Sony TC-K890ES User manual

SONY
Stereo
Cassette Deck
Operating Instructions
TC-K890ES
© 1992 by Sony Corporation

WARNING
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located at the rear.
Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer
to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer
regarding this product.
Model! No. TC-K890ES Serial No.
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
00 NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
00 NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
*The graphical symbols are on the rear enclosure.
INFORMATION
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
— Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.
— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not
expressly approved in this manual could void your authority
to operate this equipment.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Getting Started
FQARUTOS isis scecsuisevedsssdosivascaesecsvesaswandevs ieseesacuhoacesbadanesbedaees
Precautions ;
UNPACKING :wic0s.ecescessstscssss scoscentadesnseasvesecsoosans ce ae
Checking the supplied accessories ............csecscceeeeeseee 4
Notes on installation ..................ccsssssscessccessssssescnssesssses 4
Checking the operating voltage ...............cececsessesersesees 4
Detaching the side panels ...........sscsssrscrsssersessecssssesee 4
Hooking up the SYSteM ..........csrsccescrsescssrssessscessesssceenees 5
Before yOu DGQIN ............cscsccsssrssescsscesssesesssasencsersrssersnees 5
HOOK-UP OXAMPIE .........cccccrssscrscrssscsscessscsssessectesesscseerees 5
Hook-up for tape GubDING «0.0.0.0... essscsecesesssesessssenees 5
Identifying the Parts ............ccccscscrcsscctscssececcscssssccecsesscseetere 6
FLOnt PAN! :sacavssiccessserconssavesssscsencsesecsoasesdesccoasaectsasenseeys 6
Chapter 2 Playback
PAYING DOCK 5 ceccccscecivscess Sascasdesesezscevsnetess sats ousssetsescccecdsnvenseees 7
Locating a selection
— Automatic Music Sensor (AMS) .................cssesscessssees 8
Starting playing back after rewinding — Auto Play ............. 8
Locating a desired playback position — Memory Play.......... 9
How to memorize and locate a desired playback
POSHION osessicssieccscccsscescsacancsusestcvscsbenssertasdcaoctavedesssvetcns 9
The accuracy of the linear counter 2.0.0.0... cessesosseeseees 9
Chapter 3 Recording
Recording.......... dbasdedesuaesdscseecgssacbadeseesadcvseseavandeensvedsogeseusva ends 10
How to record to a CaSSCHE 0... cercrcrescsrecsserscesssceseers 10
Adjusting the recording level ..............ssccsscssssrssescesoees 12
Recording FM broadcasts with the Dolby NR system ...12
Monitoring the recorded SOUT .............ccssrsssssscsseseseees 12
To protect & reCOPdINg .........sccscssrscsssrscsecscserscescesseseee 13
What is the Dolby HX PRO system? ...........s.cscsssessseoees 13
Making an optimum recording ............scccesrrsssssscsscrssesssoess 14
Bias and recording level calibration .................ssssessees 14
Recording equalization calibration ............csssssscscsees 15
Inserting a blank space during recording
— Record Mutiing.............scsssscsscrsscrsscrescesscesssrscsesoes 16
Chapter 4 Other Operation
Timer-activated playback and recording ................sssssseeee 16
Chapter 5 Additional Information
Maintenance ics isccisci eccccctescccsnes coll siectcecieedhedl actu scedesnesdhiceuses 17
Cleaning the heads and tape path... ec essceeseeee 17
Demagnetizing the heads .............scscsscessorsssressssssseoes 17
Cleaning the cabinet ................c.csescccsssssesseeee ere 17
Specifications ..........ererrssssserssersseescersnevesecsscsesecsscesecssceoses 18
Troubleshooting Quide ..............ccscssccsssesssscssssesssssesescseeee 19
Chapter 1 Getting Started J
“Features |
For higher quality recording/playback
¢ The Dolby HX PRO* system which improves the linearity
of the tape’s high-range response during recording.
¢ B and C type Dolby NR* systems which reduce tape
noise.
¢ Bias and recording level calibration which ensures
optimum recording conditions to bring out the best in every
tape.
¢ Three-head system (separate recording, playback and
erase heads) which allows you to instantly check the
recorded sound while recording is in progress.
* Quartz Locked Direct Drive reduces vibration from
external sources.
« Closed Loop Dual Capstan for improved stability of tape
running at tape heads.
¢ Ceramic cassette holder for improved stability of tape
running during playback and recording.
For your convenience
¢ The AMS and Memory Play functions which provide easy
access to a desired selection.
¢ Timer-activated playback and recording through the use
of an optional timer.
For easier operation
* Easy-to-read linear counter which shows the elapsed
recording or playing time.
* 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 symbo! 00] and "HX PRO” are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

Ss
Unpacking —
Precautions
;
On safety
¢ 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 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.
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.
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
— sound drop-out
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".
Checking the Supplied Accessories
Make sure that the following accessories are included with
your unit.
¢ Audio connecting codes (2)
¢ Screws (4)
Nos casomeolamlatsieclirctitelal
* Place the unit with the front panel facing you In a location
with adequate air circulation to prevent overheating of the
unit.
¢ 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.
Do not throw away the carton and the packing material
They will come in handy when transporting the unit or
shipping it for servicing.
OF aT =Yor dato Ia da(-mO)ol-te-lelarem de) ttc
* Operate the unit only on 120 V AC, 60Hz.
* Before operating the unit, be sure that the operating voltage
of your unit is identical with that of your local power supply.
Detaching the Side Panels
For the model with side panels which are detachable
After removing the screws, secure the cabinet with the
supplied lock screws (M3x4). Do not use the longer screws.
For safety, because doing this, be sure to disconnect the AC
power cord from the AC outlet.

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¢ 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- I —— = (et |i) =
channel (L) connection. ips: aie to |! xsl |=
* The connecting cords should be fully inserted into the jacks.
A loose connection may cause hum pickup.
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2 Signal flow -
CD
player
Z—
_
Signal
flow
L.INE IN LINE OUT
to an AC outlet
TC-K890ES
a
Rect
Uf
|
Sana
LINE OUT
to a wall outlet
tape deck tape deck
to an AC outlet to another | i from another
Another tape deck
=
to an AC outlet
REC
OUT
TAPE
INPUT
to
a
wall
outlet
Note on the CD DIRECT input terminal
Connecting a CD player or a DAT deck to the CD DIRECT
input allows the sound signal of the connected unit to be
directly input to the unit. Since this shortens the signal path,
the result is higher sound quality. However, due to the
shortened signal path, the BALANCE knob and MPxX filter
are rendered inoperative during input from the CD DIRECT
input. If your CD player is equipped with two sets of outputs,
connect one set to the amplifier and the other to the CD
DIRECT input of this unit. You may then use the INPUT
button to switch between CD DIRECT input or line input to
suit your recording needs.

Front Panel
For details, refer to the page number indicated in
parenthesis.
[1] POWER switch
[2] TIMER switch (page 16)
[3] Cassette holder
[4] Counter buttons
RESET button (page 9)
MEMORY button (pages 8 and 9)
[5] LINEAR COUNTER (page 9)
(6] PEAK PROGRAM METER (page 12)
[7] AMS (Automatic Music Sensor) buttons (page 8)
MONITOR button (page 12)
[9] BALANCE control (page 10)
(10) DISPLAY MODE button (page 7)
(111 REC (recording) LEVEL control (pages 10 and 12)
INPUT button (page11)
REC EQ CAL (recording equalizing calibration)
switch (LOW, NORMAL, HIGH) (page 15)
(14) CALIBRATION button (page 14)
REC (recording) LEVEL control for calibration
(pages 14 and 15)
BIAS control (pages 14 and 15)
{t7] HX PRO button (page 13)
(181 DOLBY NR (noise reduction) switch (pages 7 and 10)
MPX FILTER button (page 12)
20, Tape operation buttons
<4 (rewind) button
Wi (stop) button
> (play) button and indicator
> (fast-forward) button
@ REC (recording) button and indicator
53 PAUSE button and indicator
© REC MUTE (record muting) button (page 16)
@ OPEN/CLOSE button
PHONE (headphones) LEVEL control
HEADPHONES jack (stereo phone jack) (page 7)
*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 tJ mark and cassette deck contro!
capability.
— An optional Sony remote commander with the Esl mark
and cassette deck control capability.

Playing Back
Selecting the display mode
You may choose among three display modes by pressing the
DISPLAY MODE button: (1) all indicators are displayed; (2)
only the counter is displayed; or (3) no display.
Set the TIMER switch to OFF
Otherwise, playback will start automatically when the power
is turned on.
\s it necessary to set the tape type being used?
No. The deck has an automatic tape type detection system.
To start operations while the cassette holder is open
Operations may be started while the cassette holder is open.
1 Turn on the amplifier and select the tape For example, when the B> button is pressed while the
function. cassette holder is open, the cassette holder will close and
playback will start. Similarly, pressing the <4, PP, or Hl
buttons while the cassette holder is open will close the
2 cassette holder and start the respective operation.
congaied wih ee sise tm be payed To change to recording mode during playback
Keeping the B> button pressed, press the @ button. The unit
immediately switches from playback to recording without
stopping the tape. This is useful when editing previously
recorded material.
For headphone listening
Connect the headphone plug to the HEADPHONES jack.
The listening level can be controlled with the PHONE LEVEL
control.
3 Set DOLBY NR to the same position that was
used when the cassette was recorded.
is it necessary to set the MONITOR button for playback?
No. The TAPE mode is automatically selected and TAPE is
DOLBY NR displayed.
°
0B
.c 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.
4 Press PLAY to start playback. Note
The Dolby HX PRO system is effective only during recording,
not during playback.
To stop playback, press the & button.
To stop playback momentarily, press the 11 button.
To restart playback, press the #§ or B button.
To fastwind a tape rightward, press the PP button in stop
mode.
To fastwind the tape leftward, press the <4 button in stop
mode.

Morer-valalem-Msic)(-vedtela
Starting Playing Back After
Rewinding — Auto Play
— Automatic Music Sensor (AMS) -
The AMS function detects the blank space between
selections, allowing you to quickly locate the beginning of
desired selections.
=
54
Cc rca > @ o
=
During playback, press PPI or I referring to the
following table.
Desired selection
Next selection Selection being played
The PLAY indicator flashes while the AMS searches for
the beginning of the selection. After locating the
beginning of the selection, playback will start
automatically.
The AMS may skip a selection in the following cases:
¢ If the PPI (or ¢f ) button is pressed immediately before
the following selection.
¢ If there is noise in the space between selections.
¢ If the space is less than four seconds long.
The AMS will treat the following as blanks:
¢ along pause in the music
* a passage of low frequencies or very low volume
* a gradual increase or decrease in volume
The Auto Play function automatically starts playing back a
cassette after fast winding it to the beginning.
1 Make sure the MEMORY indicator is off.
If it is not, press MEMORY.
2 While pressing B> , press 44.
eo ae

pees
Locating a Desired Playback Position
— Memory Play
How to memorize and locate a desired playback
position
The Memory Play function allows you to use the counter to
record a desired position on a cassette for fast relocation and
automatic playback later.
1 Press MEMORY to activate the Memory Play
function.
2 Press RESET to reset the counter at the
desired position.
The desired position is memorized.
RESET
3 While pressing B> , press <€4 to return to the
desired position.
Returning to the memorized position in stop mode
— Memory Stop
If you press only the <4 button when the MEMORY
indicator is on in the stop mode, the tape rewinds and the
unit stops when the counter reaches 0.00.
To deactivate the Memory Play function
Press the MEMORY button, aa off the MEMORY
indicator.
Note on Memory Play/Stop
In actuality, the tape is rewound to slightly short of 0.00.
Do not turn off the power while using the counter
Turning the power off, then on again resets the counter to
0.00.
The Accuracy of the Linear Counter
Since the counter is not a digital clock, the number will differ
from the actual elapsed playback or recording time by a few
minutes, depending on such factors as tape length and hub
size,

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How to record toa cassette
Follow this procedure to record a source on a cassette.
See “Adjusting the Recording Level” on page
12.
7 Turn BALANCE to adjust the balance.
(If CD DIRECT is selected in step 4, the
BALANCE control is rendered inoperative.)
BALANCE
Q
1 insert a cassette with the side to be recorded
facing outward.
To stop recording
Press the Mi button.
4 Set INPUT to CD DIRECT to record the CD
program source through the CD DIRECT
input terminal.
5 Play the program source to be recorded.
10

Recording with the Dolby HX PRO system
Press the HX PRO button to turn on the Dolby HX PRO
function. Use the MONITOR button to verify the effects of the
function.
Regarding CD direct input
Connecting a CD player directly to the CD DIRECT terminals
will result in a higher quality recording.
However, when the INPUT button is set to CD DIRECT, the
BALANCE control and MPX filter are rendered inoperative.
If playback starts instead of recording
The cassette tab for that side has been removed. To record
on this cassette, cover the hole with plastic tape. (See page
13.)
Set the TIMER switch to OFF
Otherwise, recording will start automatically when the power
is turned on.
Is it necessary to set the MONITOR button for
recording?
No. The source mode is automatically selected and
SOURCE is displayed. If you wish to monitor the recorded
sound, press the MONITOR button to select the TAPE mode.
To start recording while the cassette holder is open
If you press the @ button while the cassette holder is open,
the holder will close automatically and the unit will switch to
recording pause mode, This function allows you to start
recording at a moment's notice.
Checking the recording time on a tape
To check the remaining recording time on a tape:
1 Press the RESET button to reset the counter to 0.00.
2 Press PP to advance the tape to its end. The number on
the counter shows the approximate recording time.
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 Counter”.)

Recording
Adjusting the Recording Level ilove Cold late Mdsiom atctere) qel-temetolelare|
The optimum recording level, which differs according to the As this unit has three separate heads for recording, playback
tape type, is indicated on the PEAK PROGRAM METER for and erasure, you can check the quality of a recorded sound
each tape type. by comparing it with the input source signal.
Adjust the REC LEVEL control as high as possible without
exceeding the recommended range for the tape type being To listen to the input source signal, set the MONITOR
used. button to SOURCE.
To listen to the sound recorded on the tape, set the
PEAK PROGRAM METER readings by tape type MONITOR button to TAPE.
Recommended maximum PEAK PROGRAM METER
readings. 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 Signal flow
setting
for Type | (normal) or
Type II (CrOz) taae 19————————_»
for Type IV —————_—___-——_____»
(metal) tape
Tips
on
recording
level
adjustment
Playback
head
«
If
the
recording
level
setting
is
too
high,
the
recording
will
i
be
distorted;
if
it
is
too
low,
the
tape
will
produce
a
hissing
The
soe
a
So
he
eo
|
sound. Therefore, the recording level should be set as high
as possible without causing distortion.
« If the program source to be recorded has many high
frequency signals, set the level to a relatively low position.
Playback head TAPE ©) HEADPHONES
Recording FM Broadcasts with the Dolby NR The recorded signal can be monitored.
System
When recording FM broadcasts with the DOLBY NR system,
set the MPX FILTER button to ON (the “FILTER” indicator
appears).
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 that the Dolby
NR switch is turned on since the MPxX filter will not function
otherwise. During recording with the Dolby NR system, use |
this switch only if the tuner is not equipped with its own MPX |
filter or the equipped filter does not function effectively.
12

SSeS
To protect a recording on side A or B
Break out the respective tab.
Side A
To recover a cassette for recording
Cover the respective slot with tape.
When using Type Il (CrO2) or Type IV (metal) cassettes
Be careful not to cover the detector slots which are
necessary for automatic tape detection.
Type IV (metal)
Type Il (CrO2)
Detector slots Detector slots
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.
¢ Do not expose cassettes to direct sunlight, extremely cold
temperatures or moisture.
Note on cassettes longer than 90 minutes
The use of cassettes longer than 90 minutes is not
recommended except for long continuous playback.
What is the Dolby HX PRO System?
The Dolby HX PRO system provides improved linearity in
high-range frequency response during recording. Tapes
recorded with this system retain the same high quality even
when played back on other tape decks.
As shown below, characteristics such as output level and
distortion differ widely according to the bias (high-frequency)
current.
315 Hz
|
Distortion
output
6.3 kHz
oe.
\
i * 10 kHz
31g Hz distortion
Bias current ——* High
- Established bias current
In conventional systems (see diagram below), the bias
current is susceptible to variations in certain recording
signals which may cause fluctuations in frequency response,
distortion, or other unwanted characteristics.
High
{ ~ Fluctuation
Output
Frequency “= High
With the Dolby HX PRO system, the effective bias amount
added to the bias current is controlled in millisecond units to
greatly reduce distortion, improving linearity in high-range
response and ensuring high-intensity recording with minimal
distortion and noise.
13

EV tate an Optimum Recording |
Ls PRES RES AFG DT TAS 7
Your unit is equipped with the ATS (Automatic Tape
Selection) system which sets the appropriate equalization
characteristics and bias current for each tape type, an
additional calibration adjustment can often produce even
better results. Use the bias current and recording level
calibration function to obtain the optimum recording
conditions for your tape.
1 Insert a cassette with the side to be recorded
Adjusts
bias
current
Adjusts
recording
level
facing
outward.
within + 20% within +308
Bias calibration
Choosing the optimum 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. Optimum bias is thus obtained when the bias
current and high-frequency response are well balanced.
2 Press CALIBRATION.
Bias reduced (-)
3 Press @ , then If or B> to activate the
a
GD
s
3
= recording test tones:
=|
£
5
co)
Bias increased (+)
Frequency in Hz
* By changing the bias, you can tailor the response to your
liking, for example by slightly emphasizing the upper or
lower end.
* The frequency response of metal tapes is much less
affected by changes in the bias current than other tape
types, and in some cases is uneffected. With some tapes,
the adjustment range of this deck (420%) may therefore
not be sufficient to cover every possible requirement.
Playback level for an 8-kHz signal
Recording level calibration
Even when the recording level is adjusted correctly, using 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
Notes
it
is
most
effective
when
recording
and
playback
levels
are
*
The
sound
cannot
be
monitored
during
the
the
same.
calibration
operation.
* It takes 2 to 3 seconds for the test tone level to
stabilize.
Playback level for a 400-Hz signal
1A

4 Adjust BIAS until both meters indicate equal
playback levels.
A high reading on the
upper meter indicates
a low bias current.
A low reading on the
upper meter indicates
a high bias current.
: 7
An equal reading on both meters indicates the
optimum bias current condition.
5 Adjust REC LEVEL CALIBRATION until both
meters reach the recommended level (REC
CAL).
Recommended level
The bias current is now adjusted to the optimum
level and the tape sensitivity compensation has
been set. Press I, then set CALIBRATION to
OFF. Rewind the tape and start the actual
recording.
st-lexedgeltatemm ste iel-lir4-ielolamer-| ilelectareln
Although bias currrent and equalization are automatically set
by the Automatic Tape Selection (ATS) function for the tape
being used, you can use the REC EQ CAL switch to change
the recording characteristics according to the nature of the
source material or to compensate for the particular
characteristics of the tape. :
To emphasize higher frequencies in
recordings
For normal recordings
To dampen higher frequencies in
recordings
Bias calibration recording
Use the REC EQ CAL switch in conjunction with the BIAS
control to modify bands of sound and record according to the
tape's characteristics.
¢ When recording music which has strong middle and
low frequencies
Set the bias at flat with the REC EQ CAL switch set in the
HIGH position to increase the bias current.
Adjust the BIAS control so that the HIGH and LOW meters
indicate equal readings.
¢ When recording music which has strong high
frequencies
Set the bias at flat with the REC EQ CAL switch set in the
LOW position to decrease the bias current.
Adjust the BIAS control so that the HIGH and LOW meters
indicate equal readings.
Note
With metal tape, because the amount of frequency
characteristic modulation is not in proportion to that of the
bias, the optimum bias current may not be obtained using
the methods above.
Another use of the REC EQ CAL switch
When using special tapes, adjusting the BIAS control with
the REC EQ CAL switch set in the NORMAL position may
not result in equal readings on the HIGH and LOW meters. If
this occurs, adjust the BIAS control after setting the REC EQ
CAL switch to HIGH or LOW.

Inserting
a
Blank
Space
during
Chapter
4
Other
Operation
i
Recording
|
ne
te
es
Timer-Activated
Playback
and
—
Record
Muting
Gets
Recording
|
The
Record
Muting
function
allows
you
to
insert
a
four-
By
connecting
an
optional
timer,
recording
or
playback
can
second
blank
to
enable
proper
AMS
operation
(see
page
8),
be
performed
automatically
at
a
preset
time.
and
to
replace
unwanted
input
with
a
blank
of
any
desired
=
length.
While recording, press O and release it
immediately.
§ to a switched outtet
= —
to a wall outlet
mtr ennrerrerrraienn
The REC indicator starts flashing. During this
time, no incoming signals are recorded on the
tape.
After
four
seconds,
the
89
indicator
lights
up
and
For
playback
Follow
steps 1
through
3
on
page
the
unit
enters
recording
pause
mode.
7.
For recording Follow steps 1 through 7 on page
2
Press
If
to
resume
recording.
10.
After completing the preparations, press i to
change the unit to stop mode.
Make sure to close the holder completely.
1 Prepare the unit for playback or recording.
2 Set the timer to the desired time.
Power to the tape deck will be cut off.
3 Set TIMER to PLAY or REC.
To
create
a
blank
longer
than
four
seconds
Playback
or
recording
will
start
at
the
preset
time.
Press
the
©
button
for
the
desired
length
of
time.
After
four
seconds,
the
REC
indicator
flashes
with
greater
rapidity.
When
you
release
the
O
button,
the
88
indicator
lights
up
and
the
unit
goes
into
recording
pause
mode.
Keep
the
POWER
switch
on
the
unit
on
Press
the
§1
button
to
resume
recording.
When
the
timer
is
set,
the
power
to
the
unit
will
be
cut
off.
However,
the
POWER
switch
must
be
on
to
start
timer-
activated
operation.
When the timer-activated operation is completed
Set the TIMER switch on the unit to OFF. If the TIMER
switch is left at REC, the unit will automatically start
recording the next time the power is turned on, and the
previously recorded material may be erased.

wees vy MUMUUNa INTOrMation
WEVianaclarelarers,
Cleaning the Heads and Tape Path
Clean all surfaces over which the tape travels after every ten
hours of operation to guard against:
— low-quality sound
—— a decrease in sound level
— excessive wow, flutter or drop-out
— incomplete erasure
— impairment of recording function
To obtain high-quality recorded sound, cleaning before every
recording is recommended.
1 With the unit turned off, hold down 4 and press the
POWER switch. This causes the holder to open, the
heads to rise and the pinch rollers to rotate.
2 Wipe the heads, the pinch rollers and the capstans
with a cotton swab slightly moistened with alcohol or
a commercially available cleaning fluid for tape decks.
Clean the entire surface of the pinch rollers and capstans
while they are rotating, making sure that the cotton swab
does not get caught in the mechanism.
Erasing head
Recording head
Playback head
a SS
3 When completed, press & again.
Do not insert a cassette until the cleaned areas are
completely dry.
OF-Taar-lolatcadrd late dato alcrele ls)
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.
1 With the unit turned off, hold down & and press the
POWER button to open the holder. Confirm that the
heads have risen, then press the POWER button
again.
2 Demagnetize the heads with any commercially
available demagnetizer.
Refer to the instruction manual of the demagnetizer for
detailed instructions.
O7[-F-Talialom carom Orcbelial=3e
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.
17

Specifications
Recording system 4-track 2-channel stereo
Fast winding time Approx. 90 sec. (with Sony C-60
cassette)
Bias AC bias
Heads Erasing head x 1 (S&F head)
Recording head x 1 (LA head)
Playback head x 1 (LA head)
Motors Capstan motor x 1
(direct-drive linear torque BSL motor)
Reel motor x 1 (DC motor)
Wow and fiutter +0.04% W.Peak (IEC)
0.024% WRMS (NAB)
+0.065% W.Peak (DIN)
Signal-to-noise ratio (at peak level)
Type IV Type Il Type |
(Sony Metal- | (Sony UX-S) | (Sony HF-S)
Select)
Measured at peak level weighted without NR. The S/N is
improved by about 15 dB at 500Hz and by about 20 dB
about 1 kHz with Dolby-C NR on, and by 5 dB at 1kHz and
by 10 dB about 5 kHz with Dolby-B NR on.
Harmonic distortion
0.4% (with Sony Type I, 160nWb/m,
315Hz, 3rd H.D.)
1.38% (with Sony Type IV, 250nWb/m,
315Hz, 3rd H.D.)
Frequency response (Dolby NR OFF)
Type
IV
cassette
|
20
-
22,000
Hz
(#3
dB,
IEC)
(Sony
Metal-Select)
SCO,
Hz
[+3
dB,
{-4dB
Type
Il
cassette
:
(Sony UX-S)
20
-
20,000
Hz
(+3
dB,
IEC)
Type | cassette
(Sony
HF-S)
20
-
17,000
Hz
(+3
dB,
IEC)
Inputs
Line inputs 0.16 V
Input impedance | 47 kilohms
(phono jacks)
CD DIRECT INPUT |Input impedance {47 kilohms
(phono jacks)
Outputs
Rated output /0.5 V at a load
level impedance of
47 ae
Line outputs
(phono jacks)
oxdsance {Over 10kKilohms |
Headphones Output level |0—3 mW ata load
(stereo phone jack) impedance of
32 ohms
18
General
Power requirements 120 V AC, 60 Hz
Power consumption 23W
Dimensions Approx. 470 x 135 x 350 mm (w/h/d)
(18% x 5% x 13% inches)
including projecting parts and controls
Weight Approx. 8.1 kg (17 Ibs 14 02)
Supplied accessories
’ Audio connecting cords (2)
Screws (4)
Design and specifications are subject to change without
notice.

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.
Symptom
The function buttons do not activate.
Playback or recording begins when the
power is turned on.
The @ button does not activate.
Automatic shut-off mechanism
activates before the tape comes to its
end.
Excessively loud tape transport noise
during fast winding.
The cassette holder will not close.
The & botton does not function.
Before proceeding with these trouble checks, verify that:
* The power cord is firmly connected.
¢ Amplifier connections are firmly made.
¢ Heads, capstans and pinch rollers are clean.
* The amplifier controls and switches are set correctly.
Function buttons and tape transport problems
Cause
The cassette is not properly inserted.
Button was pressed immediately after
the power was turned on.
The TIMER switch is not set to OFF.
There is no cassette in the holder.
A tab has been removed from the
cassette.
The tape is slack.
The cassette shell is deformed.
The Memory Play function is activated.
This noise is caused by the cassette
and does not signify a mechanical
problem.
There has been a power failure or the
power cord has been disconnected
while the cassette holder is open.
There has been a power failure or the
power cord has been disconnected.
Remedy
Insert cassette correctly.
Wait until the 8 indicator stops
flashing.
Set the TIMER switch to OFF.
Insert a cassette.
Cover the slot with tape (page 13).
Take up the tape slack.
Use another cassette.
Press the MEMORY button to
deactivate the function.
Reconnect the power.
Reconnect the power.
ee ee
(Continued on next page.)
19

Troubleshooting Guide
(Continued from previous page.)
Symptom
Recording or playback cannot be
made or there is a decrease in sound
level.
Excessive wow, flutter or drop-out.
Incomplete erasure.
increased noise or poor reproduction
in high frequencies.
Unbalanced tone in high frequencies.
The desired selection cannot be
located even though you activate the
AMS.
Playback begins in the middle of the
selection when the AMS is activated.
Cause
The heads are either dirty or
magnetized.
Improper connection.
improper setting of the amplifier
controls.
The CALIBRATION button is set to
ON.
The head, capstan or pinch roller is
dirty.
The erasing head is dirty.
The head is magnetized.
Improper setting of the DOLBY NR
switch.
The unit is placed near a television set.
There is noise in the space between
selections.
The space is less than four seconds
long.
The PPI or <4 button was pressed
immediately before the beginning of
the following selection.
The selection contains one of the
following:
— a long pause in the music
— a passage of low frequencies or
very low volume
— a gradual increase or decrease’ in
volume.
|stctoreyaol lave m-larem o)(-h'zercter.@ ge] 9) (cS
Remedy
Clean or demagnetize the heads.
Make connections properly (page 5).
Set the amplifier controls to the
appropriate positions.
Set the CALIBRATION button to OFF.
Clean in accordance with instructions
(page 17).
Clean the erasing head.
Demagnetize the head.
During playing back, set the switch to
the same position used in recording.
Move the unit away from the television
set.
Rerecord the tape if you can, and
insert a blank space of four seconds
using the © button.
While the tape is playing, press the
PI or df button again.
Noise
Symptom
Hum noise.
Noise is recorded.
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan
Cause
The unit is stacked on or under the
amplifier.
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.
Remedy
Separate the unit.
Move the unit away from the television
set or color monitor.