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Meridian 861 Reference Digital Surround
Controller User Guide
VA OffDSP MuteSourceReference Digital Surround Controller 861
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PREFACE
Copyright and acknowledgements
Sales and service in the
UK
Meridian Audio Ltd
Stonehill
Stukeley Meadows
Cambs
PE18 6ED
England
Tel (01480) 52144
Fax (01480) 459934
World Wide Web
http://www.meridian-audio.com
Designed and
manufactured in the UK by
Digital Gramophone and Wireless Ltd
Stukeley Meadows
Sales and service in the
USA
Meridian America Inc
3800 Camp Creek Parkway
Building 2400
Suite 122
Atlanta
GA 30331
Tel (404) 344 7111
Fax (404) 346 7111
Stonehill
Cambs
PE18 6ED
England
Copyright © 1997 Digital Gramophone and Wireless Ltd.
Part no: 861U/2
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation
(Canadian patent 1,037,877), Lucasfilm Ltd. (US patents 5,043,970;
5,189,703; 5,222,059), Trifield Productions Ltd, and Nimbus Records Ltd.
Dolby, Pro Logic, AC-3, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Lucasfilm, THX, and THX Cinema are
registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd. DTS is a registered trademark of
Digital Theatre Systems Inc. MPEG is a registered trademark of the MPEG
organisation. Ambisonic is a registered trademark of Nimbus Records Ltd.
Trifield is a trademark of Trifield Productions Ltd. LaserDisc is a trademark
of Pioneer Electric Corp. Boothroyd|Stuart Meridian, Meridian, Meridian
Digital Theatre, and LipSync are registered trademarks of Meridian Audio
Ltd.
This guide was produced by Human-Computer Interface Ltd, Cambridge,
England.
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Contents
Introduction 1
The 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller 2
DSP presets 3
Overview 7
Typical specification 9
Using the 861 Reference
Digital Surround Controller 11
Front panel and Meridian System Remote
keys 12
Switching on and off 14
Selecting a source 15
Adjusting the volume 16
Changing the DSP preset 17
Changing the display 18
Customising the 861
Reference Digital Surround
Controller 21
Locking and unlocking the menus 22
Changing the DSP parameters 23
Changing treble, bass, or phase 25
Changing the listening position 26
Changing the integration of the centre 27
Changing the spaciousness of the sound 28
Changing the lip sync and on-screen display 29
Changing the DSP preset for a source 30
Defining your own presets 31
Adjusting the sensitivity of the analogue
sources 33
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DSP presets 35
Cinema DSP presets 36
Music DSP presets 39
Discrete digital DSP presets 43
Calibrating the system 47
Using the calibration procedure 48
Calibration tests 50
Resetting the configuration of the Digital
Surround Controller 54
Glossary 57
Index 63
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Introduction
Welcome to the Meridian 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller!
This User Guide provides full information about using the Surround
Controller in conjunction with your other equipment, to achieve the
superb results you can expect from it.
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INTRODUCTION
The 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller
Digital signal processing, or DSP, is a technique pioneered by Meridian in
hi-fi products for achieving extremely accurate reproduction of audio
signals. Unlike conventional analogue systems – which process signals using
electronic circuits based on resistors, capacitors, and inductors – DSP works
by performing exact mathematical calculations on digital versions of the
signals.
The advantage of DSP over analogue circuitry is that the signals are held as
precise numbers, rather than voltages in a circuit. This means that any
number of stages of processing can be performed with high precision, and
without any of the cumulative noise or degradation that inevitably occurs,
even with high-quality analogue circuitry. In addition, several of the
surround-sound decoding techniques and signal improvement techniques
available in the 861 would be virtually impossible to implement in
analogue circuitry.
At Meridian we have taken advantage of the availability of high speed DSP
microprocessors to incorporate DSP in hi-fi products, and the 861 is the
result of several years of our research and development in this field.
The 861 takes advantage of DSP for several different functions:
•
To de-jitter incoming digital signals and expand the precision of the
signal.
•
To perform filtering or adjustment of the frequency response; eg treble
or bass.
•
To decode digitally-encoded signals from Dolby Digital (AC-3), DTS, or
MPEG Audio.
•
To process the audio into a multi-channel signal, and match the source
channels to the configuration of main loudspeakers and subwoofers in
the system.
The 861 converts analogue input signals to digital format, using highquality analogue-to-digital converters (ADCs). Digital signals, from CD,
DVD, LaserDisc or digital broadcasting, are already in digital format and do
not need to be converted.
The signals are then retained in digital form throughout the 861 until they
are converted back to analogue form at the analogue outputs, to drive
power amplifiers. If you are using the 861 with Meridian DSP Loudspeakers,
the signals remain in digital form until the last possible stage.
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INTRODUCTION
DSP presets
The 861 provides an extremely comprehensive range of options for
decoding both analogue and digital audio signals and processing them for
multi-channel reproduction.
The Digital Surround Controller provides several digital signal processing
options, called DSP presets, and these are designed to provide the best
results with a range of different types of music and film material.
In addition to selecting built-in DSP presets, the Digital Surround Controller
allows you to create your own presets based on the standard ones. For
example, you may want to add more delay to the rear speakers to create a
more spacious sound. You can store your modified preset with a name of
your choice, and recall it for use at a later date.
This section gives information about each of the built-in DSP presets, and
gives recommendations for the best preset to choose for different types of
material.
Multi-channel digital sources
Several alternative multi-channel digital formats are currently available
which encode up to 8 different channels onto a digital signal. Three
alternatives are currently in use: Dolby Digital (AC-3), DTS, and MPEG
Audio. However, the 861 has been designed so that it can be upgraded by
downloading a software update, to cater for new formats as they are
introduced.
Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital, previously called AC-3, is the preferred sound format for DVD
in NTSC territories, and is widely used on LaserDisc soundtracks. It is also
the audio standard for US digital television.
MPEG Surround
MPEG Surround is the preferred audio format for DVD in PAL territories,
and along with Dolby Digital is a contender as the standard for music and
performance videos on DVD worldwide. In addition, it is widely available in
US satellite broadcasts and in computer multimedia.
DTS
DTS uses a carefully-designed audio compression technique to encode five
channels of audio onto a digital signal. The DTS format is used to encode
multi-channel film soundtracks on LaserDiscs and DVD video discs.
In addition, a high data-rate version of DTS can be used to compress five
channels of CD-quality audio into the same space as two channels of
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INTRODUCTION
unencoded sound, allowing a DTS music CD to provide over an hour of fivechannel music, at a quality indistinguishable from conventional CD.
THX
THX versions of Dolby Digital, MPEG Surround, and DTS are provided to
give a better match between the original soundtrack and typical domestic
listening conditions.
Multi-channel sources encoded onto two channels
Several systems have been developed for encoding multi-channel sources
onto a standard two-channel analogue signal so that they can be
reproduced by a conventional stereo system, or decoded with special
equipment for multi-channel reproduction. The 861 provides decoding of
the two most important of these, Ambisonic and Dolby Surround. Although
the channel separation cannot be as good as with the digital multi-channel
formats, the 861 produces excellent results with these formats.
Pro Logic
The Pro Logic preset is recommended for decoding Dolby Surround
encoded video and LaserDisc soundtracks, and films on television. Such
materials are usually identified by a Dolby Surround symbol on the
packaging, or displayed on the film before the programme.
TV Logic
TV Logic provides user-adjustable steering, and is recommended for use
with TV broadcasts that are not surround encoded, where Pro Logic may
give reduced intelligibility.
THX Cinema
THX Cinema enhances Pro Logic to replicate the sound of a dubbing
stage or theatre, whether or not the other equipment in your system is THX
approved.
Ambisonic
Ambisonic decodes material specifically encoded for surround sound
reproduction, using a two-channel stereo-compatible encoding. Recordings
encoded in Ambisonic format are available on CD from several sources
including Nimbus Records and York Ambisonic. Some radio broadcasts are
also broadcast in Ambisonic format.
Conventional stereo sources
The Digital Surround Controller can also accept a conventional two-channel
source, such as music on compact disc or a video soundtrack, and by
analysing the information in the signal separate the two-channel recording
into multiple channels to give better reproduction and a more stable
spatial image.
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INTRODUCTION
Four alternative DSP presets are provided for reproducing material
originally designed for a conventional stereo pair of speakers, and the
choice of which preset to choose largely depends on your own personal
preferences.
All four presets use similar procedures to extract the surround component
of the original recording, which is delivered to the rear surround speakers,
and side surround speakers if present.
Music
Music uses a special technique developed by Meridian to divide the sound
between the left, right, and centre speakers and give a wide, spacious
sound. We recommend this option for large-scale music, such as orchestral
and choral music.
Trifield
Trifield uses a different processing technique to give a stable, three-
dimensional image, with the ability to adjust the width of the image.
Because of its precision we recommend this option for solo, chamber, or
vocal music.
Super Stereo
Super Stereo provides a form of Ambisonic decoding suitable for material
that is not specially encoded. We recommend this option for multi-miked
or multi-tracked music, such as rock music.
MusicLogic
MusicLogic provides user-adjustable steering to give an exciting sound
with many types of music. We recommend this option for studio-produced
music, ie material not produced using natural soundfield recording.
Special DSP presets
The Digital Surround Controller also includes the following special DSP
presets, for specific applications:
Mono and Academy
The Mono and Academy presets are designed for reproducing mono
materials through a centre speaker, so that any high-frequency hiss or clicks
are centrally localised.
Mono is designed for mono recordings, and multi-language LaserDiscs and video soundtracks.
Academy is designed for early black and white film soundtracks. It includes equalisation designed to correct for a high-frequency balance in some old black and white films.
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INTRODUCTION
Stereo and Direct Stereo and Direct are provided for comparison with the other DSP
presets. Direct uses just the main left and right speakers for traditional two-speaker stereo reproduction. Stereo, in addition, uses any subwoofers in the layout to enhance the bass or to protect small speakers.
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INTRODUCTION
Overview
The architecture of 861 allows for wide flexibility – future sources and
formats can be handled by upgrading either software or cards.
Inputs
The 861 is a full-system controller preamp that provides seamless control of
up to 12 analogue or digital audio, and up to 12 video sources.
The optional Tape card provides additional internal 20-bit A/D and D/A
converters to give full support for both tape recorders, extensive 2- and
3-zone multi-room capability (analogue or digital formats), and
headphones.
By providing digital as well as analogue inputs the 861 can give radically
higher sound quality for sources that are originally digital – like CD,
LaserDisc, Digital Radio and DVD.
As well as accepting 2-channel digital audio, the 861 will handle SPDIFencoded Dolby Digital, DTS or MPEG from sources like DVD, Satellite and
LaserDisc (via a Meridian 519 Demodulator).
Processing
The Meridian 861 routes all signals – if necessary via a 20-bit Delta-Sigma
A/D converter – into the digital domain for processing in the highly
developed Meridian 24-bit DSP cards.
This processing engine can consist of between 2 and 10 modular processor
cards, each housing 1 or 2 ultra-fast 24-bit processors with high-speed
cache memory. In each DSP core, the incoming signals are processed using a
variety of proprietary algorithms and up to 16 output signals are
generated. These output signals can be used to feed a number of speaker
layouts, ranging from 2-speaker to 7-speaker stereo with up to 8
subwoofers.
The on-board algorithms include Meridian’s own highly transparent Dolby
Pro Logic and Dolby Digital, MPEG Surround, DTS, THX extensions, TV Logic
and a variety of award-winning music programs including Trifield and
Ambisonic.
Outputs
The 8+ outputs can be provided as digital signals to feed Meridian DSP
Loudspeakers, or as variable analogue outputs using a proprietary onboard 23-bit resolution conversion method.
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INTRODUCTION
Video control and OSD
The Meridian 861 provides broadcast-grade video switching options for
monitors, projectors and video tape routing. The comprehensive setup and
customising facilities allow the user to link any video and audio
combinations to the 12 Sources (accessed from Source switching on the
front panel or the remote control).
In addition to providing high-quality video amplification, the 861 has the
ability to give help and system control feedback information in an OnScreen Display. Video formats supported include Composite, S, Component,
and RGB.
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INTRODUCTION
Typical specification
Audio in and out
•
Up to 12 analogue inputs. User-adjustable sensitivity. Re-nameable
legends.
•
Up to 12 digital inputs. Re-nameable legends. 32 to 48kHz or 96kHz
sampling, and up to 24-bit precision.
•
Digital and analogue tape loops
•
Independent copy and 2-room+ capability
•
2 to 12 digital outputs
•
2 to 12 analogue outputs
Control signals
•
3 trigger outputs, programmable by source.
•
Meridian Comms and RS232 for control and setup.
Signal processing
The 861 uses Meridian’s proprietary DSP software to provide the following
powerful Modes:
•
Pro Logic
•
THX
•
TVLogic
•
Dolby Digital (AC-3)
•
DTS Coherent Surround
•
MPEG Audio and MPEG Surround
•
Music
•
Trifield
•
Ambisonics
•
Super Stereo
•
MusicLogic
Controls, etc.
Front-panel facia controls for:
•
Source, DSP, Mute, Volume and Off.
Hinged control panel provides additional switches for:
•
Display
•
Copy
•
Store and Assign
•
Parameter menus
•
Setup
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INTRODUCTION
Display
•
20-character dot-matrix display: adjustable brightness and contrast
•
Lights for Dolby, Digital, THX, DTS, and MPEG
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Using the 861 Reference Digital Surround
Controller
This chapter provides a summary of the functions of the 861 Reference
Digital Surround Controller to identify the controls which you use to
operate the unit.
It also provides step-by-step instructions for operating the Digital
Surround Controller, using either the front panel or the Meridian
System Remote.
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Front panel and
Meridian System
Remote keys
Source
1
Selects the source.
DSP
2
Changes the DSP preset selected for a
source.
Mute
3
Mutes or restores the sound.
V
4
Reduces the volume.
A
5
Increases the volume.
Off
6
Switches to standby.
Display
7
Changes the information displayed on
the front panel.
Copy
8
Copies a source to a tape output.
Store
9
Stores the parameters for a preset.
Menu keys
10
Allow you to select DSP parameters, and
change their values.
Assign
11
Assigns the current DSP preset to the
current source.
Calibrate
12
Sets up the loudspeakers.
Config
13
Configures source sensitivity.
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1
6
5
4
9
3
10
7
8
7
9 10
Menu
CopyDisplay
11
12
Calibrate
ConfigAssignStore
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1
2
3
4
6
5
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Switching on and off
When not playing, the Digital Surround Controller should be left in the
standby state. This uses a negligible amount of electricity, but ensures that
the components of the Digital Surround Controller operate at maximum
efficiency from the moment you start.
If you are not going to use the Digital Surround Controller for several days
you should switch the unit off completely at the rear panel, and disconnect
it from the AC power supply.
To switch on from standby
• Press Source (front panel), or select a source by pressing the appropriate
source key on the remote; eg CD.
If the Digital Surround Controller is part of a Meridian system it will
automatically switch on any other unit in the system, such as the 800
Reference CD Machine and Meridian DSP Loudspeakers.
To switch to standby
• Press Off (front panel or remote).
If you have other Meridian equipment or Meridian DSP Loudspeakers
connected to the Digital Surround Controller these units will also switch to
standby.
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Selecting a source
The sound processor provides the following 12 sources:
CD, Radio, LP, TV, Tape 1, Tape 2, CDR, Cable, DVD, VCR1, VCR2,
LDisc.
Your installer may have
customised the labels displayed for
each source to suit your other
equipment.
To select a source
• Press Source (front panel) until the display shows the source you
require, or press the appropriate source key on the remote; eg CD.
The display shows the source, DSP preset, and volume setting.
For example, if you select
the CD source the display
The Digital Surround Controller
mutes the sound while you
change source, to avoid clicks in
the speakers.
The input and DSP preset associated with each source
depends on how the Digital Surround Controller has been
set up; for more information refer to the Meridian 861
Reference Digital Surround Controller System Guide.
might show:
CD Trifield 65
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A setting of 87 corresponds
to THX reference gain, the level
at which film soundtracks are
mixed.
Adjusting the volume
The 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller adjusts the volume in precise
steps of 1dB, where 9dB is equivalent to doubling the loudness. The current
volume setting is displayed in dB on the front panel display, and can be
varied in the range 1 to 99dB. When you first connect power to
the Digital Surround Controller the volume is set to 65,
which is similar to the mid-way position of the rotary
volume control on a conventional preamplifier.
For normal to high level listening you should expect to use
volume levels in the range 60 to 90.
To change the volume
• Press A or V (front panel), or the red A or V keys on the remote.
As you adjust the volume setting the display shows the current volume
level.
For example:
CD Trifield 70
To mute the sound
• Press Mute (front panel or remote).
The display will show:
Mute
To restore the sound
• Press Mute again.
Alternatively, the sound will be restored if you adjust the volume.
To change the headphone volume
You can connect headphones to the 861 using the optional Tape card. To
change the headphone volume:
• Press the Calibrate button, under the front panel, and then use the
Menu A or V buttons to change the headphone volume. Alternatively
to use the remote hold down Function while pressing the red A or V
keys.
The display shows the headphone
volume; for example:
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Headphone Volume 65
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Music format Presets
Changing the DSP preset
Each source has a set of DSP presets associated with it, one for each of the
alternative audio formats: two-channel (PCM), Dolby Digital, DTS, and
MPEG.
When you choose a source an appropriate DSP preset is selected for the
incoming audio format.
For example, if you have selected the CD source and are playing a
conventional CD, the Trifield DSP preset will initially be selected.
You may then wish to choose a different DSP preset, such as Music or
Ambisonic.
You can also change the default DSP preset assigned to the source; see To
assign a DSP preset to a source, page 30.
The sequence of DSP presets for each music format is as follows:
Two-channel (PCM) Direct, Music, Trifield, Ambisonic, Super, Stereo, MusicLogic,
Dolby Digital Digital, Digital THX
DTS DTS, DTS THX, DTS Music
MPEG MPEG, MPEG THX, MPEG Music
In each case these will be followed by any user-defined presets you have
stored for the appropriate audio format.
To change the DSP preset
• Press DSP (front panel) or Function • (remote) to step between the
different DSP presets.
The Digital Surround Controller
mutes the sound while you
change DSP preset, to avoid clicks
in the speakers.
ProLogic, THX Cinema, Mono, Academy, TV Logic
You will be able to choose any of the predefined DSP presets,
or any user-defined presets you have stored.
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Changing the display
The 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller displays information about
the current settings on the 20-character front panel display. In addition, it
can display the same information superimposed on a video image. For
more information about setting up an on-screen display refer to the 861
Reference Digital Surround Controller System Guide.
You can adjust the contrast and brightness of the front-panel display for
optimum viewing, and choose what information is displayed.
The Digital Surround Controller automatically stores these settings, even
with the power off.
To change the contrast
• Press > or < (remote), or the corresponding Menu buttons under the
front panel, until the
display shows:
• Press A or V (remote), or the corresponding Menu buttons under the
front panel, to change the display contrast.
CD Contrast 8
You can change the contrast between 0 and 15.
To change the brightness
• Press > or < (remote), or the corresponding Menu buttons under the
front panel, until the
display shows:
• Press A or V (remote), or the corresponding Menu buttons under the
front panel, to change the display brightness.
You can change the brightness between 0 and 15.
CD Bright 11
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Display option Example
To change the displayed information
• Press Display. TV ProLogic
Each time you press Display the display will step between the options
shown in the following table.
Source, DSP preset, and volume
DSP preset, source, and THX
reference level
Audio format and sampling rate
Blank
If your Digital Surround Controller is fitted with a video card, the same
information can be displayed on an on-screen display.
For example:
CD Ambisonics 65
CD Ambisonics -22
CD PCM 44k
You can choose the position of the on-screen display for each DSP preset;
see To change the position of the on-screen display, page 29.
If the Diagnostic display option has been selected additional diagnostic
displays are included; refer to the 861 Reference Digital Surround
Controller System Guide for details.
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Symbol What it means
DIGITAL Input is Dolby Digital.
MPEG Input is MPEG.
In addition, the following symbols on the front panel display indicate
which of the DSP processing modes are operating:
Dolby processing is operating.
THX processing is operating.
Input is DTS.
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Customising the 861 Reference Digital
Surround Controller
In addition to being able to change the source, volume, and DSP
preset, the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller provides a
sophisticated range of more advanced adjustments for each DSP
preset, to allow you to tailor the sound.
This chapter explains how to change these parameters, and gives
detailed instructions for adjusting the parameters that are common to
most of the DSP presets.
For information about the parameters specific to individual presets see
DSP presets, page 35.
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Locking and unlocking the menus
To simplify the normal operation of the Digital Surround Controller, and to
protect the settings from accidental changes, you can lock the menus so
that the DSP parameters cannot be accessed.
The only parameters available with the menus locked are Brightness and
Contrast.
To display or change the DSP presets, or to define your own presets, you
first need to unlock the Digital Surround Controller menus.
To unlock the menus
• Press Off (front panel or remote) to put the Digital Surround Controller
in standby.
• Press and hold down the Store button under the front panel for a few
seconds until the display
shows:
To lock the menus
Unlocked
• Repeat the above sequence so that
the display shows: Locked
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Changing the DSP parameters
Each DSP preset provides a series of parameters that you can vary to
customise the behaviour of the preset to your specific requirements. For
example, most presets provide Balance and Depth parameters to allow
you to alter the characteristics of the sound.
For each of the built-in DSP presets these parameters are set to standard
values, designed to give the best sound in typical listening conditions and
with most source materials. Each time you select a different DSP preset the
parameters are reset to these standard values, even if you have previously
altered them.
You can save the changes you have made to one or more DSP parameters
in place of the original DSP preset. Alternatively you can create a new userdefined DSP preset, with a name of your choice. User-defined presets
appear in the list of DSP presets after the built-in ones. For more
information about doing this see Defining your own presets, page 31.
Standard parameters
All DSP presets (except Mono and Direct) provide the following parameters:
Parameter Range Default What it changes
Treble -10dB to +10dB +0dB The slope of the frequency response.
Bass -5dB to +5dB +0dB The bass response.
Phase* + or - + The phase of all loudspeakers.
Balance <10 to 10> <0> The L-R balance.
Centre -3dB to +3dB +0dB The level of the centre.
Depth -2.5ms to +5ms +0.0 The relative delay of the centre.
Rear -30dB to +10dB +0dB The relative level of the rears.
Sides -30dB to +10dB +0dB The relative level of the sides.
R Delay 15ms to 30ms 0.0 The relative delay of the rears.
S Delay 15ms to 30ms 0.0 The relative delay of the sides.
LipSync 0ms to 30ms 0.0 The sync. delay.
OSD* Off, Low, Med, High Low The position of the on-screen display.
* These parameters apply to all DSP presets.
Individual DSP presets provide additional parameters, to allow you to
adjust specific features provided by that preset. For full details refer to DSP
presets, page 35.
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To change a DSP parameter
• Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus, page 22.
• Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the name of the parameter
you want to change.
For example:
• Press A or V (remote) to change the value of the parameter.
Alternatively you can use the corresponding Menu buttons under the front
panel.
As you change the value you will be able to hear the effect on the sound,
and the display will show the current value.
After a short delay the display will revert to the normal display of DSP
preset and volume.
CD Depth +0.0
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Changing treble, bass, or phase
The Digital Surround Controller provides sophisticated treble and bass
controls, to allow you to adjust the broad balance of the system to correct
for the acoustics of your listening room, or for a misbalanced recording.
The controls are more subtle than conventional tone controls, and take
advantage of digital signal processing techniques to provide a more natural
adjustment of the frequency response.
If you have a Meridian
DSP Loudspeaker the Treble and
Bass settings apply to all DSP
presets.
To change the treble
• Press < or > (remote) until the display shows the current treble; for
example:
• Press A or V (remote) to change the treble.
The treble control tilts the frequency of the response over the entire
frequency range to make the sound brighter or dimmer. It can be adjusted
between ±10dB in 0.5dB steps. Normally settings between +1.0 and -2.0 will
give the most natural results.
To change the bass
• Press < or > (remote) until the display shows the current bass setting;
for example:
You can also change the absolute phase of the signal, to
compensate for recordings which are out of phase.
In each case all the outputs of the Digital Surround
Controller are given the same frequency adjustment, to
ensure a correct surround effect.
CD Treble +0.0
CD Bass +0.0
• Press A or V (remote) to change the bass.
The bass control allows you to adjust the bass response in the room by
±5dB in 0.5dB steps. Normally settings between +3.0 and -2.0 will give the
most natural results.
To change the absolute phase
• Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the current phase;
for example:
CD + Phase
• Press A or V (remote) to change the phase.
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Changing the listening position
A conventional stereo system provides a single balance control, which
changes the relative loudness of the two speakers. The 861 Reference
Digital Surround Controller provides a more sophisticated adjustment
which corresponds to moving the listening position to the left or right.
You can also change the level of the centre, side, or rear loudspeakers
relative to the main speakers.
To move the listening position to the left or right
• Press < or > (remote)
until the display shows: CD Balance <0>
• Press A or V (remote) to move the listening position.
The display shows the direction and position of the listening position.
For example:
The arrow indicates the direction, and the number indicates the position
where 0 is central, 8 is in line with the corresponding main speaker, and 10
is fully to one side.
Note that this adjustment is not available for the Mono or Academy
presets.
CD Balance <3
To change the relative level of the side or rear
loudspeakers
• Press < or > (remote) until the display shows the speaker(s) you want
to adjust; for example:
CD Rear +0dB
• Use A or V to change the relative level of the speakers, in dB.
You can change the relative loudness of the rear loudspeakers from -30dB
(about one-eighth of the loudness) to +10dB (about double the loudness).
For example, to double the loudness of the loudspeakers:
• Adjust their level until
the display shows:
Note that this adjustment is not available for the Direct, Stereo, Mono, or
Academy presets.
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Changing the integration of the centre
If you have a centre loudspeaker you can adjust its relative loudness, to
provide the best integration of the centre with the main left and right
speakers.
You can also adjust the relative delay of the centre speaker to give the best
perspective between the three front speakers.
Note that these adjustments are not available for the Direct, Stereo,
Mono, or Academy presets.
To change the relative level of the centre speaker
• Press > or < until the display shows the current centre level;
for example:
CD Centre +0dB
• Press A or V to change the relative level of the centre speaker.
You can change the relative level by ±3dB.
To change the relative delay of the centre speaker
• Press < or > until the display shows the current centre depth;
for example:
• Press A or V to change the relative depth of the centre speaker.
You can change the depth between -2.5ms, which corresponds to moving
the centre speaker 2 Qw feet nearer to the listening position, and
Increasing the depth makes the
sound more open. Decreasing it
makes the sound more focused.
CD Depth +0.0
+5ms, which corresponds to moving it 5 feet further away
from the listening position.
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Changing the spaciousness of the sound
You can adjust the spaciousness of the sound by altering the delay on the
rear and side channels.
Note that these adjustments are not available for the Direct, Stereo,
Mono, or Academy presets.
To change the relative delay of the rear or side
speakers
• Press > or < until the
display shows: CD R Delay 0.0
• Press A or V to change the relative delay of the rear speakers.
You can change the rear delay between 15ms, which is equivalent to
moving the rear speakers 15 feet away, and 30ms, which is equivalent to
moving the rear speakers 30 feet away.
If you have side speakers an additional S Delay option allows you to adjust
For best results you should
never set the S Delay to be less
than the R Delay.
the delay on the side speakers between 15ms and 30ms.
The Dolby Digital, Music, Trifield, and Ambisonic
presets allow you to vary these delays down to 0ms.
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Changing the lip sync and on-screen display
To adjust the lip sync
The LipSync parameter is a unique Meridian feature which allows you to
adjust the delay between the sound and the video image by up to one
video frame.
Most movies are mixed for a viewing distance of 30 feet, and when viewed
from 12 feet or less the sound arrives too early, giving a disconcerting
effect. Using the LipSync parameter you can add an overall delay to the
sound to accommodate your closer home viewing distance.
Many TV broadcasts delay the picture by half a frame, and can benefit from
a LipSync setting of 12ms.
• Press > or < until the
display shows:
• Press A or V to change the delay in milliseconds.
CD LipSync 0.0
You can adjust the delay between 0 and 30ms, where 30ms corresponds to
sitting 30 feet further away from the screen.
If your video display system has a long latency, this can be corrected using
the Frame Sync feature; refer to the 861 Reference Digital Surround
Controller System Guide for details.
To change the position of the on-screen display
For each DSP preset you can specify the position of the on-screen display
(OSD), or blank the on-screen display altogether.
For example, you may prefer to have the on-screen display at the top of the
screen when watching videos, but at the bottom of the screen when
listening to music.
• Press > or < until the display shows the current OSD position.
For example:
• Press A or V to change the position.
You can choose between Off, Low, Med, or High.
CD OSD Low
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Changing the DSP preset for a source
Each source has an appropriate DSP preset associated with it for each music
format. For example, for a standard stereo (PCM) signal the CD source uses
Trifield and the TV source uses TV Logic.
This section explains how to change the DSP preset associated with any
source.
To assign a DSP preset to a source
• Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus, page 22.
• Select the source you want to change by pressing the Source key on the
front panel or the appropriate source button on the remote, eg CD.
• If necessary, select a signal in the appropriate format. For example, to
change the DSP preset used for DTS compact discs, play a DTS CD.
The display will show the source and the DSP preset currently assigned to
that source.
For example:
• Press A or V until the display shows the new DSP preset you want to
assign.
For example:
• Press the Assign button to save the new assignment.
CD Trifield 65
CD MusicLogic 65
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Defining your own presets
The 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller allows you to modify one of
the built-in presets, and save it for future use.
You can either save the changes to the built-in preset, or you can create up
to 12 presets of your own, with names of your choice, so you can use them
alongside the built-in presets.
To save the preset settings
• Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus, page 22.
• Press DSP (front panel), or Function • (remote), to select the preset you
want to modify.
• Change the preset parameters to the values you want to store; see To
change a DSP parameter, page 24.
• Press Store on the remote.
The display shows the next available user-defined preset.
For example:
• If you want to overwrite an existing user-defined preset press A or V to
select the preset you want to overwrite.
For example:
Alternatively you can choose the built-in preset you started with.
For example: CD Trifield
• Press Store on the remote.
The settings have been stored in the new or existing preset you selected.
If you are defining a user preset you can now edit the name of the preset if
you wish.
A flashing cursor shows the
letter you are editing:
CD User 1
CD Classical
CD •ser 1
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If you have an on-screen display it shows:
• Press > or < to select the character position you want to edit.
• Press A or V to change the character.
Each press steps through the sequence A to Z, a to z, 0 to 9, full stop, and
blank. You can also select a blank directly by pressing Clear on the remote.
For example, you could
change the name to:
CD La Scala
• When you have entered the name you want to use press Store.
The display shows:
Stored
To clear a user-defined preset
• Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus, page 22.
• Press DSP (front panel), or A or V (remote) to select the preset you
want to clear.
• Press and hold down Clear (remote) for several seconds.
The display shows:
If you clear a preset that was saved over a built-in preset, the original
preset name and settings are restored.
Preset Clear
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Adjusting the sensitivity of the analogue sources
To obtain the best signal-to-noise ratio for your analogue sources you can
adjust the sensitivity of each input to give the highest level that does not
produce clipping.
To adjust the sensitivity of a source
• Select the source you want to adjust.
• Press the Config button under the front panel.
The display shows the current sensitivity.
For example:
• Press A or V (front panel) to change the sensitivity.
You can select between sensitivities of 0.7V (most sensitive), 1.4V, 2.0V, or
2.5V (least sensitive).
If the sensitivity is set too high the input will clip the loudest passages.
The display shows, for example:
In this case reduce the sensitivity.
If you have selected a digital source you cannot adjust the sensitivity.
The display shows, for example:
Radio 2.0V In
Radio 0.7V In Clip
CD Not Analogue
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DSP presets
This chapter gives technical information about each of the DSP presets
built in to the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller.
It explains the processing performed by each DSP preset, and gives
details of the types of material you should use with each preset.
It also gives details of the special DSP parameters available for each
preset.
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Cinema DSP presets
The Digital Surround Controller provides five DSP presets specifically
designed for reproducing film soundtracks. Three of these presets, Pro
Logic, THX Cinema, and TV Logic, are designed for Dolby Surround
encoded material. Most films, and many TV programmes and series, are
encoded using Dolby Surround, and it is increasingly being used to encode
music.
The 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller follows the Meridian
philosophy of performing all the signal processing digitally, and the Dolby
Surround decoding operates purely in a digital mode. This gives it a far
higher performance and a better subjective sound than other analoguebased decoders.
The remaining two cinema presets, Mono and Academy, are designed for
films with mono soundtracks.
If your Digital Surround Controller is configured to use different
loudspeaker layouts, all the cinema DSP presets will use the CINEMA layout;
refer to the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller System Guide for
more information.
Pro Logic
Dolby Surround is an encoding system based on a phase-amplitude matrix
whose output can be decoded by a very simple passive matrix. Such a
decoder gives quite a poor separation.
The Pro Logic system uses psychoacoustically optimised directional
enhancement to increase the separation in both left-right and front-back
directions. It does this by continuously calculating the position and degree
of the currently-dominant sound. This sound is then steered to a greater or
lesser extent to that position in the arriving sound. This technique is very
successful for cinema and other dramatic programmes.
Further refinements in the Pro Logic decoder include the filtering and delay
of the rear surround signal to reduce any tendency for the surround signals
to divert attention or become dominant. The Pro Logic decoder also uses a
modified digital Dolby noise-reduction process in the surround signal. Since
Dolby Surround material is encoded with this in mind the noise-reduction is
permanently operating in this mode.
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THX Cinema
The THX Cinema DSP preset provides Pro Logic decoding, followed by
additional signal processing refinements developed by Lucasfilm Ltd.
The THX extensions to Pro Logic decoding are designed to provide a better
match between the sound of the movie theatre and a home cinema.
In a home system the speakers tend to be a lot closer to the listener than in
a movie theatre, and the THX Cinema DSP preset compensates for this
difference of scale in three ways:
•
The front channels are re-equalised so that the sound at the listener has
a frequency balance close to that of the mastering theatre.
•
The surround channels are frequency-corrected using a timbre-matching
process so that sounds moving front–back are more convincing.
•
The surround channels are decorrelated to break up any artificial
localisation of the rear signals due to the speakers being nearby. In the
861 Reference Digital Surround Controller this decorrelation is optimised
to give a spacious surround sound that has no artefacts disturbing to
music or other sensitive sounds in the mix.
Pro Logic and THX Cinema DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Mono Rear Steered Rear, Steered Side, Which of the surround channels are
Steered All, Mono All, generated by steering. Mono gives
Mono Rear, Mono Side conventional Pro Logic surrounds. Steered
gives stereo surrounds.
TV Logic
TV Logic is a logic preset, with user-adjustable steering, that can give
higher intelligibility and a more appropriate spatial presentation for
studio-based TV material.
TV Logic DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Roll Off, Low, Med, High The degree of left-right steering.
Yaw Off, Low, Med, High The degree of front-rear steering.
Mono Rear Steered Rear, Which of the surround channels are
Steered Side, generated by steering.
Steered All,
Mono All, Mono
Rear, Mono Side.
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Mono and Academy
In the Mono and Academy DSP presets you can choose to listen to:
•
Only one of two input channels, such as when different languages or
material are carried on each channel.
•
A combined version of the two input channels, such as if the material
was originally mono and has been conveyed on a two-channel carrier.
If there is a centre speaker, the combined or selected signal is played only
through this to centrally localise high-frequency hiss and clicks.
The Academy DSP preset includes an equalisation (recommended by Lucasfilm Ltd) to correct for a high-frequency balance in some old mono films.
Mono and Academy DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Input Auto L+R, Left, The channel selected.
Right, L+R
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Music DSP presets
The Digital Surround Controller provides seven alternative music DSP
presets designed for the reproduction of well recorded material, originally
intended for replay over a traditional stereo pair of loudspeakers.
In addition, it provides DSP presets for reproducing music in the digitally
encoded DTS and MPEG formats.
Music format Presets
Conventional stereo (PCM) Direct, Music, Trifield, Ambisonic, Super, Stereo,
DTS DTS Music
MPEG MPEG Music
If your Digital Surround Controller is configured to use different
loudspeaker layouts, all the music DSP presets will use the MUSIC layout;
refer to the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller System Guide for
more information.
MusicLogic
Music
The Music DSP preset extracts the mono and surround components of the original recording. These components provide an alternative representation of the original sound, and this representation is sometimes used for recording systems or in broadcasts such as FM radio.
The mono element is equalised using a proprietary Meridian technique to
match the tone colour of the centre speaker, and to compensate for the
fact that the frequency response of human hearing changes with direction.
The Music DSP preset is recommended for recordings made with spaced omnidirectional microphones, or using a mono-surround technique.
Trifield
As for the Music DSP preset, the Trifield preset extracts the mono and surround components of the original recording. It then calculates the signals for the front left, centre, and right speakers, using the phase and amplitude differences between the three front channels, to redistribute the sounds on a frequency-dependent basis.
This gives a significant improvement over traditional stereo, which converts
the differences between the microphone signals into amplitude differences
in the speaker signals. This version of the Trifield algorithm is virtually
impossible to implement without digital signal processing.
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Trifield is recommended for well-made recordings and stereo television
broadcasts that are not Dolby Surround encoded. An advantage over the
Music DSP preset is that the front stereo image is more focused, and the
width of the image can be adjusted.
Music and Trifield DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Centre Flat, EQ1–3 The timbre of the centre loudspeaker.
Width* 0–2 The width of the image.
Surr. Rear Surr. Rear, Surr. Side, Switches the surround signal between the
R Filter Off, 1kHz, 3kHz, The cutoff of high frequencies from the rear
S Filter Off, 1kHz, 3kHz, The cutoff of high frequencies from the side
Surr. All side and rear speakers.
7kHz surrounds.
7kHz surrounds.
* Trifield only.
Ambisonic
The Ambisonic DSP preset is designed for replaying material encoded in UHJ format, the two-channel stereo-compatible encoding found on Ambisonically-recorded discs and broadcasts. This material is specifically encoded for surround reproduction and can give breathtakingly realistic sound when replayed using the Digital Surround Controller.
Ambisonic surround sound is quite unlike conventional stereo. A special
microphone technique picks up the sound of the original performance in
all three dimensions, allowing an archive to be made which describes the
sound field exactly at that position. The microphone signals are then
encoded using a phase-amplitude matrix to allow the effect to be conveyed
on two-channel carriers (like FM radio, LP, or CD).
The Digital Surround Controller uses accurately matched, frequencydependent, phase-amplitude matrices to decode the signal and construct
the signals for each speaker feed.
The fundamental difference between Ambisonic surround sound and
conventional stereo is that the signals from all the speakers combine to
produce a coherent sound field at the listening position, giving the illusion
that you are sitting inside the recording space whether you are at the exact
central seat or well off to one side.
Of all the signal-processing options, Ambisonic is the one that requires
the greatest attention to speaker choice and positioning.
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Super Stereo
Super Stereo synthesises a signal from a conventional stereo recording or
broadcast so that it can be decoded using the Ambisonic decoder. The
result is especially effective for two particular types of recordings:
•
Those using true coincident microphone techniques.
•
Multi-tracked or multi-miked recordings.
Ambisonic and Super Stereo DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Width * 0 to 1 The width of the image.
Position † A, C, E, G, I, K, M The seating position; the letters are like rows
5 Channels 7, 6, 5, 4 The number of speakers.
R Filter Off, 3kHz, 7kHz, The cutoff of high frequencies from the rear
9kHz surrounds.
S Filter Off, 3kHz, 7kHz, The cutoff of high frequencies from the side
9kHz surrounds.
in a hall.
* Super Stereo only.
† Ambisonic only.
MusicLogic
MusicLogic is a music DSP preset with user-adjustable steering, designed
to provide an exciting experience with many types of studio-produced
music.
MusicLogic DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Roll Off, Low, Med, High The degree of left-right steering.
Yaw Off, Low, Med, High The degree of front-rear steering.
Mono Rear Steered Rear, Which of the surround channels are
Steered Side, generated by steering.
Steered All,
Mono All, Mono
Rear, Mono Side.
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DTS Music
DTS Music is a special version of the DTS preset designed with a lower LFE
level of -10dB to match the bass levels applied to DTS music CDs.
MPEG Music
MPEG Music is a special version of the MPEG preset designed for listening
to MPEG encoded music CDs.
For details of the DTS Music and MPEG Music DSP preset parameters see
Discrete Digital DSP preset parameters, page 44.
Stereo and Direct
The Stereo preset passes the left and right input signals directly to the left and right main speakers. Any mono or front left and right subwoofers continue to be used.
With the Direct preset only the left and right main speakers are used.
There are no special DSP preset parameters.
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Discrete digital DSP presets
The discrete digital formats can encode up to eight separate channels,
which can be decoded to provide separate signals to the eight speakers in a
surround configuration.
If your Digital Surround Controller is configured to use different
loudspeaker layouts, all the music DSP presets will use the 5.1 layout; refer
to the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller System Guide for more
information.
Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital is a totally digital format capable of encoding five full
frequency-range channels, together with one restricted frequency-range
channel used for extreme bass.
The Digital Surround Controller’s Dolby Digital preset is capable of decoding the range of different options provided by Dolby Digital. In addition, it provides bass power management to protect systems from the potentially high bass levels that Dolby Digital can produce.
Dolby Digital THX
As with the standard THX Cinema DSP preset, Dolby Digital THX reequalises the signals to suit domestic listening conditions, and applies
frequency-response correction and decorrelation to the surround channels
to make the surround sound more realistic, and can be used whether or not
your other equipment is THX approved.
DTS
DTS is unusual among the compressed surround formats in that it can
deliver high quality music at high bit rates.
CDs and LaserDiscs are currently available which provide a DTS signal in
place of the normal digital audio. DVD may also feature DTS soundtracks.
MPEG
MPEG surround is the preferred audio format for DVD in PAL territories.
DTS THX and MPEG THX
As with Dolby Digital THX, these presets re-equalise the signals to suit domestic listening conditions.
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Discrete Digital DSP preset parameters
Parameter Options What it changes
Surr. Rear Surr. Rear, Surr. Side, Switches the surround signal between the
LFE 0 to -30dB The relative level of the LFE bass channel.
Max SPL† 105 to 120dB SPL The peak-level limit for an LFE subwoofer.
Limit† -15 to -5dBFS The peak-level limit of the total bass signal
Compress* Off, Low, Med, The dynamic range control; see opposite.
Surr. All side and rear speakers.
added to the main speakers.
Top, Max, Mix
* Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital THX only.
† See below.
Using dynamic range control
Because Dolby Digital is a digital format it allows dynamic range control
without the distortion involved in analogue methods. The Compress
parameter allows you to set one of the following options:
Option Description
Off No compression.
Low Provides a moderate amount of bottom-up compression. This raises quiet
Med Provides moderate amounts of both bottom-up and top-down
Top Provides a moderate amount of top-down compression. This reduces loud
Max Provides full bottom-up and top-down compression. Quiet sounds are
Mix Bypasses dialogue normalisation and references the sound pressure level
sounds above the background noise, which is ideal for demonstration and
quiet listening.
compression.
sounds.
raised to be audible and loud passages are minimised to avoid
disturbance, which is useful for late-night listening.
in the studio where the material was mixed.
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Using peak-level limiting
The Max SPL or Limit parameters allow you to set up peak-level limiting
for bass signals, and the setting applies to all the discrete digital DSP
presets.
If your loudspeaker layout includes one or more subwoofers the parameter
is named Max SPL, and it sets the peak-level limit for the LFE channel.
If your loudspeaker layout contains no subwoofer the parameter is named
Limit, and it sets the peak-level limit of the bass signal added to the main
loudspeakers. For loudspeaker layouts using Meridian DSP loudspeakers as
the main left and right, or centre speakers, the Limit value is fixed at
-11dBFS and the parameter does not appear in the menu.
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Calibrating the system
To help you to set up your installation to give the best possible sound
with any particular combination of associated equipment, the 861
Reference Digital Surround Controller includes a built-in calibration
procedure.
This calibration procedure uses test signals to present a series of
sounds, which you use to adjust certain aspects of the system to their
optimum settings.
You should work through the calibration procedure the first time you
set up your surround sound system, and whenever you want to check
the calibration, such as after changing the layout of your room.
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Using the calibration procedure
We recommend that you perform the calibration procedure using the
Meridian System Remote and from the listening position.
As you run the calibration procedure the name of each calibration test is
shown on the front panel display, followed by the parameters adjusted in
the test.
If your Digital Surround Controller is fitted with a video card, and you have a
video source connected, the on-screen display also provides additional text
explaining what to do. For information about setting up the on-screen
display refer to the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller System Guide.
Each calibration test uses a test signal designed to give the best results.
Using a Sound Pressure Level meter
Although you can perform the calibration procedure by ear, it is
recommended that you perform the tests using a Sound Pressure Level
meter, available fairly cheaply from Tandy/Radio Shack, or your Meridian
dealer may be able to lend you one.
Set the Sound Pressure Level meter to C weighted, and Slow. Take readings
with the meter at the listening position, pointing vertically. You should
hold the meter with an outstretched arm to minimise reflections from your
body.
To start the calibration procedure
• Put the Digital Surround Controller into standby by pressing Off (front
panel or remote).
• Press and hold the Calibrate button, under the front panel, for at least
five seconds.
The display shows:
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
Calibration
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CALIBRATING THE
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After a few seconds the
display shows: Left Level +0dB
For more detailed information about this and the other calibration tests
see the following sections.
To move between the calibration tests
• Press > (remote), or the corresponding Menu button under the front
panel.
• Press < (remote), or the corresponding Menu button under the front
panel, to move back to an earlier test.
To jump to the next set of tests
• Press Store.
The calibration tests are described in the following sections.
To exit from the calibration procedure
You can exit from the calibration procedure at any time, and any
parameters you have set will be retained.
• Press Off (front panel or remote).
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Calibration tests
Levels
These tests allow you to adjust the output level to each speaker
individually, and it follows the general guidelines from Dolby Laboratories
and Lucasfilm. A Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter can be useful at this
stage; ask your dealer for more information.
In each test the display shows the speaker being tested, and the current
relative level.
For example:
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
• Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers in the
layout in the sequence: Left, Centre, Right, Side R, Rear R, Rear L, Side L,
and subwoofers.
• Use A and V to adjust the level of the speaker. Ignore any tonal
difference.
If you have Meridian DSP
loudspeakers they cannot
be set above +0dB.
then reduce the subwoofer gain by 15dB to correct for human hearing.
Left Level +0dB
For correct THX reproduction you should adjust each speaker to
75dB SPL using an SPL meter. Even if your speakers are not
THX approved this setting is recommended.
Note that you cannot set the level of a subwoofer by ear,
because low-frequency noises sound quieter. To set the
subwoofer correctly either use an SPL meter, or set it by ear and
• When you have completed the Levels section press > or Store to
proceed to the next test.
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CALIBRATING THE
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Distance
These tests allow you to adjust the delay of each of the speakers in the
layout to time-align the system so that sounds are coincident when they
arrive at the listening position.
Before setting up the speaker outputs you need to measure the distance, in
feet and inches, to each speaker from the listening position:
Left Right
Left
Side
Left Rear Right Rear
CentreSub
Right
Side
Surround Sub
Measure from the ear height at the listening position to the tweeter on
each speaker (where applicable).
• Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers in the
layout.
The display shows the speaker being tested, and the distance in feet.
For example:
Left Distance 18'0
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
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• Use A and V to change the distance, in feet.
Repeat this for each of the speakers in your layout.
• Press > or Store to proceed to the next calibration stage.
Fine tuning
These tests allow you to fine-tune the phase and delay of each speaker
when used in conjunction with other speakers on the layout.
• Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers in the
layout.
The first display allows you to adjust the phase.
For example:
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
The next display shows the distance (or delay) for the same speaker.
For example:
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
Left Phase +
Left Distance 18'0
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CALIBRATING THE
SYSTEM
Choose the correct setting as follows:
Setting What it sounds like
Correct The sound between the speakers is very even, and does not change
Incorrect The sound appears diffused, and changes in timbre and apparent location
radically as you move your head.
as you move your head.
Pay particular attention to the centre channel, as this can have a dramatic
effect on the overall sound.
As you increase the delay the speaker will appear to move away from you.
You have now completed the calibration of your system.
• Press Off (front panel or remote) to exit from the calibration procedure.
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CALIBRATING THE
SYSTEM
Resetting the configuration of the Digital Surround Controller
The Digital Surround Controller provides several sets of standard settings,
called Types, which configure all aspects of the 861 into one of a number of
alternative standard configurations.
Types 0 to 5 are factory settings, designed to cater for the most commonly
needed configurations of associated equipment.
These standard Types are shown in the following table:
Type Music Sub Cinema Sub 5.1 Sub Speakers
0 None Centre LFE All analogue.
1 Mono Mono Mono All analogue.
2 None Centre LFE All digital.
3 None None None All digital, large centre.
4 None Centre LFE Digital left, right, and centre.
5 None Centre LFE Digital left and right.
In this table Music Sub refers to a subwoofer used for all Music DSP presets,
Cinema Sub to a subwoofer used for all Cinema DSP presets, and 5.1 Sub to
a subwoofer used for all Discrete digital DSP presets.
In addition, your installer may have provided one or more named User
Types, with settings appropriate to the configuration of equipment when
your 861 was installed.
You can reset the configuration of the Digital Surround Controller to any
of these Types to restore it to the state it was in when it was installed. Note
that selecting a Type will clear any configuration and calibration changes
you have made, or any DSP presets you have defined.
If your Digital Surround Controller is fitted with a video card, and you have
a video source connected, the on-screen display also provides additional
text explaining about each Type. For information about setting up the onscreen display refer to the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller
System Guide.
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CALIBRATING THE
SYSTEM
To select a standard setting
Warning: this procedure will reset any configuration and
calibration changes you have made.
• Switch off the 861, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch off any power amplifiers that are connected to the 861 and put
any digital speakers into standby.
• Switch on the power again while holding down the Off key on the front
panel.
The display will show:
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
Then after a short delay the display shows the current Type.
For example:
If you have an on-screen display it shows information about the Type; for
example:
Type- please wait.
Type 3
• Press A or V on the front panel to change the Type number.
The display shows:
55
Typing, please wait.
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CALIBRATING THE
SYSTEM
If you have an on-screen display it shows:
• Wait for one second, and then switch off the 861 using the power switch
on the back panel.
• Switch on again to use the standard settings you have selected.
Setting up the Digital Surround Controller with other
Meridian equipment
If you are using the 861 with other Meridian equipment, such as the 800
Reference CD Machine, you should set up the comms with the following
automatic setup procedure:
• Switch all the units to standby.
• Press Clear (remote).
Each unit will display:
The 861 will then be designated as
the controller, and display:
This is the unit that will respond to the remote.
All the other units will be configured
as non-controllers, and display:
Your system is now set up and ready for use.
• If for any reason the automatic setup does not give the configuration
you want, restore the default operation by selecting one of the standard
Types; see Resetting the configuration of the Digital Surround
Controller, page 54.
Auto Setup
Controller
Not Controller
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Glossary
57
V A OffDSP MuteSourceReference Digital Surround Controller 861
Page 62
GLOSSARY
Absolute phase
A control which changes the phase of the signals to all the speakers.
AC-3
An alternative name for the Dolby Digital format.
Ambisonic
A music encoding and decoding system designed to recreate the original
soundfield using an array of loudspeakers.
Aspect ratio
The overall shape of the speaker layout.
Compress
A DSP parameter providing dynamic range control for Dolby Digital
sources.
Controller
The product in a Meridian system that uses the infra-red signals from the
remote to control the system. The controller is normally chosen
automatically, but the installer can override this.
Dolby Digital
A digital surround-sound which provides five full-frequency range channels
(left, centre, right, left surround, and right surround) and an additional
Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel which is band limited to 120Hz.
Dolby Surround
The encoding system used for the majority of movies on video and many TV
broadcasts. Dolby Surround encoded material can be replayed with a
surround decoder connected to an array of loudspeakers which normally
include at least left, centre, right, and rear surround.
DTS
Digital Theatre Systems originally produced digital audio tracks for motion
pictures. A version of this format adapted for consumer video and audio
products is referred to as DTS Entertainment. Like Dolby Digital it provides
five full-frequency range channels (left, centre, right, left surround, and
right surround) and an additional Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel.
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GLOSSARY
DVD
Digital Video Disc or Digital Versatile Disc, a versatile CD-sized disc with
nearly 30 times the storage capacity of CD. It is capable of storing digital
video, high-quality multi-channel audio, or computer data.
Layout
Refers to a particular arrangement of speakers and subwoofers. You can
select different layouts for the cinema, music, and 5.1 DSP presets.
LFE
The Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel which enhances movie
soundtracks with sound effects and ambient sounds. It is band limited to
120Hz in a Dolby Digital system.
LFE sub
A subwoofer which, in addition to any bass which it handles from the main
channels, plays the full 120Hz bandwidth LFE signal in Dolby Digital, DTS,
and MPEG presets.
Limit
A DSP parameter that sets the peak-level limit of the bass signal added to
the main loudspeakers.
Max SPL
A DSP parameter that sets the peak-level limit for the LFE channel.
Menus
The flexible system for choosing options and configuring settings in
Meridian products. On the 861 the menus are controlled by the <, >, A,
and V keys on the front panel or the MSR.
Mono sub
A subwoofer which handles all the bass for the system. A THX standard
subwoofer has a crossover at 80Hz.
Mono surrounds
Surrounds which have a common signal steered to them. This may then be
decorrelated by the THX process to give more spaciousness.
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GLOSSARY
MPEG
MPEG Surround is a digital encoding system developed by the Motion
Picture Expert Group. Like Dolby Digital it provides five full-frequency
range channels and an additional Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel.
MSR
The Meridian System Remote, or handset.
OSD
On-Screen Display, which the 861 can superimpose on a composite video
signal to give information about the state of the system, and to help
during configuration.
Preset
A DSP decoding option in the 861. You can create user-defined presets
based on the built-in presets, and with specific parameter values; see
Defining your own presets, page 31.
Source
An input to the system, such as CD or TV. The Meridian 500 and 800 Series
provide 12 named sources, corresponding to the names of the 12 source
keys on the MSR. In the 861 you can choose the logo displayed for each
source, and the input used for it.
SPL
Sound Pressure Level, a physical measurement of the level of sound at a
particular location which can be obtained using an SPL meter.
Steered surrounds
Surrounds which have individual signals steered to them by the Digital
Surround Controller’s steering matrix.
Surround
A sound reproducing system with more than two loudspeakers, and usually
with speakers behind or to the side of the listener.
THX
Additional processing that follows Dolby Pro Logic Surround decoding to
give a more faithful reproduction of cinema sound in the home.
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GLOSSARY
Trifield
A music decoding system designed to extract centre and surround signals
from a conventional two-channel stereo source.
Type
A standard configuration of the Digital Surround Controller. Selecting a
Type resets any configuration and calibration changes.
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GLOSSARY
62
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Index
A
AC-3 3
Academy DSP preset 5, 38
Ambisonic DSP preset 4, 40
analogue sources, adjusting
sensitivity 33
audio formats 17
B
Balance (DSP parameter) 23, 26
Bass (DSP parameter) 23, 25
bass, changing 25
brightness, display 18
built-in presets, replacing 31
C
calibration procedure 47
exiting 49
starting 48
calibration tests 50
Distance 51
fine tuning 52
Levels 50
Centre (DSP parameter) 23, 27, 40
centre speaker
changing the relative delay 27
changing the relative level 27
changing the DSP parameters 23
cinema DSP presets 36
Academy 38
Mono 38
Pro Logic 36
THX Cinema 37
TV Logic 37
CINEMA loudspeaker layout 36
clearing user-defined presets 32
Compress (DPS parameter) 44
compression 44
configuration, resetting 54
contrast, display 18
customising the Digital Surround
Controller 21
D
defining your own DSP presets 31
Depth (DSP parameter) 23, 27
digital formats 3
AC-3 3
Dolby Digital 3
DTS 3
MPEG Surround 3
THX 4
Digital Signal Processing 2
Direct DSP preset 6, 42
discrete digital DSP presets 4 3
Dolby Digital 43
Dolby Digital THX 43
DTS 43
DTS THX 43
MPEG 43
MPEG THX 43
display
brightness 18
changing 18
contrast 18
information 19
on-screen 19
Distance (calibration test) 51, 52
Dolby Digital DSP preset 43
dynamic range control 44
Dolby Digital encoding 3
Dolby Digital THX DSP preset 43
Dolby Digital THX encoding 4
Dolby Surround encoding 4
DSP 2
DSP parameters
changing 23, 24
saving 31
standard 23
DSP presets 3, 35
Academy 38
Ambisonic 40
assigning to a source 30
changing 17
clearing 32
defining 31
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DSP presets (continued)
Direct 42
Dolby Digital 43
Dolby Digital THX 43
DTS 43
DTS Music 42
DTS THX 43
editing name 31
MPEG 43
MPEG Music 42
MPEG THX 43
Music 39
MusicLogic 41
selecting 17
Stereo 42
Super Stereo 41
Trifield 39
DTS DSP preset 43
DTS encoding 3
DTS Music DSP preset 42
DTS THX DSP preset 43
DTS THX encoding 4
dynamic range control 44
F
front panel keys 12
G
glossary 57
M
Max SPL (DPS parameter) 44, 45
menus
locking 22
unlocking 22
Meridian System Remote keys 12
Mono preset 5, 38
Mono Rear (DSP parameter) 37, 41
moving the listening position 26
MPEG DSP preset 43
MPEG Music DSP preset 42
MPEG Surround encoding 3
MPEG THX DSP preset 43
MPEG THX encoding 4
multi-channel digital formats 3
Music DSP preset 5, 39
music DSP presets 39
Ambisonic 40
Direct 42
DTS Music 42
MPEG Music 42
Music 39
MusicLogic 41
Stereo 42
Super Stereo 41
Trifield 39
MUSIC loudspeaker layout 39
MusicLogic DSP preset 5, 41
muting the sound 16
I
Input (DSP parameter) 38
L
Levels (calibration test) 50
LFE (DPS parameter) 44
Limit (DPS parameter) 44, 45
lip sync
changing 29
description 29
LipSync (DSP parameter) 23, 29
listening position, changing 26
locking the menus 22
loudspeaker layouts
CINEMA 36
MUSIC 39
O
on-screen display 19
during calibration 48
during configuration 54
position 19, 29
OSD (DSP parameter) 23, 29
P
peak-level limiting 45
Phase (calibration test) 52
Phase (DSP parameter) 23, 25
phase, changing 25
Position (DSP parameter) 41
presets
Academy 5
Ambisonic 4
Direct 6
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presets (continued)
Dolby Digital 3
Dolby Digital THX 4
DTS 3
DTS THX 4
Mono 5, 38
MPEG 3
MPEG THX 4
Music 5
MusicLogic 5
Pro Logic 36
Stereo 6
Super Stereo 5
THX Cinema 4, 37
Trifield 5
TV Logic 4, 37
Pro Logic DSP preset 4, 36
R
R Delay (DSP parameter) 23, 28
R Filter (DSP parameter) 40, 41
Rear (DSP parameter) 23, 26
rear speakers
changing the relative delay 28
changing the relative level 26
resetting the configuration 54
Roll (DSP parameter) 37, 41
S
S Delay (DSP parameter) 23, 28
S Filter (DSP parameter) 40, 41
selecting a source 15
Setting up the CD player i
side speakers
changing the relative delay 28
changing the relative level 26
Sides (DSP parameter) 23, 26
sound, muting 16
Sound Pressure Level meter 48
sources 15
adjusting sensitivity of analogue 33
assigning DSP preset 30
changing DSP preset 30
default DSP preset 17
selecting 15
spaciousness of the sound,
changing 28
specification 9
standard DSP parameters 23
standard settings, selecting 55
standby, switching to 14
Stereo DSP preset 6, 42
Super Stereo DSP preset 5, 41
Surr. Rear (DSP parameter) 40, 44
switching on and off 14
T
technical overview 7
THX Cinema DSP preset 4, 37
THX encoding 4
THX level 50
time-aligning the system 51
Treble (DSP parameter) 23, 25
treble, changing 25
Trifield DSP preset 5, 39
TV Logic DSP preset 4, 37
two-channel formats 4
Ambisonic 4
Dolby Surround 4
Pro Logic 4
Types 54
U
UHJ format 40
unlocking the menus 22
user-defined presets 31
clearing 32
editing name 31
V
volume, adjusting 16
W
Width (DSP parameter) 40
Y
Yaw (DSP parameter) 37, 41
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