Harman-Kardon AVR 5550 owner manual Speaker Selection, Speaker Placement

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Installation and Connections

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 5550 is used in 5.1-channel oper- ation, the preferred location for surround speak- ers 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.

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

 

 

than 2m

-mounted

are used

 

 

No more

when rear

speakers

 

 

 

 

 

Optional 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.

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Contents AVR 5550 Audio/ Video Receiver Power for the Digital RevolutionDeclaration of Conformity Table of ContentsVariety of modes and two modes of VMAx Description and FeaturesFront panel analog A/V inputs, switch- able to outputs IntroductionImportant Safety Information Safety InformationUnpacking Front Panel Controls To select between the Optical See page 40 for more information on tuning stationsCoaxial Ó For more informationFront Panel Information Display Multi Indicator Auto IndicatorDigital Audio Outputs Connect these Rear Panel Connections+ and negative terminals Video source selected by the receiver’s video switcherUnswitched Outlet Switched Outlet AC Power Cord Jack Connect the ACRear Panel Connections Direct Button K Tuning Up/Down Main Remote Control FunctionsLogic 7 Mode Select Button P Transport Controls Channel/8 Channel Direct Input Movies ∆ Play Forward/Reverse/Stop ˚ Mute Zone II Remote Control FunctionsAudio Equipment Connections Installation and ConnectionsVideo Equipment Connections Scart A/V Connections RGB signals can be pathed through If you use a unit providing RGB signals on aImportant Note for the Use SCART-Cinch Adapters System and Power Connections Speaker Selection Speaker PlacementFirst Turn On System ConfigurationUsing the On-Screen Display System SetupSpeaker Setup Input SetupSurround Subwoofer Surround Setup To call up the menu Adjustments for Other InputsDelay Settings Night Mode SettingsUsing EzSet Output Level AdjustmentPress and hold the SPL Indicator Select So that on is highlighted Sensor and Indicator offUp the Volume until you can hear the test noise clearly Operation Surround Mode ChartBut no surround speakers No delay availableMix of the in-phase material of the left and right channels No surround channelsSource Selection Basic OperationChannel/8-Channel Direct Input One of the most important features Controls and Use of HeadphonesSurround Mode Selection Volume Up/Down ButtonsMP3 Audio Playback Digital Audio PlaybackDolby Digital PCM Audio PlaybackSelecting a Digital Source MP 3 DSP mode found in the newDigital Bitstream Indicators Speaker/Channel IndicatorsOr 2 Outputs Night ModeTape Recording Front Panel In/OutputsMemory Backup Output Level Adjustment With Source SignalsIndicator Select Display Brightness Advanced FeaturesTurn On Volume Level Surround Amplifier Channel AssignmentInstallation Advanced Features / Multiroom OperationSemi-OSD Settings Full-OSD Time Out AdjustmentMultiroom Operation Multiroom SetupMultiroom Operation RS-232 ControlBasic Tuner Operation Tuner OperationRDS Operation Program Search PTY RDS stationMust be repeated first Programming the Remote with CodesDirect Code Entry If the unit you wish to program intoErasing 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 Prev 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 PauseRemote sensor ¯ is obscured Troubleshooting GuideProcessor Reset Power Switch 1 is pushedTechnical Specifications Harman Consumer International

AVR 5550 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 5550 is a highly regarded audio/video receiver that embodies a perfect blend of power, performance, and versatility. Designed for the discerning home theater enthusiast, this model delivers a remarkable audio-visual experience with its robust set of features and cutting-edge technologies.

One of the standout characteristics of the AVR 5550 is its impressive power output. With 100 watts per channel across seven channels, it is capable of driving a wide range of speakers with clarity and authority. The amplifier section employs Harman-Kardon's legendary technology to ensure low distortion and a dynamic listening experience. This level of power allows users to experience immersive sound in their home theaters, making it ideal for movie nights and music playback alike.

Equipped with a variety of connectivity options, the AVR 5550 is designed to integrate seamlessly with modern audio and video sources. The receiver features numerous HDMI inputs to accommodate multiple devices, including Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Additionally, it provides optical and coaxial digital inputs, as well as analog inputs for older equipment. This comprehensive set of connectivity options ensures that users can enjoy a wide range of media without the hassle of frequently switching cables.

The AVR 5550 also includes advanced surround sound processing technologies, like Dolby Digital and DTS, which contribute to its ability to create an enveloping soundstage. The integration of Harman-Kardon’s own Logic 7 technology enhances the audio experience by utilizing multi-channel processing to extract the best sound from stereo and multi-channel sources alike.

In terms of design, the AVR 5550 sports a sleek, modern aesthetic that fits well into any home theater setup. The intuitive user interface and remote control make it easy for users to navigate settings and choose their desired audio modes. The receiver also features a built-in AM/FM tuner, expanding its functionality beyond just home theater use.

Lastly, the AVR 5550 emphasizes user-friendly features such as on-screen displays and programmable presets, allowing personal preferences to be easily adjusted. Whether for casual listening or full-fledged cinematic experiences, the Harman-Kardon AVR 5550 stands out as a dependable and high-quality option that caters to all audiovisual needs. Its fusion of power, versatility, and advanced technologies makes it a favorite among audio enthusiasts around the world.
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