Introduction of Panasonic Home Theater Audio SC-HT40

The Panasonic SC-HT40 is a multipurpose audio solution that combines strong sound quality and intuitive functionality for home theaters. Games, music, and movies will all sound crystal clear and realistic thanks to this system's engineering.

Specifications (IHF’78)

AMPLIFIER SECTION

FM TUNER SECTION

AM TUNER SECTION

SPEAKER SECTION

GENERAL

Power consumption in standby mode: 1 W

Notes

1. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
   Mass and dimensions are approximate.

2. Total harmonic distortion is measured by the digital spectrum analyzer.

Description

The Panasonic Home Theater Audio SC-HT40 boasts a sleek and modern design, with a compact and space-saving layout that seamlessly integrates into any home entertainment setup. This powerful 5.1-channel system includes:

• Five compact satellite speakers
• One powerful subwoofer
• A user-friendly control unit with Bluetooth and USB connectivity

Remote control

• Insert so the poles (+ and -) match those in the remote control.
• Do not use rechargeable type batteries.

Use
Aim at the sensor, avoiding obstacles, at a maximum range of 7 m (23 feet) directly in front of the unit.
Remote control signal sensor

Note

• Keep the transmission window and the unit’s sensor free from dust.

• Operation can be affected by strong light sources, such as direct sunlight, and the glass doors on cabinets.

Speaker setup

1. Attach the stickers to the speaker cables.

   

2. Placement of speakers.

   

   Positioning for best effect
   How you set up your speakers can affect the bass and the sound field.
   Note the following points.

   • Place speakers on flat secure bases.

   • Placing speakers too close to floors, walls, and corners can result in excessive bass. Cover walls and windows with a thick curtain.

   Note: Keep your speakers at least 10 mm (13 /32″) away from the system for proper ventilation.
   Place the front, center, and surround speakers at approximately the same distance from the seating position. The angles in the diagram are approximate.
   Front speakers (left, right)
   Place on the left and right of the TV at seated ear height so that there is good coherency between the picture and sound.
   Center speaker
   Place underneath or above the center of the TV. Aim the speaker at the seating area.
   Surround speakers (left, right)
   Place on the side of or slightly behind the seating area, higher than ear level.
   Subwoofer
   The subwoofer can be placed in any position as long as it is at a reasonable distance from the TV. Note that some experimentation can yield the smoothest low frequency performance. Placement near a corner can increase the apparent output level, but can result in unnatural bass.
   If irregular coloring occurs on your television
   The supplied speakers are designed to be used close to a television, but the picture may be affected with some televisions and setup combinations.
   If this occurs, turn the television off for about 30 minutes
   The television’s demagnetizing function should correct the problem. If it persists, move the speakers further away from the television.
   Caution: The main unit and supplied speakers are only to be used as indicated in this manual. Failure to do so may lead to damage to the receiver and/or the speakers, and may result in the risk or fire. Consult a qualified service person if  damage has occurred or if you experience a sudden change in performance. Do not attempt to attach these speakers to walls using methods other than those described in this manual.

3. Connect the speakers to the receiver.

   

Other speaker setup options

The wall or pillar on which the speakers are to be attached should be capable of supporting 10 kg (22 lb.) per screw. Consult a qualified building contractor when attaching the speakers to wall. Improper attachment may result in damage  to the wall and speakers.
Fitting optional speaker stands e.g. Front speakers

• Use the same distance between the two screws for center speaker.
• Use the same screw type for center and surround speakers.
• The stands must be able to support over 10 kg (22 lb.).

• The stands must be stable even if the speakers are in a high position.

  

Set your sound free with Panasonic’s wireless receiver and speaker systems

• Attach the SH-FX60 digital transceiver for wireless surround sound.
• You can also connect your portable audio equipment to the wireless system.

Home theater connections

Other accessories

• Turn off all components before making any connections.

• To connect equipment, refer to the appropriate operating instructions.

Changing the digital input settings
You can change the input settings for the digital terminals if necessary. Note the equipment you have connected to the terminals, then change the settings. One of the terminals will remain unused, whatever the setting. (➡ page 8)

Note

• Use digital connection to enjoy Dolby Digital or DTS.

• Do not bend the optical fiber cable.

Notes on digital input
This unit can decode the following signals:

• Dolby Digital, DTS
• PCM, including PCM with sampling frequencies of 96 or 88.2 kHz

It cannot decode:

• Other digital signals, such as MPEG
• Dolby Digital RF signals from a laser disc player

DVR/DVD-P
 

TV (input source)

Antenna and AC power supply connections

Supplied accessories

Settings

Change the settings to suit your equipment to the environment in which you are using it. Before making any changes, read the descriptions of the settings, note the factory settings and ranges, and refer to the equipment’s instructions.

Basic operations

Select “REAR MUSIC PORT” to play sound from portable audio equipment connected directly to the wireless system. (➡ page 5)

Adding surround effects to stereo sources

Using Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ

• Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ processor works not only on sources recorded with Dolby Surround, but also on any stereo source.

• Press to select a mode from the table at right.

  • To cancel, press [OFF]
    You can make fine surround settings when in the MUSIC or PANORAMA mode. 

    	MOVIE Use this mode when playing movie software recorded in Dolby Surround.
    	MUSIC Adds surround effects to stereo sources.
    	PANORAMA Sound is spread out more so you feel like you are surrounded by music.

Using the Sound Field Control (SFC)

• Enjoy an enhanced sound experience with greater presence and spread by using these SFC modes with PCM or analog stereo sources.
  Press to select a mode from the tables at right.

  • To cancel, press [OFF].
    You can adjust SFC effects.

    	LIVE Brings you up close for "live" stage performance and smoother vocals.
    	POP/ROCK For pop, rock, and other music that has a punch to it.
    	VOCAL For adding gloss to vocals.
    	JAZZ Conveys the exciting and intimate atmosphere of a jazz club.
    	DANCE For dance music and other sounds with a strong beat.
    	PARTY This mode uses the front and surround speakers so that sound is in stereo regardless of the direction you are facing.

Note
RQTV0105

• Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ and SFC modes remain in effect until you turn the mode off.
• When input is PCM with sampling frequencies of 96 or 88.2 kHz, you cannot add surround effects with Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ or SFC.
• When input is Dolby Digital or DTS, you cannot use SFC.
• When input is “REAR MUSIC PORT”, Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ and SFC do not work.

Control guide

Remote control
This page describes the buttons used to control this unit. See the guide starting page 19 for the buttons that control other units.

Main unit

Display

Making a recording

You can record to a unit connected to DVR/DVD-P OUT. You can record any analog source except DVR/DVD-P IN.

1. Press [INPUT SELECTOR < or >] to select the source to be recorded.
2. Begin recording.
   Follow your recording unit’s operating instructions.
3. Start the source to be recorded.

Note: This unit cannot record digital sources. Connect through the analog terminals and select “ANALOG” input (➡ page 18).

The RESET function

The operation settings for the unit will be initialized to the settings made at the time of shipment. However, any preset radio stations will not be erased.

1. Press and hold [―SETUP] to enter the setup menu.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select “RESET” ➡ [ENTER].
3. Press [TUNE +] to select “RESET YES” ➡ [ENTER].
   To cancel, select “RESET NO”.

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.

1. “Dolby”, “Pro Logic” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
2. “DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are registered trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.

MENU operation

This is an outline of the operations you can perform with the MENU.
Press [-MENU] once.

2 Main menu	3 Sub menu 1	4 Sub menu 2	5 Exit
TUNER The radio ➡ page 15	FM MODE (TUNER FM only)	AUTO MONO	Press repeatedly until “EXIT” appears. Press [ENTER] to completely exit the menu mode. EXIT
	MEMORY	MEMO  CH 1 MEMO  CH30
	AUTO	CANCEL START
	TUNE MODE	MANUAL PRESET
	BEAT PROOF (TUNER AM only)	MODE 1 MODE 2
BASS     0 Adjust the bass ➡ page 16	BASS   -10 BASS   +10	Press repeatedly until “EXIT” appears. Press [ENTER] to completely exit the menu mode. EXIT
TREBLE   0 Adjust the treble ➡ page 16	TREBLE -10 TREBLE +10
BALANCE You can adjust the balance of the front speakers ➡ page 16	L i R
DIMMER OFF Dim the display for better viewing in a darkened room ➡ page 17	DIMMER OFF DIMMER     1 DIMMER     2 DIMMER     3
SLEEP  OFF The SLEEP timer can turn the unit off after a set time ➡ page 17	SLEEP  OFF SLEEP   30 SLEEP   60 SLEEP   90 SLEEP  120

The radio

Direct tuning
Input the frequency of the station.
Remote control

1. Press [TUNER, ―BAND] to select “TUNER”.
2. Press and hold [TUNER, ―BAND] to select “TUNER FM” or “TUNER AM”.
3. Press [TUNER DIRECT TUNING].
4. Press the numbered buttons to enter the frequency. e.g. To select 107.9 MHz, press [1] → [0] → [7] → [9] • If you do not press a button while the cursor is flashing, the display returns to the frequency being received.
   If the frequency has not been input correctly, “ERROR” will be displayed.

Automatic presetting
The FM stations the unit can receive are preset in channels 1 to 30. The AM stations the unit can receive are preset in channels 21 to 30 (FM stations are replaced if any were preset in these channels).
Preparation: Tune to either FM 87.9 MHz or AM 530 kHz.
Main unit

1. Press [-MENU] to select “TUNER” ➡ “AUTO MEMO”.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select “START” ➡ [ENTER]. Select “CANCEL” to cancel.

The tuner presets all the stations it can receive into the channels in ascending order. During automatic presetting, the memory indicator (M) flashes and the frequency scrolls. The memory indicator and channel numbers are displayed for a second when a station is preset. The last station to be preset is displayed when presetting finishes.
Manual presetting
Preset the stations one at a time.
Preparation: Tune to the station you want to preset.
Main unit

1. Press [-MENU] to select “TUNER” ➡ “MEMORY”.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select the channel ➡ [ENTER]. (“STORED” lights.)

For your reference
FM stations can also be preset in the MONO mode.
Selecting channels
Remote control

1. Press [TUNER, ―BAND] to select “TUNER”.
2. Press [SKIP 2or 1 ]. or Press the numbered buttons.
   For channels 1 to 9, press the corresponding number. 
   For channels 10 or over, press [ ≧10], then the two digits. e.g.
3. To select channel 21: [ ≧10] → [2] → [1] 

Main unit

1. Press [-MENU] to select “TUNER” ➡ “TUNE MODE”.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select “PRESET” ➡ [ENTER]. Select “MANUAL” to cancel.
3. After exiting the menu: Press [TUNE – or +].

Reducing excessive noise

During FM stereo reception
You can improve FM reception by switching reception to monaural.
Main unit

1. Press [-MENU] to select “TUNER” ➡ “FM MODE”.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select “MONO” ➡ [ENTER]. Select “AUTO” to cancel.

During AM reception
When there is a lot of noise interference with an AM broadcast, try switching this mode.
Main unit

1. Press [-MENU] to select “TUNER” ➡ “BEAT PROOF”.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select “MODE 1” or “MODE 2” ➡ [ENTER].

Sound field

Adjusting the tone
You can adjust the level of the bass and treble.
Main unit

1. Use the menus to select “BASS” or “TREBLE”.
2. Press [-] or [+] to adjust the tone.
   Input signals must be either analog or PCM, and Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ and SFC must be off

Balance
You can adjust the balance of the front speakers.
Main unit

1. Use the menus to select “BALANCE”.
2. Press [-] or [+] to adjust the balance.

Subwoofer-level Remote control

• Press [SUBWOOFER].
• Adjust the level in 5 steps:
• SUBW MIN, SUBW 5, SUBW 10, SUBW 15 and SUBW MAX.
  Select “SUBW – – -” to stop output.

Note: Sound can be distorted if you raise the volume while subwoofer level is high. Reduce subwoofer level if this occurs.
Surround music
This mode outputs the same sound to all the speakers so that you hear the same sound wherever you are in the room. Use it when the speakers and listeners are spread out.
Main unit

• Press [SURROUND MUSIC].
• The button lights.
• To cancel, press [SURROUND MUSIC] again or press [OFF] on the remote control.

Note: The mode cancels if you connect headphones. You cannot use this when input is “REAR MUSIC PORT”. The effect will not be as good with some multi-channel sound sources, so turn it off if this is the case.
Dimension Control “DIMEN”

1. You can adjust the effect of the Dolby Pro LogicΙΙ MUSIC and PANORAMA modes (➡ page 10).
2. You can make up for differences in the output level of the front and surround speakers.
3. You can choose a level between -3 and +3: Increase the level to move sound to the front speakers, decrease to move it to the  surround speakers.
4. The default level is 0.

Remote control

1. Press [-EFFECT, ―C.FOCUS] to select “DIMEN”.
2. Press [-] or [+] to adjust the effect.

Center Width Control “C-WDTH”
This adjustment helps you realize a more natural sound image when listening to music. Move sound out into the front speakers to improve the overall front image, or add sound to the center speaker to fix the center image. You can choose a level between 0 (the center speaker is dominant) and 7 (center sound is spread out). The default level is 3.
Remote control

1. Press [-EFFECT, ―C.FOCUS] to select “C-WDTH”.
2. Press [-] or [+] to adjust the effect.

Other functions

Center focus
Use with discs where the dialogue is recorded in the center channel.
You can make the sound of the center speaker seem like it is coming from within the television.
Remote control
Press and hold [-EFFECT, ―C.FOCUS].
“C.FOCUS” lights.
The factory setting is off.
You cannot use this when the sound mode is STEREO or SURROUND MUSIC.
Adjusting SFC effects
You can adjust the sound field by adjusting the level of the speakers and the delay time of the surround speakers. These adjustments can be made for each SFC mode.
To adjust the speaker level
Remote control

1. Press [-LEVEL, ―TEST] to select the speaker channel.
   Each time you press the button: C → SR → SL → SUBW
2. Press [-] or [+] to adjust the level.
   C, SR, and SL: -10 dB to +10 dB SUBW: – – – (off) ↔ MIN ↔ 1 – 19 ↔ MAX

To adjust the delay time
Remote control

1. Press [-EFFECT, ―C.FOCUS].
2. Press [-] or [+] to change the delay time.
   The default setting is 50 mSEC. (10 mSEC – 100 mSEC)

Sleep timer
The SLEEP timer can turn the unit off after a set time.
It does not control any other components.
Main unit

1. Use the menus to select “SLEEP”.
2. Press [-] or [+] to select the time (in minutes).
   The display changes as follows:
   SLEEP OFF ↔ SLEEP 30 ↔ SLEEP 60 ↔ SLEEP 90 ↔ SLEEP 120

To check the setting

1. Press [-MENU] to enter the main menu.
2. Press [TUNE – or +] to select “SLEEP”.
   The time remaining appears.

To change the setting
Repeat the procedure from the beginning.
Dimmer
Dim the display for better viewing in a darkened room.
Main unit

1. Use the menus to select “DIMMER”.
2. Press [-] or [+] to select the level (1, 2, or 3) or OFF.

Muting
Remote control

• Press [MUTING].
• To cancel
• Press [MUTING] again.
• Muting also cancels when you switch the unit to standby.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Read these operating instructions carefully before using the unit. Follow the safety instructions on the unit and the applicable safety instructions listed below. Keep these operating instructions handy for future reference.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket , or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the  apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

Supplied accessories

Please check and identify the supplied accessories.

• 1 AC power supply cord (K2CB2CB00018)
• 1 AM loop antenna (N1DAAAA00002)
• 2 Batteries
• 1 FM indoor antenna (RSA0007-L)
• 1 Remote control (N2QAYB000009)
• 1 speaker sticker sheet (RQCAV0006)

Listening caution

Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit you’ve just purchased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now it’s time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment offers. This manufacturer and the  Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without annoying blaring or distortion- and,  most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing. We recommend that you avoid prolonged exposure to excessive noise. Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort level” adapts to higher volumes of sound. So what sounds “normal” can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing. Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.
To establish a safe level:

• Start your volume control at a low setting.
• Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it comfortably and clearly, and without distortion.
  Once you have established a comfortable sound level:
• Set the dial and leave it there.

Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage or loss in the future. After all, we want you listening for a lifetime.
CAUTION!
DO NOT INSTALL OR PLACE THIS UNIT IN A BOOKCASE, BUILT-IN CABINET OR IN ANOTHER CONFINED SPACE. ENSURE THE UNIT IS WELL VENTILATED. TO PREVENT RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK OR FIRE HAZARD  DUE TO OVERHEATING, ENSURE THAT CURTAINS AND ANY OTHER MATERIALS DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE VENTILATION VENTS.
CAUTION!
Do not place anything on top of this unit or block the heat radiation vents in any way. In particular, do not place tape decks or CD/DVD players on this unit as heat radiated from it can damage your software.
Information on Disposal in other Countries outside the European Union. This symbol is only valid in the European Union. If you wish to discard this product, please contact your local authorities or dealer and ask for the correct method of disposal.

Troubleshooting guide

Before requesting service, make the below checks. If you are in doubt about some of the check points, or if the remedies indicated in the chart do not solve the problem,

Here is the table formatted without page numbers:

Panasonic Home Theater Audio SC-HT40 Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality audio performance with deep, accurate bass and clear, detailed treble
• Stylish and space-saving design
• Easy setup and control
• Wide range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth and USB
• Affordable pricing compared to competitors

Cons

• Limited customization options for sound settings
• May not support some higher-end audio formats
• Speaker wires are not included in the package

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the Panasonic Home Theater Audio SC-HT40 for its powerful sound, easy setup, and stylish appearance. Most common complaints include limited sound customization and the lack of included speaker wires.