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16
CONNECTIONS
HK 3490, it also counts as a source, even though no external
connections are needed, other than the FM and AM antennas and
the XM module.
Separate connections are required for the audio and video portions
of the signal.
Audio Connections
There are two formats for audio connections: digital and analog. Digital
audio signals offer improved quality, free of distortion and with greater
detail and presence. The HK 3490 uses two types of digital audio
connections: coaxial and optical. Either type of digital audio connection
may be used for each source device, but never both simultaneously for
the same source. However, it’s alright to make both analog and digital
audio connections to the same source.
Digital Audio
Coaxial digital audio jacks are usually color-coded in orange. Although
they look similar to analog jacks, they should not be confused, and you
should not connect coaxial digital audio outputs to analog inputs or
vice versa. See Figure 4.
Figure 4 – Coaxial Digital Audio
Optical digital audio connectors are normally covered by a shutter to
protect them from dust. The shutter opens as the cable is inserted. Input
connectors are color-coded using a black shutter, while outputs use a
gray shutter. See Figure 5.
Figure 5 – Optical Digital Audio
Analog Audio
Analog connections require two cables, one for the left channel (white)
and one for the right channel (red). These two cables are often attached
to each other for most of their length. See Figure 6. Most sources that
have digital audio jacks also have analog audio jacks, although some
older types of sources, such as tape decks, have only analog jacks. For
sources that are capable of both digital and analog audio, you may wish
to make both connections. If you wish to record materials from DVDs
or other copy-protected sources, you may only be able to do so using
analog connections. Remember to comply with all copyright laws if you
choose to make a copy for your own personal use.
Figure 6 – Analog Audio
Video Connections
Although some sources only produce an audio signal (e.g., CD player,
tape deck), many sources output both audio and video signals (e.g.,
DVD player, cable television box, HDTV tuner, satellite box, VCR, DVR).
In addition to the audio connection, make a video connection for each
of these sources.
The composite video jack is usually color-coded yellow, and looks like
an analog audio jack, although it is important never to confuse the two.
Do not plug a composite video cable into an analog audio jack, and
vice versa. Both the chrominance (color) and luminance (intensity)
components of the video signal are transmitted using a single cable.
See Figure 7.
Figure 7 – Composite Video
Antennas
The HK 3490 uses separate terminals for the included FM and AM
antennas that provide proper reception for the tuner.
The FM antenna uses a 75-ohm F-connector. See Figure 8.
Figure 8 – FM Antenna
The AM loop antenna needs to be assembled. Connect the two leads
to the spring terminals on the receiver. The AM antenna leads are
polarized, and it is important to color-match the leads and terminals
to maintain the proper polarity. See Figure 9.
Figure 9 – AM Antenna
To enjoy XM satellite radio, purchase an XM antenna module designed
for use with XM Ready devices and a subscription to the XM service.
We recommend the XM Mini-Tuner and Home Dock Bundle, available
at www.xmradio.com. The older Connect-and-Play module is also
compatible with the HK 3490, but it may no longer be available in
your area.
An XM Ready-compatible module uses the special connector on
the HK 3490’s rear panel that allows you to use the receiver’s tuner,
including its 40 preset station locations and remote control. Although
you may use a module with standard audio connections, which may
be indicated for “car and home use,” you will not be able to enjoy the
HK 3490’s ease of control.
Composite video
Composite
video cable
L
R
A
nalog audio
cable (RCA)
Optical
Optical digital
audio cable
Coaxial
Coaxial digital
audio cable
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