Connecting a Power Amplifier and Speakers

Enjoying Home Theater

Thanks to the AV controller’s superb capabilities, you can enjoy surround sound with a real sense of movement in your own home—just like being in a movie theater or concert hall. You can enjoy DVDs featuring Dolby Digital or DTS. With analog or digital TV, you can enjoy Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS Neo:6, or Onkyo’s original DSP listening modes. You can also enjoy THX Surround EX (THX-certified THX speaker system recommended).

Front left and right speakers

These output the main sound. Their role in a home theater is to provide a solid anchor for the sound image. They should be positioned facing the listener at about ear level, and equally spaced from the TV. Angle them inward slightly so as to create a triangle, with the listener at the apex.

Center speaker

This speaker enhances the front left and right speakers, making sound movements distinct and providing a full sound image. For movies it’s used mainly for dialog.

Position it close to your TV (preferably on top) facing forward at about ear level, or at the same height as the front left and right speakers.

Surround left and right speakers

These speakers are used for precise sound positioning and to add realistic ambience.

Position them at the sides of the lis- tener, or slightly behind, about 2–3 feet (60–100 cm) above ear level. Ideally they should be equally spaced from the listener.

Subwoofer

The subwoofer handles the bass sounds of the LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) channel. The volume and quality of the bass output from your subwoofer will depend on its posi- tion, the shape of your listening room, and your listening position. In general, a good bass sound can be obtained by installing the sub- woofer in a front corner, or at one-third the way along the front wall, as shown.

Tip: To find the best position for your sub- woofer, while playing a movie or some music with good bass, experiment by placing your subwoofer at various positions within the room and choose the

one that provides the most satisfying results.

Corner position

1/3 of wall position

Surround back left and right speakers

These speakers are necessary to enjoy Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES Matrix, DTS-ES Discrete, THX Surround EX, etc. They enhance the realism of surround sound and improve sound localization behind the listener. Posi- tion them behind the listener about 2–3 feet

(60–100 cm) above ear level.

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Onkyo PR-SC885 Connecting a Power Amplifier and Speakers, Enjoying Home Theater, Surround back left and right speakers

PR-SC885 specifications

The Onkyo PR-SC885 is a high-end A/V preamp featuring advanced technology and robust design that caters to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. Launched as part of Onkyo’s premium line, this model is renowned for its exceptional sound quality and comprehensive connectivity options.

One of the standout features of the PR-SC885 is its support for an extensive array of audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, which enables the reproduction of high-resolution audio tracks. This allows users to enjoy a cinematic experience right in their homes, with sound that is both rich and immersive.

The PR-SC885 also incorporates advanced digital processing capabilities. With its 32-bit DSP (Digital Signal Processor) and multiple digital inputs, the preamp ensures that sound is processed with precision and clarity. The inclusion of the latest HDMI technology means that users can connect various devices, including Blu-ray players, game consoles, and streaming devices, facilitating seamless integration into any entertainment system.

In terms of connectivity, the Onkyo PR-SC885 provides multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, as well as legacy connections including composite, component, and optical inputs. This extensive range of connectivity options makes it easy to integrate into both modern and older audio systems.

Another aspect worth noting is the unit's customizable audio calibration feature. The Audyssey MultEQ room-correction technology analyzes the acoustics of a room and adjusts the audio output accordingly, ensuring optimal sound quality tailored to the specific environment. This feature is particularly valuable for users who may not have extensive knowledge of audio setups, providing a plug-and-play experience.

The PR-SC885 also features a sleek and stylish design, with a user-friendly interface that includes an intuitive remote control, making navigation and setup straightforward. Its robust chassis not only looks good but is designed to minimize interference and enhance performance.

In summary, the Onkyo PR-SC885 stands out for its exceptional audio processing capabilities, extensive connectivity options, and user-friendly design. Whether for serious movie watching or high-fidelity music listening, this A/V preamp is engineered to deliver an immersive audio experience that meets the demands of even the most discerning users. Its blend of cutting-edge technology and practical features makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment system.