16EN

Using Surround Sound

2Adjust the volume levels so that you hear the test tone from each speaker at the same volume level when you are in your listening position:

•To adjust the volume between the front right and front left speakers, use the BALANCE control on the front of the main unit.

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

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

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

You can adjust all speakers at one time

Adjust MASTER VOL.

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 in 0.1 ms steps (for TA-VA8ES) or 5 ms steps (for TA-VA7ES) within the range of 15 to 30 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 Dolby surround sound.

2Press DPC MODE until the SURROUND indicator lights up.

3Rotate the PARAMETER knob to select the delay time.

The current delay time appears in the display.

4Rotate the LEVEL knob to adjust the delay time.

Adjusting the equalizer (TA-VA8ES) or tone (TA-VA7ES)

You can adjust the tone of the speakers.

Follow the procedure described in “Adjusting the equalizer” or “Adjusting the tone controls” on page 17.

Taking Advantage of the Sound Fields (TA-VA8ES)

This amplifer uses digital signal processing to reproduce the sound effects of various listening environments, such as a movie theaters and concert halls (etc.). By adjusting the surround parameters you can control these sound elements to create a custom listening environment.

Room Size Simulation (ROOM SIZE)

Before sound reaches our ears, it is reflected many times between the left and right walls, ceiling, and floor. In a large room, sound takes more time to bounce from one surface to another than in a smaller room.

The ROOM SIZE parameter lets you control the spacing of the early reflections to simulate a sonically larger (L), or smaller (S) room. The mid-point designates a standard room with no adjustment.

Wall Material Simulation (WALL TYPE)

When sound is reflected off soft material, such as curtain, the high frequency elements are reduced. A hard wall is highly reflective and does not significantly affect the frequency response of the reflected sound. The WALL TYPE parameter lets you control the level of the high frequencies to alter the sonic character of your listening environment by simulating a softer (S), or harder (H) wall. The mid-point designates a neutral wall (made of wood).

Seat Position Simulation

(FRONT/REAR and LEFT/RIGHT)

If you sit in the front of a room, you hear more direct sound from the front speakers. As you move to the rear, the reflected sound increases. Similarly, the reflected sound changes when you move from left to right, and vice versa.

The FRONT/REAR and LEFT/RIGHT parameters let you control the balance of direct and reflected sound to simulate your listening position.

In the FRONT/REAR parameter, “F” signifies the front of the room and “R” signifies the rear. The mid-point designates the center.

In the LEFT/RIGHT parameter, “L” signifies the left side of the room and “R” signifies the right side. The mid-point designates the center.

TA-VA8ES, TA-VA7ES specifications

The Sony TA-VA7ES and TA-VA8ES are high-performance integrated amplifiers that have garnered a reputation for their robust build quality and exceptional audio performance, making them highly sought after in the audiophile community. These models, part of Sony's ES (Elevated Standard) series, are designed to deliver an immersive listening experience while maintaining user-friendly features.

One of the primary characteristics of both amplifiers is their power output. The TA-VA7ES is capable of delivering 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms, while the TA-VA8ES improves upon this with 120 watts per channel. This substantial power allows them to drive a wide range of speakers effectively, producing clean and dynamic sound across various musical genres.

The amplifiers utilize Sony's advanced power transistor technology, which includes the S-Master digital amplification system. This technology reduces distortion and enhances audio clarity, ensuring that music is reproduced with incredible fidelity. Additionally, both models feature a sophisticated power supply design that contributes to their excellent transient response, allowing for accurate reproduction of fast musical passages.

Another key feature of the TA-VA7ES and TA-VA8ES is their comprehensive connectivity options. They come equipped with multiple line-level inputs, allowing users to connect various audio sources effortlessly. This versatility makes them compatible with CD players, turntables, and other audio devices. The inclusion of speaker terminals is also noteworthy; both amplifiers support bi-wiring, which can further enhance soundstage and imaging.

In terms of design, both models boast a classic and robust aesthetic that resonates with audiophiles. The build quality is exceptional, with a heavy chassis that minimizes vibrations and interference, providing a stable platform for audio reproduction. The front panel features intuitive controls, including a large volume knob and source selectors, ensuring ease of use.

Moreover, the TA-VA8ES incorporates some additional modern refinements over the TA-VA7ES, such as improved circuitry for better signal integrity and enhanced tone control options that allow users to tailor the sound to their preferences.

Overall, the Sony TA-VA7ES and TA-VA8ES amplifiers stand out as exemplary models in the realm of audio gear. Their combination of powerful amplification, advanced technologies, versatile connectivity, and solid construction makes them ideal for anyone looking to elevate their home audio experience. These amplifiers not only deliver on performance but also embody the quality and craftsmanship that Sony is known for.