McIntosh MSD-4 Owners manual

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Page 1

OWNERS

MANUAL

Surround Decoder, Dolby Digital (AC-3), DTS



and THX



MSD4

Dolby, AC-3, Pro Logic and the Double D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories and manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. DTS, digital surround, and coherent acoustics are registered trademark of DTS Technology LLC. and manufactured under license from DTS Technology LLC. THX and Re-EQ + TM are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm, Ltd and manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd.

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 FAX: 607-724-0549

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Thank You, Please Take A Moment,

Customer Service and Table of Contents

Thank You

For your decision to own this McIntosh MSD4 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 MSD4. 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:

Purchase Date:

Dealer Name:

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 ....................... 16

Specifications .................................................................. 18

Packing Instruction .......................................................... 19

NOTES:

1. The MSD4 can be operated with a McIntosh C39 or MX130 Control Center. It may also be operated with a McIntosh MVS-3 Audio/Video Selector and a MC7205 Power Amplifier. There are instructions to cover both possibilities. Please refer to the following listing as a guide:

Customer Service

If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh MSD4 Surround Decoder, contact your McIntosh dealer. Your dealer is familiar with your McIntosh equipment as well as other brands that may be included in your system and is best qualified to help you.

If it is determined that your MSD4 is in need of repair, you can return it to your dealer or you can return it to McIntosh Laboratory. Contact the McIntosh Repair Department for assistance at,

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903 Phone: 607-723-3512 FAX: 607-724-0549

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 MC7205

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

2. Connecting Cables are available from the McIntosh Parts Department:

Data and Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202

Six foot, shielded 2 conductor, with 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plugs on each end.

3. For additional connection information, refer to the owners manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the MSD4 Surround Decoder.

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Safety Instructions

IMPORTANT SAFETY

INSTRUCTIONS!

PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE

OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.

WARNING SHOCK HAZARD DO NOT OPEN.

The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the products enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to consti-

tute a risk of electric shock to persons

AVIS RISQUE DE CHOC NE PAS OUVRIR.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

NO USER-SERVICEABLE

PARTS INSIDE. REFER

SERVICING TO

QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

General:

1. Read all the safety and operating instructions, contained in this owners manual, before operating this equipment.

2. Retain this owners 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 owners 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 owners 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.

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Safety Instructions cont,

Introduction and Performance Features

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.

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 fol-

lowing the operating instructions contained within

this owners manual. Adjust only those controls

that are covered by the operating instructions, as an

improper adjustment of other controls may result

in damage and will often require extensive work by

a qualified technician to restore the product to its

normal 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 MSD4 is a precision Dolby Digital AC-3®, DTS surround decoder which will reproduce the six discrete channels of encoded sound tracks with ultimate fidelity and sonic purity. The MSD4 also incorporates a Dolby Pro Logic® surround decoder to reproduce Dolby Surround® sound tracks with superior audio quality. The MSD4 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 MSD4 inputs can be selected by remote control.

· Assemble a Simplified Surround Sound System

Use an MSD4 as a stand alone decoder with a McIntosh MVS-3 Audio/Video Selector, an MC7205 Five Channel Power Amplifier and an SL-1 Powered Subwoofer for a simplified Dolby Digital, Pro Logic or DTS Surround Sound System.

· 24 Bit DSP Processing

Three Motorola 24 Bit Digital Processors decode Dolby Digital, Pro Logic and DTS signals. This combination is one of the most powerful processing systems available.

· 24 Bit Conversion

Three 24 bit stereo digital to analog, (D/A) converters are used to reproduce the six decoded Dolby Digital or DTS audio channels, and one 24 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 cont

· Automatic Mode Switching

The MSD4 automatically switches operating modes between Dolby Digital, Pro Logic or DTS, according to the input signals.

· LED Channel Status Indicators

The MSD4 includes seven LEDs on the front panel to indicate what type of operating signals are being received.

· Front Panel Mode Nomenclature

Dolby Digital, Pro Logic or DTS nomenclature illuminates to show which decoding mode is in use.

· 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.

· 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 MSD4 can be controlled directly with an optional Remote Control (HR34/HR39/HR130) through its front panel IR (Infra Red) sensor.

· Speaker Settings for Bass Management

The MSD4 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 MSD4 AC power can be turned on or off with a Power Control signal from a McIntosh Control Center or other McIntosh accessory component.

· 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.

· 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.

· Re-EQ + TM

Re-Equalization filter and Timbre Matching modify the sound tracks created for a large theater so they are more enjoyable in the smaller listening room of a home theater.

· Late Night Dynamic Audio Compression

With select encoded 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.

Page 6

Installation

The MSD4 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 MSD4. Cool operation ensures the longest possible operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not install the MSD4 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 possible operating temperature.

Installation

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.

17-1/2" 444mm

Front View of a MSD4

custom installed

Side View of a MSD4

custom installed

End Caps 3-9/16"

90.0mm

Mounting Surface

3-1/16"

77.8mm

Bottom of Cutout and Top of Support Shelf Must Coincide

(Side View)

Support Shelf

1/4" 6mm

3/16"

5.1mm

Outline of Unit

Panel Height 3 1/2"

88.9mm

17-1/16"

433.4mm

Outline of Front Panel

Edge of Cutout

(Front View)

Support Shelf

Mounting Bracket at Both Sides of the Rear Panel. Fasten with 6-32 x 3/8 Machine Screw and Washer to Chassis. Fasten with 6 x 1/2 Wood Screw and Washer to Support Shelf

7/32"

5.3mm

Bottom View of a MSD4 cus-

tom installed

Cut Out Center for Ventila ti o n

15"

(Bottom View)

Page 7

Rear Panel Switches and Connections

Connect the MSD4 power cord to a live AC outlet. Refer to information on the back panel of your MSD4 to determine the correct voltage for your unit

Set the FP SENSOR (Front Panel Sensor) slide switch to the OFF position when the MSD4 is being used in a system with a C39 or MX130. Set the FP SENSOR slide switch to the ON position when the MSD4 is being used as a stand alone decoder together with an MVS-3, MC7205 and SL-1 in a simplified surround system

Rear Panel Switches and

Connections

When the MSD4 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

Receives signals from a stereo analog signal source

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

Receives a signal from the Optical Output of a component with a digital audio output

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 RF signal from a Laser Video Disc Player reproducing a Dolby Digital (AC-3) sound track

Receives a signal from the Coaxial Output of a component with a digital audio output

Page 8

How to Connect with a C39/MX130

How to Connect with a

C39/MX130

1. Connect the MSD4 power cord to a live AC outlet.

2. Connect the six MSD4 audio outputs to the six matching audio inputs on a C39 or MX130.

3. Connect the MSD4 DATA IN jack to the C39 or MX130 AREA A SUM DATA jack

NOTE: If your C39 or MX130 does not include an Area A Sum

Data jack, connect to the jack marked SUM DATA.

4. Connect the MSD4 PWR CTRL IN jack to the C39 or MX130 POWER CONTROL jack.

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 MSD4.

b. Connect either the MLD7020 Optical or Coaxial

Digital Output to the matching MSD4 Digital Input.

2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc Player) a. Connect the DVD digital output, either op-

tical or coaxial, to the MSD4 DVD DIGITAL INPUT.

3. SAT (Satellite Receiver) a. Connect the Satellite Receiver digital out-

put, either optical or coaxial, to the MSD4 SAT input.

NOTE: For information on Video and Analog Audio

connections , refer to the owners 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

Satellite Receiver

DVD Player

McIntosh MX130 Control Center

McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Disc Player

Page 9

How to Connect in a Stand Alone System

1. Connect the MSD4 power cord to a live AC outlet.

2. Connect the MSD4 Left Front, Center, Right Front, Left Surround and Right Surround Outputs to the matching MC7205 Amplifier Channel Inputs.

3. Connect a Y adapter to the MSD4 Subwoof Output jack, with one outlet of the Y on the MSD4 Subwoof Output to the Mono R Line Input jack of an SL-1 Powered Subwoofer.

4. Connect a cable from the second outlet of the Y on the MSD4 Subwoof Output to the MC7205 Sub In/Out jack.

5. Connect the MSD4 PWR CTRL OUT to the SL-1 Power Control In jack and the SL-1 Power Control Out jack to the MC7205 Power Control In jack.

6. Connect the MSD4 Data Out to the MVS-3 Data In jack.

7. Connect the MVS-3 Control Center Audio Outputs to the MSD4 Analog Input

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 MSD4.

b. Connect either the MLD7020 Optical or Coaxial Digi-

tal Output to the matching MSD4 Digital Input.

2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc Player) a. Connect the DVD digital output, either optical or co-

axial, to the MSD4 DVD DIGITAL INPUT.

3. SAT (Satellite Receiver) a. Connect the Satellite Receiver digital output, either op-

tical or coaxial, to the MSD4 SAT input.

NOTE: For information on Video and Analog Audio

connections, refer to the owners 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 MC7205 Power Amplifier

Y

Adapter

McIntosh SL-1 Subwoofer

Satellite Receiver

DVD Player

McIntosh MLD7020 Laser Disc Player

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)

The appropriate nomenclature turns on to indicate which Dolby or DTS mode is active

Front Panel Controls, Push-Buttons,

Switches and Displays

The DELAY/VOLUME display indicates three types of information; Volume Level, System Calibration, and Time Delay

The STANDBY/ON push-button turns the MSD4 on and off, and can reset all the MSD4 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

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 Re-EQ+TM pushbutton activates the REEQualization filter and Timbre Match, which compensates for the differences in room acoustics between the movie theater and a home theater room

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

Press the CNTR (Center) DELAY push-button to temporarily activate the center 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 MSD4 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 MSD4 center delay can be adjusted from 0 to 5ms.

Each millisecond delay corresponds approximately to 1 foot in distance.

LEFT FRONT

CENTER FRONT

RIGHT FRONT

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 MSD4 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.

Left Speaker Distance

S U

U N D

Center Speaker Distance

IDEAL

LISTENING

AREA

Right

Speaker

Distance

W O

E R

S U

N D

Figure 1

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 MSD4 surround delay can be adjusted from 0 to

15ms. Each millisecond delay corresponds approximately to 1 foot in distance.

LEFT FRONT

Left Speaker Distance

S U

U N D

CENTER FRONT

Center Speaker Distance

LISTENING

IDEAL AREA

Surround Speakers Distance

Figure 2

RIGHT FRONT

Right

Speaker

Distance

W O

E R

S U

N D

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.

Selecting inputs with the Remote Control results in the MSD4 input selection automatically tracking with the Control Center input. If Inputs are selected manually by turning the C39 or MX130 LISTEN switch, the matching MSD4 inputs must also be selected manually by the MSD4 INPUT switch.

The DVD input on the MSD4 is the same as the V-AUX input on the Control Center. If any input other than the four MSD4 inputs are selected, the MSD4 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 THX

enhancements to the Dolby Pro Logic decoded sound tracks.

FP Sensor

Set the FP SENSOR switch to OFF.

NOTE: This prevents the MSD4s 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.

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.

Delay Calibration Default Setting New Setting

Center Channel 0

Surround Channels 5

How to Operate with a C39/MX130

The following information assumes the MSD4 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 MSD4 is operated by an HR34/HR39/HR130 Remote Control sending IR signals to the Control Center sensor.

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.

Re-EQ + TM

Re-EQualizationTM compensates for the bright sound required in theaters that is not needed in a home theater system. TM or Timbre MatchingTM makes the movement of sounds around the listening room much more natural and realistic by compensating for how the human ear hears sounds from the sides compared to sounds heard from the front.

Channel Status LEDs

If the signal source contains a Dolby Digital sound track, the MSD4 switches to Dolby Digital mode. The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, C, R, LFE, LS and RS will turn on in accordance to the channels that are present on the Dolby Digital sound track.

Page 13

Dolby Digital or DTS Signal Dolby Pro Logic Signal

If the signal source contains DTS encoded signals, theMSD4 switches to DTS mode. The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, C, R, LFE, LS and RS will turn on in accordance to the channels that are present on the DTS sound track.

If the signal source contains only a Dolby Pro Logic sound track, the MSD4 switches to Pro Logic mode. The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, R, and S will turn on.

Volume Control

The MSD4 VOLUME control is factory preset with the volume display indicating 75. This is the recommended initial volume calibration when the MSD4 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 MSD4 relative to other signal sources selected by the C39 or MX130, press the VOLUME pushbutton to activate the MSD4 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 (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

How to Operate with a C39/MX130

cont

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.

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.

Note: For the best

reproduction of DTS sound tracks, use full frequency range loudspeakers in front and surround locations in addition to a subwoofer. Place Front, Center and Surround Speaker Settings

Figure 3

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

switches to the Large position and the Subwoofer switch to On.

Page 14

System Level Calibration

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.

Reset of Microprocessors

In the event that the controls of the MSD4 stop functioning, there is a user reset function built in. While the MSD4 is on depress and hold in the STANDBY/ON/RESET push button for five seconds, this will reset the MSD4s microprocessors.

NOTE: The above condition is usually caused by either

interruptions in AC power and/or major changes in voltage.

Automatic System Calibration

1. Set the rear panel SYSTEM CALIBRATION switch to AUTO.

2. Adjust the MSD4 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 MSD4 DELAY/VOLUME display will read 0 for each channel before any adjustments are performed.

NOTE: The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs 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

System Level Calibration

The MSD4 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 MSD4 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 Owners Manual for details.

The built-in calibration should be used primarily when the MSD4 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 HR34/HR39/HR130 Remote Control. The MSD4 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.

Figure 4

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 HR34/HR39/HR130 Remote Control Surround Up and Down push-buttons from the listening area. You can also use the MSD4 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 num-

Page 15

System Level Calibration

cont

bers, 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 control is 75.

Manual System Calibration

1. Set the rear panel SYSTEM CALIBRATE switch to MAN.

2. Adjust the MSD4 volume control until the display reads at least 70, 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 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 MSD4 DELAY/VOLUME display will read 0 for each channel before any adjustments are performed.

HR34/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.

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.

Figure 5

Calibration Cha nnel Default Settin g New Setting

Left Front 0

Center Front 0

Right Front 0

Right Surrou nd 0

Left Surround 0

Subwoofer 0

NOTE: The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs 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

Page 16

How to Operate in a Stand Alone System

The following information assumes the MSD4 is being used with a McIntosh MC7205 amplifier, SL-1 Subwoofer, 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 MSD4 can be operated manually or with an optional HR34/HR39/HR130 Remote Control.

FP Sensor

Set the FP SENSOR switch to ON.

How to Operate in a Stand

Alone System

Dolby Digital or DTS Signal Dolby Pro Logic Signal

sound track, the MSD4 switches to Pro Logic mode. The front panel CHANNEL STATUS LEDs L, R, and S will turn on.

NOTE: This will activate the MSD4s built in sensor for

receiving the remote control commands from the optional HR34/HR39/HR130 remote control. Refer to Figure 6 on the next page, for location of Rear Panel Switches.

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 an Dolby Digital sound tracks with encoded data that supports the compression function.

Re-EQ + TM

Channel Status LEDs

If the signal source contains only a Dolby Pro Logic

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.

Surround Speakers (Small-Large)

When the surround speakers cover the full frequency range down to 20Hz, set the switch to LARGE.

Note: For the best reproduction of DTS sound tracks, use full

frequency range loudspeakers in front and surround locations in addition to a subwoofer. Place Front, Center and Surround Speaker Settings switches to the Large position and the Subwoofer switch to On.

Page 17

How to Operate in a Stand

Alone System cont

Subwoofer Speaker (Off-On)

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 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

Remote Adjustment of Surround Levels

You can adjust surround levels while listening by using the Surround Up and Down push-buttons on the optional HR34/HR39/HR130 Remote Control. These adjustments will stay as long as the MSD4 is turned on, but will be erased when the MSD4 is turned off.

Reset of Microprocessors

NOTE: The above condition is usually caused by either

interruptions in AC power and/or major changes in voltage.

Figure 6

Set SUBWOOF to ON. 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.

Page 18

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: and DTS 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: 20Hz-80Hz

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, 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 MSD4 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

Page 19

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.

Quantity Part Number Description

1 034023 Shipping carton only 4 034022 Foam end cap

1 033606 Inside carton only 1 033726 Top pad 1 033729 Bottom pad 1 033622 Inner carton pad

4 017218 Plastic foot 4 100159 #10-32 x 3/4 screw 4 104083 #10 x 7/16 Flat washer

1 048095 Shipping carton complete with

all the above parts

Page 20

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, NY 13903

McIntosh Part No. 040594