Sony SQA-2030 - Page 2

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the superb new world of SQ four-channel sound,
now yours via the Sony SQA-2030 SQ Decoder/Amplifier.
SQ Four-channel sound is a method of reproducing the original
sound of an orchestra or live performance in the most realistic
manner possible to date, by utilizing four separate sound pickups
that encompass the source or sources of the sound. See the
illustration below. These four sound signals are then combined
into two, so that they can be recorded on a phonograph record
or tape, or broadcast over an fm stereo station. This complex
mixing process is called SQ encoding and was developed by
CBS Laboratories, with the home consumer equipment subse-
quently being developed by Sony.
Before the recorded or transmitted program is heard by the
listener, it undergoes the reverse process, called SQ decoding,
which recreates the original four sound signals, that in turn
feed four loudspeakers so located as to simulate the original
recording sound field. These four sound channels permit a
tremendous improvement over stereo in the accuracy of the repro-
duced sound, in that it is possible to duplicate the “ambience”
of the concert hall or auditorium, and to very precisely establish
the location of a sound, such as that of an instrument or vocalist.
Ambience is the blending of the original source sounds with their
reflections from the floor, ceiling and walls of the concert hall
or auditorium. It can only be duplicated later by surrounding
oneself with sound, as is done in four-channel reproduction.
With four sound sources available, it is possible to place the
apparent position of a sound anywhere in the area bounded by
the loudspeakers, whether in front, behind, or to the sides of
the listener, whereas in stereo one can only position a sound
in a line between the two speakers.
These two innovations, the duplication of original scene am-
bience, and a precise spatial positioning make four-channel the
great thing that it is—the means of reproducing sound with a
clarity, detail and sense of presence that virtually duplicates the
original.
Microphones
Live acoustic field
(concert hall) sa
encoder
S
Microphones
SQ system
Two-channel re-
cord, tape or fm
ee
SSE
FEATURES
@Full quadraphonic reproduction from SQ, other type matrix,
and discrete four-channel programs merely by adding the
SQA-2030 and two back speakers to your existing sound
system.
@ Full logic decoder with the advanced Sony SOQ ICs: Front-back
logic and waveform comparator logic circuits establish sufficient
channel separation to “localize” the musicians where they
belong. You will hear music indistinguishable from the original
master tape and feel that you are actually in a concert hall.
@True compatibility with conventional two-channel stereo: The
value of your existing stereo records and tapes will be en-
hanced because many two-channel recordings gain in “depth”
when reproduced as a simulated four-channel sound. Two-
channel reproduction is also available if desired.
e@Clear and powerful amplifier for back channel: Employing
hybrid ICs, the SQA-2030 assures sufficient power for the
most difficult musical passage. Suitable amounts of negative
feedback are applied to maintain flat response and low dis-
tortion.
@ Convenience provisions are; master volume control, front/back
balance control and loudness switch on all four channels and
back balance and tone controls for the back channels.
The connection and operation of the SQA-2030 will offer no
difficulties if you read carefully through this manual and make
each step as directed. Keep this manual for future reference.
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