Sony STR-GX9O0ES User manual

SONY.
FM Stereo
FM-AM Receiver
Operating Instructions
STR-GX9O0ES
STR-GX800ES

| WARNING|
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
CAUTION
. RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK :
_.DONOTOPEN |
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
airs DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
This symbol 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.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
. literature accompanying the appliance.
Owner's Record .
The model number is located on the rear exterior and serial
number is on the rear. Record the serial number in the
space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever
you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.
Model No. Serial No.
Note to CATV system installer
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system
installer's attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC that
provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in
particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be
connected to the grounding system of the building, as
close to the point of cable entry as practical.
INFORMATION
.- This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
— Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.
— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not
expressly approved in this manual could void your authority
to operate this equipment.
For the customers in Canada
CAUTION :
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THIS
POLARIZED AC PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD,
RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE
BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT
BLADE EXPOSURE.

Table of Contents
Introduction
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PREGA AION 5s vecedacesdisezstetind dokeseeatetivietel ase os eset ene 5
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Unpacking cn ccsectcsecccostescsnetietdtessesicadecitecenssantcuscasenaendennssnsenanscentons 5
Checking the Supplied Accessories .........::::seeeeeeeees 5
Inserting the Batteries into the Remote Control tao
HOOKUPS is: 05..scbdccscevsezestigedencstatacctyatbessecueveastacvectgebedasetbeanesdonsoneety 6
Connecting an FM Antenna ..........:. cesses teeeeeeeeereeeneenees 6
Connecting an AM Antenna .........ccccceeeeeceeeeteeeeeteeneenees 6
Connecting Audio Component ...........::ccceeeeeeeeteeeeees 7
Connecting Video Component .........:ccceceeseeeseeeeteenees 8
Connecting Speaker Systems ..........cceseeeeeeeeneeeeeeees 9
Connecting External Amplifiers ............::sceeseeeereees 10
Connecting the AC POWER ........:cccccceeneeeeteieeteeeeeneneees 11
Chapter 2 Basic Operations
Listening to/Watching a Program SOUMCE .........ececeeeeeees 12
Selecting a Program SOUmCE .......-..sceeeeeeseeneseeeeeeeneseees 12
Selecting the Speaker System ..........::-::seseeeeeeeneeteeneeteees 12
Adjusting the Audio .............
Using the Remote Control
Changing the Settings of the FUNCTION Buttons ........ 15
Receiving Broadcasts .......cccccccececstecesstes ese nesieestesteseceeneeneenes 16
Direct Tuning tasnsidssbaetitieid des ohantinninceiat.
Automatic Tuning
Presetting Stations oo... ccc ceseseneneenesceneeereseseseenenensnens 17
Receiving Preset Stations .......c ccc eee 18
Watching Video Programs...........
Watching Video Programs.....
Combining the Video Image with the
Sound from Another Program Source .? 19
Using Pre-programmed Sound Fields ..........-::ceseeeeeee
Chapter 3 Additional Operations
RECON .eceeccececsesescsestsessestesesnencseeneneeeeneneetenseeenensentiseeeneneenenes
Recording on a Tape, DAT or an MD Recorder
Recording from Another Tape (Dubbing) ..........-..00
Recording on a Video Tape ......cc cece ieee eeeeeeeteeeeenees
Adding New Sound on a Video Tape during Video
Editing
Indexing the Preset Stations ....0.0..c eee
Creating an Index Name for a Preset Station............0 24
Scanning the Indexed Stations «0.0... 25
Indexing a Program Source ese
Using Sleep Timer oo... ccccececeseccsceseesnessesesesnanenessseseseeneneneaens 26
Programming the Remote Control ..........cccceeeeeeeeeeeeee 27
Programming Signals for Non-Sony Components ........ 27
Programming New Signals onto a Previously
Programmed Button 0... cece cee eceeececteeeteneseeeeeeeey 28
Obtaining More Powerful Sound «0.00.00 29
Chapter 4 Digital Sound Effects
Dolby Surround Sound ......ccecccccessecesseesseeneseeeneeseesteceeeneeneenaees
Selecting the Center Mode...........
Adjusting the Speaker Volume
Adjusting the Delay Time of the Rear Speakers............. 32
Creating Custom Sound Field
Adjustable Parameters ..........cccccceeeseeseneeeeereeeieneneneeees
Understanding the Surround Sound Parameters for
the STR=GX900ES ies. ccsavcssscedescescusesvacschvtesdestiatsseasenseterttasce 34
Adjusting Parametefs ............00c sth Mei eiteent aes 36
Selecting the Sound Field Setting «0.0.0.0... cee 39
Chapter 5 Other Information
Troubleshooting
Specifications oo...
Identifying the Parts and Controls «0... teees
HrontiParel 26.6 s4isetectes cc testes ti deseun ecssocesceecsevasusevveeee. Soeesete? 44
Remote Control ......cccecccccccccecssssesessessessesesessesseresaeeeeeeseneense 46

Overview
Welcome
Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony FM stereo/FM-AM receiver !
This
manual
describes
two
models:
models
STR-GX900ES
and
STR-GX800ES.
The
functions
and features of these models are the same, except where noted in this manual.
Features of this receiver include:
Dolby *Pro Logic Surround Sound Decoder
¢ Provides four channels of sound information (front left,
center, front right, and rear).
* Four center modes, to match your speaker configuration
(WIDE, NORMAL, PHANTOM and 3 CH (channel)
LOGIC).
* Two enhanced Dolby Pro Logic sound fields, depending
on your sound preferences (LIVE (STR-GX900ES only) and
THEATER).
¢ Variable delay time (15 - 30 ms).
Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
e Automatically converts all signals to digital, which lets
you adjust the sound with virtually no degradation in
sound quality.
« Allows you to customize individual sound parameters
including effect level, room size, wall type, seat position,
and reverb time. (STR-GX900ES)
Sound Field Settings
* A variety of adjustable sound fields simulate the way
you'd experience sound in various listening environments.
STR-GX90UES includes 10 factory preset sound field
settings (HALL, ACOUSTIC, OPERA, CHURCH,
STADIUM, LIVE, JAZZ, DANCE, THEATER, DOLBY
SUR).
STR-GX800ES includes 6 factory preset sound field
settings (HALL, ACOUSTIC, LIVE, DANCE, THEATER,
DOLBY SUR). : ‘
Digital Synthesis FM/AM Tuning
¢ Allows you to precisely tune in a station.
Parametric Graphic Equalizer (STR-GX900ES)
* Lets you adjust bass, middle, treble, and slope.
30 random FM/AM Station presets
* Lets you store your favorite stations in memory for easy
recall.
Programmable Remote Control
* Remote control with “learning” capability allows you to
use a single remote control for most audio and video
operations.
9 Audio/Video Inputs
¢ Includes five video inputs (one on front panel).
Center Channel and Surround Amps.
* Center channel amp: 100 watts (STR-GX900ES); 90 watts
(STR-GX800ES)
¢ Surround channel amp: 30 watts
4/8-Ohm Impedance Switch
* Lets vou use front and center speakers with either 4 or 8
ohm impedance.
Station Index
¢ Lets you group preset stations by specific names.
Audio/Video Editing
¢ Lets you combine a video image with the sound from
another program source.
About Dolby Surround Sound
The sound tracks of many programs, including current TV
shows and movies that are on video cassette and laser disc,
use Dolby Surround Sound. This enhanced audio
soundtrack complements the action as it happens on the
screen. Surround sound uses four separate channels to
direct off-screen audio effects, on-screen dialog, left-to right
panning, and music, bringing you right into the action. In
the past, you would have to go to a movie theater to
experience all the benefits of surround sound. But now, with
the special sound decoder that is built into this receiver, you
can experience Dolby Surround Sound right in your living
room, with sound that even rivals what you would
experience in a movie house.
Independent 3-Channel Amplifier
The amplifier section is composed of independent power
circuits for all channels; front left, right and center channels,
and uses a parallel push-pull output circuit. This circuit
design allows the output impedance to be lowered, while
allowing current flow and total power dissipation to
increase. The result is better performance into low
impedance loads, and at high power output levels.
Full Bandwidth Center Channel
Because as much as 70% of a typical movie's audio "energy"
comes from the center channel, Sony has designed this
receiver-with full-bandwidth center channel amplifiers
(20 Hz - 20 kHz). This discrete amp is powered by a large
transformer and uses dedicated filter capacitors for each
channel to further ensure superior audio quality during
transients and peak power output periods.
Power Swap
The Power Swap feature lets you add to the receiver's total
amplification without compromising the signal integrity (if
you want to add a separate power amplifier).
Low Filter (Models for U.S.A. and Canada)
For superior performance when using a subwoofer, this
switch will eliminate signals below 100 Hz from the front
speakers. This filter will prevent phase cancellation between
the subwoofer and the front speakers.
* Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation. Additionally licensed under one or more of the following
patents; U.S. number 3,959,590; Canadian numbers 1,004,603 and 1,037,877.
“Dolby”, “Pro Logic”, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

Precautions
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Unpacking
On safety
¢ For USA and Canadian models, operate the unit only on
120 V AC, 60 Hz. For the Australian model, operate the
unit only on 240 V AC, 50 Hz.
¢ Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet,
unplug the unit and have it checked by qualified
personnel before operating it any further.
* Unplug the unit from the wall outlet if it is not to be used
for an extended period of time. To disconnect the cord,
pull it out by grasping the plug. Never pull the cord
itself.
* One blade of the plug is wider than the other for the
purpose of safety and will fit into the power outlet only
one way. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the
outlet, contact your dealer.
Place the unit in a location with adequate air
circulation
This will prevent internal heat build up in the unit.
Do not install the unit:
© near heat sources such as radiators or air ducts.
* ina place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust,
mechanical vibration or shock.
Do not place anything on top of the cabinet
The top ventilation holes must be unobstructed for proper
operation of the unit and to prolong the life of its
components.
Do not throw away the carton and packing
material!
Keep the packaging to transport the system for servicing, etc.
Cleaning the cabinet
Clean the cabinet, panel and controls with a soft cloth lightly
moistened with mild detergent solution. Do not use any type
of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol
or benzine.
For customers in the U.S.A.
For detailed safety precautions, see the “IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS" leaflet.
If you have any question or problem concerning your unit,
please consult your nearest Sony dealer.
Checking the Supplied Accessories
Check that you have received the following items.
© FM Wire Antenna .........cccccceesccessccesscessccesceesseeseceseecatcessesenseees (1)
© AM loop antenna ou... eee eeeeees (1)
¢ Remote commander (RM-P341) ....cceceseesesseseeeeeeeeereeetecee (1)
e AA-size Sony batteries (SUM-3 (NS)) «0. (2)
Inserting the Batteries into the Remote
Control
Insert two size AA batteries (supplied) by matching the +
and — on the batteries to the diagram inside the battery
compartment.
2 Insert two size AA
batteries.
1 Open the cover.
Notes
* If you plan not to use the remote for an extended period of
time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from
battery leakage.
¢ With a normal use, the batteries should last for
approximately six months.
* Do not mix different types of batteries.

This section describes how to hookup antennas, audio components, TV/VCRs, speaker
systems, and external amplifiers.
Notes
* Do not connect the power cord to an AC outlet nor press
the POWER switch before completing all other hookups.
* Be sure to fully insert the cable connectors into the jacks.
Loose connection may cause hum and noise.
* Jacks and plugs of the connecting cord are color-coded as
follows:
Red jacks and plugs: For right channel audio
White jacks and plugs: For left channel audio
Yellow jacks and plugs: For video
Connecting an FM Antenna
Connect the supplied FM wire antenna for temporary use.
For better sound reception, we recommend that you use a
75-ohm coaxial cable (not supplied) instead.
For temporary use
Supplied wire antenna
For higher quality sound
75-ohm coaxial cable
(optional)
Connecting an AM Antenna
Connect the supplied AM loop antenna to the AM antenna
terminal, as shown below:
Supplied AM loop antenna
if you have poor AM reception
Usually, the supplied AM loop antenna is adequate to
receive AM broadcasts.
If you have poor reception, connect a 20 to 50 ft. (6 to 15-
meter) insulated wire to the AM antenna terminal in
addition to the loop antenna. If possible, extend the wire out
of doors and keep it horizontal.
(Do not remove the AM loop antenna.)
To prevent hum
If you install an outdoor antenna, connect the ground wire to
the ANTENNA ground terminal (+) for lightning protection.

Ceol aratvedials AUrcol(om Melanl erelatstal ey
Make sure that you connect red plugs to the right channel (R) jacks and white plugs to the left channel (L) jacks.
Receiver Other equipment
White White
Pall
ees
PmOPN
OL
[FRONT SPEAKERS CENTER SPEAKERS
eras ET
AC OUTLET
IMPEDANCE SELECT [ st]
swap.
e
POWER SWAP
CD player
to OUTPUT
Note
The TAPE IN jacks are only for monitoring the sound so that
vou cannot record the sound of a component connected to
the TAPE IN jacks. Use another IN jacks for recording.

Hookups (continued)
Connecting Video Components
Make sure that you connect each plug correctly: red plugs to the right channel (R) jacks of audio signals; white plugs to the left
(L) channel jacks of audio signals; and yellow plugs to the video signals.
VCR 1
+teVIDEO. + toSVIDEO.-
to AUDIO/ to AUDIO/
VCR
2
VIDEO
OUT]
|
VIDEO
IN
to
S
VIDEO
IN
to AUDIO/ {f to AUDIO/ VCR 1
VIDEO OU VIDEO IN to S VIDEO OUT
LaPhl lees |
ll peaeon
to VIDEO 3/ (— SOKO)
INPUT on the et
front panel =
ee
to AUDIO/ to S VIDEO to S VIDEO
VIDEO OUT OUT IN
LD player VCR 2
to S VIDEO OUT
to AUDIO/ LD player
VIDEO OUT
to AUDIO/VIDEO OUT
VCR 3 Camera
recorder
If your video components have S VIDEO IN/OUT
jacks
Use the S VIDEO jacks instead of the conventional video
jacks. This will give you a clearer picture.
Notes
¢ The S VIDEO circuitry and the VIDEO circuitry of this unit
are independent of each other. The signals input from the
S VIDEO jacks are not output to the VIDEO jacks, and the
signals input from the VIDEO jacks are not output to the S
VIDEO jacks.
Therefore, you can connect the S VIDEO jacks between
video components which have the S VIDEO jacks but vou
should connect the VIDEO jacks if one of them has no S
VIDEO jacks.
If your monitor TV does not have an S VIDEO IN jack
while other video components have the S VIDEO jacks, be
sure you do not connect them to the receiver's S VIDEO
jacks. Otherwise, no picture will be seen.
8
If you are connecting more than two video
components
Be sure to use the jacks in the different section for each
component.
For example, you cannot use both S VIDEO jacks and VIDEO
jacks in VIDEO 1 section simultaneously.

Connecting Speaker Systems
Make sure you match the + and - of the speaker cord to the + /— diagram on the speaker terminals. If the cords are reversed, the
sound will be distorted and will lack bass.
Front _ Front
speaker (R) = speaker (L)
oo eo
V
Approx. 15mm
Z
oe s® ek
of
Twist.
to the second front “i
speaker system
IMPEDANCE
SELECT
°|@ @
| WEAR SPEAKERS
POlO--| Out
ap
Center
speaker
o'\9 ee
Rear Rear
speaker (R) speaker (L)
Selecting the impedance
Select the impedance for the front and center speakers.
If nominal impedance of Set the IMPEDANCE
your speaker is: SELECTOR to:
4 ohms or higher 4Q
| 2
8 ohms or higher 8Q
* If you are using both FRONT SPEAKERS A and B systems,
use the speakers having nominal impedance of more than
8 ohms and set the IMPEDANCE SELECTOR to the 4 Q
position.
Deciding where to place your speakers
To get the optimum surround sound effect, connect both
front and rear speakers. If you have a center speaker, place it
between both left and right front speakers.
Even though you do not have a full set of speakers, the
receiver is designed to give the best possible surround sound
effect. For details, see “Selecting the Center Mode” on page
30.

Hookups (continued)
Connecting External Amplifiers
To obtain more powerful sound, connect an external power amplifier or a pre-amplifier.
Power amplifier for
the rear speakers
POWER SWAP selector*
If you are connecting a subwoofer with a power
amplifier
Connect the line input jack of the subwoofer to the
SURROUND OUT MONO jack of this receiver.
If you are connecting a subwoofer without a power
amplifier
Connect it through a monaural power amplifier.
On the low cut filter for front speakers (Models for
U.S.A. and Canada only)
When using a subwoofer, the low frequency signal should be
cut from the front speakers for better sound reproduction.
To activate the low cut filter function, turn on the power
with the POWER switch while holding down the LOW
BOOST button. The low cut filter indicator on the front
panel lights up.
To cancel the low cut filter function, perform this procedure
again.
10
PI Ri NTER SPEAKER
FRONT SPEAKERS. CENTER sf AKERS.
POWER SWAP
Subwoofer
Monaural power
amplifier for a
center speaker
If you are connecting a power amplifier for the rear
speakers
Connect the input jacks of the power amplifier to the
SURROUND OUT REAR jacks of this receiver. Make sure
the POWER SWAP selector is set to NORMAL.
If you are connecting a monaural power amplifier
for the center speaker
Connect the input jack of the power amplifier to the
SURROUND CENTER jack of this receiver.
* To obtain more powerful sound from front and rear
speakers, you can use the POWER SWAP selector. The
total output power of your audio/video system will be
increased. See “Obtaining More Powerful Sound” on page
29.
nen ee OC ee Sok a
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jeieeeR CAS ee SF

Connecting the AC Power
Connect the power cord from this receiver to a wall outlet. If
you connect other audio components to the SWITCHED AC
OUTLET on the receiver, the receiver will supply power to
the connected components only when the receiver is turned
on.
Audio component
Caution
Be careful that the total power consumption of components
connected to the outlet(s) on the receiver does not exceed 120
watts (U.S.A. and Canada models) or 100 watts (Australia
model).
Do not connect electrical home appliances such as an electric
iron, fan, TV, or other high-wattage appliances to the
outlet(s).
11

Chapter 2 Basic Operations
Listening
to/Watching
a
Program
Source
Selecting a Program Source
Turntable
| CD player |
[ Tape deck |
DAT or MD recorder
VCR
LD player
1 Select a program source.
Rotate the FUNCTION knob until the function
indicator you want to select lights on the display.
Phono record PHONO -
Radio broadcast TUNER
TV broadcast TV
Compact disc CD
DAT or MD DAT/MD
program
Video program VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2,
VIDEO 3, LD
For taped program: Press TAPE. The MONITOR
indicator lights.
If you select a program source using the remote, you can
turn on the power of the component as well as the
receiver.
2 Start playback of the selected program, for
example, a CD.
.
12
Selecting the Speaker System
SPEAKERS
as a Se Sa
Sey es
HEADPHONES
Set the SPEAKERS selector
to
If you connect and
drive
Speaker system A
Speaker system B | B
Both speaker systems A | A+B
and B
For headphone listening: Connect headphones to the
HEADPHONES jack and set SPEAKERS to OFF.
Adjusting the Audio
MASTER VOLUME
DIRECT PASS
MUTING BALANCE
To adjust volume
Turn MASTER VOLUME.
To mute the sound
Press MUTING.
The indicator lights up and the volume level is reduced to a
low level (— 20 dB attenuation).
Press it again to restore the previous listening level.
To adjust the balance
Adjust BALANCE to correct stereo imaging, when the stereo
image is not symmetrical.
To reinforce the bass
Press LOW BOOST so that the indicator lights up. Press it
again to turn off the effect (the indicator goes off).
(Recommended for low listening levels.)
To listen to the sound without sound effect
Press DIRECT PASS so that the indicator in the button lights
up.
The settings of TONE (STR-GX800ES), EQUALIZER (STR-
GX900ES), SOUND FIELD and LOW BOOST will have no
effect.

Using the Remote Control
The remote lets you operate the connected components as
well as the receiver. Press one of the SYSTEM CONTROL/
FUNCTION buttons first to select the program source, then
use the following buttons to operate each component.
The SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION buttons are factory
set as described in the following list.
FUNCTION button Operates
Tuner
Tape deck
DAT deck/MD recorder
CD player
DAT/MD
CD is
LD
VIDEO 1
LD player
VCR (VTR 1 mode)
VCR (VTR 2 mode)
VCR (VTR 3 mode)
TV
(The receiver enters PHONO mode)
You can use the RMS function of Sony cassette decks with
this remote. For more information on the availability of
Sony stereo cassette decks with RMS capability, contact your
nearest Sony dealer.
Turning on power of each component
1 SYSTEM OFF
Ry
aS EE ee
~ < a e)
2a =| za
°
-
>> © — VISUAL POWER
ON *_ TV/VIDEO
1 Press one of the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION
buttons.
The receiver, the audio component connected to the
AC OUTLET of the receiver, VCR, LDP and TV are
turned on.
2 Press the button for the function you want
to use.
The function of the buttons changes depending on
which component you are operating.
Turning off the power of components
* Pressing the SYSTEM OFF button turns off the power of all
components at one time.
* Pressing the VISUAL POWER button turns off only the
TV, VCRs and LD player.
* If you want to turn off the power while listening to a
program source, see "Background operation” on page 15.
If you use Sony TVs ;
e When you press the VIDEO 1, 2, 3 or LD button, the TV
automatically turns on and switches to appropriate VIDEO
input.
¢ When you press the TV button, the TV turns on and
switches to the TV reception mode. (If the TV does not
switch to the TV reception mode, hold down the button
until the TV is turned on or press the button again after the
TV is turned on.)
If the TV input does not switch to the appropriate mode,
switch the input signal with the TV/ VIDEO button.
Some Sony TVs cannot be turned on with the remote
suppiied with this unit. In this case, use the remote
supplied with the TV to turn it on.
If you use TV most of the time (Only for Sony TVs)
You can set the remote to operate only the TV. Press the TV
CONTROL ON button. This sets up the remote so that it
works only with your TV.
13

Listening
to/Watching
a
Program
Source
(continued)
Operative buttons
FM/AM tuner
fro Press
Select memory pages for preset tuning |SHIFT
Numeric buttons
CH PRESET +/-
Designate preset numbers
Scan and select preset stations
Select station index names
Tape deck/DAT/MD recorder
Designate numbers Numeric buttons
Designate number more than 10
(For tape deck and MD recorder)
Fastforward
Rewind
PPI (forward),
K@é<4 (reverse)
Skip selections
(For DAT and MD recorder)
TV/VCR/LD player
Designate channel numbers of
TV/VCR or selections of LD
Numeric buttons
Designate selections of LD more
than 10
Enter the selected TV/VCR channel
Select TV to see TV programs and
VIDEO to see videos
>10
TV/VIDEO
Select the output signal from the
antenna terminal on the VCR: a TV
signal or VCR program
ANT TV/VTR
Select a preset channel of TV or VCR
_|
CH PRESET +/-
Fastforward (For VCR and LD player)
Rewind (For VCR and LD player)
Pause play (For VCR and LD player)
Start play (For VCR and LD player) >
Pause play
Start play
Start reverse play (For tape deck) ~=
Stop play (For VCR and LD player)
Skip selections (For LD player)
Pi (forward),
Ke (reverse)
Select the tape running direction (For =| RMS DIRECTION
tape decks with the RMS function)
Stop play
Clear the RMS program contents RMS CLEAR
(For tape decks with the RMS function)
Start recording (Forward direction)
eo. >
@oi—<
Start recording
(Reverse direction for tape deck)
[Program selections (For tape decks RMS/START
with the RMS function)
CD player
To | Press
Designate numbers Numeric buttons
Designate number more than 10 >10
Skip discs D.SKIP
P&P (forward),
44 (reverse)
Pl (forward),
Ke (reverse)
Search selections
Skip selections
Pause play H
Start play _ a
Stop play a
14
Start recording (For VCR)
ry
Turn on the power of TV, VCR,
or LD player
VISUAL POWER

Background operation
You can temporarily operate other components while
listening to/ watching a program source.
1 Hold down the BACKGROUND button.
2 Hold down the numeric button* of the component you
want to operate.
3 Press the button for the operation that you want to
perform.
You can use certain buttons such as VISUAL POWER, TV/
VIDEO, CH PRESET +/-, ANT TV/ VTR, D.SKIP, b>, ~@,
MP, PP, <1 O.
Example: To record a CD ona tape:
2 Hold down 4
(for a tape
1 Hold down deck).
BACKGROUND.
3 Press @ to
record.
Note
You can record only in the forward direction with
background operation.
* Fora list of the components that are assigned to the
numeric buttons, see the table in "Changing the Settings of
the FUNCTION Buttons” on this page.
Changing the Settings of the FUNCTION
Buttons
The FUNCTION buttons are preset to operate only specific eet
components. (The CD button operates only the CD player.)
However, if you want to use different components, you can
change the presets to control these different components.
For example, if you connect a DAT deck to the CD IN jacks,
you can operate the DAT deck with the CD FUNCTION
button by changing the preset function to the DAT function.
To change the settings of the FUNCTION buttons
1 Hold down the FUNCTION button that you want to
change.
2 Press one of the numeric (0 to 9) buttons to select a new
component.
Example: To change the CD FUNCTION button to operate
a DAT deck, press 2 (for the DAT deck) while holding down
the CD button.
1 Hold down CD.
2 Press 2
(DAT).
xa)
Note
* The settings of the TUNER button and the PHONO button
cannot be changed.
* To change the FUNCTION buttons back to their original
preset, perform these procedures again.
With the numeric buttons (0 to 9), each function can be
selected as described in the following table:
The function to be selected al Numeric buttons
TV 0
CD player ]
DAT deck 2
MD recorder 3
DECK A +
DECK B | 3
LD player 6
VTR 1 (Remote control mode) 7
VTR 2 (Remote control mode) 8
VTR 3 (Remote control mode) 9
15

Receiving Broadcasts
You can tune in a radio station directly or you can have the receiver scan all the stations until it finds the one
you want. Once you preset stations on the receiver, you do not have to tune in the station every time.
Direct Tuning
Use direct tuning if you know the frequency of the station
you want. For example, to tune in FM 102.50 MHz, press
“17, "0", “2, “5” and “0”.
If you enter a frequency not covered by the tuning interval,
the entered value is automatically rounded up or down to
the closest covered value.
Tuning intervals for direct tuning are set as follows:
FM: 50 kHz interval
AM: 10 kHz interval (changeable to the 9 kHz interval)
(See page 43)
1 Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select TUNER.
The station’s frequency number is displayed. If you
create a station index name (page 24), this name is
displayed instead of the frequency number.
2 Press FM/AM to select FM or AM.
3 Press DIRECT.
16
4 Enter the frequency with the numeric
buttons.
The frequency number is displayed.
Example 1: FM 102.50 MHz
2 1[ 5 ]{_o_]
=] os
Ae ee
Example 2: AM 1350 kHz
i] 3 [_ 5 |
O& &
v
If you enter an AM frequency, you do not have to enter
the last “0”.
However, if you have changed the AM tuning interval to
9 kHz, you must enter till the last digit.
To change the frequency
Repeat steps 3 and 4.
If you enter a non-receivable frequency
The entered digits blink in the frequency display area, and
the station is not tuned in.
If this occurs, enter the correct frequency.
The frequency range of the receiver is as follows:
¢ U.S.A. and Canadian models
87.50 to 108.0 MHz for FM, and 530 to 1710 kHz (10 kHz
step) or 531 to 1710 kHz (9 kHz step) for AM
¢ Australian model
87.50 to 108.0 MHz for FM, and 531 to 1602 kHz (9 kHz
step) for AM
if an FM stereo program is distorted
You might want to change it to monaural. Press the FM
MODE button so that “MONO” appears on the display. You
will not have the stereo effect, but the distortion will be
reduced.
To return to the stereo mode, press the button again.
“AUTO STEREO” appears on the display.

Automatic Tuning
In automatic tuning, the receiver scans all the stations to
locate the one you want. If you do not know the frequency
of the station that you want, use automatic tuning.
Blaitiutios i
1 Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select TUNER.
The station's frequency number is displayed. If you
create a station index name (page 24), this name is
displayed instead of the frequency number.
2 If the index name is displayed, press
DISPLAY so that “NORMAL MODE” appears
on the display.
The frequency number is displayed.
3 Press FM/AM to select FM or AM.
4 Press INDEX SELECT/TUNING + or ~.
For a higher frequency, press TUNING +.
For a lower frequency, press TUNING -.
When a station is received, automatic tuning stops.
To receive other stations, press the button again.
If the scanning stops frequently while receiving FM
stations
Press LEVEL so that the receiver stops only at the stations
with strong signals. To cancel this (to receive stations with
weaker signals), press LEVEL until HIGH goes off.
Presetting Stations
You will most likely want to preset the stations you listen to
often. The receiver can store a total of 30 FM or AM
stations. Up to 10 stations can be stored in three different
memory pages: A, Band C. (For example, a station is stored
as A7 or B3.)
POWER — ON
Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select TUNER.
The station's frequency number is displayed. If you
create a station index name (page 24), this name is
displayed instead of the frequency number.
Tune in the station you want.
(See “Direct Tuning” on page 16 or "Automatic
Tuning” in the left column of this page.)
3 Press MEMORY.
MEMORY is displayed.
4 While "MEMORY" appears, press SHIFT to
select a memory page: A, B or C.
Each time you press SHIFT, A, B or C is displayed.
5 While "MEMORY" appears, press the
number you want to use.
Repeat steps from 2 through 5 for presetting other
stations.
To change a preset station
Preset a new station on the number of the station to be
changed. The station will be replaced.
IMPORTANT
If the power cord is disconnected for more than one month,
the preset stations will disappear from the receiver's
memory, and you will have to preset the stations again.
17
a
sR ee eee CR a
4s maies Seis iil

Receiving Broadcasts (continued)
Receiving
Preset
Stations
By
scanning
preset
stations
You can tune in a preset station either by entering the preset
station number or by scanning the preset stations.
By entering preset numbers
-
i
| oe fo)
SSS ae
t
1 Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select TUNER.
The station's frequency number is displayed. If you
create a station index name (page 24), this name is
displayed instead of the frequency number.
1 Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select TUNER.
The station's frequency number is displayed. If you
create a station index name (page 24), this name is
displayed instead of the frequency number.
2 If the index name is displayed, press
DISPLAY so that “NORMAL MODE” appears
on the display.
The frequency number is displayed.
2 if the index name is displayed, press
DISPLAY so that "NORMAL MODE” appears
on the display. f
The frequency number is displayed.
Press PRESET TUNING + or - to select the
preset station you want.
For a higher preset number, press
PRESET TUNING +.
For a lower preset number, press
PRESET TUNING -.
3 Press SHIFT to select a memory page: A, B,
or C.
Each time you press SHIFT, A, B or C is displayed.
ees a ye
AL AO) es ee a eee BO
+
|
—_
+ +
+ +
[Ut |
4 Press the numeric button of the preset
station you want.
18

Watching Video Programs
Watching Video Programs
When you watch video programs on your TV, VCR or LD
player, we recommend that you play the audio portion of the
video through the receiver (instead of your TV’s speakers),
so that you can take advantage of sound field programs,
including Dolby surround sound. In this case, set the
speaker volume of TV to the minimum level.
To watch TV programs, turn on both TV and the receiver
and select TV with the FUNCTION knob on the receiver. To
watch videos or laser discs, use the following procedure if
you've hooked up your components as described in
“Connecting Video Components” on page 8. See your TV,
VCR, LD ptayer’s instruction manual if you need help.
to AUDIO/VIDEO
OUT
1 Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select the
video program source you want.
2 Turn on the TV and set the video input to
your video component.
3 Turn on the component you are going to use
(VCR or LD player), and then start playback.
If you use a Sony TV
The TV turns on automatically when you press one of the
SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION buttons on the remote.
Moreover, you can use convenient functions of the remote to
watch a video program source on a Sony TV. See page 13.
Combining a Video Image with the Sound
from Another Program Source
You can combine a video image with sound from another
program source (including video sources).
For example, you can watch a video taped program (without
original sound) while listening a to CD.
1 Rotate the FUNCTION knob or press TAPE to
select the audio you want.
{-—————.
2 Press FUNCTION MODE.
The selected audio is fixed and “VISUAL MODE”
appears on the display. In this mode, you can
select only the video source without its original
sound.
3 Rotate the FUNCTION knob to select the
video you want.
If you want to change the audio selected in step 1,
press FUNCTION MODE. “AUDIO MODE”
appears on the display. In this mode, you can
select any audio of the sources (including video
sources).
4 Play back both program sources you
selected.
Note on the FUNCTION MODE button
If vou do not select the video or audio within 8 seconds after
pressing the FUNCTION MODE button, the VISUAL MODE
or AUDIO MODE is canceled and you cannot fix the video
or audio. In this case, press the FUNCTION MODE button
until the mode that you want appears on the display. Each
time you press the button, the mode changes as follows:
VISUAL MODE = AUDIO MODE => off.
19

Using Pre-programmed Sound Fields
This receiver comes with 10 (STR-GX900ES) or 6 (STR-GX800ES) pre-programmed sound fields.
You can use these sound fields to simulate the sound you would experience in various listening
environments. In addition to these pre-programmed sound fields, you can also create custom
sound custom fields. For creating custom sound fields, see pages 30 - 39.
DOLBY SUR
THEATER
HALL
JAZZ (STR-
GX900ES only)
Applications
For Dolby surround encoded video
programs
POWER — ON
For movie programs on video tapes
or laser discs
VIDEO
For music programs on video tapes
or laser discs
For orchestral music, chamber music
or an instrumental solo
For dance music |
For jazz
1 Press SOUND FIELD ON/OFF to ON.
The previously selected sound field setting appears GX900ES only)
on the display.
OPERA (STR- For operas or musicals
CHURCH (STR- | For church music or pipe organ
GX900ES only) | music
2 Press SOUND FIELD MODE until the sound
field indicator that you want lights up on
the display. e ;
Try out different fields using the following table as a
reference. Note that some fields are designed
specifically for video programs.
STADIUM (STR- | For a live concert in an open-air
GX900ES only) | stadium
ACOUSTIC The surround effect is defeated and
only the equalizer effect can be
obtained.
20