Pioneer VSX-D903S User manual

Operating
Instructions
AUDIO/VIDEO STEREO RECEIVER
VSX-D903
NTSC
W PIONEER scomvess ommemenvee VSX-DIOIS
Of Ohog
Thank you for buying this Pioneer product.
Please read through these operating instructions so you will know how
to operate your model properly. After you have finished reading the
instructions, put them away in a safe place for future reference.
in some countries or regions, the shape of the power plug and power
outlet may sometimes differ from that shown in the explanatory
drawings. However, the method of connecting and operating the unit
is the same.
WARNING: To prevent FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
[For U.S. and Canadian models]
The serial number for this equipment is located on the rear
panel. Please write this serial number on your enclosed
warranty card and keep it in a secure area. This is for your
security,
[For Canadian model]
CAUTION: To PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT USE THIS.
(POLARIZED) PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE
OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY
INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.
ATTENTION: pour PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES
NE PAS UTILISER CETTE FICHE POLARISEE AVEC UN
PROLONGATEUR, UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU UNE AUTRE
SORTIE DE COURANT, SAUF Si LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE
INSEREES A FOND SANS EN LAISSER AUCUNE PARTIE A
DECOUVERT.
DEMO MODE
® The demonstration made is activated by turning on the power
switch while holding down the RETURN button (from power
standby condition}. The demonstration will appear on the
display.
sitfinishes after about 10 minutes, but if you want to stop it part
way through, press any button.
The DEMO MODE can be switched on with GU! operation. (See
page 38)
RETURN function
This function returns the unit to a set of initial settings and the
tuner ready to receive a broadcast. This is heipful during
troubleshooting or when no sound is output. For details, refer to
“FRONT PANEL FACILITIES” on page 19.
RESET function
Set MASTER VOLUME to minimum before presetting the RESET
button.
Use this function when normal operation becomes impossible
because of external influences such as static electricity or
lightning, or when operation is impossible even when operation
switches are pressed. Press the RESET button to return to normal
operating conditions.
Only in the case of television formatted in NTSC, the GUI! (Graphic
User interface} mode can be used. Because this unit’s GUI display
signal is NTSC, automatic switching to the GUI mode may not be
possible with other TV systems. If this problem arises, refer to the
TV's operating manual.
@ PIONEER’
The Art of Entertainment

IMPORTANT
hining flash with arrowhead, within an equilateral
wriangle, 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.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO. NOT OPEN
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) NO USER
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
READ INSTRUCTIONS ~: All the safety and operating
instructions should be read hefore the appliance is
operated
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS -- The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future
teference.
HEED WARNING — All warnings on the appiiance and in
the operating instructions should be adhered to
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS — Ail operating and use
instructions should be followed.
WATER AND MOISTURE — The appliance should not
be used near water ~ for example. near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimening pool. etc.
LOCATION ~ The appliance should be installed in a
stable location.
WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING ~ The appliance
should not be mounted to a wall or ceiling.
VENTILATION -- The appliance should be situated so
that its Jocation or position does not interfere with
its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance
should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar
surface that may block the ventilation openings; or,
placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase
ot cabinet that may impede the flow of air through
the ventilation openings.
HEAT — The appliance should be situated away from
heat soutces such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers}
that produce heat.
POWER SOURCES — The appliance should be
connected to a power supply only of the type
described in the operating instructions or as
marked on the appfiance.
POWER-CORD PROTECTION — Power-supply cords
should be routed so that they are not likely to be
watked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them. Pay particular attention to cords at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the appliance.
POLARIZATION If your purchased product is
provided with a polarized power plug, please read
the following instructions. This product is equipped
with a potarized alternating current line plug (a plug
having one blade wider than the other). This plug
will fit into the power outiet only one way. This is a
safety feature. if you are unable to insert the plug
fully into the outlet. try reversing the plug. If the
plug should stilt fail to fit, contact your electrician to
replace your obsalete outlet. Do not defeat the
safety purpose of the polarized plug.
CLEANING ~ The appliance should be cleaned only
with 2 polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. Never
clean with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or
other volatile liquids since they may corrode the
cabinet.
The exclamation point within ar: equilateral triangle is
intended fo alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the fiterature accompanying the appliance,
POWER LINES ~ An outdoor antenna should be located
away from power lines.
MONUSE PERIODS ~ The power cord of the appliance
should be unplugged from the outlet when left
unused for a fong period of time
OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY ~ Care should be taken
so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled
into the enclosure through openings.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE ~ The appliance
should be serviced by @ Pionser authorized service
center or qualified service personnel when:
The power-supply cord or the plug has been
damaged.
Objects have fallen, or Hquid has been spilled into
the appliance,
The appliance has been exposed to rain.
The appliance does not appear to operate normally
oy exhibits @ marked change in performance,
The appliance has been dropped or the enclosure
damaged
SERVICING ~ The user should not attempt to service
the appliance beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other servicing should
be referred to qualified service personnel
e
OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING - ff an outside
CART ~ An apptiance and cart combination should be
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
————
antenna is connected 10 the antenna terminal, be
gure the antenna system is grounded s0 as to
provide some protection against voltage surges
and built-up static charges.
In the U.S.A. section 810 of the National Electrical
Code, ANSUNFPA 70, provides information with
tespect to proper grounding of the mast end
supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire
to an antenna discharge unit, size of groundin:
conduciors, Jocation of antenna discharge unit
connection to grounding electrades. and
raquirements for the grounding etectrods, See Fig.
A
moved with care. Guick stops, excessive force, and
tneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart
combination to overtuen
NEC ~ NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE
_. ANTENNA
LEAD iN
WIRE
ANTENNA
. DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810 —- 20)
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT.
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 819 = 21}
GROUND CLAMPS
Fear —nvremen POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
FIG. A (NEC ART 256, PART H)
Note to CATV system installer
This
reminder
is
provided
to
call
the
CATV
system
installer’s
attention
to
Article
320-40
of
the
NEC
that
provides
guidelines
for
proper
grounding
and,
in
particular,
specifies
that
the
cable
ground
shall
be
connected
to
the
grounding
system
of
the
building,
as
close
to
the
point
of
cable
entry
as
practical.
information to User
Alteration
or
modifications
carried
out
without
appropriate
authorization
may
invalidate
the
user's
right
to
operate
the
equipment.
2
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CONTENTS
BEFORE OPERATING
BEFORE OPERATING, ADJUST THE POSITION OF
THESE SWITCHES .
ACCESSORY ITEMS .
SURROUND EFFECT
DOLBY 3CH LOGIC ..
DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SU ;
PRO LOGIC THEATER CENTER MODE ..
SPEAKER INSTALLATION
Ouanh
3CH LOGIC,
© oO)
CONNECTION CHART
BEFORE CONNECTIONS
BASIC AUDIO SYSTEM CONNECTIONS .
BASIC VIDEO SYSTEM CONNECTIONS
SPEAKERS CONNECTION ...
APPLICATIONS ........2.000
MULTI-ROOM CONNECTIONS
BiSoaon
PANEL FACILITIES
REAR PANEL EACILIVES i ='--s =.= s.s testes 15
ERONE PANEL FACILITIES :
DISPLAY SECTION
OPERATIONS
22
TUNING INTO STATIONS 22
PRESET TUNING oss. 22
RECEIVING FM SIMULCAST TV PROGRAMS
OPERATING THE AUDIOVIDEO COMPONENTS:
PLAYBACK ....cccscssstssersoensesertassrreee
RECORDING WITH A CASSETTE DECK
VIDEO RECORDING
SURRGUND EFFECT AND DOLBY 3CH LOGIC
USING THE VIDEO SIGNAL SELECTOR I
USING THE AUTO SOURCE CONTROL J
ISISUNICN STR OOM MANORNONC Sm RMCaS ..
23
23
23
. 27
HINTS FOR BETTER RECEPTION 0... .scescccesceseseeceeereveeereenes 28
REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION
PUTTING BATTERIES INTO THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT .... 29
REMOTE CONTROL RANGE ....
OUTLINE OF BUTTON LAYOUT
RECEIVER CONTROL BUTTONS ..
OPERATING OTHER COMPONENTS
VCR 1 OPERATION .....
LD PLAYER OPERATION
TV OPERATION ....
CD PLAYER OPERATIO:
TUNER OPERATION .
DECK |, Il OPERATION .
DAT OPERATION ........
MODE CHECK BUTTON
PROGRAMMING ..
LEARN .
EDIT .... bes
RETURNING TO THE INITIAL SETTINGS o.oo eeceeteeeeeeeeee 37
GUI OPERATION
Ria, iy meth nko nin 38
(Graphic User Interface)
OPERATING TUNER
MANUAL/AUTO TUNING
PRESET TUNING ..
STATION ENTRY
CUSTOM SEARCH
SCAN
OPERATING CD PLAYER ...
CD SETUP .... 41
DISC ENTRY .. 43
SEARCHING FUNCTION . 44
PROGRAM PLAYBACK
OPERATING OTHER COMPONENTS ou... sce e ee eeenecereeeeeeeeeee
S.F.C. (Sound Field Control} MODE OPERATION
OTHER OPERATIONS
TROUBLESHOOTING
SPECIFICATIONS
3
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BEFORE OPERATING, ADJUST THE POSITION OF THESE SWITCHES
Only multi-voltage modeis are provided with these switches.
US.
and
Canadian
models
are
not
provided
with
these
switches,
Main voltages in Saudi Arabia are 127 V and 220 V only. Never
use this model with 110 V setting in Saudi Arabia.
The line voltage selector switches are on the rear panel. Before your
model is shipped from the factory, these switches are set to the
power requirements of the destination. Check that they are set
properly before plugging the power cord into the household wail
socket. if the voitage is not properly set or if you move to an area
where the voltage requirements differ, adjust the selector switches
as follows.
1. Use a medium-size screwdriver.
2. First, insert a screwdriver in the groove of the voltage selector at
the right, and adjust so that the tip of the groove points to the
voltage value of your area.
3. Next, insert a screwdriver in the groove of the voltage selector at
the left and adjust until the voltage is the same as at the right.
TWO VOLTAGE SELECTORS:
2200
CAUTION: TWO VOLTAGE SELECTORS
CHANNEL STEP/FM DE-EMPHASIS SWITCH
{Not available on U.S. and Canadian models)
The unit has been factory-preset to the channel allocation and de-
emphasis
value
for
the
area
in
which
it
is
to
be
sold.
If
these
values
are set incorrectly, the frequency display may stop at the wrong
frequency, or sound may be distorted, resulting in an inability to
reproduce reception signals at their proper sound quality. For this
reason, be sure to confirm that the values are set correctly before
first using the unit.
{FM 100 kHz/75 us, AM 10 kHz] position:
Setto this position for areas with an FM reception step of 100 kHz, de-
emphasis 75 us and AM 10 kHz.
[FM 50 kHz/50 us, AM 9 kHz] position:
Setto this position, for areas with an FM reception step of 50 kHz, de-
emphasis 50 us and AM 9 kHz.
NOTE:
When unsure about the channel allocation and de-emphasis values
of your area, consult your dealer for correct information.
CHANNEL STEP
{FM DE-EMPHASIS
Bam av
Lo]
ee
220 240v
Tov 120-1274
ac itov | AG 120
AC 220V | AC 240V
I
FM C> S0kHx —-100kH?
SOS — MBPS
AMES OkHy 1kHe
VOLTAGE SELECTORS
Medium-size screwdriver NOTE:
Both switches must be in the same switch
Setting; otherwise, unit can be damaged.
ACCESSORY ITEMS
FM T-type Antenna
AM Loop Antenna
4
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Alkaline dry cell battery x 2
{size “AA” (LR6/AM-3}}
Audio/Video programmable
remote control unit

SURROUND EFFECT
This unit is equipped with DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND. There is
also a DSP (Digital Signai Processor), with a choice of five SFC
{Sound Field Control} simulated surround settings.
e SIMULATED SURROUND:
The “SIMULATED SURROUND” creates effects of reverberated and
reflected sound from the walls and ceiling similar to a concert hall.
These sound-effects added to the actual sound from the source
make you feel as if you were in a more expanded space. The
different ranges of the expanded space can be set by the DELAY
TIME button.
Set the Delay Time to 16 ms or 20 ms for a live-house concert. For
chamber music, set to 20 ms. For orchestral music, set to 30 ms. The
“SIMULATED SURROUND” also gives effects on monaural sources
by outputting the reverberated sound from rear speakers while
keeping the output sound from front speakers as it is. Turn on the
“SIMULATED SURROUND” for a monaural source to gain effective
surround playback.
© JAZZ:
This gives you the sound fieid of a jazz club.
© DANCE:
A “hot” high-energy sound, with extra reverb for greater ambience.
eHALL;
You can enjoy a convincing hail sound.
e PRO LOGIC THEATER
Use with video software bearing the Di{][pousy sunnounp] mark. The
feeling of movement, and outstanding stereo imaging offered by
DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND, together with an atmosphere of a
movie theater assure an incredible ambience.
® DOLBY* PRO-LOGIC SURROUND
Choose this setting for movies and music (especially Video Discs
and video tapes bearing the [{][potev surround] mark) playback.
DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND continuously detects the size and
direction of the dominant signal and cancels undesirable crosstalk,
thereby providing signal emphasis.
You can clearly perceive the directions and source of the music.
Real flow of sound can also be re-created naturally using this
feature. it gives the feeling of being in an outstanding and expansive
sound field.
When using DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND, a delay time setting of
20 ms is commonly used. Use a different setting if you prefer.
Even if they do not bear the Di{][sorsysunscuno] mark, some video
recordings may be Dolby Surround encoded.
Choose the SIMULATED SURROUND mode if the source sound
signal is mono. Little or no sound will be heard from the surround
speakers if the DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND mode is selected.
With DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND, monaural source sound will
be heard only from the center channel-at settings other than the
PHANTOM position.
Note:
Dolby Surround will not operate correctly if the signal passes
through a graphic equalizer.
When using Doiby Surround, turn off the TAPE 2 MONITOR or set
the graphic equalizer for flat response or to its “through” (or off)
setting, if you have one in use.
*
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation. Additionally licensed under one er more of the
following patenis: U.S. number 3,959,590: Canadian numbers
1,004,603 and 1,037,877. “Dolby”, “Pro Logic”, and the double-D
symbolare trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
x
Fabriqué sous licence de Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation
et sous un ou plusiers des brevets suivants: U.S.A. 3,959,590;
Canada 1,004,603 et 1,037,877. ““DOLBY,’Pro Logic,’ et le symbole
double-D sont des marques de Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation.”
5
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:
f

DOLBY 3CH LOGIC
Combining the rear speaker signal with that of the front speakers
results in your being able to enjoy a regenerated sound field which
has comparatively more presence and a more expansive feeling
from the front 3 channels (front L, front R, and center speakers) than
that of ordinary stereo regeneration.
DOLBY 3CH LOGIC can be used with stereo sources not encoded
with DOLBY SURROUND.
You can choose from the following settings:
Center Mode Choices:
When using a center speaker:
® NORMAL — Low range frequencies, which have little effect on
directionality and positioning, are routed to the left and right front
speakers. So you can use a relatively small size speaker as the
center speaker.
® WIDE — If you use a large size center speaker, choose this setting.
The full frequency range of the Dolby Surround center channel,
from low to high, is routed to the center speaker.
SPEAKER INSTALLATION
To get the most out of the surround system, place the speakers as
shown below.
An example of speaker positioning
Front left Center speaker Front right
speaker FRONT speaker
Ui
Listening
LL,
Rear left Rear right
speaker speaker
6
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DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND, DOLBY 3CH LOGIC, PRO LOGIC THEATER CENTER MODE
When not using a center speaker: DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND,
PRO LOGIC THEATER
® PHANTOM — The signa! which would have been sentto the center
speaker is divided equally between the left and right front
speakers.
With DOLBY PRO-LOGIC SURROUND, monaural source sound
will be heard only from the center channel at settings other than the
PHANTOM position.
If the rear speakers are positioned at an extreme distance, the
surround level becomes unable to adjust and the surround effect
will not be fully achieved.
NOTE:
® To avoid interference with the picture on a nearby TV set, use
magnetically shielded speaker systems. This is particularly
important for the center speaker since it is usually located closest
to the TV.
® Position the left and right channel speakers at equal distances from
the TV set and approximately 1.8 m {6 feet) from each other.
® Position the center speaker above, below, or behind the TV set.
Sound may not appear to coincide with the picture if you position
it next to the TV set.
® Rear speakers are best positioned slightly above ear level.

CONNECTION CHART
Setting Up the AM Antenna
* Insert the claw on the bottom of the antenna into the groove in
the leg.
® Place the antenna on a level surface and rotate it to locate the
orientation that yields the best reception.
® Use the attachment hoie in the leg to screw to wali or other
iocation, then insert the claw on the bottom of the antenna into
the groove in the leg {affixing the antenna in the direction that
gives the best reception).
i a ao
& <
installation Precautions
©The rear panel vents are designed to prevent internal
temperature rise. Be careful that curtains or other items do not
block the vents.
®To improve heat dispersion, set the unit so that it is at least
20 cm (8 inches) away from the wall.
At least 20cm (8 inches)
\
Precaution regarding installation position of
cassette deck
If the cassette deck is installed in the ® positions as shown in the
drawing below, it may be adversely affected during playback. If
possible, it is better to install it in the ® position.
®
® Receiver
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 piace 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 fire or give you an electrical shock.
Check the power cord once in a while. When you find it damaged, ask
your nearest PIONEER authorized service center or your dealer for a
replacement.
THE S-VIDEO CONNECTORS
When using a VCR 1, LD and TV monitor which has S-VIDEO
connectors, they can be connected to the S-VIDEO connectors.
For the operation of components connected to S-VIDEO
connectors, refer to the instruction manuals of the
corresponding components.
NOTE;
© {in this unit, the S-VIDEO connectors (Y-C separate} and the
regular pin jacks are independent, so any signat input through a
pin jack must be output from the pin jack, and any signal input
through an S-VIDEO connector must be output through the
S-VIDEO connector.
® The S-VIDEO cannector is for video portion only, so be sure also
to make audio connections.
How to use S-VIDEO connectors
S-VIDEO jack
Check the position of
the holes and insert.
tT S-VIDEO plug
For the method of switching the TV monitor S-VIDEO connector/
VIDEO jack, refer to the TV monitor's instruction manual.
7
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CONNECTION CHART
NOTE FOR FM T-TYPE ANTENNA:
BASIC AUDIO SYSTEM CONNECTIONS Stretch the antenna out to its full length, and affix it to a wall, etc.
llustration shows U.S. and Canadian model. NOTE FOR AM LOOP ANTENNA:
The antenna should be placed at a distance from the receiver, and
should not be allowed to touch metallic objects.
Avoid placing it near CD players, persanal computers, television sets,
and other devices generating radio frequencies.
NM FM-T * Use if you want to use an additional power amplifier to boost
ioe
anes
-
center
channel
power
outlet.
Accessory
AM
Turntable
loop antenna
CD player
AC wail socket
Cassette
deck
1/DAT
[Power
cord
connection
example]
8
<ARB1489>

= & < = (=) Zz 2 = +) ua 2 < 9 o
[ BASIC VIDEO SYSTEM CONNECTIONS
* S (video) connection.
See page 7.
"TEA EAE TS
[| TV monitor
—————
oN ioe ae
>) is
R
Q
LD player
TV tuner
<ARB1489>

CONNECTION CHART
SPEAKERS CONNECTION
© Front L, R speakers
® Front center speaker
Rear L, R speakers
When connecting speakers to the FRONT
SPEAKERS B terminals, the procedure is the same
as that used for connecting speakers to the FRONT
SPEAKERS A terminals.
NOTE:
Do not allow any of the cord’s conductors to
protrude from the terminals or touch any other
conductors. Malfunctioning or breakdowns may
occur when conductors come into contact with
each other.
¢ /f you have one pair of speakers only, connect it to
front speaker terminals A or B.
Front speakers impedance
Set the FRONT SPEAKERS IMPEDANCE
SELECTOR switch to the nominal
impedance of your speakers.
@ Position HIGH
—————_—_———_______,
AorB
(1 pair)
Aand B
(2 pairs)
82to 162
® Position LOW
Aon 8 4Q to 162
{1 pair)
ye ede 82to 162
{2 pairs)
Center speaker impedance
Connect a center speaker system with a
nominal impedance of between 8 Q and 16 Q.
Rear speakers impedance
Connect rear speaker systems with a
nominal impedance of between 8 Q and 16 Q.
NOTE:
Be sure to observe speaker polarity.
10
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0 mm.
% a)
@ Push the lever.
@® insert the cord.
® Puil the lever back.
@ Loosen cap.
® insert wire.
® Tighten cap.
FRONT SPEAKERS
IMPEDANCE SELECTOR
switch
SP-A (L)
SP-A (R)