When DC-1 input and output levels are set properly, the entire system will be calibrated to play films at the level intended by the director. Setting the output levels is easy, particularly if a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter is used. Using an external source, such as the "Video Essentials" laser disc (ID3487ISF) or "The Surround Spectacular" disc from Delos (DE-3179), or the DC-1’s internally generated calibration signal, adjust the level of each output to the same relative level.
Select INTERNAL NOISE TEST or EXTERNAL NOISE TEST from the Output Levels menu. The INTERNAL NOISE TEST automatically discon- nects all audio and video inputs, disables any EQ functions, centers the Balance controls, loads the Pro Logic effect, and sets the system volume to 0dB. The test signal circles the room according to the speaker configuration you have defined in the Speaker Configuration menu. For a full comple- ment of speakers, the order is: Left Front, Center, Right Front, Right Side, Left Side, Subwoofer, Right Rear, Left Rear. The EXTERNAL NOISE TEST loads the Pro Logic or Dolby Digital effect and uses the signal from the currently selected input for calibration.
Once a test source is selected, a sub-menu showing each output level is displayed. Use the MENU ▲ and ▼ buttons to highlight an output for adjustment. Press SELECT to stop the cycling of the noise signal, then use MENU ▲ and ▼ to adjust the selected output level in precise 0.5dB increments from -10dB to +10dB.
Using a Sound Pressure Level Meter such as Radio Shack model 33-2050 or 33-2055, set the weighting to C and the response to Slow. Adjust all output levels to achieve 75dB at the listening position.
Setting Output Levels
NOTE: If any of the amplifiers in your system have gain (volume) controls, their level settings will af- fect the balance of the DC-1 out- puts. Generally, the gain controls of these amps should be set at or near maximum. You should record the values of these controls for later reference.
