Cambridge Sound Works MegaTheater AVS500 User manual

DVD PLAYER/TUNER – PREAMPLIFIER
USER MANUAL
®

2
The lightning flash with arrowhead,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended
to alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute risk
of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilat-
eral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of important operating
and maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the literature accompanying this
product.
WARNING
DO NOT OPEN
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
SPEAKER’S COVER. NO USER-
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
AVISIQUE
POUR EVITER TOUT RISQUE DE
CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS
DEMONTER LE COUVERCLE DU
HAUT PARLEUR. AUCUN ENTRE-
TIEN DES PIECES INTERIEURES
N’EST REQUIS.TOUT SERVICE
D’ENTRETIEN NE DOIT ETRE
EFFECTUE QUE PAR DU PERSON-
NEL D’ENTRETIEN QUALIFIE.
READ AND HEED IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING
ON REAR OF ENCLOSURE
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE
BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, INSERT FULLY.
ATTENTION:
POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, INTRO-
DUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE
DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE
ET POUSSER JUSQU’AU FOND.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
THE SERIAL NUMBER FOR THE PRODUCT IS
LOCATED ON THE REAR PANEL. PLEASE WRITE
THIS NUMBER DOWN AND KEEP IT IN A SECURE
AREA. THIS IS FOR YOUR SECURITY.

3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
POWER-CORD PROTECTION – The AC power cord
should be routed so that it is not likely to be walked
on. No object should bring weight to bear on to the AC
power cord.
LIGHTNING – For added protection for this product
during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended
and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the
wall outlet. This will prevent damage to the product
due to lightning and power-line surges.
OVERLOADING – Do not overload wall outlets, exten-
sion cords, or integral convenience outlets as this can
result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY – Never use probes of
any kind to reach into the product as they may touch
dangerous voltage points or short parts that could
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of
any kind onto the product.
SERVICING – Do not attempt to service the product
yourself as opening or removing the cover may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE – Immediately
unplug the product from the wall outlet or other power
source and refer servicing to qualified service person-
nel under the following conditions:
a) When the power-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 follow-
ing the operating instructions; or exhibits a distinct
change in performance.
e) If the product has been dropped or damaged in
any way.
REPLACEMENT PARTS – When replacement parts
are required, be sure the service technician uses
replacement parts specified by Cambridge
SoundWorks, or ones which have the same character-
istics as the original part. Substandard substitutions
may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
SAFETY CHECK – Upon completion of any service or
repairs, ask the service technician to perform safety
checks to determine that the product is in proper
operating condition.
READ INSTRUCTIONS – All safety and operating
instructions should be read before the product is
operated.
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS – The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future reference.
HEED WARNINGS – All warnings on the product and
in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS – All operating and use
instructions should be followed.
CLEANING – Unplug the product from the wall outlet or
other power source before cleaning. Use a dry cloth
for cleaning.
ATTACHMENTS – Do not use any adapters or attach-
ments not recommended by Cambridge SoundWorks
as they may cause hazards.
WATER AND MOISTURE – Do not use the product
near water - for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl,
kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near
a swimming pool or other similar areas.
ACCESSORIES – Do not place the product on an
unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or
adult and serious damage to the product.
VENTILATION – Any slots, openings and metal fins
provided for ventilation must not be blocked or covered
such as by placing the product on a bed, sofa, deep
pile rug, or other similar surface. The product should
not be placed in a built-in installation such as a book-
case or rack unless sufficient clearance is maintained
to provide adequate ventilation.
HEAT – The product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, and
other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
POWER SOURCE – The product should be operated
only from the type of power source indicated on the
rear panel. If you are not sure of the type of power sup-
ply to your home, consult your dealer or local power
company.
POLARIZATION – The product is equipped with a
polarized alternating-current plug (a plug having one
blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the
power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If
you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try
reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, con-
tact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do
not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

4
DISC PRECAUTIONS:
MOISTURE OR DEW – May occur if the product is
suddenly moved from a cold environment to a warm
one, and prevent it from reading the disc. If this hap-
pens, turn the product on for a least one hour before
inserting a disc.
DAMAGED DISCS – Never play cracked, warped, or
otherwise damaged discs as they may harm the drive
mechanism.
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.
• 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.
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 reason-
able protection against harmful interference in a resi-
dential installation. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communica-
tions. However, this is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equip-
ment does cause harmful interference to radio or tele-
vision reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna and the
power cord.
• 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.
•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV tech-
nician for help.
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.
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.

5

6
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ................................................................7
Carton Contents..........................................................8
Remote Control ..........................................................9
Front Panel and Display ..........................................12
Getting Started ........................................................13
System Connection Diagrams..................................14
Basic Setup Menu ....................................................19
Operation and Use ..................................................22
Advanced Operation ................................................27
Advanced Setup ......................................................29
Specifications ..........................................................36
Limited Warranty ......................................................37

7
INTRODUCTION
Thanks for choosing the MegaTheater AVS500 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 AVS500 will entertain you for many years with its
flawless DVD playback, sensitive AM and FM radio
reception, and playback of normal CD, CD+G, HDCD
and compressed music files on DVD-R, CD-R, or
CD-RW discs. It will also play back VCD and SVCD
discs you burn on your PC from video files such as
home movies from your digital camcorder. In addition,
the AVS500 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 pho-
tos and background music MP3 file on the same disc.
The AVS500 includes all the inputs and outputs neces-
sary for the most common home theater system
needs. There are two sets of rear panel A/V inputs and
outputs which can be used to connect a VCR and a
satellite receiver or cable box. A third front panel input
and output can be used for quick connection of a
camcorder video game, or portable music player. An
optical digital input is also provided to connect the
Dolby Digital 5.1 signal from a cable TV set top box or
a satellite receiver equipped with an optical digital out-
put. The built-in Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 surround
decoders will accurately play back any contemporary
DVD when connected to a suitably powered loud-
speaker system or multichannel power amplifier.
Because of its stereo and Virtual Surround modes, the
AVS500 can also be used with a stereo TV or with
powered 2.0 or 2.1 speaker systems.
Finally, the AVS500 is compatible with High Definition
TV monitors thanks to its advanced progressive scan
circuitry. This unique circuit analyzes the characteris-
tics 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 con-
vert the 24 frame per second rate of film sources to
video’s 60 frames per second. The result is the clear-
est, 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.
If You Are New To Digital Discs
DVDs are divided into one or more sections called
“Titles.” Each title has a numerical label displayed on
the front panel Vacuum Flourescent Display (VFD). You
can select the different titles using the title key on the
remote control, or by using the Playback Control (PBC)
function. 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
( |<<, >>| ), directly using the numerical keypad, or
within the DVD’s on-screen menu.
CD and VCD discs are divided in tracks. You may
select them using the skip keys or the numeric key-
pad. MP3 and Picture CDs are organized in files con-
tained within folders. Use the on-screen “Smart Nav”
function to select the files you wish to play.
The selection of many features of DVD playback is
automated by “flags” in the digital bitstream that let the
disc producer tell your player the optimum playback
mode. The AVS500 will respond to these flags where
appropriate and automatically select the proper
soundtrack or technique for producing a progressive
scan picture on high definition TV sets.

8
CARTON CONTENTS
A) One AVS500 main control unit.
B) Remote control
C) Two AAA Batteries
D) FM Antenna
E) FM antenna to F-connector adapter cable.
F) AM Loop antenna
G) AV 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
EJECT/LOAD
SUBTITLE ANGLE REPEAT A-B/MUSIC
STAN DB Y
AUD IO J PE GSH UFFLE SLIDE
DVD
PROLOGIC
SPDIFTUNER
ENTER
MUTE
TITLE
CH
+
–
CH
AV1AV2AV3
OSD
321 654 987
GOTO+100
PBC
PROGRAM
CLEAR/EQ
VOL SETUP
MENU SETUP
VOL
+
–
VOL
ZOOMSTOP
RETURNRESUMESLOW
AM/FMSTEP
SAVE
PAUSEPLAY
–AUTO +–TUNE+
–PRESET +
A
B
E
C
F
G
H
I
D

9
REMOTE CONTROL
Installing The Remote Control Batteries
Open the lid of battery chamber under the remote con-
trol, and install the two AAA batteries (included).
Observe and follow the polarity marks. Replace the lid.
When the batteries become weak, replace them imme-
diately. Old batteries may leak highly corrosive fluid
and permanently damage the remote control.
Button Locations and Functions
Most operation of the AVS500 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.
1. STANDBY: Use this to turn the AVS500 on and off
for normal use. (The front panel power switch
should normally be left on.)
2. REPEAT: Repeats a chapter or title on DVD, and
disc or track on CD.
3. A-B / MUSIC: Repeats a user-defined section of a
DVD, CD or MP3 file. 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. In Slide Show mode,
this key is used to select the background music file
if desired.
4. SHUFFLE: Selects CD and MP3 music tracks in
random order.
5. SLIDE: Selects slideshow mode, which will play a
selection of JPEG photos on CD in sequence.
6. OSD: 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.
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.
7. PBC: This key toggles the Playback Control state.
Normal default operation is PBC ON.
• With PBC on, disc play uses the DVD menu, and
conventional 0n-screen navigation controls.
• With PBC off, you see an information display show-
ing the contents of the disk. It includes the number
of titles, tracks, total time, audio streams, and sub-
picture streams. It also shows the encoding stan-
dard, video format, and languages and sound
options.
You have direct access to titles and tracks of the
disc. Use the number keys to select the desired
title (DVD) or track, (VCD, CD).
8. PROGRAM: When in PBC OFF mode with the disc
stopped, you may program a playing sequence.

10
9. CLEAR/EQ: Clears the last entry while program-
ming. Selects Graphic Equalizer mode at all other
times. See the Advanced Operation section for
equalizer operation.
10.INPUT SELECTOR: Press the button corresponding
to the desired input source. Use the DVD button to
select any disc inside the AVS500 (DVD, VCD, CD,
CD-ROM with JPEG or MP3 files).
11.VOLUME: Press to adjust volume level from 00
(Minimum) to 32 (Maximum). The level is displayed
on the OSD and on the front panel.
12.MUTE: Press to toggle between muted and non-
muted state.
13.VOL SETUP: Press to enter the Volume Setup
menu. You may adjust each individual channel vol-
ume level while listening. You may also adjust bass
and treble from this menu. Press this button again
to exit the menu.
14.CURSER CONTROL: Press these buttons to navi-
gate through menus. Use the ENTER key to make
your selection.
15.SETUP: Use to enter the AVS500 main setup
menus. Disc play will stop when selected. Press the
button again to exit the menu when you are done.
16.TRANSPORT CONTROLS: Use to start, stop, or
pause disc playback.
• 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.
17.|<< and >>| / –AUTO +:
• Disc play – Selects PREVIOUS or NEXT track or
Chapter.
• Tuner – Auto tunes to the next lower or
higher station.
18.STEP/SAVE: Each press advances one frame in
DVD mode. Press to save a tuned radio station into
the currently selected preset location.
EJECT/LOAD
SUBTITLE ANGLE REPEAT A-B/MUSIC
STANDBY
AUDIO JPEG SHUFFLE SLIDE
DVD
PROLOGIC
SPDIF TUNER
ENTER
MUTE
TITLE
CH
+
–
CH
AV1 AV2 AV3
OSD
321
654
987
GOTO+100
PBC
PROGRAM
CLEAR/EQ
VOL SETUP
MENU SETUP
VOL
+
–
VOL
ZOOM STOP
RETURN RESUME SLOW
AM/FM STEP SAVE
PAUSE PLAY
– AUTO +– TUNE +
– PRESET +
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
1
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
24
23
22
21
20

11
27.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 highlight the
title. Enter the desired title number using the num-
ber keys. Use the < > keys to highlight the desired
chapter and enter this using the number keys.
Press ENTER and the disc will begin playing from
the point you selected.
• To start playing a disc from a specific time, press
GOTO twice. Use the < > keys to highlight Title and
select a title number using the number keys. Use
the < > keys to highlight 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 selected time.
28.AUDIO: This button selects one of the audio
streams available on a DVD. Some DVDs only allow
selection of the audio stream from the DVD menu.
29.JPEG: This button selects the mode used to transi-
tion between JPEG still pictures.
30.SUBTITLE: Selects different subtitles available on
the DVD. Not all DVDs support subtitle selection
from this key.
31.ANGLE: Selects different view angles. Very few
DVDs support this feature.
32.EJECT/LOAD: Press to eject the disc tray, or to load
the disc tray.
19.SLOW/AM/FM:
• 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.
• Tuner – Toggles between AM and FM band.
20.PRESET +, PRESET –: Use these keys to select a
specific preset location for a radio station.
21.<< and >> /–TUNE +:
• Disc play – Each press selects 2x, 4x, 6x, 8x fast
play mode. The fifth press returns to normal speed.
• Tuner – Manually tune.
22.ZOOM: Each successive press zooms the
image 1.5x, 2x, and 3x. Press again to revert
to normal size.
23.MENU: Press to select the disc menu for the cur-
rent title. This may vary depending on how the par-
ticular disc is mastered. If there is no menu level,
this button will select the current title.
24.TITLE: The unit will return to the disc title page. You
may navigate and make your selection using the
CURSOR, ENTER and PLAY keys.
25.CH –/ PRO LOGIC:
• Tuner mode: Selects next lower station preset.
• Auxiliary A/V input mode: Toggles between
STEREO and PROLOGIC for analog sources, and
for music playback from CD or MP3. Note: When
using an external digital source, surround modes are
automatically selected as with DVD playback.
26.CH +/ SPDIF:
• Tuner mode: Selects the next higher station preset.
• Auxiliary A/V input mode: Toggles between Analog
and Digital (SPDIF) input for a selected input.
Note: The A/V input must be in STEREO mode.

12
FRONT PANEL AND DISPLAY
VIDEO
1. POWER – Turns main AC power on and off. Leave
on for normal operation, use the remote control to
switch the unit to standby mode when you are not
using it. It is only necessary to turn off this power
switch when you are leaving the unit for extended
periods, such as when you go on vacation, or for
added protection during electrical storms.
2. VFD – Vacuum Fluorescent Display of player status.
3. POWER LED – Indicates the presence of AC power.
This will remain lit in standby mode when the main
power switch is engaged.
4. VOLUME – Controls volume in 32 steps.
5. OPEN/CLOSE – Opens and closes the disc drawer.
6. PLAY – Starts play of the disc.
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.
9. AV3 IN – Composite video and stereo analog audio
inputs for external AV source.
10.AV3 OUT – Composite audio, stereo analog audio,
and Coaxial digital output.
1234
5678910
VIDEO
TITLE CHP ST. TUNED 3D RDS DIGITAL
KHz
MHz
LR
C
LS RS
S
Parental Lock
Indicator Not used in US model Not used in US model
Speaker
Format
Indicator
AM/FM
Tuned
Indicator
DVD: Title
RADIO: Preset Number DVD: Chapter
RADIO: Band
DVD: Time
RADIO: Station Frequency

13
GETTING STARTED
There are two stages to an efficient setup and installa-
tion of the MegaTheater system.
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, where you tell the
AVS500 what type of TV set you have, and fine tune
the speakers according to their type and placement.
You may also set up parental controls and adjust tone
or equalization preferences at this time.
Arranging the Components:
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.
•The TV monitor is the focal point of any home theater
system. The front left and right speakers 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.
• 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
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.
• The remote control needs a clear line of sight to the
AVS500’s front panel.
MAXIMUM RECOMMENDED DISTANCE
APART FOR HOME THEATER
SURROUND
SPEAKER SURROUND SPEAKER
POWERED
SUBWOOFER
CENTER CHANNEL
MAIN SPEAKERS
45 ANGLE
LEVEL
WITH
CENTER
SPEAKER

14
Determining Your System Setup:
There are a variety of system configurations you can
select, depending on the other equipment you wish to
connect to your MegaTheater system.
Option A: The simplest system consists of the
MegaTheater and a TV set. A cable box or satellite
receiver connects directly to your TV in this setup.
Connect the video output from the MegaTheater to your
TV to watch DVD movies. Connect the TV sound output
to an auxilliary A/V input of the AVS500. Select this
same auxiliary A/V input to listen to your off-air, cable,
or satellite programs in Stereo, Virtual Surround Sound,
or Dolby Pro Logic Surround using the AVS500 proces-
sor and speaker system.
14
SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAMS
AV-1 IN AV-2 IN AV-1 OUT AV-2 OUT
FM 75Ω
AM 300Ω
VIDEO
LR
S-VIDEO
OUTPUT DIGITAL
INPUT DIGITAL
OUTPUT
Y
Cb/Pb
Cr/Pr
5.1
OUTPUT
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICINGTO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
CAUTION:
CAUTION
ATTENTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT
TO THE CONDITION THAT THIS DEVICE DOES NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE.
®®
LISTED
AUDIO SYSTEM
50LK
DESIGNED BY
CAMBRIDGE SOUNDWORKS, INC.
WESTWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS USA 02090
800-367-4434 USA
978-623-4400 OUTSIDE USA
MADE IN CHINA
90-245V AC,
50/60Hz, 68W
AVS500
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT THIS PRODUCT COMPLIES WITH DHHS RULES 21CFR,
SUBCHAPTER J, APPLICABLE AT TIME OF MANUFACTURE.
COMPONENT
RF
CENTER
RR
SUB
LF
LR AUDIO OUT
OUTPUT INPUT
V
L
R
AB
V
L
R
COMPOSITE S-VIDEO
RF IN RF OUT
ANTENNA
INPUT
AUDIO
OUT
COMPONENT
VIDEO INPUT
Y
Cb/Pb
Cr/Pr
INPUTS
Cable Box
TV
AVS500
VCR or Hard
Disk Recorder
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 (You tune your TV to channel
3 or 4 to view cable channels).
This cable is not reuired
if your TV accepts
S-Video or Component
Video AND you do not
have any additional
sources (such as a VCR)
attached to the AVS500.
This cable is not
required if your TV
accepts Component
Video input.
from cable

15
Option B: This option is the best choice if you have a
video source with an optical digital output that offers
Dolby Digital programming (Digital Set Top Box (STB)
for cable, digital Satellite, or an HDTV tuner). The
Digital output of the STB connects directly to the
AVS500. The AVS500 processor decodes the Dolby
Digital signal from your STB when present, and plays
the sound in Stereo, Virtual Surround Sound, or Dolby
Pro Logic otherwise. The Video output of the STB may
be connected either to the AVS500 or directly to the
TV, whichever you prefer. An HDTV tuner STB must be
connected directly to the TV to get High Definition
video. Note: Before making any connections, turn off the
power to all system components. Only turn the power
back on after all connections are made.
15
AV-1 IN AV-2 IN AV-1 OUT AV-2 OUT
FM 75Ω
AM 300Ω
VIDEO
LR
S-VIDEO
OUTPUT DIGITAL
INPUT DIGITAL
OUTPUT
Y
Cb/Pb
Cr/Pr
5.1
OUTPUT
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICINGTO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
CAUTION:
CAUTION
ATTENTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT
TO THE CONDITION THAT THIS DEVICE DOES NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE.
®®
LISTED
AUDIO SYSTEM
50LK
DESIGNED BY
CAMBRIDGE SOUNDWORKS, INC.
WESTWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS USA 02090
800-367-4434 USA
978-623-4400 OUTSIDE USA
MADE IN CHINA
90-245V AC,
50/60Hz, 68W
AVS500
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT THIS PRODUCT COMPLIES WITH DHHS RULES 21CFR,
SUBCHAPTER J, APPLICABLE AT TIME OF MANUFACTURE.
COMPONENT
RF
CENTER
RR
SUB
LF
LR AUDIO OUT
OUT IN
V
L
R
AB
V
L
R
INPUT S-VIDEO
Y
Cb/Pb
Cr/Pr
COMPONENT
VIDEO INPUT
VLRDIGITAL
OUT
VCR or
Hard Disk Recorder
Cable Box or Satellite Receiver
Composite Video cable is required if you
have auxiliary A/V sources. It is not required
for S-Video or Component Video-capable
TV sets if no auxiliary A/V sources are used.
Use this diagram if:
A. You have a cable box or satellite receiver with digital
or stereo output.
B. You have a VCR and wish to record or play in Stereo
or Pro Logic mode.
TV
AVS500

161616
Connecting the Video Output
of the AVS500 To Your TV:
The video output connection you need is determined
by the capability of your TV.
If you have a newer TV with progressive scan (Y/Pb/Pr)
or interlaced (Y/Cb/Cr) component video inputs, use
them for the best picture from DVD playback.
High Definition (HD) and Enhanced Definition (ED)
TV’s should be compatible with the progressive scan
output. Standard Definition TV’s are not.
Note: The component video output of the AVS500 is set
to INTERLACED at the factory. To benefit from a pro-
gressive scan TV, you must change the output mode to
PROGRESSIVE in the Setup menu of the AVS500.
If you do not have component video inputs on your TV,
S-Video is the next best choice. Most current TVs have
at least one S-Video input.
Connect one end of the supplied S-Video cable to the
jack on the AVS500, and the other end to the TV’s
S-Video input.
The most common video input type on a TV is
Composite video, also known as CVBS. This input
uses a standard RCA jack, usually color-coded yellow.
The AVS500 has two composite video output jacks on
the rear panel, labeled AV1 and AV2. Either one may
be used. The second output is provided to connect to
the input of a VCR or other device. Note: The AVS500’s
Component and/or S-Video output functions only during
DVD playback. You must also connect the AVS500’s
Composite output to your TV set. It supplies the signal
from an auxiliary A/V source, such as a VCR or cable
box connected to an A/V input of the AVS500. Select a
composite video input on your TV to view the auxiliary
A/V source.
The AVS500 provides output to either it’s Composite
Video or S-Video outputs.
If you do not have any additional A/V sources connect-
ed to the AVS500, and you are using the Component
or S-Video outputs, you do not need to connect any-
thing to the Composite outputs of the AVS500.
Note: Progressive Scan mode does not apply to S-Video
or Composite video outputs.
AB
V
L
R
A/V INPUTS S-VIDEO COMPONENT
Y
Cb/Pb
Cr/Pr
Composite Video input
Example of TV set
A/V input panel.
Exact layout and
features will vary
by model.

1717
Connecting Auxiliary A/V Sources:
There are three auxiliary A/V connections available on
the AVS500 (AV1, AV2, and AV3). These are all electri-
cally identical, and may be used interchangeably. Each
connection has stereo audio and Composite video
inputs and outputs. AV1 and AV2 are located on the rear
panel and may be used to connect a VCR, Cable Box
or similar device. AV3 is behind the door on the front
panel to provide convenient temporary connection of a
camcorder or portable music recorder/player.
You must connect the AVS500 Composite Video output
to your TV’s Composite Video input to view video feed to
any of the three A/V inputs.
Connecting an Auxiliary A/V Source
with Digital Output:
Many digital cable systems and almost all Digital Satellite
receivers offer digital audio outputs. This provides access
to the Dolby Digital (AC3) signal from movies and high
definition TV broadcasts. You may also connect any
audio source or PC sound card which provides a stan-
dard SPDIF (Sony Philips Digital Interface) signal with up
to 24 bit/96Khz resolution. Connect a standard TOSLINK
optical cable to the Digital input as shown in the diagram.
The AVS500 will decode Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro
Logic or Stereo from the digital signal as selected in the
Audio Setup menu. This digital input may be associated
with the video signal from AV1, AV2 or AV3 by pressing
the “SPDIF” key on the remote after the desired A/V input
is selected.
Note: The A/V input must be in STEREO mode to allow
SPDIF selection.

18
Audio Output Connections:
5.1 Surround System
The main audio outputs of the AVS500 are next
to the Component video outputs. These outputs
are color coded to match the cables supplied
with the BassCube 851. Connect these outputs
to the BassCube 851 or to another 5.1
amplifier/speaker system.
Stereo System
Use only the Red and White output jacks to con-
nect the AVS500 to a conventional 2-channel stereo
system, or powered system such as the BassCube
821. You will need to select an appropriate
Downmix mode, as explained on page 32, for
stereo operation.
Digital Output
Two digital outputs are provided on the AVS500.
You may use the rear panel TOSLINK optical output
to send the DVD, CD, MP3 or SPDIF input signal to
an outboard processor. A coaxial digital output is
also provided on the front panel for temporary con-
nection to a portable digital recording source such
as a minidisc or DAT recorder. Analog sources,
such as the AM/FM tuner output, are not available
from the digital outputs.
A/V Outputs
A/V outputs are provided for connection of a VCR
or other recording device. They carry the signal
from 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, select the DVD’s STEREO
audio track or choose STEREO in the DOWNMIX set-
up menu.
+
BASS
TREBLE
POWER/STANDBY
SPEAKERS
VOLUME CONTROL
FLAT
REDUCE
FRC/S AUX RF CLF
RR LR
ANALOG STEREO IN
AV-1 IN AV-2 IN AV-1 OUT AV-2 OUT
FM 75Ω
AM 300Ω
VIDEO
LR
S-VIDEO
OUTPUT DIGITAL
INPUT DIGITAL
OUTPUT
Y
Cb/Pb
Cr/Pr
5.1
OUTPUT
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICINGTO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
CAUTION:
CAUTION
ATTENTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT
TO THE CONDITION THAT THIS DEVICE DOES NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE.
®®
LISTED
AUDIO SYSTEM
50LK
DESIGNED BY
CAMBRIDGE SOUNDWORKS, INC.
WESTWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS USA 02090
800-367-4434 USA
978-623-4400 OUTSIDE USA
MADE IN CHINA
90-245V AC,
50/60Hz, 68W
AVS500
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT THIS PRODUCT COMPLIES WITH DHHS RULES 21CFR,
SUBCHAPTER J, APPLICABLE AT TIME OF MANUFACTURE.
COMPONENT
RF
CENTER
RR
SUB
LF
LR AUDIO OUT
AVS500
Right Front Center
Left Front
Right Surround Left Surround
Powered 5.1 speaker system or
component power amplifier
(BassCube 851 is shown)

191919
BASIC SETUP MENU
To get the most from your MegaTheater system, make
sure the settings are configured for your TV and
speaker types. Confirmation is made through the
Setup menu, accessed by pressing the remote con-
trol’s SETUP button. Use the v < > buttons to navi-
gate 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 but-
ton again to return to normal operation.
Note: There are additional Setup options available which
select advanced features. These are discussed later
under ADVANCED SETUP. You do not need to be con-
cerned with them now.
1. Turn the main power on by depressing the POWER
button at the left of the front panel. Also turn on the
main power to your BassCube 851 or other amplifi-
er system. The system display should illuminate,
and the VFD should indicate NO DISC.
2. Turn on the power to your TV. Use your TV’s remote
to select the video input with the AVS500 connect-
ed to it. When the proper input is selected, you
should see the Cambridge SoundWorks logo on the
TV. If you have an HDTV or EDTV and see a dou-
ble, overlapped or streaked logo screen, it means
your TV is in progressive mode. Change the TV
monitor mode to INTERLACED for now so you can
read the menus more easily.
Select TV Output Mode
The output mode of the AVS500 must match the input
mode of your TV set. The AVS500 arrives set up for
Composite (CVBS) output and Component (YCRCB)
output. If you are using either one of these inputs on
your TV, you should not need to adjust the AVS500’s
video output. If you are using your TV’s
S-Video input, you should change the output mode
of the AVS500 to S-Video for the best picture quality.
1. Press the EJECT/LOAD button to open the drawer.
2. With the drawer open, press the A-B/MUSIC
button to toggle between CVBS+YCRCB and
S-VIDEO+YCRCB output settings. The current
setting is shown on the front panel VFD display
and also on the on-screen display.
3. Press the EJECT/LOAD button again to close the
drawer.
Note:The TV MODE must be set to INTERLACED to
change S-Video and CVBS modes.
Select TV Aspect Ratio
The AVS500 needs to know what the aspect ratio of
your TV is so that the picture will fill the TV screen as
accurately as possible. Conventional TVs have an
aspect ratio of 4:3 (4 units wide, 3 units high). The
newer widescreen TVs have a 16:9 aspect ratio. If this
setting does not match your set, the picture will look
stretched or squashed.
1. Press the SETUP button on the remote. You will see
the following screen:
2. Use the vkeys to highlight GENERAL, and press
ENTER.
v
v
v

20202020
3. Highlight TV DISPLAY and Press ENTER. Press
ENTER again and use the vkeys to choose your
TV aspect ratio.
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 automtically stretch 4:3 source material to fill the
screen resulting in distorted geometry on 4:3 materi-
al. This is not a function of the AVS500, and is con-
trolled by your TV.
• If you have a conventional 4:3 TV select either of
the NORMAL options. NORMAL/PS (Pan and Scan)
will chop 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 bot-
tom of widescreen movies in order to fit the full pic-
ture on your screen.
Press ENTER to lock your selection, then press <to
return to the previous menu level.
Select Progressive Scan TV Mode (if applicable)
If you have an interlaced TV, or you are using S-Video
or composite video connections, skip this step. The
AVS500 comes shipped in INTERLACE mode.
1. Use the vkeys to highlight TV MODE.
Press ENTER.
2. Select PROGRESSIVE if you have a High Definition or
Enhanced Definition TV and are using a Component
video connection. Press ENTER to lock your selec-
tion. Use the <button to return to the MAIN PAGE.
Select Speaker System Type
You may skip this step if you are using a Cambridge
SoundWorks 5.1 MegaTheater system package with a
new AVS500. The AVS500 arrives pre-configured cor-
rectly. If you are not using a system powered by a
Cambridge SoundWorks BassCube 851 or equivalent,
you may need to change some settings. Refer to your
speaker or amplifier documentation to determine the
proper settings for that system.
To make changes to your speaker configuration, select
SPEAKER from the Main Page.
v
v