Harman-Kardon AVR 8500 owner manual Speaker Selection, Speaker Placement, AC Power Connection

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Installation and Connections

AC Power Connection

The AVR 8500 features a removable power cord that allows wires to be run to a complex installa- tion so that the unit, itself, need not be installed until it is ready for connection. When all connec- tions described above had been made, connect the AC Power cord to the AC Power Cord Jack

.

Note that the AVR 8500 draws sigificantly 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 capacity.

Once the power cord is connected, you are almost ready to enjoy the AVR 8500'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 soundstage 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 forward 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 installation. 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).

Rear surround speakers are required when a full 7.1-channel system is installed, and they may also be used in 5.1 channel mode as an alterna- tive mounting position when it is not practical to place the main surround speakers at the sides of the room. Speakers may be placed on a rear wall, behind the listening position. As with the side speakers, the center of the rear surrounds should face you. The speakers should be no more than 2 meters behind the rear of the seating area.

If dipole type speakers are used on either the side or rear walls of the room, please note that if there are arrows on the speakers they should face towards the front of the room for the side speakers, or towards the center of the wall for the rear speakers. (see drawing on the right).

Subwoofers produce largely nondirectional sound, so they may be placed almost anywhere in a room. Actual placement should be based on room size and shape and the type of subwoofer used. One method of finding the optimal location for a subwoofer is to begin by placing it in the front of the room, about 15cm from a wall, or near the front corner of the room. Another method is to temporarily place the subwoofer in the spot where you will normally sit, and then walk around the room until you find a spot where the subwoofer sounds best. Place the subwoofer in that spot. You should also follow the instructions of the subwoofer’s manufacturer, or you may wish to experiment with the best location for a subwoofer in your listening room.

Center Front Speaker

No more than 60cm

Left Front

 

Right Front

Speaker

 

Speaker

A)Front Channel Speaker Installation with Direct-View TV Sets or Rear-Screen Projectors

 

 

TV or Projection Screen

 

 

Left Front

Center Front

Right Front

 

Speaker

 

Speaker

Speaker

 

 

No more than 6 feet

when rear-mounted speakers are used

Rear-Wall Mounting

 

 

 

 

B)The distance between the left and right

speakers should be equal to the distance from the seating position to the viewing screen. You may also experiment with placing the left and right speakers slightly forward of the center speaker.

Rear speaker mounting is an alternate location for 5.1 systems. It is required for 7.1 operation.

INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS 19

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Contents AVR 8500 Audio/ Video Receiver Power for the Digital RevolutionDeclaration of Conformity Table of ContentsIntroduction Description and FeaturesIntroduction Hdcd Decoding for Superb CD PlaybackImportant Safety Information Safety InformationUnpacking Front Panel Controls Power Indicator #Preset Station SelectorHeadphone Jack $Stereo Mode Selector /› Button Home THX Mode Selector Press thisCoaxial Ó DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete DTS-ES 6.1 MatrixDTS + NEO6 To select between the OpticalFront Panel Information Display Multi Indicator Auto IndicatorFront Panel Information Display Channel Direct Inputs If an external Rear Panel ConnectionsRear Panel Connections Unswitched Outlet Surround Mode Selector Power Off ButtonProgram/SPL Indicator Power On ButtonChannel Direct Inputs Main Remote Control FunctionsMain Remote Control Functions Main Remote Control Functions ∆ Play Forward/Reverse/Stop ˚ Mute Zone II Remote Control FunctionsAudio Equipment Connections Installation and ConnectionsVideo Equipment Connections Important Note for Adapter Cables Scart A/V ConnectionsComponent Video Inputs . Note that even Video Connection NotesAlso other colours possible, e.g. brown and grey Important Note for the Use SCART-Cinch AdaptersSystem and Power Connections AC Power Connection Speaker PlacementSpeaker Selection First Turn On System ConfigurationUsing the On-Screen Display System ConfigurationInput Setup Front panel or Speaker Setup¤ Button Dto begin the speaker configura- tion process Optional, external power amplifiersSubwoofer SurroundOn the remote so that Sublfe appears in the on-screen menu Within five seconds, either press ⁄/¤ buttons Surround SetupTHX Surround EX and DTS Adjustments for Other Inputs Settings Independent of the Input SelectedDelay Settings To select the DOLBYmenu see fig Night Mode SettingsOutput Level Adjustment On the remote. Then press the ⁄/¤ buttonsSo that on is highlighted Using EzSetPress and hold the SPL Indicator Select Turn off the OSD system if it is in useWhen all channels have the same output level Sensor and Indicator offMenu Bass Peak Limiter Operation Surround Mode ChartOFF Stereo Dolby 3 StereoTheater HallBasic Operation Controls and Use of HeadphonesSource Selection Until Surr OFF appears in the Main Information Display ˆ Surround Mode SelectionOne of the most important features Digital Audio PlaybackMP3 Audio Playback Dolby DigitalDolby Digital Surround EX PCM Audio PlaybackSelecting a Digital Source Digital Bitstream IndicatorsEand adjust to accommodate it Speaker/Channel IndicatorsOFF Tape Recording Output Level Adjustment With Source SignalsIndicator Select Indicator offWill not function Memory BackupChannel/8-Channel Direct Input To change the output levelAdvanced Features Advanced FeaturesSpeaker Reset Turn On Volume LevelFull-OSD Time Out Adjustment Semi-OSD SettingsMultiroom Operation InstallationMultiroom Setup Multiroom OperationBasic Tuner Operation Tuner OperationRDS Operation Auto-Search Method Time. When the Program/SPL IndicatorProgramming the Remote with Codes Direct Code EntryErasing Learned Codes Programming the RemoteCode Readout Learning Codes from a RemoteMacro Programming Erasing Macro CommandsPress the AVR Selector 4and the Mute button Volume Punch-ThroughProgrammed Device Functions Remote With Other DevicesSelector button Channel Control Punch-ThroughResetting the Remote Memory Function List Function ListPrev Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Clear Power On Power Off Mute TV Select Channel +Power On Power Off VID 3 Select Channel + Scan Scan + Rewind Play Fast Fwd Record Stop PauseProcessor Reset Troubleshooting GuideTroubleshooting Guide Technical Specifications Harman Consumer International

AVR 8500 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 8500 is a high-performance audio/video receiver designed for enthusiasts who demand exceptional sound quality and advanced features. This model is part of the premium AVR line and has become a respected staple in home theater setups since its introduction.

One of the standout features of the AVR 8500 is its robust amplification system. With a powerful output of 120 watts per channel, it drives even the most demanding speakers and ensures a dynamic audio experience. The receiver supports a variety of surround sound formats, including Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II, DTS, and THX Surround EX, delivering an immersive listening experience for movies, games, and music.

The AVR 8500 also showcases a range of advanced processing technologies that enhance audio fidelity. Harman-Kardon’s proprietary Logic 7 processing allows for the seamless upmixing of stereo content to surround sound, providing a richer soundscape. Additionally, the integration of the latest HDMI inputs ensures that high-definition audio and video signals can be transmitted without degradation in quality. This model typically includes multiple HDMI ports, along with support for 4K video passthrough, making it an ideal choice for modern home theater configurations.

In terms of connectivity, the AVR 8500 offers versatility, featuring multiple analog and digital audio inputs, a variety of video connections, and even network capabilities for streaming music from popular services directly. The receiver often comes equipped with advanced room correction technologies, such as Harman’s proprietary room setup and calibration system, which helps to optimize sound quality based on the specific characteristics of your listening environment.

Another notable characteristic of the Harman-Kardon AVR 8500 is its user-friendly interface. The intuitive on-screen setup allows users to easily configure their audio and video settings, making it accessible not only for seasoned audiophiles but also for those new to home theater systems.

A sleek design further complements its high-performance capabilities, ensuring that the AVR 8500 not only performs well but also looks great in any entertainment setup. The combination of its advanced technological features, extensive connectivity options, and impressive sound quality makes the Harman-Kardon AVR 8500 a premier choice for anyone seeking to elevate their home audio experience.