Advanced Features

Resolution to Display: Select the highest resolution that your TV can show. If you use HDMI, resolution selection happens automatically. If you use analog signals, you must choose the proper resolution. Note: if you choose a resolution that is higher than your screen can show, the picture disappears. In this case, wait for approx. 10 seconds, as the AVR returns to the previous resolution if the new one is not confirmed within this time. Default resolution is 576i, which is the maximum that can be transmitted by the simplest video connection, Composite/CVBS.

Default Surround Mode

In normal operation, when the AVR senses a Dolby Digital or DTS digital audio data stream, it will automatically switch the appropriate default surround mode, with the AVR responding to the data flags that are encoded on the DVD disc or in the digital video broadcast. In most cases, this is the correct mode, but you may have a particular preference for the mode you wish to hear when Dolby Digital or DTS is present. The AVR allows you to set the unit so that it will either respond to the default or switch to your desired mode.

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Menu Appearance

OSD Transparency: This setting allows you to select whether video programs will be visible when the menu system is in use. Select Normal for a fully-transparent background, Medium for the menu background to be partially visible or Opaque to block the view of any video programs while the menus are on screen.

Volume Status Messages: When the AVR is turned on, the volume is adjusted or the source is changed, or if a change in the input signal is detected, a status message will be displayed on screen. Use this setting to select how long the message remains visible. The setting varies from 2 to 10 seconds, with a default of 3 seconds.

Menus: Some menu settings only remain in effect during the current listening session, including the settings in the Surround Modes, Video Modes and Audio Effects menus. This setting governs how long these menus will remain visible after your last adjustment, varying from 5 seconds to 5 minutes, or no time-out (the menu does not disappear until you close it), with a default of 5 seconds.

Setup and Slide-In Menus: This setting determines how long the setup menus (Main Menu, Speaker Setup Menu, Zone 2 Menu, all slide-in menus) remain visible after your last adjustment. Select a timeout period of 5, 10 or 15 (the default) minutes, or no timeout, which leaves the menus on screen until you manually clear them. We recommend setting some timeout period to avoid the possibility of burn-in damage to plasma or CRT displays.

Screen Saver: Use this setting to program a timeout period for no activity (with no menus displayed) before the AVR’s built-in screen saver begins. Select a period of 5 (the default), 10 or 20 minutes, or turn off the screen saver.We recommend setting some timeout period to avoid the possibility of burn-in damage to plasma or CRT displays.

If you wish to leave the default so that the mode choice encoded in the disc is always used, no further action is needed. Simply leave the setting at the factory default of ON.

To set the unit so that it responds to the last sur- round mode used when a Dolby Digital or DTS source is playing, press the /¤ Buttons D so that the blue cursor bar is highlighting the Default Surround Mode line. Press the OK Button F, followed by the

/ Buttons E￿so that OFF appears, and the setting will change. Press the OK Button Fagain to confirm the new setting. The unit will now use the last mode, not the disc’s default for the two digitally encoded data streams.

This setting does not apply to standard PCM digital inputs or to analog sources. In those cases, the unit will always apply the surround or processing mode that was last used for that input.

If you wish to make other adjustments, press the /¤ Buttons Duntil the blue cursor bar is highlighting the desired setting. If you have no other adjustments to make, press the OSD Button Lto exit the menu system.

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Harman-Kardon AVR 255, AVR 355 owner manual Advanced Features, Default Surround Mode, Menu Appearance

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.