Pioneer VSX-C300-S manual Techno Know How, Understanding DVD Packaging, Digital Audio Formats

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11Techno Know How

Understanding DVD Packaging

DVD packaging usually states what sound formats are included on the DVD. The diagram here shows what you might see on a typical DVD box. The terms used (Dolby Digital, etc.) are explained in the following sections.

LANGUAGE

English

 

 

 

5.1

 

SURROUND

 

 

 

5.1

 

SURROUND

 

 

CAPTIONS

Captioned

SUBTITLES

 

Digital Audio Formats

Home theater uses various types of methods to encode the sound on to the digital sources and these are known as digital formats. The most common digital formats are explained below.

Dolby Digital and Dolby Surround 1

Dolby Digital is the most widely used system to record soundtracks on DVDs and other media. It's a sound compression format which records the sound of 6 channels of the theater surround system (Dolby Digital) on a movie film digital track. Of the 6 channels, the subwoofer channel is intended for bass only, and because the frequency range is smaller than a main channel, the overall soundtrack is called 5.1 channels.

Dolby Digital is the name of the Dolby surround multichannel digital system that was developed after the Dolby Surround System and Dolby Pro Logic Surround System.

Dolby Digital is also known as the 5.1 channel system. It is equipped with 5 channels (front left, front right, center, surround left, surround right) in the frequency range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and an independent Low Frequency Effect (LFE) channel. The subwoofer channel is also called Low Frequency Effect (LFE).

This channel can be used with a powered subwoofer to get strong bass sounds.

DTS

DTS is another widely used system to record soundtracks on DVDs and other media. It has been adopted as a sound recording format in the latest movie theaters since the release of “JURASSIC PARK” in 1993, and has a good reputation for high quality sound and dynamic surround effects.

In this system, 6 channels of digital sound are recorded on CD-ROM, rather than on the film. DTS adopts a simultaneous playback format. With a low rate of compression of sound signals and a high rate of transmittance, a higher sound quality format is produced. Also, unlike the process of recording digital sounds on film directly, the only components required are a CD-ROM player as might be used with a personal computer and a DTS processor, and therefore less investment is required than with other formats. For this reason, the format is being introduced in more and more movie theaters, and is being adopted in home movie software (DVD, LD) and music software (5.1 channel CD).

No. of recorded channels

No. of playback channels

Playback channel structure

Sound processing

Rear (Surround) high frequency playback limit

Other

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Dolby Digital

5.1channels (Max.)

5.1channels (Max.)

Front Left, Front Right, Center,

Surround Left, Surround Right,

Subwoofer

Digital discrete processing

20,000 Hz

5.1 completely independent channels

High dynamic range

Stable position, high phase characteristics, and advanced surround effects reproduction

High efficiency

(Compression rate of about one- tenth)

DTS

Dolby Pro Logic

 

Surround

5.1 channels (Max.)

2 channels

5.1 channels (Max.)

4 channels

Front Left, Front Right, Center,

Front Left, Front

Surround Left, Surround Right,

Right, Center,

Subwoofer

Surround

Digital discrete processing

Analog matrix

 

processing

20,000 Hz

7,000 Hz

5.1 completely independent channels

High dynamic range

Stable position, high phase characteristics, and advanced surround effects reproduction

Low compression rate

(about one-fourth), high quality sound

En

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Contents VSX-C300 VSX-C300-S Operating Environment H045 En Risk of Electric Shock Do not OpenFeatures Contents Quick Start Guide Home Theater The BasicsYour Home System Source MaterialNo Frills Setup Hook up your DVD player, speakers, subwoofer and TVVideo cord Sold separately DVD Player DV-444, etcAdvanced/Customized Settings Automatic Switching between Analog & Digital SignalsChecking the Supplied Accessories Installing the ReceiverWhen Making Cable Connections Introductory InformationMaintenance of External Surfaces Operating Range Remote Control UnitLoading the Batteries Connecting Your Equipment Connecting a DVD Player & a TVWhy you need an analog connection as well as a digital one Audio/Video CordsConnecting a TV with an Internal Digital Tuner Connecting a Digital Tuner/Set Top BoxConnecting Your Equipment Connecting Video Components FrontConnecting Speakers Speaker terminalsOverhead view of speaker set up Hints on Speaker PlacementView of speaker set up Connecting Antennas Using External AntennasOperating other Pioneer Components with this Unit’s Sensor Plugging in the ReceiverDisplays & Controls Front PanelRear Panel Displays & ControlsReceiver controls Remote ControlTV controls Channel listening mode buttons see Displays & Controls Playback controlsBasic Playback Checking the Settings on Your DVD or other PlayerChecking the soundtrack on your disc Playing a Source Basic PlaybackFine Tuning Your Surround Sound Room SetupFine Tuning Your Surround Sound Press @ or # to select the mode you want to setPress % or fi to select the setting you want Personalizing Your Surround SoundCrossover frequency setting mode Subwoofer ON/Plus/OFF setting modePress Enter if you want to exit the setting mode LFE attenuator setting mode Center speaker distance setting mode10 dB LFE volume is reduced No attenuationDual mono setting Dynamic range control setting modeInput Attenuator setting Press Test Tone to turn off the test tone Channel Listening modes for two channel outputs Sound ModesMultichannel Listening modes for multichannel outputs Press the button for the listening mode you want Selecting a Listening ModePress Receiver Midnight Listening Mode Tone EffectsSound Modes Selecting a Tone EffectUsing the Tuner MPX modeRF ATT mode Tune to a station using the Tune + or Tune ButtonsUsing the Tuner Tuning Directly to a StationMemorizing Stations Naming Memorized Stations Recalling Memorized StationsPress 3 to input the first of the four charac- ters Enter up to three more characters in the same wayUsing the RDS display An Introduction to RDSSearching for RDS Programs Press the Band button to select the FM bandUsing Other Functions Using the HeadphonesPress the Muting button on the remote control Muting the SoundChecking your Settings Analog Input Mode Input Signal Displays ExplainedDefault Settings for the Receiver Using Other FunctionsAutomatically sensed Ch1Switching the Operation Mode of the Remote Changing the Remote Control ModeControlling the Rest of Your System To cancel the preset mode at any time Recalling Preset CodesControlling the Rest of Your System Clearing the Preset Codes Direct SelectionCD/MD/CD-R/VCR/DVD/LD/DVD recorder/Cassette Deck Controls Buttons Function ComponentsCable TV/Satellite TV/Digital TV/TV Controls DisplayPreset Code List Manufacturer CodeSTB SATELLITE/CATV DAT Troubleshooting Additional InformationSymptom Cause Remedy Additional InformationPress Dimmer on the remote control re Techno Know How Understanding DVD PackagingDigital Audio Formats Dolby Digital and Dolby SurroundRecording Formats Channel Stereo Playback Stereo indicator lights Virtual Surround Playback VIRTUAL/PHONES indicator lightsMultichannel Surround Playback Multi ch indicator lights Headphone Surround Playback VIRTUAL/PHONES indicator lightsSpecifications TNGZW/01F00001 Printed

VSX-C300-S, VSX-C300 specifications

The Pioneer VSX-C300 and VSX-C300-S are compact, versatile audio receivers that cater to both casual listeners and home theater enthusiasts. Designed with modern technology and user-friendly features, these models deliver impressive sound quality in a sleek and stylish package.

One of the standout features of both the VSX-C300 and VSX-C300-S is their 5.1 channel surround sound capability. This allows users to enjoy a rich audio experience, whether watching movies or listening to music. The receivers support various audio formats, including Dolby Digital and DTS, ensuring comprehensive compatibility with a wide range of media.

Both models are equipped with Advanced Direct Energy HD Amplification technology, which minimizes energy waste while maximizing output quality. This technology not only reduces power consumption but also enhances audio clarity, providing a dynamic listening experience. Additionally, the receivers feature 100 watts per channel, which ensures sufficient power for driving speakers while maintaining low distortion levels.

Integrated into the VSX-C300 and VSX-C300-S is a multitude of connectivity options. These receivers include HDMI inputs, which support high-definition video and audio, along with analog inputs for legacy devices. The availability of digital optical and coaxial inputs further enhances flexibility, offering users multiple ways to connect their media sources.

The user interface is intuitive, featuring a clear display and an easy-to-navigate remote control. Both receivers also support basic networking capabilities, allowing users to access music streaming services. This feature is particularly appealing in today's digital age, where convenience and access to a vast library of music are paramount.

Pioneer places a strong emphasis on ease of use, and both receivers reflect that ethos. Automatic speaker calibration simplifies the setup process, ensuring that users achieve optimal sound quality tailored to their room's acoustics. The included MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) automatically adjusts settings to create an immersive sound environment.

In summary, the Pioneer VSX-C300 and VSX-C300-S combine stylish design with advanced audio technology. Their 5.1 channel surround sound, Advanced Direct Energy HD Amplification, multiple connectivity options, and user-friendly features make these receivers an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience. Whether for movie nights or enjoying music, these receivers are a solid investment for quality sound.