Pioneer VSX-39TX manual Home THX Cinema modes, Advanced Theater modes

Page 44
DOLBY SURROUND

Basic Playback

HOME THX CINEMA modes

THX is a set of technical standards created by Lucasfilm, Ltd. These standards were designed to emulate a film sound stage and thus reproduce, with the greatest possible accuracy, the soundtrack intended by the filmmakers. To get THX sound use one the three modes explained below. You will only be able to access the second two modes if you have hooked up SURROUND BACK speakers. For more detailed information see p.19,21,34-35.This mode is best if you are unsure which of the above THX modes to use. The display will show you what kind of source (Dolby Digital, DTS, etc.) is being played.

THX CINEMA

Use this mode to get THX sound with sources that do not have SURROUND BACK channels. If you don't have SURROUND BACK speaker(s) switched on (see p.34-35.) this is the only THX mode you will be able to select on the receiver.

THX SURROUND EX

This mode is specifically for using your SURROUND BACK channels with either SURROUND EX sources or

5.1channel sources. You will only be able to access this mode if you have set the SURROUND BACK speakers in the SPEAKER SETTING procedure (see p.34-35). If the source you are using is a 5.1 source then this mode will route some of the sound to the SURROUND BACK channel(s). If the source you are using does not have a SURROUND EX marker or is not a 5.1 source then the display will automatically change to

THX CINEMA.

THX AUTO

In this mode the receiver will automatically select the appropriate THX mode and use it to play the soundtrack. You will only be able to access this mode if you have set the SURROUND BACK speakers(s) in the SPEAKER SETUP procedure (see p.34-35). If the source has a Surround EX marker then the receiver will automatically go into THX SURROUND EX mode. This mode is best if you are unsure which of the above THX modes to use.

ADVANCED THEATER modes

The Advanced Theater mode is a newly designed system for enhancing movie soundtracks and other audio- visual sources. It incorporates the use of DTS as well as Dolby Digital into its sound processing. These functions switch on automatically when the source you are playing is encoded with DTS or Dolby Digital. There are four Advanced Theater settings that use DSP (Digital Signal Processing) to create different types of sound environments. If you have SURROUND BACK speakers or (even just one) speaker switched on (see p.34-35) then 7.1 will appear after the name of all of these modes in the display on the receiver. The display will show you what kind of source (Dolby Digital, DTS, etc.) is being played.

MUSICAL

This mode is primarily for music and adds a spacious feeling to the sound. A long delay time of reflected sounds, provides resonant tones which emulate a concert hall.

DRAMA

This mode is designed for movies with a lot of dialog. The elements of dialog are enhanced, making the characters seem more real. The mode also compresses the dynamic range somewhat so loud sounds do not overpower softer ones (compare this with the MIDNIGHT LISTENING mode explained on p.50).

ACTION

This mode is designed for action movies, which generally use lots of sound effects. The mode enriches the sound to make it more realistic and extends the parameters to pick up high and low sound effects.

5/7-D THEATER

This mode is especially designed to give sound depth to stereo sources. The overall effect builds a dynamic and broad sound space, allowing two-channel (stereo) signals to faithfully imitate a five speaker sound. The mode should be used in conjunction with Dolby Pro Logic for sources bearing the

mark.

memo

When a Dolby Digital soundtrack is played back the Dialog Normalization function of the receiver acti-

 

vates automatically. Dialog Normalization is a Dolby Digital function that establishes the average dialog

 

level for the program source being played. If the receiver's level does not match the average dialog level,

 

first you see "DIAL NORM" flash in the receiver's display and next "OFFSET +4 dB" (as an example) will

 

appear. In this example, the number +4 dB is the difference between the receiver's gain structure and

 

the Dolby Digital average dialog level. To match the average dialog level, subtract or add the OFFSET

 

level. For example, if the OFFSET level is +4 dB, the amplifier's output is 4 dB over the average recorded

 

level.

44

Image 44
Contents VSX-39TX For U.S. model Important NoticeFor Canadian model Information to UserImportant Safety Instructions Quick Start Guide Hooking Up Your DVD Player & TVCoaxial Digital Connection Optical Digital ConnectionSetting up the Remote Control & Unit Speaker ConnectionsHold the remote control pointed towards the receiver Digital Input AssignmentPress the DVD/LD button on the remote control Playing a DVD with Surround SoundFor Better Surround Sound Play a DVDFeatures Table of Contents Checking the Supplied Accessories How to Use This ManualPreparing the Remote Control Before You StartInstalling the Receiver Opening the Front PanelConnecting Your Equipment Cassette deck placementAudio Components Audio cordsCoaxial cord Digital ConnectionsCoaxial cords/Optical cables Example Connection for a DVD/LD or LD player Digital Input AssignmentConnecting DVD/LD players Connecting VCRs or DVRsVideo Components FrontSatellite TV Components Or standard video cordMulti Channel Input External Decoder TV/monitorFM wire antenna AM loop antenna Connecting the Radio AntennasUsing outdoor antennas Speakers Front speaker a Left Surround SpeakerSpeaker terminals Speaker placementPlacing Your Speakers Connecting Additional Amplifiers PluggingDisplays & Controls Front PanelSignal Select button See p.49 Source indicatorsBass -/+ button See p.51 Treble -/+ button See p.51Display 11 2/ dts mode indicators Master Volume indicationTape 2 indicator Tuner indicatorsRemote Control Basic Receiver LCD Screens Receiver Main ScreenReceiver SUB Screen On Screen Display Initial Set UpSwitching video system between PAL and Ntsc Press the LCD Commander Button Setting Up the Remote ControlPress Remote Setup on the remote control SET UP Back LightSetting Up for Surround Sound System Setup Digital Input SelectSpeaker Setting Press the Setup OK button to return to System Setup Menu Channel Delay Press the Channel Delay buttonPress the Setup OK button to return to the System Setup MenuTest Tone Channel LevelPress the Channel Level button If you are using a Sound Pressure Level SPL meter Auto modeManual mode Crossover Network 80 Hz100 Hz 150 HzLevel Bass Peak Level ManagerPress the SET button to input Dynamic Range Control Dual Mono Setting Standard modes Basic PlaybackSound Modes Home THX Cinema modes Advanced Theater modesStereo mode DSP modesSelecting a Sound Mode Using surround soundSelect the sound mode Press ReceiverControl to select the source you Playing Sources with Dolby Digital or DTS SoundPress the Function on the remote Playing Sources with Stereo Sound Switching ANALOG/DIGITAL Signal Input MainListening in Midnight Mode Reducing Noise During Playback Digital NR FunctionRemote control or Channel Adjust channelsPress the CH Select button on Select button on the front panel toKHz 24 bit Performance Multi Channel in SettingMulti Channel in Playback Adjusting the Brightness of the Display Direct PlaybackUsing the Tuner Automatic and Manual TuningPress the Tuner Press the Band button to select Band FM or AMDirect Access Tuning Using the front panel Tune in the station you want Memorizing Frequently Used StationsPress the Memory button to activate the memory function Press the Class button repeatedlyRecalling Memorized Stations Select the Tuner functionRemote Control of Other Components Setting Up the Remote Control to Control Other ComponentsSelect the name of the company That makes your component Press the Number 1 buttonTo go back a screen To exit the process without inputting the com- mandsCannot be used If you want to cancel the Remote Setup modePress the Learning button Locking the Settings Item Memo Use the Back button to return to the basic Receiver screenKey Rename Press the KEY Rename buttonPress the Function button that Has the button you want toUsing Remote Control with Other Components DVD or LD player operationsNumber buttons +10CD player operations MemoMD operations RECTV operations Standard TV screen Digital TV screenVOL -/+ CH -/+Catv operations STB DTV operationsSTB satellite tuner operations Satellite Tuner screenL1-3 B/C/D/ECassette deck operations TapeOther screen for preset operations VCR operationsCD-R operations DVR DVD Recorder operationsRecording from Video Components Using Other FunctionsRecording from Audio Components Different possible video inputs Video SelectFront panel to cycle through Press the Multi Operation Press the Remote Setup buttonMulti Operations Select a command from the screen Sequence of up to five commandsWhen done press Setup OK to input Leave the multi operation set upSystem OFF Press the Back button repeatedly When done press Setup OK toInput the information Setting up the Direct Function Resetting the Remote ControlMULTI-ROOM connections Set up exampleMulti-Room MULTI-ROOM set up Select the Volume Level by Pressing Variable or FixedPress the Multi Room button Select the IR Receiver typeSelector Press the Multi Room & SourceButton Adjust the volume Using the remote control with the MULTI-ROOM systemPress Master Volume +/- to Pioneer SR System Operating other Pioneer components PioneerTechno Tidbits & Problem-solving Dolby DigitalLaser disc format Comparison with Dolby Pro Logic SurroundDTS Troubleshooting Symptom Cause RemedySet Signal Select to DTS Power cord Caution EIASpecifications Page 0 4 2 1 1 4 0

VSX-39TX specifications

The Pioneer VSX-39TX is a high-performance audio/video receiver that exemplifies the brand's commitment to delivering superior sound quality and advanced technology. Released as part of Pioneer's flagship series, the VSX-39TX is designed for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking an immersive entertainment experience.

One of the standout features of the VSX-39TX is its robust amplification system. It boasts a 7.1-channel configuration that delivers powerful and clear audio across multiple channels. With a total power output of 110 watts per channel, this receiver is capable of driving a wide range of speakers, ensuring an engaging listening experience whether you're enjoying music or diving into a cinematic film.

The VSX-39TX also supports various audio formats, including Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, and the latest Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. This extensive surround sound support allows for a truly immersive audio experience. The receiver’s advanced audio processing technology helps in accurately decoding these formats, ensuring that the sound is not only powerful but also precise and detailed.

Another significant aspect of the Pioneer VSX-39TX is its video capabilities. The receiver features multiple HDMI inputs, supporting 1080p video resolution and providing a complete connection solution for high-definition devices. Its integrated video upscaling feature enhances lower resolution content, allowing users to enjoy their entire media library at the highest quality possible.

The VSX-39TX also emphasizes flexibility with its extensive connectivity options. In addition to HDMI, it includes composite and component video inputs, making it compatible with a variety of source devices. Furthermore, the receiver features a built-in AM/FM tuner and is equipped with a direct-access port for digital audio input, providing versatility for users.

To enhance user experience, the VSX-39TX comes with a well-designed remote control and an intuitive on-screen display, allowing for easy navigation through the setup process and adjustment of settings. The receiver also supports Pioneer's Multi-Room function, enabling audio playback in different zones of the home.

In summary, the Pioneer VSX-39TX stands out with its combination of powerful amplification, extensive surround sound support, and versatile connectivity options. Its commitment to delivering high-quality audio and video makes it a formidable choice for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment system. Whether you are listening to music or watching movies, the VSX-39TX is built to provide a captivating audio-visual experience.