9. M&K 5.1 MULTICHANNEL SYSTEM SETUP GUIDE
The 5 Most Important Items In System Setup:
Find the best location for the subwoofer for maximum output and flattest
response (usually the corner closest to the listening position)
Aim the front speakers (and the surrounds, if possible)
for the flattest response and best imaging
Set all speakers to the Small setting for proper
operation to get the lowest distortion and maximum dynamic range
Calibrate all speakers and the subwoofer to the identical
level for proper imaging and balance
Make sure all speakers are in phase for proper imaging and impact
These instructions will help you make sure that you cover all steps in setting up a 5.1 multichannel surround sound system. In addition to following this list, make certain that you study and understand the owner’s manual for each and every component used in the system, especially the processor/receiver’s manual. Have fun and good luck!
A useful tool for system setup is the DVD called Video Essentials. If you don’t have one, you can order it by visit ing the web site at www.videoessentials.com.
Here are the instructions for speaker setup.
1.Locate the front speakers. The left, right, and center speakers should be equidistant from the main listening position. Try to set up the speakers so that they are reasonably symmetrical to room surfaces. A tape measure may be very helpful.
2.Locate the subwoofer.
A.The best place for the subwoofer is the corner with the best structural strength. If the corners are roughly equal in construction, use the corner nearest the listening position. If the listening position is in the front half of the room, place the subwoofer in a front corner. If it is in the back of the room, place the subwoofer in a back corner. If possible, avoid corners near doorways or openings.
B.If you are willing to experiment, another option is to place the subwoofer at the listening position and walk around the room. Stand in and near each corner. The location where you hear the tightest bass with the most impact is probably the best location in the room for the subwoofer.
C.If multiple subwoofers are used, place them in the same location. Stacking is best, but you can also put them side by side.
Another option for multiple subwoofers is to place them in different locations. This is appropriate when you have limited choices in locating the subwoofer and none of the available locations work well. Try to place multiple subwoofers at equal distances from the listening position to avoid phase cancellation.
3.Locate the surrounds. Determine the best position in the room. It will probably be the position used for THX speaker, directly to the right and left of the main listening position on the side walls (so that a listener in the center seat is directly between the speakers). If that doesn’t work or is not practical because of the room, try these locations: on the ceiling; on the back wall, or in the back corners.
4.Install all wiring and interconnects.
5.Connect the subwoofer. Always use the processor/receiver’s subwoofer output.
6.Make sure that you aim the left and right speakers in both the horizontal and vertical planes. Horizontal
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