moon CP-8 User manual

Owner’s Manual
MOON Evolution Series
CP-8
Reference Surround Preamplifier / Processor

MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
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 ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or another apparatus that produces
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 is provided for safety. If the provided plug does not fit into the 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 exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the
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 when the power cord or plug has been damaged; liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus; or the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. No naked flame sources, such as candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
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MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
Important Safety Instructions (cont’d)
The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, 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 a risk of
electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
Marking by the “CE” symbol (shown left) indicates compliance of this device with the
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) and LVD (Low Voltage Directive) standards of the
European Community
Please read all instructions and precautions carefully and completely before
operating your Simaudio MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
1. ALWAYS disconnect your entire system from the AC mains before connecting or disconnecting any cables,
or when cleaning any component.
2. The MOON CP-8 must be terminated with a three-conductor AC mains power cord which includes a
protective earthing connection. To prevent shock hazard, all three connections must ALWAYS be used.
Connect the MOON CP-8 only to an AC source of the proper voltage; Both the shipping box and rear panel
serial number label will indicate the correct voltage. Use of any other voltage will likely damage the unit and
void the warranty
3. AC extension cords are NOT recommended for use with this product.
4. NEVER use flammable or combustible chemicals for cleaning audio components.
5. NEVER operate the MOON CP-8 with any covers removed. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. An
open unit, especially if it is still connected to an AC source, presents a potentially lethal shock hazard. Refer
all questions to authorized service personnel only.
6. NEVER wet the inside of the MOON CP-8 with any liquid. If a liquid substance does enter your MOON CP-8,
immediately disconnect it from the AC mains and take it to your MOON dealer for a complete check-up.
7. NEVER expose the MOON CP-8 to dripping or splashing of liquids and no objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, shall be placed on top.
8. NEVER block air flow through ventilation slots or heatsinks.
9. NEVER bypass any fuse.
10. NEVER replace any fuse with a value or type other than those specified
11. NEVER attempt to repair the MOON CP-8. If a problem occurs contact your MOON dealer.
12. NEVER expose the MOON CP-8 to extremely high or low temperatures.
13. NEVER operate the MOON CP-8 in an explosive atmosphere.
14. ALWAYS keep electrical equipment out of reach of children.
15. ALWAYS unplug sensitive electronic equipment during lightning storms.
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Table of Contents
Congratulations..................................................... 6
Unpacking ............................................................ 6
Introduction ......................................................... 7
Installation & Placement .......................................7
Front Panel Layout ............................................... 8
Front Panel Display Layout ................................... 9
Rear Panel Layout .............................................. 10
Remote Control Layouts ......................................11
Video Conversion Feature.................................... 12
HDMI Connections............................................... 13
Connecting a Monitor .......................................... 14
Connecting Playback Components ....................... 15
Connecting Recording Devices............................. 18
Connecting to Other Devices .............................. 21
Menu Operations ................................................ 26
Front Panel Display / On Screen Display ............. 27
Menu Map............................................................ 28
Auto Setup ......................................................... 29
Preparation ...................................................... 29
Start Menu ...................................................... 30
Option ............................................................ 30
Parameter Check............................................... 31
Manual Setup ..................................................... 32
Speaker Setup ................................................. 32
HDMI Setup...................................................... 34
Audio Setup...................................................... 35
Zone Setup ...................................................... 37
Option Setup .................................................... 38
Input Setup ........................................................ 41
Settings Related to Playing Input Source .............. 41
Surround Modes ................................................. 45
Standard Playback ............................................ 45
Playback in Pure Direct Mode ............................. 46
Parameters ......................................................... 47
Surround Parameter ......................................... 47
Tone Control..................................................... 49
MultEQ XT ....................................................... 50
Dynamic EQ ..................................................... 50
Dynamic Volume .............................................. 51
Setting ........................................................... 51
Restorer .......................................................... 52
Night Mode....................................................... 52
Audio Delay ..................................................... 52
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Table of Contents 4

Table of Contents (cont’d)
Information......................................................... 53
Status ............................................................ 53
Audio Input Signal ............................................ 53
HDMI Information.............................................. 53
Auto Surround Mode .......................................... 54
Quick Select ..................................................... 54
Preset Stations.................................................. 54
Playback ............................................................. 55
Preparations ..................................................... 55
Playing Video & Audio Equipment......................... 55
Listening to AM/FM Broadcasts ........................... 56
Listening to XM Satellite Radio ........................... 56
Listening to SIRIUS Satellite Radio ...................... 58
Other Operations and Functions ......................... 61
Other Operations .............................................. 61
Convenient Functions ........................................ 62
Remote Control Operations ................................. 63
Main Remote Control Unit ................................... 63
Presetting ....................................................... 63
Functions by Component Type ............................ 64
Learning Function ............................................. 66
System Call Function ........................................ 67
Punch Through Function .................................... 68
Remote Backlight Settings .................................. 68
Resetting the Main Remote Control ..................... 68
Amplifier Assign / Multi-zone ............................. 69
Multi-Zone settings w/ Amp Assign Function ......... 69
Multi-Zone settings w/ Zone Pre-out Output ......... 70
Other Information ............................................... 71
Speaker Installation .......................................... 71
Surround Modes ............................................... 72
Audyssey MultEQ XT ......................................... 73
HDMI............................................................... 74
Troubleshooting ................................................. 75
Specifications ..................................................... 78
www.simaudio.com
IMPORTANT: Please read this entire manual before using this product.
Installation and operating instructions inside.
Revision no.: 20100607
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Table of Contents 5

MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
Congratulations!
Thank you for selecting the MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor as a part of your Home-theater system. This
Surround Preamplifier / Processor has been designed to offer state-of-the-art high-end performance in an elegant package,
while retaining all the sonic hallmarks on which Simaudio has made its reputation. We have spared no effort to ensure that it
is among the finest available. We have been building high-performance audio equipment for over 25 years, and the know-how
gained through our cumulative experience is an important reason why MOON components are so musically satisfying.
The performance of your CP-8 will continue to improve during the first four to six weeks of use. This is the result of a “break-
in” period required for the numerous high quality electronic parts used throughout this Processor.
Before setting up your new MOON CP-8, we encourage you to please read this manual thoroughly to properly acquaint
yourself with its features. We hope you enjoy listening to the MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor as much as the
pride we have taken in creating this fine audio product. We understand the power and emotion of music and build our
products with the goal of faithfully capturing these elusive qualities.
Unpacking
The MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor is a large and heavy component that should be removed from its box
with care.
The following accessories should be included inside the box with your amplifier:
9 This owner’s manual
9 AC power cable
9 Full-Function Remote Control + batteries
9 Secondary WRM-2 Remote Control + batteries
9 Indoor FM Antenna
9 Indoor AM Loop Antenna
9 Microphone for Setup
9 Remote Control Preset Codes List
9 Warranty and product registration information (USA and Canada only)
As soon as the component is safely removed from its box and placed down, perform a thorough physical inspection and report
any damage to your dealer immediately. We suggest that you keep all of the original packaging, storing it in a safe, dry place
in the event that you’re required to transport the amplifier. The customized packaging is specially designed to protect the
MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor from potential damage that may occur during shipping.
Please write the serial number of your new Simaudio MOON CP-8 in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial No.: ________________
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Congratulations / Unpacking 6

MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
Introduction
Your MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor incorporates many significant design features to achieve its “world class”
level of performance. This is an abbreviated list of the more important features:
7.1 Channels with up-to-date HD audio and video decoding • HDMI 1.3a inputs and output • Three-zone
multiple source capability • RS-232C and serial IR ports for full custom external control • Dual assignable 12 Volt
trigger outputs • HD Video Circuitry using 12-bit/216MHz encoders/decoders with NSV Precision Video that
includes Faroudja DCDi • video processing, 1080p video pass-through, and up to 1080p analog-video-to-HDMI
upscaling • Full-function programmable remote-control with touch-screen • An over-sized power supply with 2
transformers including 1 proprietary toroidal specifically for analog audio circuitry • Power supply voltage regulation
includes 20 stages of i2DCf (Independant Inductive DC Filtering) • 6 assignable digital audio inputs • Secondary
remote control for basic operation • Hidden control panel allows for full operation and setup without a remote
control • 10 DSP simulation playback Modes • Auto Surround Mode for Digital & Analog inputs • 2 subwoofer
outputs • Three user-selectable muting levels • "Auto Setup Calibration" (w/ microphone), Auto & Manual room
calibration and "Audyssey Mult EQ XT" • Crossover points at 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150 & 250Hz in either 12 dB or
24dB steps • Built-in AM/FM Tuner and RIAA Phono Section (MM) • XM Satellite Radio ready • Short signal
paths for a faster transient response • Designed to remain powered up at all times for optimal performance
Installation & Placement
The MOON CP-8 Surround Processor / Preamplifier should be placed on a rigid surface to prevent any accidents such as
falling over. It is highly recommended that it sits on its own dedicated shelf. You should never place another component on
top of this Surround Processor. As well, you should avoid placing it near a heat source or inside a closed cabinet that is not
well ventilated. This could compromise the CP-8’s performance and reliability.
In the event that you intend to place your CP-8 in a rack mount type installation, Middle Atlantic Products, Inc. offers a rack
& enclosure specifically tailored to the MOON CP-8. If you choose to use another rack mounting system, please refer to
specifications section at the end of this owner’s manual for the CP-8’s exact dimensions
By default, the MOON CP-8 is configured for 5.1 channel operation. To activate 7.1 channel operation, please refer to the
section entitled Manual Setup – “Amp Assign” (page 38).
Finally, you should make all of your audio and video signal connections prior to making the AC connection between the CP-8
and the AC wall outlet.
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Introduction / Installation & Placement 7

MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
Front Panel Layout
Front Panel Item Page no.
Display Window .......................................... 9
Standby ..................................................... 55
Source ...................................................... 55
Tuning Preset ............................................ 56
Zone 2/3 .................................................... 61, 70
Selector Knob ............................................ 55
Video ........................................................ 44
Master Volume Knob .................................. 55
Surround Mode Std .................................... 45
Surround Mode DSP ................................... 46
Pure direct ................................................. 46
Dir Stereo .................................................. 46
Input Mode ................................................ 21, 41-43, 61
Surr back ................................................... 49
Audio Delay ............................................... 52
Status ....................................................... 53, 54, 57, 59
Menu .................................................... 26
◄▲►▼................................................ 26
Enter .................................................... 26
Return .................................................... 26
Zone 2 .................................................... 70
Zone 3 .................................................... 70
Restore .................................................... 52
Dyn Vol .................................................... 50, 51
Quick Select 1, 2, 3 .................................... 62
Room EQ ................................................... 50
Mic. (jack input for Auto Setup) .................. 29
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FrontPanelDisplayLayout 8

MOON CP-8 Surround Preamplifier / Processor
Front Panel Display Layout
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FrontPanelDisplayLayout 9