Harman-Kardon AVR 8500 Dolby Digital Surround EX, PCM Audio Playback, MP3 Audio Playback

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Operation

Dolby Digital

Dolby Digital (originally known as AC-3®) is a standard part of DVD, and is available on specially encoded LD discs and satellite broadcasts and it is a part of the new high-definition television (HDTV) system.

Dolby Digital Surround EX

Dolby Digital Surround EX is an enhanced encod- ing that was developed to provide the sound mixer greater opportunities for the placement of sounds to the rear as well as the sides of the lis- tener, while THX Surround EX processing is the decoding scheme to correctly decode a Dolby Digital Surround EX encoded movie. For more info on Dolby Digital and Surround EX formats see table on page 30.

Note that an optional, external RF demodulator is required to use the AVR to listen to the Dolby Digital sound tracks available on laser discs.

Connect the RF output of the LD player to the demodulator and then connect the digital output of the demodulator to the Optical or Coaxial inputs *Óof the AVR. No demodulator is required for use with DVD players or DTS- encoded laser discs.

DTS

DTS is another digital audio system that is capa- ble of delivering 5.1 channel audio or 6.1 matrix or discrete channel sound (DTS ES, for more info see table page 30). Although both DTS and Dolby Digital are digital, they use different meth- ods of encoding the signals, and thus they require different decoding circuits to convert the digital signals back to analog.

DTS-encoded sound tracks are available on select DVD and LD discs, as well as on special audio- only DTS CDs. You may use any LD, DVD or CD player equipped with a digital output to play DTS-encoded special audio-only CDs with the AVR, but DTS-LDs can be played on LD players and DTS-DVDs on DVD players only. All that is required is to connect the player’s digital output to either the Optical or Coaxial input on the

rear panel

or front panel *Ó.

In order to listen to DVDs encoded with DTS sound tracks, the DVD player must be compatible with the DTS signal as indicated by a DTS logo on the player’s front panel. Note that early DVD players may not be able to play DTS- encoded DVDs. This does not indicate a problem with the AVR, as some players cannot pass the DTS signal through to the digital outputs. If you are in doubt as to the capability of your DVD player to handle DTS DVDs, consult the player’s owner’s manual.

Please note that some DVD players are shipped with their output set for Dolby Digital only. To insure that DTS data is being sent to the AVR, please check the setup menu system on your DVD player to make certain that DTS data output is enabled.

PCM Audio Playback

PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) is the non- com- pressed digital audio system used for compact discs, Non-Dolby Digital/DTS Laserdiscs and some special PCM encoded DVDs. It is also the format used as an output by audio transcoders such as the Harman Kardon DAL 150. The digital circuits in the AVR are capable of high quality digital-to- analog decoding, and they may be connected directly to the digital audio output of your CD/DVD or LD player (LD only for PCM or DTS programs, for Dolby Digital laser discs an RF adapter is needed, see ”Dolby Digital” above).

Connections may be made to either the Optical

or Coaxial inputs on the rear panel or the front panel Digital Inputs *Ó.

To listen to a PCM digital source, first select the input for the desired source (e.g., CD) to feed its video signal (if any) to the TV monitor and to provide its analog audio signal for recording. Next press the Digital Select button ÛG and then use the ⁄/ ¤ buttons Don the remote, or the Selector buttons 7$on the front panel, until the desired choice appears in the Main Information Display ˆ, then press the Set button Fto confirm the choice.

When a PCM source is playing, the green LED will light next to the DIGITAL indication in the Surround Mode/Bitstream Indicators ¯. During PCM playback you may select any sur- round mode except Dolby Digital or DTS. When an HDCD encoded disc is being played (see below) and the CD player is connected to the AVR via a digital connection, select Surround Off as the Surround mode to enjoy the benefits of the HDCD process.

HDCD

HDCD, which stands for High Definition Compatible Digital®, is a sophisticated process that enables the AVR to deliver outstanding digi- tal-to-analog decoding of PCM signals from any DVD or CD player, connected to a digital input on the AVR even when normal, non-HDCD-compati- ble players are used (only a digital output is needed).

When a CD with the HDCD recording is played, the AVR is able to take advantage of the special recording process that is used in the creation of HDCD disc. The special circuitry enables audio with extraordinary fidelity, stunning resolution and the highest possible overall quality.

As long as a digital input and the pure Stereo mode (Surround Off) are selected, the AVR will automatically sense that it is an HDCD recording and the green LED next to the letters HDCD will light on the front panel to remind you that an HDCD disc is playing.

It is important to note that the HDCD process is completely compatible with standard recordings. Indeed, the high-quality digital-to-analog circuitry that is part of HDCD and the HDCD decoder chip, replacing the monolithic digital filters used in conventional DACs, will enable enhanced performance also with normal, non-HDCD encoded program material.

MP3 Audio Playback

The AVR 8500 is one of the few A/V receivers to provide on-board decoding for the MP3 audio format used on specific computer audio files. By offering MP3 decoding, the AVR is able to deliver more precise conversion of the digital signals to an analog output, along with the benefits of lis- tening to MP3 audio through the AVR’s high cur- rent amplifier and the speakers from your sur- round system, rather than the smaller speakers and low powered amplifiers typically used with computers.

To take advantage of the AVR’s MP3 capabilities, simply connect the digital (SPDIF) output of a computer sound card able to feed the MP3 for- mat to its digital output, to either the rear panel

Digital Inputs or the front panel Digital Inputs *Ó. When the digital MP3 signal is received, the green LED next to the MP3 indica- tion in the Surround Mode Indicators ¯, will light and the audio will begin playing.

NOTES:

•The AVR is only capable of playing signals in the MP3 (MPEG 1/Layer 3) format. It is not com- patible with other computer audio codecs.

•The MP 3 DSP mode found in the new

AVR requires an MP3 SPDIF stream. Presently, only a few units provide this but in the coming generations of motherboards and operating sys- tem updates this will follow, since SPDIF is the standard for audio & video hardware.

, HDCD®, High Definition Compatible Digital® and Pacific Microsonics™ are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Pacific Microsonics, Inc., in the United States and/or other countries. HDCD System manufactured under license from Pacific Microsonics, Inc.

34OPERATION

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Contents Power for the Digital Revolution AVR 8500 Audio/ Video ReceiverTable of Contents Declaration of ConformityHdcd Decoding for Superb CD Playback Description and FeaturesIntroduction IntroductionImportant Safety Information Safety InformationUnpacking Home THX Mode Selector Press this Power Indicator #Preset Station SelectorHeadphone Jack $Stereo Mode Selector /› Button Front Panel ControlsTo select between the Optical DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete DTS-ES 6.1 MatrixDTS + NEO6 Coaxial ÓFront Panel Information Display Multi Indicator Auto IndicatorFront Panel Information Display Channel Direct Inputs If an external Rear Panel ConnectionsRear Panel Connections Unswitched Outlet Power On Button Power Off ButtonProgram/SPL Indicator Surround Mode SelectorMain Remote Control Functions Channel Direct InputsMain Remote Control Functions Main Remote Control Functions Zone II Remote Control Functions ∆ Play Forward/Reverse/Stop ˚ MuteAudio Equipment Connections Installation and ConnectionsVideo Equipment Connections Video Connection Notes Scart A/V ConnectionsComponent Video Inputs . Note that even Important Note for Adapter CablesImportant Note for the Use SCART-Cinch Adapters Also other colours possible, e.g. brown and greySystem and Power Connections AC Power Connection Speaker PlacementSpeaker Selection System Configuration System ConfigurationUsing the On-Screen Display First Turn OnInput Setup Optional, external power amplifiers Speaker Setup¤ Button Dto begin the speaker configura- tion process Front panel orSubwoofer 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 On the remote. Then press the ⁄/¤ buttons Night Mode SettingsOutput Level Adjustment To select the DOLBYmenu see figTurn off the OSD system if it is in use Using EzSetPress and hold the SPL Indicator Select So that on is highlightedWhen all channels have the same output level Sensor and Indicator offMenu Bass Peak Limiter Surround Mode Chart OperationHall Dolby 3 StereoTheater OFF StereoBasic Operation Controls and Use of HeadphonesSource Selection Digital Audio Playback Surround Mode SelectionOne of the most important features Until Surr OFF appears in the Main Information Display ˆPCM Audio Playback Dolby DigitalDolby Digital Surround EX MP3 Audio PlaybackDigital Bitstream Indicators Selecting a Digital SourceEand adjust to accommodate it Speaker/Channel IndicatorsOFF Indicator off Output Level Adjustment With Source SignalsIndicator Select Tape RecordingTo change the output level Memory BackupChannel/8-Channel Direct Input Will not functionTurn On Volume Level Advanced FeaturesSpeaker Reset Advanced FeaturesSemi-OSD Settings Full-OSD Time Out AdjustmentMultiroom Operation InstallationMultiroom Setup Multiroom OperationTuner Operation Basic Tuner OperationRDS Operation Direct Code Entry Time. When the Program/SPL IndicatorProgramming the Remote with Codes Auto-Search MethodLearning Codes from a Remote Programming the RemoteCode Readout Erasing Learned CodesMacro Programming Erasing Macro CommandsPress the AVR Selector Remote With Other Devices Volume Punch-ThroughProgrammed Device Functions 4and the Mute buttonChannel Control Punch-Through Selector buttonResetting the Remote Memory Function List Function ListScan Scan + Rewind Play Fast Fwd Record Stop Pause Power On Power Off Mute TV Select Channel +Power On Power Off VID 3 Select Channel + Prev Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ClearProcessor 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.
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