user guide

Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller ii Preface Cinema are registeredtrademarks ofLucasfilm Ltd.DTSisa registered Dolby Laboratories LicensingCorporation.Lucasfilm, THX,andTHX Dolby, ProLogic, AC-3, andthedouble-Dsymbolare trademarksof Records Ltd. 5,043,970; 5,189,703;5,222,059),Trifield ProductionsLtd,andNimbus Corporation (Canadianpatent1,037,877), LucasfilmLtd.(USpatents Manufactured underlicensefromDolby LaboratoriesLicensing Copyright ©1995–1998DigitalGramophone andWirelessLtd. Sales andserviceintheUK http://www.meridian-audio.com a␣␣(01480)459934 ␣ Fax␣ Stukeley Meadows Meridian AudioLtd e␣␣(01480)52144 ␣ Tel␣ World WideWeb Part no:561 PE18 6ED Stonehill England Cambs Sales andserviceintheUSA 3800 CampCreekParkway Meridian AmericaInc a␣␣(404)3467111 ␣ Fax␣ Tl (404)3447111 ␣ Tel␣ Building 2400 GA 30331 Suite 122 Atlanta England. This guidewasproduced byHuman-ComputerInterface Ltd,Cambridge, LipSync areregistered trademarksofMeridianAudio Ltd. Boothroyd|Stuart Meridian, MeridianDigitalTheatre,MLP,and Productions Ltd.LaserDiscisatrademark ofPioneerElectricCorp. trademark ofNimbusRecordsLtd. Trifieldisatrademarkof trademark oftheMPEGorganisation. Ambisonicisaregistered trademark ofDigitalTheatreSystems Inc.MPEGisaregistered Digital GramophoneandWirelessLtd manufactured intheUKby Stukeley Meadows Designed and PE18 6ED Stonehill England Cambs Contents

Introduction 1

Introduces the digital surround controller, Using the digital and gives guidelines and suggested surround controller 13 layouts to help you plan your surround system. Provides step-by-step instructions for operating the digital surround controller, The Meridian 500 Series ...... 2 Defining your own using either the front panel or the Meridian Sample configurations ...... 3 presets 23 System Remote. Specification and accessories ...... 5 DSP presets ...... 8 Describes how to change the built-in DSP Front panel ...... 14 presets, and create your own presets. Meridian System Remote ...... 15 Quick guide to operating the 561 Locking and unlocking the menus ...... 24 with the remote ...... 16 Changing the DSP parameters ...... 25 Selecting a source ...... 17 Standard parameters ...... 26 Adjusting the volume ...... 19 Changing treble, bass, or phase ...... 27 Changing the DSP preset ...... 20 Changing the listening position ...... 28 Changing the display ...... 21 Changing the integration of the centre .. 30 Recording a source ...... 22 Changing the spaciousness of the

sound ...... 31 Preface Changing the lip sync and on-screen display ...... 32 Changing the DSP preset for a source .. 33

Defining your own presets ...... 34 iii iv Preface . oi S rst ...... 46 ...... 5.1 MovieDSPpresets 41 ...... Music DSPpresets 38 ...... Logic DSPpresets parameters availableforeachone. 37 the DSPpresets,withdetailsofspecial Gives technicalinformationabouteachof DSP presets qimn ...... 64 ...... equipment Connecting tootherMeridian 62 ...... Connecting toataperecorder 60 ...... Connecting sources 57 ...... Connecting speakers 56 ...... Connecting video 51 ...... controller Connecting thedigitalsurround 50 ...... Unpacking connections. details ofthevideoandaudio digital surroundcontroller,andgives Describes howtounpackandinstallthe 49 surround controller Setting upthedigital etn psucs...... 76 ...... Setting upsources 72 ...... Calibration tests 69 ...... Calibrating thesystem 68 ...... Standard sourcesettings 66 ...... Choosing astandardsetting controller withoutrequiringacomputer. configuration ofthedigitalsurround Describes howtoperformabasic 65 without acomputer surround controller Configuring thedigital Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 79

Describes how to configure the digital surround controller using the Meridian Configuration program. Troubleshooting 105

The Meridian Configuration program ..... 80 Provides suggested solutions to typical Installing the Meridian Configuration problems. program ...... 81 Glossary 115 Creating a new settings file ...... 84 General operating problems ...... 106 Setting up speakers ...... 86 Audio problems ...... 108 Setting the speaker sizes ...... 89 Video problems ...... 111 Index ...... 119 Setting up sources ...... 91 Meridian Configuration program Configuring presets ...... 95 problems ...... 112 Changing the setup options...... 98 Service and guarantee ...... 113 Calibrating the settings with your system...... 99 Creating a User Type ...... 101

Completing the configuration ...... 104 Preface

v vi Preface Introduction

The Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller combines a completely digital surround-sound processor with a high-performance digital preamplifier and a video controller in a single integrated unit. Its unique combination of features allows you to build a complete system for audio and video reproduction with a minimum of additional components. The result is an impressively realistic and exciting reproduction of music and cinema sound.

The 561 Digital Surround Controller accepts analogue, digital, composite video, and S-video sources. It supports all the current two-channel and multi-channel audio formats including PCM, Dolby Digital (AC-3), DTS, and MPEG. It also includes several proprietary processing modes, including the MLP (Meridian Lossless Packing) format.

For instructions on setting up the unit turn to Setting up the digital surround controller, page 49. Once the digital surround controller has been set up refer to the next chapter, Using the digital surround controller, for information about getting the best results from all your music and film recordings. The Meridian 500 Series

The 561 Digital Surround Controller is part of the Meridian 500 500 Series communications Series of advanced digital, analogue, and video components designed to meet the demand for absolute quality, ease of use, The Meridian 500 Series includes a sophisticated and lasting value. communications link, to ensure that any configuration of units will work together as a fully integrated system. The flexibility of the Meridian 500 Series is such that you can assemble a system as simple or as complex as you need, The 500 Series communications system allows you to control perfectly suited to your requirements, and allowing you to add to any combination of units using a single remote, and ensures that it or alter it at a later date should your requirements change. your commands from the remote are interpreted unambiguously. The communications system also allows you to extend your hi-fi Each Meridian 500 Series component is housed in a matching system into two or three rooms, with the ability to control the slimline case. Front-panel controls provide access to the most sources in one room from the controller in another room. important functions, and the full range of functions is available from the Meridian System Remote using a simple and intuitive Professional features control interface. The 500 Series also includes features for professional users, including RS232 computer control and balanced connections.

The following pages show two recommended configurations based on the 561 Digital Surround Controller to illustrate the flexibility of the Meridian 500 Series. Introduction

2 Introduction 3 M1500 M33 rear M33 The 561 Digital Surround Controller can connect directly to up to The 561 Digital Surround Controller can connect you to create a 5.1 six Meridian active loudspeakers, allowing cinema sound in analogue theatre ideal for superb music and the home. 561 M33 M33 M33 rear Meridian DVD Player

vertically for total flexibility. such a compact case, and can be mounted either horizontally or such a compact case, and can be mounted Subwoofer. The M33 provides an unusually good response for Subwoofer. The M33 provides an unusually the M33 Active Analogue Loudspeaker and M1500 Active the M33 Active Analogue Loudspeaker and The Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller is ideal for use with The Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller

Meridian Analogue Theatre™ Analogue Meridian Sample configurations Sample Meridian Digital Theatre™

DSP5000 DSP5000

DSP5000C

Video recorder

M33 side M33 side

LaserDisc

M33 rear M33 rear 508.24

Meridian DVD Player 561

The 561 Digital Surround Controller can be used with two The Meridian DVD Player is an ideal source for use with the 561. Meridian DSP5000 Digital Loudspeakers, and a DSP5000C It allows you to play both audio CDs and DVD video discs, Digital Centre Loudspeaker, to provide audiophile-quality sound. taking full advantage of the 561’s control and digital signal A further two or four M33 Active Analogue Loudspeakers can be processing capabilities.

Introduction added as side or rear loudspeakers to give extremely convincing multi-channel reproduction from music and film sources. 4 Introduction 5 , up to , Ω , Ω Ω 1.5V p-p, PAL/NTSC/SECAM. 4 x stereo SPDIF on cable, 75 4 x stereo 24-bit precision. inputs. 4 x composite with 1 x main composite output on-screen display. composite 1 x tape/second room output. 4 x S-video inputs. with on-screen 1 x main S-video output to composite display and S-video conversion. 1 x tape/second room S-video output. Composite video: phono, 75 1.5V p-p, PAL/NTSC/SECAM. S-video: Y/C on minidin, 75 Digital outputs Video switching . Ω , IEC958 and data , IEC958 and Ω input impedance. Ω 5 x cable, 75 5 x cable, up to 24 bits. compatible, IEC958 and 1 x optical, Toslink (EIAJ), to 24 bits. data compatible, up 2V sensitivity, 7 x unbalanced, 0.7 to 20k 1 x stereo 20-bit Delta-Sigma ADC. 1 x stereo 20-bit Delta-Sigma at 66MHz. 2 x Motorola 56002 running at 72MHz. 1 x Motorola 56303 running Internal precision maintained using 24- and 48-bit arithmetic. 3 x stereo 20-bit Delta-Sigma DAC. 6 x unbalanced outputs for centre, sub, rears, and mains or sides or subs. Outputs variable between 0 and 3.5Vrms, output impedance 47 Distortion <0.01%. Noise and hum <-95dB CCIR.

Digital inputs Analogue inputs

Specification Specification and accessories and Specification Processing Analogue outputs Tape outputs 2 x stereo analogue for tape and Available accessories second zone, 470Ω output impedance. With additional module: independent The following accessories are available from your dealer. ADC and DAC for analogue and digital tape loop, variable analogue tape out. Meridian 511 S-patch Box

Headphone output only available with The Meridian 511 S-patch box provides a convenient way to Tape card fitted – full volume control interconnect the S leads between up to eight Meridian DSP and headphone amplifier. digital loudspeakers. It is required if your 561 system includes more than two DSP loudspeakers. Control 2 x Meridian Comms.

9 pin D connector for RS232 PC Setup Expansion cards and Control. A range of expansion cards will be available for the 561 to 2 x triggers, active high, 9V up to extend its capabilities or add features. 100 mA on 3.5mm DC jack. The first of these is a Tape card, which provides conversion Dimensions 321mm x 88mm x 332mm between analogue and digital sources, so that analogue (12.7" x 3.5" x 13.1") (W x H x D). recordings can be made of digital sources, and vice versa. The Weight 5kg (10lb). Tape card also adds a headphone output to the back panel, with independent control over the headphone volume. Meridian Audio reserves the right to amend product specifications at any time. Introduction

6 Introduction 7 USA, (001) 973-839-1011, or their local distributor. contact Middle Atlantic Products, Inc., Riverdale, NJ 07457, contact Middle Atlantic Products, Inc., Riverdale, to be fitted in a standard 19" rack. For more information please to be fitted in a standard 19" rack. For more Products which will allow the 561, or any other 500 Series unit, Products which will allow the 561, or any The Meridian 500 Shelf is a tray produced by Middle Atlantic The Meridian 500 Shelf is a tray produced Rack mount kit when the temperature rises above the recommended level. when the temperature rises above the recommended program so that it either runs when the 561 is out of standby, or program so that it either runs when the 561 The fan can be programmed using the Meridian Configuration The fan can be programmed if the unit is installed in an enclosed space. if the unit is installed A Fan kit is available for the 561 to provide additional ventilation A Fan kit is available audio output when no Dolby Digital signal is available. audio output when no Fan kit Digital signal, and can select the LaserDisc PCM or DTS digital Digital signal, and can 519 Demodulator automatically senses the presence of a Dolby 519 Demodulator automatically RF output to a bitstream which can be fed to the 561. The can be fed to the 561. to a bitstream which RF output Meridian 519 Demodulator, which converts the LaserDisc Demodulator, which Meridian 519 To take advantage of Dolby Digital on LaserDisc you need the on LaserDisc you of Dolby Digital To take advantage Meridian 519 Demodulator Meridian DSP presets

The digital surround controller provides an extremely Multi-channel digital sources comprehensive range of digital signal processing options for decoding both analogue and digital audio signals and The 561 Digital Surround Controller supports the three processing them for multi-channel reproduction. These are alternative multi-channel digital formats currently available, referred to as DSP presets, and are designed to provide the best which encode up to 8 different channels onto a digital signal: results with a range of different types of music and film material. Dolby Digital (AC-3), DTS, and MPEG Audio. It also supports Meridian’s own MLP format. In addition to selecting built-in DSP presets, the digital surround controller allows you to create your own presets based on the Dolby Digital standard ones. For example, you may want to add more delay to Dolby Digital, previously called AC-3, is the preferred sound the rear speakers to create a more spacious sound. You can format for DVD video, and is widely used on LaserDisc store your modified preset with a name of your choice, and soundtracks. It is also the audio standard for US digital recall it for use at a later date. television.

This section gives information about each of the built-in DSP DTS presets, and gives recommendations for the best preset to choose for different types of material. DTS uses a carefully designed audio compression technique to encode five channels of audio onto a digital signal. The DTS format is used to encode multi-channel film soundtracks on LaserDiscs and DVD video discs. Introduction

8 Introduction 9 The Pro Logic preset is recommended for decoding Dolby decoding The Pro Logic preset is recommended for and films Surround encoded video and LaserDisc soundtracks, by a Dolby on television. Such materials are usually identified on the film Surround symbol on the packaging, or displayed before the programme. Multi-channel sources encoded onto encoded sources Multi-channel two channels multi- for encoding have been developed Several systems a standard two-channel analogue signal channel sources onto by a conventional stereo so that they can be reproduced with special equipment for multi-channel system, or decoded Digital Surround Controller provides reproduction. The 561 most important of these, Ambisonic and decoding of the two the channel separation cannot be as Dolby Surround. Although multi-channel formats, the 561 produces good as with the digital these formats. excellent results with Pro Logic standard CD without any loss of quality. information. It can also be used to store four-channel audio on a information. It can also be used to store four-channel 24-bit quality, to be stored on a DVD without losing any 24-bit quality, to be stored on a DVD without audio which allows multiple audio channels, of up to 192kHz audio which allows multiple audio channels, MLP (Meridian Lossless Packing) is a format designed for DVD MLP (Meridian Lossless Packing) is a format MLP and typical domestic listening conditions. provided to give a better match between the original soundtrack provided to give a better match between THX versions of Dolby Digital, MPEG Surround, and DTS are THX versions of Dolby Digital, MPEG Surround, THX In addition, it is widely available in US satellite broadcasts. In addition, it is widely standard for music and performance videos on DVD worldwide. standard for music and territories, and along with Dolby Digital is a contender as the territories, and along MPEG Surround is the preferred audio format for DVD in PAL MPEG Surround is the indistinguishable from conventional CD. indistinguishable from MPEG Surround to provide over an hour of five-channel music, at a quality over an hour of five-channel to provide as two channels of unencoded sound, allowing a DTS music CD sound, allowing a DTS of unencoded as two channels compress five channels of CD-quality audio into the same space audio into the five channels of CD-quality compress In addition, a high data-rate version of DTS can be used to of DTS can be a high data-rate version In addition, TV Logic Conventional stereo sources

TV Logic provides user-adjustable steering, and is The digital surround controller can also accept a conventional recommended for use with TV broadcasts that are not surround two-channel source, such as music on compact disc or a video encoded, where Pro Logic may give reduced intelligibility. soundtrack, and by analysing the information in the signal separate the two-channel recording into multiple channels to THX Cinema give better reproduction and a more stable spatial image. THX Cinema enhances Pro Logic to replicate the sound of a dubbing stage or theatre, whether or not the other equipment in Four alternative DSP presets are provided for reproducing your system is THX approved. material originally designed for a conventional stereo pair of speakers, and which preset you choose largely depends on your Ambisonic own personal preferences.

Ambisonic decodes material specifically encoded for surround All four presets use similar procedures to extract the surround sound reproduction, using a two-channel stereo-compatible component of the original recording, which is delivered to the encoding. Recordings encoded in Ambisonic format are rear surround speakers, and side surround speakers if present. available on CD from several sources including Nimbus Records and York Ambisonic. Some radio broadcasts are also broadcast Music in Ambisonic format. Music uses a special technique developed by Meridian to divide the sound between the left, right, and centre speakers and give a wide, spacious sound. We recommend this option for large- scale music, such as orchestral and choral music. Introduction

10 Introduction 11 , in Stereo presets are designed for reproducing presets are designed uses just the main left and right speakers are provided for comparison with the other Academy Direct Direct and is designed for early black and white film is designed for early and is designed for mono recordings, and multi-language is designed for mono Mono DSP presets. for traditional two-speaker stereo reproduction. to enhance the bass addition, uses any subwoofers in the layout or to protect small speakers. Stereo and Direct Stereo Special DSP presets Special special also includes the following surround controller The digital for specific applications: DSP presets, Mono and Academy The a centre speaker, so that any high- mono materials through are centrally localised. frequency hiss or clicks Mono soundtracks. LaserDiscs and video Academy to correct for a soundtracks. It includes equalisation designed and white films. high-frequency balance in some old black provides a form of Ambisonic decoding suitable provides a form of Ambisonic provides user-adjustable steering to give an provides user-adjustable steering to give uses a different processing technique to give a stable, processing technique uses a different using natural soundfield recording. option for studio-produced music, ie material not produced option for studio-produced music, ie material exciting sound with many types of music. We recommend this exciting sound with many types of music. music. Music Logic option for multi-miked or multi-tracked music, such as rock option for multi-miked Music Logic for material that is not specially encoded. We recommend this for material that is not Super Stereo Super Stereo for solo, chamber, or vocal music. for solo, chamber, or the image. Because of its precision we recommend this option we recommend Because of its precision the image. three-dimensional image, with the ability to adjust the width of the ability to adjust the image, with three-dimensional Trifield Trifield Introduction

12 Using the digital surround controller

This chapter provides a summary of the functions of the digital surround controller to identify the controls which you use to operate the unit.

It also provides step-by-step instructions for operating the digital surround controller, using either the front panel or the Meridian System Remote. 14 Using the digital surround controller Front panel Digital SurroundController BOOTHROYD STUART 561 1 Source 2345678 Copy Display rstMute Preset Digital 65 Display V A Off Off 8 7 6 Display 5 Mute 4 Preset 3 Copy 2 Source 1 Switches tostandby. Increases thevolume. A Decreases thevolume. V displayed onthefrontpanel. Changes theinformation Changes thepreset. the tapeandVCRoutputs. Copies aselectedsourceto Selects thesource. Increase Decrease Using the digital surround controller 15 Selects the source. Selects the source functions. Control the Switches to Standby. Acesses additional functions. and For entering track numbers radio presets. Changes the DSP preset. For defining custom presets. For customising the 561. Changes the information displayed on the front panel. Change the volume. 1 selection keys Source 2 control keys Source 3 Off 4 Function shift 5 Numeric keys 6 key • 7 Store, Clear 8 Menu keys 9 Display 10 Volume keys Off Mute 10 Display Record Repeat Volume 9 Clear 8 Store 7 ¥ 123 6

5 789 123 456 Function 0 4 Meridian System Remote System Meridian 16 Using the digital surround controller cin51a otolrDSPspeakerascontroller 561ascontroller Volume Go tostandby Source selection Action Quick guidetooperatingthe561withremote hneDPpee • Move tonextorpreviousmenu Change DSPpreset Change display Headphone volume(withTapecardonly) Mute Delete anunwanteduserpreset with thecurrentsource Associate thecurrentDSPpreset or overanexistingone Store settingsasanewDSPpreset Change thevalueofthismenu f Off Volume Off CD, RADIO ueMute Menu Display Function Mute tr Function Clear Function Store Menu (held down) < A

A > V + +

V Volume SoeFunction Store etc. A

V CD, RADIO Function Function Volume Not available Function Function Function

A + + + + + + • +

V Volume Mute Clear Store Menu etc. Menu (helddown) < A

A > V

V Using the digital surround controller 17 Digital 56 DVD (front panel) until the display shows the source until the display shows (front panel) Source . DVD Press you require. The digital surround controller mutes the sound while you The digital surround controller mutes the change source. CD, Radio, By default the following 12 sources are available: VCR1, VCR2, and DTV, TV, Tape 1, Tape 2, CDR, Cable, DVD, LDisc. To select a source To select ● appropriate source key on the remote; Alternatively press the eg For example: After a short delay the display shows the currently selected DSP After a short delay the preset and volume setting. For example: . DVD (front panel), or select a source by pressing the (front panel), or select Source

Press appropriate source key on the remote; eg appropriate source key

● back panel, and disconnect it from the AC power supply. back panel, and disconnect from standby To switch on several days you should switch the unit completely off at the several days you should If you are not going to use the digital surround controller for If you are not going to start. the CD player and Meridian DSP loudspeakers. controller operate at maximum efficiency from the moment you efficiency from the moment at maximum controller operate in the system, such as will automatically switch on any other unit but ensures that the components of the digital surround that the components but ensures a Meridian system it If the digital surround controller is part of the standby state. This uses a negligible amount of electricity, amount of state. This uses a negligible the standby When not playing, the digital surround controller should be left in controller should playing, the digital surround When not Selecting a source a Selecting 18 Using the digital surround controller these unitswillalsoswitchtostandby. DSP loudspeakersconnectedtothedigitalsurroundcontroller If youhaveotherMeridian500Seriesequipmentor The displaywillshow: ● To switchtostandby surround controllerusingacomputer program; formoreinformationreferto each sourcecanbeconfiguredusingtheMeridianConfiguration The audioinput,videoandDSPpresetassociatedwith Press Off onthefrontpanelorremote. , page79. Configuring thedigital . Using the digital surround controller 19 Mute . again. Mute Mute Press Press To mute the sound To mute ● sound To restore the ● The display will show: will be restored if you adjust the volume. Alternatively, the sound keys on the V Music 70 or A (front panel), or the red V or A

Press remote.

● To change the volume For example: current volume level. As you adjust the volume setting the display will show the As you adjust the volume setting the display to 90. listening you should expect to use volume levels in the range 60 expect to use volume levels in the range listening you should which film soundtracks are mixed. For normal to high-level which film soundtracks A setting of 87 corresponds to THX reference gain, the level at A setting of 87 corresponds of the rotary volume control on a conventional preamplifier. of the rotary volume the volume is set to 65, which is similar to the midway position the volume is set to 65, When you first connect power to the digital surround controller When you first connect display, and can be varied in the range 1 to 99dB. can be varied in the display, and The current volume setting is displayed in dB on the front panel in dB on the volume setting is displayed The current steps of 1dB, where 9dB is equivalent to doubling the loudness. to doubling the where 9dB is equivalent steps of 1dB, The digital surround controller adjusts the volume in precise adjusts the volume in surround controller The digital Adjusting the volume the Adjusting 20 Using the digital surround controller by pressing If youareusing aMeridianDSPloudspeakerchange thepreset for example: The displayshowsthecurrent preset; ● To changetheDSPpreset source; see You canalsochangethedefaultDSPpresetassociatedwith such as selected. YoumaythenwishtochooseadifferentDSPpreset, a conventionalCD,the For example,ifyouhaveselectedtheCDsourceandareplaying selected fortheincomingaudioformat. When youchooseasourceanappropriateDSPpresetis Digital, DTS,MPEG,andMLP. each ofthealternativeaudioformats:two-channel(PCM),Dolby Each sourcehasasetofDSPpresetsassociatedwithit,onefor Changing theDSPpreset different DSPpresets. Press Music Preset Changing theDSPpresetforasource Function or (frontpanel),or•(remote)tostep betweenthe Ambisonic •(remote). Trifield . DSPpresetwillinitiallybe Music , page33. L MLP you havestored fortheappropriateaudioformat. MPEG,MPEGTHX, DTS,DTSTHX,Music (DTSMus) In eachcasethese willbefollowedbyanyuser-defined presets MLP MPEG DolbyDigital(Digital), DTS Dolby Digital Direct,Music,Trifield, Ambisonic Presets Two-channel (PCM) Audio format name usedonthedisplay: audio format,followedwhereappropriatebytheabbreviated The followingtablegivesthesequenceofDSPpresetsforeach any user-definedpresetsyouhavestored. You willbeabletochooseanyofthepredefinedDSPpresets,or MPEG Music(MPEGMus) Dolby DigitalTHX(DigTHX) Logic (THX), Mono,Academy,TV␣ Pro Logic(ProLogic),THXCinema Stereo, MusicLogic(MuLogic), (Ambsonic), SuperStereo(Super), Using the digital surround controller 21 Sample rate: 4448 44kHz 32 48kHz NL 32kHz Not locked Music 65 Music Music -22 Radio 65 AC3 3/2.1 44 Input channels: Front/Rear.LFE AC3 3/2.1 44 Format: PCM 2-channel PCM AC3 Digital Dolby DTS encoding DTS MPG MPEG encoding MLP encoding MLP Display optionDisplay and volume DSP preset gain DSP preset and THX Example Source and volume Audio stream Blank following three The audio stream display option shows the pieces of information about the audio stream: , page 56. the display will step between the the display will step THX processing is operating. Dolby processing is operating. Input is DTS. Connecting video Display .

Display

Press Changing the display the Changing MPEG Input is MPEG. Symbol it means What Each time you press are operating: indicate which of the DSP processing modes In addition, the following symbols on the front panel display In addition, the following ● table opposite. options shown in the screen display refer to screen display refer to display To change the video image. For more information about setting up the on- about setting up For more information video image. addition, it can display the same information superimposed on a information superimposed can display the same addition, it current settings on the twelve-character front panel display. In front panel on the twelve-character current settings The digital surround controller displays information about the displays information surround controller The digital 22 Using the digital surround controller selecting thesource,withoutaffecting whatisbeingrecorded. You cannowlistentoadifferent source,suchasCD,by ● VCR: For example,torecordthetelevisionpictureandsoundona step betweentheoptionsshownintableopposite. Each timeyoupress ● To copyasource available tothesecondroom. system, youcopyasourcetothetapeoutputmakeit If youareusingthedigitalsurroundcontrollerinatwo-room independently ofthesourceyouarelisteningto. the standardsourcestotapeandVCRoutputs, The 561DigitalSurroundControllerallowsyoutocopyanyof Recording asource Press Press Copy Copy untilthedisplayshows: . Copy thedigitalsurroundcontrollerwill Copy TV headphone volume; forexample: The displaywill show thecurrent ● To changetheheadphonevolume: also fedtotheheadphones. Tape expansioncard.Thesourcecopiedtothetapeoutputis You canconnectheadphonestothe561usingoptional To changetheheadphonevolume Option Display Copy Radio Copy CD Copy Mute Copy Source Press Function withthered etc. Steps througheachsourceinturn, and VCRoutputs. Copies thefirstsourcetotape muted. The tapeandVCRoutputsare are fedtothetape/VCRoutputs. The currentaudioandvideoinputs A or V keysontheremote. Headphone 65 Defining your own presets

In addition to being able to change the source, volume, and DSP preset, the digital surround controller provides a sophisticated range of more advanced adjustments for each DSP preset, to allow you to change the characteristics of the sound to the settings you want.

This chapter explains how to change these advanced parameters, and how to store them permanently so they are available whenever you want to use them.

For information about the parameters specific to individual presets see

DSP presets, page 37. 24 Defining your own presets ● To unlockthemenus ● The displayshows: ● To lockthemenus menus. presets, youfirstneedtounlockthedigitalsurroundcontroller To displayorchangetheDSPpresets,todefineyourown accessed. you canlockthemenussothatparameterscannotbe controller, andtoprotectthesettingsfromaccidentalchanges, To simplifythenormaloperationofdigitalsurround Locking andunlockingthemenus that thedisplayshows: Repeat theabovesequenceso Press andholddown Press few secondsuntilthedisplayshows: Off toputthe561instandby. Preset fora Unlocked Locked . Defining your own presets 25 on the V

To unlock the menus To unlock Treble +1.5 Function or A

on the remote, and change <

Function Function or >

(remote) to change the value of the parameter. (remote) to change the (remote) until the display shows the name of the (remote) until the display V < or or Function > A Make sure the menus are unlocked; see the menus are unlocked; Make sure opposite. Press to change. parameter you want Press Using a Meridian DSP loudspeaker as the controller for If you are using a Meridian DSP loudspeaker to change by your system, select the parameter you want pressing the parameter by pressing remote. To change a DSP parameter To change ● ● For example: ● As you change the value you will be able to hear the effect on As you change the value will show the current value. the sound, and the display the normal display of After a short delay the display will revert to DSP preset and volume. , page 34. Depth and ) provide the standard Balance Direct and , page 37. Defining your own presets Mono DSP presets

details refer to you to adjust specific features provided by that preset. For full you to adjust specific features provided by Individual DSP presets provide additional parameters, to allow Individual DSP presets provide additional parameters shown on the next page.

All DSP presets (except after the built-in ones. See Standard parameters choice. User-defined presets appear in the list of DSP presets choice. User-defined presets appear in the can create a new user-defined DSP preset, with a name of your can create a new user-defined parameters in place of the original DSP preset. Alternatively you parameters in place You can save the changes you have made to one or more DSP You can save the changes these standard values, even if you have previously altered them. these standard values, you select a different DSP preset the parameters are reset to you select a different listening conditions and with most source materials. Each time listening conditions and standard values, designed to give the best sound in typical standard values, designed For each of the built-in DSP presets these parameters are set to DSP presets these parameters are set For each of the built-in For example, most presets provide most presets provide For example, of the sound. which alter the characteristics parameters vary to customise its behaviour to your specific requirements. its behaviour vary to customise Each DSP preset provides a series of parameters that you can of parameters that preset provides a series Each DSP Changing the DSP parameters DSP the Changing 26 Defining your own presets S f,Lw e,Hg o Thepositionoftheon-screendisplay. Thesync.delay. Thedelayofthesides. Thedelayoftherears. Thelevelofthesides. Theleveloftherears. Low 0ms Thedelayofthecentre. 15.0ms Thephaseofallloudspeakers. TheL-Rbalance. 15.0ms Thelevelofthecentre. Off,Low,Med,High +0dB +0dB 0msto30ms Thebassresponse. ‡ Theseparameters havearangeof0to15ms for5.1Moviepresetsandarange of15msto30msforLogic presets. +0.0 0msto30ms † Theseparametersappearon thespeakersifyouareusingDSPloudspeakers. Theslopeofthefrequencyresponse. <0> +0.0dB * Theseparametersapplytoall DSPpresets. 0msto30ms + -30dBto+10dB -30dBto+10dB OSD * LipSync -2.5msto+5.0ms +0dB S Delay‡ -3.0dBto+3.0dB Whatitchanges +0dB R Delay‡ <10to10> Sides + or- Rear Default -5dBto+5dB Depth -10dBto+10dB Centre Balance Phase * † Range Bass *† Treble *† Parameter Standard parameters Defining your own presets 27 Bass +0.5 Phase + 10dB in 0.5dB steps. Normally 10dB in 0.5dB ± (remote) to change the bass. (remote) to change the phase. (remote) until the display (remote) until the display shows the current bass (remote) until the display V V < < or or or or 5dB in 0.5dB steps. Normally settings between +3.0 5dB in 0.5dB steps. ± A > A > Press Press shows the phase; for example: Press Press setting. and -2.0 will give the most natural results. ● To change the absolute phase ● ● To change the bass To change the ● For example: you to adjust the bass response in the The bass control allows room by The treble control tilts the frequency of the response over the of the response control tilts the frequency The treble dimmer. It the sound brighter or range to make entire frequency between can be adjusted results. will give the most natural +1.0 and -2.0 settings between Treble +1.5 (remote) to change the treble. (remote) until the V < or or A >

Press Press display shows the current treble. ●

● the speaker. For more information see the speaker user guide. the speaker. For more information see the To change the treble For example: If you have a Meridian DSP loudspeaker these menus appear on If you have a Meridian DSP loudspeaker these given the same adjustment, to ensure a correct surround effect. given the same adjustment, In each case all the outputs of the digital surround controller are In each case all the outputs compensate for recordings which are out of phase. compensate for recordings You can also change the absolute phase of the signal, to You can also change provide a more natural adjustment of the frequency response. provide a more natural and take advantage of digital signal processing techniques to and take advantage The controls are more subtle than conventional tone controls, The controls are more a misbalanced recording. a misbalanced system to correct for the acoustics of your listening room, or for of your listening correct for the acoustics system to bass controls, to allow you to adjust the broad balance of the the broad balance to allow you to adjust bass controls, The digital surround controller provides sophisticated treble and provides sophisticated surround controller The digital Changing treble, bass, or phase or bass, treble, Changing 28 Defining your own presets Changing thelisteningposition relative tothemainspeakers. You canalsochangethelevelofrearorsideloudspeakers to theleftorright. adjustment whichcorrespondstomovingthelisteningposition 561 DigitalSurroundControllerprovidesamoresophisticated which changestherelativeloudnessoftwospeakers.The A conventionalstereosystemprovidesasinglebalancecontrol, Academy Note thatthisadjustmentisnot availableforthe main speaker,and10isfullyto oneside. position where0iscentral,8inlinewiththecorresponding The arrowindicatesthedirection,andnumber ● For example: ● left orright To movethelisteningpositionto For example: position. The displayshowsthedirectionandpositionoflistening Press balance. Press A > presets. or or < V (remote)untilthedisplayshowscurrent (remote)tomovethelisteningposition. Balance <8 Balance <0> Mono or Defining your own presets 29 , Stereo , Direct Rear +0 Rear +10 presets. (remote) to change the relative level of the (remote) to change the (remote) until the display shows the speaker(s) the display shows (remote) until V < or or Academy A > , or

Adjust their level until the display shows: Press speakers, in dB. Press you want to adjust. you to adjust the relative loudness of the side speakers. you to adjust the relative loudness of the Note that this adjustment is not available for the Note that this adjustment is not available parameter allows If you have side speakers an additional Sides ● For example, to double the loudness of the loudspeakers: For example, to double the loudness of the double the loudness). from -30dB (about one-eighth of the loudness) to +10dB (about from -30dB (about one-eighth ● relative loudness of the rear loudspeakers You can change the For example: ● or side loudspeakers or side To change the relative level of the rear level of the relative To change Mono 30 Defining your own presets Stereo Note thattheseadjustmentsarenotavailableforthe give thebestperspectivebetweenthreefrontspeakers. You canalsoadjusttherelativedelayofcentrespeakerto main leftandrightspeakers. loudness, toprovidethebestintegrationofcentrewith If youhaveacentreloudspeakercanadjustitsrelative You canchangetherelativelevel by ● For example: ● centre speaker To changetherelativelevelof Changing theintegrationofcentre centre speaker. Press centre level. Press , Mono A > or or < V , or (remote)untilthedisplayshowscurrent (remote)tochangetherelative levelofthe Academy presets. ± 3dB in0.5dBsteps. Centre+0.0dB Direct , ● For example: ● centre speaker To changetherelativedelayof further awayfromthelisteningposition. position, and+5ms,whichcorrespondstomovingit5feet to movingthecentrespeaker2 You canchangethedepthbetween-2.5ms,whichcorresponds Press centre depth. Press centre speaker. A > or or < V (remote)untilthedisplayshowscurrent (remote)tochangetherelativedepthof Qw feetnearertothelistening Depth +0.0 Defining your own presets 31 If you have side speakers an additional S Delay option allows S Delay option side speakers an additional If you have 15ms and speakers between the delay on the side you to adjust the you should never set that for best results 30ms. Note be less than the R Delay. S Delay to , Direct ) you can change R Delay 15.0 Ambisonic , and presets. Trifield , Academy (remote) to change the relative delay of the (remote) until the display shows the speaker(s) (remote) until the display Music , or V < or or A > Mono ,

Press speakers. Press you want to adjust. 15ms and 30ms. and 15ms, and the Logic presets allow you to vary it between and 15ms, and the Logic presets allow you The 5.1 Movie presets allow you to vary the delay between 0ms The 5.1 Movie presets allow you to vary the moving the rear speakers 30 feet away. the rear delay between 0ms and 30ms, which is equivalent to the rear delay between 0ms and 30ms, which music presets ( ● the preset. With the The range of possible values depends on For example: ● rear or side speakers To change the relative delay of the To change the Changing the spaciousness of the sound of spaciousness the Changing Stereo Note that these adjustments are not available for the not available for the adjustments are Note that these delay on the rear and side channels. delay on the You can adjust the spaciousness of the sound by altering the of the sound by altering the spaciousness You can adjust 32 Defining your own presets corresponds to sitting 30feetfurtherawayfrom thescreen. You canadjustthedelaybetween 0and30ms,where30ms ● ● benefit fromaLipSyncsettingof12ms. Many TVbroadcastsdelaythepicturebyhalfaframe,andcan closer homeviewingdistance. can addanoveralldelaytothesoundaccommodateyour giving adisconcertingeffect.UsingtheLipSyncparameteryou when viewedfrom12feetorlessthesoundarrivestooearly, Most moviesaremixedforaviewingdistanceof30feet,and frame. between thesoundandvideoimagebyuptoone surround controllerwhichallowsyoutoadjustthedelay The LipSyncparameterisauniquefeatureofthedigital To adjustthelipsync Changing thelipsyncandon-screen display Press until thedisplayshows: Press A > or or < V (remote) (remote)tochangethedelayin milliseconds. LipSync 0 ● For example: ● of thescreenwhenlisteningtomusic. the topofscreenwhenwatchingvideos,butatbottom For example,youmayprefertohavetheon-screendisplayat altogether. on-screen display(OSD),orblankthe For eachDSPpresetyoucanspecifythepositionof on-screen display To changethepositionof You canchoosebetweenOff,Low, Med,orHigh. Press position. Press A > or or < V (remote)untilthedisplayshowscurrentOSD (remote)tochangetheposition. OSD Low Defining your own presets 33 Function CD=Trifield Trifield (remote) to save the new association. (remote) to save the Store

(front panel) or • (remote) to select the DSP or • (remote) to select (front panel) Function Preset . Press Press the source. want to associate with preset you ● the normal display of After a short delay the display will revert to DSP preset and volume. If you are using a Meridian DSP loudspeaker press If you are using a Meridian Mute source and The display shows the for example: preset you have stored; ● For example: , To unlock the menus and the TV source uses and the TV Trifield . CD key on the front panel or the appropriate source key key on the front panel or the appropriate .

Logic

Select the source you want to change, by pressing the Select the source you Source on the remote; eg format. For If necessary, select a signal in the appropriate for DTS compact example, to change the DSP preset used discs, play a DTS CD. Make sure the menus are unlocked; see Make sure the menus page 24. ● ●

● To change the DSP preset for a To change the source signal the CD source uses signal the for each music format. For example, for a standard stereo (PCM) for a standard format. For example, for each music Each source has an appropriate DSP preset associated with it DSP preset associated has an appropriate Each source Changing the DSP preset for a source for preset DSP the Changing with any source. This section explains how to change the DSP preset associated This section explains TV 34 Defining your own presets ● ● For example: ● ● ● To savethepresetsettings choice, soyoucanusethemalongsidethebuilt-inpresets. can createupto12presetsofyourown,withnames You caneithersavethechangestobuilt-inpreset,oryou the built-inpresets,andsaveitforfutureuse. The 561DigitalSurroundControllerallowsyoutomodifyoneof Defining yourownpresets Press store; see Change thepresetparameters to thevaluesyouwant preset youwanttomodifyandthenassociatewiththesource. Press discs, playaDTSCD. example, tochangetheDSPpresetusedforDTScompact If necessary,selectasignalintheappropriateformat.For page 24. Make surethemenusareunlocked;see Store Preset To changeaDSP parameter (remote). (frontpanel)or•(remote)toselecttheDSP , page25. Trifield To unlockthemenus , For example: The displayshowsthenextavailableuser-definedpreset. the presetifyou wish. If youaredefining auserpresetyoucannowedit thenameof selected. The settingshavebeenstored in theneworexistingpresetyou ● For example: that andoverwriteit. Alternatively ifyoustartedwithabuilt-inpresetcanchoose For example: ● Press A If youwanttooverwriteanexistinguser-definedpresetpress or V Store toselectthepresetyouwantoverwrite. (remote). Sto.Trifield Sto.User 1 Sto.User 2 Defining your own presets 35 Sto.La Scala Sto.La CD=La Scala . Clear

Function . When you have entered the name you want to use press When you have entered Store If you are using a Meridian DSP loudspeaker you select a blank loudspeaker you select a Meridian DSP If you are using by pressing the you could change For example, name to: ● source and the new preset you have The display shows the defined. For example: Sto.•ser 1 Sto.•ser to change the character. to select the character position you want to edit. to select the character position you want V < or or A > (remote). Press Press Clear stop, and blank. You can also select a blank directly by pressing stop, and blank. You can also select a blank Each press steps through the sequence A to Z, a to z, 0 to 9, full Each press steps through the sequence A ● ● If you have an on-screen display it shows: an on-screen display If you have are editing: A flashing cursor shows the letter you cursor shows the letter A flashing 36 Defining your own presets original settingsarerestored. If youclearapresetthatwassavedoverbuilt-inpreset,the The displayshows: ● For example: ● ● To clearauser-definedpreset Press andholddown preset youwanttoclear. Press page 24. Make surethemenusareunlocked;see Preset (frontpanel)or•(remote)toselecttheDSP Clear (remote)forseveralseconds. Preset Clear To unlockthemenus User2 , DSP presets

This chapter gives technical information about each of the DSP presets built in to the digital surround controller.

It explains the processing performed by each DSP preset, and gives details of the types of material you should use with each preset.

It also gives details of the special DSP parameters available for each preset.

The DSP presets are divided into three categories: Logic, Music, and 5.1 Movie. You can set up the 561 Digital Surround Controller to use a different subwoofer configuration for each category of DSP preset. 38 DSP presets designed forfilmswithmonosoundtracks. The remainingtwoLogicpresets, sound thanotheranalogue-baseddecoders. This givesitafarhigherperformanceandbettersubjective the DolbySurrounddecodingoperatespurelyinadigitalmode. philosophy ofperformingallthesignalprocessingdigitally,and The 561DigitalSurroundControllerfollowstheMeridian Surround, anditisincreasinglybeingusedtoencodemusic. and manyTVprogrammesseries,areencodedusingDolby are designedforDolbySurroundencodedmaterial.Mostfilms, Three ofthesepresets, specifically designedforreproducingstereofilmsoundtracks. The digitalsurroundcontrollerprovidesfiveDSPpresets Logic DSPpresets Pro Logic Mono , THX Cinema and Academy , and TV Logic , are , permanently operatinginthismode. material isencodedwiththisin mindthenoise-reductionis reduction processinthesurround signal.SinceDolbySurround The ProLogicdecoderalsouses amodifieddigitalDolbynoise- the surroundsignalstodivertattention orbecomedominant. and delayoftherearsurroundsignaltoreduceanytendency for Further refinementsintheProLogicdecoderincludefiltering successful forcinemaandotherdramaticprogrammes. that positioninthearrivingsound.Thistechniqueisvery sound. Thissoundisthensteeredtoagreaterorlesserextent to calculating thepositionanddegreeofcurrentlydominant left–right andfront–backdirections.Itdoesthisbycontinuously directional enhancementtoincreasetheseparationinboth The ProLogicsystemusespsychoacousticallyoptimised separation. simple passivematrix.Suchadecodergivesquitepoor amplitude matrixwhoseoutputcanbedecodedbyavery Dolby Surroundisanencodingsystembasedonaphase- Pro Logic DSP presets 39 , page 46. Steered Side,Steered All,Mono All, channels are generated Mono Rear, by steering. Mono gives Mono Side conventional Pro Logic surrounds. Steered gives stereo surrounds. is a logic preset, with user-adjustable steering, that is a logic preset, with user-adjustable steering, TV Logic TV Logic spatial can give higher intelligibility and a more appropriate presentation for studio-based TV material. Pro Logic and THX Cinema DSP and THX Pro Logic preset parameters Parameter OptionsMono Rear Rear, Steered What it changes of the surround Which THX can also be used with the 5.1 Movie DSP presets; see 5.1 Movie DSP presets; be used with the THX can also MPEG THX THX, DTS THX, and Dolby Digital DSP preset provides Pro Logic decoding, provides Pro Logic DSP preset

THX Cinema The front channels are re-equalised to correct for the higher The front channels are film soundtracks. treble often found in are frequency-corrected using a The surround channels so that sounds moving front–back timbre-matching process are more convincing. break up any The surround channels are decorrelated to to the speakers artificial localisation of the rear signals due Controller this being nearby. In the 561 Digital Surround surround sound decorrelation is optimised to give spacious or other sensitive that has no artefacts disturbing to music sounds in the mix. is adjusted to The time synchronisation between loudspeakers in a home system compensate for the fact that the speakers in a movie theatre. tend to be a lot closer to the listener than

The THX Cinema ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ and a home cinema in the following ways: and a home cinema in provide a better match between the sound of the movie theatre provide a better match The THX extensions to Pro Logic decoding are designed to The THX extensions by Lucasfilm Ltd. followed by additional signal processing refinements developed refinements additional signal processing followed by 40 DSP presets In the Mono andAcademy Thedegreeof Whichofthe surround SteeredRear, Off,Low,Med,High Thedegree of Mono Rear Off,Low,Med, High Whatitchanges Yaw Roll Options Parameter TV LogicDSPpresetparameters ❍ ❍ listen to: two-channel carrier. material wasoriginally monoandhasbeenconveyed ona A combinedversionofthetwo input channels,foruseifthe languages ormaterialarecarried oneachchannel. Only oneoftwoinputchannels, forusewhendifferent Mono and ooAl oogeneratedbysteering. channels are Rear, MonoSide Mono All, Side, SteeredAll, Academy DSPpresetsyoucanchooseto front–rear steering. left–right steering. nu uoLR et Thechannel selected. AutoL+R,Left, Whatitchanges Input Options Parameter parameters Mono andAcademyDSPpreset balance insomeoldmonofilms. (recommended byLucasfilmLtd)tocorrectforahigh-frequency The and clicks. played onlythroughthistocentrallylocalisehigh-frequencyhiss If thereisacentrespeaker,thecombinedorselectedsignal Academy DSPpresetincludesanequalisation Right, L+R DSP presets 41 preset extracts the Trifield DSP preset, the DSP preset extracts the mono and surround extracts the mono DSP preset for recordings made DSP preset is recommended Music Music Music Trifield As for the Music The These components of the original recording. components representation of the original sound, and provide an alternative sometimes used for recording systems or this representation is FM radio. in broadcasts such as equalised using a proprietary Meridian The mono element is to tone colour of the centre speaker, and technique to match the that the frequency response of human compensate for the fact direction. hearing changes with The or using a mono- with spaced omnidirectional microphones, surround technique. mono and surround components of the original recording. It then mono and surround components of the original and right calculates the signals for the front left, centre, differences between speakers, using the phase and amplitude sounds on a the three front channels, to redistribute the frequency-dependent basis. Ambisonic, Super Stereo, Stereo, Music Logic

MLP (Meridian Lossless Packing) MLP MPEG MPEG Music DTS DTS Music Two-channel (PCM) Trifield, Direct, Music, Audio format Presets Music DSP presets DSP Music digitally encoded DTS, MPEG, and MLP formats. digitally encoded DTS, In addition, it provides DSP presets for reproducing music in the In addition, it provides pair of loudspeakers. material, originally intended for replay over a traditional stereo replay over a traditional intended for material, originally DSP presets designed for the reproduction of well-recorded designed for the reproduction DSP presets The digital surround controller provides seven alternative music provides seven alternative surround controller The digital 42 DSP presets adjusted. image ismorefocused,andthewidthofcanbe advantage overthe television broadcaststhatarenotDolbySurroundencoded.An Trifield digital signalprocessing. the Trifieldalgorithmisvirtuallyimpossibletoimplementwithout into amplitudedifferencesinthespeakersignals.Thisversionof which convertsthedifferencesbetweenmicrophonesignals This givesasignificantimprovementovertraditionalstereo, isrecommendedforwell-maderecordingsandstereo Music DSPpresetisthatthefrontstereo it o15Thewidthoftheimage. Switches the surround Surr. Rear, Thetimbre ofthe 0to1.5 Surr. Rear Flat,EQ1to3 Width * Whatitchanges Centre Options Parameter parameters Music andTrifieldDSPpreset itrOf kz kz Thecutoff ofhigh Off,1kHz,3kHz, R Filter itrOf kz kz Thecutoff ofhigh Off,1kHz,3kHz, S Filter * Trifield only. ur ie ur l signalbetweenthe Surr. Side,All kzfrequenciesfromthe 7kHz kzfrequenciesfromthe 7kHz centre loudspeaker. side andrearspeakers. rear surrounds. side surrounds. DSP presets 43 is the one that is the one Ambisonic synthesises a signal from a conventional stereo synthesises a signal Those using true coincident microphone techniques. Those using true coincident microphone Multi-tracked or multi-miked recordings. recording space whether you are at the exact central seat or well at the exact central whether you are recording space side. off to one options, Of all the signal-processing attention to speaker choice and requires the greatest positioning. Super Stereo Super Stereo so that it can be decoded using the recording or broadcast The result is especially effective for two Ambisonic decoder. particular types of recordings: ❍ ❍ DSP preset is designed for replaying material is designed for replaying DSP preset

Ambisonic

position, giving the illusion that you are sitting inside the position, giving the illusion that you are sitting combine to produce a coherent sound field at the listening combine to produce a coherent sound field and conventional stereo is that the signals from all the speakers and conventional stereo is that the signals The fundamental difference between Ambisonic surround sound The fundamental difference between Ambisonic signal and construct the signals for each speaker feed. signal and construct the signals for each frequency-dependent, phase-amplitude matrices to decode the frequency-dependent, phase-amplitude matrices The digital surround controller uses accurately matched, The digital surround controller uses accurately channel carriers (like FM radio, LP, or CD). amplitude matrix to allow the effect to be conveyed on two- amplitude matrix to allow the effect to be The microphone signals are then encoded using a phase- The microphone signals made which describes the sound field exactly at that position. made which describes performance in all three dimensions, allowing an archive to be performance in all three special microphone technique picks up the sound of the original special microphone technique Ambisonic surround sound is quite unlike conventional stereo. A sound is quite unlike conventional stereo. Ambisonic surround replayed using the digital surround controller. replayed using the digital reproduction and can give breathtakingly realistic sound when reproduction and can broadcasts. This material is specifically encoded for surround broadcasts. This material encoding found on Ambisonically recorded discs and encoding found on Ambisonically encoded in UHJ format, the two-channel stereo-compatible UHJ format, the two-channel encoded in

The Ambisonic 44 DSP presets † * itrOf kz kz Thecutoffofhigh Off,3kHz, 7kHz, S Filter itrOf kz kz Thecutoffofhigh Thenumberofspeakers. Off,3kHz,7kHz, Thewidthoftheimage. 7,6,5,4 R Filter 5 Channels Theseatingposition;the A,C,E,G,I,K, M 0to1 Whatitchanges Position † Width * Options Parameter preset parameters Ambisonic andSuperStereoDSP Super Stereo Ambisonic only. only. kzfrequenciesfromtheside 9kHz kzfrequenciesfromtherear 9kHz surrounds. surrounds. hall. letters arelikerowsina ooRa tee er Whichofthesurround Thedegreeoffront-rear SteeredRear, Off,Low,Med,High Mono Rear Thedegreeofleft-right Off,Low,Med, High Yaw Whatitchanges Roll Options Parameter Music LogicDSPpresetparameters types ofstudio-producedmusic. steering, designedtoprovideanexcitingexperiencewithmany Music Logic Music Logic isamusicDSPpresetwithuser-adjustable tee l,bysteering. Rear, MonoSide channels aregenerated Mono All, Steered All, Steered Side, steering. steering. DSP presets 45 preset only the left and right main speakers are preset only the left and preset passes the left and right input signals directly the left and right preset passes Direct Stereo Stereo and Direct Stereo The left and Any mono or front right main speakers. to the left and to be used. right subwoofers continue With the used. DSP preset parameters. There are no special , DSP MLP preset designed , and preset designed with preset designed MPEG DTS MPEG Music , 5.1 Movie DSP preset parameters DTS Music is a special version of the is a special version of is a special version of the is a special (Meridian Lossless Packing) is an audio format that (Meridian Lossless Packing)

DTS music CDs. a lower LFE level of -10dB to match the bass levels applied to the bass levels level of -10dB to match a lower LFE For details of the CD or DVD, without any loss of quality. increases the amount of information that can be recorded on a increases the amount of information that page 47. MLP MLP

MPEG Music MPEG Music

DTS Music DTS Music encoded music CDs. for listening to MPEG DTS Music preset parameters see 46 DSP presets feature DTSsoundtracks. signal inplaceof thenormaldigitalaudio.DVDs mayalso CDs andLaserDiscsarecurrently availablewhichprovideaDTS it candeliverhighqualitymusic athighbitrates. DTS isunusualamongthecompressed surroundformatsinthat DTS The digitalsurroundcontroller’s frequency-range channelusedforextremebass. full frequency-rangechannels,togetherwithonerestricted Dolby Digitalisatotallydigitalformatcapableofencodingfive Dolby Digital the eightspeakersinasurroundconfiguration. channels, whichcanbedecodedtoprovideseparatesignals The discretedigitalformatscanencodeuptoeightseparate 5.1 MovieDSPpresets Digital canproduce. protect systemsfromthepotentiallyhighbasslevelsthatDolby Digital. Inaddition,itprovidesbasspowermanagementto of decodingtherangedifferentoptionsprovidedbyDolby Dolby Digital presetiscapable not yourotherequipmentisTHXapproved. the surroundsoundmorerealistic,andcanbeusedwhetheror correction anddecorrelationtothesurroundchannelsmake domestic listeningconditions,andappliesfrequency-response THX As withthestandard MPEG THX Dolby DigitalTHX,DTSand territories. MPEG surroundisthepreferredaudioformatforDVDinPAL MPEG , DTS

THX , and MPEG THX Cinema

THX re-equalisethesignalstosuit DSPpreset, Dolby Digital DSP presets 47 raises quiet sounds above the background noise, raises quiet sounds above and quiet listening. which is ideal for demonstration top-down compression. compression. This reduces loud sounds. loud Quiet sounds are raised to be audible and which passages are minimised to avoid disturbance, is useful for late-night listening. the material sound pressure level in the studio where was mixed. parameter can be set to one of the following options: parameter can be set Using dynamic range control dynamic range Using range format it allows dynamic Digital is a digital Because Dolby The in analogue methods. the distortion involved control without Compress Option Description OffLow No compression. compression. This Provides moderate bottom-up Med and Provides moderate amounts of both bottom-up Top amount of top-down Provides a moderate Max Provides full bottom-up and top-down compression. Mix Bypasses dialogue normalisation and references the Using peak- , page 48. only. and rear speakers. LFE bass channel. LFE subwoofer. total bass signal added to the main speakers. level limiting Dolby Digital THX Surr. All the side signal between Top, Max, Mix control; see and

Dolby Digital Surr. Rear Surr. Rear, Surr. Side, Switches the surround Parameter Options What it changes 5.1 Movie DSP preset parameters DSP preset 5.1 Movie LFEMax SPL * to -30dB 0 SPL 105 to 120dB Limit * The peak-level limit for an The relative level of the -15 to -5dBFSCompress † Off, Low, Med, The peak-level limit of the The dynamic range † * See below. 48 DSP presets speakers, the Meridian DSPloudspeakersasthemainleftandright,orcentre added tothemainloudspeakers.Forloudspeakerlayoutsusing is named If yourloudspeakerlayoutcontainsnosubwoofertheparameter the LFEchannel. parameter isnamed If yourloudspeakerlayoutincludesoneormoresubwoofersthe discrete digitalDSPpresets. limiting forbasssignals,andthesettingappliestoall The Using peak-levellimiting does notappearinthemenu. Max SPL Limit or Limit , anditsetsthepeak-levellimitofbasssignal Limit valueisfixedat-11dBFSandtheparameter Max SPL parametersallowyoutosetuppeak-level , anditsetsthepeak-levellimitfor Setting up the digital surround controller

This chapter explains how to install the digital surround controller. It describes what you should find when you unpack the processor, how you should connect it to your other audio equipment and speakers, and the siting constraints.

Before you begin installation you should ensure that your digital surround controller is the correct voltage for you local AC supply. If it is not, do not try to install the unit, and contact your dealer.

You should not make any connections to the digital surround controller, or to any other component in your system, while the AC power supply is connected and switched on. Unpacking

The digital surround controller comes in a box containing the ❍ Near to a television, or where connecting cables may be following components: subject to or cause interference.

❍ Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller. To avoid overheating ensure that air can flow through the ❍ Meridian System Remote. cooling slots on the base and top cover. Alternatively, an ❍ Power cord. optional Fan kit can be fitted to ensure adequate ventilation ❍ 500 Series communications lead. when the 561 is installed in an enclosed space. ❍ RS232 computer serial lead. ❍ This manual. Radio interference

If any of these items are missing please contact your dealer. We FCC Warning: This equipment generates and can radiate radio suggest that you retain the packing in case you need to frequency energy and if not installed and used correctly in transport the unit. accordance with our instructions may cause interference to radio communications or radio and television reception. It has To position the digital surround been type-tested and complies with the limits set out in Subpart controller J, Part 15 of FCC rules for a Class B computing device. These limits are intended to provide reasonable protection against Do not place the digital surround controller: such interference in home installations.

❍ In direct sunlight. EEC: This product has been designed and type-tested to ❍ Near heat sources, such as radiator. comply with the limits set out in EN55013 and EN55020. ❍ Directly on top of heat producing equipment, such as a power amplifier.

Setting up the digital surround controller ❍ Near strong magnetic radiation, such as a near a power amplifier. 50 Setting up the digital surround controller 51 L R Video outputs Main Outs VCR Outs S3 VCR2/ Analogue inputs S-video inputs S1 DVD/ ANALOGUE IN television. digital television tuner. A6 VCR1 V3 Cable/V4 LD/S2 DTV/S4 Composite video inputs A7 A5 A4 A3 A2 A1 VCR2 Cable TV Tape1 Radio CD L R TV/V2 VCR1/V1 Analogue tape outputs TAPE OUT TAPE Room 2 Tape L R Digital speakers Use this inputVCR1/V1, TV/V2, connect to this To V3, Cable/V4 The composite video output from a DVD/S1, LD/S2,VCR2/S3, DTV/S4 video recorder, TV tuner, or cable The S-video output from a DVD player, player, video recorder, or LaserDisc Analogue speakers Sub Main/Side DIGITAL OUTDIGITAL IN VIDEO VIDEO OUT Centre 5/6 Side/Sub ANALOGUE OUT Rear L Main/Side Rear R L R 7/8 3/4 1/2 Rear Centre/Sub Main Expansion socket 12 Comms TRIGGER OUT COMMS Digital inputs Meridian Comms Only Digital tape output CDR/D3 Tape2/D4 DIGITAL IN DIGITAL PC Optical input DTV/D5 CD/D1 Tape Out Tape RS232 LD/O1 DVD/D2 Power input and fuse ON OFF

signals with a DC offset. The video inputs V4 and S4 include DC rejection, for video The video inputs V4 and S4 include DC rejection, The table opposite gives details of the video inputs. The table opposite gives details of the video Video inputs

Rear panel Connecting the digital surround controller surround digital the Connecting Video outputs Digital audio inputs

The following table gives details of the video outputs. All outputs The following table gives details of the digital audio inputs: include the 561 on-screen display. Use this input To connect to this When an S-video source is selected the S-video output is also CD/D1, DVD/D2, A digital source, such as a CD player, converted to composite and fed to the composite outputs. CDR/D3, Tape2/D4, DVD player, digital tape recorder, or However, to take advantage of the higher quality available from DTV/D5 digital television tuner. S-video sources it is recommended that you also connect the S-video output to the television or monitor. LD/01 A digital-optical source, such as a LaserDisc player, the 519 Use this output To connect to this Demodulator, or a CD player with no digital-cable output. Main Outs (composite) The composite video input of a television or monitor. The digital connections should be made with high-quality 75Ω Main Outs (S-video) The S-video input of a television or screened cable. Suitable cables are available from Meridian. We monitor. do not recommend using audio cables, which do not have adequate shielding or the correct impedance, or cables intended VCR Outs A video recorder. The composite VCR for UHF applications, as these do not provide adequate Outs output will enable you to record shielding in the 1–30MHz region. either composite or S-video sources.

Optical connections should be made using a suitable optical fibre supplied by your dealer. Setting up the digital surround controller

52 Setting up the digital surround controller 53 subwoofer. speakers. and side right surround Audio outputs Audio digital of the analogue and table gives details The following outputs: Use this output To connect to this Main 1/2Centre/Sub 3/4 and centre or mono Centre speaker speakers. Main left and right Sides/Sub 5/6Rear 7/8 Left and right subwoofers, or side left position To use a Meridian DSP loudspeaker in a particular connect it to the appropriate digital output. Left and right rear surround speakers. an analogue speaker in To use a Meridian active loudspeaker, or connect the input of conjunction with a suitable power amplifier, output. the power amplifier to the appropriate analogue them to the Main/Side If the main speakers are analogue, connect digital, the Main/Side analogue outputs. If the main speakers are side speakers. analogue outputs can be used for analogue

channels correctly. screened cable, taking care to connect the left and right screened cable, taking The analogue connections should be made using high-quality The analogue connections VCR2/A7 Cable/A5, VCR1/A6, tuner, or cable television. Tape1/A3, TV/A4, radio tuner, tape recorder, TV CD/A1, Radio/A2, a An analogue source such as Use this input to this To connect The following table gives details of the analogue audio inputs: of the analogue audio table gives details The following Analogue audio inputs Analogue Audio tape and expansion socket Control outputs outputs The following table gives details of the control outputs: The following table gives details of the tape and headphone outputs: Use this output To connect to this

TRIGGER OUT 1 Other equipment. On when the 561 is Use this output To connect to this switched on but not in standby. DIGITAL Tape Out A digital tape recorder. TRIGGER OUT 2 A TV SCART input or motorised Tape L, R An analogue tape recorder or video screen. On for S-video sources. recorder. The trigger outputs provide 100mA at 9V. They can be Room 2 L, R A second tape recorder or a Meridian configured to other settings; see Configuring the digital surround preamplifier in a second room. controller without a computer, page 65. Expansion socket * Additional expansion output.

* The function of the expansion socket depends on the expansion card fitted. The optional Tape card provides a headphone output. Setting up the digital surround controller

54 Setting up the digital surround controller 55 , page 65. equipment, and the master digital speaker. configure the 561. See surround Configuring the digital controller without a computer

RS232 The serial port of a PC, to COMMS Meridian 500 Series Other Use this connection To connect to this connections: The following table gives details of the communications table gives details The following Communications connections Communications Connecting video

To connect to a television or monitor The 561 adds a text overlay to the video signal from the Mains Outs video outputs, to provide additional information about its Television operation in the form of a textual on-screen display (OSD). In 561 Digital Surround Controller normal operation this repeats the information provided on the VIDEO OUT MONITOR IN Main Outs S-video Composite 561 front panel display. During calibration, and when resetting the 561, the on-screen display provides additional guidelines to S-video lead help you perform the calibration sequence. Composite video lead The on-screen display automatically locks to an NTSC, PAL, or The 561 digital surround controller provides switching of both SECAM signal, and requires an input signal to operate. composite and S-video sources.

● Connect the composite Main Outs VIDEO OUT socket to the composite input of your television or monitor using a composite video lead.

S-video sources are converted to composite and are also available on the composite output.

However, for highest quality from S-video sources it is recommended that you connect the S-video Main Outs VIDEO OUT socket to the S-video input of your television or monitor, using an S-video lead, and select this when viewing an S-video

Setting up the digital surround controller source. 56 Setting up the digital surround controller 57 If your system includes more than two Meridian DSP includes more than If your system S-patch box (available you will need a 511 loudspeakers S5 leads from each speaker. to link together the separately) speaker the master digital COMMS output from Connect the 511 using an S5 lead. to one socket on the speakers together using S5 leads, as Link all the other digital The other sockets on the 511 can be shown in the illustration. comms to each slave speaker. used to distribute the on each digital speaker to link the Use the duplicate sockets pairs, corresponding to the pairs of speakers together in outputs. channels on the digital ● ● ● S5 lead COMMS OUTPUT INPUT DIGITAL OUTPUT 511 S-patch box 21 DIGITAL INPUTS DIGITAL DIGITAL OUTPUTS DIGITAL S5 lead COMMS 561 Digital Surround Controller 561 Digital Surround COMMS OUTPUT INPUT M5 lead DIGITAL S5 lead (digital unused) OUTPUT DSP5000 – Main R DSP5000 – Main L 1 2 INPUT 21

DIGITAL OUTPUT OUTPUT DIGITAL INPUTS DIGITAL INPUTS DIGITAL

Use the audio part of the M5 lead to connect the digital Use the audio part of the M5 lead to connect socket. speaker to the appropriate DIGITAL OUT Use the comms part of an M5 lead to connect one of the Use the comms part of an M5 lead to connect speaker you have COMMS sockets on the 561 to the digital speaker). chosen as the master (typically the centre COMMS DSP5000C Centre (master) Centre ● ● loudspeakers To connect to Meridian DSP to Meridian To connect Connecting speakers Connecting To connect to active loudspeakers To connect to a stereo power (eg Meridian M33s) amplifier (eg Meridian 556)

M33 Active M33 Active 561 Digital Surround Controller 556 Stereo Power Amplifier Loudspeaker Loudspeaker Main/Side INPUT INPUT L 561 Digital Surround Controller R INPUT Main/Side INPUT L R Audio leads

Audio leads ● Connect the appropriate ANALOGUE OUT sockets from the digital surround controller to the stereo power amplifier line ● Connect the appropriate ANALOGUE OUT sockets from the inputs, using screened audio cable. digital surround controller to the speaker inputs, using screened audio cable. ● Connect the speaker outputs from the stereo power amplifier to suitable speakers. You can connect the 561 to up to two pairs of active loudspeakers and a centre speaker. Setting up the digital surround controller

58 Setting up the digital surround controller 59 INPUT CROSSOVER , page 90. Subwoofer INPUT DIRECT Audio lead Sub To specify the type of subwoofer

561 Digital Surround Controller Surround 561 Digital

Connect the Sub ANALOGUE OUT socket from the digital Connect the Sub ANALOGUE the subwoofer’s line level input. surround controller to information see mode to match the subwoofer’s crossover frequency. For more mode to match the subwoofer’s crossover the digital surround controller’s crossover and use Gain/Sub the digital surround controller’s crossover cannot do this set the subwoofer filtering to wide to switch off cannot do this set the subwoofer filtering the subwoofer or set it to its highest setting (eg 200Hz). If you the subwoofer or set it to its highest setting the subwoofer filtering to Narrow, and remove any crossover in the subwoofer filtering to Narrow, and remove use these instead of the subwoofer’s crossover. To do this set use these instead of the subwoofer’s crossover. crossovers for the subwoofer, and for best results you should crossovers for the subwoofer, The digital surround controller provides very high-quality The digital surround ●

(eg Meridian M1500 or M2500) M1500 (eg Meridian To connect an active subwoofer an active To connect more information. configure it for Bypass; refer to the subwoofer’s user guide for configure it for Bypass; refer to the subwoofer’s If you are using an M1500 or M2500 use the L+ input and If you are using an M1500 or M2500 use Connecting sources

To connect to a digital source To connect to an analogue source (eg Meridian 508.24 24-Bit CD Player) (eg Meridian 504 FM Tuner)

561 Digital Surround Controller 508.24 24-Bit CD Player 561 Digital Surround Controller 504 FM Tuner

DIGITAL IN ANALOGUE IN DIGITAL ANALOGUE ANALOGUE IN OUTPUT CD/D1 CD/A1 OUTPUT OUTPUTS Radio/A2

Digital lead Audio lead Audio lead

You can connect up to five digital sources to the 561 Digital You can connect up to seven analogue sources to the 561 Surround Controller. Digital Surround Controller.

● ● Connect the digital source to one of the DIGITAL IN sockets, Connect the analogue source to one of the ANALOGUE IN of the 561, using a high-quality digital phono lead. sockets of the 561, using a standard phono lead.

● If the digital source provides an analogue output, and you want to be able to make analogue tape recordings of the source, connect the analogue output to one of the ANALOGUE IN sockets.

By default the CD/A1 input is copied to the analogue tape output when you copy the CD source. Setting up the digital surround controller

60 Setting up the digital surround controller 61 Optical lead OUTPUT OPTICAL RF RF lead OUTPUT RF OUT INPUT VIDEO INPUT OPTICAL S-video lead LD/S2 OUTPUT OPTICAL VIDEO IN Optical lead Demodulator Meridian 519 LD/O1 Connect the S-video output from the LaserDisc player to the Connect the S-video of the 561, using an S-video lead. LD/S2 VIDEO IN socket player to the 519 Connect the RF output from the LaserDisc RF input. player to the Connect the optical output from the LaserDisc the LD/O1 to 519 optical input, and the 519 optical output leads. DIGITAL IN socket on the 561, using optical 561 Digital Surround ControllerSurround 561 Digital LaserDisc player DIGITAL IN DIGITAL To connect to a LaserDisc player to a LaserDisc To connect ● ● ● output S-video Meridian DVD Player Meridian DVD S-video lead OUT DIGITAL DVD/S1 VIDEO IN Digital lead DVD/D2 DIGITAL IN DIGITAL

Connect the digital output from the DVD player to the DVD/D2 Connect the digital output the 561, using a digital lead. DIGITAL IN socket of Connect the S-video output from the DVD player to the Connect the S-video of the 561, using an S-video lead. DVD/S1 VIDEO IN socket 561 Digital Surround Controller Surround 561 Digital ● ●

(eg Meridian DVD Player) (eg Meridian To connect to a DVD player to a DVD To connect Connecting to a tape recorder

To connect to a digital recorder To connect to an analogue recorder

561 Digital Surround Controller Digital recorder 561 Digital Surround Controller Analogue Recorder

TAPE OUT ANALOGUE IN AUDIO DIGITAL IN Digital Digital Tape Tape1/A3 OUT IN Tape Out Tape 2/D4 Output Input

Digital leads Audio leads

● Connect the Tape Out socket on the 561 Digital Surround ● Connect the Tape TAPE OUT sockets on the 561 Digital Controller to the recorder’s digital input. Surround Controller to the recorder’s input sockets.

● Connect the recorder’s digital output to the Tape2/D4 ● Connect the recorder’s output sockets to the Tape1/A3 DIGITAL IN socket on the 561. ANALOGUE IN sockets on the 561.

This will allow you to record a digital source by copying it to the This will allow you to record an analogue source by copying it to tape output. the tape output.

By adding the optional Tape card you will also be able to record To record a digital source either connect its analogue output to analogue sources to the digital tape output. one of the 561 analogue inputs, or add the optional Tape card. Setting up the digital surround controller

62 Setting up the digital surround controller 63 IN AUDIO OUT Video Recorder Video VIDEO IN OUT Video leads Video Audio leads VCR1/V1 VCR Outs VCR1/A6

Tape

Connect the video recorder’s video output to the VCR1/V1 or Connect the video recorder’s video output appropriate. VCR2/S3 VIDEO IN socket on the 561, as Connect the appropriate VCR Outs VIDEO OUT socket on the Connect the appropriate VCR Outs VIDEO recorder’s video 561 Digital Surround Controller to the video input. Connect the video recorder’s audio outputs to the VCR1/A6 Connect the video recorder’s on the 561. ANALOGUE IN sockets Connect the Tape TAPE OUT sockets on the 561 Digital Connect the Tape TAPE the video recorder’s audio inputs. Surround Controller to TAPE OUT TAPE 561 Digital Surround Controller Surround 561 Digital cannot be recorded. Note that DVD video discs include a special feature so that they Note that DVD video discs include a special ● ● ●

● To connect to a video recorder to a video To connect Connecting to other Meridian equipment

To connect to other Meridian 500 One unit will then be designated Controller Series equipment as the controller, and display:

● Connect one of the COMMS sockets on the back panel of the This is the unit that will respond to the remote. 561 Digital Surround Controller to one of the COMMS sockets on another 500 Series unit, using the 500 comms lead All the other units will be configured Not Con. provided with the digital surround controller. as non-controllers, and display:

The sequence in which you connect the units is not important. Your system is now set up and ready for use.

561 Digital Surround Controller 500 Series unit ● If for any reason the automatic setup does not give the

COMMS COMMS configuration you want, restore the default operation by selecting one of the standard types; see Choosing a standard setting, page 66.

Then configure the units with the following automatic setup Note: Do not, under any circumstances, connect any equipment procedure: other than Meridian 500, 600, or 200 Series to the socket marked COMMS on the back of the digital surround controller. ● Switch all the units to standby.

● Press CLEAR (remote). Auto Setup Each unit will display: Setting up the digital surround controller

64 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer

The 561 Digital Surround Controller can be set up for most standard configurations of loudspeakers and sources using just the front-panel controls and Meridian System Remote.

This chapter explains how to configure the digital surround controller without using a computer, and then how to calibrate the loudspeakers and sources for your particular system.

Alternatively, for complete control over all aspects of the digital surround controller’s configuration you can set up the unit from a computer using the Meridian Configuration program. For full information refer to the next chapter. 66 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer ❍ ❍ ❍ system: The Typeyouchoosedependsonthefollowingaspectsofyour screen displayreferto explaining whattodo.Forinformationaboutsettinguptheon- monitor, theon-screendisplayalsoprovidesadditionaltext If yourdigitalsurroundcontrollerisconnectedtoatelevisionor configuration oftheunit. may haveperformed,andsocanbeusedtoresetthe Choosing oneoftheTypesoverridesanyotherconfigurationyou program arealsoavailable. User TypesyoucreateusingtheMeridianConfiguration into themostcommonlyneededconfigurations.Inaddition,any settings, calledTypes,whichconfigureallaspectsofthe561 The digitalsurroundcontrollerprovides39alternativestandard Choosing astandard setting Whether thespeakersareanalogue ordigital. Whether yoursystemincludes a subwoofer. The numberofspeakersinyour system. Connecting video , page56. codes: The followingdiagramshowsthemeaningofstandardType subwoofer for5.1Moviepresets. presets, acentresubwooferforLogicandanLFE The SpecialsuboptiongivesnosubwooferforMusicDSP Main,centre,side,&rear 7 Main,centre,&rear 5 Main&rear 4 Main¢re 3 Mainonly 2 Number ofmainspeakers: Type 5.SDAA Specialsub S Mono/THXsub 1 Nosub 0 Subwoofer: Analogue A Digital D speaker types: Main/centre/surround Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer 67 Exiting Type Exiting key on the front panel. key on the Off Press the ● shows: The display Type- Wait.. Type 5.1 AAA Type 2.0 A-- Typing, wait Type in... 5 key for a A key on the front A on the front panel to select the Type. ▼ or ▲ (front panel or remote).

Wait for a few seconds, while the display shows: Press further 5 seconds. Keep holding down the Keep holding down the Put the digital surround controller into standby by pressing surround controller Put the digital Off Hold down the shows: panel until the display Select a video source to produce an on-screen display. source to produce Select a video ● ● The display will show: for example: Followed by the current Type setting; Followed by the current ● ● ●

● To select a Type To select speakers the display shows: For example, if you have two analogue 68 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer DL/1L/2TXCnm iia H T H MPEGTHX MPEG MPEG MPEG MPEG DTSTHX MPEG MPEG DTS DigitalTHX DTS MPEG DTS DTS THXCinema MPEG Digital DTS DTS MPEG Digital Digital DTS Digital LD/S2 MPEGMus ProLogic MPEGMus DTS Digital ProLogic Digital Trifield DTS Trifield Digital VCR2/S3 DTSMus DTSMus LD/01 TVLogic Digital VCR1/V1 DVD/S1 Music VCR2/A7 Digital Music Digital Digital VCR1/A6 Cable/V4 TVLogic LD – DVD/D2 VCR 2 Cable/A5 Music – Trifield Music VCR 1 CDR/D3 TV/V2 MPEG – DVD Tape2/D4 DTV/S4 Cable Tape1/A3 TV/A4 DTS CDR – – Tape 2 DTV/D5 Digital Tape 1 Radio/A2 2-channel CD/D1 TV DTV Video Radio CD Audio Source System Remote. corresponding tothe12sourceselectionkeysonMeridian The digitalsurroundprocessorprovides12sources Standard source settings nu nu rstpee rstpreset preset preset preset input input and presetsshowninthetablebelow. standard Typesthesourcesaresetupwithlabels,inputs, When thedigitalsurroundprocessorisresettooneof Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer 69 , page 56. Connecting video Connecting Each calibration test uses a test signal designed to give the best Each calibration test results. If your digital surround controller is connected to a television or is connected to a surround controller If your digital text also provides additional on-screen display monitor, the up the on- about setting what to do. For information explaining refer to screen display Using a Sound Pressure Level meter Using a Sound is the calibration procedure by ear, it Although you can perform perform the tests using a Sound recommended that you These are available fairly cheaply from Pressure Level meter. or your Meridian dealer may be able to lend Tandy/Radio Shack, you one. weighted, and Slow. Set the Sound Pressure Level meter to C position, pointing Take readings with the meter at the listening an outstretched arm to vertically. You should hold the meter with minimise reflections from your body.

the parameters adjusted in the test. calibration test is shown on the front-panel display, followed by calibration test is shown on the front-panel As you run the calibration procedure the name of each As you run the calibration procedure the position. using the Meridian System Remote and from the listening using the Meridian System Remote and from We recommend that you perform the calibration procedure We recommend that you perform the calibration your room. Using the calibration procedure to check the calibration, such as after changing the layout of to check the calibration, you set up your surround sound system, and whenever you want you set up your surround You should work through the calibration procedure the first time You should work through system to their optimum settings. system to their optimum of sounds, which you use to adjust certain aspects of the of sounds, which you This calibration procedure uses test signals to present a series This calibration procedure procedure. the 561 Digital Surround Controller includes a built-in calibration includes a built-in Surround Controller the 561 Digital sound with any particular combination of associated equipment, of associated any particular combination sound with To help you to set up your installation to give the best possible to give the best to set up your installation To help you Calibrating the system the Calibrating 70 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer Or: units: The displayshowsthedistance ● ● To changethedistanceunits: inches, ormetres. You canchoosetodisplayandenterdistancesineitherfeet To choosethedistanceunits seconds. Press andholdthe Off Put thedigitalsurroundcontrollerintostandbybypressing (frontpanelorremote). V keyonthefrontpanelforatleastfive Feet/Inches Metres shows: After afewseconds thedisplay If youhaveanon-screendisplayitshows: The displayshows: ● ● ● To startthecalibrationprocedure seconds. Press andholdthe Off Put thedigitalsurroundcontrollerintostandbybypressing Select avideosourcetoproduceanon-screendisplay. (front panelorremote). Off keyonthefrontpanelforatleastfive Left +0.0 Calibration Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer 71 to jump to the next set of tests. to jump to the next set (front panel or remote). (remote) to move to the next test. (remote) to move to to an earlier test. (remote) to move back Off > < Store

Press Press Press Press ● parameters you have set will be retained. You can exit from the calibration procedure at any time, and any You can exit from the calibration procedure To exit from the calibration procedure To exit from

● are described in the following sections. The calibration tests To move between the calibration tests the calibration between To move ● ● calibration tests see the following sections. tests see the following calibration For more detailed information about this and the other information about For more detailed 72 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer If youhaveanon-screendisplayitshows: For example: current relativelevel. In eachtestthedisplayshowsspeakerbeingtested,and the can beusefulatthisstage;askyourdealerformoreinformation. Laboratories andLucasfilm.ASoundPressureLevel(SPL)meter individually, anditfollowsthegeneralguidelinesfromDolby These testsallowyoutoadjusttheoutputleveleachspeaker Levels Calibration tests Left +0.0 ● hearing. then reducethesubwoofergain by15dBtocorrectforhuman subwoofer correctlyeitheruseanSPLmeter,orsetitbyearand because low-frequencynoisessoundquieter.Tosetthe Note thatyoucannotsetthelevelofasubwooferbyear, above +0db. If youhaveMeridianDSPloudspeakerstheycannotbeset THX approvedthissettingisrecommended. 75dB SPLusinganmeter.Evenifyourspeakersarenot For correctTHXreproductionyoushouldadjusteachspeaker to ● ● Store When youhavecompletedthe Levels sectionpress tonal difference. Use the Use R, RearL,Sideandsubwoofers. in thelayoutsequence:Left,Centre,Right,SideR,Rear A toproceedthenexttest. and > and V toadjustthelevelofspeaker.Ignoreany < keystomovebetweeneachofthespeakers > or Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer 73 , page 70. Left 18'0 To choose the distance units To choose to proceed to the next calibration stage. keys to move between each of the speakers between each of keys to move < to change the distance. V Store and > or and > A in the layout. Use Use the Press The display shows the speaker being The display shows the tested, and the distance: ● Measure from the ear height at the listening position to the the listening position the ear height at Measure from units applicable), in the distance each speaker (where tweeter on see you have chosen; ● display it shows: If you have an on-screen Repeat this for each of the speakers in your layout. Repeat this for each of the speakers in your ● Side Right Surround Sub Surround Centre Sub

Left Right Left Left Rear Right Rear Side

distance to each speaker from the listening position: distance to each speaker Before setting up the speaker outputs you need to measure the Before setting up the coincident when they arrive at the listening position. coincident when they in the layout to time-align the system so that sounds are so that sounds to time-align the system in the layout These tests allow you to adjust the delay of each of the speakers the delay of each of allow you to adjust These tests Distance 74 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer If youhaveanon-screendisplayitshows: ● layout. speaker whenusedinconjunctionwithotherspeakersonthe These testsallowyoutofine-tunethephaseanddelayofeach Fine tuning For example: The firstdisplayallowsyoutoadjustthephase. Use the in thelayout. > and < keystomovebetweeneachofthespeakers Left + norc Thesound appearsdiffused,and Thesoundbetweenthe speakersis Incorrect What itsoundslike Correct Setting Choose thecorrectsettingasfollows: If youhaveanon-screendisplayitshows: For example: speaker. The nextdisplayshowsthedistance(ordelay)forsame location asyoumoveyour head. changes intimbre andapparent radically asyoumoveyourhead. very even,anddoesnotchange Left 18'0 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer 75 (front panel or remote) to exit from the calibration (front panel or remote) Off procedure. Press ● You have now completed the calibration of your system. You have now completed from you. As you increase the delay the speaker will appear to move away will appear to the delay the speaker As you increase dramatic effect on the overall sound. dramatic effect Pay particular attention to the centre channel, as this can have a channel, as this attention to the centre Pay particular 76 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer The displayshows: menus: Gain/Sub modeaddsthreeextra optionstotheDSPparameter on. The 561willthenreturntostandby withGain/Submodeturned ● ● To turnonGain/Submode the subwoofersinyoursystem. You canalsoadjustthesubwoofercrossoverfrequencytosuit configure themtosuityourotherequipment. sources connectedtothedigitalsurroundcontroller,and This sectionexplainshowtouseGain/Submodesetupthe Setting upsources five seconds. Press andholdthe Off Put thedigitalsurroundcontrollerintostandbybypressing (frontpanelorremote). Gain , Xover , and Mute Sine keyonthefrontpanelforatleast . Gain/Sub On do notaffectthe inputlevel. you canchoose anysurrroundmodeorvolume level,asthese commercials on aTVchannel.Whilesettingthesensitivity as the loudest passagesinthe sourcematerialavailable,such For eachanalogueinput,thesensitivity shouldbesetusingthe level. sound veryunpleasantandcanoccuratanyoutputvolume level whichdoesnotproduceclipping.ClippingintheADCcan you canadjustthesensitivityofeachinputtogivehighest To obtainthebestsignal-to-noiseratioforyouranalogueinputs transparent DSPvolumecontrol. advantage ofouruniquesurroundmodesandthehighly Converter (ADC)whichallowsanaloguesourcestotake The 561containsaveryhigh-qualityAnaloguetoDigital sources To adjustthesensitivityofanalogue ● To turnoffGain/Submode the displayshows: Repeat theaboveprocedureuntil Gain/Sub Off Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer 77 Xover 80Hz Gain • +9 Gain • (remote) to set the crossover frequency. (remote) to adjust the sensitivity until three bars adjust the sensitivity (remote) to (remote) until the display shows the current (remote) until the (remote) until V V > > or or or or A A < < Press Press Turn on Gain/Sub mode, as described above. Press crossover frequency. are showing in the loudest passages. are showing in the loudest analogue sources you want to adjust. Repeat for any other as described above. Turn off Gain/Sub mode, Press display shows: ● ● subwoofer crossover To adjust the frequency frequency for any subwoofers The 561 allows the crossover adjusted between 30 and 120Hz. The which you have to be Logic, and 5.1 crossover can be set independently for Music, of 80Hz. Movie presets. The default is the THX standard ● ● For example: ● ● ● Radio • +9 Input correct; just below clipping. Input clipped; reduce sensitivity. Select the source you want to adjust, with loud source source you want to adjust, Select the material playing. Turn on Gain/Sub mode, as described above. mode, as described Turn on Gain/Sub Radio ••• +6 Radio ••••+9 Display What it means follows: The Clip indicator changes to show the peak input level as The Clip indicator changes sensitivity and the display shows NA. sensitivity and the display If you have selected a digital source you cannot adjust the If you have selected For example: the source in dB. The display shows a Clip indicator, and the current sensitivity of Clip indicator, and the current sensitivity The display shows a ● ● 78 Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer The displayshows: ● ● ● resonances. the subwoofercrossoverfrequencies,orcheckforroom Gain/Sub modeincludesasinewavesignaltest,tohelpyouset To usethesinewavesweeptest speakers havegoodbasshandlingdownto,say,50Hz. however, tolowerthecrossoverfrequencyformusicifyourmain recommended settingforallmovielistening.Youmayprefer, settings –theyshouldbeleftat80Hz.80Hzisalsothe For THXloudspeakersystemsyoushouldnotadjustthese Press display shows: Press Turn onGain/Submode,asdescribedabove. A < or toturnonthesinewavesignal. > (remote)untilthe Sine Off Pause 80Hz direction ofsweep,pausetheorturnoffsinewave. You canthenusethe ● For example: The displayshowsthedirectionandfrequency. Press quickly. frequency, respectively.Pressthekeytwicetosweepmore A or V tostartthesinewavesweepingupordownin A or V keystochangethespeedor Sine >>175Hz Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

The 561 Digital Surround Controller provides a flexible range of customisation options which you can change to suit your own preferences and the other equipment in your system. To configure the 561 you use the Meridian Configuration program, an intelligent Windows-based application that is supplied with the 561. This allows you to create one or more custom configurations, and download them to the 561 so that they are available alongside the built-in types.

This chapter explains how to install the Meridian Configuration program, and then how to use it create your own configurations of the 561. The Meridian Configuration program

The Meridian Configuration program is a stand-alone Windows- Sources based application that lets you design your own configuration of Lets you customise the operation of each of the the 561 Digital Surround Controller to suit your own personal sources, including the presets used by each source preferences and the particular configuration of equipment in for each of the audio formats, the digital, analogue, your system. and/or video inputs used for that source, and additional information about the type of each The Meridian Configuration program provides the following source. sections to allow you to control the corresponding aspects of the digital surround controller’s operation: Presets

Setup Lets you customise the settings of the built-in DSP presets, and create additional presets of your own Lets you specify general features of the digital based on the built-in presets. surround controller’s operation, including the position of the on-screen display, the information provided on the front panel displays, the startup volume, and settings affecting its operation in multi- room systems.

Speakers

Lets you configure the digital surround controller to suit the layout of the loudspeakers in your system, and the type of each speaker, to ensure that you

Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer get perfect surround sound performance.

80 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 81 How you are going to set up the different speakers in your How you are going to layout. going to be handled by the main Whether the bass is or more subwoofers. speakers, or by one or video inputs you are going to use Which analogue, digital, for each of your sources. want as the default preset for each Which DSP preset you source and audio format. Planning the configuration Planning Surround for your 561 Digital a configuration Before creating of your the following aspects it is a good idea to plan Controller setup: ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ . menu. R Start and press from the setup Run...

A:

Choose Insert the first Meridian Configuration program installation Insert the first Meridian Configuration program disk. Type A computer running Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.00. A computer running processor. A 100MHz or faster Pentium-class RAM. At least 16 Mbytes of space. 5 Mbytes of free disk port assigned to one of COM1 to 4. A vacant 9-pin serial Follow the on-screen instructions, inserting the second Follow the on-screen instructions, inserting installation disk when prompted. ● ● program ● To install the Meridian Configuration To install the cannot be operated solely from the keyboard. cannot be operated solely The software requires a mouse or similar pointing device – it The software requires ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ To use the Meridian Configuration program you need: Meridian Configuration To use the

Requirements Installing the Meridian Configuration program Configuration Meridian the Installing ● To run the Meridian Configuration Button Option Function program New Creates a new settings file.

● Click Start, point at Programs, then click Meridian Open Opens an existing settings file. Configuration. Save Saves the current settings file to disk. The Meridian window will be displayed: Fetch Fetches the current configuration of the attached product(s).

Store Stores the current settings and User Types to attached products.

Disconnect Disconnects the program from attached products.

Copy Copies text or settings onto the clipboard.

Paste Pastes text or settings from the The toolbar provides a convenient way of accessing the most clipboard. important menu options: About Displays program information. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

82 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 83 Options button. OK menu to display the View from the Options

Select the port you want to use and click the Select the port you want to use and click Choose dialogue box: Connect the other end to one of the serial ports on the PC or Connect the other end PC notebook computer. Connect one end to the RS232 connector on the back panel Connect one end to Controller. of the 561 Digital Surround ● ● Then specify the serial port you are using as follows: Then specify the serial ● ● way round. The serial cable is symmetrical, and can be connected either and can be connected cable is symmetrical, The serial To connect the serial cable the serial To connect Creating a new settings file

The section explains how to create a new settings file, using the To display the settings Meridian Configuration program, and how to enter personal information to identify the settings in your 561. ● Double-click the Surround controller icon, to open it and display the settings it contains. ● Choose New from the File menu, or click the New button in the toolbar: The left-hand panel of the Meridian window will change to show the following three icons: A new settings file will be created for you, with the initial name MSF1, and the Meridian window will show a 561 Surround controller icon to identify the product you are configuring.

Owner lets you enter personal information, for future reference, and choose the message displayed when you first switch the unit on, and Settings is the initial configuration in the settings ● Choose Save As from the File menu, enter an appropriate file. name for the file, such as your name, and click the Save

Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer button. Double-clicking Return to top level takes you back to the previous level. 84 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 85 , Speakers , Setup tab are for use by dealers in tab are for icon. . Advanced Settings Presets window will change to show the four categories of window will change , and Meridian Double-click the The the settings file: settings contained in Sources The options on the The options version of and to upload a new multi-room systems, setting up that you do it is recommended to the product, and the software these settings. not change edit the settings To display or ● The options available in each case are explained in the following The options available sections. the Meridian At this stage you may find it useful to maximise see all the options on Configuration program window so you can each screen. Description , and Owner , Dealer text are displayed after the product icon in the left-hand panel. icon in the Description Owner text will be displayed when you turn the 561 on. The text will be displayed when you turn the key in standby. and

Owner

Click the Enter any text you like in the Enter any text fields. The

● To enter your personal details your personal To enter Display Dealer the front-panel version and serial numbers if you hold down 561 front-panel display. ● the size of the 12 characters in each field, You can enter up to Setting up speakers

This section describes how to use the Meridian Configuration To specify the speaker layout program to configure the 561 Digital Surround Controller for the configuration of loudspeakers in your system, and specify ● Click Speakers in the left-hand panel of the Meridian information about the type of each speaker, for optimum window. performance. ● If necessary click the Layout tab to display the Layout page of speaker settings: The first stage in setting up the speakers is to specify the number of speakers in the layout, and the type and size of each speaker.

The 561 Digital Surround Controller can support up to 8 loudspeakers, or up to 6 loudspeakers if the front speakers are analogue.

Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer ● Specify the type of each speaker by selecting the appropriate 86 option from each of the drop-down menus. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 87 according to the type of each according to the type DSP or if your main left and right speakers are large, left and right speakers if your main if your main left and right speakers do not have if your main left and Small analogue Large speaker. with good bass performance, and you want to use them for with good bass performance, full range reproduction. Choose or your room is large and you want to a good bass response, to handle the bass for the use one or more subwoofers system. Choose Choose The following table gives recommended settings for Meridian The following table gives recommended settings loudspeakers: ● ● LoudspeakerDSP5000, DSP5500,DSP6000, or DSP6000C Recommended setting DSP5000C Large DSP M60M60C, M33, or A500 Small DSP Small analogue Large analogue To specify the size and type of the and type of the size To specify main speakers ● enable you to have the subwoofers. enable you to have the select two subwoofers, the side speakers will be removed to select two subwoofers, For example, if you specify two sides and two rears, and then For example, if you specify whole configuration is valid. whole configuration is other options will be adjusted accordingly to ensure that the other options will be If you select a combination of options that is not supported, the that is not supported, a combination of options If you select show the resulting layout. show the resulting As you change the options the layout illustration will change to layout illustration will the options the As you change To specify information about the To specify the number of subwoofers, centre speaker and the DSP presets that use them

● From the first drop-down menu choose one of the following If your main left and right speakers are small you will need to use options: one or more subwoofers to handle the bass. You can choose between appropriate combinations of mono (front), centre, left Option Description and right, or surround.

None If you do not have a centre speaker. If your main left and right speakers are large you can use one or Movies only If you want to use the centre speaker for more subwoofers to augment the bass from the centre channel. Logic and 5.1 Movie DSP presets only. With 5.1 sources an additional option is to use the subwoofer only for the LFE channel. Movies and music If you want to use the centre speaker for all presets. You can specify a different subwoofer configuration for Music, Logic, and 5.1 Movie DSP presets. ● From the second drop-down menu specify the type of the centre speaker; the options are as for the main speakers. The Advanced checkbox is for dealer use only, and it is recommended that you leave this unchecked unless you have To specify the number and types of special requirements. surrounds

● Choose the appropriate option depending on the number of rear speakers and side speakers you have in your surround system. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer ● 88 Specify the types of the rear and side speakers. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 89 SizeCalc , as these include , as these display. Max SizeCalc button to display the button to display the to help you calculate the correct value for to help you calculate corresponds to no protection, and 0 to no protection, corresponds SizeCalc Max Size calculator Click the window: Specify the number of bass units in each speaker (woofers), Specify the number of bass units in each speaker. the size of each unit, and the design of the Type the size into the appropriate field. A setting of A setting of DSP By default any Meridian to full protection. corresponds set to in your system are loudspeakers built-in protection. You can use your speakers: ● ● The size value is displayed in the ● size directly. If you prefer you can copy and paste the page of settings allows you to set up speaker protection allows you to page of settings

automatic protection of each full-range speaker or subwoofer. automatic protection of each full-range speaker reproducing, the digital surround controller allows you to set up reproducing, the digital surround controller Because of the high bass levels that 5.1 materials are capable of Because of the high bass levels that 5.1 materials To set up speaker protection for the 5.1 sources. for the 5.1 Sizes Once you have specified the speaker layout for your system the layout for your have specified the speaker Once you Setting the speaker sizes speaker the Setting To specify the type of subwoofer If your loudspeaker layout contains no subwoofer the parameter is named Bass limit, and it sets the peak-level limit of the bass For each subwoofer in the system you can specify the signal added to the main loudspeakers. For loudspeaker layouts subwoofer filtering. The options are explained in the following using Meridian DSP loudspeakers as the main left and right, or table: centre speakers, the Bass limit value is fixed at -11dBFS and you cannot adjust it. Option Description To complete the speaker setup Narrow The digital surround controller provides a low-pass cut off; the subwoofer’s You have now completed the first stage of setting up the 561, crossover should be bypassed. This is and you should save the changes you have made by choosing the recommended option. Save from the File menu. Wide The subwoofer includes a crossover. You can ignore the Distances, Crossovers, Precision, and To set peak-level limiting Phase/Gain pages of settings for the moment; these will allow you to check the values you have set up when you calibrate The Max SPL or Bass limit parameter allows you to set up the 561. peak-level limiting for bass signals, and the setting applies to all the discrete digital DSP presets.

If your loudspeaker layout includes one or more subwoofers the parameter is named Max SPL, and it sets the peak-level limit for the LFE channel. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

90 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 91 if you want to use this source. tab. Options Source exists Select Select the source in the list of sources. Select the Click the ● To configure the source options the source To configure ● ● Advanced Meridian , or Connections , Options icon in the left-hand panel of the icon in the left-hand Sources

Click the window. ● To set up sources Setting up sources up Setting surround controller. program to configure the sources provided by the digital configure the sources program to This section describes how to use the Meridian Configuration describes how to use This section settings by clicking on the settings by clicking on available. For each source you can display three pages of available. For each source The right-hand panel shows a list of the 12 sources that are The right-hand panel tabs. You can prevent the source from appearing in the list of sources, To specify the source connections or being selectable using the Meridian System Remote, by disabling this option. ● Click the Connections tab to show the Connections page of settings. ● If you want, you can change the name displayed when the source is selected by editing the Name field.

The name can consist of up to five letters, digits, or the characters space, full-stop, and minus.

The name you specify is shown in the list of sources followed by the Meridian System Remote key used to select the source in brackets.

● In the Presets section specify the DSP preset you want to use for each of the five alternative audio formats: PCM, AC-3, MPEG, DTS, or MLP.

Each drop-down menu gives the built-in and user-defined DSP presets appropriate for that audio format.

● From the Main input drop-down menu specify the digital or analogue audio input you want to use for the source.

Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer ● From the Video Input drop-down menu specify the video 92 input you want to use for the source. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 93 To adjust the , page 76. drop-down menu. drop-down Sensitivity Specify the sensitivity of the input by choosing an appropriate sensitivity of the input Specify the the option from If you have chosen an analogue input for the main audio input: input for the main audio chosen an analogue If you have ● adjust the sensitivity of any analogue Note that you can also using Gain/Sub mode. See source interactively, sources sensitivity of analogue if you Last valid set to to leave the corresponding to leave the for audio sources such as for audio sources . Main input Last valid 24-bit Last valid drop-down menu allows you to select to drop-down menu. Precision Video Input Extra analogue input Specify the precision for the source by choosing an option Specify the precision from the 24-bits. If in doubt choose All CDs and laserdiscs are currently 16-bits. The 518 provides All CDs and laserdiscs are currently 16-bits. ● If you have specified a digital input for the main audio input: If you have specified as its DSP preset, without changing the selected input. as its DSP preset, without want it to change some other aspect of the current source, such want it to change some You can create a source with You can create a source CD, Radio, Tape1, and Tape2. CD, Radio, Either option can be set to Either option usually set usually set setting unchanged when you select the source. You would the source. You when you select setting unchanged want to make analogue recordings from it. your digital source also provides an analogue output, and you your digital source also provides an analogue The sources. Select this if an extra analogue input for copying digital To set the advanced source options ● If you have two Meridian source units of the same type you can configure them to have different Comms addresses. You ● Click the Advanced tab to show the Advanced page of can then select the appropriate source by specifying its settings. Comms address in the Comms address field.

● You can also select a 30 millisecond delay to avoid DTS noise. This option should not be selected for video sources as it will prevent the sound from being in sync with the picture.

● Select Only ever play DTS for this source to create a video DTS source that will avoid any DTS noise when switching audio formats.

● Select either of Triggers 1 or 2 to activate the specified trigger outputs when this source is selected.

● If the source is connected to another Meridian unit, set Comms type to 1C for a Meridian CD player, 2C for a Meridian FM tuner, and 3C for a Meridian DVD player. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer Otherwise set it to none. 94 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 95 Adjust the parameters as required. Select the preset in the list of presets. Select the ● To modify a built-in preset a built-in To modify ● will be displayed: The default DSP parameters Meridian icon in the left-hand panel of the icon in the left-hand Presets

window. Click the the 12 unused user-defined presets. The right-hand panel shows a list of the 21 built-in presets, and The right-hand panel shows a list of the 21

● and can have any name of your choice. and can have any name To set up presets Each user-defined preset is based on one of the built-in presets, Each user-defined preset You can also create up to 12 additional user-defined presets. You can also create preferences. DSP parameters of any of the built-in presets to suit your own presets to suit of any of the built-in DSP parameters and the Meridian Configuration program lets you configure the program lets you configure Configuration and the Meridian The 561 Digital Surround Controller provides 21 built-in presets provides 21 built-in Surround Controller The 561 Digital Configuring presets Configuring Note that the treble and bass settings will not be available if your The new preset is created in the first available space after the system includes DSP loudspeakers, because in this case the built-in presets. DSP speakers handle the treble and bass adjustments. ● Select the new preset you have created. For more information about the DSP parameters available for ● Edit the preset name to identify the preset. each DSP preset see DSP presets, page 37.

Initially the name is set to be the same as the built-in DSP preset it If you have modified the DSP parameters from their defaults, was based on, but you can chose any name of up to 8 letters, (modified) is displayed after the preset name in the list of digits, or the characters space, full-stop, or minus; eg Football. presets.

To restore the DSP parameters to their defaults

● Select the preset in the list of presets.

● Click the Reset to default button.

To create a user-defined preset

● Select the preset you want to use as the basis for the user- defined preset.

● Click the Copy as new preset button. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

96 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 97 menu, or click button. menu, or click the Edit Edit this preset

from the from the Delete Copy Paste

Copy button in the toolbar: Choose Choose preset or empty position you want Highlight the user-defined to replace. Highlight the preset you want to copy. Highlight the preset you Click the the Paste button in the toolbar: Select the preset in the list of presets. Select the ● ● ● ● in the list of user-defined presets in the list of ● to a specific position To copy a preset

● To delete a user-defined preset a user-defined To delete Changing the setup options

The final stage in editing the settings is to configure the general The options are described in the following table: Setup options. Option What it means To change the setup options Lock settings on Locks the DSP preset parameters. product ● Click the Setup icon in the left-hand panel of the Meridian window. On-screen display Specifies the default position of the position on-screen display. The Setup options will be displayed: Multi-room displays Includes displays of information from Meridian sources; eg CD track number or FM tuner frequency.

Diagnostic displays Includes diagnostic displays in the display options.

Module type Selects an optional module, if fitted.

Fan Sets the fan operation, if fitted.

Volume on startup Specifies the volume selected on switching on at the back panel.

Comms controller Specifies whether the 561 is controller, status not controller, or set automatically.

System and Copy For multi-room setups. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer address 98 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 99 Receiving... button to see more Details>> dialogue box shows how the operation dialogue box shows button in the toolbar. Progress Store Switch on the 561 Digital Surround Controller, and check that Controller, and the 561 Digital Surround Switch on between the 561 and the PC. the serial cable is connected Click the If there is a problem click the information about the problem. To store the settings to the digital the settings To store controller surround ● ● The 561 will display: The following is progressing. Meridian button. menu, or click the File icon in the left-hand panel of the from the Settings Print sources and output summary Save

Save button in the toolbar:

Click the Check that there is a printer connected to your PC. Check that there is a printer connected to Click the window. Choose ● ● your system configuration. source settings, so that you can check that they correspond to source settings, so that you can check that At this stage it is useful to print a summary of the speaker and At this stage it is useful to print a summary ● To print a summary of settings To print a summary ● First save the settings to your PC hard disk. First save the settings To save the settings To save the for correct performance. for correct use the calibration listening tests built into the 561 to calibrate it built into the 561 to listening tests use the calibration your system, the next step is to store the settings to the 561 and store the settings to the next step is to your system, Once you have edited the settings to suit the configuration of to suit the configuration have edited the settings Once you Calibrating the settings with your system your with settings the Calibrating When the download is complete the 561 will automatically reset To fetch the calibrated settings itself to use the new settings, and show the owner name you defined: Finally fetch the calibrated settings back from the digital surround controller as follows: Zachary Ford For example: ● Make sure your settings file is loaded into the Meridian Configuration program. To calibrate the loudspeakers ● Click the Fetch button in the toolbar.

Now proceed through the calibration procedure to set the The Progress dialogue box will show you the progress as the correct relative level, delay, and phase for each of the settings are fetched: loudspeakers in the system. See Calibrating the System, page 69.

To adjust the sources

The second calibration stage involves adjusting the sensitivity of the analogue sources; see To adjust the sensitivity of analogue You can verify that the calibrations you made are now included sources, page 76. in the settings by checking the Distances and Phase/Gain pages of the Speakers settings option. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

100 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 101 Meridian field to identify your . Type name Standard icon in the left-hand panel of the left-hand panel of the icon in the Settings User Type, such as Enter a suitable name in the Click the window: The name can have up to 12 characters. ● To name the User Type the User To name ● , page 66.

Choosing a standard setting Choosing a standard

see Types. For more information about selecting one of the Types Types. For more information become available in the list of Types, alongside the built-in become available in When you store one or more User Types to the 561 they When you store one whenever you need to. whenever to the 561 as a User Type, so that you can reset the unit to them you can reset the as a User Type, so that to the 561 surround controller, the final step is to store them permanently the final step surround controller, Once you have fetched the calibrated settings from the digital settings from have fetched the calibrated Once you Creating a User Type a User Creating To create additional User Types Initially the new type will be created with the same settings as the type you based it on, and with the name New type: If you wish you can create several User Types, and store them all to the digital surround controller. You can then reset the digital surround controller to any of the User Types by selecting the appropriate Type name.

To create a new User Type:

● Select the User Type you want to base it on in the left-hand panel of the Meridian Setup window; eg Standard.

● Click the Copy as new user type button.

● Select In use if you want the User Type to be selected automatically when you store it to the digital surround controller. You can then change the name of the new Type, and configure its settings, in exactly the same way as for the original Type.

A suggested naming convention is to name User Types with the date they were created: for example, 06/05/98. Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

102 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer 103 . menu, or click the menu, or click the menu, or click menu, or click the Presets Edit Edit Edit Edit or from the from the Sources from the from the Paste Copy Paste Copy

Choose Highlight the same icon in the User Type you want to copy to. Highlight the same icon in the User Type Paste button in the toolbar: Highlight the icon corresponding to the section of settings you Highlight the icon corresponding to the section want to copy: Choose Choose toolbar: the Copy button in the you want to copy the settings to. Highlight the User Type Paste button in the toolbar: Highlight the User Type you want to copy the settings from. to copy the settings User Type you want Highlight the Copy button in the toolbar: Choose ● ● ● type as follows: one section of a user type to the same section of another user one section of a user You can also copy and paste source and preset settings from You can also copy and ● ● ●

● To copy settings between User Types User settings between To copy ● Completing the configuration

The final stage in creating a settings file is to save it, and then If the download was successful the 561 will briefly display the store it to the digital surround controller. owner name you have defined;

To save the current settings Zachary Ford For example: ● Choose Save from the File menu or click the Save toolbar button, to save the changes you have made to the It will then switch itself to standby. settings file to your PC hard disk. The User Type you have created will now be available in addition To store the settings to the 561 Digital to the built-in Types, and will be selected by default if you need Surround Controller to reset the configuration of the digital surround controller; see Choosing a standard setting, page 66. ● Click the Store button.

The settings will then be downloaded Receiving... to the 561. The 561 will display:

As the download proceeds the following dialogue box shows its progress: Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer

104 Troubleshooting

This chapter provides suggested solutions to typical problems that may occur when setting up the digital surround processor.

If you are still not able to resolve a difficulty with the help of this guide and the suggestions in the following pages, please contact your Meridian dealer or Meridian Audio Ltd. General operating problems

Standby point not lit Remote not working

Check the following: Check the following:

❍ There is AC power connected to the socket on the rear of the ❍ The battery in the Meridian System Remote. 561. ❍ Remove the 500 Comms connections from the 561, does it ❍ The power switch on the rear panel of the 561 is turned on. respond now? If so, replace the connections and perform an Auto Configure procedure as described opposite. If the 561 will still not illuminate, check any fuses in your power ❍ See if the 561 has been set up as not controller in the supply and the fuse in the inlet of the 561. If these are all intact, Meridian Configuration program; see Changing the setup contact your dealer. options, page 98. Note that this may be deliberate by your dealer. Erratic or unexpected system behaviour

Redo the Auto Configure process as follows:

❍ Put the whole system into standby. ❍ Press Clear on the Meridian System Remote. ❍ Observe all units responding correctly.

If this fails, the memory of the 561 may have been corrupted. If this is suspected perform a full reset; see Choosing a standard

Troubleshooting setting, page 66.

106 Troubleshooting 107

Select a six-channel soundtrack, if it is available. Select a six-channel optional Fan kit. operating it in an enclosed space, you will need to fit the operating it in an enclosed If there is not adequate ventilation around the unit, or you are If there is not adequate Unit is overheating ❍ use the default two-channel preset. use the default two-channel DVDs include a two-channel Dolby Digital soundtrack, which will Digital soundtrack, a two-channel Dolby DVDs include 561 selects the Pro Logic preset the Pro 561 selects When playing a Dolby Digital DVD, the Digital DVD, playing a Dolby When Audio problems

Hum on analogue input There is radio interference

There is no reason for the 561 to produce hum on the analogue The 561 is a digital audio and computing device which has been input. designed to very high standards of electromagnetic compatibility. ❍ Check the source equipment. Disconnect each source in turn. ❍ If the hum originates from a ground loop, an antenna or cable If this equipment does cause or suffer from interference to/from supply may be the cause. In this case an antenna-lead isolator radio or television reception then the following measures should should be fitted. be tried: ❍ If the 561 seems to be the cause of hum consult your dealer. ❍ Reorient the receiving aerial (or antenna) or route the antenna Poor sound quality cable of the receiver as far as possible from the 561 and its cabling. Poor sound quality will usually result from driving an analogue ❍ Ensure that the receiver uses well-screened antenna cable. input too hard. ❍ Relocate the receiver with respect to the 561. ❍ Connect the receiver and this product to different AC outlets. ❍ Turn down the analogue input level. ❍ If the problem persists contact your dealer. ❍ To optimise this use Gain/Sub mode; see To adjust the sensitivity of analogue sources, page 76. Troubleshooting

108 Troubleshooting 109 Try other fibres. clears up. Pull the fibre part-way out and see if the problem input. Try another player or CD player on the optical this point. Contact Meridian for up-to-date advice on The 561 has a 20-bit capability on its internal analogue-to-digital a 20-bit capability The 561 has the volume sources. When which is used for analogue converter, the its dither as a hiss when high you may hear is turned up is lower than the background stopped. This hiss sources are and should be of no consequence. noise of your recordings precision on the analogue outputs. The 561 has 20-bit output Mute may be tracked down using the Other sources of hiss the outputs are reduced to the dither at the option. When muted selected precision. Crackling on optical inputs Crackling on LaserDisc players, Some optical sources, in particular some meet the EIAJ provide poor drive waveforms that do not but never goes standard. This is because the light modulates crackling on the quite ‘black’ between pulses. If you experience to lock, ie provide a optical input or an occasional reluctance sound, investigate as follows. ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍

VCR, 12 bits. FM radio, 13 bits. bits. Reel to reel tape, 13 Cassette tape, 12 bits. LP, 11 bits. producing so called ‘digital silence’. it is stopped. CD may also be quieter when it is stopped, it is stopped. CD may also be quieter when the stylus is not in the groove; similarly tape will be quieter when the stylus is not in the groove; similarly tape hear in standby. For example, LP normally has lower noise when hear in standby. For example, LP normally of the source channel when it is operating, and the noise you of the source channel when it is operating, Note that there may be a difference between the dynamic range Note that there may be a difference between ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ to be of the order of: this kind of range. For comparison, analogue sources are likely this kind of range. For up to 24-bits. The analogue sources you have cannot achieve up to 24-bits. The analogue and LaserDisc use a 16-bit standard although DVD can support and LaserDisc use a maximum 16 bit. The reason for this is that currently CD, DVD, this is that currently 16 bit. The reason for maximum The input dynamic range of most current recordings is at current recordings range of most The input dynamic Audible hiss at high volume settings hiss at high Audible Sound not clear Centre not working

❍ If speech sounds muffled in a system with a centre speaker, There may be a connection problem. check that sound is coming from the centre as there may be a connection problem. In a digital or Meridian feed to the centre ❍ In a digital or Meridian feed to the centre, you may have set it you may have set it up to be right instead of left so that it is up to be right instead of left, and therefore it may be playing a playing a subwoofer signal. subwoofer signal. ❍ If speech sounds muffled in a system with no centre speaker, you may have selected a layout that expects one. See To There is a hiss when starting DTS specify the speaker layout, page 86. LaserDiscs

The DTS audio stream is indistinguishable from a PCM audio stream; the 561 takes 30ms to identify the encoding, during which a hiss is heard.

❍ With non-video DTS sources you can add a 30ms delay to avoid this. ❍ With video sources you can create a DTS-only source to avoid any hiss. Troubleshooting

110 Troubleshooting 111 Video source produces a ‘washed out’ a ‘washed source produces Video image low-contrast coupled, and S1 to S3 are direct inputs V1 to V3 The 561 video some video sources (typically cable for highest quality. However, have a DC offset which causes video television interfaces) use V4 or S4, which provide DC rejection. problems. In this case

Are you using suitable quality cables with good connectors? Are you using suitable created between any of the Is there a ground loop to the 561? components connected sources, eg LaserDisc, VCR, etc, to an antenna system. sources, eg LaserDisc, It is unwise to attempt to cascade and mix several video It is unwise to attempt significantly deteriorated by cross-modulation in the RF domain. significantly deteriorated Remember that reception of broadcast or cable signals can be Remember that reception ❍ ❍ Picture quality may suffer if you do not attend to the following: do not attend to the may suffer if you Picture quality

Poor picture quality Poor picture Video problems Video Meridian Configuration program problems

Preset options do not appear or are Meridian Configuration program not available repeatedly fails to talk to the product

The options available when you are editing the DSP preset ❍ Check that you have selected a COM port. parameters depend on the speaker layout you have defined in ❍ Check that no other program currently running is using the Speakers. COM port. ❍ Check that it is connected correctly. ❍ If you have any DSP speakers in the layout, treble and bass ❍ Turn off the 561 for a few seconds and turn back on, then are not available. retry. ❍ The Speakers options for Centre, Sides, and Rears can only ❍ Quit from all other programs and retry. be edited if your layout includes the corresponding speakers. ❍ Reboot the computer and retry. ❍ Ensure you are using the serial lead supplied with the product, or a null modern cable. ❍ If you are using a laptop try turning off the screensaver or power management software. Troubleshooting

112 Troubleshooting 113 Guarantee is guaranteed against Surround Processor The 561 Digital the date of for 2 years from material and workmanship defects in purchase. if the 561 Digital Surround Processor has The guarantee is void accident, or negligence, or has been been subject to misuse, in any way without the written tampered with or modified Audio Limited. Note that connecting authorisation of Meridian correct network lead to the COMMS anything other than the to the 561 Digital Surround sockets may cause damage not be covered by this guarantee. Processor which will by unauthorised people may also invalidate Attempted servicing are not covered this guarantee. Labour and carriage charges unless by local agreement. restricted to equipment Outside the UK, local warranty liability is abroad are only under purchased within the territory. Our agents equipment contractual obligation to service under guarantee a non-refundable sold through them. They are entitled to make equipment. charge for any service carried out on other rights within the This guarantee does not limit your statutory United Kingdom.

the date of purchase will be required. insure the unit. When seeking service under guarantee, proof of insure the unit. When seeking service under the factory or an agent, and customers are therefore advised to the factory or an agent, and customers are No responsibility can be accepted for the 561 whilst in transit to No responsibility can be accepted for the available from Meridian Audio. agent for the territory. A list of Meridian agents abroad is agent for the territory. A list of Meridian agents In case of difficulty outside the UK or USA, contact the importing In case of difficulty outside the UK or USA, appropriate sales and service address shown on page ii. appropriate sales and In case of difficulty within the UK or USA please contact the In case of difficulty within dealer. should be returned, in its original packaging, to your Meridian should be returned, in In the unlikely event that your 561 fails to function correctly, it In the unlikely event form of maintenance. serviceable parts inside the case, nor do the units require any serviceable parts inside designed to give years of untroubled service. There are no user- service. There give years of untroubled designed to The Meridian 500 Series of hi-fi components have been carefully components have been 500 Series of hi-fi The Meridian

Service Serviceguarantee and Troubleshooting

114 Glossary

Absolute phase Controller DTS

A control which changes the phase of the The product in a Meridian system that Digital Theatre Systems originally signals to all the speakers. uses the infra-red signals from the remote produced digital audio tracks for motion to control the system. The controller is pictures. A version of this format adapted AC-3 normally chosen automatically, but the for consumer video and audio products is installer can override this. referred to as DTS Entertainment. Like An alternative name for the Dolby Digital Dolby Digital it provides five full-frequency format. Dolby Digital range channels (left, centre, right, left surround, and right surround) and an Ambisonic A digital surround-sound which provides additional Low Frequency Effects (LFE) five full-frequency range channels (left, channel. A music encoding and decoding system centre, right, left surround, and right designed to recreate the original surround) and an additional Low DVD soundfield using an array of loudspeakers. Frequency Effects (LFE) channel which is band limited to 120Hz. Digital Video Disc or Digital Versatile Disc, Aspect ratio a CD-sized disc with nearly 30 times the Dolby Surround storage capacity of CD. It is capable of The overall shape of the speaker layout. storing digital video, high-quality multi- The encoding system used for the majority channel audio, or computer data. Compress of movies on video and many TV Glossary broadcasts. Dolby Surround encoded A DSP parameter providing dynamic range material can be replayed with a surround control for Dolby Digital sources. decoder connected to an array of

loudspeakers which normally include at 115 least left, centre, right, and rear surround. 116 Glossary DTS, andMPEGpresets. bandwidth LFEsignalinDolby Digital, A subwooferwhichplaysthefull 120Hz LFE sub system. band limitedto120HzinaDolbyDigital sound effectsandambientsounds.Itis which enhancesmoviesoundtrackswith The LowFrequencyEffects(LFE)channel LFE and 5.1DSPpresets. different layoutsforthecinema,music, speakers andsubwoofers.Youcanselect Refers toaparticulararrangementof Layout the MSR. controlled bythe products. Onthe 561themenusare and configuringsettingsinMeridian The flexiblesystemforchoosing options Menus limit fortheLFEchannel. A DSPparameterthatsetsthepeak-level Max SPL or DVD,withoutanylossofquality. information thatcanberecordedonaCD audio formatthatincreasestheamountof MLP (MeridianLosslessPacking)isan MLP loudspeakers. limit ofthebasssignaladdedtomain A DSPparameterthatsetsthepeak-level Limit < , > , A , and V keyson Effects (LFE)channel. channels andanadditionalLow Frequency provides fivefull-frequencyrange Expert Group.LikeDolbyDigital it system developedbytheMotionPicture MPEG Surroundisadigitalencoding MPEG more spaciousness. decorrelated bytheTHXprocesstogive steered tothem.Thismaythenbe Surrounds whichhaveacommonsignal Mono surrounds has acrossoverat80Hz. the system.ATHXstandardsubwoofer A subwooferwhichhandlesallthebassfor Mono sub MSF Preset SPL

Meridian Settings File, a file containing A DSP decoding option in the 561. You Sound Pressure Level, a physical settings and User Types for one or more can create user-defined presets based on measurement of the level of sound at a Meridian products. the built-in presets, and with specific particular location which can be obtained parameter values; see Defining your own using an SPL meter. MSR presets, page 34. Steered surrounds The Meridian System Remote, or handset. Source Surrounds which have individual signals OSD An input to the system, such as CD or TV. steered to them by the digital surround The Meridian 500 and 800 Series provide processor’s steering matrix. On-Screen Display, which the 561 can 12 named sources, corresponding to the superimpose on a composite video signal names of the 12 source keys on the MSR. Surround to give information about the state of the In the 561 you can choose the logo system, and to help during configuration. displayed for each source, and the input A sound reproducing system with more used for it. than two loudspeakers, and usually with PCM speakers behind or to the side of the Special sub listener. Pulse Code Modulation, the method used to encode music digitally, as used on A subwoofer option that gives no Glossary audio CDs. subwoofer for Music DSP presets, a centre subwoofer for Logic presets, and an LFE subwoofer for 5.1 Movie presets.

117 118 Glossary changes. resets anyconfigurationandcalibration surround controller.SelectingaType A standardconfigurationofthedigital Type conventional two-channelstereosource. extract centreandsurroundsignalsfroma A musicdecodingsystemdesignedto Trifield sound inthehome. more faithfulreproductionofcinema Pro LogicSurrounddecodingtogivea Additional processingthatfollowsDolby THX Index

A AC-3 encoding 8 Audio inputs, digital 52 Centre speaker Academy DSP preset 11, 40 Audio outputs 53 changing the relative delay 30 Accessories 6 Audio problems 108 changing the relative level 30 expansion cards 6 Audio stream display 21 not working 110 Fan kit 7, 50 Audio tape outputs 54 Clearing a DSP preset 36 Meridian 511 S-patch Box 6 Automatic setup 64 Clip indicator 77 Meridian 519 Demodulator 7 Clipping of analogue sources 76 Rack mount kit 7 B Balance (DSP Communications connections 55 Tape card 6, 22 parameter) 25, 26, 28 Components 50 Active loudspeakers, Bass (DSP parameter) 26, 27 Compress (DSP parameter) 47 connecting 58 Bass, changing 27 Compression 47 Active subwoofer, connecting 59 built-in presets, changing 34 Computer, configuring using 79 Ambisonic DSP preset 10, 43 Configuring the digital surround Ambisonic encoding 10 C Calibrating the system 69 controller Analogue recorder, connecting 62 Calibration procedure using a computer 79 Analogue sources exiting from 71 without a computer 65 adjusting sensitivity 76 starting 70 Control outputs 54 connecting 60 Calibration tests 72 Controller, setting 64 Audio formats 20, 41 Distance 73 Copy options 22 Dolby Digital 8, 20 Fine tuning 74 Copying a source 22 DTS 8, 20 Levels 72 Copying settings between user

MLP 9, 20 moving between 71 types 103 Index MPEG 9, 20 Centre (DSP Crackling on optical inputs 109 two-channel (PCM) 9, 20 parameter) 26, 30, 42 Crossover frequency, adjusting 77

119 120 Index D hnig25 42 changing 30, 26, Centre 27 26, 28 Bass 26, 25, Balance DSP parameters DSP loudspeakers. 9 Dolby Surroundencoding Dolby DigitalTHXDSP 8 Dolby Digitalencoding 47 dynamic rangecontrol 46 Dolby DigitalDSPpreset 70 Distance units,changing 73 Distance calibrationtest 21 options 21 changing Display 45 11, Direct DSPpreset 60 Digital source,connecting 62 Digital recorder,connecting 8 Digital DSPpreset 52 30 Digital audioinputs 26, 25, Depth (DSPparameter) 34 23, Defining yourownpresets DSP loudspeakers rst9 46 9, preset See Meridian a 0 44 40, Yaw 44 42, Width 27 26, Treble 47 Surr. Rear 29 26, Sides 34 saving 44 S Filter 26 S Delay 44 40, Roll 29 26, Rear 44 R Filter 26 R Delay 44 Position 27 26, Phase 32 26, 44 OSD 40, 39, Mono Rear 48 47, Max SPL 32 26, LipSync 48 47, Limit 47 LFE 40 30 Input 26, 25, Depth 47 Compress DSP parameters (continued) r oi ,3,39 38, 9, Pro Logic 44 11, Music Logic 41 10, Music 46 9, MPEG THX 45 9, MPEG Music 46 9, MPEG 40 11, Mono modifying abuilt-inpreset 45 9, MLP 34 editing name 46 9, DTS THX 45 9, DTS Music 46 8, DTS 46 9, Dolby DigitalTHX 46 8, Dolby Digital 45 11, Direct 34 23, defining 95 configuring usingaPC 36 clearing 33 changing sourceassociation 20 changing 43 10, Ambisonic 40 11, Academy 37 8, DSP presets sn C95 using aPC DSP presets (continued) G Gain/Sub mode 76 Logic DSP presets 38 Stereo 11, 45 Glossary 115 Loudspeakers Super Stereo 11, 43 connecting 57 THX Cinema 10 H Headphone volume 22 setting up using a PC 86 Trifield 11, 41 Hiss specifying layout using a PC 86 TV Logic 10, 39 at high volume settings 109 specifying the size and type using a DTS DSP preset 8, 46 starting DTS LaserDiscs 110 PC 87 DTS encoding 8, 9 Hum on analogue input 108 Specifying the sizes using a PC 89 DTS Music DSP preset 9, 45 Low-contrast image 111 DTS THX DSP preset 9, 46 I Input (DSP parameter) 40 DVD player, connecting 61 Installing the Meridian M Max SPL (DSP parameter) 47, 48 Dynamic range control 47 Configuration program 81 Menus, locking and unlocking 24 Integration of the centre, Meridian 500 Series 2 E Expansion cards 6 changing 30 communications 2 Expansion socket output 54 Introduction 1 DSP5000 Digital Loudspeakers 4 M1500 Active Subwoofer 3 F Fan kit 7, 50 L LaserDisc player, connecting 61 M33 Active Analogue Fetching calibrated settings 100 Levels calibration test 72 Loudspeaker 3, 4 Fine tuning calibration test 74 LFE (DSP parameter) 47 Meridian 500 Series operation, 5.1 Movie DSP presets 46 Limit (DSP parameter) 47, 48 setting 64 Front panel Lip sync, changing 32 Meridian 511 S-patch Box 6

controls 14 LipSync (DSP parameter) 26, 32 Meridian 519 Demodulator 7 Index display symbols 21 Listening position, moving to the Meridian Analogue Theatre 3 left or right 28 Meridian comms 55, 64 Locking the menus 24 121 122 Index PGSron noig9 MPEG Surround encoding 45 9, MPEG MusicDSP preset 46 9, MPEG DSPpreset Mono Rear(DSP 40 11, Mono DSPpreset 56 Monitor, connecting 45 9, MLP DSPpreset 16 quick guide 15 front panelcontrols Meridian SystemRemote 45 9, Meridian LosslessPacking 25 using withremotecontrol using as 57 53, connecting Meridian DSPloudspeakers 4 Meridian DigitalTheatre 82 toolbar buttons 82 running 81 requirements 112 problems 81 installation Meridian Configuration aaee)3,4,44 40, 39, parameter) 35 33, 25, 20, 16, controller 80 program O N P uigtesud19 Muting thesound 44 11, Music LogicDSPpreset 41 10, Music DSPpreset 46 9, MPEG THXDSPpreset oiin(S aaee)44 Position (DSPparameter) 108 Poor soundquality 111 Poor picturequality 27 Phase, changing 27 26, Phase (DSPparameter) Personal details,enteringusing a 90 48, Peak-level limiting 79 PC, usingtoconfigurethe561 85 84, Owner icon 107 Overheating problems 32 26, OSD (DSPparameter) 83 Options dialoguebox 83 Options (Viewmenu) 52 Optical input 32 changing position 21 On-screen display(OSD) 84 New (Filemenu) C85 PC R r oi noig9 39 Pro Logicencoding 38, 9, Pro LogicDSPpreset 95 80, Presets icon 50 Positioning Room resonances, checking 44 40, Roll (DSPparameter) 84 Return totoplevelicon 19 Restoring thesound 106 troubleshooting 16 quick guide 15 Remote 22 from atelevision 22 a source Recording 51 Rear panel 29 changing therelativelevel 31 changing therelativedelay Rear loudspeakers 26 Rear (DSPparameter) 108 50, Radio interference 7 Rack mountkit 44 42, R Filter(DSPparameter) 26 R Delay(DSPparameter) o 78 for S S Delay (DSP parameter) 26 Sound not clear 110 Speakers (continued) S Filter (DSP parameter) 42, 44 Sound Pressure Level meter 69 specifying the size and type using S-patch Box 6 Sources 17 a PC 87 Sample configurations adjusting sensitivity 76 Speakers icon 80 Meridian Analogue Theatre 3 changing DSP preset associated Special sub option 66 Meridian Digital Theatre 4 with 33 Specification 5 Save As (File menu) 84 configuring options using a PC 91 Standard settings 66 Selecting a source 17 connecting 60 choosing 67 Serial cable, connecting 83 recording 22 Standard source settings 68 Serial port, specifying 83 selecting 17 Standby Setting up setting advanced options using switching on from 17 loudspeakers 86 a PC 94 switching to 18 sources 76 setting up 76 Stereo DSP preset 11, 45 the Digital Surround Processor 49 setting up using a PC 91 Stereo power amplifier, Settings file, creating 84 specifying connections using a connecting 58 Settings icon 84, 85 PC 92 Storing settings 99 Setup icon 80, 98 standard settings 68 Subwoofers Setup options, using a PC 98 Sources icon 80, 91 crossover 59 Side loudspeakers Spaciousness of the sound, setting crossover frequency 77, 78 changing the relative delay 31 changing 31 Super Stereo DSP preset 11, 43 changing the relative level 29 Speakers Super Stereo encoding 11

Sides (DSP parameter) 26, 29 connecting 57 Surr. Rear (DSP parameter) 42, 47 Index Sinewave sweep test 78 setting up using a PC 86 Switching on from standby 17 SizeCalc 89 specifying layout using a PC 86 Switching to standby 18 specifying sizes using a PC 89 123 124 Index T ie 111 video 112 Meridian Configurationprogram 106 general operation 108 audio 105 Troubleshooting 41 11, Trifield DSPpreset 27 Treble, changing 27 26, Treble (DSPparameter) 82 Toolbar buttons 19 THX referencegain 10 THX encoding 10 THX CinemaDSPpreset 22 recording from 56 connecting Television 62 Tape recorder,connecting 54 Tape outputs 22 6, Tape card U tnad68 standard 67 choosing 66 Types 39 10, TV LogicDSPpreset Using theDigitalSurround 34 editing name 97 deleting 96 creating User-defined presets 101 naming 101 creating 103 copying settingsbetween User Types 50 Unpacking 24 Unlocking themenus 43 UHJ format rcso 13 Processor W Y V a DPprmtr 0 44 40, Yaw (DSPparameter) 44 42, Width (DSPparameter) 19 muting 22 headphone 19 adjusting Volume 63 Video recorder,connecting 111 problems 52 outputs 51 inputs 56 connecting Video 50 Ventilation