Marantz SR8500 Receiver Manual

The Marantz SR8500 is a high-performance AV receiver featuring Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, 7-channel amplification (110W per channel), multiple audio/video inputs, digital coaxial and optical inputs, AM/FM tuner with 40 presets, advanced bass management, room calibration system, multi-room capability, and RS-232 control interface. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Audio Setup & Calibration 8. Multi-Room Operation 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-channel power amplifier, Dolby Digital/DTS decoder, AM/FM tuner, remote control, multiple audio/video inputs, speaker terminals, RS-232 interface.

Feature	Description
Power Output	110W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
Audio Decoding	Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II
Inputs	6 audio/video, 3 digital (2 optical, 1 coaxial)
Outputs	7.1 channel pre-outs, zone 2 audio
Tuner	AM/FM with 40 station presets
Bass Management	Adjustable crossover (40-200Hz)
Room Calibration	Auto setup with included microphone
Multi-room	Zone 2 audio capability
Control	RS-232 for custom installation
Remote	Learning remote with macro functions

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place in well-ventilated area.

Connect speakers: Use appropriate gauge wire for front, center, surround, and surround back channels.
Connect source devices: Use audio/video inputs for DVD players, game consoles, etc.
Connect digital sources: Use optical or coaxial inputs for digital audio.
Connect video display: Use component or composite video outputs.
Connect antenna: Attach AM loop and FM wire antennas.
Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block cooling vents. Use correct speaker impedance.

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; follow on-screen prompts or use front panel display.

Auto calibration: Connect calibration microphone and run auto setup.
Speaker configuration: Set speaker sizes (large/small) and distances.
Crossover settings: Configure bass management for optimal performance.
Input assignment: Assign digital inputs to specific sources.
Tuner setup: Auto-scan and store radio stations.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

Specifications

Power Output: 110W x 7 channels (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.05%
Frequency Response: 10Hz-100kHz (+1/-3dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB
Input Sensitivity: 200mV
Digital Inputs: 2 optical, 1 coaxial
Video Inputs: 3 component, 4 composite
Audio Inputs: 6 stereo pairs
Power Consumption: 650W maximum
Dimensions: 17-3/8" W x 6-3/4" H x 17-1/2" D
Weight: 41.9 lbs

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, TONE, SPEAKERS, SETUP. Display: Source input, volume level, surround mode.

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

Audio Settings: Bass, treble, balance, loudness, dynamic range compression. Video Settings: Component video conversion, resolution. Speaker Settings: Size, distance, level, crossover. Tuner: Preset memory, auto scan. System: Input rename, RS-232 control.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: CD player, turntable (with phono preamp), tape deck. Video Sources: DVD player, cable/satellite box, game console. Digital Sources: DVD-Audio, SACD, digital audio players.

Turn off receiver and devices before connecting.
Use high-quality cables for best performance.
Match input types to source outputs (analog/digital).
Assign digital inputs in setup menu.
Select source via INPUT SELECT button or remote.

Tip: Use component video for high-definition sources when possible.

Audio Setup & Calibration

Auto calibration system with included microphone.

Place microphone at primary listening position.
Access setup menu and select auto calibration.
Follow on-screen prompts; remain quiet during test tones.
Review results: speaker sizes, distances, levels.
Manual adjustments: Fine-tune speaker levels and distances.
Crossover settings: Set based on speaker capabilities.
Save settings to memory.

WARNING! Do not move microphone during calibration process.

Multi-Room Operation

Zone 2 capability for second room audio.

Setup: Assign Zone 2 source, connect speakers to Zone 2 terminals, control volume independently. Remote: Use remote in second room with IR receiver. Source Selection: Different sources in main zone and Zone 2.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Keep vents clear of dust.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners; avoid moisture near electrical components.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Marantz America, Inc. Dolby and DTS are registered trademarks. For support, visit www.marantz.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound	Speaker connections/mute	Check speaker wires; ensure not muted; verify input selection.
No video	Input selection/cables	Verify input source; check video cable connections.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstacles	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to IR sensor.
Overheating	Ventilation	Ensure adequate ventilation; clear vents of obstructions.
No digital audio	Input assignment	Verify digital input assignment in setup menu.
Poor radio reception	Antenna placement	Reposition antennas; ensure proper connection.

Reset: While powered on, press TONE and SPEAKERS simultaneously for 5 seconds.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center; www.marantz.com