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The Arcam AV8/9 is a high-fidelity audio/video preamplifier/processor designed to bring music and movies to life. It serves as the central hub for a home entertainment system, managing audio and video signals from various sources and processing them for optimal output to amplifiers and displays. The AV8/9 is built with a focus on sound quality and user flexibility, offering a range of features for both standard and custom installations.
The primary function of the Arcam AV8/9 is to process multi-channel audio and video signals. It supports various surround sound formats, including THX Ultra 2, Dolby Digital, Pro Logic II, DTS-ES, and DTS Neo6, ensuring an immersive audio experience for movies and music. The device acts as a sophisticated signal router, allowing users to switch between different audio and video sources such as DVD players, satellite receivers, VCRs, CD players, tuners, and tape decks. It also includes a phono/aux input for connecting turntables or other auxiliary devices.
For video, the AV8/9 handles both composite and S-video signals, providing a clean output to a display. In custom installations, it offers advanced features like Zone 2 output, allowing a second independent audio/video zone to be set up in another room. This means different content can be enjoyed in two separate areas simultaneously. The device also features trigger outputs, which can be configured to power on/off connected amplifiers, such as the Arcam P7, and control Zone 2, simplifying system operation.
The Arcam AV8/9 is designed for intuitive operation, whether through its front panel controls, a remote control, or integrated custom installation systems.
Software Version Menu: Users can easily check the current software versions for various audio processing technologies (THX, Dolby Digital, DTS, etc.) by pressing a specific combination of front panel buttons (
Engineering Menu: This advanced menu provides access to deeper system configurations. It can be accessed by pressing
Zone 2 Control: The AV8/9 provides comprehensive control over a second audio/video zone. When viewed from Zone 2, an on-screen menu allows users to adjust volume, select audio and video inputs independently, and even monitor the status and volume of Zone 1. This menu also allows for recording to tape or VCR from Zone 2 sources. A useful feature is the ability to monitor Zone 2 audio output via the front panel headphone jack, which can be configured through the main menu. This is particularly helpful for diagnosing if a Zone 2 source is operating correctly, even if no audio is heard in Zone 2 itself, indicating a potential cabling issue.
Remote Control Identification (RC5): A diagnostic tool allows users to identify RC5 commands from any Arcam or non-Arcam device. By pressing
Set-up Menu Lock: For custom installations, the AV8/9 includes a "Menu Lock" function (available from V3 software onwards). This feature allows installers to safeguard their calibrations and system configurations from accidental changes by end-users. By pressing and holding
CR80 Remote Aux Page Configuration: The AV8/9 can be configured to work with the Arcam CR80 remote control, specifically utilizing its Aux page for system code 19. This involves pressing the
While the Arcam AV8/9 is designed for robust performance, certain features and considerations contribute to its long-term reliability and ease of maintenance.
Software Updates: The availability of software versions, accessible via the Arcam dealer extranet, ensures that the AV8/9 can be kept up-to-date with the latest audio processing algorithms and bug fixes. This proactive approach to software maintenance helps in extending the lifespan and enhancing the performance of the device.
Restore Defaults: The "Restore Defaults" option in the Engineering Menu allows users to revert the AV8/9 to its original factory settings. This is a crucial maintenance feature for troubleshooting complex configuration issues or preparing the unit for a new installation.
Diagnostic Tools: The "Diagnostics" option in the Engineering Menu, primarily for Arcam use, indicates the presence of internal diagnostic capabilities that can assist technicians in identifying and resolving hardware or software issues. The RC5 remote command identification tool also serves as a user-accessible diagnostic aid for remote control functionality.
Front Panel IR RX Control: The ability to disable the front panel IR receiver in the Engineering Menu is a maintenance-friendly feature for systems that rely solely on RS232 control. This prevents potential conflicts or unintended commands from external IR sources, ensuring stable operation in integrated environments.
Trigger Output Configuration: The rear panel trigger lead configuration, particularly for Zone 1 and Zone 2, allows for automated power cycling of connected amplifiers. This not only simplifies daily operation but also helps in maintaining the system by ensuring components are powered on and off in the correct sequence, potentially reducing wear and tear. The 3.5mm stereo inputs for Zone 1 and 2 also provide a +12V regulated power supply, though with a maximum current of 100mA. This highlights the importance of using external regulated power supplies for power-hungry devices like keypads to prevent overloading the AV8/9's internal power supply and ensure system stability.
Cabling Considerations: The manual emphasizes the importance of correctly prepared and stable custom-made 3.5mm phono link cables. This highlights a key maintenance aspect: the overall reliability of the system is dependent on the quality of its weakest link, including cabling. Ensuring high-quality, properly terminated cables is essential for consistent performance and to avoid intermittent issues.
The Arcam AV8/9 is a versatile and powerful preamplifier/processor, offering a blend of high-end audio performance, flexible usage options, and practical maintenance features, making it suitable for a wide range of home entertainment setups.
General| Brand | Arcam |
|---|---|
| Model | AV8 |
| Category | Computer Hardware |
| Language | English |
