Panasonic SC-AK500P, SC-AK500PC, SC-AK200P, SC-AK300P, SC-AK200PC User Manual

The illustrations show SC-AK500.

CD Stereo System

Operating Instructions

Model No. SC-AK500

SC-AK490

SC-AK300

SC-AK200

Before connecting, operating or adjusting this product, please read these instructions completely.

Please keep this manual for future reference.

		P PC						RQT6085-4P

Dear customer

Thank you for purchasing this product.

For optimum performance and safety, please read these instructions carefully.

These operating instructions are applicable to the following system. These operating instructions, however, fundamentally explain the operation of system SC-AK500.

				System	SC-AK500	SC-AK490	SC-AK300	SC-AK200
	using
				Main unit	SA-AK500	SA-AK490	SA-AK300	SA-AK200
				Speakers	SB-AK500	SB-AK500	SB-AK300	SB-AK200
	Before
				The model number and serial number of this product can be
				found on either the back or the bottom of the unit.
				Please note them in the space provided below and keep for
				future reference.

MODEL NUMBER

SERIAL NUMBER

User memo:

DATE OF PURCHASE

DEALER NAME

DEALER ADDRESS

TELEPHONE NUMBER

CAUTION!

THIS PRODUCT UTILIZES A LASER.

USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

DO NOT OPEN COVERS AND DO NOT REPAIR YOURSELF. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK OR PRODUCT DAMAGE, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN, MOISTURE, DRIPPING OR SPLASHING AND THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHALL BE PLACED ON THE APPARATUS.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

CAUTION!

DO NOT INSTALL, OR PLACE THIS UNIT, IN A BOOKCASE, BUILT-IN CABINET OR IN ANOTHER CONFINED SPACE. ENSURE THE UNIT IS WELL VENTILATED. TO PREVENT RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK OR FIRE HAZARD DUE TO OVERHEATING, ENSURE THAT CURTAINS AND ANY OTHER MATERIALS DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE VENTILATION VENTS.

2

Table of contents
Before using
Supplied accessories ..............................................	2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ...................	4
Listening caution .....................................................	5
Placement of speakers ............................................	5
About the remote control ........................................	5
Battery installation ..........................................................	5
Correct method of use ...................................................	5
Connections .............................................................	6
Basic connections (for supplied accessories) .................	6
Optional antenna connections ........................................	7
External unit connection .................................................	7
Front panel controls ................................................	8
Turning the demo function off ..............................	10
Convenient functions ............................................	10
Auto-off function ....................................................	11
Setting the time ......................................................	11
Radio operations
Listening to radio broadcasts ...............................	12
Presetting radio broadcasts .................................	13
Compact disc operations
About compact discs ............................................	14
Listening to compact discs ..................................	15
Playing MP3 (SC-AK500 and SC-AK490 only) ............	15
Program play ...............................................................	17
To listen to specific CDs and tracks
(CD Play Mode function) ...........................................	18
Direct access play ........................................................	19
Repeat play ..................................................................	19
CD display ...................................................................	19
Cassette deck operations
Listening to tapes ..................................................	20

Supplied accessories

Please check and identify the supplied accessories.

Use numbers indicated in parentheses when asking for replacement parts.

(Only for U.S.A.)

To order accessories contact 1-800-332-5368 or web site (http://www.panasonic.com).

AC power supply cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 pc. (RJA0065-1D)

FM indoor antenna (RSA0006-J) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 pc.

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Recording operations
Before recording (Deck 2 only) ............................		21
Recording from compact discs ............................		22
Tape-to-tape recording ..........................................		22
Recording from radio broadcasts ........................		23
Sound quality operations
Using the built-in sound quality settings .............		24
Enhancing the sound quality ................................		24
Timer operations
Using the timer ......................................................		25
Using the play/record timer ..........................................		25
Using the sleep timer ...................................................		27
Reference
Using an external unit ...........................................		27
Troubleshooting guide ..........................................		28
Servicenter List (ONLY FOR U.S.A.) ....................		29
Warranty (ONLY FOR U.S.A.) ................................		30
Specifications ........................................................		31
Maintenance ............................................	Back Cover
Product Service ......................................	Back Cover

AM loop antenna		Batteries ...........	2 pcs.
(N1DADYY00002) ..........	1 pc.	R6, AA, UM-3

Remote control transmitter ..............................................	1 pc.
• SC-AK500 and SC-AK490: •	SC-AK300:
(N2QAGB000015)	(Silver: N2QAGB000013)
	(Black: N2QAGB000017)
•	SC-AK200:
	(N2QAGB000013)

THE FOLLOWING APPLIES ONLY IN THE U.S.A.:

CAUTION:

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.

Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would void the user’s authority to operate this device.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE SCREWS.

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS

INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED

SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, 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.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Before using

3

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Before using

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Read these operating instructions carefully before using the unit. Follow the safety instructions on the unit and the safety precautions listed below. Keep these operating instructions handy for future reference.

Safety

1.Power source—Connect the unit to a power source of the type described in these instructions or as marked on the unit.

2.Polarization—The unit is equipped with a polarized power plug where one blade is wider than the other. This safety feature ensures that the plug fits into your household AC outlet only one way. If the plug doesn’t fit one way, try reversing it. If the plug still doesn’t fit, contact an electrician to replace the obsolete outlet. Do not attempt to defeat the safety purpose of the plug.

3.Power cord protection—Route the AC power supply cord so that it will not be walked on or pinched by items placed on or against it. Never take hold of the plug or cord with wet hands.

Always grasp the plug body firmly when connecting and disconnecting it.

4.Overloading—When connecting the AC power supply cord, be careful not to overload the household AC outlet, extension cord, or outlet from any other device as this can result in fire or electric shock.

5.Nonuse periods—Turn the unit off when it is not in use. Unplug the unit from the household AC outlet if it is not to be used for a long time. Unplug the unit during lightning storms.

6.Attachments and accessories—Use only the attachments and accessories recommended in these operating instructions.

Installation

Placement

1.Ventilation—Situate the unit so that it receives proper ventilation.

Do not install in a confined space such as a bookcase or cabinet. Allow at least 10 cm (4 inches) clearance from the rear of the unit. To prevent the risk of electric shock or fire due to overheating ensure curtains and other materials do not obstruct the unit’s ventilation.

2.Foreign material—Ensure objects and liquids do not get into the unit. Avoid exposing the unit to excessive smoke, dust, mechanical vibration, and shock.

3.Magnetism—Situate the unit away from equipment and devices that generate strong magnetic fields.

4.Stacking—Do not place heavy objects on top of this unit.

5.Surface—Place the unit on a flat, level surface.

6.Carts and stands—Use the unit only with carts and stands recommended by the manufacturer.

Move carts with care. Sudden stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces can cause carts to overturn.

7.Wall and ceiling mounting—Do not mount the unit on walls or ceilings unless specified in the instructions.

Environment

1.Water and moisture—Do not use the unit near water, such as near a bathtub or swimming pool. Avoid damp basements.

2.Heat—Situate the unit away from heat sources, such as radiators. Do not situate where temperatures fall below 5°C (41°F) or rise above 35°C (95°F).

3.Power lines—Take care when setting up an outdoor antenna that it is not near overhead power lines, electric lights, or electrical circuits, and that there is no danger of the antenna falling on power lines, electric lights, or electrical circuits. When installing an outdoor antenna, take extreme care not to touch such power lines or circuits, as contact with them can be fatal.

4.Outdoor antenna grounding—If you connect an outdoor antenna, ground the antenna system to protect against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National

Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70-1990, provides information about 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. Refer to this diagram.

		ANTENNA LEAD
		IN WIRE
	GROUND	ANTENNA
	CLAMP
		DISCHARGE UNIT
		(NEC SECTION 810-20)
	ELECTRIC	GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
	SERVICE
	EQUIPMENT	(NEC SECTION 810-21)
		GROUND CLAMPS
		POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
		ELECTRODE SYSTEM
		(NEC ART 250, PART H)

NEC–NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

Maintenance

(See back cover for details.)

Unplug the unit from the household AC outlet before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth.

Do not use abrasive pads, scouring powders, or solvents.

Service

1.Damage requiring service —The unit should be serviced by qualified service personnel if:

(a)The AC power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or

(b)Objects or liquids have gotten into the unit; or

(c)The unit has been exposed to rain; or

(d)The unit does not operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or

(e)The unit has been dropped or the cabinet damaged.

2.Servicing —Do not attempt to service the unit beyond that described in these operating instructions. Refer all other servicing to authorized servicing personnel.

3.Replacement parts —When parts need replacing ensure the servicer uses parts specified by the manufacturer or parts that have the same characteristics as the original parts. Unauthorized substitutes may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

4.Safety check —After repairs or service, ask the servicer to perform safety checks to confirm that the unit is in proper working condition.

4

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Listening caution		About the remote control

Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit you’ve just purchased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now it’s time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment offers. This manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without annoying blaring or distortion—and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing.

We recommend you to avoid prolonged exposure to excessive noise.

Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort level” adapts to higher volumes of sound. So what sounds “normal” can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing.

Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.

To establish a safe level:

•Start your volume control at a low setting.

•Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it comfortably and clearly, and without distortion.

Once you have established a comfortable sound level:

• Set the dial and leave it there.

Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage or loss in the future. After all, we want you listening for a lifetime.

Placement of speakers

SC-AK500 SC-AK490 SC-AK300

Place the speakers so that the super tweeter is on the outside.

Super tweeter

SC-AK200

Speakers are designed identically so that no left or right channel orientation is necessary.

Notes

•Keep your speakers at least 10 mm (13/32˝) away from the system for proper ventilation.

•These speakers do not have magnetic shielding. Do not place them near televisions, personal computers or other devices easily influenced by magnetism.

•To avoid damage to the speakers, do not touch the speaker cones if you have taken the nets off.

Battery installation

SC-AK500 SC-AK490	SC-AK300 SC-AK200
R6/LR6, AA, UM-3	R6, AA, UM-3

Before using

Use of batteries

•Align the poles (+ and –) properly when inserting the batteries.

•Do not mix old and new batteries or different types of batteries.

•Do not recharge ordinary dry cell batteries.

•Do not heat or disassemble the batteries. Do not allow them to contact flame or water.

•Remove the batteries if the unit is not to be used for a long time.

•Do not keep together with metallic objects such as necklaces.

•Do not use rechargeable type batteries.

•Do not use batteries if the covering has been peeled off.

Mishandling of batteries can cause electrolyte leakage which can damage items the fluid contacts and may cause a fire.

If electrolyte leaks from the batteries, consult your dealer.

Wash thoroughly with water if electrolyte comes in contact with any part of your body.

Correct method of use

Remote control signal sensor

	30˚	30˚
	Transmission	About 7 meters in front of
	window
		the signal sensor

Operation notes

• Do not place obstacles between the remote control signal sensor and remote control unit.

• Do not expose the remote control signal sensor to direct sunlight or to the bright light of a fluorescent light.

• Take care to keep the remote control signal sensor and end of the remote control unit free from dust.

• If this system is installed in a rack with glass doors, the glass doors’ thickness or color might make it necessary to use the remote control a shorter distance from the system.

To prevent damage

	•	Never place heavy items on top of the unit.
	•	Do not disassemble or reconstruct the unit.
			5
	•	Do not spill water or other liquids into the unit.

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			1
usingBefore			3
			2
			4
1			Adhesive tape
	FM	ANT
		)
	(		FM indoor antenna
1		GND
			2
2			AM loop antenna
	AM	ANT
	LOOP
		EXT

3

Red (+)

Black (–)

1

2

Blue (–)

Gray (+)

	Blue
	Black
Gray	Red

6

Connections

Basic connections (for supplied accessories)

•Plug the AC power supply cord into a household AC outlet only after all other connections have been made.

•To prepare the antenna wires and speaker cords, twist the vinyl cover tip and pull off.

1 Connect the FM indoor antenna.

Tape the antenna to a wall or column, in a position where radio signals are received with the least amount of interference.

Note

For best reception sound quality:

An FM outdoor antenna is recommended. (See page 7.)

2 Connect the AM loop antenna.

After attaching the antenna, turn on the system and tune in a broadcast station. Put the antenna where the reception is best and interference is minimal.

3 Connect the speaker cables.

Connect each end of the speaker cables to the terminal lever of the same color so (+) and (–) are correct. Never allow the exposed wires to contact each other when connected.

Incorrect connection can damage the unit.

Caution

•Use only the supplied speakers.

The combination of the main unit and speakers provide the best sound. Using other speakers can damage the unit and sound quality will be negatively affected.

Caution

•Use the speakers only with the recommended system.

Failure to do so may lead to damage to the amplifier and/or the speakers, and may result in the risk of fire.

Consult a qualified service person if damage has occurred or if you experience a sudden change in performance.

•Do not attach these speakers to walls or ceilings.

4 Connect the AC power supply cord.

Note

The included AC power supply cord is for use with this unit only. Do not use it with other equipment.

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A	FM outdoor antenna
	(not included)

75 Ω coaxial cable (not included)

	FM	ANT	1
		)	30 mm
	(
	1	GND	(1 3/16˝)
			2

Shield braid

2

15 mm

(19/32˝)

Core wire

3

B

AM outdoor antenna (not included)

5 -12 m (16 – 40 ft.)

	AM AN	T	AM loop
	LOOP		antenna
			(included)
	EXT

C

Rear panel of this unit

R L

(R) (L)

Connections

Optional antenna connections

You may need an outdoor antenna if you use this system in a mountainous region or inside a reinforced concrete building, etc.

A FM outdoor antenna

Disconnect the FM indoor antenna if an FM outdoor antenna is installed.

1 Remove a piece of the outer vinyl insulator.

2 Twist the shield braid.

3 Expose the core wire.

Note

An outdoor antenna should be installed by a qualified technician only.

B AM outdoor antenna

Connect the outdoor antenna without removing the AM loop antenna. Run 5 to 12 m of vinyl-covered wire horizontally along a window or other convenient location.

Note

When the unit is not in use, disconnect the outdoor antenna to prevent possible damage that may be caused by lightning. Never use an outdoor antenna during an electrical storm.

C External unit connection

•An analog player with a built-in phono equalizer can be connected.

•For details, refer to the instruction manual of the units which are to be connected.

•When units other than those described above are to be connected, please consult with your audio dealer.

Before using

Analog player (not included)

7

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A

Before using

B

18		SUPER SOUND EQ
19	AUX	TUNER/BAND	TAPE	CD	21
20					22
	REW	DEMO		FF
		24
		23

8

Front panel controls

A Main unit

No.

Name

Ref. page

1AC supply indicator (AC IN)

This indicator lights when the unit is connected to the AC power supply.

2Standby/on switch (f/I, POWER)

Press to switch the unit from on to standby mode or vice versa. In standby mode, the unit is still consuming a small amount of power.

3	Display button (DISPLAY) ..................................	15, 19
4	Display
5	Preset EQ select button (PRESET EQ) ...................	24
6	Record button (a REC) ..............................................	22
7	Deck select button (DECK 1/2) ................................	20
8	Deck 1 open button (c DECK 1 OPEN) ..................	20
9	Deck 1 cassette holder ..............................................	20
!	Disc tray
11	Remote control signal sensor (SENSOR) .................	5
#	Disc direct play buttons (1 ~ 5) ...............................	16
$	CD tray open/close button (c) ................................	16
%	Volume control (VOL DOWN, UP) ............................	12
&	Headphone jack (PHONES) ......................................	27
(	Deck 2 open button (c DECK 2 OPEN) ..................	20
)	Deck 2 cassette holder ..............................................	20
B	Center console
~	Super sound EQ button (SUPER SOUND EQ) ........	24
+	AUX button (AUX) ......................................................	27
,	Tuner/band select button (TUNER/BAND) ..............	12
-	CD play/pause button (CD :/ J) ..............................	16
.	Tape play button (TAPE :) ......................................	20

/ CD skip/search, tape fast-forward/rewind, tune/preset

channel select, time adjust buttons
(g/REW/4, 3/FF/f) ...................	11, 12, 13, 16, 20
: Stop/program clear and demonstration button
(L/–DEMO) ................................................	10, 16, 17, 20

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		SLEEP	CLOCK	PLAY
2		AUTO OFF	TIMER	REC	28
25	1	2	3	DISC	29
					30
26	4	5	6	10
	7	8	9	0
	DISPLAY	DIMMER PLAY MODE		PROGRAM
3					31
27	AUX	TUNER	TAPE	CD	32
					21
19
20		REW	FF		22
23					33
		S.SOUND EQ	PRESET EQ	MUTING
18					34
		VOLUME			5

14

Front panel controls

Remote control

Buttons such as 2 function in exactly the same way as the buttons on the main unit.

No.	Name	Ref. page
2	Standby/on button (f) ...............................................	11
; Sleep timer/auto off button				using
	(SLEEP, –AUTO OFF)	11, 27
< Numeric buttons (≥ 10, 1–9, 0) ......................		13, 15, 17
3	Display button (DISPLAY)	15, 19		Before
= Dimmer button (DIMMER) .........................................		10
+ AUX button (AUX)		27
, Tuner/band select button (TUNER) .........................		12

/CD skip/search, tape fast-forward/rewind, tune/preset channel select, time adjust buttons

(g/REW/4, 3/FF/f) ...................	11, 12, 13, 16, 20
~ Super sound EQ button (S.SOUND EQ) ..................		24
% Volume buttons (– VOLUME +) ................................		12
> Play timer/record timer button (rPLAY/REC) .........		25
? Clock/timer button (CLOCK/TIMER) ............	11, 25, 26
@ Disc button (DISC) .....................................................		17
[ Program button (PROGRAM) .............................		13, 17
\ Play mode select button
(PLAY MODE) .....................................	12, 18, 19, 20, 23
- CD play/pause button (CD :/ J) ..............................		16
. Tape play button (TAPE :) ......................................		20
] Stop/program clear button (L) .....................	16, 17, 20
^ Muting button (MUTING) ...........................................		10
5 Preset EQ select button (PRESET EQ) ...................		24

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Before using

10

A

DEMO

B

C

A Turning the demo function off

If the clock has not been set, a demonstration of the display is shown when the unit is switched to standby mode.

This function is set to on at the time of purchase.

During standby mode

Press and hold [L/–DEMO] until “NO

DEMO” is displayed.

The display changes each time the button is held down.

NO DEMO (off) ↔ DEMO ON (on)

To show a demonstration of the display

Press and hold [L/–DEMO] until “DEMO ON” is displayed.

Note

•You cannot turn demo function off when the unit is on.

•(SC-AK500) (SC-AK300)

DEMO function cannot be turned on in Full-Dim mode.

•(SC-AK490) (SC-AK200)

DEMO function cannot be turned on when Dimmer is on.

Convenient functions

B To dim the display panel

Remote control only

Use this for better television viewing.

SC-AK500 SC-AK300

Press [DIMMER].

Every time you press the button:

Semi-Dim Full-Dim

Restores the original display

Semi-Dim: The backlights of the display are turned off.

Full-Dim: The display is dimmed and the backlights of the display and the indicator, except for the AC supply indicator, are turned off.

SC-AK490 SC-AK200

Press [DIMMER].

The display is dimmed and the indicator is turned off.

(The AC supply indicator remains on.)

Press [DIMMER] again to restore the display.

C To mute the volume

Remote control only

This feature is convenient when you have a telephone call, etc.

Press [MUTING].

Press the button again to cancel. “MUTING” goes out.

Muting can also be cancelled by lowering the volume all the way (--dB).

When the system is turned off, the muting operation will be automatically cancelled.

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