Sony Cassette Player TC K615S User Manual

3-758-576 -21 (2)  
Operating Instructions  
TC-K615S  
1994 by Sony Corporation  
 
Chapter 1 Getting Started  
Table of Contents  
Features  
Chapter 1 Getting Started  
For higher quality recording/playback  
Dolby* HX PRO system for higher linearity in the tapes  
high-range response during recording.  
B, C and S type Dolby* NR systems which reduce tape  
noise.  
Bias and recording level calibration to obtain the best  
recording conditions for every tape.  
Three-head system (separate recording, playback and  
erasing heads) to allow you instant monitoring of the  
recorded sound during recording.  
Features ..........................................................................................3  
Precautions ....................................................................................4  
Unpacking .....................................................................................4  
Checking the supplied accessories ......................................4  
Notes on installation ..............................................................4  
Checking the operating voltage ...........................................4  
Hooking up the system................................................................5  
Before you begin.....................................................................5  
Hooking up an amplifier.......................................................5  
Hooking up for tape dubbing ..............................................5  
Identifying the parts on the front panel ....................................6  
Quartz Locked Servo Control for greater stability and  
precision in capstan rotation.  
Sapphire Capstan Base to enhance stability in motor  
rotation for clear sound reproduction.  
Chapter 2 Playback  
Playing back ..................................................................................7  
Locating a selection  
Ceramic cassette holder for improved stability of tape  
running during playback and recording.  
Multi-AMS (Automatic Music Sensor) ..........................8  
Locating a specific playback position Memory Play ..........9  
Memorizing and locating a specific playback position ....9  
The accuracy of the linear counter .......................................9  
Playing back automatically after rewinding Auto Play...10  
For your convenience  
Multi-AMS and Memory Play functions for easy access to  
specific selections.  
For easier operation  
Chapter 3 Recording  
Easy-to-read linear counter showing the elapsed  
recording or playing time.  
Recording .....................................................................................10  
Recording to a cassette ........................................................10  
Protecting a recording .........................................................12  
Adjusting the recording level .............................................12  
Recording FM broadcasts with the Dolby NR system....12  
Monitoring the recorded sound .........................................13  
What is the Dolby HX PRO system? .................................13  
Calibrating the bias current and recording level ...................14  
Inserting a blank space during recording  
* Dolby noise reduction and HX Pro headroom extension  
manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing  
Corporation. HX Pro originated by Bang & Olufsen.  
DOLBY, the double-D symbol a and HX PROare trademarks  
of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.  
Record Muting .................................................................15  
Chapter 4 Additional Information  
Maintenance ................................................................................16  
Cleaning the heads and tape path .....................................16  
Demagnetizing the heads....................................................16  
Specifications ...............................................................................17  
Troubleshooting guide ..............................................................18  
3
 
Precautions  
Unpacking  
On safety  
Checking the Supplied Accessories  
Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet,  
unplug the unit and have it checked by qualified personnel  
before operating it any further.  
Unplug the unit from the wall outlet (mains) if it will not be  
used for a long time. To disconnect the cord, pull it out by  
grasping the plug. Never pull the cord itself.  
The unit is not disconnected from the AC power source  
(mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if  
the unit itself has been turned off.  
Make sure that the following accessories are included with  
your unit.  
Audio connecting cords (2)  
Notes on Installation  
AC power cord must be changed only at the qualified  
service shop.  
Place the unit with the front panel facing you in a location  
with adequate air circulation to prevent overheating of the  
unit.  
On operation  
When the unit is not used, turn the power off to conserve  
energy and to extend the useful life of your unit.  
Because of a safety mechanism, the function buttons will  
not operate if the cassette holder is not completely closed, if  
there is no cassette in the cassette holder, or if a cassette has  
been incorrectly inserted into the cassette holder.  
Do not place the unit:  
near heat sources such as radiators or air ducts.  
in places subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust,  
mechanical vibration or shock.  
in an inclined position.  
on a rug or other soft surfaces that would block the  
ventilation holes on the bottom of the unit.  
On head cleaning  
The head and tape path should be cleaned after every ten  
hours of operation. Dirty heads and a dirty tape path may  
cause:  
loss of high-frequency response  
loss of sound volume  
Do not throw away the carton and the packing  
material  
They will come in handy when transporting the unit or  
shipping it for servicing.  
sound drop-out  
On cleaning the cabinet  
Clean the cabinet, panel and controls with a soft cloth  
slightly moistened with a mild detergent solution.  
Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or  
solvents such as alcohol or benzine.  
Checking the Operating Voltage  
Operate the unit only on 120 V AC, 60Hz (U.S.A. model) or  
240 V AC, 50 Hz (U.K. and Australia models).  
Before connecting the unit to an AC (socket) outlet, be sure  
that the operating voltage of your unit is identical with that  
of your local power supply.  
If you have any questions or problems concerning your unit,  
please contact your nearest Sony dealer.  
For the customers in the U.S.A.  
For detailed safety precautions, see the leaflet IMPORTANT  
SAFEGUARDS.  
4
 
Hooking Up the System  
Before You Begin  
Turn off the power to all equipment to be connected before  
making any connection.  
Note that the red plug of the supplied connecting cord is  
for right-channel (R) connection and the white plug for left-  
channel (L) connection.  
White  
Red  
L
R
L
R
The connecting cords should be fully inserted into the jacks.  
A loose connection may cause hum pickup.  
Hooking Up an Amplifier  
Hooking Up for Tape Dubbing  
Signal flow  
Signal flow  
LINE IN  
LINE OUT  
LINE IN  
LINE OUT  
TC-K615S  
TC-K615S  
to an AC (socket)  
outlet  
to a wall outlet  
(mains)  
to another  
tape deck  
from another  
tape deck  
for  
recording  
for  
playback  
Another tape deck  
Amplifier  
to an AC (socket)  
outlet  
LINE IN  
LINE OUT  
REC OUT  
TAPE INPUT  
to a wall outlet  
(mains)  
5
 
Identifying the Parts on the Front Panel  
* Remote control sensor  
1
2 3 4 5 6  
7
8 9 !º !¡  
!™  
!£  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
5
6
4
dB  
– –30 –20  
–10  
–4  
0
+2  
+4  
+6  
+8  
MEMORY  
H
L
3
1
7
L
R
REC CAL  
DOLBY NR  
a
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
(
REC  
B
C
S
FILTER TAPE TYPE  
I
I
I
I
V
SOURCE  
TAPE  
P
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
COUNTER  
9
S
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
L
R
+
+
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS  
)
!•  
!¶ !§ !∞  
!¢  
For details, refer to the page number(s) indicated in  
parentheses.  
1 POWER switch  
2 Peak level meter (page 12)  
3 TAPE TYPE indicator  
4 Linear counter (page 9)  
5 MEMORY indicator  
6 COUNTER buttons  
RESET button (page 9)  
MEMORY button (pages 9 and 10)  
7 Cassette holder  
8 DOLBY NR (noise reduction) switch (pages 7 and 10)  
9 MPX FILTER button (page 12)  
0 BIAS control (pages 14 and 15)  
REC (recording) LEVEL control for calibration  
(pages 14 and 15)  
!™ REC (recording) LEVEL control (pages 11 and 12)  
BALANCE control (page 11)  
HEADPHONES jack (stereo phone jack) (page 7)  
!∞ CALIBRATION button (pages 14 and 15)  
MONITOR button (page 13)  
§ (EJECT) button  
!• Tape operation buttons  
p (stop) button  
0 (rewind) (Multi-AMS**) button  
· (play) button  
) (fast-forward) (Multi-AMS**) button  
P PAUSE button  
R REC MUTE (record muting) button (page 15)  
r REC (recording) button  
* Remote control sensor  
You can remotely control this cassette deck with:  
A remote commander that came with a Sony amplifier  
or receiver if it has the g mark and cassette deck control  
capability.  
An optional Sony remote commander with the g mark  
and cassette deck control capability.  
** AMS is an abbreviation for Automatic Music Sensor.  
6
 
Chapter 2 Playback  
Playing Back  
Follow the procedure below to play back a cassette.  
Specifying the tape type is unnecessary  
The deck has an automatic tape type detection system.  
POWER  
4
3
ON  
To begin recording during playback  
While holding down the ·button, press the rbutton. The  
unit immediately begins recording without stopping the  
tape. This function is useful when editing previously  
recorded material.  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
5
6
4
3
1
7
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
S
COUNTER  
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS )  
For headphone listening  
Insert the headphone plug to the HEADPHONES jack.  
2
Selecting TAPE mode with the MONITOR button is  
unnecessary  
The unit automatically enters TAPE mode and the TAPE  
indicator lights up.  
1
2
Turn on the amplifier and select the tape  
function.  
What is the Dolby NR system?  
The Dolby NR (noise reduction) system reduces tape hiss  
noise in low-level, high-frequency signals by boosting the  
signals during recording and lowering them during  
playback.  
Insert a cassette with the side to be  
played facing outward.  
The Dolby S NR system provides the highest reduction in  
tape hiss noise in both low and high frequencies.  
EJECT  
MPX  
ØON  
DO  
COUNTER  
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
Note  
E
§
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
The Dolby HX PRO system is effective only during  
recording, not during playback.  
0
AMS )  
3
4
Set DOLBY NR to the same position that  
was used when the cassette was  
recorded.  
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
B
C
S
Press ·to start playback.  
·
To stop playback, press the pbutton.  
To stop playback momentarily, press the Pbutton.  
To restart playback, press the Por ·button.  
To fastwind a tape rightward, press the )button in stop  
mode.  
To fastwind the tape leftward, press the 0button in stop  
mode.  
7
 
Locating a Selection  
— Multi-AMS (Automatic Music Sensor)  
Through its ability to detect the blank space between selections, the Multi-AMS  
function allows you to skip up to 30 selections while fast forwarding or reversing to  
the beginning of a specific selection.  
Changing the indicated number of selections to be  
skipped  
POWER  
Press the 0or )button at any time, even during Multi-  
AMS operation.  
ON  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
5
6
4
3
1
7
The Multi-AMS number may change as you are  
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
COUNTER  
S
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
setting it  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
due to the detection of blank spaces as the unit bigins to  
fastwind.  
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS )  
The Multi-AMS may fail to detect the start of a  
selection in the following cases:  
•If you press the )button immediately before the  
selection or the 0button immediately after the start of  
the selection.  
•If there is noise in the space before the selection.  
•If the space before the selection is less than four seconds  
long.  
0 )  
During playback, press )or 0as many  
times as the number of selections to be  
skipped.  
For selections after the current one: Press )  
the required number of times.  
For selections before the current one: Press  
0the required number of times*.  
* Pressing 0once locates the beginning of the  
current selection.  
The Multi-AMS will treat the following as blanks:  
•A long pause in the music  
•A passage of low frequencies or very low volume  
•A gradual increase or decrease in volume  
: Beginning of the selection  
0[ ] 0[ ] )[ ] )[ ]  
Previous  
selection  
Current  
selection  
Next  
selection  
•Each time the unit  
detects a blank space,  
the indicated Multi-  
AMS number  
(
decreases by one.  
•The (indicator flashes during Multi-AMS operation.  
•When the beginning of the specified selection is  
reached, the counter indication appears again and  
playback automatically restarts.  
8
 
Locating a Specific Playback Position  
Memory Play  
Returning to the memorized position while the unit  
is stopped Memory Stop  
Memorizing and Locating a Specific  
Playback Position  
If you press only the 0button when the MEMORY  
indicator is on and the unit is stopped, the tape rewinds and  
then stops when the counter reaches 0.00.  
Be sure that the unit is stopped before turning the Memory  
Stop function on, otherwise the Multi-AMS function will  
operate.  
The Memory Play function allows you to use the counter to  
record a specific position on a cassette for fast relocation and  
automatic playback later.  
To turn off the Memory Play function  
Press the MEMORY button, so that the MEMORY indicator  
disappears.  
POWER  
2 1  
ON  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
5
6
4
3
1
7
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
Note on Memory Play/Stop  
The tape acutually rewinds to slightly short of 0.00.  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
COUNTER  
S
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS )  
Do not turn off the power while using the counter  
Turning the power off, then on again resets the counter to  
0.00.  
3
1
2
3
Press MEMORY to turn on the Memory  
Play function.  
The Accuracy of the Linear Counter  
RESET MEMORY  
Since the counter is not a digital clock, it will differ from the  
actual elapsed playback or recording time by a few minutes,  
depending on such factors as tape length and hub size.  
MEMORY  
Press RESET to reset the counter at the  
position to be memorized.  
The position is memorized.  
RESET MEMORY  
MEMORY  
While holding down ·, press 0to  
return to the memorized position.  
0 ·  
9
 
Chapter 3 Recording  
Playing Back Automatically  
After Rewinding Auto Play  
Recording  
The Auto Play function automatically starts playing back a  
cassette after fastwinding it to the beginning.  
Recording to a Cassette  
Follow the procedure below to record a source on a cassette.  
POWER  
1
ON  
POWER  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
5
ØON øOFF  
6
4
2
5 6  
3
1
7
ON  
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
COUNTER  
S
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
5
6
4
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
3
1
7
0
AMS )  
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
COUNTER  
S
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
p
0
)
R
r
·
0
AMS )  
2
1
83  
1
2
Make sure the MEMORY indicator is off.  
If not, press MEMORY.  
1
Insert a cassette with the side to be  
recorded facing outward.  
(Refer to pages 14 to 15 to calibrate the bias  
current and recording level if desired.)  
Goes off.  
EJECT  
MPX  
ØON  
F
While holding down ·, press 0.  
DOLB  
O
COUNTER  
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
EJE  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS )  
0 ·  
2
3
4
Set DOLBY NR.  
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
B
C
S
Press rto enter the recording pause  
mode.  
REC  
r
Play the program source to be recorded.  
10  
 
If playback starts instead of recording when you  
press r  
The record-protect tab for that side has been removed. To  
record on this cassette, cover the hole with plastic tape.  
(See Protecting a Recordingon page 12.)  
5
6
Turn REC LEVEL to adjust the recording  
level.  
REC LEVEL  
5
6
4
7
9
3
1
Selecting MONITOR mode is unnecessary  
8
2
The unit automatically enters source mode and the SOURCE  
indicator lights up. If you wish to monitor the recorded  
sound, press the MONITOR button to select TAPE mode.  
0
10  
See Adjusting the Recording Levelon page 12.  
Checking the recording time on a tape  
To check the remaining recording time on a tape:  
1
2
Press the RESET button to reset the counter to 0.00.  
Press the )button to advance the tape to its end. The  
number on the counter shows the approximate  
recording time.  
Turn BALANCE to adjust the balance.  
BALANCE  
To check the total recording time of a tape, first rewind the  
tape to its beginning, then follow the same steps as above.  
(See The Accuracy of the Linear Counteron page 9.)  
L
R
7
8
Restart the program source, if required.  
Press Por ·to start recording.  
PAUSE  
or  
P
·
To stop recording  
Press the pbutton.  
11  
 
Recording  
Protecting a Recording  
Adjusting the Recording Level  
The proper recording level, which differs according to the  
tape type, is indicated on the peak level meters for each tape  
type.  
Adjust the REC LEVEL control as high as possible without  
exceeding the recommended range for the inserted tape.  
To protect a recording on side A or B  
Break out the respective tab.  
Side A  
Peak level meter recording by tape type  
Recommended maximum peak level meter readings.  
Tab for  
side B  
Tab for side A  
dB  
L
30 20  
10  
4  
0
+2  
+4  
+6  
+8  
To record on a cassette that is protected  
Cover the respective hole with tape.  
R
for Type I or Type II  
tape  
for Type IV tape  
When using Type II or Type IV cassettes  
Be careful not to cover the detector slots which are  
necessary for automatic tape-type detection.  
Tips on recording level adjustment  
Setting the recording level too low will produce a hissing  
sound, while setting it too high will produce distortion.  
Generally, the proper recording level for high and low  
frequencies is lower than that for middle frequencies. When  
recording program sources with many high and low  
frequencies, set the level to a relatively low position, then  
make adjustments according to the recording results.  
Type IV cassette  
Type II cassette  
Detector slots  
Detector slots  
Tab  
Tab  
Tab  
Tab  
Recording FM Broadcasts With the Dolby NR  
System  
Cassette care  
Avoid touching the tape surface of a cassette to prevent  
contamination of the heads by dirt, dust, or oil on the skin.  
Keep cassettes away from equipment with magnets, such  
as speakers and amplifiers, as erasure or distortion on the  
recorded tape could occur.  
If your tuner does not have an MPX filter, or, if equipped,  
the filter is not working effectively, set the MPX FILTER  
button to ON (the FILTER indicator appears) when  
recording FM broadcasts with the Dolby NR system.  
The MPX filter eliminates remnants of the 19-kHz stereo  
carrier and 38-kHz subcarrier signals which may impair the  
operation of the Dolby NR system. Be sure to turn on the  
DOLBY NR switch since the MPX filter will not function  
otherwise.  
Do not expose cassettes to direct sunlight, extremely cold  
temperatures or moisture.  
Note on cassettes longer than 90 minutes  
We do not recommend the use of cassettes longer than 90  
minutes except for long continuous playback.  
12  
 
Monitoring the Recorded Sound  
As this unit has three separate heads for recording, playback  
and erasure, you can check the quality of a recorded sound  
by comparing it with the input source signal.  
To listen to the input source signal, press the MONITOR  
button to turn on the SOURCE indicator.  
To listen to the sound recorded on the tape, press the  
MONITOR button to turn on the TAPE indicator.  
Comparing the recorded sound with the sound  
source  
While recording, use this monitoring function to check that  
there is no distortion due to excessive level settings or sound  
degradation due to head contamination.  
MONITOR  
setting  
Signal flow  
REC LEVEL  
Band  
Recording  
head  
LINE IN  
SOURCE  
MONITOR  
SOURCE  
LINE OUT  
TAPE  
HEADPHONES  
Playback head  
The source signal can be monitored.  
REC LEVEL  
Band  
LINE IN  
Recording  
head  
SOURCE  
MONITOR  
TAPE  
LINE OUT  
TAPE  
HEADPHONES  
Playback head  
The recorded signal can be monitored.  
What Is the Dolby HX PRO System?  
The Dolby HX PRO system provides precise bias control  
during recording to reduce distortion and improve linearity  
in the high-frequency range. The result is recorded sound  
that is highly faithful to the original. Since the HX PRO  
system operates only during recording, the same high-  
quality sound is produced even during playback on other  
tape decks. The HX PRO system is independent from the  
Dolby NR system and is unaffected by the Dolby NR setting.  
13  
 
Calibrating the Bias Current and Recording  
Level  
Although the ATS (Automatic Tape Selection) system in  
your unit sets the appropriate equalization characteristics  
and bias current for each tape type, you may be able to  
obtain even better results by doing the bias current and  
recording level calibration function described below.  
Follow the procedure below to calibrate the bias current and  
recording level.  
POWER  
45  
ON  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
5
6
4
3
1
7
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
COUNTER  
S
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
+
+
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS  
)
CALIBRATION  
Adjusts the recording  
level within a range  
Adjusts the bias  
current within a  
of about ±3 dB  
range of about ±20 %  
1
3
2
Bias calibration  
1
Insert a cassette with the side to be  
recorded facing outward.  
Choosing the proper bias current for a tape ensures  
minimum distortion and flat frequency response. Lowering  
the bias current boosts high-frequency response, but also  
results in higher distortion. Raising the bias, on the other  
hand, reduces distortion, but also dampens high-frequency  
response. You thus obtain proper bias when the bias current  
and high-frequency response are well balanced.  
EJECT  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
B
C
COUNTER  
S
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
+
+
§
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS  
)
BIAS  
2
3
Press CALIBRATION.  
Bias reduced ()  
CALIBRATION  
Bias  
reduced  
(high-  
frequency  
response  
boosted)  
Bias  
increased  
(high-  
frequency  
response  
suppressed)  
+
Bias increased (+)  
Frequency in Hz  
The peak level meters for adjusting the bias and  
recording level appear in the display window.  
•By changing the bias, you can tailor the response to your  
liking, for example by slightly emphasizing the upper or  
lower end.  
Press r , then P or · to turn on the  
recording test tones.  
•The frequency response of metal tape is much less affected  
by changes in the bias current than other tape types, and in  
some cases is uneffected. The adjustment range of this deck  
(about ±20 %) may therefore not be wide enough to allow  
adjustment for all tapes.  
REC  
r
PAUSE  
or  
·
P
Recording level calibration  
Even when the recording level is adjusted correctly, a tape  
with low sensitivity will result in a low playback level. The  
REC LEVEL calibration control allows you to compensate for  
sensitivity differences among tapes to equalize both  
recording and playback levels. This is especially important  
when using the Dolby NR system, since the system is most  
effective when recording and playback levels are the same.  
Playback level for an 8-kHz signal  
H
L
REC CAL  
TYPE  
Playback level for a 400-Hz signal  
Notes  
•You cannot monitor the sound during the  
calibration operation.  
•It takes 2 to 3 seconds for the test tone level to  
stabilize.  
14  
 
Inserting a Blank Space During  
Recording  
— Record Muting  
The Record Muting function allows you to insert a four-  
second blank between selections to enable proper Multi-  
AMS operation (see page 8), or to replace unwanted  
recorded material with a blank of any length.  
4
Adjust BIAS until both meters indicate  
equal playback levels.  
A low reading on the  
upper meter indicates a  
high bias current.  
A high reading on the  
upper meter indicates  
a low bias current.  
POWER  
2
ON  
H
H
L
L
REC CAL  
REC CAL  
TYPE  
TYPE  
REC LEVEL  
MPX FILTER  
ØON øOFF  
5
6
4
3
1
7
DOLBY NR  
OFF  
BIAS  
REC LEVEL  
2
8
B
BALANCE  
C
BIAS  
BIAS  
COUNTER  
S
9
RESET  
MEMORY  
POWER  
0
10  
+
+
L
R
EJECT  
MONITOR  
CALIBRATION  
HEADPHONES  
PAUSE  
REC MUTE  
REC  
§
p
0
)
P
R
r
·
0
AMS  
)
+
+
1
An equal reading on both meters indicates the  
proper bias current condition.  
1
2
While recording, press and release R .  
REC MUTE  
H
L
REC CAL  
R
TYPE  
REC  
5
Adjust REC LEVEL for calibration until  
both meters reach the recommended  
level.  
The REC indicator starts flashing. During this  
time, no incoming signals are recorded on the  
tape.  
After four seconds, the P indicator lights up and  
the unit enters recording pause mode.  
REC LEVEL  
+
Press P to resume recording.  
PAUSE  
Recommended level  
P
H
L
REC CAL  
TYPE  
To create a blank longer than four seconds  
Press the R button for the specified length of time. After four  
seconds, the REC indicator flashes at a faster rate. When you  
release the R button, the P indicator lights up and the unit  
goes into recording pause mode.  
The bias current is now properly adjusted and  
the tape sensitivity compensation has been set.  
Press p , then press CALIBRATION to turn the  
calibration function off (the display returns to  
normal). Rewind the tape and start the actual  
recording.  
Press the P button to resume recording.  
15  
 
Chapter 4 Additional Information  
Maintenance  
Cleaning the Heads and Tape Path  
Demagnetizing the Heads  
Clean all surfaces over which the tape travels after every ten  
hours of operation to guard against:  
— low-quality sound  
After 20 to 30 hours of use, or when you notice hiss and/or  
loss of high frequencies, the residual magnetism built up on  
the heads should be removed.  
— a decrease in sound level  
— excessive wow, flutter or drop-out  
— incomplete erasure  
1 Turn off the power.  
2 Demagnetize the heads with any commercially  
available demagnetizer.  
— impairment of recording function  
To obtain high-quality recorded sound, we recommend  
cleaning before every recording.  
Refer to the instruction manual of the demagnetizer for  
detailed instructions.  
1 Press § to open the cassette holder.  
2 With the unit turned off, wipe the heads, the  
pinch roller and the capstan with a cotton swab  
slightly moistened with alcohol or commercially  
available cleaning fluid for tape decks.  
Capstans  
Recording  
head  
Playback head  
Erasing head  
Pinch rollers  
§
r
R
P
)
0
·
p
Do not insert a cassette until the cleaned areas are  
completely dry.  
16  
 
Specifications  
Recording system  
Fast winding time  
4-track 2-channel stereo  
Approx. 90 sec. (with Sony C-60  
cassette)  
General  
Power requirements Model for U.S.A.:  
120 V AC, 60 Hz  
Bias  
AC bias  
Model for the United Kingdom and  
Heads  
Erasing head × 1 (F&F head)  
Recording head × 1 (SD head)  
Playback head × 1 (SD head)  
Capstan motor × 1 (DC servo motor)  
Reel motor × 1 (DC motor)  
Australia:  
240 V AC, 50 Hz  
Power consumption 23 W  
Motors  
Dimensions  
Approx. 430 × 123 × 310 mm (w/h/d)  
(17 × 47/8 × 121/4 inches)  
including projecting parts and  
controls  
Signal-to-noise ratio (at peak level and weighted)  
Mass  
Approx. 4.3 kg (9 lbs 8 oz)  
Cassette  
(Dolby NR off)  
Type IV  
61 dB  
Type II  
59 dB  
Type I  
57 dB  
Supplied accessories  
Audio connecting cords (2)  
S/N ratio improvement (approximate values)  
With Dolby B NR on : 5 dB at 1 kHz; 10 dB at 5 kHz  
With Dolby C NR on : 15 dB at 500 Hz; 20 dB at 1 kHz  
With Dolby S NR on : 10 dB at 100 Hz; 24 dB at 1 kHz  
Optional accessory  
Wireless remote commander RM-J701  
Design and specifications are subject to change without  
notice.  
Harmonic distortion 0.4% (with Type I, 160 nWb/m,  
315 Hz, 3rd H.D.)  
1.5% (with Type IV, 250 nWb/m,  
315 Hz, 3rd H.D.)  
Frequency response (Dolby NR off)  
20 - 20,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)  
Type IV cassette  
20 - 16,000 Hz [±3 dB (4dB  
recording)]  
Type II cassette  
Type I cassette  
20 - 18,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)  
20 - 17,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)  
Type IV : Sony Type IV (METAL)  
Type II : Sony Type II (HIGH)  
Type I : Sony Type I (NORMAL)  
Wow and flutter  
±0.065% W.Peak (IEC)  
0.045% W.RMS (NAB)  
±0.12% W.Peak (DIN)  
Inputs  
Line inputs  
(phono jacks)  
Sensitivity  
Input impedance 47 k ohms  
0.16 V  
Outputs  
0.5 V at a load  
impedance of  
47 k ohms  
Line outputs  
(phono jacks)  
Rated output  
level  
Load  
impedance  
Over 10 k ohms  
Headphones  
(stereo phone jack)  
1 mW at a load  
impedance of  
32 ohms  
Output level  
17  
 
Troubleshooting Guide  
The following trouble checks will help you correct the most  
common problems encountered with your tape deck.  
Should any problems persist after you have made these  
checks, consult your nearest Sony dealer.  
Before proceeding with these trouble checks, verify that:  
•The power cord is firmly connected.  
•The amplifier connections are firmly made.  
•The heads, capstan and pinch roller are clean.  
•The amplifier controls and switches are correctly set.  
Function Buttons and Tape Transport Problems  
Symptom  
Cause  
The cassette holder is not fully closed.  
Remedy  
The function buttons do not work.  
Close the holder completely.  
Insert the cassette correctly.  
The cassette is not properly inserted.  
You press the button immediately after  
turning on the power.  
Wait until the P indicator stops  
flashing.  
The r button does not work.  
There is no cassette in the holder.  
Insert a cassette.  
The record-protect tab has been  
removed from the cassette.  
Cover the hole with tape (page 12).  
The automatic shut-off mechanism  
operates before the end of the tape.  
The tape is slack.  
Take up the tape slack.  
Use another cassette.  
The cassette shell is deformed.  
The Memory Play function is on.  
Press the MEMORY button to turn off  
the function.  
Excessively loud tape transport noise  
during fast winding.  
This noise is caused by the cassette  
and is not a mechanical problem.  
18  
 
Recording and Playback Problems  
Symptom  
Cause  
Remedy  
Recording or playback cannot be made  
or there is a decrease in sound level.  
The heads are either dirty or  
magnetized.  
Clean or demagnetize the heads  
(page 16).  
Improper connection.  
Make connections properly (page 5).  
Improper setting of the amplifier  
controls.  
Set the amplifier controls to the  
appropriate positions.  
Excessive wow, flutter or drop-out.  
Incomplete erasure.  
The head, capstan or pinch roller is  
dirty.  
Clean in accordance with instructions  
on page 16.  
The erasing head is dirty.  
The heads are magnetized.  
Clean the erasing head (page 16).  
Demagnetize the heads (page 16).  
Increased noise or poor reproduction  
in high frequencies.  
Unbalanced tone in high frequencies.  
Improper setting of the DOLBY NR  
switch.  
During playing back, set the switch to  
the same position used in recording.  
The unit is placed near a television set.  
Move the unit away from the  
television set.  
The specified selection cannot be  
located even when Multi-AMS is on.  
There is noise in the space before the  
selection.  
The space before the selection is less  
than four seconds long.  
Rerecord the tape if you can, and  
insert a blank space of four seconds  
before the selection using the R button  
(page 15).  
The ) ( or 0 ) button was pressed  
immediately before the beginning of  
the following selection.  
Playback begins in the middle of the  
selection when Multi-AMS is on.  
The selection contains one of the  
following:  
While the tape is playing, press the  
) or 0 button again.  
— a long pause  
— a passage of low frequencies or very  
low volume  
— a gradual increase or decrease in  
volume.  
Noise  
Symptom  
Cause  
Remedy  
Hum noise.  
The unit is stacked on or under the  
amplifier.  
Separate the unit.  
Noise is recorded.  
The recording was made near  
equipment such as a television set or a  
color monitor, and interference has  
affected the recording on the tape and  
the Dolby NR system.  
Move the unit away from the  
television set or color monitor.  
19  
 
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan  
 

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