Sony STR-D915 User manual

SONY.
FM
Stereo
FM-AM
Receiver
Operating Instructions
STR-D915
STR-D715
© 1994 by Sony Corporation
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WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
7 NURTIO)X
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
00 NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
00 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.
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.
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. STR-D915
Model No. STR-D715
Serial No.
Serial No.
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.
WARNING
To prevent shock hazard, do not insert the plug cut off from
the mains lead into a socket outlet. This plug cannot be
used and should be discarded.
If the plug supplied with this appliance has detachable fuse
cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the
fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover.
If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your
nearest Sony service station.
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.
This apparatus complies with the Class B limits for radio
noise emissions set out in Radio Interference Regulations.

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introduction
Overvi
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OCAUTLIONS .....ssccccessrercseees ssecebesbs sevsieests Sssssbeds'sadeepscdbansevescrenccooueas 4
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Urpacking .........ssssessesesssnessovescovsesseessscsahacsesooessssssnseesssesnsoessosene .5
Checking the ‘Supplied ACCESSOTICS.......-.+ere000 saaeentins isnasoieson 5
Inserting Batteries into the Remote: ‘Commander... 5
Hooking Up the System ... see
Notes on Connections . 1skenasgs0d shsanscossnsebusenscessbesondbtesasseessestand 6
Connecting Audio Equipment ...
Connecting Video Equipment... -
Connecting an FM Antenana ....... sins raensesesedeseséatbesiosntesesnts :
Connecting the Antenna Ground ..........ssseeseoseese sinisstes se
Connecting an AM Antenna ........ scacsdeotasonasoceesstaoiionsitaasoss
Connecting Speaker Systems ...........sess00 sonssnsons ssdbsashettessns
Connecting to the AC Power Outlet ..............+ sasbbensehsdnssts
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Chapter 2 Basic Operations
Listening to/Watching a Program Source... gidedpaazasedeabescovsentinnss 9
Selecting a Program Source ........scsssssessssssessssrssssseressnseseesoeee 9
Selecting the Speaker System .........ssessesssessssseeseeseessnssenvoesees 9
Adjusting the Audio .......scssssssssssssansssssssnecssesescssseeseessoeesees 9
Labeling the Program SOurce ..........jesssesssssessessersersnesaseesses 10
To Turn Off the Power at the Desired Time
(The Sleep Timer Function) ...........ssecsssessssssneesssesesssessesees 10
Receiving Broadcast ........ssssecssescssssscssneegesnsessnsecsssrecesseessseesessee LL
Tuning in a Station Directly (Direct Tuning) ................11
Automatic Tuning ........cssrsessssrssesseseresseessssssesesssssseaees 12
Presetting Stations ..........sssssrssssssesssscsssensessssssserssssvssncesseee 12
Tuning in a Preset Station (Preset Tuning) ...
Labeling the Preset Stations (Station Index) ... serescreseareesees 14
Selecting a Station among the Preset Stations in the
Index (Index Tuning) ....sssscscresesrernserseesscessees vesersersees 15
Receiving FM Simulcast TV Programs suievesassssttsessnceceseen 15
Remote Controls .............000 scasecesssece seascenesesoneonscneenesensonrensseteceses 16
Using the Remote .........scssesessecsscrssseesesrsssceecscrecsesscencenes 16
Changing the Settings of the FUNCTION Buttons........ 17
Chapter 3 Advanced Operations
Recording an Audio Source............. saussoessoseusecssoabsnssevicussessosee 18
Recording on a Tape .....svesssssees savaasabsadivensaee sescesesseenoesonses 18
Editing a Video Source ...........cseresseeseses i chectuawbasanssoscestechsstees 18
Recording on a Video Tape ..........ssssessssesssssereseseeseonsceseeses 18
Adding New Sound on a Video Tape during Video
Editing .......sssecsessssersesenesesees scssensenseeee nsssanesscansnecscesnnesscssnoess 19
Obtaining the Surround Sound................ MohiscsSeseeveteabasiven sseee 20
Placement of Speakers and Selecting the
CENTER MODE for Dolby Surround Sound................ 20
Adjusting the Speaker Volume ............:sssseseves 21
Adjusting the Delay Time of the Rear Speakers. we 22
Sound Field Settings ...........:0000 saslesttare ssadsnsdsedandensdtossnisssseioess 23
Available Type of Effects ..........sssscsressssevssness Ssobaaanssase 23
Adjusting the Sound Field Programs ...........sssssssssssecsneee 24
Calling up the Sound Field Setting ..........sssssssssssseernese 20
Chapter 4 Other Information
Troubleshooting Guide ............ssssessees sess daietoecusseatscsssueanee 26
Specifications ............0008 1028
Identifying the Parts and Controls .. 31
Front Panel ...........c0ssseeee estnsed cos cbeceseasevenbso4esdestaviavssbaoseseinsons 31
Remote Commander
(Except for the STR-D915 for Canadian Model) .......... 32
Quick Reference............. gassaciees sdavaheasdavdessessicosocessoase Wesassies seseee OO

Overview
The STR-D915/D715 is an FM Stereo/FM-AM receiver and
audio/video control center.
You can enjoy various audio/video program sources with
this unit.
TVivideo programs
¢ You can enjoy TV or CATV programs with FM simulcast.
¢ Sounds from various audio program sources can be added
on video tapes during editing.
Tuner
¢ Precise tuning is ensured by a quartz locked digital
synthesizer.
¢ Station Index system allows you to tune into a station
quickly.
DOLBY* PRO LOGIC
In the DOLBY SUR or THEATER mode, the center mode can
be selected. The Dolby Pro Logic Surround Decoder has the
same functions for playback as movie theaters and gives a
theater-like experience in your listening room, naturally
reproducing the audio sound field.
*
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.
Sound field (combination of digital delayed
surround and tone controls)
¢ 6 recommended sound field programs (DOLBY SUR,
THEATER, LIVE, HALL, DANCE, ACOUSTIC) are preset
in the factory for easy use. You can also store up to 6
settings you created in the memory.
¢ Combined use of the sound field programs and the preset
stations or program source allows you to enjoy broadcast
or program source listening immediately with the
memorized 6 settings of sound field (DOLBY SUR,
THEATER, LIVE, HALL, DANCE, ACOUSTIC).
Remote commander
The supplied remote commander allows you to remotely
control this receiver and the equipments connected to the
receiver.
For the instruction of the remote commander , see pages 16
and 17.
As for the instruction of the remote commander for STR-
D915 Canadian model, see the operating instructions of the
separate volume.
Precautions
On safety
¢ For the U.S.A. and Canadian models, operate the unit
only on 120 V AC, 60 Hz.
¢ For 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. (except for Australian model)
¢ The unit is not disconnected from the AC power source
(mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if
the unit itself has been turned off.
On operation
Before making program source connections, be sure to
turn the power switch off and unplug the unit.
To prevent internal heat buildup in the unit,
place the unit in a location with adequate air circulation.
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 the
proper operation of the unit and to prolong the life of its
components.
On 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 the 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.

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Do not throw away the carton and packing
material!
It will be an ideal container when transporting the system for
repair work, etc.
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Checking the Supplied Accessories
After unpacking, check that the following accessories are
present.
© FM Wire antenna ........sssssssssrsernrsoesene aessscenseasenevsnceneseecsnsenes
© AM loop antenna ..........sserereee
© Remote commandet..........+0
¢ Sony batteries SUM-3 (NS) ........-+s00
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Commander
Before operating the remote commander, install the batteries
as shown below.
1 Open the cover.
2 insert two size-AA (R6) batteries with
correct polarity.
To avoid damage caused by battery leakage and
corrosion
When the commander will not be used for a long time,
remove the batteries.
Battery life
Normal operation can be expected about a half year using
Sony SUM-3 (NS) (size-AA), and a year using Sony AM-3
(NW) (size-AA) alkaline batteries.
When the batteries are run down, the remote commander
will not operate the unit. In this case, replace both batteries
with new ones.

Hooking Up the System
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At first, this section describes about the connection with the other equipments, the antenna connection,
speaker connection and then the AC power connection.
* Do not connect the power cord to an AC wall outlet until you complete other connection.
¢ The cable connectors should be fully inserted 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 the right channel of audio signals
White jacks and plugs: For the left channel of audio signals
Yellow jacks and plugs: For video signals
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Receiver Other equipment
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Red Red
Connecting Video Equipment
to VIDEO IN
to VIDEO 3 INPUT SR
on the front panel
{STR-0915 only)
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t AUDIO/VIDEO OUT
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Connecting an FM Antenna
Though the wire antenna is supplied with this unit, the
higher quality sound will be obtained with the 75-ohm
coaxial cable. (not supplied)
For best reception: |
Models for U.S.A. and Canada
75-ohm coaxial cable (not supplied)
Models for Australia
75-ohm coaxial cable (not supplied)
When not using outdoor antenna:
Models for U.S.A. and Canada
Supplied wire antenna
Models for Australia
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To prevent hum, connect the ground wire to ANTENNA
ground terminal (7).
When an outdoor antenna is installed, be sure to connect the
ground wire for lightning protection.
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The AM broadcast is adequate with the supplied AM loop
antenna. However, the connection of insulated wire is also
available for areas with difficult AM reception.
Adjust the
direction.
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Supplied loop
antenna
Model for Australia
Adjust the
direction.
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Supplied loop
antenna
AM antenna extension
For best reception, attach a length of insulated wire (6 - 15 m
long) to the AM ANTENNA terminal in addition to the loop
antenna.

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Connecting Speaker Systems
You can connect front, rear and center speakers to this unit.
Approx.15 mm
(°/,, inches)
—,
s
On the IMPEDANCE selector (STR-D915 only)
The STR-D915 has the IMPEDANCE SELECTOR for front
speakers.
When using the front speakers having nominal impedance
from 4 ohms or higher, set to the 4 Q position.
When using the front speakers having nominal impedance
from 8 ohms or higher, set to the 8 Q position.
Note
Use the front speakers having nominal impedance of more
than 8 ohms in the SURROUND mode.
Note
When connecting the speaker cord to the speaker terminal,
make sure that the polarity (+ and —) of the speaker cord is
correct. If the polarity is reversed at either speaker, the
sound will be distorted and will lack bass.
speaker
IMPEDANCE selector
(STR-D915 only)
to the second
front speaker
system
Center
speaker
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Connect the AC power cord to the wall outlet last of all.
By connecting the power cord of the other audio equipment
to SWITCHED AC OUTLET, this unit can supply the power
source to the other audio equipment.
Caution
Be careful that the total power consumption of each
equipment connected to the outlets on the receiver does not
exceed 120 watts (for U.S.A. and Canadian models) or 100
watts (for Australian model).
Do not connect electrical home appliances such as an electric
iron, fan, TV, or other high-wattage equipment to these
outlets.

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TV, LD, VIDEO 1,
VIDEO 2
(and VIDEO 3 for
STR-D915)
When a function selector is pressed, the indicator
of the function you have selected appears on the
display.
Select the function with the remote commander,
the power switches of both this receiver and the
selected equipment connected to the AC outlets on
the receiver are turned on.
2 Start the selected program.
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Selecting the Speaker System
SPEAKERS
HEADPHONES
To drive speaker system A: Set SPEAKERS to A.
To drive speaker system B: Set SPEAKERS to B.
To drive both speaker systems A and B (series connection):
Set SPEAKERS to A + B.
For headphone listening: Connect headphones to
HEADPHONES and set SPEAKERS to OFF.
IMPORTANT
Speaker systems A and B are connected in series. When only
one speaker system is connected, no sound can be heard at
the A + B position.
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MASTER _
MUTING VOLUME
BALANCE
LOW BOOST
Adjusting volume
Turn MASTER VOLUME.
Reducing the sound to a low level temporarily
(- 20 dB attenuation)
Press MUTING. The indicator lights up.
Press again to restore the same listening level as before and
indicator goes off.
Adjusting the left and right sound balance
Adjust BALANCE to correct stereo imaging, when the
speaker position is not symmetrical.
Reinforcing the Bass
Press LOW BOOST so that LOW BOOST indicator lights up.
Press again to turn off the effect.

Listening to/Watching a Program Source
Labeling
the
Program
Source
To
Turn
Off
the
Power
at
the
Desired
Time
(The
Sleep
Timer
Function)
You can create and input a name for each function button as
you like (except TUNER). You can use up to 11 letters for
each name.
1 Select the program source (except TUNER).
2 Press DISPLAY if “INDEX MODE” is not
displayed.
Press DPC MODE repeatedly until the INDEX
indicator lights up.
Create an index name.
To select a letter (A to Z) or number (1 to 9), press A
orv.
To change the position, press < or >.
Repeat steps 1 to 3 for all other program
sources you want to assign an index name
to.
If you input an already stored source under any
other index name
Only the last selected index name will be valid. Each
program source can be stored under only one index name.
To switch the original function name display and
created index name display
Each time the DISPLAY is pressed, the selected function
name (which corresponds to the function selector) and the
created index name are alternately displayed.
10
This function can be operated only with the remote
commander.
This receiver has the sleep timer function. With this
function, you can turn off the power automatically at the
desired time by designating the turn-off time.
Press SLEEP on the remote commander when the power is
on. Each time SLEEP is pressed, the designating time is
displayed in the following order: 2 hours — 1 hour and 30
minutes —> 1 hour —+ 30 minutes —> SLEEP OFF.
When the sleep timer function is turned on, the display
becomes dim. ;
To change the turn-off time
1 Press SLEEP. The sleep time is displayed.
2 Press A or V to change the sleep time. The sleep time is
changed by 1 minute. It can be changed up to 5 hours.
To check the remaining time of the sleep timer
Press SLEEP. The remaining time is displayed.