Acurus Muse Instructions for use

MUSE
Immersive Pre-Amp Processor
Operating Manual and Installer Guide
All models
Version 2.2
(Revision 20190227)

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Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Audio,
Dolby Digital Plus, Pro Logic and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
For DTS patents, see http://patents.dts.com

CAUTION:
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK!
DO NOT OPEN!
1. Read Instructions – All safety and operating instructions should be
read before operating the device.
2. Retain Instructions –The safety and operating instructions should be
retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings –All warnings on the device and in the operating
instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow instructions – All operating and safety instructions should
be followed.
5. Attachments – Do not use attachments not recommended by the
product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.
6. Water and Moisture – Do not use this product near water (for
example, near abath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub;
in awet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like).
7. Ventilation –Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for
ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to
protect it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked
or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the
product on abed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product
should not be placed in abuilt-in installation such as a bookcase
or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s
instructions have been adhered to.
8. Heat –This product should be situated away from heat sources
such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products that
produce heat.
9. Power Sources – This product should be operated only from the
type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not
sure of the type of power supply in your home, consult with your
product dealer or the local power company. For products intended
to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the
operating instructions.
10. Grounding –This product is equipped with athree-wire grounding-
type plug, aplug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only
fit into agrounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you
are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of
the grounding-type plug.
11. Power Cord Protection – Power supply cords should be routed
so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items
placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords
at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit
from the product.
12. Overloading – Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or
integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire
or electrical shock.
13. Lightning and Periods of Non-Use – For added protection for this
product during alightning storm, or when it is left unattended and
unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and
disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to
the product due to lightning and powerline surges.
14. Cleaning – Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do
not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.
15. Object and Liquid Entry – Never push objects of any kind into this
product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points
or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill
liquid of any kind on the product.
16. Damage Requiring Service – Unplug this product from the wall outlet
and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:
a) When the power supply cord or plug is damaged,
b) If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product,
c) If the product has been exposed to rain or water,
d) If the product does not operate normally by following the operating
instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the
operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may
result in damage and often will require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the product to its normal operation,
e) If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way, or
f) When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this
indicates a need for service.
17. Replacement Parts – When replacement parts are required, be sure
the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the
manufacturer or that have the same characteristics as the original
parts. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or
other hazards.
18. Safety Check – Upon completion of any service or repairs to this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to
determine that the product is in proper operating condition.
19. Servicing – Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening
or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other
hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. If this unit is
purchased outside of the U.S., please contact your local dealer or
distributor for service center information. If purchased inside the U.S.
and dealer service is not available, contact Acurus Customer Service
for a return authorization (RA) number before shipping. For further
service information, contact:
ACURUS CUSTOMER SERVICE
phone: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
5225 EXPLORATION DRIVE
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46241
CAUTION! To reduce the risk of electric shock and fire, do not remove the cover or back plate of the device
enclosure. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to an Acurus authorized service center.
CAUTION! The international symbol of alightning bolt inside a triangle is intended to alert the user to
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the device enclosure. The international symbol of an exclamation
point inside a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating, maintenance and
servicing information in the manual accompanying the device.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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contents
2
Important Safety Instructions
3
Contents
5
Congratulations
Unpacking
Outer and inner Carton
Package Contents
Retain your Packaging
Register your Product
Record your Unit information
6
MUSE Feature Overview
Front Panel
Rear Panel
IR Remote Control
12
MUSE Installation
13
System Connection Guide
Connecting Audio Source Inputs
Connecting Pre-amp Outputs
Trigger In and Out Control
USB Power
Control Networks
Mains (AC) Power
14
Basic Operation
Initialization
Power on
Input Selection
Volume Adjustment
15
User Interface
Main
Input Select
Network Connect
Sound Modes
On the Fly Adjustments
23
Initial Setup
Loudspeaker Settings
Sound Mode Settings
HDMI Settings
Dolby Settings
DTS Settings
Level Settings
Trigger Settings
Front Panel Settings
36
RS-232 and Ethernet Control
RS-232
Command Sequencing
RS-232/IP Command Tables
Web-based Control
Example XML table
44
Problem Resolution
Troubleshooting Table
Obtaining Additional Help
46
Product Specifications
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contents
48
Mechanical (MUSE)
50
About Acurus and Indy Audio Labs
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50
Warranty

congratulations
Congratulations on your purchase of an Acurus MUSE pre-
amp processor. The Acurus MUSE is a state-of-the-art
component featuring high-end audio performance combined
with unprecedented control, connectivity and upgradeability.
Years of dedicated research, extensive testing, and
engineering refinement went into the creation of this
product.
Since 1993, Acurus has been delivering high-value, high-
performance electronics. Just like the first Acurus products
to roll off the assembly line more than 20 years ago, the
MUSE was designed, hand-assembled and tested with pride
by engineers, technicians and skilled assemblers in the
United States of America. You should expect years of
trouble-free operation from your product investment.
Acurus components offer unparalleled performance and
control flexibility for the most discriminating listener. Your
MUSE pre-amp processor incorporates advanced design
and construction in a superbly crafted pre-amplifier.
unpacking
Outer and Inner Carton
Using a sharp object such as a knife or scissors, carefully
open the outer single-walled (brown) shipping carton and
inner double-walled (white) packaging cartons along their
top seams.
The MUSE unit is wrapped in a protective poly bag and
sandwiched between 100% recycled foam bumpers.
Carefully lift the unit out of the box with the foam bumpers
attached.
Package Contents
Inside the box you should find the following:
1. Acurus MUSE
2. Foam Bumpers (2)
3. IR Remote Control
4. Hard Rubber Feet (4)
5. AC Power Cord
6. User Guide
7. Warranty Card
In the unlikely event of any of the above items missing,
immediately contact your dealer or Acurus Customer
Service:
ACURUS CUSTOMER SERVICE
phone: [phone]
email: [email protected]
5225 EXPLORATION DRIVE
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46241
Retain your Packaging
We highly recommend retaining your box and packaging
materials as these are the best way to protect your pre-amp
processor in transit. Should warranty service be required,
you MUST either use your original packaging materials or
request new packaging from Acurus Customer Service (for a
nominal fee).
Register your Product
In order to validate your purchase and qualify for the full five
(5) year parts and labor manufacturer’s warranty on your
new Acurus product, you must have purchased it from an
authorized Acurus retailer AND you must return the included
warranty card completely filled out within 30 days of
purchase.
Record your Unit Information
For future reference, we recommend recording your product
information here:
Model No. __________________________________________
Serial No. __________________________________________
Date of Purchase ____________________________________
Date Registered _____________________________________
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feature overview
Your MUSE pre-amp processor has been engineered to
provide years of trouble-free enjoyment when installed and
used according to this guide. This section will help you
become familiar with the most important features of the
MUSE component.
Front Panel
The front-panel of The MUSE was designed with beauty,
simplicity and control confidence as the primary goals.
Touch-sensitive LCD Screen: The MUSE features a touch-
sensitive screen for direct control and status monitoring on
the unit. The full-color, high-contrast TFT screen features
familiar mobile-device-like icons.
Power on/Standby button: The left side of the front panel
features a momentary-contact, machined-Aluminum power
button for switching the unit from standby to power on mode.
The light ring surrounding the power button illuminates red in
standby mode and blue in normal operation.
IR Sensor window: A multi-function infra-red (IR) and
ambient light sensor window is located on the right side of
the front panel, to the right of the touch screen. This
sophisticated sensor receives IR commands and senses
changes in ambient lighting for automatically controlling LCD
backlight brightness.
Side Panels
The left and right side panels of the Acurus MUSE include
ventilation slots to help regulate the internal temperature of
the unit even when rack-mounted.
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Touch-sensitive LCD Screen
Power on/Standby Button
IR Sensor Window
6

Rear Panel
The rear panel of the Acurus MUSE is designed for ease of
connection and expandability. A white powder coat finish
makes connector labels easy to see in dimly lit rack mounting
situations.
HDMI Inputs (i1 – i7): At the top back left of the unit are
seven sets of HDMI 2.0 inputs for connecting modern source
devices such as Blue-Ray players, Set Top Boxes,
Streaming media adaptors and any other HDMI-compliant
devices. All inputs are compliant with HDCP 2.2
requirements for copy-protected 4K media.
HDMI Outputs (1 – 2): At the top back right of the unit are
two sets of HDMI 2.0 outputs for connecting up to two HDMI
sink devices such as Flat Panel TVs, Projectors or HDMI
switchers. Both HDMI outputs carry the same source signal.
Output 2 is compliant with the newly released HDCP 2.2
requirements for copy-protected 4K media. Output 1 is
HDMI version 1.4 and should only be used as an
independent monitor output for troubleshooting.
Optical Audio Inputs (i9 – i10): The MUSE includes two
optical digital audio inputs for connecting TOSLink audio
sources such as TVs, Gaming systems, CD players or
streaming media sources from companies such as Amazon,
Google or Roku. These inputs are designed to handle hi-res
audio sources (up to 192kHz/24bit).
Coax Digital Audio Inputs (i11–i12): The MUSE includes two
coax digital audio inputs for connecting SPDIF audio sources
such as TVs, Gaming systems, CD players or other
streaming media sources. These inputs handle multichannel
and hi-res audio sources (up to 192kHz/24bit).
Unbalanced (RCA) analog inputs (i13 –i14): To the right of
the coax digital inputs are two pairs of unbalanced (RCA)
inputs (i13–i14). These inputs accept any line-level stereo
analog source audio inputs such as optical disc players,
streaming players or computer sound cards.
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XLR (balanced) outputs (12x)
Optical inputs (2x)
Coax (digital) audio inputs (2x)
2-channel inputs (2x)
Downmix outputs (2x)
HDMI inputs (7x)
HDMI outputs

Rear Panel
The rear panel of the Acurus MUSE is designed for ease of
connection and expandability. A white powder coat finish
makes connector labels easy to see in dimly lit rack mounting
situations.
USB Power Outlets A, B: Two 5Vdc, .5A USB power outlets
are placed in the left rear panel to provide a convenient
method to power streaming media sources connected to the
ACT from companies such as Amazon, Google or Roku.
IR (Infra-red) and 12V Trigger Inputs: To the right of the
digital audio inputs are dual 1/8” jacks for accepting an
external Ir receiver (top) and a trigger input cable from an
external trigger out source (bottom). Pinout for the 12V
trigger input is shown below the photo:
12V Trigger Outputs (t1 – t2): To the right of the Ir and
Trigger INPUTS are two independent 12V trigger OUTPUTS.
These trigger outputs are enabled by default to go active
(high) along with MUSE power on. The delay times on these
trigger outputs can be individually adjusted to power on
external devices such as power amplifiers in a sequence
rather than all-at-once. Pinout is same as above for the
trigger input.
RS-232, USB and Ethernet Ports: One RS-232 port (main)
and an Ethernet Port are provided to enable control of the
MUSE from a computer or 3rd party automation control
system. The Ethernet port also provides the main networking
connection and allows for Web control via the built-in web
server in the MUSE. A small window to the lower left of the
Ethernet port illuminates green when an active network
connection is established. Both a mini USB jack and a large
(“A”-type) USB jack are included for downloading firmware
upgrades via a computer or a USB memory stick,
respectively.
RS-232 AUX Port (analog audio only): This port is a
balanced analog audio output with up to four audio outputs
as determined by the selected loudspeaker layout. A DB-9
to XLR breakout Tetra cable is available from Acurus (order
part number: Tetra).
12V trigger 3.5mm stereo plug pinout diagram:
Sleeve (1) = Ground
Ring (2) = Ground
Tip (3) = Trigger Voltage
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RS-232 Control Port (Main)
IR Sensor Input
12V trigger outputs (2x)
Balanced AUX Audio out
USB Power (2x) USB programming port
Ethernet control port
12V trigger input
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Master Power Switch: To the back right of the MUSE is a
combined master power on/off switch, main AC in fuse
drawer, and AC mains inlet. The master power switch in
the off position puts the MUSE in a state of zero current
draw, however, in most installations, this power switch will
remain in the on position and the power on/standby control
on the front panel or through network control should be
used. The master power switch can be used to perform a
system restart. Note that settings are maintained in non-
volatile memory even with the master power switch off.
Note also that a system restart can be performed through
the settings menu without using the Master Power Switch.
Mains fuse drawer: Below the master power switch is the
mains fuse drawer. Press the tabs on the sides of the
drawer to open it and access the fuse(s) inside.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Replace the mains fuse with the
exact fuse rating called out on the product label
located on the bottom of the MUSE housing.
Main AC cord inlet: Below the fuse drawer is the main AC
cord inlet. Ensure the AC cord is inserted securely in this
socket.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Use only the AC cord included
with the MUSE and do not tamper with or alter the
ground plug.
Fuse drawer
Master Power Switch
Power cord connection

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IR Remote Control
The MUSE includes an IR remote control for everyday
operation of the unit. In line-of-sight installations (where
the MUSE front panel is visible from the user’s seated
position) the IR remote can simply be aimed towards the
MUSE. In installations where the MUSE is located
remotely from the user, an optional IR remote sensor
(available from Acurus) can be connected to the rear of
the MUSE and brought out near the end user. Alternately,
the remote can serve as a master remote for programming
another learning IR device.
IR Buttons
The buttons on the MUSE remote are chosen to minimize
remote complexity and to bring out the most commonly
used functions. These buttons are arranged in order to
simplify everyday use and to facilitate operation in a dimly
lit environment.
power: toggles the MUSE between on and standby.
mute: silences sound output. The front panel indication of
volume changes from white to red font when in mute.
vol: increases or decreases volume level
auto: turns on sound mode which fills all room
loudspeakers for any input format
direct: turns on sound mode in which only the loudspeaker
channels present in the input signal format are utilized
dolby:turns on sound mode in which dolby upmixing fills
all loudspeaker channels preset regardless of input signal
format
neural: turns on sound mode in which DTS Neural
upmixing fills all loudspeaker channels preset regardless
of input signal format
night: enables night mode which limits dynamics thus
preventing disturbing others
analog: selects analog inputs i13 and i14. Press again to
select next analog input
digital: selects digital inputs i9 through i12. Press again to
select next digital input
HDMI buttons i1 through i8: selects HDMI input sources
directly

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Installation advise
The MUSE was designed for both rack-mount and shelf-
mount applications. The MUSE includes feet for shelf
placement. These feet are removable in order to attach
ears for rack mounting. This section provides instructions
for proper installation and setup.
General Guidelines
When planning an MUSE installation, keep the following
guidelines in mind:
It is ALWAYS advisable to:
1. Provide ample air space to the sides and rear of the
unit (1-2 inches is the minimum preferred). It is not
necessary to provide additional space above or below
the unit.
2. Avoid obstructing air flow through the side-facing
ventilation slits on the left and right sides of the MUSE
unit.
3. Locate the unit near an AC power outlet or power
conditioner and avoid using extension cords or power
strips.
4. Locate the pre-amp processor as close as possible to
audio source units such as optical disc players, set
top boxes or music servers.
5. Whenever possible, plug audio source units into the
same power outlet or power conditioner as the MUSE.
6. Use as short length wire leads as practical, especially
on the pre-amp processor inputs.
It is NEVER advisable to:
1. Enclose the unit in a rack or cabinet without air flow or
adequate ventilation, particularly across the air vents
along each side of the unit.
2. Place the unit near a source of moisture such as a
window or a live plant.
3. Place the pre-amp processor on a carpeted surface.
4. Remove the safety ground connector from the AC
mains cord.
Shelf Mounting
The MUSE pre-amp processor can simply rest on a flat
surface using the 4 rubber feet and mounting screws
supplied with the unit.
Equipment Rack Mounting
The MUSE pre-amp processor can easily be configured
for rack mounting by removing the 4 rubber feet and using
an Acurus (part number ARM-3) rack mount kit available
from your authorized Acurus dealer.
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system connections
The MUSE pre-amp processor is designed for simple,
reliable connections in a variety of system configurations.
Following the guidelines below will ensure optimal
performance from your MUSE pre-amp processor.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Make system connections
with AC power off.
HDMI Audio/Video Source Inputs
You may connect up to seven HDMI source devices to the
MUSE HDMI inputs i1 – i7. All HDMI inputs support 4K HDR
and HDCP2.2 provided that high quality HDMI cables are
used. Avoid using excessively long cables (longer than 3
meters), coiling or bunching up of cables.
HDMI Display Output
Connect the video display (TV or projector) to output 2
which is the full HDMI 2.0b output. Use of output 1 should
generally be avoided as the video system is limited to HDMI
1.4 on this output. Be sure to use high-speed HDMI cabling
to avoid dropouts and loss of audio or video. For runs longer
than around 3 meters, use of DPL-certified active optical
HDMI cable is highly recommended.
Coax Digital Audio Source Inputs
Use high quality RCA interconnects to connect up to two
coax digital audio source devices to MUSE inputs i11– I12.
Avoid coiling or bunching up of cables. Be sure RCA cables
are fully inserted into MUSE input jacks in order to avoid
dropouts or other digital signal integrity problems.
Optical Digital Audio Source Inputs
Use high quality Toslink optical interconnects to connect up
to two optical digital audio source devices to MUSE inputs i9
– i10. To prevent signal integrity problems or permanent
damage to optical cables, avoid tight turns or bundling.
Stereo (RCA) Audio Source Inputs
Use high quality RCA interconnects to connect up to two
analog audio source devices to MUSE stereo audio inputs
i13 – i14. Avoid coiling or bunching up of cables. Be sure
RCA cables are fully inserted into MUSE input jacks in order
to avoid hum and other analog signal integrity problems.
Balanced XLR Audio Pre-amp Outputs
Use high quality XLR interconnects to connect to external
power amplifiers, subwoofers and/or powered loudspeakers.
XLR to RCA adaptors may be used with pin2 hot and pin 1
signal ground. Pin 3 may be shorted to pin 1 or left open.
Balanced XLR AUX Outputs
Use the Acurus-sourced DB-9 to XLR (x4) Tetra cable to
connect to power amplifiers, subwoofers and/or powered
loudspeakers in layouts requiring more than the built-in 12
chassis mounted XLR outputs.
Coax Digital Audio Downmix Output
Use high quality RCA interconnects to connect the MUSE
coax digital downmix output to an external zone amplifier or
LFE seat vibration unit. Be sure RCA cables are fully
inserted into MUSE input jacks in order to avoid dropouts or
other digital signal integrity problems.
Optical Digital Audio Downmix Output
Use high quality Toslink optical interconnects to connect the
MUSE coax digital downmix output to an external zone
amplifier or LFE seat vibration unit. To prevent signal
integrity problems or permanent damage to optical cables,
avoid tight turns or bundling.
Trigger In and Out Control
To enable automatic power on/standby control of the MUSE
from an external control system or power conditioner,
connect a trigger cable from the trigger out of the controlling
device to the 3.5mm 12V trigger input on the MUSE. The
MUSE trigger input jack is wired with its tip active and will
accept either a stereo or mono plug.
Similarly, to enable the MUSE to automatically control
external power amplifiers and/or send a power signal to an
external control system, connect one of the two trigger
outputs t1 – t2 to the device to be controlled via a trigger
cable for each slave device.
USB Power
Connect up to two USB-powered streaming media devices
or active HDMI cables to this pair of 5V USB power outputs.
Control Networks
Ethernet: In order to take advantage of Acurus Enhanced
Ethernet Control (E2C), connect the Ethernet port to a
10/100 or faster home network router or switch port via a
standard CAT 5e or newer Ethernet cable. The network
activity indicators near the Ethernet jack illuminates green
when the MUSE is powered on and an active network
connection is detected.
This port may also be directly connected to a system
controller utilizing Ethernet command protocols (see section
“Ethernet Command Protocol”.
RS-232: Connect the RS-232 port labelled “main” to a
system controller or computer using a 9-pin RS-232 serial
cable for full bi-directional control and monitoring of the unit.
Mains (AC) Power
The MUSE is equipped with a high-quality 14 gauge, 3-
conductor power cord. Plug this cord into the back of the
pre-amp processor and then into a nearby AC outlet. Avoid
using any extension cords or plugging into other
components with rear-panel switched outlets.
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basic operation
This section describes basic operation of the MUSE out-of-
the-box using the front panel features.
AC Power on and bootup
Ensure the MUSE rear panel power switch is set to on. With AC
power applied, the MUSE boots up and initializes. Allow 2 minutes
for initial bootup from full power off. Once the MUSE boots up,
standby mode can be used to turn the unit on and off instead of
booting up from a full power down.
Standby Mode
At the end of the bootup process, the MUSE power light blinks and
the LCD screen goes dark indicating that bootup is complete and
the unit is ready to operate.
Power On
Press the power button on the left side of the front panel. The
button illuminates blue and the LCD screen illuminates. With no
input signal present, the Loudspeaker Format Indicator on the right
side of the LCD display appears as a blank white circle.
Select Input
Select the input to be played on the upper left of the touch screen.
Adjust Volume
Adjust volume using the up/down buttons on the right side of the
LCD touch panel. With an active input stream, the LCD display will
show the incoming signal format and the active speakers playing.
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Input Selector Volume Indicator
Incoming Signal
Format, Channel Count
and Sample Rate Indicators
Video Resolution
Indicator
Sound Mode
Selector
main user interface
Main
The main screen of the MUSE provides complete system
status and incoming stream information in one clear, concise
view..
Input Selector: Touch this button to select an input to the
MUSE. (see page 17)
Video Resolution Indicator: This shows the video resolution
incoming on the selected HDMI input if inputs i1-i7 are selected
and a video signal is present. Resolutions from 480i through
2160p are supported.
Sound Mode Selector: This shows the currently selected sound
processing mode. Touch to change the mode. (see page 18)
Settings Page Button: Touch the settings button at the lower
left of the front panel display to access and adjust MUSE
settings and preferences. Speaker layout and settings, Dolby,
DTS and other global system preferences are setup here. (see
page 21)
Incoming Signal Format Indicator: The MUSE main screen
shows input signal information above the volume number. The
color graphics make encoding and decoding technologies very
clear and easy-to-read.
Incoming Channel Count and Sample Rate:The MUSE shows
the incoming signal channel count (from 1.0 to 15.1) and
decoded sample rate (from 32kHz to 192kHz) on the main
page in the top middle (above the volume number).
Volume Indicator: A scale 1-99 volume indicator displays
present system volume. When muted, the volume indicator
switches from white to red in color.
HDR Format Indicator: : This shows the HDR video type
incoming on the selected HDMI input if inputs i1-i7 are selected
and an HDR video signal is present. Types including HDR10,
HLG and Dolby Vision are supported.
HDR Format Indicator
Settings Page Button

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Loudspeaker
Format
Indicator
Main (Cont’d)
Output Processing Indicator: This indicator shows the
processing applied (if any) to the input signal. Processing
technologies (also referred to as “post-processing”) can include
“direct” as well as various other up-mixing technologies from
Dolby and DTS. Both Sound Mode and Loudspeaker layout
impact the output processing applied.
Loudspeaker Format Indicator: To the far right in the main
screen is the signal format indicator. A quick glance shows the
active (sound-producing) loudspeakers in the room resulting
from a combination of the input signal format, the sound mode,
the loudspeaker layout and any additional output processing
being applied. The number below the diagram indicates the
numeric description of the resulting processed signal format.
Note that this format is often not the same as the input signal
format, particularly if up-mixing or down-mixing is being
performed.
Network Indicator/Settings Button (lower right): This button
serves to bring up the Network Quick-connect screen for
quickly retrieving the IP address of the MUSE. It also indicates
network status by illuminating bright green with an active
Ethernet connection and dimmed out with no connection
detected. (see page 17)
Volume Up Button (upper right): Touch this button to increase
the audio volume.
Volume Down Button (lower right): Touch this button to
decrease the audio volume.
Network Indicator
Output
Processing
Indicator
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Volume Down Button
Volume Up Button

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HDMI Inputs i1 –i7
Optical inputs
i9 -i10
Analog Inputs i13 –i14
Input Selection
Touching the input button brings up the input selection page.
Here you can select from HDMI sources, digital audio sources
and analog input sources.
Coax digital
inputs i11 -i12
Network Quick-Connect
Touching the green network button on input lower right of the
main page brings up the current IP address of the MUSE. This
address can be used for remote control and setup. (see page
38)
MUSE IP address

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Sound Mode
Touching the Sound Mode Selector brings up the input
selection page. Here you can control how the MUSE
processes the source signal.
Auto: This is the default processing mode. In auto mode, the
MUSE automatically decodes, up-mixes or down-mixes the
source signal* according to the source signal type and the
current loudspeaker layout. The result is that native dolby and
dts signals are decoded natively and all loudspeakers in the
room are utilized regardless of input signal format changes.
Two-channel analog sources are up-mixed according to the
room layout. Multi-channel and/or object-based digital signals
from HDMI or other digital inputs are up-mixed or down-mixed
according to the loudspeaker layout.
Direct: This processing mode is available for any input signal
source. For most loudspeaker layouts equal to or larger than
5.1, direct mode reproduces audio or video content utilizing the
same speaker layout as the source signal was originally
recorded in. Analog signals are passed through from any 2-
channel input without any subsequent processing. Digital multi-
channel signals (such as 5.1 or 7.1) are passed through to the
appropriate loudspeakers according to the source format. Note
that loudspeakers not used in the source signal format (for
example, overhead loudspeakers in a 7.1 movie) will not
playback. Note also that missing loudspeaker signals due to
room layout limitations (for example, rear surround speakers in
a 7.1 movie being played in a 5.1 speaker layout) will not
playback.
Stereo: This mode is available for any input signal source.
Stereo allows the MUSE to play audio or video media in a
basic left-right (2-channel stereo) format. Multi-channel audio
is automatically down-mixed to 2-channels. Any other
loudspeakers present in the room other than the main left and
right speakers are not driven.
analog: This mode is available for any analog stereo (2-
channel) input. Analog mode bypasses any digital processing
for utilizing the MUSE as a pure 2-channel pre-amplifier. This
mode is ideal for 2-channel or multi-channel critical listening
with large, high-performance loudspeakers.
party: This mode is available for all inputs. Party is a variation
of auto mode in which any signal is up-mixed or down-mixed to
2.1 channels. The resulting left and right loudspeaker signals
are then routed to all available left and right loudspeakers
including surrounds and overhead speakers. This mode is
ideal for providing party music to fill a room with sound.
night: This mode available for all inputs. Night is a variation of
auto mode in which dynamic compression is applied to the
signal to reduce its loudness. In addition, the subwoofer signal
is automatically attenuated. The result is an overall quieter
signal for listening at night without disturbing other members of
the household.
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Sound Mode (cont’d)
dts:This sound mode is available for any inputs. dts mode
automatically utilizes the best native dts decoding method for
any incoming dts signal and utilizes dts Neural:X surround up-
mixing to fill all available loudspeakers in the room, including
overhead speakers, if present. PCM signals are also up-mixed
with Neural:X if selected in Sound Mode Preferences (see
settings page).
dolby:This mode is available for any inputs. Dolby mode
automatically utilizes the best native Dolby decoding method
for any incoming Dolby signal and utilizes Dolby Surround up-
mixing to fill all available loudspeakers in the room, including
overhead speakers, if present. PCM signals are upmixed
using Dolby Surround Up-mixer by default unless changed in
Sound Mode Preferences (see settings page).
stereo: This mode is available for all inputs. Stereo mode
automatically limits playback to the main left and right
loudspeakers in the room. This mode automatically down-
mixes multi-channel signals to 2 loudspeakers whenever
necessary. LFE signals (where present) are mixed to the left
and right loudspeakers in the case where left and right
loudspeakers are set to “large” (see loudspeaker settings).
2.1: This mode is available for all inputs. 2.1 mode is the same
as stereo mode but with the addition of the subwoofer channel
for rendering LFE. If the main left and right loudspeakers are
set to small, the subwoofer channel also contains down-mixed
low-frequency audio from the other source channels. 2.1 mode
can be useful for stereo source media playback or for playing
back TV audio without surround channels.
5.1:This mode is available for 5.1 or greater channel count
input signals. 5.1 mode automatically limits playback to five
main audio bed loudspeakers in the room plus the subwoofer.
This mode automatically down-mixes multi-channel signals
greater than 5.1 to 5.1 loudspeaker format whenever
necessary. 5.1 mode can be useful for providing a baseline
when evaluating legacy 5.1 source media with auto (up-mixed)
mode.
7.1: This mode is available for 7.1 or greater channel count
input signals. 7.1 mode automatically limits playback to seven
main audio bed loudspeakers in the room plus the subwoofer.
This mode automatically down-mixes multi-channel signals
greater than 7.1 to 7.1 loudspeaker format whenever
necessary. 7.1 mode can be useful for providing a baseline
when evaluating legacy 7.1 source media with auto (up-mixed)
mode. 7.1 mode can also prove useful as a baseline for
evaluating the effects of overhead sound objects in immersive
surround material encoded in formats such as Dolby Atmos
and DTS:X.
Forward Arrow to “On the Fly” Screen: Touch the forward
arrow to change parameters on the fly for DTS dialog control
and Bass and Treble (see page 20)
To “On the Fly” Screen