Welcome to the Sony STR-DH550 User Manual, your comprehensive guide to understanding and optimizing your AV receiver. This manual covers setup, features, troubleshooting, and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and enhanced entertainment experiences.
1.1 Overview of the STR-DH550 AV Receiver
The Sony STR-DH550 is a 5;2 channel AV receiver designed for immersive home theater experiences; It delivers 145 watts per channel, supports Dolby Digital, and features an intuitive on-screen interface. Compatible with Android and iOS devices, it offers seamless connectivity and control. With 3D and 4K pass-through capabilities, it enhances video quality while maintaining high-fidelity audio. This receiver is built to integrate effortlessly with modern entertainment systems, providing both power and versatility for users seeking premium sound and convenience.
1.2 Importance of Reading the User Manual
Reading the Sony STR-DH550 user manual is essential for understanding the receiver’s features, setup, and troubleshooting. It provides safety precautions, warranty details, and optimization tips. The manual helps you navigate advanced settings, resolve common issues, and maximize performance. By following the guide, you can ensure proper installation, avoid errors, and fully utilize the receiver’s capabilities for an enhanced entertainment experience.
Key Features of the Sony STR-DH550
The Sony STR-DH550 is a powerful 5.2-channel AV receiver delivering 145 watts per channel, with Dolby Digital support, an intuitive on-screen interface, and seamless Android and iOS compatibility.
2.1 5.2 Channel Support
The Sony STR-DH550 features a 5.2-channel configuration, providing a robust home theater experience with two additional rear surround channels compared to a standard 5.1 setup. This enhances immersion by delivering more detailed and spatial sound. Each channel outputs 145 watts of power, ensuring dynamic audio performance. The 5.2-channel support allows for a more engaging listening experience, making it ideal for movies, gaming, and music.
2.2 145 Watts Per Channel Output
The STR-DH550 delivers 145 watts of power per channel, ensuring powerful and clear sound reproduction. This high output capability allows for dynamic audio, handling both subtle details and high-volume demands effortlessly. Whether you’re watching movies or listening to music, this robust power output enhances your entertainment experience, providing a balanced and immersive soundstage across all connected speakers.
2.3 Dolby Digital Support
The STR-DH550 supports Dolby Digital, delivering an immersive surround sound experience. This technology enhances audio clarity and depth, making movies and music more engaging. With Dolby Digital, you can enjoy precise dialogue and dynamic sound effects, creating a cinematic atmosphere in your home theater setup. The receiver’s compatibility with this format ensures high-quality audio reproduction, elevating your entertainment experience to new levels of realism and immersion.
2.4 On-Screen User Interface
The STR-DH550 features an intuitive on-screen user interface, simplifying setup and operation. This interface provides clear menus for adjusting settings, selecting inputs, and configuring audio preferences. With its user-friendly design, you can effortlessly navigate through options, ensuring a seamless entertainment experience. The interface displays essential information like input sources and sound modes, making it easy to customize your listening experience without complexity.
2.5 Compatibility with Android and iOS Devices
The STR-DH550 is designed to seamlessly integrate with both Android and iOS devices, offering effortless connectivity and control. Using the receiver’s on-screen interface, you can easily pair your smartphone or tablet, enabling wireless audio streaming and intuitive app control. This compatibility enhances your entertainment experience, allowing you to enjoy high-quality sound from your favorite devices with minimal setup and maximum convenience.
Setting Up the STR-DH550 Receiver
Setting up the STR-DH550 is straightforward, with step-by-step guidance for unboxing, physical installation, and connecting components. This section ensures a smooth setup process for optimal performance.
3.1 Unboxing and Physical Installation
Begin by carefully unboxing the STR-DH550, ensuring all components are included. Place the receiver on a stable, well-ventilated surface, away from direct sunlight. Position it in a central location for optimal connectivity. Handle the device with care to avoid damage. Follow the installation guide for proper placement and alignment. Ensure all cables and accessories are organized to maintain a clean setup.
3.2 Connecting Speakers and Subwoofers
Connect your speakers to the STR-DH550 by matching the positive and negative terminals to ensure proper sound output. Securely attach the front, center, and surround speakers to their respective ports. For the subwoofer, use the LFE or RCA cable to connect it to the receiver. Adjust the phase and crossover settings according to your preference. Double-check all connections to avoid signal loss or distortion. Refer to the manual for detailed wiring diagrams and configurations.
3.3 HDMI Setup and Configuration
Connect your HDMI devices to the STR-DH550 by linking source devices like Blu-ray players or gaming consoles to the receiver’s HDMI inputs. Use the correct HDMI ports for each device and ensure all cables are securely connected. Navigate to the on-screen menu to configure HDMI settings, such as enabling ARC (Audio Return Channel) or adjusting 4K and HDR support. Refer to the manual for specific device compatibility and optimal configuration tips.
3.4 Initial Calibration Using DCAC
Use the Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC) for precise speaker setup. Connect the provided microphone to the receiver and follow on-screen instructions. DCAC automatically adjusts speaker levels, distance, and frequency response for optimal sound. Ensure the room is quiet during calibration for accurate results. This feature ensures balanced audio output, enhancing your home theater experience with minimal effort and expertise required.
Using the Remote Control
The remote control provides easy navigation and control of the STR-DH550. Its intuitive layout allows seamless adjustment of settings, ensuring a smooth entertainment experience.
4.1 Remote Control Layout and Functions
The remote control for the STR-DH550 is designed for intuitive operation. It features a logical button layout, with keys for power, volume, and navigation. Dedicated buttons for input selection, sound settings, and menu access simplify adjustments; The remote also includes a numeric keypad for direct channel selection and a directional pad for easy menu navigation. Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable use, making it easy to control all receiver functions efficiently.
4.2 Programming the Remote for Other Devices
The STR-DH550 remote can be programmed to control other devices like TVs or Blu-ray players. Access the remote menu, select the device type, and enter the specific codes provided in the user manual. Follow on-screen instructions to sync the remote with your devices. This universal functionality streamlines control, reducing clutter and enhancing convenience for a seamless entertainment experience.
Operating the STR-DH550
Discover how to navigate and control the STR-DH550 with ease. Learn basic functions, adjust sound settings, and explore advanced features like sound field programs and video adjustments.
5.1 Basic Functions and Navigation
Master the STR-DH550’s essential operations, starting with turning it on/off via the power button. Use the remote to navigate menus, adjust volume, and switch inputs. The on-screen interface simplifies settings access, while the remote’s intuitive layout ensures seamless control. Familiarize yourself with key functions like input selection, volume adjustment, and menu browsing to enhance your entertainment experience.
5.2 Adjusting Sound Settings
Easily customize your audio experience by adjusting sound settings on the STR-DH550. Use the remote to tweak volume, tone, and balance. Access the equalizer to fine-tune frequencies for optimal sound. Enable surround sound modes or select from preset sound fields to match your content. Adjust subwoofer levels and channel calibration for a balanced output. These adjustments ensure your audio setup delivers clear, immersive sound tailored to your preferences and environment.
5.3 Using Sound Field Programs
The STR-DH550 offers various sound field programs to enhance your audio experience. Choose from modes like Cinema, Music, and Game to optimize sound for different content; Use the remote to select presets that simulate immersive environments, ensuring rich and lifelike audio. Adjust settings to customize the sound field according to your preference, creating a tailored listening experience for movies, music, or gaming sessions.
5.4 Video Functionality and Adjustments
The STR-DH550 supports advanced video functionality through HDMI, enabling high-quality output and seamless connectivity. Adjust video settings via the on-screen menu to optimize picture quality, including resolution and format. Use calibration tools to fine-tune brightness, contrast, and color balance for enhanced visuals. The receiver also supports upscaling, ensuring your content looks sharp on modern displays. Explore preset video modes tailored for movies, sports, or gaming to elevate your viewing experience.
Advanced Features of the STR-DH550
The STR-DH550 offers advanced features like A/V SYNC, Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC), and automatic sound calibration for optimal audio-visual synchronization and immersive sound quality. Customizable sound fields and enhanced video processing further elevate your entertainment experience.
6.1 A/V SYNC Function
The A/V SYNC function on the STR-DH550 ensures synchronized audio and video signals, eliminating delays for a seamless entertainment experience. This feature is particularly useful when connected to HDMI devices like Blu-ray players or gaming consoles. By adjusting audio delay, it guarantees that sound and visuals remain perfectly aligned, enhancing your movie and gaming sessions with precise timing and immersive quality.
6.2 Automatic Sound Calibration
The STR-DH550 features automatic sound calibration, optimizing speaker settings for your room’s unique acoustics. Using the DCAC (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration), it measures speaker distance and output levels. This ensures balanced sound across all channels, delivering clear dialogue and immersive surround effects. The process is quick and requires minimal user input, making it ideal for home theater enthusiasts seeking an accurate audio setup without the hassle of manual adjustments.
6.3 Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC)
Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC) fine-tunes your STR-DH550 for cinematic sound. It analyzes your room’s acoustics, adjusting speaker levels and delay settings for precise audio reproduction. DCAC ensures movies sound as intended, with clear dialogue and immersive effects. This advanced feature simplifies setup, delivering a professional-grade audio experience tailored to your space. It’s a key component of the receiver’s automatic calibration system, designed to enhance your home theater’s performance effortlessly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Address common issues like no sound, distorted audio, or connectivity problems with step-by-step solutions. Reset settings, check connections, or update firmware to restore optimal performance quickly.
7.1 No Sound or Distorted Sound
Check all connections for looseness or damage. Ensure the correct input is selected and volume is adjusted properly. Verify speaker settings match the receiver’s configuration. If using external devices, confirm they are powered on and functioning. Reset the receiver to factory settings if issues persist. Distorted sound may indicate incorrect speaker impedance or improper calibration. Refer to the manual for detailed troubleshooting steps to resolve audio issues effectively.
7.2 Connectivity Problems
Ensure all cables are securely connected to the correct ports. Restart the receiver and connected devices to resolve temporary glitches. Check HDMI settings for proper input selection. Verify network connections for wireless functionality. If using Bluetooth, pair devices correctly and ensure they are within range. Update firmware to the latest version for compatibility. If issues persist, reset the receiver to factory settings and reconfigure connections as outlined in the manual.
7.3 Remote Control Not Responding
If the remote control stops responding, check the batteries and ensure they are installed correctly. Verify that the remote is paired with the receiver. Avoid physical obstructions between the remote and receiver. Test the remote in an open area to rule out interference. Clean the remote’s infrared sensor and the receiver’s sensor. If issues persist, reset the receiver to factory settings and re-pair the remote as instructed in the manual.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Regularly clean the receiver with a soft cloth. Update firmware periodically. Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight.
8.1 Cleaning the Receiver
Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the exterior and vents. Avoid liquids, as they may damage internal components. For stubborn dust, gently use a dry, anti-static cloth. Clean knobs and buttons with a lightly dampened cloth, then dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can harm the finish or damage sensitive electronics. Regular maintenance keeps your receiver in prime condition.
8.2 Updating Firmware
Keep your STR-DH550 up-to-date by regularly checking for firmware updates. Visit Sony’s official support website, download the latest version, and transfer it to a USB drive. Insert the USB into the receiver, navigate to the menu, and select the update option. Follow on-screen instructions carefully to ensure a smooth installation. Updating firmware enhances performance, adds new features, and resolves potential issues. Never interrupt the update process to avoid system corruption.
8.3 Storing the Receiver Properly
When storing the STR-DH550, ensure it is placed in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Use the original packaging if available to protect against dust and damage. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of the receiver. Keep it upright to maintain internal components’ integrity. Store in a location with stable temperatures between 32°F and 95°F (0°C to 35°C). Proper storage preserves performance and longevity.
Additional Resources
For further assistance, refer to the full user manual available online; Explore Sony’s support website for FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and contact information for customer service.
9.1 Accessing the Full User Manual
To access the full user manual for the Sony STR-DH550, visit Sony’s official support website. Download the PDF version, which includes detailed instructions, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications. The manual is rated 8.7 by users and covers warranty information, setup procedures, and advanced features. Use the link provided to navigate directly to the download page and ensure you have the most up-to-date version for optimal use of your AV receiver.
9.2 Online Support and FAQs
Sony offers extensive online support and FAQs for the STR-DH550, addressing common issues and setup queries. Visit the official Sony support website to find answers to frequently asked questions, troubleshooting guides, and detailed explanations of features. Additionally, community forums and technical support pages provide resources to resolve issues quickly. Use these resources to enhance your understanding and ensure seamless operation of your AV receiver.
9.3 Contacting Sony Customer Service
For personalized assistance, contact Sony Customer Service directly. Visit the official Sony support website to find contact information, including phone numbers and live chat options. Representatives are available to address questions, troubleshooting, and technical support for your STR-DH550. Ensure to have your product details ready for efficient service. Support hours may vary by region, so check the website for specific availability.
The Sony STR-DH550 User Manual provides a detailed guide to maximizing your AV receiver’s potential. Explore its features, troubleshoot issues, and enjoy an enhanced audio-visual experience with confidence and ease;
10.1 Final Thoughts on the STR-DH550
The Sony STR-DH550 is an exceptional AV receiver offering robust features like 5.2-channel support and Dolby Digital, ensuring immersive audio. Its user-friendly interface and compatibility with Android and iOS devices enhance convenience. With proper setup and calibration, it delivers outstanding performance. Regular updates and maintenance will keep it functioning optimally, providing years of cinematic-quality entertainment for home theaters.
10.2 Encouragement to Explore More Features
Take full advantage of the STR-DH550’s advanced capabilities, such as its 5.2-channel support and 145W per channel output, to elevate your home theater experience. Experiment with sound fields, video adjustments, and the intuitive on-screen interface. Don’t hesitate to explore the remote control’s programmability for seamless integration with other devices. Dive into the additional resources and guides to uncover more tips and tricks for maximizing your receiver’s potential.