Sony STRDH550 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Sony STRDH550 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit to ensure proper and safe operation. Keep this manual for future reference.

Figure 1: Front view of the Sony STRDH550 AV Receiver, showing the display, control knobs, and front panel inputs.

Key Features:

• 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver with 725W total power output (145W x 7 at 6 ohms).
• 4K resolution pass-through for high-quality video.
• Multiple HDMI inputs (4 in / 1 out) for flexible connectivity.
• HD Digital Cinema Sound for immersive audio experiences.
• Auto Calibration for simplified speaker setup.
• USB port for high-resolution file playback and iPhone/WM connectivity.

Setup

Proper setup is crucial for optimal performance. Follow these steps to connect your receiver to your audio and video components.

1. Unpacking and Placement

• Carefully remove the receiver from its packaging.
• Place the receiver on a stable, level surface with adequate ventilation. Avoid placing it in enclosed cabinets without proper airflow.
• Keep the unit away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.

2. Connecting Speakers

The STRDH550 supports a 5.2 channel speaker configuration. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) when connecting speaker wires.

1. Front Speakers (L/R): Connect your main left and right speakers to the FRONT L and FRONT R terminals.
2. Center Speaker: Connect your center channel speaker to the CENTER terminal.
3. Surround Speakers (L/R): Connect your left and right surround speakers to the SURROUND L and SURROUND R terminals.
4. Subwoofer: Connect your powered subwoofer(s) to the SUBWOOFER OUT jack(s) using an RCA cable. The receiver has two subwoofer outputs.

Note on Speaker Impedance: This receiver is designed for speakers with an impedance of 6-16 ohms. Using speakers outside this range may damage the unit.

3. Connecting Audio/Video Devices

Use the appropriate cables to connect your source devices (Blu-ray player, game console, cable box, etc.) to the receiver.

Figure 2: Rear panel of the Sony STRDH550 AV Receiver, illustrating various input and output terminals including HDMI, optical, coaxial, and speaker connections.

• HDMI Connections:
  • Connect HDMI OUT (TV) on the receiver to an HDMI input on your television.
  • Connect your HDMI-enabled source devices (e.g., Blu-ray player, game console) to the HDMI IN 1-4 ports on the receiver.
• Optical Audio Connections: Connect devices with optical digital audio outputs (e.g., TV, CD player) to the OPTICAL IN 1 or 2 ports.
• Coaxial Audio Connections: Connect devices with coaxial digital audio outputs to the COAXIAL IN port.
• Analog Audio Connections: Connect devices with analog audio outputs (RCA L/R) to the ANALOG AUDIO IN ports (e.g., SA-CD/CD, VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, TV).
• Composite Video Connections: Connect devices with composite video outputs to the VIDEO IN ports (e.g., VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2). Connect the MONITOR OUT to your TV's composite video input if not using HDMI for video.
• Antenna Connections: Connect the supplied FM and AM antennas to their respective terminals for radio reception.

4. Auto Calibration (DCAC)

The Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC) system automatically adjusts speaker settings for your listening environment.

1. Connect the supplied calibration microphone to the AUTO CAL MIC jack on the front panel.
2. Place the microphone at your primary listening position, at ear level.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions (if connected to a TV) or front panel display prompts to start the calibration process. The receiver will emit test tones.
4. Once complete, the receiver will automatically set speaker levels, distances, and crossover frequencies.

Operating Instructions

1. Power On/Off

• Press the I/O (Power) button on the front panel or the remote control to turn the receiver on or off.
• When the receiver is off, HDMI passthrough allows selected HDMI input signals to pass through to the TV without the receiver being fully powered on.

2. Input Selection

• Use the INPUT SELECTOR knob on the front panel or the input buttons (e.g., SAT/CATV, GAME, BD/DVD) on the remote control to select the desired input source.

3. Volume Control

• Adjust the overall volume using the MASTER VOLUME knob on the front panel or the VOLUME +/- buttons on the remote control.

4. Sound Field Selection

The receiver offers various sound fields to enhance your listening experience.

• Press the A.F.D./2CH button to select between Auto Format Direct (A.F.D.) for automatic decoding, or 2-channel stereo.
• Press the MOVIE or MUSIC buttons to select optimized sound fields for movies or music, including Dolby Pro Logic II modes.
• Other sound modes like NIGHT MODE, STADIUM, LIVE CONCERT may be available via the remote or on-screen menu.

5. USB Playback

Connect a USB storage device (e.g., USB flash drive) to the USB port on the front panel to play audio files.

• Select the USB input source.
• Use the remote control to navigate and select files. Note that advanced browsing features may be limited; shuffle mode is often available.

6. On-Screen Display (OSD)

If your receiver is connected to a TV via HDMI, you can access the on-screen display for detailed settings and information. Use the remote control's navigation buttons to move through menus.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your receiver.

• Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings on the top and sides of the receiver are not blocked. Proper airflow prevents overheating.
• Power Cord: Periodically check the power cord for any damage. If damaged, contact qualified service personnel.
• Storage: If storing the unit for an extended period, disconnect it from the power outlet and store it in a clean, dry place.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your receiver, refer to the following common solutions before seeking professional service.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sony support website. For technical assistance, product registration, or service inquiries, please contact Sony customer support.

Online Support: www.sony.com/electronics/support