The JVC RX-550VBK and RX-550VLBK are computer-controlled stereo receivers, designed for integrated audio and video system management. These models, released in February 1987, offer a range of features for both casual listening and more advanced home entertainment setups.
Function Description:
The receiver serves as the central hub for an audio-video system, allowing users to connect various components such as a turntable, CD player, cassette deck, VCRs, and a television. It integrates an FM/AM tuner, a graphic equalizer, and multiple input/output options.
Key functions include:
- Audio Signal Management: The receiver allows selection of various audio sources (PHONO, CD, TAPE 1, TAPE 2, VCR 1, VCR 2) for listening or recording. It features a built-in graphic equalizer (SEA) for sound customization across seven frequency bands (63 Hz, 160 Hz, 400 Hz, 1 kHz, 2.5 kHz, 6.3 kHz, 16 kHz), with five preset patterns (A, B, C, D, E) and a manual mode. The "Acoustic Expander" function enhances sound stage and stereo imaging. A "Loudness" control compensates for low-frequency loss at low volume levels.
- Video Signal Management: It supports two VCR inputs (VCR 1, VCR 2) and a monitor output, enabling users to watch video signals from connected sources or record them.
- FM/AM Tuner: The integrated tuner allows reception of FM and AM broadcasts. It supports up to 16 preset stations for each band and features auto-tuning, manual tuning, and preset scan functions. The AM channel spacing can be switched between 9 kHz and 10 kHz depending on the region. FM reception includes AUTO/ON and MONO/OFF modes for optimizing signal clarity, especially for weak or noisy stereo broadcasts.
- COMPU LINK System: This proprietary JVC system allows integrated control with other JVC components equipped with COMPU LINK-1/SYNCHRO terminals. This enables synchronized operations, such as automatic recording from a CD player to a cassette deck when the CD player starts playing.
- Power Management: The unit has a "STAND BY" mode, which keeps memory circuits active for preset stations and source selectors even when the main power is off, consuming a small amount of electricity (5 watts). For complete power shutdown, the power cord must be disconnected.
- Sleep Timer: Available via the remote control, the sleep timer allows setting an automatic power-off time in 10-minute increments up to 60 minutes.
- Balance Control: Adjusts the balance between left and right speakers.
- Headphone Output: A stereo headphone jack is provided for private listening and monitoring.
Important Technical Specifications:
Amplifier Section:
- Output Power:
- 60 watts per channel, min. RMS, both channels driven into 8 ohms from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, with no more than 0.007% total harmonic distortion.
- 65 watts per channel, min. RMS, both channels driven into 8 ohms at 1 kHz, with no more than 0.007% total harmonic distortion.
- 80 watts per channel, min. RMS, both channels driven into 8 ohms at 1 kHz, with no more than 0.007% total harmonic distortion.
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.005% (at 1 kHz, 8 ohms).
- Damping Factor: 40 (at 8 ohms, 1 kHz).
- Input Sensitivity/Impedance:
- PHONO: 2.5 mV/47 kohms
- CD, TAPE 1 PLAY, TAPE 2 PLAY, VCR 1 PLAY, VCR 2 PLAY: 220 mV/47 kohms
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A):
- PHONO: 71 dB (66 dB DIN)
- CD, TAPE 1 PLAY, TAPE 2 PLAY, VCR 1 PLAY, VCR 2 PLAY: 100 dB (77 dB DIN)
- Frequency Response:
- PHONO (RIAA equalization): 20 Hz - 20 kHz, +0.5 dB, -3 dB
- CD, TAPE 1 PLAY, TAPE 2 PLAY, VCR 1 PLAY, VCR 2 PLAY: 5 Hz - 50 kHz, +0 dB, -1 dB
- SEA Equalizer Frequencies: 63 Hz, 160 Hz, 400 Hz, 1 kHz, 2.5 kHz, 6.3 kHz, 16 kHz.
- Control Range: ±10 dB, ±1 dB.
FM Tuner Section:
- Tuning Range: 87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz.
- Usable Sensitivity: Mono 10.8 dBf (0.95 µV/75 ohms).
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A): Mono 82 dB, Stereo 73 dB.
- Total Harmonic Distortion (1 kHz): Mono 0.15%, Stereo 0.2%.
- Stereo Separation (1 kHz): 40 dB.
AM Tuner Section:
- Tuning Range: 522 kHz - 1,620 kHz (MW), 153 kHz - 279 kHz (LW).
- Sensitivity: Loop antenna: 300 µV/m, External antenna: 50 µV.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 50 dB.
Video Section:
- Output Signal Level: 1 Vp-p (at 1 Vp-p input).
- Input/Output Impedance: 75 ohms unbalanced.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 45 dB.
General:
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 mm x 117 mm x 329 mm (17-3/16 in. x 4-5/8 in. x 13 in.).
- Weight: 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs).
- Power Consumption: Varies by region (e.g., U.S.A./Canada: 120 V, 60 Hz, 380 watts; Continental Europe: 220 V, 50 Hz, 200 watts).
- AC Outlets (Switched): Max 250W (Continental Europe, U.K., Australia) or Max 150W (U.S.A., Canada, and other areas).
Usage Features:
- Front Panel Controls: A comprehensive array of buttons and indicators on the front panel allows direct control over all receiver functions, including source selection, tuning, equalizer adjustments, and volume. The display provides visual feedback on selected modes, frequencies, and equalizer settings.
- Antenna Connections: The receiver supports both AM loop antennas (provided) and external AM antennas for improved reception. For FM, it accommodates 75-ohm coaxial antennas and 300-ohm feeder antennas. A CATV control unit can be integrated for CATV programs or as a switching unit for two FM antennas.
- Speaker Connections: Two sets of speaker terminals (SPEAKERS 1 and SPEAKERS 2) are available, supporting speakers with an impedance of 8 ohms or more (16 ohms when both sets are used). For 4-ohm speakers (8 ohms when both sets are used), good ventilation is crucial.
- Voltage Selector: Allows adjustment of the operating voltage to match local power supply requirements (e.g., 120V, 220V, 240V). This is a critical feature for international use.
- Remote Control (Optional): While not explicitly detailed in the provided pages, the mention of a sleep timer on the remote control unit implies full remote operability for convenience.
Maintenance Features:
- Safety Precautions: The manual emphasizes safety, advising that all servicing should be performed by qualified personnel only. It warns against using non-specified parts and highlights the importance of proper wiring to prevent electrical shock and fire hazards.
- Fuse Holder: The receiver includes a fuse holder, indicating that fuses can be replaced if necessary, though specific instructions for replacement are not provided in the excerpt.
- Ventilation: The manual stresses the importance of good ventilation, especially when using lower impedance speakers, to prevent overheating.
- Connection Guidelines: Detailed instructions for connecting components, including correct polarity for speakers and proper left/right channel connections, are provided to ensure optimal performance and prevent hum or degraded stereo effects. It advises switching off power before connecting any component and ensuring firm plug/wire connections.
- Antenna Placement: Recommendations are given for optimal antenna placement to minimize noise and improve reception, such as changing the direction of the AM loop antenna or moving it away from speaker terminals.
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