Sony TA-AV581 User Manual

3-862-620-11(1)

Getting Started

Integrated AV

Amplifier

Operating instructions			EN
Mode d’emploi			F

Manual de Instrucciones		ES

•Read this book first •Lire d’abord ce manuel

•Lea en primer lugar este libro

TA-AV581

© 1998 by Sony Corporation

1EN

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

2EN

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 aand “Pro Logic” are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

3EN

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.

]

} }

]

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.

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

Audio/Video Component

System

Hookups (5)

Hookups (6)

VCR

Front

Front

LD player

speaker

speaker

(L)

TV game

Super

(R)

woofer

		CD player		Center
				speaker
Rear		Tape deck				Rear
speaker						speaker
(L)						(R)
		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.

4EN

Getting Started

Audio/Video Component

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.

PHONO CD

VIDEO 2

TUNER TAPE

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 çindicates signal flow.

CD player

Amplifier

CD player (CDP-C661/CX571)

Tuner

Amplifier

Tuner (ST-JX661)

Tape deck

Amplifier

Tape deck (TC-WR681)

Turntable

Amplifier	Turntable
PHONO	OUTPUT
IN	LINE
	L
	R

•If your turntable has an earth lead

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

(continued)

5EN

Getting Started

VCR

Amplifier	VCR
VIDEO 1	OUTPUT	INPUT
AUDIO OUT AUDIO IN	AUDIO	AUDIO
	L	L
	R	R

LD Player/TV game

Amplifier	LD
VIDEO 2	OUTPUT
AUDIO IN	AUDIO
	L
	R

Where do I go next?

Go on to the next section to connect the speakers.

Speaker System Hookups

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

WOOFER SPEAKER

FRONT SPEAKERS CENTER SPEAKER

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

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.

6EN

Getting Started

Hookups

Front speakers

Front speaker

(R)

}]

		Amplifier		Front speaker
				(L)
			CENTER
			SPEAKER
		FRONT	WOOFER
	SPEAKERS			}]
			SPEAKER
	R	L

Rear and center speakers

Amplifier

Rear		REAR	Center	Rear
	SPEAKERS
speaker	R	L	speaker	speaker
(R)				(L)

		CENTER
}]		SPEAKER	}]
		}]
	FRONT	WOOFER
SPEAKERS
		SPEAKER
R	L

Superwoofer

Amplifier Superwoofer

WOOFER

SPEAKER

}]

Where do I go next?

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

AC Hookups

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.

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

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.

7EN

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

Function buttons

1Press 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 twice. Once to turn the power off (the STANDBY indicator goes out) and once more to turn the power on.

2Press a function button to select the component you want to use:

To listen	Press
Records	PHONO
Radio programs	TUNER
Compact discs (CD)	CD
Audio tapes	TAPE
Video tapes	VIDEO 1
Laser discs (or TV game)	VIDEO 2

3Turn on the component, for example, a CD player, and then start playing.

4Turn MASTER VOLUME to adjust the volume.

8EN

To	Do this
Adjust the tone	Press TONE and then press + or –.
quality	(Each time TONE is pressed, the
	adjusting mode changes between bass
	and treble.)
Emphasize the bass	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.

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

1Press 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	Press
Records	PHONO
Radio programs	TUNER
Compact discs (CD)	CD
Audio tapes	TAPE
Video tapes	VIDEO 1
Laser discs (or TV game)	VIDEO 2

If you want to change the factory setting of a button, see page 9.

The amplifier and the selected component turn on.

If the component does not turn on

Press the power switch on the component.

2Start playing.

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.

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.

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

SYSTEM

CONTROL/

FUNCTION

Numeric buttons

1Hold down the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION button whose function you want to change (TAPE, for example).

2Press the corresponding numeric button of the component you want to assign to the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION button (1 - CD player, for example).

Amplifier Operations

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

Numeric button Operates

1CD player

2DAT deck

3MD deck

4Tape deck A

5Tape deck B

6LD player

7VCR (remote control mode VTR 1*)

8VCR (remote control mode VTR 2*)

9VCR (remote control mode VTR 3*)

10 TV

>10 DBS

*Sony VCRs are operated with a VTR 1, 2 or 3 setting. These correspond to Beta, 8mm and VHS respectively.

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

To reset the setting to the factory setting

Repeat the above procedure.

9EN

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

ç

Playback component (program source)

ç: Audio signal flow

ç

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.

1Press one of the function buttons to select the component to be recorded.

2Set the component to be ready for playing. For example, insert a CD into the CD player.

3Insert a blank tape into the recording deck and adjust the recording level, if necessary.

4Start recording on the recording deck and then start playing the component.

10EN

	Using Sound Fields	Using Sound Fields

Choosing a 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 SURROUND indicator indicator (DOLBY/HALL/SIMULATED)

When you use the remote

The remote also lets you choose the surround mode.

SURROUND

MODE

SURROUND MODE (DOLBY/HALL/SIMULATED)

1Press 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:

For tapes/discs with		Select	To
Dolby Pro Logic		DOLBY	Decode programs
Surround			processed with
			Dolby Surround and
			create the
			atmosphere of a
			movie theatre.
Orchestral music,		HALL	Reproduce the
chamber music, or an			acoustics of a
instrumental solo			rectangular concert
			hall. Ideal for soft,
			acoustic sounds.
Monaural recording,		SIMULATED	Reproduce a
such as an old movie			simulated stereo
or an instrumental			effect to monaural
			sound.

To turn off surround sound

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

1Press 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			”HALL
		OFF “		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.

11EN

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

	+/–
SURROUND	SURROUND
DELAY	T.TONE
SURROUND
MODE
LEVEL CENTER
+/–
	LEVEL 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.

1Press DOLBY to select the DOLBY PRO LOGIC sound field.

2Press CENTER MODE repeatedly until the center mode you want appears in the display. Select the center mode by referring to the following chart.

If you have	Select	So that
Front and rear	NORMAL	The bass sound of the
speakers, and a		center channel is
small center		output from the front
speaker		speakers (because a
		small speaker cannot
		produce enough
		bass).
Front and rear	WIDE	For “complete”
speakers, and a		Dolby Pro Logic
large center		Surround sound.
speaker
Front and center	3 CH	The sound of the rear
speakers, no rear	(3 Channel	channel is output
speaker	Logic)	from the front
		speakers.
Front and rear	PHANTOM	The sound of the
speakers, no		center channel is
center speaker		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.

12EN

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.

1Press SURROUND T.TONE on the remote. You will hear the test tone from each speaker sequentially.

2Adjust 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.

3Press SURROUND T.TONE on the remote to turn off the test tone.

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

1Press DOLBY to turn on the Dolby Pro Logic mode. The DOLBY PRO LOGIC indicator lights up.

2Press CENTER or REAR. The CENTER or REAR indicator lights up.

3Press + 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.

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 ”30 ms ”15 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.

1Start playing a program source encoded with the Dolby surround sound.

2Press SURROUND DELAY on the remote repeatedly to adjust the delay time.

13EN

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

1Press 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		To reproduce
1	ROCK	Powerful, clear sounds, emphasizing low
		and high audio.
2	POPS	Light, bright sounds, emphasizing high and
		middle range audio.
3	CLASSIC	Broad, open sounds with plenty of
		reverberation using a surround effect.
4	MOVIE	A theatre-like environment using
		a surround effect.
5 GAME		Maximum audio impact from video game
		software using a surround effect.

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			” POPS		” CLASSIC
		OFF “		GAME “			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.

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	S.WOOFER
ON/OFF	PHASE
LEVEL
S.WOOFER

SUPERWOOFER

WOOFER indicator

+/–

WOOFER ON/OFF

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

The SUPERWOOFER indicator on the amplifier lights up.

2Press S.WOOFER PHASE to select the polarity that provides the best bass reproduction.

3Press 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

1Press WOOFER ON/OFF to turn on the superwoofer function.

The SUPERWOOFER indicator lights.

2Press WOOFER to select the superwoofer adjustment mode. The superwoofer level is indicated on the level meter in the display.

3Press + 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.

14EN

	Additional Information	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.

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 ySIGNAL 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).

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).

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 gon 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 on the front panel to turn on the power if the STANDBY indicator is not lit (see page 8).

15EN

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)

(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

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.

16EN

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.

Front			Center					Front
		speaker
speaker (L)								speaker (R)

Rear	Rear
speaker (L)	speaker (R)

•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	Center	Front
	speaker
speaker (L)		speaker (R)

Rear	Rear
speaker (L)	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		Center						Front
			speaker
	speaker (L)								speaker (R)

Additional Information

•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					Front
speaker (L)				speaker (R)

Rear	Rear
speaker (L)	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.

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.

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	Reverberation

Direct sound

•Transition of sound from rear speakers

Direct sound Early

Level reflections Reverberation

Early reflection time

Time

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

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)

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Index

A, B

Adjusting

delay time 13 speaker volume 13 volume 8

Audio/video component hookups 5

C

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

P

PHANTOM mode 12, 17 Program source

selecting 8

Q

Quick reference guide 21

R

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

S

	Selecting a program source
	using the remote 8
	Sound field
	preset 14
	Speakers
	connection	7
18EN	placement	6
	Surround sound	11, 17

T

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

Switch and selector

8

Controls

MASTER VOLUME 8

Jacks

PHONES 8

Indicators

DOLBY PRO LOGIC 11 SUPERWOOFER 14

Other

g 4

Rear Panel Descriptions

1

!¢	!£!™ !¡ 0 9

23

4

8 76

5

1 ySIGNAL GND terminal	6 WOOFER SPEAKER	!¡ TAPE
2 REAR SPEAKERS	7 CENTER SPEAKER	!™ CD
3 SWITCHED AC OUTLET	8 FRONT SPEAKERS	!£ TUNER
4 AC power cord	9 VIDEO 1	!¢ PHONO
5 VOLTAGE SELECTOR (only on	0 VIDEO 2
models supplied with a voltage
selector)

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Remote Button Descriptions

Remote Button Descriptions

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

Remote		Operates	Function
Button
0-9		Tuner	Selects preset numbers.
		CD player/MD	Selects track numbers.
		deck	0 selects track 10.
		TV/VCR/DBS	Selects channel numbers.
>10		CD player/	Selects track numbers
		MD deck/TV	over 10.
CH/PRESET		Tuner	Scans and selects preset
+/–			stations.
		TV/VCR/DBS	Selects preset channels.
D. SKIP		CD player	Skips discs (CD player
			with multi-disc changer
			only).
DISC		CD player	Selects discs (Mega
			storage CD player only).
0/)		CD player	Searches tracks (forward
			or backward).
		Tape deck/MD	Fastforwards or rewinds.
		deck/VCR
=/+		CD player/	Skips tracks.
		MD deck
P		CD player/	Pauses.
		Tape deck/MD
		deck/VCR
(		CD player/	Starts play.
		Tape deck/MD
		deck/VCR
p		CD player/	Stops play.
		Tape deck/MD
		deck/VCR
9		Tape deck	Starts play on the reverse
			side.

Remote Butto		Operates	Function
ENTER		TV/VCR/DBS	Changes channels when
			used with 0-9.
BAND		Tuner	Selects FM or AM.
TV/VIDEO		TV/VCR	Selects input signal: TV
			input or video input.
VISUAL		TV/VCR/LD	Turns on or off the power.
		Player/DBS
TV CONTROL		TV	Turns on the TV, switches
			the input to “TV,” and
			sets the remote to operate
			the TV.
-/- -		TV	Selects the channel entry
			mode, either one or two
			digit (in Europe only).
POSITION		TV	Changes the position of
			the small picture.*
SWAP		TV	Swaps the small and the
			large picture.*
P IN P		TV	Activates the picture-in-
			picture function.*
ANT TV/VTR		VCR	Selects output signal from
			the antenna terminal: TV
			signal or VCR program.

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

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