Harman Kardon AVR 1550 Audio/Video Receiver

Introduction

Thank you for choosing Harman Kardon! With the purchase of a Harman Kardon AVR 1550 you are about to begin many years of listening enjoyment. The AVR 1550 has been custom designed to provide all the excitement and detail of movie sound tracks and every nuance of musical selections. With onboard Dolby* Digital and DTS decoding, the AVR 1550 delivers six discrete channels of audio that take advantage of the digital sound tracks from the latest DVD and LD releases and Digital Television broadcasts.

To obtain the maximum enjoyment from your new receiver, we urge you to take the time to read through this manual. This will ensure that connections to speakers, source playback units and other external devices are made properly. In addition, a few minutes spent learning the functions of the various controls will enable you to take advantage of all the power the AVR 1550 is able to deliver.

If you have any questions about this product, its installation or its operation, please contact your dealer. He is your best local source of information.

Description and Features

The AVR 1550 is among the most versatile and multi-featured A/V receivers available, incorporating a wide range of listening options. In addition to Dolby Digital and DTS decoding for digital sources, a broad choice of analog surround modes are available for use with sources such as CD, VCR, TV broadcasts and the AVR's own FM/AM tuner.

In addition to providing a wide range of listening options, the AVR 1550 is easy to configure so that it provides the best results with your speakers and specific listening-room environment.

For the ultimate in flexibility, the AVR 1550 features connections for three video devices, partially with both composite and S-Video inputs. Two additional audio inputs are available, and a total of two digital inputs make the AVR 1550 capable of handling all the latest digital audio sources. A coax digital output is available for direct connection to digital recorders.

The AVR 1550's powerful amplifier uses traditional Harman Kardon high-current design technologies to meet the wide dynamic range of any program selection.

Harman Kardon invented the high-fidelity receiver more than forty-seven years ago. With state-of-the-art circuitry and time-honored circuit designs, the AVR 1550 is one of the finest receivers ever offered by Harman Kardon within its price range.

• Onboard Dolby Digital and DTS Decoding Using Crystal® Chip Technology
• Dolby Laboratory's latest ProLogic II decoding technology
• Multiple Digital Inputs and Outputs
• Front-Panel Inputs for Easy Connection to Portable Devices and the Latest Video Game Consoles

Safety Information

Important Safety Information

Verify Line Voltage Before Use

Your AVR 1550 has been designed for use with 220-240-Volt AC current. Connection to a line voltage other than that for which it is intended can create a safety and fire hazard and may damage the unit.

If you have any questions about the voltage requirements for your specific model, or about the line voltage in your area, contact your dealer before plugging the unit into a wall outlet.

Do Not Use Extension Cords

To avoid safety hazards, use only the power cord attached to your unit. We do not recommend that extension cords be used with this product. As with all electrical devices, do not run power cords under rugs or carpets or place heavy objects on them. Damaged power cords should be replaced immediately by an authorized service depot with a cord meeting factory specifications.

Handle the AC Power Cord Gently

When disconnecting the power cord from an AC outlet, always pull the plug, never pull the cord. If you do not intend to use the unit for any considerable length of time, disconnect the plug from the AC outlet.

Do Not Open the Cabinet

There are no user-serviceable components inside this product. Opening the cabinet may present a shock hazard, and any modification to the product will void your guarantee. If water or any metal object such as a paper clip, wire or a staple accidentally falls inside the unit, disconnect it from the AC power source immediately, and consult an authorized service station.

Installation Location

• To assure proper operation and to avoid the potential for safety hazards, place the unit on a firm and level surface. When placing the unit on a shelf, be certain that the shelf and any mounting hardware can support the weight of the product.
• Make certain that proper space is provided both above and below the unit for ventilation. If this product will be installed in a cabinet or other enclosed area, make certain that there is sufficient air movement within the cabinet. Under some circumstances a fan may be required.
• Do not place the unit directly on a carpeted surface.
• Avoid installation in extremely hot or cold locations, or an area that is exposed to direct sunlight or heating equipment.
• Avoid moist or humid locations.
• Do not obstruct the ventilation slots on the top of the unit, or place objects directly over them.

Cleaning

When the unit gets dirty, wipe it with a clean, soft, dry cloth. If necessary, wipe it with a soft cloth dampened with mild soapy water, then a fresh cloth with clean water. Wipe dry immediately with a dry cloth. NEVER use benzene, aerosol cleaners, thinner, alcohol or any other volatile cleaning agent. Do not use abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the finish of metal parts. Avoid spraying insecticide near the unit.

Moving the Unit

Before moving the unit, be certain to disconnect any interconnection cords with other components, and make certain that you disconnect the unit from the AC outlet.

Unpacking

The carton and shipping materials used to protect your new receiver during shipment were specially designed to cushion it from shock and vibration. We suggest that you save the carton and packing materials for use in shipping if you move, or should the unit ever need repair.

To minimize the size of the carton in storage, you may wish to flatten it. This is done by carefully slitting the tape seams on the bottom and collapsing the carton. Other cardboard inserts may be stored in the same manner. Packing materials that cannot be collapsed should be saved along with the carton in a plastic bag.

If you do not wish to save the packaging materials, please note that the carton and other sections of the shipping protection are recyclable. Please respect the environment and discard those materials at a local recycling center.

Front Panel Controls

The front panel features numerous controls for operating the AVR 1550:

• 1 Main Power Switch: Applies power to the unit. Must be pressed in for operation. Can be fully pressed out to turn the unit completely off.
• 2 System Power Control: Turns the AVR 1550 on or off (Standby mode) when the Main Power Switch is on.
• 3 Power Indicator: Orange LED indicates Standby mode; Green LED indicates operation.
• 4 Headphone Jack: For connecting standard 6.3 mm stereo headphones. Speakers are automatically silenced when headphones are connected.
• 5 Remote Sensor Window: Receives infrared signals from the remote control. Aim the remote at this area and do not block it.
• 6 Tone Mode: Activates the menu for setting Bass and Treble controls.
• 7 Surround Mode Selector: Scrolls through available surround modes. Dolby Digital and DTS modes require a digital input.
• 8 Tuning Selector: Tunes stations by pressing left (lower frequency) or right (higher frequency). The TUNED indicator illuminates when a strong signal is received.
• 9 Tuner Band Selector: Switches between AM and FM bands, and can also switch between stereo/mono and auto/manual tuning modes.
• Preset Stations Selector: Scrolls through stored preset stations.
• Input Source Selector: Cycles through available input sources.
• RDS Select Button: Displays RDS data messages from FM stations.
• Channel Select Button: Initiates the process for trimming channel output levels.
• Speaker Select Button: Initiates the process for selecting speaker positions and configuration.
• Video 3 Input Jacks: For temporary connection of video games or portable audio/video products.
• Test Tone Selector: Initiates the process for adjusting channel output levels using an internal test tone.
• Selector Buttons: Used for selecting options and navigating menus in the Main Information Display.
• Main Information Display: Shows status, input source, surround mode, tuner information, and other operational messages.
• Volume Control: Adjusts the system volume clockwise (up) or counterclockwise (down).
• Set Button: Enters selected settings into memory or changes display brightness.
• Digital Input Selector: Selects between Optical and Coaxial digital inputs.
• Delay: Initiates the process for setting delay times for surround sound.

Front Panel Information Display Indicators

The Main Information Display features various indicators to show the status of the AVR 1550:

• Bitstream Indicators: Show the type of digital signal (Bitstream, Optical, DTS, Dolby Digital, Coaxial Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II, Analog, Dolby 3 Stereo).
• DSP Mode Indicator: Lights when Digital Signal Processing modes are active (e.g., Hall, Theater).
• Traffic Program Indicator: Illuminates if the RDS station transmits traffic information.
• Tuned Indicator: Illuminates when a station is tuned with sufficient signal strength.
• Main Information Display: The primary display for messages and status.
• Night Mode Indicator: Lights when Night Mode is active.
• Auto Indicator: Illuminates when the tuner's Auto mode is in use.
• Speaker/Channel Input Indicators: Indicate speaker type selected or digital data configuration (e.g., L, C, R, SL, SR, LFE). Flashing letters indicate an interrupted digital signal.
• Preset Number/Sleep Timer: Shows preset station number or remaining sleep timer minutes.
• Preset Indicator: Lights when the Preset Number/Sleep Timer shows a preset memory number.
• Sleep Indicator: Lights when the Sleep function is active.
• Memory Indicator: Flashes when entering presets or other data into memory.
• Stereo Indicator: Illuminates when an FM station is tuned in stereo.

Rear Panel Connections

Audio Connections:

• Tape Inputs (0): Connect to the PLAY/OUT jacks of an audio recorder.
• Tape Outputs (1): Connect to the RECORD/INPUT jacks of an audio recorder.
• Video 1 Audio Inputs (2): Connect to PLAY/OUT audio jacks of a VCR or other video source.
• AM Antenna (3): Connect the supplied AM loop antenna or an external AM antenna.
• Video 1 Audio Outputs (4): Connect to RECORD/INPUT audio jacks of a VCR or audio recorder.
• Video 2 Audio Inputs (5): Connect to PLAY/OUT audio jacks of a VCR or other video source.
• FM Antenna (6): Connect the supplied indoor or an optional external FM antenna.
• CD Inputs (7): Connect to the analog output of a CD player or changer.
• Coaxial Digital Audio Outputs (8): Connect to the digital input connector on a digital recorder (CD-R, MiniDisc).
• Coaxial Digital Inputs (9): Connect the coax digital output from a DVD player.
• Subwoofer Output (A): Connect to the line-level input of a powered subwoofer.
• Video Monitor Outputs (B): Connect to the composite and/or S-Video input of a TV monitor or video projector.
• Front/Center Speaker Outputs (C): Connect to the respective terminals on front/center speakers. Maintain correct polarity.
• Surround Speaker Outputs (D): Connect to the respective terminals on surround speakers. Maintain correct polarity.
• TV Audio Inputs (E): Connect to the Audio Out jacks on a TV or other video source.
• Optical Digital Inputs (F): Connect the optical digital output from a DVD player, HDTV receiver, LD player, MD player, or CD player.
• AC Power Cord (G): Connect the AC plug to an unswitched AC wall outlet.
• DVD Video Inputs (H): Connect to the composite or S-Video output jacks on a DVD player or other video source.
• Video 1 Video Outputs (I): Connect to the RECORD/INPUT composite or S-Video jack on a VCR.
• Video 1 Video Inputs (J): Connect to the PLAY/OUT composite or S-Video jacks on a VCR.
• Video 2 Video Inputs (K): Connect to the PLAY/OUT composite jacks on a second VCR.

SCART A/V Connections

For devices with SCART connectors, use appropriate SCART-to-Cinch adapters or cables. Ensure correct signal flow for audio and video.

Important Note for SCART Adapters: SCART adapters may bypass automatic TV input switching and aspect ratio control signals. Manual TV settings may be required.

Remote Control Functions

The remote control provides access to all AVR 1550 functions and can also control compatible Harman Kardon CD and DVD players.

Key Remote Buttons:

• Power On (0) / Power Off (3): Turns the unit on or puts it into Standby mode.
• Input Selectors (4): Selects the device the remote will control (AVR, DVD, CD, TAPE, VID 1, VID 2, VID 3, TV).
• AVR Selector (5): Ensures the remote controls the AVR 1550.
• AM/FM Tuner Select (6): Selects the tuner as the input source.
• Test Tone (7): Initiates speaker calibration using a test tone.
• Sleep Button (8): Sets an automatic turn-off timer.
• Surround Mode Selector (9): Changes the surround sound mode.
• Night Mode (A): Activates Night Mode for Dolby Digital sources.
• Channel Select Button (B): Used for adjusting output levels.
• +/- Buttons (C): Multi-purpose buttons for selection, adjustment, and navigation.
• Enter Button (E): Confirms settings and enters data.
• Digital Select/Direct (F): Assigns digital inputs or allows direct station frequency entry.
• Numeric Keys (G): For entering preset numbers, channel numbers, or track numbers.
• Tuner Mode (H): Selects between automatic and manual tuning, or stereo/mono reception.
• Volume Up/Down (I): Adjusts the system volume.
• Tuning Up/Down (J): Tunes stations manually or seeks the next available station.
• Speaker Select (K): Configures speaker settings (size, crossover).
• RDS Select Button (N): Cycles through RDS data types.
• Preset Up/Down (O): Scrolls through preset stations.
• Memory Button (Q): Stores current station into preset memory.
• Delay (R): Initiates delay time setting for surround sound.

Note on Remote Usage: Always press the appropriate Input Selector (4) and then the AVR Selector (5) to ensure the remote controls the AVR 1550.

System Configuration

Configure speaker settings, input assignments, and surround modes for optimal performance.

First Turn On

Plug in the power cord (G). Press the Main Power Switch (1) to turn the unit on. The Power Indicator (3) will turn orange (Standby). Turn the unit on from Standby using the System Power Control (2) or an Input Selector (11 on front, 4 on remote). The Power Indicator (3) turns green when on.

Settings to be Made With Each Input Used

The AVR 1550's memory system allows custom settings for each input source (e.g., surround mode, digital input, speaker configuration). Default settings are provided, but customization is recommended.

Input Setup

Select an input using the Input Source Selector (! or 4). Then, within five seconds, use the Digital Input Select button (F) and Selector buttons (& or C) to assign a digital or analog input. Press Enter (E) to confirm.

Speaker Setup

This process configures speaker settings (e.g., LARGE, SMALL, NONE) for each input. It affects bass management and center channel usage. Select Dolby Pro Logic II Movie mode for initial setup to copy settings across modes.

• Set Front Speakers (FNT SPKR): Choose LARGE or SMALL based on speaker capability.
• Set Center Speaker (CEN SPKR): Choose LARGE, SMALL, or NONE.
• Set Surround Speakers (SUR SPKR): Choose LARGE, SMALL, or NONE.
• Set Subwoofer (S-W SPKR): Options include NONE, SUB (LFE), or L/R+LFE, depending on front speaker settings and subwoofer presence.

Making Settings Independent of Selected Input

Delay Settings

Adjust delay times for Dolby Digital and Dolby Pro Logic II modes to synchronize sound arrival. Formulas are provided for calculation based on speaker distances. DTS, 5CH Stereo, Hall, and Theater modes have fixed delay times.

Night Mode Settings

Night Mode (available for Dolby Digital) preserves intelligibility at low volumes by reducing peak levels. Settings are OFF, MID, and MAX.

Output Level Adjustment

Calibrate speaker output levels using the Test Tone Selector (^) or program material. This ensures proper directionality and intensity. Adjustments can be made for each surround mode and input. Subwoofer and Stereo mode levels are adjusted via Output Level Trim Adjustment.

Operation

Basic Operation

Turn the AVR 1550 on using the Main Power Switch (1) and then the System Power Control (2) or an Input Selector (4, 5, 6, 11). The Power Indicator (3) turns green when on.

To turn off, use the System Power Control (2) or Power Off Button (3). For complete shutdown, use the Main Power Switch (1).

Using the Sleep Timer

Press the Sleep Button (8) to set an automatic turn-off timer. The time is displayed on the Preset Number/Sleep Timer Indicator (Q). Press and hold the Sleep Button (8) to cancel.

Source Selection

Use the Source Selector buttons (4, 5, 6, 11) to choose an input. The AVR 1550 automatically recalls settings associated with the selected input.

Video 3 Inputs (%) can be used for temporary connections.

When an audio-only source is selected, the last used video input remains routed to the Video 1 Outputs (I) and Video Monitor Output (B).

Controls and Use of Headphones

Adjust volume using the Volume Control (I) or Volume Up/Down buttons (I). Use the Mute button (2) to silence outputs temporarily.

Tone Mode (6) allows setting Tone Out (flat response) or Tone In (active tone controls). Use Set () and Selector buttons (&) to adjust Bass and Treble.

Plug headphones into the Headphone Jack (4) for private listening. Speakers are silenced when headphones are connected.

Surround Mode Chart

Details the available surround modes (Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby 3 Stereo, Theater, Hall, 5-Channel Stereo, Surround Off/Stereo) and their features, including delay time ranges.

Surround Mode Selection

Select surround modes using the Surround Mode Selector (7 or 9) and +/- buttons (C). Dolby Digital and DTS modes require a digital input and are automatically selected if present.

Digital Audio Playback

Explains digital audio formats (Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM) and their capabilities, including discrete channels and low-frequency effects.

Selecting a Digital Source

Connect digital sources to Optical (F) or Coaxial (9) inputs. The AVR 1550 automatically detects the digital signal type (Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM). Use the Digital Input Selector (F) if the input is not automatically selected.

Digital Status Indicators

Indicators (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U) show the type of digital signal, channel input status, and tuner status.

Night Mode

A Dolby Digital feature that preserves intelligibility at low volumes by reducing peak levels. Settings: OFF, MID, MAX.

IMPORTANT NOTES ON DIGITAL PLAYBACK

Notes on digital signal interruption, compatibility with future sources, and audio track formats (5.1, 2.0).

Tape Recording

Record sources selected for listening via Tape Outputs (1) or Video 1 Outputs (4, I). Digital audio can be recorded via Coaxial Digital Audio Outputs (8).

Output Level Trim Adjustment

Fine-tune speaker output levels using program material or the Test Tone Selector (7). Adjusts subwoofer and stereo mode levels. Settings are stored in memory.

Display Brightness

Adjust the Main Information Display brightness by pressing and holding the Set button () for three seconds.

Memory Backup

The unit has a memory backup for tuner presets and system configuration, lasting approximately two weeks.

Tuner Operation

The AVR 1550 tuner supports AM, FM, and FM Stereo broadcasts, with RDS data reception. Stations can be tuned manually or stored in a 30-position memory.

Station Selection

Select the tuner using the AM/FM Tuner Select (6) or Tuner Band Selector (9). Use the Tuner Mode (H) to select manual or automatic tuning. Use Tuning buttons (8, J) to scan or tune stations. The TUNED indicator (L) confirms a good signal.

Preset Tuning

Store up to 30 stations using the Memory button (Q) and Numeric Keys (G). Recall presets using Numeric Keys (G) or Preset Stations Selector buttons () O).

RDS Operation

RDS provides station call signs, program types (PTY), text messages, and time. Press the RDS button (@N) to cycle through display options. Traffic (TRAFFIC) information is indicated by the TA Indicator (K).

Program Search (PTY)

Search for stations by Program Type (PTY) using the RDS button (@N) and Preset Up/Down buttons () O). Tuning buttons (8, J) initiate the scan.

Remote

The remote controls the AVR 1550 and compatible Harman Kardon CD/DVD players. Use Input Selectors (4) to switch between devices.

Function List

This section details the functions of each button on the remote control for both AVR and DVD operations.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues and their solutions:

• Symptom: Unit does not function when Main Power Switch (1) is pushed. Cause: No AC Power; Intermittent input connections; Mute is on; Volume control is down; Display brightness turned off. Solution: Check AC power cord and outlet; Ensure all connections are secure; Press Mute button (2); Turn up volume; Adjust display brightness.
• Symptom: Display lights, but no sound or picture. Cause: Amplifier in protection mode (short or internal issue). Solution: Check speaker-wire connections for shorts; Contact service depot.
• Symptom: Sound is heard, but Front-Panel Display does not light. Cause: Display brightness turned off. Solution: Adjust display brightness via Set button () and Selector buttons (&).
• Symptom: No sound from any speaker; light around Power switch (2) is red. Cause: Amplifier in protection mode. Solution: Check speaker-wire connections for shorts; Contact service depot.
• Symptom: No sound from surround or center speakers. Cause: Incorrect surround mode; Incorrect configuration; Stereo or Mono program material; Speakers not properly connected. Solution: Select appropriate mode; Check speaker setup; Verify speaker connections.
• Symptom: Unit does not respond to remote commands. Cause: Weak batteries; Wrong device selected; Remote sensor obscured; Local interference. Solution: Replace batteries; Press AVR Selector (5); Ensure sensor is clear; Move unit away from interference sources.
• Symptom: Intermittent buzzing in tuner. Cause: Local interference. Solution: Move unit or antenna away from interference sources.
• Symptom: Letters flash in Channel Indicator Display (P) and Digital Audio stops. Cause: Digital audio feed paused. Solution: Resume playback; Check digital signal input.

Processor Reset

If the unit or displays are abnormal, a processor reset may help. Unplug the unit for three minutes, then plug it back in. If the problem persists, perform a system reset by pressing System Power Control (2), Tone Mode (6), and RDS (@) buttons simultaneously while powering on. This erases all settings and presets, requiring reconfiguration.

Technical Specifications

Audio Section

• Stereo Mode Continuous Average Power: 50 Watts per channel (20Hz-20kHz, <0.07% THD, 8 ohms).
• Five-Channel Surround Modes Power: 40 Watts per channel (Front L&R, Center, Surround) (20Hz-20kHz, <0.07% THD, 8 ohms).
• Input Sensitivity/Impedance: 200mV/47kohms (High Level).
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A): 90dB.
• Surround System Adjacent Channel Separation: 40dB (Pro Logic, etc.), 55dB (Dolby Digital), 55dB (DTS).
• Frequency Response: 10Hz-65kHz (@1W, +0dB/-3dB).
• High Instantaneous Current Capability (HCC): ±25 Amps.
• Transient Intermodulation Distortion (TIM): Unmeasurable.

FM Tuner Section

• Frequency Range: 87.5-108MHz.
• Usable Sensitivity: IHF 1.3 µV/13.2dBf.
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 70/65dB (Mono/Stereo).
• Distortion: 0.15/0.3% (Mono/Stereo).
• Stereo Separation: 35dB @ 1kHz.
• Selectivity: 65dB @ ±300kHz.
• Image Rejection: 80dB.
• IF Rejection: 90dB.

AM Tuner Section

• Frequency Range: 520-1611kHz.
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 45 dB.
• Usable Sensitivity: Loop: 500 µV.
• Distortion: 0.8% (1kHz, 50% Mod).
• Selectivity: 30dB @ ±9kHz.

Video Section

• Video Format: PAL/NTSC.
• Input Level/Impedance: 1Vp-p/75 ohms.
• Output Level/Impedance: 1Vp-p/75 ohms.
• Video Frequency Response: 10Hz-8MHz (-3dB).

General

• Power Requirement: AC 220-240V/50Hz.
• Power Consumption: 72W idle, 580W maximum (2 channels driven).
• Dimensions (Max): Width: 440mm, Height: 166mm, Depth: 435mm.
• Weight: 11 kg.

Note: Dimensions include knobs, buttons, and terminals. Specifications are subject to change without notice. Harman Kardon is a registered trademark.

Trademarks: Dolby, Pro Logic II, AC-3 are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. DTS and DTS Surround are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. Crystal is a registered trademark of Cirrus Logic Corp.