Furnished Parts

AM loop antenna.1 FM wire antenna.1 AA/LR6 dry cell batteries.2 Remote control. 1
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. "Dolby", "Pro Logic", "Surround EX", and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
Microphone (VSX-D912 only).1 Microphone stand (VSX-D912 only).1
These operating instructions. 1
"DTS" ,"DTS-ES Extended Surround" and "Neo:6" are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.
Specifications and the design are subject to possible modifications without notice, due to improvements.
* Measured pursuant to the Federal Trade Commissions Trade Regulation rule on Power Output Claims for Amplifiers. ** Measured by Audio Spectrum Analyzer.

Accessories

VSX-D912 Only

Microphone (APM7004)

Microphone Stand (AEB7269)
Remote control unit (VSX-D912 : XXD3056)
AM loop antenna (ATB7009)
FM wire antenna (ADH7004)
AA size IEC LR6 (VSX-D912) AA size IEC R6 (VSX-D812) Dry cell batteries (x2)
Remote control unit (VSX-D812 : XXD3051)
2. EXPLODED VIEWS AND PARTS LIST
NOTES: Parts marked by "NSP" are generally unavailable because they are not in our Master Spare Parts List. The mark found on some component parts indicates the importance of the safety factor of the part. Therefore, when replacing, be sure to use parts of identical designation. Screws adjacent to mark on product are used for disassembly. For the applying amount of lubricants or glue, follow the instructions in this manual. (In the case of no amount instructions, apply as you think it appropriate.)

2.1 PACKING

VSX-D912-K ONLY

PACKING parts List

Mark No. 1 NSP NSP 4 NSP 4 Description FM wire antenna Warranty Card AM loop antenna Dry cell batteries (AA/LR6) Alkaline Dry cell batteries (AA/LR6) Operating instructions (English) Remote Control Unit Battery Cover Part No. ADH7004 ARY7045 ATB7009 See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) Mark No. NSP 14 NSP 15 Description Literature Bag Packing Sheet Left Pad R6 Right Pad R6 Packing Case MIC Stand 45 Microphone Assy Accessory Board R6 Part No. AHG1180 AHG7069 XHA3134 XHA3135 See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) XHB3008

See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2)
(2) CONTRAST TABLE VSX-D812-K/KUXJICA, VSX-D812-S/KUXJICA and VSX-D912-K/KUXJICA are constructed the same except for the following:
Mark NSP NSP NO Symbol and Description Dry Cell Battery (LR6, AA) Alkaline Dry Cell Battery (LR6, AA) Operating Instructions (English) Remote Control Unit Battery Cover Packing Case MIC Stand 45 Microphone Assy VSX-D812-K/ KUXJICA VEM1031 Not used XRB3020 XXD3051 AZA7424 XHD3326 Not used Not used VSX-D812-S/ KUXJICA VEM1031 Not used XRB3020 XXD3051 AZA7424 XHD3352 Not used Not used VSX-D912-K/ KUXJICA Not used VEM1023 XRB3021 XDXD3056 Not used XHD3327 AEB7269 APM7004

2.2 EXTERIOR SECTION

55 EXCEPT VSX-D812-K 44 55

E D F O P S C

25 L 55 K 11 12

Q P O S R

28 I A

D 32 F 55 55

T 55 B

55 F 39 55

C B B A

42(2/2) 55

Refer to "2.3 FRONT PANEL SECTION". 60 55
NON-CONTACT SIDE CONTACT SIDE

42(1/2)

EXTERIOR SECTION parts List
Mark No. 31 Description MAIN Assy DSP Assy AMP Assy TRANS2 Assy TRANS3 Assy REGULATOR Assy AMP INPUT Assy TRANS1 Assy VIDEO Assy 6CH IN Assy BOARD TO BOARD Assy S. VIDEO Assy TRANS4 Assy PRE-OUT Assy DIGITAL IN Assy COMPONENT Assy FM/AM TUNER MODULE FU1 Fuse (10A) FU701 Fuse (10A) T1 Power Transformer AC Power Cord Cord Stopper J36 23P F.F.C/30V J46 7P F.F.C/30V J38 5P F.F.C/30V J22 J33 J48 J34 J43 3P F.F.C/30V 11P F.F.C/30V 9P F.F.C/30V 13P F.F.C/30V 19P F.F.C/30V Part No. See Contrast table(2) AWX1082 See Contrast table(2) XWZ3684 XWZ3687 XWZ3676 XWZ3679 XWZ3681 XWZ3646 XWZ3650 XWZ3664 XWZ3660 XWZ3662 XWZ3663 See Contrast table(2) XWZ3661 AXQ7231 REK1087 REK1087 XTS3059 ADG7024 CM-22C XDD3102 XDD3105 XDD3104 XDD3107 XDD3123 XDD3124 XDD3122 XDD3126 XDD3118 Mark No. NSP 38 NSP > 45 Description J35 19P F.F.C/30V J37 10P F.F.C/30V Heatsink R6A CORR H/S Angle Rear H/S Angle Front PCB Angle R5 PCB Mold Under Base R6 Insulator DC Fan Motor Fan Holder R6 REG Support R6 Rear Panel 812K Bonnet HOLDER Assy FFC Holder R6 Shield A R6 FFC Cover R6 N Label Spacer Screw Screw 3x23 Screw Screw Screw Screw Vjack Spacer R6 BINDER Assy Screw Part No. XDD3101 XDD3127 XNH3026 XNG3095 XNG3094 XNG3073 AMR2533 XNA3012 PNW2766 XXM3006 XMR3066 XNG3093 XNC3185 See Contrast table(2) XWZ3693 XMR3072 XNG3068 XMR3060 See Contrast table(2) AEB7092 BBZ30P200FMC ABA7043 FBT40P080FZK BBZ30P080FZK See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) XEC3038 XWZ3691

> > > >

NSP NSP 50 NSP NSP 59 60

BPZ30P120FMC

J31 17P F.F.C/30V
Mark NO 45 NSP NSP Symbol and Description MAIN Assy AMP & PRIMARY Assy DIGITAL IN Assy Bonnet D912K Bonnet D912S N Label 912K/KU N Label 812S/KU Screw Screw VSX-D812-K/ KUXJICA XWK3095 XWZ3669 XWZ3658 XZN3126 Not used Not used Not used BPZ30P080FZK FBT40P080FZK VSX-D812-S/ KUXJICA XWK3095 XWZ3669 XWZ3658 Not used XZN3127 Not used XAL3177 BPZ30P080FNI FBT40P080FNI VSX-D912-K/ KUXJICA XWK3100 XWZ3673 XWZ3659 XZN3126 Not used XAL3172 Not used BPZ30P080FZK FBT40P080FZK

2.3 FRONT PANEL SECTION

Lubricating Oil GYA5 R O M 17 16

VSX-D912-K ONLY 27

V 6 31
VSX-D812-K, VSX-D812-S ONLY 13 14
FRONT PANEL SECTION parts List
Mark No. 9 NSP 18 Description FRONT ASSY R. ENCODER Assy POWER SW Assy FRONT VIDEO Assy H.P. Assy FRONT OPTICAL & MIC Assy Pioneer Badge B Select Knob Volume Knob C Ring DIM 8.1 FRT Panel BN Cover D Panel R6 W Cushion LED Lens Panel Stay Earth Plate R5 HP Door Spring R6 Part No. XWZ3648 XWZ3653 XWZ3651 XWZ3655 XWZ3654 See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) XBH3016 See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) XAK3348 See Contrast table(2) PNW2019 See Contrast table(2) XNG3066 XBK3002 Mark No. NSP 35 Description J29 8P Shield Cable B Lens R6 Door Door Cover Holder L R6 Damper Assy Push Rivet Earth Plate FI R6 J30 5P Shield Cable J32 5P F.F.C/30V Earth Plate D R6 Screw Screw Screw Energy Star Label Part No. XDX3012 XAK3352 See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) XMR3059 XXA3025 See Contrast table(2) XNG3091 See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) See Contrast table(2) XBA3010 BBZ30P080FZK

PPZ30P100FMC AAX7876

Mark NO 29 Symbol and Description FRONT OPTICAL & MIC Assy Pioneer Badge B Select Knob R5BH SEL Plat Knob R6S Volume Knob R5BH VOL Plat Knob R6S FRT Panel 812K/KU FRT Panel 812S/KU FRT Panel 912K/KU BN Cover 712K/KU BN Cover 812S/JP BN Cover 912K/KU Cushion R4B Cushion R4G Panel Stay 812K/KU Panel Stay 812S/KU Panel Stay 912K/KU Door R6K Door R6S Door Cover R6K Door Cover R6S Push Rivet 5P Shield Cable J32 5P F.F.C/30V Earth Plate D R6 VSX-D812-K/ KUXJICA Not used XAM3006 XAB3023 Not used XAB3025 Not used XMB3095 Not used Not used XAK3355 Not used Not used XED3001 Not used XMB3109 Not used Not used XAK3356 Not used XAK3358 Not used AEC7025 Not used Not used Not used VSX-D812-S/ KUXJICA Not used VAM1129 Not used XAB3037 Not used XAB3036 Not used XMB3126 Not used Not used XAK3379 Not used Not used XED3002 Not used XMB3124 Not used Not used XAK3357 Not used XAK3359 AEC7025 Not used Not used Not used VSX-D912-K/ KUXJICA XWZ3656 AAN7218 XAB3023 Not used XAB3025 Not used Not used Not used XNB3002 Not used Not used XAK3354 XED3001 Not used Not used

C665 R682 C681 R681

W543 C688

R640 Q633

BLUE J603

R656 C654

W552 C603 R605

W548 D632 O.L.

C663 R665

491010

Q696 Q651

C664 R666

Q683 D684

W519 W520

R689 D682 D1

IC602 word surface

W508 W507 W509

R632 R633

W502 R653 R655 C651

Q255 1

G AMP INPUT ASSY

Q258 Q257

GNDU NECK DC OL B.DET ATT MUTE SB GNDA SR GNDA SL GNDA FR GNDA FL GNDA C

P CN891 E J3

Q704 R706 R705 QW711

AMP&PRIMARY ASSY

D N BO

D5SBA2

Q631 W526 Q632

SECONDARY

RISK OF FIRE -REPLACE FUSE AS MARKED. J1 J2 BLUE

53 H56

C56 C57 C55 W755

491.500

W670 W684 W685 1

J51 FU3

C51 D54 D52 D53 D51

W666 C53 R53

RED BLACK

D56 W3 D57 R54

Q51 W649 W648

C711 H51 H52

D 851 R 1551
FLAC FLAC REG REG REG DREG DREG

D711 C712 D712

FU1 PRIMARY LIVE SECONDARY

RY754 C764

WARNING

WHITE J601

D758 R764
C762 L761 R763 RY753 C763 C766 W606 W742 W624 W605 R762 W740 C761

E J5 E J4

THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS LEAD IN SOLDER AND CERTAIN ELECTRICAL PARTS CONTAIN CHEMICALS WHICH ARE KNOMN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING. HEALTH & SAFETY CODE SECTION 25249.6 - PROPOSITION 65

6 C775

3 C708
HP L HP G HP R A MUTE HP SW U GND

W738 W737 W603 W592

W739 W595

J4 J5 WHITE RED

W590 W591

RETURN

W594 W735
REPLACE IC LINKS AS MARKED.MFD.BY ROHM CO. LTD.

J604 YELLOW

C771 W732

C755 C773 CN751

R771 C756

FU701 LACE RKED.

W573 C703 W572 W576
AMP&PRIMARY XWZ3669 XWZ3670 XWZ3671 XWZ3672 XWZ3673 XWZ****

R755 W561 L751

YELLOW
R606 R604 Q602 Q604 C602 R621 C604 C615 W553 R602 C616 R619 R623 R624
R756 D601 W725 R753 W560 C753 3

W552 C603 R639 R605

R626 D603 Q605 D608

R601 R607

O.L. C613 R614 C612

491010 IC605

REMPLACER LE IC LINKS COMME INDIQUE. DE CHEZ ROHM CO.LTD.
RY751 W537 W538 W758 C777 C757

R612 W527

D602 IC1

C607 W512

REPLACE IC LINKS AS MARKED.MFD.BY LITTELFUSE INC. 491001 IC603

R752 D752

W534 D751

D721 KN601 D722

W516 W517

1 W511

TUBE SIDE

SIDE A H J2 H J1

NEUTRAL

SL SR C SB GND

R/CRY HP SW B RY +12V A RY UG UG U+5V ACRY W UP -VF AC2 AC1 REG B REG B REG G REG G REG B REG B DREG DREG DREG DREG
4.6 FRONT, R. ENCODER, POWER SW and H. P. ASSYS

M FRONT ASSY

5 GNDU 4 STBY LED 3 FUNCA 2 GNDU 1 FUNCAV

C420 W266 W290

402 W254 X401

W256 W257

W255 W260 W261 W262 W263 W264

S461 W288

STATION -

STATION +

TUNING -

TUNING +

STANDARD

ADVANCED SURROUND

STEREO/ DIRECT

TUNER EDIT

INPUT ATT

FL DIMMER

O POWER SW ASSY
POWER SW & FUNCTION ASSY XWZ3651 HCI40HI
S504 S503 S502 SGNDU 4 STBY LED 3 FUNCA 2 GNDU 1 FUNCAV 501

C CN702

R H.P ASSY
R1552 DVD/LD TV/SAT VCR/DVR VIDEO HP R KN1551 S506 S507 S508 S509 HP L R1551 CD CDR/TAPE TUNER AUX JA1551

S505 POWER

L HP GND R A MUTE HPSW uGND

XWZ3654

30 W252 S451

FRONT XWZ3648

SIG SE

6 D501

W252 W266

C405 W253

W284 L401 WX401 W251 W270 W269 W271 W272 W263 W264 W273 C403
1 VSSSISOSCKNC 6 RESET 7 VDD 8 VPP(IC) 9 NC

S451 W265

SIGNAL SELECT

MIDNIGHT/ LOUDNESS

SPEAKER
17 FLACFLAC-VF 14 DISPRST 13 DISPCK 12 DISPDI 11 DISPDO 10 DISPRDY 9 DISPEN 8 SRIN 7 SROUT 6 RMC 5 1WUP 4 D+5.6V 3 STBY+5.6V 2 GNDU 1 GNDU
1 LED 2 ENTER 3 FENC A 4 FENC B 5 GNDU 6 ENC B 7 ENC A 7 W279
SBch MODE TONE QUICK SETUP
LED 2 ENTER 3 FENC A 4 FENC B 5 GNDU 6 VENC B 7 VENC A 511 S511 S512 ENTER 2

R.ENCODER

W291 W289

XWZ3652 XWZ3653

W293 S513

N R.ENCODER ASSY

17 FLACFLAC-VF 14 DISPRST 13 DISPCK 12 DISPDI 11 DISPDO 17 R412 R415 R10 DISPRDY 9 DISPEN 8 SRIN 7 SROUT 6 RMC Q1WUP 4 D+5.6V 3 STBY+5.6V 2 GNDU 1 GNDU 1 LED 2 ENTER 3 FENC A 4 FENC B 5 GNDU 6 ENC B 7 ENC A D403 D404 Q441 R402 R403 R404 C441 C422 Q484 C413 R405 C481 R481 R489 R482 R483 R484 R485 R486 R487 R488 R490 R493 R494 R495 R497 R498 R499 R492 R496

R411 1

R414 R416 R418

R413 D405 C404 R406

C419 C483 C482
C402 CVSSSISOSCKNC 6 RESET 7 VDD 8 VPP(IC) 9 NC R419 R420 R421 R454 R1503 9

C421 R401 C451 R422 R451

U COMPONENT ASSY

IC552 IC551 D551, D552 NJM2581M TC74HC4053AF 1SS355
C551C554 C555C562, C566, C568 CEAT101M10 CKSRYB103K50
JA902 PIN JACK (4P) AKX7014

R H.P. ASSY

Q1551,Q1552 2SC3326
CN551 5P CONNECTOR JA553 3P RCA PINJACK JA551 6P RCA PINJACK 52045-0545 AKB7124 AKB7128
C1554,C1557 C1553,C1556 C1555,C1558 C1551,C1552 CCSRCH471J50 CKSRYB103K50 CKSRYB104K16 CKSRYB223K50

V FRONT OPTICAL ASSY

IC951 D951D953 UPC4570G2 UDZS5.1B
> R1553,R1554 > R1551,R1552
RS1LMF151J RS2LMF331J RS1/16S###J

F951 CHIP BEAD DTF1067

C960 C965 C952, C959 C956, C958, C963, C966, C967 C953, C957, C962 C951, C954 CCSRCH101J50 CCSRCH330J50 CCSRCH471J50 CEAT100M50 CKSRYB103K50 CKSRYB104K25
1551 6P CABLE HOLDER JA1551 HEADPHONE JACK KN1551 EARTH METAL FITTING 51048-0600 RKB1014 VNF1084

CKSRYB103K50

CN952 CONNECTOR 5P CN951 CONNECTOR POST JA952 JACK 52045-0545 B5B-PH-K RKN1004

TORX179PL VNF1084

JA951 OPTICAL INPUT JACK KN951 WRAPPING TERMINAL
IC201 IC202 Q201, Q204, Q205 Q202 Q203 D201 D202 BA1451F LC72131MD 2SC2412K DTA124ES DTC124EK 1SS133 MTZJ5.1C
L201 F202 F201 F203 FM DETECTOR COIL CERAMIC FILTER CERAMIC FILTER AM CERAMIC FILTER ATE7003 ATF-107 ATF-119 ATF7026
C206 C212, C213, C226, C233C235 C240 C231, C232 C223 C229 C224 C227 C241 C243 C228 C237 C211 C210 C204, C238, C602 C101, C102, C208, C220, C239 C242, C601 C216, C217, C225 C201, C205, C209, C214, C230 C236, C603 C221 C202, C222 C215 CCSRCH100D50 CCSRCH101J50 CCSRCH101J50 CCSRCH150J50 CEAT100M50 CEAT101M10 CEAT1R0M50 CEAT220M25 CEAT2R2M50 CEAT330M16 CEAT3R3M50 CEAT470M10 CEJA1R0M50 CEJQ470M16 CKSRYB102K50 CKSRYB103K50 CKSRYB103K50 CKSRYB153K50 CKSRYB223K50 CKSRYB223K50 CKSRYB224K10 CKSRYB473K16 CKSRYB681K50
R211 R221 R233 R243 R103 R104 Other Resistors RD1/4PU221J RD1/4PU222J RD1/4PU391J RS1/10S0R0J RS1/10S331J RS1/10S391J RS1/16S###J
CN201 13P CONNECTOR BN201 TERMINAL 4-P (SHIELD CASE T) (SHIELD CASE B) X201 CRYSTAL RESONATOR (7.2MHz) FM FRONTEND AM RF TUNING BLOCK 52044-1345 AKA7003 ANK7072 ANK7073 ASS1093

No. VDD1 VSS1 X1 X2 IC(VPP) RESET P27/SCK1 P26/SI1 P25/SO1 P24/BUSY P23 P22 P21/SO3 P20/SCK3 P00/INTP0 P01/INTP1 P02/T1 AVSS ANI3 ANI2 ANI1 ANI0 VSS0 AVDD VDD0 P64/FIP52 P63/FIP51 P62/FIP50 P61/FIP49 P60/FIP48 P57/FIP47 P56/FIP46 P55/FIP45 P54/FIP44 P53/FIP43 P52/FIP42 P51/FIP41 P50/FIP40 P47/FIP39 P46/FIP38 Port +5V GND Resonator Resonator GND DISP RESET DISP CK DISP DTI DISP DTO DISP RDY NC NC NC NC DISP EN NC SR IN GND KEY IN4 KEY IN3 KEY IN2 KEY IN1 GND '+5V '+5V NC FEN A FEN B EN B EN A NC TEST NC NC NC 1W WUP NC NC VOL LED NC Pin Name I/O I I I I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I I I I I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O
Pin Function positive power supply ground potential crystal connection for system clock oscillation crystal connection for system clock oscillation receive reset signal from main u-com clock signal from main u-com datain from main u-com data out to main u-com ready signal from main u-com
enable signal from main u-com remote control signal input from main room ground potential for A/D converter
ground potential for ports analog power voltage input to A/D converter positive power supply to ports MULTI JOG(Right) MULTI JOG(Left) VOLUME JOG1(-) VOLUME JOG1(+)
test mode input for checker
output wakeup signal to main u-com

LED Output

Port FIP37/P45 FIP36/P44 FIP35/P43 FIP34/P42 FIP33/P41 FIP32/P40 FIP31/P37 FIP30/P36 FIP29/P35 FIP28/P34 FIP27/P33 FIP26/P32 FIP25/P31 FIP24/P30 FIP23 FIP22 FIP21 FIP20 VDD2 VLOAD FIP19 FIP18 FIP17 FIP16 FIP15 FIP14 FIP13 FIP12 FIP11 FIP10 FIP9 FIP8 FIP7 FIP6 FIP5 FIP4 FIP3 FIP2 FIP1 FIP0 NC NC NC NC

Pin Name

I/O I/O /O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display LED Output

Pin Function

STANDBY LED NC S22 S21 S20 S19 S18 S17 S16 S15 S14 S13 S12 S11 '+5V VF S10 S9 S8 S7 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1 G10 G9 G8 G7 G6 G5 G4 G3 G2 G1
positive power supply to FIP controller. pull down resistor connection of FIP controller Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display Display
7 BD3813KS (MAIN ASSY : IC108)
6.1ch Audio Sound Processor

7 Block Diagram

GOUTFR

GOUTFL

INFRA INFLA INSWA INSRA INSLA INCA INSBA INFRB INFLB INSWB INSRB INSLB INCB INSBB

7 AK4529VQ (DSP ASSY : IC8401)
High Performance Multi-channel Audio CODEC

LOOP0/SDA/CDTI

DIF1/SCL/CCLK

DIF0/CSN

SDOS I2C

Top View

DZF2/OVF RIN LIN NC NC ROUT1 LOUT1 ROUT2 LOUT2 ROUT3 LOUT3
SMUTE BICK LRCK SDTI1 SDTI2 SDTI3 SDTO DAUX DFS

AK4529VQ

Audio I/F

RX1 RX2 RX3 RX4 XTI XTO

MCLK LRCK BICK

MCLK LRCK BICK DAUX

MCKO LRCK BICK SDTO

DIR AK4112A

DATT Format Converter
DATT LRCK SDOUT SDOS SDTO BICK SDIN SDOUT1 SDOUT2 SDOUT3 SDOUT4 AC3
DATT SDTI1 SDTI2 SDTI3 SDTI4
ROUT3 LPF DA C DATT SDIN1 SDIN2 SDIN3 SDIN4

LPF AK4529

Block Diagram (DIR and AC-3 DSP are external parts)
No. Pin Name 1 SDOS I/O I Function SDTO Source Select Pin (Note 1) "L" : Internal ADC output, "H" : DAUX input SDOS pin should be set to "L" when TDM= "1". Control Mode Select Pin "L" : 3-wire Serial, "H" : I 2 C Bus Soft Mute Pin (Note 1) When this pin goes to "H", soft mute cycle is initialized. When returning to "L", the output mute releases. Audio Serial Data Clock Pin Input Channel Clock Pin DAC1 Audio Serial Data Input Pin DAC2 Audio Serial Data Input Pin DAC3 Audio Serial Data Input Pin Audio Serial Data Output Pin AUX Audio Serial Data Input Pin Double Speed Sampling Mode Pin (Note 1) "L" : Normal Speed, "H" : Double Speed DAC4 Audio Serial Data Input Pin Zero Input Detect Enable Pin "L" : mode 7 (disable) at parallel mode, zero detect mode is selectable by DZFM3-0 bits at serial mode "H" : mode 0 (DZF1 is AND of all eight channels) Output Buffer Power Supply Pin, 2.7V~5.5V Digital Power Supply Pin, 4.5V~5.5V Digital Ground Pin, 0V Power-Down & Reset Pin When "L", the AK4529 is powered-down and the control registers are reset to default state. If the state of P/S or CAD0-1 changes, then the AK4529 must be reset by PDN. Test Pin This pin should be connected to DVSS. Chip Address 1 Pin Chip Address 0 Pin DAC4 Lch Analog Output Pin DAC4 Rch Analog Output Pin

I2C SMUTE

BICK LRCK SDTI1 SDTI2 SDTI3 SDTO DAUX DFS SDTI4 DZFE

I I I I I O I I I I

TVDD DVDD DVSS PDN
TST CAD1 CAD0 LOUT4 ROUT4

I I I O O

No. 33
Pin Name LOUT3 ROUT3 LOUT2 ROUT2 LOUT1 ROUT1 NC NC LIN RIN DZF2

I/O O O O O O O I I O

OVF 38 VCOM VREFH AVDD AVSS DZF1

O O I O

Q605, Q606, Q633, Q683 Q655, Q656 O.L. DET IC601, IC602
3. Fan Stop Prottection Circuit Diagram:

+5V u-con IC9001

DC DET. Fan Stop DET. Fan Stop Fan Fan Fan + R265
DC PROT L : ON H : OFF Q253

Pin 23

-12V +12V
4. PCB Board Protection Circuit Diagram

Main Assy

Amp Input Assy R
Amp & Primary Assy Speaker

Micro-p

7.3.4 AMPLIFIER SYSTEM PROTECTION OPERATION SPECIFICATION
1. DC-abnormality detection In the case of simultaneous detection with the overload protection circuit, DC-abnormality detection is performed preferentially to overload detection. When a DC abnormality is detected, A.MUTE* is turned on, speaker relay is turned off, then "AMP_ERR" flashes on the display. The abnormality continues for 3 seconds. Continues. The power is shut off. The power key is disabled and Standby LED blinks. But be switched on with the following methods. 1 TESTMODE ON (A55F+A55F) 2 When power off, push FRONT ENTER key + ADVANCED SURROUND key continuously 2sec. (2: When a DC abnormality is detected and the power is shut off.) 2. Overload detection When an overload is detected, A.MUTE* is turned on, speaker relay is turned off, then "OVERLOAD" flashes on the display. The abnormality continues for 3 seconds. Continues. The power is shut off. Recovery The power is shut off even if the unit recovers.
*A.MUTE : Audio mute command
Recovery The program restarts.
3. Boad detection In the case of simultaneous detection with the overload protection circuit, Board detection is performed preferentially to DC-abnormality detection and Overload detection. When an boad erreo is detected, A.MUTE* is turned on, speaker relay is turned off, then "BOAD ERR" flashes on the display. The abnormality continues for 3 seconds. Continues. The power is shut off. Recovery The power is shut off even if the unit recovers.

7.4 CLEANING

Before shipping out the product, be sure to clean the following positions by using the prescribed cleaning tools: Position to be cleaned Fans Cleaning tools Cleaning paper : GED-008

8. PANEL FACILITIES

Front panel
ADVANCED SURROUND STEREO/ DIRECT

SB CH MODE

QUICK SETUP

STATION

TUNING

SPEAKERS

PHONES SURR. LISTENING MODE TUNER EDIT CLASS BAND MPX INPUT ATT FL DIMMER VIDEO INPUT

VIDEO OUT IN MONITOR OUT SUB W.

R FRONT L

AC OUTLET
(TV / SAT) IN ASSIGNABLE DIGITAL IN COAX (CD) IN COAX

(DVD OUT /LD) IN

DVD 7.1CH REC INPUT IN CD-R / TAPE / MD PLAY AUDIO

S P E A A K E R S

R SURROUND BACK L

R SURROUND L

SINGLE

SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Display
1 SIGNAL SELECT indicators Lights to indicate the type of input signal assigned for the current component: AUTO Lights when AUTO signal select is on. SB Depending on the source, this lights when a signal with surround back channel encoding is detected. DIGITAL Lights when a digital audio signal is detected. 2 DIGITAL Lights when a Dolby Digital encoded signal is detected. ANALOG Lights when an analog signal is detected.
7 DIRECT Lights when source direct playback is in use. Direct playback bypasses the tone controls and channel levels for the most accurate reproduction of a source. 8 MIDNIGHT Lights during Midnight listening. 9 SLEEP Lights when the receiver is in sleep mode. 10 Speaker indicator Shows the speaker system currently in use. 11 Character display 12 Neo:6 When the (STANDARD) NEO:6 mode of the receiver is on, this lights to indicate NEO:6 processing. 13 ADV.SURR. (Advanced Surround) Lights when one of the Advanced Surround modes has been selected. 14 LOUDNESS Lights when LOUDNESShas been selected. 15 TUNER indicators STEREO Lights when a stereo FM broadcast is being received in auto stereo mode. MONO Lights when the mono mode is set using the MPX button. TUNED Lights when a broadcast is being received. 16 Master volume level Shows the overall volume level.---dB indicates the minimum level, and - 0 dB indicates the maximum level. Depending on your level settings for each channel, the maximum volume can range between 10 dB and 0 dB.
DTS Lights when a source with DTS encoded audio signals is detected. 2 DTS When the STANDARD mode of the receiver is on, this lights to indicate decoding of a DTS signal. DIGITAL When the STANDARD mode of the receiver is on, this lights to indicate decoding of a Dolby Digital signal.
PRO LOGIC II When the (STANDARD) Pro Logic II mode of the receiver is on, this lights to indicate Pro Logic II decoding. 5 VIR.SB Lights during Virtual surround back processing. 6 ATT Lights when INPUT ATT is used to attenuate (reduce) the level of the analog input signal.

Remote control

VSX-DSOURCE Press to turn on/off other components connected to the receiver.

SOURCE

RECEIVER
2 MULTI CONTROL buttons Press to select control of other components (see Controlling the rest of your system). 3 RCV Switches the remote to controls the receiver (used to select the features above the number buttons. (ex. INPUT ATT, FL DIMMER). Also use this button to set up surround sound. 4 Number buttons/Receiver controls/ ENTER buttons Use the number buttons to directly select a radio frequency or the tracks on a CD, DVD, etc. Press the RCV button first to access the functions above the number buttons. The display flashes when it isnt possible to use a function. The following (except DISPLAY/DISC) are accessed by pressing RCV:

MULTI CONTROL RCV CD TUN TVC

TEST TONE

CH SELECT
EFFECT DISPLAY /DISC ENTER

D.ACCESS T.EDIT/GUIDE

SLEEP +10 DTV INFO

MPX/RETURN

BAND CLASS

DTV ON/OFF

DTV MENU

TOP MENU

SUB TITLE

REMOTE SETUP

ADV.SURR.

STEREO

INPUT SEL.

SIGNAL SEL.

RECEIVER CONTROL

TUNE ST

S ETU P
TEST TONE Sounds the test tone when setting up the surround sound of the receiver. INPUT ATT Attenuates (lowers) the level of an analog input signal to prevent distortion. FL DIMMER Dims or brightens the display. CH SELECT Selects a speaker when setting up the surround sound of the receiver. LEVEL +/ Adjusts the levels of the surround sound of the receiver. EFFECT +/ buttons Adds or subtracts the amount of effect with different advanced surround modes.

CH MCACC SETUP MENU

TV VOL

TV INPUT

MASTER VOLUME

TV CONTROL

AV PRE-PROGRAMMED AND LEARNING REMOTE CONTROL UNIT
LEARN ERASE SEARCH BY BRAND
SLEEP Use to put the receiver in sleep mode and select the amount of time before the receiver turns off.
DISPLAY/DISC (ENTER) The buttons use depends on the component selected. It can be used to enter commands for TV or DTV, and can also be used to select a disc in a multi-CD player. It can also be used to switch the display between the station preset name and the frequency for the tuner. 5 Component/Tuner control buttons The main buttons (3, 7, etc.) are used to control a component after you have selected it using the MULTI CONTROL buttons. The tuner/DTV controls above these buttons can be accessed after you have selected the corresponding MULTI CONTROL button (TUN or TV (when connected to DTV)). DTV INFO Use to bring up information screens on a digital TV. MPX/RETURN Switches between stereo and mono reception of FM broadcasts. If the signal is weak then switching to mono will improve the sound quality. Also selects closed-captioning on DTVs.
7 REMOTE SETUP Press this button to set up the remote control to control other components. 8 RECEIVER CONTROL buttons STANDARD Press for Standard decoding and to switch between the various Pro Logic II and Neo:6 options. ADV. SURR. Use to switch between the various surround modes. STEREO Switches between direct and stereo playback. Direct playback bypasses the tone controls and channel levels for the most accurate reproduction of a source. INPUT SEL. Use to select the input source. SIGNAL SEL. Use to select between an input signal. MIDNIGHT/LOUDNESS Switches to Midnight or Loudness listening. MUTE Mutes the sound (or restores the sound if it has been muted). 9 TV CONTROL buttons These buttons are dedicated to control the TV assigned to the TVC button. Thus if you only have one TV to hook up to this system assign it to the TVC MULTI CONTROL button. If you have two TVs, assign the main TV to the TVC button. TV VOL +/ Use to adjust the volume on your TV. TV INPUT Use select the TV function. TV Use to turn on/off the power of the TV. 10 RECEIVER This switches between standby and on for this receiver. 11 LCD display This display shows preset codes and other information when transmitting control signals. 12 }] (TUNE/ST +/) /ENTER Use the arrow buttons when setting up your surround sound system. Also used to control DVD menus/options and for deck 1 of a double cassette deck player. Use the TUNE +/ buttons to find radio frequencies and use ST +/ to find preset stations.

D. ACCESS After pressing, you can access a radio station directly using the number buttons. T. EDIT/GUIDE Press to memorize and name a station for recall using the STATION +/ buttons. Also displays the guides on a digital TV. BAND Switches between the tuner AM and FM bands. CLASS Switches between the three banks (classes) of radio station presets. DTV ON/OFF Switches a digital TV on/off. DTV MENU Displays menus on a digital TV. 6 DVD controls (Press DVD first to access) These controls will also function as DTV controls, depending on the component youve selected.
TOP MENU Displays the disc top menu of a DVD. AUDIO Changes the audio language or channel. SUBTITLE Displays/changes the subtitles included in multilingual DVD-Video discs. ANGLE Switches camera angles on discs with multi-angle scenes.
13 CH +/ Use to select channels when using a TV, VCR, DVR, etc. Also use to skip tracks backward or forward on CDs, DVDs, etc. 14 MASTER VOLUME +/ Use to set the listening volume. 15 MCACC SETUP (Press RCV first to access) Use to setup your speaker system using Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration (MCACC). MENU button Displays the disc menu of DVD-Video discs. It also displays TV and DTV menus. 16 Transmit icon Blinks to indicate the remote is transmitting control signals. 17 Character display (LCD) The following commands are shown when youre setting the remote to control other components (see Controlling the rest of your system ): SETUP Indicates the setup mode, from which you choose the options below. DIR SET See Direct function.

VSX-D812

INPUT SELECT

MUL C TI ONTROL

DVD/LD TV / SAT VCR/DVR TV CONT

CD-R/TAPE

ADVANCED STEREO/ MIDNIGHT/ ST ANDARD SURROUND DIRECT LOUDNESS CH SELECT TEST TONE

EFFECT

BRAND See Searching for preset codes using brand names.
SEARCH See Searching for preset codes. LEARN See Programming signals from other remote controls. ERASE See Erasing one of the remote control button settings. RESET See Clearing all the remote control settings. READ ID See Confirming preset codes.

If you're feeling surrounded by questions instead of ambient sound, you've come to the right place. We have suggestions on how to shop for everything surround, from receivers to speakers to full hometheater systems. 1. How much do I need to spend? 2. Home theater in a box (HTIB) 3. A/V receivers 4. Where will I put all those speakers? 5. Speaker packages 6. Separate speakers
This first part is easy. Just factor in the variables of budget, room size, and the quality/quantity of the components, and you'll know approximately where you stand.
PRICE ROOM SIZE Think small, cozy bed or living rooms measuring less than 200 square feet. WHAT YOU'LL GET A feature-packed home theater in a box (HTIB) that includes a receiver/DVD player or changer, five satellite speakers, and a subwoofer.

$500 or less

$1,000 or less
Moderately sized bedroom or living rooms measuring less than 300 square feet.
You can choose between a midline HTIB or mix 'n' match an entry-level receiver, a DVD player, and a 5.1-speaker package. If your monitor/TV is capable of displaying a 480p image, go for a HTIB or DVD player with progressive-scan output.

$1,500 or less

Large living rooms or dedicated home theaters measuring more 300 square feet. You can, of course, still use these systems in smaller rooms.
An upscale HTIB or a customized setup that includes a midline receiver, an SACD/DVD-Audio/DVD player with progressive video outputs, and either a matched speaker package or select speakers from a manufacturer's line of speakers and subwoofers.

More than $1,500

Large living rooms or dedicated home theaters measuring more 300 square feet. Those who want a first-rate system in a more intimate home theater or plan to add quality sound to another room (a.k.a., a zone) should also consider stepping into this bracket.
A high-end HTIB or a customized setup that includes a toprung receiver, an SACD/DVD-Audio/DVD player with progressive video outputs, and either a matched speaker package or select speakers from a manufacturer's line of speakers and subwoofers.
Most HTIBs combine a 5.1-speaker package with an A/V receiver that has an integrated DVD player. The only missing piece is a TV. HTIB prices range from less than $300 to in excess of $3,000.

Cheap thrills

The size of your budget will dictate the size and type of your monitor. Here's a cheat sheet to help you figure out what your options are. Upside: Affordable; compact; comparatively easy to set up. Downside: Won't rock the house; spotty build quality. Budget-priced HTIBs almost always feature small speakers and subwoofers. Sound quality isn't always stellar, but some low-end HTIBs sound pretty decent. Power ratings fall within the 25-to-50-watt-per-channel range. That's enough to fill a small room with sound; just don't expect massive loudness capability from a wee HTIB. Surround formats are limited to basic Dolby Digital/Pro Logic II and DTS/DTS Neo:6, while connectivity options are typically restricted to just two or three A/V inputs. If you have an HD-ready TV and are looking for the best possible picture quality, make sure the DVD player has component/progressive video outputs. Have a large collection of videotapes? A few HTIBs combine a receiver, a DVD player, and a VCR into a single component.

Polaroid DAV 3900

High on style
Upside: Elegant appearance; features galore; comparatively easy to set up. Downside: Still won't rock the house; limited bass output; sleek-looking electronics usually have limited connectivity options. A number of manufacturers offer sleek HTIBs with petite satellites (5 inches tall or even smaller). At the other extreme, you can buy HTIBs with tall yet incredibly slender floor-standing speakers. Some HTIBs tuck their amplifiers inside the subwoofer, which allows the manufacturer to trim down the receiver/DVD player component to truly svelte sizes.
Single-play and DVD-changer models are available. Single-play models are the most compact and smoothest-running, and they tend to be the most reliable. The changers, which typically hold three to six discs, may be either single-tray-loading or carousel-style mechanisms. Tray changers can be almost as compact as the single-play models, though they're usually noisier and slower as they go about their disc-changing operations. Carousel models are faster and quieter, but the drawback is they grab a lot of shelf space; many are 17 inches wide and 15 to 18 inches deep.

Component packages

Upside: Solid build quality; features similar standalone components; generous connectivity. Downside: More involved setup; clunky component styling; speaker packages usually far below the quality (and price) of separate speakers. Rather than combine the receiver and the DVD player in one compact unit, some manufacturers offer HTIBs built around separate components. This approach forfeits most of the space-saving allure of the classic HTIB, but there are performance advantages to
the separates route. With component-based HTIBs, their larger size lets designers fit in more power and significantly greater connectivity options. Component systems provide inputs for a larger number of external sources, such as satellite, VCRs, and cassette decks, than one-piece HTIBs. A few companies sell receiver/DVD player combos that don't come with speaker packages, which affords you the flexibility of selecting exactly the speakers that work for you.

Onkyo HT-S667C

Exotica: specialty and wireless
Upside: Space-saving HTIB design still incorporates cutting-edge technology. Downside: Sometimes expensive--you might as well buy first-class separates. The booming popularity of HTIBs shows no sign of abating, which explains why most cutting-edge trends eventually find their way to upmarket systems. The latest development is DVD recorders. These HTIBs can record TV programs and dub recordings from a video camera onto DVD-R. More and more HTIBs now feature Super-Audio CD and/or DVD-Audio capability. Some highend models, such as Niro's Two6.1 (pictured), dodge the "five speakers plus subwoofer" rule and create surround sound with fewer speakers. Some even use wireless rear speakers. Speaking of speakers, 6.1-channel HTIBs with Dolby EX/DTS ES processing are also available.
Niro Two6.1 home-theater system
Audio/video receivers differ from older stereo receivers because they offer video switching to allow the image to follow the audio when you change sources. They don't just supply power and decode the surround sound on your DVDs--they're also the control centers of any home theater.

Entry level (under $300)

Upside: Nowadays, entry-level receivers have just about everything anybody needs for home theater. Downside: Lightweight build quality; inflated power ratings; poorly designed remotes. Entry-level receivers can usually do pretty much everything. A good number offer 6.1-channel Dolby EX/DTS ES surround processing--but if your living space is tight, you'll probably use a standard 5.1-speaker package. The 6.1 models add one or two extra rear-surround channels over the standard 5.1 array to create a truly enveloping soundstage in large rooms.

Many inexpensive receivers can output 6.1-channel sound.
Power ratings run from 50 to 100 watts per channel. In this price range, many of the ratings are inflated, so the specs aren't a good way to judge real-world performance. Connectivity options are usually adequate for most systems, and they include multiple digital inputs and even component-video switching. Most models also have 5.1-channel inputs for DVD-Audio/SACD.

Midrange ($301 to $600)

Upside: Features galore; plentiful connectivity options; midline receivers are more solidly constructed than entry-level models. Downside: More expensive; systems can be fairly huge and hog too much shelf space. Beyond the now standard Dolby Digital/DTS and 6.1-channel Dolby EX/DTS ES surround-processing modes, some midrange receivers offer the latest trick from DTS: 96/24. This technology is similar to DVD-Audio in that it offers high-resolution 96/24 5.1channel sound, but it also offers full-motion video capability (DVD-A has limited video capacity). Another advantage is that you don't need to buy a new DVD-Audio player; DTS 96/24 will work with most DVD players.
An onscreen display makes setup more convenient.
Also, thanks to their superior digital processing capabilities, midpriced receivers offer better synthesized surround modes such as Jazz Club, Rock Club, Cathedral, and so on that can be used to "open up" the sound of stereo recordings. Onscreen displays (using your TV) ease surround setup and general navigation chores. Programmable remotes control TVs and other A/V components, while more-expensive models employ LCDs or keypads to make universal remote setup easier. Better receivers also have more inputs, including front-panel digital inputs, digital monitor outputs, and more than one VCR/DVD-R recording loop.

High end ($600 and up)

Upside: At this price range, expect honest power ratings, up-to-the-second features, and great sound quality. Downside: An overabundance of features can mean overly complex setup chores. In a perfect world, power ratings would give some indication of the loudness potential of A/V receiver. But unfortunately, not every 100-watt-per-channel receiver is created equal. What's inside does make a difference, and beefy power transformers and capacitors are not only heavy but also expensive; that's part of what you're paying for here. And while the Lucasfilm/THX certification is a little bit of a marketing gimmick, it's usually a sign of more-honest power ratings.

THX certification is common among more-expensive receivers.
Higher-end receivers usually offer A/B-speaker switching or, better yet, true multiroom capability. The most advanced multiroom receivers let you control not only the volume but also the source in another room. You might even listen to a different source--say, a CD in one room and the radio in the other room. A particularly useful new feature is automatic room tuning and setup. Receivers equipped with this capability can analyze your speakers and room acoustics, then automatically adjust for optimum sound quality at the listening position. The most advanced models utilize highly versatile parametric equalization. Unfortunately, most Super Audio CD and DVD-Audio players don't provide adequate bass management for small sub/sat systems, but some of the latest high-end receivers now perform that function for the players. Bass management is vitally important because it redirects bass from the satellite channels to the subwoofer.
Surround sound requires at least five satellite speakers and a subwoofer, but there are exceptions to that rule. In this section, we'll go through speaker placement options and outline surround-sound alternatives that use fewer than six speakers.

Speaker placement

Before shopping for speakers, try to imagine where you're going to put them in your room. Speakers can be placed on floor stands, hung on wall brackets, or placed on furniture. Subwoofers typically sound best in room corners or near the left- or right-front speakers. The front three--left, center, and right--speakers usually sound best when positioned with their tweeters elevated to the same height as a seated listener's ears. In any case, try to keep the center speaker near the same height as the left and right speakers.
You can place speakers on shelves or on/in a low cabinet or entertainment center. Some speakers are better suited to this arrangement than others. "Acoustic suspension" sealed satellites are the most appropriate. Next best are ported speakers--as long as the ports are located on the front of the cabinet. However, speakers with rear-mounted ports won't perform at their peak when placed inside a piece of furniture. As for the rear-channel surround speakers, they usually sound best when positioned three or more feet higher than the front speakers. However, high-fidelity DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD music will sound best when surround speakers are placed at the same height (ear level) as the front speakers.

Do I really need five speakers and a sub?
If you'd rather not deal with the clutter of speaker cabinets and stringing six or more cables across your room, check out the few HTIBs that use advanced multichannel speakers to reduce the speaker count to two or three. Unfortunately, sound quality and surround effects won't replicate true multichannel speaker systems.

Surround lite

The dream of wireless high-performance speakers is still unfulfilled, but a few manufacturers offer "wireless" speakers that receive signals via radio waves or infrared light--great but they still need to be plugged into the wall for AC power. Battery-powered wireless speakers just won't cut it in any sort of quality-oriented surround system.
Packaged systems take the guesswork out of buying the most important part of any surround-sound system. We'll go through their component speakers and let you know what to look for.
Front-left and front-right speakers
You can choose from miniature 4-inch-tall satellites or move up to hulking tower speakers. There's a size and shape for every taste. While the best small speakers can sound awfully good, they produce less bass and have loudness limitations compared to larger speakers. Full-size, 38-inch-tall or larger tower speakers frequently offer the best overall sound, though midsize 12- to 15-inch-tall bookshelf speakers may be the best compromise for sound-conscious buyers who can't accept the visual intrusion of full-size speakers.

Center speaker

The same logic applies to the vitally important center speaker, which is responsible for reproducing a large part of your DVD's dialogue, effects, and music. The smallest 7-inch-wide models are the least visually intrusive but most sonically compromised.

Surround speakers

A standard 5.1 system uses a pair of surround speakers, located to the sides of the main listening position. The newer Dolby EX/DTS ES 6.1 systems add either one or two surround speakers, centered behind the main listening position.

Subwoofer

Subwoofers supply deeper bass than satellite speakers. Once again, cabinet and driver size play a large part in predicting bass quality and quantity. Lower-end HTIB models are called passive, meaning the receiver's amplifier powers the subwoofer. Higherquality subwoofers are powered, as they have their own onboard power amps.

Every which way

Individual speakers come in three flavors:

1. One-way: woofer only

2. Two-way: woofer and tweeter
3. Three-way: woofer, tweeter, and midrange
Generally speaking, two-way speakers produce better sound than the one-way designs found on many entry-level HTIB systems. And three-way speakers usually sound better than two-ways. Some designs add one or more extra woofers, though multiple woofer, or midranges don't increase the "ways" of a speaker--a speaker with two woofers, one midrange, and one tweeter is still a three-way speaker. Multidriver speakers are usually pricier than speakers with fewer drivers.

On-wall speakers

Low-profile on-wall speakers are the perfect sonic solution for wall-mounted plasma and flat-panel TVs. Some models are designed
to visually complement wall-mounted TVs. On-wall speakers can also be a better-sounding alternative to in-wall speakers. For apartment dwellers, on-wall speakers free up floor space.

Speaker connectivity

Most lower-priced speakers use spring-loaded connectors, which may not provide the most secure grip on the wires. Binding posts are better and work with bare wire leads, spades (U-shaped connectors), or handiest of all, banana jacks (bowed, banana-shaped male jacks). You can get banana jacks at specialty audio stores or your neighborhood Radio Shack.
Some higher-end speakers have biwire capability--two sets of female connectors. One set of connectors are for the tweeter, and another set hooks up to the woofer; many cable manufacturers offer special biwire cables. Biwiring may produce slightly better sound with more detail and higher-definition bass than the standard single-wire method.
Cherry-picking the front, center, surround, and subwoofer speakers, you can better select the solution that meets your precise needs. We'll also let you know how best to blend your current speakers into a surround setup.

Speaker-matching Q&A

Question: Multibrand matching--can I use my old speakers and new ones together in a surround system? Mixing a different brand of surround speaker or subwoofer with your stereo speakers might be a risky proposition. Center speakers are the trickiest; mismatching the left-center-right speakers may result in jarring timbre shifts when the sound is panned across the front three speakers. Matching surround speakers is less critical, but in any case, try to arrange a home audition. Question: Unibrand matching--do all JBL speakers go together? Can I match big towers and small surrounds? Chances are same-brand speakers of a given vintage will sonically match, but when in doubt, check with the company's customer service people. And sure, you can match large and small speakers in one system. Question: What's the lowdown on subwoofer matching? Matching subwoofer to satellites is in some ways the easiest chore. The safest bet is to stick with the same brand. One rule of thumb is to mate small sats with small subs; if the sats have 4-inch or smaller woofers, better stick with a fairly small sub with an 8inch woofer. Larger sats will do their best with larger subs that have 10- or 12-inch woofers.

What to look for: front speakers
If you're going to listen to more music than watch DVDs, focus your speaker budget on the best left/right-front speakers you can afford: 30 to 40 percent of the whole enchilada up front. When the balance shifts over to more DVDs than music, distribute the budget equally over the 5.1 or 6.1 speakers.

Infinity Primus 360

What to look for: center-channel speakers
First, matching the treble/midrange/bass balance of the center channel to the front speakers is key, and secondly, if the left/right speakers are fairly large, try to get the largest possible center speaker. Try not to rely on the sub to provide the bass for the center speaker. Small center speakers always sound, well, small.

NHT SC-1

What to look for: surrounds
There are two types of surround designs: 1. Monopole The conventional surround speaker looks like a standard satellite speaker. These monopole speakers aim the sound straight ahead. Most HTIBs and entry-level speaker packages use this type of surround speaker. They will also work well in higher-end systems and SACD/DVD-Audio-oriented music-surround systems. 2. Dipole/bipole Speaker with this type of design pushes sound out to the sides. Their distinctive V-shaped front panels make them easy to identify. These speakers create a more diffuse surround sound than the monopoles. They're best suited to DVD movies and less desirable for multichannel music.

Dipole speaker

What to look for: subwoofers
Some subwoofers are better suited to providing home-theater oomph than musical bass. Home-theater bombast can be more of a quantity-over-quality issue, but some very "musical" subs lack the gravitas necessary for maximum home-theater impact. Of course, models that excel on both tend to be the most expensive.

JBL PB12

Getting wired
Before you buy any speaker wire, place the speakers and the receiver in the positions where they're likely to wind up, then carefully measure the distances. Remember to measure up and over door frames or windows. Just to be on the safe side, add at least two extra feet to each cable run; coming up short is no fun, and most stores won't allow you to return cut-to-length cables. In most cases, standard zip cord, available in any hardware store, will do nicely. If you need to run long (more than 20 foot) lengths between the receiver and the speakers, try to get at least 16-gauge wire (the lower the number, the thicker the wire). Specialty brands of speaker wire are more expensive but may deliver slightly better sound quality.

TOP STYLISH HOME-THEATER SYSTEMS Samsung HT-DB600 JVC TH-M65 Niro 1.1Pro Panasonic SC-HT900 Panasonic SC-HT700
TOP COMPONENT HOME-THEATER SYSTEMS TOP A/V RECEIVERS Onkyo HT-S760 Pioneer VSX-D912K Onkyo HT-S667C Pioneer HTD-630DV Yamaha YHT-940 Yamaha YHT-740 Harman Kardon AVR 630 Denon AVR-1804 Onkyo TX-SR601 Yamaha RX-V1400
TOP HOME-THEATER SPEAKER SYSTEMS TOP SPEAKERS Aperion Intimus 5.1 NHT ST-4 Hsu Research VT-12 Infinity Modulus Onkyo SKS-HT510 Harman Kardon HKTS 14 Infinity Primus 360 Outlaw Audio LFM-1 Hsu Research STF-1 JBL ND310II