Lexicon DC-1 Owners manual

Owner's Manual

DC-1

Digital Controller

Base & THX Versions

Important Safety Instructions

AUTO AZIMUTH

Save these instructions for later use. Follow all instructions and warnings marked on the unit. Always use with the correct line voltage. Refer to the manufacturer's operating instructions for power requirements. Be advised that different operating voltages

may require the use of a different line cord and/or attachment plug. Do not install the unit in an unventilated rack, or directly above heat producing equipment such as power amplifiers. Observe the maximum ambient operating

temperature listed in the product specification. Slots and opening on the case are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation and prevent it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or

covered. Never push objects of any kind through any of the ventilation slots. Never spill a liquid of any kind on the unit. Never attach audio power amplifier outputs directly to any of the unit's connectors. To prevent shock or fire hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture, or operate it where it will be exposed to water. Do not attempt to operate the unit if it has been dropped, damaged, exposed to liquids, or if it exhibits a distinct change in performance indicating the need for

service. This unit should only be opened by qualified service personnel. Removing covers will expose you to hazardous voltages.

This triangle, which appears on your component, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated, dangerous voltage inside the enclosure... voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.

Adhere to all warnings on the unit and in the operating instructions. Take precautions not to defeat the grounding or polarization of the unit's power cord. Do not overload wall outlet, extension cords or integral convenience receptacles, as this can result in a risk of fire or electrical shock. Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed on or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs,

conveneince receptacles, and the point at which they exit from the unit. The unit should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

This triangle, which appears on your component, alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in this accompanying literature.

Communications Notice

This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, may cause interference to radio and television reception. It has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designated to provide reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment OFF and ON, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient the receiving antenna Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver Move the computer away from the receiver Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and receiver are on different branch circuits.

If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful: "How to identify and Resolve Radio/TV Interference Problems." This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.

Le présent appareil numérique n'émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la class B prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le ministère des Communications du Canada.

Acknowledgements

The DC-1 is 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.

The DC-1 is manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd. U.S. patent numbers 5,043,970; 5,189,703; and 5,222,059. Foreign patents pending. Lucasfilm and THX are trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.

"Auto-Azimuth" and the A-Z logo are trademarks of Lexicon, Inc.

Lexicon Part #070-11276

Outdoor Antenna Grounding

If an outside antenna is connected to the receiver, be sure the antenna system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up 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 for the grounding electrode. See figure below.

Power Lines An outside antenna should be located away from power lines.

Lexicon, Inc.• 3 Oak Park • Bedford, MA 01730 USA• Tel 781-280-0300• Fax 781-280-0490

www.lexicon.com

Printed in the United States of America

Dansk

Vigtig information om sikkerhed

Gem denne vejledning til senere brug. Følg alle anvisninger og advarsler på apparatet. Apparatet skal altid tilsluttes den korrekte spænding. Der henvises til

brugsanvisningen, der indeholder specifikationer for strømforsyning. Der gøres opmærksom på, at ved varierende driftsspændinger kan det blive nødvendigt at bruge andre lednings- og/eller stiktyper.

Apparatet må ikke monteres i et kabinet uden ventilation eller lige over andet udstyr, der udvikler varme, f.eks. forstærkere. Den maksimale omgivelsestemperatur ved drift, der står opført i specifikationerne, skal overholdes.

Der er ventilationsåbninger i kabinettet. For at sikre apparatets drift og hindre overophedning må disse åbninger ikke blokeres eller tildækkes. Stik aldrig noget ind igennem ventilationsåbningerne, og pas på aldrig at spilde nogen form for væske på apparatet.

Udgangsstik fra audioforstærkere må aldrig sættes direkte i apparatet. Apparatet må ikke udsættes for regn eller fugt og må ikke bruges i

nærheden af vand for at undgå risiko for elektrisk stød og brand. Apparatet må aldrig bruges, hvis det er blevet stødt, beskadiget eller vådt,

eller hvis ændringer i ydelsen tyder på, at det trænger til eftersyn. Dette apparat må kun åbnes af fagfolk. Hvis dækslet tages af, udsættes

man for livsfarlig højspænding.

Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om uisoleret, farlig spænding i apparatet ... høj nok til at give elektrisk stød.

Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om vigtig drifts- og vedligeholdsinformation i den tilhørende litteratur.

Suomi

Tärkeitä turvallisuusohjeita

Säilytä nämä ohjeet tulevaa käyttöä varten. Seuraa kaikkia yksikköön merkittyjä ohjeita ja varoituksia. Käytä aina oikeaa verkkojännitettä. Tehovaatimukset selviävät valmistajan

käyttöohjeista. Huomaa, että eri käyttöjännitteet saattavat vaatia toisenlaisen verkkojohdon ja/tai -pistokkeen käytön.

Älä asenna yksikköä telineeseen jossa ei ole tuuletusta, tai välittömästi lämpöä tuottavien laitteiden, esim. tehovahvistimien, yläpuolelle. Ympäristön lämpötila käytössä ei saa ylittää tuotespesifikaation maksimilämpötilaa.

Kotelo on varustettu tuuletusreiillä ja -aukoilla. Luotettavan toiminnan varmistamiseksi ja ylilämpenemisen välttämiseksi näitä aukkoja ei saa sulkea tai peittää. Mitään esineitä ei saa työntää tuuletusaukkoihin. Mitään nesteitä ei saa kaataa yksikköön.

Älä kytke audiotehovahvistimen lähtöjä suoraan mihinkään yksikön liittimeen.

Sähköiskun ja palovaaran välttämiseksi yksikkö ei saa olla sateessa tai kosteassa, eikä sitä saa käyttää märässä ympäristössä.

Älä käytä yksikköä jos se on pudonnut, vaurioitunut, kostunut, tai jos sen suorituskyky on huomattavasti muuttunut, mikä vaatii huoltoa.

Yksikön saa avata vain laitteeseen perehtynyt huoltohenkilö. Kansien poisto altistaa sinut vaarallisille jännitteille.

Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, varoittaa sinua eristämättömän vaarallisen jännitteen esiintymisestä yksikön sisällä. Tämä jännite saattaa olla riittävän korkea aiheuttamaan sähköiskuvaaran.

Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, kertoo sinulle, että tässä tuotedokumentoinnissa esiintyy tärkeitä käyttö- ja ylläpitoohjeita.

Norsk

Viktig informasjon om sikkerhet

Ta vare på denne veiledningen for senere bruk. Følg alle anvisningene og advarslene som er angitt på apparatet. Apparatet skal alltid anvendes med korrekt spenning. Produktbeskrivelsen

inneholder spesifikasjoner for strømkrav. Vær oppmerksom på at det ved ulike driftsspenninger kan være nødvendig å bruke en annen ledning- og/ eller støpseltype.

Apparatet skal ikke monteres i skap uten ventilasjon, eller direkte over varmeproduserende utstyr, som for eksempel kraftforsterkere. Den maksimale romtemperaturen som står oppgitt i produktbeskrivelsen, skal overholdes.

Apparatet er utstyrt med ventilasjonsåpninger. For at apparatet skal være pålitelig i bruk og ikke overopphetes, må disse åpningene ikke blokkeres eller tildekkes. Stikk aldri noe inn i ventilasjonsåpningene, og pass på at det aldri søles noen form for væske på apparatet.

Utgangsplugger fra audioforsterkere skal aldri koples direkte til apparatet. Unngå brannfare og elektrisk støt ved å sørge for at apparatet ikke utsettes

for regn eller fuktighet og ikke anvendes i nærheten av vann. Apparatet skal ikke brukes hvis det har blitt utsatt for støt, er skadet eller blitt

vått, eller hvis endringer i ytelsen tyder på at det trenger service. Dette apparatet skal kun åpnes av fagfolk. Hvis dekselet fjernes, utsettes

man for livsfarlig høyspenning.

Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som er en advarsel om at det finnes uisolert, farlig spenning inne i kabinettet ... høy nok til å utgjøre en fare for elektrisk støt.

Svenska

Viktiga säkerhetsföreskrifter

Spara dessa föreskrifter för framtida bruk. Följ alla anvisningar och varningar som anges på enheten. Använd alltid rätt nätspänning. Se tillverkarens bruksanvisningar för infor-

mation om effektkrav. Märkväl, att andra matningsspänningar eventuellt kräver att en annan typs nätsladd och/eller kontakt används.

Installera inte enheten i ett oventilerat stativ, eller direkt ovanför utrustningar som avger värme, t ex effektförstärkare. Se till att omgivningens temperatur vid drift inte överskrider det angivna värdet i produktspecifikationen.

Behållaren är försedd med hål och öppningar för ventilering. För att garantera tillförlitlig funktion och förhindra överhettning får dessa öppningar inte blockeras eller täckas. Inga föremål får skuffas in genom ventilationshålen. Inga vätskor får spillas på enheten.

Anslut aldrig audioeffektförstärkarutgångar direkt till någon av enhetens kontakter.

För att undvika elstöt eller brandfara får enheten inte utsättas för regn eller fukt, eller användas på ställen där den blir våt.

Använd inte enheten om den har fallit i golvet, skadats, blivit våt, eller om dess prestanda förändrats märkbart, vilket kräver service.

Enheten får öppnas endast av behörig servicepersonal. Farliga spänningar blir tillgängliga när locken tas bort.

Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, varnar dig om en oisolerad farlig spänning inne i enheten. Denna spänning är eventuellt så hög att fara för elstöt föreligger.

Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som betyr at den tilhørende litteraturen inneholder viktige opplysninger om drift og vedlikehold.

Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, anger att viktiga bruksanvisningar och serviceanvisningar ingår i dokumentationen i fråga.

Wichtige Sicherheitsanweisungen

Deutsch

Heben Sie sich diese Sicherheitsanweisungen auch für später auf. Befolgen Sie alle auf der Vorrichtung stehenden Anweisungen und Warnungen. Immer nur mit der richtigen Spannung verwenden! Die Gebrauchsanweisungen

des Herstellers informieren Sie über die elektrischen Anforderungen. Vergessen Sie nicht daß bei verschiedenen Betriebsspannungen ggf. auch verschiedene Leitungskabel und/oder Verbindungsstecker zu verwenden sind.

Stellen Sie die Vorrichtung nicht in ein unbelüftetes Gestell oder unmittelbar über wärmeerzeugende Geräte wie z.B. Tonverstärker. Halten Sie die in den Produktspezifikationen angegebene maximale Umgebungstemperatur bei Betrieb ein.

Schlitze und Öffnungen im Gehäuse dienen der Belüfung; um verläßlichen Betrieb sicherzustellen und Überheizen zu vermeiden dürfen diese Öffnungen nich verstopft oder abgedeckt werden. Stecken Sie nie irgend einen Gegenstand durch die Belüftungsschlitze. Vergießen Sie keine Flüssigkeiten auf den Apparat.

Schließen Sie nie Tonverstärker unmittelbar an einen Anschluß des Apparates an.

Um elektrischen Schlag oder Feuer zu vermeiden, setzen Sie den Apparat weder Regen noch Feuchtigkeit aus und betreiben Sie ihn nicht dort wo Wasser eindringen könnte.

Versuchen Sie nicht den Apparat zu betreiben falls er fallen gelassen, beschädigt, oder Flüssigkeiten ausgesetzt wurde, oder falls sich seine Arbeitsweise derart ändert daß daraus ein Bedarf nach Raparatur zu schließen ist.

Dieser Apparat sollte nur von qualifizierten Fachleuten geöffnet werden. Das Abnehmen von Abdeckungen setzt Sie gefährlichen Spannungen aus.

Español

Instrucciones importantes de seguridad

Guarde esta instrucciones para uso posterior. Utilice siempre el voltaje correcto. Diríjase a las instrucciones de operación

del fabricante para obtener las especificaciones de potencia. Esté al tanto de que voltajes de operación distintos requieren el uso de cables y/o enchufes distintos.

No instale esta unidad en un estante sin ventilación, ni tampoco directamente encima de equipos que generen calor tales como amplificadores de potencia. Fíjese en las temperaturas ambientales máximas de operación que se mencionan en las especificaciones del producto.

Las aperturas y ranuras del chasis sirven para proveer la ventilación necesaria para operar la unidad con seguridad y para prevenir sobrecalentamiento, y por lo tanto no pueden ser obstruidas o cubiertas. No introduzca objetos de ningún tipo a través de las ranuras de ventilación, y nunca deje caer ningún líquido sobre la unidad.

Nunca conecte ningún tipo de salida de amplificadores de sonido directamente a los conectores de la unidad.

Para prevenir descargas eléctricas o incendios, mantenga la unidad alejada de la lluvia, humedad o cualquier lugar en el que pueda entrar en contacto con agua.

No trate de hacer funcionar la unidad si se ha caído, está dañada, ha entrado en contacto con líquidos, o si nota cualquier cambio brusco en su funcionamiento que indique la necesidad de hacerle un servicio de mantenimiento.

Esta unidad deberá ser abierta únicamente por personal calificado. Si usted quita las coberturas se expondrá a voltajes peligrosos.

Dieses Dreieck auf Ihrem Apparat warnt Sie vor nicht-isolierter, gefährlicher Spannung im Gehäuse ... stark genug um eine Berührungsgefahr darzustellen.

Dieses Dreieck auf Ihrem Apparat bedeutet daß wichtige Betriebsund Wartungsanweisungen in der mitgelieferten Dokumentation zu finden sind.

Français

Instructions de Sûreté Importantes

Gardez ces instructions pour réference future. Observez toutes les instructions et tous les avertissements marqués sur

l’appareil. Branchez uniquements sur un réseau de tension indiquée. Consultez le

manuel d’instruction du fabriquant pour les spécifications de courant. N’oubliez pas que différentes tensions peuvent nécessiter l’utilisation de cables et/ou de fiches de connexion différents.

N’installez pas l’appareil en un compartiment non-aéré ou directement audessus d’équipements générateurs de chaleur, tels qu’amplificateurs de courants, etc. Ne dépassez pas la température ambiante maximale de fonctionnement indiquée dans les spécifications du produit.

Des fentes et ouvertures sont prévues dans le boîtier pour l’aération; Pour assurer le bon fonctionnement et pour prévenir l’échauffement, ces ouvertures ne doivent pas être couvertes ou bloquées. N’insérez pas d’objets dans les fentes d’aération. Empêchez tout liquide de se répandre sur l’appareil.

Ne connectez jamais d’amplificateurs audio directement aux connecteurs de l’appareil.

Pour empêcher les chocs électriques et le danger d’incendie, évitez d’exposer l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité, et ne le mettez pas en marche en un endroit où il serait exposé aux éclaboussures d’eau.

N’essayez pas de faire fonctionner l’appareil s’il est tombé à terre, a été endommangé, exposé à un liquide, ou si vous observez des différences nettes dans son fonctionnement, indiquant la nécessité de réparations.

Cet appareil ne doit être ouvert que par un personnel de service qualifié. En enlevant les couvercles vous vous exposez à des tensions électriques dangereuses.

Este triángulo que aparece en su componente le advierte sobre la existencia dentro del chasis de voltajes peligrosos sin aislantes ... voltajes que son lo suficientemente grandes como para causar electrocución.

Este triángulo que aparece en su componente lo alerta sobre las instrucciones de operación y mantenimiento importantes que están en los materiales de lectura que se incluyen.

Italiano

Importanti norme di sicurezza

Conservare le presenti norme per l’utilizzo futuro. Osservare tutte le istruzioni e le avvertenze apposte sull’unità. Utilizzare esclusivamente con la tensione di rete corretta. Consultare le

istruzioni operative fornite dal fabbricante per i dati riguardanti la tensione e l’assorbimento di corrente. Potrebbe essere necessario l’uso di cavi di rete e/o di spine diverse a seconda della tensione utilizzata.

Non installare l’unità in uno scaffale privo di ventilazione oppure direttamente sopra una fonte di calore, come, ad esempio, un amplificatore. Non superare la temperatura ambientale massima di funzionamento riportata nei dati tecnici del prodotto.

Le fessure e le altre aperture nella scatola servono alla ventilazione. Per un funzionamento affidabile, e per evitare un eventuale surriscaldamento, queste aperture non vanno ostruite o coperte in nessun modo. Evitare in tutti i casi di inserire oggetti di qualsiasi genere attraverso le fessure di ventilazione. Non versare mai del liquido di nessun tipo sull’unità.

Evitare sempre di collegare le uscite dell’amplificatore audio direttamente ai connettori dell’unità.

Per prevenire il pericolo di folgorazione e di incendio non esporre l’unità alla pioggia o ad un’umidità eccessiva; evitare di adoperare l’unità dove potrebbe entrare in contatto con acqua.

Evitare di adoperare l’unità se la stessa è stata urtata violentemente, se ha subito un danno, se è stata esposta ad un liquido o in caso di un evidente cambiamento delle prestazioni che indichi la necessità di un intervento di assistenza tecnica.

Ogni intervento sull’unità va eseguito esclusivamente da personale qualificato. La rimozione della copertura comporta l’esposizione al pericolo di folgorazione.

Ce triangle, sur votre appareil vous avertit de la présence de tension dangereuse, non-isolée à l’intérieur du boîtier...une tension suffisante pour représenter un danger d’électrocution.

Ce triangle sur sur votre appareil vous invite de suivre d’importantes instructions d’utilisation et d’entretien dans la documentation livrée avec le produit.

Il presente triangolo impresso sul componente avverte della presenza di tensioni pericolose non isolate all’interno della copertura... tali tensioni rappresentano un pericolo di folgorazione

Il presente triangolo impresso sul componente avverte l’utente della presenza nella documentazione allegata di importanti istruzioni relative al funzionamento ed alla manutenzione.

Owner's Manual

DC-1

Digital Controller

Base & THX Versions

DC-1 Digital Controller

1 Introduction to the DC-1 .............................................1

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

Unpacking and Inspection .............................................3

Using the Documentation ..............................................3

System Overview ..........................................................4

Glossary of Terms .....................................................4

DC-1 Block Diagram..................................................5

2 Installation and Calibration ........................................7

Controls and Indicators .................................................7

The Front Panel.........................................................7

The Rear Panel .........................................................8

The Remote Control ..................................................9

Connection ..................................................................11

Location Cosiderations............................................11

AC Connections ......................................................11

Wiring Considerations .............................................12

Audio/Video Connections ........................................12

Connecting the DC-1 as a preamp..........................13

Video Connections ..................................................14

Digital Audio Connections .......................................14

Recording a Digital Source Using the

DC-1 D/A Converter ..............................................14

Digital Input Status Detection ..................................15

RECORD/ZONE 2 Operation ...................................... 15

System Configuration .................................................. 17

LCD Adjustment ......................................................17

The Video On-Screen Display.................................18

System Setup ..........................................................21

Setting the Speaker Configuration ..........................22

Setting Output Levels ..............................................24

Setting Rear and Center Delays..............................26

Calibrate Panorama ................................................ 27

Customization..............................................................29

Locking Settings .......................................................... 29

Assign Custom Name..............................................29

Equalization (THX) ......................................................30

Contents

Remote Control ACCY Functions

Audio/Video Cables • Speaker Connections

Input Configuration

Rear Delay • Center Delay

Lexicon

Contents, cont'd.

3 DC-1 Effects ............................................................... 31

Customizing Effects.....................................................31

Comparing a modified Effect to the factory preset version • Restoring the original parameter values of an Effect • Naming your custom Effect • Restoring the original Effect Name • Listening to only the

DC-1 Effect

Panorama....................................................................33

Nightclub ....................................................................35

Concert Hall.................................................................36

Church ....................................................................37

Cathedral ....................................................................38

Music Logic and Music Surround (THX)...................... 39

TV Matrix .................................................................... 41

Logic 7 (THX) ..............................................................42

Mono Logic..................................................................44

Pro Logic ....................................................................45

THX Cinema (THX) .....................................................46

Party ....................................................................47

Two Channel ...............................................................47

4 Troubleshooting ........................................................ 49

5 Specifications ............................................................ 53

Installation Documentation

DC-1 Digital Controller

Introduction

to the DC-1

More than just a surround processor, the DC-1 is a digital control center with state-of-the-art performance and flexibility. A superb line level preamp, the DC-1 provides 8 audio, 5 video (3 S-VHS), and 4 digital (2 coaxial, 2 optical) inputs. The video and digital inputs can be assigned to any of the audio inputs for custom configuration. The digital inputs are processed through true 20-bit D/A converters, providing a level of performance not found in most stand alone converters. Built-in digital crossovers make it possible to tailor the output to match any speakers in a system. There is also a second set of pre-outs with independent volume and source selection to accommodate music in a separate zone.

A great deal of effort went into designing an instrument which would be flexible enough to satisfy the most critical listeners and yet be simple to operate. Essentially, the DC-1 is a signal processing computer that can be custom-programmed for any specific system. Once installed, it can be operated easily via a remote providing effects tailored for your specific listening environment, and complete control of every aspect of operation.

The Lexicon DC-1 Digital Controller has a single goal: to draw you, the listener, more deeply into a musical performance or a film. For music the DC-1 uses true stereo digital processing to recreate the original recording space or to create a new one of your choosing. For films it offers an extremely accurate version of Dolby Pro Logic surround decoding with all of the enhancements of the LucasFilm Home THX® Cinema system and Lexicon's proprietary enhancement for film soundtracks. The increase in impact of a musical performance or film when heard with the DC-1 is incredible.

To recreate the experience of being at a live musical performance the DC-1 draws on recent studies of concert-hall acoustics, and applies this research to home listening rooms. Our auditory sense is quite adept at interpreting clues about our physical environment. Even with your eyes closed, it is possible to get a good mental picture of the room or hall you are in by listening to the ambience, or reflected sound energy, in the room. We are not aware of our auditory sense in everyday life because it confirms what our eyes identify as the environment. When we listen to recorded music, however, there are no visual clues and we rely completely on our sense of hearing. The introduction of two-speaker stereo systems over thirty years ago brought dramatic improvement to high fidelity music reproduction. With a carefully-designed system, and good recording, it became possible to produce a good sonic picture of the original event. Unfortunately, our listening rooms do not approximate the acoustics of a good concert hall, an intimate jazz club, or a magnificent cathedral — our ears tell us where we really are. The Lexicon DC-1 is designed to overcome this fundamental limitation to two-speaker reproduction and bring us closer to the ultimate goal of transporting ourselves to the original musical event. The object is to increase the sideways-moving sound in a room, thus increasing Spatial Impression, or SI. The DC-1 increases SI by either extracting it from the original recording, using the Panorama or Surround effects, or by generating a new acoustic environment such as a Concert Hall, a Nightclub or a Cathedral.

Introduction

to the DC-1

Introduction to the DC-1

Lexicon

When a listener is in the correct spot the Panorama effect provides an almost ideal recreation of the original recording space. It works by using digital signal processing to cancel the crosstalk between the listener’s ears, effectively spreading the sound from the two front loudspeakers in a wide arc in front of the listener. With the optional addition of rear speakers, Panorama can be startling in its realism.

The Nightclub, Concert Hall, Church and Cathedral effects transform the listening room into a new acoustic space, letting you choose an environment which matches your music or your mood. Unlike most ambience processors, the DC-1 provides full stereo processing, preserving the critical SI information in the recording and expanding upon it. The Nightclub and Concert Hall effects generate the side and rear reflection patterns of idealized rooms and concert halls. The larger spaces add the true depth and realism of a concert hall to classical and popular music, while the smaller spaces are ideal for jazz and rock. The Church and Cathedral effects are similar, but place more emphasis on rich, dense reverberant decay than on early reflections. These effects are especially good for simulating large, highly reverberant spaces such as churches, stadiums, and cathedrals.

The requirements for processing sound for home theater are quite different than those for music. Lexicon invented the technology that permits the most accurate reproduction of film sound in the same system that is used for music listening, and the software-based DC-1 is optimized for each of these unique tasks. The Music Surround mode is specifically designed to optimally play conventional stereo music through any system which includes side or side-located rear speakers. Additionally, the DC-1 is able to perform automatic analysis and error correction to compensate for problems in the source material.

For films encoded with Dolby Surround, Lexicon has incorporated the Lucasfilm Home THX Cinema processing into the THX-equipped version of the DC-1. This utilizes a patented, completely digital Dolby Pro Logic Surround decoder, and is the only one with automatic correction of interchannel phase and channel-balance errors (the most common audio problems in currently available video releases of films).

A Stereo Surround feature extracts five channels of surround information from a standard 4-2-4 matrix-encoded soundtrack (Dolby Surround, Ultra*Stereo, etc.) This feature, available in the THX equipped version, allows the stereo music in soundtracks to be reproduced with a full stereo spread, unencumbered by the relatively narrow separation of the front speakers. Left-to-surround, and right-to-surround pans are also enhanced. Instead of sound jumping from a front channel to both surrounds, the left and right side speakers can function independently to facilitate smooth and fluid pans. Sounds directed to hard left and hard right (the main left and right speakers) will not appear in the side surrounds.

DC-1 Digital Controller

This technique overcomes the limitation of the monaural sound channel inherent in these formats, while remaining true to the front hemisphere directional cues. The audio imaging tracks the picture image in a way which fulfills the intent of the sound mixer. The drama of this effect is most noticeable with strong stereo music soundtracks.

The DC-1 also provides effects for expanding monaural film sound tracks (Mono Logic), general TV viewing (TV Matrix), background music (Party) and, of course, Two Channel stereo playback.

Designed with an eye toward the future, the DC-1's open architecture allows upgrades to expanding technologies such as Dolby AC-3 via simple modifications which can be performed by any Lexicon dealer. With its blend of performance and flexibility, the DC-1 will deliver the full potential of music and movies for years to come.

Introduction

to the DC-1

After unpacking the DC-1 , save all packing materials in case you ever need to ship the unit. Thoroughly inspect the DC-1 and packing materials for signs of damage. Remove the adhesive protective film from the DC-1 frontpanel lens and remote control. Report any shipment damage to the carrier at once; report equipment malfunction to your dealer.

Because the DC-1 is designed to be customized for your system and your listening space, the information required for installation is extensive.

This manual describes both the DC-1 base system and the THX version. Some of the features described are available only in the THX version. To upgrade a base system, contact your dealer, or Lexicon. In most cases, upgrading can be accomplished very easily and rapidly.

The Owner's Manual is designed to assist you in installing, calibrating and operating the DC-1. It should be used in conjunction with the Remote Control when configuring the system to perform optimally in your environment. This manual was written with the underlying assumption that the installer is familiar with audio/video system installation.

An Installation worksheet is provided in Chapter 5 of the Owner's Manual for documentation of the settings arrived at during the calibration procedure.

Unpacking and Inspection

Using the Documentation

Whether you are performing the installation, or simply using the system, we hope that you will read the Theory and Design booklet. Understanding the goals of DC-1 design will make sense of each step in the setup procedure, and will help you make the most of the operating features.

Introduction to the DC-1

Lexicon

System Overview

Glossary of Terms

Although the DC-1 performs very complex signal processing, a great deal of effort has gone into making the technology behind the effects as transparent as possible to the user. To understand the overall organization of the unit, it is helpful to define those few terms which are unique to the DC-1.

Effect An effect is a configuration that determines how the DC-1 will process an input signal. The base unit contains 11 effects: Panorama,

Nightclub, Concert Hall, Church, Cathedral, Music Logic, TV Matrix, Mono Logic, Pro Logic, Party and Two Channel. The THX version of the DC-1 contains these effects as well as Music Surround, THX and Logic 7.

Parameter Each Effect has a set of parameters (controls) that uniquely characterize it. The settings of the parameters can be changed to customize each Effect.

Effect Parameter values are stored/recalled with each Effect. Some examples are: Rolloff, Sub Bass Boost, etc.

System parameter values are not associated with a particular Effect and their values do not change when a new Effect is loaded. Examples are: display contrast, volume, etc.

Presets The DC-1 contains a set of Effects with factory-set parameters. You can use these Effects as is, or make changes to the parameters to suit your own needs. The factory parameter settings are permanently stored in memory where they can be accessed for comparison with your own versions, or restored.

Essentially, the DC-1 can be thought of as a line level preamp D/A converter with three audio-only, five audio/video, and four digital inputs. It behaves as the master processor for your system, controlling system volume, EQ, balance, source selections, output selections for audio and video, and acoustical environments specifically designed for music and movies.

The remote control provided with the DC-1 is designed for simple daily use, as well as for use in configuring the DC-1 to work optimally with your system. The remote gives you access to setup controls and parameter menus for all of the DC-1 Effects.

In many systems, a universal, or learning remote, may take the place of the DC-1 remote. If you are using one of these, we strongly suggest that the types of operating controls we have provided be adapted into the universal remote. We have found these controls enhance the listening/viewing experience while keeping the technology transparent.

DC-1 Digital Controller

Introduction

to the DC-1

DC-1 Block Diagram

DC-1 Digital Controller

Controls and Indicators

The Front Panel

1. ON/OFF

ON/OFF alternately puts the DC-1 into and out of standby mode. Turning the DC-1 off with this button (or with the remote) deactivates the unit while leaving power to the signal processing circuitry to keep it at optimum operating temperature. Turning the DC-1 on with this button (or the remote) will restore the previous operating state.

2. Input Selection

Pressing any of these buttons (VCR1, VCR2, V DISC, TV, AUX, CD, TUNER, TAPE) selects the input at the corresponding rear panel connector as the current input selection and lights a green LED.

3. REC/ZONE 2

Selects and deselects the current input source for the RECORD and ZONE 2 outputs. When the REC/ZONE 2 function is engaged, the red LEDs are lit on the REC/ ZONE 2 button and on the selected source input button. To change the REC/ZONE 2 source, press and hold down REC/ZONE 2 while pressing another input selector.

The RECORD video and audio outputs, as well as the ZONE 2 audio outputs are enabled with REC/ZONE 2. Some specific record sources are disallowed because of the potential for feedback loops. By default these are TAPE and VCR1. If a prohibited source is selected, an error message is displayed. The prohibited REC/ZONE 2 source choices can be changed in the Setup menu.

4. EFFECT

Displays the current effect, then steps through all available effects.

5. BYPASS

Toggles the selected effect on and off. The stereo analog or digital inputs are fed unprocessed to the front left and right and subwoofer outputs while all other amplifier outputs are muted. A front panel LED will light yellow and screen messages indicate bypass is engaged.

6. MUTE

Attenuates all audio outputs except for RECORD or ZONE 2, lights a red LED, and displays a screen message to indicate mute is engaged. The attenuation level can be set in the Setup menu.

7. IR Receiver and LED

The IR receiver has an associated activity LED that lights green when valid IR signals are received, and an LED that lights red to indicate an overload condition at the inputs or within the DSP path. An IR input jack is available on the rear panel for a remote mounted IR receiver. The green activity LED remains illuminated when the unit is placed in Standby.

8. Display

A 2x20 backlit amber LCD displays the result of user action and the current status.

9. VOLUME

A position independent rotary encoder provides volume adjustment of all outputs, except for RECORD or ZONE2. Screen displays show a volume bar and level in dB, as well as the current volume setting.

Installation and

Calibration

Installation and

Calibration

Installation and Calibration

The Rear Panel

CAUTION: Never make or break any connections to the DC-1 with the rear-panel power ON. Make sure any associated amplifiers have been turned off for at least one minute before turning this master power switch on or off.

Lexicon

1. AUDIO INPUTS

Eight stereo analog audio inputs are switched with corresponding video inputs and fed to the Monitor outputs. Inputs are nominally labeled as originating from an audio tape player, tuner, CD player, an unspecified auxiliary source, a TV tuner, a Laser or Video Disc player, a secondary, and a primary VCR.

2. ZONE2 and RECORD

Each pair of stereo audio outputs supplies the same signal according to the record input selection. ZONE2 signal levels can be controlled independently for use with a second set of amplifiers and speakers in another room. ZONE2 can also be used as a second record output. When the output for ZONE2 is set to 0dB (unity gain), it has the same output level as RECORD. RECORD can be expanded to two outputs using standard Y-connectors. Both outputs are muted in standby.

3. MAIN OUTPUTS

Three stereo amplifier outputs are provided for front, side and rear speakers. Single monaural outputs are provided for the center speaker and the subwoofer. The audio outputs are muted in standby.

4. S/PDIF INPUTS

Two coaxial RCA connectors and two optical connectors are provided for digital audio in the S/PDIF format at a

44.1kHz +1000 ppm sample rate.

5. REMOTES: IR IN, PWR CTL

The IR input is a miniature phone jack connector for input of modulated IR receiver data from an externally mounted IR LED receiver. Data is retransmitted by an IR LED mounted near the front panel IR receiver.

To prevent a feedback loop with the record outputs, VCR1 and TAPE are normally restricted from assignment as record outputs. TAPE, TUNER, and CD default to VCR1 as a video input. Any input label and its default status can be changed in the Setup menu.

The Power Control port is a 5-Pin DIN connector. Pins 1 and 2 are ground, pin 3 is high when unit is on, low in standby or Off. High is indicated by either +5VDC or +12VDC, selectable via an internal jumper. Pin 5 can be enabled (high) or disabled (low) for specific input selections in the Setup menu.

6. VIDEO INPUTS

Five video input sources are provided. VCR1, VCR2 and V DISC, have both composite and S-video capabilities. (S-video is selected in preference to the composite signal.) AUX and TV accept composite only. Video inputs are selected with their corresponding audio inputs and fed to the selected monitor output jack. Record output jacks can be selected independently.

7. VIDEO OUTPUTS

RCA (composite) and S-video connectors are provided for monitor and record. If an Svideo input is used, both Svideo and composite are available at each output. If the video input is composite, only composite is available at each output. The monitor output incorporates the onscreen video overlay. Unless RECORD is enabled, the record output follows the monitor output selection without the on-screen display feature. Both outputs are blanked in standby.

8. Power On/Off

Master power switch disconnects the AC Mains. This switch is intended to be left On during regular use. Whenever cables are connected or disconnected, or when the unit is not going to be used for an extended period of time, this switch should be set to Off.

9. POWER

AC power connector: 2-wire, 10 Amp, IEC 320.

DC-1 Digital Controller

1. OFF and ON

Separate OFF and ON buttons are provided for learning remotes, so that an automated key sequence does not require information regarding the current on/off status of the unit. OFF puts the unit into standby with audio muted, video blanked, the LCD and all LEDs, except for IR activity, turned off. The IR LED remains illuminated and the IR receiver remains active. The selected input, record status, current effect, volume and balance settings, and bypass state are saved. ON umutes audio and restores the unit to the state it was in prior to standby.

2. EFFECT Up and Down

Display the current effect, then step through all available effects. In standby, pressing either button turns the unit on, puts it into its last known state, and loads the last effect used.

3. BYPASS

Puts the front left and right outputs into stereo bypass. The stereo analog or digital inputs are fed unprocessed to the front left/right amplifier outputs while all other amplifier outputs are muted. A front panel LED will light yellow and screen messages indicate bypass is engaged.

4. MUTE

Attenuates all audio outputs except for RECORD or ZONE 2, lights a red LED, and displays a screen message. Attenuation level can be set in the Setup menu. In standby, turns the unit on and puts it into its last known state.

5. VOLUME Up and Down Display the current volume setting, then adjust all outputs, except RECORD and ZONE 2. Screen displays show a volume bar and level in dB. In standby, pressing either button turns the unit on and puts it into its last known state.

6. BALANCE Front/Rear and Left/Right

Display, then adjust the Front/ Rear and Left/Right level balances. Front and Rear controls change the level balance between the front (Left, Center, Right) and rear (L&R Side, L&R Rear) outputs.

The Remote Control

Left and Right controls change the level balance between the left and right Front, Side and Rear outputs. In standby, pressing any BALANCE button restores operation.

7. Input Selection

Individual buttons select from 8 inputs and activate a corresponding green LED on the front panel. Depending on the Setup configuration, selection may also load a new effect. In standby, pressing any Input Selection button turns the unit on, selects the source and loads the assigned effect, or restores the last known state.

Installation and

Calibration

8. RECORD/ZONE 2

Selects and deselects the current input source for RECORD and ZONE2 outputs. When the REC/ZONE 2 function is engaged, red LEDs are lit at the front panel REC/ ZONE2 button and at the selected source input button. To modify the ZONE 2 output without affecting other output levels, press and hold RECORD/ZONE2 while adjusting VOLUME.

Press MUTE while holding down RECORD/ZONE2 to fully attenuate the ZONE2 outputs. The ZONE2 mute status will be indicated by a screen message. The attenuation level of the ZONE2 output mute is not user adjustable. Repeat to cancel MUTE.

9. MENU: SELECT, ▲ , ▼ and DONE

Allow access to and adjustment of all displayed menu items. (Volume, Bypass, Balance and Mute functions remain activein menu mode.) MENU ▲ and ▼ step a display cursor through listed menu items. SELECT displays submenus, or chooses a menu item for adjustment. The ▲ and ▼ buttons alter the settings of selected parameters. DONE saves the current changes.

Press one of the EFFECT buttons, any Input Selector, RECORD/ZONE2, or any BALANCE button to exit. Press OFF to exit the menu and enter standby.

10. ACCY

Provides accessory functions when pressed in conjunction with other remote buttons. (See following page.)

Installation and Calibration

Remote Control

ACCY Functions

Lexicon

Press and hold ACCY while pressing DONE to activate a "You Are Here" mode which:

• Disables mute

• Sets volume to -30dB

• Centers Balance controls

• Loads the Pro Logic Effect

• Selects the VCR1 input

• Activates On-Screen display with 2 second timeout

• Sets Remote Trigger ON

• Sets all tone controls to 0dB or OFF

DC-1 Digital Controller

Installation and

Calibration

Connection

The DC-1 is a highly specialized signal processing computer and requires special care during installation to ensure optimum performance.

The DC-1 may be installed on a shelf or in a standard 19" equipment rack, using rack-mounting hardware available from Lexicon. Observe the following precautions:

• Select a dry, well-ventilated location out of direct sunlight.

• Do not stack the DC-1 directly above heat-producing equipment such as power amplifiers.

• Avoid placing the DC-1 near unshielded TV or FM antennas, cable TV decoders, or other receivers. The DC-1 may interfere with some FM tuners if it is placed immediately above or below them. Some products, particularly power amplifiers, may cause hum in the DC-1 if they are in close proximity.

• Make sure the DC-1 front panel IR receiver window is unobstructed. The remote control must be in line-of-sight to this receiver for proper operation. If line-of-sight is impractical, an infrared remote repeater can be used with the rear panel IR connector. The DC-1 may be placed in a glass-doored cabinet but smoked glass will make the front panel Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) difficult to read and will reduce the sensitivity of the IR receiver.

Location Considerations

The DC-1 is designed to be connected to an uninterrupted AC power line in the same manner as a VCR or aTV with a clock in it. Like all computers, the DC-1 is sensitive to voltage fluctuations. We therefore recommend the use of an AC line filter to protect against line surges, or the installation of a line conditioner to protect against under voltage (brownouts) as well as overvoltage conditions.

The DC-1 has a master power switch on the rear panel above the IEC standard AC power receptacle. This switch may be left ON continuously when the unit is in regular use. When the DC-1 will not be used for an extended period of time, or whenever you are connecting or disconnecting any cables to the unit, this switch should be turned OFF.

Connect the power cable to the DC-1, then plug the power cord into a wall outlet or into an unswitched outlet on a surge protector. Be sure that the power cord is firmly seated in the connector on the rear panel of the DC-1.

AC Connections

Installation and Calibration

Wiring Considerations

Lexicon

Audio/Video Cables

Speaker Connections

There is controversy over the audible effects of different types of interconnects. Good engineering practices have minimized the effect that cables might have on the inputs and outputs of the DC-1 — but feel free to evaluate different interconnects in your system. If you want to do some tweaking, be conscious of the mechanical stress from repeated insertion and overly tight connectors, and the possibly corrosive nature of some contact-enhancing fluids.

Note that the use of standard audio cables for video or digital audio applications may cause signal degradation, and is not recommended. For these connections, please use only cables that are designed for the application — these have different impedance characteristics than cables approved for analog audio applications.

Both audio and video cables should be kept as short as possible.

In general, speaker cables should be kept short, and low-impedance wire should be used throughout to assure efficient power transmission and avoid audible distortion. Recommended wire lengths are given in the table below. Although these examples can be used as a general guide, your system manuals should provide detailed information specific to your components.

Audio/Video

Connections

Wire Lengths

Length AWG Size

up to 12 feet 16 gauge up to 18 feet 14 gauge up to 29 feet 12 gauge up to 51 feet 10 gauge

Before making any connections, turn off ALL audio and video components, including individual power amplifiers. (Unplug any preamps and power amps that don’t have power switches.)

The DC-1 is designed to function as the control center of the system, selecting inputs and controlling the volume of all speakers in the system. There are several ways to integrate the DC-1 into the system, but they basically fall into two categories: those where the DC-1 is connected directly to all of the amplifiers in the room, and those where the DC-1 is connected into a tape or signal processor loop of a preamp or receiver.

You may choose to connect the DC-1 in the tape monitor, or external processor loop of a preamp, allowing you to completely bypass the DC-1. This, however, will make the system somewhat more complicated to operate, and adds a gain stage (the preamp) that is not needed.

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