Harman-Kardon AVR 120 owner manual Introduction, While complex digital systems are hard

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Introduction

Thank you for choosing Harman Kardon! With the purchase of a Harman Kardon

AVR 120 you are about to begin many years of listening enjoyment. The AVR 120 has been custom-designed to provide all the excitement and detail of movie soundtracks and every nuance of musical selections. With onboard Dolby* Digital and DTS® decoding, the AVR 120 delivers six discrete channels of audio that take advantage of the digital soundtracks from the latest DVD and LD releases and Digital Television broadcasts.

While complex digital systems are hard

at work within the AVR 120 to make all of this happen, hookup and operation are simple. Color-keyed connections and a programmable remote control make the AVR 120 easy to use. To obtain the maximum enjoyment from your new receiver, we urge you to take a few min- utes to read through this manual. This will ensure that connections to speakers, source playback units and other external devices are made properly. In addition, a few minutes spent learning the functions of the various con- trols will enable you to take advantage of all the power the AVR 120 is able to deliver.

If you have any questions about this product, its installation or its operation, please contact your retailer or custom installer. They are your best local sources of information.

Description and Features

The AVR 120 is among the most versatile and multifeatured A/V receivers available, incorpo- rating a wide range of listening options. In addition to Dolby Digital and DTS decoding for digital sources, a broad choice of analog sur- round modes are available for use with sources such as CD, VCR, TV broadcasts and the

AVR 120’s own FM/AM tuner. Along with the latest Dolby Pro Logic* II decoding technology, Dolby 3 Stereo and custom Hall and Theater modes, only Harman Kardon receivers offer Logic 7® to create a wider, more enveloping field environment and more defined fly-overs and pans. Another Harman Kardon exclusive is VMAx®, which uses proprietary processing to create an open, spacious sound field even when only two front speakers are available. Finally, the AVR 120 is among the very few A/V receivers that offer decoding of MP3 data, so that you may listen to the latest music selec- tions directly from compatible computers or playback devices with the power and fidelity you expect from Harman Kardon.

In addition to providing a wide range of listen- ing options, the AVR 120 is easy to configure so that it provides the best results with your speakers and specific listening-room environment.

For the ultimate in flexibility, the AVR 120 fea- tures connections for five video devices, all with both composite and S-Video inputs, including the front panel inputs. Two additional audio inputs are available, and a total of six digital inputs make the AVR 120 capable of handling all the latest digital audio sources. Coax and optical digital outputs are also available for direct connection to digital recorders. The

AVR 120’s powerful amplifier uses traditional Harman Kardon high-current design technolo- gies to meet the wide dynamic range of any program selection.

Harman Kardon invented the high-fidelity receiver more than forty-seven years ago. With state-of-the-art circuitry and time-honored cir- cuit designs, the AVR 120 is one of the finest receivers ever offered by Harman Kardon.

Onboard Dolby Digital and DTS Decoding Using Crystal® Chip Technology

Harman Kardon’s Exclusive Logic 7 and VMAx Modes

Dolby Laboratories’ Latest Pro Logic II Decoding Technology

MP3 Decoding for Use With Computers and Digital Audio Players

Front Panel Digital Inputs for Easy Connection to Portable Digital Devices and the Latest Video Game Consoles

Multiple Digital Inputs and Outputs

Color-Coded Input, Output and Speaker Terminals Comply With the Latest CEA Standards for Easy Installation

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: To prevent electric shock,

do not use this (polarized) plug with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can

be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s

enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the

literature accompanying the appliance.

3INTRODUCTION

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Contents AVR 120 Audio/ Video Receiver AVR 120 Audio/ Video Receiver Description and Features IntroductionWhile complex digital systems are hard Safety Information Important Safety InformationUnpacking Front Panel Controls Set Button  Input Indicators Ò DelaySee Preset Stations Selector Press thisDolby 3 Stereo Indicator Preset Indicator Night Mode Indicator This indicatorFront Panel Information Display Front Panel Information Display Rear Panel Connections ‚ ⁄¤¶ FM Antenna Rear Panel Connections Remote Control Functions Dialog center channel intelligibility at low volume levels Remote Control FunctionsPreset Up/Down When the tuner is Video Equipment Connections Installation and ConnectionsSystem Installation Audio Equipment ConnectionsPower Connections System Configuration Speaker Selection and PlacementSpeaker Placement Pro Logic II Indicator D lights Plug the Power Cord into an unswitched AC outletSystem Setup Speaker SetupIf no subwoofer is connected to Output Level AdjustmentSL LFE SR Delay SettingsPress the Digital Button p24 Additional Input AdjustmentsPress the Surround Mode Selector Press the Set Button o21Operation Basic OperationSource Selection Surround Mode Chart Selecting a Digital Source Surround Mode SelectionSurround Mode Indicators ˜ list on Digital Audio PlaybackDigital Status Indicators Addition to the bitstream indicators,Night Mode Station Selection Tuner OperationPCM Audio Playback MP3 Audio PlaybackTape Recording Output Level Trim AdjustmentPreset Tuning Recalling Preset StationsProgramming the Remote Programming the RemoteMacro Programming Erasing Macro CommandsMode Selector/Channel Down Button j When the Program Indicator c goesPunch-Through Programming Volume Punch-ThroughResetting the Remote Memory Reassigning Device Control SelectorsTransport Control Punch-Through Function List Skip Preset UpPreset Down Tune DownSetup Code Table TV 121 123 125 115 123 128 160 167 168176 177 179 180 181 182Setup Code Table VCR Setup Code Number Setup Code Table CDManufacturer/Brand Setup Code Table Tape Setup Code Table DVDManufacturer/Brand Setup Code Number Setup Code Table SAT Setup Code Table CBL 025 086 089 081 177 189011 163 034 039 042FM Mode Selector @ buttons for three seconds Troubleshooting GuideProcessor Reset System Power Control Button 2. NextTechnical Specifications Harman Kardon, Incorporated Part No. J90200012410

AVR 120 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 120 is a notable addition to the world of home theater receivers, gaining recognition for its high-quality audio performance, versatility, and user-friendly features. Designed to deliver an immersive listening experience, the AVR 120 is ideal for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.

One of the standout features of the AVR 120 is its powerful amplification capabilities. The receiver offers 60 watts per channel across seven channels, ensuring robust sound output that can fill larger rooms with ease. With support for Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound formats, the AVR 120 also excels in creating a cinematic audio environment, allowing users to fully engage with their favorite movies, music, and video games.

Connectivity is a key aspect of the AVR 120's design. The receiver includes multiple input options, including HDMI, composite, and optical inputs, allowing users to connect various devices such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. The presence of four HDMI inputs simplifies the connection of multiple high-definition sources, while the HDMI output supports audio return channel (ARC) functionality, making it easier to integrate with modern TVs.

For those who appreciate high-resolution audio, the AVR 120 is equipped with a 24-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog converter, ensuring that music playback is detailed and refined. This feature, combined with the support for various audio formats, including MP3 and WMA, makes the receiver a flexible choice for different listening preferences.

User-friendliness is another hallmark of the AVR 120. The receiver features an intuitive on-screen interface that simplifies navigation through settings and adjustments. The inclusion of a remote control enhances convenience, giving users the ability to manage their audio experience from the comfort of their couch.

In terms of design, the AVR 120 boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic, characterized by a clean front panel and easy-to-read display. This design choice not only enhances its visual appeal but also ensures that the receiver can seamlessly blend with other home entertainment equipment.

Furthermore, the Harman-Kardon AVR 120 incorporates several protection circuits designed to safeguard both the receiver and connected speakers from potential damage due to overloading or overheating. This added security gives users peace of mind while enjoying their audio content.

In conclusion, the Harman-Kardon AVR 120 stands out for its powerful amplification, versatile connectivity options, and high-resolution audio capabilities. Its user-friendly interface and elegant design further enhance its appeal, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their home audio experience.