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Theatre AvantGarde av processor AV32R
by Chris M. Wallett, Teamleader, AV Processor Design Andrew J. Dutton, Senior Development Engineer, AV Processor Design Team John Mulcahy, Technical Director, TAG Electronic Systems Derek Scotland, Technical Director, TAG McLaren Audio

1 INTRODUCTION

The design brief given to the engineering team assembled to design TAG McLaren Audio's first av processor was simple: design a processor which will decode all current and future formats, have outstanding audio and video quality and be easy to set up and use. It took approximately 10 man years of effort to execute the brief and now, after just 10 months of extremely hard work, the av processor AV32R is ready for launch.

2 FUTURE PROOF

A very powerful, flexible Digital Signal Processor (DSP) is required to both support the existing decoding formats (Pro LogicTM, Dolby DigitalTM, DTSTM, MPEG2TM) and provide the ability to support any future format. It can not be a mask programmed device as this would mean that its code could not be upgraded in the field to include new decoding formats. The design team chose the ADSP21065L SHARCTM, a device which at the start of TAG McLaren Audio's design programme was only a design brief given to the engineers at Analog Devices. To base the AV32R design around a device not already established in the market carried a significant risk, but the promised performance of the SHARCTM DSP and TAG McLaren's Automotive division's positive experience with DSPs1 from Analog devices made the risk one worth taking. The 60 MHZ, 32 bit ADSP21065L is now a reality and its outstanding performance means a single chip fulfills all the following design requirements:
enough power to decode all of today's formats with sufficient spare capacity to deal with any future format 32 bit processing to ensure the full dynamic range of the latest 24 bit formats is maintained2 the ability to download new code into the DSP's memory at any time.
The '65L SHARCTM is partnered by a 16 bit Siemens C161RI microcontroller. Devices from this family of powerful microcontrollers have been used within all of TAG McLaren's Formula One powertrain control systems. The C161RI is responsible for all the control functions of the AV32R (responding to the remote control, selecting audio & video inputs, generating the on screen displays etc). It also manages the task of downloading the programme code into the memory of the SHARCTM DSP. The power of the C161RI combined with good software and interface design makes these tasks simple and user friendly.

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The design team turned to TAG McLaren's automotive division for help in selecting the most appropriate software development tools and methodologies for the project3. Working together, they established the software quality systems and put in place the procedures for rapid, high quality software development. The AV32R customer receives, as a direct result, the highest levels of performance and reliability4. All of the AV32R software is kept in a single, re-programmable, FLASH memory device. This includes the decoding algorithms for the SHARCTM and the control software for the C161RI. The FLASH can be reprogrammed using a PC connected via the TAGtronicTM Communication Bus5. This allows the AV32R to be upgraded to support new features and formats by a software download without having to open the unit. These upgrades can be performed in the field so that the unit need not be returned to TAG McLaren Audio's factory. Software upgrades will be available via the TAG McLaren web site. This is a significant advantage over processors which, for cost reasons, cannot offer in-field reprogrammability.

3 96kHz/24bit PROCESSING

To ensure that the AV32R is future proof it is also fully 96kHz / 24 bit compatible. This means that future DVD or other sources with sample rates up to 96kHz and resolutions up to 24bits will be reproduced at their full bandwidth and resolution, offering the best possible detail from the recording. Having ensured that the AV32R could decode these high resolution and high bandwidth recordings it was necessary to ensure that the digital to analogue conversion was of the highest possible standard. To this end the AV32R uses three separate 24 bit, 96kHz, stereo Digital to Analogue Converters (DACs) and a separate Analogue to Digital Converter, rather than a compromise codec solution with all these functions in one chip. Again performance was more important than lowest cost.
4 TECHNOLOGY APPLIED TO ACHIEVE BEST SOUND QUALITY

4.1 The principle The topology and devices used to achieve the excellent sound quality of the AV32R were selected after constructing and evaluating many prototypes of all the available options. Each prototype underwent extensive listening tests to fine tune and compare the options. The final sound characteristics were optimised by cross-referencing with experience built up over thousands of hours listening to and improving the F3 series audio products. 4.2 The components All this hard work resulted in the use of high quality Elna Cerafine bulk decoupling capacitors in the Audio Power supplies, and ultra stable Vishay metal film resistors and low dielectric loss Wima polypropylene capacitors in the audio signal path. 4.3 The power supplies To reduce interference between the analogue and digital sections they have separate power supplies. Within the analogue section, separate supplies are used for the 5V DACs and the 12V analogue output devices. The higher voltage of the output stages gives better headroom and better driving of cables. Separating the supplies prevents output circuit currents from interfering with the highly sensitive digital to analogue conversion process.

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with the highly sensitive digital to analogue conversion process. To maintain separation of the different sections within the unit, the AV32R uses 15 independent linear supplies in all. Each is optimised using the best type of capacitor decoupling for its function and appropriate noise suppression filtering. The transformer used within the AV32R is of toroidal construction as this has the benefit of a very low stray magnetic field, reducing the possibility of interference with the audio signals. The transformer is also very quiet, reducing hum to an inaudible level. 4.4 Mixed technology Within the digital region it is very important to control the high speed currents drawn by the digital IC's. This control is achieved using surface mounted, ceramic chip capacitors which can be located very close to the digital components. Being close to the IC's they can supply the required currents with the minimum of interference to the rest of the board. The analogue region required a different approach. Particular care is required around the DACs as there the high speed digital signals must co-exist with the lower speed but very high resolution audio signals. To allow for this, the analogue regions use surface mounted, high speed capacitors near the DACs and the output filter components, combined with a three level scheme of bulk decoupling. The three levels of bulk decoupling consist of large, high quality Cerafine storage capacitors near the linear regulators, slightly smaller high quality storage capacitors by each of the sensitive components and surface mounted Polymer Electrolytic Neocaps very close to the supply pins. The Neocaps have a cathode conductance 100x that of an ordinary tantalum capacitor and 1000x that of a Aluminium Electrolytic capacitor, this gives a greatly improved high frequency response. This three level approach is used for all of the sensitive audio components in the input and output paths. By using these combined methods all of the power delivery problems within the system are addressed to deliver fine detail and stable images, as well as powerful but controlled bass.

4.5 The DAC topology To achieve the best possible sound from the DACs, the quantisation noise present on the output has to be filtered out. This is performed by a combination of a 128x over-sampling filter within the DAC itself and an external analogue filter. The requirements on the analogue filter are greatly relaxed due to the over-sampling. However, listening tests proved that it still had a significant impact on the sound quality. The design was optimised to produce a filter which has very low group delay within the region humans can hear and beyond. The low group delay reduces the

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group delay within the region humans can hear and beyond. The low group delay reduces the phase error between low frequency and high frequency sounds. The actual type used, after considerable optimisation by measurement and listening, is a fourth order Linear Phase with equiripple phase accurate to better than 0.5. This type of filter has a flat group delay extending past the transition region and is thus ideal for filtering audio signals. By using a fourth order filter rather than the second order filter used in most designs the high frequency noise at the output is considerably lower. Reducing this noise reduces the possibility of distortion due to intermodulation in the input of the power amplifier and thus improves the focus and detail of the sound. The filter is implemented using high quality, low distortion operational amplifiers (op-amps) from Burr Brown. They were selected after considerable measurement and listening and are used throughout the F3 range to give a consistently high level of performance. These op-amps, combined with the high quality passive components (Vishay resistors and Wima Capacitors), create a very transparent output path which allows every nuance of the sound and the true depth of the bass to be revealed with complete clarity. 4. Jitter One of the principle causes of distortion in a digital audio product is jitter. Jitter is a distortion caused by errors in the timing of digital signals. Data dependant timing errors are one of the most audible and unpleasant types of jitter, so it is essential to remove these. The AV32R uses a twin phase lock loop design to reduce the jitter on the master clock to an absolute minimum. The first loop extracts the clock from the bi-phase encoded SPDIF (or TOSLINK) signal. Due to the nature of bi-phase encoding, this signal still contains some time variations caused by the data encoded in the SPDIF signal. The second phase locked loop is based upon a voltage controlled crystal oscillator which provides one of the most stable clock oscillators possible. The phase locked loop filter starts to reject jitter from the clock signal at 6Hz and it is critically damped to provide good stability and the quickest possible lock time. Should this second loop not be able to track the input, such as in vari-speed applications or from particularly unstable source devices, the system will switch seamlessly back to the first loop and continue playing. Short term spectral analysis of the clock jitter at the DAC reveals that it is below 10 pico seconds across most of the audio spectrum. The overall, long term, integrated jitter figure is 150ps, which would be state of the art for a CD player or standalone DAC and must be considered exceptional for a system containing so much digital processing and three DACs. This has been achieved not only by a high stability phase locked loop but also by careful treatment of the clock signal once it has been extracted. The clock signal is transferred across the PCB using independently buffered and precisely terminated clock traces to each of the DACs and the ADC. This termination prevents reflections along the PCB traces from causing decision threshold uncertainty which would introduce jitter. Careful circuit design, a four layer PCB and the layout and electrical noise suppression experience gathered in F1 racing by TAG McLaren's automotive division, have created a system in which the clock design is optimised in all respects. 4.7 The TAGtronicTM Sync Link The final link in this clock path optimisation is the TAGtronic Sync Link: this unique (for an av processor) link allows the AV32R to lock its clock to provide a low noise, ultra low jitter reference right next to the DACs. A signal is then passed back to any TAGtronicTM Sync Link compatible product to synchronise its clocks to the reference within the AV32R. This system allows us to put the reference clock where it needs to be for optimum sound quality, right next to the DACs. The F3 DVD player DVD32R will feature the TAGtronicTM Sync Link. 4.8 Video quality The video circuitry within the AV32R offers a no compromise signal path using broadcast quality components. For the best possible picture quality the On Screen Display (OSD) device is switched out of circuit when no OSD information is displayed. A separate recording output is also provided without the on screen display option. Some televisions allow internal crosstalk to occur between the Composite and S-Video inputs. Independent control of the outputs in the AV32R allows them to be selectively turned off if crosstalk is likely to occur.

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The OSD chip has its own reference crystals to allow it to produce a stable output with no video input. This simplifies the system setup as there is no need to find a working video source to see the on screen help system. 4.9 Multilayer technology Multilayer circuit boards are used in the AV32R to control the complex pattern of return currents from each of the different functional circuit blocks, provide controlled impedances for the high speed digital signals and minimise coupling between signal traces. The AV32R has a complex power distribution system using an entire layer of the PCB. Power distribution is optimised through the use of very low impedance solid planes. This optimisation reduces distortion in the analogue region and improves the digital signal characteristics and electro magnetic compatibility of the complete AV32R. Within the analogue audio regions it is important that the very sensitive, high resolution audio signals are not disturbed by the return currents from the high speed digital processing circuits. Separate ground planes are used under the analogue and digital regions to provide low impedance return paths for the currents. To minimise crosstalk and noise, the ground planes are split along the boundaries between the analogue and digital processing circuits. Multilayer circuit boards are virtually essential if effective planes are to be created. Attempting to create planes using conventional two layer circuit technology inevitably leads to compromises with many ground return current paths having to be constructed out of relatively fine tracks in congested parts of the circuit, resulting in higher impedances and greater crosstalk between power and signal traces. Avoiding this compromise reduces digital noise emissions and significantly reduces the effects of the bass return currents on the high frequency treble components. This improves both the bass transient response and the image stability. At the very high switching speeds of the digital circuitry the PCB tracks have transmission line characteristics. Multilayer boards, combined with precise control of track dimensions, spacing and layout, are essential to present these digital signals with well-defined, consistent impedances. This, together with correct signal termination, ensures that the signals are not corrupted by reflections and crosstalk. This is particularly critical for the clock signals, where the multilayer board is an essential element in achieving extremely low jitter levels. The multiple layers of the PCB and the planes within it allow significant reductions in crosstalk to be achieved by routing signals perpendicular to one another on different layers and screened from one another by the ground planes. A further benefit of the use of multi-layer circuit boards is the ability to increase component density. This leads to shorter tracks and smaller signal loop areas, which in turn reduces sensitivity to external interference and reduces noise emissions. The advantages of a multilayer PCB construction meant that, despite its relatively high cost, it was the only logical choice to maintain the exceptional level of performance required from the AV32R. 4.9 The TAGtronicTM Communication Bus The AV32R is the first F3 unit to feature the TAGtronicTM Communication Bus. This allows TAG McLaren Audio units to work seamlessly together to form an effective, integrated system. Remote control codes can be transferred over the bus, allowing system components to be operated out of sight. The TAGtronicTM Bus will allow the system to be extended to offer multi-room capability in which the output from sources can be controlled and redirected throughout a home. One of the most flexible aspects of the AV32R is that both the micro-controller and DSP software are stored in re-programmable FLASH memory. The FLASH can be reprogrammed using a PC connected via the TAGtronicTM Communication Bus. The bus communications protocols are compatible with standard PC asynchronous serial links (RS232). The electrical interface is RS485, selected because of its use of balanced signals and its suitability for long cable runs. Using balanced signals addresses grounding issues in complex systems and serves to eliminate potentially troublesome sources of hum. RS485 can be

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systems and serves to eliminate potentially troublesome sources of hum. RS485 can be converted to the PC standard RS232 levels using a simple adaptor.

5 TAG McLAREN SURROUND

TAG McLaren Surround is an audiophile processing mode designed specifically for listening to both stereo and mono music sources. A centre channel increases the stability of the front sound stage while a split surround supplements the ambience present on the original recording. The processing is beautiful in its simplicity: The surround channel is derived by using the out of phase components of music, then a small amount of the in phase, mono signal is mixed in to enable mono compatibility. The surround channels are then passed through a proprietary de-localisation technique. The centre channel is derived from the mono component of the audio. This is then delayed and attenuated so it can improve the stability of the front sound stage without reducing its depth and character. The left and right channels reproduce the original recording exactly as intended by the artist. All processing within TAG McLaren Surround is fully dithered producing a high quality algorithm capable of processing 24bit/96kHz recordings with no artifacts.

6 MANUFACTURING

For best results the surface mount components are placed and soldered in TAG McLaren's automotive division in Woking, using high precision placement robots (accuracy better than 80m) and an inert gas (nitrogen) infra-red reflow oven. Soldering in a nitrogen atmosphere results in significantly higher quality solder joints compared to conventional atmospheric processing. The boards are then cleaned before being shipped to Huntingdon where all leaded components are fitted before the printed circuit board is wave soldered. After soldering, component values and tolerances are checked by an automatic roving probe tester. The tested printed circuit boards are then installed in the case together with the other hand-fit components, such as the transformer, switches, connectors etc. Finally, a full performance test of the completed AV32R is conducted to verify perfect operation. The tested AV32R is then thoroughly cleaned before being packed and sealed with its accessories by operators wearing lint-free anti-static gloves. The sealed package is only opened by the final owner.

7 EASE OF USE

7.1 The Set-up Wizard Inch thick manuals - who actually reads them? Setting up av processors is notoriously long winded and time consuming. To make this as easy as possible the AV32R has a self-explanatory Set-up Wizard that gives detailed, on screen, step by step instructions. This takes even a novice user through each of the stages needed to get the best performance out of the AV32R, without once referring to a user guide. The Wizard explains each stage as the user reaches it, and even gives useful hints when things may not be obvious. 7.2 The Power User For more advanced users, or the retailer, there is a direct access configuration option. This option bypasses all the help screens to allow the speediest set-up by those who are confident about what they are doing. 7.3 A Learning Remote Control The control of a full home cinema system can be a labourious task using several different remote controls which are always getting lost. To overcome this the AV32R comes with a system controlling remote. The remote is preprogrammed to control TAG McLaren Audio Products, however, it can be taught how to control almost any product that uses an infra-red remote. This allows it to become the system controller, controlling up to eight devices6. With this controller only one remote control is needed for a whole AV system. The button for the currently controlled device will flash each time a command is sent to tell the user which device it has been sent to. To make control of the sources simpler there are individual buttons to select each source. Ten source buttons are provided in all, allow the user to select the input to the AV32R without scrolling through lists or using complicated two button procedures.

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Typing in source names is made easier by using the same style of alphanumeric entry as phones. This approach keeps the number of key presses to a minimum and provides an interface that most people are familiar with. The remote control also has a back light so that it is possible to see the buttons in subdued light. This is selected by a button at the bottom of the control so that it does not flatten the battery when it is not required.

8 CONCLUSION AND OUTLOOK

The AV32R is TAG McLaren Audio's first audio-visual product, offering an exceptional quality surround sound decoder which is designed to meet the needs of the user now and in the future. The AV32R can be combined perfectly with TAG McLaren Audio's existing range of high-quality power amplifiers or with the forthcoming, all new, 5 channel amplifier 100x5R. And the TAGtronicTM Sync Link (reducing jitter even further, i.e. improving the sound quality) will be put to use when the long awaited, high performance DVD player DVD32R completes the range. All products will be able to communicate with each other, using the TAGtronicTM Communication Bus, making remote and multi-room installations a reality.
Full Specifications And Measured Performance
System Compatibility Decoding Formats
Processing Format Digital Specifications Digital Signal Processor Digital Inputs Digital Input Formats Digital Outputs Digital Output Format AC-3 RF Demodulator Input (optional) Analog Specifications Analog Inputs Analog Input Impedance Analog Input Level Analog Input and Output Freq. Response, 0.5dB Analog Input THD and Noise Analog Input Channel Separation Analog Input Crosstalk Rejection Analog Outputs Analog Tape Outputs Analog Output Maximum Level
Dolby Digital DTS MPEG2 Dolby* Pro Logic* TAG McLaren Surround THX Cinema
Analog Devices ADSP-21065L SHARC 32-bit, floating-point DSP Three RCA phono socket Two rectangular TOSLINK Coaxial: SPDIF Optical: EIAJ RC-5720 Two RCA phono coaxial (one if AC-3 RF demodulator option is fitted) SPDIF

RCA phono socket

Six stereo (including tape loop) 10 kOhms 10% User-configurable between 3V and 0.1V RMS 2Hz-20kHz <0.0035% >95dB @ 1kHz >90dB @ 1kHz Six (Left, Right, Centre, Sub, Surround Left, Surround Right) One stereo pair >3.5V RMS

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Analog Output Maximum Level Analog Output Impedance (except Tape) Analog Output Impedance: Tape Analog Output Signal To Noise Ratio Analog Output THD and Noise (0dB fullscale) Analog Output Channel Balance Analog Output Channel Separation Video Specifications S-Video inputs S-Video outputs Composite Video inputs Composite Video outputs Video Input Impedance Video Output Impedance Video Bandwidth General Specifications Mains Power Consumption Physical Dimensions (incl. feet, terminals and controls) Trademark Acknowledgements *Dolby, Pro-Logic and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. DTS is the registered trademark of Digital Theater Systems Inc. THX and THX Cinema are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd. MPEG2 is a registered trademark of the MPEG organisation. SHARC is a registered trademark of Analog Devices. Footnotes: 1. TAGtronicTM engine control systems of the last 10 years have been using Analog Devices DSPs to generate the very high bit rate encoded data stream transmitted from the F1 racing car. In 1993 the TAG McLaren telemetry system received first prize for "Outstanding Use of Technology" from the British computer society. 2. This is also possible with a 24 bit DSP but then it takes valuable processing time. 3. TAG Electronic Systems, the automotive division of TAG McLaren, is recognized not only for its design and manufacturing quality systems as an ISO9001 accredited company but also has been awarded TickIt accreditation for the high standard of its software quality systems. 4. The software quality of TAG McLaren's audio teams is regularly audited by experts from the automotive division. 5. Another spin-off from the automotive division where the capacity for so called "end of line" and field upgrade has been a technical requirement for many years. 6. Or even more when devices are grouped together by memory page. >3.5V RMS 47 Ohms nominal 100 Ohms >104dB (A-wtd) <0.002% <0.5dB at 1 kHz >100dB at 1kHz
Four Two (one with On Screen Display) Four Two (one with On Screen Display) 75 Ohms 10% 75 Ohms 10% 0Hz - 5.5MHz +0.1 -0.6dB
<30 Watts 445 mm wide, 75 mm high, 338 mm deep

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www.tagmclarenaudio.com

Surround Sound Processor AV32R
no other processor offers so much
We live our lives through our five senses. They get us through our daily chores then help us enjoy our leisure, in whatever form it takes. Often that means curling up in front of a good movie, while your home cinema system transports you to an alternative reality. Using the latest technology, TAG McLaren has produced one of the most powerful and versatile surround sound processors, the AV32R. Now you can go to the movies anytime, and always have the best seat in the house. But it does not stop at home cinema

5 stars

THX Surround EX Plus
What Hi-Fi? - October 2000
The AV32R offers performance that in many ways approaches that of the cost no object and high priced super preamplifiers. Prestige Audio Video - May 2000 Best High-End Surround Sound Processor Sound quality: extraordinar y; Best Buy!
Audio - November 1999 Video - March 2000
Definitely a Best Buy and worthy winner of the Editor's Award for Home Entertainment Excellence. Home Entertainment - December 1999 The Price/Performance relationship is extraordinar y Clearly the AV32R is a product of true hi-fi pedigree. Visual Grand Prix 2000 Award.
Image Home Entertainment - August 1999 Home Cinema Choice - December1999
AV Review - November 1999
available black anodised or with metallic silver paint finish

AV32R 8396E

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G ro w i n g w i t h y o u r n e e d s
"TAG McLaren's Lead:.we can now 'see' inside these [movie sound decoder] devices and witness just how effective different decoders are at handling compressed, multichannel data. Quite the best example I've encountered is provided by TAG McLaren's AV32R. Near perfect specification.
Measurement expert, Paul Miller in Hifi Choice - July/August 2000
The design brief of the AV32R was simple: create an audio-visual processor which has outstanding audio and video qualities, is easy to set up and grows with your needs.
A reality: Upgrades over the Internet

Turbo Power Option

AC-3 RF Demodulator Option
The AV32Rs flexible architecture stores all software in fieldupgradable memory. Software upgrades are possible in minutes. PC owners can even directly download upgrades from the Internet.
THX Surround EX Plus Option
Thanks to the forward thinking of our experts the AV32R has been designed to accommodate a second Digital Signal Processor, doubling the AV32Rs processing power. This future upgrade will become available when additional computing power is needed.
Automation & Action Switches
Some Laserdisks have been manufactured with Dolby Digital or AC-3 encoded sound. To play these discs you need an AC-3 RF equipped Laserdisk player and the AC-3 RF Demodulator option fitted to the AV32R. This option is not required for DVD.

Radio Meets Television

THX Surround EX brings a new dimension of depth, spacious ambience and sound localization to home theatre audio. The overall effect is one of phenomenal sonic realism, an audible sense of being there that has never before been realized in a home theatre environment. Available exclusively for THXlicensed products, THX Surround EX is a process that decodes a back surround signal from the left and right surround channels on specially encoded DVD movie releases.

DTS-ES Options

For the ultimate home cinema experience we have combined the THX Surround EX option with rear panel mounted remote control connectors and three action trigger switches allowing easy integration into automation systems for control of screen, curtain, lighting etc.

Learning Remote Control

The backlit remote control operates all TAG McLaren Audio home cinema products. It can also be user-programmed to control almost any unit that uses an infra-red remote, so just this one remote can control your whole system.
Equipped with the THX Surround EX option, the AV32R will decode DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix encoded discs. All DVDs recorded in DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete include DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix for compatibility. An upgrade to decode DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete (includes DTS-Neo: 6, a music matrix decoder) is in preparation.

Pro Logic II Option

Digital Radio (DAB) Option
Equipped with the Digital Radio (DAB) upgrade or connected to a suitable TAG McLaren tuner the AV32R can display station name and scrolling radiotext on your television. It also allows convenient station tuning via the AV32Rs on screen display. So, for example, you could watch breakfast television whilst seeing local traffic information, assuming this information is broadcast by your local radio station.
Forget printed user manuals
Pro Logic II is the next generation of Dolby Surround Pro Logic decoding technology. The Pro Logic II upgrade (in preparation) will bring exciting new features and advanced performance for decoding the many thousands of existing stereo and Dolby Surround programmes, making them sound more like a discrete Dolby Digital 5.1-channel version.
The AV32R can be upgraded to the very latest Digital Radio (DAB) technology. This option has been jointly developed with Robert Bosch Multimedia Systems, adding the hiperformance Digital Radio capability of our internationally acclaimed tuner T32R to the AV32R.
Setting up the AV32R for optimum performance, without reference to the installation manual, is extremely easy: Simply follow the on-screen instructions of our unique Setup Wizard and even a home cinema novice can perfectly set-up the AV32R in a matter of minutes.
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T h e a t re Av a n t G a rd e AV R - u n d e r t h e s k i n

Stable Power Supply

Premium Grade Audio Components
Ultra-stable Vishay resistors result in improved transparency and excellent noise suppression.
Mixed Technology Construction
Surface mount components for fast digital signal transfer and leaded components for perfect audio signals optimizing performance.

THX Surround EX Option

Adding two back speakers brings a new dimension of depth, spacious ambience and sound localization. This option allows decoding of THX Surround EX and DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix encoded discs.
Fifteen independent power supplies provide superb signal separation via Elna Cerafine bulk decoupling capacitors.
Goldplated Multi-Layer Printed Circuit Board
The AV32Rs multi-layer circuit boards control the complex pattern of return currents, provide controlled impedances and minimize coupling better than a conventional circuit board could ever do.

Improved Sound Quality

The unique TAGtronic T2L Link sends a signal to products designed for this advanced technology, such as our CDT20R or DVD32R player, to synchronize their clocks to the master reference within the AV32R, resulting in a very low noise, ultra-low jitter reference. DVDs and CDs sound better than ever before.
Minimal Jitter, Maximum Sound Quality
The AV32Rs twin phase-locked loop reduces jitter on the master clock to a minimum, resulting in high-quality signal timing and hence a more transparent sound.
Broadcast-Quality Video Components
The video signal path uses no-compromise broadcastquality components, with the on-screen display generator being switched out of the circuit when not in use.

Automation

96 kHz/24-bit DACs
Together with the THX Surround EX upgrade come rear panel mounted remote control connectors and three action trigger switches for home cinema automation.
The AV32R is equipped to handle the finer resolution and more spacious sound of high data-rate recordings.

Total System Integration

Latest DSP Technology
World premiere of the revolutionary 32-bit 66 MHz Analog Devices ADSP 21065L SHARC Digital Signal Processor.

The AV32R features the Enhanced TAGtronic Communication Bus which allows the AV32R to share information with other products, equipped with this advanced feature. The AV32R, for example, can relay remote commands via the Bus or power up individual amplifier modules within our five channel amplifier 100x5R. The TAGtronic Bus is perfect for system integration and multi-room expansion.

Digital Radio Option

Enjoy the very latest in Digital Radio both band III and band L are supported.

Round-Core Transformer

The AV32Rs transformer provides very large power reserves whilst its toroidal construction minimizes mechanical vibration, magnetic flux leakage and hum. The result is a more precise and punchier sound.
Powerful 16-Bit Microcontroller
The 16-bit Siemens C161RI micro-controller monitors and controls the AV32R. Its high computing power allows for a most comprehensive on screen user interface, making set-up and operation so simple that it removes the need to refer to a printed manual.

Black or Silver

Solid Foundation

Vibration Absorption

Both the cover and baseplate are bonded with viscoelastic laminate for rapid absorption of externally induced vibrations.
The AV32R is available with a hard black anodised or metallic painted front fascia and a painted matching lid. The result is a durable, beautiful finish.
The proprietary multi-part foot consists of a Sorbothane membrane, moulded between an inner support post and an outer shell for perfect vibration damping.
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AV32R g o w i t h t h e w i n n e r
w h e n t h e t o t a l i s m o re t h a n t h e s u m o f i t s p a r t s

Why Compromise?

220-240V ~ 50-60Hz Fuse: T1A L 250V
SWITCHES A. 1 B. 2 C. in REMOTE DIGITAL RADIO out 1 SVIDEO vcr-s dvd-s out 1 COMPOSITE vcr-c tv-c back right back left surr. dvd D I G I TA L INPUT cd COAXIAL OUTPUT 1 ANALOG OUTPUT surr. left centre left tape out left tape in aux ANALOG INPUT tuner sat vcr tv left
will still see its command as long as the AV32R receives it. Dimming Very few companies can deliver a complete hi-performance home cinema system, requiring you to mix and match different manufacturers the display of the AV32R to watch a movie dims all the displays and products. The result is an often compromised sound and picture quality even the front indicators of the five channel amplifier. But that is not enough: add our tuner T32R and it will behave like an integral part of but always cluttered operation. TAG McLaren provides a complete your home cinema system: Station selection and radio text display hi-performance solution, including DVD player, surround sound using the television and your AV32Rs remote. processor, multi-channel amplification, loudspeakers and even the Hi- technology Loudspeakers wiring. All products are Using the technological advantages of Aluminum and Composite designed to perfectly Technology makes you wonder why most loudspeaker manufactures perform in any system, still use wood. For us the goal is clear: our loudspeakers have to but just that little match the internationally recognised and acclaimed performance of better when combined. our electronics, so we simply cant compromise. Please contact your TAG McLaren Audio retailer for more details.

out C O M M U N I C AT I O N S

out 2 + osd

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

surr. right subwoofer

made in United Kingdom

serial number

Double insulated: When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.

Technical Specification

Colour Decoding formats black anodised or metallic silver paint THX, Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic, DTS Digital Surround, MPEG-2 (in selected countries only), THX Surround EX (option - also allows DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix), DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete, DTS-Neo: 6, Dolby Pro Logic II (options) Processing formats TAG McLaren Surround 7, THX Cinema Digital signal processor Analog Devices 21065L SHARC 66 MHz 32-bit floating point DSP Digital input frequencies 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz Digital input format Coaxial SPDIF Optical EIAJ RC-5720 Digital input connector Coaxial phono socket Optical rectangular TOSLINK Digital input impedance Coaxial % Digital input level Coaxial >200 mV pp Optical 27 to 14.5 dBm Digital output format Coaxial SPDIF Digital output connector phono socket Digital output impedance % Digital output level 500 mV pp 10 % (75 load) Analog input connector phono socket Analog input impedance 10 k 1 % Analog input level User-configurable between 0.1 V and 3.0 V rms Analog input frequency response (0.5 dB) 2 Hz 20 kHz Analog input total harmonic distortion + noise < 0.0035 % Analog input channel separation > 95 dB at 1 kHz Analog input crosstalk rejection > 90 dB at 1 kHz Analog to digital converter 20-bit / 96 kHz 64-times (analog inputs) oversampling multi-bit delta sigma ADC Tape output connector phono socket Tape output impedance 100 Tape output gain 0 dB (i.e. the tape output level is the same as the analog input level) Analog output connector phono socket Analog output impedance 47 nominal Maximum analog output level >3.5 V rms (9.0 V rms on subwoofer) Digital to analog 24-bit / 96 kHz 128-times converters oversampling multi-bit delta sigma DAC Analog output frequency response (0.5 dB) 2 Hz 20 kHz Analog output signal to noise ratio >104 dB (A-weighted) Analog output total harmonic distortion + noise (0 dB full scale) < 0.002 % Analog output channel balance < 0.5 dB at 1 kHz Analog output channel separation > 100 dB at 1 kHz Analog output volume control steps of 0.5 dB Video bandwidth DC 4.2 MHz 0.25 dB Video input impedance % Video output impedance % Operating temperature range C Upgrades (optional) AC-3 laserdisk decoding, THX Surround EX, Automation, Digital Radio AC supply frequency Hz AC supply voltage V, V or V The voltage is marked on the rear of the unit Power consumption less than 30 W Dimensions (including feet, terminals and controls) W x H x D 445 x 75 x 338 mm Weight 9.8 kg

dvd player DVD32R (top) av processor AV32R (middle), and the five channel amplifier 100x5R (bottom), all in silver

Automation Built In!

Simply activate the Enhanced TAGtronic Communication Bus and the DVD player DVD32R, the surround sound processor AV32R and the five channel amplifier 100x5R will work as if they were one. A single standby command sent to the AV32R or DVD32R will activate the same function in the other units connected to the Bus. When in operation, only those amplifier channels which are required by the selected sound format will be switched on. The Enhanced TAGtronic Bus also distributes remote commands from the AV32R (or DVD32R) to all other units. So even if a product is out of sight, it
Aluminium Technology Loudspeakers, one of TAG McLarens range of Home Cinema loudspeakers.Visit your retailer or our website for more details.
For further information e-mail our helpdesk on:

TAG McLaren Audio Ltd.

The Summit, Latham Road, Huntingdon, Cambs., PE29 6ZU United Kingdom tel: +44 (0)fax: +44 (0)freephone: 8007

TAG McLaren Audio Inc.

1506 Providence Highway, Unit 25, Norwood, MA 02062 United States of America tel: (781) 769-6611 fax: (781) 769-6615 toll free: (888) 293-9929
helpdesk@tagmclarenaudio.com

or visit our website at:

SHARC is a registered trademark of Analog Devices, Inc. Dolby, Pro Logic, AC-3 and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. The THX name and logo are Lucasfilm Ltd and are trademarked. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All rights reserved. Surround EX is a jointly developed technology of THX and Dolby Laboratories, Inc., and a trademark of Dolby. Used under authorization. DTS, DTS Digital Surroundand DTS ES are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. The MPEG logo is a trademark of Royal Philips Electronics.
We reserve the right to alter design and specification without notice. Specification may vary for different countries