Arcam AVR280 manual Two-channel source modes, Multi-channel source modes

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AVR280

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Two-channel source modes

The following decoding and surround modes are available:

< Mono

< Pro Logic Emulation

< Stereo

< Neo:6 Cinema

< Pro Logic II/IIx Movie

< Neo:6 Music

< Pro Logic II/IIx Music

 

These modes are available with two-channel analogue and two-channel PCM digital sources (although a Dolby Digital 2.0 source may only be decoded as Mono, Stereo or Pro Logic IIx Movie).

Mono: The AVR280 will combine the left and right audio channels from a stereo signal to produce a mono signal. This can be of benefit when playing older audio recordings or VCR tapes, especially mono LP records.

Analogue Stereo: In this mode the AVR280 works as a conventional high quality audio amplifier. Note that if the subwoofer is enabled in stereo mode, then some processing of the signal will be carried out. For ultimate sound quality with analogue sources, therefore, select the Stereo Direct function.

Digital Stereo: Decodes two-channel digital signals such as PCM signals from sources such as CDs and some DVDs.

Dolby Pro Logic II/IIx: Dolby Pro Logic II decoding is designed to produce a 5-channel output from two channel source material. This is extended by Dolby Pro Logic IIx decoding, which is designed to produce a 5- or 7-channel output from two-channel source material and a 7-channel output from 5-channel material.

There are two different modes available in Pro Logic II/IIx: ‘Movie’ and ‘Music’ modes, which are intended for use as their names suggest. Due to the different recording methods used for movies and music, it is recommended that the correct decoding mode for your source material is used to obtain the best results.

<Movie Mode: This is intended for use with ‘cinematic’ material, which is mixed and monitored in a calibrated multi-channel environment. Movie mode is a ‘fixed’ mode that is designed to give a similar sound when listening using a home cinema system to that obtained in a cinema.

<Music Mode: Stereo music is not designed for surround processing, although good surround effects can be obtained through careful production. As the optimum decoding method varies according to the recording, Music mode allows user adjustment of the processing characteristics. Information about adjusting the Music mode by using ‘Dimension’ and ‘Centre Width’ controls can be found in the ‘Main Menu Screen 2’ section.

Dolby Pro Logic: Dolby Pro Logic decoding is a legacy mode that is designed to produce a five- channel output from two-channel source material. It should be used only when the source material is encoded as Dolby Pro Logic; otherwise, we recommend the use of Dolby Pro Logic IIx. This is because Pro Logic processing on straight stereo sources can sound muffled and compressed.

DTS NEO:6: DTS Neo:6 provides up to six full-band channels of decoding from stereo material. The AVR280 will derive separate channels corresponding to the standard home theatre speaker layout.

<Cinema: A movie mode designed to reproduce a movie theatre environment. Neo:6 technology allows various sound elements within a channel or channels to be steered separately, and in a way which follows the original presentation naturally.

<Music: A music mode designed to produce a lively, high-integrity surround-effect from most two- channel music sources from all available speakers. Neo:6 music mode expands stereo recordings into the five- or six-channel layout without diminishing the subtlety and integrity of the original stereo recording.

Multi-channel source modes

The following modes are available for multi-channel digital sources. Special modes like DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix and DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete are available only from the correct source material.

For Dolby Digital sources:

For DTS sources:

< Dolby Digital 5.1

< DTS 5.1

 

< Dolby Digital 5.1 Stereo Downmix

< DTS 5.1 Stereo Downmix

< Dolby Digital 5.1 Mono Downmix

< DTS 5.1 Mono Downmix

< Dolby Digital Ex

< DTS-ES 6.1

Matrix

< Dolby Digital Pro Logic IIx

< DTS-ES 6.1

Discrete

Dolby Digital 5.1: The most commonly used sound format for DVD video, and is also the standard for US digital television. Dolby Digital 5.1 sources deliver surround sound with five discrete full- range channels; left, centre, right, surround left, and surround right, plus a low frequency effects (LFE) channel.

Dolby Digital Ex: This is an extension to Dolby Digital decoding that provides a 6-channel output from a 5-channel input. The extra channel is the centre-surround channel (for which the two surround back speakers are used), and is derived from the left and right surround channel information. This decode mode should be used only when the source material is ‘Surround EX’ encoded (which is normally indicated on the disc packaging and should be detected automatically by the AVR280), but may be used at other times if desired.

Dolby Digital Pro Logic IIx: This is an extension to Dolby Digital decoding that provides a 7- channel output from a 5-channel input. The extra channels are the surround back channels, that are derived from the left and right surround channel information.

DTS 5.1: Less common than the Dolby Digital format, but generally recognised within the audio industry as being of superior sound quality. DTS 5.1 delivers surround sound with five full range channels plus an LFE channel.

DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix: This is a 6.1 channel format based on DTS 5.1. It has the sixth channel matrix encoded into the surround left and surround right channels. The sixth channel is a surround centre channel and is directed to the surround back left and surround back right speakers.

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Contents AVR280 Important safety instructions Safety guidelinesSafety compliance Contents Using this handbook SafetyBefore you start IntroductionBefore making connections Installation Positioning the unitAVR280 rear panel CablesAudio connections Analogue audio connectionsDigital audio connections Analogue pre-amplifier outputVideo connections Connecting loudspeakers Using spade terminalsConnecting the AM and FM antennas Zone 2 connectionsFM antenna AM antennaConnecting to a power supply Control connectionsTrigger outputs Mains leadConfiguring the AVR280 Set-up modeSet-up Menu Index Navigating the Set-up menuGeneral Settings ‘Basic’ Set-up MenusSpeaker Sizes Subwoofer SettingsBypass the DSP processing Speaker delay settings Speaker Delay SettingsDistance measurements for 5.1 Level settings EX SettingsTest Tone Cycle Use Channels 6+7 forADV 2 Video Settings ADV 3 Digital Settings‘Advanced’ Set-up Menus ADV 1 Speaker EqSaving Settings and Exit Set-up ADV 4 Zone 2 SettingsADV 5 Analogue Settings ADV 6 Hdmi SettingsCR100 Universal remote control AVR specific keys CR100 Switching on/off Volume controlOperating your AVR280 Front panel displayHeadphones Input selectionStereo Direct ZoneRemote control buttons Effects/FXMode Treble/BassUsing the tuner Tuning to a stationStoring a preset Deleting a presetUsing the Main Menu Using Zone ‘Dimension’ is set to 3 for normal useDisplay Centre spreading Effect No centre spreading 20.8 69.8 Phantom centreSurround modes Digital multi-channel sourcesMulti-channel source modes Two-channel source modesFollowing decoding and surround modes are available Mono Speaker positioning DSP Effects ModesBi-wiring and bi-amping loudspeakers Bi-wiring your loudspeakersBefore you start important information Bi-amping your systemTroubleshooting Source switching changes randomly or freezes on one source No Zone 2 audio when playing DTS filmUnable to adjust bass and treble controls Hum on an analogue inputScart RGB cable with audio back to processor Scart connectionsScart S-video cable with audio back to processor Command Command code IR Remote CodesSystem code Command Command code Continual improvement policy Technical specificationsRadio interference Worldwide Guarantee GuaranteeOn line registration Issue

AVR280 specifications

The Arcam AVR280 is a high-performance AV receiver designed to deliver an immersive home theater experience. Known for its robust build quality and advanced technological features, it caters to both audiophiles and casual users seeking top-notch sound and video quality.

One of the standout features of the AVR280 is its power output. The receiver is equipped with an impressive 7-channel amplification system, providing 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This ample power ensures clear and dynamic audio reproduction, making it ideal for driving demanding speaker systems and creating a rich soundstage. The AVR280 also supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, ensuring superior sound quality for high-definition movie formats.

In terms of connectivity, the AVR280 is well-equipped with multiple HDMI inputs, enabling seamless integration with various devices such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. It supports 4K video pass-through and upscaling, allowing users to enjoy high-definition content with stunning clarity. The receiver also features ARC (Audio Return Channel) functionality, simplifying sound output from compatible TVs.

The AVR280 utilizes Arcam's proprietary Class G amplification technology, which strikes a balance between efficiency and audio fidelity. This innovative design minimizes distortion, ensuring a clean and detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies. Additionally, the room correction technology integrated into the AVR280 automatically calibrates the audio output based on the acoustics of the room, optimizing performance for different setups.

An intuitive user interface and easy setup process enhance the overall user experience. With a sleek design, the AVR280 seamlessly fits into various home entertainment environments while offering a range of customizable options to suit individual preferences.

For those who prioritize streaming capabilities, the AVR280 is compatible with various streaming services, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music with ease. Overall, the Arcam AVR280 stands out as a versatile and powerful AV receiver, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their home theater experience with premium sound and video quality.
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