Theta Digital Casablanca IV User manual

Effective October 1, 2014 the Analog Input Level display was

deleted from the Casablanca IV.

The Revised Front Panel Layout is shown in Figure 6, below.

Figure 6 - Front Panel Layout

THETA DIGITAL

Casablanca IV

Owner’s Manual

V 4.02

Digital Done Right

™

PREFACE

CONGRATULATIONS

You have just acquired the most advanced component for the control and processing of audio and video ever to

have been developed.

IMPORTANT

Save all packaging in a dry place away from fire hazards. Your Casablanca IV is a precision electronic instrument

and should be properly packaged any time shipment is made. In the unlikely event that you have to return your

Casablanca IV to the factory for service, or if you send it to us for updating, the original packaging will best protect

the unit from shipping damage.

In order to achieve the fullest flexibility and enjoyment from your Casablanca IV, we at Theta recommend that you

read this manual in full before connecting the unit to your audio/video system.

WARNING

United Stated law prohibits disposition of these commodities to Libya, Laos, North Korea, Cambodia or Cuba

unless otherwise authorized by the United States.

NOTE:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part

15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in

a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not

installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does

cause harmful interference to radio and television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment

off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

* Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

* Increase the separation between equipment and receiver.

* Connect the receiver into an outlet on a circuit different from that which the Casablanca IV is connected to.

Acknowledgments

Casablanca IV is manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby”, “Pro Logic”, “Dolby TrueHD”

and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

Casablanca IV is manufactured under license from Digital Theater Systems, Inc. U.S. Pat. No's. 5,451,942;

5,956,674; 5,974,380; 5,978,762; 6,226,616; 6,487,535 and other U.S. and world-wide patents issued and

pending. "DTS", "DTS-ES", "DTS-ES", "Neo:6", "DTS 96/24" and “DTS Master Audio” are trademarks of Digital

This manual is also available for download as a PDF file at Theta Digital’s website. http://www.thetadigital.com

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or

mechanical, for any purpose, without the express written permission of Theta Digital.

iii

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral

triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated

“dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of

significant magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert

the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance

(servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THE (POLARIZED) PLUG WITH AN

EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY

INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.

Casablanca IV Identification Record

This information is for your records and for future identification of the Casablanca IV. Please take a moment

to fill out all pertinent data now, and as upgrades and/or options are installed. Whenever upgrades, inquiries

and/or changes are requested, the serial number will be required.

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE PURCHASED

DEALER’S NAME

DEALER’S ADDRESS/PHONE

INSTALLED CARDS/OPTIONS

(Dateofinstallation)

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Please carefully read each item of the operating instructions and safety precautions before using this product.

Use extra care to follow the warnings written on the product itself and/or in the operating instructions. Keep

the operating instructions and safety precautions for future reference.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE ANY OF THE COVER

PANELS.

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER ALL SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE

PERSONNEL ONLY.

TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT ALLOW LIQUIDS TO SPILL OR OBJECTS TO FALL

INTO ANY OPENINGS OF THE PRODUCT.

THIS UNIT IS SUPPLIED WITH A 3 PIN GROUNDED AC PLUG. ALWAYS INSERT THE AC PLUG INTO A

GROUNDED OUTLET. DO NOT REMOVE THE GROUND PIN OR DISABLE THE GROUND FOR ANY

PURPOSE.

BEFORE MAKING ANY CONNECTIONS TO THE CASABLANCA IV, FIRST TURN OFF THE POWER AND

THEN DISCONNECT THE AC POWER CORD.

WHEN INSTALLING THE CASABLANCA IV IN YOUR SYSTEM, MAKE CERTAIN TO ALLOW A MINIMUM

OF 3 INCHS OF VENTILATION ON EACH SIDE OF THE UNIT. ALSO ALLOW AT LEAST 4 INCHS OF

VENTILATION SPACE ABOVE THE UNIT. IMPROPER VENTILATION OF THE UNIT MAY CAUSE

OVERHEATING, WHICH MAY DAMAGE THE UNIT AND CAUSE A FIRE. PLACE THE UNIT ON A SOLID

SURFACE ONLY. I.E. NOT ON CARPET, ETC.

DO NOT PLACE THE CASABLANCA IV NEAR HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS DIRECT SUNLIGHT, STOVES,

HEAT REGISTERS, RADIATORS OR OTHER HEAT PRODUCING EQUIPMENT.

TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE ANALOG OUTPUT CIRCUITRY, BE CERTAIN NOT TO SHORT THE

OUTPUT SIGNAL PIN(S) TO GROUND. ENSURE THAT YOUR AUDIO OUTPUT CABLES DO NOT HAVE

ANY INTERNAL SHORTS BEFORE CONNECTING THEM TO THE CASABLANCA IV.

IF REPLACEMENT OF THE AC LINE FUSE BECOMES NECESSARY, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME

VALUE AND TYPE OF FUSE. NEVER BYPASS THE FUSE.

IF THE AC CORD BECOMES DAMAGED, DO NOT USE IT. IMMEDIATELY REPLACE IT WITH A NEW

ONE OF THE SAME OR BETTER RATING.

AFTER MARKET and THIRD PARTY MODIFICATIONS

Please note that any aftermarket and/or third party modifications will void the warranty. In the case of changing

the feet on a unit, in order to prevent any damage (which will also not be covered under warranty), please

verify that the screws being used to secure non Casablanca IV feet do not screw any deeper into the chassis

than the original ones. The original screw is 10-32 by 3/8 and goes into the chassis 1/5 inch.

TableofContents

PREFACE ........................................................................................................................................................... ii

WARNING ....................................................................................................................................................... iii

Casablanca IV Identification Record .............................................................................................................. iv

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................................................................... v

AFTER MARKET and THIRD PARTY MODIFICATIONS ........................................................................... v

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 7

Getting to know your Casablanca IV .............................................................................................................. 7

Burn In Time ................................................................................................................................................ 7

IMPORTANT NOTICE .................................................................................................................................... 8

Reference Manual Conventions ..................................................................................................................... 8

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations ............................................................................................................. 9

Casablanca IV Block Diagram - Input Processing Sections ......................................................................... 10

Front Panel Layout ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Rear Panel Layout ........................................................................................................................................ 14

Introduction to the User interface .................................................................................................................. 20

Before you begin ....................................................................................................................................... 20

Casablanca IV Default Settings .................................................................................................................... 22

Overall Setup Procedure Flowchart .............................................................................................................. 23

................................................................................................................................................................... 23

Figure 12: Casablanca IV Basic Set-up Flow Chart ................................................................................. 23

Step by Step Speaker Configuration ......................................................................................................... 24

Speaker Levels .......................................................................................................................................... 24

Speaker Delays ......................................................................................................................................... 24

Dolby Digital, DTS Setup ........................................................................................................................... 28

Remaining Setup ....................................................................................................................................... 28

FRONT PANEL OPERATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 42

Input Select Menus ....................................................................................................................................... 42

Changing Inputs and Input Select Pages .................................................................................................. 42

Selecting Mapped Input Jacks for the Currently Selected Input ............................................................... 42

Search Order ............................................................................................................................................. 44

MODE Function ............................................................................................................................................ 45

TAPE OUT Function ..................................................................................................................................... 48

SETUP Function ........................................................................................................................................... 49

DAC Configuration .................................................................................................................................... 49

SETUP INPUT (Settings specific to each of the 12 Input Select Buttons) ................................................ 50

Setup Global .............................................................................................................................................. 69

Macros ....................................................................................................................................................... 74

BALANCE Function ...................................................................................................................................... 76

Front/Rear and Left/Right Balance ............................................................................................................ 76

Center and Sub Balance ........................................................................................................................... 76

Analog Input Level Override ...................................................................................................................... 76

STATUS Function ......................................................................................................................................... 77

REMOTE CONTROL OPERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 81

Input Select Menus ....................................................................................................................................... 81

Changing Inputs and Input Select Pages .................................................................................................. 81

Selecting Mapped Input Jacks for the Currently Selected Input ............................................................... 81

Mute ........................................................................................................................................................... 81

Display ....................................................................................................................................................... 81

Global Phase ............................................................................................................................................. 81

STATUS Display ........................................................................................................................................... 82

MODE Function ............................................................................................................................................ 82

Appendix ATroubleshooting Guide ........................................................................................................ 8 5 

Appendix BSpeaker Placement Guides ................................................................................................. 86

Six Shooter Wiring Diagram .......................................................................................................................... 88

Appendix CRemote Extender Jack Technical Description and Protocol ............................................... 89

Appendix DUpgrading/Re-installing Casablanca IV Software ............................................................... 90

Appendix E Reinstalling Casablanca Settings………………………………………………………………..90

Appendix F Dirac Live…………………………………………………………………………………………..90

Appendix GSpecifications ....................................................................................................................... 91

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to a new world of possibilities. Casablanca IV is by far the most advanced surround sound processor/home

theater controller available today. It offers the advantages of Theta’s legendary mastery in digital signal processing and

sound quality unapproachable by any other equipment.

Getting to know your Casablanca IV

Despite Casablanca IV’s great technical sophistication, we believe in making it as easy as possible for you to use. We

think you’ll enjoy the intuitive way the Casablanca IV works. Rather than offer a frustrating bewilderment of little used

functions in constant view vying for your attention, Casablanca IV is structured systematically by function.

The “user interface” is based on simple logic. For example, when a function button is pressed, you can make changes

within its menu(s) and press the same function button again to exit that function. (The same button that got you in gets

you back out).

This Casablanca IV has been put through a rigorous and unique testing procedure that insures that it will last for many

years with minimal service requirements. This procedure includes the following:

• All assembled circuit boards are given a thorough visual inspection and are then tested in a bench-reference

Casablanca IV.

• The tested assembled circuit boards are installed in a new Casablanca IV and the whole unit is tested for every

function and parameter.

• The unit is put on a burn-in torture rack for 100 hours to test for any possible component failures.

• The Casablanca IV is tested on an audio analyzer for all pertinent parameters.

• The Casablanca IV is put through a final bench test wherein every possible feature, mode and parameter is

checked.

• The unit has all remaining chassis components installed and then undergoes a complete visual inspection, which

assures that all Casablanca IVs meet visual specifications.

• The unit is then put through a critical listening test.

Burn In Time

This unit has a break in period of about 2 weeks during which continuous improvement in sound quality will be observed.

It is recommended that music be played continuously through the unit during this time to expedite the break in period.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

I. Due to the computer-based circuitry used in Theta products, it is imperative that the Casablanca IV be connected

to a ground via its three wire AC power cord. It is important that the AC power outlet which the Casablanca IV

is plugged into, is actually grounded. Failure to do so will severely compromise the performance, reliability and

safety of use of the Casablanca IV.

II. It is important to prevent contact with static electricity when connecting other components and cables to the

Casablanca IV. When connecting cables, simply place one hand on top of the Casablanca IV and then grasp

the metal “barrel” of the cable with the other hand and plug (unplug) the cable into (from) the appropriate jack

on the Casablanca IV.

III. The Casablanca IV, as with all electronic equipment, is susceptible to static discharges. Resetting the unit may

be required if anomalies occur after receiving a static discharge. In this case, put the unit in standby and turn

off the rear panel power switch for 2 minutes, and then turn it on again.

IV. Ventilation is an important issue when placing the Casablanca IV in a system. Make certain that the Casablanca

IV is placed in a well-ventilated area or rack unit.

V. Please take note that some powerline conditioners defeat the AC power ground on their outlets. If the intention

is to plug the Casablanca IV into a line conditioner, check with your dealer to make certain that the particular

conditioner that is intended for use DOES NOT DEFEAT THE AC GROUND on its AC outlets.

VI. DO NOT remove any cover panels from the Casablanca IV, as there are no user serviceable components inside.

Refer servicing and updating to qualified service personnel only.

VII. Should the Casablanca IV need to be reset, it must be put in standby first via the front panel power button. Then

the rear panel power switch is to be turned off for at least 2 minutes.

VIII. The Casablanca IV can be susceptible to excessive RF. End caps on all unused inputs will improve the sound

quality and may reduce the susceptibility to RF induced anomalies.

Reference Manual Conventions

For clarity purposes, references to buttons, LEDs and display parameters will be shown in BOLD CAPITOL letters.

All functions to be performed from, and in reference to, the front panel of the Casablanca IV will be found in the front

section of this manual. All functions to be performed using the hand held remote and/or viewed on a video monitor will

be found in the back, or last part of this manual.

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations

TERM DEFINITION

AES/EBU (Audio Engineering Society) / (European

Broadcasters Union)

A three wire balanced digital audio standard. This interface uses a 3-pin

XLR connector and allows for data communication between digital audio

equipment.

Analog-to-Digital Converter A device that converts analog signals into a digital format. Once encoded,

all audio is stored or processed as a series of numbers rather than as the

audio itself.

Balanced Audio Signals Signals that are carried on three-conductor cables (AES/EBU), with two of

the conductors carrying the same signal 180° out of phase and the third

as ground. Balanced connections usually cost more than unbalanced

connections, but are less susceptible to picking up hum and prevent

interference with low-level signals.

dB Decibel, a relative unit of loudness.

Dirac Live® Digital room correction and optimization software developed by Dirac SE

in Sweden. Dirac uses mixed-phase IIR and FIR digital filters to correct

frequency and phase errors in music reproduction systems.

Dolby 3 Stereo The Dolby 3 Stereo mode reproduces sound using only the 3 front

channels, and is intended to be used either before surround speakers are

installed, or for programs that might benefit from deriving a center channel

output, but where the quality of the surround output is unsatisfactory.

Digital-to-Analog Converter A device that converts digital signals into an analog format.

Hz (Hertz) A unit of frequency.

IR Infrared. A method of wireless transmission of data.

Jitter Jail II™ A technology proprietary to Theta Digital that corrects errors in signal

timing that would otherwise cause signal distortion.

LFE Low Frequency Effect. Commonly a discrete audio track designated for a

subwoofer.

mS Millisecond, or 1\1000 of a second.

Oversampling The process of creating more sample points in order to more accurately

reconstruct a digitized signal for playback in the analog domain.

Phantom Center Mode Redirects the center channel signal equally to the front left and right

outputs, thus creating the illusion of a center speaker. This mode is

intended for use when no center speaker is present.

Phantom Surround Mode Intended for use when no surround speakers are present in the system.

The surround information is added to the front channels. If the current

mode is Dolby Pro Logic, the Casablanca IV will automatically decode in

Dolby 3 Stereo.

Sampling Rate The rate at which an analog (real world) signal is converted into digital

numeric values.

S/PDIF Interface (Sony/Phillips Digital Interface

format)

A digital audio interconnection standard, developed jointly by Sony and

Phillips.

TRS Tip, Ring, Sleeve. Names of the 3 connecting elements of a stereo phono

jack or plug.

Unbalanced Audio Signals (AKA single-ended) Signals that are carried on two-conductor cables, one “hot”, or signal, and

one ground.

Xover Abbreviation for the word ‘Crossover’.

Table 1 - Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations

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