Sony MDS-B5, MDS-503, MDS-B6P User Manual

MD RECORDER

MDS-B5

OPERATION MANUAL [English] 1st Edition (Revised 1)

Serial No. 800001 and Higher (UC) Serial No. 600001 and Higher (CED)

For the customers in U.S.A.

Owner’s Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the top 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. MDS-B5 Serial No.

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

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.

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.

INFORMATION

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual must be used with this equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

CAUTION

As the laser beam used in this MD deck is harmful to the eyes, do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

Notes on shipping of the unit

When shipping the unit, make sure the following conditions have been met:

•The unit is in shipping mode.

•The unit is packed in its original carton.

Please note that if these conditions are not met, any damage that occurs to the unit during transport will not be covered by the service warranty.

The following caution label is located inside the unit.

This appliance is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER product.

The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT MARKING is located on the side of the unit.

For customers in Canada

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Pour les utilisateurs au Canada

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

For the customers in the United Kingdom

WARNING

THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED

IMPORTANT

The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

Green-and-yellow: Earth

Blue: Neutral Brown: Live

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug proceed as follows: The wire which is coloured green-and-yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the letter E or by the safety earth symbol Y or coloured green or green-and-yellow.

The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black.

The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Overview

Chapter 2

Function of Parts and

Controls

Chapter 3

Preparations

Chapter 4

Recording

Chapter 5

Playback

(Continued)

	...........................................................................................1-1 Features	1-1
	1-1-1 Features of the MiniDisc ........................................................	1-1
	1-1-2 Operational Features ..............................................................	1-1
	2-1 Front Panel ......................................................................................	2-1
	2-2 Rear Panel .......................................................................................	2-3
	2-3 Remote Controller ..........................................................................	2-5
	3-1 Precautions ......................................................................................	3-1
	3-1-1 Installation Precautions ..........................................................	3-1
	3-1-2 Handling Precautions .............................................................	3-1
	3-1-3 Shipping Precautions ..............................................................	3-1
	3-2 Connections .....................................................................................	3-2
	3-2-1 Precautions .............................................................................	3-2
	3-2-2 Basic Connection Examples ...................................................	3-2
	3-2-3 Connection for Direct ATRAC Data Copying .......................	3-3
	3-2-4 Connecting and Setting the Keyboard ...................................	3-4
	3-3 Handling MiniDiscs ........................................................................	3-5
	3-4 Setting the Analog Input and Output Reference Levels .............	3-6
	4-1 Selecting the Input Signal ..............................................................	4-1
	4-2 Recording Procedure .....................................................................	4-2
	4-3 Display Information During Recording .......................................	4-4
	4-4 Adding Disc and Track Titles .......................................................	4-5
	4-5 Procedure of Direct ATRAC Data Copying ................................	4-6
	4-6 Restrictions on Digital Copying ....................................................	4-7
	5-1 Overview of Playback Procedures ................................................	5-1
	5-2 Playback Procedures ......................................................................	5-2
	5-2-1 Playing From the First Track on the MD ...............................	5-2
	5-2-2 Locating a Specific Point (Search) .........................................	5-2
	5-2-3 Playing a Single Track Only ..................................................	5-3
	5-2-4 Rehearsal Playback ................................................................	5-3
	5-3 Locating a Track ............................................................................	5-4
	5-3-1 Locating a Specific Track ......................................................	5-4
	5-3-2 Locating the Beginning of a Track (AMS) ............................	5-4
	5-3-3 Preparing the Next Track During Playback ...........................	5-5
	5-4 Display Information during Playback ..........................................	5-6
	5-5 Playing Tracks Repeatedly ............................................................	5-7
	5-6 Program Play ..................................................................................	5-8
	5-7 Playing Tracks in Random Order (Shuffle Play) ......................	5-10
	5-8 Starting Playback Instantly (Multi-Access Function) ...............	5-11
	5-9 Varying the Playback Speed (Variable-Speed Playback) .........	5-13

	Table of Contents	1

Table of Contents

Chapter 6

Editing Functions

Chapter 7

Setup Menu

Chapter 8

Maintenance

Appendix

	......................................................6-1 Overview of Editing Functions	6-1
	6-1-1 Types of Editing Functions ....................................................	6-1
	6-1-2 RAM Edit and Disc Edit ........................................................	6-1
	6-1-3 Track Numbers After Editing Operations ..............................	6-2
	6-1-4 Editing Operations During Rehearsal Playback .....................	6-2
	6-1-5 Undo function ........................................................................	6-2
	6-2 Erasing Tracks (Erase Function) ..................................................	6-3
	6-3 Dividing a Recorded Track (Divide Function) ............................	6-4
	6-4 Combining Recorded Tracks (Combine Function) .....................	6-6
	6-5 Moving Recorded Tracks (Move Function) .................................	6-7
	6-6 Editing Titles ...................................................................................	6-8
	6-7 Marking the Cue Point ................................................................	6-10
	6-8 Trimming ......................................................................................	6-12
	6-8-1 Head Trimming ....................................................................	6-12
	6-8-2 End Trimming ......................................................................	6-14
	7-1 The Overview of the Setup Menu .................................................	7-1
	7-2 LevelSync Setting (Track Marking Function) .............................	7-2
	7-3 Setting Up for Timer-Activated Function ....................................	7-3
	7-4 Setting the Playback Resume Mode..............................................	7-4
	7-5 Setting the RS-232C Interface .......................................................	7-5
	7-6 Setting the Auto Cue Function ......................................................	7-6
	7-7 Setting the Rehearsal Playback Function ....................................	7-7
	7-8 Setting the EOM Function .............................................................	7-8
	7-9 Reading the Hours Meter ..............................................................	7-9
	7-10 Disabling the Buttons While Controlling Remotely .................	7-10
	8-1 Cleaning and Reset Switch .............................................................	8-1
	8-2 Display Messages .............................................................................	8-2
	Menu Item List .....................................................................................	A-1
	Pin Assignments for REMOTE (25P) connector ...............................	A-3
	RS-232C Protocol .................................................................................	A-5
	RS-232C Protocol ............................................................................	A-5
	Specifications ..................................................................................	A-5
	Operating Method ............................................................................	A-5
	List of Commands .........................................................................	A-10
	Command Descriptions ......................................................................	A-11
	Specifications .......................................................................................	A-26
	Index ........................................................................................................	I-1

2 Table of Contents

1-1 Features

The MDS-B5 is a MiniDisc deck for professional use in any kind of broadcasting, announcements, or program production.

1-1-1 Features of the MiniDisc

ATRAC (Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding) data compression technology

By eliminating inaudible sound data to obtain a compression ratio of 1:5, ATRAC data compression technology enables the recording of sound information of almost the same quality and quantity as a CD, but on a smaller disc.

74 minutes of playback or recording

A single MD can be used to play back or record up to 74 minutes of sound information. In monoaural mode, you can record and play back up to 148 minutes.

Direct track access

You can use the supplied wire-connected remote controller or an IBM keyboard (not supplied) to directly access any of the MD’s 255 tracks without the long cueing time required for tape.

Various playback functions

The MDS-B5’s various playback functions include repeat playback, programmed playback, and random playback. You can also vary the playback speed between ±12.5% of the normal speed.

Multiple editing functions

The MDS-B5’s editing functions allow you to divide, combine, and move tracks on the MD. You can use the rehearsal function to precisely position edit points on a track as you monitor the sound.

Unlike tracks on an analog cassette or DAT tape, specific MD tracks or an entire MD can be erased instantly.

Text entry

You can use the supplied wire-connected remote controller or an IBM keyboard to enter titles for recorded discs and tracks. Title data, which can total 1,792 characters per disc, appear in the display window during playback.

Durability

Because MDs use a non-contact system like compact discs, they are superior to cassette tape in durability.

1-1-2 Operational Features

Direct ATRAC data copy function

Multiple MDS-B5 decks can be daisy chained through the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINK connectors, allowing ATRAC compression data to be copied about four times faster than normal dubbing speed. Up to ten MDS-B5 decks can be daisy chained. When using this function, the character information on the disc will also be copied.

Instant playback function

The MDS-B5 can store the first part of up to 10 selected tracks into memory in order to begin instant playback.

Two cueing modes

You can use the A.MODE button to select the following two cueing modes.

AUTO PAUSE mode

AUTO PAUSE mode pauses the MD deck at the beginning of a track, then starts playback when you press the PLAY/PAUSE button. Use this mode to precue tracks during on-air broadcasting with multiple MD decks.

OverviewiewOver 1 Chapter

1 Chapter

Chapter 1 Overview 1-1

Overview 1 Chapter

1-1 Features

AUTO CUE mode

AUTO CUE mode pauses the MD deck when it detects a rise in the audio signal following the inaudible portion before the start of a track. This mode is good for playing special sound effects in theater productions, etc.

NEXT TRACK SELECT function

During single-deck operations, you can specify the next track to be played as you are playing another one.

Single track play

No matter what the cueing mode may be, you can always play back single tracks. After playing a single track, the deck stops rather than pauses, thus preventing the mistaken playback of another track.

Playback display variations

The MDS-B5 displays track information (playing time, track title, etc.) for the current and the next tracks that have been selected for playback. By pressing the DISPLAY button, you can display the following track information:

•Remaining playing time and title of the current track

•Elapsed time and title of the current track

•Remaining playing time of the current track and a list of programmed tracks during Program Play or Instant Playback.

•Playing time and title of the next track

Rehearsal function

You can play back a portion of a track repeatedly in order to precisely determine points for cueing or track division. You can also use the Setup menu to specify the length of the portion to be repeated and the interval between the end of one repeat and the start of another.

RAM Edit function

You can do temporary editing, such as dividing, combining, and moving the tracks on the MD, without overwriting the TOC information. The results of the RAM edit function will be lost when the MiniDisc is ejected. You can use the RAM edit function on premastered MDs.

Program Play information recording

You can record the playback order of up to 25 tracks for the Program Play function in the TOC on recordable discs, even when the “PROGRAM” indication does not appear in the display.

UNDO function

You can undo the last editing operation (e.g., when you have mistakenly erased a track).

LevelSync function

The LevelSync function adds a track number whenever the audio signal rises above a threshold level during recording (except for digital recording from a CD or MD).

You can use the Setup menu to define the length of an inaudible portion and the threshold level. You can also specify a margin between the threshold point and the writing of the track number.

End-of-message (EOM) function

This function outputs a tally signal from the REMOTE(25P) connector before the end of a track or the disc.

You can use the Setup menu to specify how far in advance of the end the tally signal is output.

Cue point function

This function outputs a tally signal from the REMOTE(25P) connector whenever a cue point is detected during playback. Up to 255 cue points can be marked per disc.

1-2 Chapter 1 Overview

Track trimming function

You can temporarily modify the starting and ending points of a track. The head trimming edit allows you to specify the starting point in accordance to the audio rising point.

Digital time meter

The digital time meter displays the accumulated laser diode recording time and spindle motor operation time.

Easy menu operations

The editing and setting operations on the MDS-B5 are done using two types of menus: the Edit menu and the Setup menu. Menu operations are easily done using the AMS control, turning it to select items and pressing it to select the setting.

Remote Controller

The supplied remote controller allows you to enter titles and other text information easily.

Keyboard operations

You can use the supplied keyboard template on any IBM keyboard to operate the MDS-B5.

Remote control function

The MDS-B5 can be controlled by external control signals input to the REMOTE(25P) connector on the rear panel. You can select any of four pin assignments for the REMOTE(25P) connector, depending on the application.

When the deck is controlled by external control signals, you can disable the operation buttons and controls on the front panel by using the Kill Local function.

RS-232C interface

The MDS-B5 can be controlled by a personal computer or other external equipment connected to the deck through the RS-232C interface.

Rack mounting compatibility

Two MDS-B5 decks can be mounted side by side in a standard 19-inch EIA rack.

TOC data back-up function

If power to the MDS-B5 is suddenly cut off during recording or editing, edited TOC data in the MDSB5’s RAM will be saved and maintained by an internal back-up power supply for up to three days.

Notes

•TOC data may be lost if the power is cut at the moment of the beginning or the end of recording or editing operation.

•Due to the limited capacity of the RAM, cue points and trimming point specifications are not saved.

Error check function

The MDS-B5 can play back a disc at four times normal playback speed, allowing you to quickly verify the integrity of tracks before a broadcast.

Overview 1 Chapter

Chapter 1 Overview 1-3

2-1 Front Panel

		4 SINGLE button
1 PHONES jack and volume control	3 Disc	5 A.MODE button
	compartment

2 Display		6 EJECT button
window
		=	+
		0 )
p	(P	r
		!™ Search buttons
!¶ KEY BOARD connector		!£ REC button
		!¢ CUE/STDBY button
	! PLAY/PAUSE button

!§ STOP button

7 DISPLAY button

8 REHEARSAL button

9 ENTER/YES button

0 EDIT/NO button

!¡ AMS control

1 PHONES jack and volume control

Connects headphones. Use the volume control to adjust the sound level of the PHONES jack.

2 Display window

Indicates the current MD deck operating status. While the deck is stopped, the disc title, total track number, and total recorded time are displayed. During playback, the track title and time information of the current track or the next track are displayed. When using a menu, the menu number and menu item are displayed.

3 Disc compartment

Automatically loads an inserted disc.

4 SINGLE button

Press to play only one track. “1” appears in the display window.

5 A.MODE button

Selects the cueing mode. The following are selected in sequential order each time you press this button.

OFF: The cueing function is disabled. Playback starts when you press the PLAY/PAUSE button or select a track using the AMS control.

A.PAUSE: When you press the PLAY/PAUSE button or select a track using the AMS control, the MD deck locates the beginning of the track and pauses. Playback starts when you press the PLAY/PAUSE button.

A.CUE: When you press the PLAY/PAUSE button or select a track using the AMS control, the MD deck pauses whenever the audio signal rises above a specified threshold level. Playback starts when you press the PLAY/PAUSE button.

Controlsandnd Parts of Function 2 Chapter

Controls Parts of Function 2 Chapter

Chapter 2 Function of Parts and Controls

2-1

Controls and Parts of Function 2 Chapter

2-1 Front Panel

6 EJECT button

Press to eject the disc from the disc compartment.

7 DISPLAY button

During playback, press this button to select the following display contents:

•Remaining playing time and title of the current track

•Elapsed time and title of the current track

•Remaining playing time of the current track and the Program Play list during Program Play or the Instant Playback function

•Playing time and title of the next track

8 REHEARSAL button

Press to play a portion of a track repeatedly. If you press this button during playback, the portion starting from that point is repeated. If you press the button while the deck is stopped, the beginning of the first track on the disc or the selected track is repeated. During rehearsal playing, you can move the repeated portion forward or backward by turning the AMS control. Pressing the 0or )button changes the unit for adjusting the start of Rehearsal Play.

After confirming the cue point or editing point using the rehearsal function, press the CUE STDBY button to pause the deck at the position where the rehearsal started or press EDIT/NO button to execute an editing function.

9 ENTER/YES button

Press to execute an editing function.

You can also execute editing functions by pressing the AMS control.

0 EDIT/NO button

Press to display the Edit menu or cancel an editing function.

!¡ AMS control

Turn to locate the beginning of a track.

When using the Edit menu or the Setup menu, turn this control to select the menu item and press it to select the setting.

!™ Search buttons

0: Hold down this button during playback to scan backward while monitoring the sound.

): Hold down this button during playback to scan forward while monitoring the sound.

!£ REC (recording) button

Press for recording standby (recording pause). To start recording, press the PLAY/PAUSE button. The REC button lights when recording is paused or taking place.

!¢ CUE/STDBY (standby) button

Press to return to the position where you last pressed the PLAY/PAUSE button. After finding the position, the MD deck enters playback pause. Use this button to check or return to a cueing position.

! PLAY/PAUSE button

Press to start playback or recording.

Press during playback to temporarily pause the MD deck; press again to cancel pause.

The PLAY/PAUSE button lights during playback or recording. It flashes while the MD deck is in playback pause or recording pause.

!§ STOP button

Press to stop playback or recording.

!¶ KEYBOARD connector

Connects any IBM keyboard for control of the MD deck using the supplied keyboard template.

This connector has a cap for protection. Remove the cap only when connecting a keyboard.

Note

While using the keyboard, turning the MD deck off, then turning it on again quickly may cause the keyboard to malfunction. If this occurs, unplug the keyboard cord and plug it again.

2-2	Chapter 2 Function of Parts and Controls

2-2 Rear Panel

1 DIRECT DUPLICATION LINK connector

2 REMOTE(25P) connector

3 ANALOG IN/OUT connectors

4 AES/EBU IN/OUT connectors

5 POWER switch

6 Ground connector

7 AC IN connector

8 IEC(958) IN/OUT connectors

9 PLAYBACK/RECORD level controls and MODE switch

0 RS-232C connector

!¡ REMOTE connector

1 DIRECT DUPLICATION LINK connector

Used for daisy chaining multiple MDS-B5 decks for copying ATRAC compression data at the maximum of about four times the normal recording rate. You can copy the same data simultaneously on up to ten MDSB5 decks.

2 REMOTE (25P) connector

Connects to external equipment for remote control.

13	1
25	14

You can choose any of four pin assignments, depending on the purpose.

See “Pin assignments for REMOTE (25P) connector” on page A-3.

3 ANALOG IN/OUT connectors (XLR-type, 3-pin)

Input and output a two channels of analog audio signals.

Pin assignment

Pin No.	Signal	IN			OUT
1	GND
2	HOT
3	COLD
	2	3	1	1	3	2

4 AES/EBU IN/OUT connector (XLR-type)

Input and output two channels of digital audio signals in AES/EBU format.

5POWER switch

Press to turn on the MD deck. Press again to turn the MD deck off.

Controls and Parts of Function 2 Chapter

Chapter 2 Function of Parts and Controls

2-3

Controls and Parts of Function 2 Chapter

2-21 RearFrontPanel

6 Ground connector

Connects directly to ground.

7 AC IN connector

Connects to an AC outlet with the supplied AC power cord.

8 IEC(958) IN/OUT connector (RCA-type, phono)

Inputs digital audio signals for professional use (IEC958-TYPE1) or consumer use (IEC958-TYPE2). Outputs digital audio signals for consumer use (IEC958-TYPE2).

9 PLAYBACK/RECORD level controls and

MODE switch

Adjust the analog input and output reference level during recording or playback. Adjust the level of each channel (CH-1(L)/CH-2(R)) by turning the control with a flat screwdriver.

MODE switch

Selects monaural or stereo mode for the analog input/ output signal.

When MONO is selected during playback, the signals of channel 1 and 2 are mixed and lowered to below –6 dB, then output from ANALOG OUT CH-1(L) and CH-2(R).

When MONO is selected during recording, the signals from ANALOG IN CH-1(L) and ANALOG IN CH- 2(R) are mixed and lowered to below –6 dB, then recorded from both channels. The MODE switch just mixes the input and output signals and has nothing to do with the monoaural recording mode based on the MiniDisc format.

For the monoaural recording mode, see “To record in monoaural mode” on page 4-2.

Note

If a signal is recorded from only one ANALOG IN connector in monaural mode, the recording level will be –6 dB lower than that recorded in stereo mode. In this case, use the PLAYBACK/RECORD level control to bring the recording level up to that of stereo mode.

0 RS-232C connector

1	5
6	9

You can use a personal computer connected to the MDS-B5’s RS-232C connector to control the MDS-B5 including following operations:

• Button operations

PLAY/PAUSE, STOP, REC, EJECT, PREVIOUS, NEXT, CUE STDBY

•Direct track access

•Selecting menu functions

Selecting the timing for the end-of-message (EOM) tally signal output, setting the AUTO PAUSE and AUTO CUE functions, setting the LevelSync function, and selecting the input signal

• Displaying time and character data and messages on an external computer

See “RS-232C Protocol” on page A-5 for details.

!¡ REMOTE connector

Connects the supplied remote controller.

2-4	Chapter 2 Function of Parts and Controls

2-3 Remote Controller

1 MD control buttons

2 Edit operation buttons

4 Title entry buttons

3 Display buttons

1 MD control buttons

A.MODE (Cueing mode) SINGLE (Single-track playback)

REHEARSAL (Rehearsal playback) ^(play/pause)

e(cueing/standby) p(stop)

=(previous) +(next) 0(rewind)

)(fast forward) r(record)

T.REC (Time-Machine record)

2 Edit operation buttons

ERASE (erasing tracks) DIVIDE (dividing tracks) COMBINE (combining tracks) MOVE (moving tracks)

UNDO (cancelling the last operation) ENTER (ENTER/YES button) CANCEL (EDIT/NO button)

3 Display buttons

SCROLL (viewing the rest of the title during playback)

DISPLAY (changing the display mode)

4 Title entry buttons

NAME (entering title entry mode)

CAPS (uppercase letters, numbers, symbols)* SML (lowercase letters, numbers, symbols)*(unmarked button; space button) character/numeric buttons (60 buttons)

* The CAPS and SML buttons light up when activated.

Installing batteries in the remote controller

Insert two R6 (size-AA) batteries, making sure the batteries are aligned with the + and – marks for proper polarity.

Insert } end first.

}

]

When to replace batteries

The service life of the batteries are for about 6 months. Replace the batteries when they run down and the remote controller cannot control the MD deck any more.

Controls and Parts of Function 2 Chapter

Chapter 2 Function of Parts and Controls

2-5

3-1 Precautions

3-1-1 Installation Precautions

Install the MD deck on a flat surface in a temperaturecontrolled room. Avoid using or storing the MD deck at a location that is:

•extremely hot or cold.

•damp.

•subject to severe vibrations.

•subject to strong magnetic fields.

•subject to many hours of direct sunlight or close to heating equipment.

If trouble occurs

Should you detect an abnormal noise, smell, or smoke, immediately turn off the power, unplug the power cord from the socket, and contact Sony service personnel.

AC power cord

Do not use any power cord other than the one supplied with the MD deck.

3-1-2 Handling Precautions

•Check the MD deck’s operating voltage before you plug it in. It must be identical with that of your local power supply.

•If you drop any liquid or metal object inside the MD deck, immediately stop using it, unplug the power cord from the socket, and contact Sony service personnel.

•If the MD deck will be unused for a long time, make sure to unplug its power cord from the socket. When unplugging the power cord, grasp it by the plug, not the cord.

•Do not disassemble the MD deck. The laser light used in the deck can cause damage to your eyes. If the MD deck needs to be inspected, contact Sony service personnel.

Caution

The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard.

Condensation

Bringing in the MD deck from a cold place or turning on the room heating may cause moisture to condense on the lens within the MD deck, resulting in abnormal operation. If this occurs, leave the power on. The moisture will evaporate within an hour and the MD deck will function normally again.

If the MD deck does not operate normally after a few hours, contact Sony service personnel.

3-1-3 Shipping Precautions

When shipping the MD deck, make sure that the MD deck is packed in its original carton. If not, any damage that occurs to the MD deck during transport will not be covered by the service warranty.

Preparations 3 Chapter

Preparations 3 Chapter

Chapter 3 Preparations

3-1

Preparations 3 Chapter

3-32 -Connections2 Connections

3-2-1 Precautions

•Turn off all equipment before connecting or disconnecting any cables.

•Insert all electrical plugs firmly since incomplete connection may cause noise.

•Use a cord somewhat longer than needed to prevent the plug from being pulled out when jarred or shaken.

3-2-2 Basic Connection Examples

To an analog mixing console or amplifier

Analog audio signals

To an external remote controller

Remote signal

MDS-B5

To the supplied
remote controller	Remote signal

To a personal computer

Remote signal

AES/EBU digital signals	To audio/video equipment
	for professional use

	To ground
	AC power cord	120 V AC (for the
		U.S. and Canada)
		220 to 230 V AC
		(for the European
		countries)
	To an MD recorder or
Digital audio signals	other digital recording
	device
	To a CD player, DAT
Digital audio signals	or MD recorder

	To an analog mixing console
Analog audio signals	or tape recorder

3-2 Chapter 3 Preparations

3-2-3 Connection for Direct ATRAC Data Copying

You can daisy chain multiple MDS-B5 decks through the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINK connectors to copy the ATRAC compression data at about four times the normal recording rate, as well as simultaneously on up to ten MDS-B5 decks.

To use the direct ATRAC data copy function between the main deck (which plays the original MD) and the sub deck (which records the data), connect the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINE OUT connector on the main deck to the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINE IN connector on the sub deck using the specified cable. To make more than two copies of an MD using the direct ATRAC data copy function, daisy chain the sub decks using the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINE OUT and DIRECT DUPLICATION LINE IN connectors on each deck and the specified cables. The last sub deck in the chain must be specified as the “end” deck in the Setup menu.

The main deck	The sub deck		The end deck
OUT	IN	OUT	IN

Specifying an MDS-B5 as the main, sub, or end deck

To specify an MDS-B5 as the main, sub, or end deck when using the direct ATRAC data copy function, do the following Setup menu procedure.

		5
		=	+	3 Chapter
				Preparations
		0 )
p	(P	r

1

2,3,4

1 Press the EDIT/NO button while holding down the STOP button.

The Setup menu appears in the display window.

2 Turn the AMS control until the menu item F05 (“Dup Main”, “Dup Sub”, “Dup End”, or

“Dup Off”) appears in the window.

F05
D u p	M a i n

3 Press the AMS control.

The item flashes and you can change the setting.

4 Turn the AMS control to the item to be set, and press the AMS control to select it.

When using the direct ATRAC data copy function, each MDS-B5 in the daisy chain should be specified as one of the following units:

“Dup Main”: the main deck

“Dup Sub”: a sub deck

“Dup End”: the end deck

“Dup Off”: copy-disabled through the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINK connector

5 Press the EDIT/NO button to exit from the Setup menu.

Chapter 3 Preparations

3-3

Preparations 3 Chapter

3-2 Connections

Main/sub deck indication

When you specify an MDS-B5 as a main, sub or end deck, the status of the deck appears in the display window. “MAIN” means the main deck and “SUB” the sub or end deck.

F05
D u p	M a i n
	Main/sub deck indication

Disabling operation buttons on a sub or end deck

You can disable the operation buttons on a sub or end deck to prevent mistaken operations during high-speed dubbing.

3-2-4 Connecting and Setting the

Keyboard

You can use any IBM keyboard to control the MD deck. The supplied keyboard template has the same key indications found on the front panel of the deck. Be sure to remove the cap from the KEY BOARD connector when connecting a keyboard.

		=	+
		0 )
p	(P	r

KEY BOARD connector

See “7-10 Disabling the Buttons While Controlling Remotely” on page 7-10 for details.

Specifying the keyboard type

Use the Setup menu to specify the keyboard type.

1 Press the EDIT/NO button while holding down the STOP button.

The Setup menu appears in the display window.

2 Turn the AMS control to display the menu item F12 (“KB ENG 101” or “KB JPN 106”) in the window.

F12
K B	E N G	1 0 1

3 Press the AMS control.

The indication flashes and you can change the setting.

4 Turn the AMS control to select either “KB ENG 101” or “KB JPN 106.” Press the AMS control to select the item.

5 Press the EDIT/NO button to exit from the Setup menu.

3-4 Chapter 3 Preparations

3-3 Handling MiniDiscs

Unlike CDs (Compact Discs), the Mini Disc is encased within a hard plastic cartridge which allows you to handle it without fear of dust or fingerprint contamination. However, a MiniDisc that has been contaminated or bent may cause the MD player to malfunction. To prevent damage to the contents of a disc and to enjoy clear sound permanently, take the following precautions when handling a MiniDisc.

Do not open the shutter to expose the disc

If you do so, the data on the disc may be damaged.

Shutter Cartridge

Store MiniDiscs in a proper location

Do not place the cartridge where it will be subject to extremes of sunlight, temperature, moisture or dust.

Cleaning the MiniDisc

Gently wipe the cartridge with a dry soft cloth to remove dust.

Preparations 3 Chapter

Chapter 3 Preparations

3-5

3-32 -Conn4 Settingct onsthe Analog Input and Output Reference Levels

Preparations 3 Chapter

You can adjust the analog input and output reference levels during recording or playback within a range of +8 dB to –12 dB by turning the PLAYBACK and RECORD level controls on the rear of the MD deck. The analog input and output reference level is factory set at +4 dB (at –20 dB from full bit).

Setting the analog input and output reference levels

12

1Play back a disc recorded at –20 dB from the full bit. Adjust the output level of the ANALOG OUT connectors with the PLAYBACK (CH-1/CH-2) level controls.

2Input an audio signal to the ANALOG IN connectors, and during recording or recording pause adjust the output level for the ANALOG OUT connectors with the RECORD (CH-1/CH-2) level controls.

Note

Adjust the PLAYBACK and RECORD level controls with a flat screwdriver. Do not use excessive force when turning the screwdriver or touch the screwdriver to any part other than the PLAYBACK and RECORD level controls.

3-6 Chapter 3 Preparations

4-1 Selecting the Input Signal

To select the input signal for recording, do the	4 Turn the AMS control to one of the following
following Setup menu procedure.	items. Then press the AMS control to select the
	item.

		5		“Analog In”: Selects analog input from the
				ANALOG IN connectors
				“DIN AES/EBU”: Selects the digital input from
				the AES/EBU connectors
				“DIN Coaxial”: Selects digital input from the
				SPDIF IN connectors
		=	+	5 Press the EDIT/NO button to exit from the Setup
		0 )
p	(P	r		menu.

1	2,3,4	Recording track numbers automatically
		During analog or AES/EBU signal input

1 Press the EDIT/NO button while holding down the STOP button.

The Setup menu appears in the display window.

F26

K i l l A l m o s t

2 Turn the AMS control to display the F01: Analog In menu indication.

Use the LevelSync function to automatically record a track number whenever the deck detects an inaudible portion.

To set the LevelSync function, see “7-2 LevelSync Setting (Track Marking Function)” on page 7-2.

To set the input reference level, see “3-4 Setting the Analog Input and Output Reference Level” on page 3-6.

During digital input from the IEC(958) connectors

When recording from a consumer MD deck*, a CD player*, an MDS-B6P, or another MDS-B5, the MDSB5 automatically records track numbers according to the level and U-bit of the digital input signal, regardless of the LevelSync setting.

F01
A n a l o g	I n

3 Press the AMS control.

The indication flashes and you can change the setting.

..........................................................................................................................................................................................................

*An MD deck or a CD player that is able to output digital signals with a Q-code added as a U-bit.

Recording 4 Chapter

Recording 4 Chapter

Chapter 4 Recording 4-1

Recording 4 Chapter

4-2 Recording Procedure
4-1 Selecting the I put Signal
If the inserted disc contains recorded material, the MD	To eject the disc
deck will automatically record new material at the end	Press the STOP button to stop the MD, then press the
of the existing material and with a new track number.	EJECT button.

		=	+
		0 )
p	(P	r

32

1Select the input signal using the Setup menu (see page 4-1).

2Press the REC button.

The MD deck enters recording pause. (The REC button lights up and the PLAY/PAUSE button flashes.)

3Press the PLAY/PAUSE button.

Recording starts. (The REC and PLAY/PAUSE buttons light up.)

4Play the sound source to be recorded.

The number of the track being recorded and elapsed recording time appear in the display.

Note

When “VariSpeed On” is selected for menu item F07, it will take about 10 seconds for the MD deck to enter recording pause.

Recording a track number manually during recording

Press the REC button at the place you want to add a track number.

To stop recording

Press the STOP button.

To stop recording temporarily

Press the PLAY/PAUSE button.

To resume recording, press the PLAY/PAUSE button again.

Preventing accidental erasure

Slide the record-protect tab to open the slot. To allow recording again, slide the tab to close the slot.

Record-protect tab

Rear of the disc

Slide the tab in the direction of arrow.

To record in monoaural mode

The monouaral recording mode allows you to record about twice as much material on the same amount of the tape than stereo recording mode. Use the Setup menu to choose monouaral recording mode.

1 Press the EDIT/NO button while holding down the STOP button.

The Setup menu appears in the display.

2 Turn the AMS control to select “F04:Stereo Rec.”

3 Press the AMS control.

The indication flashes and the display for setting the recording mode appears.

4 Turn the AMS control clockwise to display “F04:Monoral Rec,” then press the AMS control. The “MONO” indication lights up.

5 Press the EDIT/NO button to exit from the Setup menu.

4-2 Chapter 4 Recording

About the sampling rate converter

A built-in sampling rate converter automatically converts the sampling frequency of various digital sources to the 44.1 kHz sampling rate of the MD deck. This allows you to record sources such as 32and 48kHz DAT or satellite broadcasts from the digital input connectors.

Time-machine recording

AMS control

		=	+
		0 )
p	(P	r

T.REC button

To activate time-machine recording, press the AMS control on the front panel or the T.REC button on the remote controller while the deck is in recording pause mode. Recording takes place starting with the first 6 seconds (maximum) of audio data that has been stored in the buffer memory in advance.

Recording 4 Chapter

Chapter 4 Recording 4-3

Recording 4 Chapter

4-41 -Selecting3 Displaythe InputInformationSign l During Recording

Changing the information display during recording

Each press of the DISPLAY button during recording changes the information on the display as follows:

Remaining recording time on disc

001 00 25 21

M i n i D i s c ! *

v

Recorded time of the current track

001 00 09 45

M i n i D i s c ! *

MD-related limitations

The recording system in your MD deck is radically different from those used in cassette and DAT decks and is characterized by the limitations described below.

“Disc Full” lights up even before the disc has reached the maximum recording time (60 or 74 minutes)

When 255 tracks have been recorded on the disc, “Disc Full” lights up regardless of the total recorded time. More than 255 tracks cannot be recorded on the disc.

“Disc Full” lights up before the maximum number of track is reached

Fluctuations in emphasis within tracks are sometimes interpreted as track intervals, incrementing the track count.

The total recorded time and the remaining time on the disc may not equal the maximum recording time (60 or 74 minutes)

Recording is done in minimum units of 2 seconds each, no matter how short the material. The contents recorded may thus be shorter than the maximum recording capacity. Disc space may also be further reduced by scratches.

“TOC Reading” indication appears for a long time

If the inserted recorded disc is brand new, the “TOC Reading” indication appears on the display longer than for those that have been used.

Playback of a track of under 4 seconds may be accompanied by sound dropout at the start of the next track or mis-operation of the MD deck.

4-4 Chapter 4 Recording

4-4 Adding Disc and Track Titles

Use the title function to add titles to your own discs and tracks using the character and numeric buttons on the remote controller. The maximum number of characters for all titles on a disc is 1,792.

Adding a disc or track title

3

1,5 2

1 Press the NAME button.

The display changes to title-entry mode.

To add a disc title

Enter a disc title while the MD deck is stopped.

To add a track title

You can add a track title when (1) the MD deck is playing or recording a track; (2) when the MD deck is in playback pause, or (3) when the MD deck is stopped on the track to be entitled.

2 Press either CAPS (uppercase) or SML (lowercase) to select the type of characters to be entered.

3 Enter the disc or track title with the character and numeric buttons on the remote controller.

4 Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the entire title appears in the display.

To change a character entry

Press the 0or )button to the character to be changed. The character will flash. Press the CANCEL button and repeat the step 2 and 3.

5 Press the NAME button to record the title on the disc.

To cancel the title entry process

Press the pbutton.

Note

If “Protected” appears in the display

The record-protection slot on the disc is open and titles cannot be written to the disc. To add titles to the disc, eject the disc and close the slot.

Erasing a disc or track title

Do the procedure below to erase a disc or track title using the remote controller.

1 Press the NAME button while the deck is playing or pausing on the track whose title is to be erased. To erase the disc title, press the button while the deck is stopped.

2 Hold down the CANCEL button.

3 Press the ENTER button when the last character of the title has disappeared and the cursor remains.

Recording 4 Chapter

Chapter 4 Recording 4-5

4-41 -Selecting5 Procedurethe InputforSignalDirect ATRAC Data Copying

You can daisy chain multiple MDS-B5 decks and copy ATRAC compressed data through the DIRECT DUPLICATION LINK connectors to perform dubbing at maximum of about four times the normal dubbing speed. Up to ten MDS-B5 decks can be daisy chained. Do the procedure for direct ATRAC data copying on the main deck.

For details on the settings for direct ATRAC data copying and on specifying an MDS-B5 as a main deck, sub deck, or end deck, see “3-2-3 Connection for Direct ATRAC Data Copying” on page 3-3.

	To do direct ATRAC data copy
			3	ENTER/YES button
4 Chapter
Recording				=	+
			0 )
	p	(P	r

2-8

1 Press the EDIT/NO button. The Edit menu appears.

2 Turn the AMS control to select “015:Duplicate ?.”

3 Press the AMS control.

The display for selecting the track to be copied using the direct ATRAC data copy function appears.

001	00 34 65
D u p	T r 1 -

4 Turn the AMS control to display the track number to be copied.

5 Press the AMS control. “ErrCheckOff” appears.

If you want error checking to be done automatically after dubbing is completed, turn the AMS control to select “ErrCheckOn.”

6 Press the AMS control.

“Start: Yes” and “Cancel: No” alternate on the display.

The sub deck and end deck automatically enter recording pause, the REC button lights, and the PLAY/PAUSE button flashes.

7 Press the AMS control or the PLAY/PAUSE button.

“Duplicate” flashes and direct ATRAC data copying starts.

If you selected the “ErrCheckOn” , the sub deck and end deck automatically begin error checking after direct ATRAC data copying finishes. When error checking finishes, “DupComplete!” appears.

8 Press the AMS control or the ENTER/YES button. The sub and end decks write the TOC information onto the disc, then exit from the Edit menu.

Notes

•Direct ATRAC data copying copies TOC-related character data such as track titles and track numbers. Note, however, that other TOC data, such as cue points, trimmimg specifications, program lists, and multi-access lists, are included only when copying all tracks onto a blank disc in a sub or end deck.

•Do not press any of the operation buttons until direct ATRAC data copying finishes and “DupComplete!” appears on the display. “-Duplicate-” may continue flashing for a few minutes as the TOC (Table Of Contents) information is being written, even after the time information has stopped.

To perform error checking only

1 Press the EDIT/NO button. The Edit menu appears.

2 Turn the AMS control to select “014:Err Check ?” .

3 Press the AMS control.

The display for selecting the track to begin error checking appears.

001	00 34 65
C h e c k	T r 1 -

4 Turn the AMS control to select the track number.

5 Press the AMS control. Error checking starts.

After error checking finishes, the results are displayed.

6 If any error is detected, press the AMS control again.

7 Turn the AMS control to display up to ten positions where error has occurred.

4-6 Chapter 4 Recording

4-6 Restrictions on Digital Copying

Track mode data recorded to a disc during recording

Track mode data consist of eight bits of information recorded in the user TOC (Table Of Contents) area on the disc indicating such disc-related conditions as copyright status, digital copy restrictions, disc use, and emphasis data.

Two track mode bits, d2 and d3, which indicate copyright status and restrictions on digital copies, are explained below.

Track mode

d1

d2

d3

d4

d5

d6

d7

d8

d2: Copyright status

0: Copyrighted

1: Uncopyrighted

d3: Digital copy generation

0: Original

1: First-generation copy or later

When recording an input signal from the ANALOG IN or AES/EBU connector or an IEC958-TYPE1 digital input signal

(for professional use)

The disc will be completely copy-enabled by the Serial Copy Management System. This status is indicated by the track mode bit values of d2=1 and d3=1.

When recording an IEC958-TYPE2 digital input signal (for consumer use)

Three types of discs can be produced, depending on the sub-code information included in the input signal.

	Input signal		Track mode bit		During digital
	Category	Channel	d2	d3	copying between
					two consumer MD
	code	status bit 2
					recorders
	Category	1	1	1	Copy-enabled
	codes other
		(Uncopyrighted)
	than that
	below
		0	0	1	Copy-disabled
		(Copyrighted)
	General	–	0	0	First-generation
	ACTUAL A/D				copy only

An MD which contains analog signals recorded on a consumer MD recorder can used to make a firstgeneration digital copy. No restrictions are placed on digital copying of MD recordings made on professional MD recorders, as long as the recording is made on an MDS-B5. When copying analog signals, you can use the LevelSync (track marking) function to record track numbers automatically.

See “7-2 LevelSync Setting (Track Marking Function)” on page 7-2.

The conditions for digital copying, as determined by track mode bits d2 and d3, are shown below.

When using two MDS-B5s

	MDS-B5	ç		MDS-B5
		IEC958
		TYPE2
X11XXXXX nX11XXXXX			Copy-enabled
X00XXXXX nX01XXXXX			Copy-enabled
X01XXXXX nX01XXXXX			Copy-enabled

When using a consumer MD recorder to make a copy of a disc recorded on the MDS-B5

	MDS-503	ç		MDS-503
		IEC958
		TYPE2
X11XXXXX nX11XXXXX			Copy-enabled
X00XXXXX nX01XXXXX			First-generation copy only
X01XXXXX nCopy-disabled

Recording 4 Chapter

Chapter 4 Recording 4-7