Sony mds-e11 User Manual 2

2-346-664-12(1)

MiniDisc Recorder

Operating Instructions

MDS-E11

 1998 by Sony Sound Tec Corporation

WARNING

Notice for the Customers in the
United Kingdom

IMPORTANT

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

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 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. Do not connect either wire to the
earth 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.

To prevent fire or shock
hazard, do not expose the unit

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
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 encauraged 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.

On operation

If the recorder is brought directly from a
cold to a warm location, or is placed in a
very damp room, moisture may
condense on the lenses inside the
recorder. Should this occur, the
recorder may not operate properly. In
this case, remove the MD and leave the
recorder turned on for about an hour
until the moisture evaporates.

On the MiniDisc cartridge

• Do not open the shutter to expose the
MD.

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

On cleaning

Clean the cabinet, panel and controls
with a soft cloth slightly moistened with
a mild detergent solution. Do not use
any type of abrasive pad, scouring
powder or solvent such as alcohol or
benzine.

If you have any questions or problems
concerning your recorder, please
consult your nearest Sony dealer.

to rain or moisture.

Welcome!

To avoid electrical shock, do
not open the cabinet. Refer

Precautions

servicing to qualified
personnel only.

This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.

This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the
appliance.

* The location of the marking is at the rear of

the enclosure.

On safety (Rifer to the supplied
“WARNING”.)

Should any solid object or liquid fall
into the cabinet, unplug the recorder
and have it checked by qualified
personnel before operating it any
further.

On power sources

• Before operating the recorder, check
that the operating voltage of the
recorder is identical with your local
power supply. The operating voltage
is indicated on the nameplate at the
rear of the recorder.

• If you are not going to use the
recorder for a long time, be sure to
disconnect the recorder from the wall
outlet. To disconnect the AC power
cord, grasp the plug itself; never pull
the cord.

• AC power cord must be changed only
at the qualified service shop.

2

Thank you for purchasing the Sony
MiniDisc Recorder. Before operating
the recorder, please read this manual
thoroughly and retain it for future
reference.

About This Manual

Conventions

• Controls in the instructions are those

on the recorder; these may, however,
be substituted by controls on the
remote that are similarly named or,
when different, appear in the
instructions within brackets.

• The following icons are used in this

manual:

Indicates a procedure that

Z

requires use of the remote.

Indicates tips for making the

z

task easier and hints.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Getting Started

Unpacking ........................................................................................................................... 4

Connection .......................................................................................................................... 4

Basic Operations

Recording on an MD ......................................................................................................... 6

Playing an MD.................................................................................................................... 8

Recording on MDs

Notes on Recording ........................................................................................................... 9

Useful Tips for Recording ................................................................................................ 9

Recording Over Existing Tracks..................................................................................... 11

Adjusting the Recording Level....................................................................................... 11

Marking Track Numbers While Recording (Track Marking) ................................... 12

Starting Recording With 6 Seconds of Prestored Audio Data

(Time Machine Recording).............................................................................................. 12

Synchro-Recording With Audio Equipment of Your Choice.................................... 13

Synchro-Recording With a Sony CD Playe .................................................................. 14

Recording Using a Timer................................................................................................. 15

Playing MDs

Using the Display ............................................................................................................. 16

Locating a Specific Track ................................................................................................. 17

Locating a Particular Point in a Track ........................................................................... 18

Playing Tracks Repeatedly .............................................................................................. 18

Playing Tracks in Random Order (Shuffle Play)......................................................... 19

Creating Your Own Program (Program Play) ............................................................. 20

Useful Tips When Recording From MDS to Tape....................................................... 21

Playing Using a Timer...................................................................................................... 22

Editing Recorded MDs

Notes on Editing ............................................................................................................... 22

Erasing Recordings (Erase Function) ........................................................................... 22

Dividing Recorded Tracks (Divide Function).............................................................. 24

Combining Recorded Tracks (Combine Function) ..................................................... 25

Moving Recorded Tracks (Move Function).................................................................. 26

Labeling Recordings (Title Function) ............................................................................ 26

Undoing the Last Edit (Undo Function) ...................................................................... 29

Additional Information

Function of Control Terminal ......................................................................................... 29

Dimensions ........................................................................................................................ 30

Functions of REMOTE Terminals .................................................................................. 31

Display Messages.............................................................................................................. 34

System Limitations ........................................................................................................... 34

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................ 35

Specifications ..................................................................................................................... 36

Index of Parts and Controls ............................................................................................ 37

Guide to the Serial Copy Management System........................................................... 38

3

Getting Started

Getting Started

Unpacking

Check that you received the following items:

• Remote commander (remote) RM-D7M (1)

• R6 (size AA) batteries (2)

Inserting batteries into the remote

You can control the recorder using the supplied
remote.
Insert two R6 (size AA) batteries by matching the +
and – on the batteries. When using the remote, point it
at the remote sensor g on the recorder.

z When to replace batteries

With normal use, the batteries should last for about six
months. When the remote no longer operates the
recorder, replace all the batteries with new ones.

Notes

• Do not leave the remote near an extremely hot or humid

place.

• Do not drop any foreign object into the remote casing,

particularly when replacing the batteries.

• Do not expose the remote sensor to direct sunlight or

lighting apparatuses. Doing so may cause a malfunction.

• If you don’t use the remote for an extended period of time,

remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from
battery leakage and corrosion.

Connection

Overview

This section describes how to hook up the MD recorder
to other components such as a mixer, CD player or
DAT recorder. Be sure to turn off the power of each
component before connection.

to a wall
outlet

PC or similar

equipment

MDS-E11

External controller

Remote controller,
or other controller

OUT IN

Mixer

DIGITAL

COAXIAL OUT

CD player, DAT
recorder, or MD
recorder, etc.

: Signal flow

DIGITAL

COAXIAL IN

OUT IN

Mixer

4

Getting Started

What cords will I need?

• Audio connecting cords (pin type)

White

(L)

Red

(R)

• Audio connecting cords (XLR type)

• Coaxial digital connecting cable

• Control-S cord (mini-jack type)

• Relay recording/playback cord (such as RK-G136)
(stereo mini-jack type)

(stereo mini-jack type)

White

(L)

Red
(R)

Connection

• Connecting the recorder to an analog device

Use the terminals and switches shown below.

Switch setting

+4dBu

–10dBu

The BALANCE I/O connector specifications are as follows:

Input terminal XLR-3-31
equivalent

Output level

Signals having a metered level of –20 dB
are generated at a +4 dBu level.

Signals having a metered level of –20 dB
are generated at a –10 dBu level.

Output terminal XLR-3-32
equivalent

1 : GND
2 : HOT
3 : COLD

1 : GND
2 : HOT
3 : COLD

• Connecting the recorder to a digital component such
as a CD player, DAT recorder, another MD recorder, or
mixer

Connect the component through the DIGITAL IN/OUT
connectors with two coaxial digital connecting cables.

MD recorder Digital component

Analog I/O terminal
UNBAL (pin type)

ANALOG INPUT switch

Switch the rear-panel ANALOG INPUT according to the
type of the input terminal used.

Analog I/O terminal
BAL (XLR type)

OUTPUT LEVEL switch

To record through Set INPUT to

UNBAL IN (pin type) UNBAL
BAL IN (XLR type) BAL

z Regardless of the setting of the ANALOG INPUT

switch, signals are transferred to both the UNBAL
and BAL output terminals.

z If you use the BALANCE output terminal (XLR type),

you can use the OUTPUT LEVEL switch to switch the
output level.

çç

ç: Signal flow

çç

z Automatic conversion of digital sampling rates

during recording

A built-in sampling rate converter automatically
converts the sampling frequency of various digital
sources to the 44.1 kHz sampling rate of your MD
recorder.
This allows you to record sources such as 32 and
48 kHz DAT or satellite broadcasts, as well as compact
discs and other MDs.

Connecting the AC power cord

Connect the AC power cord to a wall outlet.

5

Basic Operations

Basic Operations

Recording on an MD

23

Turn on the mixer and program source.

1

Press U.

2

Insert a recordable MD.

3

54

768

Analog input

When using the analog input,
switch the rear-panel ANALOG
INPUT (BAL or UNBAL) acording
to the type of the input terminal
used.

Monitor audio during recording

Even if you set REC MODE to
MONO, the monitor signal does
not become monaural.

Recording mode

The last recording mode in effect
will be restored even when you
replace the MD or turn the
recorder off and on.

With the arrow
pointing this way

If the MD has a recorded material on it, the recorder will
automatically start recording from the end of the last recorded
track.

Set INPUT to the corresponding input connector.

With the label side up

4

To record through Set INPUT to

DIGITAL IN
ANALOG IN

Select a recording mode from the Set up Menu.

5

1 Press EDIT/NO twice to display “Setup Menu.”
2 Wait until “Rec Mode” appears in the display, when press AMS.
3 Turn AMS to the desired recording mode (STEREO or MONO) and press

AMS.

4 Press EDIT/NO..

Monaural recording will last about two times longer than stereo recording.

COAXIAL
BAL or UNBAL

DIGITAL
ANALOG

6

Basic Operations

Press r.

6

The recorder stands by for record.

When recording the analog input signal, adjust the recording

7

level with REC LEVEL.
The fourth dot is satisfactory for most purposes. For details,
refer to “Adjusting the Recording Level” on page 11.

Press · or P.

8

Recording starts.

Start playing the program source.

9

When ”TOC“ indicator flashes in
the display

The recorder is currently updating
the Table Of Contents (TOC).
Do not turn off the power, move
the recorder, or pull out the AC
power cord, while “TOC”
indicator is flashing. Changes to an
MD made through recording are
saved only when you update the
TOC by ejecting the MD.

Do not turn off the power or disconnect the recorder from the power source
immediately after recording.

If you do, recorded material may not be saved to the MD. To save the
material, after recording, press § EJECT to take out the MD. “TOC” indicator
will flash in the display at this time.
After “TOC” indicator stops flashing and is unlit, you can turn off the power
or pull out the AC power cord.

To

Stop recording
Pause recording* P. Press the button again or press · to

Take out the MD

* Whenever you pause recording, the track number increases by one. For example, if

you paused recording while recording on track 4, the track number increases by
one and recording continues on the new track when restarted.

To protect an MD against accidental erasure

To make it impossible to record on an MD, slide the tab in the direction of
arrow, opening the slot. To allow recording, close the slot.

Rear of the disc

Press

p

resume recording.

§ EJECT after stopping recording

Record-protect tab

Basic Operations

Slide the tab in
the direction of arrow

7

Basic Operations

Playing an MD

23 4

Turn on the mixer and adjust the fader or level control of the

1

corresponding channel.

z You can locate and play back

a track while the recorder is
stopped

1 Turn AMS (or press =

or + on the remote)
until the number of the
desired track appears.

2 Press AMS or ·.

z To use headphones

Connect them to PHONES
jack. Use PHONE LEVEL to
adjust the volume.

Press U.

2

Insert an MD.

3

With the arrow
pointing this way

Press ·.

4

The recorder starts playing.

To

Stop playing
Pause playing

Go to the next track

Go to the preceding track

Take out the MD

With the label side up

Do the following:

Press p.
Press P. Press the button again or press

· to resume playing.

Turn AMS clockwise (or press + on
the remote).

Turn AMS counterclockwise (or press
= on the remote).

Press § EJECT.

8

Recording on MDs

Notes on Recording

If “Protected” appears in the display

The MD is record-protected. Close the slot to record on the
disc (see “To protect an MD against accidental erasure” on
page 7).

If “Din Unlock” flashes in the display

• The digital program source which you set with INPUT in
Step 4 on page 6, is not connected.
To continue, connect the program source properly.

• The program source is not on.
Turn on the program source.

Depending on the source being recorded, track numbers
are marked in the following ways:

• When recording from a CD or MD with INPUT set to
DIGITAL and the source connected through DIGITAL IN:
The recorder automatically marks track numbers in the
same sequence as the original. If, however, a track is
repeated two or more times (e.g. by single-track repeat
play) or two or more tracks with the same track number
(e.g. from different MDs or CDs) are played, the track or
tracks are recorded as a single, continuous track with a
single track number.
If the source is an MD, track numbers may not be marked
for tracks of less than 4 seconds.

• When recording from DAT or satellite broadcasts with
INPUT set to DIGITAL, the recorder automatically marks
a track number whenever the sampling frequency of the
input signal changes.

When “TOC” indicator flashes in the display

The recorder is currently updating the Table Of Contents
(TOC). Do not turn off the power, move the recorder, or pull
out the AC power cord. Changes to an MD made through
recording are saved when you update the TOC by ejecting
the MD.

Recording on MDs

If “Cannot Copy” appears in the display

The recorder uses the SCMS (Serial Copy Management
System).
MDs recorded through digital input connector cannot be
copied onto other MDs or DAT tapes through the digital
output connector (see page 38).

When recording digital signals that have been emphasized
(in the higher frequencies)

The signal is automatically de-emphasized (with attenuation
proportional to the degree of emphasis) and the level of the
de-emphasized signal is indicated on the peak level meters.

When the recorder is recording or in recording pause,
digital signals input through DIGITAL IN are output to
DIGITAL OUT with the same sampling rate.

To change the digital input signal to another sampling rate
for output (without recording it to an MD), use Input
Monitor Function (see page 10).

Basic Operations

Useful Tips for Recording Z

Checking the remaining recordable time on
the MD

• When you press DISPLAY repeatedly while
recording, the display changes as follows: elapsed
recording time, remaining recordable time on the
MD, track name.

• When you press DISPLAY repeatedly while the
recorder is stopped, the display changes as follows:
total recorded time, remaining recordable time on
the MD, disc name (see page 16).

When the program mode is set to PROGRAM or SHUFFLE
(see pages 19 and 20)

It is automatically switched to CONTINUE and the
equipment enters the recording standby state.

(Continued)

9

Recording on MDs

Monitoring the input signal (Input Monitor)

Before starting recording, you can monitor the selected
input signal through the recorder’s output connectors.

1 Press §EJECT to remove the MD.
2 Set INPUT according to the input signal you want

to monitor.

When INPUT is set to ANALOG

The analog signal input through LINE (ANALOG) IN is
output to DIGITAL OUT after A/D conversion, and
then to the LINE (ANALOG) OUT connectors and
PHONES jack after D/A conversion.

When INPUT is set to DIGITAL

The digital signal input through DIGITAL IN is output
to DIGITAL OUT, and then to the LINE (ANALOG)
OUT connectors and PHONES jack after D/A
conversion.

Note

Even if you set REC MODE to MONO, the monitor
signal does not become monaural.

3 Press r.

If INPUT is set to ANALOG, “AD-DA” appears in
the display.
If INPUT is set to DIGITAL, “-DA”appears in the
display.

If “Smart Space” appears in the display
(Smart Space)

When there has been an extended silence of up to 30
seconds in length, and the signal is input again, the
silence is replaced by a blank of about 3 seconds and
the recorder continues recording.

Note

However, if you begin recording during such an extended
silent portion, the smart space function will not be activated.

To turn off the Smart Space Function and Auto Cut
Function

1 While the recorder is stopped, press EDIT/NO twice to

display “Setup Menu”.

2 Turn AMS until “Smart Space” menu appears in the

display, then press AMS.

3 Turn AMS until “S.Space OFF” appears in the display,

then press AMS.

4 Press EDIT/NO.

To turn on the Smart Space Function and Auto Cut
Function again

1 Carry out Steps 1 and 2 in “To turn off the Smart Space

Function and Auto Cut Function” above.

2 Turn AMS until “S.Space ON” appears in the display, then

press AMS.

3 Press EDIT/NO.

If “Auto Cut” appears in the display
(Auto Cut)

There has been no sound input for 30 seconds while
INPUT is set to DIGITAL and the source is connected
through DIGITAL IN. The 30 seconds of silence are
replaced by a blank of about 3 seconds and the
recorder changes to recording pause.

z You can turn off the Auto Cut Function

For details, see “If “Smart Space” appears in the
display” below.

Notes

• When you turn off the Smart Space Function, the Auto Cut
Function is also turned off automatically.

• The Smart Space Function and Auto Cut Function are
factory set to on.

• If you turn off the recorder or disconnect the AC power
cord, the recorder will recall the last setting (on or off) of
the Smart Space and Auto Cut Functions the next time you
turn on the recorder.

10

Recording on MDs

Recording Over Existing Tracks

Follow the procedure below to record over existing
material just as you would on an analog cassette tape.

≠ AMS ±

=/+

1 Carry out Steps 1 to 5 in “Recording on an MD”

on page 6.

2 Turn AMS (or press = or +) until the

number of the track to be recorded over appears.

3 To record from the start of the track, continue

from Step 6 in “Recording on an MD” on page 7.

z To record from the middle of the track

1 After Step 2 above, press · to start playback.
2 Press P where you want to start recording.
3 Continue from Step 6 in “Recording on an MD” on

page 7.

6

pP·

r

+=

)0

Adjusting the Recording Level

When recording with INPUT set to ANALOG and the
signal input through LINE (ANALOG) IN jacks, use
REC LEVEL to adjust the recording level before
starting recording.
You cannot adjust the recording level during digital
recording.

REC LEVEL

1 Carry out Steps 1 to 6 in “Recording on an MD”

on pages 6 and 7.

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 reach their highest point without turning
on the OVER indication. Occasional lighting of
“OVER” is acceptable.

Note

You cannot record from the middle of the track during
“PROGRAM”or “SHUFFLE”play.

4 Stop playing the program source.
5 To start recording, follow the procedure starting

from Step 8 in “Recording on an MD” on page 7.

11

Recording on MDs

Marking T rack Numbers While
Recording (Track Marking)

You can mark track numbers either manually or
automatically. By marking track numbers at specific
points, you can quickly locate the points later using the
AMS Function or Editing Functions.

EDIT/NO

Marking track numbers manually
(Manual Track Marking)

You can mark track numbers at any time while
recording on an MD.

Press r at the place you want to add a track mark
while recording.

YES

r

To Cancel Auto Track Marking

1 While the recorder is stopped, press EDIT/NO twice to

display “Set up Menu”.

2 Turn AMS until “Level Sync” appears in the display, then

press AMS.

3 Turn AMS until “Level Sync OFF” appears in the display,

then press AMS.

4 Press EDIT/NO.

To Turn on Auto Track Marking

1 Carry out Steps 1 and 2 in “To Cancel Auto Track

Marking” above.

2 Turn AMS until “Level Sync ON” appears in the display,

then press AMS.

3 Press EDIT/NO.

z When you want to mark track numbers after you‘ve

finished recording

Use the Divide Function (see “Dividing Recorded
Tracks” on page 24.)

Note

If you turn off the recorder or disconnect the AC power cord,
the recorder will recall the last setting (Level Sync ON or
OFF) of the Automatic Track Marking Function the next time
you turn on the recorder.

Marking track numbers automatically
(Automatic Track Marking)

The recorder adds track marks differently in the
following cases:

• When recording from CDs or MDs with INPUT set
to DIGITAL and the source connected through
DIGITAL IN:
The recorder marks track numbers automatically.
When you record from a CD or MD, the track
numbers are marked as they are found on the
original.

• In the case other than the above
The LEVEL-SYNC function assigns a track number
automatically each time the input signal of the
source falls to a given level or below and a new input
signal exceeding that level is received.

Starting Recording With
6 Seconds of Prestored Audio
Data (Time Machine Recording)

When recording from an FM or satellite broadcast, the
first few seconds of material are often lost due to the
time it takes you to ascertain the contents and press the
record button. To prevent the loss of this material, the
Time Machine Recording Function constantly stores 6
seconds of the most recent audio data in the buffer
memory so that when you begin recording the
program source, the recording actually begins with the
6 seconds of audio data stored in the buffer memory in
advance, as shown in the illustration below:

When you press
AMS in Step 3

Audio data in 6-second buffer memory

End of the program
source to be recorded

Time

Recorded
portion

12

Beginning of the program
source to be recorded

Recording on MDs

6

≠ AMS ±

pP·

r

+=

)0

T.REC

1 Carry out Steps 1 to 6 in “Recording on an MD”

on pages 6 and 7.
The recorder changes to recording pause.

2 Start playing the program source you want to

record.
The most recent 6 seconds of audio data is stored
in the buffer memory.

3 Press AMS (or T.REC) to start Time Machine

Recording.
Recording of the program source starts with the
6 seconds of audio data stored in the buffer
memory.

z To stop Time Machine Recording

Press p.

Note

The recorder starts storing audio data when the recorder is
in recording pause and you start playing the program
source. With less than 6 seconds of playing of the program
source and audio data stored in the buffer memory, Time
Machine Recording starts with less than 6 seconds of audio
data.

Synchro-Recording With Audio
Equipment of Your Choice Z

By using the MUSIC SYNC button on the remote, you
can automatically start a Synchronized recording with
the signal input from the program source through the
input jacks.
The method of marking track numbers differs,
depending on the program source being recorded and
how the recorder is connected to the program source.
(See “Notes on Recording” on page 9.)

6

pP·

r

+=

)0

1 Carry out Steps 1 to 5 in “Recording on an MD”

on page 6.

2 Press MUSIC SYNC.

The recorder changes to recording pause.

3 Start playing the program source you want to

record.
The recorder starts recording automatically.

z To stop Music Synchro-Recording

Press p.

MUSIC SYNC

Note

During Music Synchro-Recording, the Smart Space Function
and the Auto Cut Function turn on automatically regardless
of their settings (ON or OFF) and type of input (digital or
analog).

13

Recording on MDs

Synchro-Recording With a Sony
CD Player Z

By connecting your recorder to a Sony CD player, you
can easily dub CDs onto MDs using the CD synchro
buttons on the remote. If your recorder is connected to
a Sony CD player by a digital input cable, track
numbers are automatically marked as on the original,
regardless of whether “LevelSync ON” or
“LevelSyncOFF” is selected. If your recorder is
connected to a Sony CD player by audio connecting
cords through LINE (ANALOG) IN, track numbers are
automatically marked when you select “LevelSync
ON” (see “Marking Track Numbers While Recording”
on page 12).
As the same remote controls both the CD player and
the recorder, you may have trouble operating both
units if they are far from each other. If you do, place
the CD player close to this recorder.

6



6 Press START.

The recorder starts recording and the CD player
starts playback.
The track number and elapsed recording time of
the track appear in the display.

If the CD player does not start playing

Some CD player models may not respond when you
press START on the remote of the recorder. Press P on
the remote of the CD player instead.

7 Press STOP to stop synchro-recording.

To pause recording

Press STANDBY or CD PLAYER P.
To restart recording, press START or CD PLAYER P.
A new track number is marked each time you pause
recording.

z You can use the remote of the CD player during

synchro-recording

When you press p, the CD player stops and the
recorder pauses for recording.
When you press P, the CD player pauses and the
recorder pauses for recording.
To restart synchro-recording, press ·.

STANDBY

START

STOP

CD PLAYER P

P

pP·

r

+=

)0

+=

1 Turn on the CD player and the mixer.
2 Carry out Steps 2 to 5 in “Recording on an MD”

on page 6 to prepare the recorder for recording.

3 Insert a CD into the CD player.
4 Select the playback mode (Shuffle Play, Program

Play, etc.) on the CD player.

5 Press STANDBY.

The CD player pauses for playing and the
recorder pauses for recording.

z You can change CDs during synchro-recording

Carry out the following steps instead of Step 7 above.
1 Press p on the remote of the CD player.

The recorder pauses for recording.

2 Change the CD.
3 Press · on the remote of the CD player.

Synchro-recording restarts.

z You can also do synchro-recording with a Sony video

CD player

Using the procedure for synchro-recording with a Sony
CD player, you can do synchro-recording with a Sony
video CD player also.
To select the video CD player, press button number 2
while pressing down the POWER button before starting
the procedure.
To select the CD player again, press button number 1
while pressing down the POWER button.
The recorder is factory set to CD player for synchro­recording.

z You can check the remaining recordable time on the

MD

Press DISPLAY on the remote controller.

14

Recording Using a Timer

A commercially available timer connected to the
recorder allows it to start or stop recording at a
preappointed time. For additional information, refer to
the information manual for the timer.

1 Turn on the timer.
2 Perform steps 1 to 5 in “Recording on an MD”

(see page 6).

3 Choose “Timer REC” from the Setup Menu.

1. While the recorder is stopped, press EDIT/NO
twice to display “Setup Menu.”

2. Turn AMS until “Timer” appears in the display,
then press AMS.

3. Turn AMS until “Timer REC” appears in the
display, then press AMS.

4. Press EDIT/NO.

Recording on MDs

4 Set the timer to the desired operation.
5 Having finished recording with a timer, choose

“Timer OFF” from the Setup Menu.

1. Perform steps 1 and 2 in step 3 above.

2. Turn AMS until “Timer OFF” appears in the
display, then press AMS.

3. Press EDIT/NO.

If you leave the setup Menu “Timer REC” setting,
the recorder will begin recording automatically
next time it is powered on.

After timer recording, be sure to turn on the recorder within one
month

When you turn on the recoder next time, the recording will
be transfferd to the MD. If you leave the recorder
unpowered, the recording will not be transferred to the MD
when you turn on the recorder.

15

Playing MDs

Playing MDs

Using the Display Z

You can use the display to check disc and track
information such as the total track number, total
playing time of the tracks, remaining recordable time
of the disc and disc name.

6

DISPLAY

Checking the total track number, total disc
playing time, remaining recordable time of
the disc and the title of the disc

Each time you press DISPLAY/CHAR (or DISPLAY)
while the recorder is stopped, you can change the
display as follows:

Total number of tracks and total disc playing
time of all recorded tracks

SCROLL

pP·

Disc name

Total number of tracks Total disc playing time

To label a recordable disc and its tracks, see “Labeling
Recordings” on page 26.

Note

When you insert a new MD or turn off the recorder and turn
it on again, the last item displayed will reappear.
However, if you disconnect the AC power cord, the display
will show the total number of tracks and total disc playing
time of all recorded tracks the next time you turn on the
recorder, no matter what the last display was.

Checking remaining time and the title of a track

Press DISPLAY on the remote controller while playing
a track.
Each time you press DISPLAY, the track number and
remaining time of the current track are displayed in the
following sequence:

Press

Remaining recordable time of the disc
(Recorded MDs only)

The remaining recordable time of the disc
is not shown for premastered MDs.

Press

Disc name

Press

When you insert an MD, the disc name, total number
of tracks, and total disc playing time appear in the
display as follows:

Track number and playing time of the
current track

Press

Track number and remaining time of the
current track

Press

Track name

If no title is recorded, “No Name” appears,
followed by the elapsed playing time.

Press

16

(Continued)

Playing MDs

Playing MDs

z You can check the track name at any time while

playing an MD Z

Press SCROLL on the remote.
Since the display shows up to 12 characters at a time,
press SCROLL again to see the rest of the track title if
the title has 13 characters or more.
Press SCROLL again to pause scrolling, and again to
continue scrolling.

Locating a Specific Track

You can quickly locate any track while playing a disc
by using AMS (Automatic Music Sensor), = and

+, number buttons or M.SCAN on the remote.

≠ AMS ±

>25

6

Number
buttons

M.SCAN

z When you directly locate a track with a number over

25 Z

You must press >25 first, before entering the
corresponding digits.
Press >25 once if it is a 2-digit track number, and twice
if it is a 3-digit track number.
To enter “0,” press button 10.
Examples: • To play track number 30

Press >25 once, then 3 and 10.

• To play track number 100
Press >25 twice, then 1, 10 and 10.

z You can change the playing time during music scan

1 While the recorder is stopped, press EDIT/NO to

display “Setup Menu.”

2 Turn AMS until “Music Scan” menu appears in the

display, then press AMS.

3 Turn AMS to select the length of the Music SCAN

play within the range of 6 to 20 seconds, using steps
of about one second, then press AMS.

4 Press EDIT/NO.

z To pause playing at the beginning of a track

Turn AMS (or press = or +) after pausing
playback.

To locate

The next or
succeeding tracks

The current or
preceding tracks

A specific track
directly Z

A specific track by
using AMS

By scanning each
track (music scan) Z

·

=/+

pP·

r

+=

)0

Do the following:

During playback, turn AMS clockwise
(or press + repeatedly) until you
find the desired track.

During playback, turn AMS
counterclockwise (or press =
repeatedly) until you find the desired
track.

Press number buttons to enter the
track number.

1 Turn AMS until the desired track

number appears while the recorder
is stopped.

2 Press AMS or ·.
1 Press M.SCAN before you start

playing.

2 When you find the desired track,

press · to start playing.

z To go quickly to the beginning of the last track

Turn AMS counterclockwise (or press =) while the
display shows the total number of tracks and total disc
playing time, remaining recordable time of the disc, or
disc name (see page 16).

17

Playing MDs

Locating a Particular Point in a
Track

You can also use 0 and ) to locate a particular
point in a track during playback or playback pause.

0/)

To locate a point Press

While monitoring the
sound

Quickly by observing
the display during
playback pause
(high speed search)

z When “OVER” appears during high speed search

If the disc reaches the end while you are pressing )
during playback pause, “OVER” appears in the display.
Press 0 (or press 0) or turn AMS (or press =)
counterclockwise to go back.

Notes

• If the disc reaches the end while you are pressing )
during sound monitoring, the recorder stops.

• Tracks that are only a few seconds long may be too short
to scan using the search function. For such tracks, it is
better to play the MD at normal speed.

) (forward) or 0 (backward)
and keep pressing until you find
the desired point.

) or 0 and hold until you
find the desired point. There is
no sound output during this
operation.

Playing T racks Repeatedly Z

You can play tracks repeatedly in any play mode.

6

REPEAT

A˜B

)

Press REPEAT.
“R” appears in the display, and the recorder will repeat
the tracks as follows:

When the MD is
played in

Normal play (page 8)
Shuffle Play (page 19)
Program Play (page 20)

pP·

r

+=

)0

The recorder repeats

All the tracks
All the tracks in random order
The same program

18

To cancel repeat play

Press REPEAT until “R” (REPEAT) disappears from the
display.

Repeating the current track

While the track you want to repeat is playing in normal
play, press REPEAT several times until “REPEAT 1”
appears in the display.

(Continued)

Repeating a specific portion (A-B Repeat)

Z

You can play a specific portion of a track repeatedly.
This might be useful when you want to memorize
lyrics.
Note that you can only repeat a portion within the
boundaries of a single track.

1 While playing a disc, press A˜B at the starting

point (point A) of the portion to be played
repeatedly.
“Repeat- A-” appears in the display, with “-”
showing in REPEAT.

Playing MDs

Playing MDs

Playing Tracks in Random
Order (Shuffle Play) Z

You can have the recorder “shuffle” tracks and play
them in random order.

6

CONTINUE

SHUFFLE

2 Continue playing the track or press ) until you

reach the ending point (point B), then press A˜B
again.
The specified interval is played repeatedly. The
recorder starts to play the specified portion
repeatedly.

To cancel A-B Repeat

Press REPEAT or p.

Setting new starting and ending points

You can repeat the portion immediately after the currently
specified portion by changing the starting and ending
points.
1 Press A˜B while “REPEAT A-B” appears.

The current ending point B becomes the new starting
point A and “Repeat- A-” appears in the display.

2 Continue playing the track or press ) until you reach

the new ending point (point B), then press A˜B again.
The newly specified interval is played repeatedly.

Note

If you turn off the recorder or disconnect the AC power cord,
the recorder will recall the last setting of the Repeat Function
the next time you turn on the recorder.
The A-B Repeat settings, however, are lost.

·

pP·

r

+=

)0

1 Press SHUFFLE in the remote controller while the

recoder is stopped.
“S” is displayed in PLAY MODE in the display.

2 Press · to start Shuffle Play.

To cancel Shuffle Play

Press CONTINUE in the remote controller while the
recorder is stopped.
PLAY MODE in the display changes to “C”.

z You can specify tracks during Shuffle Play

• To play the next track, turn AMS clockwise (or press
+).

• To play from the beginning of the current track again,
turn AMS counterclockwise (or press =). You
cannot use AMS (or =) to go to tracks that have
already been played.

19

Playing MDs

Creating Your Own Program
(Program Play) Z

z You can program the same track repeatedly

Press the appropriate number button as many times as
you want to repeat.

You can specify the playback order of the tracks on an
MD and create your own programs containing up to 25
tracks.

6

PROGRAMCONTINUE

Number
buttons

>25

·

=/+

r

+=

)0

CLEAR

pP·

p

1 Press PROGRAM on the remote controller while

the recorder is stopped.

2 Press the number buttons to enter the tracks you

want to program in the order you want.
To program a track with a number over 25, use
the >25 button (see page 17).

If you’ve made a mistake

Press CLEAR, then press the correct number button.

3 Repeat Step 2 to enter other tracks. Each time you

enter a track, the total program time is calculated
and appears in the display.

4 Press · to start Program Play.

To cancel Program Play

Press CONTINUE in the remote controller while the
recorder is stopped. “P” (PLAY MODE) disappears from the
display.

z The program remains even after Program Play ends

When you press ·, you can play the same program
again.

Notes

• The program created by the Program Play Function is lost
when you press §EJECT to take out the MD.

• The program created by the Program Play Function is lost
when you turn off the recorder or disconnect the AC
power cord.

• The display shows “- -m - -s” instead of the total playing
time when the total playing time of the program exceeds
160 minutes.

Checking the track order

You can check the order of tracks in your program
during playback or playback pause.

Turn AMS (or press = or +) during playback or
playback pause. The track numbers appear in the
order they were programmed.

Changing the track order

You can change the order of the tracks in your
program before you start playing.

To

Erase the last track in the
program Z

Add tracks to the end of the
program

Change the whole program
completely

Do the following:

Press CLEAR. Each time you
press this button, the last
track will be cleared.

Carry out Steps 2 and 3 in
“Creating Your Own
Program.”

1 Press CONTINUE.
2 Carry out Steps 1 to 3 in

“Creating Your Own
Program.”

20

Useful Tips When Recording
From MDs to Tape

The Auto Space and Auto Pause Functions described in
this section make recording from MDs to tape more
easy.

6

Inserting blank spaces while recording to
tape (Auto Space)

The Auto Space Function inserts a 3-second blank
space between each track while recording from MDs to
tapes, allowing you to use the AMS function during
playback later.

Z

A.SPACE

pP·

Playing MDs

Playing MDs

Pausing after each track (Auto Pause)

When the Auto Pause Function is on, the recorder
pauses after playing each track. Auto Pause is
convenient when recording single tracks or multiple,
non-consecutive tracks.

Press A.SPACE on the remote controller until a mark
appears in A.PAUSE in the display.

To restart playback

Press · or P.

To cancel Auto Pause

Press A.SPACE on the remote controller until a mark
disappears in A.PAUSE in the display.

Note

If you turn off the recorder or disconnect the AC power cord,
the recorder will recall the last setting of the Auto Space and
Auto Pause Functions the next time you turn on the
recorder.

Press A.SPACE on the remote controller until a mark
appears in A.SPACE in the display.

To cancel Auto Space

Press A.SPACE on the remote controller until a mark
disappears in A.SPACE in the display.

Note

If the Auto Space Function is on while recording a selection
containing multiple track numbers, (for example, a medley
or symphony), blank spaces will be inserted within the
selection whenever the track number changes.

21

Playing MDs

Editing Recorded MDs

Playing Using a Timer

A commercially available timer connected to the
recorder allows it to start or stop playing at a
preappointed time. For additional information, refer to
the information manual for the timer.

1 Turn on the timer.
2 Perform steps 1 to 3 in “Playing an MD” (see page

8).

3 Choose “Timer PLAY” from the Setup Menu.

1. While the recorder is stopped, press EDIT/NO
twice to display “Setup Menu.”

2. Turn AMS until “Timer” appears in the display,
then press AMS.

3. Turn AMS until “Timer PLAY” appears in the
display, then press AMS.

4. Press EDIT/NO.

4 Set the timer to the desired operation.

After Finishing Playing with a Timer

If you leave the setup Menu “Timer PLAY” setting, the
recorder will begin playing automatically next time it is
powered on. If you are not playing with a timer, choose
“Timer OFF” from the Setup Menu.

Notes on Editing

You can edit the recorded tracks after recording, using
the following functions:

• Erase Function allows you to erase recorded tracks
simply by specifying the corresponding track
number.

• Divide Function allows you to divide tracks at
specified points so that you can quickly locate those
points afterwards, using the AMS function.

• Combine Function allows you to combine two
consecutive tracks into one.

• Move Function allows you to change the order of
tracks by moving a specific track to a desired track
position.

• Title Function allows you to create titles for your
recorded MDs and tracks.

If “Protected” appears in the display

The recorder could not edit because the record-protect slot
on the MD is open. Edit after closing the slot (see page 7.)

When “TOC” indicator flashes in the display

Do not move the recorder or pull out the AC power cord.
After editing, “TOC” indicator lights continuously until you
eject the MD. “TOC” indicator flashes while the recorder is
updating the TOC. When the recorder finishes updating the
TOC, “TOC” indicator goes off.

Erasing Recordings
(Erase Function)

Follow the procedures below to erase:

• A single track

• All tracks

• Part of a track

Note, however, that once erased, MD data cannot
be recovered.

EDIT/NO YES

≠AMS±

22

Editing Recorded MDs

Playing MDs

Erasing a single track

You can erase a track simply by specifying the
respective track number. When you erase a track, the
total number of tracks on the MD decreases by one and
all tracks following the erased one are renumbered.
Since erasing merely updates the TOC, there is no need
to record over material.

z To avoid confusion when erasing multiple tracks, you

should proceed in the order of high to low track
numbers to prevent the renumbering of tracks that have
not been erased yet.

Example: Erasing B

Track
number

Erasing

1

1

23

A

AC D

BC D

B is erased

2

4

3

1 While the recorder is stopped or during playback

pause, press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”

Erasing all tracks on an MD

You can delete the disc name, all recorded tracks, and
titles of the recordable MD at once.

1 While the recorder is stopped or during playback

pause, press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”

2 Turn AMS until “All Erase?” appears in the

display.

3 Press AMS or YES.

“All Erase??” appears and all tracks in the music
calendar start flashing.

4 Press AMS or YES again.

When the disc name, all recorded tracks, and titles
on the MD have been erased, “Complete” appears
for a few seconds.

To cancel the Erase Function

Press EDIT/NO or p and “All Erase?” or “All Erase??”
disappears.

z You can undo the Erase Function

See “Undoing the Last Edit” on page 29.

2 Turn AMS until “Erase?” appears in the display,

then press AMS.

3 Turn AMS until the track number you want to

erase appears in the display.

4 Press AMS or YES.

When the track selected in Step 3 has been
erased, “Complete” appears for a few seconds
and the total number of tracks in the music
calendar decreases by one.

5 Repeat Steps 1 to 4 to erase more tracks.

To cancel the Erase Function

Press EDIT/NO or p.

Note

If “Erase???”appears in the display, the track was recorded
or edited on another MD recorder and is record-protected.
If this indication appears, press YES to erase the track.

Erasing a part of a track

By using the Divide (see page 24), Erase (see page 22)
and Combine (see page 25) Functions, you can erase
specific portions of a track.

Example: Erasing a part of track A

Track
number

Dividing

Erasing

Combining

Part to be erased

12

A

A is divided
into 3 parts

4

#3

#2 is
erased

3

B

#1 and #3 are
combined

B

A

#1

A

#1

23

A#2A

2

A

#3

1

1

12

A (#1+#3) C

3

BC

5

B

C

C

3

23

Editing Recorded MDs

Dividing Recorded Tracks
(Divide Function)

With the Divide Function you can assign a track
number at places that you want to randomly access
afterwards. Use this function to add tracks to MDs
recorded from an analog source (and therefore contain
no track numbers), or to divide an existing track into
multiple portions. When you divide a track, the total
number of tracks on the MD increases by one and all
tracks following the divided track are renumbered.

Example: Dividing track 2 to create a new track for C

Track
number

Dividing

1

1

2

A

A

BC

Track 2 is divided and a

24

new track is created for C

3

B

3

C

EDIT/NO YES

D

D

4 While monitoring the sound, turn AMS to find the

starting position of the new track.
The starting portion of the new track is played
back repeatedly.
“Rehearsal“ alternates with “Position OK?“ in the
display.
The starting position can be moved within a
maximum range of –128 to +127 steps of about

0.06 seconds within a track.

5 Press YES or AMS when the position is correct.

When the track has been divided, “Complete”
appears for a few seconds and the newly created
track begins playing. The new track will have no
track title even if the original track was labeled.

To cancel the Divide Function

Press p or EDIT/NO.

z You can undo a track division

Combine the tracks again (see “Combining Recorded
Tracks” on page 25) then redivide the tracks if
necessary.

z You can divide a track while recording

Use the Track Marking Function (see page 12).

≠AMS±

pP

1 While playing the MD, press P at the point where

you want to create a new track.
The recorder pauses playing.

2 Press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”
3 Turn AMS until “Divide?” appears in the display,

then press AMS.
“Rehearsal” alternates with “Position OK?“ in the
display, the track to be divided starts flashing in
the music calendar, and the starting portion of the
new track begins playing repeatedly. (If the
starting position is correct, proceed with Step 5.)

24

Combining Recorded Tracks

Editing Recorded MDs

To cancel the Combine Function

Press EDIT/NO or p.

(Combine Function)

Use the Combine Function while the recorder is
stopped, playing or in pause to combine consecutive
tracks on a recorded MD. This function is useful for
combining several songs into a single medley, or
several independently recorded portions into a single
track. When you combine two tracks, the total number
of tracks decreases by one and all tracks following the
combined tracks are renumbered.

Example: Combining B and C

Track
number

Combining

123 4

AB

12

AB

C

B and C are combined
into one track

CD

EDIT/NO YES

D

3

z You can undo a track combination

Divide the tracks again (see “Dividing Recorded
Tracks” on page 24), then repeat the combine function
with the correct tracks if necessary.

Note

If “Impossible” appears in the display, the tracks cannot be
combined. This sometimes happens when you’ve edited the
same track many times, and is due to a technical limitation
of the MD system, not a mechanical error.

≠AMS±

p

1 While the recorder is stopped or during playback

pause, press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”

2 Turn AMS until “Combine?” appears in the

display, then press AMS.

3 Turn AMS until the number of the former track of

the two to be combined appears in the display,
then press AMS.
“Rehearsal“ alternates with “Track OK?“ in the
display. The place where the two tracks will join
(i.e., the end of the former track and the beginning
of the latter track) repeatedly plays back.

4 If the track is the wrong one, press EDIT/NO or

p, then start again from Step 1.

5 If the place is correct, press AMS or YES.

When the tracks have been combined,
“Complete” appears for a few seconds.
If both of the combined tracks have track titles,
the title of the latter track is erased.

25

Editing Recorded MDs

Moving Recorded Tracks
(Move Function)

Use the Move Function to change the order of any
track. After you move a track, the track numbers
between the new and old track positions are
automatically renumbered.

Example: Moving track C to track position 2

Track
number

Moving

1

1

A

A

≠AMS±

2

3

B

2

C

CB

EDIT/NO YES

4

D

Track C moves to
track position 2

4

3

D

p

Labeling Recordings
(Title Function)

You can create titles for your recorded MDs and tracks.
Titles — which may consist of uppercase and
lowercase letters, numbers and symbols for a
maximum of about 1,700 characters per disc — appear
in the display during MD operation.

EDIT/NO YES

≠AMS±=/+

Use the following procedure to label a track or an MD.

You can label a track during play, pause, record, or
stop mode. If the track is playing or recording, be
sure to finish labeling before the track ends. If the
track ends before you’ve completed the labeling
procedure, only the characters already entered are
recorded automatically.

1 Press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”

1 While the recorder is stopped or during playback

pause, press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”

2 Turn AMS until “Move?” appears in the display,

then press AMS.

3 Turn AMS until the track number you want to

move appears in the display, then press AMS.

4 Turn AMS until the new track position appears.
5 Press AMS or YES.

After you have moved the track, “Complete”
appears for a few seconds.

To cancel the Move Function

Press EDIT/NO or p.

2 Turn AMS until “Name in?” appears in the

display, then press AMS.

3 Turn AMS to select “Disc” or track number, then

press AMS.
When you label an MD, select “Disc” and when
you label a track, select the track number. Note
that during recording, the recorder changes to
character typing mode and a cursor starts
flashing.

26

Editing Recorded MDs

4 Turn AMS to select the character.

The selected character flashes.
Letters, numbers, and symbols appear in
sequential order as you turn AMS.
You can use the following symbols in titles:
! ” # $ % & ’ ( ) * + , – . / : ; < = > ? @ _ ` ˆ

5 Press AMS to enter the selected character.

The cursor shifts rightward and waits for the
input of the next character.

6 Repeat Steps 4 to 5 until you have entered the

entire title.

If you entered the wrong character

Press 0 or ) until the character to be corrected starts
flashing, and repeat Steps 4 and 5 to enter the correct
character.

To erase a character

Press 0 or ) until the character to be erased starts
flashing, then press EDIT/NO.

To enter a space

Press AMS or ) while the cursor is flashing.

7 Press YES.

This completes the labeling procedure and the
title appears on the left side of the display.

To cancel labeling

Press p.

Note

You cannot label a track or an MD while you are recording
over an existing track.

(Continued)

27

Editing Recorded MDs

Labeling tracks and MDs with the remote Z

6

Alphabet/number
buttons

NAME

CHAR

0/)

r

+=

)0

CLEAR

pP·

p

NUM

1 Press NAME repeatedly until a flashing cursor

appears in the display, then do the following:

To label Make sure that the recorder is

A track

An MD Stopped with no track number

Playing, pausing, recording the track
to be labeled, or stopped after
locating the track to be labeled

appearing in the display

4 Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until you have entered the

entire title.

If you entered the wrong character

Press 0 or ) until the character to be corrected
starts flashing.
Press CLEAR to erase the incorrect character, then enter
the correct one.

5 Press NAME again.

The entered title appears on the left side of the
display window after the label has been recorded.

To cancel labeling

Press p.

Changing an existing title Z

1 Press NAME, then do the following:

To change

A track title

A disc name

Make sure that the recorder is

Playing, pausing the track whose title
is to be changed, or stopped after
locating the track whose title is to be
changed

Stopped with no track number
appearing in the display

2 Select the character type as follows:

To select Press

Uppercase letters CHAR repeatedly until “Selected

Lowercase letters CHAR repeatedly until “Selected

Numbers

AB” appears in the display

ab” appears in the display
NUM repeatedly until “Selected

12” appears in the display

3 Enter one character at a time.

After you enter a character, the cursor shifts
rightward and waits for the input of the next
character.

2 Keep pressing CLEAR (or EDIT/NO on the

recorder) until the current title is erased.

3 Enter the new title.

Carry out Steps 4 to 7 of “Labeling Recordings”
on page 26, or Steps 2 to 4 of “Labeling tracks and
MDs with the remote” on page 28.

4 Press NAME.

28

Additional Information

Editing Recorded MDs

Undoing the Last Edit
(Undo Function)

You can use the Undo Function to cancel the last edit
and restore the contents of the MD to the condition that
existed before editing was done. Note, however, that
you cannot undo an edit if you do any of the following
after the edit:

• Press the r button on the front panel.

• Press the r button, the MUSIC SYNC button, or the
CD-SYNC STANDBY button on the remote.

• Turn off the power or eject the MD.

• Disconnect the AC power cord.

EDIT/NO YES

≠AMS±

1 While the recorder is stopped or during playback

pause, press EDIT/NO to display “Edit Menu.”

Function of Control Terminal

Control terminal (CTRL-S)

Mini jack type

When a system controller with CTRL-S terminal is
connected to the control terminal of this recorder,
it can operate as a remote .

Control functions

The system controller which is connected to the control
terminal operates the same as the supplied remote
RM-D7M.

Note

When the system controller is connected to the control
jack, the remote can not be used because its infrared
rays are stopped.

2 Turn AMS until “Undo?” appears in the display,

then press AMS.
“Undo?” does not appear if no editing has been
done.
One of the following messages appears in the
display, depending on the type of editing to be
undone:

Editing done:

Erasing a single track
Erasing all tracks on an MD
Dividing a track
Combining tracks
Moving a track
Labeling a track or an MD
Changing an existing title

Message:

“Erase Undo ?”

“Divide Undo ?”
“Combine Undo”
“Move Undo ?”

“Name Undo ?”

3 Press YES again.

“Complete” appears for a few seconds and the
contents of the MD are restored to the condition
that existed before the edit.

To cancel the Undo Function

Press EDIT/NO or p.

29

Additional Information

Dimensions

30

Unit: mm

Mounting the recorder

This recorder can be attached to a standard 19 inch
rack (type EIA). After detaching the four feet on the
bottom of the recorder, mount the recorder on the rack.

Functions of REMOTE Terminals

RELAY REC/PLAY

— Stereo mini-jack terminal

Where multiple recorders are hooked up together, after
the first recorder has finished recording or playing,
control signals are automatically transferred to the
second recorder through the RELAY terminal to direct
it to start recording or playing.

Relay Play

Allows multiple recorders hooked up together to
repeat continuously in sequence.

Additional Information

Additional Information

1 The first recorder starts playing.
2 When the first recorder finishes playing, the

second recorder starts playing.

3 The third and subsequent connected by cabling to

their RELAY IN PLAY terminals start playing in
sequence as soon as the preceding recorders in the
chain finish playing.

Note

This recorder starts playing when it receives a relay control
signal only when:

• It is loaded with a playable MD.

• It is stopped.

• The Edit Menu or Setup Menu is not open.

Recorders may be hooked up in a loop so they will
repeat continuously.

Cabling for Relay Play

Connect RELAY OUT of the first recorder and RELAY
IN PLAY of the second recorder with a stereo mini­plug cable (such as RK-G136). Interconnect RELAY
OUT and RELAY IN PLAY also when hooking up two
or more recorders together.

To
Mixer

If REPEAT is set, control signal output will be
suppressed, disabling the relay play function.

Relay Record

Allows multiple recorders hooked up together to
record continuously in sequence.

Cabling for Relay Record

Connect RELAY OUT of the first recorder and RELAY
IN REC of the second recorder with a stereo mini-plug
cable (such as RK-G136). Interconnect RELAY OUT
and RELAY IN REC also when hooking up two or
more recorders together.

From divide
equipment

From divide
equipment

From divide
equipment

31

Additional Information

1 The first recorder starts recording.
2 When the first recorder finishes recording, the

second recorder starts recording.

3 The third and subsequent connected by cabling to

their RELAY IN REC terminals start recording in
sequence as soon as the preceding recorders in the
chain finish recording.

If the display is set to show the remaining disc time
(see page 16) during relay recording, a relay control
signal is issued when the remaining recording time is
reduced to about 6 seconds, thereby making
overlapped recording possible on the first and second
recorders.

When a recorder starts recording on receiving a control
signal from the RELAY IN REC terminal, its display is
automatically set to show the remaining disc time.

Note

This recorder starts recording when it receives a relay
control signal only when:

• It is loaded with a recordable MD.

• If digital input signal has been selected, digital audio
signal output from the source is available.

• It is stopped.

• The Edit Menu or Setup Menu is not open.

Relay recording always takes place in NewTrackRec
mode.

Relay recording while clearing prerecorded discs is not
available with this recorder.

Parallel I/O

— D-sub 9 pins (female)

The parallel I/O pins permit remote control with
simple external circuits connected. The input pins,
when connected to GND, implement the functions
assigned to them. The output terminals are open
collector outputs, which can be used to turn on LEDs to
provide recorder status indications.

Sample I/O pin circuits

<Sample output circuit> <Sample input circuit>

MDS-E11

Output pins
(pins 7 to 9)

GND
(pin 6)

The Setup Menu allows you to select between defaults
(PRESET) and user settings (USER).

The table below gives the relationship between the pin
I/O and default functions.

Pin No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

I/O

Input
Input
Input
Input
Input
–
Output
Output
Output

Function

PLAY/PAUSE
REC
STOP
AMS+
AMS–
GND
REC
PLAY
PAUSE

Setup Menu Name

PIN1
PIN2
PIN3
PIN4
PIN5

POUT1
POUT2
POUT3

Input pins
(pins 1 to 5)

GND
(pin 6)

32

Additional Information

Additional Information

With user settings (USER), PIN1 to PIN5 and POUT1 to
POUT3 in the Setup Menu can be assigned the
functions in the table below. Each pin has fixed I/O
status.

PIN1 to PIN5 (Input pins)

POWER ON

POWER OFF

POWER ON/OFF
(/P
PLAY

PAUSE

STOP

REC

AMS+

AMS–

FF

REW

EJECT

M.SYNC

T.REC

OFF

Turns on power. Not functional when
already on.

Turns off power. Not functional when
already off.

Turns power on and off.
Performs a play or pause operation.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s PLAY key.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s PAUSE key.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s STOP key.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s REC key.
Performs the same function as giving 1

click clockwise turn to AMS.
Performs the same function as giving 1

click counterclockwise turn to AMS.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s FF key.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s REW key.
Performs the same function as the

recorder’s EJECT key.
Performs the same function as the remote

controller’s M.SYNC.
Performs the same function as the remote

controller’s T.REC.
Performs nothing.

POUT1 to POUT3 (Output pins)

POWER
REC

PLAY
PAUSE
NO DISC

OFF

Grounded when the power is on.
Grounded when the recorder’s REC

indicator lights.
Grounded when the recorder displays (.
Grounded when the recorder displays P.
Grounded when the recorder is on and is

not loaded with a MD.
Left constantly floating.

Electrical Specifications
Input Terminal

Input method:
Input on voltage:
Input off voltage:
Open terminal voltage:
Input pulse width:
Input withstand voltage:

Make contact

0.5 V or less
3 V or more
3 V
100 msec or more
–0.5 to +10 V

Output Terminal

Output method:
On-time residual voltage:
On-time maximum inflow

current:
Withstand voltage:

NPN transistor open collector

0.5 V or less
100 mA

20 V

RS-232C

— D-sub 9 pins (male)

The recorder can be externally controlled from a PC or
similar equipment. For control protocols, consult your
dealer.

33

Additional Information

Display Messages

The following table explains the various messages that
appear in the display.

Message

Blank Disc

Cannot Copy

Cannot EDIT

Din Unlock

Disc Error
Disc Full

Impossible

Name Full

No Disc
No Track

Protected
Retry

Retry Error

STANDBY
(flashing)

Meaning

A new (blank) or erased MD has been
inserted.

An attempt was made to make a second
copy from a digitally dubbed MD (see
page 38.)

An attempt was made to edit the MD
during Program, Shuffle, or Normal Play.

The connected digital sound source is
turned off or the recorder is not connected
properly to the sound source.

Defected MD is inserted.
The MD is full (see “System Limitations”

on this page.)
You cannot record or edit the MD due to

the system limitations.
The titling capacity of the MD has reached

its limit (about 1,700 characters.)
There is no MD in the recorder.
The inserted MD has a disc title but no

tracks.
The inserted MD is record-protected.
The first recording attempt failed due to a

disturbance or scratch on the MD, and a
second attempt is being made.

Due to vibrations to the recorder or
scratches on the MD, several recording
attempts were made but with no success.

The contents previously recorded are not
saved correctly on the MD, or the program
created by Program Play is not stored in
the recorder’s memory.

System Limitations

The recording system in your MiniDisc recorder is
radically different from those used in cassette and DAT
recorders and is characterized by the limitations
described below. Note, however, that these limitations
are due to the inherent nature of the MD recording
system itself and not to mechanical causes.

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

When 255 tracks have been recorded on the MD, “Disc Full”
lights up regardless of the total recorded time. More than
255 tracks cannot be recorded on the MD. To continue
recording, erase unnecessary tracks or use another
recordable MD.

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

Fluctuations in emphasis within tracks are sometimes
interpreted as track intervals, incrementing the track count
and causing “Disc Full” to light up.

The remaining recording time does not increase even
after erasing numerous short tracks

Tracks under 12 seconds in length are not counted and so
erasing them may not lead to an increase in the recording
time.

Some tracks cannot be combined with others

Track combination may become impossible when tracks are
edited.

The total recorded time and the remaining time on the
MD may not total 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.

34

Tracks created through editing may exhibit sound dropout
during search operations.

Track numbers are not recorded correctly

Incorrect assignment or recording of track numbers may
result (1) when CD tracks are divided into several smaller
tracks during digital recording, or (2) while recording certain
CDs with the “LEVEL-SYNC” on (i.e., the automatic track
marking function on.)

Additional Information

Additional Information

“TOC Reading” appears for a long time

“TOC Reading” will be displayed for longer than normal
when an MD containing many songs is loaded.

Limitations when recording over an existing track

• The correct remaining recording time may not be
displayed.

• You may find it impossible to record over a track if that
track has been recorded over several times already. If this
happens, erase the track using the Erase Function (see
page 20.)

• The remaining recording time may be shortened out of
proportion to the total recorded time.

• Recording over a track to eliminate noise is not
recommended since this may shorten the duration of the
track.

• You may find it impossible to label a track while recording
over it.

The correct recorded/playing time may not be displayed
during playback of monaural-format MDs.

Troubleshooting

If you experience any of the following difficulties while
using the recorder, use this troubleshooting guide to help
you remedy the problem. Should any problem persist,
consult your nearest Sony dealer.

The recorder does not record.

/ The MD is record-protected (“Protected” appears.)

Close the record-protect slot (see page 7.)

/ The recorder is not connected properly to the sound

source. Make connections properly to the sound
source.

/ The recording level is not adjusted properly (in case

of input through LINE (ANALOG) IN.) Turn REC
LEVEL to adjust the recording level properly (see
page 11.)

/ A premastered MD is inserted. Replace it with a

recordable MD.

/ There is not enough time left on the MD. Replace it

with another recordable MD with fewer recorded
tracks, or erase unnecessary tracks.

/ There has been a power failure or the AC power

cord has been disconnected during recording. Data
recorded to that point may be lost. Repeat the
recording procedure.

The recorder does not work during synchro-recording.

/ The currently selected CD player type (CD player or

video CD player) does not match the CD player
being used. Reset the CD player type (see page 14.)

The sound has a lot of static.

Strong magnetism from a television or a similar

/

device is interfering with operations. Move the
recorder away from the source of strong magnetism.

The recorder does not operate or operates poorly.

/The MD may be damaged (“Disc Error” appears.)

Take the MD out and insert it again. If “Disc Error”
remains, replace the MD.

The recorder does not play back.

/ Moisture has formed inside the recorder. Take the

MD out and leave the recorder in a warm place for
several hours until the moisture evaporates.

/ The recorder is not on. Press U to turn the recorder

on.

/ The MD is inserted in the wrong direction. Slide the

MD into the disc compartment with the label side up
and the arrow pointing towards the opening until
the recorder grips it.

/ The MD may not be recorded. Replace the disc with

one that has been recorded.

Note

If the recorder does not operate properly even after you’ve
attempted the prescribed remedies, turn off the power, then
reinsert the plug into the power outlet.

35

Additional Information

Specifications

System MiniDisc digital audio system
Disc MiniDisc
Laser Semiconductor laser (λ = 780 nm)

Emission duration: continuous

Laser output Less than 44.6 µW*

* This output is the value measured at a

distance of 200 mm from the objective
lens surface on the Optical Pick-up
Block with 7 mm aperture.

Laser diode properties Material: GaAlAs
Revolutions (CLV) 400 rpm to 900 rpm
Error correction Advanced Cross Interleave Reed

Solomon Code (ACIRC)

Sampling frequency 44.1 kHz
Coding Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding

(ATRAC)

Modulation system EFM (Eight-to-Fourteen Modulation)
Number of channels 2 stereo channels
Frequency response 5 to 20,000 Hz ±0.5 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio Over 92 dB during playback
Wow and flutter Below measurable limit

General

Power requirements Refer to warning letter.

Power consumption European models: 15W

USA models: 14W

Dimensions (approx.) (w/h/d) incl. projecting parts

482 × 44 × 376 mm
(19 × 1 3/4 × 14 7/8 in.)

Mass (approx.) 5.3 kg (11 lbs 11 oz)

Supplied accessories See page 4.

Optional accessories

Wired/Wireless remote unit: RM-D5ME
Coaxial digital connecting cable: VMC-10, etc.
Recordable MDs: MDW-60 (60 min), MDW-74 (74 min)
Relay record/playback connecting cable (such as RK-G136)

U.S. and foreign patents licensed from Dolby Laboratories
Licensing Corporation.

Design and specifications are subject to change without
notice.

Inputs

Input
impedance

30 kilohms +4dBu +24dBu

47 kilohms

75 ohms

ANALOG
(BAL) IN

(UNBAL) IN
DIGITAL

COAXIAL IN

Jack type

XLR3-31
equivalent

Phono jacksANALOG

Phono jacks

Outputs

PHONES 32 ohms0–10 mW

ANALOG
(BAL) OUT

ANALOG
(UNBAL)
OUT

DIGITAL
COAXIAL
OUT

Stereo
phone jack

XLR3-32
equivalent

Phono
jacks

Phono
jacks

The level varies.

Maximum
+24/+10 dBu
(Switchable)

+8 dBu

(at 75 ohms)

Reference
input

–4 dBu

0.5Vp-p
±20%

Maximum
input

+12 dBu

—

Load impedanceJack type Reference output

Over 600 ohms

Over 10 kilohmsMaximum

75 ohms0.5Vp-p

36

0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

Index of Parts and Controls

Additional Information

Additional Information

1 U (power) switch
2 Disc compartment
3 REC indicator
4 TOC incicator
5 Display
6 EDIT/NO button
7 YES button
8 0/) (fast forward/rewind) buttons
9 INPUT selector
0 REC LEVEL control

!¡ PHONE LEVEL control
!™ Remote sensor
!£ § EJECT button
!¢ AMS control
!∞ P (pause) button
!§ p (stop) button
!¶ · (play) button
!• r (record) button
!ª PHONES jack

37

Additional Information

Guide to the Serial Copy
Management System

This MD recorder uses the Serial Copy Management
System, which allows only first-generation digital
copies to be made of premastered software via the
recorder’s digital input jack. An outline of this system
appears below:

1 You can record from digital program sources (CDs, DATs

or premastered MDs) onto a DAT tape or recordable MD
via digital input jack on the DAT or MD recorder.
You cannot, however, record from this recorded DAT tape
or MD onto another DAT tape or recordable MD via the
digital input jack on the DAT or MD recorder.

CD player

DAT recorder

2 You can record the digital input signal of a digital satellite

broadcast onto a DAT tape or recordable MD via the
digital input jack on the DAT or MD recorder which is
capable of handling a sampling frequeny of 32 kHz or 48
kHz. You can then record the contents of this recorded
DAT tape or MD (first-generation) onto another DAT tape
or recordable MD via digital input jack on the DAT or MD
recorder to create a second-generation digital copy.
Subsequent recording from the second-generation copy
onto another recordable DAT tape or MD is possible only
through the analog input jack on the DAT or MD recorder.
Note, however, that on some BS tuners, second-generation
digital copying may not be possible.

Playing

digital connecting
cable

BS tuner

Digital output jack

Digital input jack

Playing

digital connecting
cable

Recording

DAT or MD

MD recorder

Digital output jack

Digital input jack

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

v

First-generation
DAT tape or MD
recorded via
digital-to-digital
connection

v

Playing

Digital output jack Line (analog) output jacks

digital
connecting cable

Digital input jack Line (analog) input jacks

Recording

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

Audio connecting
cord

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

Recording

DAT or MD

Playback

digital
connecting cable

Recording

DAT or MD

Playback

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

v

v

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

v

v

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

First-generation
DAT tape or MD
recorded via
digital-to-digital
connection

Digital output jack

Digital input jack

Second­generation DAT
tape or MD
recorded via
digital-to-digital
connection

38

Digital output jack

digital
connecting cable

Digital input jack

Recording

Line (agalog) output jacks

Audio connecting
cord

Line (analog) input jacks

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

(Continued)

3 You can record a DAT tape or MD recorded via the DAT

or MD recorder’s analog input jack onto another DAT tape
or MD via the DAT or MD recorder’s digital output jack.
You cannot, however, make a second-generation DAT
tape or MD copy via the DAT or MD recorder’s digital
output jack.

Additional Information

Additional Information

Turntable

CD player

DAT recorder

Playing

Audio connecting cord

Recording

DAT or MD

Playing

digital connecting
cable

MD recorder

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

Tuner

Cassette recorder

Microphone

amplifier

Line (analog)
output jacks

Line (analog)
input jacks

v

DAT tape or MD
recorded via
analog-to-digital
connection

v

Digital output jack

Digital input jack

Recording

DAT or MD

Playing

Digital output jack

digital
connecting cable

Digital input jack

Recording

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

v

v

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

Line (analog) output jacks

Line (analog) input jacks

DAT recorder or

MD recorder

First-generation
DAT tape or MD
recorded via
digital-to-digital
connection

Audio connecting
cord

39

Additional Information

40