Operation

source is playing, the AVR 310 will automat- ically detect whether it is a multichannel Dolby Digital, DTS source, MP3 or a conventional PCM signal, which is the standard output from CD players. A Bitstream Indicator A will light in the Main Information Display Û to confirm that the digital signal is Dolby Digital, DTS or PCM.

Digital Status Indicators

When a digital source is playing, the AVR 310 senses the type of bitstream data that is pres- ent. Using this information, the correct sur- round mode will automatically be selected. For example, DTS bitstreams will cause the unit to switch to DTS decoding, and Dolby Digital bit- streams will enable Dolby Digital decoding. When the unit senses PCM data from CDs and LDs, it will allow the appropriate surround sources to be selected manually. Since the range of available surround modes is depen- dant on the type of digital data that is present, the AVR 310 uses a variety of indicators to let you know what type of signal is present. This will help you to understand the choice of modes.

When a digital source is playing, a Bitstream Indicator A will light to show which type of signal is playing:

DOLBY D: When the DOLBY D indicator lights, a Dolby Digital bitstream is being received. Depending on the settings on the source player and specific surround information and number of channels on the disc, a number of surround modes are possible. For discs with full 5.1 audio, only the Dolby Digital and VMAx modes are available. When the Dolby Digital signal is only two-channel, you may also select from the Logic 7 Cinema/Music, Hall, Theater, Dolby Pro Logic or Dolby 3 Stereo modes.

DTS: When the DTS indicator lights, a DTS bitstream is being received. When the unit senses this type of data, only the DTS mode may be used.

PCM: When the PCM indicator lights, a stan- dard Pulse Code Modulation, or PCM, signal is being received. This is the type of digital audio used by conventional compact disc and laser disc recordings. When a PCM bitstream is pres- ent, all modes except Dolby Digital and DTS are available.

MP3: When the MP3 indicator lights, a com- patible MPEG 1/Layer 3 digital signal is being received. This is the popular audio format used by many computer programs for recording com- pressed audio files. When an MP3 bitstream is present, the sound will automatically be played in the stereo (surround off) mode. The surround modes are not available during MP3 playback.

In addition to the bitstream indicators, the

AVR 310 features a set of unique channel-input indicators that tell you how many channels of digital information are being received and/or if the digital signal is interrupted.

These indicators are the L/C/R/LS/RS/LFE letters that are inside the center boxes of the Speaker/Channel Input Indicators Q in the front panel Main Information Display Û. When a standard analog signal is in use, only the “L” and “R” indicators will light, as analog signals have only left and right chan- nels, respectively.

Digital signals, however, may have two, five or six separate channels, depending on the pro- gram material, the method of transmission and the way in which it was encoded. When a digi- tal signal is playing, the letters in these indica- tors will light in response to the specific signal being received. It is important to note that although Dolby Digital, for example, is referred to as a “5.1” system, not all Dolby Digital DVDs or programs are encoded for 5.1. Thus, it is sometimes normal for a DVD with a Dolby Digital soundtrack to trigger only the “L” and “R” indicators.

NOTE: Many DVD discs are recorded with both “5.1” and “2.0” versions of the same sound- track. When playing a DVD, always be certain to check the type of material on the disc. Most discs show this information in the form of a listing or icon on the back of the disc jacket. When a disc does offer multiple soundtrack choices you may have to make some adjust- ments to your DVD player (usually with the “Audio Select” button or in a menu screen

on the disc) to send a full 5.1 feed to the

AVR 310. It is also possible for the type of sig- nal feed to change during the course of a DVD playback. In some cases the previews of special material will only be recorded in 2.0 audio, while the main feature is available in 5.1 audio. As long as your DVD player is set for 6-channel output, the AVR 310 will automatically sense changes to the bitstream and channel count and reflect them in these indicators.

The letters used by the Speaker/Channel Input Indicators Q also flash to indicate when a bitstream has been interrupted. This will happen when a digital input source is selected before the playback starts, or when a digital source such as a DVD is paused. The flashing indicators remind you that the play- back has stopped due to the absence of a digital signal and not through any fault of the AVR 310. This is normal, and the digital play- back will resume once the playback is started again.

Night Mode

A special feature of Dolby Digital is the Night mode, which enables AC-3 input sources to be played back with full digital intelligibilty while reducing the minimum peak level by 1/4 to 1/3. This prevents abruptly loud transitions from dis- turbing others, without reducing the impact of the digital source. The Night mode is available only when Dolby Digital signals with special data are being played.

The Night mode may be engaged when a Dolby Digital DVD is playing by pressing the Night Mode Button l on the remote. Next, press the ⁄/¤ buttons n to select either the mid- dle range or full compression versions of the Night mode. To turn the Night mode off, press the ⁄/¤ buttons n until the message in the lower third of the video display and the Main Information Display Y reads D-Range Off. When the Night mode is active, the Night Mode Indicator O will also illumi- nate.

The Night mode may also be selected to always be on at either level of compression using the options in the Surround Setup Menu. See page 21 for information on using the menus to set this option.

IMPORTANT NOTES ON

DIGITAL PLAYBACK:

1.When the digital playback source is stopped, or in a pause, fast forward or chapter search mode, the digital audio data will momentarily stop, and the channel position letters inside the Speaker/Channel Input Indicators Q will flash. This is normal and does not indicate a problem with either the AVR 310 or the source machine. The AVR 310 will return to digital playback as soon as the data is available and when the machine is in a standard play mode.

2.Although the AVR 310 will decode virtually all DVD movies, CDs and HDTV sources, it is possible

28OPERATION

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Harman-Kardon AVR 310 owner manual Digital Status Indicators, Addition to the bitstream indicators, Night Mode
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AVR 310 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 310 is a versatile and powerful audio-video receiver that has garnered attention for its blend of performance, design, and features. This model, part of Harman Kardon's distinguished lineage, provides an immersive entertainment experience suitable for both movie enthusiasts and music lovers.

One of the main features of the AVR 310 is its high-quality audio processing capabilities. The receiver supports various surround sound formats, including Dolby Digital and DTS, ensuring that users experience their entertainment in a way that replicates the intended cinematic experience. With its 5.1 channel amplification, the AVR 310 delivers robust sound performance, allowing for a seamless integration of various speaker configurations.

The AVR 310 is equipped with a powerful 50 watts per channel output, offering sufficient power to drive a range of speakers effectively. This amplification enables the receiver to maintain clear audio even at higher volumes, crucial for dynamic scenes in movies or engaging music playback. Additionally, its advanced digital signal processing enhances sound quality, providing users with rich and balanced soundscapes.

In terms of connectivity, the AVR 310 offers a convenient array of inputs and outputs that enhance its versatility. It includes multiple HDMI inputs, component video inputs, and an array of analog inputs, allowing users to connect a variety of devices ranging from gaming consoles to Blu-ray players. The inclusion of a built-in AM/FM tuner ensures users can also enjoy traditional radio programming.

The design of the Harman-Kardon AVR 310 is both sleek and user-friendly. Its modern aesthetics and intuitive front panel make it easy to navigate settings and inputs. The included remote control offers additional convenience, allowing users to control their devices from across the room.

For those looking to create a home theater experience, the AVR 310's capability to use advanced video processing ensures that video signals are upscaled to deliver optimal picture quality. This is particularly beneficial for those with high-definition televisions.

In summary, the Harman-Kardon AVR 310 stands out in the realm of audio-video receivers, providing exceptional audio performance, versatile connectivity, and a user-friendly design. Its combination of features and technologies makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment system.
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