Panasonic SC-XH170 DVD Home Theater Sound System

System Overview

System: SC-XH170

Main unit: SA-XH170

Speaker system:

• Front speakers: SB-HF171
• Center speaker: SB-HC171
• Surround speakers: SB-HS171
• Subwoofer: SB-HW190

Supplied Accessories

Please check and identify the supplied accessories. Use numbers indicated in parentheses when asking for replacement parts. (Product numbers are correct as of November 2011. These may be subject to change.)

To order accessories, refer to "Accessory Purchases (United States and Puerto Rico)" on page 23.

• 1 Remote control (N2QAYB000702)
• 1 Remote control battery
• 1 FM indoor antenna (RSAX0002)
• 5 Speaker cables (REEX1266A-J: RED, REEX1267A-J: WHITE, REEX1268-J: GREEN, REEX1269-J: GRAY, REEX1270-J: BLUE)
• 1 AC power supply cord (K2CB2YY00059)
• 1 Sheet of speaker cable stickers

Important Safety Instructions

Read these operating instructions carefully before using the unit. Follow the safety instructions on the unit and the applicable safety instructions listed below. Keep these operating instructions handy for future reference.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

WARNING

Unit

• To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or product damage:
• Do not expose this unit to rain, moisture, dripping or splashing.
• Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on this unit.
• Use only the recommended accessories.
• Do not remove covers.
• Do not repair this unit by yourself. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

Power cord

• Install this unit so that the power cord can be unplugged from the socket outlet immediately if any problem occurs.

CAUTION

Unit

• This unit utilizes a laser. Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
• Do not place sources of naked flames, such as lighted candles, on this unit.

Placement

• To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or product damage:
• Do not install or place this unit in a bookcase, built-in cabinet or in another confined space. Ensure this unit is well ventilated.
• Do not obstruct this unit's ventilation openings with newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, and similar items.

Batteries

• Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the type recommended by the manufacturer.
• Mishandling of batteries can cause electrolyte leakage and may cause a fire.
• Do not heat or expose to flame.
• Do not leave the battery(ies) in a car exposed to direct sunlight for a long period of time with doors and windows closed.
• Do not take apart or short circuit.
• Do not recharge alkaline or manganese batteries.
• Do not use batteries if the covering has been peeled off.
• Remove the battery if you do not intend to use the remote control for a long period of time. Store in a cool, dark place.
• When disposing the batteries, please contact your local authorities or dealer and ask for the correct method of disposal.

[CAUTION SYMBOL] RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

[CAUTION SYMBOL] TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE SCREWS. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, 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.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Remote Control and Main Unit Controls

The illustrations shown may differ from your unit. Operations in these instructions are described mainly with the remote control, but you can perform the operations on the main unit if the controls are the same.

Remote Control

[Diagram Description: The remote control features a number pad (0-9, CANCEL, MUTE), source selection buttons (DVD, iPod, RADIO, EXT-IN), playback controls (PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, SKIP, SEARCH), navigation buttons (TOP MENU, MENU, OK, RETURN), function buttons (FUNCTIONS, EXIT, START), and sound/sleep controls (SOUND, SURROUND, SLEEP, FL DISPLAY, CH SELECT, W.SRD). Volume and channel controls are also present.]

• [1] Turn the main unit on/off.
• [2] Select channels and title numbers etc. / Enter numbers.
• [3] Cancel.
• [4] Source select: [DVD] (Select disc as source), [iPod] (Select iPod®/iPhone®), [EXT-IN, RADIO] (Select FM tuner or external audio source: FM, AUX, ARC, D-IN).
• [5] Basic operations for play.
• [6] Show on-screen menu.
• [7] Show a disc top menu.
• [8] Select or confirm menu items / Frame-by-frame.
• [9] Select play mode / Set repeat mode.
• [10] Select sound mode / Turn Whisper-mode Surround on/off.
• [11] Select surround sound effects.
• Set the Sleep timer: Press and hold [SLEEP]. While time is shown, press [SLEEP] repeatedly to cycle through SLEEP 30, SLEEP 60, SLEEP 90, SLEEP 120, then OFF. Press again to confirm remaining time.
• TV operations: Aim remote at TV and press [TV, ] to turn on/off, [INPUT, AV] to change video input, [r, VOL, s] to adjust TV volume. (May not work with all models).
• Adjust the volume of the main unit.
• Mute the sound: Press button. "MUTE" flashes. Press again or adjust volume to cancel. Mute cancels on standby.
• [15] Select radio stations manually.
• [16] Select preset radio stations.
• [17] Exit the display.
• [18] Show START menu.
• [19] Show a disc menu.
• [20] Return to previous screen.
• [21] Switch information on main unit display.
• [22] Select speaker channel.

Main Unit Controls

[Diagram Description: The main unit has a front panel with a power button, disc tray (OPEN/CLOSE), iPod/iPhone connector, and a display. The rear panel includes speaker terminals, AC IN, DIGITAL AUDIO IN OPTICAL, and HDMI AV OUT ports.]

• [1] Standby/on switch: Switches unit between on and standby modes. (Consumes small power in standby).
• [2] Disc tray: Open/Close the disc tray.
• [3] Adjust the volume of the main unit.
• [4] Power indicator: Lights when the unit is turned on.
• [5] Disc tray.
• [6] Connect iPod/iPhone.
• [7] Remote control signal sensor.
• [8] Display (FL display).

Avoiding Interference with Other Panasonic Equipment

Other Panasonic audio/video equipment may function when operating this unit's remote control. To avoid this, set the remote control operating mode to "REMOTE 2". Both the main unit and remote control must be set to the same mode. Follow the steps provided: Press [EXT-IN] to select "AUX", press and hold [< OPEN/CLOSE] on the main unit and [2] on the remote until "REMOTE 2" is displayed. Then press and hold [OK] and [2] on the remote for 2 seconds. To revert to "REMOTE 1", repeat with [1].

Power-Saving Features

Auto FL display turn-off function: The main unit's display automatically turns off when the volume is adjusted to "0".

Auto power-down function: The main unit automatically switches to standby mode after 30 minutes of inactivity (e.g., no audio signal, playback stopped, disc menu displayed without playback). This function may not work depending on the disc application.

Quick Start Guide

Step 1: Positioning

Speaker placement affects bass and sound field. Follow these points:

• Place speakers on flat, secure bases.
• Keep speakers at least 10 mm (13/32") away from the system for proper ventilation.
• Placing speakers too close to floors, walls, and corners can result in excessive bass; use thick curtains to cover walls and windows.
• For optional wall mount, refer to page 19.

Setup Example ("Surround layout (Recommended)"): Place front, center, and surround speakers at approximately the same distance from the seating position. Angles shown are approximate.

[Diagram Description: Illustrates speaker placement for a surround setup, showing front left/right speakers at 60 degrees from the center, and surround speakers at 120 degrees. Notes indicate placement for the main unit, center speaker, and subwoofer.]

Notes on Speaker Use:

• Use only supplied speakers; others can damage the unit or affect sound quality.
• High volume levels over extended periods can damage speakers and shorten their lifespan.
• Reduce volume to avoid damage when playing distorted sound, when speakers are reverberating, when adjusting sound quality, or when turning the unit on/off.

If irregular coloring occurs on your TV: The center speaker might affect some TVs. Turn the TV off for 30 minutes to allow the demagnetizing function to correct the issue. If it persists, move speakers further from the TV.

[CAUTION SYMBOL] The main unit and supplied speakers are to be used only as indicated. Failure to do so may lead to damage or fire risk. Consult a qualified service person for repairs. Do not attempt wall mounting using methods not described in this manual.

Step 2: Connections

Turn off all equipment before connecting. Do not connect the AC power supply cord until all other connections are completed.

1. Speaker Connections: Match speaker wire colors to the terminals of the same color on the main unit's rear. Use speaker cable stickers for convenience. Insert wires fully, ensuring no insulation is beyond the wire end. Be careful not to short circuit or reverse polarity, as this may damage speakers.
2. Radio Antenna Connection: Affix the FM antenna to a wall or pillar for best reception. Use an FM outdoor antenna if reception is poor.

[Diagram Description: Shows connection of the FM antenna to the rear of the main unit.]

Step 3: AC Power Supply Cord Connection

Connect the supplied AC power cord to the main unit's AC IN terminal and a household AC outlet.

Conserving Power: The unit consumes minimal power in standby (approx. 0.2 W). Unplug from the outlet for long periods of non-use. Memory items may need resetting upon replugging.

Step 4: Preparing the Remote Control

1. Press in and lift up the battery cover.
2. Insert batteries, matching poles (+ and -).
3. Replace the cover.
4. Use alkaline or manganese batteries.

Use: Aim the remote at the signal sensor, avoiding obstacles. Distance: within 7m (23 ft). Angle: within 20° up/down, 30° left/right.

Step 5: Easy Setup

The Easy setup screen guides you through necessary settings.

1. Turn on the TV and select the appropriate video input mode (e.g., VIDEO 1, AV 1, HDMI).
2. Press [Power Button] to turn on the unit. The Easy setup screen appears automatically.
3. Press [Left Arrow] and [Right Arrow] to select "Yes" and press [OK Button].
4. Follow on-screen messages to make settings using navigation buttons and [OK Button]:
   • Language: Select on-screen message language.
   • TV Aspect: Select aspect ratio for your TV.
   • Speaker Layout: Choose "Surround layout (Recommended)" or "Front layout (Alternative)".
   • Speaker Check: Listen to speaker output to confirm connections.
   • Speaker Output: Set surround sound for speaker output.
   • TV Audio: Select TV audio input connection (AUX, ARC, or DIGITAL IN).
5. Press [OK Button] to finish setup.

Setup can be performed anytime via the "Setup" menu. VIERA Link may retrieve language and TV aspect information automatically if connected to a compatible TV.

Listening Operations

Listening to the Radio

You can preset up to 30 channels.

Presetting Stations Automatically:

1. Press [RADIO Button] to select "FM".
2. Press [MENU Button] to select "LOWEST" or "CURRENT" for auto preset.
3. Press and hold [OK Button] until "FM AUTO" is displayed. The tuner presets receivable stations in ascending order.

Listening to a Preset Channel:

1. Press [RADIO Button] to select "FM".
2. Press numbered buttons to select the channel (e.g., [≥10] then [1] then [2] for channel 12). Alternatively, use [Up Arrow] or [Down Arrow].

Manual Tuning and Presetting:

1. Press [RADIO Button] to select "FM".
2. Press [SEARCH Left Arrow] or [SEARCH Right Arrow] to select frequency. Press and hold to scan for stations.
3. While listening, press [OK Button] to preset the channel.
4. While the frequency flashes, press numbered buttons to select the channel number.

Using the START Menu

The START menu allows source selection, settings access, and playback/menu access.

1. Press [START Button] to display the START menu. (TV may turn on if VIERA Link is active).
2. Use [Left Arrow] and [Right Arrow] to select an item and press [OK Button].
3. Use navigation buttons and [OK Button] to make settings.

Input Select: Choose source (DVD/CD, FM RADIO, AUX, ARC, DIGITAL IN, iPod).

Setup: Access unit settings.

Selecting the Source using the Remote Control: Press [DVD], [iPod], or [EXT-IN, RADIO] buttons to cycle through sources (DVD/CD, iPod, FM, AUX, ARC, D-IN).

Listening to TV or Other Device Audio

Connect the unit to your TV or other device via optical digital audio cable, HDMI cable, or audio cable. Refer to the TV's operating instructions for audio output settings.

Connections:

• Recommended Connection to TV: Provides best picture and audio quality. Use HDMI for VIERA Link "HDAVI Control" integration.
• Connection without ARC compatible TV: Use optical digital audio cable or analog audio cables.
• Connection with ARC compatible TV: Audio Return Channel (ARC) allows TV audio via HDMI without an extra audio connection.
• Alternative connection to TV: Use if TV's HDMI input is unavailable.
• Set Top Box connection: Connect STB audio via optical digital cable. If optical is used for TV audio, connect TV audio to AUX using an audio cable.

Making Settings for Digital Audio Input: Select appropriate settings for DIGITAL AUDIO IN OPTICAL and HDMI AV OUT terminals based on audio type (Dolby Digital, PCM).

• DUAL Mode: MAIN+SAP, MAIN, SAP.
• DRC (Dynamic Range Compression): ON (for clarity at low volume) or OFF (full dynamic range).
• PCM FIX: ON (for PCM signals) or OFF (for Dolby Digital/PCM).
• STB (CABLE/SAT AUDIO): SET to link STB audio via D-IN, or OFF to cancel.

Follow on-screen prompts to select modes and settings.

Enjoying Sound Effects

Enjoying Surround Sound Effects

Press [SURROUND Button] to cycle through modes:

• STANDARD: Outputs sound as recorded.
• MULTI-CH: Enjoy sound from all speakers, even with stereo sources.
• MANUAL: Select from specific modes:
• DOLBY PLII MOVIE: For movies or Dolby Surround recordings.
• DOLBY PLII MUSIC: Adds 5.1-channel effects to stereo sources.
• S.SRD (Super Surround): Enjoy sound from all speakers with stereo sources.
• STEREO: Sound outputs only to front speakers and subwoofer.

Recommended modes for TV audio or stereo sources: MULTI-CH, DOLBY PLII MOVIE, DOLBY PLII MUSIC, S.SRD.

For "Front layout (Alternative)" mode, STANDARD outputs 2.1-channel stereo. When playing surround sources, it provides a 5.1-channel surround-like effect. STEREO plays any source in stereo. A.SRD provides surround effect with any audio source.

Selecting Sound Mode

Press [SOUND Button] to cycle through modes:

• EQ: Equalizer settings.
• SUBW LVL: Subwoofer level adjustment.
• C.FOCUS: Center Focus (enhances center channel sound, especially with DOLBY PLII).

Use [Left Arrow] and [Right Arrow] to adjust settings.

Adjusting Speaker Level During Playback

(Only for "Surround layout (Recommended)" mode)

1. Press [CH SELECT Button] to select the speaker (L, C, R, RS, LS, SW).
2. Use [Up Arrow] or [Down Arrow] to adjust the speaker level for each selected speaker.

Adjusting Speaker Balance During Playback

(For "Surround layout (Recommended)" or "Front layout (Alternative)" mode)

1. Press [CH SELECT Button] to select "L" or "R".
2. Use [Left Arrow] or [Right Arrow] to adjust the speaker balance.

Disc Playback

Basic Play

Preparation: Turn on TV and select correct video input.

1. Press [Power Button] to turn on the unit.
2. Press [DVD Button] to select "DVD/CD".
3. Press [< OPEN/CLOSE Button] to open the disc tray.
4. Load the disc (label side up).
5. Press [PLAY Button] to start playback. Use [Volume Up/Down Buttons] to adjust volume.

Closing the disc tray also starts playback. The unit remembers the resume position for the last 5 discs.

Basic Controls

• Stop: [STOP Button]. Press again to clear resume position.
• Pause: [PAUSE Button]. Press [PLAY Button] to resume.
• Skip: [SKIP Left Arrow], [SKIP Right Arrow].
• Search: [SEARCH Left Arrow], [SEARCH Right Arrow] (during play).
• Slow-motion: [SEARCH Left Arrow], [SEARCH Right Arrow] (during pause).
• Frame-by-frame: [2 Button], [1 Button] (during pause, DVD-V/VCD).

On-screen Item Select: Use navigation buttons [3, 4, 2, 1] and [OK Button] to select items.

Enter Number: Use numbered buttons.

Menu Access: [TOP MENU Button] (DVD-V), [MENU Button] (DVD-V), [RETURN Button] (return to previous screen).

Playing from Selected Item

Use the navigation menu to select specific content (CD-DA tracks, JPEG files) for playback.

Other Modes of Play

• Program Play: Select up to 30 items to play in a specific order.
• Random Play: Plays tracks or JPEG files in random order.
• Repeat Play: Repeat a chapter, title, or the entire disc.

Using On-Screen Menus

Press [FUNCTIONS Button] to access menus (Disc, Video, Audio). Use navigation buttons to select items and make settings.

• Menu 1 (Disc): Track Search, Title Search, Content Search, Chapter Search.
• Audio: Select audio language or signal type.
• Subtitle: Select subtitle language.
• DVD Menu: Choose language for disc menus.
• Video Menu: Adjust TV Aspect, Time Delay, Video Resolution, HD JPEG Mode, Black Level.
• Audio Menu: Select Digital Output (Bitstream/PCM).

Play Speed: Adjust playback speed.

Repeat Mode: Set A-B repeat for specific sections.

Advanced Features

VIERA Link "HDAVI Control"

VIERA Link enables linked operations between compatible Panasonic TVs and this unit via HDMI. It allows for synchronized control, auto input switching, and power off linking.

Preparation: Ensure HDMI connection is made and "VIERA Link" is set to "On" in the unit's settings.

Setting the Audio Link: Configure audio link settings for the TV (AUX, ARC, DIGITAL IN) and STB (D-IN) to ensure proper audio routing.

Auto Lip-Sync: Automatically synchronizes audio and video.

Auto Input Switching: TV automatically switches input when playback starts or an action is performed.

Power Off Link: Unit turns off automatically when the TV turns off (configurable).

Speaker Selection: Choose whether to use unit speakers or TV speakers via TV menu settings.

Easy Control with VIERA Remote Control

For "HDAVI Control 2 or later" compatible TVs, the TV's remote can control basic playback menus of this unit. Note that number input is not supported via TV remote.

Using the iPod®/iPhone®

Enjoy iPod/iPhone music through the unit's speakers.

Preparation: Turn off the unit or lower volume before connecting/disconnecting iPod/iPhone.

1. Connect the iPod/iPhone to the unit's dock connector using a USB cable (not supplied).
2. Turn on the unit.
3. Use the remote control to navigate music menus, select songs, and play.

Music playback modes set on the iPod/iPhone are maintained. Recharging is supported when the unit is in standby mode.

Settings and Customization

Changing Player Settings

Access the "Setup" menu via the START menu to change settings:

• Language: On-screen messages, Audio language, Subtitle language, DVD Menu language.
• Video: TV Aspect (16:9, 4:3 Pan&Scan, 4:3 Letterbox), Time Delay, Video Resolution (Auto, 480i/p, 720p, 1080i/p), HD JPEG Mode, Black Level.
• Audio: Digital Output (Bitstream, PCM).

Dynamic Range

Adjust "Dynamic Range" (ON/OFF) for clarity at low volumes or full dynamic range.

Speaker Settings

Adjust speaker delay times (Center, Surround) based on room dimensions and speaker placement to optimize listening experience. Use the Test Tone to confirm speaker connections.

HDMI Menu

• VIERA Link: ON/OFF.
• Audio Out: ON/OFF for HDMI AV OUT.
• Power Off Link: Configure power-off behavior with VIERA Link.

TV Audio

Select TV audio input for VIERA Link operations (AUX, ARC, DIGITAL IN).

Others Menu

• Slide Show Time: Set slideshow speed.
• Easy Setup: Re-run initial setup.
• FL Dimmer: Adjust display brightness (Bright, Dim, Auto).
• FL Control: Turn off the unit's display when volume is at "0".
• Screen Saver: Prevent screen burn-in.
• Ratings: Set parental control levels for DVD-Video playback. Requires password.
• Set Password: Change the ratings password.
• Restore Default Settings: Resets most settings to factory defaults.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Never use solvents. Do not use commercial lens cleaners. Ensure the disc tray is empty before moving the unit.

Discs That Can Be Played

Lists compatible disc types (DVD-Video, Video CD, CD, DVD-R/RW, DVD-R DL, +R/+RW, CD-R/RW) and formats (JPEG, etc.). Notes on disc handling and data disc tips are provided.

Discs That Cannot Be Played

Lists incompatible disc types (Blu-ray, HD DVD, SACD, MP3, WMA, DivX, etc.).

Troubleshooting Guide

Provides solutions for common issues:

• No Power: Check AC cord, standby mode.
• No Response: Check disc compatibility, power cycle, or reset.
• Remote Not Responding: Check batteries, aim correctly, change remote mode.
• No Picture/Sound: Check connections, power/input settings, disc content.
• VIERA Link Not Responding: Reconfirm connections and settings.
• Picture Size Incorrect: Adjust TV Aspect or Zoom settings.
• Speaker Installation: Tips for wall mounting speakers.
• General Issues: No on-screen menus, forgotten password, incorrect characters, radio noise, stations not selecting.

Messages

Explains various messages that may appear on the TV or unit display (e.g., "NO PLAY", "NO DISC", "ERROR", "U70", "REMOTE 1/2", "LOADING").

Specifications

Detailed specifications are provided for:

• Amplifier Section: RMS Output Power, FTC Output Power.
• Speaker Section: Front, Surround, Center, Subwoofer types, dimensions, and sensitivity.
• FM Tuner, Terminals Section: Preset Memory, Frequency range, Antenna terminals, Digital audio input.
• Disc Section: Playable disc types and formats, picture resolution.
• Video Section: Video system, output level, HDMI AV output.
• General: Power supply, power consumption, dimensions, operating temperature/humidity.

Limited Warranty and Support

Limited Warranty Coverage: Details warranty periods for parts and labor (1 year for audio products, DVD Home Theater System, Home Theater Audio System; 90 days for rechargeable battery packs). Excludes non-rechargeable batteries, antennas, and cosmetic parts.

Carry-In or Mail-In Service: Instructions for finding service centers and shipping units. Proof of purchase is required.

Limited Warranty Limits and Exclusions: Covers defects in materials/workmanship but not normal wear, cosmetic damage, shipment damage, misuse, accidents, or unauthorized service.

Customer Services Directory: Provides contact information for product information, operating assistance, service centers, and purchasing parts/accessories via website (http://www.panasonic.com/help, http://www.panasonic.com/contactinfo) or phone (1-800-211-PANA).

Accessory Purchases: Information on purchasing parts and accessories online or via email.