Sony DTC-790 User manual

SONY.
Digital Audio
Tape Deck
Operating Instructions
& bral
a itl eT
a
| ll
IN
© Hil
t
©.
8
© MII
=
2. 3 S
n
QO
fe)
3

To prevent fire or shock hazard,
do not expose the unit to rain
or moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not
open the cabinet. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel
only.
For the customers in the
United States
(CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
00 NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PAATS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
A
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.
AN
This symbol is intended to alert the user
to the presence of important operating
and maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the literature accompanying the
appliance.
Owner's Record
The model and serial numbers are located
on the rear of the unit.
Record the serial number in the space
provided below. Refer to them whenever
you call upon your Sony dealer regarding
this product.
Model No. DTC-790
Serial No.
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.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
For the customers in Canada
CAUTION
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT USE THIS POLARIZED AC PLUG
WITH AN EXTENSION CORD,
RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET
UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY
INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE
EXPOSURE.
(eS
Welcome!
Thank you for purchasing the Sony
Digital Audio Tape Deck. Before
operating the unit, please read this
manual thoroughly and retain it for
future reference.
The DTC-790 has the following features:
¢ High-density linear converters
A pulse A/D converter that produces
clear, elegant sound quality and
theoretically zero cross distortion, and
a pulse D/A converter with a newly
developed digital filter and a full
feedforward format that reduces
quantizing noise in the audible
bandwidth, thus expanding the range
of spatial expression.
¢ The Serial Copy Management System
(see page 21)
¢ Three sampling frequencies (48kHz,
44.1kHz, 32kHz)
Recording and playback in long-play
mode.
Analog recording at 44.1kHz
Sub codes
Start IDs, program numbers and other
sub codes written to the tape allow you
to locate tracks quickly.
See-through cassette compartment lid
A see-through cassette compartment
lid that allows you to view tape
operations during playback and
recording.
About This Manual
The instructions in this manual are for
DTC-790.
Conventions
Instructions in this manual describe the
controls on the deck.
The following icon is used in this manual:
«4g. Indicates useful information or tips
that make a task easier.
Tl Indicates a task that requires use of
the remote.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Recording on a DAT 4
Playing a DAT 6
Getting Started
Unpacking 7
Hooking Up the System 7
Recording Operations
Things You Should Know Before Recording 9
Adjusting the Recording Level for Analog Recording 10
Locating the End of the Recorded Portion (End Search) 10
Setting the Recording Mode 10
Inserting a Sound-Muted Section While Recording (Record Muting) 11
Recording Using a Timer (Timer Recording) 12
Playback Operations
About the Display 12
Locating a Track (AMS/Direct Access) 13
Playing Tracks Repeatedly (Repeat Play) 14
Playback Using a Timer (Timer Playing) 14
Writing Sub Codes
About Sub Codes 15
Writing Start IDs During Recording 15
Writing Start IDs During Playback 16
Adjusting the Position of an Existing Start ID 17
Erasing Start IDs 17
Renumbering the Program Numbers Automatically (Renumbering) 17
Additional Information
Precautions 18
Cleaning 18
Display Messages 19
Troubleshooting 19
Specifications 20
Guide to the Serial Copy Management System 21
Index 23

Basic Operations
Recording on a DAT
2 8 6
See pages 7 and 8 for hookup
information. 1
34
Turn on the amplifier and play the program source you want to
record.
Press POWER.
Press OPEN/CLOSE & and insert a cassette.
Window side up
OPEN/CLOSE
a
Ss
Close the cassette
Insert the cassette holder by pressing
beyond the silver bar. OPEN/CLOSE 2.
Set INPUT to the corresponding input connector.
To record through Set INPUT to
ANALOG (LINE) IN ANALOG
DIGITALOPTICALIN — ~— OPTICAL, <a ast”
DIGITAL COAXIAL IN COAXIAL

Basic Operations
.
>
¥ If "UNLOCK" appears in the
display
The program source is not
connected to the deck
properly or is not turned on.
Make sure that the program
source is properly connected
or turned on.
5 Locate the position where you want to start recording.
To record from the beginning of the tape
Press <4 to rewind the tape to its beginning.
To record from the end of the recorded portion
1 Press <4 to rewind the tape to its beginning.
2 Press PP.
The deck locates the end of the recorded portion on the tape and
stops automatically.
6 Press REC @.
The deck becomes ready to record.
7 When recording the analog input signal, adjust the recording level
with REC LEVEL.
The recommended recording level is 3. For details, refer to
“Adjusting the Recording Level for Analog Recording” on page
10.
8 Press If or [.
Recording starts.
9 Start playing the program source.
When the tape reaches the end, the deck rewinds it automatically
to its beginning and stops (Auto Rewind).
To Press
Stop recording a
Pause recording Il. Press the button again to resume
recording.
Take out the cassette OPEN/CLOSE & after stopping record-
ing
To prevent accidental erasure
Slide the record-protect tab to the left as shown in the illustration below.
Recording is
(a impossible (the
hole is open).
=—--& Recording is
[TF] possible (the hole
is closed).

Playing a DAT
REC LEVEL Lea
2 4 3
See
pages
7
and
8
for
hookup
re
ea
eee
ene
aie
le
os
ee
CaS
information.
1
Turn
on
the
amplifier
and
set
the
source
selector
to
the
position
for
DAT.
2 Press POWER.
3 Press OPEN/CLOSE @ and insert a cassette.
Window side up
> na
cI
aS wy
(r= Close the cassette
holder by pressing
Insert the cassette OPEN/CLOSE 2.
beyond the silver bar.
Press >.
The deck starts playing. Adjust the volume on the amplifier.
To Press
Stop playing a
Go to the next track bPl
Go to the preceding track Ki
Fast-forward or rewind bP or 44 when the deck is stopped
¢ To use headphones Fast-forward or rewind while PP or 44 during playback. Release the
Connect them to the PHONES monitoring the sound button to resume normal playback.
Be Ue ONE CEVEL Take out the cassette OPEN/CLOSE & after stopping playing
adjust the volume.

Getting Started
————SSSE ee ee
Unpacking ~
Check that you have received the following supplied
items:
¢ Audio connecting cords (2)
* Remote commander (remote) RM-D9 (1)
* Size-AA (R6) batteries (2)
* Operating instructions (1)
¢ Warranty card (U.S.A. and Canadian models only)
(1)
Inserting batteries into the remote
Insert two size-AA(R6) batteries, matching the + and -
on the batteries with the markings inside the
battery compartment.
a
+ to
When to replace the batteries
With normal use, batteries should last for about 6 months.
When the remote no longer operates the deck, replace
both batteries.
Notes
* Do not leave the remote near an extremely hot or humid
place.
¢ Do not drop any foreign matter into the remote casing,
particularly when replacing the batteries.
* Do not expose the remote sensor to direct sunlight or
illumination as doing so may cause malfunction.
* When not using the remote for an extended period of time,
remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery
leakage and corrosion.
aa ee ee ee ee ey
Hooking Up the System
This section describes how to hook up your deck to an
amplifier, CD player, MD deck, or other audio
components. Be sure to turn off the power to each
component before making the connections.
to a wall outlet
DIGITAL
OPTICAL IN
Digital recorder
(DAT deck or MD
deck)
DIGITAL
COAXIAL OUT
Digital player (CD
player, DAT deck,
or MD deck)
DIGITAL
OPTICAL OUT
Digital player (CD
player, DAT deck,
or MD deck)
===: Signal flow
What cords will | need?
¢ Audio connecting cords (supplied) (2)
White White
wm + (ty
Red Red
(R) (R)
* Optical cables (POC-15 etc.) (not supplied) (2)
¢ Coaxial digital connecting cable (VMC-10G etc.)
(not supplied) (1)
C-_—r TT

Getting Started
Hookups...
B@ Connecting the deck to an amplifier
Use the supplied audio connecting cords to connect
the deck to an amplifier. Be sure to match each
color-coded plug to the appropriate jack: red (right)
to red and white (left) to white. To prevent hum and
noise, be sure the connections are firmly made.
DAT deck
ANALOG(LINE)
Amplifier
‘
oe
When recording with a microphone
Connecting the analog output jakcs on the stereo
microphone amplifier to the ANALOG (LINE) IN jacks of
the deck.
@ Connecting the deck to a digital audio component
A digital audio signal from a digital audio
component such as a digital amplifier, DAT deck,
CD player, MD deck or BS tuner can be recorded on
the DAT deck by connecting the digital output
connectors on the component to the digital input
connectors (DIGITAL OPTICAL IN or DIGITAL
COAXIAL IN) on the deck.
A digital audio signal from the deck can be recorded
by connecting the digital output connector
(DIGITAL OPTICAL OUT) on the deck to the digital
input connector on a digital audio component such
as a digital amplifier, DAT deck or MD deck.
Use an optical cable (POC-15A or equivalent)(not
supplied) or a coaxial digital connecting cable
(VMC-10G or equivalent)(not supplied).
© Connection with optical cables
Digital audio
DAT deck component
DIGITAL
COAXIAL OPTICAL
nN Wo OUT
©
¢ Connection with coaxial digital connecting cable
Digital audio
DAT deck component
OGITAL
COAMIAL OPTICAL
iN (IN (OUT
@®OO
Note
If “PROHIBIT” appears in the display, recording through the
digital jack is not possible.
In this case, set the INPUT switch to ANALOG and record the
program source through the ANALOG (LINE) IN jacks.
Connecting the AC power cord
Connect the AC power cord to a wall outlet.
Where do | go next?
Now you're ready to use your deck.
For basic operations, go to pages 4 to 6; for advanced
operations, go to the sections immediately after this one.

Recording Operations
For basic recording opexations, see pages 4 and 5.
Things You Should Know Before
Recording
The difference between a blank section and a
sound-muted section
The deck distinguishes between two kinds of silent
sections, which are respectively called a “blank
section” or “sound-muted section”.
Blank section
This is a section on which no signal has ever been recorded.
a): Recording
b): Track
Blank section
Sound-muted section
This is a section on which a signal has been recorded but at a
level that is not audible.
YALA
b
a): Recording
Sound-muted section b): Track
Important
Make sure no blank sections are created while you are
recording. The existence of blank sections within
recorded material will make search operations using
the IX] /D1 buttons impossible or destroy the
continuity of the absolute time codes.
Cif you press the REC @ button while in a blank section
The deck automatically rewinds the tape to the beginning
of the blank section and changes to recording pause
(except during Timer Recording).
Absolute time codes
Absolute time codes indicate the elapsed time from the
beginning of the tape. These codes are automatically
recorded. Note that once recorded, absolute time
codes cannot be re-written.
For accurate recording of absolute time codes
e Ifthe tape is blank, make sure to start recording from the
beginning of the tape.
¢ Use Record Muting (see page 11) to insert spaces between
tracks. Do not advance the tape with the >> or ®P button.
¢ To start recording from the middle of a tape, use End Search
(see page 10) to locate the end of the recorded portion. This
will prevent the creation of blank sections.
If “EMPHASIS” appears in the display
The deck is recording a digital signal with emphasis (in
the higher frequencies). The recording will also
contain the same emphasis.
If the deck is left in recording pause for more
than 10 minutes
Recording pause will be released automatically, the
deck will stop and “SOURCE” will appear in the
display.
To resume recording, press the REC @ button. The
deck will change to recording pause.
When using a new tape
Before you record on a new tape, we recommend that
you fast forward the whole tape and then rewind to the
beginning to make the tape reel smoothly.

Recording Operations
Adjusting the Recording Level
for Analog Recording
Before you start recording an analog source through
ANALOG (LINE) IN, set the INPUT switch to
ANALOG and adjust the recording level.
il MARGIN RESET REC LEVEL
1 Dosteps 1 to 6 of “Recording on a DAT” on pages 4
and 5.
2 Play the portion of the program source with the
strongest signal level.
3 While monitoring the sound, turn REC LEVEL to
adjust the recording level so that the peak level
meters are at maximum level without entering the
OVER (red) range.
MARG
MARGIN indication
1.0 as
roe 40 30 20 12 8 6 4 0
Sieneees commana —L-
Maximum level
Remains unlit
The segments of the peak level meters
corresponding to the maximum signal strength
remain lit longer than normal.
The MARGIN indication shows the margin
between maximum signal strength and OdB,
changing each time a stronger signal.
If the level exceeds OdB
The segments under “OVER” light up, and “0.0 dB”
flashes in the display. If these segments light steadily,
sound distortion may occur. To avoid this, keep the
recording level between —12dB and OdB.
To reset the margin indication
Press MARGIN RESET. The margin indication changes to
“.. dB’.
4 Stop playing the program source.
5 Tostart recording, press §l or >, then start playing
the program source.
Locating the End of the
Recorded Portion (End Search)
End Search detects a blank section longer than 9
seconds, then automatically rewinds the tape to the
end of the recorded portion, then stops.
Use End Search to start recording from the end of the
recorded portion without creating a blank section on
the tape.
1 With the deck stopped, press << to rewind the tape
to the beginning .
2 Press PP.
The deck locates the end of the recorded portion,
then stops.
The deck stops at the beginning of any blank
section that is 9 seconds or longer, or fast-forwards
to the end of the tape if the tape is blank.
¢ If you press the REC @ button while in a blank section
The deck automatically rewinds the tape to the beginning
of the blank section and changes to recording pause.
“BLANK” and “WAIT” appear in the display while the
deck is searching for the beginning of the blank section.
Notes
¢ End Search does not operate if you press the P button
while in a blank section.
e If the tape is blank, the deck merely fast-forwards to the end
of the tape.
Setting the Recording Mode
You can select either of two recording modes—
standard or long—in the following cases.
¢ When recording an analog input signal with the
INPUT switch set to ANALOG
¢ When recording a digital input signal with a
sampling frequency of 32 kHz with the INPUT
switch set to OPTICAL or COAXIAL.
REC MODE
Set REC MODE to select the recording mode.

The following table shows the selectable recording
modes and corresponding REC MODE position and
sampling frequency for various input signals.
Input signal REC MODE Recording mode
position
Analog STANDARD Standard play
(48kHz) (48kHz)
STANDARD Standard play
(44.1kHz) (44.1kHz)
LONG Long play (32kHz)
Digital (32kHz) STANDARD
ee) Standard play
STANDARD (32kHz)
(44.1kHz)
LONG Long play (32kHz)
Digital (44.1kHz) | STANDARD
sili Standard play
STANDARD (44.1kHz)
(44.1kHz) (Standard play
only)
LONG
Digital (48kHz) STANDARD
BRE) Standard play
(48kHz)
STANDARD
(44.1kH2) (Standard play
: only)
LONG
The recording time in long-play mode (the REC MODE
switch set to LONG) is twice as long as standard-play
mode.
:
a <o
The counter in long-play mode
The displayed tape running time, absolute time and
remaining time on the tape are for standard-play mode.
Double the time to obtain the corresponding times for
long-play mode.
Note
Do not change the INPUT or REC MODE setting while
recording. This may cause an error in the “PGM TIME”
(playing time of the track) display.
Recording Operations
Inserting a Sound-Muted Section
While Recording (Record Muting)
Use Record Muting to insert a space of about 4 seconds
between tracks. This is recommended if you plan to
copy the DAT tape to an analog audio cassette tape
since the spaces will allow you to use automatic search
functions to locate the beginning of each track.
When you start recording from the beginning of a
blank tape and want to insert a space before the first
track, be sure to create a sound-muted section using
Record Muting only. Do not advance the tape with the
>> or [> button since this will create a blank section
on the tape (see page 9).
" REC MUTE ©
1 Press REC MUTE O where you want to insert a
space while the deck is recording or in recording
pause.
The deck creates a sound-muted section as “REC”
flashes in the display.
After the sound-muted section is completed,
“REC” lights up and the deck changes to recording
pause.
To insert a blank space longer than 4 seconds
Hold down the REC MUTE O button as long as you want.
When you release the button, the sound-muted section
ends and the deck changes to become recording pause. If
you keep the button pressed longer than 4 seconds, “REC”
will begin to flash more quickly and the time elapsed after
pressing the REC MUTE O button is shown in the display.
When you release the REC MUTE O button, Il in the
display stays on and the deck changes to recording pause.
2 Press If or [> to resume recording.
The deck starts recording again.
Note
If you do not create a sound-muted section at the beginning of
a tape, you may not be able to move or erase a start ID (see
page 15) that is recorded within 2 seconds from the beginning
of the tape.
11

12
Recording Operations
Recording Using a Timer
(Timer Recording)
By connecting a timer (not supplied) to the deck, you
can start and stop recording operations at specified
times. For further information, refer to the instructions
that came with the timer.
1 Dosteps 1 to 7 of “Recording on a DAT” on pages 4
and 5.
2 = «© Tospecify the time for the start of recording, press
a.
* To specify the time for the end of recording, do
steps 8 and 9 of “Recording on a DAT” on pages 4
and 5.
* To specify the time for the start and end of
recording, press Ml.
Set TIMER on the deck to REC.
4 Set the timer as required.
* When you have set the time for the start of
recording, the deck turns off. When the specified
time arrives, the deck turns on and after about 4
seconds starts recording.
¢ When you have set the time for the end of
recording, the deck continues recording, then
when the specified time arrives, the deck stops
recording and turns off.
© When you have set the time for both the start and
end of recording, the deck turns off. When the
starting time arrives, the deck turns on and after
about 4 seconds, recording starts. When the
ending time arrives, the deck stops recording and
turns off.
5 After using the timer, set TIMER on the deck to OFF.
Notes
¢ If TIMER switch is left at the REC position, the deck will
automatically start recording when you turn on the deck
next time.
¢ During Timer Recording (i.e., when the TIMER switch is set
to the REC position), Auto Rewind (see page 13) will not
function even if the tape ends during recording. This is to
prevent previously recorded material from being recorded
over.
Playback Operations
For basic playback operations, see page 6.
ee ee |
About the Display
You can use the display to show the following types of
time information:
¢ absolute time
* playing time of the track
¢ remaining time on the tape
* tape running time
MODE RESET
Showing the absolute time, playing time of
the track, remaining time on the tape, and
tape running time.
Press MODE (or COUNTER MODE on the remote).
Each time you press the button, the displayed
information changes as follows.
Absolute time
ans Tae
820.
Press <
Playing time of the track
= 3n15,
Press <b
Remaining time on the tape
1400.
In the case of premastered DAT, the
remaining time is to the end of the
Tape running time
Press
To reset the tape running time
Press RESET (or COUNTER RESET on the remote).

14
Playback Operations
Playing Tracks Repeatedly
(Repeat Play) [7
You can play a specific track or all the tracks on the
tape repeatedly.
REPEAT
Playing all tracks repeatedly
Press REPEAT repeatedly while playing a track until
“REPEAT” appears in the display. The deck will then
play back all tracks until it detects the end of the last
track, which may be:
— a blank section of 9 seconds or more
— the end of the tape
When the deck detects either of the above, it rewinds
the tape to beginning and plays back all tracks again.
The deck repeats this cycle up to 5 times, then
automatically stops.
To stop playing all tracks repeatedly
Press REPEAT repeatedly until “REPEAT” disappears.
Note
Repeat Play of all tracks is canceled when you take out the
cassette.
Playing a track repeatedly
Press REPEAT repeatedly while playing the track that
you want until “REPEAT 1” appears in the display.
The deck will then play back the track until its end,
which may be:
—the next start ID
—a blank section of 9 seconds or more
—the end of the tape
When the deck detects any of the above, it rewinds the
tape and starts playing from the start ID of the same
track again. The deck repeats this cycle up to 5 times,
then automatically stops.
To stop playing a track repeatedly
Press REPEAT repeatedly until “REPEAT 1” disappears.
Note
Repeat Play of a single track is canceled when you take out the
cassette.
Playback Using a Timer
(Timer Playing)
By connecting a timer (not supplied) to the deck, you
can start and stop playback operations at specified
times. For further information, refer to the instructions
that came with the timer.
1 © To specify the time for the start of playing, do
steps 1 to 3 of “Playing a DAT” on page 6.
¢ To specify the time for the end of playing, do
steps 1 to 4 of “Playing a DAT” on page 6.
¢ To specify the time for the start and end of
playing, do steps 1 to 3 of “Playing a DAT” on
page 6.
2 = Set TIMER on the deck to PLAY.
3 Set the timer as required.
© When you have set the time for the start of
playback, the deck turns off. When the specified
time arrives, the deck turns on and after about 4
seconds starts playing.
When you have set the time for the end of
playback, the deck continues playing, then when
the specified time arrives, the deck stops playing
and turns off.
When you have set the time for both the start and
end of playback, the deck turns on. When the
starting time arrives, the deck turns on and after
about 4 seconds, playback starts. When the
ending time arrives, the deck stops playing and
turns off.
4 After using the timer, set TIMER on the deck to OFF.

Writing Sub Codes
About Sub Codes
In the DAT format, sub codes (i.e., control codes such
as start IDs and program numbers) can be written on
the tape along with the audio signal. These sub codes
allow you to use AMS (see page 13) or Direct Access
(see page 13). Since sub codes are written on the tape
separately from the audio signal, they have no effect on
the audio signal.
Start IDs
Start IDs indicate the start of a track, and therefore
allow you to locate the position of a track precisely.
The start IDs are 9 seconds in length (18 seconds in
long-play mode) to enable easy detection during fast-
forwarding or rewinding.
Program numbers
Program numbers serve as track numbers. Occupying
the same position as start IDs, a program numbers
allow you to locate specific tracks.
Note
¢ The Mi and Il buttons do not work during the writing of sub
codes.
¢ Writing and erasing of start IDs and renumbering of
program numbers are impossible if the record-protect hole
on the DAT cassette is open (see page 5).
Writing Start IDs During
Recording
You can write start IDs either manually or
automatically anytime during recording.
CH START ID AUTO WRITE
Manual Writing of Start IDs During Recording
Press WRITE.
“ID WRITE” appears in the display for a few seconds
and the start ID is written on the tape at the selected
position. “START ID” flashes in the display during this
time.
Start ID
ID WRI TE wi
Note
The interval between start IDs must be more than 18 seconds
(36 seconds in long-play mode). If the interval is less than 18
seconds (or 36 seconds), the deck may fail to detect the second
start ID during playback.
Writing the Start IDs Automatically During
Recording
Do the following procedure to automatically write
program numbers along with start IDs at the same
position.
¢ When recording an analog signal with the INPUT
switch at ANALOG
A start ID and program number are written whenever the
input signal rises above a given level after remaining at a
muted or low level for 3 seconds or more.
¢ When recording a digital signal with the INPUT
switch at OPTICAL or COAXIAL
A start ID and program number are written whenever a new
track is detected while recording a digital signal through the
COAXIAL IN or OPTICAL IN jack from a digital source
such as CD player or another DAT deck. Start [Ds and
program numbers are not written, however, for tracks that
are less than 18 seconds in length.
1 Dosteps 1 to 7 of “Recording on a DAT” on pages 4
and 5.
The deck changes to recording pause.
2 Press START ID AUTO repeatedly until “AUTO”
appears in the display.
3 Ifyouare recording from the end of the recorded
portion, use the number buttons to specify the
program number after the last one recorded.
Example: When program number 5 is the last
program number recorded on the tape.
The next program number
(Continued) 15

16
Writing Sub Codes
If the last-program number on the tape appears in
the display, you don’t have to specify the next
program number. If you are recording from the
beginning of a blank tape, program number “1”
appears in the display. If you forget program
numbering at this time, you can add them later (see
“Renumbering the Program Numbers
Automatically (Renumbering)” on page 17).
4 Tostart recording, press Il or >, then start playing
the program source.
Start IDs are written on the tape automatically
during recording.
“ID WRITE” appears for a few seconds whenever a
sub codes (a start ID and program number) are
being written.
¢ During digital recording from a CD player
Start recording on your deck first, then press the B>
PLAY button on the CD player while it is stopped. If you
place your deck into recording pause and the CD into play
pause before you start recording, the start ID and program
number of the first track on the CD may not be correctly
written to the tape.
Notes
During automatic start ID writing the positioning of some start
IDs may be inaccurately or inappropriately positioned away
from the beginning of the track. If this happens, you can
reposition or erase the start IDs later (see “Accurate
Positioning of Start [Ds (Rehearsal)” on this page and “Erasing
Start IDs” on page 17).
Writing Start IDs During
Playback
You can write start IDs during playback.
START ID REHEARSAL
Press WRITE.
“ID WRITE” appears in the display for a few seconds
and the start ID is written on the tape at the selected
position. “START ID” flashes in the display during
this time.
1
press of <4
Accurate Positioning of Start IDs (Rehearsal)
During playback, press START ID REHEARSAL
when you arrive at the proper position.
“REHRSL” appears, “START ID” flashes in the
display and Rehearsal repeats a 3-second portion
starting from the selected position. Note that the
repeated portion will play back 8 times, with the
remaining number of times appearing to the right of
the “REHRSL”. After 8 times, the deck ;
automatically stops.
Press << or PP to move the beginning of the
repeated portion.
Each time you press the << or P button, the
beginning of the repeated portion shifts backwards
or forwards in 0.3-second increments, up to a
maximum extent of about 2 seconds (4 seconds in
long-play mode) in either direction.
Position where the START
ID REHEARSAL button is
pressed in step 1.
3 seconds
Repeated portion
The time in the display shows the shift in position
from the time the START ID REHEARSAL button
was pressed.
After pressing After pressing
»P twice << twice
6 i
Press WRITE.
“ID WRITE” appears in the display for a few
seconds and the start ID is written on the tape at the
selected position. “START ID” flashes in the display
during this time.

Adjusting the Position of an
Existing Start ID
You can adjust the position of previously recorded
start IDs.
START ID REHEARSAL
1 During playback, press START ID REHEARSAL
when you arrive at the existing start ID you want to
reposition.
The deck rewinds to the beginning of start ID and
Rehearsal repeats a 3-second portion.
2 Dothe steps 1 to 3 of “Accurate Positioning of Start
IDs (Rehearsal)” on page 16.
You can move the start ID to a maximum extent of
about 2 seconds (4 seconds in long-play mode) in
either direction from its original position.
Note
Start IDs written within 10 seconds from the end of the tape
may be difficult or impossible to move.
Erasing Start IDs
You can erase any start ID.
Press ERASE where the start ID you want to erase is
written.
“(ERASE)” appears in the display as the deck rewinds
to the beginning of the start ID, then “ID ERASE”
appears as the deck erases the start ID.
¢ It takes 9 seconds to erase a start ID.
* Program numbers are erased together with start IDs.
Writing Sub Codes
8
Renumbering the Program
Numbers Automatically
(Renumbering)
Renumbering searches for each start ID from the
beginning of the tape and assigns a new program
number to each one starting with 1. Use Renumbering
in the following cases:
¢ When you've added a start ID while playing the
tape.
¢ When a program number is missing due to an erased
start ID.
* When you began recording from the middle of the
tape and wrote a program number that already
exists, or when one of the the start IDs has no
program number.
START ID RENUMBER
Press
START
ID
RENUMBER
while
the
deck
is
playing
or
stopped.
“RENUMBER’ flashes in the display and the tape is
automatically
rewound
to
its
beginning.
The
deck
then
starts searching for start IDs from the beginning of the
tape and assigns a new consecutive program number
to
each
track.
When
the
deck
detects
a
start
ID,
the
deck plays the track from the start ID for 2 seconds,
then writes a new program number on the tape.
During this time, “RENUMBER’ lights up and
“START ID” flashes.
After Renumbering is finished, the deck rewinds the
tape automatically to its beginning, then stops.
Note
Renumbering may not function correctly when:
¢ A blank section exists on the tape.
* The interval between two start IDs is less than 18 seconds (36
seconds in long-play mode).
¢ Astart ID exists within 10 seconds from the end of the tape.
17

Additional Information
18
Precautions
On safety
¢ Do not disassemble the cabinet as this may result in an
electric shock. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
¢ Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet, unplug
the AC power cord before operating the unit any further.
On power sources
¢ Before operating the unit, check that its operating voltage is
identical with your local power supply. The operating
voltage is indicated on the nameplate at the rear of the unit.
¢ 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.
¢ If you are not going to use the unit for a long time, be sure to
disconnect the AC power cord (mains lead) from the wall
outlet. To disconnect the cord, grasp the plug itself; never
pull the cord.
¢ AC power cord must be changed only at the qualified
service shop.
On operation
If the unit is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place,
or is placed in a very damp room, moisture may condense
inside the unit, “CAUTION” may appear in the display, and
the unit may not operate. If this happens, remove the cassette
and leave the unit turned on for about an hour until the
moisture evaporates.
On placement
¢ Place the unit in a location with adequate ventilation to
prevent heat build-up.
¢ Do not place the unit:
— ona soft surface such as a rug that might block the
ventilation holes on the bottom.
— near heat sources.
— in direct sunlight.
— inan inclined position.
— ina place subject to excessive dust or mechanical shock.
On the tapes
¢ After using a tape, put it into its case and keep it where it
will not be subject to sunlight, high temperature, moisture or
dust.
¢ Do not use thin-tape cassettes (with a playing time of over
120 minutes) since this may cause the unit to display
inaccurate time information, or result in tape damage caused
by abnormal operation.
¢ The DAT cassette shell is designed to keep out dust. Do not
open the case to expose the tape.
The hole at the back of the cassette is the detector slot. Do not
cover this slot.
For the customers in the U.S.A.
For detailed safety precautions, see the leaflet "IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS.”
If you have any questions or problems concerning your
unit, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.
SS
Cleaning
Cleaning the cabinet, panel and controls
Use a soft cloth slightly moistened with a mild detergent
solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring
powder or solvent such as alcohol or benzine.
Cleaning the head and tape path
¢ Prolonged operation will cause contamination of the head.
To obtain the best possible recording and playback sound,
we recommend that you use the Sony DT-10CL cleaning
cassette (not supplied) to clean the head after every ten
hours or so of operation.
¢ Clean the head with the cleaning cassette when the deck has
not been used for a long period of time.
Contamination of the head may cause sound drop-out
during playback.
Using the cleaning cassette
1 Insert the cleaning cassette as you would a normal DAT
cassette.
2 Press >. After 10 seconds, press Ml.
Do not press the REC @ or >> button for cleaning.
3 Remove the cleaning cassette without rewinding it. You
should rewind the cleaning cassette only when it has
reached the end.
Notes on cleaning
¢ After 10 hours of operation, “CLEANING” appears in the
display for about ten seconds when you turn on the deck. It
is recommended that you clean the head and tape path
periodically, using this message as a guide.
¢ Due to the shortness of the cleaning cassette, the counter will
not show the actual running time and remaining time of the
cassette.

Additional Information
Display Messages
The following table explains the various messages that
appear in the display.
Message Meaning
ANALOG This appears for a few seconds when you set
the INPUT switch to ANALOG.
BLANK The deck is searching for the beginning of the
blank section on the tape.
CAUTION A safety mechanism is operating because of
condensation or other reasons.
CLEANING _ Cleaning the head and tape path is
recommended. After about 10 hours of deck
use, this message appears for about 10
seconds whenever you turn on the deck .
COAXIAL This appears for a few seconds when you set
the INPUT switch to COAXIAL.
(ERASE) The deck is searching for the beginning of the
start ID to be erased.
ID ERASE A start ID is being erased.
ID WRITE A start ID or program number is being
written.
NO TAPE A cassette is not inserted into the deck.
OPTICAL This appears for a few seconds when you set
the INPUT switch to OPTICAL.
PROHIBIT The program source you are about to record
cannot be recorded through the digital input
jacks or connectors. For more information,
see “Guide to the Serial Copy Management
System” (see pages 21 and 22).
PROTECT The record-protect hole on the cassette is
open and recording on the tape cannot be
done.
REHRSL Rehearsal is on.
SOURCE The deck has been in recording pause for
about 10 minutes, or you've pressed the
REC @ button while no cassette is in the deck
or the cassette is record-protected.
TAPE END The tape has come to the end of the recorded
portion.
TAPE TOP The tape has reached its beginning.
UNLOCK No digital signal is being input to the jack or
connector that you selected with the INPUT
switch.
WAIT The deck is searching for the beginning of the
blank section on the tape.
(WRITE) This appears when the WRITE button is
pressed.
[sa ea a gL a
Troubleshooting
If you’ve experienced any of the following difficulties
while using the deck, use this section as a guide to
remedy the problem. Should any problem persist,
consult your nearest Sony dealer.
The cassette holder does not close.
=> Check that the cassette is inserted correctly (see
pages 4 and 6).
=> Insert the cassette beyond the silver bar (see
pages 4 and 6).
The function buttons do not work.
=> The deck has just been turned on and will not
operate for about 4 seconds. Wait 4 seconds (10
seconds when “CLEANING” appears) before
attempting any operation.
=> The Il button is activated. Press Hl to cancel
pause.
=> The tape has reached its end. Press <4 to
rewind the tape.
No sound
=> Make the proper connections (see pages 7 and 8).
=> The connected amplifier is not being operated
properly. Operate the amplifier as required for
the respective deck operation. (Refer to the
operating instructions of the amplifier.)
The deck does not record.
= The record-protect hole on the cassette is open.
Slide the record-protect tab to close the hole (see
on page 5).
=> The INPUT switch is incorrectly set. Set INPUT
to the correct position.
=> The REC LEVEL control is set at 0. Turn REC
LEVEL clockwise to raise the recording level
(only during analog recording).
=> The signal input to the digital input jack or
connector is protected against digital copying
(only during digital recording). Input the signal
through the analog input jack or connector.
The OPEN/CLOSE & button does not work.
=> The OPEN/CLOSE & button does not function
during recording. Press Mf or Ill to stop recording
first, then press OPEN/CLOSE &.
“CAUTION” appears and the deck cannot be operated.
=> A safety mechanism is operating because of
condensation. Remove the cassette and leave the
deck turned on for about an hour. Then turn the
deck off, then on again (see page 18).
(Continued)
19

20
Additional Information
Sub codes writing is not possible.
=> The record-protect hole on the cassette is open.
Slide the record-protect tab to close the hole (see
page 5).
Start ID writing is not possible during recording.
=> The start ID cannot be written within 9 seconds
(18 seconds in long-play mode) after the end of
the previous start ID. Make sure at least 9
seconds (18 seconds in the long-play mode) has
passed after the last start ID and before writing a
new one.
Direct Access does not work.
=> The specified program number does not exist on
the tape. Press START ID RENUMBER to
renumber the program numbers.
=> The program numbers are out of order. Press
START ID RENUMBER to renumber the
program numbers.
The deck begins rewinding the tape during playback.
=> Repeat Play is on.
Press REPEAT on the remote repeatedly to turn
off “REPEAT” or “REPEAT 1” in the display and
cancel Repeat Play.
The tape operation buttons do not function while writing or
erasing a start ID.
=> All buttons do not work during the 9 seconds the
start ID is being written (18 seconds in long-play
mode). Wait until the writing the start ID
finishes before operation.
Absolute time codes writing is not possible.
=> Recording began within a blank section.
Rewind the tape to its beginning, or locate the
end of the recorded portion with End Search
before starting recording.
Tape transport is excessively loud during fast-forwarding or
rewinding.
=> The noise is caused by the cassette and is not a
mechanical problem.
The tape stops suddenly.
=> The cassette is defective or damaged.
Press OPEN/CLOSE & and replace the cassette
with a new one.
When pressing <4 />P or [<i<1/>(>l, the tape stops
momentarily before starting to move.
=> This is normal and is not a mechanical problem.
The deck cannot be operated with the remote (supplied).
=> The battery is weak. Change both batteries.
Specifications
System
Tape Digital audio tape
Recording head Rotary head ©
Standard: 120 minutes
Long-play: 240 minutes
Standard: 8.15 mm/s
Long-play: 4.075 mm/s
Standard: 2,000 rpm
Long-play: 1,000 rpm
13.6 pm (20.4 um)
48 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 32 kHz
2 channels, stereo
Standard: 16-bit linear
Long-play: 12-bit non-linear
Standard: 2-22,000 Hz (+0.5 dB)
Long-play: 2-14,500 Hz (+0.5dB)
90 dB or more (Standard and long-play
mode)
Recording time
(when using DT-120)
Tape speed
Drum rotation
Track pitch
Sampling frequency
Number of channels
D/A conversion
(quantization)
Frequency response
Signal-to-noise ratio
Dynamic range 90 dB or more (Standard and long-play
mode)
Total harmonic distortion Standard: 0.005% or less (1 kHz)
Long-play: 0.008% or less (1 kHz)
Below measurable limit (+0.001%
W.PEAK)
Wow and flutter
Input Connectors
Connector Jack type Input impedance _ Rated input level
ANALOG Phono jacks 47 kilohms —4 dBs
(LINE)
DIGITAL Optical = =
OPTICAL connector
DIGITAL Phono jack 75 ohms 0.5 Vp-p
COAXIAL
Output Connectors
Connector Jack type Output Rated Load
impedance output impedance
level
ANALOG Phono 4700ohms -4dBs_ 10 kilohms
(LINE) jacks or more
DIGITAL Optical = (wavelength —
OPTICAL connector 660nm)
HEADPHONES Stereo 100 ohms 12mW 32 ohms
phone-plug
jack

|
Additional Information
General section
Power requirements
Where purchased Power requirements
US.A./Canada 120 V AC, 60 Hz
Europe/U.K 220 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption 30 W
¥ Dimensions Approx 430 x 122 x 325 mm (w/h/d)
(17 x 47/8 x 127/s inches)
Weight Approx 5.0 kg (11 Ib 0.4 oz)
Remote commander RM-D9 (supplied)
Dimensions Approx 45 x 185 x 20 mm (w/h/d)
(13/16 x 73/8 x 3/16 inches)
Weight Approx 100 g (3.5 oz) incl. batteries
Supplied accessories See page 7.
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Guide to the Serial Copy
Management System
This deck uses the Serial Copy Management System,
which allows only first-generation digital copies to be
made of premastered software via the deck’s digital
input jack. An outline of this system appears below:
a
You can record from digital program sources (CDs,
premastered MDs or DATs) onto a DAT or recordable MD
via digital input jack on the DAT or MD deck. You cannot,
however, record from this recorded DAT or MD onto
another DAT or recordable MD via the digital input jack on
the DAT or MD deck.
Playback CD player
a
Digital output jack
Optical cable or coaxial
digital connecting cable
Digital input jack
: DAT deck or
Recording MD deck
v
First-generation
DAT or MD
recorded via
digital-to-digital
connection
DAT or MD
v
DAT deck or
Playback MD deck
Digital output jack
Line (analog) output jack
Optical cable or
coaxial digital
connecting cable cord
Audio connecting
Digital input jack Line (analog) input jack
Recording DAT deck or
MD deck
21