Cambridge SoundWorks Stereo Amplifier AVS550 User Manual

MegaTheater  
AVS550  
DVD/Tuner Pre-Amplifier  
User Manual  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
1. Read these instructions  
2. Keep these instructions.  
3. Heed all warnings.  
4. Follow all instructions.  
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.  
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.  
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install  
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.  
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radia-  
tors, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (includ-  
ing amplifiers) that produce heat.  
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or  
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades  
with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug  
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide  
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If  
the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult  
an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.  
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or  
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles,  
and the point where they exist from the apparatus.  
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the  
manufacturer.  
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table  
specified by the manufacturer, or sold with apparatus.  
When a cart is used, use caution when moving the  
cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.  
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or  
when unused for long periods of time.  
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.  
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been  
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or  
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects  
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been  
exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally,  
or has been dropped.  
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna and the  
power cord.  
DISC PRECAUTIONS:  
MOISTURE OR DEW – May form on the lens or disc if  
the product is suddenly moved from a cold environ-  
ment to a warm one, and prevent the unit from reading  
the disc. If this happens, turn the product on for a  
least one hour before inserting a disc.  
• Increase the separation between the equipment and  
the receiver.  
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a different cir-  
cuit than the one to which the receiver is connected.  
DAMAGED DISCS – Never play cracked, warped, or  
otherwise damaged discs as they may harm the  
mechanism.  
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV tech-  
nician for help.  
HANDLING DISCS –  
Do not touch the play side of the disc. Always  
handle the disc by the edges.  
Do not attach paper, tape or labels to the disc  
except for purpose-designed CD labels applied with  
an applicator intended for the purpose. Out of bal-  
ance discs may damage the mechanism.  
• Keep discs away from direct sunlight and  
excessive heat.  
This product is manufactured under license from  
Dolby laboratories, “DOLBY”, “AC-3”, “Pro Logic” and  
the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby labora-  
tories. Copyright 1992-1997, Dolby laboratories.  
• Keep disc in proper storage cases when not in use.  
DISC CLEANING –  
Before playback, wipe the play surface of the disc  
outwards from the center with a clean, soft, lint-free  
cloth.  
This Product incorporates copyright protection tech-  
nology that is protected by method claims of certain  
U.S. Patents and other intellectual property rights  
owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights  
owners. Use of this copyright protection technology  
must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is  
intended for home and other limited viewing uses only  
unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision  
Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly  
is prohibited.  
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE – This equipment has  
been tested and found to comply with the limits for  
a Class B Digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the  
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a  
residential installation. This equipment generates,  
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if  
not installed and used in accordance with the instruc-  
tions, may cause harmful interference to radio commu-  
nications. However, this is no guarantee that interfer-  
ence will not occur in a particular installation. If this  
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or  
television reception, which can be determined by turn-  
ing the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to  
try to correct the interference by one or more of the  
following measures:  
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
INTRODUCTION  
Introduction ................................................................6  
Carton Contents..........................................................8  
Remote Control ..........................................................9  
Front Panel and Display ..........................................13  
Getting Started ........................................................14  
System Connection Diagrams..................................15  
Basic Setup Menu ....................................................20  
Operation and Use ..................................................23  
Advanced Operation ................................................28  
Advanced Setup ......................................................29  
Specifications ..........................................................36  
Limited Warranty ......................................................37  
Thanks for choosing the MegaTheater AVS550 as the  
heart of your home theater system. We at Cambridge  
SoundWorks believe that it is the ideal utilization of  
high technology to simplify the home  
entertainment experience.  
The AVS550 will entertain you for many years with its  
flawless playback of DVD movies and high-resolution  
DVD-Audio discs, sensitive AM and FM radio recep-  
tion, and playback of normal CD, CD+G, HDCD, and  
MP3 or WAV music files on recordable CD or DVD  
discs. It will also play back DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R,  
DVD+RW, VCD and SVCD discs you burn on your PC  
from video files such as home movies from your digital  
camcorder. In addition, the AVS550 will display your  
JPEG digital still photos from CD on your TV screen.  
You can even produce a “slide show” with musical  
background by saving your photos and background  
music MP3 file on the same disc.  
The AVS550 includes all the inputs and outputs neces-  
sary for most home theater system needs. There are  
two sets of rear panel A/V inputs and a recording out-  
put to connect a VCR and a satellite receiver or cable  
box. A front panel input can be used for quick connec-  
tion of a camcorder, video game, or portable music  
player. Optical and coaxial digital inputs are also pro-  
vided to connect up to two set top boxes (cable TV,  
HDTV, or satellite receiver) equipped with a digital output.  
The built-in 5.1 surround decoders (Dolby Digital,  
Dolby Pro Logic 2 and DTS ) will accurately play back  
any contemporary DVD when connected to a suitably  
powered loudspeaker system or multichannel power  
amplifier. The 24 bit 192kHz Analog to Digital convert-  
ers make the AVS550 fully compatible with stereo and  
5.1 DVD-Audio discs.  
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Finally, the AVS550 provides a superb picture when  
connected to a High Definition TV thanks to its  
advanced Super Smart™ progressive scan circuitry.  
This unique circuit analyzes the characteristics of  
the source material on DVD and automatically selects  
the proper de-interlacing algorithm for fast motion or  
still scenes, as well as 3:2 pulldown to convert the  
frame rate of film sources to that of video. The result is  
the clearest, sharpest picture - totally free of motion  
artifacts or the visual stutter sometimes seen when  
movies, or movie segments originally shot on film, are  
converted to video.  
MP3, WAV and Picture CDs are organized in files that  
may be contained within folders. Use the on-screen  
“Smart Navi” function to navigate through the folders  
on the disc and select the files you wish to play.  
Some features of DVD playback are automated by  
“flags” in the digital bitstream that let the disc  
producer tell your player the optimum playback mode.  
The AVS550 will respond to these flags where appro-  
priate and automatically select the proper soundtrack  
or technique for producing a progressive scan picture  
on high definition TV sets. Likewise, the disc producer  
may activate or deactivate some features of the for-  
mat. If you find the occasional disc that does not offer  
some of the features explained in this manual, it is not  
the result of a defect of the AVS550.  
If You Are New To Digital Discs  
DVDs are divided into one or more sections called  
“titles.” A number corresponding to each title is  
displayed on the front panel Vacuum Fluorescent  
Display (VFD). You can select the different titles using  
the TITLE key on the remote control. The ability to  
bypass titles on a particular DVD is controlled by the  
maker of the specific DVD, and may not be available  
on all DVDs.  
Each title is divided further into “chapters”. You may  
navigate chapters using the skip keys ( |<<, >>| ),  
using the numerical keypad, or within the DVD’s on-  
screen menu.  
CD and VCD discs are divided into “tracks”. You may  
select the tracks using the skip keys or the numeric  
keypad.  
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CARTON CONTENTS  
A. One AVS550 main control unit.  
B. Remote control  
A
C. Two AA Batteries  
D. FM Antenna  
E. FM antenna to F-connector adapter cable.  
F. AM Loop antenna  
C
G. A/V cable with three RCA plugs  
(red, white, yellow) on each end.  
H. Component video cable with three RCA plugs  
(red, green and blue) on each end.  
I. S-Video cable  
B
D
E
F
G
H
I
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
REMOTE CONTROL  
3. OSD:  
Installing The Remote Control Batteries  
Remove the lid of battery chamber in back of the  
remote control and install the two AAA batteries  
(included). Observe and follow the polarity marks.  
Replace the lid.  
When playing a DVD, press once to show an On-  
Screen Display of the current title and chapter.  
Press again to display the remaining time. Press a  
third time to display chapter elapsed time. Press a  
fourth time to display chapter remaining time. A fifth  
press will turn the On Screen Display off.  
When the batteries become weak, replace them imme-  
diately. Old batteries may leak highly corrosive  
fluid and permanently damage the remote control.  
For all CD, VCD, SVCD discs, press once for single  
track elapsed time. Press again for single track  
remaining time. Press a third time for total elapsed  
time. The fourth press displays total remaining time,  
and the fifth press turns the OSD off.  
For MP3 discs, one press displays file elapsed  
time, the second press turns the OSD off.  
4. EJECT/LOAD: Press to eject the disc tray, or to load  
the disc tray.  
5. NUMBER KEYS: Use for direct access to chapters,  
titles, and tracks (not all discs allow direct access).  
You may also start a disc from a particular title and  
chapter, or at a particular time.  
To skip to a track or chapter while playing a disc,  
press GOTO, then select the track or chapter num-  
ber desired (use +10 key for tracks above 9), then  
press ENTER.  
To start playing a specific title at a specific chapter,  
press GOTO, then use the < > keys to determine  
the desired title number. Enter the title number  
using the number keys. Use the < > keys to deter-  
mine the desired chapter and enter the chapter  
number using the number keys.  
Button Locations and Functions  
Press ENTER to play the disc from the point you  
selected.  
Most operation of the AVS550 is done using the remote  
control. Basic controls are provided on the front panel  
for emergency use in the event of battery failure or a  
lost remote.  
To start playing a disc from a specific time, press  
GOTO twice. Use the < > keys to highlight Title  
determine the desired title number. Enter the title  
number using the number keys. Use the < > keys  
to determine Time and enter it using the number  
keys. You must enter a 0 first for hours less than 10.  
Press ENTER and play will begin from your select-  
ed time.  
1. STANDBY: Use this to turn the AVS550 on and off  
for normal use.  
2. MUTE: Press to mute the main audio output. Press  
again to restore output.  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
You may also directly access radio station presets  
1-10 by pressing the appropriate number button  
during radio play.  
2
3
4
6. VOLUME: Press to increase or decrease volume.  
7. CH-/Slow:  
DVD, VCD, SVCD - Press to engage in slow motion  
playback. The first press is 2x Slow (i.e.1/2 normal  
speed), the second press is 4x, third press is 6x,  
and the fourth press is 8x. A fifth press returns to  
normal speed.  
1
5
6
Tuner - Select next lower numbered preset  
radio station.  
CH+/Step:  
7
9
DVD, VCD, SVCD - Press to step to the next frame  
manually.  
Tuner - Select next higher numbered preset  
radio station.  
8
10  
13  
14  
17  
18  
21  
8. REMOTE SOURCE SELECT: Press the button that  
corresponds to the device you wish to control. TV,  
VCR, and CABLE may be programmed with codes  
from other remotes during initial setup. See  
“Learning IR Codes.”  
11  
12  
15  
9. SOURCE SELECT: Use to select the A/V Source to  
be played by the AVS550. The button for AV3 is  
located below the door covering the lower half of  
the remote.  
16  
19  
20  
22  
23  
24  
27  
10.PLAY: Use to start disc play. Also used to step  
between Equalizer preset curves.  
25  
11.STOP / TUNER SAVE:  
For DVD press the STOP key once, the unit enters  
“memory stop.” Play resumes from the same point when  
PLAY is pressed. Press STOP a second time to resume  
from the disc’s beginning with the next press of PLAY.  
26  
29  
30  
28  
31  
32  
In TUNER mode the STOP Key is used to save the  
currently tuned station as a preset.  
12. |<< / AUTO –:  
Disc play - Selects PREVIOUS track or Chapter.  
Tuner - Seeks the next lower station.  
33  
34  
35  
36  
10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
ticular disc is mastered. If there is no menu level,  
this button will select the current title.  
13. >>| / AUTO +:  
Disc Play - Selects NEXT track or Chapter.  
Tuner - Seeks the next higher station.  
25. ZOOM: Each successive press zooms the image  
1.5x, 2x, and 3x. Press again to revert to normal size.  
14. PAUSE / AM/FM:  
26.AUDIO/ST:  
Disc Play - Pauses playback  
Tuner - Selects AM or FM band  
DVD playback - Selects the available audio tracks  
on a DVD. This feature is not available on all DVD’s.  
15.PRESET +: Use to select a specific preset location  
to save a radio station.  
Tuner - Toggles FM reception between Stereo and  
Mono.  
Slide Show Mode - select transition mode between  
slides. Refer to Viewing JPEG’s on pg. 25.  
27.ANGLE: Selects different view angles if supported  
by the DVD.  
16.PRESET –: Use to select a specific preset location  
to save a radio station.  
28.SUBTITLE: Selects different subtitles available on  
the DVD. Not all DVDs support subtitle selection  
from this key.  
17. << / TUNE –:  
Disc Play - Selects fast reverse playback. Each  
press increases speed of playback 2x > 4x > 6x >  
8x > Normal.  
29.REPEAT: Repeats a chapter or title on DVD, and  
disc, folder or track on CD and MP3 playback.  
30.A-B / MUSIC: Repeats a user-defined section of a  
DVD, CD or MP3 file.  
Tuner - Manual tune one step lower in frequency.  
18. >> / TUNE +:  
Press the button once at the start of the section you  
wish to repeat, press it again at the end of the  
selection. Press the button again to cancel A-B  
repeat.  
Disc Play - Selects fast playback. Each press increas-  
es speed of playback 2x > 4x > 6x > 8x > Normal.  
Tuner - Manual tune one step higher in frequency.  
In Slide Show mode, this key is used to select the  
background music file if desired.  
19.SETUP: Use to enter the AVS550 main setup  
menus. Disc play will stop when selected. Press the  
button again to exit the menu when you are done.  
31.CLEAR / EQ: Clears last entry when programming.  
20.CURSOR CONTROL: Press these buttons to navi-  
gate through menus. Use the ENTER key to make  
your selection.  
32.AUDIO IN: Press to toggle between analog and  
digital inputs when using AV1 or AV2 source  
33.PROLOGIC: Press to select the desired Dolby Pro  
Logic 2 mode for Dolby Surround or stereo  
sources. Each press selects the next mode.  
21.VOL.SETUP: Press to adjust the volume of individ-  
ual channels. (Adjustment may be made in DVD or  
tuner source mode only.)  
34.SHUFFLE: Plays CD, WAV, and MP3 music tracks,  
or JPEG files in random order.  
22.AV3: Selects AV3 source input.  
23.TITLE: The unit will return to the disc title page. You  
may navigate and make your selection using the  
CURSOR, ENTER and PLAY keys.  
35.SLIDE: Selects Slide Show mode for JPEG Photo  
viewing.  
36.PROGRAM: Use to program a playing sequence for  
individual CD tracks.  
24.MENU: Press to select the disc menu for the cur-  
rent title. This may vary depending on how the par-  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Learning I.R. Codes:  
Hint: Only save the commands you need to use from  
the source remote. There is usually no reason to save  
all the commands. It may be easiest to combine  
selected commands from various sources under one  
REMOTE SOURCE button. For example, if you always  
use a cable box or satellite tuner it will be easier to  
save the TV input source switching and cable box  
channel selection buttons under TV. You will not need  
to save the channel commands from the TV.  
You may teach the AVS550 remote control the codes  
from up to three other remote controls. Once you have  
programmed the new codes, the AVS550 remote will  
operate your entire system.  
1. Press and hold the REMOTE SOURCE button (TV,  
VCR, or CABLE) you wish to program for 3 seconds  
until the status LED above the ANGLE button illumi-  
nates a steady GREEN.  
2. Face the remote whose command you wish to learn  
(source remote) towards the small window above  
the ZOOM button of the ASV550 remote. Keep  
them approximately 3-4 inches apart.  
3. Press the button on the source remote that you  
wish to teach the AVS550 remote. The LED will turn  
AMBER.  
4. Press the button on the AVS550 remote where you  
want to assign the new code. When the command  
was successfully learned the LED on the AVS550  
remote illuminates a steady GREEN. If the Green  
LED flashes, there was an error and you must try  
again.  
5. The remote is now ready to learn the next com-  
mand. Press the next button on the source remote  
you wish to learn and repeat the process.  
6. Repeat as needed until all the commands you need  
to operate he system are learned. After 10 seconds  
of inactivity the remote will leave learning mode, the  
green LED will extinguish, and the remote control is  
ready for use.  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
FRONT PANEL AND DISPLAY  
1. STANDBY - Turns the unit “on” and “off” in normal  
operation.  
9. AV3 IN - Composite video and stereo analog audio  
inputs for external A/V source.  
2. VFD - Vacuum Fluorescent Display. Shows player status.  
10.HEADPHONE jack - Output for headphones with a  
3.5mm miniplug..  
3. POWER LED - Indicates the presence of AC power.  
This LED will remain lit in standby mode when the  
main power switch (on the rear panel) is engaged.  
11.HEADPHONE VOLUME - Controls headphone vol-  
ume independently of the main system volume.  
4. VOLUME - Controls volume in 40 steps.  
5. OPEN/CLOSE - Opens and closes the disc drawer.  
6. PLAY - Starts play of the disc.  
MAIN POWER SWITCH  
A Main power switch is located on the rear panel. This  
switch should normally be left ON. Switch it to the OFF  
position when leaving the AVS550 for an extended  
period of time, such as on vacation, to protect the cir-  
cuitry against power surges that may occur when you  
are away.  
7. PREVIOUS TRACK/CHANNEL - Selects previous  
track on a disc, or selects the next lower radio preset.  
8. NEXT TRACK/CHANNEL - Selects the next disc  
track or the next higher radio preset.  
1
2
4
3
VIDEO  
HP  
L
R
VIDEO  
VOL  
6
5
7
8
10  
11  
9
AM/FM  
Tuned  
Indicator  
FM Stereo  
Indicator  
Speaker  
Format  
Indicator  
Parental Lock  
Indicator  
Not used in  
US model  
Not used in  
US model  
DIGITAL  
RDS  
3D  
TITLE  
CHP  
TUNED  
ST.  
L
R
C
S
VIDEO  
KHz  
MHz  
LS  
RS  
DVD: Title  
RADIO: Preset Number  
DVD: Time  
RADIO: Station Frequency  
DVD: Chapter  
RADIO: Band  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
GETTING STARTED  
There are two stages to an efficient installation of the  
MegaTheater system.  
room. Positioning the subwoofer away from the  
walls will reduce its output. Room acoustics play a  
major role in the propagation of bass notes, so it is  
advisable to experiment with a variety of placement  
options and stick with the one that gives the  
strongest bass with the most even response  
throughout the room.  
Stage 1 is the placement and connection of all the  
components. We have made this as easy as possible  
by color-coding all of the critical connections.  
Stage 2 is set-up and adjustment. You tell the AVS550  
what type of TV set you have. You may also you tell it  
what type of speakers you have and their placement.  
You may also set up parental controls and adjust lan-  
guage preferences at this time.  
The remote control needs a clear line of sight to the  
AVS550’s front panel.  
MAXIMUM RECOMMENDED DISTANCE  
APART FOR HOME THEATER  
COMPONENT ARRANGEMENT:  
MAIN SPEAKERS  
The arrangement of the speakers within the room sig-  
nificantly influences their performance. Here are a few  
guidelines to help you get the most from your system.  
CENTER CHANNEL  
The TV monitor is the focal point of any home the-  
ater system. The front left and right speakers  
LEVEL  
45 ANGLE  
SURROUND  
SPEAKER  
SURROUND  
SPEAKER  
WITH  
CENTER  
SPEAKER  
should be placed symmetrically a few feet to either  
side of the TV. These speakers should be no farther  
apart than the distance of the listener to the speakers.  
POWERED  
SUBWOOFER  
The center channel speaker should be placed  
directly above or below the TV, and ideally at the  
same distance from the listener as the left and right  
speakers. Placing the front left, front right, and cen-  
ter speakers at the same height is preferred.  
The surround speakers should be placed on the  
side walls, slightly to the rear of the listening posi-  
tion. Ideally they should face each other and be at  
a level about 2-3 feet higher than the listeners’  
ears. If that is not possible, they may be placed on  
the rear wall facing forward.  
The subwoofer is best placed in the front half of the  
room, near the plane of the front speakers. Placing  
the subwoofer in a corner will provide the most effi-  
cient coupling of the subwoofer’s energy to the  
14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SYSTEM CONNECTION  
Determining Your System Setup:  
1. Connect the video output from the MegaTheater to  
your TV’s video inputs to watch DVD movies.  
There are a variety of system configurations you can  
select, depending on the other equipment you wish to  
connect to your MegaTheater system.  
2. Connect the TV’s L & R audio outputs to an auxil-  
iary A/V input of the AVS550. Select this same auxil-  
iary A/V input to listen to your off-air, cable, or satel-  
lite programs using the Megatheater Audio fea-  
tures.  
Option A: The simplest system consists of the  
MegaTheater and a TV set. A cable box or satellite  
receiver may connect to your TV’s antenna input and is  
viewed by tuning your TV to channel 3 or 4.  
Note: If your cable box or satellite receiver have AV  
outputs, it is best to use Option B even if you cur-  
rently have it connected to your TV as shown  
below. The Option B connection will result in superi-  
or sound and picture quality.  
Use this diagram if:  
A. You do not have a cable box or satellite receiver  
and use your TV tuner to select channels.  
B. You have a basic cable box connected to your TV  
by the antenna connection.  
AVS550  
VCR or  
Digital Recorder  
Y
Cb/Pb  
INPUT  
OUTPUT S-VIDEO  
IN  
L
R
CVBS  
S
COAXIAL  
TOS  
S-VIDEO  
Cr/Pr  
AUDIO  
V
L
OUT  
R
TV  
INPUTS  
COMPOSITE  
S-VIDEO  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO INPUT  
A
B
V
L
Y
AUDIO  
OUT  
Cb/Pb  
ANTENNA  
INPUT  
ANTENNA IN  
TO TV  
R
Cr/Pr  
Satellite Receiver  
or Cable Box  
15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Option B:  
1. Connect the audio output of the STB directly to the  
AVS550. The AVS550 processor can then decode  
the Dolby Digital signal from your STB when pres-  
ent, or play the sound in Stereo or Dolby Pro Logic  
II otherwise.  
This option is the best choice if:  
A. You have a cable TV, HDTV tuner, or satellite receiv-  
er set top box (STB) with digital or stereo analog  
output.  
2. The Video output of the STB may be connected  
either to the AVS550 or directly to the TV, whichever  
is more convenient. The video output from an HDTV  
STB must be connected directly to the TV to get  
High Definition video.  
B. You have a VCR and wish to record or play in  
Stereo or Pro Logic II surround mode.  
VCR or  
Digital Video Recorder  
* If equipped  
OUTPUT  
INPUT S-VIDEO  
IN  
V
L
Note: If your cable box or satellite receiver has  
an OPTICAL digital input, connect it to the AV2  
INPUT. Connect your VCR to AV1 INPUT.  
OUT  
R
AVS550  
Y
Cb/Pb  
L
R
CVBS  
S
COAXIAL  
TOS  
S-VIDEO  
Cr/Pr  
AUDIO  
COAXIAL  
DIGITAL  
L
R
VIDEO  
S-VIDEO  
Satellite Receiver or Cable Box  
16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Connecting the AVS550 To Your TV:  
The AVS550 supports all three of the above options via  
it’s TV output. All of the video input sources connected  
to the AVS550 are available at its S-Video and CVBS  
outputs. The component output is only available when  
the AVS550 internal player is used. If you have other  
sources connected to the AVS500, you must connect  
an S-Video or CVBS cable from the AVS550 to your TV.  
Connect an S-video cable if any of your auxiliary  
sources have S-Video output. Connect a composite  
(CVBS) video cable if any sources have CVBS output  
only, or if your TV does not have an S-Video input. If  
you are not certain what you need at this point, con-  
nect them all.  
The video output connection is determined by the  
capability of your TV.  
A. If your TV is equipped with progressive scan  
(Y/Pb/Pr) inputs or interlaced (Y/Cb/Cr) component  
video inputs, use them for the best picture from  
DVD playback.  
B. If your TV does not have component video inputs,  
S-Video input is the next best choice. Most current  
TVs have at least one S-Video input.  
C. The most common video input type on a TV is com-  
posite video, also known as CVBS. This input uses  
a standard RCA jack, usually color-coded yellow.  
AVS550  
Y
Cb/Pb  
COAXIAL  
TOS  
S-VIDEO  
Cr/Pr  
AUDIO  
INPUTS  
COMPOSITE  
S-VIDEO  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO INPUT  
A
B
TV  
V
L
Y
AUDIO  
OUT  
Cb/Pb  
ANTENNA  
INPUT  
R
Cr/Pr  
17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Connecting Auxiliary A/V Sources:  
Connecting an Auxiliary A/V Source  
with Digital Output:  
There are three auxiliary A/V input connections avail-  
able on the AVS550 (AV1, AV2, and AV3). AV1 and AV2  
are located on the rear panel and may be used to con-  
nect a VCR, Cable Box or similar devices. AV3 is  
behind the door on the front panel. It provides conven-  
ient temporary connection of a camcorder, video  
game, or portable music player.  
Many digital cable systems and almost all Digital  
Satellite receivers offer digital audio outputs. This pro-  
vides access to the Dolby Digital (AC3) audio stream  
from movies and high definition TV broadcasts. You  
may also connect any audio source or PC sound card  
that provides a standard SPDIF (Sony Philips Digital  
Interface) signal with up to 24-bit/96Khz resolution.  
There is also an output labeled REC OUT for connec-  
tion of an audio or A/V recording device such as VCR  
or Digital Video Recorder.  
If your digital source has a Coaxial output, attach it to AV1.  
If the source has an Optical output, connect it to AV2.  
A. AV1 has S-Video, CVBS, Stereo Audio and Coaxial  
digital input.  
When AV1 or AV2 are selected, the AVS550 will auto-  
matically choose the digital input if present. If there is  
no digital signal the AVS550 will play the analog input.  
B. AV2 has S-video, CVBS, Stereo Audio and Optical  
digital input.  
Note: The digital input must be playing when the AV  
input is selected in order for the ASV550 to sense the  
signal. If the digital signal is not playing, or if the  
AVS550 fails to accurately sense the digital input, you  
can manually toggle between Digital and Analog input  
by pressing the AUDIO IN key on the remote control.  
C. AV3 has CVBS and Stereo audio input only.  
The AVS550 will convert a CVBS input to S-Video out-  
put to feed your TV. It will also convert S-video to  
CVBS. However, you will get the best picture quality by  
viewing the video in its native format. When viewing a  
source that has only CVBS output, it is best to select a  
CVBS input on your TV. Likewise, when viewing an S-  
video source, selecting an S-video TV input source will  
result in the best picture.The REC OUT jacks do not  
provide any format conversion. You must connect the  
AV input source you wish to record in the format your  
recording device will accept. Usually this is CVBS.  
18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Audio Output Connections:  
Stereo System:  
5.1 Surround System (RCA Jacks):  
Use only the Red and White output jacks to connect  
the AVS550 to a conventional 2-channel stereo system,  
or powered system such as the Cambridge  
SoundWorks BassCube821. Select an appropriate  
Downmix mode, as explained on pg. 32, for stereo  
operation.  
The main audio outputs of the AVS550 are next to the  
Component video outputs. These outputs are color  
coded to match the cables supplied with the  
Cambridge SoundWorks BassCube 851. Connect  
these outputs to the BassCube 851 or to another 5.1  
compatible amplifier/speaker system.  
REC Outputs:  
5.1 Surround System (15-pin D-Subminiature Jack):  
A/V outputs are provided for connection of a VCR or  
other recording device. They duplicate the signal fed  
to the Front Left and Front Right speaker system, but  
are not controlled by the main volume. Note: If you  
wish to make a recording from a DVD or other multi-  
channel source, be sure to select the DVD’s STEREO  
audio track or choose STEREO in the DOWNMIX setup  
menu.  
Audio output for use with specific Cambridge  
SoundWorks woofer/amplifier modules. A cable for this  
connection will be supplied with compatible products.  
DO NOT attach a video monitor to this jack!  
Option A: Use for BassCube 851 and  
MegaWorks Series subwoofers.  
AVS550  
Option B: Use for subwoofers equipped with  
15-pin connector..  
WHITE  
BROWN  
BLUE  
RED  
L
R
C
GREEN  
AVS550  
SW  
LS  
RS  
AUDIO  
GRAY  
L
R
C
BLACK  
5.1  
SW  
Cable supplied  
with subwoofer  
Right  
Front  
LS  
RS  
AUDIO  
Center  
Right  
Front  
Center  
Cable supplied  
with subwoofer  
ORANGE  
BLACK  
Left  
Front  
GREEN  
Left  
Front  
F
R
C/S  
AUX  
RF  
RR  
C
LF  
LR  
BASS  
+
ANALOG STEREO IN  
BASS  
+
TREBLE  
+
+
FLAT  
SPEAKERS  
REDUCE  
POWER/STANDBY  
VOLUME CONTROL  
RS  
R
C
L
LS  
BLUE  
Left  
Surround  
Right  
Surround  
Left  
Surround  
Right  
Surround  
19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
BASIC SETUP MENU  
To get the most from your MegaTheater system it must  
be configured for your TV and speaker types.  
Select TV Aspect Ratio  
v
Configuration is made via the Setup menu, accessed  
by pressing the SETUP button on the Remote control.  
Use the v < > buttons to navigate through the menu  
and highlight your selection. Use the ENTER button to  
make the selection. The < key will return you to the  
previous menu level. When you are all done, press the  
remote control SETUP button again to return to normal  
operation.  
1. Turn the main power on using the main power  
switch on the rear panel. After a few seconds the  
red LED next to the display will illuminate and the  
AVS550 will be in Standby mode. Also turn on the  
main power to your BassCube (or other amplifier  
system) or other amplifier system and to your TV.  
Switch the AVS550 to operating mode by pressing  
the STANDBY button. The front panel VFD will illu-  
minate and indicate LOADING, then NO DISC. If it  
does not, press the DVD source button on the  
remote.  
A conventional TV has an aspect ratio of 4:3 (4 units  
wide, 3 units high). A Widescreen TV has a 16:9  
aspect ratio. This setting must match your set or the  
picture will look stretched or squashed.  
A. Press SETUP to enter the setup menu.  
B. Select VIDEO and press ENTER.  
C. Select ASPECT RATIO, and choose ENTER. If you  
have a widescreen TV (16:9 Aspect Ratio), select  
WIDE. If you have a conventional 4:3 TV, select  
either of the NORMAL options. In wide mode, 16:9  
movies will fill the screen; 4:3 movies will have  
blank bars at the sides but fill the screen vertically.  
Other widescreen aspect ratios may have thin bars  
at the top and bottom to fit the full frame onto your  
screen. Note: Some 16:9 TVs will automatically  
stretch 4:3 source material to fill the screen result-  
ing in distorted geometry on 4:3 material. This is  
not a function of the AVS550 and is controlled by  
your TV. If you have a conventional 4:3 TV, select  
either of the NORMAL options. NORMAL/PS (Pan  
and Scan) will crop the sides off of a widescreen  
movie in order to fill the screen vertically. NORMAL/  
LB (Letterbox) will place black bars at the top and  
bottom of widescreen movies in order to fit the full  
picture on your screen.  
2. Use your TV’s remote to select the video input you  
have connected the AVS550 to. When the correct  
input is selected, you will see the Cambridge  
SoundWorks logo on the TV. If you have an HDTV  
or EDTV, use the Component inputs. If you see a  
double, overlapped or streaked logo screen, your  
TV is in progressive mode. Change the TV monitor  
mode to INTERLACED (for now) so you can read  
the menus.  
Video Setup:  
For the best picture, the AVS550 needs to know a few  
things about your TV.  
D. Press ENTER to confirm your selection, then press  
< to return to the previous menu level.  
20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Select TV Scan Mode:  
Select TV Output type:  
Skip this step if your TV does not support Progressive  
Scan video. The output mode of the AVS550 must  
match the input mode of your TV set.  
You may skip this step if you have connected the  
AVS550 to your TV using an S-Video cable. It is only  
necessary if your TV has a CVBS video input exclusively.  
A. Press SETUP to enter the setup menu.  
B. Select VIDEO and press ENTER.  
C. Select SCAN and choose ENTER.  
A. Select TV OUT.  
B. Choose YCrCb + CVBS.  
C. Press ENTER to confirm your selection, then press  
< to return to the previous menu level.  
D. Choose PROGRESSIVE only if you have a  
Progressive scan compatible TV. Otherwise choose  
INTERLACED.  
E. Press ENTER to confirm your selection, then press  
< to return to the previous menu level.  
F. Change your TV input to a progressive scan input.  
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you inadvertently select  
Progressive Scan with an incompatible TV, the pic-  
ture may be lost and you will be unable to navigate  
the menus. If this occurs:  
1. Press Eject to open the drawer in DVD mode.  
2. Press the SLIDE key to switch between progres-  
sive and Interlaced until the picture reappears.  
3. Close the drawer.  
21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Select AV Input type:  
You may skip this step if the source connected to AV1  
has S-Video output. It is only necessary if the source is  
exclusively connected with a CVBS cable.  
A. Select AV1 Input.  
B. Select CVBS ONLY. Otherwise keep the default set-  
ting of S-Video/Both.  
D. Press ENTER to confirm your selection, then press  
< to return to the previous menu level.  
E. Repeat for AV2 if necessary.  
Press SETUP to exit the menu and return to normal  
operation.  
You may now begin to enjoy your Megatheater system.  
Additional optional setup features are covered in the  
ADVANCED SETUP chapter later in this manual.  
22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
OPERATION AND USE  
Playing DVD, VCD, SVCD, CD, JPEG Photo Disc,  
WAV or MP3 Music Files:  
5. To save a station preset:  
a. Tune to the desired station.  
Press the DVD key on the remote control.  
b. Press Save (Stop button). The Preset number on  
the VFD will begin to flash.  
1. Press EJECT/LOAD on either the remote or the front  
panel to open and close the drawer.  
c. Using the Preset + and Preset - buttons, choose the  
preset location where you want to save the station.  
2. Insert the disc and press EJECT/LOAD again to  
close the drawer. The AVS550 will auto identify the  
disc and load it.  
d. While the Preset number is still flashing, press SAVE  
again to confirm.  
If the Disc is a DVD, the unit will play the MENU or  
TITLE of the disc.  
Playing Auxiliary A/V Sources:  
If the disc is VCD or SVCD, the unit will begin play  
as authored.  
Press the AV1, AV2 or AV3 key that corresponds to the  
desired source.  
If the disc is a music CD the unit will play sequen-  
tially from track 1.  
If the source has a digital audio connection, the  
AVS550 will automatically choose the digital input.  
Otherwise the stereo analog input will be selected.  
(AV1 and AV2 only.) If the AVS550 fails to lock on to  
a digital source, press the AUDIO IN button to tog-  
gle between Analog and Digital input. You may  
need to do this if the digital source was not playing  
at the time the AV input was selected, or if the digi-  
tal signal was weak.  
If the disc contains WAV, MP3 or JPEG files, the  
SMART-NAVI menu (which shows the disc folder  
and file structure) will be shown if selected. If NO  
MENU is selected in the GENERAL menu the con-  
tent will begin playing from the first file.  
3. Use the PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, <<, >>, |<<, and >>|  
keys to control transport motion or to navigate MP3  
or JPEG files when SMART NAV is set to NO  
v
Digital audio sources will automatically select Dolby  
Digital, DTS, Pro Logic, or Stereo, according to the  
setting in the GENERAL setup menu.  
MENU.  
4. Use the , v, <, >, and ENTER keys to navigate  
DVD or VCD menus and music or picture files and  
folders when SMART NAV is set to WITH MENU.  
Analog sources may be played with Dolby Pro  
Logic II surround processing by pressing the PRO  
LOGIC key. Pressing the PRO LOGIC key repeat-  
edly selects the available surround options. The  
presence of Dolby Digital or DTS overrides Dolby  
Pro Logic II. Note: You must select a CVBS or S-  
Video input on your TV to view sources connected  
to AV1, AV2, or AV3.  
Playing the Radio:  
1. Press the TUNER key on the remote. Use the  
AM/FM key (Pause button) to select the band.  
2. Use the CH+ and CH- keys to select a previously  
saved preset station.  
3. Use the << and >> keys to manually tune a  
desired station.  
4. Use the |<< and >>| keys to seek the next or previ-  
ous strong station.  
23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Using Dolby Pro Logic 2:  
2. When recording a 5.1 source select a 2.0 sound-  
track if available in the disc menu. If no stereo  
soundtrack is available, select Stereo or Pro Logic  
Downmix mode in the SPEAKER Setup menu. See  
Advanced Setup pg. 29.  
The AVS550 features Dolby Pro Logic 2 surround cir-  
cuitry to process Dolby Surround encoded program-  
ming from TV broadcasts and Videotapes. In addition,  
Dolby Pro Logic 2 will create surround sound fields  
from non-encoded Stereo sources such as CD’s, MP3’s  
and Radio stations. Pressing the PROLOGIC button on  
the remote will select from each of the available sound  
field options. The selected sound field is displayed on  
the front panel display for AV sources, and on the TV  
screen for CD, MP3 and Tuner sources.  
3. Set Pro-Logic mode “Off.”  
Viewing Or Playing Files:  
Internal or external digital sources with Dolby Digital or  
DTS soundtracks will override the Dolby Pro Logic cir-  
cuitry so that these sources will play with their proper  
decoders. See pg. 31 for a description of the various  
Dolby Pro Logic 2 soundfields available.  
Listening with Headphones:  
SMART NAVI - WITH MENU  
1. Plug the headphones into the headphone jack  
located behind the lower flap. The AVS550 will  
automatically switch the front L & R audio channels  
to STEREO DOWNMIX when headphones are  
attached.  
You may play back MP3-encoded music files and view  
JPEG encoded picture files that have been recorded to  
a CD. You may include both file types on the same CD.  
JPEG files may be viewed individually or may be com-  
bined into a slide show with automatic transitions.  
2. Use the rotary volume control located to the right of  
the headphone jack to adjust headphone volume  
independent of the main volume. Press and release  
the volume knob to extend the control shaft for eas-  
ier adjustment.  
You may use an MP3 file to provide a musical back-  
ground for your slide show.  
The specifics of file navigation depend on the SMART  
NAVI setting in the GENERAL page of the Setup  
menus.  
3. Do not leave the headphones plugged in when you  
are not using them.  
Playing MP3 or WAV Files:  
Select DVD source and load your MP3 or WAV  
encoded CD.  
Recording from the AVS550:  
You can only record from sources that are not Copy  
Protected.  
If SMART NAVI = NO MENU: All the tracks on the disc  
will be played in order as if they were all at the same  
level. The hierarchy of files and folders is not dis-  
played on the screen.  
1. Connect your recording device to the REC OUT  
jacks on the rear of the AVS500. The video format  
(S-Video or CVBS) of the input you are recording  
must be the same as your recording device will  
accept.  
Use the number buttons or the |<< and >>| buttons  
to select tracks.  
24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Press PLAY or ENTER to begin playback.  
ENTER to begin viewing.  
Once play has begun, the <<, >>, |<<, >>|, STOP  
and PAUSE controls function exactly as they do for  
CD or DVD playback. The Track number will be dis-  
played on the VFD, followed by track elapsed time.  
The file number will be displayed on the VFD. Set  
play mode to SINGLE by using the REPEAT button  
to view one photo only.  
Once play has begun, the |<<, >>|, STOP and  
PAUSE controls function exactly as they do for CD  
or DVD playback.  
If SMART NAVI = WITH MENU: The screen will display  
the folders and files in the hierarchy that they have  
v
been saved on the disc.  
You may activate SHUFFLE or REPEAT functions  
from the remote.  
Use the <, >, , and v keys, or the number keys to  
navigate through the menus. The < and > keys  
SMART NAVI = WITH MENU: The folders and files are  
displayed in the same order that they appear in  
v
move between the two directory levels displayed.  
The and v control movement within each column.  
Once you have selected a file to begin playback.  
v
Windows Explorer. A camera icon identifies JPEG files.  
Use the <, >, , and v keys, or the number keys to  
navigate through the menus.  
Press PLAY or ENTER to begin playback  
Once play has begun, the <<, >>, |<<, >>|, STOP  
and PAUSE controls function exactly as they do for  
CD or DVD playback.  
The < and > keys move between the two menu lev-  
v
els displayed and the PLAY MODE selection field.  
The and v controls move within each column.  
To select a different folder or change the play  
mode, first STOP playback.  
Once you have selected a file for playback, press  
ENTER or PLAY to begin. The PLAY MODE setting  
will determine how the pictures are viewed. The file  
number will be displayed on the VFD. Set PLAY  
MODE to SINGLE to view one photo only.  
You may change the play mode by pressing the  
REPEAT button.  
Once play has begun, the <<, >>, |<<, >>|, STOP  
and PAUSE controls function exactly as they do for  
CD or DVD playback.  
To select a different folder or PLAY MODE, first  
STOP playback.  
Viewing JPEG Files:  
Press the DVD key on the remote to select the input,  
and load your JPEG Photo CD. The specifics of file  
navigation depend on the SMART NAVI setting in the  
GENERAL page of the Setup menus.  
A Camera Icon indicates JPEG Files.  
SMART NAVI = NO MENU: The files on the disc play in  
order. Folders and files are not shown. Press PLAY or  
25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
TRANSITIONS BETWEEN PHOTOS:  
Press the TRANSITION button on the remote. Each  
press selects the next mode. Twelve slide show transi-  
tion modes are provided:  
Mode 0 - no transition (default)  
Mode 1 - wipe from top  
Mode 2 - wipe from bottom  
Mode 3 - wipe from top and bottom to center  
Mode 4 - wipe from center to top and bottom  
Mode 5 - vertical blinds  
PLAY MODE:  
Play mode setting is shown at lower left of menu.  
Play mode settings control the order and frequency of  
file play or viewing for both JPEG files and MP3 music.  
You may change the play mode by pressing the  
REPEAT button. The selected play mode will show on  
the lower left of the OSD. Nine different play modes  
are supported:  
Mode 6 - wipe from left to right  
Mode 7 - wipe from right to left  
Mode 8 - wipe from left and right to center  
Mode 9 - wipe from center to left and right  
Mode 10 - wipe from edge to center  
Mode 11 - horizontal blinds  
SINGLE - Plays the selected file once and stops.  
REP-ONE - Repeats the selected track indefinitely.  
Mode 12 - random  
FOLDER - Plays all the files in the current folder once  
in sequence.  
FOLDER R - Plays all the files in the current folder in  
sequence indefinitely.  
IMAGE ROTATION:  
There are four modes to rotate a picture that does not  
display correctly: Invert, Mirror, Left, and Right.  
DISC SCAN - Plays the first 10-seconds of each file on  
the disc once in sequence.  
These operations are allowed only when a picture is  
being displayed manually, and will be cancelled auto-  
matically when a new picture is displayed. The direc-  
DISC - Plays all the files on the disc once in sequence.  
DISC REP - Plays all the files on the disc in sequence  
indefinitely.  
v
tion key is used to select the different rotation modes:  
UP button : Invert/Normal  
Down button v: Mirror/Normal  
Left button <: Turn left  
RANDOM - Plays all the files in the selected folder in  
random order, indefinitely.  
SHUFFLE ON - Plays all the files in the selected folder  
once in random order.  
Right button >: Turn right  
26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
IMAGE ZOOM:  
The AVS550 provides both zoom in/out for DVD, VCD, and  
SVCD and zoom with pan functions for JPEG pictures.  
Press the ZOOM key to select the zoom ratio  
options. When ZOOM mode is on, any picture will  
be displayed at the last ratio selected by the user.  
An OSD message will indicate the current ratio.  
When ZOOM mode is on, << and >> buttons are  
v
used to control the ratio of zoom in/out.  
VOL SETUP:  
With zoom ratios above 100%, use the <, >, , and  
v buttons to pan to different areas of the picture.  
When ZOOM mode is off, each picture is scaled to  
fit the whole screen.  
The Volume Setup button lets you fine tune the individ-  
ual channel levels while the program is playing.  
1. Press the VOL SETUP button on the remote to enter  
v
the menu.  
v
Note: during ZOOM mode, slide show transition and  
image transformation are disabled.  
2. Use the and v buttons to select the channel you  
wish to adjust, then press ENTER. Use the and v  
buttons to adjust the level.  
PROGRAMMED PLAYBACK:  
3. Use the < button to return to the top level.  
With the disc stopped, you may program a playing  
sequence for CD playback.  
4. Press VOL SETUP again to return to normal viewing.  
1. Press the PROGRAM key to enter programming  
mode.  
2. Press the number key corresponding to the first  
track you wish to play. The OSD will display P01:  
(Track #).  
3. Press the number key for the next track, the OSD  
will read P02: (Track #).  
4. Continue until all tracks are programmed, then  
press PLAY or ENTER to begin programmed play. If  
you make a mistake during programming, press  
CLEAR to erase the last entry.  
27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
ADVANCED OPERATION  
Graphic Equalizer:  
3. Select the MP3 track you wish to play, then press  
the A-B/MUSIC button. The OSD will read MP3 IS  
SELECTED.  
4. Select the first photo of the slide show, and press  
PLAY. The show will begin.  
Notes:  
PLAY MODE settings apply to the JPEG files. The  
PLAY MODE for the music files is SINGLE and the  
slide show will end after the music file has played.  
Therefore when making your slide show disc, use a  
sufficiently long MP3 file or combine a number of  
songs into a single file of adequate length.  
The built-in 7-band graphic equalizer lets you fine-tune  
the system frequency response to your room or your  
taste. Use the CLEAR/EQ button to turn on the graphic  
equalizer function.  
You cannot use WAV files as background music  
files for slide shows.  
1. Press once to turn the equalizer on and see the  
currently selected curve.  
Hi-resolution JPEG files may cause occasional inter-  
ruption of the background music. The maximum res-  
olution necessary for TV viewing is 720 x 480.  
2. Use the PLAY button to select Standard (flat),  
Classic, Jazz, Rock, Pop, Ballad, or Personal  
mode. You may also use the CLEAR/EQ button to  
cycle through all of the EQ modes when you are  
using AV1, AV2, or AV3 sources.  
During Music Slide Show mode, image transforma-  
tion, zoom, and thumbnail browsing are not  
allowed.  
If loading a mixed format CD for the first time after  
turning the power on, it may be necessary to play  
the music track briefly to initialize music playback  
before selecting the background music track in  
Music Slide Show mode.  
3. When in personal mode, use the < and > keys to  
v
select the band, and use the and v keys to adjust  
each band to your taste.  
4. Press the EQ button again to show an on-screen  
spectrum level display.  
5. Press again to turn the display off but keep the  
equalizer on.  
Browsing Thumbnails:  
You may browse thumbnails of the files on JPEG File  
discs.  
6. Press again to turn the equalizer off.  
7. When the EQ is turned on again, it will return to the  
last-used response curve.  
Press the MENU button at any time within a folder.  
Nine photo thumbnails will be displayed on the  
screen.  
Music Slide Show:  
Use the number keys 1-9 to select a photo, or use  
the |<< and >>| keys to step to the previous or next  
nine scenes.  
The AVS550 lets you select a background sound track  
for a JPEG slide show. The sound file must be in MP3  
format, and be on the same CD as the picture files.  
Press STOP to exit.  
1. Load the CD containing the files.  
2. Press the SLIDE button. The OSD will display  
MUSIC SLIDE SHOW MODE.  
28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
ADVANCED SETUP  
The Megatheater system will perform well as it comes  
out of the box. However, advanced users will benefit  
from the fine tuning available in the setup menus. In  
most instances, you will leave these in the factory  
default settings. To enter the SETUP Menus:  
16:9 / Widescreen - Use for 16:9 widescreen TVs.  
4:3 format movies will have vertical blank bars on  
each side, 16:9 widescreen video will fill the  
screen, and 2.35:1 theatrical widescreen movies  
will have narrow black bars on the top and bottom  
of the frame.Note: The AVS550 also responds to the  
aspect ratio flag on the DVD. Some DVDs are  
incorrectly flagged, causing improper display even  
when the setting of your equipment is correct. If  
you find that an occasional DVD does not display  
correctly, it is probably the particular DVD and not  
an incorrect setting or malfunction of the AVS550.  
For these few discs, you may need to select a dif-  
ferent, technically “incorrect” aspect ratio. The  
proper picture geometry also depends on any relat-  
ed settings that may be offered on your TV. Some  
TV’s will stretch a 4:3 picture to fill a 16:9 screen  
even when the AVS550 is providing the correct 4:3  
output to the TV.  
Press the SETUP key In DVD STOP mode to dis-  
play the MAIN PAGE of the setup menus.  
v
Use the UP ( ) and Down (v) buttons to move the  
cursor.  
Use the RIGHT (>) or ENTER buttons to enter the  
sub menu.  
Use the LEFT (<) button to return to the upper menu.  
Use the ENTER button to select the function.  
Press the SETUP button at any time to exit the  
Setup menu.  
Note: Disc play will stop when changing settings on  
the Setup menus to prevent unexpected results.  
SCAN:  
VIDEO menu:  
Select Progressive if your TV will support it. Otherwise  
use Interlaced (default).  
Select your TV type, Interlaced or Progressive scan,  
input and output connections.  
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you inadvertently select  
Progressive Scan with an incompatible TV the picture  
may be lost and you will be unable to navigate the  
menus. If this occurs:  
ASPECT RATIO:  
4:3 / Pan and Scan. Use for 4:3 aspect ratio TVs.  
Widescreen movies will fill the screen vertically, but  
the sides of the picture will be cut off.  
1. Press Eject to open the drawer in DVD mode.  
4:3 / LB - Letterbox. Use for 4:3 aspect ratio TVs.  
Widescreen movies will fill the screen from side to  
side, black bars will show top and bottom. This is  
the only way to view the entire picture of a  
widescreen movie on a 4:3 TV set.  
2. Press the SLIDE key to switch between progressive  
and Interlaced until the picture reappears.  
3. Close the drawer.  
29  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
VIDEO OUTPUT:  
AUDIO page:  
This selection switches the CVBS to S-video circuitry  
appropriately for the TV connection used.  
Choose how the AVS500 handles Pro Logic II decod-  
ing and control Dynamic Range compression.  
1. If you do not have an S-video connection between  
the AVS550 and your TV set, choose YCrCb +  
CVBS. Otherwise keep the default YcrCb +  
S-Video setting.  
PRO LOGIC: Sets your preference for Pro Logic  
decoding of DVD’s or external digital (SPDIF) sources.  
AUTO (default) - Material containing a Dolby Digital  
2.0 or 2.1 soundtrack will play back in Stereo  
unless flagged in the bitstream for Dolby Pro Logic.  
2. Press ENTER to confirm your selection, then press  
< to return to the previous menu level.  
ON - Stereo source material will play back in Pro  
Logic mode regardless of how it is flagged.  
AV INPUT 1 and AV INPUT 2:  
OFF - All non-5.1 source material will play back in  
Stereo.  
Note: Dolby Digital 5.1 or DTS soundtracks will take  
precedence over the settings in this menu and play  
back in their proper format. Also, when making a  
stereo recording of a disc source from one of the  
AVS550’s A/ V outputs, set Pro Logic OFF.  
This selection switches the CVBS to S-Video circuitry  
appropriately for the Input connection used.  
1. If your AV1 Source has a CVBS connection only (no  
S-video), select CVBS ONLY. Otherwise keep the  
default setting of S-Video/Both.  
2. Press ENTER to confirm your selection, then press  
< to return to the previous menu level. Repeat for  
AV2 if necessary.  
30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
PRO LOGIC II MODE:  
PRO LOGIC II CONTROL:  
Set the parameters for CUSTOM surround processing.  
Specific adjustments may also be made to parameters  
in Virtual, Music, Movie, and Matrix modes. The avail-  
able adjustments will be shown in Blue. If a menu item  
is grayed out, it cannot be adjusted in the selected  
mode.  
Dimension - Allows you to gradually adjust the sound  
field either towards the front or towards the rear.  
Panorama - Extends the front stereo image so that  
it includes the surround speakers for an exciting  
wraparound effect  
Selects the default mode that will be used when AUTO  
Pro Logic is selected.  
Center Width - Allows variable adjustment of the  
center channel so that it is heard only from the cen-  
ter speaker or in combination with the Left and  
Right speakers.  
PRO LOGIC - Emulates original Dolby Pro Logic  
with 7kHz high frequency filter on rear speakers  
and mono surround processing.  
VIRTUAL - Virtual surround for use without rear  
loudspeakers.  
Surround Filter - Applies a mild high frequency  
shelf filter to the rear surrounds. This results in a  
more natural soundfield on music since ambient  
sounds normally have a high-frequency rolloff  
induced by room reflections and absorption.  
MUSIC - Recommended for Music. When com-  
pared with the MOVIE mode, this mode provides a  
more spacious front image and less high frequency  
content from the rear channels for an effect similar  
to a live concert space.  
Surround Coherence - Keeps left and right sur-  
round speakers coherent for a more focused rear.  
Keep “off” for a more spacious, diffused surround  
effect.  
MOVIE - (Default) The best choice for most content.  
Works well with both music and movies. Full range  
high frequency response from the rear speakers.  
Autobalance circuitry keeps dialogue accurately  
centered.  
MATRIX - Use for monaural source material.  
CUSTOM - User adjustable surround parameters.  
31  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
COMPRESSION:  
er/amplifier system, or sending the output to an older  
TV with a single speaker.  
SPEAKER SETUP:  
Controls the amount of dynamic range compression  
from FULL compression to no compression (OFF). You  
may freely adjust this to your taste. FULL compression  
is useful for low-powered speaker systems, or listening  
at reduced levels at night to avoid disturbing others.  
With FULL compression low-level dialogue becomes  
louder and loud passages are quieter. Turning the  
compression OFF will give the most realistic dynamic  
range, with wide contrast between the loudest scenes  
and the quietest ones. This provides the full impact of  
the soundtrack. The default is OFF.  
DUAL MONO:  
Use this menu to alter the AVS550 for different speaker  
configurations and non-ideal speaker placement.  
DOWNMIX: Selects downmix mode to use if you do  
not have a surround system.  
Lt/Rt applies Pro Logic downmix. This is useful for  
recording a 5.1 source to a videotape for later play-  
back using Dolby Pro Logic.  
STEREO applies a standard stereo downmix appro-  
priate for use with a conventional stereo speaker  
system or headphones.  
The normal setting is STEREO.  
L-MONO - sends only the left channel signal to both  
Left and Right output channels.  
OFF is the default used with a surround speaker  
system.  
R-MONO - sends only the right channel output to both  
channels. These two selections are useful for some  
VCDs which may have one language on each channel  
in Mono. MIX-MONO - mixes both left and right chan-  
nels, sending the resulting mono mix to both output  
channels. Use this when you are using a mono speak-  
CENTER: Select ON if you have a center channel  
speaker (default).  
REAR: Select ON if you have rear channel surround  
speakers (default).  
32  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SUBWOOFER: Set ON if you have a separate sub-  
woofer, or powered speaker system that does not have  
it’s own bass management/crossover circuitry.  
they should be adjusted to play at the same volume.  
The buttons on the number keypad correspond to the  
speakers corresponding to their positions in the pic-  
ture on the right half of the TV screen.  
CENTER DELAY: If your center channel speaker is the  
same distance or further away than your main speak-  
ers set this to 0 mS. If the center channel is closer to  
the listener than the main speakers, add 1 mS for each  
foot closer to the listener.  
1 - Left Front  
2 - Center  
3 - Right Front  
6 - Subwoofer  
7 - Left Surround  
9 - Right Surround  
REAR DELAY: If the rear (surround) channels are clos-  
er to the listener than the front channels are, select  
1ms for each foot closer the surround channels are  
than the main Left and Right speakers. If the sur-  
rounds are the same distance as, or farther away than,  
the front speakers set this to 0mS.  
Press the button corresponding to the speaker requir-  
ing adjustment. The Tone will stay on this speaker, use  
the volume +/- buttons to adjust the volume level.  
Select the next channel to adjust and repeat the  
process. Continue until all of the channels play at the  
same apparent volume level. Press ) to exit adjustment  
mode. Hint: The adjustment may be made by ear:  
however, use of a sound level meter such as Radio  
Shack #330-2050 may make the adjustment easier  
and more accurate.  
TEST TONE:  
1
2
3
6
9
7
Use this after you have defined the speaker layout.  
When you select ON, a short burst of pink noise will be  
sent to each channel in turn. When the system is bal-  
anced, each speaker will play at the same apparent  
level when heard at the primary listening position. After  
selecting ON, let the tone cycle through all of the  
channels at least once. If any of the channels appear  
louder or softer than the main left and right channels,  
33  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
GENERAL  
AUDIO: Selects the priority language (when available)  
for the disc audio track. You may choose English  
(default), French, Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese.  
SUBTITLE: Selects the priority language for subtitles  
when supported by the disc.  
DISC MENU: Selects the priority language of the disc  
menus when supported by the disc.  
LOCALE: Selects between the different parental lock  
standards of USA (default), China, France, Hong  
Kong, Japan, Taiwan, and Great Britain.  
PARENTAL: You may select a specific rating level  
which will require a password to view. The default is No  
Parental, which will play all DVDs regardless of rating.  
ANGLE MARK: With Angle Mark on, the OSD will dis-  
play the number indicating the angle selected when  
playing a DVD with multiple camera angles.  
CAPTIONS: When OFF, Subtitles are off by default and  
may be selected using the remote control. When ON,  
Subtitles are normally on, but may be turned off using  
the remote.  
SCREEN SAVER: The AVS550 automatically activates a  
“bouncing ball” screen saver after a few minutes of  
inactivity. This will prevent burn-in of an image to a  
CRT-based, LCD, or Plasma TV. DLP based TV’s are  
more resistant to burn-in and do not normally require  
the screen saver. Although we do not recommend it,  
you may turn the “bouncing ball” screen saver off. If  
you decide to defeat the Screen Saver, do not leave  
the player on for an extended time on any paused  
scene, photo, or the AVS550’s logo screen.  
Select language preferences, TV standards, file navi-  
gation style and parental controls.  
TV TYPE: Set to match your TV. In the USA, the TV  
standard is NTSC (default).  
34  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SMART NAVI:  
WITH MENU - The contents of the disc are displayed  
in the folder and file hierarchy as burned on the CD.  
NO MENU - All of the files are at shown at the same  
level.  
PARENTAL: You may select a specific rating level  
which will require a password to view. The default is  
No Parental, which will play all DVDs regardless of rat-  
ing.  
PASSWORD: Use to set your own personal password  
for the parental settings. The default password is 3308.  
DEFAULTS: Restores the original factory settings.  
35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SPECIFICATIONS  
GENERAL  
Supply Voltage: 100V~240V 50/ 60HZ  
Power Consumption: 25W  
Dimensions: 16 1/4" x 13-1/2" x 3 1/8" (410mm X 345mm X 80mm)  
Weight: 11lb/5KG (13-lbs. shipping Weight.)  
Operating Temperature: 5-40° C  
Operational relative humidity: 15-75%  
DVD  
Compatible with: DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, SVCD, VCD1.0/1.1/2.0, CDDA, HDCD, MP3, CD-G,  
KODAK PICTURE CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW  
Composite input: CVBS 1.0vp-p 75 Ohms  
Composite output: CVBS 1.0vp-p 75 Ohms  
S-Video Y, C  
Y = 1.0vp-p 75 Ohms  
C = 0.286vp-p/NTSC (0.3vp-p/PAL) 75 Ohms  
FM TUNER  
Frequency Range: 87.5-108MHz  
Usable Sensitivity: 1.3 uV/13.2dBf  
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >70dB (mono), >68dB (stereo)  
Distortion: 0.2% (mono), 0.3% (stereo)  
Stereo Separation: 40dB @ 1kHz  
Selectivity: 400kHz, 70dB  
Image Rejection: 80dB  
IF Rejection: 90dB  
AM TUNER  
Frequency Range: 520kHz-1710kHz  
Signal-to-noise Ratio: 45dB  
Distortion: 0.8% (1kHz, 50% Modulation)  
Selectivity: 30dB at 10kHz  
AUDIO  
Audio Input: 0.5V - 2V  
Audio Output: 0.5V - 2V  
5.1 Channel Output: 1.0 V. p-p  
Signal to Noise: >104dB ref. full output.  
Dynamic Range: >100dB  
Note: Cambridge SoundWorks subscribes to a policy of continuous improvement. As a result specifications and  
design may be subject to change without prior notice.  
36  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
LIMITED WARRANTY  
Cambridge SoundWorks, a Creative company, warrants the following Cambridge  
SoundWorks products for the periods indicated:  
HOW YOU CAN GET SERVICE  
1. If you feel your unit needs service, contact Cambridge SoundWorks Return  
Authorization by calling toll-free (800) 367-4434. If we agree service is  
required, we will provide you with a Return Authorization number. Please do not  
return your unit to the factory prior to obtaining a Return Authorization.  
Loudspeakers for interior use without internal active amplifiers:  
10 year limited parts and labor warranty from the product’s Date Of Purchase  
(DOP) from an authorized Cambridge SoundWorks retailer.  
Subwoofers for interior use:  
2. You must pay any shipping charges to Cambridge SoundWorks. For repairs  
that are covered by this limited warranty, Cambridge SoundWorks will pay the  
return shipping charges to any destination within the fifty United States.  
10 year parts and labor on speaker elements, passive circuitry and cabinet  
workmanship from DOP. 2-year limited parts and labor warranty on the active  
amplifier circuitry from DOP.  
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES  
MegaWorks speaker systems for interior use:  
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a  
particular purpose, are limited in duration to the length of this warranty.  
2-year limited parts and labor warranty from DOP.  
MegaTheater AVS and other electronic source units for interior use:  
1-year limited parts and labor warranty from DOP.  
EXCLUSION OF DAMAGES  
Cambridge SoundWorks, USA’s liability for any defective product is limited to  
repair or replacement of the product at Cambridge SoundWorks, USA’s option.  
Cambridge SoundWorks, USA shall not be liable for damage to other products  
caused by any defects in Cambridge SoundWorks product, damages based upon  
or loss of use of the product, or any other damages, whether incidental, conse-  
quential, or otherwise.  
WHAT IS COVERED AND WHAT IS NOT COVERED  
Except as specified below, this limited warranty covers parts and labor to correct  
all defects in materials and workmanship. The following are not covered by the  
warranty:  
1. Damage, deterioration, malfunction or failure to meet performance specifica-  
tions resulting from:  
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THE WARRANTY  
a. Accident, acts of nature, misuse, abuse, neglect or product modification.  
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or  
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so  
the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.  
b. Improper installation, removal or maintenance, or failure to follow instructions  
supplied with the product.  
c. Repair or attempted repair by anyone not authorized by Cambridge  
SoundWorks to repair the product.  
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other  
rights that vary from state to state.  
d. Any shipment of the product (claims must be presented to the carrier).  
e. Any cause other than a product defect.  
This warranty is enforceable only inside the U.S.A., its possessions or territories.  
2. Cleaning, initial setup, checkups with no defects found, or charges incurred for  
installation, removal or reinstallation of the product.  
Cambridge SoundWorks, Inc.  
26 Dartmouth Street  
Westwood, MA 02090  
(800) FOR-HIFI  
3. Any product on which any serial number has been defaced, modified, or  
removed.  
4. Batteries.  
5. Accessories, including but not limited to batteries, cables, mounting hardware  
and brackets, cleaning accessories, antenna and detachable power cords.  
(800) 367-4434  
Fax: 978-475-7219  
6. Any product purchased outside the U.S.A., its possessions or territories.  
WHO MAY ENFORCE THE WARRANTY  
This limited warranty may only be enforced by the original purchaser.  
WHAT CAMBRIDGE SOUNDWORKS, USA WILL PAY FOR  
We will pay for all labor and material expenses for items covered by the limited  
warranty. Payment of shipping charges is discussed in the next section of this  
limited warranty.  
37  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
38  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CAMBRIDGE SOUNDWORKS, INC.  
26 Dartmouth Street, Westwood, MA 02090  
Telephone: 1-800-367-4434  
Fax: 1-978-475-7219  
A
Company  
P81-2060  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Black Box Modem 3600 User Manual
Blue Coat Systems Time Clock Proxy SG User Manual
Bookendz Laptop Docking Station BKZBEMBA11 User Manual
Boss Audio Systems Car Amplifier CH650 User Manual
Briggs Stratton Lawn Mower S175X User Manual
Canon Camera Lens DC52D User Manual
Canon Digital Camera SX20 IS User Manual
Carrier Gas Heater 48SX024 060 User Manual
Char Broil Kitchen Grill 4654870 User Manual
Chicago Electric Welder 68886 User Manual