Mark Levinson No 502 Owners manual
Owner’s Manual
No502
Media Console
FCC Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Caution!
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Canada
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Mark Levinson and Logic 7 are registered trademarks of Harman International
Industries.
HDCP and High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection are trademarks of Intel LLC.
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby”, “Pro Logic”,
“Surround EX” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
DTS, DTS-ES and Neo:6 are trademarks or registered trademarks of DTS, Inc.
HDMI and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered
trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in
the United States and/or other countries.
Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective
companies with which they are associated.
For customer service and product
shipment information, refer to the
website: www.marklevinson.com
©2008 Harman International Industries, Incorporated. All rights reserved.
Part No. 070-18870| Rev 0 |02/08
This document should not be construed as a commitment on the part of
Harman International Industries, Incorporated. The information it contains is
subject to change without notice. Harman International Industries,
Incorporated assumes no responsibility for errors that may appear within this
document.
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus
that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has
two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles and the point where it exits from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the manufacturer or
sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/
apparatus combination to avoid injury or tip over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as when the power-supply cord or plug is damaged; liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus; or the apparatus has been exposed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally or has been dropped.
15. The MAINS cord is intended to be the safety disconnect device for this apparatus and shall
remain readily operable at all times.
16. Ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items such as
newspapers, table cloths, curtains and so on.
17. No naked flame sources, such as candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
18. Terminals marked with this symbol may be considered HAZARDOUS LIVE, and the
external wiring connected to these terminals requires installation by an INSTRUCTED
PERSON or the use of ready-made leads or cords.
19. This product must be terminated with a three-conductor AC mains power cord that includes an
earth ground connection. To prevent shock hazard, all three connections must ALWAYS be used.
iii
Warning!
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The
apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
Safety Terms & Symbols
Mark Levinson
Terms in This Manual
These terms may appear in this manual:
Warning! Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the like that,
if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal
injury or death.
Caution! Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition or the like that,
if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage
or destruction to part or all of the component.
Note Calls attention to information that is essential to highlight.
Symbols on the
Product
iv
These symbols may appear on the product:
Appears on the component to indicate the presence of
noninsulated, dangerous voltage inside the enclosure – voltage that
may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.
Appears on the component to indicate important operation and
maintenance instructions included in the accompanying
documentation.
Appears on the component to indicate compliance with the EMC
(Electromagnetic Compatibility) and LVD (Low-Voltage Directive)
standards of the European community.
o
N
502 Media Console
Documentation Conventions
How This Manual is
Organized
This document contains general safety and operation instructions
for the N
before attempting to use this product. Please pay particular
attention to safety instructions.
This manual is not intended as a general reference guide for home theater
systems. If you’re uncertain how to set up or maintain your system, seek
the advice of a professional installer or ask your dealer for a
recommendation.
All product graphics are included for reference only and may not
completely reflect the physical product that is shipped.
This manual is divided into five sections:
• Getting Started provides an overview of the Nº502 Media
• Basic Operation explains the basic functions of the front and
• Customizing the Nº502 describes how to set up the Nº502
o
502 Media Console. It is important to read this document
Console and includes installation and power considerations,
product information, unpacking instructions, and a first-time
operation procedure.
rear panels, remote control, and menu system.
Media Console and includes information on advanced user
features such as trigger outputs, ML Net, and downloading the
configuration.
v
Conventions
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance provides information for
troubleshooting and descriptions of error messages, as well as
maintenance instructions for proper care of the Nº502 Media
Console.
•The Appendix provides the specifications, Declaration of
Conformity, menu trees and other useful information.
This manual uses the following conventions:
• The names of buttons, knobs, and connectors on the product
are represented in the same manner in the manual. For
instance, if a button is labeled as “FP DISPLAY” on the front
panel of the product, then the manual refers to that button as
“FP DISPLAY”.
• Menu names are derived from their associated buttons – i.e., the
Setup button opens the Setup menu. Any submenus associated
with the main menu follow the same rule.
Mark Levinson
vi
Nº502 Media Console
Table of Contents
Section 1: Getting Started
About the No502 Media Console .....................................1-1
Installation Considerations ...............................................1-3
Power Requirements ........................................................1-4
First-Time Operation ........................................................1-5
Replacing the Remote Control Batteries ...........................1-6
Section 2: Basic Operation
Front Panel Overview ......................................................2-1
Rear Panel Overview ........................................................2-4
Remote Control Overview ................................................2-8
Remote Control Versus Front Panel ................................2-11
Menu System Overview ..................................................2-12
Status Panels .................................................................2-15
Section 3: Customizing the No502
Add New, Name, & Delete ...............................................3-1
Setup Step 1: Displays ......................................................3-3
Display Setup ...................................................................3-4
Setup Step 2: Speakers .....................................................3-7
Speaker Setup ..................................................................3-8
Video Profiles ................................................................3-25
Audio Profiles ................................................................3-28
Activities ........................................................................3-32
User Options .................................................................3-35
Triggers .........................................................................3-41
Internal Web Pages .......................................................3-43
ML Net ..........................................................................3-43
Using Surround Modes ...................................................3-47
Surround Mode Descriptions ..........................................3-48
Surround Mode Parameter Descriptions ..........................3-55
Name Selector ...............................................................3-59
Section 4: Troubleshooting & Maintenance
Automatic Calibration Errors ............................................4-6
Error Messages ................................................................4-8
Troubleshooting Display Formats ...................................4-11
Restoring Factory Default Settings .................................4-14
Care & Maintenance .......................................................4-15
vii
Mark Levinson
Appendix
Specifications .................................................................. A-1
o
N
502 Media Console Dimensions ................................... A-4
Declaration of Conformity ............................................... A-5
Rack Mount Kit Instructions ............................................. A-6
Activity Menu & Zone Menu Trees ................................... A-7
Display Setup & Video Profile Setup Menu Trees .............. A-8
Speaker Setup Menu Tree ................................................ A-9
Audio Profile Setup & Activity Setup Menu Trees ............ A-10
User Options Setup Menu Tree ...................................... A-11
Understanding Room Correction ................................... A-12
Surround Sound Issues .................................................. A-17
Link2 ............................................................................ A-19
Saving the N
o
502 Configuration .................................... A-20
Index
viii
1
Getting Started
Product Description
About the N
Thank you for purchasing the Nº502 Media Console. True to the
Mark Levinson® tradition of home theater excellence, the superb
sound and broadcast-quality video processing capabilities of the
Nº502 Media Console are unsurpassed in today’s marketplace.
The Nº502 Media Console features an intuitive interface with
user-configurable Activity list, separate audio and video profiles,
and independent speaker configurations. Profiles and Setups can be
configured and then assigned to multiple Activities, making setup
time shorter while providing maximum flexibility. With a wide
range of available audio and video input formats, multiple Activities
can be assigned to efficiently manage a wide range of media sources.
The fully automated calibration performs speaker distances and
levels calibration as well as Room Correction, which neutralizes
room modes, making all audio sources sound more accurate and
true to the original recording.
The large full-color front panel display, capable of producing
elegant bit-accurate graphics, allows access to the Nº502’s menu
system and can also be used in Preview mode. Preview mode
enables other video inputs to be viewed without disturbing the
current activity, providing an effective means to monitor multiple
inputs without disturbing the active video source.
o
502 Media Console
1-1
The Nº502 features an extensive list of surround modes, including
Logic 7, Dolby, and DTS modes. To retain the purity of the audio,
the Nº502 has separate analog output cards for each channel and all
input/output connectors are isolated from the chassis to prevent
noise pickup from common impedance coupling. In addition, the
volume controls have been redesigned for improved noise
performance at lower volume settings while still preserving the full
digital depth of the audio.
The Nº502 contains state-of-the-art, broadcast-quality video
processing capability, enabling true-to-life colors, exceptional
detail, and deep blacks. In addition, the Nº502 uses
specially-designed motion adaptive video de-interlacing with edge
interpolation for both high-definition and standard definition
video sources. Advanced noise reduction and detail enhancement
circuitry cleans up and sharpens images degraded by compression
or analgo circuitry from such sources as standard DVDs and satellite
or cable broadcasts.
Getting Started Mark Levinson
For external controls, the Nº502 introduces ML Net protocol, which
controls and synchronizes other Mark Levinson products through
the use of an Ethernet port. RS-232, programmable triggers, and
Mark Levinson Link2 functions are also supported.
The Nº502 Media Console is Mark Levinson’s finest processor to
date. The processing power and superb performance will simply
astound you, as will its simplicity and versatility, proving that this
product is the latest in a line of products that represent the very
best.
1-2
What’s in the Box
Available Options
The following is included with your Nº502 Media Console:
Item Quantity
Nº502 Media Console 1
Nº502 remote control 1
Phillips-head screwdriver 1
Nº502 owner’s manual (this document) 1
AAA alkaline batteries (for remote control) 2
White gloves 1 pair
RCA-BNC connectors 3
Detachable AC power cord*
*Not included in shipments to Japan
The following optional accessories are available for purchase:
• 4-Microphone Kit - provides four microphones for use with the
automatic calibration.
• Rack Mount Kit - provides the mounting hardware necessary to
install the Nº502 into an equipment rack.
1
Product Registration
Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer for availability and
pricing. Authorized dealers may also have information on
additional options.
Register your Nº502 online at www.marklevinson.com within 15
days of purchase. Retain the original, dated sales receipt as proof of
warranty coverage.
Nº502 Media Console Getting Started
Installation Considerations
The Nº502 Media Console requires special care during installation
to ensure optimal performance. Pay particular attention to
instructions included in this section and to precautions included
throughout this owner’s manual.
Unpacking DO save all packing materials for possible future shipping needs.
DO inspect the Nº502 for signs of damage during shipment. If
damage is discovered, contact your authorized Mark Levinson
dealer for assistance in making appropriate claims.
DO locate and remove the accessory box from the carton. Make
sure it contains all of the items listed in the “What’s in the Box”
table on the previous page. If not, contact your authorized Mark
Levinson dealer.
Placement and
Ventilation
DO install the Nº502 Media Console on its own shelf for proper
ventilation.
DO install the Nº502 chassis on a solid, flat, level surface.
DO install the Nº502 Media Console close to associated
components to keep interconnecting cables as short as possible.
DO select a dry, well-ventilated location out of direct sunlight.
DO allow at least 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10cm) of clearance above the
Media Console for proper heat dissipation.
DO NOT place the Nº502 on a thick rug or carpet or cover the
Nº502 Media Console with a cloth, as this might prevent proper
cooling.
DO NOT expose the Nº502 Media Console to high temperatures,
humidity, steam, smoke, dampness, or excessive dust. Avoid
installing the processor near radiators and other heat-producing
appliances.
DO NOT install the Nº502 near unshielded TV or FM antennas,
cable TV decoders, or other RF-emitting devices that might cause
interference.
1-3
DO NOT place the Nº502 on a windowsill or in any location
where it will be exposed to direct sunlight.
Getting Started Mark Levinson
DO NOT obstruct the IR (infrared) receiver/transmitter located on
the front panel display. The remote control must be in line-of-sight
with the front panel IR receiver. If strong sunlight or fluorescent
light shines on the IR receiver, remote control may be unreliable.
Warning! MAKE SURE all components are properly grounded. Do not defeat
the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs with
“ground-lifter” or “cheater” adapters. Doing so may cause
dangerous voltage to build up between components, which may
result in personal injuries and/or product damage.
Power Requirements
At the factory, the Nº502 Media Console is configured for 100, 120,
220, or 230-240 VAC power operation at 50Hz or 60Hz. Before
operating the Nº502, ensure that the power label on the rear panel
near the AC input connector indicates the correct operating voltage.
1-4
Caution! DO NOT attempt to adjust the operating voltage. Consult a Mark
Operating States
Caution! BEFORE moving the N
Levinson dealer if the operating voltage is incorrect or must be
changed for relocation purposes.
Different operating voltages may require the use of different
power cords and/or attachment plugs. Contact a Mark Levinson
dealer for additional assistance.
The Nº502 Media Console is designed for continuous operation and
has three operating states:
• Off – the AC mains power is disconnected using the front panel
Power switch or by removing the power cord from the rear
panel.
• Standby – the Nº502 is powered up, but the audio outputs are
muted and the video outputs are off.
• On – everything is powered up and all configured outputs are
active.
o
502 Media Console, make sure it is
powered off with the power button. Then make sure the power
cord is disconnected from the rear panel connector and the
electrical outlet.
Nº502 Media Console Getting Started
First-Time Operation
Perform the following steps to unpack and power up the new Nº502
Media Console.
Unpacking
Initial Power-Up
1. Position the box so that the top side is facing up.
2. Use a utility knife to slice open the box and lift the box sides
apart to reveal the inner box.
3. Carefully slice open the inner box and lift the box sides apart.
4. Remove the white accessory box and put it aside.
5. Remove the foam insert from the top of the Nº502 Media
Console.
6. Carefully lift the Nº502 out of the box.
7. Remove the antistatic bag from the Nº502.
1. Connect all system speakers and amplifiers to the Audio Output
connectors on the rear panel of the Nº502.
2. Using an HDMI cable, connect a DVD player output to the
HDMI-1 input on the rear panel of the Nº502.
3. Using a second HDMI cable, connect the HDMI-1 output on the
Nº502 to the display input.
1-5
4. Plug the power cord into the rear panel AC Input connector of
the Nº502 and then connect to your wall outlet. Make sure that
the power rating listed on the rear panel of the Nº502 is less
than the power available at the wall outlet.
5. Press the Power button on the front panel. When the Nº502
completes its power-up cycle, it automatically enters Standby
mode. When the LED above the Standby button begins to
slowly blink, the Nº502 is ready.
6. Press the Standby button to take the Nº502 out of Standby
mode.
Note If the front panel display is not bright enough or is too bright, multiple
presses of the front panel Display Intensity button scrolls through the
different brightness levels.
Getting Started Mark Levinson
7. Press the Activity button on the remote control. Verify that the
TV Activity is in red test, indicating that TV is the currently
selected Activity.
8. Put a disc in the DVD player and press the Play button. Once
the disc loads, the DVD media should be visible on the front
panel display. Also confirm that the audio track can be heard
through the front left and right speakers.
Now that the Nº502 Media Console is unpacked and initial
power-up confirmed, it’s time to set up and calibrate the system.
The rest of the manual is designed to help with these steps.
• Chapter 2: Basic Operation reviews the basic functions of
the front and rear panels, remote control, and menu system.
• Chapter 3: Customizing the Nº502 explains how to set up
the Nº502 and discusses advanced user functions such as trigger
outputs, ML Net, and the configuration download utility.
• Chapter 4: Troubleshooting and Maintenance provides a
troubleshooting guide and error message descriptions, as well as
maintenance instructions.
1-6
•The Appendix provides Nº502 specifications, menu trees,
rack-mount instructions, and other useful information.
Replacing the Remote Control Batteries
The Nº502 Media Console remote control has two installed AAA
batteries. These should be replaced as required. We recommend
using alkaline batteries, which are long lasting and do not leak.
To replace the remote control batteries:
1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the
remote control.
2. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, remove the three screws from
the battery compartment cover and set them aside.
3. Remove the battery compartment cover.
4. Remove old batteries.
5. Observing the proper polarity, insert the new batteries.
6. Position the cover over the battery compartment and replace
the screws removed in Step 2.
7. Properly dispose of the old batteries.
2
Basic Operation
Front Panel Overview
The numbers in the front panel illustration correspond with the summary
list of items below.
1
2
3
4
5
11
12
1. Zone button
2. Preview button
3. Display Intensity
button
4. Setup button
5. Menu button
13
6. Mute button
7. Video Profile
8. Audio Profile
9. Surround button
10. Enter button
14
button
button
6
7
8
9
10
2-1
15
11. Activity knob
12. Standby button
13. Power button
14. Front Panel Display
15. Volume knob
1. Zone button
2. Preview button
Switches the Nº502 controls between the Main Zone and Remote Zone.
When the Zone LED is lit, only the Remote Zone controls are active.
Controls that are Main Zone specific (for instance, the Video Profile
menu) are not accessible while the Zone LED is lit.
Allows the preview of video sources that are not part of the current
Activity. Preview mode is only active when the front panel LED located to
the left of the Preview button is illuminated.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
2-2
3. Display
Intensity button
4. Setup button
5. Menu button
6. Mute button
Controls the brightness intensity level of the front panel display and all
LEDs on the front panel. Multiple presses of the Display Intensity button
cycle through the available brightness levels – High, Medium, Low, and
Off.
The Display Intensity button also provides access to the alternative video
output monitor. Refer to the “Monitor Out” description in the “Rear Panel
Overview” section found later in this chapter for more details.
Accesses the Setup menu to configure all system functions, advanced user
options, and connectivity of the Nº502 Media Console. In addition,
pressing the Setup button from within any menu closes the menu
structure. To set up the Nº502, refer to Chapter 3: Customizing the Nº502.
Accesses the Main Zone Audio menu to make real-time adjustments to
various audio features of the Nº502. In addition, when the Menu button is
pressed from within any menu, the navigation returns to the previous
menu level.
Reduces the volume of the audio output within the Main Zone or Remote
Zone. When the Mute function is active, the front panel Mute LED is lit.
To deactivate the Mute control, simply adjust the volume or press the
Mute button until the front panel Mute LED is NOT lit. The actual
volume-level change of the Mute function can be modified in the Setup
menu.
7. Video Profile
button
8. Audio Profile
button
9. Surround
button
10. Enter button
Accesses the list of available Video Profiles. Multiple presses of the Video
Profile button scrolls through the list; pressing the Enter button loads the
new selection. The loaded Video Profile displays in red text.
Accesses the list of available Audio Profiles. Multiple presses of the Audio
Profile button scrolls through the list; pressing the Enter button loads the
new selection. The loaded Audio Profile displays in red text.
Accesses the list of available surround modes. Multiple presses of the
Surround button scrolls through the list; pressing the Enter button loads
the new selection. The loaded surround mode displays in red text.
Has two functions in the menu system:
• to advance through the menus.
• to save a modified parameter value.
Nº502 Media Console Basic Operation
11. Activity knob
12. Standby
button
13. Power button
The Activity knob has two functions:
• accesses the list of available Activities. Turning the knob scrolls
through the list; pressing the Enter button loads the new selection.
The loaded Activity displays in red text.
• performs the same function as the and buttons on the remote
control from within any menu structure.
• Navigates through the Activity list while in Preview mode.
Activates and deactivates the Nº502’s Standby mode. The Standby LED
located directly above the Standby button is illuminated when the Nº502
is operational, and blinks slowly when the Nº502 is in Standby mode.
Controls the AC input to the Nº502 when the supplied power cord is
connected between the rear panel power connector and an electrical outlet.
• When the Nº502 is off, pressing the Power button supplies AC power,
putting the Nº502 into Standby mode.
• When the Nº502 is powered on or is in Standby mode, pressing the
Power button disconnects the AC power, turning off the Nº502.
Caution! Before operating the N
14. Front Panel
Display
15. Volume knob
o
502, verify that the voltage label near the AC
input connector indicates an operating voltage compatible with the
voltage level of the electrical outlet you intend to use.
The full-color front panel display can:
• access the menu system without having to turn on the main video
display.
• monitor the Main Zone when the main display is out of sight.
• view a different video source without disturbing the main display.
• verify Remote Zone status.
Turning the Volume knob adjusts the volume level. The volume range for
the Main Zone is 0 to 100 in 0.1 increments. The volume range for the
Remote Zone is 0 to 100 in 0.5 increments.
The volume control for the Main and Remote Zones are independent of
each other; adjusting the Volume knob only changes the volume in the
currently active Zone. For example, adjusting the Remote Zone Volume
does not affect the Main Zone Volume.
2-3
When adjusting the volume, you may notice an REF tag positioned on the
adjustment bar. REF indicates the Reference Volume level.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
Rear Panel Overview
The numbers in the rear panel illustration correspond with the summary
list of items below.
2-4
1
2
14
16
7 8
17
10
11
3
4
5
6
15
18
12
19
139
20
1. Composite
Video Inputs
2. HDMI Inputs
1. Composite Video
Inputs
2. HDMI Inputs
3. Digital Audio Inputs
4. AES/EBU Inputs
5. S-Video Inputs
6. Component Video
Inputs
7. HDMI Outputs
Accept composite analog video inputs. There are three composite video
connectors labeled 1 to 3.
Accept High-Definition Multimedia Interface™ (HDMI) inputs. There are
six HDMI input connectors labeled 1 to 6.
8. Monitor Out
9. Component Video
Output
10. Link2 port
11. Trigger Outputs
12. RS-232 Control port
13. Ethernet port
14. Microphone Inputs
15. Analog Audio Outputs
16. Analog Audio Inputs
17. IR Input
18. 7.1-Channel/
5.1-Channel Analog
Audio Input
19. AC Input
20. Remote Zone Analog
Audio Outputs
Nº502 Media Console Basic Operation
3. Digital Audio
Inputs
4. AES/EBU Inputs
5. S-Video Inputs
6. Component
Video Inputs
7. HDMI Outputs
Note Only one video output connector, either the Component, HDMI-1, or
Accept S/PDIF digital audio inputs using six coaxial RCA connectors,
labeled 1 to 6, and three TOSlink optical connectors, labeled 1 to 3.
Accept two AES/EBU XLR inputs, labeled 1 and 2, for carrying digital
audio signals.
Accept S-video inputs. There are three S-video input connectors labeled 1
to 3.
Accept component video inputs through four Y-Pb-Pr connector sets,
labeled 1 to 4.
Provide HDMI outputs for HDMI-equipped displays through two
connectors labeled 1 and 2.
HDMI-2 connector, can be active at any given time.
8. Monitor Out
Note The front panel display and Monitor Out share the same video signal.
9. Component
Video Output
Provides an output for an alternative video monitor. The default setting
for the Monitor Out(put) is Off.
Therefore, when the Monitor Out connector is turned on, the front panel
display is deactivated.
The monitor output can only be turned on by a key press command on
the Nº502 front panel.
To activate the Monitor Out connector, press and hold the Display
Intensity button until the front panel display turns off. The Monitor Out
connector is now active.
To turn off the Monitor Out connector and reactivate the front panel
display, press and hold the Display Intensity button until the front panel
display turns on again.
Provides a component video output using BNC connectors.
2-5
Note If HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is active, then the
component video output is disabled. To verify this condition, open the
Detailed Status Panel for the Activity. The Detailed Status Panel identifies the
presence of HDCP source material. Refer to the “Status Panels” section at the
end of this chapter for further information.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
10. Link2 port
11. Trigger
Outputs
12. RS-232 Control
port
13. Ethernet port
14. Microphone
Inputs
Uses the Link2 protocol to link two or more Mark Levinson components.
For more information on the Link2 protocol and how to use it with the
Nº502, refer to the “Link2” section of the Appendix.
Used to activate other components in the home theater system, such as
amplifiers, lights, window shades, and video screens. When the trigger is
activated, a 12V DC signal is output. The trigger outputs use 3.5mm minijacks, labeled 1 to 4, and are programmable. For more information, refer
to the “Triggers” section of Chapter 3: Customizing the Nº502.
Provides serial control through a standard RS-232 connection. Refer to the
separate document, Nº502 Serial Protocol, for further details.
Used to support a network connection to connect to a computer, and for
external or ML Net control. For information on how to set up and use the
Ethernet port, refer to Chapter 3: Customizing the Nº502.
Provides four 3.5mm input connectors. Only for use with the optional
microphone kit during the automatic calibration process.
2-6
15. Analog Audio
Outputs
Note Whenever an audio output is enabled or disabled in the Setup menu, both the
16. Analog Audio
Inputs
17. IR Input
Provide balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connectors for the Main Zone
analog audio output. The output connectors are arranged in four groups:
• Front – contains connectors for the Left/Right and Center outputs
• Subwoofer 1 and Subwoofer 2 – contains Left/Right connectors
for the Subwoofer 1 & Subwoofer 2 outputs
• Surround – contains Left/Right connectors for the Surround (aka
Side) outputs
• Surround Back – contains Left/Right connectors for the Surround
Back (aka Rear) outputs
balanced and unbalanced output connectors are affected.
Accept stereo analog audio inputs via two balanced (XLR) and four
unbalanced (RCA) input connectors.
Accepts the input of IR (infrared) signals from other equipment. The
3.5mm jack accepts a stereo (tip/ring/sleeve) or mono (tip/sleeve) plug.
Nº502 Media Console Basic Operation
18. 7.1-Channel/
5.1-Channel
Analog Audio
Input
19. AC Input
Caution! Before operating the N
20. Remote Zone
Analog Audio
Output
Provides eight connectors, labeled FL, FR, CTR, SUB, SL, SR, BL, and BR,
for analog audio inputs. A 7.1 audio input signal uses all eight connectors;
a 5.1 audio input signal uses only six connectors – FL, FR, CTR, SUB, SL,
and SR.
Provides AC power to the Nº502 when the supplied power cord is
connected from the AC Input connector on the Nº502 rear panel to an
electrical outlet.
o
502, verify that the voltage label near the AC
input connector indicates an operating voltage compatible with the
voltage level of the electrical outlet you intend to use.
Provides one stereo pair of unbalanced RCA connectors for the Remote
Zone analog audio outputs. These outputs can provide audio to a location
outside of the primary listening space.
2-7
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
Remote Control Overview
The numbers in the Remote Control illustration above correspond with
the summary list of items below.
10
1
11
2-8
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1. Navigation buttons (, , , )
2. Menu button
3. Activity button
4. Audio Profile button
5. Video Profile button
6. Function F1 button
7. Function F2 button
8. Function F3 button
9. Light button
12
13
14
15
16
17
10. Enter button
11. Setup button
12. Surround button
13. Volume button
14. Preview button
15. Mute button
16. Zone button
17. Standby button
1. Navigation
buttons
The , , andbuttons provide basic navigation within the menu
system of the Nº502. The navigation buttons:
• highlight a new option from a list using the and buttons.
• select a new parameter value using the button.
• adjust an adjustment bar using the and buttons.
• exit a submenu using the button.
• enter a submenu using the button.
Nº502 Media Console Basic Operation
2. Menu button
3. Activity button
4. Audio Profile
button
5. Video Profile
button
6. to 8. Function
buttons
Accesses the Audio Adjust menu to make real-time adjustments to various
audio features of the Nº502. In addition, when the Menu button is
pressed from within any menu, the navigation returns to the previous
menu level.
Accesses the list of available Activities. Multiple presses of the Activity
button scrolls through the list, and pressing the Enter button loads the
new selection. The loaded Activity displays in red text. This button is also
used to scroll through the Activity list while in Preview mode.
Accesses the list of available Audio Profiles. Multiple presses of the Audio
Profile button scrolls through the list, and pressing the Enter button loads
the new selection. The loaded Audio Profile displays in red text.
Accesses the list of available Video Profiles. Multiple presses of the Video
Profile button scrolls through the list and pressing the Enter button loads
the new selection. The loaded Video Profile displays in red text.
The F1, F2, and F3 Function buttons provide direct access to a specific
parameter without having to go through the menu structure. For more
information, refer to the “Control Options” section of Chapter 3:
Customizing the Nº502.
2-9
9. Light button
10. Enter button
11. Setup button
12. Surround
button
Illuminates the remote control with a back light. Pressing the button a
second time turns the back light off. The back light automatically turns
off if no buttons are pressed for several seconds.
Has two functions in the menu system:
• to advance through the menus.
• to save a modified parameter value.
Accesses the Setup menu to configure all system functions, advanced user
options, and connectivity of the Nº502 Media Console. In addition,
pressing the Setup button closes the menu structure. For more
information regarding how to set up the Nº502, refer to Chapter 3:
Customizing the Nº502.
Accesses the list of available surround modes. Multiple presses of the
Surround button scrolls through the list; pressing the Enter button loads
the new selection. The loaded surround mode displays in red text.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
13. Volume button
14. Preview
button
15. Mute button
Pressing the (+) Volume button increases the volume, while pressing the
(–) Volume button decreases the volume. The volume range for the Main
Zone is 0 to 100 in 0.1 increments. The volume range for the Remote
Zone is 0 to 100 in 0.5 increments.
The volume control for the Main and Remote Zones are independent of
each other; adjusting the volume only changes the volume in the
currently active Zone. For example, adjusting the Remote Zone volume
does not affect the Main Zone volume.
When adjusting the volume, you may notice a REF tag positioned on the
adjustment bar. REF indicates the Reference Volume level.
Allows the preview of video sources that are not part of the current
Activity. Preview mode is only active when the front panel LED located to
the left of the Preview button is illuminated.
Reduces the volume of the audio output within the Main Zone or Remote
Zone. When the Mute function is active, the front panel Mute LED is lit.
To deactivate the Mute control, simply adjust the Volume or press the
Mute button until the front panel Mute LED is NOT lit. The actual volume
level change of the Mute function can be modified in the Setup menu.
2-10
16. Zone Button
17. Standby
Button
Switches the Nº502 controls between the Main Zone and Remote Zone.
When the front panel Zone LED is lit, only the Remote Zone controls are
active. Controls that are Main Zone specific (for instance, the Video
Profile menu) are not accessible while the front panel Zone LED is lit.
Activates and deactivates the Standby mode of the Nº502. The Standby
LED located directly above the Standby button on the front panel is
illuminated when the Nº502 is operational, and blinks slowly when the
Nº502 is in Standby mode.
Nº502 Media Console Basic Operation
Remote Control Versus Front Panel
Some menu navigation varies when using the front panel or the remote
control. The table below identifies the differences between basic remote
control and front panel navigation controls.
Note For simplicity, most instructions in this manual refer only to the remote
control buttons.
Action Remote Control Front Panel
Enter the Activity
Menu
Select a Menu Option
(Enter a Submenu)
Exit a Menu
Select a Parameter
Change an
adjustment bar
Press the Activity button. Turn the Activity Knob.
Press the button or the
Enter button.
Press the button to go
back one menu layer, or
press the Setup button to
exit the whole menu
structure.
Press the button or the
Enter button.
Press the or button. Turn the Activity Knob.
Press the Enter button.
Press the Menu button to go
back one menu layer, or
press the Setup button to
exit the whole menu
structure.
Press the Enter button.
2-11
2-12
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
Menu System Overview
The Nº502 Media Console includes a comprehensive, graphical menu
system to aid in setup, configuration, and daily operation. The menu
system has two operating paradigms:
• Activity Mode provides the day-to-day interaction with the Nº502
Media Console, and allows the user to make real-time changes to
specific audio parameters.
• Setup Mode accesses the system setup parameters for system
functions and connectivity. Setup Mode can only be entered by
pressing the Setup button.
Note While in the menu structure: if the Menu button is pressed, the navigation
returns to the previous menu level. Pressing the Setup button closes the menu
structure.
While in Activity Mode, pressing the Video Profile, Audio Profile, or
Surround buttons allows the user to change the Profile or Surround Mode
associated with the current Activity. However, these changes are not saved
when a new Activity is selected. To make any Profile or Surround Mode
change permanent for the associated Activity, make the change while in
Setup Mode.
Menu Path
Activity Menu
Remote Zone
Menu
Note If the Remote Zone Activity is set to Off, no audio is sent to the Remote Zone
The menu system is designed to provide detailed information and yet
remain simple to use. The top of every menu page displays a menu path,
showing the current location in the menu system and the path taken to
get there.
Pressing the Activity button displays the list of available Activities. The
current Activity is displayed in red text. When scrolling through the list,
the loaded video of each Activity is displayed in the Activity Preview
window on the right side of the menu.
To load a new Activity, select one from the list and press the Enter button.
Once loaded, the Activity remains active until a new Activity is selected.
The Remote Zone provides audio to a secondary location outside of the
primary listening space. The Main Zone Activity list is duplicated in the
Remote Zone menu. The audio from any Activity can be selected for the
Remote Zone.
outputs. If the Zone LED is lit, Remote Zone controls remain active until the
Zone button is pressed to switch back to the Main Zone.
Nº502 Media Console Basic Operation
Main Zone Audio
Menu
MainZoneAudio
Audio Adjustments
Surround Mode Adjust
-AudioAdjustments
Offsets
Left/Right Balance
Front/Back Fader
Room Correction: Off
Room Correction Adjust: Medium
Recall
Accesses the Main Zone Audio menu to perform real-time audio
adjustments to the Main Zone audio outputs. Press the Menu button to
access the Main Zone Audio menu.
The Main Zone Audio menu contains:
• Audio Adjustments menu – makes real-time audio adjustments to
selected audio parameters.
• Surround Mode Adjust menu – makes real-time adjustments to
the available Surround Mode parameters.
Audio Adjustments Menu
The Audio Adjustments menu adjusts the Main Zone volume level by
modifying the offsets, left/right balance, or front/back fader controls. In
addition, you can control the level of Room Correction applied from the
automatic calibration. Changes made to these parameters are system-wide
changes that affect all Activities; the new settings are saved until another
adjustment is made.
The Audio Adjustments parameters are:
• Offsets – adjusts the Offset volume of the Main Zone audio output.
Individual Offsets are available for Stereo Front, Center, Surround,
Back, Subwoofer 1, and Subwoofer 2. Selecting any of the Offset
parameters opens an adjustment bar with a range of Off or –14.0dB to
+14.0dB in 0.1dB increments. The zero Offset value is labeled as
“Even”.
• Left/Right Balance – adjusts the volume level between the left side
speakers and the right side speakers. Selecting the Left/Right Balance
parameter opens an adjustment bar with a range of Off or –14.0dB to
+14.0dB in 0.1dB increments. The zero Left/Right Balance value is
labeled as “Even”.
• Front/Back Fader – adjusts the volume level between the front and
rear speakers. Selecting the Front/Back Fader parameter opens an
adjustment bar with a range of Off or –14.0dB to +14.0dB in 0.1dB
increments. The zero Front/Back Fader value is labeled as “Even”.
• Room Correction – controls the application of the Room
Correction values derived during the automatic calibration. This
parameter can be On or Off.
Note This parameter is not available for selection until the automatic calibration has
been successfully completed.
2-13
Conditions that disable Room Correction include:
• Adding a new speaker to an existing Speaker setup. However,
removing a speaker will NOT disable Room Correction.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
• Lowering a crossover setting by two or more octaves.
• Changing the subwoofers from Mono to Stereo or from Stereo to
Mono, or making any other subwoofer configuration changes.
• Room Correction Adjust – defines the level of Room Correction
applied to the current Activity. The settings available are Low,
Medium Low, Medium, Medium High, and High. The lowest setting
only applies a minimal amount of Room Correction; the highest
setting applies the full correction. The Room Correction Adjust
parameter is not available for selection until the Automatic
Calibration has been successfully completed and the Room
Correction parameter is set to On.
Note Room Correction Adjust is disabled when Room Correction is set to Off.
• Recall – sets the Audio Adjust parameters to the factory default
settings. The Offset, Left/Right Balance, and Front/Back Fader parameters are set to zero, or Even. The Room Correction is set to Off and
the Room Correction Adjust is set to Medium.
2-14
Select OK to recall the factory default settings.
Select Cancel to exit without recalling the factory default settings.
Note The selected action is performed without pressing the Enter key.
The message “Audio Adjustment Settings Recalled” appears on the
front panel and main displays when the adjustment settings are
returned to the factory default settings.
Surround Mode Adjust Menu
The Surround Mode Adjust menu modifies the available Surround Mode
parameters. Adjustments made in this menu are systemwide, affecting all
applicable Activities.
For descriptions of the available suround mode parameter settings, refer
to the “Surround Modes Parameter Descriptions” section of Chapter 3:
Customizing the Nº502.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
Status Panels
Status Panels provide both summary and detailed information regarding
the current state of the Nº502 Media Console. The Status Panels are
information-only pages that have no selectable parameters.
There are two types of Status Panels – the Quick Status Panel and the
Detailed Status Panel. With the exception of the Remote Zone Audio
Quick Status Panel, all Status Panels relate to the Main Zone of the Nº502.
Note Status Panels are not available during calibration.
2-15
Quick Status Panel
The Quick Status Panel is displayed whenever the current Activity is
changed via the adjustment menus or the remote control Function
buttons. The Quick Status Panel displays a short summary of the current
Activity, acknowledging the change. The Quick Status Panel can also be
accessed directly by pressing the button.
The Quick Status Panel displays for six seconds, then automatically closes.
This condition and other display characteristics of the Quick Status Panel
can be customized to your preferences. Refer to the “User Options”
section of Chapter 3: Customizing the Nº502 for more information.
The Quick Status Panel identifies the current Activity in the upper left
corner and the current Zone in the upper right corner. All of the variables
listed in the Quick Status Panel are directly related to the status of the Activity
listed in the upper left corner of the panel.
The Quick Status Panel includes:
• Volume - indicates the current volume level
• Signal - identifies the input type of the source signal
• Surround Mode - identifies the current Surround Mode
• Video & Audio Profiles - indicates the current Video & Audio Profiles
The information in the Quick Status Panel varies depending upon the
current Activity and its setup.
The Remote Zone Quick Status Panel is only available for viewing when
the Remote Zone is activated.
Basic Operation Mark Levinson
Detailed Status
Panel
Note The Detailed Status Panel is always shown on the front panel display and
Note If analog input clipping occurs, then the affected speaker in the meter section
The Detailed Status Panel provides a comprehensive summary of the
current Activity. To access the Detailed Status Panel, press the button.
The elements listed vary based upon the current Activity and its setup.
Thus there may be more than one page of information; the top right
corner of the menu identifies the number of pages. To access additional
pages, press the button.
cannot be disabled.
The bottom half of each Detailed Status Panel page contains a meter
diagram that indicates the input levels of each active channel. The meters
show live data as long as the source of the current Activity is playing.
To close the Detailed Status Panel, press the button until it closes.
is indicated in red.
2-16
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