Meridian 501/501V Control Unit
Contents
Introduction
1
Introduces the 501/501V Control Unit, and
provides an overview of the other products
available in the Meridian 500 Series.
Using the Control Unit 9
The Meridian 500 Series ........................
Sample configurations ...........................
Specification and accessories ...............
2
3
6
Provides step-by-step instructions on how
to operate the control unit, using either the
front panel or the Meridian System
Handset.
Using the Video Features
(501V only) 15
Provides information on how to use the
Front panel ............................................. 10 video features included in the 501V
Selecting a source ................................. 11 Control Unit.
Adjusting the volume ............................. 12
Changing the display and balance ........ 13 Selecting a video source........................ 16
Recording a source................................ 14 Recording a video input ......................... 17
iii
Customising the Control
Unit
19
Describes how to set up the control unit in
your preferred configuration.
Setting up the Control
Unit
33
Choosing standard settings................... 20
Configuring the sources......................... 23 Describes how to unpack and install the
Examples of configuring the control unit, and explains what you should
sources .................................................. 26 do if your control unit requires servicing.
Programming levels ............................... 28
Specifying information about
Unpacking .............................................. 34
your system ........................................... 30 Connecting the control unit ................... 35
Troubleshooting ..................................... 39
Maintenance .......................................... 41
Service and guarantee ........................... 42
Index ...................................................... 43
iv
Introduction
In choosing the 501/501V Control Unit you have acquired a component
that combines major advances in audio and engineering design. The 501
Control Unit is a full function preamplifier for use with high performance
analogue sources. It provides six audio inputs, each of which can be
individually adjusted for sensitivity, and identified on the four-character
alpha-numeric display. A very high quality MC or MM phono stage is
available as an option for the dedicated LP input.
In addition, the 501V Control Unit provides video switching for up to eight
video inputs.
This guide is designed to enable you to obtain the best possible results
from the unit, and it includes information about customising the unit to
your own requirements.
If you have just purchased the 501/501V Control Unit you should first turn
to the chapter Setting up the Control Unit, page 33, which explains how to
unpack and install the control unit correctly.
The Meridian 500 Series
The Meridian 500 Series is a unique system of digital, analogue,
and video components designed to meet the demand for
absolute quality, ease of use, and lasting value.
500 Series communications
The Meridian 500 Series includes a sophisticated
communications link, to ensure that any configuration of units
will work together as a fully integrated system.
The flexibility of the Meridian 500 Series is such that you can
assemble a system as simple or as complex as you need,
perfectly suited to your musical and environmental requirements,
and with the ability to add to it or change it at a later date should
your requirements change. The 500 Series is also compatible
with the existing Meridian 200 Series and 600 Series
components.
The 500 Series communications system allows you to control
any combination of units using a single handset, and ensures
that your commands from the handset are interpreted
unambiguously. Any unit can be designated as the controller for
the system, allowing you to position the other units out of range
from the handset beam if desired. It also allows all the units to
be switched off from the front panel of any unit in the system.
Each Meridian 500 Series component is housed in a matching
slim line case. Front panel controls provide access to the most
important functions, and the full range of functions is available
from the Meridian System Handset using a simple and intuitive
control interface.
Professional features
The 500 Series also includes features for professional users,
including RS232 computer control (501, 562, and DSP5000), and
balanced outputs (563).
The following pages give examples of four suggested
configurations to illustrate the flexibility of the Meridian 500
Series.
2
Sample configurations
506 Compact Disc Player
500 Compact Disc Transport
A2
A2
506
500
DSP5000
DSP5000
504
501
555
504
562
The 506 Compact Disc Player is an integrated CD transport and
converter, providing both digital and analogue outputs.
The 500 Compact Disc Transport provides a precision digital
output, and can drive DSP5000 Digital Loudspeakers directly.
The 506 Compact Disc Player is ideally suited for use with the
Meridian 555 Stereo Power Amplifier and A2 Loudspeakers, with
control over the volume and source selection provided by the
501 Remote Control Preamplifier.
A 562 Digital Controller can be added to cater for conventional
analogue sources, such as the 504 FM Tuner, and provide
source selection between up to 12 different analogue or digital
sources.
The 504 FM Tuner is an ideal addition to the system if radio
reception is required.
3
563 Digital to Analogue Converter
501V Control Unit
VIDEO
LASERDISC
M60
M60
500
563
501V
The digital output provided by the 500 Compact Disc Transport
can be decoded by the 563 Digital to Analogue Converter to
provide a high-quality audio output for use with a conventional
audio preamplifier.
The 501V Control Unit is a full function preamplifier for use with
any analogue source, and includes video switching for complete
control of systems that include video sources such as a
LaserDisc player and video recorder.
The 563 Digital to Analogue Converter can also decode digital
signals from other sources, including LaserDisc players and
Digital Audio Tape.
It provides a high-quality audio output ideal for use with the
Meridian M60 Active Loudspeakers.
4
562V Multimedia Controller
SATELLITE
VIDEO
TV
504
500
LASERDISC
562V
D6000
D6000
The 562V Multimedia Controller is the ideal control unit for use
with the Meridian D6000 Digital Loudspeakers.
conventional analogue sources such as the 504 FM Tuner and
video sound.
It provides direct digital inputs for digital sources, such as the
500 Compact Disc Transport and LaserDisc sound, together
with precision Delta Sigma Analogue to Digital Conversion, for
It also includes video switching for CVBS and S-VHS signals,
such as from a satellite receiver, LaserDisc player, or video
recorder.
5
Specification and accessories
Specification
Display
Four character display for current
source, volume, mute, and copy
source.
MM input option
Sensitivity adjustable 0.5 – 3mV for
5cm/s @ 1kHz.
Communications
Two 5 pin 240° DIN sockets, RS232
interface.
Overload point 47mV @ 1kHz.
Cartridge load 47kΩ || 100pF.
Finish
Black textured enamel and glass.
MC input option
A2 – A6 inputs
Sensitivity adjustable 38 – 210µV for
5cm/s @ 1kHz.
Dimensions
88mm x 321mm x 332mm
(3.46" x 12.64" x 13.07").
Cartridge load 220Ω || 10nF.
Sensitivity adjustable 27 – 150mV.
Weight
5kg (10lbs).
20VA.
Input impedance 20kΩ.
Consumption
Tape output
Output 1.5V.
Main outputs
Headphone output
Distortion
Output 1.4V rms, 3V rms maximum.
2V maximum.
Less than 0.01% input to output.
Noise and hum
Less than -90dB for high-level
analogue inputs.
Less than -70dB for MM input.
Less than -60dB for MC input.
6
Video specification (501V only)
Available accessories
V1 – V6 inputs
Composite unbalanced RCA phono
The following accessories are available from your dealer:
75Ω, 0.5 – 1.5Vp/p.
❍ MM phono module.
S1, S2 inputs
S-VHS 4 pin MiniDIN.
❍ MC phono module.
Monitor output
Unbalanced RCA phono 75Ω, 1.5Vp/p
to monitor.
❍ Meridian System Handset.
❍ Power cord Europe.
❍ Power cord Canada and USA.
VCR outputs 1, 2
Unbalanced phono 75Ω, 1Vp/p to
VCRs, identical signal via splitter.
The MM and MC phono modules convert the LP audio input (A1)
for use with a moving magnet or moving coil pickup,
respectively.
Main S-OUT
S-VHS 4 pin MiniDIN.
VCR1, VCR2 S-OUT
S-VHS 4 pin MiniDIN, two function
select outputs for SCART.
The Meridian System Handset provides access to all the
facilities provided by the 501/501V Control Unit, including those
available from the front panel controls. In addition, it allows you
to control any other 500 Series units in your system.
Meridian Audio reserves the right to amend product
specifications at any time.
If you have problems purchasing these items, you can order
them direct from Meridian Audio Limited, who can also supply a
range of cables suitable for connecting the 501/501V Control
Unit to other equipment.
7
8
Using the Control Unit
This chapter provides a visual summary of the functions of the control
unit in order to identify and help explain each of the controls which you will
use to operate the unit.
It also describes how to switch on the control unit, and use it with
conventional audio sources.
Unless otherwise specified, each function is available from the front panel
or the handset.
Front panel
1 Source
Selects the source.
2 Copy
Copies a selected source
to the tape output.
Display
3 Mute
Mutes the sound.
BOOTHROYD STUART
4 Display
CD65
501
Blanks the display.
Source Copy Mute Display
Off
Control Unit
5 V (Decrease)
Decreases the volume.
6 A (Increase)
Increases the volume.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7 Off
Switches to standby.
10
Selecting a source
During normal use the control unit should be left in the standby
state. This uses a negligible amount of electricity, but ensures
that the components of the control unit operate at maximum
efficiency from the moment you start.
For example, if you select the
CD input the display will show:
CD65
By default, the following six sources are available:
If you are not going to use the control unit for a period of several
days you should switch the unit completely off, at the rear panel,
and disconnect it from the AC power supply.
Source
CD
Label
CD
RD
LP
Input
A2
Radio
LP
A3
To switch on from standby
A1
● Press Source (front panel), or select a source by pressing the
TV
TV
A5
appropriate source key on the remote control.
Tape1
Tape2
T1
A4
If the 501/501V Control Unit is part of a Meridian system, it will
automatically switch on any other unit in the system, such as the
CD player.
T2
A6
To switch to standby
To select a source
● Press Off (front panel) or Standby (remote control).
● Press Source (front panel) until the display shows the source
you require, or press the appropriate source key on the
remote control.
.
The display will show:
If you have other Meridian 500 Series equipment connected to
the control unit, these units will also switch to standby.
The display shows the source, and volume setting.
11
Adjusting the volume
The 501/501V Control Unit allows you to adjust the volume in
precise steps of 1dB, where 9dB is equivalent to doubling the
loudness.
To decrease the volume
● Press V (front panel), or V (remote control).
The current volume setting is displayed in dB on the front panel
display, and can be varied in the range 1 – 99dB. When you first
switch on the control unit the volume is set to 65, which is
similar to the midway position of the rotary volume control on a
conventional preamplifier.
CD55
For example, the display will show:
To mute the sound
● Press Mute.
To increase the volume
Mute
● Press A (front panel), or A (remote control).
The display will show:
To restore the sound
● Press Mute again.
CD75
For example, the display will show:
Alternatively the sound will be restored if you adjust the volume.
12
Changing the display and balance
To change the display
To change the balance
● Press Display.
You can adjust the sound balance on the 501/501V Control Unit
using the following procedure.
Each time you press Display the display will step between the
following options:
Note: The balance can only be adjusted with the remote control.
Display option
Example
● Press < (remote control) to move the sound to the left.
Source and volume.
The display will show the number
≤1
RD65
This is the usual display.
of dBs added to the left channel:
Rad
Source only (full label).
Blank.
● Press > (remote control) to move the sound to the right.
The display will show the number
9≥
of dBs added to the right channel:
● Press V (remote control) to centre the balance.
≤O≥
The display will show:
13
Recording a source
The 501/501V Control Unit allows you to copy any one of the
standard sources to the tape outputs, independently of the
source you are listening to.
For example, to record a radio broadcast
C RD
press Copy until the display shows:
You can now listen to a CD, by selecting the CD source, without
affecting the recording.
To copy a source to the tape output
● Press Copy.
Each time you press Copy the control unit will step between the
following options:
Display
Option
Copy Source. The current source is
fed to the tape output.
CSrc
Copy Attenuate. The tape output is
muted.
CAtt
C CD
C RD
Copies the first source to the tape
output.
Steps through each source in turn,
etc.
When Copy is set to anything other than Copy Source the Copy
indicator is illuminated on the front panel.
14
Using the Video
Features (501V only)
This chapter explains how to use the video features in the 501V Control
Unit to select the video source you want to watch, or to choose which
video source to copy to a video recorder.
Note that these instructions do not apply to the 501 Control Unit, which
does not include the video option.
Selecting a video source
With the 501V Control Unit you select the video source you want
to watch in exactly the same way as selecting an audio source.
To select a source
● Press Source (front panel) until the display shows the source
you require, or press the appropriate source key on the
remote control.
On the 501V Control Unit each source can be associated with
both audio input, and a video input.
For example, by default the TV source selects audio input A5 (for
TV sound), and video input V5 (for the TV picture).
For example, if you select the
TV65
TV input the display will show:
Last valid option
By default, the following six video sources are available:
The audio or video input for a source can be defined as LV (Last
Valid), in which case selecting the source will leave the audio or
video input unchanged.
Source
TV
Label
TV
Video input Audio input
V5
V4
V5
V1
V2
V3
A5
A5
LV
A6
A4
A1
Cable
Teletext
VCR1
VCR2
LD
Cb
For example, by default the CD source defines the video input
as LV. This allows you to select TV followed by CD to watch the
TV picture while listening to a compact disc, instead of the TV
sound.
TX
V1
V2
LD
16
Recording a video input
With the 501V Control Unit you can copy the audio and video
components of a source to the tape and VCR outputs,
independently of the source you are listening to.
When Copy is set to anything other than Copy Source the Copy
indicator is illuminated on the front panel.
For example, to record a TV programme
C TV
To copy a video source
press Copy until the display shows:
● Press Copy.
The TV sound and picture will now be fed to the tape and VCR
outputs, respectively.
Each time you press Copy the control unit will step between the
following options:
You can then select another source without affecting the
recording.
Display
Option
Copy Source. The audio and video
components of the current source
are fed to the tape and VCR outputs.
CSrc
Copy Attenuate. The tape and VCR
outputs are muted.
CAtt
C CD
C RD
Copies the first source to the tape
and VCR outputs.
Steps through each source in turn,
etc.
17
18
Customising the Control
Unit
This chapter explains how to customise the 501/501V Control Unit to your
preferred configuration.
The simplest way of configuring the control unit is to choose one of the
standard settings, which are designed to cater for the six most common
configurations of sources and inputs.
Alternatively, you can configure each source individually to suit the other
equipment in your system. You can choose the label used for each source,
and balance the input sensitivities so that the sound level remains the
same when you switch between sources.
Finally, the 501/501V Control Unit provides several settings that you can
alter to optimise the way in which it works with the other equipment in
your system.
● Press
V or A to change the type number.
Choosing standard settings
The 501/501V Control Unit provides six alternative standard
settings, called Types, which configure all aspects of the control
unit into the six most commonly needed configurations.
To select a standard setting
● Switch off any power amplifiers that are connected to the
control unit.
Choosing one of the six standard settings overrides any other
configuration you may have performed, and so can be used to
reset the configuration of the control unit.
● Turn off the control unit, using the power switch on the back
panel.
● Turn on the power again while holding down the Off key on
By default, the control unit is supplied set to Type 1.
the front panel.
If you have a system containing only Meridian 500 Series units
then you should choose one of Types 5, 1, 4, or 3. These give
progressively larger numbers of inputs, as shown in the tables
on page 21 (501) or page 22 (501V).
Type
The display will show:
Ty 1
It will then show:
If your system includes any Meridian 600 or 200 Series units you
should choose Type 2 or Type 6. For more information see To
connect to Meridian 600 or 200 Series equipment, page 38.
For example, to select Type 3
the display shows:
Ty 3
● Turn off the control unit using the power switch on the back
panel.
● Turn on again to use the standard settings you have selected.
20
501 standard settings
The following table shows the options configured by the six standard Type settings on the 501 Control Unit:
Type
5 1 4 3
Source Label Input Gain Comms
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
CD
CD
RD
LP
TV
T1
A2
A3
A1
A5
A4
A6
A2
A5
=
0dB
2dB
2dB
8dB
2dB
2dB
0dB
8dB
n/a
1
2
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Radio
LP
TV
●
Tape1
Tape2
CDR
Cable
Text
VCR1
VCR2
LD
T2
CR
Cb
TX
V1
V2
LD
●
●
A6
A4
A1
8dB
8dB
0dB
= Last valid input, displayed as LV.
Types 2 and 6 have the same source configuration as Type 1.
21
501V standard settings
The following table shows the options configured by the six standard Type settings on the 501V Control Unit:
Type
5 4 1 3
Source Label Input Gain Comms C-video input
S-video input FNSEL
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
CD
CD
RD
LP
TV
T1
A2
A3
A1
A5
A4
A6
A2
A5
=
0dB
2dB
2dB
8dB
2dB
2dB
0dB
8dB
n/a
1
2
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
=
=
BL
v5
=
=
=
v4
v5
v1
v2
v3
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
S1
S2
=
=
=
=
0
Radio
LP
TV
Tape1
Tape2
CDR
Cable
Text
VCR1
VCR2
LD
=
=
=
1
T2
CR
Cb
TX
V1
V2
LD
●
●
0
A6
A4
A1
8dB
8dB
0dB
2(1)†
2(1)†
1
= Last valid input, displayed as LV (audio), Nv (video), NS (S-VHS), or NF (FNSEL). † 2 in Type 1, 1 in Type 3 or 4.
Types 2 and 6 have the same source configuration as Type 5.
22
Configuring the sources
When the control unit is set to one of the standard settings the
twelve source selection keys on the remote control select the
standard labels and inputs, as shown in the table on page 21.
For each source you can configure:
❍ The label used for it on the front panel display, from 45
alternative labels.
If the configuration you want is not catered for by one of the
standard settings, you can configure each source individually.
❍ The audio input it selects.
❍ The comms type and address, to identify other Meridian 500
Series equipment.
The 501/501V Control Unit provides 12 sources corresponding
to the 12 source selection keys on the remote control:
❍ The video and S-VHS inputs it selects (501V only).
The procedure for doing this is as follows.
CD, Radio, LP, TV, Tape1, Tape2, CDR, Cable, Text, VCR1,
VCR2, and LD.
23
To configure a source
To change an option
● Turn off the control unit, using the power switch on the back
● Press Aor Vto step between the alternative values for the
panel.
option.
● Turn on the power again while holding down the Display key
When you have finished programming sources:
on the front panel.
● Switch off at the back panel, and then switch on again to
Conf
The display will show:
restore normal operation.
● Press Source until the left-hand pair of characters identifies
the source you want to configure.
For example, to configure the CD
CDCD
source the display initially shows:
● Press Copy (front panel), or
> and < (remote control), to step
between options.
The right-hand pair of characters shows the current value of the
option.
The options are summarised in the table shown opposite.
24
Option
Initial value
Alternative values
Explanation
Label
CD, RD, LP, etc.
See page 26.
CDCD
Audio input
Comms type
Address
A1 – A6, or LV.
IC – 8C, or NC.
1A – 8A.
Choose A1 to A6 to specify the input, or LV to use
the last valid input.
CDA2
CD1C
CD1A
CDNv
CDNS
CDFO
Choose IC for a Meridian CD player, 2C for a
Meridian FM Tuner, or NC otherwise.
Allows you to have up to eight of each source type.
Video input*
S-VHS input*
V1 – V6, Nv, or BL.
S1 – S2, or NS.
F0 – F2, or NF.
Choose V1 – V6 to specify an input, Nv to use the
last valid input, or BL to blank the input.
Choose S1 – S2 to specify an input, or NS to use the
last valid input.
FNSEL output*
* 501V only.
Choose the function select output signal you want to
send to the TV, or NF to use the last valid output.
25
Examples of configuring the sources
The following examples illustrate how you can configure the
source options to your own requirements.
For example, to configure the
Radio source label choose:
RDRD
To change a source label
● Press Aor Vto step between the alternative labels.
● Display the source you want to configure, together with its
For example, to use the label FM
RDFM
current label, as described in the previous sections.
for the Radio source set it to:
The following table shows the available source labels together with their meanings:
Source Logo
Source Logo
Source Logo
Source Logo
Source Logo
CD
CD
RD
LP
T1
VCR 2
V2
VHS
VH
JB
Rm
DT
DC
Ph
MD
Li
S-VHS
SV
βm
Ca
V8
DAB
DB
DS
AD
RR
FM
AM
Radio
LP
LaserDisc LD
Jukebox
CD-ROM
DAT
Betamax
Camera
Video 8
Dig. Sat.
ADC
Satellite
CDX
SA
C2
78
Tape 1
Tape 2
CDR
R-Reel
FM tuner
AM tuner
T2
78 rpm
CD-1
DCC
CD-Video CV
CR
Cb
TX
V1
C1
Phono
MiniDisc
Line
Aux
Au
Mx
SB
Cable
Teletext
VCR 1
CD trans. C1
Photo CD PC
Mixer
Simul
MW tuner MW
SW tuner SW
CD Lib.
CL
Mic
Mi
Computer PC
LW tuner
LW
26
To change the video input for a
source
When you select the source you have configured you will get
radio sound and a TV picture, as required for simultaneous
broadcasts.
● Display the source you want to configure, together with the
current video input, as described in the previous sections.
To set up a system with two CD
players
For example, to configure
CDLV
the CD video input choose:
● Configure the source you are going to use for the first CD
player.
● Press V or A to choose the video input.
For example: Source CD, Label C1, Audio input A2, Comms
type 1C, Address 1A.
For example, if you always want the
CDV5
TV picture when you select CD set it to:
● Configure the source you are going to use for a second CD
To set up a source for simultaneous
broadcasts
player, with a different address.
For example: Source CDR, Label C2. Audio input A3, Comms
type 1C, Address 2A.
● Choose a source you are not already using.
● Assign a suitable label to the source; SB is suggested.
● Configure the audio input to A3 (Radio).
● Configure the video input to V5 (TV).
The remote control will now automatically control whichever of
the CD players you have selected with the CD or CDR source
keys.
27
Programming levels
The 501/501V Control Unit allows you to program the level of
each source independently, to suit your other equipment, so that
when you switch between sources the volume stays the same.
To balance input levels
● Switch off any power amplifiers that are connected to the
control unit.
When you are programming levels the control unit operates as a
preamplifier with a fixed volume setting equivalent to 65. This
level is chosen to be comfortably loud on average sources. You
can switch between sources and adjust the relevant input levels
to achieve the setting you want.
● Turn off the control unit, using the power switch on the back
panel.
● Turn on the power again while holding down the Mute key on
the front panel.
You can increase the sensitivity of any source by up to 15 steps
of 1dB. The loudest source, usually CD, should therefore be
chosen as the reference.
Gain
The display will show:
● Release the Mute key.
The display will show the
.
normal standby condition:
● Select the source that sounds loudest and make it your
reference.
● Switch to another source in the usual way.
28
● Use the A and V keys to change the sensitivity.
If you know the output level of your sources you can probably
set the gains by calculation. The following table shows the
correspondence between the gain and sensitivity on the
standard audio inputs and on the LP inputs:
12dB
For example, the display will show:
● Switch between the source you are changing and the
Gain
0dB
A2-A6
150mV
110mV
75mV
LP MM
3mV
LP MC
210µV
150µV
110µV
75µV
reference source until they sound equally loud.
● Repeat the procedure for your other sources.
3dB
2.2mV
1.5mV
1.1mV
750µV
550µV
● When you have finished programming levels, switch the
power off and on again to restore the control unit to normal
operation.
6dB
9dB
54mV
12dB
15dB
38mV
54µV
27mV
38µV
29
Specifying information about your system
In addition to configuring the sources, and programming their
levels, you can configure many other aspects of the operation of
the 501/501V Control Unit to suit the way your system is set up,
and the way in which you want to use it.
The table below shows the options you can configure.
Option
Initial Value
5OO
Communications mode (500 or 200)
Controller mode (Auto, Con, or NCon)
System address (1–8)
Note that any settings that you configure are reset to standard
values when you choose one of the standard settings: see
Choosing standard settings, page 20.
Auto
SA=1
PA=1
Vout
VolM
≤≥N
5O1
To configure the control unit
● Turn off the control unit, using the power switch on the back
Product address (1–8)
panel.
● Turn on the power again while holding down the Display key
Volume control (Vout or Fout)
Volume mode (VolM or VolS)
Menu mode (N, 1, or 2)
on the front panel.
Conf
The display will show:
It will then show the first
5OO
configuration option:
Video version (501 or 501V)
200 Series CD player (N or Y)
● Press Copy to move between the options.
CD?N
● Press A or V to change the value of the current option.
30
These settings are configured automatically to appropriate
values when you choose one of the standard Type settings, and
you should not normally need to alter them; see Choosing
standard settings, page 20.
To choose fixed output
● Press Copy to choose the volume control option.
The display will show the
Vout
normal variable output setting:
● Press A or V to change to fixed output.
Fout
The display will show:
The control unit will now give a fixed 0dB output, equivalent to a
volume setting of 80, for use with Meridian D600 loudspeakers
or a second preamplifier.
If you have other specific requirements not catered for by the
standard settings please refer to the Meridian 500 Series User
Guide, or consult your Meridian dealer.
31
32
Setting up the Control
Unit
This chapter explains how to install the 501/501V Control Unit. It
describes what you should find when you unpack the control unit, how you
should connect it to your other audio equipment, and the siting
constraints.
Before you begin installation, you should ensure that your control unit is
the correct voltage for your local AC supply. If it is not, do not try to install
the control unit, and contact your dealer.
You should not make any connections to the control unit or to any other
component in your system whilst the AC power supply is connected and
switched on.
Unpacking
The 501/501V Control Unit comes in a box containing the
following components:
Radio interference
FCC Warning: This equipment generates and can radiate radio
frequency energy and if not installed and used correctly in
accordance with our instructions may cause interference to
radio communications or radio and television reception. It has
been type-tested and complies with the limits set out in Subpart
J, Part 15 of FCC rules for a Class B computing device. These
limits are intended to provide reasonable protection against
such interference in home installations.
❍ 501/501V Control Unit.
❍ 1 power cord.
❍ 1 500 Series communications lead.
❍ This manual.
You are advised to retain the packing in case you need to
transport the unit.
To position the control unit
EEC: This product has been designed to comply with the limits
set out in EN55013 and EN55020C.
Do not place the control unit:
❍ In direct sunlight.
❍ Near heat sources, eg a radiator.
❍ On top of a power amplifier, as the heat generated may
damage the control unit.
However, it can be stacked on a 506 Compact Disc Player and
504 FM Tuner, if you have these Meridian components in your
system.
34
Connecting the control unit
Rear panel
S-VHS
outputs
S-VHS VCR
inputs outputs
Video
inputs
Monitor
output
FN-Select
2
VCR Out TV/V5
LD/V3 VCR1/V1
1
OFF
S-Out
VCR1
S-In
TECH
ON
V6
Cable/V4 VCR2/V2 Monitor
VCR2
Main
S2/VCR2 S1/VCR1
COMMS
RS232
L
Headphones
R
Main Out
Tape Out
Tape2/A6
TV/A5
Tape1/A4
Radio/A3
CD/A2
LP/A1
Head-
phones
Audio
Tape
Audio
inputs
RS232
connection
Comms
connections
outputs outputs
Audio connections
The following table gives details of the audio outputs:
The following table gives details of the six audio inputs:
Use this output
To connect to this
Main Out
Power amplifier or active loudspeakers.
Both outputs are identical to allow
bi-amping.
Use this input
To connect to this
A1
A turntable pickup with optional
MM/MC module.
Tape Out
Tape recorder output.
A2 to A6
Other audio sources.
The audio inputs should be connected using high-quality
screened cable, taking care to connect the left and right
channels correctly.
35
Video connections (501V only)
The composite video connections should be made with high-
quality 75Ω screened cable. We do not recommend the use of
audio cables, which do not have adequate shielding or the
correct impedance, or cables intended for UHF applications, as
these do not provide adequate shielding in the 1-30MHz region.
The following table gives details of the eight video inputs:
Use this input
To connect to this
V1 to V6
Composite video signals, using phono
connectors.
In addition, the 501V Control Unit provides two FN-SELECT
function selection outputs, which can be used to provide
automatic switching of the monitor inputs. These provide
standard SCART signals; for more information please refer to
your dealer.
S1 or S2
S-VHS signals, using miniDIN
connectors.
The following table gives details of the six alternative video
outputs:
To connect to a tape recorder
Use this output
To connect to this
● Connect the analogue output from the tape recorder to the
Tape 1 input on the control unit (or another input if you prefer).
Monitor
Video input for a TV or monitor, using a
phono connector.
● Connect the Tape Out from the control unit to the analogue
input on the tape recorder.
VCR Out 1 or 2
Main S-OUT
Composite video recorder inputs, using
phono connectors.
S-VHS input, using a miniDIN
connector.
VCR1 or VCR2 S-OUT S-VHS video recorder inputs, using
miniDIN connectors.
36
To connect to other Meridian 500
Series equipment
This is the unit that will respond to the handset.
All the other units will be configured
NCon
● Connect one of the COMMS sockets on the rear panel of the
control unit to one of the COMMS socket on another 500
Series unit (excluding the 563), using the 500 comms lead
provided with the other unit.
as non-controllers, and display:
Your system is now set up and ready for use.
● If, for any reason, the automatic setup does not give the
configuration you want, restore the default operation by
selecting Type 1 as described in To connect to Meridian 600
or 200 Series equipment, page 38.
The sequence in which you connect the units is not important.
COMMS
COMMS
● If you want to change the automatic setup configuration refer
to the Meridian 500 Series User Guide.
Then configure the units with the following automatic setup
procedure:
Note: Do not, under any circumstances, connect any equipment
other than Meridian 500, 600, or 200 Series to the socket
marked COMMS on the rear of the control unit.
● Switch all the units to standby.
● Press Clear on the handset.
Auto
Each unit will display:
One unit will then be designated
Con
as the controller, and display:
37
To connect to a 555 Stereo Power
Amplifier
● Turn off the control unit, using the power switch on the back
panel.
● Turn on the power again while holding down the Off key on
501 Control Unit
Main Out
555 Stereo Power Amplifier
INPUT INPUT
the front panel.
L
R
The display will show
Ty 1
the current Type setting:
Audio lead
● Press A or V on the front panel to change the Type setting.
● Connect one pair of the sockets marked Main Out L and R on
the rear panel of the 501/501V Control Unit to the INPUT
sockets on the rear panel of the 555 Stereo Power Amplifier.
If your system includes a Meridian CD player select Type 2;
otherwise select Type 6.
To connect to Meridian 600 or 200
Series equipment
For example, if you select
Ty 2
Type 2 the display will show:
If your system includes any Meridian 600 or 200 Series units,
with 600 COMMS or 200 COMMS sockets, you should set all
the 500 Series units to 200 COMMS operation using the
following procedure:
● Switch the power off and on again to restore the control unit
to normal operation.
● To return to 500 COMMS operation repeat the above
procedure, and select Type 1, 3, 4, or 5. For more information
see Choosing standard settings, page 20.
38
Troubleshooting
This section describes problems you may encounter when using
the control unit, and includes suggested solutions.
There is hum on the LP input
The LP input is the most sensitive input on the control unit.
If these suggestions fail to cure the problem, please contact
your Meridian dealer for further assistance.
❍ Check that the tone arm is connected to the technical ground
of the control unit.
No lights are displayed when
switching on
❍ Check that the tone arm is connected to the power ground in
the turntable.
❍ Check that your AC power supply is connected correctly.
❍ If you are using a magnetic pickup, check that there is not
another piece of equipment too near to the turntable or the
left-hand side of the control unit. If so, re-position the
equipment to cure the problem.
❍ Check that the ON OFF switch on the rear panel
is in the ON position.
❍ Check that the fuse on the control unit rear panel and the fuse
in the unit’s power plug have not blown; see To change the
mains fuse, page 41.
There is hum on other inputs
❍ Check your other equipment.
❍ Consult your dealer.
39
There is interference on the radio and/
or television when the control unit is
switched on
Communication is not working
between the 501/501V Control Unit
and other Meridian products
Before following the steps below, ensure all units are switched
off.
❍ Check that all products are interconnected using the correct
comms leads.
❍ If the installation includes 200 Series or 600 Series units,
If this equipment does cause or suffer from interference to/from
radio or television reception then the following measures should
be tried:
check that all 500 Series units are set to 200 mode.
❍ Reorient the receiving aerial (or antenna) or route the antenna
cable of the receiver as far as possible from the 501/501V
Control Unit and its cabling.
❍ Ensure that the receiver uses well-screened antenna cable.
❍ Relocate the receiver with respect to the control unit.
❍ Connect the receiver and this product to different AC outlets.
40
Maintenance
Cleaning
reconnect the plugs at least once a year. A proprietary contact
cleaner can be used to some advantage.
When cleaning the control unit bear in mind that the front of the
control unit is plastic, and the display panel and lid are glass.
To change the mains fuse
Disconnect the power cord before cleaning the unit.
Fuse
Spare
Note: Do not use abrasive cleaners on any part of the control
unit.
To clean the case, display panel, and
keypad
● Remove the mains connector, and pull out the drawer next to
the power input to access the fuses.
● Use a slightly damp cloth.
Before replacing a blown fuse, if possible ascertain the cause of
the failure.
Ensure that no water is allowed to get inside the case, and do
not reconnect the power until you are certain that the control
unit is completely dry.
The fuse drawer includes a spare fuse. This should be replaced
by one of the same rating.
To clean the audio and video
connections
The audio and video sockets on the rear of the control unit are
gold-plated and need no cleaning if gold-plated phono plugs are
used. Otherwise, it is recommended that you unplug and
41
Service and guarantee
Service
Guarantee
The Meridian 500 Series of hi-fi components have been carefully
designed to give years of untroubled service. There are no user-
serviceable parts inside the case, nor do the units require any
form of maintenance.
The 501/501V Control Unit is guaranteed against defects in
material and workmanship for 2 years from the date of purchase.
The guarantee is void if the 501/501V Control Unit has been
subject to misuse, accident, or negligence, or has been
tampered with or modified in any way without the written
authorisation of Meridian Audio Limited. Note that connecting
anything other than the correct network lead to the COMMS
sockets may cause damage to the 501/501V Control Unit which
will not be covered by this guarantee. Attempted servicing by
unauthorised people may also invalidate this guarantee. Labour
and carriage charges are not covered unless by local agreement.
In the unlikely event that your control unit fails to function
correctly, it should be returned, in its original packaging, to your
Meridian dealer.
In case of difficulty within the UK or USA please contact the
appropriate sales and service address shown on page ii.
In case of difficulty outside the UK or USA, contact the importing
agent for the territory. A list of Meridian agents abroad is
available from Meridian Audio.
Outside the UK, local warranty liability is restricted to equipment
purchased within the territory. Our agents abroad are only under
contractual obligation to service under guarantee equipment
sold through them. They are entitled to make a non-refundable
charge for any service carried out on other equipment.
No responsibility can be accepted for the control unit whilst in
transit to the factory or an agent, and customers are therefore
advised to insure the unit.
This guarantee does not limit your statutory rights within the
United Kingdom.
When seeking service under guarantee, proof of the date of
purchase will be required.
42
Index
A
B
C
Accessories
7
Configuration options (continued)
volume control 30
volume mode 30
D
F
Digital output 35, 36
Display 13
Adjusting
balance 13
volume 12
changing 13
Configure the control unit 30
Configuring sources 23
address 25
Fixed output, choosing 31
Front panel controls 10
Fuse, replacing 41
Balance
adjusting 13
centring 13
audio input 25
comms type 25
G
H
I
Guarantee 42
Balancing input levels 28
FNSEL output 25
label 25
Hum problems 39
CD players, two 27
Changing the display 13
Cleaning 41
S-VHS input 25
video input 25
Inputs
Connecting
audio 35
video 36
Installing 34
the audio and video connections 41
the case 41
to a 555 Stereo Power Amplifier 38
to a tape recorder 36
to Meridian 500 Series
equipment 37
Components 34
Introduction
1
Configuration options
200 Series CD player 30
communications mode 30
controller mode 30
menu mode 30
to Meridian 600 and 200 Series
equipment 38
L
Labels 26
Last valid input 21, 22
Last valid option 16
Copy Attenuate option 14, 17
Copy Source option 14, 17
Copying
Levels, programming 28
product address 30
system address 30
video version 30
a source 14
M
Maintenance 41
a video source 17
MC phono module
7
Customising the control unit 19
43
Meridian 500 Series
500 Compact Disc Transport
501 Remote Control Preamplifier
501V Control Unit
504 FM Tuner
2
O
Optical EIAJ output 35, 36
Outputs
Setting up the control unit 33
for 500 Series operation 37
for 600 and 200 Series operation 38
Simultaneous broadcasts,
source 27
3
3
audio 35
4
digital 35, 36
optical EIAJ 35, 36
video 36
3
506 Compact Disc Player
555 Stereo Power Amplifier
3
Sound
3
muting 12
P
R
phono modules
562 Digital Controller
3
restoring 12
MC
MM
7
562V Multimedia Controller
5
Source labels 26
Sources
7
563 Digital to Analogue Converter
communications
4
Positioning 34
2
changing label 26
configuring 23
Programming levels 28
Meridian 500 Series operation,
setting 37
copying 14
Radio interference 34
Rear panel 35
Meridian 600 and 200 Series
operation, setting 38
copying video 17
default 11
audio connections 35
Record a radio broadcast 14
Recording
Meridian A2 Loudspeakers
Meridian D6000 Digital
3
default video 16
programming levels 28
recording 14
Loudspeakers
Meridian DSP5000 Digital
Loudspeakers
Meridian M60 Active
Loudspeakers
Meridian System Handset
MM phono module
Muting the sound 12
5
a source 14
selecting 11
video input 17
3
selecting video 16
Specification
S
Selecting
4
501
6
a source 11
a video source 16
Service 42
2
501V
7
7
44
Standard settings
501 21
FNSEL output 25
recording 17
501V 22
S-VHS input 25
selecting 16
selecting 20
Standby mode 11
Switching on from standby 11
Switching to standby 11
video input 25
Video version (501V)
connections 36
specification
7
T
Tape recorder, connecting to 36
Troubleshooting 39
Types 38
video features 15
Volume
decreasing 12
display 12
501 21
501V 22
fixed output 31
increasing 12
muting 12
selecting 20
U
V
Unpacking 34
restoring 12
Using the control unit
9
Video connections 36
Video features 15
Video sources
changing label 26
configuring 23
copying 17
default 16
45
46
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