Decoding Modes, Introduction | Arcam AVR400 specification

decoding

modes

Introduction

Your AVR400 receiver provides all the key decoding and processing modes for analogue and digital signals, including the latest high definition audio formats over HDMI.

Modes for digital sources

Digital recordings are usually encoded to include information about their format type. The AVR400 detects automatically the relevant format in a digital signal – such as Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital, or DTS – and switches in the appropriate decoding.

Modes for analogue sources

Analogue recordings do not contain information about their encoding formats, so the desired mode – such as Dolby Pro Logic – needs to be selected manually.

Mode memory

Dolby Digital or DTS audio (including the high

Two-channel source modes

The following decoding and surround modes are available for standard and high definition Dolby Digital 2.0, DTS 2.0, PCM or analogue sources:

Stereo

Pro Logic II Movie

Pro Logic II Music

Pro Logic II Game

Pro Logic IIx Movie

Pro Logic IIx Music

Pro Logic IIx Game

Pro Logic

Neo:6 Cinema

Neo:6 Music

NOTE

Pro Logic IIx modes are only selectable when Surround Back speakers are present.

As the optimum decoding method varies according to the recording, Music mode allows the user adjustment of the processing characteristics.

<Game mode: Video games today are extremely sophisticated, with dramatic 5.1 surround audio tracks. Game mode gives augmented bass management to capture the full effect of game sounds panned to the surrounds, ensuring the bass impact from purer surround effects are fully delivered to the subwoofer.

Dolby Pro Logic IIx

Dolby Pro Logic IIx is an extension of the Dolby Pro Logic matrix-decoding method. The decoder allows the processor to derive seven outputs from a two or multi-channel (up to 5.1 with EX) source to take better advantage of all amplifiers and speakers in a 7.1 setup. As with Pro Logic, there are three different modes available: Movie, Music and Game. Due to different recording methods used for movies and music, you should select the correct mode for your source material.

definition formats) can be output in two mix modes, selected using the mode button:

<Surround (e.g., five main channels plus a subwoofer for a 5.1 source)

<Stereo downmix.

Two-channel audio, regardless of whether it is analogue or digital can also be output in two mix modes, selected using the mode button:

<Surround (e.g., Dolby Pro Logic II Movie, Neo:6 Music, etc.)

<Stereo.

The AVR400 stores the settings for each source (except MCH). Thus the decoding mode for the following groups of source material can be stored independently:

<Dolby Digital (multi-channel) and DTS source material

<Two channel Dolby, PCM or Analogue source material

Stereo

In this mode the AVR400 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. To achieve ultimate sound quality with analogue sources, select the Stereo Direct function if an analogue connection is present.

Dolby Pro Logic II

Dolby Pro Logic II decoding is designed to produce five- channel output from two-channel source material.

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

Dolby Pro Logic

Dolby Pro Logic 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 II. 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 AVR400 will derive separate channels corresponding to the standard home theatre 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.

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AVR400 specifications

The Arcam AVR400 is a high-performance AV receiver designed to provide an immersive home theater experience. As part of Arcam’s esteemed lineup, the AVR400 combines advanced technology with exceptional sound quality, catering to audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike.

At the heart of the AVR400 is its impressive power amplification, providing 100 watts per channel across 7 channels, ensuring a robust performance capable of driving a wide range of speakers. This power output is complemented by a high-current design, which means the receiver can handle dynamic audio passages without distortion, offering clarity in both subtle and explosive soundtracks.

One of the standout features of the AVR400 is its support for various surround sound formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. This allows for an unparalleled audio experience, transporting users right into the heart of the action. Additionally, the AVR400 is equipped with the latest HDMI inputs, ensuring compatibility with a multitude of high-definition sources, including Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices.

The AVR400 also boasts advanced video processing capabilities, supporting 4K pass-through as well as upscaling of lower-resolution content to 4K. This makes it an ideal choice for users looking to future-proof their home theater setup, as it can seamlessly integrate with modern 4K televisions while enhancing the quality of older content.

User-friendliness is another essential characteristic of the Arcam AVR400. It comes equipped with an intuitive on-screen menu system that simplifies the setup process. The inclusion of an automatic calibration system helps optimize speaker settings in accordance with the room acoustics, ensuring users achieve the best sound possible from their setup.

Furthermore, the network features of the AVR400 allow for streaming audio from various online services and wireless devices. Built-in support for DLNA enables users to access their media library wirelessly, while the USB input allows for direct playback from flash drives or external hard drives.

In terms of build quality, the Arcam AVR400 embodies the brand’s commitment to excellence. With a sleek design, high-quality materials, and an engineered chassis that minimizes vibration and interference, the AVR400 is not only visually appealing but also built to deliver performance over time.

In summary, the Arcam AVR400 is a feature-rich AV receiver offering a perfect blend of power, precision, and versatility. Whether for movie nights or music listening, it stands out as a reliable choice for those seeking high-quality audio and video reproduction in their home entertainment systems.