NAD Surround Sound Preamp Processor S 170i User manual

S170i
AV Surround Sound Preamplifier
ENGLISH
FRANÇAISDEUTSCH
ESPAÑOL
®
Owner’s Manual
Manuel d’Installation
Bedienungsanleitung
Manual del Usuario

ENGLISH FRANÇAIS DEUTSCH ESPAÑOL ITALIANO PORTUGUÊS SVENSKA
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SAFETY INFORMATION
EXPLANATION OF GRAPHICAL SYMBOLS
The lightning flash with 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.
PRECAUTIONS
Read the Operating Instructions carefully and completely before operating the unit. Be sure to keep the
Operating Instructions for future reference. All warnings and cautions in the Operating Instructions and
on the unit should be strictly followed, as well as the safety suggestions below.
INSTALLATION
1Water and Moisture - Do not use this unit near water, such as near a bathtub, washbowl, swimming
pool, or the like.
2Heat - Do not use this unit near sources of heat, including heating vents, stoves, or other appliances
that generate heat. It also should not be placed in temperatures less than 5°C (41°F) or greater then
35°C (95°F).
3Mounting surface - Place the unit on a flat, even surface.
4Ventilation - The unit should be situated with adequate space around it so that proper ventilation is
assured. allow 10 cm (4 in.) clearance from the rear and the top of the unit, and 5 cm (2 in.) from
each side. - Do not place on a bed, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings. -
Do not install the unit in a bookcase cabinet, or airtight rack where ventilation may be impeded.
5Objects and liquid entry - Take care that objects or liquids do not get inside the unit through the
ventilation openings.
6Carts and stands - When placed or mounted on a stand or cart, the unit should be moved with care.
Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the unit and cart to overturn or fall.
7Condensation - Moisture may form on the CD pickup lens when:
•The unit is moved from a cold spot to a warm spot.
•The heating system has just been turned on.
•The unit is used in a very humid room.
•The unit is cooled by an air conditioner.
When this unit has condensation inside, it may not function normally. Should this occur, leave the unit
for a few hours, then try to operate again.
8Wall or ceiling mounting - The unit should not be mounted on a wall or ceiling, unless specified in
the Operating Instructions.
WARNING! TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRONIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
This product is manufactured to comply with the radio interference requirements of EEC DIRECTIVE
89/68/EEC and 73/23/EEC

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SAFETY INFORMATION
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ELECTRIC POWER
1Power Sources - Connect this unit only to power sources specified in the Operating Instructions, and
as marked on the unit.
2Polarization - As a safety feature, some units are equipped with polarized AC power plugs which can
only be inserted one way into a power outlet. If it is difficult or impossible to insert the AC power plug
into an outlet, turn the plug over and try again. If it still does not easily insert into the outlet, please
call a qualified service technician to service or replace the outlet. To avoid defeating the safety feature
of the polarized plug, do not force it into a power outlet.
3AC power cord - When disconnecting the AC power cord, pull it out by the AC power plug. Do not
pull the cord itself.
•Never handle the AC power plug with wet hands, as this could result in fire or shock.
•Power cords should be routed to avoid being severely bent, pinched, or walked upon. Pay particular
attention to the cord from the unit to the power socket.
•Avoid overloading AC outlets and extension cords beyond their capacity, as this could result in fire
or shock.
4Extension cord - To help prevent electric shock, do not use a polarized AC power plug with an
extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the polarized plug can be completely inserted to
prevent exposure of the blades of the plug.
5When not in use - Unplug the AC power cord from the AC outlet if the unit will not be used for
several months or more. When the cord is plugged in, a small amount of current continues to flow to
the unit, even when the power is turned off.
CAUTION
Modifications or adjustments to this product, which are not expressly approved by the manufacturer, may
void the user’s right or authority to operate this product.
MAINTENANCE
Clean the unit only as recommended in the Operating Instructions.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE
Have the unit serviced by a qualified service technician if
•The AC power plug has been damaged.
•Foreign objects or liquid have gotten inside the unit.
•The unit has been exposed to rain or water - The unit does not seem to operate normally.
•The unit exhibits a marked change in performance.
•The unit has been dropped, or the cabinet has been damaged
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SERVICE THE UNIT YOURSELF
OWNER’S RECORD
For your convenience, record the model number and serial number (you will find them on the rear of your
set) in the space provided below. Please refer to them when you contact your dealer in case of difficulty.
Model No. :
Serial No. :

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Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Getting the Most from the NAD S170i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Unpacking and Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
What's in the Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Choosing a Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
About the S170i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-8
E.A.R.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
About THX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Ease of Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Upgradability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
About the HTR 2 System Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
About the ZR 2 Zone 2 Multi Source Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Quickstart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Play a DVD Movie (or Music CD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Setting up the S170i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Using the HTR 2 Remote. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Dealing With Hum and Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
About the On-Screen Displays (OSD) and Front-Panel Readout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Displaying the Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Configuring the S170i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-20
Display setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Audio setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Speaker Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Level setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Delay setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Source Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Trigger setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Using the S170i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-30
Selecting Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Adjusting the Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Setting Listening Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Adjusting Channel Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Adjusting the Tone Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Front Panel Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Listening in a Remote Zone (MultiSource) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
NAD Link . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
System Integration (RS-232) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Using the HTR 2 Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31-38
Overview of the HTR 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Learning Codes From Other Remotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Library Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Punch-Through. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Copy a Command From Another Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Macro Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Recording Macros. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Executing Macros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Key-Illumination Time-out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Factory Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Delete Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Summary of HTR 2 modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
HTR 2 Tables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
TABLE OF CONTENTS

5
GETTING THE MOST FROM THE NAD S170i
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING NAD.
The S170i A/V Surround Sound Preamplifier is one of the most technologically advanced surround-
processor/preamplifiers yet devised, incorporating advanced, ultra-high-speed 32-bit digital signal
processing, an architecture that is fully upgradeable (in both hardware and software), and extraordinarily
precise 24-bit precision/96 kHz-sampling digital-to-analog conversion for all channels.
More importantly, it is among the most musically transparent and spatially accurate designs available, the
culmination of everything we’ve learned, over a quarter-century, about music and home-theater
reproduction. With our company’s “Music First” design philosophy as its guiding design principle, we’re
confident that the S170i will make good our promise to you of delivering both a state-of-the-art surround
home-theater experience, and a genuinely audiophile-quality music listening, for many years to come.
We urge you to take a few minutes now to read right through this manual. Investing a little time now, at
the outset, might save you a good deal of time later, and is by far the best way to ensure that you make
the most of your investment in the NAD S170i, and get the most from this powerful and flexible home
theater component.
One more thing: We urge you to register your S170i ownership on the NAD Worldwide Web site:
HTTP://NADELECTRONICS.COM/W/REGISTRATION.HTML
This is by far the best way to ensure that we at NAD world headquarters can inform you of possible future
software and firmware updates, changes that might significantly enhance the performance and utility of your
S170i. Please also send in your warranty card, so that your local NAD organization will have a record of your
purchase, and save your original purchase receipt. This will assure you of warranty service in your area.
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UNPACKING AND SETUP
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
Packed with your S170i preamplifier you will find:
•Aremovable AC cable (if you wish, any IEC-standard AC cable of suitable wattage may be substituted)
•1DC trigger cable
•The HTR 2 Learning Remote controller with batteries (4 x AAA)
•The ZR 2 second zone remote controller with battery (1 x CR2025)
•Apair of white cotton gloves-for handling your S170i during setup without fear of scratches or
fingerprints
•This owner’s manual
SAVE THE PACKAGING
Please save the box and all of the packaging in which your S170i arrived. Should you move or otherwise
need to transport your preamplifier, this is by far the safest container in which to do so. We’ve seen too
many otherwise perfect components damaged in transit for lack of a proper shipping carton, so please:
Save that box!
CHOOSING A LOCATION
We hope you will agree that the S170i’s finish-quality and appearance earn it pride of place in any home
theater or music system. Choose a location that is well ventilated (with at least several inches to both sides
and behind), and that will provide a clear line of sight, within 25 feet/8 meters, between the preamp’s
front panel and your primary listening/viewing position to ensure reliable infrared remote control
communications. Due to the S170i’s high-speed DSP hardware and high-current audio circuits it generates
a modest amount of heat, but nothing that should trouble any adjacent components. It is perfectly safe
to stack additional components atop the S170i, or vice versa, but it is probably preferable (and
considerably more handsome) if the S170i stands alone.

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ABOUT THE S170i
Though the S170i A/V preamp is among the most powerful and sophisticated digital-surround
decoder/processors available, we worked hard to make it one of the most musically transparent home-
theater components as well; this is what we mean by NAD’s “Music First” design philosophy. Here are
just a few examples:
•The S170i employs the latest, most sonically pure high-performance FET components throughout its
analog audio circuits
•Exceedingly low output impedance from all channels (long an NAD hallmark) eliminates sonic impact
from cables and amplifier input-impedances
•Output muting is via reliable, sonically transparent gold-contact relays rather than sound-coloring
electronics
•Gold-surfaced connectors are employed throughout both internally and externally to ensure
unimpeded signal transfer.
E.A.R.S.
A key element of the S170i’s unique musicality is NAD’s proprietary Enhanced Ambience Recovery System
(EARS). In sharp contrast to many “ambience-synthesis” music-surround modes, EARS exploits the S170i’s
substantial DSP power to route the ambient content that is “encrypted” in virtually all natural-acoustic
recordings to the appropriate main, center and surround speakers, without resorting to artificially
generated reflections or regeneration. EARS’ natural ambience yields a subtle but extraordinarily effective
surround mode that naturally enhances the spatial presentation in a fashion suitable for serious music
listening.
On the digital side, the S170i combines ultra-high-speed DSP processing employing one of the most
advanced high-speed DSP “engines” available, with fully 24-bit, 96 kHz-sampling-capable D/A converters
for all channels. A single, high-precision master clock runs all digital circuits to eliminate the timing errors
(“jitter”) that otherwise occur between digital stages, compromising sonics. The result is legitimately state-
of-the-art surround decoding from Dolby Digital and DTS sources in both 5.1-channel and 6.1-
channel/7.1-output modes, and genuinely superior sound quality in all modes.
ABOUT THX
The S170i preamplifier is certified by THX Ltd as meeting the rigorous requirements of its home
THX/Ultra 2 program for surround controllers. This means that it is capable of delivering an audio
experience equal to that of the finest commercial cinemas when its superb fundamental performance is
combined with the surround enhancements mandated by the THX/Ultra 2 program.
EASE OF USE
We invested no less effort in making the S170i powerfully easy to use than that expended in making its
sonic performance second to none. Its design is unusually simple for so sophisticated a component, and
the HTR 2 remote controller is uniquely self-prompting and intuitive to use, as are the S170i’s own front-
panel and on-screen displays. A powerfully simple system of presets will permit you to fine-tune your
listening setup for different conditions, and recall these multiple parameters with two key presses
INTEGRATION
The S170i preamplifier offers extensive, flexible system-integration options through its three configurable
DC triggers outputs, as well as via NAD’s proprietary NAD Link inter-component communications protocol.
Additionally, an RS-232 serial port stands ready to integrate the preamp with still more sophisticated
controllers such as touch-screen systems and whole-house automation installations.

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ABOUT THE S170i
UPGRADABILITY
A unique feature of the S170i is its modular construction. All of the S170i’s “intelligence” is located on a
single plug in module. This sophisticated architecture simplifies servicing, and makes future upgrading a
possibility. Because of the extraordinary processing speed and power of the S170i, we frankly do not
foresee the possible need for hardware upgrades at this time. Never-the-less, it’s nice to know that the
S170i is not likely to become obsolete anytime soon.
We have made the more likely scenario of software upgrades easy to accomplish via the high speed
RS–232 port on the rear panel of the S170i. Owners who register their S170i on our international web
site www.NADelectronics.com will be advised of updates. Some of these may be free of charge, and some
may require royalty payments depending on the type of upgrade. The advanced user will be able to
perform these upgrades by downloading files from our web site via e-mail, and installing them by
connecting the S170i to a PC. Alternatively the dealer from whom you purchased your S170i should be
able to assist in performing these upgrades.
ABOUT THE HTR 2 LEARNING REMOTE CONTROL
Packed with your S170i is the NAD HTR 2 multi-component learning remote control. This handy device
can control a total of 8 different components, such as your DVD Player, TV set, and Satellite control box,
dramatically simplifying the operation of your entire Home Theatre while reducing the “coffee table
clutter” of multiple remotes. The HTR 2’s buttons illuminate when any button is pressed, making
operation under low light conditions easier and more enjoyable.
To operate the HTR 2, you must first select which of the 8 components or the “device” you wish to
control, such as AMP, TV, DVD, etc. The remaining 46 buttons are now set to control the selected device.
This can be a little confusing at first, but once understood, the power of using just one remote handset
to control any device in your system makes the operation of your Home Cinema far more enjoyable.
Code tables for all NAD components are included, and other manufacturer codes are easily learned from
the units’ remote to any button on the HTR 2 remote. Additionally, “macros” or strings of commands that
perform all the individual steps required to “play a DVD” can easily be created and stored for instant recall.
This advanced functionality makes even complex AV systems easy to operate.
Please read the HTR 2 section of this manual for complete, step-by-step instructions on using all the
features of this remarkable Home Theatre Remote handset.
ABOUT THE ZR 2 SECOND ZONE REMOTE CONTROL
You will also find a small remote called the ZR 2 that has the specialized function of controlling the
MultiSource or Zone 2 audio output. This allows completely independent source selection and volume in
a remote area of your home. Using aftermarket (Xantech) remote sensors and the NAD Link feature of
the S170i, you can control the MultiSource output from the remote location with the ZR 2.
Read the section of this manual “Listening in a Remote Zone” for more information.

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QUICKSTART
In case you simply cannot wait to experience the performance of your new S170i preamplifier, we provide
the following “quickstart” instructions to get you underway. They assume that the DVD/CD player is
connected to the VIDEO1 input and that the appropriate audio and video connections have been made.
PLAY A DVD MOVIE (OR MUSIC CD)
From the HTR 2 Press the [AMP] device key first (this selects the S170i) then press the power [ON] key,
then the [DVD] key (also labeled with the numeral “1”) Use the HTR 2 remote’s [VOLUME up/down] keys
to adjust the volume.
Start playback of the DVD/CD player. Pressing the [SURR. MODE] key of the HTR 2 (located nest to the
VOLUME DOWN key) end then pressing the [Cursor ] key you can cycle through all the S170i
listening modes that are available for the current input signal type (see “About the S170i’s Listening
Modes,” below).
Depending on the signals format and connections you have made, some listening modes may not yet be
available; see “Setting up the S170i” below. You may need to use the DVD player’s on-screen menu
system to select a surround-capable signal format.
Enjoy the movie or music, but be sure to set aside time to read this manual thoroughly and to set up,
calibrate, and configure your S170i carefully.

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FRONT PANEL
1POWER: Switch off to disconnect the S170i from all AC power and
exit the Standby mode. Switching POWER on both reconnects the
AC and actively power-up the preamp.
2STANDBY: Illuminates when the S170i is in the Standby or On mode
(dark when the S170i is powered-off).
3AUDIO: Press to select audio inputs sequentially using the VOLUME
(SETUP) knob (see “Front Panel Operations,” below).
4VIDEO: Press to select video inputs sequentially using the VOLUME
(SETUP) knob (see “Front Panel Operations,” below).
5TAPE MONITOR: Press to engage the Tape Monitor loop. The signal
present at the rear-panel TAPE MONITOR IN jacks will be heard (see
“Front Panel Operations,” below).
6MULTISOURCE: Press to select the signal output by the rear-panel
MULTISOURCE OUT jacks using the VOLUME (SETUP) knob (see
“Listening in a Remote Zone,” below).
7SPEAKERS: Press to access the <Speaker setup> menu on the front
panel readout, and to select parameters using the using the VOLUME
(SETUP) knob and subsequent presses of the SPEAKERS key (see
“Configuring Your S170i,” and “Front Panel Operations,” below).
8DELAY: Press to access the <Delay setup> menu on the front-panel
readout, and to select parameters using the using the VOLUME
(SETUP) knob and subsequent presses of the DELAY key (see
“Configuring Your S170i,” and “Front Panel Operations,” below).
9LEVELS : Press to access the <Levels setup> menu on the front-panel
readout, and to select parameters using the using the VOLUME
(SETUP) knob and subsequent presses of the LEVELS key (see
“Configuring Your S170i,” and “Front Panel Operations,” below).
10 BRIGHTNESS: Press to dim the S170i’s front-panel readout; press
again to restore full brightness.
11 TONE: Press to adjust treble using the VOLUME (SETUP) knob; press
again to adjust bass, and a third time to exit tone-control adjustment.
12 MODE: Press to select listening modes sequentially using the
VOLUME (SETUP) knob (see “Setting Listening Modes,” and “Front
Panel Operations,” below).
13 VOLUME (SETUP): Turn clockwise to increase the master-volume
setting; counterclockwise to lower it. The VFL and on-screen displays
show the setting, displayed in decibels between -90 to +16.
The VOLUME (SETUP) knob is also used to increment/decrement
individual channel levels and other adjustable parameters.
14 VFL DISPLAY: The Vacuum Fluorescent Display provides visual
information on all of the S170i's important modes, settings, and
functions for both MAIN and second ZONE locations.

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REAR PANEL
ATTENTION!
Please make all connections to your S170i preamplifier with the unit
powered off or unplugged. (It is equally wise to power-down or
unplug all associated components while making or breaking any
signal or AC power connections.)
1COMPOSITE VIDEO IN 1-6: Connect Video Inputs 1-6 to composite
video from source components (see “Source Setup,” below).
2COMPOSITE VIDEO OUT 4-6 OUT; MON OUT: Connect to
composite-video record-inputs of recording components; connect
MON OUT to the composite-video input of the video monitor/TV.
3SVID1 IN - S VID6 IN: Connect Video Inputs 1-6 to S-Video from
source components (see “Source Setup,” below).
4SVID4 OUT - SVID6 OUT; MON OUT: Connect to S-Video record
inputs of recording components; connect MON OUT to the S-Video
input of the video monitor/TV.
5COMPONENT VIDEO IN (upper), OUT (lower): Connect inputs to
component-video signal or wide-band component video from a
source component such as a DVD player or HDTV tuner; connect
outputs to the component-video inputs of the video monitor/TV. Be
sure to observe consistency in connecting the Y, CB, and CR jacks to
the corresponding sources/inputs (see “Source Setup,” below).
6NAD LINK IN/OUT: Connect to the corresponding NAD Link jacks
(input to output and vice versa) of compatible NAD components (see
“NAD Link,” below).
7DIGITAL 1-3; DIGITAL IN; DIGITAL OUT: Connect DIGITAL 1-3 to
coaxial S/PDIF-format digital sources such as CD or DVD players;
connect DIGITAL IN to a high-quality S/PDIF-format source via BNC
cabling; connect DIGITAL OUT to the coaxial S/PDIF digital input of a
recording component such as a CD recorder, DAT deck, or computer
soundcard (see “Source Setup,” below).
8OPTICAL DIGITAL IN 1-2; DIGITAL IN; OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT:
Connect OPTICAL DIGITAL 1-2 to optical S/PDIF-format digital
sources such as CD or DVD players; connect OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT
to the optical S/PDIF digital input of a recording component such as
a CD recorder, DAT deck, or computer soundcard.
9RS-232: Connect to the RS-232 serial port of a home-automation
system or personal computer (see “System Integration,” below).
10 VIDEO 1-6 Analog Audio Inputs: Connect to stereo analog
outputs of audio-video sources (see “Source Setup,” below).
11 VIDEO ANALOG REC OUT 4-6: Connect to stereo analog inputs of
recording audio-video components such as videocassette recorders.
12 CD, AUX, TUNER Inputs: Connect to stereo analog outputs of
audio components.
13 TAPE MONITOR IN/OUT: Connect OUT to the stereo analog inputs,
and IN to the outputs of an audio recording components such as a
cassette deck or CD recorder, or of an analog audio processor such
as a stereo equalizer.
14 MULTISOURCE OUT: Connect to the inputs of the stereo amplifier
(integrated amp, receiver) that will power the remote-zone’s
loudspeakers (see “Listening in a Remote Zone,” below).
15 PREAMP ANALOG 7.1 OUTPUTS: Connect L, R, and CENTER to
the channel inputs of the power amplifier(s) driving the front,
channels; connect LS and RS to the power amplifier driving the
surround speakers and LEFT B and RIGHT B to that driving the
surround-back speakers (if any); connect sub to the line input of a
powered subwoofer or to the amplifier driving a passive sub (if any).
16 EXTERNAL 5.1 INPUTS: Connect to the corresponding analog
audio outputs of a multichannel source component such as a DVD-
Audio or multichannel SACD player. There is no bass-management
or other processing available to these inputs; see “Selecting
Sources,” below.
17 12V TRIGGERS: Connect to the 12-volt trigger inputs of compatible
components such as power amplifiers and projector lifts; see “Trigger
setup,” below.
18 AC power inlet: Connect to the supplied IEC-standard removable
AC power cord or a compatible cord.

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SETTING UP THE S170i
GETTING STARTED
Before you make the first connection to your S170i, you should have the arrangement of your listening
room/home theater components and furniture mapped out, at least initially. Unfortunately, a discussion
of the vital questions of loudspeaker placement and listening/viewing positions is beyond our scope here.
Suffice it to say that these two questions will influence your system’s ultimate performance every bit as
powerfully as your selection of electronics and speakers. Your NAD audio specialist dealer will be happy
to advise you, and to recommend reference materials.
DEALING WITH HUM AND NOISE
The S170i requires a grounded (3-prong) AC outlet. Employing a 3-to-2 adapter to eliminate the ground
prong will not compromise electrical safety, but it may increase susceptibility to hum and noise. Hum and
noise sometimes prove a challenge in complex, multichannel audio systems. Note these considerations to
help prevent hum and noise problems:
•Power all your system’s audio component from AC outlets originating from the same circuit of your
house wiring. As far as possible, power all audio components from the same outlet, or adjacent outlets
on the same circuit. It may be useful to power video displays (and computers!) from outlets on another
circuit, especially if that circuit is supplied from the other “leg” of the house wiring.
•Do not bundle analog audio cables with AC power cables, or with coaxial digital-audio cables.
•Employ high-quality, well-shielded audio cable throughout, and ensure that all connections are secure.
•Apencil-eraser can be used to burnish copper- and gold-plated contacts to ensure good, low-
resistance contact; specialized contact-cleaners can also be useful. Avoid unnecessary unplugging and
re-plugging, since the gold (or copper) contact-plating of typical cable connectors, even very high-
quality ones, is very thin and easily worn.
Track down hum/noise problems one component at a time, working backwards from the power
amplifier(s). That is: Connect the speakers to the power amplifier only, and check for hum. Then connect
the preamplifier alone (with no other components connected to the preamp) to the power and check for
hum. Then connect one source component (a CD player, for example) to the preamplifier, and check for
hum. At each stage, if hum/noise appears, examine the audio cabling and AC-power routing of the new
component. In some cases, moving the new component’s AC cord to a different outlet, or installing a
ground-lift (3-to-2-prong adapter) on its power cord, will eliminate the hum.

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ABOUT THE ON-SCREEN DISPLAYS (OSD) AND FRONT-PANEL READOUT
The S170i preamplifier employs a simple, self-explanatory system of on-screen display “menus” that will
appear on the system’s video monitor/TV, useful both during setup and in day-to-day operation. While the
OSDs are always helpful, it is also perfectly possible to operate (or even set up) the S170i without them,
because the same basic data is always shown, though sometimes in shortened format, on the preamp’s
own front-panel readout.
DISPLAYING THE MENUS
Once a video monitor (TV) is connected to the Monitor Output of the S170i, pressing the left or right
cursor keys of the HTR 2 remote will access the S170i’s OSD (On Screen Display) where all system
setup parameters can be easily adjusted using the up and down and [ENTER] keys.
•If the OSD does not appear, check your Monitor Out connections, and/or the settings of the <Video
format> and <OSD display> items of the <Display setup> menu (see below) using the S170i’s front-
panel readout.
NAVIGATING THE OSD AND MAKING CHANGES
Use the remote’s [Cursor ] keys to move up or down among any OSD menu’s list of items; use the
[Cursor ] keys to change the value (setting) of any item; use remote’s [Enter] key to select an OSD
menu item. Selecting <Exit> from the Menu Page saves any changes you have made and departs that
menu for the next “higher” level (or, from the Main Menu, turns the OSD off).

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CONFIGURING THE S170i
You may set up your S170i’s levels, modes, and options in any order; it is not necessary to follow the order
employed here. However, it is advisable to begin by configuring the S170i’s on-screen display options,
since certain of these will affect the options made available to other setup routines.
DISPLAY SETUP
From the S170i OSD’s Main menu, select the <Display setup> item using the remote’s [Cursor ], and
[Enter] keys. Using the [Cursor ] keys, set: <TV system> to “NTSC” for North American use, or
“PAL.” for European use.
Using the same remote keys, set:
•<Superimpose> to “On” or “Off. When “Off” is selected, on-screen menus will appear against a blue
background, obscuring the current video program (if any); when “On” is selected menus will appear
in white text superimposed upon the current video program (if any).
•<Temporary disp.> to “Full,” “Simple, or “Off.” This controls how much information the S170i will
display, monetarily, in on-screen text whenever powering on, selecting or changing a source or
listening mode, or changing types of input signals. In “Full” mode a complete screen of data including
input-name, audio-signal input, type, format, and listening mode, and video-signal type and input; in
“Simple” mode, only input-name will appear. In “Off” mode no temporary on-screen info will be
displayed.
•<Video format> to “Auto,” “SVideo,” or “Compos.” (composite-video). This controls which S170i
video outputs will be active when a video input is selected; in “Auto” mode, the output mode will be
selected according to the format of the incoming signal, with S-Video taking precedence where a
source is connected via both formats. Note that the S170i preamplifier passes video signals even when
it is switched to “Standby.” This permits video sources such as TeleText or Web-TV devices to be used
even when the balance of the system is off.
•<OSD output> to “Both,” “SVideo,” “Compos.” (composite-video), or “Off.” This controls which
video outputs will carry the S170i’s on-screen displays and menus. When “Both” is selected OSDs will
be present on both the S-Video and composite-video Monitor Outputs; selecting “SVideo” or
“Compos.” confines on-screen displays to each output alone, and “Off” disables on-screen displays
altogether. (In all cases, basic data remains readable via the S170i’s front-panel readout, so you can,
for example, see what you’re doing even with OSDs set to “Off.”)
NOTE THAT:
•OSDs do not appear on the component-video output
•Enabling OSD for a video output causes the video source signals in that format to “pass through” the
OSD circuitry. Critical videophiles may wish to disable the OSD on the SVideo output for the most
critical viewing/recording functions.
•<Distance units> to “Feet” or “Meters.” This selects by which measurement units you will enter your
speaker-setup dimensions on the S170i’s <Delay setup> menu page (see below).

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CONFIGURING THE S170i
AUDIO SETUP
The <Audio setup> menu enables you to modify tone-control settings and other listening options.
Modifications you make on this menu will remain in affect until changed again, or until a Preset
containing different settings is recalled (see below).
DOLBY/DTS SETUP
From the <Audio Setup> menu, select the <Dolby/DTS setup> item using the remote’s [Cursor ] keys,
then press [Enter], this will show a sub menu with the following choices to adjust the music modes of the
Dolby and DTS surround decoders:
<PL II Panorama> select <Off> or <On>
When selected <On> the Panorama setting wraps the sound of the Front Left and Right speakers
around you for an exciting effect.
<PL II Center Width> select <Min.> <1> <2> <3> <4> <5> <6> <Max.>
Center Width allows you to gradually spread the Center channel sound into the Front Left and Right
speakers. At the widest <Max.> setting all the Center speaker sound is mixed to the Left and Right
speakers. This control may help achieve a more spacious sound, or a better blend of the front image.
<PL II Dimension> select <0> <1> <2> <3>
Dimension adjusts the front/back balance to taste.
<Neo:6 Center Image> select <Min.> <1> <2> <3> <4> <Max.>
Center Image allows you to gradually spread the Center channel sound into the Front Left and Right
speakers.
PRESET SETUP
The S170i incorporates five “Presets,” memory locations in which you may store five different
combinations of tone-control and relative center/surround/subwoofer channel levels to suit different
requirements. For example: You might configure Preset 1 for movie-surround with tone controls set to
zero and relative channel levels left at their calibrated points, but set Preset 2 for music-surround listening
with slightly elevated surround- and subwoofer-channel levels, slightly reduced center-channel levels, and
modified bass or treble. Presets may be configured in any way, for any purpose you see fit.
CONFIGURING PRESETS
From the <Audio setup> menu, use the remote’s [Cursor ] and [Enter] keys to select the <Preset
setup> item. Using the same keys, select the Preset to be configured on the <Preset> item; then invoke
the bass and treble settings desired for that preset using the same keys. With the same keys again, set
the relative levels of Center, Surround, and Subwoofer channels for that preset.
NOTE THAT:
•If surround-back speaker(s) are configured as present in the <Speaker setup> OSD menu (below), their
levels will be controlled along with the surround-channels levels.
•Once configured, a Preset remains unchanged until you edit it via the <Preset setup> OSD menu.
•APreset applies regardless of what source is selected, or what listening mode is in operation
•Cycling the S170i through its Standby mode will cancel any previously selected Preset, reverting both
tone and all level settings to those set on the HTR 2 remote’s LEVELS or MODE/MULTI.S screens
(below), or via the S170i preamp’s <Audio setup> (above) OSD menu. If you would like to be able to
set all channel-levels and tone-control values to zero without cycling through Standby, set one Preset
to “all zeroes.”
•Channel levels stored in presets (are added to the setup levels established on the S170i preamp’s
<Levels setup> OSD menu. For example: if your <Level setup> establishes <Center> at “-3 dB” and
you dial in a Preset center-channel level of +2 dB, the net overall effect will be a center-channel level
of -1 dB. By contrast, tone-control settings override <Audio setup> tone levels entirely.
RECALLING PRESETS
To implement the preset at any time, sequentially press the HTR 2’s [AV PRESET] key and the
corresponding numeral key <1 - 5>. Cycling the S170i through Standby mode will release the preset.
the number of the preset invoked will appear briefly on the OSD and the S170i’s front-panel display. (See
also Using Presets, below)

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CONFIGURING THE S170i
BASS/TREBLE
From the <Audio setup> menu, select the <Bass> or <Treble> item using the remote’s [Cursor ],
keys. Using the [Cursor ] keys, you may increase or decrease Bass or Treble settings by ±12 dB by 1
dB steps.
•Bass/treble settings affect only the front channels (left, center, and right), and are active in all listening
modes
•It is often better to “cut” (a minus setting) than boost (a plus setting); for a “warmer” overall sound
try reducing Treble by a few dB instead of boosting Bass, and vice versa.
•If you frequently find yourself selecting large tone control settings, you may be better served by
reexamining your choice of loudspeakers, and your loudspeaker and listening-position locations to
better exploit your room’s acoustics.
LFE CHANNEL
The Low-Frequency Effects channel—-the “point-one” channel in “5.1/6.1”—-is active only with Dolby
Digital or DTS multichannel sources. LFE is employed most often as a supplementary channel to enhance
the dynamic range of very low-frequency sounds; it should not be confused with the S170i’s Subwoofer
output-channel, which may carry most or all bass information from some or all channels, depending on
the configuration of the <Speaker setup> menu page.
From the <Audio setup> menu, select the <LFE channel> item using the remote’s [Cursor ], keys.
Using the [Cursor ] keys, you may decrease the LFE channel setting by as much as 10 dB in 1 dB
decrements.
In most systems the LFE channel setting may be left at 0 dB (no change), because the S170i’s Bass Limiter
(see below) will be set to prevent subwoofer overload. However, if your subwoofer’s headroom is known
to be limited, or if the low-frequency effects of film soundtracks generally seem excessive in your system,
you might profitably try decreasing the <LFE channel> setting by a modest degree.

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CONFIGURING THE S170i
SPEAKER SETUP
Every surround-sound system requires “bass-management” to direct low-frequency content from any or
all channels to the speakers best able to reproduce it. In order for this function to operate correctly, it is
very important that you correctly identify your speakers’ capabilities.
We use the terms “Small” and “Large” (and “No”), but note that physical size may be irrelevant.
•A“Small” speaker is any model without significant deep-bass response, that is, below about 80 Hz.
•A“Large” speaker is any full-range model, that is, one with deep-bass response
•A“No” speaker is one that is not present in your system. For example, you might not have any Back
speakers installed; in that case, you would set the <Back speakers> setup item to “No.”
CONFIGURING SPEAKERS
From the OSD Main menu, select the <Speaker setup> item using the remote’s [Cursor ], and [Enter]
keys. Using the [Cursor ] keys, set <Main speakers> to “Large” or “Small.” Using the same remote
keys, set the <Center speaker>, <Surround speakers>, and <Back speakers> to “Large,” “Small,” or
“No,” according to your system’s loudspeaker population. Set <Subwoofer> to “Yes” only if you have a
subwoofer connected to the S170i’s SUB preamp analog output jack.
NOTE
The S170i permits you to set Subwoofer to “Yes” even with “Large” front speakers: In this case, bass
content from any channels you set to “Small” will be routed to both the subwoofer and to the front
speakers. You might want to try this arrangement way if your front speakers roll off naturally at about
the 80 Hz crossover frequency and can handle strong bass signals without distortion or damage. In
most systems using a subwoofer, setting front speakers to “Small” is usually the best option.
There are three additional features in the <Speaker setup> menu:
•Adjustable Crossover Frequency selectable in 10 Hz increments from 40 Hz to 140 Hz. This adjusts
both the High Pass (2nd order, 12 dB/octave) feed to the loudspeaker, and the Low Pass (4th order,
24dB/octave) feed to the subwoofer.
•Defeatable Subwoofer Filter. This allows you to use your powered subwoofer’s internal crossover. This
can be beneficial to tame difficult room acoustics problems by setting the subwoofer crossover to a
different frequency than the S170’s High Pass filter to create a notch or an overlap in the response.
•Enhanced Bass, when selected, always has the subwoofer active, regardless of speaker settings, for
maximum boom.
LEVEL SETUP
Setting the relative balance of your system’s loudspeakers is perhaps the most important single function
of setting up your S170i. First, this process ensures that surround-sound recordings, whether music or film
soundtracks, will play back with the balance of effects, music, and dialog that the artists intended.
Second, if your system incorporates a subwoofer, it establishes a correct relationship between the volume
of the subwoofer and the other speakers, and thus of low-frequencies (bass) to other sonic elements.
USING AN SPL METER
It is perfectly possible to perform the S170i Level setup routines “by ear,” and an experienced ear will
usually produce acceptably accurate results. However, the timbral differences among front, center, and
surround speakers can make accurate level-matching difficult. Therefore, we strongly recommend the use
of an inexpensive sound-pressure level (SPL) meter, such as Radio Shack part number 33-2050, for this
task. It is quick, repeatable, and reliable. Ownership of such a meter may prove a very useful audio tool,
or your NAD audio specialist may be able to help you with temporary use of a meter. Calibrating your
system with an SPL meter also permits you to set its overall level so that, when the S170i’s Master Volume
control is set to -0 (“reference level”), the playback in your home theater matches the loudness of the
same film projected in a well-set-up commercial cinema. (Of course, you can still set the Master Volume
wherever you like from day to day.)

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CONFIGURING THE S170i
The SPL meter should be placed at the primary listening position, at approximately the height of the
seated listener’s head. A tripod is very useful, but with a little duct-tape almost anything—-a pole lamp,
music-stand, or ladder-backed chair, for example—-can do as well. Just be sure that no large acoustically
reflective surfaces obstruct or are near the microphone element. Orient the meter with its microphone
(usually at one end) pointing straight up toward the ceiling (not forward toward the speakers) and make
sure that its “C” weighting scale is selected. To calibrate your system to play at the same objective
loudness as a high-quality commercial cinema, set the meter to display 75 dB SPL. (On Radio Shack meters
this necessitates either setting the meter to its 80 dB range and taking your readings at the -5 point, or
selecting the 70 dB range and reading at the +5 point.
This 75 dB SPL point is the “official” cinema (and THX) reference level. However, we note that no law
requires you to use this level, and in fact this reference seems too loud for some users for home cinema
playback. Many people find that calibrating to 70 dB SPL instead turns out just about right.
CONFIGURING LEVELS
From the OSD Main menu, select the <Level setup> item using the remote’s [Cursor ], and [Enter]
keys. Activate the test-noise signal with the remote’s [Test] key(next to the [Volume up] key); you will here
a “surf” noise that cycles through your speakers, beginning with the left-front. (If you do not hear the test-
noise, check your Audio Connections (above), and your <Speaker setup> OSD menu settings, (above.)
On the left-most column of the OSD you’ll see an > pointing toward <Left> (if the is at some other
line, use the remote’s [Cursor ] keys to move it to <Left>.) Now use the remote’s [Cursor ] keys
to adjust the noise output from the Left (left-front) speaker; the test-noise will automatically move there
and the “level offset” reading on the right will change by 0.5 dB increments. If you are using an SPL meter,
adjust the Left output to produce a reading of 75 dB SPL C-weighted (or whatever other reference level
you have chosen to adopt)
If you are balancing levels “by ear” you will have to choose one speaker—-usually the center—-as a
reference and adjust each of the others so that is “ sounds as loud” as the reference.
Using the remote’s [Cursor ] and [Cursor ] keys, adjust each speaker in turn to produce the
same SPL meter reading (or subjective loudness), within ±1 dB or better; the S170i’s ability to calibrate
outputs by 0.5 dB steps should facilitate this precision.
NOTE THAT:
•All speakers must be in their final locations before level-setting.
•Your subwoofer (if any) should be set with its integral crossover defeated, or set to its highest-possible
frequency.
•Due to the effects of room acoustics, matched-pair speakers (front; surround; back) will not always
calibrate to exactly the same level offset readings.
•If you are particularly meticulous, you may wish to come back and re-check your level setup after
completing the Delay setup routine (below).
DELAY SETUP
Your system’s channel-delay settings are a subtle but important refinement of your setup. By informing
the S170i of the loudspeaker-to-listener dimensions of each speaker, it will automatically impose the
correct delays for each channel, optimizing imaging, intelligibility, and surround-sound ambience. Enter
your dimensions with precision within about 1 foot/30 cm.
CONFIGURING DELAYS
From the OSD Main menu, select the <Delay setup> item using the remote’s [Cursor ], and [Enter]
keys. Using the [Cursor ] keys, set <Right> to the distance between your principal listening position
and the front surface of the front-right loudspeaker.
Using the same remote keys, set the remaining speakers, each to the distances of your system layout.
Where a particular speaker is not present in your system, “None” will be displayed and no distance setting
will be possible.

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CONFIGURING THE S170i
SOURCE SETUP
The S170i is equipped with nine total inputs: six audio-video inputs (labeled on the rear panel VIDEO1-6),
and 3 audio-only inputs (labeled CD, AUX, and TUNER). There is also an audio-only TAPE MONITOR loop.
For each input position of the S170i, you may select a digital input to become active whenever that input
is selected, and you may assign a 7-character name which will be displayed on the front-panel display and
momentarily on the on-screen display whenever that input is selected.
CONFIGURING SOURCES
From the OSD Main menu, select the <Source setup> menu item using the remote’s [Cursor ], and
[Enter] keys. Using the [Cursor ] keys, call up the source you wish to configure. Sources are
numbered 1-9, which correspond in order to VIDEO1-6, CD, AUX, and TUNER on the rear panel (the TAPE
MONITOR loop is not configurable, and will not appear in the rotation). Use the [Cursor] (down) key to
move to the <Title> menu item, and press the [Enter] key. You may now edit the default title (“Video 1”,
“CD,” etc.) to a more meaningful name, up to 7 characters. The [Cursor up/down] keys scroll through
the complete list of available characters, while the [Cursor ] keys move left and right across the six
characters (you may back up and change characters freely). When you are finished with the title, press
[Enter] to return to the <Source setup> menu
Using the [Cursor] (down) key scroll down to the <Digital input> menu item. Use the [Cursor ] keys
to assign a digital input to the current source. The digital inputs will appear in order: Coax1-4, OPT 1, and
Opt 2, followed by Off. You would set a source’s <Digital input> to “Off” if you wished to ensure that
that source would not play an incoming digital bitstream.
NOTE
You may freely assign any digital input to any source position, and you may assign a digital input to
two or more source positions. For example, with your DVD/CD player connected to the COAX1 digital
input, you might choose to assign COAX1 to both the “CD” and “VIDEO1” inputs, renaming VIDEO1
to “DVD.”
The following characters are available:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z * - . / :
Using the [Cursor] (down) key scroll down to the <Component video> menu item. Use the [Cursor ]
keys to set Component video to “On” or “Off.” When a source is set to Component video “On,” the video
signal present at the S170i’s COMPONENT VIDEO IN (Y-Cb-Cr) jacks will be sent to its COMPONENT VIDEO
OUT jacks whenever that input is selected.
•OSDs do not appear on the component-video output.

20
CONFIGURING THE S170i
TRIGGER SETUP
The S170i is equipped with 3 12-volt trigger outputs that may be used to turn on, activate, or otherwise
control ancillary components or systems, such as power amplifiers, projector-lifts, lighting systems, and
more. Their function could be as simple as powering up and down your NAD S250 power amplifier, or as
complex as readying an entire home-theater room for use. For more technical information on the S170i’s
12-volt trigger outputs, see Appendix 1, or consult your installing NAD audio specialist.
Simple 12-Volt Trigger Configuration Example: Powering the NAD S250 Power Amplifier
The following example employs the S170i’s 12V Trigger #1 to turn the S250 amplifier on and off in
concert with the preamplifier.
•Using the 12V Trigger cable supplied with the S170i connect the S170i’s rear panel 12V Triggers jack
marked #1 to the 12V Trigger input jack on the power amplifier. Note that this custom cable provides
an 1/8th-inch mini-plug on one end for the S170i, and a special, DC-style plug on the other to fit the
S250 amplifier’s trigger input.
•From the OSD Main menu, select the <Trigger setup> item using the remote’s [Cursor ], and
[Enter] keys. The <Trigger 1> listings should appear as follows (these are the defaults):
polarity Posit.
delay No
duration Infin.
If any other settings are in place, use the remote’s [Cursor ] and [Cursor ] keys to change them
to the above conditions.
THX AUDIO SETUP
THX Surround EX creates a sixth, “center-back” channel intended for reproduction by one or more
loudspeakers located behind the listening area. With recordings bearing the Dolby Surround EX mark, this
delivers a specifically engineered center-back channel that is encoded into the left/right surround
channels-precisely as the center channel was encoded into the left/right front channels in matrix-encoded
Dolby Surround mixes. However, the THX Surround EX processing will often produce a useful center-back
effect even from software that was not, originally, deliberately encoded for EX playback.
BASS LIMITER
The S170i incorporates a Bass Limiter that you can set to eliminate any chance of your subwoofer
producing audible distortion. You will do this by auditioning a built-in test-noise signal the S170i sends to
your subwoofer, and increasing the Bass Limiter’s “headroom” setting to the point of audible distortion.
The Bass Limiter now prevents any program-material signals exceeding this level from being sent to the
subwoofer.
CONFIGURING THE BASS LIMITER
From the <THX Audio setup> menu, use the remote’s [Cursor ] and [Enter] keys to select the <Bass
limiter setup> item. Using the same keys, set <Bass limiter> to “On” and <Limiter noise> to “On”; you
will hear a soft rumbling from your subwoofer. (If you do not hear sound from the sub, check your
subwoofer audio and power connections, check Speaker Setup, below, and/or check the subwoofer’s
own “hardware” control settings)
Now use the remote’s [Cursor ] keys to move to the <Limiter level> item, and [Cursor ] to
decrease the limiter setting by 1 dB increments. As you do, the test-noise from the subwoofer will increase
in level. Listen for the point at which audible distortions (harshening, “clacking,” “chuffing,” or other
extraneous elements) become evident, then use [Cursor ] to return (increase) the limiter level by 1
or 2 dB until the distortion ceases. This establishes the “distortion-free” limit for your current subwoofer
setup. It is advisable to return and re-check your Bass Limiter setup after you have completed the Level
Setup routines (see below).
•Even after the Bass Limiter is set you may usefully engage its test-noise to “search and destroy” the
room-rattles that are inevitably excited by high-level subwoofer output. (Window-treatments,
electrical wall-plates, and hanging artwork are three common sources.)
•Should you ever change subwoofers, or reposition your current subwoofer or listening position, you
should repeat the Bass Limiter setup routine.
•With a high-performance subwoofer, this routine can get rather loud. It is often best to await an
opportune moment when spouses/children/pets are not at home to perform Bass Limiter setup fully.
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