Rotel Dolby Pro Logic RSP 970 User manual
RSP
970
Dolby
Pro
Logic®
Surround
Sound
Preamplifier
Owners
Manual
Please
write
the
serial
number,
purchase
date
and
ROTEL/?/
fi
AUTHORIZED
DEALER
name
in
the
spaces
provided,
for
your
records.
Serial
Number_.
Purchase
date_.
ROTEL/!/AUTHORIZED
DEALER
_
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING:
TO
REDUCE
THE
RISK
OF
FIRE
OR
ELECTRIC
SHOCK,
DO
NOT
EXPOSE
THIS
APPLIANCE
TO
RAIN
OR
MOISTURE.
CAUTION:
TO
REDUCE
THE
RISK
OF
ELECTRIC
SHOCK,
DO
NOT
REMOVE
COVER
(OR
BACK).
NO
USER-
SERVICEABLE
PARTS
INSIDE.
REFER
SERVICING
TO
QUALIFIED
SERVICE
PERSONNEL.
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
instructions
in
the
literature
accompanying
the
appliance.
1.
Read
Instructions
-
All
the
safety
and
operating
instructions
should
be
read
before
the
appliance
is
operated.
2.
Retain
Instructions
-
The
safety
and
operating
instructions
should
be
retained
for
future
reference.
3.
Heed
Warnings
-
All
warnings
on
the
appliance
and
in
the
operating
instructions
should
be
adhered
to.
4.
Follow
Instructions
-
All
operating
and
use
instructions
should
be
followed.
5.
Water
and
Moisture
-
The
appliance
should
not
be
used
near
water
-
for
example,
near
a
bathtub,
kitchen
sink,
laundry
tub,
in
a
wet
basement
or
near
a
swimming
pool,
etc.
6.
Carts
and
Stands
-
The
appliance
should
be
used
only
with
a
cart
or
stand
that
is
recommended
by
the
manufacturer.
6A.
An
appliance
and
cart
combination
should
be
moved
with
care.
Quick
stops,
excessive
force
and
uneven
surfaces
may
cause
the
appliance
and
cart
combination
to
overturn.
7.
Wall
or
Ceiling
Mounting
-
The
appliance
should
be
mounted
to
a
wall
or
ceiling
only
as
recommended
by
the
manufacturer.
8.
Ventilation
-
The
appliance
should
be
situated
so
that
its
location
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
or
cabinet
that
may
that..-
may
impede
the
flow
of
air
through
the
ventilation
openings.
9.
Heat
-
The
appliance
should
be
situated
away
from
heat
sources
such
as
radiators,
heat
registers,
stoves
or
other
appliances
(including
amplifiers)
that
produce
heat.
10.
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
appliance,
11.
Grounding
or
Polarization
-
The
precautions
that
should
be
taken
so
that
the
grounding
or
polarization
means
of
an
appliance
is
not
defeated.
12.
Power-Cord
Protection
-
Power
supply
cords
should
be
routed
so
that
they
are
not
likely
to
be
walked
on
or
pinched
by
items
placed
upon
or
against
them,
paying
particular
attention
to
cords
and
plugs,
convenience
receptacles
and
the
point
where
they
exit
from
the
appliance.
13.
Cleaning
-
The
appliance
should
be
cleaned
only
as
recommended
by
the
manufacturer.
14.
Nonuse
Periods
-
The
power
cord
of
the
appliance
should,
be
unplugged
from
the
outlet
when
left
unused
for
a
long
period
of
time.
15.
Object
and
Liquid
Entry
-
Care
should
be
taken
so
that
objects
do
not
fall
and
liquids
are
not
spilled
into
the’
enclosure
through
the
openings.
16.
Damage
Requiring
Service
-
The
appliance
should
be
serviced
by
qualified
factory-authorized
service
personnel
when:
•
The
power-supply
cord
or
the
plug
has
been
damaged
or
•
Objects
have
fallen,
or
liquid
has
been
spilled
into
the
appliance;
or
•
The
appliance
has
been
exposed
to
rain;
or
•
The
appliance
does
not
appear
to
operate
normally
or
exhibits
a
marked
change
in
performance:
or
•
The
appliance
has
been
dropped,
or
the
enclosure
damaged.
17.
Servicing
-
The
user
should
not
attempt
to
service
the
appliance
beyond
that
descnbed
in
the
operating
instructions.
All
other
servicing
should
be
referred
to
qualified
factory-authorized
service
personnel
PORTABLE
CART
WARNING
APPLICABLE
FOR
U.S.A.,
CANADA
OR
WHERE
APPROVED
TO
THE
USAGE.
CAUTION:
TO
PREVENT
ELECTRIC
SHOCK.
MATCH
WIDE
BLADE
OF
PLUG
TO
WIDE
SLOT,
FULLY
INSERT.
_
ATTENTION:
POUR
EVITER
LES
CHOCS
ELECTRIQUES.
INTRODUCE
LA
LAME
LA
PLUS
LARGE
DE
LA
FICHE
DANS
LA
BORNE
CORRESPONDANTE
DE
LA
PRISE
ET
POUSSER
JUSQU
AU
FOND.
i
SPEAKER
CONFIGURATION
SETTINGS
DURING
INITIAL
SET
UP
The
CENTER
MODE
switch
should
be
set
to
match
your
speaker
configuration.
The
NORMAL
setting
turns
the
CENTER
channel
speaker
ON.
This
setting
removes
the
bass
below
100
Hz
from
the
CENTER
speaker
and
makes
it
available
to
the
FRONT
LEFT
and
FRONT
RIGHT
speakers.
The
PHANTOM
setting
instructs
the
RSP
970
to
turn
the
CENTER
channel
speaker
OFF
and
divide
the
CENTER
channel
signal
equally
between
the
FRONT
LEFT
and
RIGHT
channels.
This
setting
is
to
be
used
only
when
no
center
channel
speaker
is
used.
The
WIDE
setting
turns
the
CENTER
channel
speaker
ON
and
instructs
the
RSP
970
to
provide
full
range
frequency
response,
including
bass
below
100
Hz,
to
the
CENTER
channel.
This
full
frequency
range
signal
will
overload
a
small
center
channel
speaker.
We
highly
recommend
that
you
listen
to
the
sound
quality
for
potential
bass
overload
from
smaller
CENTER
channel
speakers,
if
bass
is
played
through
them.
WIDE
should
only
be
chosen
with
a
CENTER
channel
speaker
that
is
a
full
frequency
range
design,
capable
of
playing
powerful
bass
notes
without
overloading.
If
you
use
a
SUBWOOFER
in
your
system,
it
should
have
a
variable
or
defeatable
crossover
so
that
it
can
be
adjusted
to
match
the
front
speakers
at
the
crossover
frequency.
We
suggest
defeating
the
crossover
built
into
the
subwoofer.
The
SUBWOOFER
low
pass
filter
output
is
-3
dB
at
120
Hz.
Bass
below
120
Hz
is
offered
to
the
two
SUBWOOFER
outputs
on
the
back
panel.
It
is
impossible
to
make
an
accurate
suggestion
for
all
combinations
of
speakers
and
subwoofer
settings
in
an
owners'
manual.
You
may
also
want
to
discuss
this
aspect
of
your
installation
and
speaker
selection
with
your
ROTEL/w
fi
AUTHORIZED
DEALER.
SETTING
CHANNEL
BALANCE
IN
YOUR
SURROUND
SOUND
SYSTEM
Using
the
remote
control,
choose
DOLBY
PRO
LOGIC
SURROUND
MODE
and
then
press
the
BAL
CHK
button.
The
speaker
settings
will
be
displayed
ON
SCREEN.
Each
time
the
BAL
CHK
button
is
pushed,
the
SPEAKER
channel
to
be
adjusted
will
change,
sequentially.
The
selected
channel
will
“flash'
on
and
off
in
the
ON
SCREEN
display.
During
BALANCE
CHECK,
the
range
of
volume
adjustment
available
is
from
0
to
-12
dB
for
each
channel.
Press
the
VOLUME
(
<,
>
)
buttons
to
make
the
volume
level
change
as
needed.
The
level
settings
will
be
displayed
ON
SCREEN
as
you
change
them.
The
volume
for
each
successive
channel
should
be
adjusted
by
using
the
remote
control
while
sitting
down
in
your
favorite
place.
All
of
the
channels
should
be
the
same
volume
level
from
the
main
listening
position.
This
does
not
mean
that
the
ON
SCREEN
number
shown
will
always
be
the
same
value
for
all
the
channels.
When
you
have
adjusted
all
the
channels,
or
cycled
through
the
settings,
the
display
ON
SCREEN
will
go
off.
For
best
resuits,
we
suggest
using
a
sound
pressure
level
(SPL)
meter
when
making
the
BALANCE
CHECK
settings.
An
inexpensive
ANALOG
sound
level
meter
(from
Radio
Shack®,
for
example)
will
be
excellent
for
this
purpose.
Listening
by
ear
will
not
be
as
accurate.
The
meter
controls
should
be
set
to
“slow’
and
“C-
weighting."
Holding
the
sound
level
meter
head
high
at
arms'
length,
set
all
channels
to
75
dB
SPL.
The
accurate
setting
of
channel
balance
is
very
important
and
will
affect
the
potential
for
realistic
playback
from
your
system.
DELAY
TIME
settings
should
be
set
at
this
time.
If
you
are
sitting
near
the
surround
speakers,
choose
a
longer
DELAY
time.
If
you
are
equidistant
from
the
FRONT
and
SURROUND
speakers,
choose
the
15
millisecond
delay
time.
Add
approximately
1
ms
for
every
foot
the
surround
speakers'are
closer
to
you.
Settings
available
are
15,
20,
25
and
30
milliseconds.
The
delay
time
is
included
to
establish
the
main
and
center
speakers
as
the
primary
signals.
The
“Haas
precedence
effect"
is
used
to
emphasize
the
front
speakers.
Because
of
the
delayed
signal
to
the
surround
channels,
you
hear
the
front
speakers
first.
They
take
precedence
and
localize
the
sound
images
as
coming
from
the
front
of
the
room.
Some
leakage
of
the
front
channels
into
the
surrounds
is
inherent
in
the
system.
The
delay
time
masks
this
small
amount
of
signal
from
the
front
appearing
in
the
surround
channels.
This
helps
make
the
surround
sound
experience
more
believable
and
enjoyable.
Sometimes
the
main
signal
will
come
from
the
SURROUND
speakers
during
special
effects.
Typically
though,
most
of
the
sound
will
be
from
the
FRONT
LEFT.
CENTER
and
FRONT
RIGHT
speakers.
With
most
Dolby
Surround
or
Dolby
Digital
movie
soundtracks,
the
SURROUND
speakers
will
not
be
on
all
of
the
time.
They
will
be
on
most
or
all
of
the
time
when
listening
to
music
surround
modes.
WHAT
IS
DOLBY
SURROUND
SOUND?
Thousands
of
popular
movies
have
been
released
with
Dolby
Surround
encoding
in
the
soundtrack.
Many
compact
discs
have
music
with
Dolby
Surround
or
other
surround
sound
encoding
on
them
also.
Dolby
Surround
is
a
3
A
REQUEST
FROM
All
OF
US
AT
ROTEL:
PLEASE
READ
THIS
USERS
MANUAL!
Thank
you
for
buying
our
RSP
970.
This
Dolby
Pro
Logic®
surround
sound
preamplifier
will
accurately
reproduce
your
music
and
movie
soundtracks.
It
is
a
natural
extension
of
our
well-known
passion
for
good
sound
and
love
of
music.
We
are
committed
to
making
quality
surround
sound
components
to
enhance
your
life.
We
have
been
designing
and
manufacturing
high
quality,
high
performance
audio
electronics
for
more
than
35
years.
We
believe
that
the
music
and
video
programs
played
through
your
surround
sound
system
will
be
a
source
of
enjoyment
to
your
family
and
friends
for
many
years
to
come.
The
RSP
970
has
been
designed
to
be
easy
to
use
and
to
accurately
recreate
the
original
input
signal
or
soundtrack.
It
will
provide
musidal
reproduction
of
the
information
in
radio
broadcasts,
Laser
Discs,
DVD
discs,
video
tapes,
audio
tapes
or
Compact
Discs.
Many
programs
on
satellite,
broadcast
or
cable
television
include
surround
sound
information
in
the
soundtrack.
Some
music
and
drama
shows
on
radio
include
surround
sound
information
as
well.
All
of
these
are
excellent
source
material
for
decoding.
Please
read
this
manual
carefully
to
ensure
proper
setup
and
installation.
We
appreciate
being
a
part
of
your
life!
FEATURES
OF
THE
RSP
970
SURROUND
SOUND
PREAMPLIFIER
Rotel
long
term
reliability
Highly
regulated
power
supply
Comprehensive
input
switching
User
friendly
“ON
SCREEN"
display
5.1
channel
input
for
Dolby
Digital
surround
sound
(from
the
Rotel
RDA
980)
Comprehensive
input
and
output
connections
on
the
back
panel
for
audio
and
video
With
the
creation
of
the
RSP
970,
we
have
attempted
to
offer
you
an
excellent
Dolby
Pro
Logic
surround
sound
preamplifier
at
a
very
reasonable
price.
WHERE
TO
FIND
INFORMATION
IN
THIS
OWNERS
MANUAL
SPEAKER
CONFIGURATION
AND
INITIAL
SET
UP
PAGE
3
USING
BALANCE
CHECK
PAGE
3
FRONT
PANEL
CONTROLS
.
PAGE
4
UNKING
SURROUND
MODES
TO
INPUTS
PAGE
5
5.1
CHANNEL
INPUT
PAGE
5
ON
SCREEN
DISPLAY
PAGE
5
REAR
PANEL
CONNECTIONS
PAGE
6
SPEAKER
TONAL
BALANCE
PAGE
7
SPEAKER
PLACEMENT
FOR
SURROUND
SOUND
PAGE
7
SUBWOOFER
PLACEMENT
PAGE
8
SPECIFICATIONS
PAGE
9
SUGGESTED
SPEAKER
LAYOUT
DRAWING
PAGE
9
TROUBLESHOOTING
PAGE
10
process
where
the
2
stereo
channels
contain
matrix
encoded
information
for
the
front,
center
and
rear
channels.
This
information
can
be
extracted
by
a
Dolby
Surround
decoder
during
playback
of
the
encoded
source
material.
We
have
incorporated
an
audiophile
quality
Dolby
Pro
Logic
decoder
for
the
best
possible
reproduction
of
this
information.
This
has
logic
steering
circuits
that
make
separation
of
the
channels
and
localization
of
the
sound
image
more
precise.
This
will
make
the
surround
sound
effects
more
realistic
and
entertaining.
Dolby
Surround
encoded
music,
movies
dr
sports
broadcasts
are
all
compatible
with
stereo
or
mono
playback.
They
offer
a
much
more
entertaining
rendition
of
the
source
material
when
decoded
by
a
Dolby
Pro
Logic
decoder
though.
INSTALLATION
>
Please
place
the
unit
on
a
DRY,
level
surface
away
from
direct
sunlight.
Avoid
placing
objects
on
top
of
the
cabinet.
Do
not
allow
water
to
fall
onto
it
as
this
could
damage
the
circuitry.
Avoid
installing
in
a
location
where
excessive
heat,
direct
sunlight,
humidity,
vibration
or
moisture
will
be
a
problem.
We
recommend
installation
in
furniture
designed
to
house
audio
and
video
components.
This
will
allow
the
RSP
970
to
be
installed
on
a
separate
shelf,
not
stacked
on
another
component.
This
will
minimize
potential
interference
or
heat
build
up
from
other
components
in
your
system.
Component
furniture
has
the
added
benefit
of
reducing
or
suppressing
vibration
and
all
audio
and
video
components
will
provide
improved
sound
when
free
from
vibration.
Component
furniture
will
improve
the
looks
of
many
system
installations,
provide
adequate
ventilation
for
amplifiers
and
isolation
for
components.
It
is
also
easier
to
dress
the
wires
to
reduce
interference
between
sensitive
audio/video
cables,
speaker
cables
and
power
cords
for
components.
Ask
your
ROTEL/j/
fi
AUTHORIZED
DEALER
for
advice
about
component
furniture
and
proper
installation
of
audio
and
video
components.
A
little
planning
and
careful
installation
will
have
great
benefits
in
the
way
your
system
sounds
and
functions.
A
properly
installed
system
will
be
a
source
of
great
pleasure
and
entertainment
to
your
family
and
friends
for
years
to
come.
Care
and
planning
during
installation
will
be
well
rewarded.
The
POWER
INDICATOR
LIGHT
will
illuminate
at
all
times
during
STANDBY
mode
when
AC
power
is
available
to
the
RSP
970.
The
power
light
will
extinguish
when
the
RSP
970
is
in
use.
When
in
STANDBY
mode,
the
RSP
970
will
remember
the
previously
chosen
input
and
output
selections.
CONTROLS
ON
THE
FRONT
PANEL
The
STANDBY
button
will
turn
the
SWITCHED
OUTLETS
and
the
sound
ON
and
OFF.
Push
it
once
and
the
switched
outlets
and
sound
will
turn
ON.
Press
the
STANDBY
button
again
and
the
switched
outlets
and
the
sound
will
be
OFF.
The
front
panel
includes
the
REMOTE
SENSOR
for
receiving
the
infra
red
signals
from
the
remote
control
handset.
Please
be
certain
not
to
block
this
as
the
remote
control
will
not
function
if
this
sensor
is
covered
or
blocked.
The
MASTER
VOLUME
control
adjusts
all
the
channels
at
the
same
time.
Channel
balance
between
channels
is
established
by
using
the
BALANCE
CHECK
during
INITIAL
SET
UP.
The
ON
SCREEN
display
will
show
the
MASTER
VOLUME
level
by
numerical
value.
Pushing
the
upper
half
of
the
volume
control
(
A
)
increases
the
volume
and
pushing
the
lower
half
of
the
volume
control
(
V
)
decreases
the
volume
in
all
channels.
The
MUTE
button,
on
the
remote
control
only,
will
silence
the
sound
output.
Press
it
once
to
MUTE
the
PREOUT
output
connections.
Press
the
MUTE
button
again
to
hear
sound
output.
The
ON
SCREEN
display
(and
an
indicator
light
on
the
front
panel)
will
show
the
word
MUTE
when
you
press
the
MUTE
button.
We
have
provided
INPUT
selector
buttons,
labeled
LISTENING,
on
the
front
panel.
LISTENING
selects
the
audio
or
video
source
in
the
main
room
and
for
RECORD
OUT
from
TAPE
OUT
connections
on
the
back
panel.
The
4
LISTENING
input
selected
is
displayed
by
a
front
panel
Light
Emitting
Diode
(LED)
and
in
the
ON
SCREEN
display.
LISTENING
inputs
may
be
chosen
by
using
the
front
panel
buttons
or
the
remote
control.
The
INPUT
LEVEL
controls
will
allow
you
to
match
the
volume
levels
of
various
inputs
to
the
same
volume
level.
To
set
these,
choose
the
input
you
wish
to
adjust
and
then
push
the
<
or
the
>
button
to
adjust
the
level.
After
you
set
the
levels,
it
is
easy
to
memorize
these
settings
for
individual
inputs.
Press
the
INPUT
selector
you
wish
to
memorize
and
hold
it
in
for
more
than
2
seconds.
The
ON
SCREEN
display
will
flash
the
word
MEMORIZED.
Changing
the
level
is
easy
and
can
be
reset
to
any
level
from
0
dB
to
-12
dB.
If
the
INPUT
selected
is
being
overloaded
by
a
strong
signal,
a
small
OVERLOAD
symbol
will
be
displayed
ON
SCREEN.
This
symbol
looks
a
little
like
a
light
bulb
with
light
rays
coming
from
it.
The
PEAK
light
on
the
front
panel
will
flash
if
the
input
level
is
too
high,
in
addition
to
the
on
screen
display.
Decrease
the
INPUT
LEVEL
control
until
this
symbol
turns
off.
BASS
and
TREBLE
tone
controls
are
provided
to
allow
you
to
adjust
the
tonal
balance
of
your
system
during
STEREO
MODE
operation.
The
tone
controls
are
defeated
during
surround
sound
or
5.1
INPUT
operation.
Turning
the
knob
clockwise
will
increase
the
BASS
or
TREBLE.
Turning
the
knob
counterclockwise
will
decrease
the
BASS
or
TREBLE.
The
TONE
button
is
a
tone
on/tone
defeat
button,
displayed
on
screen
as
TONE
when
you
press
it
ON.
BASS
EQ
is
provided
when
the
BASS
EQ
button
is
pushed.
This
boosts
the
bass
response
by
6
dB
at
40
Hz.
BASS
EQ
works
in
all
modes
of
stereo
or
surround
sound
operation.
BASS
EQ
will
also
function
during
5.1
INPUT
operation.
The
5.1
CH
INPUT
will
select
the
output
signal
from
the
optional
RDA
980
Digital
Adapter
for
DOLBY
DIGITAL
surround
sound.
When
this
button
is
pressed,
the
MASTER
VOLUME
LEVEL
display
will
show
in
the
on
screen
display
with
the
settings
that
are
ON
shown,
such
as
BASS
EQ
or
TONE.
When
using
the
5.1
CH
INPUT,
all
SURROUND
SOUND
MODE
selectsrs
on
the
front
panel
are
deactivated.
The
channel
balance,
bass
management,
dynamic
range
adjustment
and
speaker
time
alignment
for
Dolby
Digital
surround
sound
decoding
are
all
controlled
by
the
RDA
980
when
the
5.1
channel
input
is
chosen.
The
MUTE,
PEAK
and
REMOTE
lights
on
the
front
panel
are
provided
to
confirm
proper
operation
or
need
for
adjustment.
The
MUTE
light
will
illuminate
when
the
MUTE
function
is
in
use.
The
PEAK
level
light
shows
when
the
input
is
being
overloaded.
This
is
related
to
the
OVERLOAD
indicator
light
that
is
displayed
on
screen
and
is
controlled
by
the
INPUT
LEVEL
controls.
The
REMOTE
light
flashes
to
confirm
reception
of
a
remote
control
command
from
the
remote
control
handset.
The
VOLUME
LEVEL
display,
on
the
front
panel
above
the
VOLUME
control,
shows
a
numerical
value
for
the
VOLUME
LEVEL
setting.
This
numerical
readout
is
provided
as
a
convenience
to
show
a
visual
indication
of
the
relative
volume
level
setting.
If
your
neighbors
complain
about
The
wide
dynamic
range
of
your
favorite
soundtracks,
consider
inviting
them
over
to
enjoy
the
movie!
You
can
ask
them
to
bring
the
popcorn!
CONTROLS
ON
THE
RR
936
REMOTE
CONTROL
HANDSET
The
RR
936
remote
control
duplicates
the
control
buttons
on
the
front
panel.
In
addtion,
we
have
added
MUTE.
ON
SCREEN,
TONE
IN,
BAL-.CHK,
INPUT
sensitivity,
SUB
volume,
REAR
(Surround)
volume,
and
OUT
BAL
(output
balance)
buttons.
The
remote
control
makes
it
easy
to
control
the
-
RSP
970
from
your
favorite
listening
place.
SURROUND
MODE
LED
DISPLAY
/
ON
SCREEN
DISPLAY
IMPORTANT
USER
NOTE:
The
SURROUND
MODE
and
the
INPUT
selection
can
be
linked
together,
if
you
wish.
To
link
an
INPUT
to
a
particular
SURROUND
MODE
is
easy.
Choose
the
INPUT
you
wish
to
link
to
a
particular
SURROUND
MODE.
Press
the
SURROUND
MODE
button
on
the
remote
control
to
select
the
SURROUND
MODE
you
want.
Now,
press
the
selected
INPUT
button
continuously
until
the
VOLUME
readout
display
shows
two
small
horizontal
bars.
The
setting
has
now
been
entered
into
MEMORY.
For
example:
To
link
the
CD
input
to
STEREO
mode,
begin
by
choosing
CD
as
the
input.
Next,
choose
the
STEREO
mode
with
the
SURROUND
MODE
button
on
the
remote
control.
Then,
press
the
CD
mode
button
until
the
two
small
horizontal
bars
appear
in
the
VOLUME
readout
display.
Now
you
will
enter
STEREO
mode
when
you
select
the
CD
INPUT.
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5
The
front
pane!
has
LED
lights
for
indicating
the
SURROUND
MODE
in
use.
The
remote
control
will
cycle
through
the
SURROUND
MODES
in
sequence,
from
right
to
left.
We
have
included
MONO,
2
CH
STEREO,
MUSIC
MODES,
DOLBY
PRO
LOGIC
and
CINEMA
sound
modes.
(See
user
note
above)
MONO
is
for
AM
radio,
older
recordings,
movies
or
TV
programs
that
are
monophonic.
If
a
center
channel
speaker
is
used
in
your
system,
MONO
mode
will
send
sound
to
the
CENTER
speaker
only.
If
no
CENTER
speaker
is
used,
MONO
mode
will
send'the
sound
to
the
FRONT
LEFT
and
FRONT
RIGHT
speakers
only.
All
other
channels
are
muted.
The
2
CH
STEREO
mode
is
a
bypass
mode.
The
FRONT
LEFT
and
FRONT
RIGHT
speakers
are
ON.
All
other
channels
are
muted.
y
MUSIC
MODES
1,
2
or
3
delay
times
are
variable
from
15
to
20,
25
and
30
milliseconds.
The
apparent
reflectivity
and
absorption
of
the
surfaces
inside
the
surround
sound
acoustical
spaces
vary
according
to
the
mode
setting
and
delay
time
chosen.
Music
1
will
show
CLUB,
MUSIC
2
will
show
STADIUM
and
MUSIC
3
will
show
HALL
in
the
on
screen
display.
The
MUSIC
modes
have
been
written
to
extract
ambient
information
from
the
source
material.
The
labels
in
the
ON
SCREEN
display
are
only
an
approximation
of
the
acoustical
size,
reflectivity
or
absorption
of
the
venue
offered
by
the
MUSIC
settings.
Please
experiment
to
see
which
setting
is
most
pleasant
to
you
with
various
music
or
video
sources
that
are
not
DOLBY
SURROUND
encoded.
In
the
MUSIC
SURROUND
modes
ALL
the
speakers
in
your
system
are
ON.
The
DOLBY
PRO
LOGIC
setting
is
for
CD
discs,
rental
movies.
Laser
Discs,
DVD
discs,
radio
broadcasts
or
for
viewing
films
broadcast
in
stereo
with
DOLBY
SURROUND
encoding.
Any
DOLBY
SURROUND
encoded
movie,
radio
or
television
show
that
is
received
in
stereo
may
be
decoded
by
the
DOLBY
PRO
LOGIC
decoder.
The
full
directional
and
spatial
effects
of
the
DOLBY
SURROUND
encoded
source
material
will
be
reproduced
in
your
listening
room.
The
DELAY
TIME
settings
are
15,
20,
25
and
30
milliseconds.
If
you
are
sitting
nearer
to
the
surround
speakers
than
the
front
channels,
a
longer
delay
time
will
be
the
best
choice.
This
will
ensure
that
the
■
precedence
effect"
works
properly.
In
DOLBY
PRO
LOGIC
mode,
ALL
the
speakers
are
ON.
(see
SETUP)
The
CINEMA
mode
is
for
use
with
mono,
stereo,
or
stereo
hi
fi
movies
that
are
not
Dolby
Surround
encoded.
CINEMA
mode
has
normal
stereo
left
and
right
channels
in
front,
mono
left
plus
right
in
the
center
and
the
surround
channels
are
mono
with
delay
times
of
15,
20,
25
or
30
milliseconds,
as
with
Dolby
Pro
Logic.
We
have
tailored
the
frequency
response
of
to
make
it
similar
to
movie
filter
designs
suggested
by
various
movie
engineers
over
the
years.
The
bass
is
full
range,
the
mid
range
is
boosted
subtly
to
enhance
vocal
intelligibility
and
the
highest
frequencies
are
reduced,
to
eliminate
excessive
brightness.
If
you
are
watching
an
older
film
that
seems
“bright"
due
to
excessive
high
frequency
response,
you
might
find
that
the
CINEMA
mode
helps
you
to
enjoy
your
film
more.
The
ON
SCREEN
display
will
be
displayed
on
your
TV
screen
when
the
input
selector
buttons
on
the
remote
control
or
the
front
panel
are
pushed.
The
display
will
show
the
current
INPUT,
SRND
MODE,
DELAY
TIME,
TONE
and
the
MASTER
VOL
LEVEL
setting.
This
will
be
ON
SCREEN
for
approximately
5
seconds.
Any
changes
to
the
MASTER
VOLUME
setting
or
the
LISTENING
input
selected
will
activate
the
ON
SCREEN
display.
The
ON
SCREEN
display
has
a
blue
screen
background.
If
no
video
signal
is
offered,
it
will
use
the
blue
background
during
changes
of
settings
and
turn
the
blue
screen
off
afterwards.
CONNECTIONS
AND
CONTROLS
ON
THE
REAR
PANEL
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5.1
DIGITAL
SURROUND
SOUND
is
available
from
the
optional
RDA
980
DIGITAL
ADAPTER.
This
connects
with
a
DB
25
connecting
cable
from
the
RDA
980
to
the
5.1
CH
INPUT
on
the
back
panel.
The
RDA
980
is
6
designed
to
decode
DOLBY
Digital
surround
sound
from
a
Laser
Disc,
DVD
or
other
source
such
as
future
digital
video
tape
formats.
YELLOW
connectors
on
the
rear
panel
are
for
COMPOSITE
VIDEO
INPUTS
and
OUTPUTS.
WHITE
connectors
are
for
LEFT
CHANNEL
AUDIO
INPUTS
and
OUTPUTS.
RED
connectors
are
for
RIGHT
CHANNEL
AUDIO
INPUTS
and
OUTPUTS.
Please
observe
correct
connections
of
the
audio
and
video
connections
to
ensure
a
trouble
free
installation.
MONITOR
is
the
composite
video
output
from
the
RSP
970
to
your
television
video
input.
We
have
labeled
the
INPUT
and
OUTPUT
selectors
for
TUNER,
CD,
TAPE
IN
and
OUT,
AUX,
LD,
VIDEO
1,2
and
3.
All
inputs
and
outputs
are
at
line
level.
If
you
wish
to
use
a
turntable
with
the
RSP
970,
please
connect
an
external
phono
equalizer
such
as
the
Rotel
RQ
970
to
the
AUX
inputs.
Video
signals
have
very
wide
band
frequency
response.
We
sometimes
refer
to
video
signals
as
being
from
DC
to
light,
which
implies
extremely
wide
frequency
response
when
compared
to
the
audio
frequencies
that
people
can
hear.
Excellent,
well
shielded
75
ohm
video
cable
is
a
necessity
for
the
best
reproduction
of
your
video
source
material.
Poor
cables
(with
poor
frequency
bandwidth)
will
reduce
the
highest
video
frequencies
and
result
in
less
sharp
color
reproduction
and
detaii.
The
TAPE
IN
and
OUT
connections
are
for
use
with
an
analog
or
digital
recorder.
The
IN
connections
are
designed
to
receive
a
signal
from
your
recorder.
The
OUT
connections
send
a
signal
to
your
recorder.
FRONT,
CENTER,
SURROUND
(REAR)
and
SUBWOOFER
connections
are
for
connecting
to
your
5
channel
power
amplifier
or
multiple
mono
power
amplifiers.
Please
be
certain
to
connect
the
channels
correctly
for
proper
set
up
and
enjoyment
of
your
surround
sound
system.
The
THX®
certified
Rotel
RMB
100
MOSFET
mono
power
amplifier
would
be
an
excellent
choice
for
the
main
room
speakers
in
your
installation.
The
THX
certified
RB
985
is
an
excellent
5
channel
power
amplifier.
For
Dolby
Surround
or
5.1
digital
surround
system
use,
an
RMB
100
and
an
RB
985
offers
a
superb
solution
to
powering
the
5
main
speakers
and
a
subwoofer.
The
SWITCHED
AC
OUTLETS
provide
AC
power
to
source
components
only.
The
rating
for
power
consumption
is
800
watts
maximum.
The
outlets
would
be
an
excellent
place
to
connect
the
CONTROL
CORD
from
a
Rotel
RLC
900
AC
Power
Line
Conditioner.
(N.
America
only)
This
would
allow
the
source
components
or
power
amplifiers
connected
to
the
RLC
900
to
be
turned
ON
and
OFF
by
the
SWITCHED
OUTLET.
CD
players
or
cassette
decks
can
be
controlled
by
the
switched
outlets
if
you
do
not
use
an
RLC
900.
PLEASE
DO
NOT
CONNECT
A
POWER
AMPLIFIER
TO
THE
SWITCHED
OUTLETS!
TONAL
BALANCE
OF
SPEAKERS
FOR
A
SURROUND
SOUND
SYSTEM
Speakers
chosen
for
your
surround
sound
system
should
be
carefully
matched
for
tonal
balance.
The
criteria
we
use
at
Rotel
include
wide
frequency
response,
with
or
without
a
subwoofer,
smooth
octave
to
octave
tonal
balance,
low
distortion
at
normal
operating
levels,
clarity
and
definition.
They
should
be
closely
matched
to
each
other
in
tonal
balance,
have
good
sound
quality
for
voice
or
music
and
be
capable
of
playing
at
medium
to
loud
volume
levels
with
low
apparent
distortion.
Careful
auditioning
is
in
order.
We
strongly
suggest
that
the
tonal
balance
for
the
front
and
center
speakers
be
as
similar
as
possible.
Ideally,
they
should
have
exactly
the
same
tonal
balance.
The
surround
speakers
should
have
a
smooth
tonal
balance,
similar
to
the
other
speakers
in
your
system.
Choosing
surround
speakers
with
a
similar
tonal
balance
will
enhance
the
overall
effect
of
this
circuit.
This
helps
the
surround
speakers
blend
more
convincingly
with
the
front
and
center
channels.
If
careful
tonal
balance
matching
Is
done,
the
resulting
sound
field
will
sound
“seamless”
and
offer
superb
reproduction
of
the
music
and
soundtracks
that
you
own
or
rent.
If
the
sounds
‘pan"
across
the
front
channels,
the
image
will
not
change
apparent
size
or
tonal
balance
in
a
properly
matched
system.
This
aspect
of
speaker
selection
does
not
receive
enough
emphasis,
we
believe.
We
feel
that
matching
the
tonal
balance
of
all
the
speakers
in
a
surround
sound
system
is
crucial
to
the
final
results.
It
can
be
the
difference
between
an
OK
surround
sound
system
and
a
great
surround
sound
system.
Ask
your
knowledgeable
audiophile
or
videophile
friends
for
advice
about
this
or
your
ROTEL
hi
fi
AUTHORIZED
DEALER.
SPEAKER
PLACEMENT
FOR
A
SURROUND
SOUND
SYSTEM
Ideally,
all
the
FRONT
speakers
should
be
exactly
the
same
distance
from
your
main
listening
position.
This
necessitates
placing
the
FRONT
LEFT,
CENTER
and
FRONT
RIGHT
speakers
in
a
slight
arc;
not
in
a
straight
line
across
the
front
of
the
room.
If
they
are
installed
in
a
slight
arc,
greater
precision
in
imaging
and
better
integration
of
the
vocals
and
front
stereo
effects
will
be
audibly
apparent.
(When
in
5.1
mode,
CENTER
speaker
arrival
time
is
adjustable
with
controls
on
the
optional
RDA
980
digital
adapter
for
Dolby
Digital
sound.)
7
The
CENTER
channel
speaker
can
be
above
or
below
the
video
monitor,
depending
on
your
installation.
If
a
video
projector
and
an
acoustically
transparent
screen
are
used,
the
center
channel
speaker
can
be
behind
the
screen.
SURROUND
(REAR)
speakers
should
be
placed
to
the
sides
of
the
listener,
not
behind.
They
should
be
elevated
above
ear
level
if
possible.
The
SUBWOOFER(S)
will
require
some
experimentation
for
the
best
placement.
A
comer
may
be
the
easiest
location
for
installation
but
a
corner
may
not
provide
the
best
sound
integration
with
the
other
speakers.
One
advantage
of
corner
placement
is
reinforcement
of
the
low
frequencies
by
being
in
proximity
to
the
walls
and
floor.
Comer
placement
will
boost
the
apparent
sensitivity
of
the
subwoofer
by
as
much
as
6
dB,
which
will
save
amplifier
power.
It
may
also
b<4ost
mid
bass
output,
however,
which
could
be
undesirable.
(Read
the
owners
manual
included
with
your
subwoofer
for
further
information.)
CUSTOMER
SUBWOOFER
TUNING
NOTE:
An
easy
way
to
“tune”
for
extended
low
frequency
bass
response
is
to
place
the
SUBWOOFER
in
your
favorite
listening
spot
and
move
around
the
room
listening
for
the
“room
modes"
in
the
low
frequencies.
Some
parts
of
a
room
will
accentuate
bass
response
and
some
will
diminish
it,
depending
on
the
shape
and
size
of
your
room.
Low
bass
will
be
affected
the
most
but
all
frequencies
are
affected
to
some
extent.
You
should
crawl
around
on
the
floor
at
speaker
level
to
find
the
location
that
gives
the
smoothest
low
frequency
response.
(Sorry,
but
this
does
work!)
A
test
CD
with
warble
tones
from
20-40
Hz
is
ideal
as
a
source
for
this
test.
Sine
wave
test
tones
can
also
be
used
but
will
be
subject
to
“standing
waves"
or
pressure
and
null
zones.
Play
test
tones
at
a
moderate
level
only,
not
at
a
loud
level.
If
played
at
a
high
volume
level
with
a
subwoofer,
you
may
find
that
your
walls
rattle
and
your
neighbors
ring
the
doorbell
to
complain.
Neither
is
an
especially
desirable
result.
When
you
have
placed
the
subwoofer(s)
in
a
promising
location,
play
some
music
with
strong
bass
content
and
listen
for
extended
low
frequency
bass
response
and
definition.
Minor
placement
adjustments
may
be
needed
to
find
the
optimum
location.
The
result
of
proper
placement
of
the
subwoofer
will
be
excellent
low
bass
as
well
as
mid
bass.
It
should
smoothly
“blend
in”
with
the
main
speakers
for
good
sound
quality.
With
proper
placement,
combined
with
well-placed
front
and
surround
sound
speakers,
you
can
achieve
a
thoroughly
convincing
sound
field
in
your
listening
room.
Multiple
subwoofers
are
potentially
capable
of
smoothing
the
low
frequency
response
in
a
room
a
little
more
due
to
interaction
with
the
room
modes
from
more
than
one
location.
Proper
set
up
of
your
speakers
will
take
some
time.
This
is
time
and
energy
very
well
spent.
When
you
are
enjoying
music
or
movies
with
your
family
and
friends,
you
will
be
glad
you
invested
the
time
in
proper
set
up
and
location
of
your
speakers
and
system.
CABLES
FOR
A
SURROUND
SOUND
SYSTEM
High
performance
COMPOSITE
VIDEO
and
AUDIO
patch
cables
will
improve
the
sights
and
sounds
of
your
system
and
we
recommend
them.
Composite
video
or
digital
cables
should
have
a
characteristic
impedance
of
75
ohms
and
should
be
well
shielded
for
the
best
video
or
digital
performance.
Audio/video
and
AC
power
cables
should
be
kept
separate
from
each
other
to
avoid
potential
interference
or
hum
that
will
degrade
sound
or
picture
quality.
Ask
your
ROTEL/j/
fi
AUTHORIZED
DEALER
for
advice
about
high
quality
cables
for
analog,
video
and
digital
signals
in
your
sound
system.
They
do
make
a
difference
and
high
quality
cable
will
yield
the
best
results.
ELECTRICAL
REQUIREMENTS
The
RSP
970
is
designed
to
work
on
AC
voltage
and
the
correct
voltage
is
displayed
on
the
back
panel.
Do
not
attempt
to
operate
on
incorrect
voltage
as
this
will
damage
the
circuitry
and
void
your
warranty.
If
you
are
in
doubt
about
the
correct
voltage
we
suggest
that
you
read
the
label
on
the
back
panel
or
consult
your
ROTEL
hi
fi
AUTHORIZED
DEALER
for
confirmation
of
the
correct
voltage.
Connect
the
Power
Cord
to
your
wall
socket
for
AC
power.
When
you
wish
to
disconnect
the
power
cord
from
the
wall,
always
hold
the
plug
firmly
and
pull
the
plug
out
of
the
wall
socket.
Do
not
unplug
the
power
cord
from
the
wall
by
pulling
the
cord
only.
This
may
damage
the
power
cord
and
create
a
hazardous
condition.
We
recommend
connection
to
the
mains'
wall
socket
or
an
AC
power
line
filter,
not
to
an
extension
cord.
There
are
two
switched
AC
outlets
on
the
back
panel.
Please
do
not
exceed
the
power
rating
(800
watts
total)
printed
next
to
the
outlets.
The
switched
AC
outlets
are
provided
for
a
source
component
or
the
CONTROL
CORD
of
the
Rotel
RLC
900,
not
a
power
amplifier.
There
is
NO
user
serviceable
part
inside
the
RSP
970.
Please
do
not
open
the
cabinet
as
this
will
expose
you
to
the
risk
of
potentially
dangerous
high
voltage
and
the
risk
of
shock.
This
could
also
damage
the
circuits
and
possibly
void
your
warranty.
o
CLEANING
THE
CABINET
If
you
wish
to
clean
the
cabinet,
we
suggest
that
you
clean
it
with
a
soft,
DRY
cloth.
Never
use
cleaning
compounds
or
solvents
to
clean
the
cabinet
as
they
may
damage
the
finish
or
remove
the
labels.
Cleaning
compounds
or
liquids
could
damage
the
circuitry
if
any
residue
falls
inside.
A
FINAL
WORD
FROM
ROTEL
We
have
designed
the
RSP
970
for
high
performance
using
test
equipment,
our
eyes
and
our
ears.
We
believe
all
these
methods
are
useful
in
the
design
of
audio
video
electronics.
This
is
a
time
consuming
process
but
we
feel
that
the
music
and
movies
benefit
from
this
care
and
attention
to
detail.
We
tried
to
make
the
unit
easy
to
understand
and
operate
and
believe
we
have
succeeded.
We
realize
that
there
are
many
surround
sound
preamplifiers
to
choose
from
these
days.
We
thank
you
again
for
choosing
a
Rotel
surround
sound
preamplifier
as
the
centerpiece
and
control
center
in
your
audio
video
system.
We
appreciate
this
very
much.
Enjoy
the
sights
and
sounds!
SPECIFICATIONS:
RSP
970
SURROUND
SOUND
PREAMPLIFIER
AUDIO
Frequency
Response
Signal
to
Noise
Ratio,
Front
/
Surround
Input
Impedance
Output
Impedance
Total
Harmonic
Distortion
Intermodulation
Distortion
Output
(maximum)
(Dolby,
300
mV
in)
VIDEO
Video
Frequency
Response
Signal
to
Noise
Ratio
Input
Impedance
(Composite)
Output
Impedance
(Composite)
Output
(Composite)
Power
Consumption
Power
Requirements
(AC)
Weight
Dimensions
5-20,000
Hz,
+
0.5
dB
85
dB,
IHF
A/70
dB.
IHF
A
47
k
Ohms
<
500
ohms
0.03
%
(1
kHz)
0.03%
(400
Hz/7
kHz,
4:1)
>
6
volts
0.9
volt
10
Hz
-
10
MHz
+
3
dB
70
dB
75
ohms
75
ohms
1
volt,
peak
to
peak,
75
ohm
load
22
watts
115
volts
50/60
Hz
or
230
volts
50/60
Hz
5.8
Kg,
12.76
Lb.
440
x
121
x
328
mm
(W
x
H
x
D)
17-3/8"
x
4-13/16"
x
13"
(W
x
H
x
D)
OM
RSP
970,
ver
4,
GCD,
09/11/96
All
specifications
are
accurate
at
the
time
of
printing.
Rotel
reserves
the
right
to
make
improvements
without
notice.
ROTEL®
and
the
ROTEL/?/
fi
logo
are
the
registered
trademarks
of
The
Rotel
Co.
Ltd.,
Tokyo,
Japan.
The
Rotel
Electronics
Co.
Ltd.,
Taipei,
Taiwan,
R.O.C.,
is
ISO
9002
certified.
Manufactured
under
license
from
Dolby
Laboratories
Licensing
Corporation.
“Dolby",
“Pro
Logic",
“AC-3”
and
the
double-D
symbol
are
trademarks
of
Dolby
Laboratories
Licensing
Corporation.
Copyright
1992
Dolby
Laboratories,
Inc.
All
rights
reserved.
THX®
is
a
registered
trademark
of
Lucasfilm
Ltd.
Radio
Shack®
is
a
registered
trademark
of
Tandy
Corporation,
Ft.
Worth,
Texas.
9
TROUBLESHOOTING
HINTS
NO
POWER
CHECK
THE
AC
OUTLET
IS
THE
AC
CORD
CONNECTED
TO
A
SWITCHED
OUTLET?
IS
THE
SWITCHED
OUTLET
TURNED
ON?
TURN
ON
THE
SOURCE
COMPONENT
SELECT
THE
CORRECT
INPUT:
RF,
1,
2
CORRECT
INPUT
SELECTED
ON
RSP
970?
CORRECT
INPUT
SELECTED?
POWER
AMPLIFIER
TURNED
ON?
NO
BASS
SPEAKER
CONFIGURATION
SWITCHES
SET
CORRECTLY?
SUBWOOFER
AMPLIFIER
TURNED
ON?
POWERED
SUBWOOFER
TURNED
ON?
DISTORTED
BASS
SPEAKER
CONFIGURATION
SWITCHES
SET
CORRECTLY?
POOR
BALANCE
CHECK
CHANNEL
BALANCE
WITH
A
SOUND
LEVEL
METER
CONTINUED
PROBLEMS?
ASK
YOUR
AUTHORIZED
ROTEL/l/
fi
DEALER
FOR
HELP.
YOUR
AUTHORIZED
ROTEL/?/
fi
DEALERS’
PHONE
NUMBER
IS_.
The
drawing
below
suggests
proper
speaker
placement
for
surround
sound
listening.
Surround
speakers
are
shown
to
the
sides
of
the
main
seating
area,
not
the
rear.
The
Center
speaker
would
be
above
or
below
the
TV
(not
shown)
in
this
arrangement.
All
Front
speakers
should
be
equidistant
from
the
main
seating
position.
Other
arrangements,
such
as
in-wall
speakers,
are
possible
in
a
custom
installation.
We
believe
the
lay
out
shown
will
provide
an
excellent
sound
field
with
all
current
or
future
surround
sound
systems.
NO
TEST
SIGNAL
WHEN
USING
RDA
980
NO
SOUND
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