Page 1
Surround Decoder, Dolby Digitalâ (AC-3)
OWNERS
MANUAL
MAC-3
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
Dolby, AC-3, Pro Logic and the Double D symbol
are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 FAX: 607-724-0549
Page 2
Thank You, Please Take A Moment,
Customer Service and Table of Contents
Thank You
For your decision to own this McIntosh MAC-3 Surround
Decoder ranks you at the very top among discriminating
music listeners. You now have The Best. The McIntosh
dedication to Quality, is assurance that you will receive
many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all
the features and functions of your new McIntosh MAC-3.
This will ensure that you receive all the performance benefits this equipment can offer you, and that it will become a
highly valued part of your home entertainment system.
Please Take A Moment
The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh dealer name
are important to you for possible insurance claim or future
service. The serial number is located on the rear panel of the
equipment. The spaces below have been provided for you to
record that information:
Serial Number:
Table of Contents
Thank You .......................................................................... 2
Please Take a Moment ....................................................... 2
Customer Service ............................................................... 2
Table of Contents ............................................................... 2
Safety Instructions ............................................................. 3
Introduction ........................................................................ 4
Performance Features ........................................................ 4
Installation ......................................................................... 6
Rear Panel Switches and Connections ............................... 7
How to Connect with a C39/MX130 ................................. 8
How to Connect in a Stand Alone System ......................... 9
Front Panel Controls, Push-Buttons,
Switches and Displays ..................................................... 10
Delay Calibration for Center and
Surround Channels........................................................... 11
How to Operate with a C39/MX130 ................................ 12
System Level Calibration ................................................. 14
How to Operate in a Stand Alone System ........................ 15
A Place for Your Notes .................................................... 17
Specifications ................................................................... 18
Packing Instruction .......................................................... 19
Purchase Date:
Dealer Name:
Customer Service
If at any time you have questions about your MAC-3 Surround Decoder, please contact:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-3512
FAX: 607-724-0549
NOTE: The MAC-3 can be operated together with a
McIntosh C39 or MX130 Control Center. It may also
be operated together with a McIntosh Audio/Video
Selector MVS-3 and a MC7106 Power Amplifier.
There are two sets of instructions to cover both
possibilities. Please refer to the following listing of
instructions as a guide:
For use with a McIntosh C39 or MX130
How to Connect with a C39/MX130 ................................. 8
Delay Calibration for Center and
Surround Channels........................................................... 11
How to Operate with a C39/MX130 ................................ 12
For use with a McIntosh MVS-3 and MC7106
How to Connect in a Stand Alone System ......................... 9
Delay Calibration for Center and
Surround Channels........................................................... 11
System Level Calibration ................................................. 14
How to Operate in a Stand Alone System ........................ 15
Copyright 1997 ã by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2
Page 3
Safety Instructions
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE
OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.
WARNING SHOCK HAZARD DO NOT OPEN.
AVIS RISQUE DE CHOC NE PAS OUVRIR.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
General:
1. Read all the safety and operating instructions, contained
in this owners manual, before operating this equipment.
2. Retain this owners manual for future reference about
safety and operating instructions.
3. Adhere to all warnings and operating instructions.
4. Follow all operating and use instructions.
5. Warning: To reduce risk of fire or electrical shock,
do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
This unit is capable of producing high sound pressure
levels. Continued exposure to high sound pressure
levels can cause permanent hearing impairment or
loss. User caution is advised and ear protection is
recommended when playing at high volumes.
6. Caution: to prevent electrical shock do not use this
(polarized) plug with an extension cord, receptacle or
other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to
prevent blade exposure.
Attention: pour pevenir les chocs elecriques pas
utiliser cette fiche polarisee avec un prolongateur,
une prise de courant ou un autre sortie de courant,
sauf si les lames peuvent etre inserees afond ans en
laisser aucune partie a decouvert.
7. For added protection for this product during a lightning
storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long
periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent
damage to the product due to lightning or power line
surges.
8. Do not use attachments not recommended in this
owners manual as they may cause hazards.
Installation:
9. Locate the equipment for proper ventilation. For example, the equipment should not be placed on a bed,
sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block ventilation
openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a
bookcase or cabinet, that may impede the flow of air
through the ventilation openings.
10. Locate the equipment away from heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliance (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
11. Mount the equipment in a wall or cabinet only as described in this owners manual
12. Do not use this equipment near water; for example, near
a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet
basement or near a swimming pool, etc.
13. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The equipment may fall, causing serious injury to a person, and serious damage to the
product.
Connection:
14. Connect this equipment only to the type of AC power
source as marked on the unit.
15. Route AC power cords so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against
them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the instrument.
16. Do not defeat the inherent design features of the polarized plug. Non-polarized line cord adapters will defeat
the safety provided by the polarized AC plug. If the
plug should fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace
your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of
the grounding-type plug.
17. Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or integral
convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of
fire or electric shock.
Care of Equipment:
18. Clean the instrument by dusting with a dry cloth. Unplug this equipment from the wall outlet and clean the
panel with a cloth moistened with a window cleaner. Do
not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
3
Page 4
Safety Instructions cont,
Introduction and Performance Features
19. Do not permit objects of any kind to be pushed and/or
fall into the equipment through enclosure openings.
Never spill liquids into the equipment through enclosure
openings.
20. Unplug the power cord from the AC power outlet when
left unused for a long period of time.
Repair of Equipment:
21. Unplug this equipment from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to a qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
A. The AC power cord or the plug has been damaged,
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into
the equipment,
C. The equipment has been exposed to rain or water,
D. The equipment does not operate normally by follow-
ing the operating instructions contained within this
owners manual. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions, as an im-
proper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a
qualified technician to restore the product to its nor-
mal operation,
E. The equipment has been dropped or damaged in any
way,
F. The equipment exhibits a distinct change in perfor-
mance - this indicates a need for service.
22. Do not attempt to service beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other service should be referred to qualified service personnel.
23. When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by
McIntosh or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock, or other hazards.
24. Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks
to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.
Introduction
The McIntosh MAC-3 is a precision Dolby Digital AC-3®
surround decoder which will reproduce the six discrete
channels of encoded sound tracks with ultimate fidelity and
sonic purity. The MAC-3 also incorporates a Dolby Pro
Logic® surround decoder to reproduce Dolby Surround®
sound tracks with superior audio quality. The MAC-3 has
many valuable and useful features that will enhance your
listening experience.
Performance Features
· Remote Controlled by a C39 or MX130
When used with a C39 or MX130, the MAC-3 inputs can
be selected by remote control.
· Assemble a Simplified Surround Sound System
Use an MAC-3 as a stand alone decoder with a McIntosh
MVS-3 Audio/Video Selector and an MC7106 Six Channel Power Amplifier for a simplified Dolby Digital/Pro
Logic Surround sound system.
· 24 Bit DSP Processing
Two Motorola 24 Bit Digital Processors decode both
Dolby Digital and Pro Logic signals. This combination is
one of the most powerful processing systems available.
· 20 Bit Conversion
Three 20 bit stereo digital to analog, (D/A) converters are
used to reproduce the six decoded Dolby Digital audio
channels, and one 20 bit stereo analog to digital, (A/D)
converter is for signals fed into the analog inputs.
· Digital Input Switching
Four Digital Coaxial and matching Optical inputs are
provided for four program sources:
1. Digital Versatile Disc (DVD)
2. Laser Video Disc Player (LV)
3. Satellite Tuner or Receiver (SAT)
4. CD Player (CD1)
The LV AC-3 RF INPUT receives RF signals from a Laser Video Disc Player reproducing Dolby Digital sound
tracks. The ANALOG Stereo Input accept stereo signals
from any audio source.
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Performance Features cont
· Automatic Mode Switching
The MAC-3 automatically switches operating modes between Dolby Digital or Pro Logic, according to the input
signal.
· LED Channel Status Indicators
The MAC-3 includes seven LEDs on the front panel to
indicate what type of operating signals are being received.
· Adjustable Channel Time Delays
Signals to the Center channel and Surround channels can
be time delayed. This feature can be used to correct for
different listening distances from the center speaker and
surround speakers relative to the front speakers.
· Precision Tracking Volume Control
An electronic Volume Control adjusts all six channels
with tracking accuracy better than 0.5dB.
· LED Delay/Volume Indicator
The front panel two digit LED reads Volume in percent. It
also indicates time delay in milliseconds during time delay
calibration, and channel level in dB during surround level
calibration.
· Automatic Input Level Control
The Analog Input includes a special circuit which protects against accidental input signal overdrive.
· IR Remote Control
When used in a simplified system with the MVS-3 and
MC7106, the MAC-3 can be controlled directly with an
optional Remote Control (HR39/HR130) through its front
panel IR (Infra Red) sensor.
· Speaker Settings for Bass Management
The MAC-3 processing circuits allow you to change the
bass cutoff frequency fed to the front, center and surround channels to 80Hz, when using a subwoofer.
· Automatic Power On-Off
The MAC-3 AC power can be turned on or off with a
Power Control signal from a McIntosh Control Center or
other McIntosh accessory component.
· Built-In System Level Calibration Generator
A built-in test signal generator can be switched manually
or automatically through all system channels for surround
level calibration. The levels can be adjusted plus or minus
12dB.
· Cinema Re-Equalization
THX® RE-EQualization filter compensates for the differences in room acoustics between the movie theater and
a home theater room.
· Late Night Dynamic Audio Compression
With Dolby Digital sound tracks, a dynamic volume level
compressor can be switched in to reduce the wide dynamic range of music and sound effects. This feature can
be very useful for late night listening or when you have
close neighbors.
Manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd.. THX and Re-Equalization are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm, Ltd.
5
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Installation
The MAC-3 can be placed upright on a table or shelf, standing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in a piece
of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The required panel
cutout, ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are shown.
Always provide adequate ventilation for your MAC-3.
Cool operation ensures the longest possible operating life for
any electronic instrument. Do not install the MAC-3 directly
above a heat generating component such as a high powered
amplifier. If all the components are installed in a single cabinet, a quiet running ventilation fan can be a definite asset in
maintaining all the system components at the coolest pos-
Installation
sible operating temperature.
A custom cabinet installation should provide the following minimum spacing dimensions for cool operation. Allow
at least 1-1/2 inches (3.8cm) above the unit so airflow is not
obstructed. Allow 17-1/2 inches (44.5cm) depth behind the
mounting panel, which includes clearance for connectors.
Allow 1-1/8 inches (2.9cm) in front of the mounting panel
for knob clearance. Be sure to cut out a ventilation hole in
the mounting shelf according to the dimensions in the drawing.
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Page 7
Rear Panel Switches and Connections
Rear Panel Switches and
Connections
Connect the MAC-3 power
cord to a live AC outlet.
Refer to information on the
back panel of your MAC-3
to determine the correct
voltage for your unit.
Set the FP SENSOR (Front Panel
Sensor) slide switch to the OFF position when the MAC-3 is being used
in a system with a C39 or MX130.
Set the FP SENSOR slide switch to
the ON position when the MAC-3 is
being used as a stand alone decoder
together with an MVS-3 and MC7106
in a simplified surround system.
Receives signals from
a stereo analog signal
source.
When the MAC-3 is being used in a system
with a C39 or MX130 the POWER CONTROL
IN receives turn on and off signals from the
McIntosh Control Center.The POWER CONTROL OUT jack sends a turn on and off signal
out to a McIntosh Power Amplifier.
The SPEAKER SETTINGS switches adjust the
bass frequency response to the correct frequency
ranges to match the sizes of the front, center and
surround speakers. If any speaker in the system is
classed as small, frequencies from 80Hz and
lower can be switched to the subwoofer output.
Set the SUBWOOF switch to ON only when a
subwoofer is used in the system.
The six outputs feed audio
signals to the matching inputs on a Control Center or
power amplifier.
L SUR (Left Surround)
R SUR (Right Surround)
CENTER (Center)
SUBWOOF (Subwoofer)
L FRONT (Left Front)
R FRONT (Right Front)
The DATA IN jack receives operating signals
from the SUM DATA out
of a McIntosh C39 or
MX130. The DATA
OUT jack sends signals
on to another McIntosh
component.
AUTO (Automatic) switches the builtin calibration test signal generator to
each of the six channels in 2 second
intervals on a continuous basis. MAN
(Manual) system calibration requires
the manual selection of each channel.
Receives a signal from the
Optical Output of a component with a digital audio output.
Receives a signal
from the Coaxial
Output of a component with a digital
audio output.
Receives RF signal
from a Video Disc
Player reproducing a
Dolby Digital (AC-3)
sound track.
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How to Connect with a C39/MX130
How to Connect with a
C39/MX130
1. Connect the MAC-3 power cord to a live AC outlet.
2. Connect the six MAC-3 audio outputs to the six matching audio inputs on a C39 or MX130.
3. Connect the MAC-3 DATA IN jack to the C39 or
MX130 SUM DATA jack.
4. Connect the MAC-3 PWR CTRL IN jack to the C39 or
MX130 POWER CONTROL jack.
NOTE: A Power Control and Data cable consists of shielded
wire, with 1/8 mini phone plugs on each end, either
mono or stereo. Connections are to the tip and sleeve
of the plugs. (McIntosh Part Number 170-202)
Connect to a Digital Signal Source
1. McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Video Disc player.
a. Connect the MLD7020 RF OUT to the AC-3 RF
input on the MAC-3.
b. Connect either the MLD7020 Optical or Coaxial
Digital Output to the matching MAC-3
Digital Input.
2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc Player)
a. Connect the DVD digital output, either opti-
cal or coaxial, to the MAC-3 DVD DIGITAL INPUT.
3. SAT (Satellite Receiver)
a. Connect the Satellite Receiver digital out-
put, either optical or coaxial, to the MAC-3
SAT input.
NOTE: For information on Video and Analog Audio
connections , refer to the owners manual(s)
for the component(s). Use either an OPTICAL
or a COAXIAL INPUT from a digital
component, but not both for the same
component
To AC Outlet
8
Satellite Receiver
DVD Player
McIntosh MX130 Control Center
McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Disc Player
Page 9
How to Connect in a Stand Alone System
How to Connect in a
Stand Alone System
1. Connect the MAC-3 power cord to a live AC outlet.
2. Connect the six MAC-3 Audio Outputs to the matching
channel inputs on the MC7106 amplifier.
3. Connect the MAC-3 PWR CTRL OUT to the MC7106
POWER CONTROL IN.
4. Connect the MAC-3 DATA OUT to the MVS-3 DATA
IN jack.
5. Connect the MVS-3 CONTROL CENTER AUDIO
OUTPUTS to the MAC-3 ANALOG INPUT.
NOTE: A Power Control and Data cable consists of shielded
wire, with 1/8 mini phone plugs on each end, either
mono or stereo. Connections are to the tip and sleeve
of the plugs. (McIntosh Part Number 170-202)
Connect to a Digital Signal Source
1. McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Video Disc player.
a. Connect the MLD7020 RF OUT to the AC-3 RF input
on the MAC-3.
b. Connect either the MLD7020 Optical or Coaxial Digital
Output to the matching MAC-3 Digital Input.
2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc Player)
a. Connect the DVD digital output, either optical or co-
axial, to the MAC-3 DVD DIGITAL INPUT.
3. SAT (Satellite Receiver)
a. Connect the Satellite Receiver digital output, either opti-
cal or coaxial, to the MAC-3 SAT input.
NOTE: For information on Video and Analog Audio
connections, refer to the owners manual(s) for the
component(s). Use either an OPTICAL or a COAXIAL
INPUT from a digital component, but not both for the
same component
To AC Outlet
McIntosh MVS-3 Audio/Video Selector
McIntosh MC7106 Power Amplifier
Satellite Receiver
DVD Player
McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Disc Player
9
Page 10
Front Panel Controls, Push-Buttons, Switches
and Displays
The INPUT switch
selects any one of the
four DIGITAL INPUTS or the ANALOG INPUT.
The IR (Infra Red) sensor
accepts IR signals directly from an HR39/
HR130 Remote Control.
The CHANNEL STATUS LED display indicates which channels are active, depending on
the incoming signal; L (Left Front), C (Center), R (Right Front), LFE (Low Frequency
Effects), LS (Left Surround), S (Pro Logic
Surround), R (Right Surround)
Front Panel Controls, Push-Buttons,
The DELAY/VOLUME display indicates three types of
information; Volume Level,
System Calibration, and Time
Delay.
The appropriate nomenclature turns on to
indicate which Dolby
mode is active.
Switches and Displays
The STANDBY/ON
push-button turns the
MAC-3 on and off, and
can reset all the MAC-3
microprocessors.
The VOLUME control
is used for four different operations; level
match, volume level,
channel time delay and
system level calibration.
The SURROUND pushbutton switches between
internal Dolby Surround
Decoding and Stereo
10
Press the SYS CAL,
(System Calibration)
push-button to activate
the internal test signal
generator for surround
channel level calibration.
The LATE NIGHT
push-button turns the
volume compression
circuit ON and OFF.
The POWER
switch turns all
power completely
ON or OFF.
The Cinema RE-EQ
push-button activates
the THX® REEQualization filter,
which compensates for
the differences in room
acoustics between the
movie theater and a
home theater room.
Press the CNTR (Center) DELAY push-button to temporarily activate the center channel
time delay adjusting
process.
The VOLUME pushbutton activates the
various volume control
functions.
Press the SURR (SURROUND) push-button to
temporarily activate the
surround channel time
delay adjusting process
Page 11
Delay Calibration for Center
and Surround Channels
Delay Calibration for Center and Surround
Channels
Delay and Level calibration procedures are made relative to
the listening area. The ideal listening area is defined as facing directly toward and centered between the front speakers,
and in line with the left and right surround speakers.
NOTE: Refer to the Front Panel Drawing on the opposite page
and Figures 1 & 2 on this page for the following steps.
Center Speaker Delay
If the center speaker is located closer to the listening area
than the left and right front speakers, its sound will reach
the listener before the sound from the left and right front
speakers. This difference in sound arrival times can degrade
the listening perception of some sound tracks. The MAC-3
allows you to adjust the center speaker time delay to correct
for this difference so the sound from the center speaker
reaches the listening area at the same time as sound from the
front left and right speakers.
NOTE: The MAC-3 center delay can be adjusted from 0 to
5ms. Each millisecond delay corresponds
approximately to 1 foot in distance.
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lay to correspond to the difference in feet.
1. Measure the distance from the listening area to the center speaker and then the front left and right speakers. If
the center speaker is the same distance as the front
speakers, no calibration is necessary since the default
factory setting is 0ms. If the center speaker is closer
than the front speakers you should adjust the delay to
correspond to the difference in feet.
2. Press the CNTR/DELAY push-button to start delay calibration procedure.
3. Adjust the VOLUME control until the DELAY/VOLUME display reads a number equivalent to how many
feet closer the center speaker is to the listening area.
4. Press the CNTR/DELAY push-button a second time to
exit the delay procedure.
Surround Speaker Delay
If the surround speakers are located closer to the listening
area than the front speakers, their sound will reach the listener before the sound from the front speakers. This difference in sound arrival times can degrade the listening perception of some sound tracks. The MAC-3 allows you to adjust
the surround speaker time delay to correct for this difference
so the sound from the surround speakers reaches the listening area at the same time as sound from the front left and
right speakers.
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The first time you press the CNTR/DELAY push-button,
the DELAY/VOLUME display will indicate 0ms, which is
the factory default setting equivalent to no delay. This corresponds to a listening room where the center speaker is the
same distance from the listening area as the front left and
right speakers. If your center speaker is closer to the listening area than the front left and right speakers, adjust the de-
NOTE: The MAC-3 surround delay can be adjusted from 0 to
15ms. Each millisecond delay corresponds
approximately to 1 foot in distance.
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Page 12
How to Operate with a C39/MX130
The first time you press the SURR/DELAY push-button the
DELAY/VOLUME display will indicate 5, which is equivalent to a 5 millisecond delay which is the factory default setting. This would correspond to a typical listening room
where the surround speakers are 5 feet closer to the listening
area than the front speakers. If your surround speakers are
in a different location, adjust the delay to correspond to their
distances from the listening area relative to the front speakers.
1. Measure the distance from the listening area to the surround speakers, and then to the front left and right
speakers. If the surround speakers are the same distance
as the front speakers, the calibration delay should be set
to 0ms. If the surround speakers are closer than the
front speakers you should adjust the delay to correspond
to the difference in feet.
2. Press the SURR/DELAY push-button to start delay calibration procedure.
3. Adjust the VOLUME control until the DELAY/VOLUME display reads a number that is the same as the
number of feet measured in Step 1.
4. Press the SURR/DELAY push-button a second time to
exit the delay procedure.
EXAMPLE: If your center speaker is 2 feet closer to the
listening area than the front speakers, set the
center delay to 2. If your surround speakers are
4 feet closer to the listening area than the front
speakers, set the surround delay to 4.
NOTE: The following table may be used to record your Delay
Calibration Settings.
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turning the C39 or MX130 LISTEN switch, the matching
MAC-3 inputs must also be selected manually by the
MAC-3 INPUT switch.
The DVD input on the MAC-3 is the same as the VAUX input on the Control Center. If any input other than
the four MAC-3 inputs are selected, the MAC-3 will default to the Analog input.
NOTE: If your C39 or MX130 has the THX-M module installed,
switch the Control Center back to internal processing
CINEMA 2 to take advantage of the THXâ
enhancements to the Dolby Pro Logic decoded sound
tracks.
FP Sensor
Set the FP SENSOR switch to OFF.
NOTE: This prevents the MAC-3s built-in sensor from receiving
the remote control commands that have been already
received directly from the C39 or MX130, thus causing
improper functioning. Refer to Figure 3.
Late Night
The LATE NIGHT push-button turns a volume compression circuit on and off. This feature suppresses loud sounds
or music that might disturb neighbors or others not in the
immediate area of the home theater. Soft levels are also
raised slightly so they are still listenable at reduced overall
volume levels. This works only on a Dolby Digital sound
tracks with encoded data that supports the compression
function.
Equalization Filter
THX® RE-Equalization filter adjusts the frequency response for movie listening.
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How to Operate with a C39/MX130
The following information assumes the MAC-3 is being
used in a system together with a digital signal source such
as a McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Video Disc player, a DVD
player or a Satellite Receiver. The MAC-3 is operated by
an HR39/HR130 Remote Control sending IR signals to the
Control Center sensor.
Selecting inputs with the Remote Control results in the
MAC-3 input selection automatically tracking with the
Control Center input. If Inputs are selected manually by
12
Channel Status LEDs
If the signal source contains a Dolby Digital sound track,
the MAC-3 switches to Dolby Digital mode. The front
panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, C, R, LFE, LS and
RS will turn on in accordance to the channels that are
present on the Dolby Digital sound track.
If the signal source contains only a Dolby Pro Logic
sound track, the MAC-3 switches to Pro Logic mode. The
front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, R, and S will
turn on.
Volume Control
The MAC-3 VOLUME control is factory preset with the
volume display indicating 75. This is the recommended ini-
Page 13
Dolby Digital Signal Dolby Pro Logic Signal
tial volume calibration when the MAC-3 is used in a system with a C39 or MX130. If you wish to change the audio
volume level from signal sources connected to the MAC-3
relative to other signal sources selected by the C39 or
MX130, press the VOLUME push-button to activate the
MAC-3 volume control. Adjust the control until the desired
level is reached. Press the VOLUME push-button again to
deactivate the volume control. This will prevent an accidental change of the calibrated level
NOTE: If the input selector is set to (CD 1, SAT, LV or DVD)
and no digital signal is present, the Volume push-button
LED will flash on/off to indicate the outputs are muted.
When the outputs
are muted the
volume control
calibrated level will
not function as
described above.
Front Speakers (SmallLarge)
When the front left and
right speakers cover the
full frequency range down
to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.
When the front speakers cover the frequency range only
down to 80Hz, set the switch to SMALL. A built-in electronic crossover will remove frequencies of 80Hz and
lower from the front left and right speakers and redirect
them to the Subwoofer speaker.
Center Speaker (None-Small-Large)
When the center speaker covers the full frequency range
down to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.
When the Center speaker covers the frequency range
only down to 80Hz, set the switch to SMALL. A built-in
electronic crossover will remove frequencies of 80Hz and
lower from the Center speaker and redirect them to the
Subwoofer speaker.
When there is no center speaker in the system, set the
switch to NONE. The Center channel signal is sent to the
How to Operate with a C39/MX130
cont
left and right front speakers. This mode of operation results
in the listeners perceiving a Phantom center speaker.
Surround Speakers (Small-Large)
When the surround speakers cover the full frequency range
down to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.
When the surround speakers cover the frequency range
only down to 80Hz, set the switch to SMALL. The built-in
electronic crossover will remove frequencies of 80Hz and
lower from the surround speakers and redirect them to the
subwoofer speaker.
Subwoofer Speaker (Off-On)
Set the SUBWOOF switch to ON whenever a subwoofer is
used in the system. In this mode, the LFE (Low Frequency
Effects) are always sent to the subwoofer. The subwoofer
also receives from any channel(s), that have their
SPEAKER switches set to SMALL, low frequencies of
80Hz and lower.
Set SUBWOOF switch to OFF when all SPEAKER
switches are set to LARGE and no subwoofer is being used
in the system. The LFE (Low Frequency Effects) signals
are sent equally to each of
the five remaining channels.
If the SUBWOOF switch is
OFF and there are no large
full range speakers in the
system, you will not hear
the extreme low frequencies. When no subwoofer is
connected and LARGE (Full
Figure 3
and Right Channels, the LFE (Low Frequency Effects) are
directed to them.
EXAMPLE: If you are using McIntosh speakers, HT-1 or SL-6,
HT-2 or SL-1, HT-3, HT-4, use the following settings.
Set FRONT to SMALL.
Set CENTER to SMALL.
Set SURR to SMALL
Set SUBWOOF to ON.
Reset of Microprocessors
In the event that the controls of the MAC-3 stop functioning, there is a user reset function built in. While the MAC-3
is on depress and hold in the STANDBY/ON/RESET push
button for five seconds, this will reset the MAC-3s microprocessors.
NOTE: The above condition is usually caused by either
interruptions in AC power and/or major changes in
voltage.
Range) Loudspeakers are
connected the Front Left
13
Page 14
System Level Calibration
System Level Calibration
The MAC-3 includes a built-in test signal generator to perform System Level Calibration. A properly calibrated surround sound system should have all channel levels adjusted
initially for similar volume in the listening area. This ensures that multi channel sound tracks will be reproduced
with optimum realism. Individual channel levels from an actual sound track usually change widely on a continuous basis. Proper System Calibration sets all channels to the correct starting reference level.
NOTE: When the MAC-3 is used in a system with the C39 or
MX130, it is recommended that level calibration be
done at the A/V Control Center. Refer to the Control
Center Owners Manual for details.
The built-in calibration should be used primarily
when the MAC-3 is used in a stand alone system. When
in the System Calibration mode, it is most convenient to
make level adjustments from the listening area with the
optional HR39/HR130 Remote Control. The MAC-3
VOLUME control can also be used to adjust levels. A
sound level pressure meter may be used to obtain a
more accurate calibration. Refer to Figures 4 and 5 for
the followings steps.
Automatic System Calibration
1. Set the rear panel SYSTEM CALIBRATION switch to
AUTO.
2. Adjust the MAC-3
volume control until
the display reads 70.
This is an initial reference setting to ensure that the test signals will be adequately loud to perform the level calibration.
3. Press the SYS CAL
push-button once to start System Calibration. You will
hear the test signal from the left front speaker for 2 seconds. The test signal will then cycle through all six
channels continuously in 2 second intervals, clockwise
starting with Left Front, Center, Right Front, Right Surround, Left Surround and Subwoofer. The MAC-3 DELAY/VOLUME display will read 0 for each channel
before any adjustments are performed.
NOTE: The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs will light to
indicate which channel is reproducing the test signal.
4. While seated in the listening area, note the volume levels
of the test signal from each of the channels as the test
signal switches. If you determine that the test signal volume is louder or softer in any of the channels, the levels
should be adjusted so you hear essentially the same test
signal volume from all of the channels. The left front
channel volume level can serve as a reference.
5. Make channel level calibration adjustments with the optional HR39/HR130 Remote Control Surround Up and
Down push-buttons from the listening area. You can
also use the MAC-3 volume control. If an adjustment is
made on a channel, there is an additional 2 second time
interval on that channel before the system switches the
test signal to the next channel. As a level is changed, the
DELAY/VOLUME display instantly changes to indicate the calibration level change in dB. If the level is
increased, the display shows plus numbers, and if decreased shows minus numbers. Calibration levels can
be adjusted over a range of plus or minus 12dB.
6. When the test signal switches to succeeding channels,
repeat the level calibration process until the test signal
volume levels of all the channels are the same.
7. The calibration channel cycling mode can be repeated as
often as necessary until you are satisfied that the volume levels of the test signal are the same from all channels.
8. Exit the System Calibration
mode by pressing the SYS
CAL push-button a second
time.
NOTE: All System Level
Calibrations are retained in
permanent memory and will
change only if calibration is
performed again. The factory
default setting for the volume
Figure 4
control is 75.
Manual System Calibration
1. Set the rear panel SYSTEM CALIBRATE switch to
MAN.
2. Adjust the MAC-3 volume control until the display
reads 70. This is an initial reference setting to ensure
that the test signals will be adequately loud to perform
the level calibration.
3. Press the SYS CAL push-button once to start Manual
System Calibration. The first time the SYS CAL pushbutton is pressed, the test signal will switch to the Left
14
Page 15
How to Operate in a Stand
Alone System
Front channel and will stay in that channel until the
SYS CAL push-button is pressed again, followed by the
Center, Right Front, Right Surround, Left Surround and
Subwoofer. The MAC-3 DELAY/VOLUME display
will read 0 for each channel before any adjustments
are performed.
NOTE: The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs will light to
indicate which channel is reproducing the test signal. A
more convenient method of manually switching the test
signal is to use the SP push-button on the optional
HR39/HR130 Remote Control which performs the same
functions as the SYS CAL push-button.
4. While seated in the listening area, note the volume levels
of the test signal from each of the channels. If you
determine that the test signal volume is louder or softer
in any of the channels, the levels should be adjusted so
you hear
essentially the
same test
signal
volume
from all
of the
channels.
The left
front
channel volume level can serve as a reference.
Figure 5
5. Exit the Manual System Calibration mode by pressing
the SYS CAL push-button after calibrating the
Subwoofer channel.
NOTE: All System Level Calibrations are retained in
permanent memory and will change only if calibration
is performed again. The following table may be used to
record your Delay Calibrations Settings.
How to Operate in a Stand Alone System
The following information assumes the MAC-3 is being
used with a McIntosh MC7106 amplifier, MVS-3 Audio/
Video Selector and a digital signal source such as McIntosh
MLD7020 Laser Video Disc Player, a DVD Player or a
Satellite Receiver. The MAC-3 can be operated manually or
with an optional HR39/HR130 Remote Control.
FP Sensor
Set the FP SENSOR switch to ON.
NOTE: This will activate the MAC-3s built in sensor for
receiving the remote control commands from the
optional HR39/HR130 remote control.
Refer to Figure 6 on the next page, for location of
Rear Panel Switches.
Late Night
The LATE
NIGHT pushbutton turns a
volume compression circuit
on and off. This
feature suppresses loud
sounds or mu-
sic that might
disturb neighbors or others not in the immediate area of the
home theater. Soft levels are also raised slightly so they are
still listenable at reduced overall volume levels.This works
only on a Dolby Digital sound tracks with encoded data that
supports the compression function.
Equalization Filter
THX® RE-Equalization filter adjusts the frequency response for movie listening.
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Channel Status LEDs
If the signal source contains a Dolby Digital sound track,
the MAC-3 switches to Dolby Digital mode. The front panel
CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, C, R, LFE, LS and RS will
turn on in accordance to the channels that are present on the
Dolby Digital sound track.
If the signal source contains only a Dolby Pro Logic
sound track, the MAC-3 switches to Pro Logic mode. The
front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, R, and S will
turn on.
15
Page 16
Dolby Digital Signal Dolby Pro Logic Signal
Front Speakers (Small-Large)
When the front left and right speakers cover the full frequency range down to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.
When the front speakers cover the frequency range only
down to 80Hz, set the switch to SMALL. A built-in electronic crossover will remove frequencies of 80Hz and lower
from the front left and right speakers and redirect them to
the Subwoofer speaker.
Center Speaker (None-Small-Large)
When the center speaker covers the full frequency range
down to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.
When the Center speaker covers the frequency range
only down to 80Hz, set the switch to SMALL. A built-in
electronic crossover will remove frequencies of 80Hz and
lower from the Center speaker and redirect them to the
Subwoofer speaker.
When there is no center speaker in the system, set the
switch to NONE. The Center channel signal is sent to the
left and right front speakers. This mode of operation results
in the listeners perceiving a Phantom center speaker.
How to Operate in a Stand
Alone System cont
SPEAKER switches are set to LARGE and no subwoofer is
being used in the system. The LFE (Low Frequency Effects)
signals are sent equally to each of the five remaining channels. If the SUBWOOF switch is OFF and there are no large
full range speakers in the system, you will not hear the extreme low frequencies. When no subwoofer is connected and
LARGE (Full Range) Loudspeakers are connected the Front
Left and Right Channels, the LFE (Low Frequency Effects)
are directed to them.
EXAMPLE: If you are using McIntosh speakers, HT-1 or SL-6,
HT-2 or SL-1, HT-3, HT-4, use the following
settings.
Set FRONT to SMALL.
Set CENTER to SMALL.
Set SURR to SMALL
Set SUBWOOF to ON.
Volume Control
Set the VOLUME control to the desired level.
NOTE: If the input selector is set to (CD 1, SAT, LV or DVD)
and no digital signal is present, the Volume push-button
LED will flash on/off to indicate the outputs are muted.
Remote Adjustment of Surround Levels
You can adjust surround levels while listening by using the
Surround Up and Down push-buttons on the optional HR39/
HR130 Remote Control. These adjustments will stay as long
as the MAC-3 is turned on, but will be erased when the
MAC-3 is turned off.
Surround Speakers (Small-Large)
When the surround speakers cover the full frequency range
down to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.
When the surround speakers cover the frequency range
only down to 80Hz, set the switch to SMALL. The built-in
electronic crossover will remove frequencies of 80Hz and
lower from the surround speakers and redirect them
to the subwoofer speaker.
Subwoofer Speaker (Off-On)
Set the SUBWOOF switch to ON whenever a
subwoofer is used in the system. In this mode, the
LFE (Low Frequency Effects) are always sent to the
subwoofer. The subwoofer also receives from any
channel(s), that have their SPEAKER switches set
to SMALL, low frequencies of 80Hz and lower.
Set SUBWOOF switch to OFF when all
16
Reset of Microprocessors
In the event that the controls of the MAC-3 stop functioning, there is a user reset function built in. While the MAC-3
is on depress and hold in the STANDBY/ON/RESET push
button for five seconds, this will reset the MAC-3s microprocessors.
Figure 6
Page 17
NOTE: The above condition is usually caused by either
interruptions in AC power and/or major changes in
voltage.
A Place for Your Notes
A Place for Your Notes
17
Page 18
Specifications
Specifications
Frequency Response
STEREO Left and Right Small speakers:
80Hz-20,000Hz.
Subwoofer:
20Hz-80Hz.
Left and Right Large speakers:
20Hz-20,000Hz.
Subwoofer:
OFF.
PRO LOGIC Left, Center, Right, Small speakers:
80Hz-20,000Hz.
Surround Small speakers:
80Hz-7kHz.
Subwoofer:
20Hz-80Hz.
Left, Center, Right, Large speakers:
20Hz-20,000Hz.
Surround Large speakers:
20Hz-7kHz.
Subwoofer:
OFF.
Dolby Digital Left, Center Right Small speakers:
80Hz-20,000Hz.
Surround Small speakers:
80Hz-20,000Hz
Subwoofer:
20Hz-80Hz.
Left, Center, Right Large speakers:
20Hz-20,000Hz
Surround Large speakers:
20Hz-20,000Hz.
Subwoofer:
OFF.
Maximum Output Voltage
8VRMS.
Total Harmonic Distortion
0.005% at all outputs.
Sensitivity
Analog Input: 500mV for 2.0V output, (100mV IHF).
Signal To Noise Ratio - All Outputs
Greater than 90dB un-weighted.
Greater than 100dB A weighted.
Greater than 98dB CCIR.
Maximum Input Signal
Analog Input: 2VRMS full BIT, 2.6VRMS with AILC.
Voltage Gain
Analog Input to Output: 12dB.
Power Requirements
100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 45 watts.
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 45 watts.
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 45 watts.
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 45 watts.
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 45 watts.
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 45 watts.
NOTE: Refer to the rear panel of the MAC-3 for the correct
voltage
Dimensions
Front Panel: 17-1/2 inches (44.5cm) Wide, 3-9/16 (9cm)
High
Depth required behind mounting panel, including connectors: 17-1/2 (44.5cm).
Knob clearance required in front of mounting panel: 1-3/8
(3.5cm).
Rated Output
All Modes: 2.0VRMS for full bit.
Output Impedance
420 ohms at all outputs.
18
Page 19
Packing Instructions
Packing Instructions
In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for
shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown
below. It is very important that the four plastic feet are attached to the bottom of the equipment. This will ensure the
proper equipment location on the bottom pad. Failure to do
this will result in shipping damage.
Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only if
they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping carton or any of the interior part(s) are needed, please call or
write Customer Service Department of McIntosh Laboratory. Please see the Part List for the correct part numbers.
Top Pad
Quantity Part Number Description
1 033770 Shipping carton only
2 033771 Cushion Pad
4 033772 Corner Pad
1 033606 Inside carton only
1 033726 Top pad
1 033729 Bottom pad
4 017218 Plastic foot
4 100159 #10-32 x 3/4 screw
4 104080 #10 Flat washer
1 048082 Shipping carton complete with
all the above parts
Cushion pad
Equipment with (4) feet
on bottom, #10-32 x 3/4
screws with washers
Bottom Pad
Inside Carton
Corner pads (4)
Inside Carton
Cushion pad
Shipping Carton
19
Page 20
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, NY 13903
McIntosh Part No. 04049101
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