Setting the Speaker Crossover menu correctly ensures that your speakers sound their best. Although you could skip this step the first time you use the receiver, we recommend that you take the few extra minutes to enter the correct crossover settings.

Select from seven possible settings: 40Hz, 60Hz, 80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz or 200Hz. For each speaker group, select the number that matches or is just above the low end of your speaker’s frequency response, which you recorded in Step One – Determine Speaker Size. Record the speaker crossover settings in Table A6 in the Appendix.

The LFE line sets the frequency that determines what information is sent to the subwoofer. The subwoofer output combines low-frequency information for all channels. To make sure no information is lost, set the LFE line to the speaker group with the highest crossover frequency. Move the cursor to the LFE line, and use the / Buttons to make a selection. If all three speaker groups have the same setting, leave the LFE filter at its factory default of LEFT/RIGHT.

Move the cursor to the BACK TO MANUAL SETUP line and press the OK Button to return to the Manual Setup menu.

It is not possible to adjust the speaker crossover settings without using the on-screen menu system.

Delay Adjust Menu

As explained above in Step Two – Measure Speaker Distances, sometimes the speakers are placed at different distances from the listening position, which can muddy the sound, as sounds are heard earlier or later than desired.

Even if all of your speakers are placed the same distance from the listening position, do not skip this menu.

In the Manual Setup menu, move the cursor to the DELAY ADJUST line and press the OK Button to display the Delay Adjust menu. See Figure 46.

Figure 46 – Delay Adjust Menu Screen

This menu requires you to enter the distance from each speaker to the listening position, which you measured in Step Two – Measure Speaker Distances and noted in Table A4 in the Appendix.

The default unit of measurement is in feet. If you wish to change the unit to meters, move the cursor to the UNIT line, and use the / Buttons to change the unit to METER.

INITIAL SETUP

Use the /¤ Buttons to move the cursor to the FL (front left) line; then use the / Buttons to change the measurement as needed. Use the /¤ Buttons to move to each speaker in turn – CEN (center), FR (front right), SR (surround right), SL (surround left) and SUB (subwoofer).

DELAY RESET: This line is used to reset all of the speaker delay settings to the factory default of 10 feet (3.0 meters) at once. Use the

/ Buttons to change the setting of OFF to ON. If you change any speaker’s setting, this line will automatically revert to OFF.

A/V SYNC DELAY: This line allows you to compensate for a “lip sync” problem, in which a source device or the video display introduces

a significant amount of video processing that causes the audio and video parts of the signal to lose synchronization. You may delay the audio for all channels by up to 180 milliseconds to compensate.

NOTE: We recommend adjusting the A/V Sync Delay using the Delay Button on the remote, so as to view the picture while adjusting the audio delay. With the program playing, press the Delay Button, and the A/V SYNC DELAY message will appear on the front panel and in the semi-OSD display. Press the

OK Button to display the current delay setting, and use the

/¤ Buttons to adjust the setting until the picture and sound are back in sync.

Move the cursor to the BACK TO MANUAL SETUP line and press the OK Button to return to the Manual Setup menu, or press the OSD Button to exit the menu system.

You may adjust the delay settings without using the on-screen menu system. Select a surround mode that uses all of the speakers in your system. Press the Delay Button on the remote to display the A/V SYNC DELAY message. If you wish to adjust A/V Sync Delay as described in the above note, press the OK Button to select it. Otherwise, use the /¤ Buttons to scroll through the list of all loudspeakers in your system. Press the OK Button when the speaker you wish to adjust is displayed, and use the /¤ Buttons again to change the setting. Press the OK Button to return to the previous display, or wait a few seconds for the AVR to return to normal operation on its own.

Step Four – Output Level Calibration

This is an important step in the configuration process, and should not be skipped.

Many people assume that during a presentation, such as a movie, the surround channels will sound as loud as the front channels. However, this is usually not the case, as directors often steer just the ambient or background sounds to the surround channels. For example, during a rainy scene you may only hear rain falling, with the occasional thunder- clap, from the surround speakers while the main dialogue is heard from the center speakers. At times, you may not hear any sounds at all from the surround channels.

To achieve these effects successfully, it is important that the surround channels sound as loud as the other channels when a test tone is played. Therefore, calibrating the speaker output levels so that all speakers

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Harman-Kardon AVR 154 owner manual Step Four Output Level Calibration, Delay Adjust Menu

AVR 154 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 154 is a high-performance audio-video receiver designed for home theater enthusiasts seeking an immersive audio experience. Launched as part of Harman's esteemed line of receivers, the AVR 154 combines sophisticated technology with user-friendly features to create a versatile home entertainment solution.

One of the standout features of the AVR 154 is its multi-channel amplification, delivering a robust output of 50 watts per channel. This power allows for clean and dynamic sound, making it ideal for both movies and music. The AVR 154 supports a 5.1 surround sound configuration, providing an enveloping audio experience that brings films to life. With its ability to decode various surround sound formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, it ensures that users enjoy high-quality audio without compromise.

Connectivity is a key aspect of the AVR 154, which offers multiple HDMI inputs, allowing for easy connection to various sources like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. With three HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, users have the flexibility to connect multiple devices while enabling audio and video pass-through. The receiver is also equipped with optical and coaxial digital inputs, ensuring compatibility with older audio sources.

Another important feature is the built-in FM/AM tuner, allowing users to access their favorite radio stations without the need for an external receiver. For those who prioritize convenience, the AVR 154 includes an intuitive on-screen display, guiding users through setup and configuration seamlessly. Additionally, the remote control provides easy access to all functions, making operation straightforward.

In terms of design, the Harman-Kardon AVR 154 boasts a sleek aesthetic with a brushed aluminum front panel. The distinctive look, combined with an easy-to-navigate interface, makes it an attractive addition to any home entertainment setup.

Overall, the Harman-Kardon AVR 154 stands out as a reliable and feature-rich AV receiver. With its impressive audio performance, extensive connectivity options, and user-friendly design, it caters to the needs of home theater enthusiasts who seek impactful sound and ultimate flexibility for their entertainment needs. Whether you’re enjoying a thrilling movie or listening to your favorite music, the AVR 154 promises to deliver an exceptional auditory experience.