How to Troubleshoot the Samsung HT-DB390

Wireless rear speakers mean you don't have to have wires running through your room.

Released in 2004 as part of Samsung's large selection of home theater systems, the HT-DB390 is one of the more modest offerings, suitable for those on a tight budget or living in small spaces. It includes a compact all-in-one receiver/DVD player and six small speakers, including two wireless rear speakers. Some common problems you might encounter with such a unit are poor sound function, discs that won't play and a malfunctioning remote control.

Instructions

Playback Issues

1. Check the DVD you are trying to watch to ensure it is marked as "Region 1" or "All."

2. Inspect the disc to look for scratches or dirt that could be disrupting play. Gently wipe the disc clean with a soft dry cloth.

3. Check all video cables to make sure they are correctly and securely connected.

Sound Problems

1. Check all speaker cable connections. Make sure the wires are firmly connected on the back of each speaker, with the gray wire connecting to the gray terminal and the black wire connecting to the black terminal. Check that all speaker plugs connecting to the back of the DVD player match the color of the terminals to which they are connected.

2. Make sure the wireless rear amplifier is plugged into a working wall outlet.

3. Press "Dolby Pro Logic II" on your remote control to make the sound come through all six speakers. By default only the two front speakers will be on when you are listening to CDs or the radio.

4. Press "Menu" on your remote control, select "Audio" from the list and push "Enter." Select "Speaker Setup" and click "Enter" again. Check that "C," "LS," and "RS" are not set as "None." Click on each one to change the setting to "Small."

Remote Control Problems

1. Move closer to the unit and make sure you have a clear shot to the receiver.

2. Press "TV" or "DVD" to make sure you are in the right mode for the function you are trying to perform.

3. Replace the batteries.

Tips & Warnings

• Playback will have no sound when in slow playback, step motion playback or fast playback mode.

• If the theater continues to function erratically, Press and hold the "Power" button on the main unit for at least five seconds to perform a reset. This will erase all settings, so only use if necessary.

• This DVD player will not play CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. Foreign discs must be marked as "Region 1" or "All" in order to play.

References

• Samsung: Samsung HT-DB390 User Manual
• CNET: Samsung HT-DB390 Review

Resources

• Department of Physics, University of Illinois: Q & A: Wireless Home Electronics
• Samsung: Home Theater Systems
• CNET: Top 5 Wireless Home-Theater-in-a-Box