Sony RDR-VX500 User Manual

2-186-506-12(1)

Video Cassette Recorder/ DVD Recorder

Operating Instructions

RDR-VX500

For customers in the U.S.A Owner’s Record

The model and serial numbers are located at the rear of the unit. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to them whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. RDR-VX500

Serial No.______________

For Customers in Canada

If this prod uct is not work ing pro perly, please c all 1- 877-602- 2008 f or Peace of Mind Warranty Replacement service. For other product related questions please contact our Customer Information Service Centre at 1-877-899-7669 or write to us at: Customer Information Service 115 Gordon Baker Road, Toronto, Ontario, M2H 3R6

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. The AC power cord must be changed only at a qualified service shop only.

This applia n ce is classifi ed as a CLASS 1 LASER product. The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT MARKING is located on the rear exterior.

CAUTION

The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. As the laser beam used in this VCR-DVD recorder is harmful to eyes, do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage”

enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

within the product’s

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)

CAUTION

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

CAUTION

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

Note

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: – Reorient or relocate the receiving

antenna.

– Increase the separation between the

equipment and receiver.

– Connect the equipment into an outlet

on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced

radio/TV technician for help.

VCR Plus+ and PlusCode are registered trademarks of Gemstar Development Corporation. The VCR Plus+ system is manufactured under license from Gemstar Development Corporation.

Precautions

On safety

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

• Operate the recorder only on 120 V AC, 60 Hz.

• The recorder is not disconnected from the AC power source as l ong as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the recorder it self has bee n turned off.

• 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.

On placement

• Place the recor der in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat build-up in the recorder.

• If the recorder is brought direct ly from a cold to a warm lo ca tion, moisture may condense inside the recorder and cause damage to the video head, tape, and the optical block. When you first install the recorder, or when you move it from a cold to a warm lo ca tion, wait for about three hours before operating the recorder.

• Do not place the recorder on a soft surface su ch as a rug that mi g ht block the ventilation holes.

• Do not place the recorder in a confined space such as a bookshelf or similar unit.

• Do not place the recorder in a location near heat sources, or in a place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust, or mechanical shock.

• Do not place the recorder in an inclined position. It is designed to be operated in a horizontal position only.

• Keep the recorder, discs, and cassettes away from equipment with strong magnets , suc h a s microwave ovens, or large loudspeakers.

• Do not place heavy objects on the recorder.

• To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

On recording

• Contents of the recording cannot be compensated for if the recording or playback is not made due to a malfunction of the recorder, disc, etc.

• Make trial recordings before making the actual recording.

Copyrights

• Television programs, films, video tapes, discs, and other mate r ials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such material may be contrary to the provisions of the copyright laws. Also, use of this recorder with ca b le te levision transmission may require authorization from the cable television transmitter and/or program owner.

• This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Hookups and Settings __________

Basic Operation _______________

DVD Recording________________

Playing Discs _________________

VCR Recording ________________

Playing VHS Tapes _____________

DVD Editing __________________

Dubbing (TAPE y DV D)________

DV Dubbing (DV t DVD) _______

Settings and Adjustments _______

Additional Information__________

Copy guard function

Since the recorder has a copy guard function, programs received through an external tuner (not supplied) may contain copy protection signals (copy guard function) and as such may not be recordable, depending on the type of signal.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Caution: This recorder is capable of holding a still video image or on-screen display image on your television screen indefinitely. If you leave the still video image or on-screen display image displayed on your TV for an extended period of time you risk permanent damage to your television scre e n. Plasma display panels and projection televisions are especially susceptible to this.

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

IMPORTANT SA FETY INSTRUCTIONS

1 Read these instructions. 2 Keep these instruction s. 3 Heed all warnings. 4 Follow all instruc tions. 5 Do not use this apparatus near

water.

6 Clean only with dry cloth. 7 Do not block any ventilation

openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8 Do not install near any heat

sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9 Do not defeat the safety purpose

of the polarized or groundingtype plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10 Protect the p ower cord from

being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacl es, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11 Only use attachments/

accessories speci fied by the manufacturer.

12 Use only with the cart, stand,

tripod, bracket, o r table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/appar at us combination to av oid injury from tip-over.

13 Unplug this apparatus during

lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14 Refer all servicing to qua lified

service personnel. Servic ing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

About this manual

• Instructions in this manua l describe the controls on the remote. You can also use the controls on the recorder if they have the same or similar names as those on the remote.

• The on-screen display illustrations used in this ma nual may not match the graphics displayed on your TV screen.

• The explanations regarding di sc s in this manual ref er to discs created on this recorder. The explana ti ons do not ap pl y t o di sc s that are created on oth er reco rder s and played back on this recorder.

Icon Meaning

RWVR

DVD

Video

Functions available for DVD+RWs

Functions available for DVD-RWs in VR (Video Recording) mode

Function s a va il ab le f or DVD -R Ws i n vi de o mo de

Functions available for DVD+Rs

Functions available for DVD-Rs

Functions available for DVD VIDEOs

Functions available for VIDEO CDs, Super

VCD

VCDs or CD-Rs/CD-RWs in video CD format or Super VCD format

DATA CD

Functions available for music CDs or CD-Rs/CDRWs in music CD format

Functions available for DATA CDs (CD-Rs/CDRWs containing MP3

* audio tracks or JPEG files)

Functions available for VHS VIDEOs

* MP3 (MPEG1 Audio Layer 3) is a standard format defined by ISO/MPEG

which compresses audio data.

Table of Contents

WARNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Ways to Use Your Video Cassette Recorder/DVD Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Quick Guide to DVD Disc Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Recordable and playable VHS tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Hookups an d Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Hooking Up the Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Step 1: Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Step 2: Connecting the Antenna Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Step 3: Connecting to Your TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Step 4: Connecting to Your AV/Amplifier (Receiver). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Step 5: Connecting the Power Cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Step 6: Preparing the Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Step 7: Easy Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Setting Up the VCR Plus+® System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Connecting Another VCR or Similar Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Basic Opera tion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Playing a DVD Disc or VHS Tape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Recording a Program to a DVD Disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Recording a Program to a VHS Tape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Using the On-Screen Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Using the Title List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Using the DVD Disc Setting Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Checking the Play Information and Playing Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Changing the Name of a Recorded Program (Title Input) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

DVD Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Before Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

DVD Recording without the Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

DVD Timer Recording (Standard/VCR Plus+) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Recording from Connected Equipment with a Timer (Synchro Rec) . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Checking/Changing/Canceling DVD Timer Settings (Timer List) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Recording from Connected Equipment without a Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Playing Discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Playing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Searching for a Title/Chapter/Track, etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Playing MP3 Audio Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Playing JPEG Image Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

VCR Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Before Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

VCR Recording without the Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

VCR Timer Recording (Standard/VCR Plus+) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Recording from Connected Equipment with a Timer (Synchro Rec) . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Checking/Changing/Canceling VCR Timer Settings (Timer List) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Recording from Connected Equipment without a Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Playing VHS Tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Playing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Searching Using Various Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Selecting the sound during playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

DVD Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Before Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Editing a Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Creating a Playlist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Editing a Playlist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Dubbing (TAPE y DVD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Dubbing from a Video to a DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

Dubbing from a DVD to a Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

DV Dubbing (DV t DVD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Before DV Dubbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Connecting a Digital Video Camera to the DV IN Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Dubbing from a DV Format Tape to a DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Settings an d Adjustment s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Using the Setup Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Antenna Reception Setting (Tuner Preset) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Clock Setting (Clock Set) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Video Settings (Video) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Audio Settings (Audio) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102

Recording and VCR Settings (Features) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

Language, Parental Control Settings/Factory Settings (Options) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Easy Setup (Resetting the Recorder) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Notes About This Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

About i.LINK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Guide to Parts and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

DVD Audio/Subtitle Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124

Ways to Use Your Video Cassette Recorder/DVD Recorder

What is a Video Cassette Recorder/DVD Recorder?

, This is a DVD recorder with built-in VHS video deck. It allows recording to DVD+RWs,

DVD+Rs, DVD-RWs, DVD-Rs, and VHS tapes. In addition, you can also enjoy playback and editing of DVD discs and VHS tapes.

Operation restrictions

Possible simultaneous operations

Current operation

Playback Recording Playback Recording

Playing a VHS tape — No Yes

Recording on a VHS tape No — Yes Yes

Playing a DVD disc Yes

Recording on a DVD disc Yes Yes No —

When pressing DVD, VHS tape playback stops.

When pressing VIDEO, DVD playback stops.

VHS DVD

Yes

— No

Yes

Quick access to recorded titles – Title List

, Display the Title List to see all of the title s

on the disc, including the recording date, channel, recording mode, recording time and movie thumbnail im age (page 42).

Creating your own program – Playlist

, Record a program on a DVD-RW (VR

mode), then erase, move and add scenes at will to create your own, original program (page 84).

One touch button dubbing from VCR to DVD

, This recorder lets you dub from VHS tape

to DVD and from DVD to VHS tape with a single deck (page 89).

* Note that when playing back and recording a DVD or

VHS tape that includes a copy protect signal, the copy protect function will prevent norma l r e cording.

Title List

Title List(Original) 10:10 AM

No. Title Length Edit

01 CH 23 >01:29:03 02 CH 66 >00:31:23 03 CH 95 >01:59:00

CH 23 Nov/16/2004

08:00 PM

Original

Playlist

Dubbing

04 CH 97 >00:58:56

Simple dubbing of DV tapes – DV Edit

, Connect your digital video camera to the

DV IN jack and simply dub the entire contents or just selected scenes to a DVD disc (page 93).

A list of recordable and playable DVD discs is on page 10.

Control

Dubbing

Quick Guide to DV D Disc Types

Recordable and playable discs

Type

DVD+RW

Disc Logo

VR mode

Icon used in this manual

RWVR

Formatting (new discs)

Automatically formatted

Format in VR mode*2 (page 43)

DVDRW

DVD+R

DVD-R

Video mode

Video

Format in Video mode

Automatically formatted

Usable disc versions (as of June 2004)

• 4x-speed or slower DVD+RWs

• 2x-speed or slower DVD-RWs (Ver.1.1, Ver.1.1 with CPRM

)

• 4x-speed or slower DVD-RWs (Ver.1.2, Ver.1.2 with CPRM)

• 8x-speed or slower DVD+Rs

• 8x-speed or slower DVD-Rs (Ver.2.0)

Compatibility with other DVD players (finalizing)

Playable on DVD+RW compatible players (automatically finalized)

Playable only on VR mode compatible players (finalization unnecessary) (page 44)

Playable on most DVD players

(page 43)

(finalization necessary ) (page 44)

Playable on DVD+R compatible players (finalization necess ary) (page 44)

Playable on most DVD players (finalization necessary ) (page 44)

“DVD+RW,” “DVD-RW,” “DVD+R,” and “DVD-R,” are trademarks.

CPRM (Content Protection for Recordable Media) is a coding technology that protects co pyr ights for images.

Unused DVD-RWs are formatted in VR mode automatically.

Erasing titles only frees up di sc space i f you erase t he last title.

Erasing titles does not free up disc space.

Recording Features Editing Features

Rewrite (page 48)

Auto Chapter (page 104)

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Manual Chapter (page 84)

Change title name (page 82)

Erase title (page 82)

A-B Erase (page 83)

No No

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Yes Yes No Yes Yes

No Yes No Yes Yes

No No

Discs that cannot be re corded on

• DVD-RWs (Ver.1.0)

• DVD+RWs that are not 2.4x-speed compatible

• Double layer discs

• 8 cm discs

Playlist (page 84)

,continued

12 cm/8 cm discs

DVD-RW

DVD+RW

Operation

12 cm 8 cm 12 cm 8 cm 12 cm 8 cm 12 cm 8 cm 12 cm 8 cm

Playback Yes — Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes — Yes Yes

Recording Yes — Yes No Yes No Yes — Yes No

VR mode Video mode

DVD+R DVD-R

Playable discs

Type Disc Logo

DVD VIDEO

VIDEO CD

DATA CD

* A logical format of files and folders on DATA-CDs,

defined by ISO (International Standard Organi zation).

Icon used in this manual

DVD

VCD

DATA CD

Discs that cannot be played

• CD -Rs/CD-RW s, ot her than those recorded in music CD format, MP3 or JPEG format, or Video CD format

• Data part of CD-Extras

• DVD-ROMs

• DVD Audio discs

• DVD-RAMs

• HD layer on Super Audio CDs

Characteristics

Discs such as movies that can be purc hased or rented

VIDEO CDs or CD-Rs/CD-RWs in VIDEO CD/ Super VIDEO CD format (wit h PBC function)

Music CDs or CD-Rs/CD-RWs in music CD format that can be purc ha s ed

CD-Rs/CD-RWs created on a PC or similar device in music format, or MP3 or JPEG for ma t that conforms to ISO 9660* Level 1/Level 2

• DVD VIDEOs with a different region code (see page 13)

• A disc recorded in a color system other than NTSC, such as PAL o r SECAM

z Hint

This DVD recorder can play 8 cm CDs and 8 cm DVDs as well.

Note on playback operations of DVD VIDEOs/ VIDEO CDs

Some playback operations of DVD VIDEOs/ VIDEO CDs may be intentionally set by software producers. Since this recorder plays DVD VIDEOs/VIDEO CDs according to the disc contents the sof tware producers designed, some playback features may not be available. Also, see the instructions supplied with the DVD VIDEOs/ VIDEO CDs.

Region code (DVD VIDEO only )

Your recorder has a region code printed on the rear of the unit and will only play DVD VIDEOs (playback only) labeled with identical region codes. This system is us ed to protect copyrig ht s . DVD VIDEOs labeled will also play on this

ALL

recorder. If you try to play any other DVD VIDEO, the message “Pleas e check the Regional code of this disc.” will appear on the TV scre en. Depend ing on the DVD VIDEO, no region code indication may be labeled even though playing the DVD VIDEO is prohibited by area r estrictions.

RDR-VX500

NO.

Notes

• Some DVD+RWs/DVD+Rs, DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs, or CD-RWs/CD-Rs cannot be played on this recorder due to the recording quality or physical c ondi tion of the disc, or the characteristics of the recording device and authoring software. The disc will not pla y if it ha s not been correctly final ized. For m ore in formati on, s ee t he operating instructions for the recording device.

• You cannot mix VR mode and Video mode on the same DVD-RW. To change the disc’s format, reformat the disc (page 43). Note that the disc’s contents will be erased after reformatting.

• You cannot shorten the time requ ire d for rec or ding even with high-speed discs. Also, you cannot record on the disc if the disc is not 1x speed compa tible.

• It is recommended that you use discs with “For Video” printed on their packaging.

• You cannot add new recordings to DVD-Rs or DVDRWs (Video mode) that contain recordings made on other DVD equipment.

• In some cases, you may not be able to add new recordings to DVD+RWs that contain recordings made on other DVD equipment. If you do add a new recording, note that this recorder will rewrite t he DVD menu.

• If the disc contains PC data unrecognizable by this recorder, the data may be erased.

Region code

Music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies

This product is designed to playback discs th at conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard. Recently, various music disc s encoded with copyright prote ct i on t echnologies are bei ng marketed by so me record companies. Please be aware that among those discs, there are some that do not confor m to the CD sta ndard and may n ot be playable by this pro duct.

Recordable an d playable VHS tapes

This VCR uses the VHS s ystem.

Recording

This VCR records using the V HS system.

z Hint

If you do not want recorded contents to be erased, break off the erasure preven t io n tab. To record again on a tape that has had the erasure prevention tab re moved, cover the hole with cellophane tape, etc.

Safety tab

Notes

• This VCR cannot record using the S-VHS syste m.

• Tapes recorded in E P (3 played back on standard mode only VHS decks.

• Noise may appear in the i mage wh en tap es rec orded in

×) mode by this VCR are played back on other

EP (3 VHS decks with 3

×) mode by this VCR cannot be

× mode.

Playback

The VCR automatically identifies the recording system and recording mode (SP (standard) or EP (3

×)) of recorded tapes during playback.

Notes

• You cannot play back foreign video software that uses non-NTSC color TV systems (PAL, SECAM).

• When playing back tapes recorded using the S-VHS system, the playback imag e may be disturbed.

Hookups and Settings

Hooking Up the Recorder

Follow steps 1 to 7 to hook up and adjust th e settings of the recorder.

Notes

• Plug cords securely to prevent unwanted noise.

• Refer to the instructions supplied with the components to be connected.

• Be sure to disconnect the power cord of each component before connecting.

Step 2: Connecting the Antenna Cable

Select one of the following antenna hookups. Do not connect the power cord until you reach “Connecting the Power Cord” on page 26 .

If you have Hookup

Cable box or satellite receiver with a video/audio output

Cable box with an antenna output only

Cable without cab l e box , or ante nn a only (no cable TV)

A (page16)

B (page 17)

C (page 17)

Hookups and Settings

Step 1: Unpacking

Check that you have the following items:

• Audio/video cord (pinplug × 3 y pinplug × 3) (1)

• Antenna cable (1)

• Remote commander (remote) (1)

• Size AA (R6) batteries (2)

Note to CATV system installer (in US A)

This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Article 820- 40 of the NEC that provides gui delines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the buildi ng, as close to the point of cable entry as pract i cal.

Notes

• If your antenna is a flat cable (300-ohm twin lead cable), use an external ante nna co n ne ctor (not supplied) to connect the an ten n a to th e reco rd er.

• If you have separate cables for VHF and UHF antennas, use a UHF/VHF band mixer (not supplied) to connect the antenna to the recorder.

,continued

A: Cable box or satellite receiver with a video/audio output

With this hookup, you can record any channel on the cable box or satellite receiver. Be sure that the satellite receiver or cable box is turned on. To watch cable or satellite programs, you need to match the channel on the recorder (L1) to the input jack connected to the cable box or satellite receiver (LINE 1 IN).

Wall

Cable box/satellite receiver

AUDIO

VIDEO

OUT

Audio/video cord (supplied)

S VIDEO

ANT IN

TO TV

LINE 1 IN

AUDIO

VCR-DVD recorder

: Signal flow

to LINE 1 IN

DIGITAL

DOLBY DIGITAL

S VIDEO OUT

VIDEO

VHF/UHF

COMPONENT

AUDIO OUT

AUDIO

OUT

LINE 1 IN

LINE OUT

VIDEO OUT

AUDIO AUDIO

VIDEO VIDEO

OUT

PCM/DTS/

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

B: Cable box with an antenna output only

With this hookup, you can record any channel on the satellite receiver or cable box. Be sure that the satellite receiver or cable box is turned on. To watch cable programs, you need to match the channel on the recorder (2ch, 3ch or 4ch) to the antenna output channel on the cable box (2ch, 3ch or 4ch).

Wall

Cable box

ANT IN

TO TV

Antenna cable (supplied)

Hookups and Settings

VCR-DVD recorder

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

AUDIO AUDIO

VIDEO VIDEO

VHF/UHF

COMPONENT

AUDIO OUT

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

LINE 1 IN

LINE OUT

VIDEO OUT

PCM/DTS/

VHF/UHF

OUT

to VHF/UHF IN

OUT

: Signal flow

C: Cable without cable box, or antenna only (no cable TV)

Use this hookup if yo u w atch cable channels w ithout a cable box. Also use this hookup if you are using a VHF/UHF antenna or separate VH F and UHF antennas. With this hookup , you can record any channel by selecting the channel on the reco rder.

Wall

VCR-DVD recorder

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

AUDIO AUDIO

VIDEO VIDEO

VHF/UHF

COMPONENT

AUDIO OUT

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

LINE 1 IN

LINE OUT

VIDEO OUT

PCM/DTS/

VHF/UHF

OUT

to VHF/UHF IN

OUT

: Signal flow

Step 3: Connecting to Your TV

Select one of the following patterns A or B, accordi ng to the in p ut jack on your TV.

VCR-DVD recorder

LINE OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

(red)

(white)

(yellow)

to LINE OUT (AUDIO L/R)

VHF/UHF

OUT

Audio/video cord (supplied)

COMPONENT

AUDIO OUT

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

VIDEO OUT

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

LINE OUT

AUDIO AUDIO

VIDEO VIDEO

(yellow)

INPUT

VIDEO

(white)

(red)

AUDIO

TV or projector

VHF/UHF

LINE 1 IN

OUT

Antenna cable (supplied)

: Signal flow

Note

Do not connect more than one type of video c or d bet wee n the recorder and your TV at the same time .

A Connecting to audio/video input

jacks

If your TV, monitor, projector, or other equipment has audio/video (A/V) input ja cks, you will get better pict ure and sound if you connect the recorder using t hi s connection.

Hookups and Settings

Yellow

White (L)

Red (R)

Yellow

White (L)

Red (R)

B Connecting to an antenna input

jack

If your TV does not have audio/video (A/V) input jack, connec t t he recorder to a TV using an antenna cable.

Setting the RF Output channel

When connecting the recorder to the TV using only the antenna ca bl e, you must set the RF Output channel in the “Tuner Preset” so that th e TV can receive the correct signal from the recorder.

"/1

TV/VIDEO

1 Press "/1 to turn on the recorder. 2 Press TV/VIDEO repeatedly until “TV”

disappears from the front panel display.

3 Turn on your TV and se t it to the channe l 3.

When using channel 4 to receive the recorder signal, see “3, 4 C h O ut” on page 98.

,continued

If your TV has an S video input jack

Connect an S video cord (not supplied). You will enjoy high quality images. Make audio connections using the AUDIO OUT L/R jacks when yo u connect the recorder using this connection.

INPUT

S video cord (not supplied)

VCR-DVD recorder

to S VIDEO OUT

DIGITAL

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

S VIDEO OUT

AUDIO

COAXIAL

AUDIO

LRS VIDEO

(white) (red)

AUDIO OUT

OUT

OPTICAL

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

TV or projector

(red)

(white)

to AUDIO OUT L/R

VHF/UHF

COMPONENT

AUDIO OUT

LINE 1 IN

LINE OUT

VIDEO OUT

AUDIO AUDIO

OUT

VIDEO VIDEO

Audio cord (not supplied)

: Signal flow

Notes

• Do not connect more than one type of vid eo cor d be twe en the recorder and your TV at the same time.

• When recording a DVD, the DVD video signal is output to the S VIDEO OUT even if you switch the output to VIDEO.

If your TV has component video input jacks

Connect the COMPO N EN T VIDEO OUT jacks using a component video cord (not supplied) or three video cords (not supplied) of the same kind and length. You will enjoy accurate color reproduction and high quality images . If your TV accepts pr ogressive 480p for m at signals, you must use this connection a nd t hen set “Progressive” of “V ideo” to “On” in the “Setup” display (page 101). The PROG RESSIVE indicator lights up when th e recorder output s pr ogressive signa ls. Make audio connections using the AUDIO OUT L/R jacks when you connect the recorder using this connection.

Hookups and Settings

Audio cord (not suppli ed)

(white) (red)

(red)

(white)

to AUDIO OUT L/R

VCR-DVD recorder

INPUT

AUDIO

AUDIO OUT

TV or projector

COMPONENT

VIDEO OUT

COMPONENT VIDEO IN

(green) (blue) (red)

(green)

(blue)

(red)

to COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

COMPONENT

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

AUDIO OUT

LINE 1 IN

LINE OUT

VIDEO OUT

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

AUDIO AUDIO

VIDEO VIDEO

Component video cord (not supplied)

VHF/UHF

OUT

: Signal flow

When playing “wide screen” images

Some recorded images may not fit your TV screen. To change the aspect ratio, see page 100.

z Hint

Video signal can also be output from the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jack when playing a VHS tape.

,continued

Notes

• Consumers should note that not all high definition television sets are fully compatible with this product and may cause artifacts to be displayed in the pic ture . In the case of 480 progressive scan picture problems, it is recommended that the user switch the connection to the ‘standard definition’ output. If th ere are ques tions regarding our TV set compatibility with this model 480p DVD recorder, please contact our customer service center.

• When recording a DVD, the DVD video signal is output to the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT even if you switch the output to VIDEO.

Step 4: Connecting to Your AV/Amplifier (Receiver)

Select one of the f ollowi ng pat terns A or B, according to the input j ack on your AV amplifier (r eceiver). This will enable you to listen to DVD audio tracks through your AV amplifier (receiver).

VCR-DVD recorder

LINE OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

(red)

Audio/video cord (supplied)

(white)

(yellow)*

to LINE OUT (AUDIO L/R)

COMPONENT

AUDIO OUT

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

LINE 1 IN

LINE OUT

VIDEO OUT

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

to DIGITAL AUDIO OUT (COAXIAL or OPTICAL)

AUDIO AUDIO

VIDEO VIDEO

VHF/UHF

OUT

(yellow)

(white)

(red)

INPUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

AV amplifier (receiver)

Hookups and Settings

Coaxial digital cord

Optical digital cord (not supplied)

[Speakers]

to optical digital input

Rear (L)

Front (L)

(not supplied)

to coaxial digital input

[Speakers]

Rear (R)

Front (R)

AV amplifier (receiver)

Center

with a decoder

Subwoofer

: Signal flow

* The yellow plug is used for video signals (page 18).

z Hints

• For correct speaker location, see the ope rati ng instructions supplied with the conne ct ed com pone nt s.

• Digital audio signal can also be output when playing a VHS tape.

,continued

Notes

• Do not connect your TV’s audio output jacks to the LINE IN (AUDIO L/R) jacks at the same time. This will cause unwanted noise to come from your TV’s speakers.

• When recording a DVD, the DVD audio signal is output to the DIGITAL AUDIO OUT even if you switch the output to VIDEO.

A Connecting to audio L/R input

jacks

This connection wil l us e your TV’s or stereo amplifier’s (receiver’s) two speakers for sound. Connect using the audio/video cord (supplied).

Yellow

White (L)

Red (R)

Yellow

White (L)

Red (R)

B Connecting to a digital audio

input jack

If your AV amplifier (receiver) has a Dolby Digital or DTS

decoder and a digital input jack, use this c o nnection . Connect using a coaxial or optical digital cord (not supplied).

Coaxial cord Optical cord

Hookups and Settings

• S urround effect (pa ge 60) Surround1

Surround2

Surround3

: Virtual speaker

Note

Do not connect your TV’s audio output jacks to the LINE IN (AUDIO L/R) jacks at the same time. This will cause unwanted noise to come from your TV’s spea ke rs .

• Surround effect Dolby Digital (5.1ch), DTS (5.1ch)

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby,” “Pro Logic,” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

“DTS” and “DTS Digital Out” are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.

Notes

• After you have completed the connection, make the

appropriate settings under “ Audio Connection Setup” in Easy Setup (page 30). Otherwise, no sound or a loud noise will come from your speakers .

• The surround sound effects of this record er cannot be

used when you connect using a coaxial or op ti cal digital cord.

• This recorder does not support Linear PCM playback

with 2 channels or more.

• When outputting the sound of a DVD-RW (VR Mode)

disc recorded in two languages from the DIGITAL AUDIO OUT jack, the sound cannot be switched with the AUDIO button.

Step 5: Connecting the

Step 6: Preparing the

Power Cord

Plug the recorder and TV power cords into an AC outlet. After you connect the power co rd, you

must wait for a short while before operating the recorder. You can operate the

recorder only after the fro nt panel display lights up and the recorder enters standby mo de. If you connect addi ti onal equipment to thi s recorder (page 34), be sure to connect the power cord only after all connections are complete.

AUDIO OUT

DIGITAL

AUDIO

OUT

PCM/DTS/

DOLBY DIGITAL

COAXIAL

OPTICAL

S VIDEO OUT

to AC outlet

Remote

You can control the recorder using the supplied remote. Insert two size AA (R6) batterie s by matching the 3 and # ends on the batteries to the markings insi de the battery comp artment. When using the remote, point it at the remote sens or on the recorder.

Notes

• If the supplied remote interferes your other Sony DVD Player/Video Cassette Recorder o r Video Casse tte Recorder/DVD Recorder, change the command mode number f o r t h is r ecorder (page 29).

• Use the ba tteries corr ec tly to avoid po ss ible leakag e and corrosion. Do not touch the liquid with bare hands should leakage occur. Observe the followi ng: – Do not use a new batte r y with an old battery, or

batteries of different manufacturers. – Do not a tte mpt to recharge the ba tteries. – If you do not intend to use the remote for an extended

period of time, remove the batteries. – If batt ery leakage occurs, wipe out any liquid inside

the battery compartment, and insert new batteries.

• Do not expose the remote se nsor ( ma r ke d on the front panel) to strong light, such as direct sunlight or lighting apparatus. The recorder may not respond to the remote.

• With normal use, the ba tteries shoul d last about thre e to six months.

• Do not leave the r e mote in an extremely hot or hu mid place.

• Do not drop any foreign object into the remote casing, particularly when replacing the batteries.

Controlling TVs with the remote

You can adjust th e remote control’s signal to control your TV . If you connected the recorder to an AV am plifier (receiver), you can also use the supplied remote to control the AV amplifier’s (receiver’s) volume.

Notes

• Depending on the connected unit, you may not be able to control your TV or AV amplifier (receiver) with some or all of the buttons below.

• If you enter a new code number, the code number previously entered will be erased.

• When you replace the batteries of the remote, the code number may be reset to th e de f ault setting. Set the appropriate code number again.

TV/DVD·VIDEO switch

"/1

Number buttons,

SET

CH +/–

VOL +/– TV/VIDEO

1 Slide the TV/DVD·VIDEO switch to TV. 2 Hold down "/1. 3 Enter your TV’s man ufacturer code (see

below) using the number buttons.

4 Release "/1.

When the TV/DVD·VIDEO switch is set to TV, the remote performs the following:

Press To

"/1 Turn your TV on or off VOL +/– Adjust the volume of

CH +/– Select the channel on

TV/VIDEO Switch your TV’s input

Number buttons and SET

your TV

source Select the channel on

your TV

Code numbers of controllable TVs

If more than one c ode number is listed, tr y entering them one at a time until you fin d th e one that works with your TV.

Manufacturer Code number

Sony 01 (default) Akai 04 AOC 04 Centurion 12 Coronado 03 Curtis-Mathes 12, 14 Daewoo 04, 22 Daytron 03, 12 Fisher 11 General Electric 04, 06, 10 Hitachi 02, 03, 04 J.C.Penney 04, 10, 12 JVC 09 KMC 03 LG/Gold Star 03, 04, 17 Magnavox 03, 04, 08, 12, 21 Marantz 04, 13 MGA/Mitsubishi 04, 12, 13, 17 NEC 04, 12 Panasonic 06, 19 Philco 02, 03, 04, 08 Philips 08, 21 Pioneer 06, 16 Portland 03 Proscan 10 Quasar 06, 18 Radio Shack 05, 10, 14 RCA 04, 10 Sampo 12 Samsung 03, 04, 12, 20 Sanyo 11, 14 Scott 12 Sears 07, 10, 11 Sharp 03, 05, 18

,continued

Hookups and Settings

Manufacturer Code number

Sylvania 08, 12 Teknika 03, 08, 14 Toshiba 07, 18 Wards 03, 04, 12 Yorx 12 Zenith 14, 15

Controlling the volume of your AV amplifier (receiver) with the remote

TV/DVD·VIDEO switch

"/1

Number

buttons

VOL +/–

1 Slide the TV/DVD·VIDEO switch to

DVD·VIDEO.

2 Hold down "/1, and en ter the

manufacture r code (see the table below) for your AV amplifier (receiver) using the number buttons.

3 Release "/1.

The VOL +/– buttons control the AV amplifier’s volume. If you want to control th e TV’s volume, slide the TV/DVD·VIDEO switch to TV.

Code numbers of co ntrollable AV amplifiers (receivers)

If more than one code number is listed, try entering them one at a time until you fin d t he one that works with your AV amplifier (receiver).

Manufacturer Code number

Sony 78, 79, 80, 91 Denon 84, 85, 86 Kenwood 92, 93 Onkyo 81, 82, 83 Pioneer 99 Sansui 87 Technics 97, 98 Yamaha 94, 95, 96

z Hint

If you want to control the TV’s volume even when the TV/DVD·VIDEO switch is set to DVD·VIDEO, repeat the steps above and enter the code num ber 90 ( de faul t) .

If you have a Sony DVD Player/Video Cassette Recorder or Video Cassette Recorder/DVD Recorder

If the supplied remote interferes with your other Sony DVD Player/Video Cassette Recorder or Video Cassette Recorder/DVD Recorder, set the command mode number for this recorder and the supplied remote to one that differs from the other Sony DVD Player/Video Cassette Recorder or Video Cassette Recorder/DVD Recorder. The default command mode setting for this recorder and the supplied remote is DVD COMBO3.

SYSTEM

O RETURN

M/m, ENTER

3 Select “Options,” an d pr e s s ENT E R .

Options

Title List

Timer

Edit

Disc Setting

Setup

Language Parental Front Display Command Mode Factory Setting

10:10 AM

: Auto : Mode3

4 Select “Command Mode,” and press

ENTER.

Options

Title List

Timer

Edit

Disc Setting

Setup

Language Parental Front Display Command Mode Factory Setting

: Auto : DVD1 No

Mode1 Mode2 Mode3

10:10 AM

5 Select the command mode (“Mode1,”

“Mode2,” or “Mo de3 ”), and pre ss E NTE R.

6 Slide the COMMAND MODE switch on the

remote so it matches the mode you selected abo v e.

Hookups and Settings

COMMAND MODE switch

1 Press SYSTEM MENU.

The System Menu a ppears.

2 Select “Setup,” and press ENTER.

Setup

Title List

Timer

Edit

Disc Setting

Setup

Tuner Preset Clock Set Video Audio Features Options Easy Setup

10:10 AM

To return to the previous display

Press O RETURN.

Step 7: Easy Setup

Follow the steps below to make the minimum number of basic adjustments for usi n g the recorder. If you do not complete Easy Setup, it will appear each time you turn on your recorder. Settings are made in the following order.

OSD Language Setup

Clock Setup

Tuner and Channel Setup

TV Type Setup

Audio Connection Setup

Finished!

"/1

M/m/,, ENTER

O RETURN

1 Turn on the TV. 2 Press "/1.

The recorder turn s on.

3 Switch the input selector on your TV so that

the signal from the recorder appears on your TV screen.

When connecting the recorder to the TV using only the antenn a cable, see “Setting the RF Output channel” on page 19. “Initial setting necessary to operate the DVD recorder will be m ade. You can change the m later using Setup. ” appears.

• If this message does not appear, select “Easy Setup” in the “Setup” display to run Easy Setup (page 107).

4 Press ENTER .

The setup display for selecting the language used in the on-screen display app ear s.

Easy Setup

Select the screen language.

English Français Español

5 Select a language, and press ENTER.

The setup display for clock setting appears.

Easy Setup

Select a method for setting the clock.

If you select "Auto", this recorder will look

for a time signal when you turn it off.

Auto Manual

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