Sony TA-AV581 User Manual

Getting Started

Integrated AV Amplifier

3-862-620-11(1)

Operating instructions Mode d’emploi Manual de Instrucciones

•Read this book first

•Lire d’abord ce manuel

•Lea en primer lugar este libro

EN F ES

TA-AV581

Getting Started

WARNING

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

IMPORTANT: Never connect two mains leads into a single mains plug.

Precautions

On safety

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

• Because the amplifier emits heat during operation, do not place any other components on top of this unit.

On placement

• Place the amplifier in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat build-up and prolong the life of the amplifier.

• Do not place the amplifier near heat sources, or in a place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust or mechanical shock.

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

To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnnel only.

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

If the power switch is kept depressed, you can turn on and off the components by only pressing the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION switch on the remote.

For CDP-C661/CDP-CX571/ST-JX661/ TC-WR681

The mains lead plug of CDP-C661/ CDP-CX571/ST-JX661/TC-WR681 is a 2-pin type designed to be connected only to TA-AV581. Do not connect this plug to any other system or mains supply.

On power sources

• Before operating the amplifier, 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 amplifier.

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

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

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

• The mains switch is located on the front exterior.

On operation

• Before connecting other components, be sure to turn off and unplug the amplifier.

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 benzine.

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

Getting Started

About This Manual

Conventions

• The instructions in this manual describe the controls on the amplifier. You can also use the controls on the remote if they have the same or similar names as those on the amplifier.

• A “Quick Reference Guide” is supplied on page 21.

• The “Remote Button Descriptions” section on page 20 provides an overview of the remote buttons.

• The following icons are used in this manual:

Indicates that you can use only the remote to do the task. Indicates hints and tips for making the task easier.

This amplifier incorporates the Dolby Pro Logic Surround system. Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. “Dolby ,” the double-D symbol a and “Pro Logic” are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

Getting Started

Unpacking 4 Hookup Overview 4 Audio/Video Component Hookups 5 Speaker System Hookups 6 AC Hookups 7

Amplifier Operations

Selecting a Component 8 Recording 10

Using Sound Fields

Choosing a Surround Mode 11 Getting the Most Out of Dolby Pro Logic Surround Sound 12 Using Preset Sound Fields 14 Using the Superwoofer 14

Additional Information

Troubleshooting 15 Specifications 16 Glossary 17

Index 18

Rear Panel Descriptions 19

Remote Button Descriptions 20

Quick Reference Guide 21

Getting Started

Unpacking

Check that you received the following items with the amplifier:

• Remote controller (remote) (1)

• Size AA (R6) batteries (2)

Inserting batteries into the remote

Insert two size AA (R6) batteries in accordance with the + and – marking on the battery compartment. When using the remote, point it at the remote sensor g on the amplifier.

]

}

]

Hookup Overview

The amplifier allows you to connect and control the following audio/video components. Follow the hookup procedures on the specified pages for the components that you want to connect to the amplifier. To learn the locations and names of each jacks, see “Rear Panel Descriptions” on page 19.

Speaker System Hookups (6)

Front

speaker

(L)

Audio/Video Component Hookups (5)

VCR

LD player

TV game

woofer

Super

Front

speaker

(R)

When to replace batteries

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

Notes

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

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

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

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

Center

speaker

Rear

speaker

(R)

Rear

speaker

(L)

CD player

Tape deck

Tuner

Turntable

Audio/Video Component Hookups (5)

Before you get started

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

• Do not connect the AC power cord until all of the connections are completed.

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

• When connecting an audio cable, be sure to match the color-coded pins to the appropriate jacks on the components: White (left, audio) to White; and Red (right, audio) to Red.

Audio/Video Component

PHONO

OUTPUT

LINE

Hookups

Overview

This section describes how to connect your audio and video (audio signal only) components to the amplifier, so you can listen to stereo sources in surround sound. Be sure to place the amplifier on top of other components For specific locations of the jacks, see the illustration below.

Getting Started

Tuner

Amplifier

Tuner (ST-JX661)

PHONO

TUNER TAPE

VIDEO 2

VIDEO 1

What cords will I need?

Audio cords (1 for the CD player, tuner, turntable, LD player or TV game; 2 for the tape deck or VCR)

White (L)White (L)

Red (R)Red (R)

Hookups

The arrow ç indicates signal flow.

CD player

Amplifier

Tape deck

Amplifier

Tape deck (TC-WR681)

Turntable

(CDP-C661/CX571)

CD player

Amplifier

• If your turntable has an earth lead

To prevent hum, connect the earth lead to the y SIGNAL GND terminal on the amplifier.

Turntable

(continued)

Getting Started

VCR

Amplifier

VIDEO 1

AUDIO OUT AUDIO IN

VCR

OUTPUT

INPUT

AUDIO AUDIO

Speaker System Hookups

LD Player/TV game

Amplifier

VIDEO 2

AUDIO IN

OUTPUT

AUDIO

Where do I go next?

Go on to the next section to connect the speakers.

Overview

This section describes how to connect your speakers to the amplifier. Front (left and right) speakers are required but center and rear speakers are optional. The center and rear speakers enhance the surround effects. Connecting the superwoofer will increase bass response. For specific locations of the terminals, see the illustration below.

REAR SPEAKERS

FRONT SPEAKERS

For optimum surround sound effect, place your speakers as shown below.

WOOFER SPEAKER

CENTER SPEAKER

Rear speaker

60 - 90 cm

45°

Front speaker

What cords will I need?

Speaker cord (1 for each speaker)

(+)

(–)

Twist the stripped ends of the cord about 2/3 inch (15 mm). Be sure to match the speaker cord to the appropriate terminal on the components: + to + and – to –. If the cords are reversed, the sound will be distorted and will lack bass.

(+)

(–)

Hookups

AC Hookups

Front speakers

Front speaker

Amplifier

(R)

CENTER

SPEAKER

FRONT

} ]} ]

SPEAKERS RL

WOOFER SPEAKER

Front speaker

(L)

Setting the voltage selector (only on models

supplied with a voltage selector)

Check that the voltage selector on the rear panel of the amplifier is set to the local power line voltage. If not, set the selector to the correct position using a screwdriver before connecting the AC power cord to a wall outlet.

Getting Started

Rear and center speakers

Amplifier

REAR

Rear

speaker

SPEAKERS RL

(R)

FRONT

SPEAKERS RL

Superwoofer

Amplifier

WOOFER SPEAKER

CENTER

SPEAKER

WOOFER SPEAKER

Superwoofer

} ]

Center

speaker

} ]

Rear

speaker

(L)

} ]} ]

110-120 V 220-240 V

Connecting the mains lead

Connect the mains lead from CDP-C661/CDP-CX571/ ST-JX661/TC-WR681 to the SWITCHED AC OUTLETs on this amplifier. Then, connect the AC power cord from this amplifier to the wall outlet. Connecting other components to the SWITCHED AC OUTLETs on the amplifier enables the amplifier to supply power to the connected components so you can turn on/off whole system when you turn on/off the amplifier.

SWITCHED AC OUTLETs

to a wall outlet

Where do I go next?

Go on to the next section to connect the mains lead and complete your home theatre system.

Caution

Make sure that the power consumption of the components connected to the amplifier’s AC outlet does not exceed 100 watts. Do not connect high-wattage electrical home appliances such as electric irons, fans, or TVs to this outlet.

Amplifier Operations

Selecting a Component

To listen to a connected component, first select the function on the amplifier or with the remote.

• Before you begin, make sure you have connected all components securely and correctly as indicated on pages 5 to 7.

• Be sure to turn the MASTER VOLUME all the way down before turning off the amplifier to avoid damaging your speakers the next time you turn it on.

MASTER VOLUME

PHONES

1 Press to turn on the amplifier.

Turning the power off using SYSTEM STANDBY on the remote sets the amplifier to standby mode (the STANDBY indicator lights). To turn the power on from the front panel when the amplifier is in STANDBY mode, press turn the power off (the STANDBY indicator goes out) and once more to turn the power on.

2 Press a function button to select the component

you want to use:

To listen

Records

Radio programs

Compact discs (CD)

Audio tapes

Video tapes

Laser discs (or TV game)

Function buttons

twice. Once to

Press

PHONO

TUNER

TAPE

VIDEO 1

VIDEO 2

Adjust the tone quality

Emphasize the bass

Do this

Press TONE and then press + or –. (Each time TONE is pressed, the adjusting mode changes between bass and treble.)

Press WOOFER ON/OFF (see page

14).

When you listen with headphones

Connect the headphones to the PHONES jack. No sound is heard from your speakers.

Using the remote

The remote lets you operate the amplifier and the Sony components that are connected to it.

CONTROL

SYSTEM CONTROL / FUNCTION (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, TAPE, CD, TUNER, PHONO)

1 Press one of the SYSTEM CONTROL/

FUNCTION buttons to select the component you want to use. The SYSTEM CONTROL/ FUNCTION buttons on the remote are factory-set as follows:

To listen to

Records

Radio programs

Compact discs (CD)

Audio tapes

Video tapes

Laser discs (or TV game)

If you want to change the factory setting of a button, see page 9. The amplifier and the selected component turn on.

Press

PHONO

TUNER

TAPE

VIDEO 1

VIDEO 2

If the component does not turn on

3 Turn on the component, for example, a CD player,

Press the power switch on the component.

and then start playing.

2 Start playing.

4 Turn MASTER VOLUME to adjust the volume.

Refer to “Remote Button Descriptions” on page 20 for details.

To turn off the components

Press SYSTEM STANDBY. You can turn off audio components connected to the SWITCHED AC OUTLETs on the back of this unit at the same time.

Amplifier Operations

If you use a Sony TV

When you press TV CONTROL to watch a TV program, the TV turns on and switches to the TV input. The TV also turns on when you press VIDEO and switches to the appropriate video input. If the TV does not switch to the appropriate input automatically, press TV/VIDEO.

When you watch TV without using the amplifier (only for Sony TVs)

Press TV CONTROL to set the remote to operate only the TV. When you press this button, the TV turns on and switches to the TV input. If the TV does not switch to the TV input automatically, press TV/VIDEO.

Note

Some Sony TVs can not be controlled by this remote.

Changing the factory setting of a function button

If the factory settings of the SYSTEM CONTROL/ FUNCTION buttons (page 8) don’t match your system components, you can change them. For example, if you have two CD players and you don’t have a tape deck or an MD deck, you can assign the TAPE button to your second CD player.

The numeric buttons are assigned to select the functions as follows:

Numeric button

>10

* Sony VCRs are operated with a VTR 1, 2 or 3 setting.

These correspond to Beta, 8mm and VHS respectively.

Operates

CD player

DAT deck

MD deck

Tape deck A

Tape deck B

LD player

VCR (remote control mode VTR 1*)

VCR (remote control mode VTR 2*)

VCR (remote control mode VTR 3*)

DBS

Now you can use the TAPE button to control a second CD player.

Note that the settings of the TUNER and PHONO buttons cannot be changed.

SYSTEM CONTROL/ FUNCTION

Numeric buttons

1 Hold down the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION

button whose function you want to change (TAPE, for example).

2 Press the corresponding numeric button of the

component you want to assign to the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION button (1 - CD player, for example).

To reset the setting to the factory setting

Repeat the above procedure.

Amplifier Operations

Recording

This amplifier makes it easy to record to and from the components connected to the amplifier. You don’t have to connect playback and recording components directly: once you select a program source on the amplifier, you can record and edit as you normally would using the controls on each component.

Before you begin, make sure you’ve connected all components properly.

Function buttons

Playback component

(program source)

ç: Audio signal flow

Recording component

(tape deck, VCR)

Recording on an audio tape or video tape

You can record on a cassette tape or video tape using the amplifier. See the instruction manual for the cassette deck or VCR if you need help.

1 Press one of the function buttons to select the

component to be recorded.

2 Set the component to be ready for playing.

For example, insert a CD into the CD player.

3 Insert a blank tape into the recording deck and

adjust the recording level, if necessary.

4 Start recording on the recording deck and then

start playing the component.

Using Sound Fields

Choosing a Surround Mode

Using Sound Fields

When you use the remote

The remote also lets you choose the surround mode.

You can take advantage of the surround sound simply by selecting one of the three pre-programmed surround modes according to the type of program you wish to play.

DOLBY PRO

LOGIC

indicator

SURROUND indicator (DOLBY/HALL/SIMULATED)

SURROUND MODE (DOLBY/HALL/SIMULATED)

1 Press one of the SURROUND MODE buttons

(DOLBY, HALL or SIMULATED) to turn on the surround sound. The selected mode’s indicator lights up. The DOLBY PRO LOGIC indicator lights up when you select the DOLBY mode. Select the appropriate surround mode as follows:

SURROUND MODE

1 Press SURROUND MODE repeatedly until the

surround mode you wish to use is displayed. Each time SURROUND MODE is pressed, the display changes as follows:

DOLBY” OFF

“

” HALL

SIMULATED

“

You can find Dolby Surround-encoded software by looking at the packaging

However, some videos and laser discs may use Dolby Surround sound even if it’s not indicated on the package.

For tapes/discs with

Dolby Pro Logic Surround

Orchestral music, chamber music, or an instrumental solo

Monaural recording, such as an old movie or an instrumental

Select

DOLBY

HALL

SIMULATED

Decode programs processed with Dolby Surround and create the atmosphere of a movie theatre.

Reproduce the acoustics of a rectangular concert hall. Ideal for soft, acoustic sounds.

Reproduce a simulated stereo effect to monaural sound.

To turn off surround sound

Press the SURROUND MODE button (DOLBY, HALL or SIMULATED) selected in Step 1.

Using Sound Fields

Getting the Most Out of Dolby Pro Logic Surround Sound

To obtain the best possible Dolby Pro Logic Surround sound, first select the center mode. Then, adjust the volume of each speaker.

Note that you must connect the rear speakers and/or a center speaker to do the following adjustments.

CENTER

MODE DOLBY CENTER REAR

Selecting the center mode

The amplifier offers you four center modes: NORMAL, WIDE, 3 CH, and PHANTOM. Each mode is designed for a different speaker configuration. Select the mode that best suits your speaker’s system configuration.

1 Press DOLBY to select the DOLBY PRO LOGIC

sound field.

2 Press CENTER MODE repeatedly until the center

mode you want appears in the display. Select the center mode by referring to the following chart.

SURROUND DELAY

SURROUND MODE

LEVEL CENTER +/–

+/–

SURROUND T.TONE

LEVEL REAR +/–

If you have

Front and rear speakers, and a small center speaker

Front and rear speakers, and a large center speaker

Front and center speakers, no rear speaker

Front and rear speakers, no center speaker

Select

NORMAL

WIDE

3 CH (3 Channel Logic)

PHANTOM

So that

The bass sound of the center channel is output from the front speakers (because a small speaker cannot produce enough bass).

For “complete” Dolby Pro Logic Surround sound.

The sound of the rear channel is output from the front speakers.

The sound of the center channel is output from the front speakers.

When you use the remote

Press SURROUND MODE repeatedly to select the DOLBY mode. You can adjust the speaker’s volume or delay time simply by pressing the buttons on the remote.

Using Sound Fields

Adjusting the speaker volume

The test tone feature lets you set the volume of your speakers to the same level. (If all of your speakers have equal performance, you don’t have to adjust the speaker volume.)

Using the controls on the remote lets you adjust the volume level from your listening position.

1 Press SURROUND T.TONE on the remote.

You will hear the test tone from each speaker sequentially.

2 Adjust the volume level so that the test tone from

each speaker is at the same level from your listening position.

• To adjust the level of the center speaker, press LEVEL CENTER + or – on the remote.

• To adjust the level of the rear speakers, press LEVEL REAR + or – on the remote.

3 Press SURROUND T.TONE on the remote to turn

off the test tone.

Adjusting the delay time

You can make the surround sound more effective by delaying the output from the rear speakers (delay time). You can adjust the delay time as follows.

20 ms

For example, if you’ve placed the rear speakers in a large room or apart from your listening position, set the delay time shorter.

30 ms

15 ms

”””

1 Start playing a program source encoded with the

Dolby surround sound.

2 Press SURROUND DELAY on the remote

repeatedly to adjust the delay time.

You can also adjust the center or rear speakers using the controls on the amplifier

1 Press DOLBY to turn on the Dolby Pro Logic mode.

The DOLBY PRO LOGIC indicator lights up.

2 Press CENTER or REAR. The CENTER or REAR

indicator lights up.

3 Press + or – to adjust the level.

Notes

• The center and rear levels, and balance are indicated on the level meter in the display during adjustment.

• The center and rear levels are adjustable in the following situations.

Center level: when the Dolby Pro Logic is on (when the

DOLBY PRO LOGIC indicator is lit)

Rear level: when the SURROUND MODE (DOLBY,

HALL or SIMULATED) is on

You can adjust all speakers at one time

Adjust MASTER VOLUME on the amplifier.

Using Sound Fields

Using Preset Sound Fields

You can take advantage of sound fields simply by selecting one of the five pre-programmed ones according to the program you want to play.

SOUND FIELD

1 Press one of the SOUND FIELD buttons so that

the sound field you wish to use is displayed. Select the appropriate sound field as follows:

Press

1 ROCK

2 POPS

3 CLASSIC

4 MOVIE

5 GAME

To reproduce

Powerful, clear sounds, emphasizing low and high audio.

Light, bright sounds, emphasizing high and middle range audio.

Broad, open sounds with plenty of reverberation using a surround effect.

A theatre-like environment using a surround effect.

Maximum audio impact from video game software using a surround effect.

Using the Superwoofer

You can re-enforce the bass sound of your superwoofer and obtain a greater sense of atmosphere. Use the remote to adjust the superwoofer from your listening position.

S.WOOFER

ON/OFF

LEVEL

S.WOOFER

WOOFER ON/OFF+/–

1 Press S.WOOFER ON/OFF to turn on the

superwoofer function. The SUPERWOOFER indicator on the amplifier lights up.

S.WOOFER PHASE

SUPERWOOFER indicatorWOOFER

To turn off the sound fields

Press SOUND FIELD selected in Step 1. OFF appears in the display, and the sound field’s effect is defeated.

When you use the remote

Press SOUND FIELD. Each time this button is pressed, the display changes as follows:

ROCK

” ”

OFF

“

”

POPS

“ “

GAME

CLASSIC

MOVIE

When you want to listen to CLASSIC, MOVIE or GAME without a surround effect

Press one of the SURROUND MODE buttons to turn off the respective indicator.

2 Press S.WOOFER PHASE to select the polarity

that provides the best bass reproduction.

3 Press LEVEL S.WOOFER (+/–) to adjust the

superwoofer level. The superwoofer level is indicated on the level meter in the display.

You can also adjust the superwoofer using the controls on the amplifier

1 Press WOOFER ON/OFF to turn on the superwoofer

function. The SUPERWOOFER indicator lights.

2 Press WOOFER to select the superwoofer adjustment

mode. The superwoofer level is indicated on the level meter in the display.

3 Press + or – to adjust the superwoofer level.

Notes

• You can only adjust the superwoofer level when the superwoofer is on (when the SUPERWOOFER indicator is lit).

• You cannot use the superwoofer when you select PHONO.

Additional Information

Troubleshooting

If you experience any of the following difficulties while using the amplifier, use this troubleshooting guide to help you remedy the problem. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Additional Information

No sound or only a very low-level sound is heard from the rear speakers.

/ Make sure you turned on the surround mode

or sound field function.

/ Select the appropriate center mode (see page

12).

/ Adjust the speaker volume appropriately (see

page 13).

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

/ Check that the speakers and components are

connected securely.

/ Make sure you select the correct component

on the amplifier.

/ The protective device on the amplifier has

been activated because of a short circuit. (“PROTECT” flashes.) Turn off the amplifier, eliminate the short-circuit problem and turn on the power again.

The left and right sounds are unbalanced or reversed.

/ Check that the speakers and components are

connected correctly and securely.

Severe hum or noise is heard.

/ Check that the speakers and components are

connected securely.

/ Check that the connecting cords are away

from a transformer or motor, and at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from a TV set or fluorescent light.

/ Place your TV away from the audio

components.

/ Make sure you connect a ground wire to the

y SIGNAL GND terminal.

/ The plugs and jacks are dirty. Wipe them

with a cloth slightly moistened with alcohol.

No sound is heard from the center speaker.

/ Select the appropriate center mode (see page

12).

/ Adjust the speaker volume appropriately (see

page 13).

Surround effect cannot be obtained.

/ Turn on the surround mode or sound field

function.

No sound, or only a very low-level sound is heard when adjusting the test tone.

/ Turn MASTER VOLUME clockwise.

Recording cannot be made.

/ Check that the components are connected

correctly.

/ Select the source component with the

function buttons.

The remote does not function

/ Point the remote at the remote sensor g on

the amplifier.

/ Remove the obstacles in the path of the

remote and the amplifier.

/ Replace both batteries in the remote with new

ones if they are weak.

/ Make sure you select the correct function on

the remote.

/ Pressing TV CONTROL sets the remote to

operate the TV only. In this case, press one of the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION buttons before operating the amplifier (etc.).

Power does not turn on when you press one of the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION buttons on the remote.

/ Press

power if the STANDBY indicator is not lit (see page 8).

on the front panel to turn on the

Additional Information

Specifications

Amplifier section

European models: (FRONT) DIN power output

100 W + 100 W (at rear/

center/woofer off at 1 kHz, 8 ohms)

Continuous RMS power output

120 W + 120 W (at rear/

center/woofer off at 1 kHz, 10% T.H.D., 8 ohms)

80 W/ch (at SURROUND

ON at 1 kHz, 10% T.H.D., 8 ohms)

(REAR) 50 W (at front/ center/

woofer off at 1 kHz, 8 ohms)

(CENTER) 50 W (at front/rear/

woofer off at 1 kHz, 8 ohms)

(WOOFER) 80 W (at front/rear/center

off at 35 Hz, 4 ohms)

Other models: Peak music power output

1900 W (total) (FRONT) Continuous RMS power output

100 W + 100 W (at rear/

center/woofer off at 1 kHz, 10% T.H.D., 8 ohms)

Outputs

TAPE REC OUT, VIDEO 1 (phono jacks):

voltage 250 mV, impedance 1 kilohms

PHONES (stereo phone jack):

accepts low and high impedance headphones

TONE ±10 dB at 100 Hz and

10 kHz

General

Power requirements European, Australian and Singaporean models:

230 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Other models: 110-120 V AC or

220-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

(adjustable with the voltage selector)

Power consumption

180 W

AC outlets 3 switched,

total 100 W max.

Dimensions(w/h/d)

Approx.

430 x 160 x 355 mm Mass Approx. 8.5 kg Supplied accessories

Remote RM-U581 (1)

Sony SUM-3 (NS)

batteries (2)

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

(REAR) 50 W (at front/ center/

woofer off at 1 kHz, 8 ohms)

(CENTER) 50 W (at front/rear/

woofer off at 1 kHz, 8 ohms)

(WOOFER) 80 W (at front/rear/center

off at 40 Hz, 4 ohms)

Inputs

PHONO (phono jacks):

sensitivity 2.5 mV, impedance 50 kilohms

CD (phono jacks):

sensitivity 400 mV, impedance 50 kilohms

TUNER, TAPE, VIDEO1,2 (phono jacks):

sensitivity 250 mV, impedance 50 kilohms

Additional Information

Glossary

Center mode

Setting of speakers to enhance Dolby Pro Logic Surround mode. To obtain the best possible surround sound, select one of the following four center modes according to your speaker system.

• NORMAL mode

Select NORMAL mode if you have front and rear speakers and a small center speaker. Since a small speaker cannot produce enough bass, the bass sound of the center channel is output from the front speakers.

Rear

Center

speaker

Front

speaker (L)

• WIDE mode

Select WIDE mode if you have front and rear speakers and a large center speaker. With the WIDE mode, you can take full advantage of Dolby Surround sound.

Front

speaker (L)

Center

speaker

Front

speaker (R)

Rear

speaker (R)

Front

speaker (R)

• PHANTOM mode

Select PHANTOM mode if you have front and rear speakers but no center speaker. The sound of the center channel is output from the front speakers.

Front

speaker (L)

Rear

speaker (L)

Front

speaker (R)

Rear

speaker (R)

Delay time

Time lag between the surround sound output from front speakers and rear speakers. By adjusting the delay time of the rear speakers, you can obtain the feeling of presence. Make the delay time longer when you have placed the rear speakers in a small room or close to your listening position, and make it shorter when you have placed them in a large room or apart from your listening position.

Dolby Pro Logic Surround

Decoding system of Dolby Surround sound standardized in TV programs and movies. Compared with the former Dolby Surround system, Dolby Pro Logic Surround improves sound image by using four separate channels: off-screen audio effects, on-screen dialog, left-to-right panning, and music. These channels manipulate the sound to be heard and enhance the action as it happens on the screen. To take advantage of Dolby Pro Logic, you should have at least one pair of rear speakers and/or one center speaker. You also need to select the appropriate center mode to enjoy a full effect.

Surround sound

Sound that consists of three elements: direct sound, early reflected sound (early reflections) and reverberative sound (reverberation). The acoustics where you hear the sound affect the way these three sound elements are heard. These sound elements are combined in such a way that you can actually feel the size and the type of a concert hall.

• Types of sound

Early reflections

Direct sound

Reverberation

• Transition of sound from rear speakers

Direct sound

Level

Early reflection time Time

Early

reflections

Reverberation

Test tone

Signal given out by the amplifier for adjusting the speaker volume. The test tone will come out as follows:

• In a system with a center speaker (NORMAL/WIDE/3 CH modes)

The test tone is output from the front L (left), center, front R (right), and rear speakers in succession.

Front (L)

Front (R)

Center

Rear

speaker (L)

Rear

speaker (R)

• 3 CH mode

Select 3 CH mode if you have front and center speakers but no rear speaker. The sound of the rear channel is output from the front speakers to let you experience some of the surround sound without using rear speakers.

Front

speaker (L)

Center

speaker

Front

speaker (R)

Dolby Surround

Encoding and decoding system of Dolby Surround sound for consumer use. Dolby Surround decodes the extra channels on the Dolby Surround-encoded sound tracks of movie videos and TV programs and produces sound effects and echoes that make the action seem to envelop you.

The amplifier offers Dolby Surround as one of the pre-programmed sound fields. If you have rear or center speaker(s), we recommend that you customize the Dolby Surround sound field by selecting the appropriate center mode to take advantage of Dolby Pro Logic Surround sound.

Parameter

Variable of sound that composes sound image, such as tone or delay time. You can customize the pre-programmed sound fields by adjusting parameters to suit your listening situation.

Sound field

Sound pattern produced by a sounding source or sources in a given environment due to direct and reflected sounds and the acoustics of the environment. The amplifier offers 5 pre-programmed sound fields (ROCK, POPS, CLASSIC, MOVIE and GAME) to let you enjoy surround sound easily.

3 CH

Rear (L, R)

NORMAL/WIDE

• In a system without a center speaker (PHANTOM mode)

The test tone is output from the front and the rear speakers alternately.

Front (L, R)

PHANTOM

Rear (L, R)

Index

A, B

Adjusting

delay time 13 speaker volume 13

volume 8 Audio/video component hookups 5

Center mode 12, 17

NORMAL mode 12, 17

PHANTOM mode 12, 17

3 CH mode 12, 17

WIDE mode 12, 17 Choosing

surround mode 11 Connecting. See Hookups

D, E, F, G

Delay time 13, 17 Dolby Pro Logic

Surround 17

getting the most out of 12 Dolby Surround sound 11, 17

center mode 12, 17

H, I, J, K, L, M

Hookups

Mains lead 7

audio/video component 5

overview 4

speakers 6

N, O

NORMAL mode 12, 17

PHANTOM mode 12, 17 Program source

selecting 8

Quick reference guide 21

Rear panel

5, 6, 7, 19 Recording

on a tape or video tape 10 Remote 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 20

changing the factory

setting of a function

button 9

controlling Sony

components 8

Test tone 13, 17 3 CH mode 12, 17 Troubleshooting 15

U, V

Unpacking 4 Using superwoofer 14

W, X, Y, Z

WIDE mode 12, 17

Names of controls

Buttons

ANT TV/VTR 20 BAND 20 CD 8 CENTER 13 CENTER MODE 12 CH/PRESET +/– 20 D.SKIP 20 DOLBY 11, 12 HALL 11 LEVEL CENTER 13 LEVEL REAR 13 LEVEL S.WOOFER 14 PHONO 8 REAR 13 SIMULATED 11 SOUND FIELD 14 SURROUND MODE 11 SURROUND DELAY 13 SURROUND T.TONE 13 S.WOOFER ON/OFF 14 S.WOOFER PHASE 14 SYSTEM STANDBY 8 TAPE 8 TONE 8 TUNER 8 TV CONTROL 9, 20 TV/VIDEO 9, 20 VIDEO 1 8 VIDEO 2 8 WOOFER 14 WOOFER ON/OFF 14

0/) 20 =/+ 20 P 20 9 20 ( 20 r 20 p 20

+/– 12, 14 Number (0-9) 20

Jacks

PHONES 8

Indicators

DOLBY PRO LOGIC 11 SUPERWOOFER 14

Other

g 4

Selecting a program source

using the remote 8 Sound field

preset 14 Speakers

connection 7

placement 6 Surround sound 11, 17

Switch and selector

Controls

MASTER VOLUME 8

Rear Panel Descriptions

231

1 y SIGNAL GND terminal 2 REAR SPEAKERS 3 SWITCHED AC OUTLET 4 AC power cord 5 VOLTAGE SELECTOR (only on

models supplied with a voltage selector)

90!¡!™!£!¢

6 WOOFER SPEAKER 7 CENTER SPEAKER 8 FRONT SPEAKERS 9 VIDEO 1 0 VIDEO 2

!¡ TAPE !™ CD !£ TUNER !¢ PHONO

Remote Button Descriptions

For buttons not described on previous pages and buttons with names different from the buttons on the main unit.

Remote Button

0-9

>10

CH/PRESET +/–

D. SKIP

DISC

0/)

Operates

Tuner

CD player/MD deck

TV/VCR/DBS

CD player/ MD deck/TV

Tuner

TV/VCR/DBS

CD player

Tape deck/MD deck/VCR

Function

Selects preset numbers.

Selects track numbers. 0 selects track 10.

Selects channel numbers.

Selects track numbers over 10.

Scans and selects preset stations.

Selects preset channels.

Skips discs (CD player with multi-disc changer only).

Selects discs (Mega storage CD player only).

Searches tracks (forward or backward).

Fastforwards or rewinds.

Remote Butto

ENTER

BAND

TV/VIDEO

VISUAL

TV CONTROL

-/- -

POSITION

SWAP

Operates

TV/VCR/DBS

Tuner

TV/VCR

TV/VCR/LD Player/DBS

Function

Changes channels when used with 0-9.

Selects FM or AM.

Selects input signal: TV input or video input.

Turns on or off the power.

Turns on the TV, switches the input to “TV,” and sets the remote to operate the TV.

Selects the channel entry mode, either one or two digit (in Europe only).

Changes the position of the small picture.*

Swaps the small and the large picture.*

=/+

(

CD player/ MD deck

CD player/ Tape deck/MD deck/VCR

Tape deck

Skips tracks.

Pauses.

Starts play.

Stops play.

Starts play on the reverse side.

P IN P

ANT TV/VTR

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

VCR

Activates the picture-inpicture function.*

Selects output signal from the antenna terminal: TV signal or VCR program.

+ 44 hidden pages

Sony TA-AV581 User Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Getting Started

Unpacking

Hookup Overview

Speaker System Hookups

AC Hookups

Selecting a Component

Recording

Using Sound Fields

Choosing a Surround Mode

Getting the Most Out of Dolby Pro Logic Surround Sound

Using Preset Sound Fields

Using the Superwoofer

Additional Information

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Glossary

Index

Rear Panel Descriptions

Remote Button Descriptions

Remote Button Descriptions