Installation and Connections

System and Power Connections

The AVR is designed for flexible use with multi- room systems, external control components and power amplifiers.

Main Room Remote Control Extension

If the receiver is placed behind a solid or smoked glass cabinet door,the obstruction may prevent the remote sensor from receiving commands. In this event, the remote sensor of any

Harman Kardon or other compatible device, not covered by the door,or an optional remote sensor may be used. Connect the Remote IR Output of that device or the output of the remote sensor to the Remote IR Input jack ￿.

If other components are also prevented from receiving remote commands, only one sensor is needed. Simply use this unit’s sensor or a remote eye by running a connection from the Remote IR Output jack ￿ to the Remote IR Input jack on Harman Kardon or other compatible equipment.

Zone II IR Link

(Limited options on AVR 255)

The key to remote room operation is to link the remote room to the AVR’s location with wire for an infrared receiver and speakers or an amplifier. The remote room IR receiver (this can be an optional IR receiver or any other remotable Harman Kardon device in the remote room with IR sensor integrated) should be connected to the AVR via standard coaxial cable.Connect the Remote IR Output of the device or of the optional sensor with the Zone II IR Input jack on the AVR’s rear panel.

If other Harman Kardon compatible source equipment is part of the main room installation, the Remote IR Output jack ￿ on the rear panel should be connected to the IR IN jack on that source device. This will enable the remote room location to control source equipment functions.

When a remote IR sensor is used to control non- Harman Kardon source equipment, we recom- mend that you make a direct connection or use an optional, external IR “blaster” connected to the Remote IR Carrier Output Jack (. If you are in doubt as to which IR Output jack to use for the equipment in your system, contact your dealer or installer,or the manufacturer’s support site and ask whether the unit to be controlled uses “full carrier” or “stripped” carrier IR commands. When “full carrier commands” are used, make the connection to the Remote IR Carrier Output Jack (. Otherwise, make the connection to the Remote IR Output Jack ￿ as noted above (IR Carrier Output available on AVR 355 only).

NOTE: All remotely controlled components must be linked together in a “daisy chain”. Connect the IR OUT jack of one unit to the IR IN of the next to establish this chain.

Multiroom Audio Connections Depending on your system`s requirement and distance from the AVR to the remote room, three options are available for audio connection:

Option 1 (on AVR 355): Use high-quality, shielded audio interconnect phono cable from the AVR’s location to the remote room. In the remote room, connect the interconnect cable to a stereo power amplifier.The amplifier will be connected to the room’s speakers. At the AVR, plug the audio interconnect cables into the Zone 2 Out Jacks & on the AVR’s rear panel.

Option 2 (on AVR 355): Place the amplifier that will provide power to the remote location speakers in the same room as the AVR, and con- nect the Zone 2 Out jacks & on the rear panel of the AVR to the audio input of the remote room amplifier. Use the appropriate speaker wire to con- nect the optional power amplifier to the remote speakers. High-quality wire of at least 2.5 mm2 is recommended for long multiroom connections.

Option 3 (on AVR 255 and AVR 355): Taking advantage of the AVR’s built-inseven-channel amplifier,it is possible to use two of the amplifi- er channels to power speakers in the remote room. When using this option you will not be able to use the full 7.1-channel capabilities of the AVR in the main listening room, but you will be able to add another listening room without additional external power amplifiers. To use the internal amplifiers to power a remote zone, con- nect the speakers for the remote room location to the Surround Back/Multiroom Speaker Outputs ￿. Before using the remote room you will need to configure the amplifiers for sur- round operation by changing a setting in the Multiroom menu, following the instructions shown on page 18.

NOTE: For all options, you may connect an optional IR sensor (Harman Kardon He 1000) in the remote room to the AVR via an appropriate cable. Connect the sensor’s cable to the Zone 2 IR Input on the AVR and use the Zone II remote to control the room volume. Alternatively, you may install an optional volume control between the output of the amplifiers and the speakers.

NOTE: The AVR 355’s multiroom system is only capable of distributing analog audio sources to the remote zone. Therefore, when connecting your digital audio equipment (e.g. CD or DVD players) as described on page 18, make sure to use both analog and digital audio connections to ensure that the devices will be available to the multiroom system.

A-BUS Installation Connections (AVR 355 only)

The AVR is among the very few receivers avail- able today that offers built-in A-BUS Ready® operation. When used with an optional A-BUS keypad or control module, you have all the benefits of remote zone operation without the need for an external power amplifier.

To use the AVR with an approved A-BUS prod- uct, simply connect the keypad or module that is in the remote room to the AVR using standard “Category 5” wiring that is properly rated for the inwall use specific to the installation. Terminate the wiring at the receiver end to a standard RJ-45 jack in compliance with the instructions furnished with the A-BUS module.

You may connect a single A-BUS module to the AVR 355 with no further equipment needed. If you wish to connect more than one A-BUS module, an optional, external A-BUS hub may be used to provide that capability.

No further installation or adjustment is needed, as the A-BUS connector on the AVR routes the signals in and out of the keypad to their proper destination for power,signal source and control. The output fed to the A-BUS jack is determined by the AVR’s multiroom system, and the menus may be used as is.

AC Power Connections

This unit is equipped with one accessory AC outlet. It may be used to power accessory devices, but should not be used with high-current draw equipment such as power amplifiers. The total power draw to the Switched Outlet ￿ should not exceed 50 watts.

The Switched ￿ outlet will receive power only when the unit is on completely. This is recom- mended for devices that have no power switch or a mechanical power switch that may be left in the “ON” position.

NOTE: Many audio and video products go into Standby mode when they are used with switched outlets, and cannot be fully turned on using the outlet alone without a remote control command.

The AVR draws significantly more current than other household devices such as computers that use removable power cords. For that reason, it is important that only the cord supplied with the AVR 355 (AVR 255 has a fixed power cord) or a direct replacement of identical capacity be used.

Once the power cord is connected, you are almost ready to enjoy the AVR 255/AVR 355’s incredible power and fidelity!

18INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS

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Harman-Kardon AVR 355, AVR 255 System and Power Connections, Main Room Remote Control Extension, AC Power Connections

AVR 255, AVR 355 specifications

The Harman-Kardon AVR 355 and AVR 255 are two standout receivers in the realm of home audio, each delivering exceptional sound quality and a variety of features designed to enhance the listening experience.

The AVR 355 is particularly known for its impressive power output, driving up to 100 watts per channel. It boasts a 7.1-channel configuration, providing an immersive surround sound experience ideal for home theater setups. One of its hallmark technologies is the Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, which ensure that high-definition audio tracks are reproduced with stunning clarity and depth. Beyond just surround sound, the AVR 355 also supports HDMI connectivity with multiple inputs, allowing for easy integration of high-definition video sources like Blu-ray players and gaming consoles.

On the other hand, the AVR 255, while slightly more compact, does not fall short of performance. It delivers a robust 7.1-channel output with 80 watts per channel, making it a great option for users looking to elevate their audio experience without overwhelming their space. The AVR 255 also incorporates advanced audio processing technologies, such as Harman’s proprietary Logic 7 technology, which converts stereo audio into a multi-channel experience. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy music in stereo and wish to enjoy it in a surround setup.

Both models feature extensive connectivity options, including Bluetooth and USB ports, enabling users to stream audio from a variety of devices seamlessly. Additionally, they are equipped with multi-room audio capabilities, allowing users to enjoy different audio sources in different rooms simultaneously.

Another notable characteristic of both receivers is their intuitive user interface. They come with on-screen displays which make navigating through settings and configurations straightforward, even for those new to home audio systems. Furthermore, they offer automatic calibration technology, which optimally adjusts the audio settings according to the unique acoustics of your room.

In summary, the Harman-Kardon AVR 355 and AVR 255 are exceptional choices for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience at home. With their powerful amplifiers, advanced audio technologies, and comprehensive connectivity options, these models ensure high-quality sound whether it’s for movies, music, or gaming. Whether you opt for the more powerful AVR 355 or the versatile AVR 255, you are guaranteed a superior audio experience tailored to your needs.