Marantz SR18EX Manual

The Marantz SR18EX is a high-end AV receiver featuring Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, THX certification, 7-channel amplification (110W per channel), multiple audio/video inputs including 6 audio, 5 video, and 3 component video inputs, digital inputs (coaxial and optical), AM/FM tuner with 40 presets, advanced bass management, room calibration, and RS-232 control interface. Below are key sections for setup, operation, features, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-channel power amplifier, Dolby Digital/DTS decoder, THX Ultra certification, RS-232 control interface, multi-room capability, advanced bass management.

Feature	Description
Power Output	110W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
Audio Decoding	Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II
Video Inputs	5 composite, 3 S-Video, 3 component video
Audio Inputs	6 analog, 3 coaxial digital, 3 optical digital
Tuner	AM/FM with 40 station presets
THX Certification	THX Ultra for home theater performance
Bass Management	Adjustable crossover (40-200Hz)
Multi-room	Zone 2 audio output capability
RS-232	For custom installation control
Remote Control	Learning remote with macro functions

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place receiver in well-ventilated area.

1. Connect speakers: Use heavy-gauge speaker wire for all 7 channels.
2. Connect video sources: Use component video for best quality; composite/S-video for secondary sources.
3. Connect audio sources: Use digital inputs for DVD/CD players; analog for legacy devices.
4. Connect subwoofer: Use LFE output for powered subwoofer.
5. Connect antenna: AM loop and FM wire antennas included.
6. Plug into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation - minimum 4 inches clearance on all sides. Unit generates significant heat during operation.

First-Time Configuration

Power on receiver; follow on-screen setup menu.

1. Speaker setup: Configure speaker sizes (large/small) and distances.
2. Crossover settings: Set appropriate crossover frequency (typically 80Hz).
3. Input assignment: Assign digital inputs to corresponding sources.
4. Tuner setup: Auto-scan and store FM/AM stations.
5. Test tones: Use internal test tones to verify speaker connections.
6. Room EQ: Run automatic room calibration if available.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on. Double-check speaker polarity.

Technical Specifications

• Power Output: 110W x 7 channels (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.05% THD)
• Frequency Response: 10Hz-100kHz (+1/-3dB)
• Signal-to-Noise: 100dB (line level)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.05% (20Hz-20kHz)
• Input Sensitivity: 200mV (line), 2.5mV (MM phono)
• Video Bandwidth: 100MHz (component video)
• Digital Inputs: 3 coaxial, 3 optical
• Dimensions: 17-3/8" W x 6-3/4" H x 17-1/2" D
• Weight: 45.5 lbs (20.6 kg)
• Power Consumption: 650W maximum

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER, INPUT SELECTOR, VOLUME, TONE controls, HEADPHONE jack, SETUP button.

Remote Control: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, SURROUND MODE, TONE, SETUP, numeric keypad.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Loudness, Night mode. Surround Modes: Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II, Stereo, Direct. Setup Menu: Speaker configuration, input assignment, tuner presets, system options. Display: Source input, volume level, surround mode, audio format.

Input/Output Connections

Rear Panel: Speaker terminals (7 channels), component video (3 inputs), composite video (5 inputs), S-video (3 inputs), analog audio (6 inputs), digital audio (3 coaxial, 3 optical), preamp outputs, RS-232, trigger outputs.

1. Turn off receiver before making connections.
2. Match cable types to appropriate inputs (component to component, etc.).
3. Use high-quality cables for best performance.
4. Assign digital inputs in setup menu for proper decoding.

Tip: Use banana plugs for secure speaker connections. Keep audio and video cables separated to reduce interference.

Audio Setup & Calibration

Advanced audio configuration for optimal performance.

1. Speaker levels: Adjust individual channel levels using test tones.
2. Speaker distances: Set delay times for proper sound synchronization.
3. Crossover settings: Configure based on speaker capabilities (typically 80Hz).
4. Bass management: Direct LFE and bass signals appropriately.
5. Room EQ: Use automatic calibration if equipped.
6. Surround modes: Select appropriate mode for content type.
7. Dynamic range: Adjust for late-night viewing if needed.

WARNING! Avoid extreme volume levels that could damage speakers or hearing.

Remote Control Operation

Learning remote with macro capability for system control.

Button	Function
POWER	Turns receiver on/off
INPUT SELECT	Cycles through source inputs
VOLUME +/-	Adjusts master volume
MUTE	Temporary audio mute
SURROUND MODE	Selects decoding mode
SETUP	Accesses configuration menu
Numeric Keypad	Direct input selection, tuner presets
MACRO	Programs multiple commands

Maintenance & Care

Unplug unit before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Compressed air for ventilation ports.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners. Ensure unit is completely powered off and unplugged before any maintenance. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Class B compliant. CE marked. THX Ultra certified. Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. DTS and DTS-ES are registered trademarks. For technical support, contact Marantz America at 1-800-370-3748 or visit www.marantz.com.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord, circuit breaker	Check power connection; verify outlet function; check circuit breaker.
No sound	Speaker connections, input selection	Verify speaker wires; check input selection; ensure volume not muted.
No video	Cable connections, input assignment	Check video cables; verify input assignment in setup menu.
Remote not working	Batteries, obstacles, distance	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to IR sensor; reduce distance.
Overheating	Ventilation, placement	Ensure adequate ventilation; move to cooler location; check for obstructions.
No digital sound	Input assignment, cable issues	Verify digital input assignment; check coaxial/optical cables.

Reset Procedure: Hold SURROUND MODE and TONE buttons while powering on for factory reset.

Service Information: 1-800-370-3748; www.marantz.com