Meridian 561 User Manual
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Meridian 561 User Manual

Digital surround controller
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Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller

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Summary of Contents for Meridian 561

  • Page 1 Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller...
  • Page 2 Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller User Guide...
  • Page 3 5,043,970; 5,189,703; 5,222,059), Trifield Productions Ltd, and Nimbus Boothroyd|Stuart Meridian, Meridian, Meridian Digital Theatre, MLP, and Records Ltd. LipSync are registered trademarks of Meridian Audio Ltd. Dolby, Pro Logic, AC-3, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Lucasfilm, THX, and THX This guide was produced by Human-Computer Interface Ltd, Cambridge, Cinema are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Describes how to change the built-in DSP Front panel ..........14 presets, and create your own presets. Meridian System Remote ...... 15 Quick guide to operating the 561 Locking and unlocking the menus ..24 with the remote ........16 Changing the DSP parameters ....25 Selecting a source .........
  • Page 5 DSP presets Gives technical information about each of Setting up the digital the DSP presets, with details of the special surround controller parameters available for each one. Configuring the digital Logic DSP presets ......... 38 Describes how to unpack and install the surround controller Music DSP presets ........
  • Page 6 Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer Describes how to configure the digital surround controller using the Meridian Troubleshooting Configuration program. Provides suggested solutions to typical The Meridian Configuration program ..80 problems. Installing the Meridian Configuration Glossary program ..........81 General operating problems ....

  • Page 8: Introduction

    Introduction he Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller combines a completely digital surround-sound processor with a high-performance digital preamplifier and a video controller in a single integrated unit. Its unique combination of features allows you to build a complete system for audio and video reproduction with a minimum of additional components.

  • Page 9: The Meridian 500 Series

    The Meridian 500 Series 500 Series communications The 561 Digital Surround Controller is part of the Meridian 500 Series of advanced digital, analogue, and video components designed to meet the demand for absolute quality, ease of use, The Meridian 500 Series includes a sophisticated and lasting value.

  • Page 10: Sample Configurations

    M33 rear M1500 Meridian DVD Player The Meridian 561 Digital Surround Controller is ideal for use with The 561 Digital Surround Controller can connect directly to up to the M33 Active Analogue Loudspeaker and M1500 Active six Meridian active loudspeakers, allowing you to create a 5.1 Subwoofer.
  • Page 11 Meridian DVD Player The 561 Digital Surround Controller can be used with two The Meridian DVD Player is an ideal source for use with the 561. Meridian DSP5000 Digital Loudspeakers, and a DSP5000C It allows you to play both audio CDs and DVD video discs, Digital Centre Loudspeaker, to provide audiophile-quality sound.

  • Page 12: Specification And Accessories

    Specification and accessories Specification Digital outputs 4 x stereo SPDIF on cable, 75 , up to 24-bit precision. Digital inputs 5 x cable, 75 , IEC958 and data Video switching 4 x composite inputs. compatible, up to 24 bits. 1 x main composite output with 1 x optical, Toslink (EIAJ), IEC958 and on-screen display.

  • Page 13: Available Accessories

    Expansion cards 9 pin D connector for RS232 PC Setup and Control. A range of expansion cards will be available for the 561 to 2 x triggers, active high, 9V up to extend its capabilities or add features. 100 mA on 3.5mm DC jack.
  • Page 14 The fan can be programmed using the Meridian Configuration program so that it either runs when the 561 is out of standby, or when the temperature rises above the recommended level.

  • Page 15: Dsp Presets

    The digital surround controller provides an extremely comprehensive range of digital signal processing options for decoding both analogue and digital audio signals and The 561 Digital Surround Controller supports the three processing them for multi-channel reproduction. These are alternative multi-channel digital formats currently available,...
  • Page 16 Dolby Surround. Although the channel separation cannot be as standard for music and performance videos on DVD worldwide. good as with the digital multi-channel formats, the 561 produces In addition, it is widely available in US satellite broadcasts. excellent results with these formats.
  • Page 17 Conventional stereo sources TV Logic TV Logic provides user-adjustable steering, and is The digital surround controller can also accept a conventional recommended for use with TV broadcasts that are not surround two-channel source, such as music on compact disc or a video encoded, where Pro Logic may give reduced intelligibility.
  • Page 18 Special DSP presets Trifield Trifield uses a different processing technique to give a stable, The digital surround controller also includes the following special three-dimensional image, with the ability to adjust the width of DSP presets, for specific applications: the image. Because of its precision we recommend this option for solo, chamber, or vocal music.

  • Page 20: Provides Step-By-Step Instructions For

    Using the digital surround controller his chapter provides a summary of the functions of the digital surround controller to identify the controls which you use to operate the unit. It also provides step-by-step instructions for operating the digital surround controller, using either the front panel or the Meridian System Remote.

  • Page 21: Front Panel

    Front panel 1 Source Selects the source. 2 Copy Copies a selected source to Display the tape and VCR outputs. 3 Preset Changes the preset. 4 Mute BOOTHROYD STUART Digital 5 Display Source Copy Preset Mute Display Digital Surround Controller Changes the information displayed on the front panel.

  • Page 22: Meridian System Remote

    Enter Menu Clear Volume Title/Chapter Setup For controlling a DVD Player. Function Title Preset Display Mute Menu keys Chapter Band For customising the 561. Preset Changes the DSP preset. Display Changes the front-panel display. 10 Volume keys/Mute Change the volume.

  • Page 23: Quick Guide To Operating The 561 With The Remote

    Quick guide to operating the 561 with the remote Action 561 as controller DSP speaker as controller Source selection CD, RADIO etc. CD, RADIO etc. Go to standby Volume A V Volume A V Volume Mute Mute Mute Function + Volume A V...

  • Page 24: Selecting A Source

    Selecting a source To select a source When not playing, the digital surround controller should be left in the standby state. This uses a negligible amount of electricity, but ensures that the components of the digital surround Press Source (front panel) until the display shows the source controller operate at maximum efficiency from the moment you you require.
  • Page 25 The audio input, video input, and DSP preset associated with each source can be configured using the Meridian Configuration program; for more information refer to Configuring the digital surround controller using a computer, page 79. To switch to standby Press Off on the front panel or the remote. The display will show: If you have other Meridian 500 Series equipment or Meridian DSP loudspeakers connected to the digital surround controller...

  • Page 26: Adjusting The Volume

    Adjusting the volume To mute the sound The digital surround controller adjusts the volume 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 Press Mute. display, and can be varied in the range 1 to 99dB.

  • Page 27: Changing The Dsp Preset

    Changing the DSP preset Each source has a set of DSP presets associated with it, one for The following table gives the sequence of DSP presets for each each of the alternative audio formats: two-channel (PCM), Dolby audio format, followed where appropriate by the abbreviated Digital, DTS, MPEG, and MLP.

  • Page 28: Changing The Display

    Changing the display The digital surround controller displays information about the Display option Example current settings on the twelve-character front panel display. In DSP preset and volume M u s i c addition, it can display the same information superimposed on a video image.

  • Page 29: Recording A Source

    Recording a source The 561 Digital Surround Controller allows you to copy any of Display Option the standard sources to the tape and VCR outputs, The current audio and video inputs C o p y S o u r c e independently of the source you are listening to.

  • Page 30: Defining Your Own

    Defining your own presets n addition to being able to change the source, volume, and DSP preset, the digital surround controller provides a sophisticated range of more advanced adjustments for each DSP preset, to allow you to change the characteristics of the sound to the settings you want. This chapter explains how to change these advanced parameters, and how to store them permanently so they are available whenever you want to use them.

  • Page 31: Locking And Unlocking The Menus

    To display or change the DSP presets, or to define your own presets, you first need to unlock the digital surround controller menus. To lock the menus Press Off to put the 561 in standby. The display shows: Press and hold down Preset for a L o c k e d...

  • Page 32: Changing The Dsp Parameters

    Changing the DSP parameters To change a DSP parameter Each DSP preset provides a series of parameters that you can vary to customise its behaviour to your specific requirements. For example, most presets provide Balance and Depth Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus parameters which alter the characteristics of the sound.

  • Page 33: Standard Parameters

    Standard parameters Parameter Range Default What it changes Treble * † -10dB to +10dB +0dB The slope of the frequency response. Bass * † -5dB to +5dB +0dB The bass response. Phase * † + or - The phase of all loudspeakers. Balance <10 to 10>...

  • Page 34: Changing Treble, Bass, Or Phase

    Changing treble, bass, or phase The digital surround controller provides sophisticated treble and The treble control tilts the frequency of the response over the bass controls, to allow you to adjust the broad balance of the entire frequency range to make the sound brighter or dimmer. It system to correct for the acoustics of your listening room, or for can be adjusted between 10dB in 0.5dB steps.

  • Page 35: Changing The Listening Position

    The 561 Digital Surround Controller provides a more sophisticated Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the current adjustment which corresponds to moving the listening position to the left or right.
  • Page 36 To change the relative level of the rear or side loudspeakers Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the speaker(s) you want to adjust. R e a r For example: Press A or V (remote) to change the relative level of the speakers, in dB.

  • Page 37: Changing The Integration Of The Centre

    Changing the integration of the centre To change the relative delay of the If you have a centre loudspeaker you can adjust its relative centre speaker loudness, to provide the best integration of the centre with the main left and right speakers. Press >...

  • Page 38: Changing The Spaciousness Of The Sound

    Changing the spaciousness of the sound You can adjust the spaciousness of the sound by altering the If you have side speakers an additional S Delay option allows delay on the rear and side channels. you to adjust the delay on the side speakers between 15ms and 30ms.

  • Page 39: Changing The Lip Sync And On-Screen Display

    Changing the lip sync and on-screen display To adjust the lip sync To change the position of the on-screen display The LipSync parameter is a unique feature of the digital surround controller which allows you to adjust the delay For each DSP preset you can specify the position of the between the sound and the video image by up to one video on-screen display (OSD), or blank the on-screen display frame.

  • Page 40: Changing The Dsp Preset For A Source

    Changing the DSP preset for a source Each source has an appropriate DSP preset associated with it Press Preset (front panel or remote) to select the DSP preset for each music format. For example, for a standard stereo (PCM) you want to associate with the source. signal the CD source uses Trifield and the TV source uses TV Logic.

  • Page 41: Defining Your Own Presets

    Defining your own presets The 561 Digital Surround Controller allows you to modify one of The display shows the next available user-defined preset. the built-in presets, and save it for future use. S t o . U s e r 2...
  • Page 42 A flashing cursor shows the letter you If you are using a Meridian DSP loudspeaker you select a blank S t o . • s e r 1 are editing: by pressing Function Clear. If you have an on-screen display it shows: For example, you could change the S t o .
  • Page 43 To clear a user-defined preset Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus, page 24. Press Preset (front panel or remote) to select the DSP preset you want to clear. U s e r 2 For example: Press and hold down Clear (remote) for several seconds.

  • Page 44: Dsp Presets

    It also gives details of the special DSP parameters available for each preset. The DSP presets are divided into three categories: Logic, Music, and 5.1 Movie. You can set up the 561 Digital Surround Controller to use a different subwoofer configuration for each category of DSP preset.

  • Page 45: Logic Dsp Presets

    Such a decoder gives quite a poor Surround, and it is increasingly being used to encode music. separation. The 561 Digital Surround Controller follows the Meridian The Pro Logic system uses psychoacoustically optimised philosophy of performing all the signal processing digitally, and directional enhancement to increase the separation in both the Dolby Surround decoding operates purely in a digital mode.
  • Page 46 TV Logic is a logic preset, with user-adjustable steering, that being nearby. In the 561 Digital Surround Controller this can give higher intelligibility and a more appropriate spatial decorrelation is optimised to give spacious surround sound presentation for studio-based TV material.
  • Page 47 TV Logic DSP preset parameters If there is a centre speaker, the combined or selected signal is played only through this to centrally localise high-frequency hiss Parameter Options What it changes and clicks. Roll Off, Low, Med, High The degree of The Academy DSP preset includes an equalisation left–right steering.

  • Page 48: Music Dsp Presets

    Music DSP presets Music The digital surround controller provides seven alternative music DSP presets designed for the reproduction of well-recorded material, originally intended for replay over a traditional stereo The Music DSP preset extracts the mono and surround pair of loudspeakers. components of the original recording.
  • Page 49 Music and Trifield DSP preset This gives a significant improvement over traditional stereo, parameters which converts the differences between the microphone signals into amplitude differences in the speaker signals. This version of the Trifield algorithm is virtually impossible to implement without Parameter Options What it changes...
  • Page 50 Ambisonic recording space whether you are at the exact central seat or well off to one side. The Ambisonic DSP preset is designed for replaying material encoded in UHJ format, the two-channel stereo-compatible Of all the signal-processing options, Ambisonic is the one that encoding found on Ambisonically recorded discs and requires the greatest attention to speaker choice and positioning.
  • Page 51 Ambisonic and Super Stereo DSP Music Logic preset parameters Music Logic is a music DSP preset with user-adjustable Parameter Options What it changes steering, designed to provide an exciting experience with many types of studio-produced music. Width * 0 to 1 The width of the image.
  • Page 52 DTS Music Stereo and Direct DTS Music is a special version of the DTS preset designed with The Stereo preset passes the left and right input signals directly a lower LFE level of -10dB to match the bass levels applied to to the left and right main speakers.

  • Page 53: 5.1 Movie Dsp Presets

    5.1 Movie DSP presets MPEG The discrete digital formats can encode up to eight separate channels, which can be decoded to provide separate signals to the eight speakers in a surround configuration. MPEG surround is the preferred audio format for DVD in PAL territories.
  • Page 54 5.1 Movie DSP preset parameters Using dynamic range control Parameter Options What it changes Because Dolby Digital is a digital format it allows dynamic range control without the distortion involved in analogue methods. The Surr. Rear Surr. Rear, Surr. Side, Switches the surround Compress parameter can be set to one of the following options: Surr.
  • Page 55 Using peak-level limiting The Max SPL or Limit parameters allow you to set up peak-level limiting for bass signals, and the setting applies to all the discrete digital DSP presets. If your loudspeaker layout includes one or more subwoofers the parameter is named Max SPL, and it sets the peak-level limit for the LFE channel.

  • Page 56: Setting Up The Digital Surround Controller

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

  • Page 57: Unpacking

    Alternatively, an Power cord. optional Fan kit can be fitted to ensure adequate ventilation 500 Series communications lead. when the 561 is installed in an enclosed space. RS232 computer serial lead. Radio interference This manual.

  • Page 58: Connecting The Digital Surround Controller

    Connecting the digital surround controller Rear panel Optical Digital Expansion Analogue Analogue Analogue input inputs socket speakers tape outputs inputs DIGITAL IN ANALOGUE OUT TAPE OUT ANALOGUE IN DTV/D5 CDR/D3 CD/D1 Rear L Centre Main/Side Room 2 Tape VCR2 VCR1 Cable Tape1 Radio...

  • Page 59: Digital Audio Inputs

    Digital audio inputs The following table gives details of the video outputs. All outputs The following table gives details of the digital audio inputs: include the 561 on-screen display. Use this input To connect to this When an S-video source is selected the S-video output is also...

  • Page 60: Audio Outputs

    Analogue audio inputs Audio outputs The following table gives details of the analogue audio inputs: The following table gives details of the analogue and digital outputs: Use this input To connect to this Use this output To connect to this CD/A1, Radio/A2, An analogue source such as a Tape1/A3, TV/A4,...
  • Page 61 The following table gives details of the tape and headphone outputs: Use this output To connect to this TRIGGER OUT 1 Other equipment. On when the 561 is Use this output To connect to this switched on but not in standby. DIGITAL Tape Out A digital tape recorder.

  • Page 62: Communications Connections

    Use this connection To connect to this COMMS Other Meridian 500 Series equipment, and the master digital speaker. RS232 The serial port of a PC, to configure the 561. See Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer, page 65.

  • Page 63: Connecting Video

    Connecting video To connect to a television or monitor The 561 adds a text overlay to the video signal from the Mains Outs video outputs, to provide additional information about its operation in the form of a textual on-screen display (OSD). In...

  • Page 64: Connecting Speakers

    S5 lead Use the comms part of an M5 lead to connect one of the COMMS sockets on the 561 to the digital speaker you have chosen as the master (typically the centre speaker). Use the audio part of the M5 lead to connect the digital...
  • Page 65 Connect the speaker outputs from the stereo power amplifier screened audio cable. to suitable speakers. You can connect the 561 to up to two pairs of active loudspeakers and a centre speaker.
  • Page 66 To connect an active subwoofer (eg Meridian M1500 or M2500) 561 Digital Surround Controller Subwoofer DIRECT CROSSOVER INPUT INPUT Audio lead Connect the Sub ANALOGUE OUT socket from the digital surround controller to the subwoofer’s line level input. The digital surround controller provides very high-quality crossovers for the subwoofer, and for best results you should use these instead of the subwoofer’s crossover.

  • Page 67: Connecting Sources

    Audio lead Audio lead You can connect up to seven analogue sources to the 561 You can connect up to five digital sources to the 561 Digital Digital Surround Controller. Surround Controller. Connect the analogue source to one of the ANALOGUE IN Connect the digital source to one of the DIGITAL IN sockets, sockets of the 561, using a standard phono lead.
  • Page 68 Connect the S-video output from the DVD player to the Optical lead DVD/S1 VIDEO IN socket of the 561, using an S-video lead. Connect the digital output from the DVD player to the DVD/D2 Connect the S-video output from the LaserDisc player to the DIGITAL IN socket of the 561, using a digital lead.

  • Page 69: Connecting To A Tape Recorder

    By adding the optional Tape card you will also be able to record To record a digital source either connect its analogue output to analogue sources to the digital tape output. one of the 561 analogue inputs, or add the optional Tape card.
  • Page 70 VCR1/V1 VCR Outs Video leads Audio leads Connect the Tape TAPE OUT sockets on the 561 Digital Surround Controller to the video recorder’s audio inputs. Connect the video recorder’s audio outputs to the VCR1/A6 ANALOGUE IN sockets on the 561.

  • Page 71: Connecting To Other Meridian Equipment

    Connect one of the COMMS sockets on the back panel of the This is the unit that will respond to the remote. 561 Digital Surround Controller to one of the COMMS sockets All the other units will be configured on another 500 Series unit, using the 500 comms lead N o t C o n .

  • Page 72: Configuring The Digital Surround Controller Without A Computer

    Configuring the digital surround controller without a computer he 561 Digital Surround Controller can be set up for most standard configurations of loudspeakers and sources using just the front-panel controls and Meridian System Remote. This chapter explains how to configure the digital surround controller without using a computer, and then how to calibrate the loudspeakers and sources for your particular system.

  • Page 73: Choosing A Standard Setting

    Choosing a standard setting The digital surround controller provides 39 alternative standard The following diagram shows the meaning of the standard Type settings, called Types, which configure all aspects of the 561 codes: into the most commonly needed configurations. In addition, any User Types you create using the Meridian Configuration Type 5.S DAA...
  • Page 74 To select a Type Press the Off key on the front panel. Select a video source to produce an on-screen display. E x i t i n g T y p e The display shows: Put the digital surround controller into standby by pressing Off (front panel or remote).

  • Page 75: Standard Source Settings

    Standard source settings The digital surround processor provides 12 sources When the digital surround processor is reset to one of the corresponding to the 12 source selection keys on the Meridian standard Types the sources are set up with the labels, inputs, System Remote.

  • Page 76: Calibrating The System

    If your digital surround controller is connected to a television or sound with any particular combination of associated equipment, monitor, the on-screen display also provides additional text the 561 Digital Surround Controller includes a built-in calibration explaining what to do. For information about setting up the on- procedure.
  • Page 77 To choose the distance units To start the calibration procedure You can choose to display and enter distances in either feet and Select a video source to produce an on-screen display. inches, or metres. Put the digital surround controller into standby by pressing Off (front panel or remote).
  • Page 78 For more detailed information about this and the other calibration tests see the following sections. To move between the calibration tests Press > (remote) to move to the next test. Press < (remote) to move back to an earlier test. Press Store to jump to the next set of tests.

  • Page 79: Calibration Tests

    Calibration tests Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers Levels in the layout in the sequence: Left, Centre, Right, Side R, Rear These tests allow you to adjust the output level to each speaker R, Rear L, Side L, and subwoofers.
  • Page 80 Distance Measure from the ear height at the listening position to the tweeter on each speaker (where applicable), in the distance units These tests allow you to adjust the delay of each of the speakers you have chosen; see To choose the distance units, page 70. in the layout to time-align the system so that sounds are Use the >...
  • Page 81 Fine tuning The next display shows the distance (or delay) for the same speaker. These tests allow you to fine-tune the phase and delay of each L e f t 1 8 ' 0 speaker when used in conjunction with other speakers on the For example: layout.
  • Page 82 Pay particular attention to the centre channel, as this can have a dramatic effect on the overall sound. As you increase the delay the speaker will appear to move away from you. You have now completed the calibration of your system. Press Off (front panel or remote) to exit from the calibration procedure.

  • Page 83: Setting Up Sources

    Clipping in the ADC can sound very unpleasant and can occur at any output volume The 561 will then return to standby with Gain/Sub mode turned level. For each analogue input, the sensitivity should be set using the...
  • Page 84 If you have selected a digital source you cannot adjust the frequency sensitivity and the display shows NA. The 561 allows the crossover frequency for any subwoofers The Clip indicator changes to show the peak input level as which you have to be adjusted between 30 and 120Hz. The follows: crossover can be set independently for Music, Logic, and 5.1...
  • Page 85 Press A or V to start the sinewave sweeping up or down in For THX loudspeaker systems you should not adjust these settings – they should be left at 80Hz. 80Hz is also the frequency, respectively. Press the key twice to sweep more recommended setting for all movie listening.

  • Page 86: A Computer

    To configure the 561 you use the Meridian Configuration program, an intelligent Windows-based application that is supplied with the 561. This allows you to create one or more custom configurations, and download them to the 561 so that they are available alongside the built-in types.

  • Page 87: The Meridian Configuration Program

    Lets you customise the operation of each of the the 561 Digital Surround Controller to suit your own personal sources, including the presets used by each source preferences and the particular configuration of equipment in for each of the audio formats, the digital, analogue, your system.

  • Page 88: Installing The Meridian Configuration Program

    Planning the configuration To use the Meridian Configuration program you need: Before creating a configuration for your 561 Digital Surround Controller it is a good idea to plan the following aspects of your A computer running Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.00.
  • Page 89 To run the Meridian Configuration Button Option Function program Creates a new settings file. Click Start, point at Programs, then click Meridian Open Opens an existing settings file. Configuration. Save Saves the current settings file to disk. The Meridian window will be displayed: Fetch Fetches the current configuration of the attached product(s).
  • Page 90 The serial cable is symmetrical, and can be connected either way round. Connect one end to the RS232 connector on the back panel of the 561 Digital Surround Controller. Connect the other end to one of the serial ports on the PC or PC notebook computer.

  • Page 91: Creating A New Settings File

    A new settings file will be created for you, with the initial name MSF1, and the Meridian window will show a 561 Surround controller icon to identify the product you are configuring. Owner lets you enter personal information, for future reference,...
  • Page 92 Configuration program window so you can see all the options on each screen. The Owner text will be displayed when you turn the 561 on. The Dealer and Description text are displayed after the product version and serial numbers if you hold down the front-panel...

  • Page 93: Setting Up Speakers

    To specify the speaker layout This section describes how to use the Meridian Configuration program to configure the 561 Digital Surround Controller for the configuration of loudspeakers in your system, and specify Click Speakers in the left-hand panel of the Meridian information about the type of each speaker, for optimum window.
  • Page 94 To specify the size and type of the As you change the options the layout illustration will change to main speakers show the resulting layout. If you select a combination of options that is not supported, the Choose Large if your main left and right speakers are large, other options will be adjusted accordingly to ensure that the with good bass performance, and you want to use them for whole configuration is valid.
  • Page 95 To specify information about the To specify the number of subwoofers, centre speaker and the DSP presets that use them From the first drop-down menu choose one of the following If your main left and right speakers are small you will need to use options: one or more subwoofers to handle the bass.

  • Page 96: Setting The Speaker Sizes

    Setting the speaker sizes Once you have specified the speaker layout for your system the A setting of Max corresponds to no protection, and 0 Sizes page of settings allows you to set up speaker protection corresponds to full protection. By default any Meridian DSP for the 5.1 sources.
  • Page 97 The digital surround controller provides a low-pass cut off; the subwoofer’s You have now completed the first stage of setting up the 561, crossover should be bypassed. This is and you should save the changes you have made by choosing the recommended option.

  • Page 98: Setting Up Sources

    Setting up sources To configure the source options This section describes how to use the Meridian Configuration program to configure the sources provided by the digital surround controller. Select the source in the list of sources. Click the Options tab. To set up sources Click the Sources icon in the left-hand panel of the Meridian window.
  • Page 99 To specify the source connections You can prevent the source from appearing in the list of sources, or being selectable using the Meridian System Remote, by disabling this option. Click the Connections tab to show the Connections page of settings. If you want, you can change the name displayed when the source is selected by editing the Name field.
  • Page 100 Either option can be set to Last valid to leave the corresponding If you have chosen an analogue input for the main audio input: setting unchanged when you select the source. You would usually set Video Input to Last valid for audio sources such as Specify the sensitivity of the input by choosing an appropriate CD, Radio, Tape1, and Tape2.
  • Page 101 To set the advanced source options If you have two Meridian source units of the same type you can configure them to have different Comms addresses. You Click the Advanced tab to show the Advanced page of can then select the appropriate source by specifying its settings.

  • Page 102: Configuring Presets

    Configuring presets To modify a built-in preset The 561 Digital Surround Controller provides 21 built-in presets and the Meridian Configuration program lets you configure the DSP parameters of any of the built-in presets to suit your own Select the preset in the list of presets.
  • Page 103 Note that the treble and bass settings will not be available if your The new preset is created in the first available space after the system includes DSP loudspeakers, because in this case the built-in presets. DSP speakers handle the treble and bass adjustments. Select the new preset you have created.
  • Page 104 To delete a user-defined preset Select the preset in the list of presets. Click the Delete this preset button. To copy a preset to a specific position in the list of user-defined presets Highlight the preset you want to copy. Choose Copy from the Edit menu, or click the Copy button in the toolbar: Highlight the user-defined preset or empty position you want...

  • Page 105: Changing The Setup Options

    Sets the fan operation, if fitted. Volume on startup Specifies the volume selected on switching on at the back panel. Comms controller Specifies whether the 561 is controller, status not controller, or set automatically. System and Copy For multi-room setups.

  • Page 106: Calibrating The Settings With Your System

    Once you have edited the settings to suit the configuration of surround controller your system, the next step is to store the settings to the 561 and use the calibration listening tests built into the 561 to calibrate it for correct performance.
  • Page 107 To fetch the calibrated settings When the download is complete the 561 will automatically reset itself to use the new settings, and show the owner name you defined: Finally fetch the calibrated settings back from the digital surround controller as follows:...

  • Page 108: Creating A User Type

    Once you have fetched the calibrated settings from the digital surround controller, the final step is to store them permanently to the 561 as a User Type, so that you can reset the unit to them Click the Settings icon in the left-hand panel of the Meridian whenever you need to.
  • Page 109 To create additional User Types Initially the new type will be created with the same settings as the type you based it on, and with the name New type: If you wish you can create several User Types, and store them all to the digital surround controller.
  • Page 110 To copy settings between User Types Highlight the User Type you want to copy the settings from. Choose Copy from the Edit menu, or click the Copy button in the toolbar: Highlight the User Type you want to copy the settings to. Choose Paste from the Edit menu, or click the Paste button in the toolbar: You can also copy and paste source and preset settings from...

  • Page 111: Completing The Configuration

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

  • Page 112: Troubleshooting

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

  • Page 113: General Operating Problems

    If the 561 will still not illuminate, check any fuses in your power See if the 561 has been set up as not controller in the supply and the fuse in the inlet of the 561. If these are all intact, Meridian Configuration program; see Changing the setup contact your dealer.
  • Page 114 When playing a Dolby Digital DVD, the 561 selects the Pro Logic preset DVDs include a two-channel Dolby Digital soundtrack, which will use the default two-channel preset. Select a six-channel soundtrack, if it is available. Unit is overheating If there is not adequate ventilation around the unit, or you are operating it in an enclosed space, you will need to fit the optional Fan kit.

  • Page 115: Audio Problems

    Audio problems Hum on analogue input There is radio interference There is no reason for the 561 to produce hum on the analogue The 561 is a digital audio and computing device which has been input. designed to very high standards of electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Page 116 Audible hiss at high volume settings The 561 has a 20-bit capability on its internal analogue-to-digital converter, which is used for analogue sources. When the volume The input dynamic range of most current recordings is at is turned up high you may hear its dither as a hiss when the maximum 16 bit.
  • Page 117 86. The DTS audio stream is indistinguishable from a PCM audio stream; the 561 takes 30ms to identify the encoding, during which a hiss is heard. With non-video DTS sources you can add a 30ms delay to avoid this.

  • Page 118: Video Problems

    Picture quality may suffer if you do not attend to the following: The 561 video inputs V1 to V3 and S1 to S3 are direct coupled, Are you using suitable quality cables with good connectors? for highest quality. However, some video sources (typically cable...

  • Page 119: Meridian Configuration Program Problems

    COM port. Check that it is connected correctly. If you have any DSP speakers in the layout, treble and bass Turn off the 561 for a few seconds and turn back on, then are not available. retry. The Speakers options for Centre, Sides, and Rears can only Quit from all other programs and retry.

  • Page 120: Service And Guarantee

    The guarantee is void if the 561 Digital Surround Processor has In the unlikely event that your 561 fails to function correctly, it been subject to misuse, accident, or negligence, or has been should be returned, in its original packaging, to your Meridian tampered with or modified in any way without the written dealer.

  • Page 122: Glossary

    Glossary Absolute phase Controller A control which changes the phase of the The product in a Meridian system that Digital Theatre Systems originally signals to all the speakers. uses the infra-red signals from the remote produced digital audio tracks for motion to control the system.
  • Page 123 The flexible system for choosing options and configuring settings in Meridian LFE sub products. On the 561 the menus are MPEG Surround is a digital encoding controlled by the <, >, A, and V keys on system developed by the Motion Picture A subwoofer which plays the full 120Hz the MSR.
  • Page 124 Preset Meridian Settings File, a file containing A DSP decoding option in the 561. You Sound Pressure Level, a physical settings and User Types for one or more can create user-defined presets based on measurement of the level of sound at a Meridian products.
  • Page 125 Additional processing that follows Dolby Pro Logic Surround decoding to give a more faithful reproduction of cinema sound in the home. Trifield A music decoding system designed to extract centre and surround signals from a conventional two-channel stereo source. Type A standard configuration of the digital surround controller.

  • Page 126: Index

    Index AC-3 encoding 8 Audio inputs, digital 52 Centre speaker changing the relative delay 30 Academy DSP preset 11, 40 Audio outputs 53 Accessories 6 Audio problems 108 changing the relative level 30 expansion cards 6 Audio stream display 21 not working 110 Fan kit 7, 50 Audio tape outputs 54...
  • Page 127 DSP presets 8, 37 DSP parameters (continued) Defining your own presets 23, 34 Academy 11, 40 Compress 47 Depth (DSP parameter) 25, 26, 30 Ambisonic 10, 43 Digital audio inputs 52 Depth 25, 26, 30 changing 20 Digital DSP preset 8 Input 40 changing source association 33 Digital recorder, connecting 62...
  • Page 128 DSP presets (continued) Gain/Sub mode 76 Logic DSP presets 38 Stereo 11, 45 Glossary 115 Loudspeakers Super Stereo 11, 43 connecting 57 Headphone volume 22 THX Cinema 10 setting up using a PC 86 Hiss Trifield 11, 41 specifying layout using a PC 86 at high volume settings 109 TV Logic 10, 39 specifying the size and type using a...
  • Page 129 Owner icon 84, 85 Recording Meridian System Remote a source 22 front panel controls 15 PC, using to configure the 561 79 from a television 22 quick guide 16 Peak-level limiting 48, 90 Remote 15 MLP DSP preset 9, 45...
  • Page 130 Speakers (continued) S Delay (DSP parameter) 26 Sound not clear 110 specifying the size and type using S Filter (DSP parameter) 42, 44 Sound Pressure Level meter 69 S-patch Box 6 Sources 17 a PC 87 Sample configurations adjusting sensitivity 76 Speakers icon 80 Meridian Analogue Theatre 3 changing DSP preset associated...
  • Page 131 Tape card 6, 22 TV Logic DSP preset 10, 39 Ventilation 50 Tape outputs 54 Types 66 Video Tape recorder, connecting 62 choosing 67 connecting 56 Television standard 68 inputs 51 connecting 56 outputs 52 UHJ format 43 recording from 22 problems 111 Unlocking the menus 24 THX Cinema DSP preset 10...

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