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Audio Features
Video Features
Network & Tuner
USB/iPod Connectivity
Convenience Features
Remote Control

Audio Features

Preamp/Processor: Delegating the amplification duties to a separate component allows the Onkyo PR-SC5509 AV Surround Preamplifier to keep a healthy distance between noise-inducing high voltage/high current circuits in the amplifier and sensitive low-level circuits in the preamp. This means that the radio frequency and electromagnetic interferences that are found in most A/V preamplifiers don't exist in the preamp, or are reduced by several orders of magnitude. The result is less distortion and less signal degradation in general.

Note: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 AV Surround Preamplifier does not feature a built-in amplifier and requires a separate power amplifier, such as the Onkyo PA-MC5500 nine-channel power amplifier (580PAM5500, sold separately).

9.2ch Preamp Outputs: There are RCA and XLR line level outputs for each of the 9.2 main zone channels; front left, front right, center, surround left, surround right, surround back left, surround back right, front high/wide left, front high/wide right, subwoofer 1, and subwoofer 2. Zone 2 and Zone 3 both have 2.1 channel RCA outputs; left, right, and subwoofer. A menu setting allows the output of both front high and front wide channels, in which case there is no surround back output. The surround back outputs can also be re-assigned to act as front channel bi-amp outputs.

Massive Toroidal Transformer: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 features a massive toroidal transformer and two separate transformers for audio and video processing.

Separate Anti-Vibration Aluminum Panels: The PR-SC5509 preamp features separate aluminum panels for the top, sides, and front to reduce unwanted vibrations caused by internal resonance. Compared to a one-piece chassis design, this construction method offers greater rigidity and improved noise reduction.

32-Bit TI Burr-Brown DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters): This preamplifier is equipped with six high-quality 192 kHz/32-bit TI Burr-Brown digital-to-analog converters (PCM1795) to decode & playback high-resolution recordings with less jitter and clearer sound. These next-generation DACs employ an advanced Texas Instruments (TI) architecture to achieve excellent dynamic performance & improved tolerance to clock jitter.

VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry): Conventional D/A conversion methods reduce digital pulse noise at the conversion stage, but can't remove it completely. Previously only found on higher-end components, VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) employs a unique D/A conversion circuit to overcome this problem. Data is converted between sampling points and these points are joined with analog vectors in real-time to produce a smooth output wave form. The result is a virtually noiseless, smooth analog signal based on the digital source to bring out even the most subtle of nuances in your music, movie soundtracks, and even MP3.

PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology: PLL jitter-cleaning circuit technology reduces jitter by comparing the input and output phases of the digital signal and creating an accurate clock waveform. This enhances the precision of digital signal processing and noticeably improves audio quality. Jitter-cleaning technology works both for digital signals input via HDMI and for digital signals converted from analog signals inside the preamplifier itself.

Linear Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry: Linear Optimum Gain Volume Control adjusts the gain so that less than half the amount of attenuation is needed, ensuring the signal never comes close to the noise floor. This protects the signal against noise, resulting in a dramatically clearer sound.

32-Bit Processing DSP: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 is equipped with a powerful and highly accurate 32-bit processing DSP (Digital Signal Processor) for better surround sound reproduction.

Multi-Channel Decoding Formats: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 AV preamplifier supports the following multi-channel (Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic) decoding formats.

• Dolby Digital: Dolby Digital, Dolby, Digital EX, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD
• DTS: DTS, DTS-ES, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution, DTS Express, DTS 96/24, DTS Neo: 6, DTS Neo:X
• Dolby Pro Logic: Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, Dolby Pro Logic IIz

Note: Dolby Digital and DTS listening modes can only be selected if your audio source is connected to the AV preamplifier via a digital audio connection (HDMI, optical, or coaxial). To enjoy true 7.1ch Dolby Digital TrueHD and DTS-HD surround sound, the preamplifier must be connected to your Blu-ray player via HDMI.

THX Certified: The PR-SC5509 AV preamplifier is THX certified. Founded by George Lucas, THX develops stringent standards that ensure movies are reproduced in movie theaters and home theaters just as the director intended. From early design concepts to product rollout, THX works with its manufacturing partners at each step of product development. Every detail is meticulously mapped to the THX performance standards. And THX engineers spend countless hours testing and analyzing each product for sound quality, usability and interoperability. The result of this collaborative process is a THX Certified receiver, amplifier or pre-amplifier designed from the ground-up to present your favorite movies, music, and games in 5.1ch to 7.1ch surround sound loud and clear at studio reference volumes.

• THX: THX Modes (Cinema, Music, or Game) carefully optimize the tonal and spatial characteristics of the soundtrack for reproduction in the home-theater environment. They can be used with various multichannel sources. Surround back speaker output depends on the source material and the selected listening mode.
• THX Ultra2+ (w/ THX Loudness Plus): The ultimate benchmark for home audio performance, THX Ultra2 Plus is specified for rooms where the screen-to-seat viewing distance is more than 12 feet and the room volume is 3,000 cubic feet or greater. This mode expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1- channel playback. It does this by analyzing the composition of the surround source, optimizing the ambient and directional sounds to produce the surround back channel output. You can choose between Cinema, Music, or Game mode. THX Loudness Plus is a volume control technology featured in THX Ultra2+ certified components. With THX Loudness Plus, home theater audiences can experience the rich details in a surround mix at any volume level. THX Loudness Plus compensates for the tonal and spatial shifts that occur when the volume is reduced by intelligently adjusting ambient surround channel levels and frequency response. The THX Loudness Plus feature can be applied when listening in any THX listening mode.
• THX Surround EX: This mode expands 5.1-channel sources for 6.1/7.1- channel playback. It's especially suited to Dolby Digital EX sources. THX Surround EX, also known as Dolby Digital Surround EX, is a joint development between Dolby Laboratories and THX Ltd.

Onkyo Original DSP Modes: Onkyo's Original DSP Modes, combined with Dolby Digital/DTS/Dolby Pro Logic processing, produce more realistic, powerful sound effects for your movie and music sound tracks based on the type of content and your home theater setup. You can choose from the following:

• Orchestra: For classical or operatic music.
• Unplugged: For acoustic instruments, vocals, and jazz.
• Studio-Mix: Suitable for rock or pop.
• TV Logic: Adds realistic acoustics to TV shows.
• Game: The preamp offers four different Gaming modes - RPG, Action, Rock, and Sports.
• All Ch Stereo: Stereo sound from all speakers. Ideal for background music.
• Full Mono: All speakers output the same sound in mono.
• Theater-Dimensional (T-D): Theater-Dimensional circuitry takes the complexity out of conventional surround-sound setups and lets you experience the excitement of surround sound from as few as two ordinary speakers. Theater-Dimensional's unique multi-speaker modes let you place up to five speakers conveniently by the TV, for the most realistic virtual-surround sound possible.

Audiophile Listening Modes: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 offers two audiophile listening modes which bypass the preamplifier's tone & DSP processing for higher sound quality performance. In Direct mode, audio from the input source is output without surround-sound processing. This mode delivers pure sound with minimum sound quality adjustment and filtration. In Pure Audio mode, the display and video circuitry are turned off, minimizing possible noise sources for the ultimate in high-fidelity audio reproduction.

Audyssey Technology: The PR-SC5509 features a full package of Audyssey audio technologies for optimal sound quality. Audyssey Dynamic Volume offers real-time volume adjustment, while Audyssey DynamicEQ improves your system's surround effects during low volume levels. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 automatically sets speakers to suit your room's listening environment and the speakers' characteristics. The AV preamplifier even offers Audyssey DSX which adds front speaker effects.

• Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Automatic Speaker Setup: With the supplied speaker setup microphone, Audyssey MultEQ XT32 determines the number of speakers connected, their optimum crossover frequencies, and their distances from the primary listening position, then adjusts each automatically. The room's acoustical properties are then measured and corrected over the listening area in both the frequency and time domain. There is a threaded insert on the bottom of the microphone so it can be mounted on a tripod for accurate listening position placement. Up to 8 listening position measurements are taken to optimize the surround effect for a broad area. If you prefer you can also setup your speaker system manually.
• Audyssey Dynamic EQ: Audyssey Dynamic EQ solves the problem of deteriorating sound quality as volume is decreased by taking into account human perception and room acoustics. Dynamic EQ selects the best possible frequency response and surround levels moment-by-moment as volume is changed. The result is bass response, tonal balance and surround impression that remain constant despite changes in volume. Audyssey Dynamic EQ combines information from incoming source levels with actual output sound levels in the room, a prerequisite for delivering a loudness correction solution. Audyssey Dynamic EQ works in tandem with Audyssey 2EQ to provide well-balanced sound for every listener at any volume level.
• Audyssey Dynamic Volume: Audyssey Dynamic Volume solves the problem of large variations in volume level between television programs, commercials, and between the soft and loud passages of movies. Dynamic Volume looks at the preferred volume setting by t he user and then monitors how the volume of program material is being perceived by listeners in real time to decide whether an adjustment is needed. Whenever necessary, Dynamic Volume makes the necessary rapid or gradual adjustments to maintain the desired playback volume level while optimizing the dynamic range. Audyssey Dynamic EQ is integrated in Dynamic Volume so that as the playback volume is adjusted automatically, the perceived bass response, tonal balance, surround impression, and dialog clarity remain the same whether watching movies, flipping between television channels, or changing from stereo to surround sound content.
• Audyssey Dynamic Surround Expansion (DSX): Audyssey DSX adds front effect speakers to improve spatial sound reproduction. Starting with a 5.1 channel system, DSX adds front Wide and/or front Height channels for better sound staging (although both wide and height speakers can be added, only one pair is used at a time). DSX also applies Surround Envelopment Processing to enhance the blend between the front and surround channels.

Surround Parameters: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 lets you tweak and fine tune specific surround sound modes to suit your preference.

• Dolby Pro Logic II Music Settings: While listening in the Dolby Pro Logic II Music format, there are three further enhancements you can adjust; Panorama: (broadens the front stereo image to the surround speakers to provide a wraparound effect), Dimension (allows you to move the sound field forward or backward), and Center Width (allows you to adjust the width of the center channel).
• Pro Logic IIz Height Gain: The Height Gain Control in Dolby Pro Logic IIz enables the listener to select how much gain is applied to the front high speakers. There are three settings, "Low", "Mid" and "High", and the front high speakers are accentuated in that order. While "Mid" is the default listening setting, the listener may adjust the Height Gain Control to their personal preference.
• Center Image: In the Neo:6 Music mode, the Center Image feature adjusts the output of the left and right channels relative to the center channel, allowing you to make the center channel more or less dominant as needed. This improves the image of the center channel, especially when the listener is off-center. Adjustment varies from 5 (nothing subtracted from the L/R channels) to 0 (L/R channel output is cut in half).
• Screen Centered Dialogue: By using the front high speakers, this function moves the center image of the dialogue upwards, so that the image of dialogue is fixed to the display height.
• Listening Angle: While listening in the Theater Dimensional mode you can adjust the listening angle to either Wide (if listening angle is 40°) or Narrow (if listening angle is 20°).

Dolby Volume: Dolby Volume automatically adjusts the difference in volume levels which can occur between different contents or source components, freeing the user from having to make volume adjustments. Also, by adjusting the frequency balance according to the playback volume, it recreates the original source audio. Dolby Volume therefore provides comfortable listening, effectively controlling the volume level difference without unnatural changes in volume or sound quality to recreate the balance and nuance of the source audio.

Dialog Normalization: Dialog Normalization (DialogNorm) is a feature of Dolby Digital, which is used to keep the programs at the same average listening level so the user does not have to change the volume control between Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby TrueHD programs.

Music Optimizer: While MP3 or AAC files may sound fine through the headphones of your portable digital player, the limitations of these files can be exposed when played back through a quality home entertainment system. This is because a significant amount of high-frequency bit information is lost during the file-compression process. To counter this, Onkyo has designed the Advanced Music Optimizer to compensate for lost bit information and improve the quality of compressed audio signals. This results in a clearer and more expansive sound. Also included in this technology is a loudness correction feature that further improves the audio character of compressed files. The Music Optimizer function only works with PCM digital audio input signals with a sampling rate below 48kHz and analog input signals.

Re-Equalization Circuitry: Re-EQ (re-equalization) corrects a soundtrack with high frequency response that's too harsh, compensating for the fact that sound mixed for large, plush theaters may sound too bright when played back through speakers in the home environment. This can be turned On or Off.

Late Night Feature: The Late Night feature limits the dynamic range of Dolby Digital recordings. Limiting the dynamic range makes it easier to find a volume that ensures the quiet sounds are not too quiet and the loud sounds are not too loud for night time listening. This allows you to comfortably listen to without the need to constantly adjust the volume to keep from waking family/neighbors. The choices are: Off, Low, and High. This feature only works with Dolby Digital Encoded software and the depth of the feature will vary based on the individual software package.

Tone Control: You can independently adjust the Bass (50Hz) and Treble (20kHz) of each speaker channel from -10 to +10 dB. You can also activate the Double Bass function in order to boost bass output even more by feeding bass sounds to the front left/right speakers, center-channel, and powered subwoofer.

Volume Setup: The Onkyo AV preamplifier provides the following volume settings.

• IntelliVolume: With IntelliVolume, you can set the input level for each input (+/-12dB) selector individually. This is useful if one of your source components is louder or quieter than the others. This function does not work in Zone 2.
• Maximum Volume: Use this feature to set the preamplifier's maximum volume level. This feature is useful to avoid turning the volume too loud by mistake. You can set the Max Volume from 30-79 (max), or Off (disabled).
• Power On Volume: Use this feature to set the volume level when the power is turned on. You can choose between Last (same as the volume when the unit was turned off), Min (0), or 1-78.
• Headphone Level: With this setting, you can specify the headphone volume (+/-12dB) relative to the main volume. This is useful if there's a volume difference between your speakers and your headphones.

Assignable Digital Inputs: The Onkyo preamplifier is equipped with four optical digital inputs (3 rear/1 front) and three coaxial digital inputs. All four digital inputs are assignable. You can choose auto decoding , PCM, or DTS for the digital audio inputs. Auto will decode the signal in its original form (Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM, etc), PCM decodes the signal to 2-channel, while DTS decodes only DTS formatted sources.

XLR Input: The XLR (balanced) input can be assigned to the BD/DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, Game, PC, Aux, Tape, TV/CD, or Phono input button.

Multi-Channel Input: The preamp is equipped with one set of 8-channel RCA type inputs for use with an outboard 5.1 or 7.1 channel decoder; there are inputs for left front, right front, center, left surround, right surround, surround back left, surround back right, and subwoofer. The multi-channel input can be assigned to the BD/DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, Game, PC, Aux, Tape, TV/CD, or Phono input.

Phono Input: The Onkyo AV preamplifier is fitted with a Phono input and ground terminal for connection of a turntable (MM).

Headphones: When headphones are plugged into the full-size 1/4" jack on the front panel, all the speakers are automatically muted. When you connect an iPod or iPhone to the USB port on this unit, no sound will be output from the headphone jack.

Video Features

Dual Core Video Engine: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 employs a dual core video engine with HQV Vida and Marvel Qdeo processing, along with ISF Video Calibration for exceptional reproduction of standard and high definition video sources.

• HQV Vida Video Processor (VHD1900): The PR-SC5509 is equipped with the sophisticated HQV Vida VHD1900 processor to enhance the quality of both standard-definition and high-definition video sources. The chip employs multi-cadence tracking, expanded 12-bit color processing, and four-field motion-adaptive de-interlacing to optimize video quality and detail. Two new HQV technologies are incorporated into the VHD1900: "Auto HQV" works to automatically enhance the incoming image, while "HQV StreamClean" cleans up compressed video in real time by eliminating mosquito and block noise from lower-quality sources such as online video sites.
• Marvel Qdeo Video Chip for 4K Upscaling: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 utilizes a Marvel Qdeo Video Chip for 4K Upscaling and video processing. The Marvel Qdeo Video Chip produces quiet and natural video, free from noise and artifacts. Analog video signals (composite/component/S-video) are converted to HDMI and can be scaled to the resolution set in the menu: Through (no scaling), Auto (automatically scaled to the highest resolution supported by the display), 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, or 4K. HDMI input signals can also be up-scaled.
• ISF Video Calibration: ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) video calibration dramatically improves picture quality. Each video input source is independently calibrated to achieve the best possible performance from your connected HDTV.

HDMI (v1.4): The PR-SC5509 has eight HDMI v1.4 inputs (7 rear/1 front). The front jack is fixed as the Aux input, while the seven rear panel jacks are assignable to any of the other inputs. There are two HDMI monitor outputs; both outputs can be active simultaneously and will pass digital audio and video. The 2 HDMI outputs display the same video signal and can be used simultaneously (the second HDMI monitor output can also be used for Zone 2 to display a different HDMI source). The HDMI inputs will support uncompressed standard or high definition digital video along with the following audio signals: 2-channel linear PCM, Multichannel linear PCM, and Bitstream. The preamplifier's HDMI circuitry allows the preamplifier to output an HDMI audio signal from its speaker outputs, headphone out, and HDMI out so you don't have to run additional analog or digital cables. The HDMI inputs accept 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, and 4k signals and the analog video inputs (composite/component) are converted to HDMI for transfer to the TV.

HDMI Through: When enabling the HDMI Through function, regardless of whether the AV receiver is "on" or in "standby" both audio and video streams from an HDMI input will be output to your television, via the receiver HDMI monitor output. You can select between 3 HDMI Through functions modes.

• Auto: Detects the signal and automatically selects the input sources.
• Source: Selects the input source (BD/DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, Game, PC, Aux, TV/CD, Port) for which the HDMI Through function in enabled.
• Last: The HDMI Through function is activated on the input source selected at the time of setting the AV receiver to the "standby" mode.

3D-Compatible: The PR-SC5509's HDMI v.1.4 connections will accept 3D video from your 3D-ready Blu-ray player and output the video signal in 3D to your 3D-ready flat-panel television.

x.v.Color: The AV preamplifier supports x.v.Color, offering a wider color range than the current broadcast standard. For the x.v.Color feature to be useful, the entire video production chain must be compatible (camera-editing-format-player-display).

Deep Color: The Onkyo preamplifier also supports Deep Color which allows the color depth of video signals passing through HDMI to be raised. The number of colors that could be expressed by 1 pixel was 24 bits (16,777,216 colors) with a standard HDMI jack. However, the number of colors which can be expressed by 1 pixel is 36 bits with a Deep Color enabled HDMI jack. Since the gradation of the depth of a color can be expressed more finely with more bits, continuous color changes can be more smoothly expressed. For the Deep Color feature to be useful, the entire video production chain must be compatible (camera-editing-format-player-display).

ARC (Audio Return Channel): ARC allows audio to be sent from your compatible HDTV to the preamp through the same HDMI cable already being used to send audio and video to your HDTV. This eliminates the need for extra cables connected to your television. The ARC function is only available through the main HDMI monitor output.

A/V Sync Control: Occasionally, you may need to manually adjust the audio/video signals that are not properly synchronized manually. Typically when using a progressive scanning DVD player. You can correct this by delaying the audio; options are 0 (no delay) to 800 milliseconds, in 10 millisecond steps.

Analog Video Inputs: The preamplifier features five composite video inputs (4 rear/1 front), one composite video record output, one composite video monitor output, and one Zone 2 composite video output. There are also three component video (60MHz) inputs, one component video monitor output, and one Zone 2 component video output. In addition, the preamp has four S-video inputs, one S-video record output, and one S-video monitor output. Composite and S-video inputs and can be output through the preamp's component video monitor output (without scaling). The Zone 2 video outputs do not support up-conversion.

Picture Adjust: Using the Picture Adjust feature, you can adjust the picture quality and reduce any noise appearing on your TV screen.

• Wide Mode: Auto, Full, Zoom, Wide Zoom, or 4:3.
• Picture Mode: Custom (all settings can be performed manually), ISF (Day/Night), Cinema (for movies), Game (for gaming), Streaming (reduces mosquito/block noise), Through (changes resolution), Direct (no adjustment).
• Picture Settings: You can change the following settings to be suitable for your movie or game screen.
  • Picture Adjustments: You can adjust Brightness (Red/Green/Blue), Contrast (Red/Green/Blue), Hue, Saturation, Color Temperature, and Gamma (RGB) of picture.
  • Game Mode: If video signal delay occurs during playback on a video component (i.e., game console), select the corresponding input source and set the "Game Mode" setting to "On". The delay will decrease but in return the picture quality will become poor.
  • Film Mode: Video (Film Mode detection is not applied and the input signal is handled as a video source) Auto (detects whether the input signal is a video or a movie. If it is a movie, the appropriate conversion is applied).
  • Edge Enhancement: With Edge Enhancement, you can make the picture appear sharper.
  • Noise Reduction: With this setting, you can reduce noise appearing on the screen.

  • Random Noise Reduction: With Random Noise Reduction, you can remove indiscriminate picture noise, such as film grain

  • Mosquito NR: With Mosquito Noise Reduction, you can remove the shimmering or haziness that sometimes appears around objects in the picture. Mosquito noise can be an issue with overly compressed MPEG content.
  • Block NR: With Block Noise Reduction, you can remove the block distortion that sometimes appears in the picture. Block noise can be an issue with overly compressed MPEG content.

ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) Video Calibration: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 offers ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) video calibration for optimal video performance. The preamplifier has been designed to incorporate setup and calibration standards established by the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF). The ISF has developed carefully crafted, industry-recognized standards for optimal video performance and has implemented a training program for technicians and installers to use these standards to obtain optimal picture quality from the preamplifier. Accordingly, Onkyo recommends that setup and calibration be performed by an ISF Certified installation technician.

Network & Tuner Functions

Network Connection: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 AV preamplifier is network-ready, which means you can connect it to your home network with a standard Ethernet cable and enjoy the music files stored on your computer or media server. If your network is connected to the Internet (broadband), you can also enjoy Internet radio. Connecting the AV preamplifier's Ethernet (RJ-45) port to a 100Base-TX switched Ethernet network is recommended for best results. Use a shielded CAT-5 Ethernet cable to connect the preamplifier to your home network.

Internet Radio: The Onkyo PR-SC5509 lets you access various Internet Radio providers through its Ethernet network connection. The PR-SC5509 will display station name and program-related information, such as - artist name, song title, and elapsed playing time. You can preset up to 40 of your "favorite" Internet radio stations for easy recall.

Note: To receive Internet radio, your Ethernet network must have Internet access. Internet URLs in the following formats are supported: PLS, M3U, and podcast (RSS). However, depending on the type of data or audio format used by the Internet radio station, you may not be able to listen to some stations.

Media Server Playback: You can play back music files stored on your computer or media server (the PR-SC5509 is DLNA certified). Compatible music file formats include MP3 (8-320 kbps), WMA (5-320 kbps), WMA Lossless (16/24-bit), WAV (8/16/24-bit), AAC (8-320 kbps), FLAC (8/16/24-bit), Ogg Vorbis (48-500 kbps), LPCM (8/16/24-bit), Apple Lossless (16/24-bit), DSD, and Dolby TrueHD. Each folder on the server may contain up to 20,000 music files, and folders may be nested up to 16 levels deep. Your computer or media server must be on the same network as the Onkyo AV preamplifier. The following media servers are compatible:

• Windows Media Player 11 or 12
• Windows Media Connect 2.0
• DLNA (ver.1.5)-Compatible Media Server

Note: If the operating system of your personal computer is Windows 7, Windows Media Player 12 is already installed. If the operating system of your computer is Windows Vista, Windows Media Player 11 is already installed.

PC Input: The AV preamplifier is equipped with a rear-panel PC input (15-pin D-sub) which allows you to connect your PC to the AV preamplifier and use your HDMI connected television as a computer monitor.

AM/FM Tuner: With the built-in tuner you can enjoy AM and FM radio stations. You can store your favorite stations as presets for quick selection. You can store a combination of up to 40 of your favorite FM/AM radio stations as presets.

USB/iPod Connectivity

Dual USB Ports: A USB MSC (Mass Storage Class) memory device can be connected to the preamplifier's front-panel or rear-panel USB (type-A) terminal, allowing you to play music files through the preamplifier. Your USB MSC device must be formatted in FAT16 or FAT32. Compatible music file formats include MP3 (8-320 kbps), WMA (5-320 kbps), WMA Lossless (16/24-bit), WAV (8/16/24-bit), AAC (8-320 kbps), FLAC (8/16/24-bit), Ogg Vorbis (48-500 kbps), LPCM (8/16/24-bit), Apple Lossless (16/24-bit), DSD, and Dolby TrueHD. Up to 20,000 folders can be displayed, and folders may be nested up to 16 levels deep. You can control basic playback functions of your connected USB device's music from the included remote control, such as - Folder/File Select, Play/Pause, Stop, Fast Forward/Rewind, Skip (next/previous), and Repeat/Random. USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the AV preamplifier's USB port; even in standby mode (the front-panel USB port is rated at 5V/1A, while the rear-panel USB port is rated at 5V/0.5A).

Note: USB hubs and USB devices with hub functions are not supported. MP3 players containing music files that are managed with special music software are not supported.

iPod/iPhone Direct: Using a USB-to iPod-Dock cable plugged into the front-panel USB port, music can be played directly from an iPod/iPhone, bypassing the iPod/iPhone's DAC. To view the video content from your iPod/iPhone, connect it to the preamplifier's front-panel USB port and composite video input using the official Apple Composite AV Cable (sold separately). Your connected iPod/iPhone is controlled by the preamplifier's remote, or you can continue to control your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or touchscreen. Song/artist information and elapsed time are displayed on the preamplifier's front-panel display and your connected TV screen (via HDMI only). You can navigate your iPod/iPhone's music using the on-screen menu and remote control by Playlist, Artist, Album Genre, Song, or Composer. Video stored on your iPod/iPhone can be searched by Movie, Music Video, TV Show, Video Podcast, Rented Movie, or Video iTunesU. You can also shuffle the playback of your iPod/iPhone's music and view the Now Playing screen. Your iPod/iPhone's battery will be charged while connected to the preamplifier. Using the dock cable to connect directly, iPod/iPhone compatibility is as follows (as of 1/9/2013):

Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.

Optional iPod/iPhone Video Dock: Using an Onkyo DS-A4 (580DSA4, sold separately) or UP-A1 (580UPA1, sold separately) iPod Dock, photos and video can be played directly from select iPod/iPhones onto your composite video or  HDMI connected TV.

Convenience Features

On-Screen GUI (via HDMI): The Onkyo AV preamplifier offers an on-screen setup menu (GUI) through its HDMI output. The on-screen display offers multiple language text, such as English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian. If your TV is connected to the composite video or component video monitor output, you will need to use the AV preamplifier's front-panel display when changing settings.

Hidden Front-Panel Controls: The majority of the preamplifier's front-panel control are hidden behind a manual fold-down panel. This gives the AV preamplifier a very clean, sleek look.

Multi-room Capability: The PR-SC5509 has preamp outputs for three zones; 9.2 channel surround with video in the main listening room, 2.1 channel (stereo plus subwoofer) with component video and composite video in Zone 2, and 2.1 channel audio only in Zone 3. The source for each zone is independently selectable, allowing you to enjoy different sources in each room. The output level of the Zone 2 and Zone 3 outputs can be fixed or variable, so they can be connected to an amplifier, preamplifier, or powered speakers equipped with or without volume control.

• Zone 2/3 Compatible Sources: Only Tuner, analog, USB, and Network audio sources can be sent to Zone 2 & 3. You must currently be listening to a USB device or Network audio source in the Main Zone to initially select USB or Network as a source in Zone 2 or Zone 3; then you can switch the Main Zone to any source you desire. Zone 2 video output is not converted (only composite video sources are available through the composite video output, and only component video sources are available through the component video output).
• Zone 2/3 Incompatible Sources: You cannot listen to different USB and Network content in separate Zones at the same time. HDMI digital audio/video sources and optical/coaxial digital audio sources cannot be output to Zone 2 or 3. You cannot output any video signal to 3.

Whole House Mode: The Whole House Mode is useful when you want to simply add extra background music to your home party. This mode allows you to enjoy the same stereo music as the main room in separate rooms (Zone 2/3). The Whole House Mode selects the same input source for Zone 2/3 as the main room. During the Whole House Mode, stereo playback is automatically selected for all zones. The Main Zone & Zone 2/3 will play at the same volume level.

Listening Mode Preset: You can assign a default listening mode to each input source so that listening mode will be selected automatically when you select the corresponding input source.

Name Edit: You can enter a custom name for each individual input selector and radio preset for easy identification. When entered, the custom name will appear on the display. This function cannot be used for the Network and USB input selectors.

Display Dimmer: The display brightness has three settings; Dim, Dimmer, and Normal.

Sleep Timer: From the remote, you can set the unit to automatically turn off after as much as 90 minutes or as little as 10 minutes; choices are presented in 10 minute increments.

Auto Standby: The AV preamp will automatically go into Standby mode, if there is no operation for 30 minutes with no audio/video signal input.

Firmware Updates: Future firmware updates are available from the Onkyo website through the preamplifier's Network or USB connection. The tested PR-SC5509 contained firmware version 1081-0700-0210-5103 (as of 1/9/2013). Visit Onkyo's online Download Center for the latest firmware updates.

Remote Control

Multibrand/Learning Remote (w/ Macros): The supplied wireless remote is a multibrand/learning remote. The remote is pre-programmed to operate popular brands of equipment including DVD players, DVD recorders, Blu-ray players, VCRs, TVs, Cable boxes and Satellite preamplifiers. Also, the remote can learn up to 32 commands from infrared remotes of other components. You can sequentially operate Onkyo components via simple commands from a single-button press, using the included IR remote control. There are fourr Activities buttons (My Movie/My TV/My Music/All Off) that can be programmed to perform a sequence of commands with just one button press; each macro button can perform up to 32 commands.

HDMI Control: This function allows CEC-compatible components (Toshiba REGZA-LINK TV/Sharp TV) or RIHD-compatible components connected via HDMI to be controlled with the Pr-SC5509. The AV preamplifier offers the following CEC HDMI controls.

• The AV preamplifier will enter Standby mode when the power of the TV is turned to Standby.
• You can set on the menu screen of the TV to either output the audio from the speakers connected to the AV preamplifier, or from the speakers of the TV.
• It is possible to output the audio/video from the antenna or from the input jack of the TV from the speakers connected to the AV preamplifier.
• Input to the AV preamplifier can be selected with the remote controller of the TV.
• Operations such as volume adjustment or similar for the AV preamplifier can be performed from the remote controller of the TV.

Remote Apps for Apple iOS Devices and Android Smartphones: The Onkyo Remote App 2 for iPod touch/iPhone and Onkyo Remote for Android provide an alternative way to operate the Onkyo AV preamplifier. A simple yet powerful Graphical User Interface allows the user to control input sources, adjust audio settings, and control playback across multiple zones in the home, from anywhere within wireless range.

• Remote App For iPod touch/iPhone: The Onkyo Remote App for iPod touch and iPhone is available as a free download from the online Apple App Store. The Onkyo Remote App for iPod touch and iPhone provides an intuitive way to operate the Onkyo AV preamplifier via your home network. From your iPod touch/iPhone's touchscreen, you have the ability to control input sources, adjust audio/video settings, and enjoy your content seamlessly. The Onkyo Remote App for iPod touch and iPhone is compatible with the iPod touch (3rd/4th/5th gen) and iPhone (3GS/4/4S/5), running iOS 4.2 or later. The Onkyo AV preamplifier and iPod touch/iPhone must be connected to the same network.
  • Intuitive GUI: The Remote App's graphical user interface (GUI) lets you see menus for input source, network source, or radio station, and make your selection accordingly.
  • Menu Control: Selecting the Home Menu feature on your iPod touch/iPhone makes the preamplifier's main menu page appear overlaid on your home theater display. You can then access a variety of menus that let you adjust settings on the connected Onkyo preamplifier.
  • Volume & Tone Control: Onkyo's Remote App makes smart use of the accelerometer inside your iPod touch or iPhone. Simply tilt the iPod touch/iPhone right or left to turn the volume up or down. The app also lets you adjust bass & treble levels, and select dedicated listening modes, via your iPod touch/iPhone's touchscreen interface.
  • Audio/Video Information: Your iPod touch/iPhone offers a variety of useful information when you want to know more about the content playing back through your system. You can quickly check if your audio content is encoded as stereo or multichannel, for example, or whether your video content is in standard or high definition.
• Remote App for Android: The Onkyo Remote App for Android is available as a free download from the online Android Market. Onkyo's Remote App for Android allows you to wirelessly stream audio stored on your Android phone to the Onkyo AV preamplifier over your home network. The app operates over a wireless LAN connection and enables a range of remote control functions; such as volume and tone control, as well as input selection. It also lets you seamlessly browse networked content and navigate menus using the touchscreen GUI on your Android phone. Onkyo's Remote App for Android is compatible with Android OS 2.1 or later.
  • Sleek GUI: The Remote App's graphical user interface (GUI) makes it extremely east and intuitive to operate. Use simple menus to choose an input source and one of three different listening modes; including music, movies, or games. It's also easy to make a full range of tone and speaker adjustments.
  • Easy Setup Menu: Selecting the setup menu feature on your Android phone makes the Onkyo AV preamplifier's main menu page appear overlaid on your home theater display. You can then access a variety of menus that let you adjust settings on the connected Onkyo preamplifier.
  • Wireless Music Streaming: Operating over a wireless local network, the app allows you to stream music stored on your Android phone to the Onkyo network AV preamplifier. Music played through the Onkyo preamplifier gains far greater power and fidelity. Support for WMA and FLAC formats depends on the model of Android phone.
  • Multi-Zone Control: Using the Remote App, you can control output in separate zones in a multi-room distributed audio setup. The app lets you choose the playback source for up to 2 zones.

Remote Inputs/Outputs: The PR-SC5509contains RI Control, IR Remote, 12V trigger, and RS-232C connections.

• RI Remote Control Jack: The 1/8" RI remote control jack allows you to connect this preamplifier to other compatible Onkyo components.
• IR Inputs/Output: The 3.5mm IR output jack allows you to control the preamplifier without line-of-sight access using an optional IR remote control system and locating the remote sensor in sight. The dual 3.5mm IR input jacks allow you to send the control signals to an additional components.
• 12 Volt Triggers: The three 12V triggers can be used to turn on 12V trigger-capable components automatically when they are selected as the input source. The triggers can be set so that they activate themselves once a connected component is selected as the input source for the main room, Zone 2, Zone 3 or any combination of rooms.
• RS-232C Port: The PR-SC5509 has an RS-232C port for connection to external control systems from companies such as AMX or Crestron.