Cambridge Audio 540D Introduction, Brief introduction to DVD and DVD Audio, About this unit

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on purchasing this Cambridge Audio Azur range DVD player. It is the result of our most extensive ever research and development program in over three decades of producing quality Hi Fi products. We hope that you will appreciate the results and enjoy many years of rewarding ownership.

A brief introduction to DVD and DVD Audio

DVD is well known for its extraordinarily large capacity and outstanding audio-video effects. Its capacity is as high as 4.7-17 GB (approximately 7-26 times the capacity of CD). With 500-line horizontal resolution of pictures and Dolby Digital 5.1 Channel surround sound, it brings a new era to audio visual entertainment .

Using MLP Lossless from Dolby Laboratories, DVD-Audio discs can store up to six channels of 24-bit/96 kHz audio, including a separate low- frequency bass channel. Compare that to two channels of 16-bit/44.1 kHz sound from CDs! For audiophiles, a DVD-Audio disc can alternatively hold two channels of 24-bit/192 kHz audio, exceeding the quality of any music audio format previously developed.

About this unit

The Azur DVD player encompasses the most sophisticated picture reproduction, including the ability to reproduce a progressive scan image in both PAL and NTSC. Progressive scan offers a considerable leap in picture quality from the already impressive standards set by conventional DVD-Video. The usual way of creating a picture process draws screen lines twice per frame: once for the even-numbered lines and once for the odd-numbered lines, interlacing 25/30 times per

540D DVD player

second. Progressive Scan DVD players scan from top to bottom in one fluid pass, painting 50/60 whole frames per second. This makes it harder to discern a picture's individual scan lines, which dramatically increases resolution while minimising distortion and flickering. This allows for a stunningly realistic picture on a suitably equipped monitor.

Sonically, the 540D adds DVD-Audio playback for the best possible musical performance in both multi-channel surround and high quality stereo. Cambridge Audio has also worked hard to ensure that CD replay is excellent and up to the standards of the rest of the 540D.

To maximise the performance from this equipment we would encourage you to use only high quality viewing sources, amplification and capable loudspeakers. We particularly recommend amplification from the Cambridge Audio Azur range, which has been designed to the same exacting standards as our DVD players.

Cabling is also an area that should not be overlooked. Please do not compromise your system's performance by using poor quality cables to connect your DVD to your television and amplifier or the amplifiers' output to your loudspeakers. A system is only as good as its weakest link. Your dealer can supply quality Cambridge Audio interconnects that will ensure your whole system realises its full potential.

Now we invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy!

Matthew Bramble

Technical Director

azur 540D DVD player 3