USB Connections
The AVR 645 is one of the few A/V receivers to offer a USB connection that may be used for both playback of compatible audio content from a computer and for loading of system updates (when available).
The physical connection between a computer and the AVR is a simple one, requiring only a cable with a USB “A” type connector on one side and a USB “Mini B” on the other.
Connect the larger, “A” connector on the cable to your computer or a USB hub and the end with the “Mini” USB connector to the USB Jack
on the AVR’s rear panel.
NOTES ON USB:
•The USB jack on the AVR is for connection to a computer, or to a hub connected to a comput- er, only. DO NOT connect it directly to other devices such as card readers, USB memory storage devices, external hard drives, USB accessories, digital cameras or cellular phones. Connection to these devices may cause damage to the device and/or the AVR that is not covered by the AVR’s warranty.
•The AVR’s USB connection may only be used for audio playback and system upgrades. It may not be used for other purposes, such as system control, video or still-image playback.
Trigger Jack Connection
The AVR is equipped with a low-voltageAmp Trigger Jack that may be used to activate optional, external power amplifiers, screen motors, motorized blinds or other compatible products that may be part of a home theater installation. Once the connections are made, operation is seamless in that the low-voltage control signal is sent to the screen, blinds or other device when the AVR is turned on, and it is turned off along with the AVR. Due to the complexity of interfacing with power- controlled devices, we strongly recom- mend that the installation be done by a qualified installer.
The AVR’s trigger jack is a 3.5mm mono plug that delivers a 5-volt DC signal to the center pin (“tip”) of the plug (+) with the outer shaft (“ring”) of the plug as the negative (–) or ground connection.
AC Power Connections
This unit is equipped with an accessory AC out- let. It may be used to power accessory devices, but should not be used with high-current draw equipment such as power amplifiers. The total power draw to the Switched Outlet must not exceed 100 watts.
The Switched outlet will receive power only when the unit is on completely. This is recom- mended for devices that have no power switch or a mechanical power switch that may be left in the “ON” position.
NOTE: Many audio and video products go into a Standby mode when they are used with switched outlets, and cannot be fully turned on using the outlet alone without a remote control command.
The AVR features a removable power cord that allows wires to be run to a complex installation so that the unit, itself, need not be installed until it is ready for connection. When all connections described above have been made, connect the AC Power cord to the AC Power Cord Jack .
The AVR draws significantly more current than other household devices such as computers that use removable power cords. For that reason, it is important that only the cord supplied with the unit (or a direct replacement of identical capa- city) be used.
Once the power cord is connected, you are almost ready to enjoy the AVR’s incredible power and fidelity!
Speaker Selection
No matter which type or brand of speakers is used, the same model or brand of speaker should be used for the front-left, center and front-right speakers. This creates a seamless front sound- stage and eliminates the possibility of distracting sonic disturbances that occur when a sound moves across mismatched front-channel speakers.
Speaker Placement
The placement of speakers in a multichannel home-theater system can have a noticeable impact on the quality of sound reproduced.
Depending on the type of center-channel speaker in use and your viewing device, place the center speaker either directly above or below your TV, or in the center behind a perforated front-projection screen.
Once the center-channel speaker is installed, position the left-front and right-front speakers so that they are as far away from one another as the center-channel speaker is from the preferred listening position. Ideally, the front-channel speakers should be placed so that their tweeters are no more than 60cm above or below the tweeter in the center-channel speaker.
They should also be at least 0.5 meter from your TV set unless the speakers are magnetically shielded to avoid colourings on the TV screen. Note that most speakers are not shielded, even with complete surround sets only the Center speaker may be.
Depending on the specifics of your room acoustics and the type of speakers in use, you may find that imaging is improved by moving the front-left and front-right speakers slightly for- ward of the center-channel speaker. If possible, adjust all front loudspeakers so that they are aimed at ear height when you are seated in the listening position.
Using these guidelines, you’ll find that it takes some experimentation to find the correct location for the front speakers in your particular installa- tion. Don’t be afraid to move things around until the system sounds correct. Optimize your speakers so that audio transitions across the front of the room sound smooth.
When the AVR is used in 5.1-channel operation, the preferred location for surround speakers is on the side walls of the room, at or slightly behind the listening position. In a 7.1-channel system, both side surround and back surround speakers are required. The center of the speaker should face you (see below).
A 6.1 surround speaker adds an additional center back surround speaker to the system, enabling you to enjoy the benefits of advanced surround modes such as Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES and Harman Kardon’s proprietary Logic 7/7.1 pro- cessing.
To step up to a 6.1 system, first place the speakers for a 5.1 system. The “sixth” speaker should ideally be placed at the center of the room’s rear wall, pointing directly toward the front center channel speaker.
