Harman-Kardon AVR 145 owner manual Audio Processing and Surround Sound, Analog Audio Signals

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ADVANCED FUNCTIONS

Much of the AVR 145’s performance is handled automatically, with little intervention required on your part. However, the AVR 145 is a sophisti- cated component, and is capable of being customized to suit your par- ticular system and your tastes. In this section we describe some of the more advanced adjustments available on the AVR 145. You may save this section for later, when you have become more familiar with your receiver.

Audio Processing and Surround Sound

Audio signals generated by sources are encoded in a variety of formats that can affect not only the quality of the sound but the number of speaker channels and the surround mode. You may also manually select a different surround mode, although for certain types of audio signals, the modes available will be limited in certain ways, as described below.

Analog Audio Signals

Analog audio signals usually consist of two channels – left and right. The AVR 145 offers three basic options for playback of analog audio:

1.Analog Bypass Mode: In this mode, the 2-channel signal is passed directly to the volume control, without being digitized or undergoing any processing for bass management or surround sound. The requirements for selecting analog bypass mode are:

a)The analog audio inputs for the source must be selected. If neces- sary, press the Digital Button on the remote and use the ⁄/¤ Buttons to make the selection.

b)The tone controls must be disabled by setting TONE MODE to OUT. Either use the Input Setup menu in the full-OSD system to make this change, or press the Tone Mode Button on the front panel or remote and use the ‹/› Buttons (⁄/¤ on the remote) until the TONE OUT message appears.

c)The Surround Off mode must be selected. The easiest way to select the Surround Off mode is to press the Stereo Button on the remote until the Surround Off icon is lit (and the DSP icon is not lit) in the front-panel display.

2.DSP Surround Off Mode: The DSP Surround Off mode digitizes the incoming signal and applies the bass management settings, including speaker configuration, delay times and output levels. This mode is desirable when your front speakers are small, limited-range satellites and you are using a subwoofer. Both the DSP and Surround Off icons will be lit when this mode is active. Press the Stereo Button on the remote repeatedly to select this mode.

3.Analog Surround Modes: One of the main benefits of a surround receiver such as the AVR 145 is its ability to process 2-channel audio signals to produce multichannel surround sound in a variety of modes, even when no surround sound has been encoded in the recording. Among the available modes are the Dolby Pro Logic II modes, the Dolby Virtual Speaker modes, the DTS Neo:6 modes, the Logic 7 modes, the Hall and Theater modes and the Stereo modes.

Digital Audio Signals

Digital audio signals offer the benefit of greater capacity, which allows recording artists to encode center and surround channel information directly into the signal. The result is improved sound quality and startling directionality, since each of these channels is reproduced discretely.

Alternatively, the artist will encode only two channels, but by using a digi- tal signal, the artist has the capacity to increase the sampling rate, which enables him or her to include even more detailed information about the audio signal. High-resolution recordings usually sound extraordinarily distortion-free at all frequencies, but especially at high frequencies.

Multichannel digital recordings usually are found in the 5.1-, 6.1- or 7.1-channel formats. The channels included in a 5.1-channel recording are front left, front right, center, surround left, surround right and LFE. The LFE channel is denoted as “.1” to represent the fact that it is not full-range, being limited to the low frequencies.

6.1-Channel recordings add a single surround back channel, and 7.1- channel recordings add surround back left and surround back right channels to the 5.1-channel configuration. The AVR 145 is unable to play the surround back channels in these recordings, and will use 5.1-channel (or fewer) surround modes.

Digital formats include Dolby Digital 2.0 (two channels only), Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, DTS 96/24 and 2-channel PCM modes in 44.1kHz, 48kHz or 96kHz.

When a digital signal is received, the AVR 145 detects the encoding method and the number of channels. The appropriate icon will light in the front panel for Dolby Digital and DTS signals. The number of chan- nels encoded will scroll once across the front panel display as three numbers, separated by slashes (e.g., “3/2/1”).

The first number indicates the number of front channels in the signal:

“1” represents a monophonic recording, usually an older program that has been digitally remastered or, more rarely, a modern program on which the artist has selected an effect.

“2” indicates the presence of the left and right channels, but no center channel.

“3” indicates that all three front channels (left, right and center) are present.

The second number indicates whether any surround channels are present:

“0” indicates that no surround information is present.

“1” indicates that a matrixed surround signal is present. “2” indicates discrete left and right surround channels.

The third number is used for the LFE channel:

“0” indicates no LFE channel.

“.1” indicates that an LFE channel is present.

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Contents AVR Table of Contents Safety Information When replacement parts are required, beTime Important Safety Information Introduction Thank you for choosing Harman KardonAudio Section Surround ModesSupplied Accessories Audio InputsAudio/Video Inputs With S-Video Digital Audio InputsFRONT-PANEL Controls Surround Tuning Preset Stations Headphone Digital Switch SelectMessage Display Source Video InputsREAR-PANEL Connections Inputs Inputs 1 DMP Input Reset Mode Video Coaxial Digital RS-232Monitor Bridge RS-232 AM AntennaRemote Control Functions Video 3 Controls televisions and other video displaysBridge/DMP Controls an iPod docked in The Bridge AM/FM Remote Control Functions Introduction to Home Theater Surround ModesTypical Home Theater System Multichannel AudioConnecting Source Devices to the AVR ConnectionsTypes of Cables Speaker CablesAudio Connections Digital AudioVideo Connections Analog AudioFM antenna uses a 75-ohm F-connector AntennasRS-232 Serial Port Speaker Placement SUBInstallation Step One Connect the SpeakersStep Three Connect the Antennas Step Four Connect the Source ComponentsVideo 1 Source Installation Steps Video 2 SourceVideo 3 Source TapeStep Six Plug in AC Power Step Five Connect Video DisplayStep Seven Insert Batteries in Remote Turn on your source device Enter a code from aboveTape Cassette Step Nine Turn On the AVR Two steps are required the first time you turn on the AVRInitial Setup Using the On-Screen Menu SystemStep One Determine Speaker Size Step Three Manual Setup Menu Step Two Measure Speaker DistancesSpeaker Size Menu Press the Set Button to display the Speaker Size submenuSpeaker/Channel Input Indicators Speaker Crossover MenuDelay Adjust Menu Step Four EzSet Output Level CalibrationStep Five Configure Sources This is the last step in the configuration processAdvanced users may rerun EzSet for each mode individually You are now ready to begin enjoying your new receiver Sleep Timer Volume ControlOperation Turning On the AVRHeadphones Mute FunctionTone Controls Source SelectionUsing the Tuner Audio Input SelectionVideo Input Selection Channel Direct InputsUsing TheBridgeTM Use the Numeric Keys to enter the desired preset numberRecording Radio stations may be selected in one of four waysSelecting a Surround Mode Advanced FunctionsAnalog Audio Signals Digital Audio SignalsAudio Processing and Surround Sound Surround Select Menu Screen Dolby Surround Settings Night ModeDefault Modes UpsamplingSurround Mode Description Incoming Bitstream or Signal See belowVariants are available Dolby Digital 2.0 orDTS Neo6 See belowPresentation DTS Neo6 96kHz processing LogicSetting Channel Output Levels Manually Using the Remote Control With the Test ToneUsing the Front-Panel Controls Using the Full-OSD MenuSystem Settings Advanced Remote Control Functions Dim FunctionPunch-Through Programming MacrosResetting the Remote Processor ResetMemory Press the Surround Button to erase the macroTroubleshooting Guide AVR 145 Technical Specifications DTSAppendix default settings, worksheets, remote product codes Table A1 Source Input Setting DefaultsTable A2 Speaker/Channel Setting Defaults Table A3 Delay Setting DefaultsTable A4 Source Input Settings Table A5 Speaker/Channel SettingsVideo Bridge/DMP Tape Tuner Channel Title Video InputTable A6 Remote Control Codes Table A7 System SettingsVideo Cable, Satellite Remote Control Function List Reference DVD CD/CD-R FAV Aiwa Logik Teknika Aiwa Realistic Adcom RCX Alphastar ABC Rembrant

AVR 145 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 145 is a compact yet powerful audio/video receiver designed to deliver an exceptional home theater experience. Launched to meet the needs of both music enthusiasts and movie lovers, the AVR 145 combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality sound and versatility.

One of the standout features of the AVR 145 is its impressive power output. The receiver delivers up to 50 watts per channel at 8 ohms, allowing it to produce rich and immersive audio across various media formats. This output ensures that even the most bass-heavy soundtracks and delicate dialogue are rendered with clarity and precision, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Harman-Kardon is known for its commitment to quality sound, and the AVR 145 is no exception. It supports multiple audio formats, including Dolby Digital and DTS, which provide surround sound capabilities that make movies feel like a cinematic experience at home. The receiver also includes High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) inputs, supporting high-resolution video signals while simplifying connectivity between devices.

In terms of connectivity, the AVR 145 is equipped with several inputs and outputs, allowing users to connect multiple audio and video sources. It features composite video, component video, and multiple optical and coaxial digital audio inputs, making it compatible with various devices such as DVD players, game consoles, and media streaming devices. This versatility ensures that users can easily integrate the AVR 145 into their existing entertainment systems.

The user interface of the AVR 145 is thoughtfully designed, making it easy for users to navigate through settings and inputs. The built-in on-screen display offers a straightforward setup experience, and the remote control is intuitive for effortless operation. Additionally, the receiver includes a stereo mode for those who prefer a two-channel audio experience, catering to both modern surround sound setups and traditional stereo configurations.

Another notable characteristic of the AVR 145 is its compact design. With a sleek and elegant appearance, it fits seamlessly into any home entertainment setup without taking up excessive space. This aesthetic appeal, combined with its robust performance, positions the AVR 145 as a brilliant choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience without the bulk.

In summary, the Harman-Kardon AVR 145 stands out as a remarkable A/V receiver that combines powerful performance, versatile connectivity, and user-friendly design. Whether for movies, music, or gaming, it is an excellent addition to any home theater system, providing a reliable and high-quality audio experience for years to come.
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