Kenwood AX-7 User Manual 2

COMPACT HI-FI COMPONENT SYSTEM

AX-7

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

KENWOOD CORPORATION

B60-5613-00 00 MA (E, X) OC 0508

Before applying power

Units are designed for operation as follows.

Australia .............................................. AC 240 V only

Europe . ............................................... AC 230 V only

Caution : Read this page carefully to ensure

safe operation.

Information on Disposal of Old Electrical and
Electronic Equipment (applicable for EU
countries that have adopted separate waste
collection systems)

Products with the symbol (crossed-out
wheeled bin) cannot be disposed as

Preparations

handling these items and their waste byproducts.
Contact your local authority for details in locating a

household waste.
Old electrical and electronic equipment
should be recycled at a facility capable of

Safety precautions

WARNING : TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT

Basic section

EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

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.

Application section

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.

The marking of products using lasers

CLASS 1

LASER PRODUCT

Knowledge section

The marking of this product has been classified as Class 1. It means
that there is no danger of hazardous radiation outside the product.

Location: Back panel

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2

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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Caution : Read this page carefully to

ensure safe operation.

Read Instructions – All the safety and operating instructions
should be read before the product is operated.
Retain Instructions – The safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.
Heed Warnings – All warnings on the product and in the
operating instructions should be adhered to.
Follow Instructions – All operating and use instructions
should be followed.

1. Cleaning – Unplug this product from the wall outlet be­fore cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

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

3. Water and Moisture – This product shall not be exposed
to dripping and splashing - for example, near a bath tub, wash
bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near
a swimming pool; and the like. Do not place an object con­taining liquid, such as a flower vase, on the appliance.

4. Accessories – Do not place this product on an unstable
cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall,
causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage
to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table recommended by the manufacturer. Any mounting of
the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions,
and should use a mounting accessory recom­mended by the manufacturer.
A product and cart combination should be
moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force,
and uneven surfaces may cause the product and
cart combination to overturn.

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

6. Power Sources – This product should be operated only
from the type of power source indicated on the product. If
you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home,
consult your product dealer or local power company.

CAUTION - Polarization – This product may be

7.

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

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

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

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

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

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

13.Damage Requiring Service – Unplug this product from
the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service person­nel under the following conditions:

a) When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged,
b) If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into

the product,

c) If the product has been exposed to rain or water,
d) If the product does not operate normally by following

the operating instructions.

e) If the product has been dropped or damaged in any

way, and

f) When the product exhibits a distinct change in per-

formance – this indicates a need for service.

g) If an abnormal smell or smoke is detected.

14.Replacement Parts – When replacement parts are re-

quired, be sure the service technician has used replacement
parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same char­acteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may
result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

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

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

17.Heat – This product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
products that produce heat. Do not place a flaming object,
such as a candle or lantern, or near the product.

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

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

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA

GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL

ELECTRICAL CODE

GROUND
CLAMPS

ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT

NEC – NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

Notes:

1. Item 7 is not required except for grounded or polarized
equipment.

2. Item 19 complies with UL in the U.S.A.

ANTENNA
LEAD IN WIRE

ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMP

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

3

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Application section

Knowledge section

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Before applying power

Contents

Caution : Read the pages marked carefully to ensure safe operation.

Before applying power .......................................2

Safety precautions .........................................................2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ................... 3

Contents ...................................................................................4

Accessories ............................................................................5

Special features .....................................................................6

Preparation section

System connections .................................................. 8

Preparations

Connection of the system accessories ..............................8

Connecting to the antennas ...............................................10

Connecting to a TV with video (composite) or S-video input

terminal ...........................................................................11

Connection of other accessories (Commercially available

parts) ................................................................................12

Controls and indicators...........................................13

Main amplifier unit (M-AX7) ..............................................13

Display (C-AX7) .................................................................... 13

Preamplifier unit (C-AX7) ................................................... 14

Operation of remote control unit ...................................... 16

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Types of playable discs .......................................... 18

Unplayable discs ................................................................. 18

Region Codes ............................................................19

Region codes in the world .................................................19

Icons on the DVD VIDEO discs .......................................... 19

Video Formats ...........................................................20

Playable files with this unit ...................................21

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Clock adjustment ..................................................... 23

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Basic use method.....................................................24

Using Auto Room Equalizer function ............................... 26

Using Digital Sound Equalizer function .......................... 28

Enjoying surround sound ....................................................31

Playback of DVD/CD ................................................33

Viewing JPEG images ........................................................ 36

Changing the display contents of the display ................ 38

Receiving broadcast station ..................................39

RDS (Radio Data System)........................................43

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Searching for a desired program type (PTY search).....44

Listening to external input sources ......................46

Adjusting the external input level (TAPE/VIDEO1, VIDEO2,

TV, AUX) .......................................................................... 46

Listening to the sound of a Kenwood digital audio

player .................................................................... 47

Recording to a digital audio player ......................49

Option settings for external recording.................51

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Various CD playback features ...............................52

Listening to the desired sequence (program playback) .. 52

Playing tracks in a random order (random playback) .. 54

Repeated playback ..............................................................55

Repeated playback of any interval (A-B Repeat play) ..... 56

Menu playback of a DVD ....................................................57

Operation using the on-screen display ........................... 58

Adjusting the picture quality .............................................63

Hierarchical structure of VCD menus (P.B.C. function) ...... 64

Timer operation ........................................................65

Sleep timer ............................................................................65

Setting the timer program (PROG. TIMER) ...................... 66

Deactivating and activating the timer program .............69

Setting DIMMER functions ..................................... 70

Switching the level meter ......................................71

Changing DVD/CD settings ..................................... 72

Basic operation at the SET UP MENU ............................. 73

“MAIN” setting .................................................................... 74

“SOUND” setting ................................................................. 76

“VISUAL” setting ................................................................. 77

DVD menu language code list ...........................................78

Speaker setting ........................................................ 79

Knowledge section

Important items.........................................................81

Reference ..............................................................................81

Maintenance ........................................................................ 81

In case of difficulty ..................................................83

Specifications...........................................................87

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Before applying power

Accessories

Unpacking

Unpack the unit carefully and make sure that all the accessories are present.

FM indoor antenna (1)AM loop antenna (1)

(Included with the speaker package)
For front speakers (red line : 2m) (2)

For surround speakers (blue line : 2m) (2)

Speaker cords (4)

Preparations

Video cord (Yellow) (1)

Remote control unit (1) Batteries (R03/AAA) (2)

If any accessories are missing, or if the unit is damaged or fails to operate, notify your dealer immediately. If the unit
was shipped to you directly, notify your shipper immediately. Kenwood recommends that you retain the original carton
and packing materials in case you need to move or ship the unit in the future.

Audio cords (White, Red)(2)

Microphone for Room

Equalizer (1) (Cord length:

approx. 5 m)

System control cord
(ø3.5mm - ø3.5mm)(1)

SCART plug adaptor

(only for Europe)

Keep this manual handy for future reference.

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Application section

Knowledge section

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Before applying power

Special features

Compact high fidelity component system with built-in DVD player

Built-in multi-player for DVD video, video CD, and CD playback.

MP3/WMA playback function and JPEG playback function

Music files recorded in the compressed format MP3/WMA can be played back.
Image files recorded in JPEG format can be played back. MP3/WMA files can be enjoyed while images are
displayed.

Built-in control function for Kenwood digital audio players (Digital Audio Link)

Preparations

Basic operation of Kenwood audio players* can be performed with the buttons of the main unit and with the
accessory remote control unit.
* Compatible models: HD20GA7 (Only for Europe) (connection with the special cable is required.)

Room Equalizer feature

This model is equipped with Room Equalizer, which automatically creates your best listening environment
according to your room, speakers position, etc. In addition to technical knowledge, generally, a great deal of
time and work are spent finding the best listening position such as changing speakers or furniture position

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while listening to the sound. This function enables you to simply create it in a short time without laborious
settings.

Digital Sound Equalizer feature

This model is equipped with Digital Sound Equalizer by Digital Sound Processing, which makes more detailed
sound adjustments possible.

V.F.S. III (Virtual Front Surround) and CLEAR VOICE function

Application section

The V.F.S. function offers a natural surround effect with abundant ambience not only for DVD playback, but
also for music playback from CD etc. even when no surround speakers are placed at the rear. The CLEAR
VOICE function provides clear playback of speech, vocals, etc.

Versatile timer features

÷ Timer playback :

Two timer programs (PROG 1, PROG 2) are available for timer playback (AI timer playback). (With the AI
timer playback, the playback volume increases gradually after the start of timer playback.)

÷ Sleep timer :

Knowledge section

This timer turns the unit off automatically when the set time has elapsed. It is convenient for example,
falling asleep while listening to music in the night time, etc.

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Before applying power

RDS (Radio Data System) tuner

This model is equipped with an RDS tuner that provides several convenient tuning functions: RDS Auto
Memory, to automatically preset up to 40 RDS stations broadcasting different programs; station name
display, to show you the name of the current broadcast station; and PTY search to let you tune stations by
program type.

PTY (Program Type) search

Tune the stations by specifying the type of program you want to hear.

Preparations

This product incorporates copyright protection technol­ogy that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellec­tual property rights. Use of this copyright protection tech­nology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is in­tended for home and other limited viewing uses only
unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse
engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
“DOLBY”, the double-D symbol and “PRO LOGIC” are
trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

“DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are
registered trademarks of Digital The­ater Systems, Inc.

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Application section

Knowledge section

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System connections

Connection of the system accessories

This figure shows the method of connection between the main unit and provided accessories.

CAUTION

Connect the components as shown in the diagram.
Only plug the AC power cord into an AC wall outlet
once connections are completed.

CAUTION

The magnet in the speaker may cause color irregu-

Preparations

larity to the TV or PC monitor. Place the speakers far­ther away from the TV set or PC monitor.

CAUTION

Be sure to adhere to the following, or proper ventila­tion will be blocked causing damage or fire hazard.

÷ Place the C-AX7 on top of the system.
÷ Do not place any objects impairing heat radiation

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onto the top of the unit.

÷ Leave some space around the unit (from the largest

outside dimension including projection) equal to or
greater than, shown below.

Top panel : 50 cm Back panel : 10 cm

÷ Do not place the equipment onto a bed, a sofa, a

carpet, or similar. Sucked-in dust can cause fire.

CAUTION

The power in this equipment will not be completely
cut off from the AC wall outlet when the main switch
is turned OFF.

Malfunction of microcomputer

If operation is not possible or erroneous display ap­pears even though all connections have been made
properly, reset the microcomputer by referring to "In
case of difficulty". D

Speaker (Right)

−+−+−+−

+

LS-AXD7 R

−+−+−+−

+

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How to connect the speaker cords

1 23

Knowledge section

÷ Never short-circuit the "+" and "–" speaker cords. It may cause malfunction.
÷ If the "+" and "–" polarity are inverted, the sound will be unnatural with unclear positioning of musical instruments, etc.
÷ Be sure to insert all connection cords securely. If their connections are imperfect, the sound may not be produced

or noise may interfere.

÷ Before plugging or unplugging a connection cord, be sure to unplug the power cord from the wall AC outlet. If

connection cords are plugged or unplugged with the power cord left plugged in, malfunction or damage may result.

÷ Set up the left and the right speaker so that the front surround speakers face to the inside, paying attention to L and R.
÷ When pulling the plug of the power cable from the wall outlet, first switch off the unit.

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4

Speaker cord (Blue line) for surround

Speaker cord (Red line)

System connections

Microphone for Room Equalizer
(not for recording)

Connect this only for setting the
auto room equalizer, and keep it
disconnected at other times.

AC POWER cord

To AC wall outlet

AC POWER cord

To AC wall outlet

C-AX7

System control
cord

M-AX7

Speaker cord for
surround (Blue line)

Audio cord

Audio cord

Speaker (Left)

−+−+−+−

+

LS-AXD7 L

−+−+−+−

+

Preparations

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Application section

Speaker cord (Red line)

How to connect the speaker cords

1 2 3 4

÷ When subwoofer, center, and the two surround terminals are connected to the 3.1 channel speaker system to be sold later,

expansion to a 5.1 channel system is possible. For details, please refer to the operation instructions for your equipment.

9

Knowledge section

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System connections

Connecting to the antennas

AM/FM radio stations cannot be received without the proper antenna connections. Connect the anten­nas properly according to the following instructions.

FM outdoor antenna

Lead the 75Ω coaxial cable connected to the FM
outdoor antenna into the room and connect it to the
FM 75Ω terminal. Please remove the indoor antenna
after an outdoor antenna has been installed.

Preparations

FM outdoor antenna

AM loop antenna

The supplied antenna is for indoor use. Place it as
far as possible from the main unit, TV set, speaker

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cords and POWER cord, and set it to a direction
which provides the best reception.

How to connect the antenna

1

AM loop antenna

Application section

Assemble

2

3

FM indoor antenna

The provided antenna is for temporary in­door use only. For stable signal reception,
we recommend to use an outdoor antenna.
Remove the indoor antenna if you connect
to an outdoor antenna.

1 Connect the antenna to the antenna

terminal.

2 Locate the position providing good

reception condition.

3 Fix the antenna.

FM indoor antenna

C-AX7

Knowledge section

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Antenna adaptor

(Commercially
available parts)

System connections

Connecting to a TV with video (composite) or S-video input terminal

Make sure the DVD player is connected directly to the TV and not to a VCR, otherwise the DVD image could be distorted by
the copy protection system.

Audio cord

For playback of the TV sound
via this equipment, connect the
audio output of the TV to the

C-AX7

Video cord

S Video cord

(Commercially
available)

TV input terminals of this unit.

AUDIO OUT

VIDEO IN

S VIDEO IN

Preparations

Basic section

Connection to a TV with video input terminal

Use the accessory video cord for connection to the “VIDEO” terminal at the ”VIDEO OUT” part of this unit.

÷ Set “TV aspect” in the DVD/CD settings according to the connected TV (4:3 or 16:9). s

Connection to a TV with S-video input terminal

Use a commercial S-video cord to connect to the “S VIDEO” terminal of the “VIDEO OUT” part of this
unit.
You can enjoy a clearer image than with the video input terminal.

÷ Set “TV aspect” in the DVD/CD settings according to the connected TV (4:3 or 16:9). s

11

Application section

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EN

System connections

Connection of other accessories

CAUTION

Connect the components as shown in the diagram.
Only plug the power cord into an AC wall outlet once
connections are completed.

Preparations

Receiver

Digital IN

(optical)

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C-AX7

*

(Commercially available parts)

Cassette tape deck

Audio IN

Audio OUT

Audio OUT

DVD player etc.

Audio OUT

TV game machine
etc.



Application section

AC POWER cord

To AC wall outlet

* The “DIGITAL OUT PCM/BIT STREAM” terminal of this unit puts out only the digital audio of the DVD/

Knowledge section

CD source.

÷ In case an associated system component is connected, also read the instruction manual of the component.
÷ Be sure to insert all connection cords securely. If their connections are imperfect, the sound may not be produced

or noise may interfere.

÷ Before plugging or unplugging a connection cord, be sure to unplug the power cord from the wall AC outlet. If

connection cords are plugged or unplugged with the power cord left plugged in, malfunction or damage may result.

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Controls and indicators

Main amplifier unit (M-AX7)

13254

Preparations

1 STANDBY indicator %
2 (POWER) key ¢

Used for setting the unit to On or Standby.

3 POWER ON/OFF switch

4 CHANNEL SELECTOR key

Used for switching the amplifier between 4
channels (25 W x 4) and 2 channels (50 W x 2).

5 Displays

Display (C-AX7)

The displays given in this manual are approximations only. They may differ from what actually appears on
the display.

1

REPEAT

A.P.S.

FMONE
AM

$

DigitalEQ

REC

#

1RDM

PGM 2

@

1 Character information display
2 File, Folder, A-B repeat indicators
3 MUTE indicator/P.B.C indicator

∞‰

4 V.F.S. indicator ⁄
5 Sound preset memory number

indicators º

6 Listen mode related indicators ¤
7 RoomEQ indicator §

3

26

P.B.C.

MUTE

TUNED ST. AUTO RDS PTY

!

0

TTL
kHz

MHz

8 D-Bass indicator •
9 Level meters a
0 RDS indicator / PTY indicator
! Tuner-related indicators

CD time display
Clock display
Frequency display

@ Timer-related indicators ˇ
# DigitalEQ REC indicator Q
$ DVD/CD-related indicators

4

V. F.S.

Dolby Digital DTS

PL

A B

L

30 10 5 3 1 0

R

123

9

5

RoomEQ

D-Bass

(-dB)

7

8

13

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Application section

Knowledge section

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Controls and indicators

Preamplifier unit (C-AX7)

&

Preparations

1

1 STANDBY/TIMER indicator

Basic section

Lights up when the unit is set to the Standby mode.

Refer to "In case of difficulty" for blinking of the
indicator.

2 (POWER) key ¢

Used for setting the unit to On or Standby.

3 PHONES / D.AUDIO OUT jack

Connect headphones with a stereo mini-plug

Application section

(optionally available) to it. ∞
This is also the output terminal to separately sold
digital audio equipment. In this case, set D.AUDIO
OUT to REC OUT ON. p

4 D.AUDIO IN jack u

Used as the input terminal for audio from separately

sold digital audio equipment.

5 REMOTE sensor &

Knowledge section

T

his sensor receives signals from the remote control unit.

6 DVD/CD tray

7 0 (DVD/CD open/close) key ‹

Used for opening or closing the DVD/CD tray.

3456 89 0 !2

Red : Ordinary standby.
Green : Timer standby.
Off : The unit is On.

D

@#$%^

7

8 6 (Play/Pause) / Band key

DVD/CD : ›

Used for selecting the DVD/CD input and starting
playback. During DVD/CD playback, press to
pause.

TUNER : ·

Used for selecting the TUNER input.
This key is also used to select the received broad­cast band.

9 7 (Stop) / Tuning Mode key

DVD/CD : Used for stopping a disc operation.

›

TUNER : q

Used for switching between the AUTO (auto
tuning, stereo reception) and MONO (manual
tuning, monaural reception) modes.

Standby mode:

Used for displaying the clock.

0 4 /1 / ¡/¢ keys

– Skip CD tracks or DVD chapters fi
– Select a preset radio station
– Press and hold for fast forward or fast backward

(search) for DVD/CD tracks or chapters

! MUTE key ∞

Used for muting the sound temporarily.

‚

›

14

EN

Controls and indicators

@ VOLUME knob ¢

Used for volume adjustment.

# INPUT SEL. / MULTI CONTROL knob

In the normal mode, this is used for selecting an input
source.
In the function menu mode (selected by pressing the
MODE key), turn this knob to select the desired menu
item. To set or enter setting of the function menu

item, press the SET key.

Items of function menu mode :
SOUND PRESET
D.EQ Rec Mode Q
REC LEVEL Q
D.AUDIO OUT p
INPUT LEVEL y
AUTO MEMORY ‚
DIMMER SET ∏
LEVEL METER a
A.P.S. SET a
TIME ADJUST £
TIMER SET Á
AUTO ROOM EQ §

• Some of the items may not be displayed depending on
selected input source.

Used to select a desired item after pressing the
SOUND SELECTOR key to switch to sound setting
mode. Use the SET key for confirmation.

Items of function menu mode :

"SURROUND"
"D-BASS" •
"TONE" •

º

⁄

$ SOUND SELECTOR key

Used to switch the function of the INPUT SEL./MULTI
CONTROL knob to the sound setting function.

MODE key

Used to switch the function of the INPUT SEL./MULTI
CONTROL knob to menu selection mode.

SET key

During MODE operation: Used to confirm the selected
item.
During SOUND operation: Used to confirm the se­lected item.
Used to confirm the program No. at the time of DVD/
CD.

% Clear voice indicator

Tone indicator
A.R. EQ (Auto Room EQ) indicator
Rec. Out indicator

^ SURROUND indicator

L : Left signal indicator

C : Center signal indicator

R : Right signal indicator

LEF : LEF signal indicator

SL/SR/S : Surround signal indicator
Lights according to the number of audio signal
channels of the selected source.

& Display panel

Preparations

Basic section

Application section

Standby mode

While the standby indicator is lit, a small amount of power is supplied to the unit to back up the memory.
This is called Standby mode. Under the condition, the unit can be turned ON by the remote control unit.

15

Knowledge section

EN

Controls and indicators

Operation of remote control unit

The keys on the remote control unit with the same names as on the main unit have the same function as
the keys on the main unit.

1

8

2

3

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9

4

5

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0

6

7

!
@
#
$

Application section

With same functions, in the case that names of the
keys and knobs between "on the main unit" and "on
the remote control unit" are different, in this manual,
names on the remote control unit are indicated in
parentheses [ ] ;
Name on the main unit [ Name on the remote control unit]

Example: The INPUT SEL./MULTI CONTROL knob [

Knowledge section

1 P.MODE key W

the MULTI CONTROL % / fi key ]

Used for switching to track mode, or program mode.

SLEEP key ˇ

Used for setting the sleep timer.

DIMMER key ∏

Used for switching to the DIMMER mode.

2 RANDOM key R

Used for setting playback of tracks in a random order.

REPEAT key T

Used for setting repeated playback.

A3B (REPEAT) key Y

Used for repeated playback of any interval.

TIME DISP. key °

Used for changing time displays.

3 Numeric keys fi‚W

Press for selecting a DVD/CD track number or recall a
preset station of the tuner.

4 V.F.S. key ⁄

Select to produce a surround effect with only speakers
installed at the front.

CLEAR VOICE key ¤

Used for switching the CLEAR VOICE effect.

LISTEN MODE key ¤

Selects Listen mode.

MODE key

Used for entering the function setting mode..

5 MULTI CONTROL @/#/%/fi keys

Used to select the equalizer frequency band to be ad­justed and to adjust various modes.

ENTER key

When setting up in a mode : Used for confirming the
selection.
When receiving a broadcast station : Used for confirm­ing the station to preset in memory.

TOP MENU/JPEG LIST key flU

Used to display the DVD top menu, for display of MP3,
WMA and JPEG lists for DVD/CD, etc.

MENU/P.B.C./FOLDER/FILE SEARCH key

fiU‰

Used for DVD menu display, VCD P.B.C. switching, file
and folder directory display, etc.

SET key

Used to confirm the selected item.

RETURN key

Used to operate the DVD.

6 Basic operation keys

TUNER/ BAND key ·
DVD/CD 6 key ‹
D.AUDIO 6 key i
AUTO/MONO/7 (STOP) key ›q

7 P.CALL (4 / ¢) keys

DVD/CD : fi

Used for skipping CD tracks or DVD chapters

TUNER :

Used for receiving a radio station.

‚

16

EN

Controls and indicators

TUNING (1 / ¡) keys

DVD/CD : ›

Used for fast-forward or fast-reverse the played
music.

TUNER : q

Used for receiving a radio station.

8 (POWER) key ¢

Used for setting the unit to On or Standby.

9 DISPLAY key °

Used for changing the CD-TEXT displays.
Used for displaying the day of week and the time.

TIMER key Ø

Used for activating or deactivating timer function.

PTY key r

Used for entering PTY mode or searching a program
type.

CLEAR key W

Used for clearing a programed track(s).

0 VOLUME (%/fi) keys ∞

Used for adjusting the volume.

! INPUT SELECTOR key ¢

Used for selecting an input source.

SP SETUP key l

Used for speaker setup.

DVD SETUP key d

Used to change the initial DVD set values.

D.AUDIO REC key

@ Sound setting mode keys

Press for entering the sound setting mode with the
following keys.

FLAT key º
D-BASS key •
TONE TURN OVER key •
MANUAL EQ key ª

SOUND PRESET key º

# AUTO ROOM EQ key §

ROOM EQ MODE key ¶

Used to select one of three room equalizer setting
modes.

CHANNEL SEL. key

Used to switch the power amplifier speaker output be­tween 2 channels (50 W x 2) and 4 channels (25 W x 4).

$ ON SCREEN key I

Used to switch between display and no display for the
information displayed on screen.

AUDIO key U

Used to select the audio at the time of DVD playback.

SUBTITLE key U

Used to select the subtitles at the time of DVD play­back.

MUTE key ∞

Used for muting the sound temporarily.

It does not use this key in this model.

Loading batteries

1 Remove the cover. 2 Insert batteries. 3 Close the cover.

Preparations

Basic section

Application section

÷ Insert two R03 ("AAA"-size) batteries following the polarity indications.

Operation

When the POWER switch of the M-AX7 is ON and
the standby indicator is lit in red, press the
(POWER) key of the remote control unit to turn the
system ON. When the system is turned ON, press
the key of the function to be operated.

÷ When pressing more than one remote control keys

Operating range (approx.)

Remote sensor

6 m

standby
/ timer

D.AUDIOPHONES D.AUDIO

DVD TUNER CONTROL PRE-AMPLIFIER

SURROUND

Clear voice

LC

Tone

A.R. EQ

LFE

Room EQ



SW

SLRSR

Mode

0

successively, press the keys securely by leaving an
interval of 1 second or more between keys.

÷ The provided batteries are intended for use in operation checking, and their service life may be short.
÷ When the remote controllable distance becomes short, replace both of the batteries with new ones.
÷ If direct sunlight or the light of a high-frequency fluorescent lamp (inverter type, etc.) is incident to the remote

sensor, malfunction may occur. In such a case, change the installation position to avoid malfunction.

SOUND

INPUT SEL.

VOLUME

SELECTOR

/ MULTI CONTROL

MODE

SET

MUTE

Tuning Mode

17

EN

Knowledge section

Types of playable discs

The system this unit is using does not only play music from CD but can also play the discs listed below to offer you
high-quality entertainment of video of movies and live concerts.

Playable Disc

Logo mark on disc

DVD VIDEO

(DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW)

CD (CD-R, CD-RW)

VCD

Disc size

Played sides

Contents

Video + Audio

Preparations

Audio

8cm

One or both One or both

Approx. 41 min.

(1 side, 1 layer)

Approx. 75 min.

(1 side, 2 layers)

Approx. 82 min.

(2 sides, 1 layer)

Approx. 150 min.

(2 sides, 2 layers)

Approx. 133 min.

(1 side, 1 layer)

Approx. 242 min.

(1 side, 2 layers)

Approx. 266 min.

(2 sides, 1 layer)

Approx. 484 min.

(2 sides, 2 layers)

12cm

8cm

One side only One side only

Max. 20 min., digital Max. 80 min., digital

12cm

8cm

One side only

Max. 20 min.

12cm

One side only

Max. 74 min.

Please refer to page 21 for the CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, and DVD-RW file formats which can be played back by this unit.
÷ Compatible with Dual Disc* playback

* A Dual Disc is a two-sided disc combining a DVD side according to the DVD standard and a music side.
The video content recorded on the DVD side can be played back. As the music side is not compatible with the
Compact Disc (CD) standard, playback on this unit is not assured.

÷ This unit can play back DVD-R and DVD-RW discs recorded in the DVD VIDEO format and DVD+R and DVD+RW

Basic section

discs, but depending on the recording unit, the disc manufacturer, etc., playback sometimes may not be possible.

÷ This unit may also be incapable of playing certain CD-R/RW discs depending on their properties, recording condi-

tions, etc.

÷ This player cannot play back discs compatible with CPRM. CPRM is the abbreviation of Content Protection for Record-

able Media, and it is a technique for copyright protection for recording media.

Unplayable discs

This player cannot play back any of the following discs.

DVD AUDIO discs
DVD-RAM discs
SACD discs
VSD discs

Application section

SVCD discs

÷ A DVD video disc with a region code which does not match this unit or without a region code. For details, see "Region

Codes".

Formats".

(

)

÷ When the video format of a disc differs from that of the TV in use, the disc cannot be played normally. For details, see "Video

CDV discs (Only the audio part can be reproduced.)
CD-G/CD-EG/CD-EXTRA discs (Only the audio can be
reproduced.)
Photo CD discs (Never attempt to play them.)

Knowledge section

Restrictions due to difference between discs

Some DVD and VCD discs can be played only in certain playback modes according to the inten­tions of the software producers. Depending on the condition of this unit, operation may be
restricted. As this player plays discs according to their intentions, some functions may not work
as intended by you. Please be sure to read the instructions provided with each disc. When an
inhibition icon is displayed on the TV screen connected to the player, it indicates that the disc
being played is under the restriction as described above.

EN

18

Inhibition icon

Region Codes

Every player of this model has a certain region code assigned to it based on the country where the player is used.
When the player is used to play back DVD VIDEO discs, it can only play the DVD VIDEO discs carrying the region
codes matching the region code of the player.
The region code for this player is described on the rear panel of the player.

Region codes in the world

The DVD players are given a region code according to the country or area it is marketed, as shown in the follow­ing map.

Professional use disc
(Air Line cabin service)

Preparations

Basic section

Region codes of the DVD VIDEO discs that can be played with this player

This player can play back a DVD VIDEO disc which carries the corresponding code to the region code of the player
shown in the table above, a marking containing the region code of the player or the "ALL" marking shown below.
Even when a DVD VIDEO disc does not carry any indication of the region code, it may sometimes unable to be played
on this player due to certain restrictions.

Icons on the DVD VIDEO discs

Icon Description

Indicates the region code where the disc can be played.

Number of voice languages recorded with the audio function. The number in the icon indicates the number of
voice languages. (Max. 8 languages)

Number of subtitle languages recorded with the subtitle function. The number in the icon indicates the number
of subtitle languages. (Max. 32 languages)

Number of angles provided by the angle function. The number in the icon indicates the number of angles. (Max.
9 angles)

Aspect ratios that can be selected. "4:3 Letter box" stands for Letter Box and "4:3 Panscan" for Pan/Scan. f
In the example on the left, the 16:9 video can be converted into letter box video.

19

Application section

Knowledge section

EN

Video Formats

The TV picture display and disc signal systems can be divided roughly into two TV formats (NTSC and PAL).
They are variable depending on countries and areas.
This unit has a function for output of disc video in NTSC format after conversion to PAL format. For details,
refer to “NTSC → PAL” in “VISUAL” setting on page 78.

TV formats in major countries :

TV Format

NTSC

PAL

Checking the Video Format

Preparations

Check the video format of the VCD and DVD discs to be played on the player as described below.

1 Check if the video formats of the TV to be used

and disc to be played match each other.

Japan, Taiwan, Korea, USA, Canada, Mexico, Philippines, Chile, etc.

China, U.K., Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Kuwait, Singapore, etc.

÷ For details, refer to the instructions provided

with the TV and disc.

Basic section

2 When the TV is switchable between NTSC and

PAL, set the TV format according to the disc
format.

TV Format Playable Disc Format

NTSC only NTSC

PAL only PAL

NTSC/PAL
switchable

÷ Correct video cannot be reproduced if the video

Application section

formats of the TV and disc do not match.

NTSC/PAL

Major Countries & Areas

When the video formats are different :

Try playing the disc. If the video formats of the
disc and TV do not match, the played video may
be black and white or become as shown below.

Top and bottom edges are
not displayed.

Top and bottom areas are
dark.

Knowledge section

EN

20

Picture turbulence due to
sync unmatching.

Playable files with this unit

Discs with MP3/WMA or JPEG files which can be played back on this unit

Playback of compressed files in the formats MP3, WMA, and JPEG is possible. Depending on the disc properties, the recording status,
etc., playback may not be possible on this unit.
÷ The following file types can be played back on this unit.

MP3 : Bit Rate, 32 kbps to 320 kbps

Sampling frequency; 32/44.1/48 kHz (128 kbps/44.1 kHz recommended )

WMA : Bit Rate, 48 kbps to 192 kbps

Sampling frequency; 32/44.1/48 kHz (64 kbps/44.1 kHz recommended )

JPEG : Conforming to the Exif Ver. 2.1 JPEG baseline method

Image resolution ; Within 7680 x 7680 (subsampling; 4:2:2, 4:2:0)

÷ This unit is compatible with discs written with ISO9660, level 1 or level 2 (expanded format excepted). (Not compatible with discs

÷ This unit is compatible with closed multi-session discs.
÷ The maximum number of folders which can be played back with this unit is 255, and the maximum number of files is limited to 1743.
÷ The file names always must have the extension “.MP3” (MP3 files), “.WMA” (WMA files), or “.JPG” (JPEG files).
÷ Depending on the properties of the JPEG file and the recording status, the image may not be displayed correctly.
÷ Never add the wrong extension log to any files, the equipment will assume that they can be played back, and this will produce loud

Confirming media and files

Check to ascertain that MP3/WMA files can be played back correctly on the personal computer in use prior to saving them onto the
media. Check to ensure that the saved file can be played back normally.

When saving files onto media

Ensure that the session is closed or finalized when data has been written on media. There are cases where media on which the session
has not be closed or finalized will not be played back correctly with this equipment.

÷ There are cases where the folder names and file names will not be displayed correctly depending on the software used to save

÷ Do not store files or folders other than playable files on media to be played back with this equipment.
÷ It is recommended that ten or less sessions are stored when recording MP3/WMA/JPEG files onto a media.
÷ In case of a multisession disc, some time may be required until playback begins.
÷ There are cases where playback is not possible when MP3/WMA/JPEG files (CD-ROM) and music CD infomation (CD-DA) are saved

* Not compatible with progressive JPEG, JPEG2000.

written with packet writing.)

noises in the speakers, resulting in damage of adverse effects.

them.

on the same media.

Preparations

Basic section

Playback order for MP3/WMA audio and JPEG images

A disc with MP3/WMA and JPEG files recorded on it is played back in the order of 1 →2 →3 →4 →5 →6
→7 .

Layer 1

Layer 2

Folder1

Folder4

Layer 3

1

2

Folder2

Folder5

Layer 4

Folder3

Layer5

3

6

7

MP3/WMA sound
JPEG image

÷ <Hints for disc creation>

÷ As folder 3 is included in folder 2, 4 has priority over 6.
÷ When playback shifts from JPEG images to MP3/WMA audio

4

5

÷ With skipping from MP3/WMA audio to JPEG images (example:

÷ With a hierarchy exceeding 8 levels, the folders in the eighth

When setting of the playback order is desired, insert successive
numbers like “01” to “99” in front of the folder and file names.
However, depending on the writing software, writing may not
be done in the intended order.

(example: from 4 to 5), the audio is played back with displayed
image.

from 3 to 4), the audio stops and the image is displayed.

level are displayed along with the last folder of the playback order.

21

Application section

Knowledge section

EN

Playable files with this unit

Disc structure

Structure of DVD Video discs

DVD Video

Title1 Title2

Chapter1 Chapter2 3,4...

Preparations

Chapter1

A title is the largest unit for images or tracks. A title is composed of several chapters.

Chapter2 3,4,5...

Structure of CD and Video CD Video discs

CD, Video CD

Basic section

Track1 Track2 Track3

CD and Video CD discs are divided into so-called tracks.

Structure of discs with recorded MP3/WMA, JPEG files

MP3/WMA, JPEG

Application section

Folder1

File1

A folder is the largest unit recorded on a disc.
A folder can be composed of one or more files, but files also can be recorded directly on
the disc without being in a folder.
There are also discs with a hierarchical structure with folders inside folders.

File2 3,4,5.... File1

4,5,6...

Folder2

File2 3,4,5....

Knowledge section

EN

22

Clock adjustment

As the clock is not only used to show the time of the day but also used in timer operations, be sure to set
the clock adjustment in advance.

Turn POWER ON.

Select "TIME ADJUST".

1

¢

1 Press the MODE key, turn the INPUT SEL./

MULTI CONTROL knob to select "TIME
ADJUST". Then press the SET key.

Adjust the day of week.

2

1 Adjust the day of week

2 Press the SET key.

IncreaseDecrease

Adjust the hour.

3

1 Adjust the hour

2 Press the SET key.

12345

L

R

÷ The time display starts to blink.

Example: Adjustment to Monday 8:07

L

R

÷ After the day is input, the hour display starts to blink.

Example: Adjustment to Monday 8:07

L

R

30 10 5 3 1 0

12345

30 10 5 3 1 0

12345

30 10 5 3 1 0

(-dB)

(-dB)

(-dB)

Preparations

Basic section

Application section

Adjust the minute.

4

1 Adjust the minute.

2 Press the SET key.

÷ After the hour is input, the minute display starts to

blink.

Example: Adjustment to Monday 8:07

÷ If you made a mistake, restart from the beginning.
÷ When the time of day has been set by pressing the

SET key, the display shows "COMPLETE".

÷ After a power failure or the AC power cord has been

unplugged, the time set will be cleared. You have to set
the time again when the unit is switched on.

÷ When the 7 (STOP) key is pressed while the power is

in the standby mode, the time of day will be displayed
for 5 seconds.

L

R

12345

30 10 5 3 1 0

(-dB)

23

Knowledge section

EN

Basic use method

Preparation : Set the POWER switch of the M-AX7 to the ON position.

The unit is switched ON or
STANDBY

Adjusting volume

Start playback

Preparations

Select a desired
input source.

MAIN UNIT

Basic section

REMOTE

MAIN UNIT

Application section

REMOTE

Start playback

Knowledge section

Muting the sound
temporarily

DVD TUNER CONTROL PRE-AMPLIFIER

standby
/ timer

1.

D.AUDIOPHONES D.AUDIO

OUT IN

Listening through headphones

0

Start playback

1. Turning the power ( ) on (off).

Pressing the (POWER) key when the unit is ON, turns it off
(Standby mode).

÷ Pressing the DVD/CD 6, D.AUDIO 6 or TUNER/BAND key on the

remote also turns power on and starts playback (reception) of the corre­sponding input.

÷ When the DVD/CD input is selected while the corresponding disc have

been loaded, it automatically starts to play.

2. Selecting the desired input sources.

Select a desired input source.

TUNER (Broadcasts) ·
DVD/CD ‹
TAPE/VIDEO1 (External input sources)
VIDEO2 (External input sources) y
TV y
AUX (External input sources) y
D.AUDIO u

Input level adjustment is possible for TAPE/VIDEO1, VIDEO2, TV, AUX and
D.AUDIO.

÷ Pressing the DVD/CD 6, D.AUDIO 6 or TUNER/BAND key on the

remote selects the corresponding input.

When CD is selected

2.

SOUND

INPUT SEL.

VOLUME

SELECTOR

/ MULTI CONTROL

MODE

SET

Muting the sound
temporarily

y

12345

3.

24

L

R

30 10 5 3 1 0

(-dB)

Continued to next page

EN

Basic use method

MAIN UNIT

Decrease
volume

REMOTE

Increase
volume

Increase
volume

Decrease
volume

3.

Adjusting volume.

Listening through headphones

Insert the headphones plug into the PHONES jack.

OUT

÷ Headphones with a stereo mini plug can be con-

nected.

÷ The sound from all speakers is cut off.

When D.AUDIO OUT is set to REC OUT
ON, sound is put out from the speakers,
and the volume from the headphone ter­minal is constant, independent on the
VOLUME position.
When listening with headphones, set
D.AUDIO OUT to HEADPHONE. (The ini­tial setting is HEADPHONE.) p

Volume level

L

30 10 5 3 1 0

R

÷ The display shows a reference value.

Muting the sound temporarily (MUTE)

Press the MUTE key.

MAIN UNIT

÷ Press the MUTE key again to resume the original

volume.

÷ It is also canceled when the volume is changed.

REMOTE

(-dB)

Preparations

Basic section

Application section

Caution at the time of recording

When the surround mode is switched while recording or the CHANNEL SEL. key is operated etc., the
sound may be interrupted.

25

Knowledge section

EN

Basic use method

Using Auto Room Equalizer function

A very loud test sound is produced
during the measurement. Please take
into consideration that it may disturb
your neighborhood, especially, when

you measure it at the night time.

Auto Room Equalizer function automatically per­forms the following adjustments with the pro­vided microphone by measuring sound character­istics for the best listening environment according
to your room conditions and speakers layout.

1. Sound delay from speakers

2. Volume level differences between left and

right speakers

Preparations

3. Speaker frequency characteristics and

room sound characteristics

Measuring room sound characteristics
(Auto Room EQ)

1Connect the microphone to the ROOM EQ

MIC IN jack on the back of the unit. 9

2Place the microphone to the listening posi-

tion (at a height of your ears).

Basic section

3Press the MODE key, turn the INPUT SEL./

MULTI CONTROL knob to select “AUTO
ROOM EQ”, and press the SET key. [press
the AUTO ROOM EQ key on the remote].

÷ Measuring takes several minutes.
÷ If the microphone is not connected or headphones

are connected, the measurement is impossible.
("CAN'T SETUP" is displayed.)

÷ The original display returns automatically when mea-

suring has been completed.

÷ Make sure that the microphone is removed from the

main unit right after the Auto Room EQ measure­ment.

÷ Effective result may not be obtained depending on

the measurement surroundings.

÷ Displays during and after the measurement

The A.R. EQ indicator (LED) blinks during the mea­surement. (The A.R. EQ indicator (LED) light up.)

÷ Image of the measurement

Place the microphone at a height of your ears.
Do not place any obstacles between the microphone

and speakers during the measurement.

or

Application section

4Turn the INPUT SEL./MULTI CONTROL knob to

select “R.EQ START”, and press the SET key.

The following items can be selected by turning
the INPUT SEL./MULTI CONTROL knob.

Knowledge section

"R.EQ START": Measurement starts.
"R.EQ OFF" : Characteristics setting is

temporarily canceled.

"R.EQ CALL" : Characteristics setting is

called up.

÷ When measuring for the first time, only “R.EQ

START” can be selected.

EN

26

÷ Image of effect by Room Equalizer function

÷ When an error display occurs, refer to page 86.
÷ Depending on the use environment, correct measur-

ing may not be possible. Normally there will be no
problems with the automatic setting, but manual set­ting should be done for more accurate measuring.

As there is no automatic setting for the subwoofer,
manual setting must be done.

(“Speaker setting”l)

Basic use method

To cancel the measurement

Turn the VOLUME knob on the main unit or

press the VOLUME % / fi key on the remote
control unit.

or

÷ When the operations of steps 3 and 4 on page 26

are performed and the SET key is pressed after dis­play of “R. EQ CANCEL?”, measuring is canceled
and return is made to the condition before start.

Memorizing the measurement

º

(Memorizing your favorite sound

The Auto Room EQ settings can be stored.
It is recommended to store the settings with
the operation shown on page 30º.

)

Changing measured Room Equalizer Char­acteristics according to situation (ROOM
EQ MODE)

1 Press the ROOM EQ MODE key on the re-

mote control unit.

2 Select a mode by using the INPUT SEL./

MULTI CONTROL knob. [press the MULTI
CONTROL @ / # key on the remote. ]

The following mode items can be selected:

"NORMAL": This mode reproduces the sound

optimized based on the measured
results by ROOM EQ. Usually, use
this mode.

"WIDE": Mode that you can enjoy

music at a relatively wide area cen­tering around the measured posi­tion. It is convenient, for example,
when you wish to listen to music
walking around room at a home
party.

"NIGHT": Mode that is convenient when you

wish to enjoy music with low vol­ume at midnight. It is adjusted
based on melodious sounds such as
vocal and will relatively be clear
sound with low volume.

Preparations

Basic section

Application section

÷ Press the ENTER key on the remote control to end

the operation.

The ROOM EQ MODE cannot be set
when Auto Room Equalizer measur­ing has not been performed.

27

Knowledge section

EN