Optimus STA-3500 User manual

VOLUME
MIN MAX
BALANCE
LR
TREBLE
BASS
STATION
TUNING
CLASS
FM/AM
FM MONO
MEMORY
SPEAKERS
AB
PHONES
STAND BY
POWER
SUPER
BASS
TAPE 2
MONITOR
TAPE 1
VCR
CD
LD/DVD
TUNER
PHONO
OSR
STA-3500 DIGITAL SYNTHESIZED AM/FM STEREO RECEIVER
Digital Synthesiz
e
STA-3500
Cat. No. 31-3034
Owner’s Manual
Please read before using this equipment.
AM/FM
Stereo Receiver

2
Introducing the Optimus STA-3500
Your Optimus STA-3500 Digital Synthesized AM/FM Stereo Receiver is the per-
fect control center for your audio/video system. It combines 100 watts-per-chan-
nel of clean power with modern styling. It provides connections for two tape
decks, a turntable, a CD player,and one other audio source, such as audio from
a digital video disk (DVD) player. You can also connect up to two pairs of speak-
ers (not provided) to your receiver.
Additional features include:
Digital-Synthesized Tuner Precisely tunes to AM and FM stations.
Automatic Tuning Lets you search for the next available FM station.
30 Memory Locations Let you store and recall the frequencies for up to 30 radio stations.
Tape Monitoring Lets you listen to the actual recording as you record, if your tape deck has a
tape-monitoring feature. Also lets you listen to a tape playing in TAPE 2 while
TAPE 1 continues to record the program you selected.
Built-In Protection Circuits Turn off the receiver to help prevent damage if a power surge or short circuit
occurs.
Remote Control Lets you use a single remote control for the receiver and other compatible com-
ponents connected to the receiver.
We recommend you record the receiver’s serial number here. The serial number is
on the receiver’s back panel.
Serial Number:_____________________________________________
1996 Tandy Corporation.
All Rights Reserved.
Optimus is a registered trademark used by Tandy Corporation.
RadioShack is a trademark used by Tandy Corporation.

3
This receiver is made and tested to meet exacting
safety standards. It meets both UL and FCC require-
ments
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this sys-
tem to rain or moisture.
This symbol is intended to alert you to the
presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage
within the system’s enclosure that might be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock. Do not open the system’s
case.
This symbolis intendedto inform youthat im-
portant operating and maintenance instruc-
tions are included in the literature acc-
ompanying this system.
CAUTION
Power Lines—Locate an outdoor antenna away from
power lines.
Nonuse Periods—Unplug the receiver’s power cord
when you will not use it for extended periods.
Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If an outside antenna
or cable system is connected to the receiver, ground
the antenna or cable system so as to provide some
protection against voltage surges and built-up static
charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA 80, provides information about proper
grounding of the mast and supporting structure,
grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge
unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-
discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes,
and requirements for the grounding electrode. See the
example below.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
DO NOT OPEN.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICE-
ABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
CAUTION !
!
Antenna
Lead-In
Wire
Antenna
Discharge Unit
(NEC Section 810-20)
Grounding Conductor
s
(NEC Section 810-21)
Grounding Clamps
Power Service Grounding
Electrode System
(
NEC Article 250
,
Part H
)
Ground Clamp
Electric
Service
Equipment
NEC -- National Electrical Code
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Careful attention is devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your receiver, and safety i
s
a major factor in its design. However, safety is also your responsibility.
This section lists important information that will help you properly use and enjoy your receiver an
d
accessories. Read all the included safety and operating instructions before using your receiver. Fol
-
low them closely, and retain them for future reference.
Heed Warnings — Follow all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use only a damp cloth fo
r
cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
Attachments — Do not use attachments/accessories not recommended by the product manufac
-
turer, as they might create a hazard.
Water and Moisture — Donot use this product near water (for example,near a bathtub,washbowl
,
kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool).
Accessories — Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. Th
e
product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Us
e
only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer or sold with th
e
product. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mounting, and use a recommended mountin
g
accessory. Carts — Move the product on a cart carefully. Quick stops, excessive force, an
d
uneven surfaces may cause the product/cart to overturn.
Ventilation — Slots and openings in the cabinet provide ventilation, ensure reli
-
able operation, and protect from overheating. Do not block or cover these open
-
ings, and do not place the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. D
o
not place the product in a built-in bookcase or rack unless it provides proper ven
-
tilation as specified by the manufacturer.
Power Sources — Operate this product using only the power source indicated on itsmarking label
.
If you are not sure of your home's power type, consult your product dealer or local power company
.
Polarization — This product is equipped with a polarized AC line plug (a plug having one blad
e
wider than the other). This plug will fit in the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. I
f
you cannot insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still doesn't fit, con
-
tact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polar
-
ized plug. If you need an extension, use a polarized cord.
Power-Cord Protection — Route power-supply cords so they are not likely to be walked on o
r
pinched by items placed on or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, conve
-
nience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.
Lightning — For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unat
-
tendedand unused for long periods of time,unplug itfromthe walloutlet and disconnecttheanten
-
na orcable system.This willprevent damage to the product due tolightning and power-line surges
.
Overloading — Do notoverload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles
,
as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
Objects and Liquids — Never push objects ofany kind into this product through openings, as the
y
may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock
.
Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers ma
y
expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service person
-
nel.
Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this product from the wall outlet and referservicing to qual
-
ified service personnel under the following conditions:
• When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
• If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the product.
• If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
• If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust onl
y
those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, as an improper adjustment o
f
other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified techni
-
cian to restore the product to normal operation.
• If the product hasbeen dropped or damaged in any way.
• When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance.
Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician use
s
replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or having the same characteristics as the origina
l
part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
Safety Check — Upon completion of service or repairs to this product, ask the service technicia
n
to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.
Wall or Ceiling Mount — The product should be mounted to a wallor ceiling only as recommende
d
by the manufacturer.
Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers
,
stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

4
Contents
P
reparing Your Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Positioning Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Connecting Speakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Connecting Program Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Connecting the Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Using One Remote Control for More Than One Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Installing the Remote Control’s Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Using the AC Power Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Connecting to AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
B
asic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Tuning the Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Using FM Mono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Balance Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Muting the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Using Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Cassette Deck Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
U
sing the Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
T
roubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
C
are and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
T
he FCC Wants You to Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
S
pecifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
I
ndex to Features by Control Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

5
Preparing Your Receiver
Positioning Speakers Where you place your speakers can make a noticeable difference in your sys-
tem’s sound. The guidelines in this section will help you choose the best loca-
tions. After you use your receiver for a while, you might want to try different
locations for your speakers.
Bass response depends largely on speaker location. For strong bass, place the
speakers in the corners of the room. If you want even stronger bass, place the
speakers directly on the floor. If the bass is too strong, move the speakers
slightly away from the corners of the room, or raise them 6 to 18 inches off the
floor. You can buy speaker stands at your local RadioShack store.
The distance between the speakers should be about the same as the distance
between the normal listening point and the point halfway between the speakers.
If you place the speakers too close together, you reduce the stereo separation.
If you place them too far apart, you reduce the bass effect and create a
hole
in
the middle of the sound.
Most speakers have a tweeter dispersion angle of about 60 degrees. Ideally,
your listening position should be just inside the overlap area of the tweeter dis-
persion. You can angle the speakers toward you for better stereo effect.
Caution: Make all the necessary connections before you plug in or turn on the receiver.
LR
a
b
a=b
Halfway Point
Between Speak
e
Person in Listenin
g
Area

6
Preparing Your Receiver
C
onnecting Speakers Preparing the Speaker Wires
Speaker wire consists of two conductors (individual wires) encased in insulation
and is usually color-coded or marked with a ridge along one side so you can
identify each conductor. Use these markings as a guide to help you properly
connect the speakers to your receiver.
Follow these steps to prepare the speaker wires.
1. Cut the speaker wires to the necessary length.
2. Separate the wires about 4 inches on each end.
3. Using a wire stripper, carefully strip about 3/4inch of insulation from the
end of each conductor.
4. Twist the end of each conductor to secure any loose wire strands.
Follow these guidelines when you select
and connect speakers.
• Only connect speakers that are rated
at between 8 and 16 Ohms.
• Be sure you properly connect all
speakers.
• Do not connect two pairs of speakers
to a single set of terminals (A or B) at
the same time. When you use two
pairs of speakers, connect one set to
Speakers A
and one set to
Speakers B
.
• Realistic, Optimus, and other high-
quality speakers have color-coded
speaker terminals (red for positive
polarity and black for negative polar-
ity). Use these color-coded terminals
as a guide to help you properly con-
nect the speakers to the receiver.
• Use 16-gauge (or larger) speaker wire
for all speaker connections, and con-
sider possible speaker locations
before you decide how much speaker
wire you need.
Wire Stran
d
Wire Strands
Conductor
Conductor
Speaker Wire
Wire Strands
Wire Strands
Conductor

7
Preparing Your Receiver
Connecting the A and B Speakers
Follow these steps to connect the right speaker to the receiver’s right A SPEAK
-
ERS terminals.
1. Press the receiver’s A SPEAKERS R (+) red lever and insert the ridged or
color-coded conductor’s end into the small hole. Pull back the lever to
secure the conductor.
2. Press the receiver’s A SPEAKERS R (–) black lever and insert the other
conductor’s end into the small hole. Pull back the lever to secure the con
-
ductor.
3. Connect the ridged or color-coded conductor’s loose end to the right
speaker’s positive (+) terminal.
4. Connect the remaining loose conductor to the right speaker’s negative (–)
terminal.
Repeat Steps 1 through 4 to connect the left speaker to the receiver’s A SPEAK
-
ERS L terminals.
Repeat this entire process to connect a second pair of speakers to the B
SPEAKERS terminals.
Notes:
• Be sure you connect the receiver’s
right and left positive (+) and negative
(–) terminals to the speaker’s corre-
sponding right and left positive (+) and
negative (–) terminals.
• Fully insert the speaker wires to
ensure a good connection. Leave
extra wire at the back of the receiver
so you do not disconnect the wires
when you move the receiver.
Caution: To prevent a short circuit, twist
the end of each conductor to be sure
that stray speaker wire strands do not
touch other speaker terminals or any
other receiver terminals.
SPEAKERS
A
B
L
R
A
B
Left Left
B
Speakers
A
S
p
eakers
L
R

8
Preparing Your Receiver
C
onnecting Program Sources You can connect up to five external program sources to your receiver.
Connecting a Turntable
Connect a turntable with a magnetic cartridge only. Some older turntables use a
ceramic-type cartridge that does not work with this system.
Connect the turntable’s left and right cables to the receiver’s left and right
PHONO jacks. Then connect the turntable’s ground wire to the receiver’s GND
terminal.
Connecting Cassette Deck(s)
You can connect cassette decks to the TAPE 1/VCR and the TAPE 2 MONITOR
jacks. Connect the cassette deck’s output jacks to the TAPE 1/VCR PLAY or
TAPE 2 MONITOR PLAY jacks, and connect the cassette deck’s input jacks to
TAPE 1/VCR REC (audio) or TAPE 2 MONITOR REC jacks.
Connecting a CD Player
To connect a CD player to the receiver, connect the CD player’s left and right
output jacks to the receiver’s Land R CD IN jacks.
Connecting Another Audio Source
Connect the audio outputs of another audio source, such as the audio from a
laser disc player, TV, VCR, or CD player, to the LD/DVD IN Land Rjacks.
Note: Use shielded audio cables with
phono connectors for all audio connec-
tions.
Note: If you place the cassette deck
directly above, below, or to the left of the
receiver, the receiver could interfere with
the cassette deck’s operation. If possi-
ble, position the cassette deck to the
right of the receiver or locate it away
from the receiver.
PHONO TAPE2
MONITOR CD
LD
/DVD
TAPE 1
/VCR CONTROL
GND
REC PLAY
L
RL
R
IN IN IN
OUT
REC PLAY
L
R
REC PLAY
LINE
REC PLAY
INPUT OUTPUT
Cassette Deck
Turntable
OUT PUT
L
R
CD
CD Pla
y
er
Cassette Deck
L
R
REC PLAY
LINE
REC PLAY
INPUT OUTPUT
LD/DVD Pla
y
er
OUT PUT
L
R
R
L
L
R
L
R
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
L
R
L
R
R
L

9
Preparing Your Receiver
Connecting the Antennas In many cities, the supplied indoor AM loop and FM antennas provide adequate
reception.
AM Antennas
Assemble the included antenna’s base by swinging the base in the direction of
the arrow and inserting the antenna’s bottom tabs into the base’s slot. Then
attach the antenna wires to the AM LOOP ANTENNA and GND terminals.
Place the antenna on a flat surface and rotate it for the best AM reception.
If the receiver is in a rack or on a shelf and there is no room for the AM loop
antenna, use two screws (not supplied) to mount the base on the wall or
another location as shown.
Notes:
• Keep the AM loop antenna connected even when you use another indoor
antenna or an outdoor AM antenna.
• Ensure the antenna does not touch the receiver or other metal objects.
• Do not place the antenna near a CD player, a personal computer, or a TV
set
• If the wire between your AM loop antenna and receiver is too short, you
can add extra wire, available at your local RadioShack store.
You can also use a RadioShack shortwave antenna kit (Cat. No. 278-
758), which makes an excellent outdoor AM antenna.
Connect the outdoor AM antenna wire to the receiver’s AM terminal, as shown.
FM Antennas
Connect the supplied FM antenna to the FM UNBAL 75Ωterminal and extend it
as shown.
For better FM reception, you can also use a rabbit-ear TV antenna (for indoor
use only) or an outdoor VHF TV antenna. To connect the TV antenna to the
receiver, you need a VHF/UHF/FM splitter (not included). RadioShack stores
carry a full line of quality outdoor antennas and antenna connection accesso-
ries.
Warning: To prevent injury, read and fol-
low all cautions and warnings that
accompany the outdoor antenna.
Note: For the best results, use 75-ohm
coaxial cable to connect an outdoor
antenna to the receiver.
FM
UNBAL AM LOOP
ANTENNA
ANTENNA
GND
75 GND
AM
L
oop
A
n
t
enna
FM
UNBAL AM LOOP
ANTENNA
GND75 GND
d
oor
AM
A
n
t
enna
ANTENNA
GND
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
FM
UNBAL
75 GND
FM Antenna

10
Preparing Your Receiver
For the best radio reception, use an outdoor antenna. Follow these steps to
connect an outdoor FM antenna to the receiver using 75Ωcable.
Note: If your antenna has 300Ωtwin-lead cable, consult your local RadioShack
store for the correct adapter.
1. Disconnect the supplied FM antenna from the receiver’s FM UNBAL 75Ω
terminal.
2. With a stripping tool, remove about 11/2inches of the 75Ωcable’s outer
insulation to expose the cable’s shielding.
3. Fold back the insulation from the inner insulation.
4. Remove about 1 inch of the inner insulation from around the center wire.
5. Pull the shielding to one side. Connect the center wire to the receiver’s FM
UNBAL 75Ωterminal. Twist the shielding to secure any loose wire strands,
and connect it to the GND terminal.
Note: Grounding is not necessary for reception, but we recommend it to avoid
damage from lightning when you use an outdoor FM antenna and for better FM
reception. Use a separate piece of thick polyvinyl insulated wire to connect the
GND terminal to an earth ground such as a metal cold-water pipe.
Warning: Never connect a wire to a gas pipe for grounding since sparks might
ignite the gas.
Caution: The cable’s shielding should
only touch the
GND
terminal.
I
nner
I
nsu
l
a
ti
on
Center Wi
r
Shieldin
g
O
uter Insulation
ANTENNA
GND
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
FM
UNBAL
75 GND
FM
O
u
td
oor
A
n
t
enna
Shielded
Core

11
Preparing Your Receiver
Using One Remote Control
for More than One Unit If you also have an Optimus professional series CD player, VCR, or cassette
deck with the OSR mark, you can connect its CONTROL IN jack to the receiver
so you can control all of your equipment with a single remote control. You can
also use the other component’s remote control by pointing it at the receiver’s
front panel.
1. Connect each component to the receiver as shown in “Connecting Pro-
gram Sources.”
Note: You must connect the audio cables between the receiver and the
other audio accessory to use your receiver’s remote control to control the
accessory.
2. Connect the cable supplied with the CD player, VCR, or cassette deck
between the receiver’s CONTROL OUT jack and the other component’s
CONTROL IN jack.
3. When you want to control more than one other component using the
receiver’s remote control, daisy-chain the CONTROL OUT and CONTROL
IN connections as shown.
Installing the
Remote Control’s Batteries The remote control uses two AA batteries (not included). For the longest battery
life, we recommend alkaline batteries (such as RadioShack Cat. No. 23-557).
1. Press and remove the battery compartment cover.
2. Place two fresh AA batteries in the compartment as indicated by the
polarity symbols (+ and –) marked in the compartment.
3. Replace the battery compartment cover.
Note: When you plug the cable into a
component’s
CONTROL IN
jack, that
component’s remote sensor does not
function.
Cautions:
• Use only fresh batteries of the recom-
mended size and type.
• Always remove old or weak batteries.
Batteries can leak chemicals that can
damage electronic circuits.
Note: If the remote’s range is reduced,
replace the batteries immediately.
OUT
IN
CONTROL
Receiver
Remote
Control
Other Component
with OSR Mark
To the CONTROL IN j
a
of Another Compone
n
Havin
g
the OSR Mark
OUT
CONTROL

12
Preparing Your Receiver
Using the AC Power Outlet Your receiver has an AC power outlet that you can use to power an electronic
device, such as a turntable, cassette deck, VCR, and so on. This switched out-
let turns on and off with the receiver and provides a maximum of 100 Watts
(0.8A max).
C
onnecting to AC Power Before you plug in the receiver’s power cord, double check all other connec-
tions.
To power the receiver, plug the supplied power cord into a standard AC outlet.
The power cord’s plug is polarized and fits only one way.
The STAND BY indicator lights whenever you supply power to the receiver and
turn it off.
Caution: Do not connect appliances wit
h
high power consumption, such as
a
heater, iron, monitor, or TV, to this A
C
outlet. Doing so can cause a risk of over
-
heating and fire, and could damage th
e
receiver.
Warning: To prevent electric shock, do
not use this polarized plug with an exten-
sion cord, receptacle, or other outlet
unless you can fully insert the blades to
prevent blade exposure.
SPEAKERS
A
B
L
R
A
B
L
R
CAUTION:
DO NOT CONNECT
TV SET OR MONITOR.
AC 120V 60HZ
AC OUTLET
SWITCHED
100W MAX
0.8A MAX

1
3
Basic Operation
Note: The controls on the remote control work the same as the buttons on the
receiver’s front panel.
Follow these steps to use the receiver.
1. Press POWER to turn on the receiver’s power. It takes about 5 seconds to
begin hearing sound.
2. Select the speakers.
If you connected speakers only to the A(or B)SPEAKERS terminals,
press SPEAKERS A (or B) to turn on only those speakers. Do not press
both SPAKERS A and B. Doing so disconnects all speakers.
If you connected speakers to both the Aand BSPEAKERS terminals,
do any of the following:
•PressinSPEAKERS A
or
Bto turn on either pair of speakers for a two
-
speaker stereo effect.
•PressinSPEAKERS A
and
Bto turn on both pairs of speakers for a
four-speaker stereo effect.
•Press
SPEAKERS A and Bto the
out
position to silence all speakers
and listen privately with headphones (see “Using Headphones” on
Page 15).
3. Select a program source.
To tune to a radio station, see “Tuning the Radio” on Page 15.
To listen to signals from the component connected to TAPE 2 MONI-
TOR,press TAPE 2 MONITOR so TAPE 2 appears on the display.
To listen to a source other than one connected to TAPE 2 MONITOR,
be sure TAPE 2 does not show on the display. If necessary, press TAPE
2 MONITOR so TAPE 2 disappears.
Then press TAPE 1/VCR, LD/DVD, CD, TUNER, or PHONO, or repeatedly
press FUNCTION on the remote control, to display the desired program
source.
4. Adjust VOLUME clockwise to increase the volume and counterclockwise
to decrease it. Or, you can use VOLUME –/+ on the remote control.
5. Use the BASS and TREBLE controls to adjust the program’s tonal quality.
To enhance the bass level, press SUPER BASS.
6. Adjust BALANCE to suit your listening preferences. See “Balance Control”
on Page 14.
7. Press POWER to turn off the receiver.
Warning: To prevent possible hearing
loss, turn
VOLUME
to
MIN
before you turn
on the receiver or change the program
sources. After you turn on the receiver or
change the program source, adjust
VOL-
UME
to a comfortable listening level.
Note: If you want to find out what a par-
ticular button or control is used for, see
Page 18(for the remote control) or Page
25(for the front panel) to find the page
where the button or control is described.
Note: If you select a source while
TAPE 2
MONITOR
is engaged,
TAPE 2
flashes
five times on the display, reminding you
to disengage the
TAPE 2 MONITOR
func-
tion

14
Basic Operation
T
uning the Radio Your receiver offers three types of electronic tuning—manual, automatic, and
memory.
Manual and Automatic Tuning
Follow these steps to manually or automatically tune to the stations.
1. Press TUNER. Then press FM/AM to select the desired band.
The receiver tunes to and displays the frequency last selected in that
band.
2. Press TUNING or once to move to the next higher or lower frequency.
Or, press and hold down TUNING or to rapidly change frequencies.
Release the button to stop.
To search for the next higher or lower FM station, release TUNING or
as soon as the frequency starts to change. The receiver searches up or
down the FM band until it finds a strong station.
Notes:
•STEREO appears on the display when FM broadcasts are received in
stereo and the receiver is not set to FM mono.TUNED appears on the
display when you tune to a strong station. To find a weak FM station,
press FM MONO until MONO appears. See “Using FM Mono” on
Page 15.
• If you press TUNING at the top of the frequency range or TUNING
at the bottom of the frequency range, the display returns to the other
end of the range.
Memory Tuning
Memory tuning lets you instantly tune to a stored frequency. You can store up to
30 AM or FM frequencies (10 frequencies in each of three classes) in the
receiver’s memory.
Follow these steps to store a station.
1. Press TUNER. Then press FM/AM to select the desired band.
2. Using either manual or automatic tuning, select the frequency you want to
store.
If desired, press FM MONO for FM monaural sound (see “Using FM Mono”
on Page 16). This setting is stored in the memory.
3. Press MEMORY. MEMORY appears for 5 seconds.
4. While MEMORY is on the display, press CLASS until the class number you
want (1-3) appears on the display. Then press STATION or until the
station number you want appears on the display.
Repeat these steps to store additional frequencies. Do not enter a frequency
while the display flashes.
To tune to a stored frequency, press CLASS so the desired class number
appears on the display, then press STATION / to select the station.
Note: For weak signals, we recommend
manual tuning.
Notes:
• If you store a frequency in a memory
that already contains a frequency, you
replace the previous frequency.
• If your receiver is disconnected from
AC power for several days, it loses all
the stored frequencies.

1
5
Basic Operation
Using FM Mono To receive FM stations in stereo, press FM MONO until MONO disappears from
the display. STEREO appears on the display when you receive an FM broadcast
in stereo.
You can improve the reception of weak FM stations by pressing FM MONO until
MONO appears. This reduces noise while you listen to a weak FM station, but
you get monaural instead of stereo sound.
Balance Control The BALANCE control lets you adjust the sound balance between the left and
right speakers. If you properly position the speakers and your listening area is
centered between them, the center control setting is usually best (see “Position
-
ing Speakers” on Page 5).
For an unusual speaker placement, adjust BALANCE as follows:
1. Select TUNER. Then press FM/AM to select the FM band.
2. Press FM MONO until MONO appears. The sound is monaural instead of
stereo, so each speaker delivers the same output.
3. Turn BALANCE until you hear the sound coming equally from each
speaker when you are in the listening area.
4. Press FM MONO until MONO disappears from the display.
Muting the Receiver To temporarily mute the sound, press MUTING on the remote control. MUTING
appears. Press MUTING again to restore the audio level.
Using Headphones To listen with headphones (not supplied), insert the headphones’ 1/4-inch plug
into the receiver’s front panel PHONES jack. To silence the speakers, set Aand
B SPEAKERS to the out position.
Listening Safely
To protect your hearing, note the following when using headphones.
• Set the volume to its lowest setting before you begin listening. After you
begin listening, adjust volume to a comfortable level.
• Do not listen at extremely high volume levels. Extended high-
volume listening can lead to permanent hearing loss.
• Once you set the volume, do not increase it. Over time, your ears adapt to
the volume level, so a volume level that does not cause discomfort might
still damage your hearing.
Cassette Deck Features You can connect two cassette decks to the receiver. Selecting either TAPE 1/
VCR or TAPE 2 MONITOR lets you hear the playback from the cassette deck you
connected to the receiver’s corresponding (TAPE 1/VCR, TAPE 2 MONITOR)
jacks.

16
Basic Operation
Using the TAPE 1/VCR Button
Press TAPE 1/VCR. TAPE 1 appears on the display. You hear the playback
from the cassette deck or VCR you connected to the receiver’s TAPE 1/VCR
jacks.
Using the TAPE 2 MONITOR Button
Press TAPE 2 MONITOR. TAPE 2 appears on the display along with the last
program source you selected. You can hear playback or monitor a recording
from the cassette deck you connected to the receiver’s TAPE 2 MONITOR jacks.
The TAPE 2 REC jacks continue to output the previously selected source when
you press TAPE 2 MONITOR.
To return to the previous source, press TAPE 2 MONITOR again so TAPE 2 dis-
appears.
Notes:
• If you press TAPE 2 MONITOR when that cassette deck is neither playing
nor recording, the receiver mutes the current audio source. To hear the
audio source, press TAPE 2 MONITOR until TAPE 2 disappears from the
display.
• Do not press TAPE 2 MONITOR while you are recording on the deck con-
nected to TAPE 2 REC. If you do, the recording is interrupted for about 1
second.
Recording a Program Source
The receiver sends the audio program source you select—TAPE 1/VCR, TAPE 2
MONITOR, LD/DVD, CD, TUNER, PHONO—to the TAPE 1/VCR REC and TAPE 2
MONITOR REC jacks. The VOLUME control does not affect the level of the signal
going to the tape decks.
When you record a program source using the Tape 2 cassette deck, you hear
the program source’s signal immediately after you record it onto the tape, if the
cassette deck you connected has a three-head monitor function. (Be sure to
read the owner’s manual for your cassette deck.)
Simultaneous Recording and Playback
You can record any non-tape program source on the Tape 1 cassette deck while
you listen to a cassette tape using TAPE 2 MONITOR.
Press the button for the desired program source (LD/DVD, CD, TUNER, PHONO),
then press the record button on the cassette deck connected to TAPE 1/VCR.
Tape 1 records the selected program source. Press TAPE 2 MONITOR, then start
playback on the cassette deck connected to TAPE 2 MONITOR. TAPE 2
appears and you hear Tape 2 play back while Tape 1 continues to record the
program source you selected.

1
7
Basic Operation
Dubbing a Cassette Tape
You can copy, or dub, a cassette tape from one cassette deck to another.
You can use either deck as the playback or recording deck. However, if you
want to monitor the cassette deck during dubbing, use the deck connected to
the TAPE 1/VCR jacks as the source, and the deck you connected to the TAPE 2
MONITOR jacks as the recording deck. Then press TAPE 2 MONITOR until TAPE
2appears on the display. See “Using the TAPE 2 MONITOR Button” on the pre
-
vious page.

18
Using the Remote Control
The remote control works up to a distance of about 23 feet, and within a 30-
degree angle on either side of the receiver. Point the control at the receiver’s
front panel and press the desired button(s).
Many buttons on the remote control work the same as buttons on the receiver’s
front panel. Use these buttons exactly as you would use the corresponding but-
tons on the receiver.
Receiver/Amplifier Section
FUNC Selects a pro
g
ram source (Tape 1/VCR, LD/DVD, CD, tuner,
or phono). Repeatedly press FUNC until the display shows
your desired pro
g
ram source. See Pa
g
e 13.
– VOLUME + Adjusts the system’s volume. See Pa
g
e 13.
RECEIVER POWER Turns the receiver on and off. See Pa
g
e 13.
TAPE 2 MONITOR Switches the receiver to monitor the source connected to the
TAPE 2 MONITOR jacks. See Pa
g
e 16.
S. BASS Press to enhance bass sound.
MUTING Silences the receiver. Press a
g
ain to restore the sound to its
previous level. See Pa
g
e 14.
STATION Press to move the next hi
g
her or lower station in memory.
CLASS Press to select the class of the station in memory
FM MONO Press to disable the FM stereo mode to improve reception of
weaker FM stations.
TUNING Manual Tuning: Press once to select the next hi
g
her or
lower frequency. Or, press and hold down to rapidly chan
g
e
frequencies.
Automatic Tuning (FM Only): To search for the next lower
or hi
g
her station, release TUNING when the frequency
starts to chan
g
e. The receiver searches up or down the band
until it finds a stron
g
station.
FM/AM Press to switch between AM and FM bands.
BEST
DISC
DECK1
TAPE
RECEIVER CD TAPE VOLUME
POWER
CD
S.BASS
TAPE2
MONITOR
FUNC
TUNER
TUNING STATION
FM MONO FM/AM CLASS MUTING
STA-3500
STEREO RECEIVER
SYSTEM REMOTE
OSR
ASMS
DECK2
Receiv
e
Sectio
n

1
9
Using the Remote Control
CD Player Section
Note: You must connect the CD player both to your receiver’s CONTROL OUT
and audio jacks for these functions to work.
CD POWER Turns the CD player on and off (only for CD players havin
g
the CONTROL IN/OUT feature).
|ASMS |Returns to the be
g
innin
g
of the current track or advances to
the next track.
DISC SELECT Selects discs in a multi-play CD chan
g
er.
Note: Some CD players mi
g
ht function with DISC SELECT.
Plays the CD.
Stops playback.
Press to temporarily stop play. Press a
g
ain to resume.
BEST With a CD chan
g
er that has the BEST track memory function,
such as an Optimus Professional Series CD-8200/8300/
8400, press to select and play your favorite CD tracks.
Cassette Deck Section
Before operation, select TAPE 2 MONITOR or TAPE1/VCR.
Note: You must connect the cassette deck both to your receiver’s CONTROL
OUT and audio jacks for these functions to work.
Press to start normal play.
Press to play the reverse side of an auto-reverse cassette
deck.
Press to cancel the current function.
Press to temporarily stop playback/recordin
g
. Press a
g
ain to
resume.
and Lets you quickly locate and play the be
g
innin
g
of recorded
material durin
g
play.
When the tape is stopped, lets you rapidly search forward or
backward to locate a specific section of the tape.
DECK 1/DECK 2 Selects Deck 1 or Deck 2 when you use a dual cassette deck.
When you use a sin
g
le cassette deck, press DECK 2.
TAPE POWER Turns the cassette deck on and off.
Note: TAPE POWER does not work with all Optimus Profes-
sional Series cassette decks.
CD Player
Section
Tape Secti
o
BEST
DISC
DECK1
TAPE
RECEIVER CD TAPE VOLUME
POWER
CD
S.BASS
TAPE2
MONITOR
FUNC
TUNER
TUNING STATION
FM MONO FM/AM CLASS MUTING
STA-3500
STEREO RECEIVER
SYSTEM REMOTE
OSR
ASMS
DECK2

2
0
Troubleshooting
I
f the receiver is not working as it should, the following suggestions might help. If you follow the suggestions in this chart and
t
he receiver still does not work properly, contact your local RadioShack store for assistance.
Problem Cause Solution
Power does not turn on. • Power cord is disconnected. • Plug in the power cord.
No sound. • Incorrect connections. • Check and correct the connections.
• The mute function is activated. • Press MUTING.
• The volume is turned down. • Turn up the volume.
• Speaker wires are disconnected. • Connect the speaker wires.
• Neither set of speakers is selected. • Press in SPEAKERS A or B.
• Both SPEAKERS A and Bare pressed
when only one set of speakers is
connected.
• Press SPEAKERS button again for
the terminals that have no speakers.
•TAPE 2 MONITOR is selected. • Press TAPE 2 MONITOR again.
Sound is produced from only one
speaker. • One of the speaker wires or input cord is disconnected. • Check all connections.
•BALANCE is set too far to one side. • Set BALANCE to the center position.
High noise level. • Station not correctly tuned. • Tune to a stronger station.
• Antenna not connected. • Connect the antenna.
• FM antenna still coiled or is not point-
ing in the correct direction. • Stretch both ends of the antenna taut and reposition the antenna.
• AM loop antenna not pointing in the
correct direction. • Adjust the AM loop antenna.
• Noise is coming from another electri-
cal appliance. • Try using an AC line noise filter to reduce the noise.
Tuning does not automatically stop
when searching for FM stations. • Stations are too weak. • Use a better antenna.
Remote control does not work. • Batteries are dead or missing. • Install fresh batteries.
• Poor angle or too great a distance
from the remote sensor window. • Use within 23 feet and within a 30- degree angle of the remote sensor
window.
• There is an obstacle between you
and the remote sensor window. • Change your position or remove the obstacle.
• For CD players and cassette decks,
the remote control cord is not con-
nected.
• Connect the remote control cord.
• A fluorescent light is shining on the
remote sensor window. • Turn off the light.
Remote does not control cassette
deck or CD player. • Cassette deck or CD changer not compatible.
• Control cable is not plugged in.
• Audio cables are not plugged in.
• The feature only works with Optimus
Professional Series components.
• Properly connect the control cable.
• Properly connect the audio cables.