Is the Arcam AVR360 7.2ch AV Receiver and Speakers Everything You Need for Surround Sound?
One common question about the Arcam AVR360 AV receiver (over 10 years old) is whether it's worth adding a subwoofer. The short answer is, while the AVR360 is an excellent device for its age, adding a subwoofer can significantly enhance your audio experience. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up the AVR360, connecting a subwoofer, and optimizing your home audio system for the best possible surround sound.
Understanding the Arcam AVR360
The Arcam AVR360 is a 7.2-channel AV receiver. Unlike many modern devices that separate the pre-amp and power amps, the AVR360 is a one-piece unit that includes both. It also handles radio tuners, making it a versatile hub for your home audio and visual setup.
With the AVR360, you can enjoy both stereo and surround sound without needing any additional pre-amps or devices. However, adding a subwoofer can provide a more immersive experience, especially for 5.1, 7.1, or 9.1 surround sound setups. The AVR360 has a standard subwoofer output socket, which we'll use to connect an active subwoofer.
Connecting the Subwoofer to the AVR360
Connecting an active subwoofer to the AVR360 is straightforward. The AVR360 has a subwoofer output socket located on the rear panel, specifically in the bottom left corner of the row of sockets. This socket is standard RCA and marked with the letter 'SUB'.
An active subwoofer will typically have a matching RCA input socket. There are usually two options: a left and right channel pair, or a mono socket marked 'MONO'. Active subwoofers often have a variety of input options, so check the manual for the specific model you're using. For most active subwoofers, the MONO socket will be the one to use. If your subwoofer has both a MONO and an LFE (Low Frequency Effects) socket, use the LFE socket for optimal performance.
Choosing the Right Cables
When connecting the subwoofer to the AVR360, a simple RCA phono cable is all you need. It's important to choose a cable with decent shielding to avoid any issues with hum. If you're in the UK or Europe, I recommend the following cable from a seller on eBay. It is high-quality and easy to hide:
It is thin and well-constructed, ensuring minimal interference and the best possible sound quality.
While you don't need to spend a fortune on cables, it's worth finding a reliable seller who can offer a solid explanation of the quality of their product. Pictures of what's underneath the outer jacket can also be very helpful in ensuring the cable meets your needs.
Setting Up Your Home Audio System
Once you have your TV, AVR360, speakers, and subwoofer in place, it's time to set up your system properly. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Place and Wire Your Speakers and Subwoofer
Position your speakers and subwoofer according to the user manual and your room dimensions for the best audio experience. Ensure all the necessary cables are connected to the back of the AVR360.
2. Connect HDMI to Your TV
Connect your TV's HDMI output to the AVR360's HDMI input. If your TV has an ARC or eARC socket, use that to send audio back to the AVR360 for volume control compatibility.
From the AVR360, you'll need to use its on-screen menus for some setup procedures. Turn on the AVR360 and TV, and select the HDMI input to which the AVR360 is connected.
3. Ensure HDMI Control and ARC Function are Enabled
HDMI Control (also known by different names such as Simplink, BraviaSync, or Viera Link) allows the TV's remote to control the AVR360's volume settings. First, make sure HDMI Control is enabled on the TV. Then, check if the TV's ARC function is turned on. If your TV has ARC, connect to the HDMI ARC socket.
4. Adjust Your TV's Audio Settings
To get the best sound from your TV, you need to ensure it's sending out the audio in the most compatible format. Here are the steps to follow:
Determine the Audio Signal Format: Use the on-screen menu to go to Audio settings. Under HDMI Audio Format, select Auto. This setting ensures that the TV sends the audio signal as-is, which the AVR360 will then process appropriately.
Enable Dolby Digital for Better Quality: If your TV support it, enable the Dolby Digital mode. This is especially important for better sound quality from high-quality content, such as most TV shows and streaming services.
Additional Tips
If you're setting up a used AVR360, make sure the seller includes the calibration microphone. This tool is essential for getting optimal performance from your speaker setup. Calibration helps compensate for the size and characteristics of your room, ensuring the best possible sound quality.
Finally, refer to the user manual of your AVR360 for specific instructions. The manual provides detailed guidance on connecting and calibrating your system. You can download it from the Arcam website if you don't have a physical copy.
Conclusion
The Arcam AVR360 is a powerful and versatile AV receiver that can provide excellent audio performance with the right setup. By adding a subwoofer and optimizing your TV's audio settings, you can enhance your entire home audio experience. Follow these steps to set up your system for the best possible surround sound and get the most out of your AVR360.