Ada ADA 6.1 Owner's manual

Brand: Ada

Model: ADA 6.1

Type: Owner's manual

This manual is also suitable for

ADA 6.1

AMPx4

ADA 6.1 Surround Processor

& 4 Channel Power Amplifier

Operations &

Installation Manual

Audio Design Associates, Inc., 602-610 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY, 10605, (914) 946-9595, FAX (914) 946-9620

Contents

Safety Instructions & Electrical Warning......................................1

Before You Begin ............................................................................2

Introduction .....................................................................................3

Frequently Asked Questions..........................................................4

ADA 6.1 Processor Features ..........................................................6

AMPx4 Four Channel Power Amplifier Features..........................7

Connection of the ADA 6.1 to Preamp & Amp ..............................8

Connection of the Power-On Trigger ............................................9

6.1 Speaker Placement .................................................................10

Using Banana Pin Connectors (AMPx4) .....................................11

Connection of the ADA 6.1 & AMPx4 to a 5.1 Receiver .............12

Connection of the ADA 6.1 & AMPx4 to a 5.1 Receiver .............14

Filters, Calibration, and Testing...................................................16

Page 1

Safety Instructions & Electrical Warning

READ INSTRUCTIONS - All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is

operated.

RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS - The operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

HEED WARNING - All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS - All operating and use instructions should be followed.

WATER AND MOISTURE - The appliance should not be used near water - for example, near a bathtub,

washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.

LOCATION - The appliance should be installed in a stable location.

WALL OR CEILING MOUNT - The appliance should not be mounted to a wall or ceiling.

VENTILATION - The appliance should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its

proper ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug or similar

surface that may block the ventilation openings.

HEAT - The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,

stoves, or other appliances that produce heat.

POWER SOURCES - The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in

the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.

GROUNDING - Make sure that this unit is always connected to a standard three-prong grounded outlet

(the circular pin is ground). When operating this unit at a higher voltage with a different power cord

configuration, consult your dealer for the proper power cord/outlet combination to use

before operat-

ing this unit.

POWER CORD PROTECTION - Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be

walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at

plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.

CLEANING - The appliance should be cleaned only with a polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. Never clean

with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or other volatile liquids since they may corrode the face plate.

POWER LINES - An outdoor antenna should be located away from power lines.

NONUSE PERIODS - The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left

unused for a long period of time.

OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY - Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled

into the enclosure through openings.

DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE - The appliance should be serviced by an authorized service center or

qualified service personnel when:

• The power supply cord or plug has been damaged; or

• Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the appliance; or

• The appliance has been exposed to rain; or

• The appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked

change in performance; or

• The appliance has been dropped; or the enclosure has been damaged.

SERVICING - The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating

instructions. For all other service requirements, the user should contact an Authorized Dealer or

Service Center.

IMPORTANT

The lightning flash with the arrow-

head, within an equilateral triangle,

is intended to alert the user of the

presence of uninsulated "danger-

ous voltage" within the product's

enclosure that may be of suffi-

cient magnitude to constitute a

risk of electrical shock to persons.

The exclamation point within the

equilateral triangle is intended to

alert the user of the presence of

important operating and mainte-

nance (servicing) instruction in the

literature accompanying the ap-

pliance.

CAUTION: TO PREVENT RISK

OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO

NOT REMOVE COVER (OR

BACK). NO USER-SERVICE-

ABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER

SERVICING TO QUALIFIED

SERVICE PERSONNEL.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO

RAIN OR MOISTURE. REPLACE FUSE ONLY AS MARKED.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT PLUG THIS UNIT INTO ANY OUTLET OR EXTENSION

CORD WITHOUT THE STANDARD THREE-PRONG CONFIGURATION, WHERE THE CIRCULAR HOLE

IS USED FOR THE GROUND PLUG. ANY UNITS NOT SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES OR CANADA

ARE NOT SUPPLIED WITH A POWER CORD. THEREFORE, AN AUDIO DESIGN ASSOCIATES DEALER

SHOULD BE CONSULTED BEFORE CONNECTING THIS UNIT TO

ANY POWER SOURCE.

LINE VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCH AND REMOVABLE POWER CORD:

THIS UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH A VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCH. IN MOST CASES, THIS SWITCH

WILL REMAIN IN THE 115V POSITION (SEE PICTURE BELOW), WHICH IS HOW THE UNIT LEAVES

THE FACTORY. HOWEVER, IF YOU WANT TO OPERATE THE UNIT IN AN AREA THAT USES THE

230V SETTING, CONSULT YOUR DEALER

BEFORE PLUGGING THE UNIT IN. IN A CASE WHERE

THE 230V SETTING WOULD BE NEEDED, AUDIO DESIGN ASSOCIATES WILL NOT PROVIDE A POWER

CORD FOR THE UNIT. THEREFORE, THE USER MUST CONSULT AN AUTHORIZED DEALER OR

ADA TO OBTAIN THE PROPER POWER CORD, AS WELL. MAKE SURE THAT THE VOLTAGE SELEC-

TOR SWITCH IS IN THE PROPER POSITION AND THAT YOU HAVE THE CORRECT POWER CORD

BEFORE THIS UNIT IS PLUGGED IN AND OPERATED!

115 V

Page 2

Before You Begin

As you remove the ADA 6.1 Processor and AMPx4 Four Channel Power Amplifier from its packaging,

inspect the condition of the component prior to proceeding with the following steps for AC connection.

In the event that these components appear to have suffered cosmetic damage due to shipping, please

contact your Authorized ADA Dealer immediately and

do not proceed to plug the units into an AC

outlet.

Caution

Before plugging your transformer for the ADA 6.1 into the ADA 6.1, check that the transformer meets

the specification for the ADA 6.1 of 12V AC, 500 mA.

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

Transformer Specs.

120V, 60Hz, 18W Input

12VAC, 500mA Output

12VAC

500mA

System not operating on 115V AC (i.e. 230VAC International Customers)

The ADA 6.1 Processor is shipped with a 115VAC to 12VAC (500 mA) power supply. While the ADA

6.1 Processor can be used on any system, the external power supply (transformer) cannot. As such,

owners of systems operating on 230VAC will need to acquire locally, an appropriate power trans-

former.

The AMPx4 can be specially ordered to operate on 230VAC. Units modified to operate on this voltage

are specifically marked as such. If your unit is not marked as 230VAC capable, do not plug it into a

230VAC outlet. For international customers using the AMPx4, you will need to connect a male AC

connector to the AMPx4’s power cord.

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

Page 3

Introduction

Introduction to ADA 6.1 Surround

ADA 6.1 Surround is best described as an enhancement to 5.1 encoding formats such as Dolby Digital

(AC-3) and DTS. It takes advantage of 5.1’s added stereo separation that is now available between

the left and right surround sound channels. Because 5.1 material provides discrete left and right

surround channel data, these two channels can simultaneously play either different information, the

exact same information, or a combination of both. When the two surround channels are playing the

same information, a collapsed stereo image is created. The identical data present in both channels is

called a mono-mix. When a listener hears a mono-mix in the surround channels. They perceive that

the sound is coming from somewhere in the back, even though the audio signals are actually emanat-

ing from the surround right and left. While this imaginary sonic footprint in the back of the room is

effect, the inclusion of the ADA 6.1 Processor on a 5.1 system, dramatically increases the sense of

realism in the surround channels. Instead of imagining the sounds as coming from somewhere be-

hind the listener, the sounds are directed to an actual speaker(s), raising the level of realism and

excitement.

When the two surround channels play the exact same information, the ADA 6.1 goes to work. It takes

the mono-mix between these two channels and extracts the audio information. This information is

removed from the right and left surround channels and sent out to the ADA 6.1’s Back Right and Back

Left outputs. As such, when the ADA 6.1 is active, all surround channels are being processed. To

permit one to properly balance the surround channels, the ADA 6.1 features four level control attenu-

ators that adjust both right and left surround levels, as well as back-right surround and back-left sur-

round channels. When using only one back-surround speaker, select either the back right or left

channel. The ADA 6.1 also features an auto-balance circuit which assists in balancing input levels

between the right and left surround channel inputs. The ADA 6.1 also has a bass redirection circuit

that allows one to send the back-surround bass information to the surround right and left channels.

Please note, that most 5.1 home theater processors already manage the bass information, commonly

redirecting all low frequency data to the subwoofer. Finally, the ADA 6.1 also features a low voltage

power on/bypass trigger, permitting the ADA 6.1 to be engaged from either the Cinema Reference

(Ver. 1.84 or greater) when only 5.1 decoding is taking place. This trigger can also be used in conjunc-

tion with control systems (i.e. touch screen systems) so that a button on the remote control can turn

the ADA 6.1 on or into bypass mode. Because the ADA 6.1 uses Reed Relays for bypass control,

when the ADA 6.1 is off, it is in a true bypass mode with no processing taking place at all. The

surround channel inputs are then simply directed to the outputs for amplification.

To augment the ADA 6.1 Processor, ADA also offers the AMPx4 Four Channel Power Amplifier. This

component is actually two devices in one. Its primary function is that of a power amplifier. As most 5.1

receivers are void of “processor loops” (the ability to take a decoded signal and externally route back

into the receiver’s power amplifier stage), 6.1 users will need an external power amplifier, not just for

the new Back Surround speakers, but also for the existing (but now 6.1 processed) left and right

surround channels. Furthermore, as many 5.1 receivers do not even have line-level surround audio

outputs, the AMPx4 features a speaker to line-level audio convertor. Thus, one can take a 5.1 receiver’s

speaker level surround right and left audio outputs, convert them to line-level, process them through

the ADA 6.1, and then re-amplify them through the AMPx4.

While all this sounds complex, adding an ADA 6.1 to a 5.1 home theater system is extremely easy. All

you may really need is an extra speaker and some interconnects. As you look through this manual,

there are three applications, one of which will apply to you. The first involves a high-end 5.1 preampli-

fier. The second involves a 5.1 receiver with surround channel audio line-level outputs. Finally, the

third option is for even the most basic 5.1 receivers. A world of inclusion for anyone interested in

upgrading to ADA 6.1 Surround.

Page 4

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is ADA 6.1 Surround a new decoding format?

The answer is no. Unlike the technology differences between Dolby Prologic and Dolby Digital or

DTS, ADA 6.1 Surround is not a new encode/decode format.

Is ADA 6.1 Compatible with Dolby Digital or DTS software?

Yes, the ADA 6.1 is compatible with Dolby Digital and DTS software, but it is important to note, only if

these mixes are recorded in a 5.1 format. Two channel mixes do exist, even though, they are encoded

on DVD’s locked into Dolby Digital. For example, many older movies, both those mixed in stereo or

mono, are available on DVD.

Is ADA 6.1 Compatible with upcoming Surround EX software?

Actually, here we have a resounding yes. Software mixed in Surround EX has been intentionally

designed around the existence of a back surround sound speaker channel. While a great deal of 5.1

material will sound better in ADA 6.1 Surround, the software mixed in Surround EX will playback as the

creators intended it to on the ADA 6.1 Processor.

Why will my home theater sound different when playing it through the ADA 6.1

Processor?

While movies mixed in Surround EX are designed around a speaker array based on six channels and

a subwoofer, most 5.1 encoded films are based on a five speaker array and subwoofer. These perfor-

mances where not intended to be utilized in systems with six primary speakers. However, a great

many were designed to create a sense of a center-point, between the right and left surround channels.

The ADA 6.1 Processor augments this experience.

How does the ADA 6.1 enhance 5.1 soundtracks?

Essentially, whenever the left and right surround speakers play the same information, the ADA 6.1

removes this signal from these speakers and sends it out of a back-surround speaker. While regular

5.1 films didn’t have the benefit of a back-surround speaker in the mixing rooms, sound engineers

where able to create an imaginary back sound by simply mixing the levels of the right and left channels

equally. When these channels play a mono-mix, they create a collasped stereo image and as such,

an imaginary sonic foot print somewhere between the two surround speakers. The ADA 6.1 can take

this audio image and play it out through a back speaker.

How does the ADA 6.1 Processor effect sound tracks?

For example, as a jet flies across the back of the room, in standard 5.1 environments, the left surround

speaker first fills with sound. Then the right surround speaker begins to fill with the same signal.

Slowly at first and then increasing, until the sounds are equal in both speakers. At this time, the

listener imagines the sound to be somewhere behind them or over them. As the jet finishes its sweep,

the left speaker lowers in level until only the right speaker remains and then, it too, drifts off. While 5.1

systems play this transition effectively, adding the ADA 6.1 Processor to the system for ADA 6.1 Sur-

round augments and enhances the transition by placing the imagined sounds in an real speaker. It

extremely expands the sound stage for both slow and quick moving transitions.

How does the ADA 6.1 Processor handle high-speed sound images?

Fast moving effects sound more real in ADA 6.1 Surround because while the sound engineer may

have intended a 5.1 mix to create an imaginary back-surround effect, some sounds move so fast that

the listener does not have ample time to imagine the sonic footprints location. The ADA 6.1 places this

sonic footprint in the form of an active speaker dramatically increasing the sense of realism.

Page 5

How does the ADA 6.1 Processor handle stationary sound images?

Much like high-speed audio images, the ADA 6.1 can place sounds in the back of the room that

previously were only imagined to be coming from the rear. For example, a cricket chirping from the left

surround speaker makes one believe the cricket is back and to the left. A cricket chirping out of the

right surround speaker sounds like it is back and to the right. In 5.1 systems, a chirp from the right and

left surround speakers together, sounds like its somewhere behind you. ADA 6.1 Surround puts this

chirp behind you...no imagination necessary.

What software will sound more exciting in ADA 6.1 Surround?

Well first and foremost, new Surround EX software will truly take advantage of all the ADA 6.1 Proces-

sor has to offer. However, listeners will most likely enjoy the benefits of the ADA 6.1 in most new films

encoded in Dolby Digital 5.1 or DTS surround sound. This is especially true of the films that take a

advantage of the discrete surround channels offered by these two decoding formats. Action movies

and DTS music CDs are on the top of our list.

Does the ADA 6.1 Processor enhance all software?

The answer here is no. First, any software not encoded in a 5.1 format, when play through an active

ADA 6.1, will just play through the back-surround speakers. Mono, stereo, and even Dolby Pro Logic

software will only play out of the back speakers. As this is not necessarily an ideal option, the ADA

6.1’s front panel power switch when can be set to the Off (Bypass) position. In this position, the audio

signal is permitted to pass to the left and right surround speakers untouched.

Second, even some 5.1 software will not sound better when the ADA 6.1 Processor is on. Films

relying heavily on musical score, where the music is dumped onto the surround channels in mono, will

have all the music play through just the back-surround speaker. As this may not be enjoyable, the

ADA 6.1 can be turned off into the Bypass position. Furthermore, some 5.1 software may not have a

great deal of effects or stereo separation in the surround channels. Again, for these films, the ADA 6.1

may best be left in the off, Bypass position.

How will the ADA 6.1 Processor sound with Dolby Pro Logic Systems?

Because Dolby Pro Logic only systems lack the ability to playback 5.1 encoded material in a 5.1

format, ADA does not recommend the use of the ADA 6.1 Processor in these systems.

How can the ADA 6.1 Processor be controlled?

When using the ADA 6.1 with ADA’s Cinema Reference (Software Version 1.84 or greater), the ADA

6.1 can be engaged only when 5.1 decoding is detected. As such, for most listening experiences, the

ADA 6.1 will engage or go into bypass mode based on the presence of 5.1 material.

For systems based on some type of control system (i.e. touch screens), the ADA 6.1 can be turned on

or set into bypass by way of some type of contact closure switch. As such, a touch screen can contain

a button marked “6.1 ON” and another marked “6.1 OFF”. Programmed correctly, this button could

engage or bypass the ADA 6.1 Processor at the touch of a button, even while a movie is in play.

For all others, the ADA 6.1 Processor has a front panel Power switch that engages or sets the ADA 6.1

into bypass. While loading a film into a VCR or DVD player, simply turn the unit on or off.

Page 6

ADA 6.1 Processor Features

POWER

BYPASS

LARGE

SMALL

OFF

LEFT BACK LT BACK RT RIGHT

SURROUND LEVEL CONTROLS

ADA 6.1 5.1 TO 6.1 SURROUND CHANNEL PROCESSOR

MADE IN THE U.S.A.

Power/Bypass

Switch

Bass Management

Switch

Surround Channel

Level Controls

Auto-Balance

Switch

Power On/Bypass Switch - This switch turns the ADA 6.1 on. When it is in the off position, the ADA 6.1

is in a bypass mode. While in bypass, the surround right and left channels go directly through

the ADA 6.1, completely unprocessed. Even the attenuation knobs are bypassed.

Attenuation Knobs - The front panel of the ADA 6.1 features four attenuation knobs that allow for the all

surround channels to be balanced against each other. As such, you can adjust the level to the

right and left surround channels as well as two back surround channels. Since both back

surround channels play the same signal, when using only one surround back speaker or am-

plifier channel, select either one of these two inputs.

Large/Small Speaker Setting - If you are using full-range right and left surround speakers and your

back-surround speakers are not designed to run at full range, you can redirect the bass infor-

mation going to the back surround speaker and send it to the right and left surround channels

(Large). If you do not want to redirect the bass information of the back-surround speakers set

the switch to small. If your preamplifier or receiver are already providing bass redirection to the

surround channels, then this setting will not cause any change in sound

Auto-Balance (Scale Switch) - When in the on position, the auto-balance circuit balances the right and

left surround mix going to the back-surround channel. This is especially helpful for soundtracks

with poor stereo separation in the surround channels.

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

Inputs

Outputs

External DC

On/Off

Trigger

DC Trigger

Activation

Switch

Power

Supply

Jack

Surround Right & Left Audio Inputs - Audio inputs from either a preamplifier or receivers surround

channel line-level outputs, or, the outputs of the AMPx4’s Line-Level Convertor.

Aux DC Trigger Input and Trigger Switch - The ADA 6.1 can be engaged from an external low voltage

trigger (12VDC) through its rear panel. The Cinema Reference provides such a trigger on its

AUX DC 2 output. This trigger engages the ADA 6.1 when the Cinema Reference detects any

type of true 5.1 decoding. The ADA 6.1 can also be triggered by other systems as well. In

order for the Trigger to activate the ADA 6.1, the Switch must be set to the Trigger position and

the front panel Power On button must be in the On position. Thus, even if an external system

engages the ADA 6.1, the user can override the 6.1, setting it back into bypass mode by simply

pressing the front panel Power button to the Bypass position.

Audio Outputs - The ADA 6.1 features audio outputs for both the existing surround right and left

channels as well as back-surround right and left. If you are using only one back-surround

speaker, use either right or left.

Main Power - The ADA 6.1 is powered by an external power transformer (12VAC 500mA). Do not use

a power supply rated differently with this processor.

Page 7

AMPx4 Four Channel Power Amplifier Features

Power On/Off Switch - This switch turns the AMPx4 on and off.

Audio Inputs - The AMPx4 has four audio inputs. There are two inputs for the existing left and right

surround sound speakers. There are also two other inputs for left and right back surround

sound speakers. If you are only using one back surround speaker, select either input.

Speaker Outputs - The AMPx4 has four “banana pin” speaker outputs and comes with four Banana

Pin connectors. One connector is used for each speaker. Two of the speaker outputs are for

existing right and left surround sound speakers. Two speaker outputs are for right and left

back surround sound speakers. If you are using only one back-surround speaker, use only

one output, but please make certain that the input jack you are using matches the output jack

you are using.

Speaker to Line Convertor - The AMPx4 incorporates a unique speaker-level to line-level audio con-

vertor. For 5.1 A/V receivers that do not feature line-level audio outputs for the left and right

surround channels, the AMPx4’s speaker to line convertor, takes the left and right surround

speaker channels and converts them to line-level so that the ADA 6.1 can process these sig-

nals. The AMPx4’s speaker to line-level convertor need not be used if the 5.1 A/V receiver you

have features line-level audio outputs for the left and right surround channels.

POWER ON

ADA AMP x 4

SURROUND SPEAKER TO LINE CONVERTOR AND

FOUR CHANNEL SURROUND POWER AMPLIFIER

MADE IN THE U.S.A.

Power Switch

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

Outputs

Power

Cord

Convertor

Input

Convertor

Output

Inputs

Outputs

Page 8

Connection of the ADA 6.1 to Preamp & Amp

Prior to connecting the ADA 6.1 to your home theater system, ADA suggests having the necessary

interconnects available prior to commencing. ADA suggests using cables of equal length.

The diagram illustrates the ADA 6.1 connected to the Cinema Reference A/V Preamplifier and the

PTM-6150 Six Channel Power Amplifier. Since most home theaters use a self-powered subwoofer,

the PTM-6150’s sixth channel may be available for use as the back-surround power amplifier channel.

If it is not or if you are using a five channel power amplifier, you will need one or two additional

channels of amplification.

When using a six channel amplifier, connect your back-surround speaker(s) to the sixth channel.

While not all amplifiers are stable below 8Ω, the ADA PTM-6150 is stable to 2Ω per channel. As such,

even if your speakers are 4Ω speakers, you can connect up to two back-surround speakers to the

sixth channel.

Please note, that for brevity, the left surround channel is labeled “L”, the right surround channel is

labeled “R”, and the back surround channel is labeled, “B”.

REC

OSD

MAIN

REC

SUB

OUT

AUDIO OUTPUTS

AUDIO INPUTS

VIDEO INPUTS

VIDEO OUT

S-VIDEO OUT

DIGITAL AUDIO INPUTS

S-VIDEO INPUTS

LOW VOLTAGE

AC INPUT

115V-60Hz/230V-50Hz

AC OUTPUT

10A Max Switched

ADA Bus™

1 2 3 4

DATA PORT

Serial Data

12VDC OUT

100mA Max Per

DC 1

1- 2+

DC 2

1- 2+

HDTV/RGB

COMPONENT

VIDEO

SWITCHER

Use With DVD

Players or

Digital Video

Tape Players

OUT

LASER DISC PLAYER

Dolby Digital (AC-3)

RF Switcher & AC-3

RF Demodulator

Connections!

In order to play an AC-3 Laser

Disc, you must connect the Digital

AC-3 Output to a Digital Audio

Input (RCA Type Coax) below.

DC Input Mute SwitchOFF

CAUTION: Disconnect Supply Cord Before Servicing.

ATTENTION: Debrancher Avant Le Depannage.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION!

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE.

NE PAS OUVRIR

MADE IN U.S.A.

WARNING! Risk Of Hazardous Energy!

Make Proper Connections.

AVERTISSEMENT! Energie Electrique Dangereuse!

Faire Des Connexions Propres Pour L'Hautparleur.

Voir La Notice De Fonctionnement.

Use Same

Value Fuse

115V-1AS.B.

230V-.5AS.B.

Voltage

Selector &

Safety Fuse

On This Side

115 V

115V 230V

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corp.

"Dolby", "Dolby Digital", "Pro Logic", & the Double-D Symbol are the trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corp.

Manufactured under license from DTS Technology, LLC. DTS Digital Surround is a trademark of DTS Technology LLC.

Manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd. U.S. patent numbers 5,043,970; 5,189,703; and 5,222,059.

Foreign patents pending. Lucasfilm and THX are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.,

Cinema Reference

123

OPTICAL INPUTS

In order to play an AC-3 Laser Disc,

you must connect the Digital AC-3

Output to a Digital Audio Input.

OUTPUT 4-16

Ω

INPUT

47K

Ω

CH 1

OUTPUT 4-16

Ω

INPUT

47K

Ω

CH 2

OUTPUT 4-16

Ω

INPUT

47K

Ω

CH 3

OUTPUT 4-16

Ω

CH 4

INPUT

47K

Ω

OUTPUT 4-16

Ω

CH 5

INPUT

47K

Ω

OUTPUT 4-16

Ω

CH 6

INPUT

47K

Ω

POWER

115 V - 230 V

50 Hz - 60 Hz

REPLACE

WITH SAME

VALUE FUSE

10A S.B.

VOLTAGE

SWITCH

115 V - 230 V

PTM-6150 POWER AMP

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION!

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE.

NE PAS OUVRIR

MADE IN U.S.A.

WARNING!

RISK OF HAZARDOUS

ENERGY!

MAKE PROPER SPEAKER

CONNECTIONS.

AVERTISSEMENT! ENERGIE

ELECTRIQUE DANGEREUSE! FAIRE

DES CONNEXIONS PROPRES POUR

L'HAUTPARLEUR. VOIR LA NOTICE

DE FONCTIONNEMENT.

CAUTION: DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD

BEFORE SERVICING.

ATTENTION: DEBRANCHER AVANT

LE DEPANNAGE.

Manufactured under license

from Lucasfilm Ltd.

Lucasfilm and THX are registered

trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.

CAUTION! DO NOT SHORT OUTPUTS!

115 V

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

R B

Page 9

Connection of the Power-On Trigger

The ADA 6.1 has a feature that permits it to be turned on or to bypass from an external source. This

trigger can permit you to remotely control the activation of the ADA 6.1. When incorporated with

systems that use some type of control system, a touch screen, buttons can be setup on the touch

screen that would activate this trigger on demand.

The ADA Cinema Reference with software version 1.84 or greater has a setting in setup that permits

AUX DC 2 to trigger the ADA 6.1 on when it is decoding a true 5.1 source signal. When decoding

anything other than a 5.1 signal, the Cinema Reference will set the ADA 6.1 into bypass. If the user

wishes to bypass the ADA 6.1 during playback of 5.1 material, one can still turn off the front panel

switch on the ADA 6.1. To activate the Cinema Reference’s 6.1 Trigger, enter the Cinema Reference’s

Pro Setup Mode (see Cinema Reference manual).

Once in Pro Setup, turn the MODE knob until AUX DC TRIG2 appears and then press the MODE

knob.

The top line of the display will read the source selected and the bottom line will read either AUX DC

TRIG2 ON, AUX DC TRIG2 OFF, or 6.1 ADAPTER. Turn the MODE knob until 6.1 ADAPTER

is selected. Do not select AUX DC TRIG2 ON, because it will hold the trigger on regardless

of 5.1 detection. For sources that do not play 5.1 material, you may also lock in AUX DC

TRIG2 OFF.

Turn the INPUT knob one click to display the next source. Turn the MODE knob to display either

6.1 ADAPTER or AUX DC TRIG2 OFF.

Turn the INPUT knob again and repeat the above step for each input on the system.

Turn the VOLUME knob to exit Pro Setup.

To connect the Cinema Reference to the ADA 6.1, use a two conductor low voltage wire (18-22 Gauge)

and connect pin 1(-) to pin 1(-) and pin 2(+) to pin 2(+).

REC

OSD

MAIN

REC

SUB

OUT

AUDIO OUTPUTS

AUDIO INPUTS

VIDEO INPUTS

VIDEO OUT

S-VIDEO OUT

DIGITAL AUDIO INPUTS

S-VIDEO INPUTS

LOW VOLTAGE

AC INPUT

115V-60Hz/230V-50Hz

AC OUTPUT

10A Max Switched

ADA Bus™

1 2 3 4

DATA PORT

Serial Data

12VDC OUT

100mA Max Per

DC 1

1- 2+

DC 2

1- 2+

HDTV/RGB

COMPONENT

VIDEO

SWITCHER

Use With DVD

Players or

Digital Video

Tape Players

OUT

LASER DISC PLAYER

Dolby Digital (AC-3)

RF Switcher & AC-3

RF Demodulator

Connections!

In order to play an AC-3 Laser

Disc, you must connect the Digital

AC-3 Output to a Digital Audio

Input (RCA Type Coax) below.

DC Input Mute SwitchOFF

CAUTION: Disconnect Supply Cord Before Servicing.

ATTENTION: Debrancher Avant Le Depannage.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION!

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE.

NE PAS OUVRIR

MADE IN U.S.A.

WARNING! Risk Of Hazardous Energy!

Make Proper Connections.

AVERTISSEMENT! Energie Electrique Dangereuse!

Faire Des Connexions Propres Pour L'Hautparleur.

Voir La Notice De Fonctionnement.

Use Same

Value Fuse

115V-1AS.B.

230V-.5AS.B.

Voltage

Selector &

Safety Fuse

On This Side

115 V

115V 230V

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corp.

"Dolby", "Dolby Digital", "Pro Logic", & the Double-D Symbol are the trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corp.

Manufactured under license from DTS Technology, LLC. DTS Digital Surround is a trademark of DTS Technology LLC.

Manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd. U.S. patent numbers 5,043,970; 5,189,703; and 5,222,059.

Foreign patents pending. Lucasfilm and THX are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.,

Cinema Reference

123

OPTICAL INPUTS

In order to play an AC-3 Laser Disc,

you must connect the Digital AC-3

Output to a Digital Audio Input.

INPUTS OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

TRIGGER

MANUAL

Page 10

6.1 Speaker Placement

As the ADA 6.1 is a home theater enhancement, as each home theater is unique in shape and seating,

and as each listener has his or her own preferences, the best way to determine the ideal positioning of

the back-surround speakers is through basic trial and error. It may be advisable to leave extra speaker

wire loose, so that the speaker can be moved.

The existing left and right surround speakers should remain where they are. This especially true if you

are using some type of dipole speaker situated to the left and right of the seating position. The back-

surround speaker(s) should be located behind the seating position. The question is whether to use

one or two speakers and where to put them.

ADA suggests, that if the primary seating position is away from the back wall, use either one or two

speakers against the back wall but inward from the corners of the room. If the room is narrow, such

that placing two speakers 4-6 feet in from the corners causes the speakers to be right next to each

other, you may opt to use only one back-surround speaker.

If seating exists directly against (or almost directly against) the back wall, it will most likely be best to

use a single back-surround speaker. If this back wall is extremely wide, a second speaker can be

used.

Page 11

Pass wire

through guide

Strip the wire’s

jacket exposing

the wire 1/2 inch

(It is recommended

that wire cutters be

usded for this step)

Feed the

wire through

the lock holes

Pass the

negative (-)

wire through

the hole

with the

Ground Tab

Tighten the screws

such that they clamp

the exposed wire

firmly in place.

(Use a thin screw driver)

Using Banana Pin Connectors (AMPx4)

The AMPx4’s only speaker output terminal are recessed “ba-

nana pin” jacks. The AMPx4 comes with four banana pins

which you will need to terminate to your speaker wire. Since

polarity and making a secure connection are important, please

take the time to familiarize yourself with the use of banana

pins.

Polarity Tab - The Banana connector has a polarity tab that

makes it easy to see which side of the jack has the

negative (- or ground) wire.

Wire Guide - The Banana connector has a wire guide which helps secure the speaker wire to the

connector. If the gauge of wire you are using prevents both wires from sliding through the

guide, feed only one of the wires through the guide.

Tightening Screws - These screws are used to both secure the exposed wire to the connector and

create contact. As you loosen these screws, be careful not to loosen them too much as they

can become completely un-threaded and fall out of the banana connector.

Banana Connector

Top View

Banana Connector

Front View

Ground (-) Tab

Lock Screws

Contact Pins

Wire Guide

Page 12

Connection of the ADA 6.1 & AMPx4 to a 5.1 Receiver

For systems using a 5.1 A/V receiver with line-level audio outputs for the right and left surround

channels, you will need to not only process these channels but also amplify them after processing. As

such if you were previously using the amplifier’s built into the receiver, you will need an external power

amplifier to properly continue with the setup. For amplifying one or two back-surround channels as

well as the original right and left surround channels, ADA offers the AMPXx4 Four Channel Power

Amplifier.

Connect the ADA 6.1 to the 5.1 A/V receiver as shown below. Please note, for best effects, use

interconnect cables that are all of equal length.

Connect the ADA 6.1 to the AMPx4. A picture of just these connections is on the top of the adjoining

page.

Connect the speakers to the AMPx4. A picture of just these connections is on the bottom of the

adjoining page.

Please note, that for brevity, the left surround channel is labeled “L”, the right surround channel is

labeled “R”, and the back surround channel is labeled, “B”.

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

To Speakers

(Follow Instructions

included with the receiver

and/or speakers)

R L

R B

Digital 5.1 A/V Receiver

(with line-level audio surround outputs)

Line Level Audio Outputs

Speaker Outputs

Right Surround Left Surround

Center (front) Subwoofer

Right Front Left Front

Right Surround Left Surround

Center (front) Subwoofer

Right Front Left Front

Page 13

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

R B

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

Left

Surround

Speaker

Right

Surround

Speaker

Back-Left

Surround

Speaker

Back-Right

Surround

Speaker

ADA 6.1 to AMPx4

AMPx4 to Speakers

Page 14

Connection of the ADA 6.1 & AMPx4 to a 5.1 Receiver

For systems using a 5.1 A/V receiver with no line-level audio outputs for the right and left surround

channels, you will need to convert the right and left surround speaker channels to line-level audio prior

to processing these channels in the ADA 6.1. The AMPx4 features a speaker-level to line-level con-

vertor for just this purpose. For best results, use interconnect cable of equal length.

Connect the 5.1 receiver’s left and right surround speaker level to the AMPx4’s speaker convertor

inputs. (Below and the top of the opposite page).

Connect the AMPx4’s line-level audio convertor’s output to the ADA 6.1. (Below and the bottom of the

opposite page).

Connect the ADA 6.1 to the AMPx4. (Top of page 13).

Connect the AMPx4 to the speakers. (Bottom of page 13).

Please note, that for brevity, the left surround channel is labeled “L”, the right surround channel is

labeled “R”, and the back surround channel is labeled, “B”.

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

Digital 5.1 A/V Receiver

(with line-level audio surround outputs)

Speaker Outputs

To Speakers

(Follow Instructions

included with the receiver

and/or speakers)

Right Surround Left Surround

Center (front) Subwoofer

Right Front Left Front

Page 15

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

Digital 5.1 A/V Receiver

(with line-level audio surround outputs)

Speaker Outputs

To Speakers

(Follow Instructions

included with the receiver

and/or speakers)

Right Surround Left Surround

Center (front) Subwoofer

Right Front Left Front

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

CAUTION

RISK OF

ELECTRIC

SHOCK!

DO NOT

OPEN.

ATTENTION!

MADE IN U.S.A.

RISQUE DE

CHOC ELE-

CTRIQUE!

NE PAS

OUVRIR.

1 2 3 4

115VAC

150W

60Hz

BACK LT LT SURR

BACK RT

CONVERTOR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

RT SURR

R+ R- L- L+

OUT TO SPEAKERS OUT TO 6.1

BACK LT

BACK RT

IN FROM 6.1

SURR AMP IN

LT SURR

RT SURR

AMP OUTPUT

LINE INPUT

OUT TO SPEAKERS

LT SURR

RT SURR

IN FROM 6.1

Speaker connections to AMPx4’s Convertor Input

AMPx4’s Convertor Output to ADA 6.1

Page 16

Filters, Calibration, and Testing

Large/Small Speaker Switch - If your preamplifier or receiver is already setup for bass

management control, such that all speakers are rolling off at 80Hz with the subwoofer

getting a mix of all bass and LFE, then it does not matter how this switch is set. How-

ever, if you are using full range left and right surround speakers and the back-surround

speakers do handle bass information well, you can opt to redirect the bass information

that would go the back surround speaker to the surround right and left channels. To do

so, press the speaker button (Large).

Auto-Balance - If you want a more balanced left and right sound stage

in the surround channels with more enhanced back-surround, set this

switch to the outward ON position.

The best way to properly test and calibrate the ADA 6.1 and your home theater system is to use an

SPL (Sound Pressure Level) Meter and the 5.1 preamplifier’s (or AV receiver’s) pink-noise generator.

To properly test the back-surround channel speaker(s), you will need an RCA “Y” connector unless,

your preamplifier (or receiver) has a pink noise setting that plays noise to both the right and left

surround channels together at the same time. For owners of ADA’s Cinema Reference, a pink-noise

channel setting exists for right and left surround together at the same time (NOISE L/R SR).

Set your SPL Meter to the -70 dB range, C weighted and Slow settings.

After you have installed the ADA 6.1 (and AMPx4), turn all four knobs on the ADA 6.1 to approxi-

mately the 1 o’clock position.

Turn the ADA 6.1 off (into bypass).

Turn on the pink noise generator to the right surround channel. At this time, noise should be

coming just from the right surround speaker. Raise or lower the channel’s level until your

SPL Meter reads -75 dB.

Turn on the pink noise generator to the Left surround channel. At this time, noise should be coming

just from the left surround speaker. Raise or lower the channel’s level until your SPL Meter

reads -75 dB.

Turn on the ADA 6.1 while keeping the pink noise active on the Left surround channel. Using the

ADA 6.1’s front panel knob, raise or lower the left surround channel until your SPL meter

reads -75 dB.

With the ADA 6.1 on, set the pink noise generator to the right surround channel. Using the ADA

6.1’s front panel knob, raise or lower the right surround channel until your SPL meter reads

-75 dB.

At this time, you have adjusted the left and right surround channels both while the ADA 6.1 is on and

when it is in bypass mode.

LARGE

SMALL

ESSOR

OFF

Page 17

For adjusting the back-surround channels, you will need a RCA “Y” splitter.

Unplug the right and left surround inputs to the ADA 6.1 and plug the “Y” connector into both left

and right surround inputs on the ADA 6.1. Take the right surround channel and plug it into

the open end of the “Y” connector.

Engage the pink noise generator for the right surround channel. Make certain that the ADA 6.1 is

on.

At this time, you should hear pink noise coming from the back surround speakers. Use the back

surround level adjustments on the ADA 6.1 to raise and lower the level until the SPL meter

reads -72 dB. If you are using two back-surround speakers and they are equal distance to

the primary listening position, the two knobs on the ADA 6.1 for back-surround should be

set so that they are both about the same. If one speaker is further away than the other, you

will want to adjust these knobs so that you hear both speakers relatively evenly from the

primary seating position.

At this time, you have adjusted the back surround speakers on the ADA 6.1.

To reconnect the system, unplug the “Y” connector from the ADA 6.1 and reconnect the right and

left surround inputs to the ADA 6.1.

INPUTS

EXTERNAL POWER

ON/OFF

INPUT

OUTPUTS

LT SURR

RT SURR

LT SURR

1(-) 2(+)

12VDC

TRIGGER

12VAC

MAIN

POWER

MANUAL

RT SURR

BACK LT

BACK RT

ADA 6.1 Surround Back Processor

Manufactured in the U.S.A.

R L

"Y" Splitter

Note: If you are using a Cinema Reference, you

do not need to use the “Y” splitter because the

Cinema Reference has a pink noise mode for

both right and left surrounds active together

that has the same effect as using a “Y” splitter.

Therefore, do not disconnect the ADA 6.1

inputs. Simply select the NOISE L/R SR setting

in the Cinema Reference’s noise mode.

Ada ADA 6.1 Owner's manual

Brand: Ada

Model: ADA 6.1

Type: Owner's manual

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Ada ADA 6.1 Owner's manual

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