Sony HT-K250 User Manual

4-247-255-11(1)

Home Theater System

Operating Instructions ________________________ Mode d’emploi______________________________ Manual de instrucciones ______________________

GB FR ES

HT-K250

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

To prevent fire, do not cover the ve ntilation of the apparatus with news papers, table-cloths, curtains, etc. And don’t place lighted candles on the apparatus.

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

Don’t throw away the batt ery wi th general house waste, dispose of it correctly as chemical waste.

Do not install the appliance in a confined space, such as a bookcase or built-in cabinet.

This system incorporates Dolby* Digital and Pro Logic Surround and the DTS** Digital Surround System.

* Manufactured under license from Dolby

Laboratories. “Dolby”, “Pro Logic” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Labora t ories.

**“DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are registered

trademarks of Digital Thea ter Systems, Inc.

About This Manual

The instructions in this manual describe the controls on the remote. You can also use the controls on the control center if they have the same or similar names as those on the remote. For the button location of remote, see “Using the supplied remote to controlling the other component” on page 23.

SYSTEM STANDBY

;

FM MODE

D.TUNING

SUBTITLE

MEMORY SHIFT

CLEAR

SEARCH MODE

ENTER

RETURN/EXIT

?/1

SLEEP

SAT TV

AUX TUNER

PL/PLII A.F.D.

SOUND

FIELD

PRESET/

CH/D.SKIP

MUTING

V MENU

MASTER

VOL

TV/

MAIN

VIDEO

WIDE TEST TONE

TV ?/1 AV ?/1

VIDEO DVD

AAC

BI-LING

123

AUDIO ANGLE

456

TIME SWAP JUMP

789

0/10 >10/11 ENTER/12

–

TUNING DISC ALT

ANT

TOP MENU/

GUIDE

DISPLAY

TV VOL TV CH

Table of Contents

Getting Started

1: Unpacking...........................................4

2: Connecting the control center and

subwoofer .........................................5

3: Connecting components with digital

audio output jacks.............................6

4: Connecting video components............8

5: Connecting the antennas.....................9

6: Placing speakers................................10

7: Connecting speakers .........................11

8: Attaching the stand ...........................13

9: Connecting the AC power cord ........14

Checking the connections and

settings............................................14

Listening to the Sound of Connected Components

Selecting the component.......................16

About the indications in the display......17

Receiving FM/AM broadcasts..............18

Presetting radio stations ........................19

Enjoying Surround Sound

Selecting a sound field..........................21

Other Operations/Settings

Using the Sleep Timer ..........................23

Using the supplied remote to controlling

the other component .......................23

Changing the factory setting of a function

button on the remote.......................25

Setting up the speakers..........................26

Customizing sound fields......................27

Additional Information

Precautions............................................29

Troubleshooting....................................30

Specifications........................................31

Glossary ................................................32

List of button locations and reference

pages...............................................34

Index .....................................................36

Getting Started

1: Unpacking

Check that the following items are supplied:

• Control center (1)

• Subwoofer (1)

• Micro satellite speakers (5)

• Control center stand and a screw (1 each)

• Remote commander (1)

• R6 (size AA) batteries (2)

• Speaker cords (long) (2)

• Speaker cords (short) (3)

• System cord (1)

• Optical digital cord (1)

• FM wire antenna (1)

• AM loop antenna (1)

• Speaker foot pads (20)

• Speaker sticker (1)

• Speaker adaptor for wall use and a screw (5

each)

• This Operating Instructions (1)

• Speaker installation guide (1)

• Do not expose the remote sensor of the c ontrol center to direct sunlight or lighting apparatuses. Doing so may cause a malfunction.

• If you do not use the remote for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage and corrosion.

• Turn off the power to all components before making any connections.

• Be sure to make connections firmly to avoid hum and noise.

Inserting batteries into the remote

Insert two R6 (size AA) batteries with the + and – properly oriented in the battery compartment.

Tip

Under normal conditions, the batteries should last for about 6 months. When the remote no longer operates the control center, replace both batteries with new ones.

Notes

• Do not leave the remote in an extr emely hot or humid place.

• Do not use a new battery with an old one.

2: Connecting the control center and subwoofer

Required cords

System cord (supplied)

Control center

Getting Started

INPUT

DVD

Subwoofer

DIGITAL

COAXIALOPTICAL

SAT AUX

VIDEO

CONTROL

ANALOG

COAXIAL

FRONT R

SURR R

ANTENNA

SPEAKERS

CENTER

CONTROL

FRONT L

SURR L

Note

Be sure to disconnect the AC power cord before connecting or disconnecting the system cord.

If you disconnect the system cord with the AC power cord connected, the system may not turn on. In this case, disconnect the AC power cord, reconnect the system cord, then connect the AC power cord and turn on the system again.

3: Connecting components with digital audio output jacks

Connect the digital audio output jacks of your DVD player or other component (“Play Station 2”, CD player, MD deck, satellite tuner, etc.) to the control center’s digital audio input jacks to bring the multi channel surround sound of a movie theater into your home. Connect the video output jacks of your DVD player or “Play Station 2” to the video input jacks of your TV.

Note

You cannot input the video signal to this system. When you connect video components (VCR, TV, etc.), connect the video output jack of the video component to the video input jack of your TV.

Required cords

Optical digital cord (supplied)

Coaxial digital cord (not supplied)

Control center

OUTPUT

OPTICAL

OUT

DVD player or

“Play Station 2”

DIGITAL

INPUT

DVD SAT AUX

OUTPUT

OPTICAL

OUT

COAXIALOPTICAL

Satellite tuner

VIDEO

ANALOG

ANTENNA

COAXIAL

OUTPUT

COAXIAL

OUT

Other digital audio/video components (CD player, MD deck, etc.)

Tip

The digital input jacks are compatible with 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz sampling frequencies.

CONTROL

Setting for when you use Sony DVD player or “Play Station 2”

When you connect DVD player or “Play Station 2” as shown on the previous page, perform the following settings on each component. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with each component.

DVD player

1 Select “AUDIO SETUP” in the setup

display.

2 Set “AUDIO DRC” to “WIDE RANGE”. 3 Set “DIGITAL OUT” to “ON”. 4 Set “DOLBY DIGITAL” to “DOLBY

DIGITAL”.

5 Set “DTS” to “ON”.

“Play Station 2” is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment.

“Play Station 2”

1 Select “AUDIO SETTING” in the setup

display.

2 Select “AUDIO DIGITAL OUTPUT”. 3 Set “OPTICAL DIGITAL OUTPUT” to

“ON”.

4 Set “DOLBY DIGITAL” to “ON”. 5 Set “DTS” to “ON”.

Getting Started

4: Connecting video components

Required cords

Audio cord (not supplied)

When connecting a cord, be sure to match the color-coded pins to the appropriate jacks on the components; white (left) to white; and red (right) to red.

Note

You cannot input the video signal to this system. When you connect video components (VCR, TV, etc.), connect the video output jack of the video component to the video input jack of your TV.

White (L)

Red (R)

VCR

OUTPUT

AUDIO

OUT

Control center

DIGITAL

INPUT

DVD SAT AUX

COAXIALOPTICAL

ANALOG

VIDEO

AUDIO

OUT

OUTPUT

ANTENNA

COAXIAL

CONTROL

TV monitor

5: Connecting the antennas

Connect the supplied AM loop antenna and FM wire antenna.

FM wire antenna (supplied)

AM loop antenna (supplied)

Getting Started

DIGITAL

INPUT

DVD SAT AUX

COAXIALOPTICAL

VIDEO

ANALOG

ANTENNA

CONTROL

COAXIAL

Notes on antenna hookups

• To prevent noise pickup, keep the AM loop antenna away from the receiver and other components.

• Be sure to fully extend the FM wire antenna.

• After connecting the FM wire antenna, ke ep it as horizontal as possible.

• When you connect supplied AM antenna to the component, connect the black cord (B) to U jack, and the white cord (A) to the other jack.

6: Placing speakers

To fully enjoy surround sound, configure your speakers as below.

• Place the front speaker in a location 1 to 7 meters from the listening position (A).

• You can enjoy a higher quality sound effect if you place the center speaker from a distance equal to the front speaker distance (A) to a distance 1.5 meters closer to your listening position (B).

• You can enjoy a higher quality sound effect if you place the surround speakers from a distance equal to the front speaker distance (A) to a distance 4.5 meters closer to your listening position (C).

• Place the subwoofer at the same distance from the listening position as the front speaker (left or right).

When placing surround speakers to your side

Subwoofer

A A

45˚

90˚

20˚

Listening position

When placing surround speakers behind you

Subwoofer

45˚

90˚

20˚

Note

Listening position

Do not place the center speaker and surround speakers farther away from the l i stening position than the front speakers.

7: Connecting speakers

Be sure to place the speakers before making connections.

On the subwoofer

Connect the speaker cords by matching the color of speaker plugs and speaker jacks.

On the satellite speakers

Stick the supplied speaker stickers (“FRONT L” etc., 5 colors) on the satellite speakers and connect the speaker cords by matching the color of speaker stickers and the color tubes on the speaker cords.

Speaker cords (supplied)

Connect the cord with a black tube to the (–) jack.

(–)

(+)

Black tube

Red tube

Color tube

Speaker plug

Getting Started

Front speaker

(R)

–

Black tube (–) Red tube (+)

Color tube

Subwoofer

Red Green White

CONTROL

Surround speaker

Gray

Center speaker Front speaker

FRONT LCENTER

SURR L

–

Surround speaker

(L)

–

FRONT R

SURR R

(R)

–

SPEAKERS

Blue

(L)

–

continued

To avoid short-circuiting the speakers

Short-circuiting may damage the speakers and cause a malfunction.

Make sure the stripped ends of each speaker cord does not touch the stripped end of another speaker cord.

Examples of poor conditions of the speaker cord

Stabilizing speakers

To prevent speaker vibration or movement while listening, attach the supplied foot pads at the bottom of the speakers. If you are using the speaker stand (not supplied), you do not need to attach them.

Installing the satellite speakers on the wall

Fasten the screws (not supplied) to the wall. The screws should protrude by 5 to 6 mm.

5 to 6 mm

Attach the speaker adaptor for wall use (supplied) with the screw (supplied), then hang the satellite speakers on the screws.

4.2 mm

9.2 mm

Using speaker stand (not supplied)

When using separately sold speaker stand (WS-FV10D, WS-WV10D), you can easily configure your speaker layout.

WS-FV10D

WS-WV10D (Wall use)

speaker adaptor for wall use

Notes

• Use the screws that matc hes the wall material and strength.

• Install the satellite speakers on a vertical and fla t wall where reinforcement is applied. Do not install the satellite speakers if the wall is not vertical, flat or strong enough.

• Contact a screw shop or installer regarding the wall material or screws to be used.

• Sony will refrain from any responsibility on the accident or damage caused by improper installation, lack of durability of the wall or screws improper operation, natural calamity, etc.

8: Attaching the stand

You can use the control center in an upright position or laid flat. When using in an upright position, be sure to attach the supplied control center stand. Besides, you can change the item layout in the display according to the layout of the control center (page 18).

Using the control center in the upright position

Attach the stand to the screw hole on the side of the control center using the supplied screw.

Using the control center laid flat

Place the control center flat on a level surface.

Getting Started

Notes

• Be sure to attach the stand when using the control center in the upright position.

• Use the supplied stand only when you use the control center in an upright position. Do not attach the stand when you use the control center laid flat.

• To move the control center, hold the control center itself. If you hold the stand, it may break.

• Do not use the control center in an upright position without attaching the stand. If you do not attach the stand, the control center will be unstable and may fall over.

• Be sure to keep the screws out of reach o f the children.

9: Connecting the AC

Checking the connections

power cord

After connecting the components, connect the AC power cord of the subwoofer to a wall outlet.

AC power cord

Subwoofer

CONTROL

To a wall outlet

and settings

Performing initial setup operations

Before using the system for the first time, initialize the system by performing the following procedure. This procedure can also be used to return settings you have made to their factory defaults.

?/1

1 Press ?/1 to turn off the system. 2 Hold down ?/1 until “INITIAL” appears

in the display.

The current input name appears. The following are reset to their factory settings.

• All settings in the SET UP and LEVEL and EFFECT menus.

• The sound field memorized for each input.

• All preset stations.

Besides, the volume is set to minimum (MIN).

Checking if the sound comes from all speakers

ENTER

AV MENU

RETURN/EXIT

TV/

VIDEO

WIDE TEST TONE

MUTING

MASTER

VOL

MAIN

MASTER VOL

TEST TONE

TOP MENU/

GUIDE

DISPLAY

TV VOL TV CH

1 Press MASTER VOL +.

(Optimal volume level: Between 20–30.)

2 Press TEST TONE.

You will hear the test tone from each speaker in sequence.

Front (left) t Center t Front (right) t Surround (right) t Surround (left) t Subwoofer

While outputting the test tone, if no sound comes from the speakers or the test tone is output from the speaker whose name is not displayed in the display, there is a shortcircuiting or the connection is wrong. In this case, check the speaker connection again.

3 Press TEST TONE again to turn off the

test tone.

Getting Started

Listening to the Sound of Connected Components

Selecting the component

You can select Sony components only.

1 Press one of the function buttons.

When using the control center, press INPUT SELECTOR repeatedly.

To select Press

DVD player or “Play Station 2”DVD

Satellite tuner SAT An audio/video component

(CD player, MD deck, etc.) VCR VIDEO TV TV Tuner TUNER

AUX

2 Turn on the component and start

playback.

When you select a component which is also connected to the TV (such as VCR or DVD player), turn on the TV and set the TV’s video input to match the component you selected.

3 Press MASTER VOL +/– to adjust the

volume.

When using the control center, rotate VOL/ PRESET TUNING.

To mute the sound

Press MUTING.

Playing a DVD on the connected DVD player (not supplied)

When you connect a DVD player or “Play Station 2” and a TV, you can enjoy DVDs.

1 Press DVD. 2 Select the video input for your TV.

For details, refer to the instructions supplied with your TV.

3 Place a DVD in your DVD player or

“Play Station 2”.

4 Start playing the DVD.

About the indications in the display

You can change the item layout in the display according to the layout of the control center (page 18).

Vertical display Horizontal display

Listening to the Sound of Connected Components

STEREO

MONO

L C R

L.F.E.

SL S SR

DIGITAL

PLII

A AM: Lights up when an AM station is tuned

in.

B FM: Lights up when an FM station is tuned in. C MONO: Lights up when receiving an FM

station in monaural mode.

D STEREO: Lights up when receiving an FM

station in stereo mode.

E : Lights up when the disc being

L.F.E.

played back contains the LFE (Low Frequency Effect) channel and when the sound of the LFE channel signal is actually being reproduced.

F MEMORY: Lights up when presetting radio

station.

G DTS: Lights up when the system is decoding

DTS signals.

H ; DIGITAL: Lights up when the system is

decoding Dolby Digital signals.

I ; PL (II): Lights up when the system applies

Pro Logic or Pro Logic (II) processing.

MHz KHz

MEMORY DTS

1 2

J Playback channel indicators: The letters

light up to indicate the channels being played back.

L (Front Left), R (Front Right), C (Center (monaural)), SL (Surround Left), SR (Surround Right), S (Surround (monaural or the surround components obtained by Pro Logic processing)), SW (Subwoofer)

The boxes around the letters light up to indicate the speakers used to playback the channels.

Example:

Recording format (Front/Surround): 3/2 Sound Field: A.F.D. AUTO.

STEREO MONO

L C R

SL SR

MEMORY

L C R

SL S SR DTS

DIGITAL PLII

MHz KHz

L.F.E.

continued

Switching the display (vertical/horizontal)

You can switch the display as follows depending on how you place the control center (page 13).

Press DISPLAY POSITION repeatedly.

Each time you press the button, the display layout changes.

Receiving FM/AM broadcasts

You can receive FM/AM broadcasts with the tuner in this system. Before receiving broadcasts, make sure you have connected FM and AM antennas to the receiver (page 9).

Tip

You can tune in the station in 50 kHz steps for FM band and 9 kHz steps for AM band.

Manual tuning

Use the numeric buttons on the remote to input the frequency of the station.

1 Press TUNER.

You can also use INPUT SELECTOR on the control center.

2 Press TUNER repeatedly to select FM

or AM band.

3 Press D.TUNING.

The ALT button lights up.

4 Press the numeric buttons to input the

frequency of the station.

Example 1: FM 102.50 MHz Press 1 t 0 t 2 t 5 t 0. Example 2: AM 1,350 kHz Press 1 t 3 t 5 t 0. If you have tuned in an AM station, adjust the direction of the AM loop antenna for optimum reception.

If you cannot tune in a station and the entered numbers flash

Make sure you have entered the right frequency. If not, press ALT to turn off the display, then repeat steps 3 and 4 again. If the entered numbers still flash, the frequency is not used in your area.

Tips

• If you do not remember the precise f req u en cy, pr es s TUNING + or TUNING – after entering the value close to the frequency you w ant. The receiver automatically tunes in the station you want. If the

frequency seems to be higher than the entered value, press TUNING +, and if the frequency seems to be lower than the entered value, press TUNING –.

• If “STEREO” flashes in the display and the FM stereo reception is poor, press FM MODE to select “MONO”. You will not be able to enjoy the stereo effect, but the sound will be less distorted.

Note

If “STEREO” does not appear at all when an FM broadcast is received normally, press FM MODE to turn on the “STEREO” indication.

Automatic tuning

If you don’t know the frequency of the station you want, you can let the receiver scan all available stations in your area.

1 Press TUNER.

You can also use INPUT SELECTOR on the control center.

2 Press TUNER repeatedly to select FM

or AM band.

3 Press TUNING + or TUNING –.

Press TUNING + to scan from low to high; press TUNING – to scan from high to low. The receiver stops scanning whenever a station is received.

4 To continue scanning, press TUNING +

or TUNING – again.

If the FM stereo reception is poor

Press FM MODE to select monaural mode. If “STEREO” flashes in the display and the FM stereo reception is poor, the sound will be less distorted in the monaural mode.

Presetting radio stations

Up to 30 FM or AM stations can be preset. You can tune in any of the stations you preset directly.

Presetting radio stations

1 Press TUNER.

You can also use INPUT SELECTOR on the control center.

2 Tune in the station that you want to

preset using Manual Tuning (page 18) or Automatic Tuning (page 19).

3 Press MEMORY.

The ALT button lights up. “MEMORY” appears in the display for a

few seconds. Do step 4 before it goes out.

4 Press SHIFT to select the memory page

(A, B or C) and press numeric buttons to select a preset number.

The station is stored to the preset number. If “MEMORY” goes out before you press

the preset number, start again from step 3.

5 Repeat steps 2 to 4 to preset another

station.

Tuning to preset stations

On the control center

1 Press VOL/PRESET TUNING.

The preset number flashes.

2 Turn VOL/PRESET TUNING to select the

preset number.

Each time you turn VOL/PRESET TUNING, the receiver tunes in one preset station at a time, in the corresponding order and direction as follows:

tA1yA2y...yA0yB1yB2y...yB0T

Listening to the Sound of Connected Components

tC0y...yC2yC1T

continued

On the remote

1 Press TUNER. 2 Press PRESET/CH/D.SKIP + or PRESET/

CH/D.SKIP – to select the preset number.

Tuning directly by entering the preset number

1 Press TUNER. 2 Press ALT.

“ALT” appears in the display.

3 Press SHIFT to select the memory page (A,

B or C) and press numeric buttons to select a preset number.

Enjoying Surround Sound

Selecting a sound field

You can take advantage of surround sound simply by selecting one of the system’s preprogrammed sound fields. They bring the exciting and powerful sound of movie theaters and concert halls into your home.

Press SOUND FIELD +/– repeatedly to select the sound field you want.

The selected sound field appears in the display.

Sound field list Display

A.F.D. AUTO AFD AUTO A.F.D. Pro Logic DOLBY PL A.F.D. PL II MOVIE PLII MOV A.F.D. PL II MUSIC PLII MUS CINEMA STUDIO EX A DCS C.S.EX A CINEMA STUDIO EX B DCS C.S.EX B CINEMA STUDIO EX C DCS C.S.EX C HALL HALL JAZZ JAZZ LIVE CONCERT CONCERT GAME GAME

About DCS (Digital Cinema Sound)

Sound fields with DCS marks use DCS technology. DCS is the concept name of the surround technology for home theater developed by Sony. DCS uses the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) technology to reproduce the sound characteristics of an actual cinema cutting studio in Hollywood. When played at home, DCS will create a powerful theater effect that mimics the artistic combination of sound and action as envisioned by the movie director.

Enjoying movies using the CINEMA STUDIO EX modes

CINEMA STUDIO EX modes are suitable for watching motion picture DVDs (etc.), with

multi channel surround effects. You can reproduce the sound characteristics of Sony Pictures Entertainment’s dubbing studio in your home. There are three CINEMA STUDIO EX modes.

x CINEMA STUDIO EX A DCS

Reproduces the sound characteristics of the Sony Pictures Entertainment “Cary Grant Theater” cinema production studio. This is a standard mode, great for watching most any type of movies.

x CINEMA STUDIO EX B DCS

Reproduces the sound characteristics of the Sony Pictures Entertainment “Kim Novak Theater” cinema production studio. This mode is ideal for watching science-fiction or action movies with lots of sound effects.

x CINEMA STUDIO EX C DCS

Reproduces the sound characteristics of the Sony Pictures Entertainment scoring stage. This mode is ideal for watching musicals or films where orchestra music is featured in the soundtrack.

About CINEMA STUDIO EX modes

The CINEMA STUDIO EX modes consist of the following three elements.

• Virtual Multi Dimension Creates 5 sets of virtual speakers from a single pair of actual surround speakers.

• Screen Depth Matching Creates the sensation that the sound is coming from inside the screen like in theaters.

• Cinema Studio Reverberation Reproduces the type of reverberation found in theaters.

The CINEMA STUDIO EX modes integrate these three elements simultaneously.

Tip

You can identify the encoding format of DVD software, etc. by looking at the logo on the package.

– : Dolby Digital discs – : Dolby Surround encoded programs – : DTS Digital Surround encoded programs

Enjoying Surround Sound

continued

Enjoying Dolby Pro Logic (II)

This function lets you specify the type of decoding for 2 channel audio sources. This system can reproduce 2 channel sound in 4 channels through Dolby Pro Logic; or 5 channels through Dolby Pro Logic II.

x A.F.D. Pro Logic

Dealing with Dolby Pro Logic. Sources recorded in 2 channels are decoded and played back in 4 channels.

x A.F.D. PL II MOVIE

Dealing with DOLBY PRO LOGI C II MOVI E. This is ideal for playback of Dolby Surround encoded movies. Dubbed or old movies can be played back in 5 channels.

x A.F.D. PL II MUSIC

Dealing with DOLBY PRO LOGIC II MUSIC. This is ideal for playback of normal stereo sources such as CDs.

Note

Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Pro Logic II do not work for DTS signals.

Detecting the type of audio signal automatically

x A.F.D. AUTO

A.F.D. (Auto Format Direct) function automatically detects the type of audio signal being input (Dolby Digital, DTS, or standard 2 channel stereo) and performs the proper decoding if necessary. This mode presents the sound as it was recorded/encoded, without adding any effects (ex. reverberation).

Other sound fields

x HALL

Reproduces the acoustics of a rectangular concert hall.

x JAZZ

Reproduces the acoustics of a jazz club.

x LIVE CONCERT

Reproduces the acoustics of a 300-seat live house.

x GAME

Obtains maximum audio impact from TV game software.

Making the low-level sound clear (DOLBY DRC)

When you listen to DVDs at low volume levels, you can compress the dynamic range and finely adjust for low-level sound. This function works only for DVDs compatible with Dolby DRC* (audio DRC).

* Dolby DRC: Dolby Dynamic Range

Compressor

1 Press MAIN MENU repeatedly to select

“LEVEL”.

2 Move the V/v/B/b button up or down

to select “DRC”.

3 Move the V/v/B/b button to left or

right to select “STD” or “MAX”.

If you select “STD”, the dynamic range is compressed as intended by the recording engineer.

If you select “MAX”, the dynamic range is compressed dramatically.

To turn off the DOLBY DRC, select “OFF”.

Tip

Dynamic range compressor lets you compress the dynamic range of the soundtrack based on the dynamic range information included in the Dolby Digital signal. “STD” is standard compression, but because many sources have only light compression, we recommend using the “MAX” setting. This grea tly comp resses the dynamic range and lets you view movies late at night at low volumes. Unlike analog limiters, the levels are predetermined and provide a very natural compression.

Note

Dynamic range compression is possible with Dolby Digital sources only.

Other Operations/Settings

Using the Sleep Timer

You can set the system to turn off automatically at a specified time.

Press ALT, then press SLEEP.

Each time you press SLEEP, the display changes cyclically as follows. 2:00:00 t 1:30:00 t 1:00:00 t 0:30:00 t OFF While using Sleep Timer, the display dims.

Tip

To check the remaining time before the system turns off, press SLEEP after pressing ALT. The remaining time appears in the display.

Using the supplied remote to controlling the other component

You can use the supplied remote to control other Sony components.

SYSTEM STANDBY

SAT TV

AUX TUNER

;

PL/PLII A.F.D.

FM MODE

D.TUNING

SUBTITLE

MEMORY SHIFT

CLEAR

SEARCH MODE

V MEN

ENTER

RETURN/EXIT

VIDEO

?/1

SLEEP

SOUND

FIELD

PRESET/

CH/D.SKIP

MUTING

MASTER

VOL

TV/

MAIN

WIDE TEST TONE

Remote buttons for operating other components

TV ?/1 AV ?/1

VIDEO DVD

AAC

BI-LING

123

AUDIO ANGLE

456

TIME SWAP JUMP

789

0/10 >10/11 ENTER/12

–

TUNING DISC ALT

ANT

TOP MENU/

GUIDE

DISPLAY

TV VOL TV CH

Other Operations/Settings

continued

Remote Button

AV ?/1 TV/VCR/

SYSTEM STANDBY (Press AV ?/1 while holding down ?/1)

1–9 and 0/10 (After pressing ALT)

SHIFT Tuner Press repeatedly to

D.TUNING Tuner Tuner station direct

TUNER +/– Tuner Scans radio stations. MEMORY Tuner Stores the radio

FM MODE Tuner Selects FM monaural

>10/11 (After pressing ALT)

AUDIO TV/VCR/

TIME CD pl ay er /

PRESET/ CH/D.SKIP +/–

Operations Function

CD player/ DVD player/

Control center/ TV/VCR/ Satellite tuner/ CD player/ DVD player/

Tuner Use with “SHIFT”

CD player Selects track numbers.

TV/VCR/ Satellite tuner

CD player Selects track numbers

TV Selects channel 11.

DVD player

Tuner Scans and selects

TV/VCR/ Satellite tuner

CD player/ DVD player

Turns the audio and video components on or off.

Turns off the system and other Sony audio/ video components.

button to select tuner preset station numeric input during D.TUNING or MEMORY mode.

0 selects track 10. Selects channel

numbers.

select a memory page for presetting radio stations or tuning to preset stations.

key-in-mode.

stations.

or stereo reception.

over 10.

Changes the sound to Multiplex, Bilingual or Multi channel TV Sound.

Shows the time or displays the playing time of disc, etc.

preset stations. Selects preset

channels. Skips discs (multi-

disc changer only).

Remote Button

ENTER/12 (After pressing ALT)

DISC CD player Selects a disc directly

DISPLAY TV/VCR/

ANT VCR Selects output signal

./> VCR/

m/M CD player/

H VCR/

X VCR/

x VCR/

AV MENU VCR/Satellite

V/v/B/b VCR/Satellite

RETURN O/EXIT

SUBTITLE DVD player Changes the subtitles. ANGLE DVD player To select viewing

Operations Function

TV/VCR/ Satellite tuner

TV Selects channel 12.

DVD player

CD player/ DVD player

DVD player

VCR Fast forwards or

CD player/ DVD player

tuner/DVD player

DVD player Returns to the

Satellite tuner Exits the menu.

After selecting a channel, disc or track using the numeric buttons, press to enter the value.

(multi-disc changer only).

Selects information displayed on the TV screen.

from aerial terminal: TV signal or VCR program.

Skips tracks.

Searches tracks (forward or backward).

rewinds. Starts play.

Pauses play or record. (Also starts recording with components in record standby.)

Stops play.

Displays menu.

Selects a menu item. Press to enter the selection.

previous menu.

angle or changes the angles.

Remote Button

CLEAR DVD player Press if you made a

SEARCH MODE

TOP MENU/ GUIDE

TV ?/1 TV Turns the TV on or

-/-- TV Selects the channel

TV VOL +/– TV Adjusts t he volum e of

TV CH +/– TV Select preset TV

TV/VIDEO TV Selects input signal:

SWAP* TV Swaps the small and

JUMP TV Toggles between the

ALT Remote Change remote key

* Only for Sony TVs with the picture-in-picture

function.

Notes

• The above explanation is intended to serve as an example only. Therefore, de pending on the component the above operation may no t be poss ibl e or may operate differently than described.

• To activate the buttons with orange printi ng, press ALT first before pressing the buttons .

• Before you use the V/v/B/b button for this system’s operation, press MAIN MENU. To operate other components, press AV MENU or TOP MENU/ GUIDE after pressing the function button.

Operations Function

mistake when you press the number button or press to return to the continuous play etc.

DVD player Select searching

mode. Press to select the unit for search

(track, index, etc.). DVD player Displays DVD title. Satellite tuner Displays guide menu.

off.

entry mode, either one

or two digit.

the TV.

channels.

TV input or video

input.

large picture.

previous and the

current channels.

function to activate

those buttons with

orange printing.

Changing the factory setting of a function button on the remote

If the factory settings of the function buttons on the remote do not match your system components, you can change them. For example, if you have a CD player and you do not have a DVD player, you can assign the DVD button to your CD player.

1 Hold down one of the function buttons

on the remote (VIDEO/DVD/SAT/TV/ AUX/TUNER) whose function you want to change.

Example: Hold down DVD.

2 Press the corresponding button of the

component you want to assign to the Function button.

Example: Press 1 (for CD player). The following buttons are assigned to select

the functions:

To operate Press

CD player 1 VCR (command mode VTR 2*) 2 VCR (command mode VTR 3*) 3 DVD player 4 TV 5 DSS (Digital Satellite Receiver) 9 Tuner 0/10

* Sony VCRs are operated with a VTR 2 or 3

setting. These correspond to, 8mm and VHS respectively.

To reset all the function buttons to their factory setting

Press ?/1, AV ?/1 and MASTER VOL – at the same time.

Other Operations/Settings

Setting up the speakers

Use the SET UP menu to set the types of the speakers.

1 Press MAIN MENU repeatedly to select

SET UP menu.

2 Move the V/v/B/b button up or down

to select the parameter.

3 Move the V/v/B/b button to left or

right to select the setting.

4 Repeat steps 2 and 3 to adjust the other

parameters.

Speaker setup parameters

The initial setting is underlined.

x Front speaker distance ( DIS.)

Initial setting: 3.0 m Lets you set the distance from your listening position to the front speakers (A on page 10). You can adjust from 1.0 meter to 7.0 meters in

0.1 meter steps. If both front speakers are not placed an equal distance from your listening position, set the distance to the closest speaker.

x Center speaker distance ( DIS.)

Initial setting: 3.0 m Lets you set the distance from your listening position to the center speaker. You can enjoy a higher quality sound effect if you place the center speaker from a distance equal to the front speaker distance (A on page 10) to a distance

1.5 meters closer to your listening position (B on page 10).

x Surround speaker distance

( DIS.)

Initial setting: 3.0 m Lets you set the distance from your listening position to the surround speakers. You can enjoy a higher quality sound effect if you place the surround speakers from a distance equal to the front speaker distance (A on page 10) to a distance 4.5 meters closer to your listening position (C on page 10).

If both surround speakers are not placed an equal distance from your listening position, set the distance to the closest speaker.

x Surround speaker position ( PL.)

Lets you specify the location of your surround speakers for proper implementation of the surround effects in the Cinema Studio EX modes (page 21).

90˚

45˚

20˚

•SIDE Select if the location of your surround speakers corresponds to section A.

• BEHIND (BEHD) Select if the location of your surround speakers corresponds to section B.

x Surround speaker height ( HGT.)

Lets you specify the height of your surround speakers for proper implementation of the surround effects of the Cinema Studio EX modes (page 21).

60˚

30˚

•LOW Select if the height of your surround speakers corresponds to section A.

•HIGH Select if the height of your surround speakers corresponds to section B.

Customizing sound fields

• To enjoy the better sound quality, do not turn the volume of the subwoofer too hi gh.

By adjusting the surround and level parameters, you can customize the sound fields to suit your particular listening situation. Position your speakers and do the procedures described in “6: Placing speakers” (page 10) and “Checking if the sound comes from all speakers” (page 15) before you customize a sound field.

Adjusting the speaker level and balance

You can adjust the balance and level of each speaker. Sit in the listening position, then adjust the test tone to sound the same level. These settings are applied to all sound fields.

1 Press MASTER VOL +.

(Optimal volume level: Between 20–30.)

2 Press TEST TONE.

You will hear the test tone from each speaker in sequence.

Front (left) t Center t Front (right) t Surround (right) t Surround (left) t Subwoofer

3 Press MAIN MENU repeatedly to select

LEVEL menu.

4 Move the V/v/B/b button up or down

to select the parameter.

5 Move the V/v/B/b button to left or

right to select the setting.

Tips

• To make more precise adjustment, start playing a source encoded with multi channel surround effects (DVD, etc.), then adjust the level and balance while listening to the source.

• The system employs a test tone with a frequency centered at 800 Hz.

• You can adjust the level of all speakers at the same time. Turn VOL/PRESET TUNING on the control center or press MASTER VOL +/– on the remote.

Notes

• The front balance, surround balance, center level, surround level, and subwoofer level are shown in the display during adjustment.

LEVEL menu parameters

x Front speaker balance ( BAL.)

Initial setting: midpoint (BALANCE) Lets you adjust the balance between front left and right speakers. You can adjust from L (+1 – +8) to R (+1 – +8) in 1 increment steps.

x Surround speaker balance

( BAL.)

Initial setting: midpoint (BALANCE) Lets you adjust the balance between surround left and right speakers. You can adjust from L (+1 – +8) to R (+1 – +8) in 1 increment steps.

x Center speaker level (CTR)

Initial setting: 0 dB You can adjust from –10 dB to +10 dB in 1 dB steps.

x Surround speaker level (SURR)

Initial setting: 0 dB You can adjust from –10 dB to +10 dB in 1 dB steps.

x Subwoofer level (S.W.)

Initial setting: 0 dB You can adjust from –10 dB to +10 dB in 1 dB steps.

x Dolby DRC

Initial setting: STD When you listen to DVDs at low volume levels, you can compress the dynamic range and finely adjust for low-level sound. For details, see “Making the low-level sound clear (DOLBY DRC)” on page 22.

Adjusting the surround parameter (EFFECT)

This parameter lets you adjust the “presence” of the current surround effect. This effect is available for the sound fields except for “A.F.D. AUTO”, “A.F.D. Pro Logic”, “A.F.D. PL II MOVIE”, “A.F.D. PL II MUSIC”. Initial setting: EFFECT 10

Other Operations/Settings

continued

1 Start playing a source encoded with

multi channel surround effects (DVD, etc.).

2 Press MAIN MENU repeatedly to select

“EFFECT”.

3 Move the V/v/B/b button to left or

right to select the setting.

You can adjust from 2 to 15 in 1 steps. The surround effect increases as the number increases.

Additional Information

Precautions

On cleaning

Clean the cabinet, panel and controls with a soft cloth slightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or solvent such as alcohol or benz ine.

On safety

Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet, unplug the control center and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further.

On power sources

• Before operating the unit, check that the operating voltage is identical with your local power supply. The operating voltage is indicated on the nameplate at the rear of the subwoofer.

• The unit is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the control center itself has been turned off.

• If you are not going to use the system for a long time, be sure to disconnect the subwoofer from the wall outlet. To disconnect the AC power cord, grasp the plug itself; never pull the cord.

• AC power cord must be changed only at the qualified service shop.

On heat buildup

Although the unit heats up durin g operation, this is not a malfunction. If you continuou sly use this unit at a large volume, the cabinet temperature of the top, side and bottom rises considerably. To avoid burning yourself, do not touch the cabinet.

On placement

• Place the subwoofer in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup and prolong the life of the subwoofer.

• Do not place the control center and sub woofer near heat sources, or in a place subj ect to direct sunlight, excessive dust or mechanical shock.

• Do not place anything on top of the cabinet that might block the ventilation holes an d cause malfunctions.

• Use caution when placing the s ubwoofer or a sp eaker stand (not supplied) that is attached with the front/ rear speakers on a specially tre ated (waxed, oiled, polished, etc.) floor, a s staining or discolor ation may result.

On operation

Before connecting other components, be sure to turn off and unplug the AC power cord of the subwoofer.

If you have any question or problem concerning your system, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Additional Information

Troubleshooting

If you experience any of the following difficulties while using the control center, use this troubleshooting guide to help you remedy the problem. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer. When bringing the system in for repairs, be sure to bring in the entire system (control center and subwoofer). This product is system product, and the entire system is needed to determine the location requiring repair.

The multi channel surround effect of the Dolby Digital or DTS is not obtained.

• Check that the DVD software, etc. is recorded in Dolby Digital or DTS.

• If you connect the DVD player, etc. to the digital input jack on this system, check the audio setting (for digital audio output) of the component (page 7).

• Check that the audio track is correctly selected on the DVD player. (Check the audio setting of the DVD menu.)

There is no sound or only a very low-level sound is heard.

• Check that the speakers and components are connected securely.

• Check that you have selected the correc t component on the control center.

• Press MUTING if muting function is activated.

The left and right sounds are unbalanced or reversed.

• Check that the speakers and components are connected correctly and securely.

• Adjust balance parameters in the LEVEL menu.

There is severe hum or noise.

• Check that the speakers and components are connected securely.

• Check that the connecting cords are a way from a transformer or motor, and a t least 3 meters away from a TV set or fluorescent light.

• Move your TV away from the audio components.

• The plugs and jacks are dirty. Wipe them with a cloth slightly moistened with alcohol.

There is no sound from the center speaker.

• If you connect the DVD player, etc. to the digital input jack on this system, check the audio setting (for digital audio output) of the component (page 7).

• Make sure the sound field function is on (press SOUND FIELD +/–).

• Select the CINEMA STUDIO EX mode (page 21).

• Adjust the speaker level (page 27).

There is no sound or only a very low-level sound is heard from the surround speakers.

• If you connect the DVD player, etc. to the digital input jack on this system, check the audio setting (for digital audio output) of the component (page 7).

• Make sure the sound field function is on (press SOUND FIELD +/–).

• Select the CINEMA STUDIO EX mode (page 21).

• Adjust the speaker level (page 27).

The surround effect cannot be obtained.

• Make sure the sound field function is on (press SOUND FIELD +/–).

The FM reception is poor.

• Use a 75-ohm coaxial cable (not supplied) to connect the receiver to an outdoor FM antenna as shown below. If you connect the receiver to an outdoor antenna, ground it against lightning. To prevent a gas explosion, do not connect the ground wire to a gas pipe.

Outdoor FM antenna

ANTENNA

COAXIAL

Ground wire (not supplied)

To ground

Radio stations cannot be tuned in.

• Check that the antennas are connected securely. Adjust the antennas and conne ct an external antenna if necessary.

• The signal strength of the stations is too weak (when tuning in with automatic tuning). Use manual tuning.

• No stations have been preset or the preset stations have been cleared (when tuning by scanning preset stations). Preset the stations (page 19).

+ 82 hidden pages

Sony HT-K250 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual