User manual

8
Chapter 1
Connecting
A/V Receiver. An A/V receiver is the hub of a home theater system. It allows you to
connect multiple audio and video devices and manage the signal from each device. With it
you can switch easily between watching TV, viewing video from your DVD player, or
running your game system, by changing the input source. An A/V receiver may also be
used to drive two or more loud speakers for a theater-like audio experience. It may offer
features such as remote control or Dolby
®
Digital audio.
Dolby
®
Digital Audio. Some programs are broadcast with Dolby Digital audio: the
soundtrack is recorded on six separate channels, each of which can be heard on one of six
separate speakers. To hear Dolby Digital audio, you must use an optical digital audio
cable (not supplied) to connect your HD DVR to an A/V receiver capable of supporting
Dolby Digital audio. Not all A/V receivers with optical audio inputs are capable of
receiving Dolby Digital audio. You must also set your HD DVR to record using Dolby
Digital audio. For more information, see page 89.
Dolby
®
Surround Sound. Dolby Surround Sound audio is a technique for encoding
surround sound audio on two channels. When decoded by a compatible A/V receiver,
audio on these two channels is separated into as many as five signals which play through
your home theater speakers. To hear Dolby Surround Sound audio, you must connect your
HD DVR to an A/V receiver that supports Dolby Pro Logic or Dolby Pro Logic II. You
can use either L/R audio cables or an optical digital audio cable.
Surge Protector. Surge protectors are devices that protect electronic equipment from
power fluctuations. Like all electronic equipment, your HD DVR can be damaged by
fluctuations in power line voltage. Purchasing a surge protector is highly recommended. If
you purchase a surge protector that allows you to plug in both your HD DVR’s power and
your telephone cord, you may prevent damage to the parts of your HD DVR that are
connected to your phone line as well. Surge protectors can be found at hardware,
electronics, or general merchandise stores.