Setting the AV receiver correctly: How to optimize your sound

With AV receivers, you can optimize the sound with just a few settings. In this practical tip, we explain how you should set up your receiver in order to achieve the best sound impression.

Optimal sound settings in AV receivers

Each AV receiver has different settings to optimize the sound for your home theater. In the following list we explain the most common setting options and what results they bring:

• Setting: You can often specify the size of your speakers as "Small" or "Large" for AV receivers. Read in the operating instructions when exactly your speaker is considered "Large".
• Result: From about 12 to 15 cm membrane diameter, speakers are considered large and require a slightly smaller deflection for the reproduction of low frequencies.
• Setting: If you only have two to three front speakers, you should definitely deactivate the Surround / Back / Rear channels in the menu of the AV receiver or set "no" or "none".
• Result: The reason is that most DVDs use Dolby Digital or other 5.1 formats, which allows programs to downmix the 5.1 channels to 2 channels. In this way, the Atmo sounds are given to the front speakers in small proportions so that you do not miss any of the sound.
• Setting: With good AV receivers, you can set the distances between the speakers or a delay. Stereo and surround systems should be set up according to ITU-R BS.775-1. Here, all speakers are equidistant from the listening position. The best way to measure distances is to tape a tape measure to the speaker and guide it to your sitting position. In another article we explain how you can best position your speakers in the room.
• Result: If you enter the measured distances into the AV receiver or determine the delay by dividing the distance by 343 m / s, the signals for the loudspeaker are delayed so that all signals are simultaneously on the so- called "sweet spot", the optimal listening position arrive. The sound source localization is optimized and no comb filter effects disturb the sound.
• Setting: If a calibration or calibration microphone was supplied with your AV receiver, be sure to follow the instructions.
• Result: Manufacturers usually measure the frequency and phase response as well as the spatial radiation characteristics of good loudspeakers. However, your listening room creates unpredictable spectral changes. You can counteract this with a good calibration measurement in order to produce a homogeneous sound.
• Setting: If your AV receiver cannot be calibrated, manually create a homogeneous spectrum using equalizer settings. In another practical tip, we will show you how.
• Result: If you have optimally adjusted the equalizer with a familiar signal, such as your favorite music, the film sound will also be more natural.
• Setting: Set subwoofer and crossover.
• Result: If you use our practical tips to set your subwoofer and the cut-off frequency correctly, the bass of your audio-video system will sound full without being booming, and the transition from low to medium frequencies will be smooth, without sudden changes.

In further practical tips, we will show you what to look for in the home cinema screen and explain the differences between stereo and surround and between Dolby Surround and Dolby Digital. We will also introduce you to the best AV receivers with Airplay and show you how to stream music via AV receivers.