Harman-Kardon AVR 5550 owner manual Digital Audio Playback, Dolby Digital, PCM Audio Playback

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Operation

When the 6-Channel/8-Channel direct inputs are in use there is no surround processing, as these inputs take the analog output signals from an optional, external DVD-Audio or SACD player, or another source device and carry them straight through to the volume control.

To listen to a program in traditional two-channel stereo, using the front left and front right speakers only (plus the subwoofer, if installed and configured), press the Stereo Button 5

until SURR OFF appears in the Main Information Display ˜.

Digital Audio Playback

Digital audio is a major advancement over older analog surround processing systems such as Dolby Pro Logic. It delivers five or six discrete channels: left front, center, right front, left surround and right surround and with DTS ES (see below) even surround back (with identical signals for left and right). Each channel repro- duces full frequency range (20Hz to 20kHz) and offers dramatically improved dynamic range and significant improvements to signal-to-noise ratios. In addition, digital systems have the capability to deliver an additional channel that is specifically devoted to low-frequency infor- mation. This is the “.1” channel referred to when you see these systems described as “5.1,” “6.1” or “7.1”. The bass channel is separate from the other channels, but since it is intentionally bandwidth-limited, sound designers have given it that unique designation.

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.

Note that an optional, external RF demodulator is required to use the AVR 5550 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 *Ó of the AVR 5550. 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, 6.1 or 7.1 audio. Although both DTS and Dolby Digital are digital, they use different methods 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 5550, 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 5550, 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. The digital circuits in the AVR 5550 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

Lower Display Line B, then press the Set but- ton @Fto confirm the choice.

During PCM playback the unit automatically will turn to the default surround mode or to the LOGIC 7 mode but you also may select any surround 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 5550 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 Com- patible Digital®, is a sophisticated process that enables the AVR 5550 to deliver outstanding digital-to-analog decoding of PCM signals from any DVD or CD player, connected to a digital input on the AVR 5550 even when normal, non-HDCD-compatible players are used (only a digital output is needed).

When a CD with the HDCD recording is played, the AVR 5550 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 5550 will automatically sense that it is an HDCD recording.

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 5550 is one of the few A/V receivers to provide on-board decoding for the MP3 audio format used on specific computer audio files and by portable MP3 players/recorders. In addition, some new CD and DVD players are capable of playing back optical discs that are recorded with MP3, rather than standard CD audio information. By offering MP3 decoding, the AVR 5550 is able to deliver more precise conversion of the digital signals to an analog output, along with the benefits of listening to MP3 audio through the AVR 5550’s high current amplifier and the speakers from your surround system, rather than the smaller speakers and low powered amplifiers typically used with computers.

, 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.

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Contents AVR 5550 Audio/ Video Receiver Power for the Digital RevolutionDeclaration of Conformity Table of ContentsFront panel analog A/V inputs, switch- able to outputs Description and FeaturesIntroduction Variety of modes and two modes of VMAxSafety Information Important Safety InformationUnpacking Front Panel Controls Coaxial Ó See page 40 for more information on tuning stationsFor more information To select between the OpticalFront Panel Information Display Multi Indicator Auto IndicatorDigital Audio Outputs Connect these Rear Panel ConnectionsUnswitched Outlet Video source selected by the receiver’s video switcherSwitched Outlet AC Power Cord Jack Connect the AC + and negative terminalsRear Panel Connections Main Remote Control Functions Direct Button K Tuning Up/DownLogic 7 Mode Select Button P Transport Controls Channel/8 Channel Direct Input Movies ∆ Play Forward/Reverse/Stop ˚ Mute Zone II Remote Control FunctionsInstallation and Connections Audio Equipment ConnectionsVideo Equipment Connections Scart A/V Connections If you use a unit providing RGB signals on a RGB signals can be pathed throughImportant Note for the Use SCART-Cinch Adapters System and Power Connections Speaker Selection Speaker PlacementUsing the On-Screen Display System ConfigurationSystem Setup First Turn OnSpeaker Setup Input SetupSurround Subwoofer Surround Setup Delay Settings Adjustments for Other InputsNight Mode Settings To call up the menuOutput Level Adjustment Using EzSetPress 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 ChartMix of the in-phase material of the left and right channels No delay availableNo surround channels But no surround speakersBasic Operation Source SelectionChannel/8-Channel Direct Input Surround Mode Selection Controls and Use of HeadphonesVolume Up/Down Buttons One of the most important featuresDolby Digital Digital Audio PlaybackPCM Audio Playback MP3 Audio PlaybackDigital Bitstream Indicators MP 3 DSP mode found in the newSpeaker/Channel Indicators Selecting a Digital SourceTape Recording Night ModeFront Panel In/Outputs Or 2 OutputsOutput Level Adjustment With Source Signals Memory BackupIndicator Select Turn On Volume Level Advanced FeaturesSurround Amplifier Channel Assignment Display BrightnessSemi-OSD Settings Advanced Features / Multiroom OperationFull-OSD Time Out Adjustment InstallationMultiroom Operation Multiroom SetupRS-232 Control Multiroom OperationTuner Operation Basic Tuner OperationRDS Operation Program Search PTY RDS stationDirect Code Entry Programming the Remote with CodesIf the unit you wish to program into Must be repeated firstCode Readout Programming the RemoteLearning Codes from a Remote Erasing Learned CodesErasing Macro Commands Macro ProgrammingPress the AVR Selector Programmed Device Functions Volume Punch-ThroughRemote With Other Devices 4and the Mute buttonSelector button Channel Control Punch-ThroughResetting the Remote Memory Function List Power On Power Off VID 3 Select Channel + Power On Power Off Mute TV Select Channel +Scan Scan + Rewind Play Fast Fwd Record Stop Pause Prev Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ClearProcessor Reset Troubleshooting GuidePower Switch 1 is pushed Remote sensor ¯ is obscuredTechnical 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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