Harman-Kardon AVR 145 Setting Channel Output Levels Manually, Using the Front-Panel Controls

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ADVANCED FUNCTIONS

Setting Channel Output Levels Manually

For a conventional 2-channel receiver, the balance control enables the user to control the stereo imaging by adjusting the relative loudness of the left and right channels, as heard at the listening position.

With five main channels plus a subwoofer, imaging becomes both more critical and more complex. Unlike the rotary balance control, the goal of the AVR 145’s channel output adjustment process is to examine the output level of each channel independently and ensure that each is heard at the listening position with equal loudness.

If you followed the instructions in Step Four of the Initial Setup section, then you let EzSet handle this critical task for you, simply and auto- matically.

However, if you prefer to make these adjustments manually, the

AVR 145’s Channel Adjust menu allows you to do so, either using the system’s test tone or while playing source material. In addition, this is the only method for adjusting the level of the subwoofer.

You may use either the EzSet remote or a handheld SPL meter (avail- able at most electronics stores) set to the C-Weighting, Slow scale.

1.Make sure all speakers have been connected correctly.

2.Use the Speaker Size menu, or press the Speaker Setup Button on the remote, to make sure the correct speaker size has been entered for each speaker in your system.

3.Use the Speaker X-over menu to program the correct crossover setting for each speaker in your system.

4.Use the Delay Adjust menu, or press the Delay Button on the remote control, to enter the distance between each speaker and the listening position.

5.If you are using a handheld SPL meter with source material, such as a test disc or another audio selection, play it now and adjust the AVR’s master volume control until the meter measures 75dB.

6.If you are using the EzSet remote, either set the master volume to –15dB, or you may play source material and press the SPL Button once. Adjust the volume until the LED turns green. If it’s amber, the volume is too low; if it’s red, the volume is too high.

7.There are several methods of adjusting the channel output levels, using either the test tone or source materials. In all cases, you may measure the channel levels in one of three ways:

a)By ear. Try to adjust the levels so that all channels sound equally loud.

A. Using the Remote Control With the Test Tone

While sitting in the listening position, press the Test Button on the remote. The test tone will start playing at the front left channel. After a few seconds, it will move to the center channel, then the front right channel, surround right, surround left and finally the subwoofer, display- ing the channel name on the front of the receiver and in the semi-OSD display, as well as the current level setting (varies between –10dB and +10dB). Press the /¤ Buttons to adjust the level setting, and the tone will remain at that channel until several seconds after your last adjustment. When you have finished adjusting the levels, press the Test Button again to stop the tone. Measure the levels by ear, using an SPL meter, or using the remote, as described above.

B. Using the Front-Panel Controls

You may adjust the levels by pressing the Channel Button on the front panel, and the FRONT L LEVEL message will appear. Use the /Buttons on the front panel to select the desired speaker channel to adjust, and press the Set Button when the desired channel is displayed. The current level for that channel will appear, and you may adjust it using the /Buttons. Press the Set Button to return to the speaker channel choices. This method is not recommended, as you will not be able to measure the channel levels at the listening position. In addition, this method requires that a source is playing.

C. Using the Full-OSD Menu

Next to EzSet, the full-OSD menu system offers the easiest and most flexible manner of setting output levels. Press the OSD Button to display the Master Menu, and then navigate to the MANUAL SETUP line. Press the Set Button to display the Manual Setup menu, and then navigate to the CHANNEL ADJUST line. Press the Set Button to display the Channel Adjust menu.

Figure 67 – Channel Adjust Menu Screen

b)Using a handheld SPL meter set to the C-Weighting, Slow scale. Try to adjust each channel so that the meter reads 75dB.

c)Using the AVR 145 remote, press the SPL Button once so that the LED lights steadily. When it’s amber, the level is too low and should be raised. When the LED is red, the level is too high and should be low- ered. When the LED is green, the level is correct.

All of the speaker channels will appear at the top of the screen with their current level settings. Any channels that have not been programmed using the Speaker Size menu will display four dashes and will not be accessible.

CHANNEL RESET: If you wish to start by resetting all of the levels to their factory defaults of 0dB, navigate to this line and change the setting to ON. The levels will be reset, and this setting will then revert to OFF.

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Contents AVR Table of Contents Time Safety InformationWhen replacement parts are required, be Important Safety Information Thank you for choosing Harman Kardon IntroductionAudio Section Surround ModesAudio Inputs Supplied AccessoriesAudio/Video Inputs With S-Video Digital Audio InputsFRONT-PANEL Controls Switch Select Surround Tuning Preset Stations Headphone DigitalMessage Display Source Video InputsREAR-PANEL Connections Video Coaxial Digital RS-232 Inputs Inputs 1 DMP Input Reset ModeMonitor Bridge RS-232 AM AntennaBridge/DMP Controls an iPod docked in The Bridge Remote Control FunctionsVideo 3 Controls televisions and other video displays AM/FM Remote Control Functions Surround Modes Introduction to Home TheaterTypical Home Theater System Multichannel AudioConnections Connecting Source Devices to the AVRTypes of Cables Speaker CablesDigital Audio Audio ConnectionsVideo Connections Analog AudioRS-232 Serial Port FM antenna uses a 75-ohm F-connectorAntennas SUB Speaker PlacementStep One Connect the Speakers InstallationStep Three Connect the Antennas Step Four Connect the Source ComponentsVideo 1 Source Video 2 Source Installation StepsVideo 3 Source TapeStep Seven Insert Batteries in Remote Step Six Plug in AC PowerStep Five Connect Video Display Tape Cassette Turn on your source deviceEnter a code from above Two steps are required the first time you turn on the AVR Step Nine Turn On the AVRStep One Determine Speaker Size Initial SetupUsing the On-Screen Menu System Step Two Measure Speaker Distances Step Three Manual Setup MenuSpeaker Size Menu Press the Set Button to display the Speaker Size submenuSpeaker Crossover Menu Speaker/Channel Input IndicatorsStep Four EzSet Output Level Calibration Delay Adjust MenuAdvanced users may rerun EzSet for each mode individually Step Five Configure SourcesThis is the last step in the configuration process You are now ready to begin enjoying your new receiver Volume Control Sleep TimerOperation Turning On the AVRMute Function HeadphonesTone Controls Source SelectionAudio Input Selection Using the TunerVideo Input Selection Channel Direct InputsUse the Numeric Keys to enter the desired preset number Using TheBridgeTMRecording Radio stations may be selected in one of four waysAdvanced Functions Selecting a Surround ModeAudio Processing and Surround Sound Analog Audio SignalsDigital Audio Signals Surround Select Menu Screen Night Mode Dolby Surround SettingsDefault Modes UpsamplingSee below Surround Mode Description Incoming Bitstream or SignalVariants are available Dolby Digital 2.0 orSee below DTS Neo6Presentation DTS Neo6 96kHz processing LogicUsing the Remote Control With the Test Tone Setting Channel Output Levels ManuallyUsing the Front-Panel Controls Using the Full-OSD MenuSystem Settings Dim Function Advanced Remote Control FunctionsPunch-Through Programming MacrosProcessor Reset Resetting the RemoteMemory Press the Surround Button to erase the macroTroubleshooting Guide DTS AVR 145 Technical SpecificationsTable A1 Source Input Setting Defaults Appendix default settings, worksheets, remote product codesTable A2 Speaker/Channel Setting Defaults Table A3 Delay Setting DefaultsTable A5 Speaker/Channel Settings Table A4 Source Input SettingsVideo Bridge/DMP Tape Tuner Channel Title Video InputVideo Cable, Satellite Table A6 Remote Control CodesTable A7 System Settings 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.