Meridian 818v2 Reference Audio Core User guide

Add to my manuals
40 Pages

advertisement

Meridian 818v2 Reference Audio Core User guide | Manualzz
818 Reference Audio Core
User Guide
ii
Preface
Important safety instructions
•
•
•
•
•
•
Read the instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
Install only in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
• Refer all servicing to approved service personnel.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
To avoid overheating
• Leave at least 10cm around the equipment to ensure
sufficient ventilation.
Do not position the unit:
• In direct sunlight.
• Near heat sources, such as a radiator.
• Directly on top of heat producing equipment, such as
a power amplifier.
To avoid interference
This apparatus has been designed with Class 1
construction and must be connected to a mains socket
outlet with a protective earthing connection (the third
grounding pin).
Do not position the unit:
This apparatus uses a single-pole power switch. As
a result it is not isolated from AC mains power when
switched off at the rear panel. The apparatus may
be isolated from mains power either by unplugging
the power connector from the rear of the unit, or by
unplugging the connector at the opposing end of the
power cord or cable from its supply outlet. As a result,
either or both of these connectors should remain
accessible.
Radio interference
Safety warnings
• Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing.
• Do not place any object filled with liquid, such as a
vase, on the unit.
• Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted
candles, on the unit.
• Near strong electrical or magnetic radiation, such as
near a power amplifier.
FCC Warning: This equipment generates and can
radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and
used correctly in accordance with our instructions may
cause interference to radio communications or radio
and television reception. It has been type-tested and
complies with the limits set out in Subpart J, Part 15 of
FCC rules for a Class B computing device. These limits
are intended to provide reasonable protection against
such interference in home installations.
EEC: This product has been designed and type-tested
to comply with the limits set out in EN55013 and
EN55020.
iii
Contents
Contents
Introduction
1
Configuring the 818 Reference Audio Core 29
The 818 Reference Audio Core
2
Choosing a standard setting
30
Specifications
3
Setting up sources
31
Using the 818 Reference Audio Core
5
Setting up SpeakerLink
32
Front panel keys
6
Installing the Meridian Configuration Application
33
MSR+ keys
7
Index
35
Switching on and off
8
Selecting a source
9
Adjusting the system volume
10
Changing the treble or bass
11
Changing the balance or phase
12
Changing the loudness or subwoofer mode
13
Loudspeaker setup controls
14
Changing the front-panel display
16
Installing the 818 Reference Audio Core
17
Unpacking
18
Applications
20
iv
Preface
Copyright and acknowledgements
Sales and service in the UK
Meridian Audio Ltd
Latham Road
Huntingdon
Cambridgeshire
PE29 6YE
England
Tel (01480) 445678
Fax (01480) 445686
Sales and service in the USA
Meridian America Inc.
110 Greene Street, Suite #407
New York
NY 10012
USA
Tel (646) 66 0140
Fax (646) 66 0152
Designed and manufactured in the UK
Meridian Audio Ltd
Latham Road
Huntingdon
Cambridgeshire
PE29 6YE
England
Visit us on the Web
http://www.meridian-audio.com
Copyright © 1999-2012 Meridian Audio Ltd.
Part no: 818U/2 (P88414)
MHR: this product incorporates copyright protection
technology covered by certain patent applications
and intellectual property of Meridian Audio Ltd. This
technology is provided for the express purpose of
securely containing copyright audio within the Meridian
System only. Reverse engineering or circumvention of
this protection is strictly prohibited.
Boothroyd|Stuart Meridian, Meridian, and Sooloos are
registered trademarks of Meridian Audio Ltd.
This guide was produced by:
Human-Computer Interface Ltd,
http://www.interface.co.uk
Introduction
Introduction
Welcome to the Meridian 818 Reference Audio Core.
This User Guide provides full information about using the 818 in
conjunction with your other equipment, to achieve the superb results you
can expect from it.
Introduction
The 818 Reference Audio Core
Incorporating the advanced technology from Meridian’s
popular 808 Signature Reference CD Player, the
Meridian 818 Reference Audio Core is a stereo audio
controller with a wide range of digital and analogue
inputs.
Outputs
The 818 Reference Audio Core provides two Meridian
SpeakerLink connectors for simple, straightforward
connection to Meridian DSP Loudspeakers via Cat 5
cables.
Alternatively, balanced and unbalanced analogue
outputs are provided for connecting to an external
power amplifier or preamplifier.
Audio processing
The 818 Reference Audio Core features high-quality
audio processing. Analogue inputs are converted to
digital at 96kHz sampling, and digital inputs accept
signals up to 96kHz. High resolution files may be
replayed from a Meridian Sooloos Digital Media System
or a computer connected to the USB input.
Signals are processed with Meridian’s exclusive
apodising filter that ensures maximum audio quality
with outputs at 96kHz/24 bit (digital) or 192kHz/24 bit
(analogue). The digital outputs support MHR (Meridian High
Resolution) and operate at up to 96kHz 24-bit.
When used with Meridian DSP Speakers, the 818
Reference Audio Core provides additional audio
processing in the speakers, such as treble and
bass tone controls and enhanced room boundary
equalisation.
Inputs
System integration
On the input side, the 818 Reference Audio Core
provides a wide range of possibilities.
An RS232 interface provides full remote control
capability as well as the ability to configure the unit
with Meridian’s innovative Windows-based graphic
configuration application.
The 818 Reference Audio Core provides a network
socket to connect directly to a Sooloos network,
allowing it to play music from and control a Sooloos
Digital Media System.
Three SpeakerLink inputs are provided for connecting
to other Meridian sources with SpeakerLink outputs.
In addition, three digital coaxial S/PDIF inputs and five
Toslink optical digital inputs are provided, for connecting
to other digital sources. All digital inputs operate at
sample rates up to 96kHz.
A USB B-type connector is provided to allow the 818
Reference Audio Core to be connected to a computer
system and used as an external sound card.
Six stereo analogue inputs are provided on gold-plated
phono connectors.
Three programmable trigger outputs are provided
for direct control of external devices, for example
powering-up amplifiers, etc.
The 818 Reference Audio Core is supplied with the
MSR+ learning/programmable remote control, which
not only operates all Meridian products but also
includes an extensive database of third-party products
and the capability to learn commands from existing
remotes.
Introduction
Specifications
Audio outputs
Controls
•
•
•
•
•
Front-panel facia controls for:
2-channel balanced audio output.
2-channel unbalanced audio output.
2-channel digital coax output.
Two 2-channel Meridian SpeakerLink outputs.
Optional MHR encryption on digital outputs at high
rate.
Audio inputs
• Six 2-channel unbalanced analogue inputs.
Adjustable sensitivity.
• Three 2-channel digital coax inputs. 44.1kHz to
96kHz sampling and up to 24-bit precision.
• Three 2-channel Meridian SpeakerLink inputs.
44.1kHz to 96kHz sampling and up to 24-bit
precision.
• Five 2-channel digital optical inputs. 44.1kHz to
96kHz sampling and up to 24-bit precision.
• One network input (Ethernet) for connection to a
Meridian Sooloos Digital Media System.
• One USB input, for connection to a computer. Up to
192kHz sampling and up to 24-bit precision.
• All inputs provide renameable legends.
Signal processing
The 818 uses Meridian’s proprietary DSP software to
provide the following powerful features:
•
•
•
•
Apodising filter.
Upsampling.
FIFO and error correction.
Resolution enhancement.
• Source, Play/Pause, Previous, Next, Mute, Volume
Up and Down, and On/Off.
A hinged control panel provides additional controls for:
• Volume +/-, Source, Display, Mute, Setup, Fast
Forward/Reverse, and Menu keys.
Display
• 20-character dot-matrix display with adjustable
brightness and contrast.
• Indicators for Emphasis and Phase.
Introduction
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Using the 818 Reference Audio
Core
This chapter provides a summary of the functions of the 818 Reference
Audio Core to identify the controls you use to operate the unit.
It also provides step-by-step instructions for operating the 818, using
either the front panel or the MSR+.
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Front panel keys
Eq
Emphasis
indicator
Left/Right
Selects a menu
parameter
Phase –
Indicates inverted
phase
Fast Forward/
Fast Reverse
Scans forwards/
backwards
Menu
Not currently
used
Up/Down
Changes a menu
parameter
Source
Selects a source
Mute
Mutes or restores
the sound
Display
Changes the
information
displayed
Setup
SpeakerLink
Setup
Eq
Phase-
Source
Reference Audio Core 818
Volume +
Menu
Setup
Reference Audio Core 818
Source
>=
Play/Pause
Plays or pauses
the track
Source
Selects a
source
[
]
Mute
Display
V
Mute
Off
A
Mute
Mutes or restores
the sound
Previous/Next
Selects the
previous or next
track
Volume –
Off
Switches to
standby
Volume keys
Change the
system volume
Volume keys
Change the
system volume
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
MSR+ keys
Previous
Selects the
previous track
Source keys
Select a source
Fast reverse
Scans backwards
CD
RADIO
DVD
AUX
DISC
TAPE
Next
Selects the next
track
Stop
Stops the track
TV
OFF
Switches to
standby
Play
Plays the track
CABLE
SAT
VCR1
VCR2
GAME
OFF
Pause
Pauses
the track
Power
1
1
2
3
Page
4
5
6
7
8
9
Page
Audio
Enter
Slow
Open
Function
0
Return
Menu
Repeat
Setup
A-B
Top Menu
#
Subtitle
Band
Angle
Clear
Display
Mute
OSD
Repeat
Repeats a
track/album
A-B
Repeats a section
Menu keys
Select or change
the balance,
phase, contrast,
or brightness
Volume keys
Change the
volume
DSP
Phase
Store
Record
Number keys
Select a track by
number
Function
Selects a special
function
Fast forward
Scans forwards
Clear
Clears a selection
Store
Stores
a preset
Mute
Mutes or restores
the sound
Display
Changes the
front-panel
display
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Switching on and off
When not playing, the 818 should be left in the standby
state. This uses a minimal amount of electricity, but
ensures that the components of the 818 operate at
maximum efficiency from the moment you start.
If you are not going to use the 818 for several days
you should switch the unit off completely at the rear
panel, and disconnect it from the AC power supply.
To switch on from standby
• Press Source (front panel), or select a source on
the remote.
If the 818 is part of a Meridian system it will
automatically switch on any other units in the system,
such as the 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller
and Meridian DSP Loudspeakers.
To switch to standby
• Press Off (front panel or remote).
If you have other Meridian equipment or Meridian DSP
Loudspeakers connected to the 818 these units will
also switch to standby.
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Selecting a source
The 818 responds to the following 12 source keys on
the remote:
CD, Radio, DVD, Aux, Disc, Tape, TV, Cable, Sat,
VCR1, VCR2, and Game.
The Aux source usually corresponds to the internal
Sooloos interface and the VCR2 source usually
corresponds to the USB input.
The input associated with each of the sources depends
on how the 818 has been set up; for more information
refer to the Meridian Configuration Program Guide.
• Press Source (front panel or under the front panel)
until the display shows SLS, or press the Aux key on
the remote.
Or:
• Select the 818 zone from the Sooloos controller.
You can then listen to music streamed from the
Sooloos server.
To control the Sooloos system
To select a source
• Press Source (front panel or under the front panel)
until the display shows the source you want, or press
the appropriate source key on the remote; eg CD.
When the SLS source is selected you can control the
Sooloos system from the 818 front panel controls.
• Press >= (front panel) or *, =, and > (remote) to
control playback.
• Press [ or ] (front panel or remote) to step
between tracks in the Sooloos play queue.
The display shows the source and volume setting.
For example, if you select the Radio source:
Radio
Either:
The volume and mute controls on the Sooloos
controller will operate the 818.
Your installer may have customised the labels
displayed for each source to suit your other
equipment.
The display shows:
To play music from a Sooloos system
65
The 818 mutes the sound while you change source.
For more information please refer to the Meridian
Sooloos Network Card Guide.
10
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Adjusting the system volume
The 818 Reference Audio Core provides a volume
control which can be adjusted from the front panel or
remote control. The volume changes in precise steps of
1dB, where 9dB is equivalent to doubling the loudness.
The current volume setting is displayed in dB on the
front-panel display, and can be varied in the range 1 to
99dB.
When you first connect power to the 818 Reference
Audio Core the volume is set to 65, which is similar to
the mid-way position of the rotary volume control on a
conventional preamplifier.
If the 818 is set up with variable outputs (see
Choosing a standard setting, page 30) the analogue
output level is varied, allowing the 818 to drive an
amplifier or active loudspeakers. If the 818 is set up
with fixed outputs the volume control is performed
by the DSP loudspeakers.
To change the volume
• Press Volume A or Volume V (front panel),
Volume + or Volume - (under the front panel), or
the red A or V keys on the remote.
As you adjust the volume setting the display shows the
current volume level.
For example:
CD
65
To mute the sound
• Press Mute (front panel, remote, or under the front
panel).
The display shows:
Mute
To restore the sound
• Press Mute again.
Alternatively, the sound will be restored if you adjust the
volume.
11
Changing the treble or bass
The 818 Reference Audio Core provides sophisticated
treble and bass controls, to allow you to adjust the
broad balance of a Meridian DSP loudspeaker system
to correct for the acoustics of your listening room, or
for a misbalanced recording.
These controls are performed by the DSP
loudspeakers, and are only available if your 818
Reference Audio Core is set up with fixed outputs.
The controls are more subtle than conventional
tone controls, and take advantage of digital signal
processing techniques to provide a more natural
adjustment of the frequency response.
To change the treble
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current treble.
For example:
SLS
Treble
+1.0
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
change the treble.
The treble control tilts the frequency of the response
over the entire frequency range to make the sound
brighter or dimmer. It can be adjusted between ±10db
in 0.5dB steps. Normally settings between +1.0 and
-2.0 will give the most natural results.
To change the bass
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current bass setting.
For example:
SLS
Bass
+1.0
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
change the bass.
The bass control allows you to adjust the bass
response in the room by ±5dB in 0.5dB steps.
Normally settings between +3.0 and -2.0 will give the
most natural results.
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
12
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Changing the balance or phase
The 818 Reference Audio Core balance control uses
digital signal processing to compensate for an offcentre listening position by delaying and diminishing
the sound in one speaker, thus effectively shifting the
speaker’s image back.
You can also change the absolute phase of the signal,
to compensate for signals which are out of phase,
giving an unnatural-sounding bass.
If the 818 is set up with fixed outputs the balance
control is performed by the DSP loudspeakers.
Balance
<0>
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
move the listening position.
The display shows the direction and position of the
listening position.
For example:
SLS
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current phase.
For example:
SLS
Phase+
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) or
Phase (Function = on the remote) to change the
phase.
• Press Phase (Function = on the remote).
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current balance.
SLS
Either:
Or:
To change the balance
For example:
To change the phase
Balance
<3
The arrow indicates the direction, and the number
indicates the position where 0 is central, 8 is in line
with the corresponding main speaker, and 10 is fully to
one side.
The display will show the new phase setting.
For example:
SLS
Phase-
13
Changing the loudness or subwoofer mode
The 818 Reference Audio Core allows you to control
several other settings supported by recent Meridian
DSP loudspeakers.
The Loudness control alters the frequency response
to make music sound more natural when played at a
low volume setting.
The Mode control changes the distribution of bass
between the main speakers and the subwoofer to suit
different types of material.
These controls are only available if you are
connected to DSP loudspeakers that support
them, using the SpeakerLink connection, and if
SpeakerLink On mode is selected (see Setting up
SpeakerLink, page 32).
Additional controls may be available as further
SpeakerLink features are developed.
To change the loudness
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current loudness setting.
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
turn the loudness control on or off.
For example:
SLS
Loudness
On
To select Music Mode or Movie Mode
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current mode.
For example:
SLS
Music Mode
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel)
to select between Music Mode, recommended for
classical music, and Movie Mode, recommended for
movie soundtracks.
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
14
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Loudspeaker setup controls
To change the subwoofer gain
The 818 Reference Audio Core provides several
controls to allow you to adjust DSP loudspeakers to
suit the characteristics of your room.
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current subwoofer gain.
The Subwoofer control adjusts the subwoofer
crossover frequency and gain.
For example:
The Location control adjusts the sound to
compensate for the placement of the main speakers.
The Room Ht control adjusts the speakers according
to the height of your room.
The EBC control adjusts the sound to compensate for
highly reflective walls.
The EBA control improves the bass alignment in
DSP loudspeakers that support it. Note that the extra
processing adds a time delay, so it should be disabled
for video sources.
SLS
Sub. Gain
0
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
adjust the relative subwoofer gain between -15, 0
(the normal setting), and +15 in 1dB steps.
To specify the speaker location
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current location setting.
For example:
SLS
Free
Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
choose between Corner, Shelf, Wall, or Free (free
standing).
These controls are only available if you are
connected to DSP loudspeakers that support
them, using the SpeakerLink connection, and if
SpeakerLink Setup mode is selected (see Setting
up SpeakerLink, page 32).
To specify the room height
To change the subwoofer crossover
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current room height setting, in
cm or in:
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current subwoofer mode.
For example:
SLS
Room Ht 220cm
Or:
SLS
Room Ht
For example:
SLS
Subwoofer
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel)
to select between: Off (subwoofer off), 1 (80Hz
crossover), or 2 (120Hz crossover).
1
96in
Choose whichever units you prefer to work in.
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
specify the height of your room. You can adjust it
between 150cm/58in and 400cm/158in in steps of
5cm/2in.
15
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
To specify Enhanced Boundary Control
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current EBC setting.
For example:
SLS
EBC
Off
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
specify how reflective the room surfaces are. Choose
between Off (unreflective), Min, Med, or Max
(highly reflective).
To specify Enhanced Bass Alignment
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current EBA setting.
For example:
SLS
EBA
On
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
choose between On or Off.
16
Using the 818
Reference Audio Core
Changing the front-panel display
The 818 Reference Audio Core displays information
and settings on the 20-character front-panel display.
You can adjust the contrast and brightness of the frontpanel display for optimum viewing, and choose what
information is displayed.
To change the contrast or brightness
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel), until
the display shows the current contrast or brightness.
For example:
SLS
Contrast
10
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel), to
change the selected setting.
You can change the contrast or brightness between 0
and 15.
To change the displayed information
• Press Display (remote or under the front panel).
Each time you press Display the display will step
between the following options:
Display option
Example
Source and volume
SLS
Audio format
SLS
65
PCM
44k
Blank
If the Diagnostic displays option has been
selected, additional diagnostic displays are included.
17
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
Installing the 818 Reference Audio
Core
This chapter explains how to install the 818 Reference Audio Core. It
describes what you should find when you unpack the product, and how
you should connect it to the other equipment in the system.
You should not make any connections to the product or to any other
component in the system while the AC power supply is connected and
switched on.
18
Unpacking
Back panel
The 818 Reference Audio Core is supplied with the
following accessories:
The following diagram gives details of the back panel
connections:
• MSR+ remote control with batteries, manual, and
spare key caps.
• Meridian Comms lead.
• Power cord.
• This manual.
If any of these items are missing please contact your
retailer.
NOTE: You should retain the packaging in case you
need to transport the unit.
DIGITAL
OUTPUT
DIGITAL
INPUT
COMPUTER
800-ID29
ANALOGUE
OUTPUT
Sooloos Optical inputs
O1-O3 and
network
Switch and
connection USB input U1
fuse
U1
O1
1
2
Maintenance
CD
D1
O2
Network
D2
O3
RS232
D3
Unbalanced SpeakerLink SpeakerLink Meridian
analogue
outputs input SL1 and Comms
outputs
optical inputs
O1-O2
SL2
DIGITAL
INPUT
SOOLOOS
Analogue
inputs A1-A6
and B1-B6
SL1
SPEAKERLINK IN
O2
DISC
SL1
IN
MERIDIAN COMMS
GAME
O1
MASTER
SLAVE
LEFT
S PEAKERLINK OUT
S PEAKER LINK
B6
RIGHT
A5
B5
A4
B4
SAT
A3
B3
RIGHT
A2
B2
DVD
TRIGGER
MHR/SPDIF
LEFT
A1
B1
3
ANALOGUE
INPUT
Trigger
outputs
and RS232
Digital coax
inputs
800-ID41
Digital
coax
output
Balanced
analogue
outputs
A6
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
SpeakerLink
inputs
SL1 and SL2
Power
19
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
Audio outputs
Audio inputs (continued)
Use this output
To connect to this
Use this input
To connect to this
BALANCED OUT
The balanced analogue inputs of a
preamplifier, or a power amplifier
such as the G57, using XLR leads.
OPTICAL INPUT O1 (Sat),
O2 (Game), O1, O2, O3
(on ID29 card)
The optical output of a
source such as a satellite
receiver.
ANALOGUE OUT
The unbalanced analogue inputs of
a preamplifier, or a power amplifier
such as the G57, using analogue
phono leads.
USB INPUT U1 (VCR2)
(on ID29 card)
A personal computer USB
socket.
NETWORK (Aux)
A Meridian Sooloos Digital
Media System.
DIGITAL OUT
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
The digital input of a surround
processor, such as the 861
Reference Digital Surround
Controller, or DSP loudspeakers,
using a 75Ω digital cable.
DSP Loudspeakers with Meridian
SpeakerLink connectors, using
SpeakerLink leads. Use the upper
socket for the Master speaker.
Audio inputs
Use this input
To connect to this
ANALOGUE IN A1+A2
(Radio), A3+A4 (TV),
A5+A6 (Cable), B1+B2
(Tape), B3+B4 (VCR1),
B5+B6*
The analogue outputs of
a source, such as a TV or
tape deck.
DIGITAL INPUT D1 (CD),
D2 (DVD), D3
The digital output of a
source such as a DVD
player.
SPEAKERLINK INPUT
SL1 (Disc), SL1, SL2 (on
ID29 card)
The SpeakerLink output of
a Meridian source, using a
Meridian SpeakerLink lead.
* In each case the odd-numbered input is the left
channel and the even-numbered is the right channel.
The default assignment of the source to each input is
shown in brackets after the input name in the above
table.
Communications connections
Use this connection
To connect to this
MERIDIAN COMMS
Other Meridian equipment,
or Meridian DSP
loudspeakers.
RS232 connection
A computer, for configuring
the 818, or a serial control
system.
TRIGGER OUTPUT
1, 2, 3
Equipment to be triggered
by a 12V 100mA signal.
20
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
Applications
To connect to a digital source (eg DVD player)
818 Reference Audio Core
Digital source
DIGITAL
OUT
DIGITAL IN
D1
Digital coax lead
You can connect up to three digital coax inputs and five
digital optical inputs to the 818 Reference Audio Core.
• Connect the digital source to an appropriate digital
input socket on the 818, using either screened coax
phono leads, or a Toslink lead.
To connect to an analogue source (eg TV tuner)
818 Reference Audio Core
Analogue source
ANALOGUE
OUT
ANALOGUE IN
A1+A2
Phono leads
You can connect up to six analogue sources to the 818
Reference Audio Core
• Connect the analogue source to one of the analogue
input sockets of the 818, using screened coax phono
leads.
21
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to a computer via USB
Computer
818 Reference Audio Core
USB
USB
USB A-B lead
You can connect the 818 Reference Audio Core to a
PC or Macintosh USB socket to allow you to use the
818 as a digital audio output device.
On a PC, Windows XP/SP2 or later is required. Note
that you must install the drivers (available from your
Meridian dealer or http://www.meridian-audio.com)
before you connect the product to a Windows PC.
On a Macintosh, OS X 10.4 or later is recommended.
Appropriate drivers will be installed automatically when
you connect for the first time.
Linux computers that support USB Audio Class 2.0
drivers can also be used.
When the 818 is plugged in to the computer it will
appear as a sound output device called Meridian
ID29 Output in the Sound control panel (PC) or
Sound System Preferences panel (Macintosh).
The source will be labelled VCR2, unless it has been
given a custom label.
Note: The computer volume control will continue to
work as expected, but for highest quality you should
set it to maximum and use the Meridian volume control
in the 818 instead.
22
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to DSP loudspeakers using SpeakerLink (daisy chain)
818 Reference Audio Core
Front R – Slave
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
Front L – Master
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
INPUT OUTPUT
INPUT OUTPUT
SpeakerLink lead
The 818 can be connected directly to Meridian DSP
loudspeakers to create a complete stereo system, with
volume and other preamplifier controls provided by the
loudspeakers via the MSR+ or the front panel.
The Meridian SpeakerLink connection provides both
two-channel digital audio and Meridian Comms control.
This is an alternative to the “home run” wiring
configuration shown in the next section.
SpeakerLink lead
• Connect the upper SpeakerLink output from the 818
to the SpeakerLink input on the DSP loudspeaker
chosen as the Master, using a SpeakerLink lead.
• Connect the SpeakerLink output from the Master
DSP loudspeaker to the SpeakerLink input on the
other (Slave) DSP loudspeaker, using a second
SpeakerLink lead.
• Configure the loudspeakers as described in the
Meridian DSP Loudspeaker User Guide.
23
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to DSP loudspeakers using SpeakerLink (home run)
818 Reference Audio Core
Front R – Slave
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
Front L – Master
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
MERIDIAN
SPEAKERLINK
INPUT OUTPUT
INPUT OUTPUT
SpeakerLink lead
The 818 can be connected directly to Meridian DSP
loudspeakers to create a complete stereo system, with
volume and other preamplifier controls provided by the
loudspeakers via the MSR+ or the front panel.
The Meridian SpeakerLink connection provides both
two-channel digital audio and Meridian Comms control.
This is an alternative to the “daisy chain” wiring
configuration shown in the previous section.
• Connect the upper SpeakerLink output from the 818
to the SpeakerLink input on the DSP loudspeaker
chosen as the Master, using a SpeakerLink lead.
SpeakerLink lead
• Connect the lower SpeakerLink output from the 818
to the SpeakerLink input on the other (Slave) DSP
loudspeaker, using a second SpeakerLink lead.
• Configure the loudspeakers as described in the
Meridian DSP Loudspeaker User Guide.
24
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to DSP loudspeakers using the digital and Comms connections
818 Reference Audio Core
DIGITAL
OUTPUT
MERIDIAN
COMMS
M5 lead
DSP loudspeaker – Slave
MERIDIAN
COMMS
DIGITAL
OUTPUT
DSP loudspeaker – Master
DIGITAL
INPUTS
MERIDIAN
COMMS
INPUT OUTPUT
DIGITAL
OUTPUT
DIGITAL
INPUTS
INPUT OUTPUT
S5 lead
If your DSP loudspeakers do not provide Meridian
SpeakerLink connections you can connect to them
using the Digital and Meridian Comms connections.
• Connect the DIGITAL OUTPUT and a COMMS
socket from the 818 to DIGITAL INPUT 1 and the
COMMS input on the DSP loudspeaker chosen as
the Master, using an M5 lead.
• Connect the DIGITAL and COMMS outputs from
the Master DSP loudspeaker to DIGITAL INPUT 1
and the COMMS input on the other (Slave) DSP
loudspeaker, using an S5 lead.
• Configure the loudspeakers as described in the
Meridian DSP Loudspeaker User Guide.
25
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to a power amplifier
Speaker
INPUTS
G56/G57 Power Amplifier
ANALOGUE IN
OUTPUTS
Speaker
ANALOGUE IN
818 Reference Audio Core
ANALOGUE
OUT
The 818 analogue outputs allow you to connect to a
pair of analogue active loudspeakers, or to analogue
passive loudspeakers via a power amplifier.
• Connect the balanced or unbalanced ANALOGUE
OUTPUT connections from the 818 to the inputs of
the analogue active loudspeakers or power amplifier.
INPUTS
Phono
or XLR
leads
26
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to an 861 Reference Digital Surround Controller
818 Reference Audio Core
861 Reference Digital Surround Controller
SPEAKERLINK
OUT
SPEAKERLINK
IN
SpeakerLink lead
You can use the 818’s SpeakerLink outputs to connect
to other Meridian products, such as the 861 Reference
Surround Controller.
• Connect the SpeakerLink output from the 818 to the
SpeakerLink input on the 861, using a SpeakerLink
lead.
27
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
To connect to other Meridian G Series or 800 Series equipment
818 Reference Audio Core
G Series, 500 Series, or 800 Series unit
MERIDIAN
COMMS
MERIDIAN
COMMS
Comms lead
In a system of Meridian products, one of the products
acts as the controller for the system, receiving infra-red
commands from the MSR+ and then, if appropriate,
relaying them to the other products via the Comms link.
One unit will then be designated as the controller.
The following automatic setup procedure should be
used to set up the Comms correctly between several
products:
All the other units will be configured as non-controllers.
• Connect one of the DIN COMMS sockets on the
back panel of the 818 to one of the COMMS sockets
on another G Series, 500 Series, or 800 Series unit,
using the Comms leads provided with the products.
The sequence in which you connect the units is not
important.
• Switch all the units to standby.
• Press Clear (remote).
Each unit will display:
Auto
The display shows:
The displays show:
Controller
Not Con.
If for any reason the automatic setup does not work,
make sure you are operating the remote from a position
where all the units can receive the infra-red, and try
again.
If this fails:
• Restore the default operation by selecting one of the
standard types; see Choosing a standard setting,
page 30.
Do not, under any circumstances, connect any
equipment other than Meridian G Series or 800
Series to any socket marked COMMS on the back
of the product.
28
Installing the 818
Reference Audio Core
29
Configuring the 818
Reference Audio Core
Configuring the 818 Reference
Audio Core
This chapter explains how to set up the 818 Reference Audio Core for
most standard configurations of your other equipment, using just the
front-panel controls and MSR+.
For complete control over all aspects of the 818’s configuration it is
recommended that you use the Meridian Configuration Program; for
more information see Installing the Meridian Configuration Application,
page 33.
30
Configuring the 818
Reference Audio Core
Choosing a standard setting
The 818 provides two standard settings, called Types,
which configure all aspects of the 818 into standard
configurations.
Then after a short delay the display shows the current
Type.
These standard Types are shown in the following table:
For example:
Type
Label
Description
1
Fixed
Fixed output, for use with Meridian
DSP loudspeakers.
2
Variable
Variable output, for use with power
amplifiers and analogue speakers.
In addition, your installer may have provided one or
more named User Types, with settings appropriate to
the configuration of equipment when your 818 was
installed.
You can reset the configuration of the 818 to any of
these Types to restore it to the state it was in when
it was installed. Note: Selecting a Type will clear any
configuration changes you have made.
To select a standard setting
Warning: this procedure will reset any
configuration changes you have made.
• Switch off any power amplifiers that are connected to
the 818 and put any digital speakers into standby.
• Put the 818 into standby by pressing Off (front panel
or remote).
• Press and hold down Volume + (under the front
panel).
The display shows:
Type in... 3
• Keep holding down Volume + for a further three
seconds.
The display shows:
Type- please wait.
Type 1
Fixed
• Press A or V on the front panel to change the Type
number.
The display shows:
Typing, please wait.
• Wait for one second, and then put the 818 into
standby by pressing Off (front panel or remote).
• Switch on again to use the standard settings you
have selected.
31
Configuring the 818
Reference Audio Core
Setting up sources
This section explains how to use Gain mode to set up
the analogue sources connected to the 818.
You can select between sensitivities of 0.5V (most
sensitive), 1.0V, 2.0V, or 2.5V (least sensitive).
To turn on Gain mode
If the sensitivity is set too high the input will clip the
loudest passages. The display shows:
• Put the 818 into standby by pressing Off (front panel
or remote).
For example:
• Press and hold the Volume - key (under the front
panel) for at least five seconds.
In this case reduce the sensitivity.
The display shows:
Gain On
The 818 will then return to standby with Gain mode
turned on.
Gain mode adds an extra Sensitivity option to the
menus.
To turn off Gain mode
• Repeat the above procedure.
The display shows:
Gain Off
To adjust the sensitivity of a source
To obtain the best signal-to-noise ratio for your
analogue sources you can adjust the sensitivity of each
input to give the highest level that does not produce
clipping.
• Turn on Gain mode, as described above.
• Select the source you want to adjust, with loud
source material playing.
• Press < or > (remote or under the front panel) until
the display shows the current sensitivity.
For example:
Radio 2.0V In
• Press A or V (remote or under the front panel) to
change the sensitivity.
Radio 0.5V In Clip
If you have selected a digital source you cannot adjust
the sensitivity. The display shows:
For example:
CD
Not Analogue
32
Configuring the 818
Reference Audio Core
Setting up SpeakerLink
The digital and SpeakerLink outputs provide control
information to DSP loudspeakers, together with the
digital audio.
If you are connecting the digital or SpeakerLink output
to a digital input that does not support SpeakerLink you
should turn SpeakerLink off.
You can also enable a SpeakerLink Setup mode
which provides additional menus for configuring DSP
loudspeakers. For more information see Loudspeaker
setup controls, page 14
To set up SpeakerLink
• Press Setup under the front panel to show the
current setting.
For example:
SpeakerLink Off
• Press Setup again to step between the options:
Off, On (Meridian SpeakerLink speakers), or Setup
(Meridian SpeakerLink speakers plus setup controls).
33
Installing the Meridian Configuration Application
The Meridian Configuration Application is not included
with this product.
The Setup application’s Welcome page will be
displayed.
The application should be installed from the Internet.
• Follow the instructions.
Requirements
On the Preferences page:
To use the Meridian Configuration Application you
need:
• A computer running Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT 4,
ME, XP, Vista, or Windows 7.
• 10Mbytes of free disk space.
• A 9-pin serial port or suitable serial adaptor (such as
USB-Serial, PC Card, etc).
• A mouse or similar pointing device – the application
cannot be operated solely from the keyboard.
The Meridian Configuration Application communicates
with the products you are setting up via a serial cable.
You can connect the product to a 9-pin serial port on
the computer.
Alternatively, a USB-to-serial converter, available from
most computer retailers, can be used to connect
between the product and a USB port on the computer.
Installation
To install the application you will need a computer that
is connected to the Internet.
• Type the following URL into the address bar of a
Web browser:
http://www.meridian-audio.com/download/setup.exe
If you are asked whether to Run or Save the
application:
• Click Run.
Otherwise:
• Run the setup.exe application once it has
downloaded.
• Leave Install for all users selected, unless you
want to restrict use of the application to yourself on a
multi-user machine.
User guide
You can download an electronic copy of the Meridian
Configuration Program Guide in Acrobat format from
the following URL:
http://www.meridian-audio.com/media/107004/
meridian-config-guide.pdf
Configuring the 818
Reference Audio Core
34
Configuring the 818
Reference Audio Core
35
Index
Index
A
D
L
accessories 18
digital inputs 19
loudness, changing 13
analogue inputs 19
digital output 19
loudspeaker setup controls 14
analogue outputs 19
digital source, connecting to 20
Enhanced Bass Alignment 15
analogue source, connecting to 20
Digital Surround Controller,
Enhanced Boundary Control 15
auxiliary output 18
B
connecting to 26
speaker location 14
DSP loudspeakers, connecting to
subwoofer crossover 14
22, 23, 24
back panel connections 18
balance, changing 12
balanced outputs 19
bass, changing 11
M
Enhanced Bass Alignment, specifying
Meridian Configuration Application
15
Enhanced Boundary Control,
specifying 15
clip indicator 31
Comms, connecting 19, 24, 27
communications connections 19
computer, connecting to 21
Meridian DSP loudspeakers,
connecting to 22, 23, 24
Movie Mode, selecting 13
front panel keys 6
configuring 29
connecting
Gain mode 31
Music Mode, selecting 13
muting the sound 10
N
network input 19
to a digital source 20
I
to an 861 Reference Digital
inputs 19
Surround Controller 26
33
Meridian System Remote keys 7
F
G
to a computer 21
subwoofer gain 14
E
brightness, front-panel display 16
C
room height 14
display, front panel 16
O
analogue 19
optical inputs 19
to an analogue source 20
digital 19
outputs 19
to a power amplifier 25
network 19
analogue 19
to DSP loudspeakers 22, 23, 24
optical 19
balanced 19
to Meridian equipment 27
SpeakerLink 19
digital 19
USB 19
SpeakerLink 19
contrast, front-panel display 16
36
Index
P
T
phase, changing 12
treble, changing 11
power amplifier, connecting to 25
trigger outputs 19
R
room height, specifying 14
RS232 connection 19
S
safety warnings ii
Sooloos, using 9
Sooloos input 19
sound, muting 10
sources 9
adjusting sensitivity 31
selecting 9
SpeakerLink
connecting with 22, 23
setting up 32
SpeakerLink inputs 19
SpeakerLink outputs 19
speaker location, specifying 14
specifications 3
standard settings, selecting 30
standby
switching on from 8
switching to 8
subwoofer crossover, changing 14
subwoofer gain, specifying 14
subwoofer mode, specifying 13
switching on and off 8
Types 30
U
unpacking 18
USB, connecting 21
USB input 19
V
volume, adjusting 10

advertisement

Was this manual useful for you? Yes No
Thank you for your participation!

* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project

Related manuals

Download PDF

advertisement