode:

center mode. When the button is pressed a menu will
appear on the screen (see figure OSD-22 on page 41)
and you may then make a selection using the ‹or

Menu Control

enter the setting and remove the menu from the screen.

p Surround Control:

surround channel output off or on. When the button is
pressed a menu will appear on the screen (see figure
OSD-23 on page 41) and you may then make a selection
using the ‹or
the surround channel feed off with this control will
change the setting only until the source is changed, at
which point the setup configuration selected in the

Spkr Setup Menu

again to enter the setting and remove the menu from the
screen.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Adjustments made using
the

Treble Cut, Subwoofer T rim, Bass Boost
Balance Control, Center Mode
Control

temporary. When the mode or input source is changed,
or the 2.0 is turned off, the adjustment is canceled and
the system preset will return. To make a permanent
change to any of these settings, use the

Menu

buttons

, as described on page 30.

Press this button to activate the Bass

› Menu Control

Press this button to select the

buttons i. Press the button again to

› Menu Control

klmnop

buttons i. When

Press this button to activate the

Menu Control

Press this button to turn the

buttons i. Turning

will take effect. Press the button

and

buttons

›

,

Surround

are

Effects

q TV V olume:

the volume of a TV or other audio device not connected
to the 2.0. When shipped from the factory, the buttons
will control television sets with the popular RC-5 remote
code system. To use these buttons to control other
television sets you must program the codes into the
remote as described on page 35.

r Main V olume Control:

unit’s volume. Note that all channels are controlled
simultaneously.

s Mute:

audio output of the receiver. Press it again to return to
the previous volume level.

t Transport Controls:

programmed to control the transport functions of
compatible VCR’s, DVD player, CD player, cassette
decks, and other source equipment by following the
instructions on pages 17 and 18. As shipped from the
factory, the remote will control compatible Harman
Kardon CD players and cassette decks when the
or

Tape Source Selection

pressed. Some of these buttons also have specific
functions to operate the 2.0’s tuner when it is selected.

a) The ‡ and · buttons are used for seek tuning.

Each press of these buttons will cause the tuner
to search for the station with the next higher or
lower frequency that has a signal strong enough for
acceptable reception.

b) The

‚

manually tune stations in single frequency increments
or, by pressing and holding one of these buttons, it is
possible to quickly tune to a specific station.

u Disk/Track:

CD player or cassette deck is in use, this button has
different functions. It may also be re-programmed to any
compatible IR code function following the instructions
on page 18.

a) When CDis selected and the unit is a CD changer,

these buttons will change to the next disc ∏or
previous disc Â.

These buttons may be used to control

These buttons control the

Press this button to temporarily silence the

These buttons may be

CD

buttons ghave been

and

—

When a compatible Harman Kardon

buttons may be used to

14

Signature 2.0

b) When

v Enter:

you have entered its frequency or preset location using
the

w Numeric Keys:

radio station’s frequency or to enter a station to a specific
preset location. See page 44 for complete information on
tuning stations and programming preset memories.
When other inputs are in use these keys may be pro­grammed to use with TV, CD, and VCR functions that
require numeric inputs. When shipped from the factory,
the remote is programmed with the RC-5 control codes
that activate many popular brands. It may also be
re-programmed for use with most compatible infrared
control systems by following the instructions on page 17.

x Display:

of the current input source via the On-Screen Display
System. When a digital input is in use, the comprehen­sive display (see figure OSD-26 on page 42) will also
show information about the AC-3* data being processed.
Press it again to remove the display from the screen.

y Surround Mode Selectors:

to select a Surround mode for the current listening
session. Note that the selection of available modes will
change based on the use of an analog or digital input.

a) Pressing the

b) Pressing the

Tape 1

machine is a compatible Harman Kardon dual cassette
deck, these buttons will switch between the “A” and
“B” wells.

Numeric Keys w

the current surround mode and mono enhancement
circuits that create an enveloping soundfield from a
mono input.

list of surround modes that are most appropriate to
musical selections.

is the input source, and the tape

Press this button to select a station after

.

Press these buttons to access a

Press this button to show the details

Press these buttons

Mono +

Music

button will switch between

button will scroll through the

c) Pressing the

list of surround modes that are most appropriate for
movie soundtracks.

d) Pressing the

two-channel stereo sound and the previously selected
surround mode.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Using these buttons will change
the surround mode for a current listening session only.
Once the input source is changed, the 2.0 will revert
to the surround mode that has been entered using the

Source Menu

mode that is assigned to an input source, use the Source
Menu as described on page 28.

z Preset T uning:

tuner is active to scroll up through the list of stations
entered into the preset memory.

` RDS Type Search:

press this button to initiate a search for a station with
a specific program type. For more information on RDS
tuning, see page 46.

RDS:

that is transmitting RDS data, press this button once to
display the station’s
view information that the station is transmitting about
the station’s call letters, network affiliation or other
identifying information, as well as the station’s program
type (PTY). See page 46 for complete information on
using the RDS system.

Store:

button to enter a station into the preset memory after
selecting a location number between 1 and 30 using
the

Numeric Keys w

Battery Compartment:

batteries here, being certain to observe proper polarity
by matching the (∏) and (Â) indications on both the
batteries and case. To remove the cover press down
slightly on the raised ridges and gently push the cover
away from you. To replace the cover, slide it back
towards you until you hear the latch click.

Movies

Stereo

When the 2.0 is tuned to an FM station

When the tuner is in use, press this

button will scroll through the

button will switch between pure

. To permanently change the surround

Pressing this button when the

When the FM tuner is active,

Text

message. Press it again to

.

Insert fresh AAA

Remote Control Operation

15

Signature 2.0

Mute

Tune

Surround

Source

2.0

Standby

On/Off

DVD Vol

Dolb

y
Di

g

ital 10

Remote Control Programming

This product is equipped with a powerful remote
control. As supplied, it will operate the 2.0, as well as
most CD players and tape decks manufactured by
Harman Kardon. If your equipment requires different
codes, it may be programmed to copy the codes from
most infrared remotes.

Loading Batteries

The life of the batteries for the remote control is about
one year in normal operation. If the amber

LED d

pushed, that is an indication that the batteries need to

Remote Control Programming

be replaced.

To change the batteries:

1. Remove the back cover by sliding it in the direction of
the arrows.

does not flash when remote buttons are

Sending

3. Close the cover until it clicks shut.

NOTE: It is important that the batteries be replaced
within ten minutes after the old batteries are removed
to avoid losing any remote codes that have been
programmed into the remote’s memory.

Remote Control Range

The remote will operate at a range of up to 15 feet from
the unit, when the batteries are fully charged. The
remote will also operate at an angle of up to 30° to
either side of the unit.

2. Remove the old batteries and insert fresh AAA type
cells. Be certain to observe the correct polarity by noting
the (∏) and (Â) marks on both the inside of the case
and on the battery cells. It is recommended that both
batteries be changed at the same time.

Always point the remote transmitter at the front of the
unit when issuing commands. If you find that remote
commands are not being received by the remote, it may
be necessary to use a remote IR sensor.

16

Signature 2.0

Programmable Keys

Many of the buttons on the remote control may be
user programmed to new functions to operate virtually
any component in your system. Eleven CANNOT be
programmed with a new code, as they control high-level
functions of the 2.0. These keys are

Main Power Off
TV, Vid 1, Vid 2, Vid 3, Tuner, CD, Tape 1

and

Aux

.

Programmable keys are divided into two groups. Some
keys may be programmed with a separate function
for each of the inputs. Thus, these keys may change
their code when the input source is changed. (e.g., the

Play

key may transmit a different code when CDis
selected as opposed to when
keys that may be programmed with multiple codes are
the following:

All Numeric Keys (0 – 9)

Source Power On

Source Power Off

Stop

Disc/Track

Record

Pause

Channel/Preset Up

Channel/Preset Down

Tune Up

Tune Down

P-Scan

TV Volume Up/Down

Display

Store

RDS

Type

Presets

, and the nine source input keys:

Main Power On

VCR

is selected.) The

,

All other keys may only be programmed with one
remote code. The code contained in these keys remains
the same regardless of the source selection.

WARNING: These keys transmit codes that are vital
to the operation of the product. It is not recommended
that they be programmed with alternative codes, as it
may then be impossible to operate certain functions of
the receiver.

Menu

All Navigation Buttons ‹›

Enter

All Mode Selectors

Treble

Sub

Center

Bass

Balance

Surr

Mute

Simulcast

⁄¤

Remote Control Programming

17

Signature 2.0

To program the remote, follow these steps. Note that
it is not necessary to program all keys, only those that
are required to operate the subject device. Keys not
programmed will retain the codes preprogrammed at
the factory.

1. Slide the
of the remote to the right so that it is next to

2. If one of the multifunction buttons is being
programmed press the source button (e.g., CD,
you wish to have this function associated with. If you
are programming a single function key, proceed to the
next step.

Remote Control Programming

3. Press the button on the remote that is to be
programmed. Note that the
will illuminate.

4. Place the 2.0’s remote head to head with the other
remote control whose function is being learned. The
two remotes should be no more than 8 inches apart.

5. Press and hold the button on the other remote
corresponding to the function to be memorized until
the

Learning LED

out, release the button on the transmitting remote. The
function code has been successfully captured by the

2.0’s remote.

NOTE: If both LEDs flash during a programming
operation, it indicates that the remote’s memory is full
or that the remote codes from the transmitting remote
are not compatible with the unit’s signal format.

6. Continue to program any additional remote com­mands required using steps 2 through 5. When you have
finished programming the remote, slide the
switch eto the left so that it is in the

Use/Learn

starts to blink. When the LED goes

switch eat the top left corner

Learning LED b

Learn

Use/Learn

Use

position.

Vid 1

Resetting the Remote Memory

In normal operation, codes for a new device may be
programmed “over” the codes that have been previously
programmed into the remote. It is also possible to reset
the memory for individual keys, or for the entire remote.
When a memory position is reset, the remote will return

.

)

to the original factory preset command.

To reset the memory for a specific individual key
location, put the
position. Press the
button to be reset at the same time. Both the
and

Learning

the lights go out, the memory has been cleared of the
user programmed code and reset to the factory preset.
Return the
when you are finished.

To reset the remote’s entire memory and return all
keys to their factory preset commands first put the

Use/Learn

press the
that the
tinuing to press the
hold the

Learn LED

blink twice. Then release the two buttons. This
indicates that the memory has been cleared of any
user programmed commands and that the original
commands have been restored. Slide the
switch eback to the
remote to normal operation.

Learn LED b

Main Power Off

Use/Learn

Main Power Off

indicators will light momentarily. When

Use/Learn

switch ein the Learn position. Then

Main Power On

Main Power On

goes off for about 3 seconds. It will then

switch in the

switch eto the

button aand confirm

has illuminated. While con-

button abutton until the

Use

position to return the

Learn

button aand the

Sending

Use

position

button, press and

Use/Learn

18

Signature 2.0

System Installation

The Signature 2.0 is a powerful audio controller that
delivers high-quality sound in a variety of multichannel
modes from a wide range of input sources. Although
many aspects of the 2.0 resemble familiar audio
components, the flexibility and range of control the 2.0
offers means that some steps in the installation process
may be a bit different from traditional analog-only audio
products. For that reason, it is important that you read
the following section carefully even if you are familiar
with audio systems.

As a safety note, it is always good practice to make
certain that the 2.0 and all equipment being installed
and connected to it be turned off and unplugged from
AC-power sources. This prevents the possibility of
accidentally sending any audio or control signals through
the system that may damage your equipment.

We also recommend that you use high-quality cables
when making connections to external audio and video
equipment. There are many brands of cables to choose
from, and we suggest that you consult with your dealer
to select the cables that suit your needs and budget.

After unpacking the unit, and placing it on a solid surface
capable of supporting the weight, you will need to make
the connections to your audio and video equipment. The
following steps need to be done only when the 2.0 is
first installed, or when a change is made to the input
source equipment.

Input Connections

Unlike traditional audio/video products, which have
fixed source inputs assigned to specific products or
sources (e.g., “VCR” or “CD”), the Signature 2.0 allows
you to connect inputs from a variety of audio and video
sources, and then assign them to custom tailored source
“profiles” as you desire. The following instructions will
guide you to making the individual connections, while
the actual assignment of the sources is explained in the
section of this manual covering the Sources Menu on
page 27.

When making audio/video connections it is a good idea
to note the connection points on the User Worksheet
provided in Appendix B.

For simple installations, connect your audio and video
sources according to the chart on page 6.

Audio Inputs

The 2.0 accepts inputs from conventional analog audio
products and both coaxial digital and optical digital audio
sources. The flexibility of the 2.0’s profile system allows
you to connect both analog and digital outputs from
the same source (such as a DVD or laser disc player)
and then associate that source with any video input or
source name.

In addition, the 2.0 will decode both PCM digital
signals and Dolby Digital (AC-3) data. PCM digital is
used by conventional CD players or the standard digital
output of a laser disc player, while Dolby Digital is used
by DVD players as well as high-definition television sets
(HDTV), many new computer games and other future
digital audio devices. When a digital source is selected,
the 2.0 will automatically test the digital data. If the
surround mode in use is not compatible with the
digital data input, the mode name will flash in the front
panel

Information Display

page 38) alerting you to the error. Pressing the
button xwill give you an alternate mode selection.

Audio input connections are made in conventional
left/right pairs to the
and either optical or coax connections to

Coax Digital Audio Inputs ‡°

connections, be certain to note the equipment connected
to each input using the chart in Appendix B.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not make connections
from the “RF” output of a laser disc player directly to
the 2.0. The RF signal must first be demodulated by an
optional, external device, which is then connected to
the 2.0 via a datastream digital connection. Improper
connections to an RF digital source may result in
damage to your equipment.

Analog Audio Inputs ™

(see figure FPD-12 on

Display

Optical

. When making

or

System Installation

19

Signature 2.0

The 2.0 may also be connected to an optional, external
audio processor or decoder that accommodates digital
systems the 2.0 cannot handle internally. The analog
output connections from any external processor should
be made to the

Video Inputs

Video source connections are made to either the

Composite Video

connecting an audio/video device such as a VCR or DVD
it is a good idea to make all connections to the same
input number, (e.g.,

System Installation

Digital Audio 1

used as long as you keep a note of which source is
connected to each numbered video input.

Once audio or video connections are made, they may
be matched with any other connection. They may also
be used with more than one input profile. For example,
the video output of a VCR or cable box may be used
both with the VCR’s own audio source for normal play­back, but it may also be used with the 2.0’s built-in tuner
so that, for example, you may watch the video of a
sports broadcast along with the commentary from a
radio station using the simulcast feature.

6-CH Direct Inputs ¡

or

S-Video Inputs fl‹

Video 1, Analog Audio 1

) although any input number may be

.

. When

,

If the 2.0’s front panel remote sensor is blocked by
cabinet doors or other obstructions, an optional, external
IR sensor may be connected to the
are connecting multiple products to the same sensor, in
some applications the “IR In” may be connected to the IR
output of another compatible Harman Kardon product.
Consult your dealer or custom installer if you have
questions concerning the use of the IR input.

An

RS-232 Input §

remote systems. Connections to this input jack should
ONLY be made by installers who are specially trained
in its use and when special, optional control software
is installed.

is provided for use with custom

IR Input ¶

. If you

Output Connections

Audio Outputs

Using high-quality audio interconnect cables, connect the

Main Channel Audio Outputs ¢

inputs of your audio power amplifier for the left, center,
right, right surround and left surround channels. Connect
the power amplifier to the speakers in accordance with
the instructions provided by the amplifier and speaker
manufacturers.

to matching audio

System and Accessory Inputs

Assemble the AM loop antenna as shown below.
Connect it to the
rear panel.

Connect the FM antenna to the
connection a. The FM antenna may be an external roof
antenna, an inside powered or wire-lead antenna, or a
connection from a cable TV system. Note that if the
antenna or connection uses 300-ohm twin-lead cable,
you must use the 300-ohm to 75-ohm adapter supplied
with the unit to make the connection.

AM Antenna Inputs ·

FM (75 ohm)

on the

Connections from the
be made to the mono line level input of a powered sub­woofer or to the input of an audio power amplifier used
to power a passive subwoofer. In the event that the input
of the powered subwoofer has both left and right line
level inputs, consult the instructions provided with the
subwoofer to determine which input should be used, or
if any other special connection is required.

For Subwoofers with a stereo input only, it may be
necessary to use an optional “Y” cable. Consult the
Subwoofer’s instructions or your dealer for additional
information.

Subwoofer Output ∞

should

Video Outputs

Using high-quality video interconnect cables with a
coaxial-style construction, connect the

Video Main Output fi
Output ¤

projector, video monitor or other video display device
or processor.

to the video or S-Video inputs of your TV,

and/or

Composite

S-Video Main

20

Signature 2.0

NOTE: The 2.0’s input switching system will convert
S-Video inputs for display on a standard composite video
monitor, but it will NOT convert composite video signals
to the S-Video format. If your system uses a mix of both
standard and S-Video it is easiest to make connections
only to the standard video input of a monitor, although
that will remove the signal quality benefits of an “S”
connection. If both types of connections are made, it is
necessary to switch your video display from composite to
“S” so that the monitor’s input matches the output of the
device chosen by the 2.0.

Record Outputs

Connect the audio
In jacks of an audio or video recorder. You may connect
the 2.0 to two different recorders, (e.g., an audio cassette
deck or Mini Disc and a VCR), but the same signal will
be fed to both recorders.

Connect the

Outputs ›⁄

video recording device.

Record Outputs £

Composite Video

to the Record/In jacks on a VCR or other

and

to the Record/

S-Video Record

System Accessory Connections

If the IR sensors on some of the other pieces of equiment
in your system are blocked by cabinet doors or other
obstructions, the IR signals received by the 2.0 may be fed
to compatible devices by connecting the
to the IR Input of other devices.

IR Output •

When the 2.0’s internal
is blocked, connect an external sensor to the
or connect that jack to the IR output of another com­patible device that the remote can “see.”

You may also connect both the

Output •

daisy-chained.

If the 2.0 will be used in a system with an optional
Signature Series or Harman Kardon amplifier with a
turn-on trigger, or other compatible products, connect
the trigger connection cable by plugging one end into the

Trigger Output ª

Input of the amplifier or accessory device.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When using the trigger with
a device other than a Harman Kardon Signature Series
product it is important to make certain that the trigger
voltages and connection polarities are compatible. Consult
your dealer or Harman Kardon for more information about
specialized connections with the 2.0’s trigger output.
Mismatched trigger connections may cause damage to
equipment that is not covered by factory warranties.

When all of these connections are made only one more
important connection needs to be made: plug the

Power Cord ‚

do not turn the 2.0 on quite yet. You are almost ready
to enjoy the Signature Series 2.0.

to other devices so that the IR signal path is

Remote Sensor Window !

IR Input ¶

IR Input ¶

, and the other end into the Trigger

into a non-switched AC output, but

and the

AC

IR

,

System Installation

21

Center Front

Speaker

Optional Rear Wall Mounting

TV or Projection Screen

Right Front

Speaker

Left Front

Speaker

No more than 6 feet

when rear-mounted

speakers are used

Right Front
Speaker

Left Front

Speaker

No more
than 24″

Center Front Speaker

System Configuration

Once you have made the physical connections between
the Signature 2.0 and the other equipment in your
system, it is necessary to make certain adjustments that
“tell” the 2.0 about the speakers and where they are
located in the listening room and to make adjustments
for the acoustics in the room. These adjustments will
also enable you to use the power of the 2.0’s menu
system so that input sources may be grouped and named
to suit your requirements. Finally, there are adjustments
and calibrations to be made that optimize the outputs

System Configuration

of the 2.0 to produce the best possible sound. A few
minutes spent to correctly configure the 2.0 for the
specifics of your system will add to the pleasure of your
listening experience.

Speaker Selection and Placement

Signature 2.0

Front Channel Speaker Installation with Direct-View TV Sets or
Rear-Screen Projectors

Depending on the specifics of your room acoustics
and the type of speakers in use, you may find that
imaging is improved by moving the front left and right
speakers slightly forward of the center channel speaker.
If possible, adjust all front loudspeakers so that they are
aimed at ear height when you are seated in the listening
position.

The placement of speakers in a multichannel home
theater system will have a noticeable impact on the
quality of sound reproduced.

No matter which type or brand of speakers is used, the
same model or brand of speaker should be used for the
front left, center and right speakers. This creates a seam­less front soundstage, and eliminates the possibility of
distracting sonic disturbances that occur when a sound
moves across mismatched front channel speakers.

Speaker Placement

Depending on the type of center channel speaker in
use and your viewing device, place the center speaker
directly above or below your TV or projector.

Once the center channel speaker is installed, position the
left and right front speakers so that they are as far away
from one another as the center channel speaker is from
the preferred listening position. Ideally, the front channel
speakers should be placed so that their tweeters are no
more than 24″ vertically off center from the tweeter in
the center channel speaker.

The distance between the left and right speakers should be equal to
the distance from the seating position to the viewing screen. You may
also experiment with placing the left and right speakers slightly

forward of the center speaker

22

Signature 2.0

At least 2 feet

At least 6 inches from ceiling

Power Off Standb

y

Signature Series 2.0

Version X.XX

Using these guidelines, you may find that it takes some
experimentation to find the correct location for the front
speakers in your particular installation. Don’t be afraid to
move things around until the system sounds correct.
Optimize your speaker positions so that pans across the
front of the room sound smooth, and that sounds from
all speakers appear to arrive at the listening position at
the same time.

Surround speakers should be placed on the side walls of
the room, at or slightly behind the listening position. The
center of the speaker should face into the room. The
speakers should be located so that the bottom of the
cabinet is at least two feet higher than the listeners’ ears
when in the desired area, as shown below.

Configuring Your System

Once the speakers have been installed, the next step is to
configure the 2.0 and calibrate it for the specific equip­ment in your system. First make certain that you have
installed the supplied batteries in the remote control, as
shown on page 16. Next, make certain that the

Power Cord ‚

is plugged into a non-switched AC

wall outlet.

You are now ready to turn on the 2.0. Before proceeding,
place the

Master Power Switch1

in the ON
position by pressing it in until the switch latches and
is flush with the 2.0’s front panel. The front panel

Information Display )

will light briefly and
display a message with the software revision number
(Figure FPD-1).

AC

System Configuration

If side wall mounting is not practical, the speakers may
be placed on a rear wall, behind the listening position.
Again, they should be located so that the bottom of the
cabinet is at least two feet higher than the listeners’ ears.
The speakers should be no more than six feet behind the
rear of the seating area.

Subwoofers produce non-directional sound, so they
may be placed almost anywhere in a room. Subwoofer
placement is highly influenced by room size and shape,
and the type of subwoofer used. Follow the instructions
provided by the subwoofer’s manufacturer, or experi­ment with the best location for a subwoofer in your
listening room.

Figure FPD-1

It will then show a

Power Off

message (Figure FPD-

2)and then go dark.

Figure FPD-2

At the same time, the

Standby LED 5

will turn
amber, indicating that the unit is in the Standby mode
and ready to accept commands from the remote control.

NOTE: It is a good idea to write down the software
version that is installed in your unit in the place provided
in Appendix B. Although it is unlikely that you will
encounter problems with the 2.0, the exact revision
number of the software installed in your system is a
valuable diagnostic tool that may be helpful to Customer
Service Representatives when you contact Harman
Kardon via letter, phone or E-Mail.

23

Signature 2.0

TV Vol

Dolby ProLogic 10

Signature Series 2.0

Power On Standb

y

Spkr Setup Menu

Front L & R: Small
Center: Small
Surrounds: Small
Subwoofer: Yes
Speaker Levels >
Speaker Distances >

Setup Menu

Record Outputs >
Sources >
Speaker Setup >
Advanced Setup >

The final preparation before proceeding with the
configuration is to make certain that your television,
monitor, or projector or other video display device is
turned on, and that it is adjusted so that the 2.0 is the
current video input. At this point you should also make
one last check that all sources, amplifiers and speakers
are properly connected to the 2.0, plugged into AC
power, turned on or in their standby modes.

Turn the 2.0 on using the front panel

2

or the

Main Power On

control. Note that the

System Configuration

the word “Signature” on the front panel will turn a soft
blue color to act as the

switch aon the remote

Standby LED 5

Power Indicator 6

is connected to a Signature Series power amplifier via the
remote trigger cable it, too, will turn on.

When the power is first turned on, the

Display )

will first show a brief turn-on message

(Figure FPD-3)

Figure FPD-3

and then it will revert to the standard information display
with the source name and the volume setting on the
right side of the display (Figure FPD-4).

Figure FPD-4

Speaker Setup

The first step in the configuration is to program the 2.0
so that it “knows” what kind of speakers are connected.
This information, pertaining to the characteristics of the
speakers, not their brand or model, establishes the bass
management of the 2.0.

To begin the process, press the
and note that the main Setup Menu (Figure OSD-1)
will appear.

Menu

Standby Switch

will go out and

. If the 2.0

Information

button

j

Figure OSD-1

Press the
the words
the screen. Press the
the

¤ Menu Control

button itwice until

Speaker Setup

› Menu Control

Speaker Setup Menu

Figure OSD-2

are highlighted on

button to go to

(Figure OSD-2).

The first three lines tell the system if the speakers used
are capable of extended low-frequency reproduction.
When making a setting, use the following as a guideline:

Small:Select this setting if the speakers used

are not capable of reproducing low-frequency
information below 100Hz.

Large:Select this setting if the speakers are

traditional, full-range loudspeakers.

NOTE: The words “Large” or “Small” do not refer to
the actual size of the speakers, but their ability to
handle low-frequency information. In general,
however, full-range speakers are larger in size than
frequency-limited satellite speakers since they often
include large woofers.

24

Signature 2.0

Speaker Level Adj

Left Front +00 dB
Center +00 dB
Right Front +00 dB
Right Surr +00 dB
Left Surr +00 dB
Subwoofer +00 dB

Adjust until all levels
sound equal.

When the

‹

or

or

Small

When

FrontL&R:

› Menu Control

line is highlighted use the

buttons ito select

in accordance with the definition above.

Small

is selected, all signals assigned

Large

to the front left/right speakers that are below 100Hz
will be sent to the subwoofer output. When

Large

is selected, the front left/right speakers will receive a
full-range signal.

NOTE: If

Small

is selected and a subwoofer is not
used, the bass output in your system will be limited.
However, to avoid speaker damage, do not select

Large

unless your speakers are capable of reproducing

extreme low-frequency sounds.

When the desired setting for the front L/R speakers has
been set, press the
that

Center

¤ Menu Control

button iso

is highlighted. Here, make the same
choice as to a large or small setting, depending on the
type of speakers installed. Use the ‹or

Control

Small

buttons ito make your selection. When

is selected, all sounds below 100Hz assigned to

› Menu

the center channel will be sent to the front left/right
output. When

Large

is selected, the center speakers
will receive a full-range signal. An additional option here
is

None

, which should be selected if no center channel

speaker is installed.

Once the center channel setting has been made, press the

¤ Menu Control

button iso that

Surrounds

is
highlighted. Again, make a choice as to large or small,
using the ‹or
your selection. When

› Menu Control

Small

is selected, all sounds

buttons ito make

below 100Hz assigned to the left and right surround
channels will be sent to the front left/right output. When

Large

full-range signal. Select

is selected, the surround speakers will receive a

None

, when no surround speak-

ers are installed.

i

to select

None

Yes

when a subwoofer is installed, and

when a subwoofer will not be used in the system.

NOTE: If you wish to retain the factory preset that
appears on any menu line, simply press the

Control

button ito skip that item and move to the

¤ Menu

next setting.

When the speaker types have been entered, press
the

¤ Menu Control

Speaker Levels >

button iso that the

line is highlighted.
This will begin a important process of setting the
system output levels so that they are properly balanced
to account for variations in amplifiers, speakers and
room conditions.

NOTE: As soon as the button is pressed to go to the
next menu, a moderately loud test noise signal will be
heard. Anyone with sensitive hearing may wish to leave
the room before proceeding.

From the

› Menu Control

Speaker Levels

button ito move to the

line, press the

next screen.

The

Speaker Level Adj

menu appears (Figure
OSD-3), and it will list all of the speaker positions that
have been entered on the Speaker Setup Menu. A test
noise will be heard from the front left speaker as soon
as the menu is on the screen. That will serve as your
initial reference level for the remaining speakers. If it is
too low or too loud, use the

Volume Controls r9

to set your reference level. If a sound pressure level
meter is being used, the recommended reference level is
75dB, using the “C Weighting/Slow” settings. For the
most accurate settings, the meter should be placed at the
preferred listening position.

System Configuration

After selecting the Surround speaker type, press the

¤ Menu Control

highlighted. Use the ‹or

button iso that

› Menu Control

Subwoofer

buttons

is

Figure OSD-3

25

Signature 2.0

Speaker Dist Adj

Meas Std: Feet
Front L and R:10 FT
Center: 10 FT
Surrounds: 10 FT

Indicate distance
from Speakers to
listening postition.

Once the reference level has been established, press the

¤ Menu Control

highlighted. Adjust the sound level using the ‹or

Menu Control

buttons iuntil the volume from the
center channel is equal to what you had just heard from
the left front speaker.

When the center channel level is set press the

Control

button iuntil
ed and once again use the ‹or
tons iuntil the level is equal to the preceding speak­ers. Continue until all speaker locations have been set,

System Configuration

and then quickly cycle through the list one more time to
make certain that no additional adjustments
are required.

NOTE: For proper operation, the test tone should
always be heard from the speaker location indicated in
the on-screen menu. If the sound is being heard from a
location other than the one shown on the screen there is
a misconnection in the system. In that event, press the

Menu

button jthree times to exit the menu system

and then turn the unit off by pressing the

Power Switch1
Standby LED 5

amplifiers have been turned completely off (NOT placed
in a standby mode) check all connections from the 2.0
to the power amplifier and from the amplifier to the
speakers to find the incorrect connection. Once the
problem is found and corrected, turn the units on again
and resume the setup.

button iso that

Center

is

›

¤ Menu

Right Front

› Menu Control

is highlight-

but-

Master

on the front panel until the

goes dark. Once the 2.0 and all

At the

Speaker Dist Adj

menu (Figure OSD-4)
you will enter the information that will permit the 2.0 to
automatically calculate the proper delay time for each
analog and digital surround mode. Thanks to the
advanced circuitry of the 2.0 it is no longer necessary to
calculate delay times and enter them manually. It is
important, however, that you have the distance from the
preferred listening position to the front left/right, center
and surround speakers measured and available before
proceeding to the next step.

Figure OSD-4

The first line on the menu allows you to change from
the factory preset of measurement in feet to meter
increments. If you prefer to enter the data in meters,
make certain that the
press the

› Menu Control

replaced with

Meas Std

Meters

button iuntil

. Press the

line is highlighted and

Feet

is

¤ Menu Control

button iwhen the desired measurement unit appears
and move to the next line.

When all speaker locations have been set so that
the sound is equal, press the
end the calibration and return to the

Setup Menu

.

Menu

button jto

Speaker

To complete the speaker setup, press the

¤ Menu Control

Distances >

› Menu Control

button iuntil

Speaker

is highlighted and press the

button ito move to the next step.

At each of the next three lines, use the ‹or

Control

buttons ito change the setting so that the

› Menu

distance shown is as close as possible to the distance
from your listening position to the speaker location that
is highlighted. When the setting for a speaker position is
complete, press the

¤ Menu Control

button ito

move to the next position.

When all speaker distances have been entered, press the

Menu

button jto return to the

Menu

to select any items that may require final fine tun­ing. Press the
the

Setup Menu

Menu

button one more time to return to

so that final adjustments and config-

Spkr Setup

uration data may be entered.

26

Signature 2.0

Source Menu

Source:Tape
Name: Tape
Video: Comp 5
Audio: Analog 4
Mode: Music 3
Input Level >
Effects >

Source Configuration

Today’s audio video technology has led to the use of an
increasingly complex number of audio/sources in even
the most basic home theater systems. To make matters
more confusing, the use of a specific output from any
one piece of source equipment may vary depending
on the type of program software being watched or
listened to.

The 2.0 is unique in that it gives users the option to
assemble any of the audio and video sources it is con­nected to into easy to understand input source profiles
that allow you to “mix and match” combinations and then
identify them with a name that makes sense. For example,
the tuner may be permanently “attached” to the output of
a satellite receiver to allow video for sports events to be
combined with the play-by-play audio from a local radio
station, or a DVD player with multiple digital audio
outputs may appear as separate input sources.

The key to this flexibility is found on the

Menu

. Following the instructions below, you may
combine inputs, establish preferred modes, set input
levels and vary effects settings. To start, press the
button juntil the main

1) appears, and then press the
ton ionce until
Press the
to reach the

› Menu Control

Source Menu

Setup Menu

¤ Menu Control

Sources >

button iagain

.

Source

Menu

(Figure OSD-

but-

is highlighted.

Figure OSD-5

The

Name

line is where you can rename the input
profile so that the on-screen and front-panel display
description shows your preferred description. For
example, you may wish to rename “TV” to “Satellite,”
“Video 1” to “VCR 1,” “Video 2” to “DVD,” and so on.

To change the input name, first make certain that the

Name

line is highlighted. Next, press the

Control

lines (

button iand note that a series of underscore

ÐÐÐÐ

) will appear to the right of the factory

› Menu

preset name and that the first letter will change from
white to a slightly greenish color. Use the ⁄and

Menu Control

buttons ito change the alphanumeric

¤

character. Tap the remote buttons lightly to move
through the upper case letters, lower case letters, num­bers and symbols one at a time, or press and hold either
the ⁄or

¤ Menu Control

buttons to scroll rapidly

through the available characters.

Source Configuration

While proceeding through each of the menu items and
configuration options explained in the following pages, it
is a good idea to record the choices made in the Sources
worksheet that is found in Appendix B. Making a written
record of your system’s configuration will make it easier
to establish your favorites should the memory be reset
due to software changes or service.

At the

Source Menu

labeled

Source

(Figure OSD-5), the first line

corresponds to the button on the

2.0 remote control that will be used to recall the source
profile that is being established. You may continue to
program the profile that is shown, or press the

Control

button ito change to another remote button
to be set. When the correct profile is shown inside the
highlighted area, press the

i

to move to the next line.

¤ Menu Control

› Menu

button

After you have changed the first letter, press the

› Menu Control

button to move to the next space.
The letter being changed will turn from white to a light
green as your indication of which space is being changed.
Continue to use the ⁄and
to change each character, and then press the

Control

button to move to the next space to the right.

¤ Menu Control

› Menu

buttons

If you have made an error and wish to correct a previous
spot on the line, use the

‹ Menu Control

button as a

“backspace” key.

When you have completed the entry, even if it does
not fill the entire 11-character space permitted, press
the

Menu

button jto enter the setting to the 2.0’s

memory. Press the

¤ Menu Control

button ito

move to the next line.

27

Signature 2.0

Input Assignment

At the

Video

or

S-Video Input ‹fl

when the remote button whose profile you are adjusting
is pressed. You may select any of the video inputs,
even if you use an input connection more than once.
If you need to remember which piece of source equip­ment is connected to which input jack, consult the
worksheet in Appendix B that you filled out during the
connection process.

To change the video input source, first make certain that
the

Source Configuration

Video

lighted. Press the
that the video input will change each time you press the

›

button. Composite video inputs will be shown as

Comp 1

be shown as

When the desired input name appears on the screen,
press the
and move to the next line.

At the

Audio

external audio source that will be selected when you
press the remote button profile being adjusted. Analog
audio input sources will be shown as
through

Analog Audio Inputs ™

be shown as
Digital inputs 1 through 4 are the

Inputs °
Digital Audio Inputs ‡

the rear panel
the line as

line select the rear panel

line on the menu (Figure OSD-5) is high-

through

S-Video 1

¤ Menu Control

line you will choose analog, digital or

Analog 6

Digital 1

and digital inputs 5 and 6 are the

6-CH Direct Input ¡

6-Ch Direct

Composite

that will appear on screen

› Menu Control

Comp 6

, and the S-Video inputs will
and

, corresponding to the rear panel

. Digital audio sources will
through

. If a device is connected to

.

button and notice

S-Video 2

button to enter the setting

Analog 1

Digital 6

Coax Digital Audio

it will appear on

.

Optical

As with other menu selection choices, use the ‹or

Menu Control

the desired input appears on the screen. When you have
completed this section, press the
button ito enter the setting to the 2.0’s memory and
move to the next step.

buttons ito change the setting until

¤ Menu Control

›

Surround Mode Assignment

The next step is to enter the surround mode that will be
used when the input profile being established is selected.
Note that the choice of modes available will vary
depending on whether the input is an analog or digital
audio source. For example, Dolby Digital modes are not
available when the input is an analog audio source, as
there would be no digital data available.

An explanation of the Surround modes, and the
suggested program material for them, is found in
Appendix C. You may wish to consult that information
before making a final selection for the preset mode.
Note that the mode programmed into the profile
memory will appear when the source is selected, but you
may always change the mode during a listening session
by pressing one of the
buttons yon the remote control. In addition, as you
change modes during the selection process by pressing
the ‹or
the differences between them.

.

NOTE: When an external audio adapter is selected
through the
allow a mode to be entered, as the surround decoding
will be established by the external processor. The
line will not appear when
is the audio source.

› Menu Control

6-CH Direct Inputs ¡

Surround Mode Selector

buttons iyou will hear

, the 2.0 will not

Mode

6-Ch Direct

NOTE: The tuner may ONLY be selected as an input
when the top line on the menu reads
intentional, as the codes programmed in the
button on the remote are needed to operate many of
the tuner’s functions. It is possible, however, to select
another input device for this source, but the tuner will
not be accessible if the input is used in that fashion.

Tuner

. This is

Tuner

After deciding on which mode to use, press the ‹or

Menu Control

the desired surround mode appears on the screen. When
you have completed this selection, press the

Control

memory and move to the next step.

28

buttons ito change the setting until

¤ Menu

button ito enter the setting to the 2.0’s

›

Signature 2.0

Source Menu

Source:Vid1
Name: Video 1
Video: Comp 1
Audio: Digital 1
Mode: Dolby Digital
Effects >

Set Input Levels

L Input Level: Ref

Set Input Levels

L Input Level: +00
R Input Level: +00

L Signal Level:Ref
R Signal Level:Ref

Adjust each input for
reference level

Input Level Adjust

When an analog input is selected, the next step is to
set the input level. Correct input level adjustment is
needed so that the surround sound processing circuitry
has both enough information to decode, and to make
certain that the information in both input channels is at
the same level. This level setting does not involve the
actual output volume that you hear, but rather the small
voltages that embody the signals sent from the output
of a source unit and the input of the 2.0. Different
products may have widely varying output levels so it is
important that you set the input level to assure proper
surround processing.

Since digital audio signals do not vary in level with
changes in program material intensity, they are trans­mitted at a constant bit rate. For that reason, it is not
necessary to set the input level for digital audio sources.
Accordingly, this step does not appear on the

Menu

when a digital input is selected as shown below

(Figure OSD-6).

Source

Figure OSD-7

This menu has two groups of lines for the left and right
inputs. The top group is where adjustments are made to
each of the channels, and the figure shown at the right
side of the screen is the offset from the 2.0’s internal
reference. The group of readouts in the lower portion of
the screen displays an actual indication of the incoming
audio signal’s level.

When the lower display lines display a constant reading
of

Ref

, the level settings are correct and no further
adjustment is required. When either of the lower lines
flashes between

Ref

and

Low

or

Ref

and

High

the
input levels require adjustment. A level that is too high
will cause distortion and incorrect processing, while too
low a level will prevent the surround processor from cre­ating the proper soundfields.

Source Configuration

Figure OSD-6

Before setting the input levels, make certain that the
source machine you are adjusting is in the play mode,
using program material that is representative of your
favorite listening choices. Remember; the actual volume
setting is not important here, rather, you are concerned
with the electrical interface between the two units.

With the source unit in play, make certain that you are
at the

Source Menu

Input Level >

› Menu Control

Input Levels

button ito move to the

menu (Figure OSD-7).

(Figure OSD-5) and that the

line is highlighted. Press the

Set

To adjust the input levels, make certain that the

Input Levels

menu (Figure OSD-7) is on the

screen. To select the channel being adjusted, use the

⁄

or

¤ Menu Control

channel is highlighted. Use the ‹or
buttons iuntil the

buttons iuntil the desired

› Menu Control

Signal Level

line for
the channel being adjusted shows a constant
display. When one channel has been adjusted, repeat
the procedure for the other, if necessary.

NOTE: When adjusting the input level using the front
panel display, note that only the indication of
or

Low

, will appear on the bottom line. The reference off-

Ref, High

set numbers appear only in the on-screen display (Figure
FPD-5).

Figure FPD-5

29

Set

Ref

,

Signature 2.0

Effects Menu

Treble Cut: -0 dB
Bass Boost: +0 dB
Subwfr Trim: +0 dB
Center: Normal
Surround: Normal
Balance >

Once the levels have been set as needed for both the left
and right channels, press the
to the

Source Menu

Effects Setup

The final adjustment group to be set when establishing
an input source profile is the Effects menu. These
settings adjust parameters that will be initiated when
the source is selected in the future, but they may always
be modified during a listening session through the use of
the various remote control functions.

To enter the Effects menu, the

Source Configuration

OSD-5) should be on the screen with the

>

line highlighted. Press the

› Menu Control

Effects Menu

the screen.

Menu

button jto return

.

Source Menu

(Figure

Effects

button iand note that the

(Figure OSD-8) will appear on

shown in Appendix C. To increase the amount of low­frequency information, make certain that

Boost

Control

is highlighted and use the ‹and

buttons ito create the desired level. Note

Bass

› Menu

that since this is an additive function, the on-screen
indications are shown as positives, such as

+2 dB

.

When the desired Bass Boost has been selected, press the

¤ Menu Control

button to move to the next line.

The Subwoofer Trim option gives you the opportunity
to change the actual volume level of the subwoofer out­put above or below that of the other channels. This is
different from the adjustments made at the Input Level
menu, where you are adjusting the electrical balance
between the 2.0 and your amplifiers. Here, the adjust­ment is a true volume level change. To change the
subwoofer trim, make certain that
is highlighted and use the ‹and

Subwfr Trim

› Menu Control

buttons ito adjust the level. When the desired level
is established press the

¤ Menu Control

button to

move to the next line.

Figure OSD-8

The first adjustment is

Treble Cut

the high-frequency level of the output signal at specific
frequencies in accordance with the chart shown in
Appendix C. To reduce the amount of high-frequency
information, make certain that the
line is highlighted, and use the ‹and
buttons ito create the desired level. Note that since
this is a subtractive filter, the on-screen indications are
shown as negatives, such as

-2 dB

Treble Cut has been selected, press the

Control

button to move to the next line.

The Bass Boost adjustment enables you to boost the level
of low-frequency content in accordance with the chart

, which rolls off

Treble Cut

› Menu Control

. When the desired

¤ Menu

The Center control allows you to select the Center
Channel option for this input. This is an override to the
normal settings for the selected mode. Make certain that
the

Effects Menu

Center

line is highlighted.

Use the ‹and

› Menu Control

is on the screen and that the

buttons ito select

from among the following options:

Normal

leaves the center setting as it would be

for the mode selected.

Wide

creates a slightly diffused center sound stage
by feeding a small amount of the center channel
signal into the front left and right speakers.

Boost

provides a 2dB boost above the calibrated
level for the center channel to create the effect of a
narrowly focused center soundstage.

OFF

turns off the center channel speaker position
for this input. That creates a very “wide” or
phantom center channel soundfield.

When the desired center mode is on the screen, press the

¤ Menu Control

button ito enter the setting and

move to the next adjustment on this menu.

30

Signature 2.0

F

L o R

R/L 0 B F/B 0

Balance

R/L 0 LF F/B 6 BAK

The Surround option enables you to turn off the
surround speakers for this input. Use the ‹or

Control

buttons ito leave the surround speakers on,

› Menu

or to turn them off.

To move to the final default adjustment on the Effects
Menu, press the

Balance >

› Menu Control

¤ Menu Control

button iuntil

is highlighted. Press the

button ito move to the Balance

Adjust screen.

The adjustment screen for Balance is an X/Y graph
(Figure OSD-9) with the center of the graph indicating
the place in the room where you were sitting when the
Speaker Level Adjustments were made as shown on page

25. Keep in mind that this may, or may not, be the actual
center of the room, although it appears at the center on
the graph.

center of the room. As you listen to the sound change
in the room, you will see the visual indication of the
current center position by the location of the “o” cursor
on the screen. The readout at the bottom of the on­screen display provides a relative indication by noting
the offset from center to the left or right by the number
after the “

R/L

” indication, with “LF” indicating a left off­set and “RT” indicating a right offset. When the “o” is on
the center vertical line, a “0” appears after the

R/L

indi-

cating no balance offset.

Similarly, the right side of the displays shows the
front/back fade next to the “

F/B

” indication. A number
followed by “FT” indicates you have moved more
volume level to the front, while a “BK” indicates an
offset to the back of the room. When a “0” appears after
the

F/B

, and the cursor is on the horizontal center line,

there is no fade offset.

If this adjustment must be made when the on-screen
display is not available, you may judge the relative
balance position using the numeric scales explained
above as they appear in the front panel

Display

(Figure FPD-6).

Information

Source Configuration

Figure OSD-9

When adjustments are made at this screen, you are
making adjustments to the relative position of the
room center, or to compensate differences that occur
when listening to actual program material as opposed to
setup using the test noise signal provided for Speaker
Level adjustments. Moving the on-screen “o” cursor
point on this menu is similar to using the left/right
“balance” and front/back “fade” controls on conventional
audio products.

To assure proper settings, it is recommended that
program material representative of the type of movie
or music that will be used most often with this source
be played while the adjustments are made.

If you feel that the sound does not appear to be
“centered” in the room correctly, use any of the

⁄¤

Menu Control

buttons ito move the sonic

‹›

Figure FPD-6

When the desired balance adjustments have been made
for this input, press the

Menu

button jto return to

the Effects Menu.

When all options on the Effects Menu have been set,
press the

Menu

Menu

button jto return to the

Source

where any other parameters may be adjusted for
this input. Once the first input has been configured, use
the ⁄Menu Control
lighted area back up to the

‹

and

› Menu Control

button ito move to the high-

Source

line, where the

buttons ishould be used to
select another input. Repeat all of the steps outlined
above to name and configure each of the eight available
source profile buttons.

When all inputs have been configured to your satisfac­tion, press the

Setup Menu

Menu

button jto return to the

for further adjustments, or press it twice

to enter all settings and return to normal operation.

31

Signature 2.0

Advanced Settings

Turn On Vol: 10
Display Options >
Name Options >
SYSTEM RESET >

Advanced Setup

The Signature 2.0 is among the most flexible audio/video
products available. The true power of the 2.0, however,
is in the way that flexibility is harnessed through easy­to-use on-screen menus and a simple installation and
configuration process. Intensive research by Harman
Kardon has helped establish the factory settings for many
of the 2.0’s options so that they need not be adjusted by
most users.

Advanced Setup

However, for the advanced audiophile, or where special
system installations require changes to the factory
settings, the 2.0 provides a means to adjust settings that
do not normally need any change. The following section
describes those changes. You may wish to review it now,
or proceed directly to the section of the Manual that
describes the day-to-day operation of the 2.0. Should
you find that some of these settings need adjustment
at a later date, you may always make them without
impairing the enjoyment of your initial listening sessions.

If you wish to change that setting, press the
button jto display the

4), and press the

¤ Menu Control

Advanced Setup >

Menu

button again to display the

Settings Menu

The first item on the menu is the
setting. Press the ‹and

Setup Menu

is highlighted. Press the

Advanced

(Figure OSD-10).

Figure OSD-10

Turn On Vol

› Menu Control

Menu

(Figure OSD-

button iuntil

buttons

until the desired volume level is heard.

i

If you do not need to change the 2.0’s initial turn-on
volume level, the brightness of the front panel display,
the timing for the on-screen messages, the menu back­ground or the system video format, turn to page 35 to
find the 2.0’s operating instructions. If you do wish to
change any of these items, look for the instructions in
this section.

Turn-On Volume

The 2.0’s electronic volume control differs from
traditional mechanical volume controls in that there is
no visible indication of the unit’s volume when it is not
turned on. Thus, it is possible the last person to use the

2.0 may leave it set at a higher volume level than you
expect when the system is turned on again. To prevent
against damage to speakers or complaints from the
neighbors, the 2.0 always turns on at a preset level of 10.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not use the regular volume
controls to make the adjustments for this setting, as
those controls do not alter the memorized settings.

When your new turn-on volume level is reached, press
the

Menu

button jto return to the main

Menu

or twice to exit the menu system.

Setup

Display Options

The Signature 2.0 uses both the front panel

Information Display )

System to help you operate the unit. The way in which
you use these displays may be customized through the
Display Options menu. To reach this menu, press the

Menu

button jso that the
OSD-4) appears. Press the
until

Advanced Setup >

then press the
time so that the

› Menu Control

Advanced Setup >

highlighted and press the
again. The

Display Options

the screen (Figure OSD-11).

and the On-Screen Menu

Setup Menu

¤ Menu Control

(Figure
button

is highlighted, and

button ione more

line is

› Menu Control

button

menu will appear on

i

32

Signature 2.0

Display Options

On Scrn Sts: Timeout
Frnt Pnl Sts:On
OSD Time Out:5 Sec
Pnl Brtness: High
Menu Bkgrnd: Blue
Video Fmt: NTSC

Figure OSD-11

The first line,
prevent the on-screen menu messages from appearing
on the screen. If you do not wish to have confirmation
messages of input, mode or tuner status appear on the
screen, press the
the word
that when the “Off” position is selected you may still
access the setup menu system at any time by
pressing the
such as

Subwoofer l, Center Channel o
Surround p

the use of the front panel
the on-screen status messages are turned off the RDS
information system will also be seen only on the front
panel

Information Display

On Scrn Sts

› Menu Control

Off

appears on the right side of the line. Note

Menu

button, but direct access functions

, enables you to

button iso that

Treble k, Bass m, Balance n

and

may then be controlled only through

Information Display

.

,

. When

until

Timeout

Pnl Sts

Information Display

appears on the right side of the

Frnt

line. With this option, the front panel

will illuminate whenever
a remote control command is sent to the 2.0 but it will
go blank after the time interval set in the

Out

line.

OSD Time

When you have completed setting the front panel display
option, press the

OSD Time Out

¤ Menu Control

button iuntil

is highlighted. At this line you have
the ability to vary the length of time that the status
menus and front panel
on the screen if

Scrn Sts

line.

To change the time-out length, use the ‹or

Control

buttons iuntil the desired time appears

Information Display

Timeout

has been selected at the

remain

On

› Menu

on the right side of the line inside the highlighted video.
When you have entered the desired time, press the

¤ Menu Control

button ito move to the

next setting.

The

Pnl Brightness

change the intensity of the front panel

Display )
i

while observing the front panel display until it is at

. Press the ‹or

line enables you to

Information

› Menu Control

buttons

the desired brightness. After completing the adjustment,
press the

¤ Menu Control

button ito move to the

next adjustment.

Advanced Setup

When this option is left in the

Timeout

status messages will appear on screen, but they will
automatically turn off after a short period to prevent
image burn on your display device. Note, however, that
all menu control screens will remain visible until you
exit the menu, regardless of the

Timeout

If you wish to turn off the front panel display, move
the highlighted area on the
menu to

Frnt Pnl Sts

Display Options

. In the factory preset
position, the front panel display will remain lit whenever
the 2.0 is on. To turn the front panel display off, except
when commands are being sent to the 2.0 from the
remote control, use the

› Menu Control

position

setting.

button

On

i

NOTE: The

Pnl Brightness

menu item only con­trols the brightness of the display. To turn the display off
completely, use the ‹or
until the

Off

The

Frnt Pnl Sts

.

Menu Bkgrnd

› Menu Control

buttons

line is highlighted and select

menu item selects the type
of video that will appear as the background when the
on-screen menus are in use. Use ‹or
buttons ito select

Blue

to have a blue video screen

appear under the menus. Select

› Menu Control

Video

to have the
selected video input source appear as the background for
the menus.

33

i

Signature 2.0

Display Options

Video Fmt: NTSC

NOTE: Even when
background will appear under the menus when no
active video source is selected.

The final line on the
menu does not require adjustment under normal circum­stances. The
between the NTSC standard, which is used in North
America, parts of South America and many Asian coun­tries, and the PAL system which is used in most other
parts of the world. The 2.0 comes preset from the factory

Advanced Setup

for the video standard used in your country. However, in
special circumstances it may be appropriate to change
the video standard.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Changing this option will NOT
convert video signals from one format to the other, it
only changes the format for the on-screen menu
overlays. Do not change the video format unless your
monitor or display device, along with any video
processing equipment between the output of the 2.0 and
the video display is compatible with the newly selected
format. Changing to a video format not compatible
with your monitor and other equipment will cause the
video monitor to loose sync and show unstable and
non-viewable images.

Video

Display Options

Video Fmt

is selected, the blue

option allows you to choose

If it is necessary to change the video format, press
the ⁄or

Video Fmt

‹

¤ Menu Control

line is highlighted. Next use the

or

› Menu Control

buttons iuntil the

buttons ito select the

desired format.

NOTE: If this option is changed in error, the on-screen
menus will not be viewable. In that case, press the

‹

or

› Menu Control

format name appears in the front panel

Display

(Figure FPD-7).

buttons iuntil the correct

Information

Figure FPD-7

After completing the final adjustment on the Display
Options menu, take a minute to check the on-screen
display to make certain that all options are adjusted to
your satisfaction. If any additional changes need to be
made, press the ⁄or

¤ Menu Control

buttons

i

to move the highlighted video to the item needing
adjustment and follow the instructions shown above for
that option.

When all Display Options are complete, press the

Menu

button jthree times to completely exit the menu
system. You have now completed the setup and
configuration of the Signature Series 2.0 and are ready
to experience the best in home theater enjoyment!

34

Signature 2.0

POWER OFF STANDBY

Operating the Signature 2.0

Once the Signature 2.0 has been installed and configured,
and the initial settings entered, day-to-day operation is
simple, thanks to on-screen menus and direct-access
remote commands. Although the menu system is always
available to make global system changes, most of the
basic aspects of the 2.0 are taken care of with one press
of a button.

Turn On/Turn Off

For normal operation, the
should be placed in the ON position by pressing it in
with the tip of a pen or other narrow object until it
latches in a flush position with the front panel. As soon
as the

Master Power Switch

Information Display

the software revision (Figure FPD-1) followed by a power
off message (Figure FPD-2). The display will then go
blank, but the
reminder that the unit is in a Standby mode.

The 2.0 may be turned on in one of three ways. Pressing
either the front panel

Main Power On

case the 2.0 will turn on as shown by the

LED 5

shows a soft blue light behind the word “Signature.” If
the 2.0 is connected to a Signature Series power amplifier
or another compatible amplifier via the remote

Output

When the unit is turned on the front panel display will
briefly show a welcome message (Figure FPD-3) followed
by the display that is appropriate to the input that was
selected when the 2.0 was last turned off. If the 2.0 is
connected to a video display there will also be a brief
display of the status information for the input source that
is in use.

The 2.0 may also be turned on by pressing any of the

Source Selection

To return the 2.0 to the standby mode, press the front
panel

Standby Switch 2

on the remote. A

Standby LED 5

going dark while the

connection ªit will receive a turn-on signal.

Power Off Standby

Master Power Switch1

will come on briefly and display

Standby Switch 2

button aon the remote. In either

Power Indicator 6

buttons gon the remote.

or the

is engaged, the

will turn amber as a

, or the

Standby

Trigger

Main Off

button

message

a

will briefly appear in both the front panel

Display

System (Figure OSD-12). The
will go dark and be replaced by the
illuminating in amber. The power-on trigger will also
turn off automatically, causing any amplifiers connected
to the 2.0 to also return to the Standby mode.

When the 2.0 will not be used for an extended period of
time it is a good idea to turn the 2.0 completely off using
the
press the switch in and the release it so that it pops out
to the extended position. When the 2.0 is totally off, the

Standby LED 5

(Figure FPD-2) and the On-Screen Display

Power Indicator 6

Figure OSD-12

Main Power Switch1

will go dark.

. To turn that switch off,

Information

Standby LED 5

Volume Control and Mute

When the 2.0 is turned on, it will always be at the
volume level set in the
(Figure OSD-10). Once the unit is turned on the volume
may be raised or lowered at any time with either the
front panel

Volume Controls r

NOTE: The
may be used to change the volume level directly on your
television set when the proper infrared codes have been
entered. These buttons raise and lower the volume for
the TV itself, and have no bearing on the volume level
from the 2.0. When shipped from the factory, these
buttons have the volume controls for the popular “RC-5”
remote control system used by many manufacturers.
If the 2.0 remote does not immediately control the
volume on your TV, follow the instructions on page 17

Volume Control Knob 9

TV V olume Controls q

Advanced Settings

or the

Main

on the remote.

on the remote

menu

Operation

35

to transfer the codes from your TV’s remote to the 2.0

Volume 23

< >

....

Volume 23

Video 1 Mute

Dolby ProLogic

Mute

Video 1 Vol
Dolby ProLogic 10
No AC-3 Info

remote. Remember that in the factory default con­figuration, the
when the
program the codes for use when other inputs are active,
follow the instruction on page 17.

Note that the front panel volume control is electronic,
unlike the traditional mechanical potentiometer volume
controls on most conventional audio equipment.

Operation

Electronic volume controls require more than one
rotation to go from complete silence to maximum
volume level, and there is no fixed start or stop point.
As the volume control is changed a visual indicator will
appear on screen (Figure OSD-13) to provide a visual
reference of the volume level. Volume changes will also
be shown on the front panel display (Figure FPD-8).

TV V olume

TV Source

Signature 2.0

buttons qoperate only

button ghas been pressed. To

Figure OSD-14

During a listening session it may occasionally be
necessary to quickly lower the volume to answer the
phone or for some other reason. This is easily done by
pressing the
panel or remote. When either Mute button is pressed the
output to all speakers will be interrupted, although the
signal to the record outputs will remain active.

Mute

button

8s

on either the front

Figure OSD-13

Figure FPD-8

The relative volume setting may be viewed whenever
the front panel display is turned on by looking at the
right side of the front panel
(Figure FPD-4). It may also be viewed as part of the dis­play that is part of the status message (Figure OSD-14)
that appears when the

Information Display )

Display

button xis pressed.

When the Mute function is engaged a message will
appear in both the On-Screen Display (Figure OSD-15)
and in the front panel
(Figure FPD-9).

Information Display

Figure OSD-15

Figure FPD-9

To return to normal listening press the

s

on either the front panel or remote, or raise or lower
the volume using the front panel or remote
controls

36

9r

.

Mute

button

Volume

8

Signature 2.0

DVD Vol
Dolby Digital 10

Tuner PSet: 01
Stereo 90.7 FM

NO VIDEO PRESENT

01 90.7 FM . Vol

10

Tuner . Vol

Stereo 10

Source Selection

After turn on/off and volume, the most frequently used
controls on any audio video product are the input source
selectors. The current input source is always displayed
in the front panel
and may be shown on screen (Figure OSD-14) when the

Display

button xis pressed.

To change the input source, press the

Source¤

individual direct access
on the remote.

When you change a source you are not only changing
the input signal sources, but all of the other parameters
associated with the source profile. Thus, when a source
changes you may also be changing the surround mode,
effects parameters, channel balance and active channel
locations. When the 2.0 is first turned on, the source pro­files are set to the defaults listed on page 6. To customize
the profile of a specific input source, follow the instruc­tions shown on page 27 of the Manual.

Information Display

(Figure FPD-4)

Source⁄or

buttons 3on the front panel or the

Source Selection

buttons

g

If the source selected is the tuner, the front panel display
will first show the source name and mode (Figure FPD-

10), and will then switch to a readout of the frequency
being tuned, preset memory location, if any, and volume
level (Figure FPD-11). Selecting the Tuner when the on­screen display is activated will also show the frequency
and preset memory location, if any (Figure OSD-17).

Figure FPD-10

Figure FPD-11

Operation

When the input source profile is changed, the message in
the front panel

Information Display )

and display the new source name, processing mode and
current volume level (Figure FPD-4). A message with the
source name and surround mode will also appear briefly
through the On-Screen Display System (Figure OSD-16).

Figure OSD-16

will change

Figure OSD-17

NOTE: While the switch from one input source
profile to another is usually instantaneous, a large
number of complex calculations are made by the 2.0’s
microprocessors to switch the surround processing
modes and other operating parameters. For that reason,
you may occasionally encounter a very slight delay
when pressing a new source button before the mode is
changed. This is normal and does not indicate any
problem with the unit.

37

Signature 2.0

Video 1 Vol
Dolby Digital 10
NO AC-3 Info
Alt Mode: Dolby ProLogic

DVD Vol

Dolby Digital 10

Surround Mode Change

The Signature Series 2.0 offers a number of options for
changing the surround mode. The flexibility of the unit
enables you to use the surround modes programmed at
the factory, to select a mode you prefer for each input
source, or to change the mode at any time during a
listening session.

Factory mode settings are listed in the “Sources” chart in

Operation

Appendix A. If you wish to change the mode that is put
into effect any time an input is selected, follow the
instructions on page 28.

When selecting modes it is important to note that the
Movie and Music modes created by the 2.0 processor,
as well as the Stereo and Mono + modes are available
when an analog source is selected. Some modes are only
available when a digital audio input source is connected
to one of the rear panel

Audio Inputs ‡°

Optical

or

and AC-3 data is present. Thus,
Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Late Night and Dolby
Digital Mono are NOT available and will not appear
in the menus when an analog input is selected. This is
intentional, as these modes will not function from
analog input material.

It is also worth mentioning that there are two types of
digital data streams that may be used with the 2.0. The
conventional PCM digital output from a CD or laser disc
player, or the Dolby Digital data from a DVD, HDTV,
computer sound card, external RF demodulator, or other
source. Although PCM stereo signals are digital, they
have only two channels of information, limiting their use
to the music or movie modes, as well as Dolby Pro Logic
and, of course, Mono +, stereo or mono.

If a digital input and one of the Dolby Digital modes is
selected when there is no Dolby Digital data present, a
warning message will appear. The mode indication in the
front panel

Information Display

FPD-12), indicating an input to mode mismatch. This
will also occur if an analog-only mode (e.g. any Movie
or Music mode) is selected when a digital datastream is

Coax Digital

will flash (Figure

present. An alternate mode will be selected by the 2.0’s
processing system and the unit will automatically
switch to it. The alternate mode name will be displayed
in the on-screen message, or it may be seen by pressing
the

Display

button xfor a full status report (Figure

OSD-18).

Figure FPD-12

Figure OSD-18

To remove the warning messages when they appear
simply press the

Surround Selectors 4y

until

the suggested mode is in place.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The 2.0’s automatic processing
circuits are constantly examining the digital input signals,
and will cause the front panel display’s mode indication
to flash as a “No Data” indication when no digital data
is present. You may notice this during pause, scan and
skip modes in most DVD players even though there is a
picture on the screen. This situation is normal and does
not indicate a problem with the disc, player or the 2.0. It
occurs due to the fact that AC-3 data is only available
when the player is running at normal speed.

Depending on the input type (analog, digital AC-3 or
digital PCM) in use and the mode selected, the mode
shown in the front panel

Information Display

may
flash when the 2.0 detects other “illegal” input/mode
combinations. When this occurs, press the

Display

button xto view the suggested alternate mode.

38

Signature 2.0

The complete list of modes, and mode groups is found in
Appendix C, but in general, the groupings are as follows:

•

Movie modes are based on standard matrix decoding,
and modify system parameters, such as the amount of
front left/right sound fed to the rear channels and
various timing components, to provide different sonic
interpretations of movie theater spaces. Standard
Dolby Pro Logic is always available in this group, as
are the Dolby Digital modes, if appropriate.

•

Music modes provide a number of options that
simulate various room spaces with regard to delay
timing, room wrap and other surround parameters.
Experiment with these modes on conventional two­channel “stereo” recordings to take advantage of the
natural ambiance that is present in all recordings to
see how two channels can be made to sound like five.
Pro Logic is available here to accommodate surround
encoded music recordings. The Dolby Digital modes
are available when AC-3 data is present. To listen to a
source in pure mono, with the same signal emanating
from both the left and right speakers, select Mono.

•

Mono + is an enhancement mode that takes
single channel recordings and processes them into
a realistic soundfield that sends signals to all five
output channels. Use this mode to bring life to old
mono recordings or broadcasts.

•

Stereo is an intelligent mode that sends a two-channel
signal to the front left and right channels only. The

2.0’s custom processing enables the unit to sense if
the input is digital or analog, and act accordingly.
An important feature of the 2.0’s stereo mode is
that when an analog input is in use, pressing the

Stereo

as requested, it will turn off the digital surround
circuits to remove the possibility of any processor
noise leaking into the outputs.

To select a mode at any time during a listening session,
press the remote control
button yfor the mode grouping you wish to choose
from. Each press of the button will move to the next
“legal” mode, as indicated by the changing mode on the
lower left side of the front panel
or in the upper left corner of the on-screen display.

button ywill not only direct the sound

Surround Mode Selector

Information Display

You may also change the surround mode by pressing
the

Surround Selectors 4

When using the front panel buttons, the unit will scroll
up or down through the complete list of modes that is
available for the type of input source selected.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When a surround mode is
changed using the remote keys or front panel
the change remains in effect only as long as the input
source remains the same. When the input source is
changed, the 2.0 will switch to the mode that was
previously set as the default for the new input using
the

Source Menu

the previous input, the default mode will also be used. If
you find that you prefer a different mode than the one
programmed as the default for any input, you may
change the default using the instructions found
on page 28.

. In addition, if you switch back to

on the front panel.

y4

,

Direct Access Controls

When the 2.0 is first installed, the
(Figure OSD-8) enables you to choose the default settings
for Treble Cut, Bass Boost, Subwoofer Trim, Surround
and Channel Balance that will appear when a specific
input profile is selected. However, from time to time you
may wish to make a one-time change to one of these set­tings to accommodate the specifics of a certain program.
The 2.0’s direct access controls enable you to make those
adjustments without going into the menu control system
and changing the standard defaults for a particular input.

It is important to note that all changes made with the
following controls will remain in effect only until the
input source is changed or the unit is turned off. If either
of those changes is made, when the previous surround
mode is selected again, or when the 2.0 is turned back
on, the settings established on a temporary basis will
be erased, and the preset defaults entered on the

Effects Menu

changes to the default settings for any of the following
items, follow the instructions on page 30.

will be restored. To make permanent

Treble Cut

This setting enables you to temporarily change the roll­off of high-frequency sounds as shown in the graph in
Appendix C. You may find this useful when the program
you are listening to sounds overly harsh.

Effects Menu

Operation

39

Signature 2.0

Treble Cut: -0 dB

Subwfr Trim: +0 dB

Bass Boost: +0 dB

To change the Treble Cut setting, press the
button k, and note that the default setting will appear
in the on-screen display (Figure OSD-19) and the front
panel

Control

level.

Operation

When you have completed the adjustment, press the

Treble

to normal operation.

Bass Boost

This setting enables you to temporarily change the
boost in low-frequency sounds as shown in the graph
in Appendix C. You may find this useful when the
program you are listening to appears to have weak bass
levels. When adjusting this control be careful not to
increase the bass boost to an excessive level which may
cause a “boomy” sound and decreased headroom in the
subwoofer channel.

Treble

Information Display

. Use the ‹or

› Menu

buttons ito change the setting to the desired

Figure OSD-19

button kagain to enter the setting and return

Figure OSD-20

When you have completed the adjustment, press the

Bass

button magain to enter the setting and return

to normal operation.

Subwoofer Trim

This setting enables you to temporarily change the out­put level of the subwoofer channel when the program
you are listening to appears to have a weak bass channel.

To change the Subwoofer Trim, press the

l

, and note that the default setting will appear in the

on-screen display (Figure OSD-21) and the front panel

Information Display
Control

buttons ito change the setting to the desired

. Use the ‹or

level.

Sub

› Menu

button

To change the Bass Boost setting, press the
button m, and note that the default setting will appear
in the on-screen display (Figure OSD-20) and the front
panel

Information Display

Control

buttons ito change the setting to the desired

level.

. Use the ‹or

Bass

› Menu

Figure OSD-21

When you have completed the adjustment, press the

Sub

button lagain to enter the setting and return to

normal operation.

40

Signature 2.0

Center: Normal

Balance

R/L 0 F/B 0

Surround: Normal

Balance

When imperfections in a recording, or a temporary
change in the seating position in your room makes it
appropriate to change the balance setting, you may make
a temporary change to the room’s sonic center by press­ing the

Balance

button n. This will bring up the
Balance Adjust screen to the on-screen display in the
form of the X/Y graph (Figure OSD-9) described on pages
30-31. Use the

‹›

⁄¤

Menu Control

buttons

i

to change the apparent center of the room. You will hear
the impact of the change, and the relative position of the
room’s center is shown in both the on-screen display
(Figure OSD-9) and the front panel

Display

(Figures FPD-6 and FPD-13).

Figure FPD-13

Information

When you have completed the adjustment, press the

Balance

button nto enter the setting and return to

normal operation.

Center Channel Adjust

Once the center channel configuration for a system is
established there is rarely any need for a change.
However, it may occasionally be necessary to alter the
center channel settings to compensate for the differences
in recordings or room conditions. This feature allows you
to change the center channel mode on a one-time basis.

To change the center channel mode, press the
button oon the remote and note that the current
default condition will appear on the screen (OSD-22).

Center

Press the ‹or

› Menu Control

buttons ito change
the setting to any of the available modes, which are
described on page 30. You will immediately hear the
result of any change, and the new center channel mode
will be shown in the on-screen display and in the front
panel

Information Display

When the adjustment is completed, press the

.

Center

button oto enter the setting and return to normal
operation.

Surround Adjust

In normal operation, there is rarely any reason to change
the speaker setup on a temporary basis. Once the speak­ers are installed in a particular location you will want to
take advantage of them to create an enveloping sound­field. On certain occasions, however, you may wish to
silence the surround speakers ONLY. That task is
accomplished through the use of the Surround button.
Permanent changes to the speaker setup may be made
through the
page 24 of this Manual.

To temporarily silence the surround speakers, press the

Surr

on-screen display (Figure OSD-23) and the front panel

Information Display

rear speakers will be turned off, but the audio informa­tion usually directed to the surround speakers will not be
lost. To retain the surround field, the information from
the channels that have been turned off will be redirected
to the front left and right speakers, and the center chan­nel speaker will continue to operate. Using the three
front speakers only, while reproducing surround channel
information is similar to the Dolby 3 Stereo mode avail­able on traditional audio products.

Spkr Setup Menu

, as described on

button p. This will bring a status report to the

. At that time, the feed to the

Operation

Figure OSD-22

Figure OSD-23

41

Signature 2.0

Tuner PSet: ÐÐ
Stereo 106.7 FM
Vol 10

NO VIDEO PRESENT

Video 1 Vol
Dolby Digital 10

AC-3 Info

PGM Content 3/2.1
Matrix Encoded No
Sample Rate 48kHz
Data Rate 384kb/sec

Tuner PSet: 04
Music 1 91.5 FM
Vol 10 KXXX-FM
PUBLIC

TO PLEDGE CALL 800-

When you have finished this adjustment, press the
button pagain to enter the setting and return to nor­mal operation. Remember, the setting is temporary and
will be canceled as soon as you switch to another mode
or when the 2.0 is turned off.

Display Status Report

With the flexibility of the 2.0, you may occasionally
want a quick reference as to what is playing through the
system. The Display function allows you to view a

Operation

report on the current system status at any time.

When the
will appear on your video monitor (Figure OSD-16) that
shows the current input source, surround mode and
volume level. If no Dolby Digital (AC-3) information is
being received at the selected input, a “

Info

when an analog surround mode is selected.

A “
there is no active video signal at the selected video input
that accompanies this input source profile.

When the tuner is in use, pressing the

x

number, if any, in addition to the surround mode,
volume level and input name (Figure OSD-24).

Surr

Display

button xis pressed a status report

No AC-3

” message will be displayed, (Figure OSD-14), even

No Video Present

” message will appear when

Display

button

will show the current station’s frequency and preset

Figure OSD-25

Pressing the
use will also change the front panel

Display

Display

button xwhen the tuner is in

Information

so that the input name (e.g., “

Tuner

”) and the
current surround mode are shown (Figure FPD-10)
instead of the standard tuner display of preset number
and station frequency (Figure FPD-11).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Unlike most on-screen messages
displayed by the 2.0, status screens that appear when
the

Display

button xis pressed will not “time-out”
and disappear after the time length entered during the
setup procedure (see page 33). To remove this display
from the screen you must press the

Display

button

x

again to return to normal operation.

When a Dolby Digital source is playing, additional
information under the “

AC-3 Info

” banner will
be displayed to provide some insight into the details of
the source material (Figure OSD-26).

Figure OSD-24

If the RDS system is in use and the station is transmitting
data, it will also be shown when the

x

is pressed (Figure OSD-25). See page 46 for complete

information on the RDS system.

Display

button

Figure OSD-26

42

Signature 2.0

DVD VOL
Dolby Digital 10
No AC-3 Info
Alt Mode: Dolby ProLogic

AC-3 Info

PGM Content ÐÐÐ
Matrix Encoded ÐÐÐ
Sample Rate ÐÐÐ
Data Rate ÐÐÐ
ÐÐÐ

• PGM Content

describes the number of
surround channels encoded in the disc or broadcast
being received.

3/2.1

indicates that the source is a full 5.1
channel signal, with three channels of front
(left/center/right) information, two channels of
discrete surround information and one channel of
dedicated low-frequency effects (LFE) information.
This last channel is the “1” often referred to in 5.1
surround. The reason it is described as “1” is that
although the LFE channel is fully discrete and
separate from the other five main channels, it is
restricted to low-frequency information only, and is
thus not considered a “full” channel.

3/1

indicates conventional matrix surround
programming that is delivered digitally. The “3”
refers to the front three channels (left/center/right),
while the “1” is the single monaural surround
channel. This is the same process used for con­ventional analog Dolby Pro Logic decoding.

a higher or lower data rate depending on the number
of channels encoded, the running time of the disc and
the quality of the audio.

When there is a mismatch between the selected
surround mode and the incoming signals that prevents
the 2.0 from processing the signal as requested, it will
automatically select the best possible mode and display it
as part of the information on the

AC-3 Info

screen

(Figure OSD-27).

Figure OSD-27

Operation

2/0

indicates a standard two-channel stereo
program with no encoded surround information.

1+1

indicates a program that is encoded to play
back in the “dual mono” mode. This means that
there is no stereo information recorded in the
program. The same monaural signal will be heard
from both the front left and front right speakers
when

1+1

is shown as the

• Matrix Encoded
with a

3/1

on the

PGM Content

PGM Content

shows a “

Yes

to indicate that the program sources have surround
information encoded in the left and right channels.
When you see a “

Yes

” on this line the best surround
field will be reproduced by selecting Dolby Pro Logic
as the surround mode.

• Sample Rate

displays the actual sample
rate used to create the digital audio.
normal sampling rate for Dolby Digital audio signals
on DVD discs and HDTV broadcasts.

• Data Rate

displays the speed with which digital
data is transferred from the source player to the 2.0’s
digital decoder. A

384kb/second

data rate for 5.1 DVD discs, but some discs may have

.

” when paired
line

48kHz

is the

is the typical

Tuner Operation

The Signature 2.0 features an FM Stereo/AM tuner
with the RDS data system to make it easier to identify
the type of programming broadcast by FM stations.
Stations may be tuned manually, directly, assigned to
one of thirty preset locations and recalled in a number
of different ways.

Tuner and Frequency Band Selection

To select the tuner as an input source, press the
button gon the remote. The tuner may also be
selected by pressing either

3

on the front panel until

front panel

Information Display

Source Selector

Tuner

appears in the

. When the tuner is
selected the on-screen display will briefly display the
frequency and band of the last station tuned, the preset
number of the station, if any, and the current surround
mode (Figure OSD-17). The front panel

Display

Tuner

will first show the surround mode and the

source indication for a few seconds (Figure FPD-

Information

10) and then switch to a display of the station’s
frequency and band, and the preset memory, if any.

43

Tuner

buttons

Signature 2.0

02 89.9 FM . Vol

> KXXX < PUBLIC 10

Stereo Indicator

01 1070 AM Vol

790 10

When the tuner is selected it will play the last station
selected when the tuner was in use. To change from the
FM band to the AM band, or vice versa, press the
button gagain.

Manual Tuning

To manually tune to a new station, first select the tuner
as the 2.0’s input source as described above, and select
the FM or AM band, as described.

Stations may be manually tuned by pressing the

Operation

‚

A light tap on the buttons will move the frequency up or
down one increment. To rapidly tune to another station,
press and hold either button until you have reached the
desired station.

Stations may also be tuned in the “seek” mode, which
automatically scans the frequency band to find the
next station with a signal strong enough for acceptable
reception. Seek tuning is initiated by pressing either the

‡ or ·

release it. The tuner will search for a station and stop. To
seek another station, press any button on the remote.

If the FM station tuned is transmitting RDS data infor­mation, the station’s program type code (PTY) and any
identification information (e.g., call letters) will be dis­played in the front panel
(Figure FPD-14) after a brief delay. To view the RDS data
on the video monitor, press the
Complete information on using the RDS system may be
found on pages 46–50.

FM Tuning Mode Selection

When an FM station is selected, the tuner will auto­matically detect if the station is broadcasting in mono
or stereo and adjust itself accordingly. A dot will appear
in the front panel
FM indicator and the volume indication when a stereo
station is tuned.

or

— Transport Control

Transport Control

buttons tbriefly and

Information Display

Display

Figure FPD-14

Information Display

Tuner

buttons t.

button x.

between the

However, it may occasionally be necessary to change
the tuner to mono reception even when stereo broad­casts are being received. This is advisable when you
are tuning a weak station or are in an area where there
is severe multipath distortion due to reflections of the
FM signal off neighboring tall buildings. In those cases,
switching the tuner to mono will improve the
audio quality.

To switch the tuner to mono, press the

Mono +

button y. The tuner will remain in the mono mode
even when another station is tuned, but it will return to
automatic mono/stereo detection after the 2.0 is turned
off and then on again. If you wish to return to stereo
reception, press the

Mono +

button again to return to
both the previously selected surround mode as well as
stereo broadcast reception.

NOTE: When the tuner has been placed in the mono
mode by pressing the

Mono +

button, sound will be
heard from all five speakers, as the Mono + mode
creates enveloping multichannel surround sound from
a single channel signal. To have “true mono” sound at
any time (e.g., identical audio from the front left and
right speakers only), press the
button yuntil the
front panel

Information Display

Mono

Music

surround selection

mode name appears in the

and the on-screen

status message.

Direct Access Tuning

Stations may be tuned directly by entering their
frequency using the buttons on the remote control.

To tune directly to a station, first make certain that the
desired frequency band (AM or FM) has been selected.
Then, enter the station’s frequency using the

Keys w

. Note that the new station’s frequency will

appear on the bottom line of the front panel

Information Display

(Figure FPD-15). If the video
monitor is turned on, a brief display will appear with the
new station’s frequency at the top right (OSD-28).

Figure FPD-15

Numeric

44

Signature 2.0

ÐÐ

90.7 FM . Vol

01 10

Tuner PSet: 24
Stereo 790

Tuner PSet: 01
Stereo

Tuner PSet: ÐÐ
Stereo 01

Operation

Figure OSD-28

Within five seconds press the

Enter

button vand the

station will be tuned.

NOTE: Although any frequency within either the AM
or FM band may be tuned directly, you may not tune a
station in one band while the other is in use. To tune a
station in the band other than the one in use, first change
bands by pressing the

Tuner

button gand then

entering the station’s frequency.

Preset Tuning

The 2.0 allows you to enter up to thirty stations into
the preset memory system so that they may be easily
recalled. Stations in the present memory may be selected
from either the remote or front panel.

Once a station has been tuned, it may be entered
into the preset memory system by simply pressing
the buttons for a number between “01” and “30” using
the

Numeric Keys w

the number will appear on both the front panel

Information Display

message (Figure OSD-29) as it is entered.

on the remote. Note that

(Figure FPD-16) and on-screen

Figure OSD-29

Within five seconds press the

Store

button to
enter the number to the 2.0’s memory. The entry will
be confirmed by noting that the preset number will
move to the top line of both displays (Figures FPD-11
and OSD-30).

Figure OSD-30

Stations may also be added through the use of the

Tuner Menu

, as described on page 48.

To delete an individual preset after it has been entered,
first tune to the station. To remove it from the memory
press the “0”

Store

Numeric Key w

and then press the

button within five seconds.

Figure FPD-16

Once a station is entered into the preset memory it may
be recalled in one of four ways:

•

Press the

Presets

button zto step through the
stations in the memory in numerical order. Each press
of the button will move to the next station in the
preset memory.

•

Press the front panel

Tune

buttons 7to scroll up or
down through the stations in the memory. Each press
of the button will move to the next station in the
preset memory.

45

•

02 89.9 FM . Vol

> KXXX < PUBLIC 10

04 91.5 FM .

TO PLEDGE CALL 800-4

04 91.5 FM . Vol

RDS TEXT

...

10

•

RDS Tuning

Operation

The Signature Series 2.0 is equipped with RDS (Radio
Data Service), which brings a wide range of information
to FM radio. Transmitted by over 700 stations in the
United States, and large numbers of stations and broad­cast networks in other countries, RDS is a special data
signal that the stations transmit without any interference
to normal broadcasts. Depending on how a station
chooses to program the RDS data, it may include station
call signs, network information or identification
messages, special text messages or descriptions of the
musical selection and a description of the station’s format
or program type.

As more stations become equipped with RDS cap­abilities, the 2.0 will serve as an easy-to-use center for
both information and entertainment. This section will
help you to take advantage of the RDS system.

RDS Display

When an FM station is transmitting RDS data, the 2.0’s
tuner will automatically detect it. If RDS data is present,
the front panel
main parts of the data after a brief delay. This delay is
necessary as the data is sent at a relatively slow speed,
and it may take a minute or two for the 2.0 to collect,
process and display the data (Figure FPD-14).

Signature 2.0

Preset stations may be recalled directly by entering
their preset number using the
and then pressing the
five seconds.

Preset stations may be recalled through the

Menu

.

Information Display

Enter

Figure FPD-14

Numeric Keys w

button vwithin

Tuner

will show two

,

network affiliation or other information. In rare cases,
some stations program a lengthy message here that will
appear in the display in eight-character pieces.

The middle portion of the lower line on the display
will show the program type or “PTY”, chosen by the
station. The PTY is a set of preset codes that are used
to describe the station’s programming. A complete
list of these codes, as well as an explanation of the
abbreviations used appears in Appendix C.

NOTE: The choice of which PTY to use is up to the
station. Some change the PTY during the day to adjust
it to their programming, while others may not choose a
description that you feel properly describes the station.
Remember that these messages are set by the radio
station, and the 2.0 only receives and displays them.

To show the RDS information on the video screen,
press the

In addition to the ID and PTY data, many stations also
transmit special text messages. This message is com­posed by the station and it may include a wide range of
information ranging from the pledge number for public
stations to program schedule information, DJ call-in
numbers and many other purposes.

To display the text message press the
once and

Information Display

There will be a brief delay until the 2.0 receives the
entire message, then it will be displayed in the front
panel
FPD-18). To display the text message in the video
monitor (Figure OSD-25), press the

Display

RDS TEXT

Information Display

button x.

...

(Figure FPD-17).

Figure FPD-17

RDS

button

will appear in the front panel

’s lower line (Figure

Display

button x.

The lower left side of the display will show the “ID”
field, which is information that the station chooses to
transmit so that you may more easily identify it. This is
usually the call letters, but some stations transmit their

Figure FPD-18

46

Signature 2.0

04 91.5 FM . Vol

RDS ID

...

10

Tuner PSet: ÐÐ
Music 1 97.7 FM

Searching--- ANY RDS

05 102.7 FM .

Search ANY RDS

RDS Type Search

PERSONAL1
PERSONAL2
PERSONAL3
NEWS
SEARCH ANY RDS >
INFORM
SPORTS
TALK
ROCK

To return to the RDS ID and PTY messages press the

RDS

button and note that the

message will appear in the front panel

Display

(Figure FPD-19).

Figure FPD-19

IMPORTANT NOTE: Radio stations are free to use all,
some or no parts of the RDS system. For that reason, you
may not see certain aspects of the messages on some FM
stations. For example, some stations may choose to
transmit an ID and PTY, but not a text message. In
addition, when viewing RDS data you may occasionally
see garbled messages containing characters that do not
seem to belong in the message. This is a normal part of
the RDS system, and it may be caused by a number of
factors, including corruption of the data stream trans­mission or other interference with the signal. Occasional
incorrect messages do not indicate any problem either at
the radio station or with the 2.0.

RDS ID

Information

...

Figure OSD-31

Figure FPD-20

If you wish to search for a different PTY type, press the

⁄

or

¤ Menu Control

program type appears next to the word

buttons iuntil the desired

SEARCH

in
the middle of the on-screen display or on the right side
of the

Information Display

› Menu Control

button ito begin the search.

’s lower line. Press the

Operation

RDS Program Type Search

The 2.0’s sophisticated tuner and display system enables
you to search for any station transmitting RDS data, or
for a station transmitting a specific program type (PTY).

Although a PTY search may be started using either the
front panel
display system, you may find it easier to use the on­screen system. To initiate a program type PTY search,
press the

Type Search

OSD-31), and the word
lower line of the front panel
(Figure FPD-20). To cancel a search while it is in progress,
press the

Information Display

Type

button `. This will show the

menu in the on-screen display (Figure

Search

Information Display

Type

button `.

or the on-screen

RDS

will appear on the

Note that the

PERSONL3

PERSONL1, PERSONL2

and

, choices are not official RDS program
types, as they are provided so that you may tag any
station as a personal favorite, following the instructions
shown in the Tuner Menu section on page 48. When one
of the three

PERSONL

PTY types is selected for search,
the tuner will only examine the stations programmed
into the preset memory, not ALL stations, as
is the case with a normal PTY search.

While the search is under way, the on-screen display and
front panel

Searching

47

Information Display

message (Figure OSD-32).

Figure OSD-32

will show a

Signature 2.0

Setup Menu

Tuner >
Record Outputs >
Sources >
Speaker Setup >
Advanced Setup >

Tuner Menu

PSet: 01
FREQ: 1070
BAND: AM

Tuner Menu

PSet: 01
FREQ: 89.9
Band: FM
RDS: Auto
ID: KXXX-FM
Type: PUBLIC
Type Search >

The tuner will search upward through the FM band,
automatically examining each station to see if it is send­ing RDS data and looking to see what the PTY is. When
the next FM station that meets the search criteria is
tuned, the scan will stop and the station will be tuned. If
no station is found that matches the desired PTY type
after a complete scan of the FM band, the tuner will
return to the last station tuned.

Tuner Menu

Operation

In addition to using the direct access controls described
above, it is possible to program the tuner functions
and enter presets using the
you to quickly set the tuner memory, and it is a method
of tuner operation to consider during the initial configu­ration of the 2.0.

The
personalized names and Program Types even
if they do not transmit RDS data.

Tuner Menu

Tuner Menu

. This enables

also allows you to give FM stations

tuned (Figure OSD-34), while a different, shorter menu
(Figure OSD-35) will appear when an AM station is
currently tuned.

Figure OSD-34

To reach the

Tuner Menu

, the tuner must first be
selected as the input source. Press the
or select the tuner using the front panel

Selectors 3

Press the

Menu

(Figure OSD-33). The

if the tuner is not already in use.

Menu

button jto display the

Tuner >

be highlighted.

Figure OSD-33

Note that this line does not appear on the

Menu

(Figure OSD-1) when the tuner is not selected
as the input source. Press the
button ito display the

› Menu Control

Tuner Menu

will differ depending on the frequency band in use.
One menu will appear when an FM station is currently

Tuner

Source

Setup

Setup

. The menu

button

line will

g

Figure OSD-35

The first line on both

Preset

memory function. If a station currently

Tuner Menu

screens is the

tuned already has been assigned a preset memory
location, a number will be shown on this line. While
this line is highlighted you may also change to another
preset station by pressing the ‹or

› Menu Control

buttons iuntil the desired station is tuned. You may
also assign a new preset on this menu, but before doing
that it is necessary to proceed with the other entries on
this menu page and then return to the

PSet

line. When

you are finished with any change on this line, press the

¤ Menu Control

The

RDS

line enables you to determine if RDS data

button ito move to the next line.

will automatically be displayed when the tuner detects
RDS data on a station’s transmissions or to alternatively
display information manually entered using the
and

Type

lines of this menu Press the ‹or

Control

buttons ito select from one of the

ID

› Menu

following choices.

48

Signature 2.0

Tuner Menu

PSet:

ÐÐÐ

FREQ: 90.7
Band: FM
RDS: Manual
ID:

РРРРРРРР

Type:
Type Search >

Auto:When

Auto

is selected, the ID and PTY
portions of the RDS datastream will be displayed
in the front panel

Information Display

FPD-14) shortly after an FM station transmitting RDS
is tuned. This is the factory default condition and it is
recommended to enable you to make maximum use
of the RDS system.

Manual:When

Manual

is displayed, the tuner
will not display RDS data-fields unless the
button is pressed. When

Manual

you may also enter data fields for FM stations that
will display a section name or ID and attach an

PTY

search code, even when the station does not

actually transmit RDS data.

If you select the

Control

will skip over the IDand

Auto

mode, press the

button iand the highlighted video line

Type

lines, as they may
not be changed in the Automatic mode. If RDS data is
present, however, the data transmitted by the station
will be displayed. You will now be at the

Search >

line, where you may conduct an RDS
search as described on page 47. To make a search, press
the

› Menu Control

button ito initiate the search
process. If no search is required, and all adjustments have
been made, press the

Menu

button jtwice to exit
from the menu system and return to
normal operation.

Station Naming and Personal Preferences

A unique feature of the 2.0 is the ability to not only
create names for FM stations, but to assign an RDS
program type (PTY) to them, even if the station is not
transmitting RDS data. To program that type of entry,
first make certain that the

Menu

has been been set to

above. After the setting is made, press the

Control

button iso that the IDline is highlighted.

At the IDline, press the
and note that a series of underline dashes will appear
(Figure OSD-36). Next press the ⁄or

Control

buttons iand note that a full set of upper
and lower case alphanumeric characters will appear.
Press the buttons until the first letter or character of the
label or name you wish to give this station appears.

RDS

line on the

Manual

› Menu Control

(Figure

RDS

is displayed,

¤ Menu

Type

Tuner

, as described

¤ Menu

button

¤ Menu

RDS

i

Figure OSD-36

After reaching the desired character, press the

› Menu Control

button ito move to the next

position. Repeat the procedure, pressing the ⁄or

Menu Control

buttons ito bring the next desired
letter into view. Repeat the procedure for each space
until you have the entire name or identification label.
When you are finished, press the

Menu

button

j

and any spaces to the right of the label that are not used
will disappear. The dashes are only there to guide you
during character entry and will not remain once the

Menu

button is pressed.

While the IDline is highlighted, press the

Control

lighted. At this time, use the ‹or

button iso that the

Type

› Menu Control

¤ Menu

line is high-

buttons ito scroll through the list of RDS Program
Types as detailed in Appendix C on page 60. You may
assign any name on the list, regardless of the type of
programming the station broadcasts. Unlike RDS codes,
which are set by the station, this is totally under
your control.

Note that there are three codes available for assignment
that are not part of the official RDS types. Shown in the
list as

PERSONL1, PERSONL2

and

PERSONL3

these are your own “personal” program types, and you
may assign them as you wish. Using these special per­sonal codes lets a member of the family assign their own
PTY tag to a favorite station, and then quickly search it
out by choosing their “

PERSONL

” program type in an

RDS search.

49

Operation

¤

,

Signature 2.0

Tuner Menu

PSet:

ÐÐÐ

FREQ: 90.7
Band: FM
RDS: Manual
ID: KXXX
Type: PUBLIC

Select Preset number
Then press STORE to save

IMPORTANT NOTE: When a station is transmitting
RDS data, but is manually assigned a different PTY type
name, the station will be searchable only by the newly
assigned PTY name, not the actual RDS code being
transmitted.

Once the
ton iTWICE, so that the highlighted area moves back
up to the
button and note that an instruction will appear at

Operation

the bottom of the screen (Figure OSD-37). Follow the
instruction by pressing the ‹or
tons iuntil the desired preset number appears.
Remember that if you choose a preset number that has
already been assigned to a station, the previous preset
data will be overwritten.

Type

is set, press the

PSet

line. While at this line press the

¤ Menu Control

› Menu Control

but-

Store

but-

audio from another. With the flexibility of the 2.0, it
is possible to establish a permanent input source profile
that matches different input sources. It is more likely,
however, that you will only want to do this on an
occasional basis, such as watching a sports broadcast
on television while you listen to the play-by-play
commentary from a radio station.

The Simulcast feature enables you to split the 2.0’s
output between a video and audio source simply and
easily for one listening session only.

To watch one source while you listen to another, first
select a video source by pressing either the TV,

Vid 2

or

Vid 3

buttons gon the remote. Next press

the

Simul

button h.

Vid 1

,

Within five seconds, select the audio source you wish to
listen to by pressing the

Tuner, CD, Tape

or

Aux

buttons g.

The two sources will be combined and you will see and
hear the results on screen and in your speakers.

Figure OSD-37

Once the desired preset number has been chosen, press
and hold the

Store

button until the two-line mes­sage at the bottom of the menu screen disappears. The
station is now programmed into the memory system.

At this point you may program other stations, once
again using the ⁄and

¤ Menu Control

to move through the various options, and then following
the instructions shown above for programming that
specific menu item. When all tuner programming is
complete, press the

Menu

to normal operation.

Simulcast Operation

With the diverse array of programming available on
television, cable, satellite, cassette, CD, DVD, LV and
other sources, it may sometimes be desirable to view
the video from one source while you listen to the

buttons

i

button jtwice to return

Note that the Simulcast feature is canceled if you switch
to any new input or turn the 2.0 off.

Recording

The flexibility of the Signature 2.0 enables you to not
only listen to a wide variety of input sources, it provides
for recording of either the same audio and video source
selected for listening through the main outputs, or a
totally different source.

To establish the settings for recording, go to the

Menu

by pressing the

Menu

button j. When the

Setup menu appears (Figure OSD-1 or OSD-33) and

press the
until
the

¤ Menu Control

button iif necessary

Record Outputs >

› Menu Control

button ito move to the next

is highlighted. Press

screen.

Input Track Recording

The display message for the
varies according to the option selected. When the

Track Input

is highlighted on the

(Figure OSD-38), no other information appears. With this

Rec Output Menu

Output

Setup

line

50

Signature 2.0

Rec Output Menu

Output: Track Input

Rec Output Menu

Output: Selectable
Video: Composite 1
SÐVideo: SÐVideo 1
Audio: Analog 1

option, the feed to the devices connected to the

Outputs £⁄›

will be the same as the input source
profile selected for listening through the 2.0’s main out­puts. Put another way, when
ed, whatever you hear through the system will also be
sent to the recorder.

Figure OSD-38

This is a simple way to make a copy of whatever you
are watching or listening to, but if you choose this
option it is important to note that the record output
will change if the main input source is changed. If
you want to make certain that the recording is NOT
INTERRUPTED, press the ‹or
buttons iso that
on the

Output

Selectable

line.

Selectable Recording

When the
additional line appears on the menu (Figure OSD-39).
The sources selected on this menu page will remain
assigned to the record outputs regardless of which input
source is being listened to through the main system.
Thus, you may watch and listen to one set of input
sources, and record a totally different set of sources, and
the record feed will not be changed or interrupted as long
as the 2.0 remains turned on.

Selectable

Track Input

› Menu Control

is highlighted

option is chosen, an

Record

is select-

Figure OSD-39

To assign a particular input source to the record outputs,
press the ⁄or

¤ Menu Control

buttons ito move
the highlighted video to the input you wish to change.
Use the ‹or

› Menu Control

button to change the
input until the desired source location appears in the
highlighted video bar.

Repeat the procedure for each input you wish to
change, and the press the

Menu

button jtwice to
enter the settings and return to normal operation. The
input choices selected for recording now will remain
in effect until they are changed through the

Output Menu

.

Rec

Notes on recording with the 2.0

•

When an S-Video source is selected for recording, it
will be sent to both the

Composite Video Outputs ⁄›

video sources, however, DO NOT appear at the
S-Video outputs. The only way to record a composite
source is through the

Output ›

•

The feed to the record outputs is at a fixed level, and

.

is not altered by any changes to the volume control or
other Effects settings.

•

The feed to the record outputs is “clean,” in that the
on-screen menu displays do not appear on the record
outputs. This prevents unwanted information from
interfering with recordings.

S-Video

and standard

. Composite

Composite Video Recor d

Operation

51

•

IMPORTANT NOTE: Audio from either Dolby
Digital (AC-3) or PCM digital sources may not be
recorded. To make a recording from a digital audio
source you must use the analog outputs provided on
the playback machine.

Signature 2.0

Troubleshooting Guide

The Signature 2.0 is designed for trouble-free operation.
In normal use, most users will not encounter any trouble
with the unit. However, as with any sophisticated
electronic device, there may be occasional problems on
initial installation or during the life of the unit. The items
described on this page and in the table below are a brief
guide to the minor problems that you may be able to
correct yourself, and to certain anomalies that result from
outside conditions.

Troubleshooting Guide

If these solutions do not rectify a problem, or if the
problem persists, contact your dealer or installer.
Problems may also be solved by an authorized Harman
Kardon Service Center. To locate the Service Center
nearest you, call [phone] toll free in the United
States. Harman Kardon may be contacted directly via the
Internet at www.harmankardon.com

Error Messages

mode, as no digital data is typically output unless the
disc is playing. To confirm that the lack of data is the
cause of the error message, press the

x

and check the on-screen status screen. If a

3 Info

OSD-18/OSD-27), this is your indication that the player
is not sending a digital signal. Put the unit into Play,
check the digital input connections or check to see that a
digital input is selected to solve this problem.

message appears (Figures OSD-14/

Display

button

NO AC-

Digital Noise With DVD Players

Certain early models of DVD players may occasionally
cause a sharp “crack” or “snap” in the output channels
during track or chapter changes. This is caused by a
momentary discontinuity in the digital data output
which is not long enough to trigger the flashing error
message, but long enough to disrupt the processor. This
type of random noise is caused by the DVD player, and
it does not indicate a problem with the 2.0.

When the surround mode name blinks in the front panel

Information Display

indication that there is a mismatch between the input
source and the surround mode, or that there is no digital
input at all.

(Figure FPD-12) that is your

Mode Mismatch

Certain modes are digital only, while others operate with
analog signals only. The blinking light is an indication of
a source/mode mismatch.

When this condition exists, the 2.0 will automatically
select a properly matched surround mode and continue
normal operation. To view the name of the mode
selected, press the
mode will be displayed next to the
indication (Figure OSD-27). To stop the flashing
message, press the appropriate

Selector y4

Display

until the correct mode is selected.

button x. The correct

Alt Mode

Surround Mode

No Data

If the mode name flashes when the mode and input are
matched, this is an indication that the 2.0 is not receiving
digital data from the source machine. This will typically
occur when a DVD player is in pause or a fast scan

System Reset

In rare cases where the 2.0’s operation or the displays
seem abnormal, the cause may be erratic operation of the
system’s memory or microprocessor.

The first step to correct this problem is to turn the 2.0
off using the
the unit from the AC wall outlet and wait at least
three minutes. After the pause, reconnect the AC power
cord and turn the unit on again. If the system still
malfunctions, a system reset may clear the problem.

Note that clearing the system memory may correct the
problem, but will also erase all system configuration
data, input source assignments, input profile names,
effects level settings and tuner preset memories. It is
always a good idea to record your system configuration
information in the Worksheets in Appendix B, if possible,
before resetting the system. To reset the system, press
the

Menu

the

¤ Menu Control

Setup >

Press the
next screen.

Master Power Switch1

button jto view the

button iuntil

is highlighted.

› Menu Control

button ito go to the

and unplug

Setup Menu

Advanced

. Press

52

At the

Press and hold STORE
to accomplish RESET

System Reset Menu

NO!
Yes >

!!! WARNING !!!
ALL SETTINGS WILL BE
LOST !!
ARE YOU SURE?

Reset Completed

Advanced Settings

OSD-10), press the
twice until
Press the

SYSTEM RESET >

› Menu Control

This will bring up the

¤ Menu Control

System Reset Menu

menu (Figure

button

is highlighted.

button iagain.

i

(Figure
OSD-40). If you wish to exit at this point, press the
button j. To proceed with the reset, press the

¤ Menu Control

area to the

Yes >

› Menu Control

button ito move the highlighted

line, and then press the

button i.

Signature 2.0

Menu

Follow that instruction by holding the
until the

Reset Completed

Store

button

message appears briefly

on screen (Figure OSD-42) and the front panel

Information Display

. This is your indication that the

reset has been accomplished, and you may release the

Store

button. The system will automatically return to

the Advanced Settings menu.

Figure OSD-42

Troubleshooting Guide

Figure OSD-40

The next screen (Figure OSD-41) instructs you to proceed
by pressing and HOLDING the

Store

button until

the reset is complete.

Figure OSD-41

After a reset the system is returned to the original factory
default settings as shown in Appendix A, and the micro­processor system is re-initialized. Press the

j

twice to return to normal operation, but remember

Menu

button

that you will have to re-enter any settings previously estab­lished that differ from the factory presets.

If a reset does not solve the system problem, consult an
authorized Harman Kardon service depot.

53

Troubleshooting Chart

Signature 2.0

Symptom

Unit does not operate
when standby switch or
remote power is pressed.

Display lights, but no
sound is heard from
any channel.

Troubleshooting Guide

Unit does not respond
to remote commands.

Intermittent buzzing
in tuner.

Status Menus visible,
but setup menus
do not appear.

Possible Cause

•

No AC Power.

•

Main Power Switch Off.

•

Intermittent Connections.

•

Mute is engaged.

•

Amplifier is off.

•

Weak batteries in remote.

•

Remote is in Learn position.

•

Remote sensor is obscured.

•

Local interference.

•

Menu background set to
“video” but no video is
present.

Solution

•

Make certain AC power cord is plugged into a
live outlet.

•

Check to see if AC outlet is switch controlled.

•

Turn on Main Power Switch.

•

Make certain connections to source equipment and
amplifiers are secure.

•

Turn Volume control or press Mute button.

•

Turn Amplifier on and/or check trigger connections.

•

Change both remote batteries.

•

Slide Use/Learn switch to Use.

•

Make certain front panel sensor is visible.

•

Move unit or antenna away from computers, fluores­cent lights, TVs, motors or other electrical appliances.

•

Switch to input with video signal present.

•

Viewing the front panel display, use the menu system
to reach

Advanced Settings
Bkgrnd

Display Options

menu. Switch the “

” to “

Blue

” (see page 33).

, under the

Menu

Amplifier connected to
the trigger output cycles
on and off.

Audio signals distort for
analog inputs.

•

Connection problems.

•

Input level too high.

•

Make certain that the jack used is a 1⁄8″ (3.5mm)
MONO miniplug, not a stereo plug.

•

Check to see that the plugs are firmly seated on

both ends.

•

Adjust input level to proper reference (see page 29).

54

Signature 2.0

Factory Presets

The following charts indicate the factory default status
of the various inputs and modes of the Signature 2.0.
These baseline settings will help you to understand how
the different features and options are matched to form
operating profiles.

Using the option and condition sets shown as a starting
point, you may customize many aspects of the 2.0 to
suit the acoustical requirements of your listening space,
the type of equipment installed in your system or your
personal listening preferences. Contact your dealer or
installer if you have any questions concerning how to
customize your system.

When you create customized settings for the 2.0 it is
a good idea to record the final installation using the
“Setup” description Worksheets provided in this manual.
That will enable you to recreate your desired installation
and setup should the memory in the 2.0 be lost or reset
for any reason. It is always a good idea to document
your installation so that there is a written record.

Note that the settings shown in this Appendix may
be restored at any time by using the System Reset
available in the Advanced Settings menu (see the
Troubleshooting Guide on page 52).

Speaker Setup

Front Left and Right Small

Center Small

Surrounds Small

Subwoofer Yes

Speaker Distances

Measurements Feet

Front Left and Right 10 Feet

Center 10 Feet

Surrounds 10 Feet

Tuner

RDS Auto

Advanced Settings

Turn-On Volume 10

Display Options

On-Screen Status Timeout

Front Panel Status On

OSD Timeout 5 Seconds

Panel Brightness High

Menu Background Blue

Appendix A

Video Format NTSC

Sources

The following chart details the factory setting for each of the Signature 2.0’s input sources. If you wish to change any of
these items to suit your personal preference, go to the

Remote

Label

TV

Vid 1

Vid 2

Vid 3

AM/FM

CD

Tape

Aux

Name

TV

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Tuner

CD

Tape

Auxiliary

Video
Input

Composite 2

Composite 1

S-Video 1

S-Video 2

Composite 2

Composite 3

Composite 5

Composite 1

Audio

Input

Analog 2

Analog 1

Digital 1

Digital 2

Tuner

Digital 3

Analog 5

6 Ch Direct

Source Menu

Treble

Mode

Dolby

Pro Logic

Movie 1

Dolby

Digital

Dolby

Pro Logic

Stereo

Music 1

Music 1

N/A

– 0dB

– 0dB

– 0dB

– 0dB

– 0dB

– 0dB

– 0dB

– 0dB

and follow the instructions on pages 27–31.

Cut

Bass

Boost

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

Subwfr

Trim

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

+ 0dB

Center

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Surround

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

55

Signature 2.0

User Worksheets

As you become familiar with the capabilities of the Signature 2.0, you may make some changes to the factory
configuration. The Worksheets provide a means for you to record the new settings so that they are available
for reference.

Recording the settings will also make it possible to recreate settings that may be lost due to system resets or
equipment malfunctions.

Appendix B

The software version for this unit is:

Speaker Setup

Software Version

Speaker Distances

Sources

Front Left and Right

Center

Surrounds

Subwoofer

Measurements

Front Left and Right

Center

Surrounds

Advanced Settings

Turn-On Volume

Display Options

On-Screen Status

Front Panel Status

OSD Timeout

Panel Brightness

Menu Background

Video Format

Tuner

RDS

Remote

Label

TV

Vid 1

Vid 2

Vid 3

Tuner

CD

Tape

Aux

Name

Video

Input

Audio

Input Mode

Treble

Cut

56

Bass

Boost

Subwfr

Trim Center Surround

Left
Input
Level

Right
Input
Level

Signature 2.0

System Control Abbreviations
and Control Parameters

Space limitations prevent a full explanation of the
Signature Series 2.0’s Surround modes, RDS system and
the Bass Boost and Treble Cut controls when they are
viewed in the on-screen graphics or menus. The charts
and graphs in this section provide additional details that
will assist you in the selection of the Surround mode, the
use of the RDS data system and adjustment of the Bass
Boost and Treble Cut controls.

Surround Mode Definitions

The Signature 2.0 is among the most flexible surround
sound systems available. In addition to the latest Dolby
Digital systems for discrete 5.1 channel audio and
conventional Dolby Pro Logic processing, it provides a
wide range of surround sound options.

For your convenience, a surround mode may be per­manently attached to each input source profile, so that
the same mode is used whenever source is selected. See
page 28 for instructions on linking a surround mode to
an input source.

Alternatively, you may change surround modes at any
time by pressing one of the

Selectors y

panel

Surround Selectors 4

To make it easy to select a mode, they are divided into
two groups, “Movies” and “Music,” although some
modes are used with both types of program content.
In addition, there is a Mono + mode and a pure Stereo
mode available. The following definitions of the various
modes is presented to give you a better idea of where
each should be used, and which type of sources it is
compatible with.

on the remote, or by pressing the front

Dolby Pro Logic

Dolby Pro Logic is the home version of the system
originally developed to deliver four channels of surround
information within the left and right channels of a
motion picture. Dolby Pro Logic uses special encoding
techniques to provide a center channel, used mostly for
dialog, and a surround channel, used mostly for effects,
in addition to the left and right front channels. It is

Surround Mode

.

important to remember that in Pro Logic, the feed to the
surround channels is a monaural one, with the same
bandwidth-limited signal going to both the left and right
surround channels.

Although Pro Logic is mostly associated with movies,
it is also used to enhance an increasing number of tele­vision programs, ranging from sports broadcasts to action
programs such as Xena, Warrior Princess, sci-fi programs
such as Babylon Five, Deep Space Nine and Star Trek, and
dramatic programs such as Law & Order. Music and
variety programs such as Saturday Night Live, The Late
Show with David Letterman and concert programs also
benefit from surround encoding. A complete list of pro­grams broadcast with Dolby Surround encoding may be
found at the Dolby Labs web site at www.Dolby.com.

Once a program is encoded with surround information,
such as in a theatrical movie, the surround matrix
stays with the program as long as the stereo tracks are
properly broadcast. Thus, the surround information
follows a movie from the theaters to video cassette and
disc release, on cable, satellite or pay-per-view, and via
traditional broadcasting. This enables you to enjoy the
surround information almost any time the movie is
available, not just from prerecorded playback.

The Dolby Pro Logic system is used to decode any four­channel matrix-encoded source, no matter how it is
delivered. For that reason, if a film is originally recorded
with a left/center/right/surround soundtrack, it will
require Dolby Pro Logic even when the movie is deliv­ered with a Dolby Digital soundtrack. That is why some
DVD discs, even though they utilize Dolby Digital, still
require Dolby Pro Logic decoding, though it is done in
the digital processor.

Dolby Pro Logic is your best choice when listening to
a movie or television program through an analog input.
When Dolby Pro Logic is required by a digital input, the

2.0 will automatically select it for you.

Dolby Pro Logic is also an appropriate mode to use when
listening to music programming that is played back in
any format when the packaging shows a “Dolby
System,” “Dolby Stereo” or other surround logo. You
may also wish to experiment with using Pro Logic on
standard two-channel stereo recordings. Although it is

Appendix C

57

Signature 2.0

not intentional, many recordings contain ambient infor­mation that produce a pleasing surround effect when
used with Pro Logic.

Applicable Mode Groups: Dolby Pro Logic may be
accessed in either the Movie or Music mode groups,
and it will work with analog and PCM digital sources.
Pro Logic is also available with certain Dolby Digital
programs.

Dolby Digital

Appendix C

Dolby Digital is a major improvement over Dolby
Pro Logic in that it delivers up to five surround channels
along with a special, dedicated Low-Frequency Effects
(LFE) channel for bass information. Unlike the bandwith
limited, monaural surround of Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby
Digital features two discrete, full-bandwidth surround
channels in comparison to Pro Logic’s single, bandwidth­limited, mono-surround channel. All channels are digital,
with high signal-to-noise ratios and wide dynamic range.
With Dolby Digital you are now able to have an exact
recreation of the theatrical sound experience in a
home environment.

The digital data stream that delivers the Dolby Digital
information may be sent to the 2.0 via either electrical
connection using coax cables, or optically, using fiber
connections. Sources such as DVD, HDTV, satellite
delivery systems and cable will all take advantage of
Dolby Digital. The first consumer implementation
of Dolby Digital, laser discs, used the intermediary step
of converting the digital information to an RF modulated
signal so that it would fit within the capacity of the LV
format. Since the Signature Series 2.0 does not accept RF
signals, an optional outboard RF-to-data demodulator is
required for use with laser disc players.

Applicable Mode Groups: Also known as AC-3, as it is
the third version of Dolby Laboratory’s Audio Coding
system for digital audio, Dolby Digital will initially be
used most often with movies, but it is also available
in the Music mode grouping, for applications where
musical programs are recorded in Dolby Digital. Note
that the mode is the same in both groups, but it is
presented twice for your convenience.

Dolby Digital Late Night

The “Late Night” mode is a special version of Dolby
Digital which enables you to experience the same
discrete full-bandwidth, multichannel audio as the
standard Dolby Digital mode, but it is designed to reduce
peak levels by 1⁄4 to 1⁄3 of normal. This prevents abruptly
loud audio transition such as explosions or symphonic
crescendos from causing disturbance to others in the
household without reducing the impact or quality of the
digital source. A good way to characterize Late Night is
as the “good neighbor” mode.

Applicable Mode Groups: Dolby Digital Late Night is also
available in both the Music and Movie mode groups. It
may only be used with a Dolby Digital source.

Dolby Digital Mono

When a Dolby Digital input source is playing, you may
occasionally wish to listen to it in mono, even when the
input source is multichannel. To have all audio appear in
the center channel speaker only, press the
button yso that
the mode in both the on-screen displays and the front
panel

Information Display

Applicable Mode Groups: Dolby Digital Mono is available
only in the Mono + group, and only when a Dolby
Digital source is playing.

NOTE: The Dolby Digital modes are only available
when a Dolby Digital source is selected. If a Digital
mode is selected when an analog source is playing, the

2.0 will automatically select the proper analog surround
mode, and the front panel
flash (Figure FPD-12) to remind you of the mismatch.

Dolby Dig Mono

.

Information Display

Mono +

is shown as

will

Movie Modes

The 2.0’s digital audio processing system provides a
number of alternative modes that may be used when
listening to movies via an analog input source. For
movies, a series of four different modes is available
that use the basic matrix decoding to extract center
and surround channels from two-channel audio, similar
to Pro Logic. The Movie modes, however, vary from
Pro Logic in that they add additional blending of the
channels to offer different simulations.

58

Signature 2.0

Each of the four Movie modes is slightly different, and
the best way to find if one of them suits your taste and
the specific acoustic conditions of your listening room is
to try them all, using Dolby Pro Logic as a baseline for
comparison. Nothing will be “hurt” or damaged by trying
the different modes.

Applicable Mode Groups: The Movie modes are available
only in the Movie mode group, and only when an analog
source is being played.

NOTE: The Movie and Music modes are available only
when an analog or PCM digital source is playing. If you
attempt to select one of these modes when a Dolby
Digital source is playing, the front panel

Display

the same time, the 2.0 will automatically select an appro­priate mode. The suggested mode may be identified
by pressing the
on-screen display.

will flash to remind you of the mismatch. At

Display

button xand viewing the

Information

Mono

When you are playing an older monaural recording or
movie and wish to listen to it in its pure state without
any enhancement or processing, select the Mono mode.
This mode will combine all audio channels and send
them to the center channel speaker only.

Applicable Mode Groups: The Mono mode is accessible
by pressing the

Mono

Display

Music

mode name appears in the

and on-screen status reports.

mode group button until the

Information

Stereo

The Stereo mode activates a Smart Stereo circuit to
calculate which type of stereo is best suited to the
current input source. Regardless of the input, pressing
the

Stereo

available input channels and funnel them into the front
left and right speakers only.

Smart Stereo is an intelligent agent that looks at the
input signal, and creates the stereo sound from Dolby
Digital, PCM Digital stereo or analog stereo without
any further intervention.

mode group button ywill combine all

When an analog input is selected and the
button yis pressed, the 2.0 turns off all digital signal
processing for the cleanest possible sound. This is a
unique feature of the 2.0, rarely found even in high-end
audio equipment.

Applicable Mode Groups: The Stereo mode is accessible
only by the
mode available in this group, the
a toggle on/off selector. One press of the button will put
the 2.0 in the Stereo mode, and the next press returns
you to the previously selected mode.

Stereo

button. Since Stereo is the only

Stereo

Stereo

button acts as

Mono +

Playing a single-channel, monaural recording does not
mean that you have to sacrifice availability of surround
sound. The Mono + mode is NOT a single-channel
mode, but rather a specially designed surround mode
that takes incoming signals and creates a multichannel
audio presentation. Through the magic of the 2.0’s pro­cessing circuits, one channel becomes five. If you wish
to play a selection in single-channel “true” mono, choose
the Mono mode, which may be accessed by pressing the

Music

name appears in the front panel
and the on-screen status messages.

The Mono + mode is only available when analog or
PCM Stereo input source is selected. Pressing the

Mono +

selects the Dolby Digital Mono mode, a “true mono”
mode which is described above. Mono + is not available
when a Dolby Digital source is selected.

Applicable Mode Groups: The Mono + or Dolby Digital
Mono modes are accessible only by pressing the

Mono +

in this group, the
selector. One press of the button will put the 2.0 in the
proper mono mode, and the next press returns you to the
previously selected mode.

mode group button yuntil the

Information Display

button when a Dolby Digital source is playing

button. Since either is the only mode available

Mono +

button acts as a toggle on/off

Mono

mode

Appendix C

59

The RDS Data System

The Signature 2.0’s RDS data system enables you to search for stations with specific program formats when an FM
station is transmitting the proper data. The following chart will help you to compare the abbreviations used in the

2.0’s display system to the actual names of each program type, or PTY.

NOTE: The assignment of a PTY code is done by the individual FM station. The 2.0 will accurately process the data
received, but it is up to the station to make certain that the code properly describes their programming.

Appendix C

Program Type/
PTY Abbreviation

Signature 2.0

Program Type Name

NEWS
INFORM
SPORTS
TALK
ROCK
CLS ROCK
ADLT HIT
SOFT RCK
TOP 40
COUNTRY
OLDIES
SOFT
NOSTALGIA
JAZZ
CLASSICAL
R&B
SOFTR&B
LANGUAGE
REL MUSIC
REL TALK
PERSNLTY
PUBLIC
ALERT
TEST
PERSONL1
PERSONL2
PERSONL3

News
Information
Sports
Talk
Rock Music
Classic Rock Music
Adult Hit Music
Soft Rock Music
Top 40 Music
Country Music
Oldies Music
Soft Music
Nostalgia Programming
Jazz Music
Classical Music
Rhythm and Blues Music
Soft Rhythm and Blues Music
Foreign Language Programming
Religious Music
Religious Talk
Personality Talk
Public Radio Programming
Emergency Broadcast System Alert
Station System Test Message
Programmable Personal Type #1
Programmable Personal Type #2
Programmable Personal Type #3

60

Signature 2.0

-3

+10

-2

-1

+0

+1

+2

+3

+4

+5

+6

+7

+8

+9

20 30k50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k

+8

+6

+4

+2

+0

Hz

d
B

r

A

-10

+3

-9

-8

-7

-6

-5

-4

-3

-2

-1

-0

+1

+2

20 30k50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k

-0

-2

-4

-6

-8

Hz

d
B

r

A

Bass Boost

This chart, using data from a sample Signature 2.0 unit and automated test equipment, shows the frequencies at which
low-frequency information is boosted when settings are changed with the
of the

Effects Menu

(Figure OSD-8).

Bass Boost

control m, or through the use

Appendix C

Treble Cut

This chart, using data from a sample Signature 2.0 unit and automated test equipment, shows the frequencies at which
high-frequency information is rolled off when settings are changed with the
of the

Effects Menu

(Figure OSD-8).

61

Treble Cut

control k, or through the use

Signature 2.0

Signature 2.0 Processor/Tuner Specifications

Inputs:

Analog Audio: Six Stereo pairs via RCA jacks
Digital Audio: Four Coaxial S/P-DIF, Two Optical TosLink
External Adapter: Six Direct Analog channels via RCA jacks
Composite Video: Six RCA jacks
S-Video: Two 4-pin mini DIN
IR Sensor Input: 3.5mm mono mini-plug

Outputs:

Technical Specifications

Main Audio: Six Analog Outputs via RCA jacks (left, center, right, right surround,

Main Video: One Composite RCA jack output paralleled with

Record Audio: Two pair (paralleled) analog via RCA jacks
Record Video: One Composite via RCA jack paired with

IR Sensor: Loop-through output via 3.5mm mono mini plug
Accessory Trigger: 6 – 12 volt DC via 3.5mm mono mini plug, tip positive, 150mA maximum.

Surround Modes:

Analog: Dolby Pro Logic, Four Movie Modes, Four Music Modes, Stereo,

Digital: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Late Night, Dolby Digital

Preamplifier:

Frequency Response: Front Channels (Analog Stereo): 20Hz to 50kz, ± 0.5dB

THD + N: 0.03%, 20Hz to 20kHz

left surround, subwoofer)

one S-Video 4-pin mini DIN

one S-Video via 4-pin mini DIN

Mono, Mono +

Pro Logic, Dolby Digital Mono, Stereo, Mono +

Center and Surround Channels: 20Hz to 30kHz, ± 1dB
Subwoofer Channel: 10Hz to 100Hz, ± 1dB

S/N Ratio: >–87dBr, 20Hz to 20kHz
Crosstalk: <60dB
Input Impedance: Audio: >10KΩ

Video: 75Ω

Output Impedance: Audio: 300Ω

Video: 75Ω

Crossovers: Low Pass: 3 Pole (18dB/Octave) @ 100Hz

High Pass: 3 Pole (18dB/Octave) @ 100Hz

Tone Controls: Treble Cut: –0dB to –8dB in 2dB steps @ 10kHz shelving

Bass Boost: +0dB to +8dB in 2 steps @ 50Hz

Video Standards: NTSC, PAL

62

Signature 2.0

Signature 2.0 Processor/Tuner Specifications (continued)

Tuner Section FM:

Frequency Range: 87.5 to 108.0MHz in 200kHz steps
Usable Sensitivity: <1.0 µV/11.2dBf

Signal-To-Noise: 70dB (Stereo, A-weighted)
S/N 50dB Sensitivity: <45dBf
THD + N: <0.5%
Capture Ratio: <2.5dB
AM Suppression: >50dB
Image Rejection: >70dB (@ 106MHz)
IF Rejection: >85dB
Effective Selectivity: >50dB (±400kHz)
Stereo Separation: >40dB (1kHz)
RDS Modes: Station ID, Program Type, Radio Text Data, Program Type Search

Tuner Section AM:

Frequency Range: 520 – 1710 kHz in 10kHz steps
Signal-To-Noise Ratio: >40dB

Usable Sensitivity: ≤500µV/M

Technical Specifications

Selectivity: ≥30dB (±10kHz)

General:

Power Requirement: AC 115V/60Hz

Power Consumption: 5.5W Idle, 75W Maximum

Dimensions: (Max, including knobs, jacks, buttons)

Width: 17
Height: 4
Depth: 15

Weight: 22 lbs. (10.5 kg)

3

⁄8 inches (441mm)

1

⁄8 inches (105mm)

3

⁄8 inches (395mm)

All features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

*

Trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

63

Signature 2.0

Figure Index

Operating the Signature Series 2.0 is dependent on understanding the meaning of the various on-screen menus, front panel
display messages and other status messages. To conserve space, each on-screen message appears once in this manual,
although many are referred to frequently throughout the manual.

The following index will help you to find any of the graphic representations of the on-screen messages when you find a
reference to one on a page where the graphic does not appear.

OSD

Figure Index

Figure

OSD-1
OSD-2
OSD-3
OSD-4
OSD-5
OSD-6

OSD-7
OSD-8

OSD-9
OSD-10
OSD-11

OSD-12
OSD-13
OSD-14

OSD-15
OSD-16
OSD-17

OSD-18

OSD-19
OSD-20
OSD-21

FPD

Figure

FPD-1

FPD-2
FPD-3
FPD-4

FPD-5

FPD-6

FPD-7

FPD-8

FPD-9

FPD-10
FPD-11

FPD-12

FPD-13

Page

Description

23

Turn-on message and software
revision data.

23

Power-off/standby message.

24

Power-on message.

24

Sample status message.

24

Setup menu.

24

Speaker Setup menu.

25

Speaker Level Adjust menu.

26

Speaker Distance Adjust menu.

27

Source menu for analog inputs.

29

Main Source menu for
digital inputs.

29

Set input levels message.

30

Main effects menu.

31

Balance Adjust.

32

Advanced Settings menu.

33

Display Options menu.

34

Video format adjust message.

35

Power off/standby message.

36

Volume Control indication.

36

Status message with
“NO AC-3 Info”.

36

Mute indication messages.

37

Status message for
Dolby Digital.

37

Tuner status messages

37

Tuner status message with
band and frequency data.

38

Mode mismatch when Dolby
Digital is selected.

40

Treble Cut message.

40

Bass Boost message.

40

Subwoofer Trim message.

41

Balance Adjust message.

OSD

Figure

OSD-22
OSD-23
OSD-24

OSD-25

OSD-26
OSD-27

OSD-28

OSD-29

OSD-30

OSD-31
OSD-32

OSD-33

OSD-34
OSD-35
OSD-36
OSD-37

OSD-38

OSD-39

OSD-40
OSD-41

OSD-42

FPD

Figure

FPD-14

FPD-15

FPD-16

FPD-17
FPD-18
FPD-19
FPD-20

Page

Description

41

Center Adjust message.

41

Surround Adjust message.

42

Tuner Status when no video
is present.

42

Tuner Status with RDS data
display.

42

Complete AC-3 status message.

43

AC-3 status message with
Alternate Mode Suggestion.

44/46

Full RDS Status Message with
stereo indicator.

45/44

Tuner message when
new station.

45

Tuner message when
new preset.

45

Tuner message after new
preset is entered.

46

RDS Text query message.

46

RDS Text message display.

47

RDS ID query message.

47

RDS Search menus.

47

RDS Search
“In Progress” message.

48

Setup menu with
Tuner Option.

48

Tuner menu for FM stations.

48

Tuner menu for AM stations.

49

Tuner menu for ID data entry.

50

Tuner menu with
Preset Storage instruction.

51

Record Output menu with
Track Output.

51

Record Output menu with
Selectable Output.

53

System Reset menu.

53

System Reset
instruction screen.

53

System Reset
completed message.

64

Subject Index

Signature 2.0

Balance Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31, 41

Bass Boost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 40, 61

Display Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Dolby Digital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42, 58

Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 52

Factory Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Front Panel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Input Connections

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

System and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Input Level Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Mute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35, 36

Output Connections

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Power Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Quick Start Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Rear Panel Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Remote Control

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Memory Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Source Configuration

Input Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Input Assignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Surround Mode Assignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Source Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Speakers

Configuration/Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Distance Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Level Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Status Message Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Subwoofer Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30, 40

Surround Mode Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Surround Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Surround Speakers On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 41

System Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Treble Cut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 39, 61

Troubleshooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Tuner

Preset Tuning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

RDS Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

RDS Program Type Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Station Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Tuner Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Personal Preference Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Typographic Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Subject Index

Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Simulcast Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Video Format Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Volume

Turn-on Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Volume Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

65

Printed in the United States Part #1111-HKSIG20

HA160-0004-A