Pioneer VSX-AX4AV-S User Manual

VSX-AX4AVi-S VSX-AX2AV-S

AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER

Discover the benefits of registering your product online at (www.pioneer-eur.com).

Operating Instructions

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IMPORTANT

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, 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 constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

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.

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Replacement and mounting of an AC plug on the power supply cord of this unit should be performed only by qualified service personnel.

The cut-off plug should be disposed of and must

IMPORTANT

FOR USE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code: Blue : Neutral Brown : Live

If the plug provided is unsuitable for your socket outlets, the plug must be cut off and a suitable plug fitted.

not be inserted into any 13 amp socket as this can result in electric shock. The plug or adaptor or the distribution panel should be provided with 10 A fuse. As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows ; The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black. The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red.

Thank you for buying this Pioneer product. Please read through these operating instructions so you will know how to operate your model properly. After you have finished reading the instructions, put them away in a

WARNING

This equipment is not waterproof. To prevent a fire or shock hazard, do not place any container filled with liquid near this equipment (such as a vase or flower pot) or expose it to dripping, splashing, rain or moisture.

Do not connect either wire to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.

NOTE After replacing or changing a fuse, the fuse cover in the plug must be replaced with a fuse cover which corresponds to the colour of the insert in the base of the plug or the word that is embossed on the base of the plug, and the appliance must not be used without a fuse cover. If lost replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your dealer. Only 10 A fuses approved by B.S.I or A.S.T.A to B.S.1362 should be used.

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safe place for future reference.

WARNING

Before plugging in for the first time, read the following

section carefully.

The voltage of the available power supply differs according to country or region. Be sure that the power supply voltage of the area where this unit will be used meets the required voltage (e.g., 230V or 120V) written on the rear panel.

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WARNING

To prevent a fire hazard, do not place any naked flame sources (such as a lighted candle) on the equipment.

This product complies with the Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC, amended by 93/68/EEC), EMC Directives (89/336/EEC, amended by 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC).

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VENTILATION CAUTION

When installing this unit, make sure to leave space around the unit for ventilation to improve heat radiation (at least 60 cm at top, 10 cm at rear, and 30 cm at each side).

WARNING

Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the product, and to protect it from overheating. To prevent fire hazard, the openings should never be blocked or covered with items (such as newspapers, table-cloths, curtains) or by operating the equipment on thick carpet or a bed.

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If the AC plug of this unit does not match the AC outlet you want to use, the plug must be removed and appropriate one fitted. Replacement and mounting of an AC plug on the power supply cord of this unit should be performed only by qualified service personnel. If connected to an AC outlet, the cut-off plug can cause severe electrical shock. Make sure it is properly disposed of after removal. The equipment should be disconnected by removing the mains plug from the wall socket when left unused for a long period of time (for example, when on vacation).

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When disposing of used batteries, please comply with governmental regulations or environmental public instruction’s rules that apply in your country/area.

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Operating Environment

Operating environment temperature and humidity: +5 ºC – +35 ºC (+41 ºF – +95 ºF); less than 85 %RH (cooling vents not blocked) Do not install this unit in a poorly ventilated area, or in locations exposed to high humidity or direct sunlight (or strong artificial light)

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CAUTION

The STANDBY/ON switch on this unit will not completely shut off all power from the AC outlet. Since the power cord serves as the main disconnect device for the unit, you will need to unplug it from the AC outlet to shut down all power. Therefore, make sure the unit has been installed so that the power cord can be easily unplugged from the AC outlet in case of an accident. To avoid fire hazard, the power cord should also be unplugged from the AC outlet when left unused for a long period of time (for example, when on vacation).

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This product is for general household purposes. Any failure due to use for other than household purposes (such as long-term use for business purposes in a restaurant or use in a car or ship) and which requires repair will be charged for even during the warranty period.

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CAUTION

These speaker terminals carry HAZARDOUS LIVE voltage. To prevent the risk of electric shock when

connecting or disconnecting the speaker cables, disconnect the power cord before touching any uninsulated parts.

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Important information about this unit‘s AC outlets Switched total 100 W MAX

Power supplied through these outlets is turned on and off by this unit’s power consumption of connected equipment should not exceed 100 W.

CAUTION

• Do not connect a TV set, monitor, heater or similar appliance to this unit’s AC outlet.

• Do not connect appliances with high power consumption to the AC outlet in order to avoid overheating and fire risk. This can cause this unit to malfunction.

STANDBY/ON

switch. Total electrical

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Contents

01 Before you start

Checking what’s in the box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Installing the receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Loading the batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

02 5 minute guide

Introduction to home theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Listening to Surround Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Automatically setting up for surround sound

(MCACC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Problems when using the Auto MCACC Setup . . . . . 9

Playing a source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Better sound using Phase Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

03 Connecting your equipment

Rear panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

When making cable connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

About the video converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Connecting your TV and DVD player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Connecting a satellite/cable receiver or other

set-top box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Connecting a DVD/HDD recorder, VCR and

other video sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Using the component video jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Connecting digital audio sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

About the WMA9 Pro decoder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Connecting analog audio sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Connecting a component to the front panel

inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Installing your speaker system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Connecting the speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Placing the speakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

THX speaker system setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Connecting antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

AM loop antenna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

FM wire antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Connecting external antennas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Plugging in the receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

AC outlet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

04 Controls and displays

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Operating range of remote control unit . . . . . . . . . . 22

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Remote control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

05 Listening to your system

Auto playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Listening in surround sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Standard surround sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Using the Home THX modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Using the Advanced surround effects . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Listening in stereo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using Stream Direct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Selecting MCACC presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Choosing the input signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using surround back channel processing . . . . . . . . . 29

Using the Virtual Surround Back mode . . . . . . . . . . 29

06 Using the tuner

Listening to the radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Improving FM stereo sound. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Tuning directly to a station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Saving station presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Naming station presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Listening to station presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

An introduction to RDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Searching for RDS programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Using EON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

07 The System Setup menu

Making receiver settings from the System

Setup menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Automatic MCACC (Expert) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Surround back speaker setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Manual MCACC setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Fine Channel Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Fine Speaker Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Standing Wave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Acoustic Calibration EQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Professional Acoustic Calibration EQ . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Data Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Manual speaker setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Speaker Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Channel Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Speaker Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Bass Peak Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

X-Curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

THX Audio Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

08 Other connections

Connecting an iPod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Connecting your iPod to the receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Playing music from your iPod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Connecting using HDMI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

About HDMI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Using the i.LINK interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Checking the i.LINK inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

About i.LINK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

About PQLS rate control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Creating an i.LINK network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Connecting the multichannel analog inputs . . . . . . . 51

Selecting the multichannel analog inputs . . . . . . . . 51

Using the USB interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Second Zone speaker B setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Switching the speaker system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Bi-amping your front speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Bi-wiring your speakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Connecting additional amplifiers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Multi-room listening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Making multi-room connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Using the multi-room controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Connecting an IR receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Switching components on and off using the

12 volt trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Using this receiver with a Pioneer plasma

display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Using the SR+ mode with a Pioneer plasma

display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Connecting a PC for Advanced MCACC output . . . . . 59

Advanced MCACC output using your PC . . . . . . . . . 59

09 Other Settings

The Input Setup menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Input function default and possible settings . . . . . . 61

The Other Setup menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Multi-Room and IR receiver setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

SR+ Setup for Pioneer plasma displays. . . . . . . . . . 62

OSD Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

10 Using other functions

Setting the AV options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Making an audio or a video recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Playing a different source when recording. . . . . . . . 64

Reducing the level of an analog signal . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Watching video and audio sources independently . . 65

Using the sleep timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Dimming the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Switching the speaker impedance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Checking your system settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Resetting the system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Default system settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

11 Controlling the rest of your system

Setting the remote to control other components . . . 67

Selecting preset codes directly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Programming signals from other remote

controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Erasing one of the remote control button

settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Resetting the remote control presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Confirming preset codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Renaming input source names . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Direct function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Multi Operation and System Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Programming a multi-operation or a shutdown

sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Using multi operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Using System off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Controls for TVs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Controls for other components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Operating other Pioneer components with this

unit’s sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

12 Additional information

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

No sound. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Other audio problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Remote control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

i.LINK interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

i.LINK messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

USB interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

HDMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

iPod messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Surround sound formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Dolby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

DTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Windows Media® Audio 9 Professional . . . . . . . . . 80

About THX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Listening modes with different input signal

formats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Stream direct with different input signal formats . . . 84

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Cleaning the unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Our philosophy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Before you start

Chapter 1:

Before you start

Checking what’s in the box

Please check that you've received the following supplied accessories:

• Setup microphone (cable: 5m.)

• Remote control unit

• AA/LR6 dry cell batteries x2

• AM loop antenna

• FM wire antenna

• Power cord

• Caution sheet

• Warranty card

• These operating instructions

Installing the

• When installing this unit, make sure to put it on a level and stable surface.

Don’t install it on the following places: – on a color TV (the screen may distort) – near a cassette deck (or close to a device that gives off a magnetic field). This may interfere with the sound. – in direct sunlight – in damp or wet areas – in extremely hot or cold areas – in places where there is vibration or other movement – in places that are very dusty – in places that have hot fumes or oils (such as a kitchen)

receiver

Loading the batteries

Caution

Incorrect use of batteries may result in such hazards as leakage and bursting. Observe the following precautions:

• Never use new and old batteries together.

• Insert the plus and minus sides of the batteries properly according to the marks in the battery case.

• Batteries with the same shape may have different voltages. Do not use different batteries together.

• When disposing of used batteries, please comply with governmental regulations or environmental public instruction’s rules that apply in your country or area.

5 minute guide

Chapter 2:

5 minute guide

Introduction to home theater

Home theater refers to the use of multiple audio tracks to create a surround sound effect, making you feel like you're in the middle of the action or concert. The surround sound you get from a home theater system depends not only on your speaker setup, but also on the source and the sound settings of the receiver.

This receiver will automatically decode multichannel Dolby Digital, DTS, or Dolby Surround sources according to your speaker setup. In most cases, you won’t have to make changes for realistic surround sound, but other possibilities (like listening to a CD with multichannel surround sound) are explained in

system

on page 26.

Listening to Surround Sound

This receiver was designed with the easiest possible setup in mind, so with the following quick setup guide, you should have your system hooked up for surround sound in no time at all. In most cases, you can simply leave the receiver in the default settings.

• Be sure to complete all connections before connecting this unit to an AC power source.

1 Connect your TV and DVD player.

See

Connecting your TV and DVD player

this. For surround sound, you’ll want to hook up using a digital connection from the DVD player to the receiver.

2 Connect your speakers and place them for optimal surround sound.

Connect your speakers as shown in

speaker system

Where you place the speakers will have a big effect on the sound. Place your speakers as shown below for the best surround sound effect. Also see page 18 for more on this.

Front

Left (L)

on page 17.

Center (C)

Listening position

Surround Left (SL)

Subwoofer (SW)

Listening to your

on page 12 to do

Installing your

Placing the speakers

Front Right (R)

Surround Right (SR)

Surround Back Right (SBR)

Surround Back Left (SBL)

3 Plug in the receiver and switch it on, followed by your DVD player, your subwoofer and the TV.

Make sure you’ve set the video input on your TV to this receiver. Check the manual that came with the TV if you don’t know how to do this.

• Set the subwoofer volume to a comfortable level.

4 Use the on-screen automatic MCACC setup to set up your system.

See

Automatically setting up for surround sound

(MCACC)

below for more on this.

5 Play a DVD, and adjust the volume to your liking.

Make sure that

DVD/LD

is showing in the receiver’s display, indicating that the DVD input is selected. If it isn’t, press

DVD/LD

on the remote control to set the

receiver to the DVD input. In addition to the basic playback explained in

source

on page 9, there are several other sound options

you can select. See

Listening to your system

Playing a

on page 26

for more on this. See also

Making receiver settings from the System Setup

on page 33 for more setup options.

Automatically setting up for surround sound (MCACC)

The Auto MCACC Setup measures the acoustic characteristics of your listening area, taking into account ambient noise, speaker size and distance, and tests for both channel delay and channel level. After you have set up the microphone provided with your system, the receiver uses the information from a series of test tones to optimize the speaker settings and equalization for your particular room.

Make sure you do this before moving on to

source

on page 9.

Important

• Make sure the microphone and speakers are not moved during the Auto MCACC Setup.

• Using the Auto MCACC Setup will overwrite any existing settings for the MCACC preset you select.

• Before using the Auto MCACC Setup the headphones should be disconnected.

Caution

• The test tones used in the Auto MCACC Setup are output at high volume.

Playing a

5 minute guide

RECEIVER SOURCE

SELECT

TV VIDEO 2

VIDEO 1 TV CONT

DVD SAT

DVR2

CD-R

MULTI IN

TUNER

ROOM2/3

RECEIVER

DVR1 i Pod

D.ACCESS

AV PARAMETER

TOP MENU 

SETUPSETUP

PTY SEARCH

GUIDE

TV VOL

TV CONTROL

INPUT SELECT

ENTER

TV CH

BAND

CLASS

ENTER

CH LEVEL

T.ED IT

RETURNRETURN

VOL

DISC



SYSTEM OFF

INPUT

1 Switch on the receiver and your TV.

2 Connect the microphone to the MCACC

SETUP MIC

jack on the front panel.

Place the microphone so that it’s about ear level at your normal listening position (use a tripod if possible). Make sure there are no obstacles between the speakers and the microphone.

MULTI – ROOM &

3 Press

(TUNE +)

SPEAKERS

AV PARAMETER

PHONES

(ST –) (ST +)

ENTER

SETUP

(TUNE –)

RECEIVER

TUNER

EDIT

RETURN

on the remote, then press



BAND

CONTROL ON/OFF

MCACC

SETUP MIC

VIDEO

SOURCE/REC SEL

SELECT

VIDEO/GAME 2 INPUT

DIGITAL IN S-VIDEO VIDEO L RAUDIO

SIGNAL

SBch

STEREO

SELECT

PROCESSING

SETUP

An on-screen display (OSD) appears on your TV. Use the

///

screens and select menu items. Press the current menu. Press

buttons and

ENTER

to navigate through the

RETURN

SETUP

at any time to cancel.

to exit

4 Select ‘Auto MCACC’ from the System Setup menu then press

5 Make sure ‘Normal (SB)’ is selected, MCACC preset

ENTER

System Setup

1.Auto MCACC

2.Surr Back System

3.Manual MCACC

4.Data Management

5.Manual SP Setup

6.Input Setup

7.Other Setup

then select OK.

 : Exit

1.Auto MCACC

Surr Back System [ Normal (SB) ] Data Save to [M1. MEMORY 1 ]

Setting Start? [OK]

[Option]

ENTER:Next :Cancel

select an

6 Follow the instructions on-screen.

Make sure the microphone is connected, and if you’re using a subwoofer, make sure it is switched on and set to a comfortable volume level.

7 Wait for the test tones to finish then confirm the speaker configuration in the OSD.

A progress report is displayed on-screen while the receiver outputs test tones to determine the speakers present in your setup. Try to be as quiet as possible while

it’s doing this.

• With error messages (such as

Microphone Check

ambient noise (see

MCACC Setup

Ambient Noise

) select

RETRY

Problems when using the Auto

below) and verifying the mic

after checking for

connection. If there doesn’t seem to be a problem, you can simply select

1.Auto MCACC

Now Analyzing… (2/9)

Environment Check Ambient Noise [ OK ] Microphone [ ] Speaker YES/NO [ ]

:Cancel

GO NEXT

and continue.

1.Auto MCACC

Check!

Front [ YES ] Center [ YES ] Surround [ YES ] SB [ Yx2 ] SUB W. [ YES ]

[ OK ]

:Cancel

The configuration shown on-screen should reflect the actual speakers you have. If you see an error message (

ERR

) in the right side column (or the speaker configuration displayed isn’t correct), there may be a problem with the speaker connection. If selecting

RETRY

doesn’t work, turn off the power and check the speaker connections. If there doesn’t seem to be a problem, you can simply use to select the speaker and

/

to change the setting

/

(and number for surround back) and continue.

8 Make sure ‘OK’ is selected, then press

ENTER

A progress report is displayed on-screen while the receiver outputs more test tones to determine the optimum receiver settings for channel level, speaker distance, and Acoustic Calibration EQ.

Again, try to be as quiet as possible while this is happening. It may take 2–6 minutes.

9 The Auto MCACC Setup has finished! Press to go back to the System Setup menu.

RETURN

The settings made in the Auto MCACC Setup should give you excellent surround sound from your system, but it is also possible to adjust these settings manually using the

System Setup menu (starting on page 33).

Note

1 You can’t use the System Setup menu when the iPod input source is selected (in either the main or sub room).

2 If you cancel the Auto MCACC Setup, or leave an error message for over three minutes, the screen saver will appear. 3• If you are planning on bi-amping your front speakers, or setting up a separate speaker system in another room, read through

setting

on page 35 and make sure to connect your speakers as necessary before continuing to step 6.

• If you have THX-certified speakers, select

4 The six MCACC presets are used for storing surround sound settings for different listening positions. Simply choose an unused preset for now

(you can rename it later in

5 Do not adjust the volume during the test tones. This may result in incorrect speaker settings. 6 If you’re using the front panel display, the diagram in 7 You can also choose to view the settings from the 8• Depending on the characteristics of your room, sometimes identical speakers with cone sizes of around 12cm will end up with different size settings. You can correct the setting manually using the

• The subwoofer distance setting may be farther than the actual distance from the listening position. This setting should be accurate (taking delay and

room characteristics into account) and generally does not need to be changed.

Data Management

Option

and choose

on page 41).

Listening to Surround Sound

MCACC Data Check

Manual speaker setup

YES

for the

on page 42.

THX Speaker

screen. See

setting.

above indicates (in bold) how each speaker is displayed.

Automatic MCACC (Expert)

on page 33 for more on this.

Surround back speaker

5 minute guide

GUIDE

Problems when using the Auto MCACC Setup

If the room environment is not optimal for the Auto MCACC Setup (too much background noise, echo off the

4 Use the volume control to adjust the volume level.

Turn down the volume of your TV so that all sound is coming from the speakers connected to this receiver.

walls, obstacles blocking the speakers from the microphone) the final settings may be incorrect. Check for household appliances (air conditioner, fridge, fan, etc.), that may be affecting the environment and switch them off if necessary. If there are any instructions showing in the front panel display, please follow them.

• Some older TVs may interfere with the operation of the microphone. If this seems to be happening,

Better sound using Phase Control

This receiver’s Phase Control feature uses phase correction measures to make sure your sound source arrives at the listening position in phase, preventing unwanted distortion and/or coloring of the sound (see illustration below).

switch off the TV when doing the Auto MCACC Setup.

Playing a source

Here are the basic instructions for playing a source (such as a DVD disc) with your home theater system.

TV CONTROL

INPUT

TV CH

INPUT

RECEIVER

SELECT

CD TV VIDEO 2

DVD SAT

DVR2

DVR1 i Pod

CD-R

SYSTEM OFF

SOURCE

VIDEO 1 TV CONT

MULTI IN

ROOM2/3

TUNER

RECEIVER

TV VOL

MPX EON

BCDE

AUDIO SUBTITLE

DISP

SIGNAL SEL

STATUS

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

SELECT

PHASE

VOL

REC

MUTE

REC STOP

HDD

DVD

SBch

STEREO

ADV. SURR

STANDARD

THX

S.DIRECT

MCACC

P H A

C O N

Sound

source

P H A

C O N

Sound

O N

source

Front speaker

Subwoofer

Front speaker

Subwoofer

Listening position

1 Switch on your system components and receiver.

Start by switching on the playback component (for example a DVD player), your TV

have one), then the receiver (press

and subwoofer (if you



RECEIVER

• Make sure the setup mic is disconnected.

2 Select the input source you want to play.

You can use the input source buttons on the remote control,

SELECTOR

3 Press SURROUND’ and start playback of the source.

INPUT SELECT

dial.

, or the front panel

S. DIRECT (STREAM DIRECT

INPUT

) to select ‘AUTO

If you’re playing a Dolby Digital or DTS surround sound

Phase Control technology provides coherent sound reproduction through the use of phase matching

optimal sound image at your listening position. The default setting is on and we recommend leaving Phase Control switched on for all sound sources.

SIGNAL SEL

STATUS

SBch

STEREO

ADV. SURR

STANDARD

THX

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

MCACC S.DIRECT

PHASE

• Press PHASE (

PHASE CONTROL

) to switch on phase

correction.

The

PHASE CONTROL

indicator on the front panel lights. DVD disc, you should hear surround sound. If you are playing a stereo source, you will only hear sound from the front left/right speakers in the default listening mode.

• See also

Listening to your system

on page 26 for

information on different ways of listening to sources.

Note

1 Make sure that the TV’s video input is set to this receiver. (For example, if you connected this receiver to the the

VIDEO 1

2 If you need to manually switch the input signal type press 3• You may need to check the digital audio output settings on your DVD player or digital satellite receiver. It should be set to output Dolby Digital, DTS and 88.2/96kHz PCM (2 channel) audio, and if there is an MPEG audio option, set this to convert the MPEG audio to PCM.

a multichannel listening mode (see 4 Phase matching is a very important factor in achieving proper sound reproduction. If two waveforms are 'in phase', they crest and trough together, resulting in increased amplitude, clarity and presence of the sound signal. If a crest of a wave meets a trough (as shown in the upper section of the diagram above) then the sound will be 'out of phase' and an unreliable sound image will be produced.

input is now selected.)

• Depending on your DVD player or source discs, you may only get digital 2 channel stereo and analog sound. In this case, the receiver must be set to

Listening in surround sound

SIGNAL SEL

(page 28).

on page 26 if you need to do this) if you want multichannel surround sound.

VIDEO 1

jacks on your TV, make sure that

for an

OUT

SUR-

AC OUTLET

SURROUND

SUR-

BACK

DIG

IDEO

DIG

Connecting your equipment

Chapter 3

Connecting your equipment

This receiver provides you with many connection possibilities, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. This page explains the kinds of components you can connect to make up your home theater system.

Rear panel

This illustration shows the VSX-AX4AVi, however connections for the VSX-AX2AV are the same except where noted.

SAT

VIDEO1/

GAME1

OUT

DVR/ VCR 1

DVR VCR

VIDE

Caution

• Before making or changing the connections, switch off the power and disconnect the power cord from the power outlet. Plugging in should be the final step.

1 Optical digital audio output(s)

Use the

OUT1

and (VSX-AX4AVi only)

OUT2

jack for

recording to a CD or MiniDisc recorder.

 Connecting digital audio sources

The

OUT1

jack is also used for multi-room connections.

 Multi-room listening

2 USB audio input

on page 54.

(VSX-AX4AVi only)

on page 15.

Use to connect your PC as an audio source.

 Using the USB interface

on page 51.

3 Optical and coaxial digital audio inputs (x6)

Use for digital audio sources, including DVD players/ recorders, digital satellite receivers, CD players, etc.



See also

The Input Setup menu

on page 60 to assign

the inputs.

4 S-400 i.LINK connectors (x2)

(VSX-AX4AVi only)

Use to connect other i.LINK audio devices for highresolution, multichannel digital audio input/output.

 Using the i.LINK interface

on page 48.

FRON

ENTE

ROUN

ENTE

AC I

5 HDMI connectors (x3)

Two inputs and one output for high-quality audio/video connection to compatible HDMI devices.

 Connecting using HDMI

on page 47.

6 Remote input (multi-room and source)

Use for connection to an external remote control sensor for use in a multi-room setup, for example.

 Connecting an IR receiver

7 12V trigger jacks

on page 56.

(total 50 mA max.)

(x2)

Use to switch components in your system on and off according to the input function of the receiver.

 Switching components on and off using the 12 volt

trigger

on page 57.

8 Multi-room and source outputs

Use to connect a second amplifier in a separate room.

 Multi-room listening

on page 54.

9 Component video connections (x4)

Use the inputs to connect any video source that has component video output, such as a DVD recorder. Use the output for connection to a monitor or TV.

 Using the component video jacks

on page 14.

10 AM and FM antenna terminals

Use to connect indoor or outdoor antennas for radio broadcasts.

 Connecting antennas

on page 19.

Connecting your equipment

11 Composite and S-video monitor outputs

Use to connect monitors and TVs.

 Connecting your TV and DVD player

on page 12.

12 Audio/video source inputs/(outputs) (x6)

Use for connection to audio/visual sources, such as DVD players/recorders, VCRs, etc. Each set of inputs has jacks

for composite video, S-video

 Connecting a DVD/HDD recorder, VCR and other video

sources

on page 13.

and stereo analog audio.

13 Stereo analog audio source inputs/(outputs) (x3)

Use for connection to audio sources such as CD players, tape decks, turntables, etc.

 Connecting analog audio sources

on page 16.

14 Multichannel analog audio inputs

7.1 channel inputs for connection to a DVD player with multichannel analog outputs.

 Connecting the multichannel analog inputs

page 51.

15 Control input/output

Use to connect other Pioneer components so that you can control all your equipment from a single IR remote sensor.

 Operating other Pioneer components with this unit’s

sensor

on page 72.

16 Multichannel pre-amplifier outputs

Use to connect separate amplifiers for center, surround, surround back and subwoofer channels.

 Connecting additional amplifiers

Installing your speaker system

on page 54 (see also

on page 17 for powered

subwoofer connection).

17 iPod input terminal

Use to connect your Apple iPod as an audio source.

 Connecting an iPod

on page 46.

18 RS-232C connector

Use for connection to a PC for graphical output when using Advanced MCACC.

 Connecting a PC for Advanced MCACC output

page 59.

19 Speaker terminals

Use for connection to the main front, center, surround and surround back speakers.

 Installing your speaker system

on page 17.

20 AC IN inlet

Connect the supplied power cord here.

21 Switched AC power outlet

(100W/0.4A max.)

Use to power another component in the system. Power to the outlet switches on and off with the receiver.

 AC outlet

Note

1 You must assign the input source to the S-video input to which you’ve connected your video component (see 2 If the video signal does not appear on your TV or plasma display, try adjusting the resolution settings on your component or display. Note that some components (such as video game units) have resolutions that may not be converted. In this case, use an (analog) S-video or composite connection.

on page 20.

When making cable connections

• To avoid hum, do not lay connected cables over the top of the receiver.

• When connecting optical cables, be careful when inserting the plug not to damage the shutter protecting the optical socket.

• When storing optical cable, coil loosely. The cable may be damaged if bent around sharp corners.

About the video converter

The video converter ensures that all video sources are output through all of the The only exception is HDMI and high-definition component video: since these resolutions cannot be downsampled, you must connect your monitor/TV to the receiver’s HDMI/component video outputs when

connecting these video sources. If several video components are assigned to the same

input function (see the converter gives priority to HDMI, component, S-video, then composite (in that order).

• For optimal video performance, THX recommends switching Digital Video Conversion (in

options

on page 63)

MONITOR VIDEO OUT

The Input Setup menu

OFF

The Input Setup menu

jacks.

on page 60),

Setting the AV

on page 60).

Connecting your equipment

Connecting your TV and DVD player

VIDEOINS-VIDEO

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

–

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

DIGITAL

VSX-AX4AVi

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

HDMI

IN1

IN2

OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

OUT

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

MULTI-ROOM

& SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

(ZONE2)

OUT

IN3IN

–

ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO

FM UNBAL 75Ω AM LOOP

MONITOR OUT

IN1(DVD/LD)

(TV)

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

S - VIDEO

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

OUT

DVD/ LD

TV IN

SAT

VIDEO1/ GAME1

OUT

DVR/

VCR 1

OUT

DVR/

VCR 2

ANTENNA

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

AUDIO

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

FR F

SUB W.

SURROUND

CONTROL

SURRO

OUT

component video jacks

on page 14 if your TV and/or DVD player has component video inputs/outputs. If your DVD player offers multichannel analog audio outputs, see

Connecting the multichannel analog inputs

on page 51.

1 Connect the MONITOR OUT video jack to a video input on your TV.

Use a standard RCA/phono jack video cable to connect to the composite video jack, or for higher quality video, use an S-video cable to connect to the S-video jack.

2 Connect a composite or S-video output on your DVD player to the

DVD/LD

VIDEO or

DVD/LD

S-VIDEO input.

Connect using a standard video cable or an S-video cable.

3 Connect a coaxial-type1 digital audio output on your DVD player to the DIGITAL 1 (

DVD/LD

) input.

Use a coaxial cable designed for digital audio.

4 Connect the stereo audio outputs on your DVD player to the

DVD/LD

AUDIO inputs.

Connect using a stereo RCA/phono jack cable.

• If your DVD player has multichannel analog outputs, you can connect these instead. See also

the multichannel analog inputs

on page 51.

Connecting

COAXIAL

DIGITAL OUT VIDEO OUT

S-VIDEOOPTICAL

2 4

AUDIORL

ANALOG OUT

DVD player

The diagram shows a basic setup of this receiver together with a TV and DVD player, with S-video or composite video connections. Different TVs and DVD players may offer alternative connections. See also

Note

1 If your DVD player only has an optical digital output, you can connect it to one of the optical inputs on this receiver using an optical cable. When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the player to (see

Using the

The Input Setup menu

on page 60).

Connecting your equipment

D K

Connecting a satellite/cable

receiver

or other set-top box

Satellite and cable receivers, and terrestrial digital TV tuners are all examples of so-called ‘set-top boxes’.

VSX-AX4AVi

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

–

DIGITAL

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

IN1

IN2

OUT

DIGITAL OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

MULTI-ROOM

(ZONE2)

HDMI

ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO

FM UNBAL 75Ω AM LOOP

OUT

& SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

OUT

IN1(DVD/LD)

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

IN3IN

S - VIDEO

–

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

OUT

DVD/ LD

TV IN

SAT

(TV)

VIDEO1/ GAME1

OUT

VCR 1

OUT

VCR 2

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

DVR/

R L

AV OUT

ANTENNA

VIDEO S-VIDEOAUDIORL

AUDIO

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

FR FL

SUB W. C

SURROUND

SURROUN

OUT

CONTROL

BAC

MUL IN

Connecting a DVD/HDD recorder, VCR and other video sources

This receiver has two sets of audio/video inputs and outputs suitable for connecting analog or digital video devices, including DVD/HDD recorders and VCRs.

VSX-AX4AVi

OPTICAL COAXIAL

DIGITAL OUT

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

–

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

DIGITAL

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

IN1

IN2

OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

MULTI-ROOM

(ZONE2)

HDMI

ASSIGNABLE

COMPONENT VIDEO

FM UNBAL 75Ω AM LOOP

OUT

& SOURCE MONITOR OUT

OUT

IN1(DVD/LD)

(TV)

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

IN3IN

S - VIDEO

–

VIDEOAUDIORL

S-VIDEO AUDIORL

AV OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

OUT

DVD/ LD

SAT

VIDEO1/ GAME1

OUT

VCR 1

OUT

VCR 2

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

DVR/

ANTENNA

R L

AV IN

AUDIO

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

R L

FR FL

SUB W. CENTER

SUR- ROUND

R L

SURROUND

BACK

MULTI CH IN

OUT

CONTROL

VIDEO S-VIDEO

1 23

STB

1 Connect the audio/video outputs on the set-top box to the SAT AUDIO and VIDEO inputs.

Connect using a stereo RCA/phono jack cable and a video or S-video

cable.

2 Connect an optical-type2 digital audio output from your set-top box to the DIGITAL 1 (SAT) input.

Use an optical cable for the connection.

1 Connect the audio/video outputs of the video player/recorder to the DVR/VCR1 AUDIO and VIDEO inputs.

Use a stereo RCA/phono jack audio cable for the audio connection and a video or S-video

connection.

• For a second recorder, use the

DVR, VCR, etc.

cable for the video

DVR/

VCR2 IN

inputs.

2 If the device can record, connect the DVR/VCR1 AUDIO and VIDEO outputs to the recorder’s audio/ video inputs.

Use a stereo RCA/phono jack audio cable for the audio connection and a video or S-video cable for the video connection.

Note

1 See

The Input Setup menu

2 If your set-top box only has a coaxial digital output, you can connect it to one of the coaxial inputs on this receiver using a coaxial digital audio cable. When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the set-top box to (see 3 If your satellite/cable receiver doesn’t have a digital audio output, you can skip this step. 4 See

The Input Setup menu

on page 60 to assign the

S-VIDEO 2

input to the

SAT

input function if you make this connection.

The Input Setup menu

DVR/VCR1

input function if you make this connection.

on page 60).

Connecting your equipment

• For a second recorder, use the

DVR/

VCR2

outputs.

3 If the device can output digital audio, connect an

optical-type

digital audio output from the recorder to

the DIGITAL 2 (DVR/VCR1) input.

Use an optical cable for the connection.

• For a second recorder, use the

VCR2)

inputs.

DIGITAL 3

(

DVR/

Using the component video jacks

Component video should give superior picture quality when compared to composite or S-video. You can also take advantage of progressive scan video (if your source and TV are both compatible), which delivers a very stable, flicker-free picture. See the manuals that came with your TV and source component to check whether they are compatible with progressive-scan video.

VSX-AX4AVi

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

–

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

DIGITAL

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

HDMI

IN1

IN2

OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

OUT

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

MULTI-ROOM

& SOURCE MONITOR OUT

(ZONE2)

OUT

IN3IN

–

ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO

FM UNBAL 75ΩAM LOOP

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

OUT

DVD/ LD

TV IN

IN1(DVD/LD) IN

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

S - VIDEO

SAT

(TV)

VIDEO1/

GAME1

OUT

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

VCR 1

VCR 2

DVR/

ANTENNA

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

AUDIO

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

R L

FR FL

SUB W. CENTER

SURROUND

R L

SURROUND

BACK

MULTI CH IN

OUT

CONTROL

1 Connect the component video outputs of your source to a set of ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO inputs.

Connect using a three-way component video cable.

• Since they are assignable, it doesn’t matter which component video inputs you use for which source. After connecting everything, you’ll need to assign the component video inputs—see

The Input Setup menu

on page 60.

2 Connect the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks to the component video inputs on your TV or monitor.

Use a three-way component video cable.

COMPONENT

VIDEO

COMPONENT

VIDEO

DVD player

Note

1• In order to record, you must connect the analog audio cables (the digital connection is for playback only).

• If your video component doesn’t have a digital audio output, you can skip this step. 2 If your recorder only has a coaxial digital output, you can connect it to one of the coaxial inputs on this receiver using a coaxial digital audio cable. When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the recorder to (see also

The Input Setup menu

on page 60).

Connecting your equipment

M N

Connecting digital audio sources

This receiver has both digital inputs and outputs, allowing you to connect digital audio components for playback and for making digital recordings.

Most digital components also have analog connections. See Connecting analog audio sources on the following page if you want to connect these too.

VSX-AX4AVi

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

–

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

DIGITAL

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

HDMI

IN1

IN2

OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

OUT

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

MULTI-ROOM

& SOURCE MONITOR OUT

(ZONE2)

OUT

IN3IN

–

ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO

FM UNBAL 75Ω AM LOOP

MONITOR OUT

IN1(DVD/LD)

(TV)

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

S - VIDEO

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

OUT

DVD/ LD

SAT

VIDEO1/ GAME1

OUT

DVR/ VCR 1

OUT

DVR/ VCR 2

ANTENNA

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

AUDIO

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

FR F

SUB W.

SURROUND

CONTROL

SURRO

OUT

1 Connect an optical-type1 digital audio output on your digital component to the DIGITAL 4 (CD-R) input.

Use an optical cable for the connection.

2 For recording equipment, connect one of the optical-type DIGITAL outputs to a digital input on the recorder.

Use an optical cable to connect to the DIGITAL OUT1 or (VSX-AX4AVi only) OUT2 (OUT1 is shown in the

illustration).

About the WMA9 Pro decoder

This unit has an on-board Windows Media® Audio 9 Professional

playback WMA9 Pro-encoded audio using a coaxial or optical digital connection when connected to a WMA9 Pro-compatible player. However, the connected PC, DVD player, set-top box, etc. must be able to output WMA9 Pro format audio signals through a coaxial or optical digital output.

(WMA9 Pro) decoder, so it is possible to

1 2

OPTICAL COA XIAL

DIGITAL OUT

OPTICAL

DIGITAL IN

CD-R, MD, DAT, etc.

Note

1• If your digital component only has a coaxial digital output, you can connect it to one of the coaxial inputs on this receiver using a coaxial cable. When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the component to (see also The Input Setup menu on page 60).

• The digital outputs from other components can be connected to any spare digital audio inputs on this receiver. You can assign them when setting up

the receiver (see also The Input Setup menu on page 60). 2• You must switch ROOM 3 ON in Using the multi-room controls on page 56 to hear audio from the DIGITAL OUT1.

• In order to record some digital sources, you must make analog connections as explained in Connecting analog audio sources below.

3 • Microsoft, Windows Media

countries.

• With WMA9 Pro, sound problems may occur depending on your computer system. Note that WMA9 Pro 96kHz sources will be downsampled to 48kHz.

, and the Windows logo are trademarks, or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other

Connecting your equipment

Connecting analog audio sources

This receiver features three stereo audio-only inputs. Two of these inputs have corresponding outputs for use with audio recorders.

One of the audio inputs ( turntable input which should not be used for any other type of component. This input also has a grounding terminal that most turntables require.

Turntable

VSX-AX4AVi

FM UNBAL 75ΩAM LOOP

& SOURCE

NE2)

GER

L 50mA MAX)

ULTI-ROOM

& SOURCE MONITOR OUT

1–3

VIDEO

OUT

IN3IN

IN1(DVD/LD) IN

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

S - VIDEO

MONITOR OUT

DVD/ LD

(TV)

VIDEO1/ GAME1

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

OUT

TV IN

SAT

OUT

DVR/

VCR 1

OUT

DVR/

VCR 2

ANTENNA

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

PHONO

AUDIO PRE OUT

PHONO

SUB W.

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

FR FL

SUB W. CENTER

SURROUND

R L

SURROUND

BACK

MULTI CH IN

OUT

CONTROL

) is a dedicated

R L

FRONT

CENTER

SURROUND

SURROUND BACK

(Single)

RRL

iPod

SPEAKERS

FRONT

RS-232C

CENTER

Turntables only:

Connect the stereo audio outputs to

the PHONO inputs.

• If your turntable has a grounding wire, secure it to the ground terminal on this receiver.

• If your turntable has line-level outputs (i.e., it has a built-in phono pre-amp), connect it to the

inputs

instead.

Connecting a component to the front panel inputs

The front panel inputs comprise a composite video jack (

VIDEO

), an S-Video jack (

inputs (

AUDIO L/R

(

DIGITAL

). You can use these connections for any kind of audio/video component, but they are especially convenient for portable equipment such as camcorders, video games and portable audio/video equipment.

SPEAKERS

PHONES

TV game, video camera, etc.

(TUNE +)

AV PARAMETER

(ST –) (ST +)

ENTER

SETUP

(TUNE –)

• Select these inputs using the

INPUT SELECTOR

VIDEO/GAME 2

S-VIDEO

), stereo analog audio

) and an optical digital audio input

MULTI – ROOM &

VIDEO

SIGNAL

SELECT

VIDEO/GAME 2 INPUT

SBch

SELECT

PROCESSING

(remote) or

STEREO

RETURN

TUNER

EDIT



BAND

SOURCE/REC SEL

CONTROL ON/OFF

MCACC

SETUP MIC

DIGITAL IN S-VIDEO VIDEO L RAUDIO

VIDEO OUTPUT

DIGITAL OUT

INPUT SELECT

dial (front panel) to select

OUT

PLAY

REC

R L

AUDIO IN/OUT

Tape deck, etc.

1 Connect the analog audio outputs of the source component to one of the AUDIO inputs.

Connect using a stereo RCA/phono jack audio cable.

• If you’re connecting a tape deck, MD recorder, etc., connect the analog audio outputs (

OUT

) to the

analog audio inputs on the recorder.

Connecting your equipment

Installing your speaker system

To take full advantage of the receiver’s surround sound capabilities connect front, center, surround and surround back speakers, as well as a subwoofer. Although this is ideal, other configurations with fewer speakers—no subwoofer or no center speaker, or even no surround speakers—will work. At the very least, front left and right speakers only are necessary. Note that your

main surround speakers should always be connected as a pair, but you can connect just one surround back speaker if you like (it must be connected to the left surround back terminal). You can use speakers with a nominal impedance between 6–16

Ω (please see

Switching the speaker impedance on page 65 if you plan to use speakers with an impedance of less than 8

Ω).

Subwoofer

LINE LEVEL

INPUT

VSX-AX4AVi

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

–

DIGITAL

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

IN1

IN2

OUT

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

MULTI-ROOM

(ZONE2)

HDMI

ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO

Front left

FM UNBAL 75Ω AM LOOP

OUT

& SOURCE MONITOR OUT

OUT

IN1(DVD/LD)

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

IN3IN

S - VIDEO

–

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

OUT

DVD/ LD

SAT

(TV)

VIDEO1/

GAME1

OUT

VCR 1

OUT

VCR 2

VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

DVR/

ANTENNA

R L

Center

AUDIO PRE OUT

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

FR FL

SUB W. CENTER

SURROUND

R L

SURROUND

BACK

MULTI CH IN

OUT

CONTROL

Front

right

CAUTION

These speaker terminals carry HAZARDOUS LIVE voltage. To prevent the risk of electric shock when connecting or disconnecting the speaker cables, disconnect the power cord before touching any uninsulated parts.

R L

FRONT

CENTER

SUB W.

SURROUND

SURROUND BACK

(Single)

RRL

iPod

SPEAKERS

FRONT

CENTER SURROUND

RL R LRL(Single)

RS-232C

SURROUND BACK /

AC IN

AC OUTLET

SELECTABLE

Surround left

Surround back left

Connecting the speakers

Each speaker connection on the receiver comprises a positive (+) and negative (–) terminal. Make sure to match these up with the terminals on the speakers themselves.

Surround

right

Surround back right

Caution

• Make sure that all the bare speaker wire is twisted together and inserted fully into the speaker terminal. If any of the bare speaker wire touches the back panel it may cause the power to cut off as a safety measure.

Connecting your equipment

Bare wire connections

Make sure that the speaker cable you’re going to use is properly prepared with about 10 mm of insulator stripped from each wire, and the exposed wire strands twisted together (

fig. A

To connect a terminal, unscrew the terminal a few turns until there is enough space to insert the exposed wire (

fig. B

). Once the wire is in position, tighten the terminal

until the wire is firmly clamped (

fig. C

fig. A fig. B fig. C

10mm

Important

• Please refer to the manual that came with your speakers for details on how to connect the other end of the speaker cables to your speakers.

•

Other connections

on page 46 provides greater detail on alternate speaker setups, such as using speaker system B (page 52), bi-amping (page 53) and biwiring (page 53).

• If you are using a THX certified subwoofer use the

THX INPUT

has one) or switch the filter position to

jack on the subwoofer (if your subwoofer

THX

on your

subwoofer.

Placing the speakers

Where you put your speakers in the room has a big effect on the quality of the sound. The following guidelines should help you to get the best sound from your system.

• The subwoofer can be placed on the floor. Ideally, the other speakers should be at about ear-level when you’re listening to them. Putting the speakers on the floor (except the subwoofer), or mounting them very high on a wall is not recommended.

• For the best stereo effect, place the front speakers 2–3m apart, at equal distance from the TV.

• When placing speakers near the TV, we recommend using magnetically shielded speakers to prevent possible interference, such as discoloration of the picture when the TV is switched on. If you do not have magnetically shielded speakers and notice discoloration of the TV picture, move the speakers farther away from the TV.

• If you're using a center speaker, place the front speakers at a wider angle. If not, place them at a narrower angle.

• Place the center speaker above or below the TV so that the sound of the center channel is localized at the TV screen. Also, make sure the center speaker does not cross the line formed by the leading edge of the front left and right speakers.

• It is best to angle the speakers towards the listening position. The angle depends on the size of the room. Use less of an angle for bigger rooms.

• Surround and surround back speakers should be positioned 60 cm–90 cm higher than your ears and titled slight downward. Make sure the speakers don't face each other. For DVD-Audio, the speakers should be more directly behind the listener than for home theater playback.

• Try not to place the surround speakers farther away from the listening position than the front and center speakers. Doing so can weaken the surround sound effect.

• To achieve the best possible surround sound, install your speakers as shown below. Be sure all speakers are installed securely to prevent accidents and improve sound quality.

Front

left

Surround

left

Surround back Surround back

Center

Listening position

left right

Single surround back speaker

Subwoofer

Front right

Surround

right

Caution

• Make sure that all speakers are securely installed. This not only improves sound quality, but also reduces the risk of damage or injury resulting from speakers being knocked over or falling in the event of external shocks such as earthquakes.

Connecting your equipment

The diagrams below show suggested surround and surround back speaker orientation. The first diagram (fig. A) shows orientation with one surround back speaker (or none) connected. The second (fig. B) shows orientation with two surround back speakers connected.

90~120

0~60

Connecting antennas

The supplied antennas provide a simple way to listen to AM and FM radio. If you find that reception quality is poor, an outdoor antenna should give you better sound quality—see Connecting external antennas below.

fig. A

SBL

SBR

fig. B

• If you have two surround back speakers THX recommends placing them together and the same distance from your listening position (see below).

THX speaker system setup

If you have a complete THX speaker system, follow the diagram below to place your speakers. Note that the

surround speakers ( indicates bi-polar radiating speakers) should output at an angle parallel to the listener.

Surround

• If you have two surround back speakers THX recommends placing them together and the same distance from your listening position for the following THX modes: THX Select2 CINEMA, THX MUSICMODE and THX GAMES MODE.

See also THX Audio Setting on page 45 to make the settings that will give you the best sound experience when using the Home THX modes (on page 27).

Surround

SBL SBR

Surround back

MULTI-ROOM &SOURCE /REC SEL

OUT1 ROOM3(ZONE3)

OUT2

USB AUDIO IN

IN (SAT)

IN (DVR/ VCR 1)

IN (DVR/ VCR 2)

IN (CD-R)

ASSIGNABLE

1–2

IN (DVD/ LD)

IN (CD)

S400

(AUDIO)

S400

–

DIGITAL

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

12 V TRIGGER

(DC OUT 12V TOTAL 50mA MAX)

ROOM2

(ZONE2)

HDMI

IN1

IN2

OUT

ASSIGNABLE COMPONENT VIDEO

MULTI-ROOM

& SOURCE

MONITOR OUT

OUT

IN3IN

–

FM UNBAL 75Ω AM LOOP

MONITOR OUT

IN1(DVD/LD)

(TV)

1–2

ASSIGNABLE

VIDEO

S - VIDEO

VIDEO AUDIO

ANTENNA

MULTI-ROOM & SOURCE

ROOM2(ZONE2)

R L

OUT

DVD/ LD

SAT

VIDEO1/ GAME1

OUT

DVR/

VCR 1

OUT

DVR/

VCR 2

R L

AUDIO PRE OUT

PHONO

OUT

CD-R/ TAPE

FR FL

SUB W. CENTER

SURROUND

R L

SURROUND

BACK

MULTI CH IN

OUT

CONTROL

R L

FRONT

CENTER

SUB W.

SURROUND

SURROUND BACK

(Single)

RRL

iPod

SPEAKERS

FRONT

RS-232C

VSX-AX4AVi

AM loop antenna

1 Assemble the stand as shown in the illustration.

fig. A fig. B fig. C

• Bend the stand in the direction indicated (fig. A).

• Clip the loop into the stand (fig. B).

• It’s possible to fix the AM antenna to a wall (fig. C). Before fixing, make sure that the reception is satisfactory.

2 Pull off the protective shields of both AM antenna wires.

3 Press the

AM LOOP

and insert one wire into each terminal. 4 Release the tabs to secure the AM antenna wires. 5 Place the AM antenna on a flat surface and point in

the direction giving the best reception.

Avoid placing near computers, television sets or other electrical appliances and do not let it come into contact with metal objects.

antenna terminal tabs to open

Connecting your equipment

Important

• The signal ground () is designed to reduce noise that occurs when an antenna is connected. It is not an electrical safety ground.

FM wire antenna

• Connect the FM wire antenna to the

Ω

in the same way as the AM antenna.

For best results, extend the FM antenna fully and fix to a wall or door frame. Don’t drape loosely or leave coiled up.

FM UNBAL

Connecting external antennas

To improve FM reception connect an external FM antenna to the

To improve AM reception, connect a 5–6m length of vinylcoated wire to the disconnecting the supplied AM loop antenna.

For the best possible reception, suspend horizontally outdoors.

FM UNBAL 75Ω.

75Ω coaxial cable

AM LOOP

ANTENNA

terminals without

Plugging in the

Only plug in after you have connected all your components to this receiver, including the speakers.

Caution

• Handle the power cord by the plug part. Do not pull out the plug by tugging the cord, and never touch the power cord when your hands are wet, as this could cause a short circuit or electric shock. Do not place the unit, a piece of furniture, or other object on the power cord or pinch the cord in any other way. Never make a knot in the cord or tie it with other cables. The power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be stepped on. A damaged power cord can cause a fire or give you an electric shock. Check the power cord once in a while. If you find it damaged, ask your nearest Pioneer authorized independent service company for a replacement.

• Do not use any power cord other than the one supplied with this unit.

• Do not use the supplied power cord for any purpose other than that described below.

• The receiver should be disconnected by removing the mains plug from the wall socket when not in regular use, e.g., when on vacation.

• Make sure the blue out before unplugging.

1 Plug the supplied power cord into the AC IN socket on the back of the receiver.

2 Plug the other end into a power outlet.

receiver



STANDBY/ON

light has gone

Outdoor antenna

5–6 meters

Indoor antenna

(vinyl-coated wire)

AC outlet

Power supplied through this outlet is turned on and off by the receiver's power switch. Total electrical power consumption of connected equipment should not exceed 100 W (0.4 A).

Caution

• Do not connect a TV set, monitor, heater, or similar appliance to this unit's AC outlet.

• Do not connect appliances with high power consumption to the AC outlet in order to avoid overheating and fire risk. This can also cause the receiver to malfunction.

• Since a subwoofer or power amplifier can exceed the 100W maximum when playing sources at a high volume, this type of equipment should not be connected to the AC outlet.

Controls and displays

Chapter 4:

Controls and displays

Front panel

Illustration shows the VSX-AX4AVi front panel

1 6 8245 97101112

SELECTOR

INPUT



STANDBY/ON

PHASE

CONTROL

MCACC

POSITION

AUTO SURR/

STREAM DIRECT

SPEAKERS

PHONES

PHASE

CONTROL

AV PARAMETER

(ST –) (ST +)

SETUP

(TUNE +)

ENTER

(TUNE –)

DIGITAL PRECISION

PROCESSING

16 17 19

TUNER

EDIT

RETURN

BAND



18 21 22

MULTI – ROOM & SOURCE/REC SEL

CONTROL ON/OFF

MCACC

SETUP MIC

AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER VSX-AX4AVi

SIGNAL SELECT

SBch

PROCESSING

VIDEO

SELECT

VIDEO/GAME 2 INPUT

DIGITAL IN S-VIDEO VIDEO L RAUDIO

STEREO

HOME

STANDARD

SURROUND

ADVANCED SURROUND

MASTER VOLUME

THX

INPUT SELECTOR

dial

25 27 28

Use to select an input source.



STANDBY/ON

Switches the receiver between on and standby. Power indicator lights when the receiver is on.

PHASE CONTROL – Press to switch on/off phase

correction (page 9).

MCACC POSITION

– Press to switch between

MCACC presets (page 28).

AUTO SURR

STREAM DIRECT

– Press to select Auto Surround (page 26) or Stream Direct (page 28) listening.

PHASE CONTROL

indicator

Lights when Phase Control is switched on (page 9).

5 Remote sensor

Receives the signals from the remote control (see

Operating range of remote control unit

on page 22).

6 MCACC indicator

Lights when one of the MCACC presets (page 28) is selected.

7 Digital Precision Processing indicator

Lights to indicate digital processing (for example, it disappears when Pure Direct (page 28) is on, or when listening through the multichannel analog inputs).

8 Character display

See

Display

on page 23.

Controls and displays

9 HDMI indicator

Blinks when connecting an HDMI-equipped component; lights when the component is connected (page 47).

10 i.LINK indicator

(VSX-AX4AVi only)

Lights when an i.LINK-Audio-equipped component is selected (page 48).

DIGITAL VIDEO CONVERSION

indicator

(VSX-AX2AV

only)

Lights when digital video conversion is enabled (page 63).

11 Listening mode buttons

HOME THX

– Press to select a Home THX listening

mode (page 27).

STANDARD SURROUND

decoding and to switch between the various

– Press for Standard

Pro

Logic IIx and Neo:6 options (page 26).

ADVANCED SURROUND

– Use to switch between

the various surround modes (page 27).

MASTER VOLUME

dial

13 Front panel controls

To access the front panel controls, push gently on the lower third portion of the panel with your finger.



T A N

D B

Y / O N

20 SIGNAL SELECT

Use to select an input signal (page 28).

SBch PROCESSING

Selects the surround back channel mode (page 29) or virtual surround back mode (page 29).

22 STEREO

Switches to stereo playback (page 28).

PHONES

jack

Use to connect headphones. When the headphones are connected, there is no sound output from the speakers.

SETUP

Press to access the System Setup menu (see page 33).



(TUNE/ST +/–) /

ENTER

Use the arrow buttons when setting up your surround sound system (see page 33). Use the to find radio frequencies and use

TUNE +/–

ST +/–

buttons

to find preset

stations (page 30).

RETURN

Press to confirm and exit the current menu screen.

27 MCACC SETUP MIC jack

Use to connect the supplied microphone.

VIDEO/GAME 2 INPUT

See

Connecting a component to the front panel inputs

page 16.

SPEAKERS

Use to change the speaker system (page 52).

AV PARAMETER

Use to access the AV options (page 63).

TUNER EDIT

Use with

/

to memorize and name stations for recall

(page 30).

17 BAND

Switches between AM and FM radio bands (page 30).

18 MULTI ROOM & SOURCE / REC SEL controls

If you’ve made multi-room connections (see

listening

sub room from the main room (see

controls

You will also need to use the recording a source (see

recording

on page 54) use these controls to control the

Using the multi-room

on page 56).

REC SEL

Making an audio or a video

on page 64).

Multi-room

controls when

19 VIDEO SELECT

Press repeatedly to select the video source (page 65).

Operating range of remote control unit

The remote control may not work properly if:

• There are obstacles between the remote control and the receiver's remote sensor.

• Direct sunlight or fluorescent light is shining onto the remote sensor.

• The receiver is located near a device that is emitting infrared rays.

• The receiver is operated simultaneously with another infrared remote control unit.



T A N

D B

Y /O

A U D IO

/ V

I D EO

U L

T IC

H A N

N E

L R E

C E

I V E

Controls and displays

Display

SIGNAL

AUTO

HDMI

DIGITAL

ANALOG

STREAM

PRO LOGIC

ADV.SURROUND

THX STEREO

indicators

21 3 876 9 10 11 12

SBR

DIGITAL

WMA9 Pro

DSD PCM

CD-R

L C R

SL S SR

SBL SB

LFE

DIRECT

STANDARD

SLEEP

: 6

DTS

96/24

TUNER

PHONO

VIDEO MULTI-ROOM

OVER ATT

MULTI IN

Light to indicate the currently selected input signal.

AUTO

lights when the receiver is set to select the input

signal automatically (page 28).

2 Program format indicators

These change according to which channels are active in digital sources.

– Left front channel

– Center channel

– Right front channel

– Left surround channel

– Surround channel (mono)

– Right surround channel

SBL

– Left surround back channel

– Surround back channel (mono)

SBR

– Right surround back channel

LFE

– Low frequency effects channel (the

an LFE signal is being input)

((( )))

indicators light when

3 Digital format indicators

Light when a signal encoded in the corresponding format is detected (

DSDPCM

lights during DSD (Digital

Stream Direct) to PCM conversion with SACDs).

OVER

is too high. (

ANALOG ATT

ATT

lights to indicate that the level of an analog source

ATT

lights when you use the attenuator

) to reduce it.

MULTI-ROOM

Lights when the multi-room feature is active (page 54).

VIDEO CONV.

Lights when digital video conversion is enabled (page 63).

7 V.SB

Lights during Virtual surround back processing

(page 29)

8 Sound processing indicators

Light according to the active AV parameter(s) (page 63).

TUNER

indicators

TUNED

– Lights when a broadcast is being received.

STEREO

– Lights when a stereo FM broadcast is

being received in auto stereo mode.

MONO

– Lights when the mono mode is set using

the

MPX

button.

CONV. V.SB DNR

DIALOGUE LOUDNESS

Hi-bit/sampling

DVDTVSAT

iPod

10 EON

EON

MIDNIGHT TUNED

TONE

VIDEO

[

DVR

181413 16 1917

RDS indicators

– Lights when the EON mode is set (flashes

STEREO

MONO

]

EON

HDMI

[

RDS

USB

]

SR+

during EON reception). The indicator lights when the current station carries the EON service (page 32).

RDS

– Lights when an RDS broadcast is received

(page 31).

11 Master volume level

Shows the overall volume level. minimum level, and

+12dB

–80dB

indicates the

indicates the maximum level.

12 Input source indicators

Light to indicate the input source you have selected.

STREAM DIRECT

Lights when Direct / Pure Direct is selected (page 28).

14 Speaker indicators

Indicate the current speaker system, A and/or

15 Listening mode indicators

THX

– Lights when a Home THX mode is selected.

ADV. SURROUND

– Lights when an Advanced

Surround mode has been selected.

STEREO

on (see

STANDARD

mode is switched on (see

sound

SLEEP

– Lights when stereo listening is switched

Listening in stereo

on page 28).

– Lights when a Standard Surround

Listening in surround

on page 26).

Lights when the receiver is in sleep mode (page 65).

17 Matrix decoding format indicators

PRO LOGIC IIx – This lights to indicate 2Pro

Logic II / 2Pro Logic IIx decoding (page 26). Neo:6 – When one of the Neo:6 modes of the receiver

is on, this lights to indicate Neo:6 processing (page 26).

18 Character display

Displays various system information.

SR+

Lights when the SR+ mode is switched on (page 58).

(page 52)

Controls and displays

Remote control

TV VIDEO 2

VIDEO 1 TV CONT

MULTI IN

TUNER

VIDEO

DIMMER

TUNE

ENTER

TUNE

TV CH

REC

REC STOP

HDD

SBch

STANDARD

MCACC S.DIRECT

SEL

SYSTEM OFF

ROOM2/3

RECEIVER

CLASS

ENTER

CH LEVEL

T.EDIT

RETURN

BAND

VOL

MUTE

DVD

STEREO

ADV. SURR

ANALOG ATT

DISC



INPUT

RECEIVER SOURCE

SELECT

DVD SAT

DVR2

DVR1

CD-R

i Pod

SLEEP

D.ACCESS

AV PARAMETER

TOP MENU 

5 6

10 11

ST ST

SETUP

PTY SEARCH

GUIDE

TV CONTROL

INPUT

TV VOL

SELECT

MPX EON

BCDE

AUDIO SUBTITLE

DISP

SIGNAL SEL

STATUS

THX

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

PHASE

RECEIVER

The remote has been conveniently color-coded according to component control using the following system (press the corresponding input source button to access):

• Green – Receiver controls (see below)

• Red – DVD controls (page 71)

• Blue – Tuner controls (page 30)

• Yellow – iPod controls (page 46)

• White – Other controls (page 71)

1 RECEIVER

This switches between standby and on for this receiver.

INPUT SELECT

Use to select the input source (use SHIFT for INPUT SELECT ).

3 Input source buttons

Press to select control of other components (see Controlling the rest of your system on page 67).

4 Number buttons and other receiver/component controls

Use the number buttons to directly select a radio frequency (page 30) or the tracks on a CD, DVD, etc.

DISC (ENTER) can be used to enter commands for TV or DTV, and also to select a disc in a multi-CD player.

Press RECEIVER first to access:

SLEEP – Use to put the receiver in sleep mode and select the amount of time before sleep (page 65).

VIDEO SEL – Press repeatedly to select the video source (page 65).

ANALOG ATT – Attenuates (lowers) the level of an analog input signal to prevent distortion (page 65).

SR+ – Switches the SR+ mode on/off (page 58). DIMMER – Dims or brightens the display (page 65).

Press TUNER first to access:

D.ACCESS – After pressing, you can access a radio

station directly using the number buttons (page 30). CLASS – Switches between the three banks (classes)

of radio station presets (page 30).

5 Tuner/component control buttons/

SETUP

These button controls can be accessed after you have selected the corresponding input source button (DVD,

DVR1, TV, SAT etc.). The BAND, T.EDIT and PTY SEARCH tuner controls are explained from page 30. Press RECEIVER first to access the following controls:

AV PARAMETER – Use to access the AV options

(page 63). SETUP – Use to access the System Setup menu

(page 33). CH LEVEL – Press repeatedly to select a channel,

then use / to adjust the level (page 44). RETURN – Press to confirm and exit the current

menu screen (also use to return to the previous menu with DVDs or to select closed captioning with DTV).



(TUNE/ST) /

ENTER

Use the arrow buttons when setting up your surround sound system (see page 33) and the AV options (page 63). Also used to control DVD menus/options and for deck 1 of a double cassette deck player. Use the TUNE / buttons to find radio frequencies and use ST / to find preset stations (page 30).

7 TV CONTROL buttons

These buttons are dedicated to control the TV assigned to the TV CONT button. Thus if you only have one TV to hook up to this system assign it to the TV CONT input source button. If you have two TVs, assign the main TV to the TV CONT button (see page 67 for more on this).

Controls and displays

TV – Use to turn on/off the power of the TV. TV VOL +/– INPUT SELECT TV CH +/–

8 Component control buttons

The main buttons (, , etc.) are used to control a component after you have selected it using the input source buttons.

The controls above these buttons can be accessed after you have selected the corresponding input source button (for example controls can be accessed when listening to the built-in tuner:

MPX

of FM broadcasts. If the signal is weak then switching to mono will improve the sound quality (page 30).

DISP

radio frequencies (page 31).

EON

broadcasting traffic or news information (page 32).

STATUS

Press to check selected receiver settings (page 65).

MULTIOPE

Use this button to perform multi operations (page 69).

SHIFT

Press to access the controls outlined in white boxes (for example, selected input source in the remote control LCD.

SOURCE

Press to turn on/off other components connected to the receiver (see page 67 for more on this).

13 Character display (LCD)

This display shows information when transmitting control signals.

The following commands are shown when you’re setting the remote to control other components (see

the rest of your system

SETUP

choose the options below.

PRESET

page 67.

LEARNING

remote controls

MULTI OP

page 69.

SYS OFF

page 69.

DIRECT F RENAME

page 69.

– Use to adjust the volume on your TV.

– Use to select the TV input signal.

– Use to select channels.

DVD, DVR1, TV

– Switches between stereo and mono reception

– Switches between named station presets and

– Use to search for programs that are

INPUT SELECT



– Indicates the setup mode, from which you

– See

Selecting preset codes directly

–

See

on page 67.

– See

Multi Operation and System Off

– See

Direct function

– See

Renaming input source names

SAT

). The following

), or to display the currently

Controlling

on page 67):

Programming signals from other

Multi Operation and System Off

on page 69.

ERASE

– See

settings

RESET

page 68.

READ ID

14 RECEIVER

Switches the remote to control the receiver (used to select the green commands above the number buttons (

ANALOG ATT

surround sound (page 7, page 33). With selects the multi-room control (page 54), shown in the display as

15 VOL +/–

Use to set the listening volume.

16 MUTE

Mutes the sound or restores the sound if it has been muted (adjusting the volume also restores the sound).

17 Receiver controls

SIGNAL SEL SBch

channel mode (page 29).

STEREO

playback. Direct playback bypasses the tone controls and any other signal processing for the most accurate reproduction of a source (page 28).

THX – Press to select a Home THX listening mode (page 27).

STANDARD – Press for Standard decoding and to switch between the various Pro Logic IIx and Neo:6 options (page 26).

ADV.SURR – Use to switch between the various surround modes (page 27).

PHASE – Press to switch on/off phase correction

(page 9). MCACC – Press to switch between MCACC presets (page 28).

S.DIRECT – Press to select Auto Surround (page 26) or Stream Direct (page 28) listening.

Erasing one of the remote control button

on page 68.

– See

Resetting the remote control presets

– See

Confirming preset codes

, etc). Also use this button to set up

RCV/RM2, RCV/RM3

– Use to select an input signal (page 28).

– Use to select the surround/virtual back

– Switches between direct and stereo

on page 68.

SHIFT

, this

STATUS

SIGNAL SEL

SBch

STEREO

Listening to your system

Chapter 5:

Listening to your system

Important

• The listening modes and many features described in this section may not be available depending on the current source, settings and status of the receiver. See

Listening modes with different input signal

formats

on page 82 for more on this.

Auto playback

There are many ways to listen back to sources using this receiver, but for the simplest, most direct listening option is the Auto Surround feature. The receiver automatically detects what kind of source you’re playing and selects

multichannel or stereo playback as necessary.

SIGNAL SEL

STATUS

SBch

STEREO

ADV. SURR

STANDARD

THX

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

MCACC S.DIRECT

PHASE

• While listening to a source, press

SURR

STREAM DIRECT

AUTO SURROUND

)2 for auto playback of a source.

shows briefly in the display before

S.DIRECT (AUTO

showing the decoding or playback format. Check the digital format indicators in the front panel display to see how the source is being processed.

Listening in surround sound

Using this receiver, you can listen to any source in surround sound. However, the options available will depend on your speaker setup and the type of source you’re listening to.

If you connected surround back speakers, see also

surround back channel processing

on page 29.

Standard surround sound

The following modes provide basic surround sound for stereo and multichannel sources.

Using

• While listening to a source, press (

STANDARD SURROUND

STANDARD

If necessary, press repeatedly to select a listening mode.

• If the source is Dolby Digital, DTS, or Dolby Surround encoded, the proper decoding format will

automatically be selected and shows in the display.

With two channel sources

•

Pro Logic IIx MOVIE

, you can select from:

– Up to 7.1 channel sound,

especially suited to movie sources

•

Pro Logic IIx MUSIC

especially suited to music sources

•2 Pro Logic IIx GAME

– Up to 7.1 channel sound,

especially suited to video games

•

PRO LOGIC

– 4.1 channel surround sound (sound

from the surround speakers is mono)

•

Neo:6 CINEMA

– 6.1 channel sound, especially

suited to movie sources

•

Neo:6 MUSIC

to music sources

– 6.1 channel sound, especially suited

With multichannel sources, if you have connected surround back speaker(s) and have selected

SBch ON

, you

can select (according to format):

•

2 Pro Logic IIx MOVIE

– See above (only available

when you’re using two surround back speakers)

•

2 Pro Logic IIx MUSIC

Dolby Digital EX

•

– See above

– Creates surround back channel sound for 5.1 channel sources and provides pure decoding for 6.1 channel sources (like Dolby Digital Surround EX)

•

DTS-ES

– Allows you to hear 6.1 channel playback

with DTS-ES encoded sources

•

DTS Neo:6

– Allows you to hear 6.1 channel playback

with DTS encoded sources

ADV. SURR

STANDARD

THX

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

MCACC S.DIRECT

PHASE

Note

1• Stereo surround (matrix) formats are decoded accordingly using for more on these decoding formats).

• The Auto Surround feature is canceled if you connect headphones or select the multichannel analog inputs. 2 For more options using this button, see 3 In modes that give 6.1 channel sound, the same signal is heard from both surround back speakers. 4 If surround back channel processing (page 29) is switched

back speaker setting

5 When listening to 2-channel sources in Dolby Pro Logic IIx Music mode, there are three further parameters you can adjust: Center Width, Dimension, and Panorama. See 6 When listening to 2-channel sources in Neo:6 Music mode, you can also adjust the center image effect (see

on page 35 is set to anything but

Setting the AV options

Using Stream Direct

Normal (SB)

on page 63 to adjust them.

Neo:6 CINEMA

on page 28.

OFF

, or the surround back speakers are set to NO (this happens automatically if the

), 2

Pro Logic IIx

or 2

Pro Logic IIx MOVIE

becomes 2

Pro Logic II

(see

Listening in surround sound

(5.1 channel sound).

Setting the AV options

above

Surround

on page 63).

Listening to your system

Using the Home THX modes

THX and Home THX are technical standards created by Lucasfilm Ltd. for cinema and home theater sound. Home THX is designed to make home theater audio sound more like what you hear in a cinema.

Different THX options will be available depending on the source and the setting for surround back channel processing (see on page 29 for more on this).

• Press

With two channel sources

repeatedly to select a matrix-decoding process for the

THX CINEMA

above for an explanation of each process):

•

2 Pro Logic IIx MOVIE+THX

•2

PRO LOGIC+THX

•

Neo:6 CINEMA+THX

•

THX GAMES MODE

With multichannel sources

repeatedly to select from:

•

THX CINEMA

your home theatre system using all the speakers in your setup

•

2 Pro Logic IIx MOVIE+THX

movie sources, this allows you to hear 7.1 channel playback with 5.1 channel sources

•

THX Surround EX

channel playback with 5.1 channel sources

•

THX Select2 CINEMA

channel playback with 5.1 channel sources

•

THX MUSICMODE

playback with 5.1 channel sources

•

THX GAMES MODE

playback from the output of a video game console

Using surround back channel processing

SIGNAL SEL

STATUS

SBch

STEREO

ADV. SURR

STANDARD

THX

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

MCACC S.DIRECT

PHASE

THX (HOME THX

mode (see

) to select a listening mode.

, press

THX (HOME THX)

Listening in surround sound

, press

THX (HOME THX)

– Gives you cinema-quality sound from

– Especially suited to

– Allows you to hear 6.1 or 7.1

– Allows you to hear 7.1

– Allows you to hear 7.1 channel

Using the Advanced surround effects

The Advanced surround effects can be used for a variety of additional surround sound effects. Most Advanced Surround modes are designed to be used with film soundtracks, but some modes are also suited for music sources. Try different settings with various soundtracks to see which you like.

• Press

ADV.SURR (ADVANCED SURROUND

repeatedly to select a listening mode.

•

ACTION

– Designed for action movies with dynamic

soundtracks

•

SCI-FI

– Designed for science fiction with lots of

special effects

•

DRAMA MUSICAL

•

– Designed for movies with lots of dialog

– Creates a concert hall-type sound for

musicals

•

MONOFILM

soundtracks

•

7-D THEATER

•

CLASSICAL CHAMBER

•

JAZZ

•

ROCK DANCE

•

– Gives a large concert hall-type sound

– Creates a space with alot of reverb

– Creates the sound of a small jazz club

– Creates a live concert sound for rock music

– Designed for music with lots of bass

• 7ch STEREO

from all the speakers in your setup

•

PhonesSurround

headphones, you can still get the effect of overall surround.

Tip

• When an Advanced Surround listening mode is selected, the effect level can be adjusted using the

EFFECT

parameter in

page 63.

SIGNAL SEL

STATUS

SBch

STEREO

ADV. SURR

STANDARD

THX

MULTI OPE

SHIFT

MCACC S.DIRECT

PHASE

– Creates surround sound from mono

– Creates an extra wide stereo field

– Allows you to hear stereo sources

– When listening through

Setting the AV options

)

Note

1• If you only have one surround back speaker connected, 2

MODE

are not available.

• You can’t use the THX modes when headphones are connected. 2• Depending on the source and the sound mode you have selected, you may not get sound from the surround back speakers in your setup. For more on this, refer to

Using surround back channel processing

• If you press ADV. SURR when the headphones are connected, the PhonesSurround mode will automatically be selected.

Pro Logic IIx MOVIE+THX, THX Select2 CINEMA, THX MUSICMODE

on page 29.

and

THX GAMES

+ 61 hidden pages