Rotel Dolby Pro Logic RSP 980 User manual

RSP-980
SURROUND SOUND
PROCESSOR
Owners Manual

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
A
This symbol is to alert the user of
the presence of dangerous
voltages inside the enclosure of
the RSP-980. To reduce the risk of
electric shock do not remove any
parts of the RSP-980.
A
This symbol is to alert the user of
important operating instructions
in the owner's information
accompanying the RSP-980.
Read all the Instructions before connecting or operat¬
ing the RSP-980. Pay particular attention to the safety
information. Keep this manual so you can refer to
these safety instructions.
WARNING:
There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing
to qualified service personnel. Please do not open the cabinet
as this will expose you to the risk of shock from potentially dan¬
gerous high voltages. Unauthorized attempts at repair or modifi¬
cation will void your warranty..
WARNING;
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not ex¬
pose the RSP-980 to moisture or water. Do not allow
foreign objects to get into the enclosure. If the unit is
exposed to moisture, or a foreign object gets into the
enclosure, immediately disconnect the power cord
from the wall. Take the unit to a qualified service per¬
son for inspection and necessary repairs.
If you wish to clean the RSP-980's cabinet, please use a soft, DRY
cloth. Don't use cleaning compounds or solvents as they may
dull the finish, remove the labels, or damage circuitry if any resi¬
due falls inside.
Place the RSP-980 on a fixed, level surface strong enough to
support Its weight. Keep the RSP-980 away from radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or any other appliance that produces heat.
Connect the RSP-980 to the power outlet only with the supplied
power supply cable. The cable should be connected to a prop¬
erly grounded 3-pin wall outlet. Do not modify the supplied cable
in any way. Do not use extension cords.
Do not route the power cord where It will be crushed, pinched,
bent at severe angles, exposed to heat, or damaged in any way.
If the cable shows any sign of wear or damage, immediately stop
using it and obtain a proper replacement from a qualified service
agency or from the Rotei National Service Center.
If the RSP-980 shows signs of Improper operation, or if it has
been dropped or damaged In any way, Immediately disconnect
the power cord from the wall. Take the RSP-980 to a qualified
service person for inspection and necessary repairs.

RSP-980
ContSntS (circled numbers refer to illustrations on the following page)
Figure 1: RSP-980 Features _ 4
Figure 2: Audio Components Hookup_ 5
Figure 3: Video Components Hookup (RCA connections) 6
Figure 4: Video Components Hookup (S-VIdeo)_7
Figure 5: Zone 2 Connections_8
Figure 6; RR-930 Features_9
Getting started _9
RSP-980 key features 9
Unpacking the RSP-980 9
Where Does It Go7 10
Notes On Cable Routing 10
Front panel controls_10
Standby LED Indicator ^ 10
Standby Switch ^ 10
Remote Sensor ^ 10
Master Volume Control Q 10
Listening Source Selector Buttons ^ 11
Recording Source Selector Buttons ® 11
Surround Sound Mode LED Indicators ^ 11
Tone Controls ^ 11
Movie Filter Q 12
Tape Monitor Q 12
5.1 Channel Input Q 12
RR-930 Remote Control_12
Standby Switch 12
Master Volume Controls Q 12
Listening Source Selector Buttons ^ 12
Mute Button (remote only) 12
On-Screen button (remote only) 12
Surround Mode Buttons (remote only) ^ 13
Delay Time buttons (remote only) 13
Center Focus Button (remote only) o 14
Balance Check (remote only) ^ 14
The On-Screen Display_14
Operating Screen 14
Bypassing the On-Screen Display 15
Rear Panel Input Signal Connections_15
RCA Source Audio and Video Inputs; 0 15
S-Video Source Inputs 0 15
5.1 Channel Audio Input ^ 16
Rear Panel Output Signal Connections _16
RCA-type Source Audio and Video Outputs ^ 16
S-Video Outputs ^ 17
Video 3 S-Video Selector 0 17
Main Preamplifier Audio Outputs (RCA) 0 17
Main Preamplifier Audio Outputs (Multi-pin) ^ 17
TV/Monitor Video Output & Selector Switch ^ 18
Tape Monitor Audio Outputs 0 18
Rear Panel Zone 2 Connection _ 18
Zone 2 Audio Outputs 0 19
Remote External Sensor/Repeater Jacks 0 19
Rear Panel Speaker Configuration Switches_ 19
Surround Hi-pass (On/Off) ^ 19
Front Hi-pass (On/Off) ^ 19
Center Mode (Normal/Phantom/Wide) 0 20
Rear Panel AC Power Connections_20
AC power cord 0 20
AC Convenience Outlet 0 20
System Calibration_20
What You'll Need 21
How to calibrate your system 21
Using the RSP-980 _22
Overall Design 22
DSP Modes 22
Some Comments about Speakers_23
Tonal Balance 23
Speaker Placement 23
RSP-980 Specifications_25

SURROUND SOUND
Figure 1: RSP-980 Features
RSP-980
t

RSP-98Q
Figure 2: Audio Components Hookup
CD PLAYER
To from chtnaol amplilier inputs
To surround channsi amplifier inputs
To center channel amplifier Input
To subwoofer amplifier Input
26 pin cable instead of RCA
connectors (shown at left) whan
using an multichannel amplifier
with 2S-pin input connector
ROTEL RSP-965 POWER AMP

ROTEL SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR R5P-980
Figure 3: Video Components Hookup (RCA connections)

RSP-980
Figure 4: Video Components Hookup (S-Video)

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
Figure 5: Zone 2 Connections
CD PUVER
ZONE 2 SPEAKERS

RSP-980
Figure 6: RR-930 Features Getting started
First of all, thank you for purchasing our RSP-980 Dolby Pro
Logicir) surround sound processor. This THX(r) certified compo¬
nent will provide accurate reproduction of both movie
soundtracks and demanding musical selections and is a natural
extension of our well-known passion for good sound. We de¬
signed the RSP-980 to be durable, easy to use, and to accurately
recreate the original input signal, whatever its origin.
The RSP-980 benefits from over 30 years experience in designing
exceptional stereo components and the latest advances in sur¬
round sound processing to bring you accurate and natural repro¬
duction of the widest variety of sources available today.
To get the most from your RSP-980, we strongly suggest you read
this manual and keep it as a reference to answer any future
questions. We've organized it so that your questions about dif¬
ferent topics are handled as completely as possible in their own
sections. Look at the Table of Contents for a quick orientation.
RSP-980 key features
• Rotel's “Balanced Design ' approach that combines advanced
circuit board layout, comprehensive parts evaluation, and exten¬
sive listening tests for superior sound and long term reliability.
• THX certifification for excellent performance and sound quality
with a wide variety of audio/video sources.
• 5. 1 channel input for Dolby Digital IAC-31 surround processing.
• User friendly On-Screen Display.
• DSP music modes for enhanced surround sound music listening.
• Comprehensive input switching with separate recording and lis¬
tening controls.
• “Zone 2" output with independent input selection and level ad¬
justments for multi-zone custom installations.
• Highly regulated power supply.
■ Comprehensive rear panel input and output connections for au¬
dio and video sources.
Unpacking the RSP-980
Your RSP-980 underwent quality control tests before we sent it
on its way to you and should perform perfectly out of the box.
Simply remove it carefully from its packing. Look for the hand
held remote controller and other accessories before putting the
packing material back in the box. Although space is usually tight
in today's homes, we recommend that you save the packing and
box if possible as it will protect the RSP-980 if you move or need
to return it to us for maintenance.

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
Where Does It Go?
Place the RSP-980 on a solid, dry, level surface away from direct
sunlight, excessive heat, high humidity, or strong vibrations.
Make sure the RSP-980 is close to the other components in your
audio/video system as that makes initial hook-up and any subse¬
quent troubleshooting easier.
Furniture specifically designed to house audio and audio/video
components is ideal as these racks and wall units provide many
separate shelves. Well-designed component furniture reduces
vibration, improves the looks of many system installations, and
provides adequate amplifierventilation. Ask your ROTEL AUTHO¬
RIZED DEALER for advice.
If at all possible, put the RSP-980 on its own shelf. This makes
initial cable routing, hook-up, and any subsequent system
changes easier. It also minimizes potential interference or heat
build-up from other components.
Make sure there is enough room behind the RSP-980 — at least
5' of free space — for easy hook-up. Remember, you're connect¬
ing many other components to this unit and you'll probably need
more space than you think.
Don't stack other objects (components or other items) on top of
the RSP-980. Don't let water fall into the RSP-980 as this could
damage delicate circuitry.
Plan your system! Careful installation and hook-up will pay many
dividends in the years ahead.
Notes On Cable Routing
For best results, we strongly recommend that you group cables
by function (audio connections, video connections, remote sen¬
sor/repeater connections, AC power cords, etc.) and keep simi¬
tar groups as far apart from each other as practical. This usually
reduces unwanted noise and hum.
Front panel controls
Although we went to great lengths to make the RSP-980 as
simple to use as possible, it is still a complex piece of gear. For
that reason, we suggest you take a few moments and look over
the RSP-980's front and rear panels before you actually start
connecting other components to it. The following brief explana¬
tions will help you get familiar with the unit and are keyed to the
numbers in the preceding drawings.
Standby LED Indicator O
The RSP-980 is similar to many of today’s TV sets in that some of
its circuitry (the central microprocessor, infrared sensor, etc.)
remain powered at all times while the rest of the circuitry is
turned on or off by the user. The Standby LEO indicator glows
whenever the RSP-980 is plugged into a live AC outlet but does
nornecessarily mean that the RSP-980 is totally active. If other
front panel LEDs are lighted, then the RSP-980 is fully functional.
Standby Switch O
Similar to a "Power" switch in function, this button switches the
RSP-980 from standby mode to fully active mode. If only the
Standby LED is lighted, push the front panel (or handheld remote
Standby button) to fully activate the RSP-980. You'll see other
LEDs light up. Push the Standby switch again to deactivate the
RSP-980. You'll see that only the Standby LED remains lit.
The Standby Switch is duplicated on the RSP-980's handheld re¬
mote contol.
Note: The Standby switch also controls the rear panel AC conve¬
nience outlet When the RSP-980 is 'off" (in "Standby" model the
AC outlet is also off. When the RSP-980 is fully functional, the AC
outletislive.
Remote Sensor O
This sensor receives infrared signals from the handheld remote
control. Make sure you do not accidentally block this sensor with
cables or accessories.
Master Volume Control O
Turn this control clockwise to raise and counterclockwise to
lower the volume to all six main output channels (Left Front,
Center Front, Right Front, Left Surround, Right Surround, and
Subwoofer) simultaneously.
Master volume controls are also available on the RSP-980's
handheld remote control.
Note: The Master Volume control is mechanically-connected to
an internal servo-motor and responds to commands from the
handheld remote. It will rotate in the appropriate direction auto¬
matically when adjusting the volume from the remote control.
Use the position of the LED indicator on the knob's outer edge to
determine relative volume settings. When the volume control
LED blinks, you've engaged "Mute" from the remote controller. A
bar graph volume indicator also appears on he On-Screen Dis¬
play. This volume bar graph will blink when "Mute" is engaged.)
Note on THX volume settings: The Master Volume control's
"OdB" setting provides the most "accurate" playback of a THX
movie soundtrack in your listening room. This results from the
fact that all THX certified components, regardless of manufac¬
turer. are “system engineered" with specified input sensitivities
and output level capabilities for maximum compatibility.
The "0 dB" position is indicated by a front panel marker at the
“12 o'clock" position just above the volume control and by the
On-Screen Display's numerical reference 10 dB) and a square
block just to the right of center in the Master Volume bar graph.

RSP-980
After proper calibration, a THX system set to the “OdB~ mark will
reproduce undistorted peak levels as high as W5 dB SPL. This
matches the conditions under which the soundtrack was origi¬
nally mixed and insures that you will hear things exactly as the
director and sound engineers intended.
Please remember that the ‘0 dB~ mark is thus a reference and
not a requirement. You may well feel that a soundtrack played at
this level is far too loud, especially for late evening viewing.
Please feel free to lower the volume to a more peaceful level
whenever you wish. The relative channel-to-channel balance
(and hence the soundtrack's sense of spaciousnessi will not
change, only the overall volume will drop. This is one time where
your enjoyment and peace with the neighbors comes before ac¬
curacy!
Listening Source Selector Buttons 0)
These large front panel pushbuttons allow you to directly select
an audio or video input source component such as a CD player,
VCR, etc. Simply push any of these buttons to select the source
connected to the corresponding rear panel inputs. (The handheld
remote has functionally identical buttons.) You will hear this
source and, if you have selected a video source, see its picture
on yourTV monitor.
An LED indicator immediately above each pushbutton lights to
confirm your selection.
Note: Pressing the front panel 5.1CH INPUT button overrides all
other inputs and deactivates the normal input LEDs. To reactive
normal input selection and LED confirmation, deselect the 5.1 CH
INPUT by pressing that pushbutton again. (There is no corre¬
sponding 5.1 CH INPUT pushbutton on the remote controller.)
Recording Source Selector Buttons ^
The RSP-980 allows you to listen to and/or watch one source
while simulaneous recording from a second source to an audio
tape deck. This allows you to listen to a videotape, for example,
while recording a CO. The row of smaller front panel buttons al¬
lows you to select any source for recording. It's signal is routed
to to the rear panel Tape Monitor outputs and has no effect on
the source selected for listenting. LEDs immediately above each
pushbutton light to confirm your selection.
Note: The handheld remote does NOT have corresponding but¬
tons for selecting a second source for recording.
Surround Sound Mode LED Indicators O
The RSP-980 provides 8 different surround sound modes to
accomodate different types of audio and video source material
as described below. These LEDs tell you which surround sound
mode you’ve selected.
Note: Surround sound mode selections can only be made using
the handheld remote's Surround Mode pushbuttons. There are
no front-panel section buttons.
Here is a brief description of the various surround sound modes.
See the section of'DSP Surround Modes' section of this manual
for a full explanation of when to use the various settings.
2 CH STEREO is a conventional 2-speaker stereo direct bypass
mode with no surround sound or other processing. The Front Left
and Right speakers are on, all other speakers (including
subwoofer) are off.
MONO sends all information to the center channel speaker if
you've selected "Normar or "Wide" center mode or to the main
Lett and Right speakers if you've selected "Phantom" center
mode. (See section XXX for more information.) All other speak¬
ers (including subwoofer) are off.
MUSIC 1, MUSIC 2, MUSIC 3. and MUSIC 4 provide successively
more expansive soundfields and are primarily used to recreate
ambience when listening to music sources. Music 1 is the most
intimate while Music 4 produces the reverberation and time de¬
lay characteristics typical of an outdoor arena. Experiment to de¬
termine which mode best matches your chosen source. All
speakers are on in all Music modes.
Note: These modes are labeled differently on the RSP-980's On-
Screen Display than the LEDs. However, all processing param-
eters are identical.
Front Panel LED
On-Screen Display
MUSIC 1
MUSIC
MUSIC 2 JAZZ
MUSICS CONCERT
MUSIC 4 STADIUM
DOLBY PRO LOGIC provides proper playback processing for any
Dolby Surround encoded source, whether it be a music CD, vid¬
eotape, videodisc, conventional stereo TV broadcast, or satellite
broadcast. (Look for the QQI
DomumouMol looo on the nackaoR
or program.) Dolby Pro Logic processing and playback through a
properly calibrated system will preserve the directionality, ambi¬
ance, and spatial effects intended by the source's producers.
THX CINEMA adds special circuits developed by Lucasfilm, Ltd.
to enhance signals already processed by the RSP-980's Dolby
Pro Logic decoder. These circuits include Re-Equalization, Tim¬
bre Matching, Decorrelation, and Bass Management. (See Sec¬
tion XXX for further explanation.)
Tone Controls O
Bass and Treble controls increase and decrease the audio
signal's low and high frequency content. Rotate each one clock¬
wise to increase output in the respective frequency range and
counterclockwise to reduce it. The center "detent" removes
each control from the audio path for maximum signal integrity.

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
Movie Filter O
This button activates circuitry that reduces high-frequency re¬
sponse and is particularly useful for removing excessive high
frequency content from olderfilm soundtracks.
Tape Monitor O
This switch overrides the normal Ustening Source Selectors to
listen to whatever source component is connected to the Tape
Monitor Input jacks. A confirming LED will light whenever the
Tape Monitor switch is depressed.
Note: Although you can select any normal input by pressing a
Listenting Source Selector button and get confirmation from the
source LEDs while the Tape Monitor button is depressed, you
will not hear a signal from a normal input until you release the
Tape Monitor button.
5.1 Channel Input O
This button overrides all other input selectors including the Tape
Monitor Switch and directly connects an external Dolby Digital/
AC-3 adaptor {such as Rotel’s ROA-980) to the RSP-980's master
Volume control. This allows the RSP-980 to remain the central
controller for even the most advanced audio/video systems.
When using the 5.1 CH INPUT, all of the RSP-980’s normal sur¬
round modes and system calibration settings are bypassed.
Channel balance, dynamic range, time delay adjustments, etc.
are controlled by the optional RDA-980 Dolby Digital adaptor.
RR-930 Remote Control
The RR-930 remote controller is specifically designed for the
RSP-980. and it's simplified design makes it ideal for day-to-day
use with the RSP-980.
Note: Rotel offers a variety of optional programmable and learn¬
ing remotes that will operate all Rotel remote capable compo¬
nents and most of the RSP-980's functions. See your Rotel audio
specialty dealer for additional information.
You may notice a slight hesitation in the RSP-980's response
when you move from button to button on the RR-930. This is in¬
tentional and gives the microprocessor sufficient time to verify
and process a command before accepting another. If the RSP-
980 does not immediately respond to a remote-generated com¬
mand, simply wait an instant and push the button again.
The following section provides an overview of the controls avail¬
able on the standard RR-930 remote control included with the
RSP-980. Note that first three functions simply duplicate the
RSP-980 front panel controls and are listed here only for your
reference. Please refer to the previous 'Front Panel Controls'
section of this Manual if you need additional information.
Standby Switch o
Duplicates the function of the Standby Switch on the front
panel. Press to activate the RSP-980. Press again to deactivate.
Master Volume Controls O
A pair of buttons which duplicate the function of the front panel
volume control. Press VOLUME < to reduce the volume and
press VOLUME > to increase the volume.
Note: When you adjust the volume from the remote control, a
servo-motor will physically turn the volume knob on the RSP-980
front panel.
Listening Source Selector Buttons ^
A row of six buttons (LINE/CD, TUNER/SOBS, LD, VIDEO 1, VIDEO
2, VIDEOS) which duplicate the function of the Listening Source
Selector Buttons on the RSP-980 front panel. Select any input
source by pressing the appropriate button.
Note: The Recording Source selection function is not available
from the remote control.
Mute Button {remote only) ^
Push this button once to reduce all AUDIO PREOUT (RCA and
0B25) levels to 0 - in other words, to turn the sound 'off. To pro¬
vide visual indication that the sound is muted, the front panel vol¬
ume control LED and On-Screen MASTER LEVEL indicator will
blink to indicate MUTE mode.) Press the MUTE button again to
restore previous volume levels.
On-Screen button (remote only)
Push this button to turn on the On-Screen Display. If the On-
Screen Display is already visible, push this button to cancel the
Display.
Note: The RSP-980 On-Screen Display will automatically be
turned off following ??? seconds without any control activity.

Rsp-gso
Surround Mode Buttons (remote only) ^
Steps sequentually backwards or forwards through various sur¬
round sound operating modes:
2CH STEREO
MONO
MUSIC 1 (Music)
MUSIC 2 (Jazz)
MUSIC 3 (Concert)
MUSIC 4 (Stadium)
DOLBY PRO LOGIC
DOLBY PRO LOGIC/THX
Your current selection will be indicated by front panel LEOs and
by the On-Screen Display as you step through the available op¬
tions.
The different Surround Mode choices provide a variety of
"acoustic environments" to complement your source.
2 CH STEREO is a conventional 2-speaker stereo direct bypass
mode with no surround sound or other processing. The Front Left
and Right speakers are on, all other speakers (including
subwoofer) are off.
MONO sends all information to the center channel speaker if
you’ve selected ‘Normal’' or 'Wide" center mode or to the main
Left and Right speakers if you’ve selected "Phantom" center
mode. All other speakers (including subwoofer) are off.
MUSIC 1, MUSIC 2, MUSIC 3. and MUSIC 4 simulate the natural
ambience of live concert venues and are suitable for use with
any music source. MUSIC 1 provides the characteristics of a
smaller room than does MUSIC 2 and so forth. MUSIC 3 is ideally
suited for source material originally recorded in larger spaces
such as concert halls. MUSIC 4 approximates the acoustic char¬
acteristics of an outdoor concert or sports event. Consequently,
it offers fewer “reflections' to better emulate the way you hear
where there are no walls or other close surfaces.
DOLBY PRO LOGIC is intended for any CD, videotape, or broad¬
cast containing a Dolby Surround encoded soundtrack.
THX adds circuits to process a Dolby Surround encoded signal
after Dolby Pro Logic decoding allocates channel-by-channel in¬
formation properly. THX circuitry includes:
• Re-Equalization ™ to filter the soundtrack's high frequency con¬
tent to correct for the differences between theatrical and home
playback, and prevent an excessively bright, strident sound
when certain movie soundtracks are played on a high-quality
home theater system.
• Timbre Matching^Xo smooth the transitions between front and
surround speakers by implementing a complex equalization
curve on the surround signal. This special EQ compensates for
the fact that the very shape of our ears contours sounds coming
from behind and above us in a different way than sounds coming
from in front of us. THX's Timbre Matching circuit makes sure
that front-surround transitions (called "pans") are glitch-free.
• Decorrelation^Xo enhance the apparent spaciousness of Dolby
Pro Logic's mono surround channel signal by splitting the sur¬
round output of a Dolby Pro Logic decoder and then slightly shift¬
ing pitch and phase relationships between each leg of that
signal. The circuit helps enhance the diffuse nature of the sur¬
round soundfield and widen the listening area.
» T HX's Bass Crossover removes low frequency information from
the signals sent to the front speakers and re-routes it to a dedi¬
cated subwoofer. In addition to more accurate bass response,
this circuit enhances the dynamic performance of the main front
speakers by freeing them from the demands of bass reproduc¬
tion. The improvements benefit the entire midrange — dialog in¬
telligibility in particular.
Delay Time buttons (remote only) ^
The digital signal processing in the RSP-980 delays the signal
sent to the rear surround speakers as a means of simulating a
larger physical space (such as a movie theater or concert hall)
and to ensure that sounds from the front speakers reach your
ear first. The Delay Time buttons (labelled DEL TIME) steps se¬
quentially through various delay timed settings available for your
selected Surround Mode.
You will get visual confirmation of your delay time settting on the
On-Screen Display as you adjust the setting.
DELAY TIME possibilities vary as you select different Surround
Modes and setting a different delay time for one surround mode
has no effect on the others. This assures that your system will al¬
ways provide convincing reproduction from mode to mode while
still giving you latitude to meet particular conditions.
There are no hard and fast rules for setting proper delay time.
Many listeners will be satisfied with the default settings. Others
will want to experiment. In the end, it is a matter of personal
taste.
In general, longer delay time settings will tend to create the illu¬
sion of a larger accoustic space, although if overdone, the effect
can be exaggerated and unnatural.Longer delay settings may
typically be more'spectacular'. Shorter delay times may be more
“natural'.
Delay times also may need to be adjusted depending on the rela¬
tive distance from the listening position to the front and rear
speakers. As a generaly rule, your attention should never be
drawn the surround speakers as a primary sound source, par¬
ticularly when listening to music. If you are closer to the rear
speakers, increasing the delay time may prevent this problem.
Seethe Calibration section of this manual for specific instruc¬
tions on setting the delay time for Dolby Surround mode.

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
The DELAY TIME choices for each SRND MODE vary as follows.
The range of options varies, because the length of the delay time
IS one way that the RSP-980 uses to create different effects, par¬
ticularly in the various MUSIC modes.
After approximately 5 seconds, this Initial ID screen will disap¬
pear to be replaced by the main Operating screen which will, in
turn, disappear (providing you do nothing morel within approxi¬
mately 8 seconds.
2 CH STEREO: None. (No surround speakers used)
MONO: Same as above.
MUSIC 1 ("Music"):
MUSIC 2 ("Jazz"):
MUSIC 3 ("Concert"):
MUSIC 4 ("Stadium"):
DOLBY PRO LOGIC:
15,18,22,25, &30 milliseconds (ms).
Same as above.
30,37,45.55 & 65 ms
45,55,65,77, & 95 ms
15,18,22, 25 &30 ms
DOLBY PRO LOGIC/THX:Same as above.
Again, experimentation will show you which settings are best for
your source material, room conditions, and system setup.
Center Focus Button (remote only) o
The Center Focus Button (labelled CTR FCS) Increases or
decreaces the relative relative volume level of the center chan¬
nel speaker in the four MUSIC surround modes. There are two
settings for Center Focus - normal and increased. Push the but¬
ton to increase center channel level, press again to restore nor¬
mal level.
CTR FCS helps to stabilize a very wide left-right image by "col¬
lapsing" it slightly towards the center. Please experiment to find
the optimum setting for your favorite sources. In general, in¬
creased center focus will tend to make singers and lead instru¬
ments more prominent.
The On-Screen Display will show the current Center Focus set¬
ting with either one dot (normal) or two dots (increased) on a line
between the Delay Time and Master Volume indicators.
Note: The Center Focus button is only active when you have one
of the four MUSIC surround modes selected. It has no effect in
the other surround modes.
Balance Check (remote only)
The Balance Check button (labelled BAL CHK) on the remote
control is used during initial calibration of relative speaker vol¬
ume levels for Dolby Surround playback. Generally, it is only
used during Intlal setup of the system and not during normal op¬
eration. See the Calibration Section for full details.
The On-Screen Display
Providing you've connected the RSP-980's monitor output to your
TV and the TV is set to that input, the RSP-980's On-Screen Dis¬
play automatically appears on your TV monitor whenever you
take the RSP-980 out of "Standby" mode. When you do, the first
screen you'll see is simply an ID screen that says:
Once the RSP-980 is fully powered, you will reactivate the Oper¬
ating screen every time you:
•Push any button on the remote controller.
• Change the Master Volume setting via the RSP-980's front panel
control.
• Change a Listening input via the RSP-980's front panel
pushbuttons.
Once activated, the Operating screen will remain visible for ap¬
proximately 8 seconds after your last control input.
Display information will appear over a blue background and will
displace whatever video image your monitor was just showing.
If no other video image was present, the display information will
disappearwithin 8 seconds but the blue background will remain.
If another video image was present, both information and back¬
ground will disappearwithin 8 seconds and the RSP-980 will au¬
tomatically restore that image.
Note: You can turn off the On-Screen Display's Operating screen
at any time by pressing the remote controller's ON SCRN button.
Operating Screen
As we’ve already shown, there are three display screens. Initial
ID, Operating, and Balance Check (or Calibration.) The Initial ID
screen is essentially passive and should not occupy your atten¬
tion for any other reason than reassuring you that the RSP-980 is
still connected to your monitor. You've probably seen the Bal¬
ance Check screen during your initial set-up. (See Section 4 for
more details.)
As shown by the diagram above, the Operating screen contains
the following information:
1) INPUT
2) SRND MODE (Surround Mode)
3) DELAY TIME
4) CTR FCS (Center Focus) - visible only in the four Music modes
5) MASTER LEVEL (numerical indication and bar graph)
INPUT is almost self-explanatory: It simply tells you which of the
six regular inputs (CD, TUNER, LD, VIDEO I, VIDEO 2, or VIDEO 3)
you have selected. When you choose the 5.1 CH INPUT using the
mechanical selector (front panel, bottom right) the Operating
screen will change to show ONLY MASTER LEVEL. This reflects
the fact that the 5.1 CH INPUT goes directly to the Master Level
control and is totally unaffected by any other operating change
you may want to make. The Operating screen will revert to its
normal display mode only when you deselect the 5.1 CH INPUT
by pushing the button once again.

RSP-980
SRND MODE (Surround Mode) is equally straightforward. Se¬
quential pushes on the remote's SRNO MODE > button will cycle
through 2 CH STEREO, MONO, MUSIC 1 (indicated by “Music" on
the Display), MUSIC 2 CJazz"), MUSIC 3 ("Concert"), MUSIC 4
('Stadium"), Dolby Pro Logic, and Dolby Pro Logic/THX respec¬
tively. Using the SRND MODE < button simply reverses the se¬
quence.
DELAY TIME shows the currently selected delay figure. (See
Section 4.3.11 for an explanation of why proper delay time set¬
tings add to our enjoyment.)
Bypassing the On-Screen Display
The RSP-980 generates the On-Screen Display only at the TV
Monitor output (composite or S-Video). If you prefer not to show
the Display during normal system operation, connect the monitor
to any available video output (VIDEO I, VIDEO 2, or VIDEO 3). See
the section 'TV/MonItor Output' under the heading 'Rear Panel
Signal Output Connections"for detailed hookup instructions.
Rear Panel Input Signal
Connections
This section of the manual provides complete information on all
of the audio and video signal input connections on the rear panel
of the RSP-980. For convenience, each topic begins with an over¬
view of the particular connection, followed by detailed hook-up
Instructions.
There is no one-and-only way to hook up other components to
your RSP-980. However, you'll undoubtedly need a distraction-
free atmosphere and some patience, particularly if you're setting
up your multi-channel home theater system for the first time.
ALL VIDEO CABLES (composite and S-Video) SHOULD HAVE A 72
OHM IMPEDANCE RATING. Although conventional audio Inter¬
connects will pass a video signal, their construction and limited
bandwidth imposes a performance penalty because. In part, they
do not adhere to the 72 ohm standard.
You should also know that the S/PDIF digital audio interface
standard specifies a 75 ohm transmission line and that all good
digital cables adhere to this requirement. Because the video and
S/PDIF standards are as close as they are, you can safely use a
video cable for digital audio data transmission and, conversely, a
digital audio cable for video data transmission. We strongly ad¬
vise that you NOT substitute a conventional analog audio Inter¬
connect cable for either digital or video.
Note: DO NOT plug any system component into an AC source un¬
til system hook-up is complete. Wait to apply power until you're
confident that all component-to-component connections have
been properly made.
RCA Source Audio and Video Inputs:
[See Figure 2 and Figure 3 for hookup illustration]
These six sets of RCA-type inputs (CD, TUNER/DBS, LD, VIDEO 1,
VIDEO 2, AND VIDEO 3) accept line level audio and composite
video signals from various source components. Except for CD, an
audio-only input, all source Inputs accept both left and right
channel audio plus a video signal.
Note: In addition to the RCA-type video inputs, the RSP-980 pro¬
vides alternative S-Video connections for all video inputs. You
should make the decision to use composite or S- Video connec¬
tions before you start and on a system-wide basis. If ail of your
audio/video source components AND YOUR TV/MONITOR have
S-Video connections, we suggest that you use them to enjoy the
extra resolution S-Video can deliver. However, unless all of your
video components, including your TV monitor feature S-Video
connections, you should use the RCA-type connections. See S-
Video section below.
All RCA-type connections on the RSP-980 follow these standard
color codes:
Left channel audio = RCA jack with white inset
Right channel audio = RCA jack with red inset
Composite video = RCA jack with yellow inset
Connect the OUTPUTS of your source components to the appro¬
priate INPUTS on the RSP-980. For example, if your system in¬
cludes a CD player, connect its Left and Right channel analog
outputs to the RSP-980's LINE/CD inputs.
If your system includes a separate tuner (audio only or audio/
video), connect its analog audio outputs to the RSP-980's TUNER/
SDBS audio inputs and its video output (If applicable) to the ap¬
propriate composite.
The same Instructions apply to the LD, VICED 1, VIDEO 2, and
VIDEO 3 Inputs. Remember to use only your LD player's analog
audio outputs to connect to yourRSP-980‘s LD audio Input jacks.
Note: If you wish to enjoy a turntable/phono cartridge combina¬
tion with the RSP 980, please connect an external phono equal¬
izer, such asthe Rotel RQ-970, to one of the RSP-980 line-level
inputs. This will amplify very low-level phono cartridge signals
for use by the RSP-980.
S-Video Source Inputs
[See Figure 4 for hookup illustration]
These mini-DIN inputs allow the RSP-980 to receive S-Video sig¬
nals from appropriately-equipped source components as an al¬
ternative to the standard RCA video inputs described above.
You should make the decision to use composite or S-Video con¬
nections before you start and on a system -wide basis. If all of
your audio/video source components AND YOUR TV/MONITOR
have S-VIdeo connections, we suggest that you use them to en-

RDTEL SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
joy the extra resolution S-Video can deliver. However, unless all
of your video components, including your TV monitor feature S-
Video connections, you should use the RCA-type connections.
If you opt for S-Video connections, remember that very long S-
Video cable runs can cause significant signal degradation. In
some difficult system configurations, composite connections
may actually be preferable. Consult your Hotel dealer for details.
In all cases, keep your cables as short as possible to insure the
best performance.
Note: You may NOT get the best signal from your LD (Laser Disci
player by using the S- Video output. Because the LD format itself
is older, the LD player does not develop a S-Video output in quite
the same way as a more recent $ ■ Video source component. LD
players add a circuit to separate the luminance (black and whitel
from the chrominance (color) information that make up the com¬
plete video signal. This extra circuitry may actually degrade the
apparent resolution of an LD player's S-Video output. You'll need
to experiment to determine which output provides a sharper pic¬
ture in your system.
Having made the system wide decision to use S*Video connec*
tions. hook-up is straightforward. Simply connect the S-Video
output of each video source component to the appropriate S-
Video input on the back panel of the RSP-980. Remember that
you will still need to use the RCA-type connections for the left
and right audio signal from each source component.
When connecting multiple video source components, make sure
that alt audio and video signals from one component connect to
the corresponding inputs on the RSP-980. For example, do not
connect the audio outputs from a VCR to the RSP-980’s VIDEO 2
audio inputs while connecting the VCR's video signal to VIDEO
Vs video input.
5.1 Channel Audio input ^
[See Figure 2 for hookup illustration]
This 25-pin input connects six discrete channels of analog infor¬
mation from an outboard processor (Dolby Digital/AC-3 or DTS,
for example).
Many external adaptors provide a choice of either RCA and DB25
outputs. We suggest that you use a D825-to-DB25 cable to re¬
duce the number of cables and to insure proper channel-to-
channel continuity. The DB25 connector is shaped to go into the
RSP-980's receptacle only one way. There is never a question of
mistakenly connecting, for example, the external adaptor's Left
Front output to the RSP-980's Right Rear input.
If your external adaptor does not have a DB25 output, you will
need to purchase a multi-RCA to OB25 adaptor cable from your
Hotel dealer. Make sure to observe proper channel continuity.
Rear Panel Output Signal
Connections
This section of the manual provides complete information on all
of the audio and video signal output connections on the rear
panel of the RSP-980. For convenience, each topic begins with
an overview of the particular connection, followed by detailed
hook-up instructions.
RCA-type Source Audio and Video Outputs
(See Figure 2 and Figure 3 for hookup illustration]
These three output sets (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, AND VIDEO 3) in¬
clude left and right channel audio plus composite video output
from the RSP-980 to appropriate components (VCR. etc.) for re¬
cording or further processing. Standard color coding applies.
In conjuntion with the source inputs described above, the VIDEO
1, VIDEO 2, and VIDEO 3 outputs are intended to make video re¬
cording or dubbing easy and trouble free by using the RSP-980's
internal switching circuitry. You can route signals FROM UP TO
THREE VIDEO SOURCE COMPONENTS TO YOUR RSP-980 using
the input connections and FROM YOUR RSP-980 back to three
video source components using the output connections.
Note: Again, the RSP-980 offers a choice of composite and S-
Video connections. This sections describes the use of the stan¬
dard composite video output. See below if you have made a
system-wide decision to use S-Video connections.
Connect the RSP980's VIDEO 1 left and right audio outputs to the
audio inputs of the first source component. Then, connect the
VIDEO 1 composite video ouput to the video input of the same
source component.
Repeat these steps for Video 2 and Video 3 connections. Just
substitute the ID "VIDEO 2" or "VIDEO 3" as appropriate and re¬
member to route your cables to and from the proper jacks on the
RSP-980's rear panel.
To avoid mistakes, make sure you always route cables:
• Always connect the source component's outputs to the appropri¬
ate RSP-980 inputs
• Always connect the appropriate RSP-980 outputs to the proper
source component inputs.
• Always make sure that whatever video component is connectet
to the VIDEO 1 inputs is the same component connected to the
VIDEO 2 outputs.
Again, a bit of patience will pay off. Just take your time — you’ll
get there!

RSP-980
S-Video Outputs (B
[See Figure 4for hookup illustration]
These mini-DIN outputs give you the option of routing S-Video
signals from the RSP-980 to appropriately-equipped components
if you have made the system-wide decision to use S-Video con¬
nections instead of the standard composite video connections
described above.
If you have opted for S-Video conntections, connect the S-Video
outputs for VIDEO 1 to the S-Video input on your first the source
component.
Remember that you are merely substituting an S-Video connec¬
tion for the standard RCA-style composite video connection.that
Your audio connections will still use the RCA outputs described
above. Also remember to observe the same component-to-com-
ponent continuity between audio and video signals described
above.
Repeat the same process using VIDEO 2 and VIDEO 3 if you have
additional video source components.
Video 3 S-Video Selector ^
As already noted, the decision to use S-Video connections is a
system-wide choice and should only be made if all of your
compoentnets feature S-\ndeo connectors. However, there is
one exception to this rule:
Main Preamplifier Audio Outputs (RCA) ^
[See Figure 2 for hookup illustration)
These outputs (6 individual RCA-style jacks direct the RSP-980's
main output to power amplifiers and speakers for the primary lis¬
tening/viewing area.
These six RCA outputs (Left Front, Center Front, Right Front, Left
Surround, Right Surround, and Subwoofer) connectthe RSP-98o'
s main audio output to a multi-channel power amplifier or mul¬
tiple power amplifiers for the primary listening area via six indi¬
vidual RCA-style jacks.
Standard color coding applies with black insets to distinguish
center channel and subwoofer outputs from Left (white) and
Right (red) Front and Rear outputs.
Note: As an alternative to the RCA-outputs, the RSP-980 also
provides DB25 multipin output connector. These outputs (RCA
and DB25I are in parallel. Do not use both simultaneously.
Choose whichever is most convenient for your system hook-up.
The RSP-980's RCA outputs will provide the greatest flexibility as
all consumer power amplifiers have RCA-style inputs. The pen¬
alty is that you will need up to six individual interconnect cables.
In addition, you must guard against the possibility of
misconnecting one of the RSP-980's outputs to an incorrect input
on the power amplifier.
As a convenience, the RSP-980 offers the ability to record onan
older VCR lacking S-Video connections — even when you have
chosen S-Video as your preferred video format.
To take advantage of this feature, you use the selector switch to
convert an S-Vtdeo signal to composite format and route that
converted signal to Video 3's composite (RCA) output.
Connectthe older VCR's video input from the RSP-980's VIDEO 3
composite (RCA) video output via a standard 72 ohm video cable
and slide the two position switch TO THE RIGHT. This will route
the chosen video signal through a format converter (5-Video to
composite) and send it to the VIDEO 3 composite output.
Only use this convenience feature if necessary. If all of your
VCR's have S-Video connectors, then leave the switch in the
LEFT position and use the S-Video output for VIDEO 3, just as you
have for VIDEO land VIDEO 2.
To Record Itmul on Move switch to right to convert S-Video
Dubbing VCI signal to composite output
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ft ~ >. mm I
000 00C) 0©IS> "*°"l
000 00 C) ©© © © ®
To hook up the RCA main audio outputs, connect a standard au¬
dio cable from each output to the input of the amplifier channel
that will power the corresponding speaker, in a full homethearer
system, you will need to make six different connections
corresponsing to the six speakers (Left Front, Center Front, Right
Front, Left Surround. Right Surround, and Subwoofer).
It is important to make sure that you have the correct output
connected to theproper ampifier channel. Take you rtime and
you will have no trouble getting it right.
Main Preamplifier Audio Outputs (Muiti-pin)
[See Figure 2for hookup illustration]
The RSP-980 provides an alternate 25-pin connector that may be
more convenient that the six RCA-type outputs described above,
if you are using a multi-channel power amplifier that accepts
such a signal. This connector is wired in parallel to the RCA-out-
puts described above and provides exactly the same six chan¬
nels of audio output.
The D625jackis a “one way only" connection that automatically
insures proper channel continuity. A single 0625 cable carries
signals for up to six channels of output from the RSP-980, thus
considerably simplifying system hook-up.
Each output set (RCA or DB25) will provide exceptional sound
quality. If you want a hook-it-up-once-and-forget-it installation,
we suggest the DB25 connector. If you think you might want to
experiment with different interconnect cables, the RCA outputs
will be a better choice.

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
TV/Monitor Video Output & Selector Switch ^
[See Figure Sand Figure 4for hookup illustration]
The video output of the RSP-980 can be sent to your TV monitor
from an RCA-type composite video connection or an S-Video
connection, depending on the format choice you've made for
your particular system. The Selector switch between the two
output connectors is used to select the appropriate type.lSee
Section XXX for more details.)
Based on the choice you've already made (see Section 1 above)
between composite and S-Video connections, simply connect
the appropriate output to the proper input on your TV or monitor
and push the slide switch to the position matching the connector
you are using.
For example, if you've chosen to use only S-Video connections,
run an S-Video cable (with mini-OIN connectors) from the RSP-
980'$ S-Video output to your monitor's S-Video input. Then slide
the composite/S-Video switch to the right.
If you have chosen a composite interface, use the RCA output
jack and slide the switch to the left.
Bypassing the On-Screen Display
The RSP-980 generates an On-Screen Display only at the TV
Monitor output (composite or S-Video). If you prefer not to show
the Display during normal system operation, connect your TV
monitor to any available video output (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, or
VIDEO 3) instead of the TV/Monitor Outputs. This will supply ex¬
actly the same video source, but without any On-Screen Display
information.
If your TV monitor has two sets of user-selectable inputs, con¬
sider connecting the RSP-980's TV MONITOR output (with On-
Screen capability) to one input while connecting the RSP-980's
VIDEO 3 output (no On-Screen capability) to another Input. You
can then choose On-Screen Display or no On-Screen Display by
switching to the appropriate input on your monitor.
Tape Monitor Audio Outputs <D
[See Figure 2 for hookup illustration]
A pair of RCA-type audio inputs and outputs are intended prima¬
rily for easy hook-up of an audio recording device (cassette
deck, DAT, or Mini-Disc recorder, etc.). You can also use these
jacks to connect an external signal processor (equalizer, etc.) if
needed.
If you have an audio tape recorder (cassette, DAT, Mini-Disc,
etc.), connect it now.
Route audio interconnect cables from your source’s Left and
Right analog outputs to the corresponding TAPE MONITOR IN
jacks on the RSP-98l!)’s rear panel.
To complete connections, run another set of cables from the
RSP-980's TAPE MONITOR OUT jacks to your recorder's analog
inputs.
Rear Panel Zone 2 Connection
The RSP-980 provides a second zone capability. You can power a
second amplifier and pair of speakers in a second zone in your
house. From the remote zone, you can select a source compo¬
nent (even if different from the source playing in the main listen¬
ing room), adjust the volume level in the remote zone, and
(depending on the remote control you are using) operate the
source components.
To take advantage of the Zone 2 capability, you will need addi¬
tional components including a pair of speakers Installed in the
remote zone and a power amplifier to drive them.
Zone 2 operation also requires the installation of an infrared re¬
peater system such as a Xantech, Niles, etc. This repeater sys¬
tem relays infrared remote control commands from a hand-held
remote to the 'remote in' repeater input on the back of the RSP-
980. This is the only way to operate the Zone 2 functions. See
your Hotel retailer for additional information on repeater systems
and their installation.
Here are several important points to keep in mind about the Zone
2 function:
• An infrared repeater system IXantech. Niles, el al) must be used
for Zone 2 control via the 3mm ‘remote in’jack on rte back panel
• Zone 2 is immediately active at a zero volume level when the
R$P-380 is turned on.
• Zone 2 cannot activate or deactivate the RSP-980. This must be
done from the main listenting room first.
• The RR-930 remote control supplied with the RSP-980 will oper¬
ate Zone 2. The Rote! RR-927 remote control will operate Zone 2,
plus all of the RSP-980 functions, plus all Rote! source compo¬
nents via the RSP-980's ‘remote out'jack.

• All source components connected to the RSP-980's eudio inputs
are available at the variable line level output for Zone 2. The
Zone 2 outputs are independent of the main outputs. You can se¬
lect a different source and raise or iower Zone 2 volume without
affecting the Main outputs in any way.
• Avoid sending the same infrared command to the RSP-380 front
panel sensor and the Zone 2 repeater at the same time. This
means that Zone 2 must be in a different room from the RSP-980.
Zone 2 Audio Outputs o
(See Figure 5 for Zone 2 hookup illustration]
These variable line-level RCA-type audio outputs send the Zone 2
audio signal to a stereo power amplifer driving a pair of speakers
in the remote zone.
Although you have the option of using an integrated amplifier or
a receiver to power the remote speakers, we strongly suggest
using a fixed-gain power amplifier. This simplifies system instal¬
lation and operation. Your Rotel dealer may make another recom¬
mendation based on specific system requirements.
If you are configuing your system for Zone 2 operation, connect
the left and right Zone 2 outputs on the RSP-980 to the left and
right channels of the amplifier powering the remote speakers,
using conventional RCA audio cables.
Remote External Sensor/Repeater Jacks
[See Figure 5 for Zone 2 hookup illustration]
These 3.5 mm mini-jacks allow your RSP-980 to send and receive
command codes from industry-standard infrared transmitters
and receivers via hard-wired connections.They are used in con¬
figuring your RSP-980 with the proper IR connections for Zone 2
operation.
These 3.5 mm mini-jack connections provide easy incorporation
of third party infrared transmitters and repeaters (Xantach, etc.)
for total control of custom installed and multi-zone systems.
The REMOTE IN jack accepts signals from infrared repeaters lo¬
cated in a remote area of your home. Among other uses, this re¬
ceptacle is required for connecting a remote sensor/transmitter
to enable operation of the RSP-980's ZONE 2 functions.
The REMOTE OUT jack sends signals from both the REMOTE IN
jack AND the RSP-980’s front panel infrared sensor to a remote
infrared repeater or to Rotel CO players, cassette decks, or tun¬
ers with a compatible rear panel remote connector.
Rear Panel Speaker Configuration
Switches
There are three speaker configuration switches on the RSP-980's
rear panel — SURROUND HI-PASS (On/Off), FRONT HI-PASS
(On/Off), and CENTER MODE (Normal/PhantomAWide). These
switches let you customize the RSP-980’s main outputs to pre¬
cisely match system configuration and speaker capabilities.
The SURROUND HI-PASS and FRONT HI-PASS switches control
a BASS CROSSOVER with a fixed "corner frequency" of 80 Hz,
The CENTER MODE switch is also labeled CENTER SPEAKER
ISmall/None/Large-THX). Do not let the labelling confuse you —
there is only one switch!
These switches are crucial to proper system configuration and
must be adjusted so that you enjoy all the performance your sys¬
tem can deliver.
Surround Hi-pass (On/Off) ^
SURROUND HI-PASS
OFF — 1 f— O N
If your surround speakers are capable of sustained low fre¬
quency output (i.e., output substantially below 100 Hz), place
this switch in the "Off' position. This insures that your surround
channel speakers receive a full bandwidth signal whenever
available from the RSP-980.
If your surround speakers have limited bass capability, place
this switch in the "On" position. This limits the RSP-980's low
frequency output to the surround channels so that the surround
speakers are not overdriven. The result will be cleaner reproduc¬
tion of ambience and effects information.
Note: When you place this switch in the 'On" position, the bass
information originally intended for the surround speakers is sent
to the Subwoofer output instead. Conseguently fundamental
tones are not lost but simply redirected to the speaker best able
to handle them.
Front Hi-pass (On/Off) ®
Note: ZONE 2 MUST be in a different area from the main room. In
particular, the RSP-980 should not be within range of Zone 2's re¬
mote controller. If signals from the Zone 2 remote controller
reach the RSP-980's rear panel REMOTE IN jacks and front panel
IR sensor at the same time, the RSP-980 will 'lockup." If this
happens, simply UNPLUG the RSP-980, reconfigure your system
to avoid the problem, and then plug the RSP-980 into the wall
outlet again. Press STANDBY to resume normal operation.
FRONT HI-PASS
ON
This switch performs the same function as the SURROUND HI-
PASS switch but does so for the Front loudspeakers only.
19

SURROUND SOUND PROCESSOR RSP-980
Place the switch in the "Off" position if your main Left and Right
speakers are full range designs with good bass response capa¬
bility.
If you are using "satellite" speakers or other designs with more
limited bass capability, put this switch in the "On" position to
redirect bass frequencies to the Subwoofer output.
Note: Unfortunately, we can't cover every possible combination
of speaker and switch settings in this Manual to provide specific
recommendations. You'll need to use your own ears to make final
adjustments. In particular, listen for bass overload (a “whuffing"
or 'pumping " sound caused by asking smaller speakers to pro¬
duce more bass than they are designed to) and adjust the HI-
PASS switches accordingly. Proceed slowly and enjoy. You may
also want to discuss this with your HOTEL dealer.
Center Mode (Normal/Phantom/Wide) ®
Dolby Pro Logic decoding derives much of its spatial accuracy
from a Center Channel speaker located very close to a TV. This
Center Channel speaker "anchors" dialog information (and other
monaural signals) to your screen for greater coherence between
the apparent point of origin for picture and sound.
Place this switch in the "Wide" ("Large-THX") position if your
system's Center Channel speaker is capable of hill-range, ex¬
tended bass response.
In "Wide" position, bass frequencies below 100 Kz are handled
by the Center Channel speaker as well as the Left Front & Right
Front speakers if there is NO subwoofer in the system. When a
subwoofer IS used, center channel bass content below 80 Hz is
routed exclusively to it.
two main speakers. If the system includes a subwoofer, signals
above 80 Hz will play through the main speakers only while bass
below 80 Hz goes to the subwoofer.
Rear Panel AC Power Connections
AC power cord 0
Be sure the power switch on the front panel of the RB-991 is
turned off (in the 'out' position). Then, connect the supplied
power cord to the AC power receptacle on the rear of the unit
and the AC power outlet.
Your RB-991 is preconfigured at the factory for the proper AC line
voltage in the country where you purchased it (either 115 volts
AC Of 230 volts AC with a line frequency of either 50 Hz or 60 Hz).
The AC line configuration is noted on a decal on the back of your
unit.
AC Convenience Outlet
This outlet lets you connect an accessory AC line filter/system
switcher such as the Rotel RLC-900. The outlet is powered when¬
ever the RSP-980 is fully active. It is off when the RSP-980 is in
"Standby" mode. We DO NOT RECOMIVIEND that you use this
outlet for a power amplifier.
Note: The AC outlet may bebest used for the AC sensor cord of
Hotel's RLC-900 Line Conditioner/System Switcher. Please see
your Rotel dealer for full details on this system-enhancing prod¬
uct. The RLC-900 provides 11 filtered and group-isolated AC out¬
lets (including 2 specifically for power amplifiers) as well as
sequential turn-on and turn-off. It provides line ideal surge pro¬
tection for today's complex home entertainment systems.
System Calibration
Use the "Normal" ("Small") position if your Center Channel
speaker has more limited low frequency capability. Low fre¬
quencies below 100 Hz are redirected to the Front Left and Front
Right speakers (or to a subwoofer) so they will not overload the
center channel speaker. When NO subwoofer is used, all bass
frequencies below 100 Hz are sent to the FRONT LEFT and RIGHT
speakers. When a subwoofer IS used, bass from 100 Hz to 80 Hz
is sent to the Left Front and Right Front speakers while bass be¬
low 60 Hz is sent to the subwoofer.
Set the switch to the "Phantom" ("None”) position if your sys¬
tem does not have a Center Channel speaker. The RSP-980 then
turns the Center Channel output OFF and divides the Center
Channel signal equally between Left and Right Front speakers. If
NO subwoofer is used, bass content is split equally between the
Proper system calibration (i.e., adjusting the output of all speak¬
ers to compensate for system and placement variations) is es¬
sential if you wish to enjoy a movie soundtrack as the director
and sound engineers intended.
The goal is simple: Calibration seeks to equalize any speaker
level differences caused by varying amplifier sensitivities,
speaker efficiencies, and speaker locations — in other words,
any possible system variations NOT controlled by the soundtrack
itself. Once a system is calibrated, the only level differences left
will be those dictated by the soundtrack.