Operation

Basic Operation

Once you have completed the setup and configu- ration of the AVR, it is simple to operate and enjoy.The following instructions should be followed for you to maximize your enjoyment of your new receiver:

Turning the AVR On or Off

When using the AVR for the first time, you must press the Main Power Switch ￿on the rear panel to turn the unit on.This places the unit in Standby mode,as indicated by the amber color of the Power Indicator 3. Once the unit is in Standby,you may begin a listening session by pressing the System Power Control 2or on the front panel or the

AVR Power ON Button on the remote A. Note that the Power Indicator 3turns white. This will turn the unit on and return it to the input source that was last used.The unit may also be turned on from Standby by pressing any of the Source Selector buttons on the remote C, except the "Bridge" Button on the AVR 355 remote.

To turn the unit off at the end of a listening session, simply press the System Power Control 2 on the front panel or the AVR Power Off Button B on the remote. Power will be shut off to any equipment plugged into the front panel Switched AC Outlets ￿ and the Power Indicator 3 will turn amber.

When the remote is used to turn the unit “off” it is actually placing the system in a Standby mode, as indicated by the amber color of the Power Indicator 3.

When you will be away from home for an extended period of time it is always a good idea to completely turn the unit off with the rear panel Main Power Switch ￿.

NOTE: All preset memories may be lost if the unit is left turned off with the Main Power Switch ￿ for more than two weeks.

Using the Sleep Timer

To program the AVR for automatic turn-off, press the Sleep Button G on the remote. Each press of the button will increase the time before shut down in the following sequence:

The sleep time will be displayed in the Main Information Display # and it will count down until the time has elapsed.

When the programmed sleep time has elapsed, the unit will automatically turn off (to Standby mode). Note that the front panel display will dim to one half brightness when the Sleep function is programmed. To cancel the Sleep function, press and hold the Sleep Button G until the information display returns to normal brightness and the Sleep indicator numbers disappear and the words SLEEP OFF appear in the Main Information Display #.

Mute Function

To temporarily mute all speakers and the head- phones, press the MuteButton on the remote R. Any recording in progress will not be affect- ed. The MUTE message will appear in the display as a reminder.To restore normal audio, either press the Mute Button again, or adjust the vol- ume. Turning off the AVR will also end muting.

Audio Effects

Depending on the specific characteristics of your listening room, you may wish to tweak some of the audio settings, such as tone controls, to improve performance. Access these settings from the Audio Effects Button 9D, as described in the Advanced Functions section.

It is not necessary to adjust the Audio Effects settings to enjoy your new AVR. We recommend leaving the settings at their default values until you are more familiar with your system.

Video Modes

The settings in the Video Modes menu are used to fine-tune the picture if necessary after making all adjustments on the video display. It is recom- mended that you leave the settings at their defaults. See the Advanced Functions section for detailed information.

Source Selection

For direct access to any source, press its Source Selector Button C on the remote control. Alternatively, Sources can be selected from the Source Selection Menu, available by pressing the AVR Settings Button Y on the remote, followed by the OK Button X. The list showing available inputs slides in from the right. Simply scroll up and down to the desired input, then press OK on the remote.

The input source may also be changed by pressing the front-panel Source List Button @. This opens the on-screen Source Selection Menu with the slide-in Source List already open. If you are not using your TV for on-screen refer- ence, use the Front Panel Information Display

which shows the information you need. Scroll up and down with the KL Buttons 5, select the desired Input by pressing the OK Button 6 and exit the Source Selection function by press- ing the Source List Button @ again.

The front-panelVideo Inputs (, Optical Digital Input ) or the Coaxial Digital Input * may be used to connect a device such as a video game or camcorder to your home entertainment system on a temporary basis.

As the input source is changed, the new input name will appear momentarily as on-screen information in the video display. The input name will also appear in the Main Information Display #.

(AVR 355 only) When Digital Media Player (DMP) source is selected, if a compatible Apple iPod device is inserted in an optional

Harman Kardon that is connected to

DMP Connector ￿ on the rear panel, function messages will appear on any video display connected to the AVR, and the remote control may be used to navigate the iPod and access many of its functions. The function messages will also appear in the front-panel dis- play, and the iPod’s battery may be charged. See

the owner’s guides for and your iPod for more information.

Video Input Selection

When a source is selected, the AVR switches to a Video Input that has either been assigned to that Source by you, or to the default Video Input if you have not assigned any. All inputs except Radio are combined Audio and Video Inputs, functioning as audio-only inputs when no video signal is present. Refer to the Setup section of this manual for explanation of assigning video inputs to each source.

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Harman-Kardon AVR 355, AVR 255 Basic Operation, Mute Function, Audio Effects, Video Modes, Video Input Selection

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.