e i d u g r e s u Meridian 568.
Meridian 568.
Sales and service in the UK Meridian Audio Ltd Stonehill Stukeley Meadows Sales and service in the USA Cambs PE29 6EX Meridian America Inc England 3800 Camp Creek Parkway Building 2400 Tel (01480) 445678 Fax (01480) 445686 Suite 122 Atlanta GA 30331 World Wide Web http://www.meridian-audio.com Preface ii Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation (Canadian patent 1,037,877), Lucasfilm Ltd.
Contents Introduction 1 Introduces the digital surround processor, and gives guidelines and suggested layouts to help you plan your surround Using the digital surround processor 13 system. Provides step-by-step instructions for The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor ..... 2 operating the digital surround processor, Sample configurations ............................. 5 using either the front panel or the Meridian Specification and accessories ................. 7 System Remote.
DSP presets 37 Gives technical information about each of parameters available for each one. Setting up the digital surround processor Logic DSP presets ................................. 38 Describes how to unpack and install the Music DSP presets ................................ 42 digital surround processor, and gives 5.1 Movie DSP presets .......................... 47 details of the video and audio Multi-channel presets ............................ 51 connections.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 81 Describes how to configure the digital surround processor using the Meridian Configuration program. Troubleshooting 109 The Meridian Configuration program ..... 82 Provides suggested solutions to typical Installing the Meridian Configuration problems. program ................................................. 83 Creating a new settings file .................... 86 General operating problems ................ 110 Setting up speakers ......
vi Preface
Introduction The Meridian 568.2 Digital Surround Processor combines a completely digital surround-sound processor with a high-performance digital preamplifier in a single integrated unit. It takes advantage of the latest techniques in high-precision analogue electronics and digital signal processing, and the result is an impressively realistic and exciting reproduction of music and cinema sound. The 568.
The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor incorporates the result of This allows the 568.2 to upsample the audio stream if possible many years of research and development by Meridian into and process the signals at a higher rate, giving improved audio several innovative technologies, including Meridian’s MHR performance. Smart Link. Intelligent stream content information MHR Smart Link The 568.
source you can then specify seven different presets to handle the alternative types of audio stream. Three of these presets are for traditionally encoded streams: Dolby Digital, DTS, and MPEG. The remaining four presets are specifically for the different types of audio stream available over the MHR Smart Link. The 568.2 standard Types set the DVD source as the enhanced source and assigns presets as shown in the following table: Multi-channel presets The 568.
protection environment, and allow the secure transfer of audio streams within a Meridian-only system for playback only. 500 Series communications The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor is part of the Meridian 500 Series of advanced digital, analogue, and video components, and these incorporate a sophisticated communications link, to allow you to control any combination of units using a single remote, and ensure that they will work together as a fully integrated system.
Sample configurations Meridian Compact Theatre™ M33 M33 rear M33 rear M33 598 M33 M1500 568.2 The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor can connect directly to up with the M33 Active Analogue Loudspeaker and M1500 Active to eight Meridian active loudspeakers, allowing you to create a Subwoofer. The M33 provides an unusually good response for 5.1 or 7.1 analogue theatre ideal for superb music and cinema such a compact case, and can be mounted either horizontally or sound in the home.
Meridian Digital Theatre™ DSP6000 DSP6000 DSP5000C DSP33 side DSP33 side DSP33 rear DSP33 rear 504 Introduction 598 6 568.2 The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor can be used with two multi-channel reproduction from music and film sources. The Meridian DSP6000 Digital Loudspeakers, and a DSP5000C Meridian 598 DVD Player is an ideal source for use with the Digital Centre Loudspeaker, to provide audiophile-quality sound. 568.2.
Specification and accessories Specification Digital outputs 4 x stereo SPDIF on cable, 75Ω, up to 24-bit precision. Digital inputs 4 x cable, 75Ω, IEC958 and data compatible, up to 24 bits. 1 x optical, Toslink (EIAJ), IEC958 and Tape outputs 1 x digital bypass. Video circuit 1 x composite video loop with on-screen display: phono, 75Ω, data compatible, up to 24 bits. Analogue inputs 1.5V p-p, PAL/NTSC/SECAM. 2 x unbalanced, 20kΩ input 1 x S-video loop with on-screen impedance.
Dimensions 321mm x 88mm x 332mm (12.7" x 3.5" x 13.1") (W x H x D). Weight 5kg (10lb). Meridian 519 Demodulator To take advantage of Dolby Digital on LaserDisc you need the Meridian 519 Demodulator, which converts the LaserDisc RF output to a bitstream which can be fed to the 568.2. The Meridian Audio reserves the right to amend product 519 Demodulator automatically senses the presence of a Dolby specifications at any time.
DSP presets The digital surround processor provides an extremely comprehensive range of digital signal processing options for decoding both analogue and digital audio signals and processing them for multi-channel reproduction. These are referred to as DSP presets, and are designed to provide the best results with a range of different types of music and film material.
DTS THX Surround EX and Meridian EZ DTS uses an audio compression technique to encode five THX Surround EX allows 5.1-channel film soundtracks to be channels of audio onto a digital signal. The DTS format is used encoded with an extra surround channel to give improved to encode multi-channel film soundtracks on LaserDiscs and surround imaging with four surround speakers. Meridian EZ DVD-Video discs.
Surround. It re-creates 5.1 channel movie surround from the two-channel source, using improved decoding techniques that preserve the directness of the sound field, resulting in enhanced image stability compared with standard Pro Logic decoding. Pro Logic Pro Logic is Dolby’s original processing mode for decoding Ambisonics UHJ Ambisonics UHJ decodes material specifically encoded for surround sound reproduction, using a two-channel stereocompatible encoding.
Music Music uses a special technique developed by Meridian to divide the sound between the left, right, and centre speakers and give a wide, spacious sound. We recommend this option for largescale music, such as orchestral and choral music. Trifield Trifield uses a different processing technique to give a stable, three-dimensional image, with the ability to adjust the width of the image. Because of its precision we recommend this option for solo, chamber, or vocal music.
Using the digital surround processor This chapter provides a summary of the functions of the digital surround processor to identify the controls which you use to operate the unit. processor, using either the front panel or the Meridian System Remote.
Front panel 1 Source Selects the source. 2 Store Changes the DSP preset Display assigned to a source. 3 Preset Changes the preset. BOOTHROYD STUART Digital Using the digital surround processor 568.2 14 Source Store Preset Digital Surround Processor Mute Display V 65 A Off 4 Mute 5 Display Changes the information displayed on the front panel. 6 V Decrease Decreases the volume. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 7 A Increase Increases the volume. 8 Off Switches to standby.
Meridian System Remote 1 2 3 1 Source keys Select a source. 2 Control keys Control the source functions. 3 RADIO LP TV 1 2 3 4 5 6 TAPE 1 TAPE 2 CDR CABLE DVD VCR 1 VCR 2 Switches to standby. LD 4 Angle 7 8 9 Audio OSD [ Page Slow/Page ] Return Enter Repeat Off Phase Record A-B Subtitle Store Menu Clear Accesses additional functions. 5 and radio presets.
Using the digital surround processor Quick guide to operating the 568.2 with the remote 16 Action 568.2 as controller DSP speaker as controller Source selection CD, RADIO etc. CD, RADIO etc.
Selecting a source When not playing, the digital surround processor should be left To select a source in the standby state. This uses a negligible amount of electricity, but ensures that the components of the digital surround processor operate at maximum efficiency from the moment you ● Press Source (front panel) until the display shows the source you require. start.
To switch to standby ● Press Off on the front panel or the remote. . The display will show: If you have other Meridian 500 Series equipment or Meridian Using the digital surround processor DSP loudspeakers connected to the digital surround processor 18 these units will also switch to standby.
Adjusting the volume The digital surround processor adjusts the volume in precise To mute the sound steps of 1dB, where 9dB is equivalent to doubling the loudness. The current volume setting is displayed in dB on the front panel ● Press Mute. display, and can be varied in the range 1 to 99dB.
Changing the DSP preset Each source has a set of DSP presets associated with it, one for The display shows the current preset; each of the alternative audio formats: two-channel (PCM), Dolby for example: Music Digital, DTS, MPEG, and discrete Multi-channel. You will be able to choose any of the predefined DSP presets, or When you choose a source an appropriate DSP preset is any user-defined presets you have stored. selected for the incoming audio format.
Audio format Presets DTS DTS, DTS THX, DTS Music (DTS Mus) MPEG MPEG, MPEG THX, MPEG Music (MPEG Mus) In each case these will be followed by any user-defined presets you have stored for the appropriate audio format.
Changing the display The digital surround processor displays information about the The audio stream display option shows the following three current settings on the 12-character front panel display. In pieces of information about the audio stream: addition, it can display the same information superimposed on a video image. For more information about setting up the AC3 5.1 on-screen display refer to Connecting video, page 59.
Defining your own presets In addition to being able to change the source, volume, and DSP preset, the digital surround processor provides a sophisticated range of more advanced adjustments for each DSP preset, to allow you to change the characteristics of the sound to the settings you want.
Locking and unlocking the menus To simplify the normal operation of the digital surround processor, and to protect the settings from accidental changes, you can lock the menus so that the parameters cannot be accessed. To display or change the DSP presets, or to define your own presets, you first need to unlock the digital surround processor menus. To lock the menus ● Press Off to put the 568.2 in standby. Defining your own presets .
Changing the DSP parameters Each DSP preset provides a series of parameters that you can To change a DSP parameter vary to customise its behaviour to your specific requirements. For example, most presets provide Balance and Depth parameters which alter the characteristics of the sound. For each of the built-in DSP presets these parameters are set to standard values, designed to give the best sound in typical listening conditions and with most source materials.
Defining your own presets Standard parameters 26 Parameter Range Default What it changes Treble * † -10dB to +10dB +0dB The slope of the frequency response. Bass * † -5dB to +5dB +0dB The bass response. Phase * † + or - + The phase of all loudspeakers. Balance <10 to 10> <0> The L-R balance. Centre -3.0dB to +3.0dB +0.0dB The level of the centre. Depth -2.5ms to +5.0ms +0.0 The delay of the centre. Rear -30dB to +10dB +0dB The level of the rears.
Changing treble, bass, or phase The digital surround processor provides sophisticated treble and The treble control tilts the frequency of the response over the bass controls, to allow you to adjust the broad balance of the entire frequency range to make the sound brighter or dimmer. It system to correct for the acoustics of your listening room, or for can be adjusted between ±10dB in 0.5dB steps. Normally a misbalanced recording. The controls are more subtle than settings between +1.0 and -2.
Changing the listening position A conventional stereo system provides a single balance control, which changes the relative loudness of the two speakers. The To move the listening position to the left or right 568.2 Digital Surround Processor provides a more sophisticated adjustment which corresponds to moving the listening position to the left or right. ● Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the current balance.
To change the relative level of the rear or side loudspeakers ● Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the speaker(s) you want to adjust. Rear +0 For example: ● Press A or V (remote) to change the relative level of the speakers, in dB.
Changing the integration of the centre If you have a centre loudspeaker you can adjust its relative loudness, to provide the best integration of the centre with the To change the relative delay of the centre speaker main left and right speakers. ● Press > or < (remote) until the display shows the current You can also adjust the relative delay of the centre speaker to centre depth. give the best perspective between the three front speakers. Depth +0.
Changing the spaciousness of the sound You can adjust the spaciousness of the sound by altering the If you have side speakers an additional S Delay option allows delay on the rear and side channels. you to adjust the delay on the side speakers between 15ms and 30ms. Note: These adjustments are not available for the Direct, Stereo, Note: For best results you should never set the S Delay to be or Mono presets. less than the R Delay.
Changing the lip sync and on-screen display To adjust the lip sync To change the position of the on-screen display The LipSync parameter is a unique feature of the digital surround processor which allows you to adjust the delay For each DSP preset you can specify the position of the between the sound and the video image by up to one video on-screen display (OSD), or blank the on-screen display frame. altogether.
Changing the DSP preset for a source Each source has an appropriate DSP preset associated with it for each music format. For example, for a standard stereo (PCM) ● Press Preset (front panel or remote) to select the DSP preset you want to associate with the source. signal the CD source uses Trifield and the TV source uses TV Logic. Trifield For example: This section explains how to change the DSP preset associated with any source. ● Press Store (front panel) to save the new association.
Defining your own presets The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor allows you to modify one of the built-in presets, and save it for future use. You can either save the changes to the built-in preset, or you can create up to 10 presets of your own, with names of your ● Change the preset parameters to the values you want to store; see To change a DSP parameter, page 25. ● Hold down Store (front panel), or press Store (remote) until the display shows the next available user-defined preset.
The settings have been stored in the new or existing preset you Each press steps through the sequence A to Z, a to z, 0 to 9, full selected. stop, and blank. You can also select a blank directly by pressing Mute (front panel) or Clear (remote). If you are defining a user preset you can now edit the name of For example, you could change the the preset if you wish. Sto.La Scala name to: A flashing cursor shows the letter you Sto.
To clear a user-defined preset ● Make sure the menus are unlocked; see To unlock the menus, page 24. ● Press Preset (front panel or remote) to select the DSP preset you want to clear. User 2 For example: ● Press and hold down Clear (remote) for several seconds. Preset Clear Defining your own presets The display shows: 36 If you clear a preset that was saved over a built-in preset, the original settings for that preset are restored.
DSP presets This chapter gives technical information about each of the DSP presets built in to the digital surround processor. It explains the processing performed by each DSP preset, and gives details of the types of material you should use with each preset. It also gives details of the special DSP parameters available for each preset. The DSP presets are divided into three categories: Logic, Music, and 5.1 Movie. You can set up the 568.
Logic DSP presets The digital surround processor provides six DSP presets directness of the sound field, resulting in enhanced image specifically designed for reproducing stereo film soundtracks. stability compared with standard Pro Logic decoding.
❍ The time synchronisation between loudspeakers is adjusted to Pro Logic compensate for the fact that the speakers in a home system tend to be a lot closer to the listener than in a movie theatre. Dolby Surround is an encoding system based on a phaseamplitude matrix whose output can be decoded by a very THX can also be used with Pro Logic, or the 5.1 Movie DSP simple passive matrix. Such a decoder gives quite a poor presets; see THX Cinema, page 40, and Dolby Digital THX, DTS separation.
THX Cinema TV Logic The THX Cinema preset provides Pro Logic decoding, followed TV Logic is a logic preset, with user-adjustable steering, that can by the THX refinements, as for PLII THX; see PLII THX, page 38. give higher intelligibility and a more appropriate spatial presentation for studio-based TV material.
Mono Mono DSP preset parameters In the Mono DSP preset you can choose to listen to: Parameter ❍ Only one of two input channels, for use when different Input What it changes Auto L+R, The channel selected. Input L, Input R, languages or material are carried on each channel. Input L+R ❍ A combined version of the two input channels, for use if the material was originally mono and has been conveyed on a Options Academy Off or On two-channel carrier.
Music DSP presets The digital surround processor provides eight alternative music hearing changes with direction. DSP presets designed for the reproduction of well-recorded material, originally intended for replay over a traditional stereo The Music DSP preset is recommended for recordings made pair of loudspeakers. In addition, it provides DSP presets for with spaced omnidirectional microphones, or using a mono- reproducing music in the digitally encoded DTS and MPEG surround technique.
Music and Trifield DSP preset parameters Ambisonics The Ambisonics DSP preset is designed for replaying material Parameter Options What it changes HS Out? * Y or N High-rate audio. Centre Flat, EQ1 to 3 The timbre of the centre reproduction and can give breathtakingly realistic sound when loudspeaker. replayed using the digital surround processor. encoded in UHJ format, the two-channel stereo-compatible encoding found on Ambisonically recorded discs and broadcasts.
off to one side. Ambisonics and Super Stereo DSP preset parameters Of all the signal-processing options, Ambisonics is the one that Parameter Options What it changes Width * 0 to 1 The width of the image. Row † A, C, E, G, I, The seating position; the letters K, M are like rows in a hall. 5 Channels 7, 6, 5, 4 The number of speakers.
Music Logic DSP preset parameters PLII Music preset parameters Parameter What it changes Parameter Options What it changes Off, Low, The degree of left-right Steered All Steered Rear, Which of the four surround Med, High steering. Roll Yaw Mono Rear Options Steered Side, channels are generated by All Steered steering. Off, Low, The degree of front-rear Med, High steering. R Delay 10ms to 15ms The delay of the rears. S Delay 10ms to 15ms The delay of the sides.
DTS Music Stereo and Direct DSP preset parameters DTS Music is a special version of the DTS preset designed with a lower LFE level of -10dB to match the bass levels applied to DTS music CDs. MPEG Music MPEG Music is a special version of the MPEG preset designed for listening to MPEG encoded music CDs. For details of the DTS Music and MPEG Music DSP preset parameters see 5.1 Movie DSP preset parameters, page 48.
5.1 Movie DSP presets The discrete digital formats can encode up to eight separate MPEG channels, which can be decoded to provide separate signals to the eight speakers in a surround configuration. MPEG surround is the preferred audio format for DVD in PAL territories. Dolby Digital Dolby Digital is a totally digital format capable of encoding five Dolby Digital THX, DTS THX, and MPEG THX full frequency-range channels, together with one restricted frequency-range channel used for extreme bass.
THX Surround EX and Meridian EZ can also be used with non- Using dynamic range control encoded material, and often give a good effect depending on the soundtrack. Because Dolby Digital is a digital format it allows dynamic range control without the distortion involved in analogue methods. The 5.1 Movie DSP preset parameters Compress parameter can be set to one of the following options: Parameter Options What it changes Option Description Surr. Rear Surr.
Dialog normalisation display Using peak-level limiting Dolby Digital audio streams include Dialog Normalisation and The Max SPL or Limit parameters allow you to set up peak-level Mix levels, to specify the recommended listening level of the limiting for bass signals, and the setting applies to all the soundtrack. discrete digital DSP presets.
THX Surround EX Meridian EZ THX Surround EX allows 5.1-channel film soundtracks to be Meridian have used their experience in developing algorithms for encoded with an extra surround channel during the mixing multiple surround speakers to create a proprietary DSP process. EX post-processing can be used with THX when processing mode, called Meridian EZ. This is designed to give decoding a 5.1-channel Dolby Digital signal.
Multi-channel presets With the optional multi-channel input card the 568.2 Digital The Discrete preset uses the subwoofer configuration specified Surround Processor can process sources consisting of up to six for Music presets. discrete multi-channel digital inputs. Cinema Each source can be configured to use either the multi-channel input, or a two-channel input such as D5, D6, or D7. The Cinema preset is a user preset which is provided when you reset the 568.
Discrete preset parameters Ambisonics Parameter Options What it changes The Ambisonics preset allows you to decode multi-channel HS Out? * Y or N Select Y for high-rate audio, upsampled if necessary. Select N for standard-rate audio, downsampled if necessary. LFE cut? 2+2+2 Off, On DSP presets Limit 52 information to give a three-axis representation of the sound at the recording position.
Setting up the digital surround processor This chapter explains how to install the digital surround processor. It describes what you should find when you unpack the unit, how you should constraints. Before you begin installation you should ensure that your digital surround processor is the correct voltage for your local AC supply. If it is not, do not try to install the unit, and contact your dealer.
Unpacking The digital surround processor comes in a box containing the Radio interference following components: Setting up the digital surround processor FCC Warning: This equipment generates and can radiate radio 54 ❍ Meridian 568.2 Digital Surround Processor. frequency energy and if not installed and used correctly in ❍ Meridian System Remote. accordance with our instructions may cause interference to ❍ Power cord. radio communications or radio and television reception.
Positioning the digital surround processor Safety warnings To avoid interference ❍ Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing. Do not position the digital surround processor: ❍ Do not place any object filled with liquid, such as a vase, on the unit. ❍ Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, on the unit. ❍ Near strong magnetic radiation, such as near a power amplifier. ❍ Near to a television, or where connecting cables may be subject to or cause interference.
Connecting the digital surround processor Rear panel Smart Link connector Power input and fuse Analogue speakers Balanced analogue outputs REAR-L SIDE-L/SUB Analogue inputs Analogue speakers CENTRE RADIO MAIN-L TV Setting up the digital surround processor SMART LINK OFF 56 ON 7 5 8 6 3 1 4 REAR-R SIDE-R/SUB CENTRE RIGHT 2 SUB LEFT L R MAIN-R A2 A1 ANALOGUE INPUT BALANCED OUTPUT CDR/D3 CD/D1 7–8 5–6 3–4 1–2 OUT IN LD/O1 RS232 MERIDIAN COMMS PC Comms TAPE2/D4 DVD/D2 D
Digital audio inputs The Smart Link connection uses a standard 75Ω SVGA computer monitor cable.
Setting up the digital surround processor Audio outputs Communications connections The following table gives details of the analogue and digital The following table gives details of the communications outputs: connections: Use this output To connect to this Use this connection MAIN 1-2 Main left and right speakers. COMMS CENTRE/SUB 3-4 Centre speaker and centre or mono Left and right subwoofers, or side left and speaker.
Connecting video On-screen display ● Connect the corresponding VIDEO OUT socket from the 568.2 to the television or monitor. Television/Monitor The on-screen display automatically locks to an NTSC, PAL, or SECAM signal, and requires an input signal to operate. The MONITOR IN video circuits in the 568.2 are of broadcast quality, and passing 568.2 Digital Surround Processor Video source (eg 562V, 581, or DVD Player) VIDEO Video lead If your surround system includes video the 568.
Connecting speakers To connect to Meridian DSP loudspeakers ● If your system includes more than two Meridian DSP loudspeakers you will need a 511 S-patch box (available separately) to link together the S5 leads from each speaker. DSP5000C Centre (master) Connect the COMMS output from the master digital speaker to one socket on the 511 using an S5 lead. 568.
To connect to active loudspeakers (eg Meridian M33s) M33 Active Loudspeaker M33 Active Loudspeaker 568.2 Digital Surround Processor INPUT 557 Stereo Power Amplifier MAIN–L 1 2 MAIN–R INPUT INPUT INPUT Audio leads ● Connect the appropriate analogue output socket from the digital surround processor to the speaker inputs, using screened audio cable. 568.
To connect an active subwoofer (eg Meridian M1500 or M2500) 568.2 Digital Surround Processor 4 SUB Subwoofer DIRECT INPUT CROSSOVER INPUT Setting up the digital surround processor Audio lead 62 ● Connect the SUB analogue output socket from the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor to the subwoofer’s line level input. The digital surround processor provides very high-quality crossovers for the subwoofer, and for best results you should use these instead of the subwoofer’s crossover.
Connecting sources To connect to a digital source (eg Meridian 588 24-Bit CD Player) 588 24-Bit CD Player DIGITAL OUTPUT To connect to an analogue source (eg Meridian 504 FM Tuner) 568.2 Digital Surround Processor DIGITAL INPUT CD/D1 Digital lead 568.2 Digital Surround Processor 504 FM Tuner OUTPUT ANALOGUE INPUT RADIO/A2 Audio lead You can connect up to two analogue sources to the 568.2 Surround Processor. Digital Surround Processor.
To connect to a DVD-Audio player (eg Meridian 598 DVD Player) To connect to a LaserDisc player LaserDisc player Meridian 598 DVD Audio Player SMART LINK S-video output 568.2 Digital Surround Processor SMART LINK OPTICAL OUTPUT RF OUTPUT VIDEO OUT RF lead RF INPUT 568.
To connect to a 562 or 562V Multimedia Controller 562V Multimedia Controller MAIN DIGITAL OUTPUT ANALOGUE MAIN Digital lead ● Connect up to eight analogue, five digital, and two optical sources to the appropriate inputs of the 562 or 562V. 568.2 Digital Surround Processor DIGITAL INPUT CD/D1 ANALOGUE INPUT TV/A1 Audio lead D1 digital input socket of the 568.2, using high-quality 75Ω screened cable. ● Connect the MAIN analogue output of the 562 or 562V to the TV/A1 analogue input socket of the 568.
Connecting to other Meridian equipment To connect to other Meridian 500 Series equipment One unit will then be designated ● Connect one of the COMMS sockets on the back panel of the This is the unit that will respond to the remote. Controller as the controller, and display: Setting up the digital surround processor 568.
The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor can be set up for most standard configurations of loudspeakers and sources using just the front panel controls and Meridian System Remote. This chapter explains how to configure the digital surround processor without using a computer, and then how to calibrate the loudspeakers and sources for your particular system.
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer Choosing a standard setting 68 The digital surround processor provides several alternative The following diagram shows the meaning of the standard Type standard settings, called Types, which configure all aspects of codes: the 568.2 into the most commonly needed configurations. In addition, any User Types you create using the Meridian Configuration program are also available.
To set up the 568.2 for use with a 562 or 562V Multimedia Controller ● Put the digital surround processor into standby by pressing While in Type, select 562 Mode as follows: Off (front panel or remote). ● Hold down the A key on the front Type in... 3 panel until the display shows: ● Hold down the A key for three ● Press the Source key on the front 562 Mode on panel; the display shows: Type,wait... ● Press the Source key again to turn off 562 Mode.
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer Standard source settings 70 The digital surround processor provides 12 sources When the digital surround processor is reset to one of the corresponding to the 12 source selection keys on the Meridian standard Types the sources are set up with the labels, inputs, System Remote. and presets shown in the table below.
Calibrating the system If your digital surround processor is connected to a television or sound with any particular combination of associated equipment, monitor, the on-screen display also provides additional text the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor includes a built-in explaining what to do. For information about setting up the on- calibration procedure. screen display refer to Connecting video, page 59.
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer To choose the distance units To start the calibration procedure You can choose to display and enter distances in either feet and ● Put the digital surround processor into standby by pressing inches, or metres. Off (front panel or remote). ● Press and hold the Off key on the front panel for at least five To change the distance units: seconds. ● Put the digital surround processor into standby by pressing Off (front panel or remote).
● Press > (remote) or Source (front panel) to move to the next test. ● Press < (remote) to move back to an earlier test. ● Press Store (front panel or remote) to jump to the next set of tests. The calibration tests are described in the following sections. To exit from the calibration procedure You can exit from the calibration procedure at any time, and any parameters you have set will be retained. ● Press Off (front panel or remote).
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer Calibration tests 74 ● Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers Levels in the layout in the sequence: Left, Centre, Right, Side R, Rear These tests allow you to adjust the output level to each speaker individually, and it follows the general guidelines from Dolby Laboratories and Lucasfilm. A Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter can be useful at this stage; ask your dealer for more information.
Measure from the ear height at the listening position to the tweeter on each speaker (where applicable), in the distance units These tests allow you to adjust the delay of each of the speakers in the layout to time-align the system so that sounds are ● Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers coincident when they arrive at the listening position. in the layout.
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer Fine tuning The next display shows the distance (or delay) for the same speaker. These tests allow you to fine-tune the phase and delay of each speaker when used in conjunction with other speakers on the Left 18'0 For example: layout. If you have an on-screen display it shows: ● Use the > and < keys to move between each of the speakers in the layout. The first display allows you to adjust the phase.
dramatic effect on the overall sound. As you increase the delay the speaker will appear to move away from you. You have now completed the calibration of your system. ● Press Off (front panel or remote) to exit from the calibration procedure.
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer Setting up subwoofers This section explains how to use Sine/Sub mode to adjust the subwoofer crossover frequency to suit the subwoofers in your system, and use a sinewave test signal to check for room resonances. The 568.2 allows the crossover frequency for any subwoofers which you have to be adjusted between 30 and 120Hz. The To turn on Sine/Sub mode crossover can be set independently for Music, Logic, and 5.1 Movie presets.
To change the sweep rate Sine/Sub mode includes a sinewave signal test, to help you set ● Press < or > (remote) until the the subwoofer crossover frequencies, or check for room Pause 80Hz display shows: resonances. ● Press [ or ] (remote) to change the frequency in steps of ● Turn on Sine/Sub mode, as described above, and select a 1Hz. source.
Configuring the digital surround processor without a computer 80 To change the volume To select other test signals ● Use the volume keys in the usual way. ● Press < or > (remote) until the display shows the current signal. Warning: Very loud low-frequency signals may damage Signal Sine speakers. For example: To select the channel ● Press A or V to choose between the following test signals: ● Press < or > (remote) until the display shows the current Display Description channels.
The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor provides a flexible range of customisation options which you can change to suit your own preferences and the other equipment in your system. To configure the 568.2 you use the Meridian Configuration program, an intelligent Windows-based application that is supplied with the 568.2. This allows you to create one or more custom configurations, and download them to the 568.2 so that they are available alongside the built-in types.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer The Meridian Configuration program 82 The Meridian Configuration program is a stand-alone Windows- and the type of each speaker, to ensure that you based application that lets you design your own configuration of get perfect surround sound performance. the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor to suit your own personal preferences and the particular configuration of equipment in Sources your system.
Installing the Meridian Configuration program Planning the configuration To use the Meridian Configuration program you need: Before creating a configuration for your 568.2 Digital Surround Processor it is a good idea to plan the following aspects of your ❍ A computer running Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.00. setup: ❍ A 100MHz or faster Pentium-class processor. ❍ At least 16 Mbytes of RAM. ❍ 5 Mbytes of free disk space. ❍ How you are going to set up the different speakers in your layout.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 84 To run the Meridian Configuration program ● Click Start, point at Programs, then click Meridian Configuration. Button Option Function New Creates a new settings file. Open Opens an existing settings file. Save Saves the current settings file to disk. The Meridian window will be displayed: Fetch Fetches the current configuration of the attached product(s). Store Stores the current settings and User Types to attached products.
The serial cable is symmetrical, and can be connected either way round. ● Connect one end to the RS232 connector on the back panel of the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor. ● Connect the other end to one of the serial ports on the PC or PC notebook computer. Then specify the serial port you are using as follows: ● Choose Options from the View menu to display the Options dialogue box: ● Select the port you want to use and click the OK button.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer Creating a new settings file 86 The section explains how to create a new settings file, using the A new settings file will be created for you, with the initial name Meridian Configuration program, and how to enter personal MSF1, and the Meridian window will show a Surround information to identify the settings in your product.
To enter your personal details ● Double-click the Surround processor icon, to open it and ● Click the Owner icon in the left-hand panel. display the settings it contains. The left-hand panel of the Meridian window will change to show the following three icons: ● Enter any text you like in the Dealer, Owner, and Description fields. You can enter up to 12 characters in each field, the size of the 568.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 88 The options on the Advanced tab are for use by dealers in setting up multi-room systems, and to upload a new version of the software to the product, and it is recommended that you do not change these settings. To display or edit the settings ● Double-click the Settings icon. The Meridian window will change to show the four categories of settings contained in the settings file: Setup, Speakers, Sources, and Presets.
Setting up speakers program to configure the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor for ● If necessary click the Layout tab to display the Layout page of speaker settings: the configuration of loudspeakers in your system, and specify information about the type of each speaker, for optimum performance. The first stage in setting up the speakers is to specify the number of speakers in the layout, and the type and size of each speaker. The 568.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer If you select a combination of options that is not supported, the a good bass response and you want to use one or more whole configuration is valid. subwoofers to handle the bass for the system. For example, if you specify Two rears and two sides, and then select two subwoofers, the side speakers will be removed to allow you to have the subwoofers. If you specify 96.
Use the Centre drop-down menus to specify which presets use the centre speaker, and its size and type. speakers and side speakers you have in your surround system. ● Use the Sides and Rears drop-down menus to specify the ● From the first drop-down menu choose one of the following type of the side and rear speakers. options: Subwoofers Option Description None If you do not have a centre speaker. Movies only If you want to use the centre speaker for Logic and 5.1 Movie DSP presets only.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 92 The Advanced checkbox is for dealer use only, and it is This allows you to set up speaker protection for the 5.1 sources, recommended that you leave this unchecked unless you have the type of each subwoofer, and peak-level limiting. special requirements.
the size of each unit, and the design of the speaker. The size value is displayed in the SizeCalc display. ● Type the size into the appropriate field. If you prefer you can copy and paste the size directly. Subwoofer filtering and type Peak-level limiting The Max SPL or Bass limit parameter allows you to set up peak-level limiting for bass signals, and the setting applies to all the discrete digital DSP presets.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer Setting up sources 94 This section describes how to use the Meridian Configuration To configure the source options program to configure the sources provided by the digital surround processor. To set up sources ● Select the source in the list of sources. ● Click the Options tab: ● Click the Sources icon in the left-hand panel of the Meridian window. The right-hand panel shows a list of the 12 sources that are available.
This enables the source to select automatically between one of you press the Source key, or the corresponding source key on four alternative presets depending on the type of material you the Meridian System Remote. are playing: Music 2 (two-channel music), Music 6 (multi-channel music), Movie 2 (two-channel movie soundtrack), or Movie 6 ● If you want, you can change the name displayed when the source is selected by editing the Name field.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 96 Presets ● In the Presets section specify the DSP preset you want to use for each of the five alternative audio formats: PCM, Dolby Digital, MPEG, DTS, or Discrete. Each drop-down menu gives the built-in and user-defined DSP presets appropriate for that audio format. Audio ● From the Audio input drop-down menu specify the digital or analogue audio input you want to use for the source.
Comms type to 1C for a Meridian CD player, 2C for a Meridian FM tuner, and 3C for a Meridian DVD player. Otherwise set it to none. Option Description Number of video frames of Adds a delay required by delay to apply to audio certain video systems. Poor digital audio source – Select this if you have difficulty frequency out of range locking to the source.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer Configuring presets 98 The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor provides 24 built-in To modify a built-in preset presets and the Meridian Configuration program lets you configure the DSP parameters of any of the built-in presets to ● Select the preset in the list of presets. suit your own preferences. The default DSP parameters will be displayed: You can also create up to 10 additional user-defined presets.
The new preset is created in the first available space after the your system includes DSP loudspeakers, because in this case built-in presets. the DSP speakers handle the treble and bass adjustments. ● Select the new preset you have created. For more information about the DSP parameters available for each DSP preset see DSP presets, page 37. If you have modified the DSP parameters from their defaults, (modified) is displayed after the preset name in the list of presets.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 100 To delete a user-defined preset ● Select the preset in the list of presets. ● Click the Delete this preset button. To copy a preset to a specific position in the list of user-defined presets ● Highlight the preset you want to copy. ● Choose Copy from the Edit menu, or click the Copy button in the toolbar: ● Highlight the user-defined preset or empty position you want to replace.
Changing the setup options The options are described in the following table: Setup options. To change the setup options ● Click the Setup icon in the left-hand panel of the Meridian window. The Setup options will be displayed: Option What it means Lock settings on Locks the DSP preset parameters. product On-screen display Specifies the default position of the position on-screen display.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 102 Option What it means Meridian DVD present If selected, the <, >, V, A, Store, and Clear keys on the Meridian System Remote operate the DVD player menus rather than the Digital Surround Controller menus. Meridian High Resolution Specifies whether the digital output uses Meridian High Resolution for all sources, or only when necessary. This option is only available if the left, right, and centre speakers are 96.
Calibrating the settings with your system your system, the next step is to store the settings to the 568.2 To store the settings to the digital surround processor and use the calibration listening tests built into the 568.2 to calibrate it for correct performance. ● Switch on the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor, and check that the serial cable is connected between the 568.2 and the To save the settings First save the settings to your PC hard disk. PC.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 104 When the download is complete the 568.2 will automatically To fetch the calibrated settings reset itself to use the new settings, and show the owner name you defined. Finally fetch the calibrated settings back from the digital surround processor as follows: Zachary Ford For example: ● Make sure your settings file is loaded into the Meridian Configuration program.
Creating a User Type To name the User Type surround processor, the final step is to store them permanently to the 568.2 as a User Type, so that you can reset the unit to them whenever you need to. ● Click the Settings icon in the left-hand panel of the Meridian window: When you store one or more User Types to the 568.2 they become available in the list of Types, alongside the built-in Types. For more information about selecting one of the Types see Choosing a standard setting, page 68.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer 106 To create additional User Types Initially the new type will be created with the same settings as the type you based it on, and with the name New type: If you wish you can create several User Types, and store them all to the digital surround processor. You can then reset the digital surround processor to any of the User Types by selecting the appropriate Type name.
● Highlight the User Type you want to copy the settings from. ● Choose Copy from the Edit menu, or click the Copy button in the toolbar: ● Highlight the User Type you want to copy the settings to.
Configuring the digital surround processor using a computer Completing the configuration 108 The final stage in creating a settings file is to save it, and then If the download was successful the 568.2 will briefly display the store it to the digital surround processor. owner name you have defined. To save the current settings Zachary Ford For example: ● Choose Save from the File menu or click the Save toolbar button, to save the changes you have made to the It will then switch itself to standby.
Troubleshooting This chapter provides suggested solutions to typical problems that may occur when setting up the digital surround processor. If you are still not able to resolve a difficulty with the help of this guide and the suggestions in the following pages, please contact your Meridian dealer or Meridian Audio Ltd.
General operating problems Standby point not lit Remote not working Check the following: Check the following: ❍ There is AC power connected to the socket on the rear of the ❍ The battery in the Meridian System Remote. 568.2. ❍ The power switch on the rear panel of the 568.2 is turned on. ❍ Remove the 500 Comms connections from the 568.2, does it respond now? If so, replace the connections and perform an Auto Configure procedure as described opposite. If the 568.
Audio problems Hum on analogue input ❍ Ensure that the receiver uses well-screened antenna cable. ❍ Relocate the receiver with respect to the 568.2. There is no reason for the 568.2 to produce hum on the ❍ Connect the receiver and this product to different AC outlets. analogue input. ❍ If the problem persists contact your dealer. ❍ Check the source equipment. Disconnect each source in turn.
The 568.2 has a 24-bit capability on its internal analogue-to- Sound not clear digital converter, which is used for analogue sources. When the volume is turned up high you may hear its dither as a hiss when ❍ If speech sounds muffled in a system with a centre speaker, the sources are stopped. This hiss is lower than the background check that sound is coming from the centre as there may be a noise of your recordings and should be of no consequence. connection problem.
There is a hiss when starting DTS LaserDiscs Cinema preset is not available Because the Cinema preset is a user preset based on Discrete it The DTS audio stream is indistinguishable from a PCM audio is possible to delete it. stream; the 568.2 takes 30ms to identify the encoding, during which a hiss is heard. ❍ Create a new preset from Discrete and name it Cinema. ❍ Assign it to Movie 6 for the enhanced source. ❍ With non-video DTS sources you can add a 30ms delay to avoid this.
Video problems Poor picture quality Picture quality may suffer if you do not attend to the following: ❍ Are you using suitable quality cables with good connectors? ❍ Is there a ground loop created between any of the components connected to the 568.2? Remember that reception of broadcast or cable signals can be significantly deteriorated by cross-modulation in the RF domain. It is unwise to attempt to cascade and mix several video Troubleshooting sources, eg LaserDisc, VCR, etc, to an antenna system.
Meridian Configuration program problems Preset options do not appear or are not available Meridian Configuration program repeatedly fails to talk to the product The options available when you are editing the DSP preset ❍ Check that you have selected a COM port. parameters depend on the speaker layout you have defined in ❍ Check that no other program currently running is using the Speakers. COM port. ❍ Check that it is connected correctly.
Service and guarantee Service Guarantee The Meridian 500 Series of hi-fi components have been carefully The 568.2 Digital Surround Processor is guaranteed against designed to give years of untroubled service. There are no user- defects in material and workmanship for two years from the date serviceable parts inside the case, nor do the units require any of purchase. form of maintenance. The guarantee is void if the 568.2 Digital Surround Processor In the unlikely event that your 568.
Glossary Absolute phase Controller Dolby Surround A control which changes the phase of the The product in a Meridian system that The encoding system used for the majority signals to all the speakers. uses the infra-red signals from the remote of movies on video and many TV to control the system. The controller is broadcasts. Dolby Surround encoded normally chosen automatically, but the material can be replayed with a surround installer can override this.
DVD DVD-Video LFE sub Digital Video Disc or Digital Versatile Disc, A DVD containing video tracks together A subwoofer which plays the full 120Hz a versatile CD-sized disc with nearly 30 with one or more soundtracks, menus, and bandwidth LFE signal in Dolby Digital, times the storage capacity of CD. It is other entertainment features. DTS, and MPEG presets. Layout Limit Refers to a particular arrangement of A DSP parameter that sets the peak-level speakers and subwoofers.
MHR Mono surrounds MSR Meridian High Resolution is a proprietary Surrounds which have a common signal The Meridian System Remote, or handset. secure encoding format using encryption steered to them. This may then be and anti-copy methods that allows secure decorrelated by the THX process to give transfer of audio streams between more spaciousness. elements of a Meridian-only system for the purpose of playback only. It provides a OSD On-Screen Display, which the 568.
Smart Link Steered surrounds Trifield A six-channel digital audio stream that can Surrounds which have individual signals A music decoding system designed to connect the 568.2 Digital Surround steered to them by the digital surround extract centre and surround signals from a Processor to a multi-channel source, such processor’s steering matrix. conventional two-channel stereo source.
Index A AC-3 encoding 9 audio outputs 58 crossover frequency, adjusting 78 Academy (DSP parameter) 12, 41 B accessories 8 Fan kit Balance (DSP parameter) 25, 26, 28 8, 55 D Depth (DSP parameter) Dialog Normalisation 25, 26, 30 49 Meridian 511 S-patch Box 8 balanced outputs 58 digital audio inputs 57 Meridian 513 Smart Link patch Bass (DSP parameter) 26, 27 Digital DSP preset 9 bass, changing 27 digital formats, THX 10 built-in presets, changing 34 digital sources, connecting 63 box 8
DSP parameters (continued) DSP parameters (continued) DSP presets (continued) Academy Roll 40, 45 DTS THX Balance 25, 26, 28 S Delay 26, 45 editing name 35 Bass S Filter 43, 44 Meridian EZ 34 modifying a built-in preset using a 12, 41 26, 27 Centre 26, 30, 43 98 Sides Compress 48 Steered All 45 Mono Depth Surr.
DTS Music DSP preset DTS THX DSP preset DTS THX encoding 10, 46 LFE cut? (DSP parameter) 52 47 Limit (DSP parameter) 48, 49, 52 10 G DVD player, connecting 64 LipSync (DSP parameter) 26, 32 Meridian 513 Smart Link patch dynamic range control 48 listening position, moving to the left locking the menus 24 5.
Meridian EZ DSP preset 10, 47 Meridian High Resolution (MHR) 3, 102 Meridian M1500 or M2500, connecting 62 Meridian M33s, connecting 61 Options (View menu) 85 presets (continued) Options dialogue box 85 Dolby Digital OSD (DSP parameter) 26, 32 Dolby Digital THX outputs, audio 58 DTS overheating 110 DTS Music Owner icon 87 DTS THX Meridian System Remote front panel controls quick guide Mix level 49 Mono Rear (DSP parameter) 40, 45 MPEG PC, using to configure the MPEG Music 81 47
R Presets icon 82, 98 sample configurations sources (continued) Pro Logic DSP preset 11, 39 Meridian Analogue Theatre 5 setting advanced options using a Pro Logic II DSP preset Meridian Digital Theatre 6 10, 38 96 setting up R Delay (DSP parameter) 26, 45 serial cable, connecting 85 setting up using a PC 94 R Filter (DSP parameter) serial port, specifying 85 standard settings 70 rack mount kit 8 Settings file, creating 86 Sources icon radio interference 54 Settings icon 87, 88 speaker
subwoofers, setting crossover frequency two-channel formats (continued) 78, 79 Super Stereo DSP preset Super Stereo encoding 12, 44 Meridian EZ 10 12 Surr.
