The Cinema Reference incorporates all of the latest and greatest decoding formats in a single chassis. Designed with an eye on classical electronic fantasy, the Cinema Reference is void of any buttons and is fully operated and setup through distinctive control-knob architecture. While it's looks are intended to be simplistic in styling, the function of the Cinema Reference is far from basic.
The Cinema Reference incorporates Dolby Digital (AC-3), Dolby Pro Logic, and DTS decoding formats as well as full function Lucasfilm THX Decoding Enhancements. These features make the Cinema Reference the world's first surround sound decoder to offer THX for both Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital (AC-3), and DTS decoding options. Furthermore, the Cinema Reference is capable of detecting the decoding format of a film, TV broadcast, or CD, while automatically engaging the correct decoding mode, for uniquely simple operation.
As for the sound...ADA, truly the pioneer of both Dolby Digital and DTS decoding technologies, was the first manufacturer to deliver both formats in its critically acclaimed SSD-66 (5.1) A/V Preamplifier. This unit began shipping in early 1995. Since then it has garnered rave reviews from notable magazines and, because it is the first unit to incorporate both decoding formats, it is often used as a reference unit for current reviews of other high-end processors. The Cinema Reference represents a two-year engineering investment. Designed by Albert G. Langella, this new unit captures the same level of quality sound reproduction and clarity. However, it also includes THX enhancements as well as complete auto-mode-detection. It is also software upgradeable, thus being capable of incorporating decoding enhancements yet to come. How does it sound...even better than the superb sounding SSD-66 (5.1).
As far as features, the Cinema Reference boasts HDTV ready options including a built-in RGB/HDTV Ultra-Wide Band/Component Video Switcher (+100MHz). This is in addition to 8 analog audio inputs, 3 digital optical TOS-Link inputs, 4 digital coax inputs, 8 composite video inputs, and 4 super video inputs. Also, built-into the Cinema Reference is a unique AC-3 RF Switcher with an onboard AC-3 RF Demodulator. This feature permits you to connect two laser disc players to the Cinema Reference for Dolby Digital AC-3 playback.
Naturally, the Cinema Reference features six channel analog audio outputs as well as a super video output, an RGB/HDTV/Component Video output, 2 composite video outputs, and a composite video with on-screen display output. There is also a second zone (or record) audio, video, and super video output which can access one component independently of the main output. You can actually watch a film in the theater while elsewhere in the house, someone is listening to a CD. There are also 2 low voltage outputs which can be set to engage a screen and projector, curtains, lighting effects, or speaker switching arrays. A switched AC outlet is powerful enough to even handle ADA's killer six channel THX power amplifier, the PTM-6150. Finally, like many ADA components, the Cinema Reference sports the powerful ADA Bus serial data port. Thus, the Cinema Reference can be tied into advanced multi-room systems and touch screen control systems. The Cinema Reference can even be connected to a personal computer for setup and configuration. But most people won't need a computer to setup their Cinema Reference since it is preprogrammed, ready to connect, out-of-the-box. And calibration is a synch with the included Cinema Reference's remote control, The Thing.
The Thing is a sleek, all-metal, bi-directional infrared remote control. Not only can it communicate with the Cinema Reference, but the Cinema Reference talks back to The Thing. This two way communication permits The Thing to perform several incredibly cool tasks. For starters, The Thing can automatically calibrate the Cinema Reference. The Thing has a built-in microphone which can detect pink-noise levels used during calibration. With the twist of a knob and a light press, you can make The Thing automatically run through pink noise sweeps while it raises and lowers the Cinema Reference's individual channel levels to perfection. Best of all, if you enjoy sitting in different spaces in your home theater, the touch of button can re-calibrate the room's acoustics to your new seating position. The Thing incorporates a single knob which mirrors the five knobs found on the front of the Cinema Reference. Five buttons determine which of the Cinema Reference's knobs is being controlled. The Thing also includes a built-in IR learner and can control other audio and video components in addition to the Cinema Reference.
The Cinema Reference is available in either ADA's distinctive rack-mount styling or the free-standing Select Series. A "Limited Edition - 20th Anniversary" Brass Plated Select Series (photographed) Cinema Reference comes complete with a matching Brass on Black remote control, The Thing. The Cinema Reference's cost is less than the several high-end processors already available and slightly higher than the mid-end processors already out there. With its unrivaled features and proven sound quality, the Cinema Reference will undoubtedly be the first choice for those who demand the future today.
For a JPEG picture of the Cinema Reference's front or rear panels, or The Thing, simply click on the images above.
| Audio Inputs | 8 Analog Stereo Audio, 3 Tos-Link Optical Digital Audio, 4 Coax (RCA) Digital Audio, & 2 Laser AC-3 RF Inputs |
| Audio Outputs | Main - 6 Analog (RCA) Audio Outputs (1 per Channel) & 1 AC-3 RF Demodulated Digital Audio Output (Output of RF Demodulator): Record (2nd Zone) - 1 Stereo Analog Audio Output (RCA - Will pass only analog audio input signals) |
| Video Inputs | 8 Composite Video Inputs (RCA), 4 S-Video Inputs, & 2 Component Video (RGB-HDTV) Inputs |
| Video Outputs | Main - 2 Composite Video, 1 Composite Video with On-Screen-Display, 1 S-Video, & 1 Component Video (RGB); Record (2nd Zone) 1 Composite Video & 1 S-Video Output |
| Low Voltage Triggers | 2 Programmable Low Voltage Triggers (12VDC) |
| Switched AC | 1 Switched AC Outlet (EIC) Rated to 10 Amps (PTM-6150) |
