Please be aware that some of these hacks can damage your speakers if used improperly!

1. Activating the second skin

Basically this changes the level display for the volume control to a "stepped" type display instead of the default "bar" display. It also changes the color of the LED when in standby mode from red to purple... how cool is that?

To toggle between the first and second skins, first set the unit to standby mode, then press Input + Effect + Settings + Mute simultaneously for 6 seconds. Once you see the LED flash for 2 seconds.

2. Enable equalized volume between Digital and Analog sources

By default analog signals are lower in volume compared to optical and coaxial signals. If you want to boost the analog signal to make it sound as loud as the digital volume do the following:

While in 6 Channel Direct mode, hold down the mute button and start rotating the volume knob while keeping the mute button down. Note that the display should now show the volume "offset" values.

3. Displaying firmware version and resetting to factory settings

Set the unit to standby mode then press Input + Settings simultaneously for 6 seconds. This will display the firmware version for a few seconds and will also reset the settings to their original factory values.

4. Displaying the digital stream type/mode

Set the unit to standby mode then press Input + Effect simultaneously for 6 seconds. This will put the Control Center in "Diagnostic Mode". Now everytime the Z-5500 is fed a digital stream (DTS, DD, etc.), it will display the stream information (format, bitrate, etc.) for 5 seconds in place of the DD or DTS logo before returning to the standard display.

5. Boost Mode for audio recorded in low volume.

This setting can be dangerous if used with a digital connection or perfect loudness in videos and songs. (can void your warranty if you blow your sub/amp/speakers)

Turn the volume all the way up, then keep turning the volume up and than you will see boost levels appear 1-2-3.

6. Max Boost

Go to boost 11, hold your mute button and keep on turning and you will see boost 22.

Comments (0)