Operation

Surround Mode Chart

MODE

FEATURES

 

 

DOLBY DIGITAL PLUS

An enhanced version of Dolby Digital encoded more efficiently, Dolby Digital Plus has the capacity for additional discrete channels

 

and for streaming audio from the internet, all with enhanced audio quality. Source material may be delivered via HDMI, or decoded

 

to Dolby Digitaland transmitted via S/P-DIF coaxial or optical digital audio.

 

 

DOLBY TRUE HD

Dolby True HD is an expansion of MLP Lossless™ audio, the same format used on DVD Audio discs. Dolby TrueHD adds the features

 

found in Dolby Digital, such as night mode settings, while delivering fully lossless audio that is a true reproduction of the studio

 

master recording.

 

 

DOLBY DIGITAL

Available only with digital input sources encoded with Dolby Digital data. It provides up to five separate main audio channels and a

 

special dedicated Low Frequency Effects channel.

 

 

DOLBY DIGITAL EX

Available when the receiver is configured for 6.1/7.1 channel operation, Dolby Digital EX is the latest version of Dolby Digital. When

 

used with movies or other programs that have special encoding, Dolby Digital EX reproduces specially encoded soundtracks so that a

 

full 6.1/7.1 soundfield is available. When the receiver is set for 6.1/7.1 operation and a Dolby Digital signal is present, the EX mode

 

is automatically selected. Even if specific EX encoding is not available to provide the additional channel, the special algorithms will

 

derive a 6.1/7.1 output.

 

 

DTS-HD

DTS-HD is a new high-definition audio format that complements the high-definition video found on HD-DVD and Blu-ray Discs. It is

 

transmitted using a DTS core with high-resolution extensions. Even when only DTS 5.1 surround sound is desired (or available, if the

 

multizone system is in use), the higher capacity of high-resolution discs serves up DTS at twice the bit rate used on DVD-Video discs.

 

 

DTS-HD

DTS-HD Master Audio delivers bit-for-bit reproductions of the studio master recording in up to 7.1 channels, for an incredibly

MASTER AUDIO

accurate performance.

 

 

DTS 5.1

When the speaker configuration is set for 5.1-channel operation, the DTS 5.1 mode is available when DVD, audio-only music or

 

laserdiscs encoded with DTS data are played. DTS 5.1 provides up to five separate main audio channels and a special dedicated

 

low-frequency channel.

 

 

DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix

When the speaker configuration is set for 6.1/7.1 operation, playback of a DTS-encoded program source will automatically

DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete

trigger the selection of one of the two DTS-ES modes. Newer discs with special DTS-ES discrete encoding will be decoded to provide

 

six discrete, full-bandwidth channels plus a separate low-frequency channel. All other DTS discs will be decoded using the DTS-ES

 

Matrix mode, which creates a 6.1-channel sound field from the original 5.1-channel soundtrack.

DOLBY PRO LOGIC II Dolby Pro Logic II is the latest version of Dolby Laboratory’s benchmark surround technology that decodes full-range, discrete left,

MOVIE

center right, right surround and left surround channels from matrix surround encoded programs and conventional stereo sources

MUSIC

when an analog input or a digital input with PCM or Dolby Digital 2.0 recordings is in use. The Dolby Pro Logic II Movie mode is

DOLBY PRO LOGIC

optimized for movie soundtracks that are recorded with matrix surround, by creating separate center,rear left and rear right signals.

GAME

while the Pro Logic II Music mode should be used with musical selections that are recorded with matrix surround or even with nor-

 

mal stereo mode, creating separate rear left and rear right signals in any case. The Pro Logic II mode creates compelling five-channel

 

surround sound from conventional stereo recordings. Game mode ensures that special effects are routed to the surround channels,

 

while delivering their full impact using the subwoofer,thus fully immersing the game player in the universe of the video game.

 

 

DOLBY PRO LOGIC IIx

Dolby Pro Logic IIx is the latest extension of Dolby Pro Logic II technology that creates a discrete 6.1 and 7.1 sound field from matrix

MUSIC

surround or two-channel stereo sources in systems configured for surround back speakers.

MOVIE

Movie, Music and Game versions of Pro Logic IIx are available.

GAME

Game mode ensures that special effects are routed to the surround channels, while delivering their full impact using the subwoofer,

 

thus fully immersing the game player in the universe of the video game.

 

 

Logic 7 Cinema

Exclusive to Harman Kardon for AV receivers, Logic 7 is an advanced mode that extracts the maximum surround information from

Logic 7 Music

either surround-encoded programs or conventional stereo material. Depending on the number of speakers in use and the

Logic 7 Enhance

selection made in the SURROUND SELECT menu, the “5.1” versions of Logic 7 modes are available when the 5.1 option is

 

chosen, while the “7.1” versions of Logic 7 produce a full sound field presentation, including back surround speakers when the

 

“6.1/7.1” option is chosen. The Logic 7 C (or Cinema) mode should be used with any source that contains Dolby Surround or similar

 

matrix encoding. Logic 7 C delivers increased center-channel intelligibility, and more accurate placement of sounds with fades and

 

pans that are much smoother and more realistic than with former decoding techniques. The Logic 7 M or Music mode should be

 

used with analog or PCM stereo sources. Logic 7 M enhances the listening experience by presenting a wider front soundstage and

 

greater rear ambience. Both Logic 7 modes also direct low-frequency information to the subwoofer (if installed and configured) to

 

deliver maximum bass impact. The Logic 7 E (or Enhance) mode is an extension of the Logic 7 modes that is primarily used with

 

musical programs and is available with the 5.1 surround mode option selected only. Logic 7 E adds additional bass enhancement

 

that circulates low frequencies in the 40Hz to 120Hz range to the front and surround speakers to deliver a less localized soundstage

 

that appears broader and wider than when the subwoofer is the sole source of bass energy.

 

 

28OPERATION

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Harman-Kardon AVR 355, AVR 255 owner manual Operation, Surround Mode Chart

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.