Pioneer VSX-908RDS-G User manual

Operating Instructions
AUDIO/VIDEO
MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
VSX-908RDS
VSX-908RDS-G

2
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
IMPORTANT 1
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-
SERVICEABLEPARTSINSIDE. REFERSERVICINGTO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intendedto alert theuser to thepresence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the appliance.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presenceofuninsulated"dangerousvoltage"withinthe
product'senclosurethatmaybeofsufficientmagnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
IMPORTANT 2
Do not connect either wire to the earth terminal of a
three - pin plug.
NOTE
After replacing or changing a fuse, the fuse cover in the
plug must be replaced with a fuse cover which corre-
sponds to the colour of the insert in the base of the plug
orthe word that isembossedon the base ofthe plug, and
the appliance must not be used without a fuse cover. If
lost replacement fuse covers can be obtained from:
your dealer.
Only 5 A fuses approved by B.S.I. or A.S.T.A. to B.S.
1362 should be used.
The cut-off plug should be disposed of and must not be
inserted into any 13 amp socket as this can result in electric
shock. The plug or adaptor or the distribution panel should
be provided with 5 amp fuse. As the colours of the wires in
the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with
coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug,
proceed as follows :
The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the
terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black.
The wire which is coloured brown must be connected
to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured
red.
FOR USE IN THE UNITED
KINGDOM
The wires in this mains lead are coloured in
accordance with the following code :
Blue : Neutral
Brown : Live
If the plug provided is unsuitable for your socket
outlets, the plug must be cut off and a suitable plug
fitted.
Thank you for buying this Pioneer product.
Please read through these operating instructions
soyouwillknowhowtooperateyourmodelprop-
erly. After you have finished reading the instruc-
tions, put them away in a safe place for future ref-
erence.
In some countries or regions, the shape of the
powerplug andpower outletmay sometimesdif-
fer from that shown in the explanatory drawings.
However, the method of connecting and operat-
ing the unit is the same.
Power cord CAUTION!
Handle the power cord by the plug. Do not pull
out the plug by tugging the cord and never
touch the power cord when your hands are
wet as this could cause a short circuit or
electric shock. Do not place the unit, a piece of
furniture, etc., on the power cord, or pinch the
cord. Never make a knot in the cord or tie it
with other cords. The power cords should be
routed such that they are not likely to be
stepped on. A damaged power cord can cause
a fire or give you an electrical shock. Check the
power cord once in a while. When you find it
damaged, ask your nearest PIONEER autho-
rized service center or your dealer for a re-
placement.
WARNING:TOPREVENTFIREORSHOCKHAZARD,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
THE POWER SWITCH IS SECONDARY CONNECTED
AND THEREFORE DOES NOT SEPARATE THE UNIT
FROM MAINS POWER IN STANDBY POSITION.
This product complies with the Low Voltage Directive
(73/23/EEC), EMC Directives (89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC)
and CE Marking Directive (93/68/EEC).
[For European model]
If the socket outlets on the associated equipment
are not suitable for the plug supplied with the
product the plug must be removed and
appropriate one fitted.
The cut-off plug must be disposed of as an
electrical shock hazard could exist if connected to
a socket outlet.
Maintenance of External Surfaces
• Use a polishing cloth or dry cloth to wipe off dust and dirt.
• When the surfaces are dirty, wipe with a soft cloth dipped in some neutral cleanser diluted five or six times
with water, and wrung out well, and then wipe again with a dry cloth. Do not use furniture wax or cleansers.
• Never use thinners, benzine, insecticide sprays or other chemicals on or near this unit, since these will corrode
the surfaces.

3
Table of Contents
PREPARATION OPERATION
SET
UP
Before You Start............................................................................................................................ 5
Checking the Supplied Accessories ........................................................................................................5
How to Use This Manual..........................................................................................................................5
Preparing the Remote Control.................................................................................................................6
Installing the Receiver ..............................................................................................................................7
Opening the front panel........................................................................................................................... 7
Connecting Your Equipment ........................................................................................................8
Audio Components ..................................................................................................................................8
Video Components ...................................................................................................................................9
Digital Connections ................................................................................................................................ 10
External Decoder Input ..........................................................................................................................12
Antennas .................................................................................................................................................13
Speakers..................................................................................................................................................14
Connecting Additional Amplifiers.........................................................................................................17
Power Connections (AC OUTLETS) (Except for the UK model.) ........................................................17
Displays and Controls .................................................................................................................18
Front Panel ..............................................................................................................................................18
Display.....................................................................................................................................................20
Remote Control.......................................................................................................................................22
Surround Sound Set Up ............................................................................................................. 24
On Screen Display ..................................................................................................................................24
Setting Up for Surround Sound ............................................................................................................25
Basic Playback .............................................................................................................................35
Playing Sources with Stereo Sound .....................................................................................................35
Direct playback...................................................................................................................................35
Sound Modes..........................................................................................................................................36
Selecting a Sound Mode........................................................................................................................38
Playing Sources with Dolby Digital, DTS Sound or MPEG Audio......................................................39
Using MPEG audio discs ...................................................................................................................40
Switching ANALOG/DIGITAL Signal Input ....................................................................................... 41
Reducing noise during playback (DIGITAL NR function)................................................................42
Listening in MIDNIGHT Listening mode ..........................................................................................43
External decoder playback (front panel only) .................................................................................43
96kHz 24bit performance ..................................................................................................................44
Listening in LOUDNESS mode (front panel only) ...........................................................................44
Adjusting bass and treble (tone control) (front panel only) ........................................................... 45
Adjusting the brightness of the display (front panel only).............................................................45
Using the Tuner........................................................................................................................... 46
Automatic and Manual Tuning .............................................................................................................. 46
Direct Access Tuning .............................................................................................................................. 47
Memorizing Frequently Used Stations .................................................................................................48
Recalling Memorized Stations...............................................................................................................49
RDS (Radio Data System) Broadcast Reception .................................................................................. 51
Remote Control of Other Component ...................................................................................... 54
Setting Up the Remote Control to Control Other Components..........................................................54
Remote Controlling Other Components...............................................................................................58
Using Other Functions ............................................................................................................... 65
Recording from Audio Components .....................................................................................................65
Recording from Digital Audio Components .........................................................................................66
Recording from Video Components .....................................................................................................66
Multi Operations.....................................................................................................................................67
System OFF.............................................................................................................................................69
Setting up the Direct Function...............................................................................................................70
Remote back light...................................................................................................................................70
Resetting the Remote Control ...............................................................................................................71
Techno Tidbits and Problem-solving .........................................................................................72
Dolby Digital ...........................................................................................................................................72
DTS ..........................................................................................................................................................73
MPEG Audio............................................................................................................................................74
THX ..........................................................................................................................................................74
RDS (Radio Data System) ...................................................................................................................... 75
Preset Code List ......................................................................................................................................78
Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................................82
Specifications..........................................................................................................................................84

4
Features
MPEG (Moving Picture Experts
Group) decoder equipped
DVD and other media recorded in MPEG audio can
also be played back.
The MPEG logo is a registered trademark of
Royal Philips Electronics.
Automatic Decoding of DTS
(Digital Theater Systems)
R
This is the latest and most widely used digital theater
system for cinemas throughout the world. The
decoder has been incorporated into this receiver and
is able to achieve high sound quality as well as
produce dynamic surround sound effects.
“DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are
trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.
Manufactured under licence from Digital Theater
Systems, Inc.
Automatic Decoding of Dolby
Digital and Dolby Pro Logic
No need to worry about program formats. When
playing Dolby Digital or Dolby Surround software in
the 2(Dolby) Surround mode, decoding switches
automatically according to the input signal.
Manufactured under license from Dolby
Laboratories. “Dolby”, “AC-3”, “Pro Logic”,
and double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories. Confidential Unpublished Works.
© 1992 - 1997 Dolby Laboratories. All rights
reserved.
Direct Energy MOS Amplifier
This receiver incorporates 5 independent 110 watt
power amplifiers, built with high-performance Hex
power MOS FET output transistors. This
construction provides improved linearity and accurate
reproduction of each channel for true high fidelity
reproduction from even the most demanding Dolby
Digital and DTS program sources.
RDS (Radio-Data System)
With the RDS system, FM station can send
additional signals with their regular program signals.
For example, the stations send their station names,
and information about the type of programs they
broadcast, such as news, sports or music. This unit
receives three types of RDS signals: RT, PS, and
PTY.
True Home Cinema with THX®
Certification
The HOME THX CINEMA surround mode employs
special processing to allow you to enjoy movie
soundtracks with the same level of power and
realism you experience in well designed movie
theaters. You can enjoy this effect with both Dolby
Digital, Dolby Surround and DTS sources.
Manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm and THX are trademarks of Lucasfilm
Ltd.
Advanced Theater Modes
This mode enhances the sound of either film or
music so a more dramatic effect can be achieved.
The four modes are each designed to accentuate
specific sound qualities, giving the listener a wide
range of possibilities.
DSP Surround Modes
DSP (Digital Signal Processing) surround mode gives
you the capability of transforming your living room
into six different sonic environments when listening
to music or movies.
Midnight Listening Mode
Midnight Listening mode allows you to obtain
excellent surround sound effects even when
listening at low volumes, something that was
previously impossible.
Digital Noise Reduction
Digital Noise Reduction is the latest technology for
filtering out unwanted noise. It produces clear,
resonant tones.
Remote Control of Other
Components
The supplied remote control can be used to operate a
variety of other components simply by recalling the
appropriate preset codes or by using the learning
function to teach the remote control new commands.
In addition, the multi-operation functions allow you to
perform more than one operation at a time.
The Energy-saving Design
This unit is designed to use minimal electricity when
power is switched OFF (in the Standby mode).
Regarding the value of the power consumption in the
standby mode, refer to “Specifications” on 84.

5
PREPARATION
Checking the Supplied Accessories
Please check that you have received all of the following supplied accessories.
FM wire antenna
How to Use This Manual
This manual is for the VSX-908RDS/VSX-908RDS-G Audio/Video Multi-Channel Receiver.
This manual is divided into two main sections which will tell you how to set up and use the receiver :
PREPARATION
First carry out the tasks below in this “Before You Start” section to prepare the remote control, then connect
the receiver to other components as described in “Connecting Your Equipment” (p.8). Take special care to
connect your digital components like DVD and LD players properly to be able to take advantage of the receiver’s
surround sound systems (p.10-11). To learn about a specific button, control, or indicator, see “Display and
Controls” on p.18.
SETUP
Performing the tasks in “Surround Sound Setup” (p.24) is essential to obtain proper surround sound.
OPERATION
To play some music or soundtracks, refer to “Basic Playback” (p.35). “Using the Tuner “(p.46) explains how to
use the radio of this unit. Doing the operations in “Remote Control of Other Components”(p.54) is highly
recommended so you can use this unit’s remote control for all your components. “Using Other
Functions”(p.65) explains the other possibilities of the receiver.
“Techno Tidbits and Problem-solving”(p.72) provides details technical information and a troubleshooting guide.
The following marks and symbols are used throughout the manual:
Provides additional information, precautions, and advice.
Indicates a blinking button, indicator, or display.
Indicates a steadily lit button, indicator, or display.
AM loop antenna “AA” IEC LR6 batteries ×2 Remote control unit
Before You Start

6
12
3
Preparing the Remote Control
Loading the batteries
Load the batteries into the remote control as shown below. Please use alkaline batteries.
When you notice a decrease in the operating range of the remote control, replace all batteries with new ones.
CAUTION!
Incorrect use of batteries may result in such hazards as leakage and bursting. Observe the following
precautions.
• Never use new and old batteries together.
• Insert the plus and minus sides of the batteries properly according to the marks in the battery case.
• Batteries with the same shape may have different voltages. Do not use different batteries together.
Operating other PIONEER components
Connecting an optional control cord allows you to operate other PIONEER components simply by pointing the
receiver’s remote control at the remote sensor on the front panel of the receiver. The receiver then sends the
remote control signals to the other components via the CONTROL OUT terminal.
AA dry cell batteries
((“AA”IEC LR-6)×2)
OUT
IN CONTROL
OUT
IN
CONTROL
PIONEER component
bearing the Îmark.
Remote Control
To CONTROL IN
terminal of another
PIONEER component
bearing the Îmark.
Receiver
You can also control PIONEER components (and those made by other manufacturers) by pointing the
receiver’s remote control directly at the respective components. This type of operation does not
require control cords. All you have to do is recall the appropriate preset code (refer to “Recalling preset
codes” on page 54).
Before You Start

7
PREPARATION
Before You Start
Installing the Receiver
Ventilation
Opening the front panel
To open the front panel, push gently on the lower third of the panel with your finger.
• When installing this unit, make sure to leave space around the unit for ventilation to improve heat radiation (at
least 60 cm at the top, 10 cm at the rear, and 30 cm at each side). If not enough space is provided between
the unit and walls or other equipment, heat will build up inside, interfering with performance or causing
malfunctions.
• Do not place on a thick carpet, bed, sofa or fabric having a thick pile. Do not cover with fabric or other
covering.
Anything that blocks ventilation will cause the internal temperature to rise, which may lead to breakdown or
fire hazard.
Operating range of the remote control unit
The area in which you can use the remote control to operate the receiver is fairly large. To use, point the remote
control toward the remote sensor on the front panel of this receiver while within the range shown below.
Remote control may not function properly if:
• There are obstacles between the remote
control and the remote sensor.
• Direct sunlight or fluorescent light is
shining onto the remote sensor.
• The receiver is located near a component
emitting infrared rays.
• Operated simultaneously with another
remote control which uses infrared rays.
30°
30°
7m

8
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
REC PLAY
L
R
REC PLAY
L
R
L
R
OUTPUT
CD player Turntable MD recorder
or Cassette deck Cassette deck (with REC monitor)
If your turntable has a
ground wire, connect it
to the (signal ground)
terminal.
The illustration is not applicable to the UK model.
Before making or changing the connections, switch off the power and disconnect the power cord from
the AC outlet.
Audio Components
To begin set up connect your audio components to the jacks as shown below. These are all analog connections
and your analog audio components (turntable, cassette deck) use these jacks. Remember that for components
you want to record with you need to hook up four plugs (a set of stereo ins and a set of stereo outs), but for
components that only play (like a turntable) you only need to hook up one set of stereo plugs (two plugs). To use
DTS surround sound features you must hook up your digital components to the digital inputs but it is also a good
idea to hook up your digital components to analog audio jacks. If you want to record to/from digital components
(like an MD) to/from analog components you must hook up your digital equipment with these analog
connections. See p.10, 11 for more on digital connections.
The arrows indicate the direction of the audio signal.
7Audio cords
Use audio cords (not supplied) to connect the audio components.
Cassette deck placement
Depending on where the cassette deck is placed, noise may occur during playback of your cassette deck, which
is caused by leakage flux from the transformer in the receiver. If you experience noise, move the cassette deck
farther away from the receiver.
Connect red plugs to R (right) and white plugs to L (left).
Be sure to insert completely.
L
R
Connecting Your Equipment

9
Connecting Your Equipment
PREPARATION
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
OUTPUT INPUT
VIDEO
L
R
VIDEO
L
R
OUTPUT INPUT
VIDEO
L
R
VIDEO
L
R
OUTPUT
VIDEO
L
R
OUTPUT
VIDEO
L
R
INPUT
VIDEO
PHONES S-VIDEO
5-CHANNELEQUALPOWEROUTPUT
VIDEO
EXTERNAL
DECODERIN DIRECT
SPEAKERS
L AUDIO R
VIDEOINPUT
VIDEO
LV R
VIDEO INPUT
The illustration
is not applicable
to the UK
model.
DVD player
(or LD player) Video deck (1) Video deck (2)
TV tuner
(or Satellite tuner)
TV
(monitor)
7Front
Video
camera
(etc.)
Video Components
Connect your video components to the jacks as shown below. Regarding digital video components (like a DVD),
you must use the analog connections pictured on this page for the video signal but in order to use Dolby Digital
you should hook up their audio to a digital input (see the next page). It is also a good idea to hook up your digital
components with analog audio connections as well (see the previous page). To cover all possible laser discs a
DVD/LD player or LD player requires an analog connection (as shown here) and two digital connections (see the
next page).
Front video connection are accessed via the front
panel input selector as “VIDEO.”
7Audio/Video cords
Use audio/video cords (not supplied) to connect
the video components and a video cord to
connect the monitor TV. Connect red
plugs to R (right),
white plugs to L
(left), and the
yellow plugs to
VIDEO.
Be sure to insert
completely.
If your video components have S-video
jacks, you could use S-video cords (not
supplied) to connect them on the back of
the receiver.
However, if you use S-video cords for
your video hook ups you must also hook
up your TV with S-video connections.
Conversely, if you use regular composite
video cords for video hookups, you
should use them for your TV as well.
L
R
VIDEO

10
Connecting Your Equipment
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
OUT DIGITAL
OUT
DIGITAL DIGITAL
IN DIGITAL OUT
DIGITAL OUT
OPT.
The illustration is not applicable to the UK model.
CD player MD recorderDVD player TV tuner
(or Satellite tuner)
Digital Connections
In order to use MPEG/Dolby Digital/DTS soundtracks you need to make digital audio connections. You can do
this by either coaxial or optical connections (you do not need to do both). The quality of these two types of
connections is the same but since some digital components only have one type of digital terminal, it is a matter
of matching. The receiver has two coaxial and two optical inputs for a total of four digital inputs. A DVD/LD
player or LD player should be connected to a digital jack and the special AC-3 RF jack (if the LD player has one)
as well as a pair of analog jacks (see the previous page). Connect your digital components as shown below.
There is one digital out jack which is marked PCM/2/DTS/MPEG OUT. If you connect this to the optical input
on a digital recorder (currently these include MD, DAT and CD-R), you can make direct digital recordings with
this receiver.
7Digital audio cords/Optical cables
Commercially available digital audio coaxial cords (standard video cords can also be used) or optical cables
(not supplied) are used to connect digital components to this receiver.
When you use optical digital input or output terminals, pull off the caps and insert the plugs. Be sure to
insert completely.
Digital audio cord
(or standard video cord) Optical cable

11
Connecting Your Equipment
PREPARATION
Example of Connection Using a DVD/LD or LD player
Make sure you connect your DVD/LD or LD players using the AC-3 RF jack and a coaxial or optical jack. If your
player has an AC-3 RF output, this will ensure you can play back AC-3 RF signals. See p.34 for details.
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
RF OUT
(AC-3)(LD)
DIGITAL OUT
1
23
PCM (OPT.)
DVD/LD player
or LD player
The illustration is not applicable to the UK model.
OUTPUT
VIDEO
L
R
Be sure to make either a digital coaxial or digital optical connection (pictured as DIGITAL-1 jack or
DIGITAL-3 jack in this diagram) as well. You do not need, however, to make both. Also, be sure to
assign the jacks to the proper component(s) with the “Digital-In Select” procedure (see p.34).

12
Connecting Your Equipment
External Decoder Input
In some cases you may need an external decoder to play special DVD discs and the like. If you find you need an
external decoder, hook one up as shown below. For most people this component is unnecessary. (See p.43)
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
L
R
SURROUND
OUTPUT
L
R
FRONT
OUTPUT
CENTER
SUB
WOOFER
»»»»
Components equipped with 5.1
channel analog output jacks
The illustration is not applicable to the UK model.
You cannot use the tuner and phono
functions with an external decoder input.

13
Connecting Your Equipment
PREPARATION
FM
ANTENNA
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
Indoor antenna
(Vinyl-coated
wire)
ground
Outdoor antenna
5–6 m
7AM loop antenna
Antennas
Hook up the supplied radio antennas as shown below.
1Assemble the antenna. 2Twist exposed wire strands
together and insert. 3Attach to a wall, etc. (if desired) and face toward the
direction providing the best
reception.
Using external antennas
7To improve FM reception
Connect an external FM antenna.
7To improve AM reception
Connect a 5–6 meter length of vinyl-coated wire to the AM
antenna terminal in addition to the supplied AM loop antenna.
For the best possible reception, suspend horizontally outdoors.
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
The illustration is not applicable to the UK model.
FM wire antenna
AM loop antenna
(See below)
Connect the FM wire antenna and fully extend to the “T” shape.
(For best reception, attach horizontally along a window frame, etc.)
10 mm
FM
ANTENNA
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
75 Ωcoaxial
cable
PAL
connector
ground

14
Connecting Your Equipment
Speakers
A full complement of six speakers is shown here but, naturally, everyone’s home setup will vary. Simply connect
the speakers you have in the manner described below. The receiver will work with just two stereo speakers
(called “front” speakers in the diagram) but it is recommended to be used with at least three speakers.
Make sure you connect the speaker on the right to the right terminal and the speaker on the left to the left
terminal. Also make sure the positive and negative (+/–) terminals on the receiver match those on the speakers.
The receiver has two speaker systems, A & B. A is the main system supporting the full complement of
surround sound speakers. If you switch on both A & B speaker systems, only front speakers and the
sub-woofer will be audible. No sound will come from the center or surround speakers but multi channel
sources will be down-mixed to the active speakers so no sound will be lost. Similarly, if you choose just
the B system you‘ll only hear from the front speakers connected to the B system and multi channel
sources will be down-mixed to these two speakers. Please use speakers rated between 6 Ω- 16 Ω.
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
INPUT
The illustration
is not applicable
to the UK
model.
Be sure to complete all other
connections before connecting
this unit to the AC power source.
Front Speakers (A)
L C SR SLR Center Speaker Surround Speakers
Powered sub woofer
TV
(To be used
as the center
speaker)
When using the speaker on your TV as the
center speaker, connect the CENTER
PREOUT jack on this unit to the audio input
jack on your TV. In this case, the center
speaker shown is unnecessary.

15
Connecting Your Equipment
PREPARATION
Before operating the receiver, be sure to press the main power
button on the front panel to turn the power ON (_).
First turn the receiver off (Standby mode), then press the
STANDBY/ON button while holding down the
SPEAKERS button.
Choose the impedance setting by pressing the SPEAKERS button again.
You can choose the 8 Ω-16 Ωsetting or the 6 Ω-less than 8 Ωsetting.
To check which impedance the amp is set to, hold down the
SPEAKERS button for 2-3 seconds. You will get a display like
the one shown below telling you the speaker impedance
setting.
7Speaker terminals
1Twist exposed wire
strands together. 2Loosen speaker terminal and insert exposed wire.
Speaker impedance
You can change the speaker impedance to suit the kind of speakers you have in your home system. We
recommend, however, using speakers with an impedance of 8 Ω-16 Ω(the default setting). If you are using 6 Ω
−less than 8 Ωimpedance speakers, you need to change the impedance setting.
(This display indicates an 6 Ω-less than
8 Ωimpedance setting)
(This display indicates an 8 Ω-16 Ω
impedance setting.)
or
(This display indicates an 6 Ω-less
than 8 Ωimpedance setting.)
10 mm
dB
SIGNAL
SELECT
ANALOG SP A
VOLUME
dB
SIGNAL
SELECT
ANALOG SP A
VOLUME
dB
SIGNAL
SELECT
ANALOG SP A
VOLUME
STANDBY/ON
—OFF _ON
DSP
MODE
STANDBY
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
STEREO
PHONES S-VIDEO
5-CHANNEL EQUAL POWER OUTPUT
VIDEO
EXTERNAL
DECODER IN
TAPE 2
MONITOR
DIRECT LOUDNESS MIDNIGHT DIGITAL
NR CLASS FM
/
ME
M
CHARACTER
/SEARCH
INPUT ATTSPEAKERS
– TREBLE + – BASS +
L AUDIO R
VIDEO INPUT
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARD
/DTS
MPEG
RF ATT
SIGNAL
SELECT
SPEAKERSMain power
button
STANDBY/ON
3Tighten terminal.

16
Connecting Your Equipment
Surround
Left Surround Right
Listening
Position
Front
Left Front RightCenter
Sub
Woofer
Speaker placement
If you have a multiple speaker arrangement, the placement of the speakers is extremely important. To achieve
the best possible surround sound, install your speakers as shown below. Make sure all speakers are installed
securely to prevent accidents and improve sound quality. Be sure to consult your speaker manuals for the best
placement of the speakers. Some speakers are designed to be floor-standing but others benefit greatly from
speaker stands which raise them off the floor.
• Install the left and right front speakers at equal distances from the TV.
• When installing speakers near the TV, we recommend using magnetically shielded speakers to
prevent possible interference such as distortion in the color of the TV screen. If you do not have
magnetically shielded speakers and notice discoloration of the TV screen, place the speakers farther
away from the TV.
• Install the center speaker above or below the TV so that the sound of the center channel is localized
at the TV screen.
CAUTION:
When installing the center speaker on top of the TV, be sure to secure it with tape or some other
suitable means. Otherwise, the speaker may fall from the TV due to external shocks such as
earthquakes, and it may lead to endangering those nearby or damaging the speaker.
• If possible, install the surround speakers slightly above ear level.
• It may be difficult to obtain a cohesive surround effect if the surround speakers are installed farther
away from the listening position than the front and center speakers.

17
Connecting Your Equipment
PREPARATION
Connecting Additional Amplifiers
Although the receiver has more than sufficient power for any home use, it is possible to add additional amplifiers
to your system. If you want to use separate amplifiers to power your speakers, make the connections shown
below.
Power Connections (AC OUTLETS) (Except for the UK
model.)
[SWITCHED TOTAL 100 W MAX]
Power supplied through these outlets is turned on and off by the receiver’s STANDBY/ON switch. Total
electrical power consumption of connected equipment should not exceed 100 W.
[UNSWITCHED 100 W MAX]
Power flows continually to this outlet, regardless of whether the receiver is switched ON or OFF. Electrical
power consumption of the connected equipment should not exceed 100 W.
CAUTION!
• Do not connect appliances with high power consumption such as heaters, irons, or television sets to the
AC OUTLETS in order to avoid overheating or fire risk. This can cause the amplifier to malfunction.
• The equipment should be disconnected by removing the mains plug from the wall socket when not in
regular use, e.g. when on vacation.
UNSWITCHED
100W MAX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
IN
VCR2
CONTROL
VCR1
PHONO
TV/
SAT
IN
TO
MONITOR
TV
DVD
/LD
IN
VIDEO
OUT
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MODE D’EMPLOI
SURROUND
SPEAKERS FRONT SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W MAX
CENTER
SPEAKER
MD/
TAPE1
/CD-R
FM
UNBAL
75Ω
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PREOUT
234
PCM/ /DTS/MPEG IN
RF IN
PCM/ /DTS
/MPEG OUT
RL VIDEO
FR FL C SR SL R L
IN
S
IN
S
RL
IN
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
OUT
S
IN
S
S
R
S
L
S
L
S
R
F
RF L
F
L
F
R
C
C
S
W
S
W
I
N
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
R
E
COUT
EXTERNAL
DECODER
IN
A B
AC OUTLETS
AUDIO
L
R
IN AUDIO
L
R
IN AUDIO
L
R
IN AUDIO
L
R
IN INPUT
The illustration is not applicable to the UK model.
Amplifier
(for center
channel)
Amplifier
(for surround
channels)
Amplifier
(for front
channels)
Powered
sub woofer
PIONEER
projection TV
(for center
channel)
L-Audio
(MONO) (or)

18
Front Panel
All the controls on the front panel are explained and/or referenced here. To open the front panel push gently on
the lower third of the panel.
1Main power (—ON/ _OFF) button
If the button is OFF (_), the power of the receiver
is shut off and the STANDBY/ON button (2) on
the receiver or the remote control do not
function. Pressing the button again will turn the
receiver ON (—) and the receiver enters the
standby mode. In the standby mode, you can
turn on the receiver using the STANDBY/ON
button (2) on the receiver or the remote control.
2STANDBY/ON button
Press to switch the receiver ON or into the
STANDBY mode.
3STANDBY indicator
Lights when the receiver is in the STANDBY
mode. (Please note that this receiver consumes a
small amount of power (1.0 W) during the
standby mode.)
4DSP MODE button (See p.37-38)
Press repeatedly to select a DSP sound mode.
(HALL 1, HALL 2, JAZZ, DANCE, THEATER 1, or
THEATER 2). Use these modes to produce
surround sound from standard (two channel)
stereo sources and create different listening
environments.
5STEREO button (See p.37-38)
Press to select the STEREO sound mode. In this
mode, sound comes from the front (left and right)
speakers only.
62/DTS buttons (See p. 36, 38)
THX CINEMA :Press to select the HOME THX
CINEMA mode when listening to Dolby Digital,
Dolby Pro Logic, DTS, or a variety of other
sources.
ADVANCED :Press to select one of the four
Advanced Theater modes.
STANDARD(MPEG ) : Press repeatedly to select
the STANDARD or MPEG mode.
7Display (See page 20-21)
8Remote sensor
Point the remote control toward the remote
sensor to operate the receiver.
9EON MODE button/indicator
Press to select the EON mode in the FM mode
(see “Setting EON” on page 53). The indicator
lights when the EON mode is selected.
0FL DIMMER button (See p.45)
Use to adjust the brightness of the main display.
STANDBY/ON DSP
MODE
STANDBY
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
STEREO
PHONES S-VIDEO
5-CHANNEL EQUAL POWER OUTPUT
VIDEO
EXTERNAL
DECODER IN DIRECT LOUDNESS MIDNIGHT DIGITAL NR
SPEAKERS
– TREBLE + – BASS +
L AUDIO R
VIDEO INPUT
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARD
/DTS
MPEG
—OFF _ON
EON
MODE
INPUT
SELECTOR
MASTER
VOLUME
FL
DIMMER
DOWN UP
TAPE 2
MONITOR
CLASS FM/AM
MEMORY
CHARACTER
/SEARCH
INPUT ATT
– TUNING +
– STATION +
RF ATT
SIGNAL
SELECT
∞
~ !@#$%^
*()_+¡™£¢
&
213456 7890-=
Displays and Controls

19
Displays and Controls
PREPARATION
-INPUT SELECTOR dial
Turn to select a source component. The source
indicators on the display shows the current
component:
DVD/LD :DVD player or Laser Disc player.
TV/SAT :TV tuner or satellite tuner.
CD : Compact disc player.
MD/TAPE 1 :Tape deck or Mini disc recorder
connected to MD/TAPE 1/CD-R inputs/outputs.
TUNER :The built-in tuner.
PHONO : Turntable.
VIDEO :Video camera (etc.) connected to the
VIDEO INPUT on the front panel.
VCR 1 :Video cassette recorder connected to
VCR 1 inputs.
VCR 2 :Video cassette recorder or other
component connected to VCR 2 inputs.
=MASTER VOLUME
Adjusts the overall receiver volume.
~EXTERNAL DECODER IN button (See
p.43)
Use to hook up an external component that can
decode other types of signals and input them into
the receiver.
!DIRECT button
Switches direct playback on or off. Use to bypass
the tone controls and channel level for the most
accurate reproduction of a program source. It will
automatically put the receiver in the STEREO
mode for that function.
@LOUDNESS button (See p.44)
Switches the LOUDNESS mode on or off.
#MIDNIGHT button (See p.43)
Switches the MIDNIGHT listening mode on or
off.
$DIGITAL NR button (See p.42)
Switches the DIGITAL NR on or off (STEREO
mode only).
%SIGNAL SELECT button (See p.41)
Use to select the signal from the digital
components.
Press SIGNAL SELECT repeatedly to select one
of the following:
ANALOG :To select an analog signal.
DIGITAL :To select an optical or coaxial digital
signal.
AC-3 RF:To select an AC-3 RF signal.
AUTO:This is the default. If there are both
analog and digital input signals, the receiver
automatically selects the best possible signal.
^RF ATT button (See p.46)
Press to turn the RF attenuator on when
receiving strong FM signals (nearby stations) to
reduce sound distortion. Normally, set the RF
attenuator to off. This button does not affect AM
reception.
&Tuner control buttons (See p.46-52)
CLASS :Press repeatedly to switch the preset
station classes.
FM/AM :Press to select the AM or FM band.
TUNING –/+ :Use to manually tune into radio
stations.
*STATION –/+ buttons (See p.48-50)
Use to choose programmed radio stations.
(MEMORY button (See p.48)
Press to start the memorization of a preset
station.
)CHARACTER/SEARCH button
Press to select the character input mode, or
initiate an RDS PTY search (see “Memorizing a
broadcast station name” on p.50 and “Searching
for a program by program type (PTY) on p.52).
_TAPE 2 MONITOR button (See p.65)
Selects the tape deck (MD recorder, etc.)
connected to the TAPE 2 MOINTOR inputs/
outputs. Allows monitoring of a recording as it is
being made.
+INPUT ATT button
Use to lower the input level of an analog signal
that is too powerful, thus causing the receiver to
distort (the OVER indicator will light furiously).
¡TREBLE (–/+) buttons (See p.45)
Use to adjust the high frequencies.
™BASS (–/+) buttons (See p.45)
Use to adjust low frequencies.
£SPEAKERS (A/B) buttons
A is the primary setting. It plays all speakers
hooked up to the A system. A and B setting only
plays the front speakers of both the A and B
systems and the sub-woofer. Multi channel
sources will be down-mixed to these speakers so
no sound will be lost. B setting only plays the
front speakers connected to the B system and
Multi channel sources will be down-mixed to
these two speakers.
¢VIDEO INPUT jacks (See p.9)
S-VIDEO :Video input for connecting a video
camera (etc.), that has an S-Video out.
VIDEO / AUDIO (L/R) :Video input for
connecting a video camera, etc. that has standard
video/audio outputs.
∞PHONES jack
Connect headphones for private listening (no
sound will be heard through the speakers).
A A+B OFFB

20
Displays and Controls
Display
All the display information is explained here.
1SIGNAL SELECT indicators
Light to indicate the type of input signal assigned
for the current component (see “Front Panel”, %,
SIGNAL SELECT).
ANALOG :Lights when an analog signal is
selected.
DIGITAL :Lights when a digital audio signal is
selected (DVD/LD, CD, MD/TAPE1, TV/SAT,
VCR 1, VCR 2).
AC-3RF:Lights when an AC-3 RF signal is
selected (DVD/LD, TV/SAT, VCR 1, VCR 2).
AUTO:Lights when the receiver is set to select
the input signal automatically (DVD/LD, CD,
MD/TAPE 1, TV/SAT, VCR 1, VCR 2).
AC-3 : Lights when a source with Dolby Digital
signals is played.
DTS :Lights when a source with DTS audio
signals is played.
MPEG: Blinks when the MPEG mode is selected,
and lights when a source with MPEG audio
signals is played.
2Speaker indicators
Light to indicate the current speaker system (see
“Front Panel”, £, SPEAKERS (A/B)).
SP #A : Lights when speaker system A is
selected.
SP #B : Lights when speaker system B is
selected.
SP #AB : Lights when speaker systems A and B
are both selected.
3Analog level indicators
OVER :If “ANALOG” is selected in SIGNAL
SELECT, this indicator lights to show that an
excessively strong signal is being processed.
When this occurs, press INPUT ATT on the front
panel to attenuate (lower) the signal. Also, when
“DIGITAL” is selected in SIGNAL SELECT, this
indicator lights to show that a source containing
an excessive amount of information is being
processed. If this occurs, see p. 38.
ATT :Lights when INPUT ATT is used to reduce
the level of the input signal (available in ANALOG
mode only).
4LOUDNESS indicator (See p.44)
Lights when the LOUDNESS mode is on.
5MIDNIGHT indicator (See p.43)
Lights when the MIDNIGHT listening mode is on.
6Radio Frequency/Source indicator
Displays the source or the frequency of the
current radio station.
7DSP indicator (See p.37-38)
Lights when a DSP or Advanced Theater mode is
selected.
8STEREO indicator (See p.37-38)
Lights when a Stereo mode is selected.
DIGITAL dB
PRO LOGIC
STEREO
DSP
MIDNIGHTLOUDNESSATTSIGNAL
SELECT OVER H.P
AC-3DTS MPEG
ANALOG SP AB EON
RDS
RF ATT
LCRLFE
LS SRS
DIGITAL
AC-3RF
MONO STEREO
AUTO TUNED AMFM TAPE 2
VOLUME
MPEG
1
34 5678 09-2
=!~#
@