7
MC-1 Digital Controller
Installation
Wiring Considerations
Audio/Video Cables
There is debate over the audible effects of different types of intercon-
nects. Good engineering practices have minimized the effect that
cables might have on the inputs and outputs of the MC-1 — but feel free
to evaluate different interconnects in your system. Be conscious,
however, of the mechanical stress from repeated insertion and overly
tight connectors, and the possibly corrosive nature of some contact-
enhancing fluids.
Note that the use of standard audio cables for video or digital audio
applications may cause signal degradation, and is not recommended.
For these connections, please use only cables that are designed for the
application — these have different impedance characteristics than
cables designed for analog audio applications. Consult your dealer for
recommendations.
All cables should be kept as short as possible.
Speaker Connections
In general, speaker cables should be kept short, and low-impedance
wire should be used throughout to assure efficient power transmission
and avoid audible distortion. Recommended wire lengths are given in
the table below. Although these examples can be used as a general
guide, your system manuals should provide detailed information spe-
cific to your components.
Audio/Video Connections
Before making any connections, turn off ALL audio and video compo-
nents, including individual power amplifiers. (Unplug any components
that don’t have power switches.)
The MC-1 is designed to function as the control center of the system,
selecting inputs and controlling the volume of all speakers in the system.
The following diagram shows a system with a tape deck, an AM/FM
tuner, a CD player with a coaxial digital audio output, a satellite receiver
with an optical digital output, a DVD player and a VHS VCR. This
example shows the tape deck and VCR set up for recording and dual-
zone audio.
Actual system connections will vary widely depending on the compo-
nents used. Consult your dealer for details on your particular require-
ments.
Wire Lengths
Length
AWG Size
up to 12 feet
16 gauge
up to 18 feet
14 gauge
up to 29 feet
12 gauge
up to 51 feet
10 gauge