Sony STR-DE515 User manual

SONY.
FM Stereo
FIVI-AM Receiver
Operating
instructions
ees
EN
€@R'D:‘SEON
STR-DE515
STR-DE415
STR-DE315
Printed by: Schaltungsdienst Lange Berlin (Germany)

DEN.
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock
hazard, do not expose
the unit to rain or
moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open
the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel only.
Do not install the appliance in a confined
space, such as a bookcase or build-in
cabinet.
SaaS ea ae
Precautions
On safety
¢ Should any solid object or liquid fall
into the cabinet, unplug the receiver
and have it checked by qualified
personnel before operating it any
further.
On power sources
¢ Before operating the receiver, check
that the operating voltage is identical
with your local power supply. The
operating voltage is indicated on the
nameplate at the rear of the receiver.
¢ 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.
¢ If you are not going to use the receiver
for a long time, be sure to disconnect
the receiver from the wall outlet. To
disconnect the mains lead, grasp the
plug itself; never pull the cord.
¢ AC power cord must be changed only
at the qualified service shop.
¢ The mains switch is located on the
front exterior.
On placement
¢ Place the receiver in a location with
adequate ventilation to prevent heat
build-up and prolong the life of the
receiver.
* Do not place the receiver near heat
sources, or in a place subject to direct
sunlight, excessive dust or mechanical
shock.
¢ Do not place anything on top of the
cabinet that might block the
ventilation holes and cause
malfunctions.
On operation
¢ Before connecting other components,
be sure to turn off and unplug the
receiver. 3
On cleaning
¢ Clean the cabinet, panel and controls
with a soft cloth slightly moistened
witha mild detergent solution. Do not
use any type of abrasive pad, scouring
powder or solvent such as alcohol or
benzine.
If you have any question or problem
concerning your receiver, please
consult your nearest Sony dealer.

About This Manual
The instructions in this manual are for
models STR-DE515/DE415 and
STR-DE315. Check your model number
by looking at the upper right corner of
the front panel. In this manual, the STR-
DE515 is the model used for illustration
purposes. Any difference in operation is
clearly indicated in the text, for
example, “STR-DE515 only”.
Type of differences
Model
DE515 DE415 DE315
MIX AUDIO
OUT
WOOFER e
5.1/DVD e
RM - P301 e e
Conventions
The instructions in this manual describe
the controls on the receiver. You can
also use the controls on the remote if
they have the same or similar names as
those on the receiver.
¢ A “Quick Reference Guide” is
supplied on page 26.
The “Remote Button Descriptions”
section on page 25 provides an
overview of the remote buttons.
The following icons are used in this
manual:
Indicates that you can use only
yt, the remote to do the task.
" Indicates hints and tips for
making the task easier.
This receiver has the Dolby Surround
system.
Manufactured under license from Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
“DOLBY”, “PRO LOGIC” and the -
double-D symbol are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Getting Started
Unpacking 4
Hookup Overview 4
Aerial Hookups 5
Audio Component Hookups 5
Speaker System Hookups 6
Video Component Hookups 7
AC Hookups 8
Before You Use Your Receiver 8
Storing FM Stations Automatically in Alphabetical Order
(“Auto-betical”) 8
Receiver Operations
Selecting a Component 9
Receiving Broadcasts 12
Presetting Radio Stations 13
Using the Radio Data System (RDS) 14
Recording 16
Using Surround Sound
Choosing a Surround Mode 17
Getting the Most Out of Dolby Pro Logic Surround Sound 18
Additional Information
Troubleshooting 20
Specifications 21
Glossary 22
Index 23
Rear Panel Descriptions 24
Remote Button Descriptions 25
Quick Reference Guide 26
3k

QEN
Getting Started
Unpacking
Check that you received the following items with the
receiver:
e FM wire aerial (1)
¢ AM loop aerial (1)
¢ Remote controller (remote) (1)
e Size AA (R6) batteries (2)
* Scart adaptor (1)
Inserting batteries into the remote
Insert two size AA (R6) batteries in accordance with
the + and — markings on the battery compartment.
When using the remote, point it at the remote sensor
on the receiver.
LEZ
cer When to replace batteries
Under normal use, the batteries should last for about 6
months. When the remote no longer operates the
receiver, replace both batteries with new ones.
Notes
* Do not leave the remote in an extremely hot or humid
place.
* Do not use a new battery with an old one.
* Do not expose the remote sensor to direct sunlight or
lighting apparatuses. Doing so may cause a malfunction.
¢ If you don’t use the remote for an extended period of time,
remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from
battery leakage and corrosion.
aa eee eee a
Hookup Overview
The receiver allows you to connect and control the
following audio/video components. Follow the
hookup procedures for the components that you want
to connect to the receiver on the pages specified. To
learn the locations and names of each jack, see “Rear
Panel Descriptions” on page 24.
Wireless rear Wireless rear
speaker (L)
speaker (R)
DVD player/AC-3
decoder (STR-
DE515 only)
Video Component
Hookups (7)
Wireless rear
transmitter
(STR-DE515
Antenna Hookups (5)
Speaker AM/FM antenna
System
Hookups (6)
Center
speaker
ape/MD deck
Turntable
Audio Component
Hookups (5)
Before you get started
¢ Turn off the power to all components before making
any connections.
¢ Do not connect the mains lead until all of the
connections are completed.
¢ Be sure to make connections firmly to avoid hum
and noise.
* When connecting an audio/video cable, be sure to
match the color-coded pins to the appropriate jacks
on the components: Yellow (video) to Yellow; White
(left, audio) to White; and Red (right, audio) to Red.

Getting Started
Seen
Aerial Hookups
Overview
. This section describes how to connect AM and FM
aerials to the receiver. If you want to receive radio
broadcasts with the receiver, complete these
connections first, then go to the following pages.
For specific locations of the terminals, see the
illustration below.
ANTENNA
©
COO oO}
a
What aerials will | need?
© FM wire aerial
(supplied) (1)
Hookups
FM wire aerial Receiver AM loop aerial
After connecting
the wire aerial,
keep it as
horizontal] as
possible.
°C If you have poor FM reception
Connect one end of a 75-ohm coaxial cable (not
supplied) to an FM outdoor aerial and connect the other
end to the FM 75Q. COAXIAL terminal on the back of
this unit.
Receiver
¢ If you have poor AM reception
Connect a 6 to 15-meter (20 to 50 ft.) insulated wire (not
supplied) to the AM aerial terminal in addition to the
AM loop aerial. Try to extend the wire outdoors and
keep it horizontal.
Connecting a ground wire
To prevent hum, connect a ground wire (not supplied)
to the »h ground terminal. If you’ve connected an
outdoor aerial, be sure to connect the ground for
lightning protection.
Receiver
to ground
Where do | go next?
If you want to connect other components, go on to the next
section. If you're only planning to use the receiver to listen
to the radio, go to “Speaker System Hookups” on pages 6
and 7.
ee ee a ee |
Audio Component Hookups
Overview
This section describes how to connect your audio
components to the receiver. If you want to use the
receiver as an amplifier, complete these connections.
For specific locations of the jacks, see the illustration
below.
PHONO TAPE/MD
What cords will | need?
Audio cords (not supplied) (1 for each CD player or
turntable; 2 for each tape deck or MD deck)
White (L)
Red (R)
(continued)
5iN

6f%
Getting Started
Hookups
The arrow = indicates signal flow.
CD player Receiver CD player
Turntable —_ Receiver Turntable
e If your turntable has an earth lead
To prevent hum, connect the earth lead to the * ground
terminal on the receiver.
Tape deck or MD deck
Receiver
QO a POO
Poicumeocy
Where do | go next?
Tape deck or MD deck
Go on to the next section to connect the speakers.
Speaker System Hookups
Overview
This section describes how to connect your speakers to
the receiver. Although front (left and right) speakers
are required, centre and rear speakers are optional.
Adding centre and rear speakers will enhance the
surround effects. Connecting an active woofer will
increase bass response (for STR-DE515 only).
For specific locations of the terminals, see the
illustration below.
WOOFER MIX AUDIO OUT
(STR-DE515 only) (STR-DE415 only) FRONT SPEAKERS A
SURROUND
SPEAKERS REAR
SURROUND
SPEAKER CENTER
For optimum surround sound effect, place your
speakers as shown below.
Rear speaker
60 - 90 cm
5 45°
a GO oo
What cords will | need?
Speaker cord (not supplied) (1 for each speaker)
~ a ss
-) -)
Twist the stripped ends of the cord about 15 mm (2/3 inch).
Be sure to match the speaker cord to the appropriate
terminal on the components: + to + and - to -. If the cords
are reversed, the sound will be distorted and will lack bass.
Hookups
Front speakers
Front speaker Front speaker
Receiver
(R) (t)
+
Rear and centre speakers
Rear speaker
(R) Receiver
Rear speaker
Centre speaker _—(L)
Note (except STR-DE515)
Be sure to connect the both rear speakers (L and R).
No sound is heard if only one speaker is connected.
Active woofer (STR-DE515/DE415 only)
STR-DE515 STR-DE415 s
Receiver Active woofer Receiver Active woofer
Wireless rear Speaker (STR-DE515 only)
e When using an optional Sony Wireless Speaker System,
connect the trsnsmitter to the WIRELESS REAR SPEAKER
connector.

Getting Started
“
Note
* Do not connect any other component.
¢ Wireless rear speaker does not function under stereo
mode, DOLBY (3 CH LOGIC) and C. STUDIO A / B 3 CH
LOGIC) mode.
Selecting the speaker system
To drive the speakers, select the speaker system as
follows:
To drive Depress SPEAKERS button
Speaker system A (connected A
to the FRONT SPEAKERS A
terminals)
Speaker system B (connected B
to the FRONT SPEAKERS B
terminals)
Both speaker systems A and A+B
B (series connection)
Notes
¢ If you want to enjoy the surround sound, be sure to
connect the front speakers to the FRONT SPEAKERS A
terminal.
¢ No sound is heard when you press SPEAKERS A+B
without connecting speaker system B.
Where do | go next?
To complete your system, go to “AC Hookups” on page 8. If
you want to connect video components to enjoy surround
sound when watching/listening to TV programmes or video
tapes, go on to the next section.
[ad SS Ee |
Video Component Hookups
Overview
This section describes how to connect video
components to the receiver. For specific locations of the
jacks, see the illustration below.
TV/LD WOOFER
VIDEO
Hookups
The arrow => indicates signal flow.
You can listen to the sound from VCR or TV/LD by
connecting the audio signal from VCR or TV/LD to
the receiver.
Receiver
VIDEO AUDIO IN
To VTR audio input ==>
To TV audio input
TV/LD
Scart adaptor
(supplied)
|
To TV
"© Use the function buttons (TV/LD, CD, TAPE/MD etc)
to select the VIDEO AUDIO OUT signal. You can record
this audio signal by connecting a recording component
such as a cassette deck (to the VIDEO AUDIO OUT
jack).
DVD player/AC-3 decoder (STR-DE515 only)
¢ Yau can play decoded Dolby Digital AC-3 soundtracks
through the speakers connected to the amplifier.
If you have a Dolby Digital AC-3 decoder you can
amplify a decoded Dolby Digital AC-3 soundtrack with
the following connections.
Dolby Digital AC-3
decoder (etc.)
PRE OUT
Receiver
Where do | go next?
Go on to the next section to connect the mains lead and
complete your home theatre system.
7

gt
Getting Started
a EE Sea ee
AC Hookups
Connecting the mains lead
Connect the mains lead from this receiver and from
your audio/video components to a wall outlet.
If you connect other audio components to the
SWITCHED AC OUTLET on the receiver (except for
the U.K. model), the receiver can supply power to the
connected components so you can turn on/off the
whole system when you turn on/off the receiver.
SWITCHED AC OUTLET
to a wall outlet
Caution
Make sure that the power consumption of the component
connected to the receiver’s AC outlet does not exceed 100
waits. Do not connect high-wattage electrical home
appliances such as electric irons, fans, or TVs to this outlet.
Where do | go next?
Before you use the receiver, go to the next section to make
sure that all the controls are set to the appropriate positions.
nee eee ee a a
Before You Use Your Receiver
Before you start using your receiver, make sure that
you have:
¢ Turned MASTER VOLUME to the leftmost
position (0).
* Selected the appropriate speaker system. (See
“Selecting the speaker system” on page 7.)
¢ Set BALANCE to the centre position.
Storing FM Stations
Automatically in Alphabetical
Order (“Auto-betical”)
With “Auto-betical select” you can automatically store
up to 30 FM and FM RDS stations in alphabetical order
without redundancy. Additionally, “Auto-betical
select” only stores the stations with the clearest signals.
If you want to store FM or AM (MW) stations one by
one, see “Presetting Radio Stations” on page 13.
FM RDS stations are stored first, in alphabetical order
by their Station Name, followed by regular FM stations
in order of frequency. (For more details on RDS, see
page 14.)
1 Press POWER to turn off the receiver.
2 Hold down MEMORY and press POWER to turn
the receiver on.
“ AUTOBETICAL SELECT” appears and the
receiver scans and stores all the FM and FM RDS
stations in the broadcast area.
“FINISH” appears when the receiver has finished
storing the FM and FM RDS stations.
To stop Auto-betical before storing all the stations
Press POWER to turn the receiver off.
Notes
¢ Stations currently stored in the preset memory are shifted
to the rear (toward CO) and may be erased, depending on
the number of stations received by Auto-betical select.
¢ If you move the aerial after storing stations using Auto-
betical select, the stored settings may no longer be valid. If
this happens, store the stations again.
¢ If you move to another area, repeat this procedure to store
stations in your new area.

Receiver operations
[ick a ae Be |
Selecting a Component
To listen to or watch a connected component, first
- select the function on the receiver or with the remote.
Before you begin, make sure you have:
* Connected all components securely and correctly as
indicated on pages 5 to 8.
¢ Turned MASTER VOLUME to the leftmost position
(0) to avoid damaging your speakers.
POWER MASTER VOLUME
Function buttons
1 Press POWER to turn on the receiver.
2 Press a function button to select the component
you want to use:
To listen to or watch Press
Records PHONO
Radio programmes TUNER
Compact discs (CD) CD
Audio tapes or MiniDiscs TAPE/MD
(MD)
TV programmes or Laser discs TV/LD
Video tapes VIDEO
DVD player/AC-3 decoder 5.1/DVD
(STR-DES15 only)
3 Turn onthe component, for example, a CD player,
and then start playing.
To tune in radio stations on this receiver, see
“Receiving Broadcasts” on page 12.
‘ 4 Turn MASTER VOLUME to adjust the volume.
To adjust the volume of the TV’s speakers, use the
volume control on the TV.
To Do this
Mute the sound Press MUTING on the remote.
Press again to restore the
sound
Reinforce the bass Press BASS BOOST to turn on
the BASS BOOST indicator.
Adjust the balance Turn the BALANCE control
left or right.
Adjust the tone quality Adjust the BASS and TREBLE
controls.
Key When you listen with headphones
Connect the headphones to the PHONES jack and set
the SPEAKERS buttons to OFF.
“GF 5.1/DVD mode (STR-DE515 only)
When you are listening to 5.1/DVD mode, BASS,
TREBLE, BASE BOOST and SURROUND do not
function.
Watching/listening to video programmes
When you watch/listening to TV or video
programmes, we recommend you play audio portion
through the receiver instead of your TV’s speaker. This
lets you take advantage of the receiver’s surround
sound effects, like Dolby Pro Logic Surround and lets
you use the receiver’s remote to control the audio.
Turn off the speakers on your TV before you start so
you can enjoy the surround sound from your receiver.
To watch/listening to TV programmes, turn on the TV, TV
tuner and the receiver and press TV/LD on the receiver.
To watch videos or laser discs, do the following:
1 Press a function button to select the component
(for example, VIDEO).
2 Turnon the TV and set the TV’s video input to
match your video component.
3 Turnonthe component (VCR or LD player), and
start playback.
Using the remote
The remote lets you operate the receiver and the Sony
components that are connected to it.
TV CONTROL SYSTEM OFF
SYSTEM
CONTROL/
FUNCTION
(continued) gf”

Receiver Operations
1 Press one of the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION Operating one component while using
buttons to select the component you want to use. another (B ackground Operation)
The SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION buttons on
the remote are factory-set as follows: You can temporality operate other components while
listening to or watching a programme.
To listen to Press
O :
Records PHONO Numeric buttons O
Radio programmes TUNER Oo
=)
Compact discs (CD) cD 4
Audio tapes or MiniDiscs TAPE/MD _
(MD) (INITIAL-TAPE B MODE) w
TV programmes TV BACKGROUND =
VHS Video tapes VIDEO
(VTR-3 mode) 1 Hold down BACKGROUND.
V
ree ele EP end EHONO 2 Press both the corresponding numeric button of
the component you're going to use (see the table
below) and one of the following buttons at the
If you want to change the factory setting of a same time; VISUAL POWER, TV/VIDEO, CH
button, see page 11. PRESET +/-, ANT TV/VTR, D.SKIP, >, ~«, i,
The receiver and the selected component turn on. <</PP, 44 /P>i, II @.
If the component does not turn on
Example:To i i
Press the power switch on the component. P pias pecording Orr atape deel winle
listening to a CD
While holding down BACKGROUND,
press 4 (or 5) and press @ at the same
time.
2 Start playing.
Refer to “Remote Button Descriptions” on page 25
for details.
The numeric buttons are assigned to select the
To turn off the components fonctions aa tallows
Press SYSTEM OFF. You can turn off the video and audio
components connected to the SWITCHED AC OUTLET at
the came Hie, Numeric button Operates
1 CD player
Key If you use a Sony TV
When you press TV to watch a TV programme, the TV ‘ DEY ae
turns on and switches to the TV input. The TV also 3 MD deck
turns on when you press VIDEO and switches to the
appropriate video input. 4 Tape deck A
If the TV does not switch to the appropriate input
automatically, press TV/VIDEO. 5 Tape deck B
; 6 LD player
“( When you watch TV without using the receiver (only ————
for Sony TVs) 7 VCR (remote control mode VTR 1*)
Press TV CONTROL to set the remote to operate only a Se go Oo oa
8 VCR VTR 2*
the TV. When you press this button, the TV turns on peste aaa ad ak
and switches to the TV input. If the TV does not switch 9 VCR (remote control mode VTR 3*)
to the TV input automatically, press TV/ VIDEO.
0 TV
Note ENTER DVD
Some Sony TVs can not be controlled by this remote.
1 of”
*
Sony VCRs are operated with a VTR 1, 2 or 3 setting.
These correspond to Beta, 8mm and VHS respectively.

Receiver Operations
Changing
the
factory
setting
ofa
function
button
* If the factory settings of the FUNCTION buttons (page
10) don’t match your system components, you can
change them. For example, if you have two CD players
‘ and you don’t have a tape deck or an MD deck, you
can assign the TAPE/MD button to your second CD
player.
Note that the settings of the TUNER and PHONO
buttons cannot be changed.
SYSTEM
CONTROL/
FUNCTION
Numeric buttons
1 Hold down the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION
button whose function you want to change
(TAPE/MD, for example).
2 Press the corresponding numeric button of the
component you want to assign to the SYSTEM
CONTROL/FUNCTION button (1 - CD player,
for example).
For the numeric buttons, see the table in
“Operating one component while using another”
on page 10.
Now you can use the TAPE/MD button to control
a second CD player.
To reset the setting to the factory setting
Repeat the above procedure.
Programming the Remote (=
(STR-DE515/DE415 only)
The RM-P301 remote can control non-Sony
components by “learning” the control signals from
their remotes. Once this remote learns the other
components signals, you can use these components as
part of your system. Additionally, if you have any
Sony components that fail to operate with this remote,
use this programming function. This remote can
“learn” signals only from other infrared wireless
remotes. Before you programme signals, make sure
that the two remotes:
Face straight at each other (see Step 3 below)
e Are placed at a distance of about 2 inches (5 cm)
e Are not moved during programming
LEARN indicator LEARN
SYSTEM
CONTROL/
FUNCTION
BACKGROUND
0HHOUIOCOO
1 Press the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION
button of the component you want to programme.
For example, if you want to programme a CD
player’s remote, press CD.
2 Press LEARN to turn on the LEARN indicator.
3 Press the button on this unit’s remote that is to
“learn” the signal from the other remote.
The LEARN indicator flashes slowly.
For the buttons you can use, see “Remote Button
Descriptions” on page 26 for the buttons you can
use to operate each component.
(2 inches)
If the LEARN indicator flashes rapidly
You cannot use the button you've pressed.
(continued)
11%

12"
Receiver Operations
4 On the other remote, select the function that the
receiver’s remote is to “learn” and hold down its
button until the LEARN indicator lights steadily.
5 Repeat Steps 3 and 4 to programme other buttons.
Note that each button can only “learn” one signal
from another remote.
6 Press LEARN.
After the LEARN indicator turns off, you can
control the other component with the
programmed buttons.
Kay When you programme the recording signal
While holding down the @ button on the receiver's
remote and press the record button on the other remote.
Cif you cannot successfully programme signals, check
the following:
¢ If the LEARN indicator does not light up at all, the
batteries are weak. Replace both batteries.
¢ If the LEARN indicator does not flash or light up in
Step 3 or 4, there is interference. Clear the signal as
described in “Clearing the programmed signal”
below and programme again from the beginning.
¢ The two remotes are placed too far apart. Make sure
they are only 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
If you don’t proceed to the following steps within
about 1 minute during Steps 2 and 3, the remote
automatically exits learning mode. Start again from
Step 2.
¢ If the memory in the remote has become full, (If you
programme signals of Sony components, you can
store about 30 signals.) you can programme a new
signal on a previously programmed button, but the
new signal] will replace the previously programmed
one.
Notes
¢ You cannot turn on programmed components by pressing
a SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION button. You have to
turn on the component’s power switch.
¢ Do not programme remote signals of air conditioners or
other household appliances.
Clearing the programmed signal
To clear the programmed signals, do the following:
Hold down SYSTEM-OFF, VISUAL POWER and VOL-
keys together, LED will blink 3 times. This indicates
that the remote is initialize to factory-preset.
The button’s functions are reset to the factory-preset.
ea FE ar eS
Receiving Broadcasts
This receiver lets you enter a station’s frequency
directly by using the numeric buttons (direct tuning). If
you don’t know the frequency of the station you want,
see “Receiving broadcasts by scanning stations
(automatic tuning)” on page 13.
Before you begin, make sure you have:
¢ Connected an FM/AM aerial to the receiver as
indicated on page 5.
* Selected the appropriate speaker system. (See
“Selecting the speaker system” on page 7.)
POWER Numeric buttons MASTER VOLUME
FM AM DIRECT TUNER
1 Press POWER to turn on the receiver.
2 Press TUNER.
The last received station is tuned in.
Press FM or AM to select FM or AM stations.
4 Press DIRECT.
Press the numeric buttons to enter the frequency.
Example 1: FM 102.50 MHz Example 2: AM 1350 kHz
Ee | Af Ca RO a | a
Cooee oboe
6 When you tune in AM stations, adjust the
direction of the AM loop aerial for optimum
reception.
To receive other stations
Repeat Steps 3 to 5.
o If the STEREO indicator remains off
Press FM MODE when an FM stereo broadcast is
received.

Receiver Operations
¢ If an FM stereo programme is distorted
The STEREO indicator flashes. Press FM MODE to
change to monaural (MONO). You will not have the
stereo effect but the distortion will be reduced. To
return to stereo mode, press this button again.
xe) If you cannot tune in a station and the entered
numbers are flashing
Make sure you've entered the right frequency. If not,
press DIRECT and re-enter the frequency you want.
If the entered numbers still flash, the frequency is not
used in your area.
ror To watch FM simulcast TV programmes
Make sure that you tune in the simulcast programme
both on the TV (or the VCR) and on the receiver.
Koy 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:
FM: 50 kHz intervals
AM: 9 kHz intervals
Receiving broadcasts by scanning stations
(automatic tuning)
If you don’t know the frequency of the radio station
you want, you can have the receiver scan all the
receivable stations to locate the one you want.
1 Press TUNER.
The last received station is tuned in.
2 Press FM or AM to select FM or AM.
Press TUNING/CHARACTER + or -.
Press the + button for a higher station number;
press the — button for a lower one. When you tune
past either end of the band, the receiver
automatically jumps to the opposite end. Every
time a station is received, the receiver stops
scanning. To continue scanning, press the button
again.
fo a eS eR he el i
Presetting Radio Stations
You'll most likely want to preset the receiver with the
radio stations you listen to often so that you don’t have
to tune in the station every time. The receiver can store
a total of 30 FM or AM stations. You can store the
stations on preset numbers combining 3 characters (A,
B, C) and numbers (0 - 9). For example, you can store a
station as preset number A1, B6 or C9, etc.
Numeric
CHARACTER button DIRECT
MEMORY SHIFT TUNER
1 Press TUNER.
The last received station is tuned in.
2 Tune in the station you want.
If you are not familiar with how to tune ina
station, see “Receiving Broadcasts” on the
previous page.
3 Press MEMORY.
“MEMORY” appears for a few seconds.
Do steps 4 and 5 before “MEMORY” goes out.
4 Press SHIFT to select a character (A, Bor C).
Each time you press SHIFT, the letter “A,” “B” or
“C” appears in the display.
If “MEMORY” disappears, start again from step 3.
5 While MEMORY is displayed, press the number
you want to use (0 to 9).
6 Repeat Steps 2 to 5 to preset other stations.
To change a preset station
Preset a new station on the number you want to change.
Note
If the mains lead is disconnected for about one week, the
preset stations will be cleared from the receiver's memory,
and you will have to preset the stations again.
(continued)
13%

14%
Receiver Operations
Tuning preset stations (preset tuning)
You can tune directly to a preset station by entering its
preset number. If you don’t know which stations are
preset on which numbers, you can tune by scanning
the preset stations.
1. Press TUNER.
The last received station is tuned in.
2 Press SHIFT to select a character (A, B or C), then
press the number.
For example, select A and then press 7 to tune in
the station preset as A7.
¢ You can tune by scanning the preset stations
First press TUNER and then press PRESET TUNING +
or — to select the station you want. Each time you press
the buttons, the preset numbers change as follows:
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Naming preset stations
You can store names, up to 8 characters long, for your
preset stations (except for FM RDS stations). Once you
name a preset station, the name appears in the display
instead of the frequency when you tune to that preset.
The characters you can use include letters, numbers
and symbols.
1 Tune to the preset station you want to name
2 Press CHARACTER.
The cursor blinks in the display.
3 Use TUNING/CHARACTER + or ~ to select the
character you desire.
4 Press CHARACTER to move the cursor into
position for the next character.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 to enter up to 8 characters.
>>)
Wait a few seconds and the receiver automatically
stores the name at the previously selected preset.
If you make a mistake
Press CHARACTER repeatedly so that the character you
want to change blinks in the display, then use TUNING/
CHARACTER + or — to select the desired character.
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Using the Radio Data System
(RDS) |
What you can do with the Radio Data ’
System
Radio Data System (RDS) is a broadcasting service that
allows radio stations to send additional information
along with the regular radio programme signal. This
receiver offers you three convenient RDS features:
Displaying the RDS information; Monitoring of traffic,
news, or information programmes, and Locating a
station by programme type. RDS is available only on
FM stations.*
Note
RDS may not work properly if the station you are tuned to is
not transmitting the RDS signal properly or if the signal
strength is weak.
* Not all FM stations provide RDS service, nor do they
provide the same types of services. If you are not familiar
with the RDS system, check with your local radio stations
for details on RDS services in your area.
Receiving RDS broadcasts
Simply select a station from the FM band.
When you tune in a station that provides RDS services,
the station name appears in the display.
Displaying the RDS Information
Press DISPLAY. Each time you press DISPLAY, the
display advances one step through the following
information.
information displayed You can:
Station Name** Locate each station by name
(e.g., WDR) instead of
frequency.
Frequency** Locate each station by
frequency
Programme Type Locate a specific type of
programme being broadcast. ‘
(See page 16 for the types of
programmes you can select.)
Radio Text Display the text messages sent
by the RDS station.
Clock (24-hour system) Display the current time
**This information also appears for non-RDS FM stations.

Receiver Operations
a
-
Notes
If there is an emergency announcement by governmental
authorities, ALARM flashes in the display.
© When the message consists of 9 characters or more, the
message scrolls across the display.
The following messages appear if a station is not
providing a particular RDS service:
“NO PTY” (the selected programme type is not available)
“NO TEXT” (text data is not available)
“NO TIME” (clock time data is not available)
Monitoring traffic, news, or information
programmes (EON)
Enhanced Other Networks (EON) allows the tuner to
automatically switch to a station broadcasting traffic,
news, or other information. After the programme ends,
the tuner switches back to the station you were
listening to (or the function you were using).
1 Tune to an FM station.
2 Press EON to select the programme you want to
monitor.
Each time you press EON, the indicators light as
follows:
TA (Traffic Announcement)
+
NEWS
5
INFO (information)
+
OFF
The receiver enters EON standby mode.
“NO TA”, “NO NEWS”, or “NO INFO”, appears if you
press EON before tuning to an RDS station.
When a station starts broadcasting the programme you
selected, the receiver switches to the station, a message
(e.g., “NOW TA”) appears and the respective indicator
(e.g.,"TA”) flashes. After the programme ends, the
receiver switches back to the station you were listening
to (or the function you were using).
To stop monitoring the programme
Press EON once.
Turn off the EON feature when you want to record a
programme without interruptions, especially when you
want to do timer recording.
Notes
* To use this function, be sure to store the RDS stations
beforehand.
¢ When theselected station has a weak signal, “WEAK SIG”
appears and then, the receiver returns to the previous
station or programme source.
Locating a station by programme type
(PTY)
You can locate a station you want by selecting a
programme type. The receiver tunes in the type of
programmes currently being broadcast from the RDS
stations stored in the receiver's preset memory.
1 Press PTY repeatedly until the programme type
you want appears in the display.
See the following table for the programme types
you can select.
2 Press PRESET TUNING + or ~ while the
programme type appears in the display.
The tuner starts searching the preset RDS stations
for the programme (“Search” and the programme
type are displayed alternately).
When the receiver finds the programme you are
looking for, it stops searching. The preset number
of the preset station currently broadcasting the
selected programme type flashes, and the receiver
receives the station.
Note
“NO PTY” appears when the programme type that you've
selected is not being broadcast and the receiver returns to
the original station.
(continued)
15%

16"
Receiver Operations
You can select the following programme types:
Programme
type What you hear
NONE Any programmes not defined below
NEWS News programmes
AFFAIRS Topical programmes that expand on
current news
INFO Programmes about consumer affairs,
medical advice, and weather
SPORT Sports programmes
EDUCATE Educational programmes, such as a
“how-to” programme and advice
DRAMA Radio plays and serials
CULTURE Programmes about national or regional
culture, such as religion, language, and
societal concerns
SCIENCE Programmes about the natural sciences
VARIED Programmes containing celebrity
interviews, panel games, and comedy
POP M Popular music programmes
ROCK M Rock music programmes
M.O.R.M Easy Listening (middle of the road music)
LIGHT M Classical music, such as instrumental,
vocal, and choral
CLASSICS Performances of major orchestras,
chamber music, opera, etc.
OTHER M Music that does not fit into any of the
above categories, such as jazz and
rhythm and blues
ALARM Emergency announcements
Note
If there is an emergency announcement by governmental
authorities, ALARM flashes in the display.
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Recording
This receiver makes it easy to record to and from the
components connected to the receiver. You don’t have
to connect playback and recording components
directly: once you select a programme source on the
receiver, you can record and edit as you normally
would using the controls on each component.
Before you begin, make sure you’ve connected all
components properly.
Function buttons
Recording component
(Tape deck, MD deck,
VCR)
Playback component
(programme source)
==; Audio signal flow
==: Video signal flow
Recording on an audio tape or MiniDisc
You can record on a cassette tape or MiniDisc using the
receiver. See the instruction manual of your tape deck
or MD deck if you need help.
1 Press one of the function buttons to select the
programme source.
2 Set the component to be ready for playing.
For example, insert a CD into the CD player.
3 Insert a blank tape or disc into the recording deck
and adjust the recording level, if necessary.
4 Start recording on the recording deck and then
start playing the component.
Note
No REC OUT signal is available in 5.1/DVD mode. f

Using Surround Sound
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Choosing a Surround Mode
t
You can take advantage of surround sound simply by
selecting one of the three pre-programmed surround
modes according to the type of music you wish to play.
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SURROUND
SET-UP ON/OFF
EFFECT/DELAY TIME surround MODE
SURROUND
ON/OFF SURROUND
MODE
1 > Press SURROUND ON/OFF to turn on the
surround sound.
One of the SUR (surround) MODE indicators
lights up in the display.
2 Press surround MODE repeatedly until the
indicator for the surround mode you want lights
up.
Select the appropriate surround mode as follows:
Select To
PRO LOGIC* Decode programmes processed with Dolby
Surround and create the atmosphere of a
movie theatre.
C.STUDIO _ Add the acoustic reflections of a cinema
studio to decoded Dolby Surround signals.
HALL Reproduce the acoustics of a rectangular
concert hall. Ideal for soft, acoustic sounds.
, * “DOLBY” appears in the display.
Key When you use the remote
‘ Each time you press surround MODE, surround mode
changes as follows:
STR-DE515 only
~~ LOGIC* — C.STUDIO A — C.STUDIO B
LARGE HALL** «< SMALL HALL** _l]
STR-DE415/DE315
C PRO LOGIC* — C.STUDIO — HALL ]
* “DOLBY” appears in the display.
™ “S.,HALL” and “L.HALL” in the display.
To turn off surround sound
Press SURROUND ON/OFF.
°C You can find Dolby Surround-encoded software by
looking at the packaging
However, some videos and laser discs may use Dolby
Surround sound even if it’s not indicated on the
package.
Note
Make sure to select speaker A with the SPEAKERS A button,
otherwise, you can’t obtain the surround effect.
Adjusting the Effect Level (for C.STUDIO
and HALL only)
You can make the surround sound more prominent by
increasing the EFFECT level. This control lets you
adjust the “presence” of the surround effect in six steps
(1-6).
1° Start playing a programme source.
2 Press EFFECT/DELAY TIME to select the level
you prefer. The effect level (“EFFECT 1” ...
“EFFECT 6”) appears on the display.
Note
Changing the effect level may not produce major variations
in the surround effect when used with certain playback
sources.

18%
Using Surround Sound
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Getting the Most Out of Dolby
Pro Logic Surround Sound
To obtain the best possible Dolby Pro Logic Surround
sound, first select the centre mode according to the
speaker system you have. Then, adjust each speaker
volume and delay time.
Note that you must have at least one additional pair of
speakers and/or one centre speaker to do the following
adjustments.
SET-UP SURROUND ON/OFF
CENTER LEVEL +/-
REAR EFFECT/DELAY TIME surround
LEVEL +/~ MODE
SURROUND
SURROUND
ON/OFF
|
|
MODE
SS
DELAY TIME TEST TONE
REAR
LEVEL +/-
CENTER
LEVEL +/-
Selecting the centre mode
The receiver offers you four centre modes: Phantom, 3
Channel Logic, Normal, and Wide. Each mode is ’
designed for a different speaker configuration. Select
the mode that best suits your speaker's system
configuration:
1
Press SURROUND ON/OFF to turn on surround
sound.
2 Press Surround MODE repeatedly to select the
Dolby surround sound field (PRO LOGIC or
C.STUDIO mode).
3 Press SET-UP repeatedly until the centre mode
you want appears in the display. Select the centre
mode as follows:
If you have Select So that
Front and rear PHANTOM The sound of the
speakers, no centre channel is
centre speaker output from the front
speakers.
Front and centre 3CH LOGIC The sound of the rear
speakers,no rear (3 Channel channel is output
speaker Logic) from the front
speakers.
Front and rear NORMAL The bass sound of the
speakers, and a centre channel is
small centre output from the front
speaker speakers (because a
small speaker cannot
produce enough
bass).
Front and rear WIDE For “complete”
speakers, and a
large centre
Dolby Pro Logic
Surround sound.
speaker
(continued)

Using Surround Sound
Adjusting the speaker volume
The test tone feature lets you set the volume of your
speakers to the same level. (If all of your speakers have
equal performance, you don’t have to adjust the
speaker volume.)
Using the controls on the remote lets you adjust the
volume level from your listening position.
1
ate
*
Press TEST TONE on the remote.
You will hear the test tone from each speaker
sequentially.
Adjust the volume level so that the test tone from
each speaker is at the same level from your
listening position.
¢ To adjust the level of centre speaker, press
CENTER LEVEL + or - on the remote.
¢ To adjust the level of rear speakers, press
REAR LEVEL + or — on the remote.
Press TEST TONE on the remote to turn off the
test tone.
’ You can adjust all speakers at one time
Adjust MASTER VOL on the remote or MASTER
VOLUME on the receiver.
Key You can also adjust the volume level with the
controls on the receiver
After pressing TEST TONE on the remote, press REAR
LEVEL + or - and CENTER LEVEL + or — to adjust the
level of the rear and centre speakers respectively.
Key You can increase the output level of the rear
speakers
The adjustment range of the rear speakers is preset from
-15 to +10, but you can shift the range up 5 levels (-10
to +15). Hold down MODE on the receiver while
turning on the power until “GAIN UP” appears on the
display.
The values for the rear level remain fixed at —-15 to +10
in the display, but you will be able to hear the difference
in the actual output level.
To reset the rear level adjustment range, repeat this
procedure to display “NORMAL”.
Adjusting the delay time
You can make the surround sound more effective by
delaying the output from the rear speakers (delay
time). You can select from three delay times, S (15 mS),
M (20 mS), and L (30 mS). For example, if you’ve
placed the rear speakers in a large room or apart from
your listening position, set the delay time shorter.
1
Start playing a programme source encoded with
Dolby Surround sound.
Press DELAY TIME on the remote or EFFECT /
DELAY TIME on the receiver repeatedly to
choose the delay time parameter. The current
delay time appears in the display, such as
“DELAY S,” “DELAY M” or “DELAY L.”
Note
Select the PRO LOGIC mode when you adjust the delay time
using EFFECT /DELAY TIME on the receiver.
1 Qi

20"
Additional Information :
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Troubleshooting
If you experience any of the following difficulties while
using the receiver, use this troubleshooting guide to
help you remedy the problem. Should any problem
persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer.
There’s no sound or only a very low-level sound is heard.
=» Check that the speakers and components are
connected securely.
=» Make sure you select the correct component
on the receiver.
Make sure you set the SPEAKERS selector
correctly.
Press MUTING on the remote if “MUTING”
is displayed.
The protective device on the receiver has been
activated because of a short circuit.
(“PROTECT” flashes.) Turn off the receiver,
eliminate the short-circuit problem and turn
on the power again.
Se
The left and right sounds are unbalanced or reversed.
=» Check that the speakers and components are
connected correctly and securely.
=> Adjust the BALANCE control.
Severe hum or noise is heard.
=> Check that the speakers and components are
connected securely.
=> Check that the connecting cords are away
from a transformer or motor, and at least 10
feet (3 meters) away from a TV set or
fluorescent light.
=> Place your TV away from the audio
components.
=> Make sure you connect a ground wire to the
aerial ground terminal.
=» The plugs and jacks are dirty. Wipe them
with a cloth slightly moistened with alcohol.
RDS isn't working.
=> Make sure you're tuning an FM station.
=» Select a stronger FM station.
The appropriate display or information does not appear.
=> Contact the radio station and find out
whether or not they actually provide the
service in question. If so, the service maw be
temporarily out of service.
The station, or programme source, was interrupted by
another station / the tuner automatically starts searching
stations.
=> The EON function is working. Turn off EON
when you don't want the current programme
interrupted.
The station name does not appear in the display.
=> Press DISPLAY until the station name
appears.
Radio stations cannot be tuned in.
=> Check that the aerials are connected securely.
Adjust the aerials and connect an outdoor
aerial if necessary. ;
=> The signal strength of the stations is too weak
(when you tune in with automatic tuning).
Use direct tuning.
- =» No stations have been preset or the preset
stations have been cleared (when you tune in
with scanning preset stations). Preset the
stations (see page 13).
No sound or only a very low-level sound is heard from
the rear speakers.
=> Select the appropriate centre mode (see page
18).
=> Adjust the speaker volume appropriately (see
page 19).
=> Make sure you turn on the sound field
surround mode function.
No sound is heard from the centre speaker.
=> Select the appropriate centre mode (see page
18).
=> Adjust the speaker volume appropriately (see
page 19).
Surround effect cannot be obtained.
=> Make sure you turn on the sound field
function.
=> Make sure that the front speakers are
connected to the SPEAKERS A terminal.
=> Make sure that SPEAKERS A and B buttons
are depressed when two sets of front speakers
are used.
Recording cannot be made.
= Check that the components are connected
correctly.
The remote does not function.
=> Point the remote at the remote sensor 4 on
the receiver.
=> Remove the obstacles in the path of the
remote and the receiver.
Replace both batteries in the remote with new
ones if they are weak.
Make sure you select the correct function on
the remote. '
Pressing TV CONTROL sets the remote to
operate the TV only. In this case, press one of
the SYSTEM CONTROL/FUNCTION buttons ,
before operating the receiver (etc.).
$44