So I bought a SPL meter... NOW WHAT???

[Midcow2]

Thanks for the hook up MidCow2...

If I set up my SPL meter like you said, is there a baseline or range I should set the volume at to achieve this db level. When this "baseline volume" is set do I adjust db level per a speaker to reach 85db? with the provided test tones from the reciever?

I have been gathering different info and feedback about what speaker levels are set at... some people -7 db all the way up to 10+db probably. Mine are currently set at
3.5 db for the two fronts,
4.5 db for the center
3.0 db for the surrounds
1.5 db to the sub

Do I need to worry about overpowering when I bump up the db levels or is it just increasing power output to each individual speaker?

Cheers!

The dB setting you are taking about is what Audyssey or you auto set-up determined ( don't worry about what settiings other peopel have; there system is completely different). The only time you need to worry about your settings, is if you are either close to the minimum or maximum settings; vyours are perfect Setting your level is a combination of the relative dB level and your baseline. Leave your current setting the way they are, start with your fronts and increase you base line until you are at 85 dB. leave that setting and then adjust your relative speaker settings. 85db is not magic, you could also use 80 dB or 75dB; get close to a level you will be listening at, but I typically use 85 dB. You shouldn't have to worry about over powering your speakers.


Later,

MidCow2

 

[Alex2507]

I prefer to set up using the SMS in manual mode

You really don't need Avai II disk, go to page 89 in your Yamaha RX-V863 manual and manually set you speaker levels.

I don't think the OP has the SMS and neither the SMS or the rec'r is going to help you calibrate the TV. This is an A/V site fellas.

And what does the V stand for???

I have the Avia II but am not sure what is recommended for Blu ray. In my case with the same TV, calibration was an absolutely huge improvement in picture quality and the disc was easy to use and anybody that says that they calibrate by eye is a freak of nature that should market their abilities and donate the proceeds to further world peace and end hunger. Normal people need the disc and at this level of calibration, greyscale isn't a factor and Panasonic plasmas rock.

The End

Thank you,
Alex

 

[ParadigmDawg]

I get dizzy when I try to calibrate my TV so I never have finished it.

I don't think the OP has the SMS and neither the SMS or the rec'r is going to help you calibrate the TV. This is an A/V site fellas.

And what does the V stand for???

I have the Avia II but am not sure what is recommended for Blu ray. In my case with the same TV, calibration was an absolutely huge improvement in picture quality and the disc was easy to use and anybody that says that they calibrate by eye is a freak of nature that should market their abilities and donate the proceeds to further world peace and end hunger. Normal people need the disc and at this level of calibration, greyscale isn't a factor and Panasonic plasmas rock.

The End

Thank you,
Alex

 

[jostenmeat]

I get dizzy when I try to calibrate my TV so I never have finished it.

Just stay away from the sharpness test then.

Maybe ask the missus to try the color tint tests? If you only do one, red is a good candidate, because we are most sensitive to red push. If just doing that one test didn't mess up any other color too much, it's better something than nothing. Ok, the contrast test is a good one to do as well, but I think that one might be easier to do by, uh, eye(?)

 

[ParadigmDawg]

Yep, I had it all close a few times but then my eyes got crossed and I had to stop. Looks great where it is.

 

[gixxerific]

Let me know how it works out for you gixxerific!

Havn't got around to the SPL testing yet..... I just fried my reciever AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But that is for another thread.

 

[mtbound10]

Sorry to hear about the reciever... again ... Hope it wasn't something I said

I am probably not even going to have time to play with it this weekend...(come on guys!) so it will have to wait until next week probably. I will keep you posted though if I manage to find some time.

Cheers!

 

[gixxerific]

Sorry to hear about the reciever... again ... Hope it wasn't something I said

Thanks, and good luck still with your endevor. Anyone got a reciver to give me.

Dono