Sony TA-AV531 - User Manual

This document describes the Sony FM Stereo/FM-AM Tuner Amplifier System, which includes models STU-531, TA-AV531, and ST-JX431. This system functions as an integrated audio component for receiving radio broadcasts, amplifying audio signals, and providing surround sound capabilities.

Function Description

The core function of this system is to act as a central hub for various audio and video sources, providing amplification and tuning capabilities.

Tuner Functionality: The system includes an FM Stereo/FM-AM tuner, allowing users to receive both FM and AM radio broadcasts. It supports automatic and manual tuning, as well as the ability to store up to 30 preset stations across three memory pages (A, B, C). The AM tuning interval can be adjusted between 10 kHz and 9 kHz to match regional frequency allocation systems.
Amplifier Functionality: The amplifier system processes and amplifies audio signals from various input sources. It features multiple input terminals for connecting components such as a CD player, turntable, tape deck, and VCR. The amplifier also includes a dedicated phono input for turntables.
Surround Sound System: A key feature is its Dolby Pro Logic Surround Decoder, designed to reproduce a theater-like audio experience in a listening room. This allows the system to process specially encoded Dolby surround video programs. It supports various speaker configurations, including:
- PHANTOM mode: For setups without a center speaker, where the center channel sound is routed to the front speakers.
- NORMAL mode: For use with a small center speaker, with bass sound from the center channel output through the front speakers.
- WIDE mode: For use with a medium to large center speaker.
- 3CH mode: For setups without rear speakers. The system allows for adjustment of speaker volume levels for front, rear, and center speakers, as well as delay time for the rear speakers (15.0 ms, 20.0 ms, or 30.0 ms) to optimize the surround effect. It also includes "HALL" and "SIMULATED" surround modes for additional sound effects.
Audio Adjustment Features: The system offers comprehensive audio adjustment capabilities:
- Master Volume: Controls the overall sound level.
- Balance Control: Adjusts the relative strength of the right and left speaker outputs.
- DBFB (Dynamic Bass Feed Back): Reinforces bass sound, with an adjustable DBFB LEVEL control to emphasize bass, especially at lower volumes.
- 5-Band Graphic Equalizer: Allows for fine-tuning of sound quality across five frequency bands (100 Hz, 330 Hz, 1 kHz, 3.3 kHz, 10 kHz) to suit personal preference, room acoustics, or program quality.
Recording Functionality: The system enables recording from various input sources (CD, tuner, phono, video) to a connected tape deck. During recording, the master volume, graphic equalizer, balance, surround controls, and DBFB level control do not affect the recorded output, ensuring a pure signal.
Remote Control: A supplied remote commander (RM-U521) provides comprehensive control over the entire system, including power, input selection, tuner functions, amplifier settings (volume, surround modes, delay), and control of connected Sony components like CD players, VCRs, and LDPs.

Usage Features

The system is designed for user-friendly operation, with clear controls and indicators.

Input Selection: Program sources are easily selected via dedicated buttons on the front panel or the remote commander (VIDEO, TAPE, CD, TUNER, PHONO).
Tuning:
- Automatic Tuning: The AUTO TUNING mode automatically scans and stops at receivable stations.
- Manual Tuning: Allows for precise tuning to desired frequencies.
- Memory Storage: Stations can be stored into memory pages (A, B, C) and recalled using numeric buttons.
- Memory Scanning: The MEMORY SCAN function allows users to quickly scan through stored stations.
Surround Sound Engagement: The SURROUND button activates the surround mode, and specific Dolby Pro Logic modes (PHANTOM, NORMAL, WIDE, 3CH) or SURR MODE (HALL, SIMULATED) can be selected to match the speaker setup and desired effect.
Speaker Volume Adjustment: Individual volume levels for rear and center speakers can be adjusted using dedicated controls on the front panel or remote commander, especially useful when setting up the surround sound with a test tone.
Delay Time Adjustment: The DELAY TIME button on the front panel or remote commander allows users to select the optimal delay for rear speakers.
Headphone Output: A HEADPHONES jack is provided for private listening, automatically muting the speakers when headphones are connected.
System Control Connection: A SYSTEM CONTROL cord (supplied) connects the amplifier and tuner, enabling integrated control of both units.
Antenna Connections: The system supports both supplied AM loop and FM wire antennas, with options for connecting external outdoor FM antennas (75-ohm coaxial or 300-ohm twin-lead) for improved reception.

Maintenance Features

The manual provides guidelines for proper care and troubleshooting to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the system.

Safety Precautions: Emphasizes operating the unit on 120 V AC, 60 Hz, and unplugging it if any foreign object or liquid enters the unit, or if it will not be used for an extended period. It also warns against exposing the unit to rain or moisture to prevent fire or shock hazards.
Installation Guidelines: Recommends placing the unit on a level surface with adequate air circulation, away from heat sources, direct sunlight, excessive dust, and mechanical vibration. It advises against blocking ventilation holes on the bottom or placing anything on top of the cabinet to prevent internal heat buildup.
Cabinet Cleaning: Suggests cleaning the cabinet, panel, and controls with a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution, avoiding abrasive pads, scouring powder, or solvents like alcohol or benzine.
Repacking: Advises retaining the original carton and packing material for safe transport of the unit.
Battery Maintenance: Instructions for inserting batteries into the remote commander are provided, along with a recommendation to remove batteries if the commander will not be used for a long period to prevent leakage and corrosion.
Troubleshooting Guide: A comprehensive troubleshooting section helps users diagnose and resolve common issues such as no audio, audio from only one channel, lack of bass, noise, remote commander malfunction, or issues with surround sound and turntable connections. It guides users to check connections, settings, and antenna adjustments before consulting a Sony dealer.
Speaker Connection Polarity: Stresses the importance of connecting speaker cords with correct polarity (+ and -) to avoid distorted sound and lack of bass.
Speaker Impedance and Power Capacity: Informs users about the recommended speaker impedance (8 to 16 ohms for front/rear, 4 to 16 ohms for center) and power handling capability to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

Sony TA-AV531 Specifications

General

Type	Audio/Video Receiver
Input Sensitivity	150 mV (line)
Video Connections	Composite Video Input/Output
Dimensions	430 x 155 x 375 mm
Output	Speaker Output
Speaker load impedance	8 ohms