AVR-635 volume control

M Code

· #2 · Feb 18, 2005

Quote:

Originally posted by tonygeno
Does the volume control on this AVR follow the THX convention of running from -80 through 0 to +15? IOW, is reference level 0db?

Reference level @ rated power is when the Master Volume Level is 0dB...

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #3 · Feb 18, 2005

Just so I understand, if I were to listen at 15 db below reference, the front panel would read -15, correct?

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Keep in mind that the gain structure of the 635 is about 40dB from input to output.. And for the Master Volume Level dB indication, this is referenced to overall ratio of input signal to output. So to drive the 635 to rated output (90W/CH), let say in stereo (2-CH) requires a certain input level (2V peak-to-peak RMS) from the source component either at digital input (optical or coaxial) or analog. As the input source level varies dynamically such as music, the 635's output voltage (RMS-volts) power will vary up/down... Actual acoustic output (SPL level) is dependent certain external factors such as loudspeaker impedance and sensitivity..

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #5 · Feb 18, 2005

OK. So it's not set up like a THX volume control where 0 = Reference. Is there some way of determining what THX Reference level would be, and then listen at that level? My Lexicon MC12 had a volume control that went from -80 to +15. After automatic cailibration, reference was 0 db. So the HK doesn't quite work that way? And if not, how does one determine reference level?

Thanks for the responses.

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M Code

· #6 · Feb 18, 2005

Quote:

Originally posted by tonygeno
OK. So it's not set up like a THX volume control where 0 = Reference. Is there some way of determining what THX Reference level would be, and then listen at that level? My Lexicon MC12 had a volume control that went from -80 to +15. After automatic cailibration, reference was 0 db. So the HK doesn't quite work that way? And if not, how does one determine reference level?

Thanks for the responses.

The THX Reference Level is for their entire system gain specifications, so that all other THX components work properly especially for Pre-Amp to Main-In levels/impedances interfaces. Don't really understand what you are trying to do as these levels will vary between Select and Ultra 2 standards. Post more of your system objectives, then we can comment more, as we have setup numerous THX as well as JBL Synthesis systems which are all THX certified over the years...

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #7 · Feb 18, 2005

My objective is to hear the sound track at the level that the sound guy intended.

Quote:

THX Reference Level

Volume level designated to be used as the standard in THX certified theaters and home THX installations setting volume at 85 decibels when fed a continuous test tone and achieving 105 decibel peaks when the volume control is at the reference 0 decibel setting (0 decibels is reference on the volume control with negative numbers being the number of decibels below reference and positive number being the number of decibels above reference). The reference level is set using a test tone generated by a surround sound preamplifier and a sound pressure level meter (SPL meter) to measure the sound output or volume.

http://www.audiovideo101.com/diction...ctionaryid=439

Can the 635 be calibrated so I know at what volume setting I will acheive 105db peaks at the listening seat for a THX release like Terminator 2?

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M Code

· #8 · Feb 18, 2005

Set the channel trims for the sound stage using a reasonable reference level, when setting the channel trims the objective is to get the SPL equal at the listening position. Once the channel trims are set bring the Master Volume up so you have an SPL of 85dB @ the listening position. (Here also note the Master Volume dB setting for future reference) Next play your source material, on high dynamic portions the SPL should swing up 15-25dB on peaks.. However strongly suggest you proceed with caution as continued listening @ SPL levels > 100dB can do hearing damage.. As the 100dB can be very loud.. Also make sure your loudspeaker are capable of handling these high SPL levels as well. We have seen customers destroy very expensive loudspeakers by showing off their systems to their friends by playing some a high dynamic program demo clip..

Whenever we are at the track with our race cars, we always are wearing ear pads for protection as the SPL levels can exceed 150dB on the starting line..

especially prior to launch of our AA dragster that runs over 250 MPH..

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #9 · Feb 18, 2005

Got it. Thanks. I find that many action movies with wide dynamic swings need to be played at or near reference, or the dialogue can be too low in some spots. I sure wouldn't want a steady diet of explosions, though.

I don't have a very large room, and have hit reference with a lowly Panny XR50. I'm sure the HK will have no trouble. I was just wondering if it followed the THX convention of 0db = reference like my Lexicon did (which is THX certified, so no surprise there). Evidently not, but not a problem.

Thanks again.

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Brett_FL

· #10 · Feb 19, 2005

I don't understand that if 0 on the volume dial is reference level why does it run me out of the room? I keep reading post where people say they listen at reference level or that if listening at reference level isn't audibly comfortable, it may be time to rethink your system and room. All I know is that it is too loud for me. I am using a Denon 5700 THX receiver too.

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #11 · Feb 19, 2005

Have you calibrated your system with a meter making sure each speaker (including the sub) reads 75db (c weighted) referenced to that 0db volume dial setting?

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Brett_FL

· #12 · Feb 19, 2005

No I have not done this. Are these calibration options in the setup menu of the Denon AVR5700? I do have a meter from the shak but what would be used as a test tone to set the levels?

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #13 · Feb 19, 2005

I am not familiar with the 5700 but thx certified receivers generate their own test tones that would move around to each of the speakers. You would set your meter to 75db (using c weighting, slow) for each speaker. The receiver will have the ability to trim each channel so that they are all equal. Once calibrated, 0 db would be Dolby (or THX) reference level.

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CCarncross

· #14 · Feb 19, 2005

Brett, your system needs to be calibrated AND your room needs to be treated to properly listen at reference levels...

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #15 · Feb 19, 2005

It does amaze me that there are folks with high end receivers who have never calibrated their systems. They don't know what their missing.

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Brett_FL

· #16 · Feb 19, 2005

Is there a FAQ on calibrating and setting up for for reference level?

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tonygeno

Discussion Starter · #17 · Feb 19, 2005

Brett:

It should be pretty simple. Turn on your RS meter, set weightiing to C, meter speed to slow and the range from 70 to 80.

Then look at your manual and see how to activate the calibration tones. Your receiver will allow you to move from speaker to speaker and adjust the output (up or down). Your goal is to set each speaker to 75db. The receiver should automatically bring the main level up to 0db for calibration. Once you've set each speaker to 75 db you're done. Now, when you want to listen at reference, you set the volume control at 0. If you still find this too loud back off to a comfortable level. That's it.

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