Sony TC-KA6ES User Manual

Stereo Cassette Deck

3-759-737-11(1)

Operating Instructions EN Mode d‘emploi F Manual de instrucciones ES Manual de Instruções P

TC-KA6ES TC-KA3ES

 1995 by Sony Corporation

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.

FOR THE CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED STATES

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.

FOR THE CUSTOMERS IN CANADA CAUTION

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THIS POLARIZED AC PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.

Welcome!

Thank you for purchasing the Sony Stereo Cassette Deck. Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly and retain it for future reference.

About This Manual

The instructions in this manual are for models TC-KA6ES and TC-KA3ES. All illustrations in this manual show the TC-KA3ES. Please note the following distinguishing features of each model:

TC-KA6ES

• Uses an SD head

• Does not have an HX PRO button; the Dolby HX PRO function is continuously on

• Is for sale in Europe only

TC-KA3ES

• Uses an LA head

• Has an HX PRO button for turning the Dolby HX PRO function on and off

• Is for sale in the U.S.A., Canada, and other non-European countries

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

Owner’s record

The model and serial numbers are located on the rear of the unit. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.

Model No. TC-KA3ES Serial No.

Conventions

• Instructions in this manual describe the controls on the deck.

• The following icons are used in this manual:

Indicates useful information or tips that make a task easier.

Indicates a task that requires use of the remote. (Canadian model only)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Recording on a Tape 4 Playing a Tape 6

Getting Started

Unpacking 7 Hooking Up the System 7

Advanced Playback Operations

Locating a Track (AMS/Auto Play/Memory Play) 9 Playing Using a Timer 9

Advanced Recording Operations

Adjusting Bias, Recording Level and Recording Equalizer Calibration 10 Monitoring the Recorded Sound 11 Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting) 11 Recording Using a Timer 12 Synchro-Recording With a CD Player (Canadian Model Only) 12

GBGB

Additional Information

Precautions 13 Notes on Cassette Tapes 13 Cleaning 14 Troubleshooting 15 Specifications 16 Glossary 17

Index 18

Basic Operations

Recording on a Tape

See page 7 for hookup information.

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

6 4

1 2

MONITOR

BIAS

REC EQ

PHONES

•

LEVEL

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

MEMORY

rRPp

REC LEVEL

DOLBY NR

OFF

•

Turn on the amplifier and play the program source you want to record.

Set TIMER to OFF and press POWER.

REC LEVEL

To protect recordings against accidental erasure

Break out the record-protect tab(s) (see page 13).

Press § OPEN/CLOSE and insert a cassette.

With the side you want to record facing you

Press r REC.

The cassette holder closes and the deck becomes ready to record. ”SOURCE” and the tape type (I, II, or IV) appear in the display.

Turn REC LEVEL to adjust the recording level.

The recording level should not exceed the recommended level for the indicated tape type.

After doing the all adjustments, stop playing the program source.

For type I or type II tape

For type IV tape

Press P PAUSE or (.

Recording starts.

Start playing the program source.

Basic Operations

Press

Stop recording p Pause P PAUSE. Press the button again to

resume recording.

Take out the cassette

§ OPEN/CLOSE after stopping recording

Use these buttons (controls) for additional operations

MPX FILTER HX PRO

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC LEVEL

•

≠ AMS ±

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

POWER

tape counter

MEMORY

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

•

–30+3

DOLBY NR

OFF

•

DOLBY NR

To adjust the recording balance

Turn REC LEVEL so that the L (left channel) and R (right channel) peak level meters in the display are at the levels you want. For normal settings, keep the red mark on each control aligned with each other.

REC LEVELRESET

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

BIAS

REC EQ

•

–20+2

–200+20

PHONES

LEVEL

C S

•

Basic Operations

You can check how much blank remains on the tape

1 Locate the end of the

recorded portion on the tape.

2 Press RESET to reset the tape

counter to “0.00.”

3 Press ) to fast-forward the

tape to its end. The tape counter shows the approximate amount of remaining time.

* Dolby noise reduction and HX

Pro headroom extension manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. HX Pro originated by Bang & Olufsen. “DOLBY, “ the double-D symbol a and “HX PRO” are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

REC LEVEL

To increase the left (L) channel level only, turn the outer control clockwise.

To increase the right (R) channel level only, turn the inner control clockwise.

REC LEVEL

To record with the Dolby NR* system

Set DOLBY NR to the position you want (B, C, or S) before you start recording.

To record with Dolby HX PRO

Press HX PRO. “HX PRO” appears in the display. The HX PRO button and indicator are provided on TC-KA3ES only. (For details on HX PRO, see “Glossary” on page 17.)

If you cannot get satisfying results when recording FM broadcasts with Dolby NR system

Set MPX FILTER to ON. The filter turns on to make the Dolby NR system work more effectively. “FILTER” appears in the display. (For details on the MPX filter, see “Glossary” on page 17.)

Basic Operations

Playing a Tape

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

See page 7 for hookup information.

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

MEMORY

rRPp

REC LEVEL

DOLBY NR

OFF

•

Turn on the amplifier and select the tape deck position.

MONITOR

BIAS

REC EQ

PHONES

•

LEVEL

REC LEVEL

To play a tape recorded with the Dolby NR system

Set DOLBY NR to the same position that the tape was recorded in—B, C, or S.

You can connect the headphones to PHONES

To adjust the volume, turn PHONES LEVEL.

Set TIMER to OFF and press POWER.

Press § OPEN/CLOSE and insert a cassette.

With the side you want to play facing you

Press (.

The cassette holder closes and the deck starts playing. “TAPE” and the tape type (I, II, or IV) appear in the display. Adjust the volume on the amplifier.

Stop playing p Pause P PAUSE. Press the button again to

Fast-forward or rewind ) or 0 when the deck is stopped

Press

resume play.

§ OPEN/CLOSE after stopping playingTake out the cassette

Getting Started

Unpacking

Check that you have received the following supplied items:

• Remote commander (remote) RM-J701 (1)*

• Size AA (R6) batteries (2)*

• Audio connecting cord (2)

* Canadian model only

Inserting batteries into the remote (Canadian model only)

Insert two size AA (R6) batteries, matching the + and – on the batteries with the markings inside the battery compartment. When using the remote, point it at the remote control sensor g on the tape deck.

Hooking Up the System

This section describes how to hook up the tape deck to an amplifier. Be sure to turn off the power of each component before making the connections.

TC-KA6ES/KA3ES

to LINE IN

to LINE OUT

to TAPE INto REC OUT

to an AC outlet (or a switched outlet on the amplifier when using a timer)

Amplifier

Basic Operations

GBGB

When to replace batteries

With normal use, the batteries should last for about 6 months. When the remote no longer operates the tape deck, replace all the batteries.

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 equipment. 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.

to a wall outlet

Hookups

When connecting an audio cord, be sure to match the color-coded cord to the appropriate jacks on the components: Red (right) to Red and White (left) to White. Be sure to make connections firmly to avoid hum and noise. Connect the tape deck to the amplifier as shown below.

Tape deck Amplifier

LINE

OUTIN

L R

TAPE

REC OUT IN

L R

(Continued)

Getting Started

To connect your tape deck to another tape deck

Connect both tape decks as shown below.

Tape deck

LINE

OUTIN

L R

Another tape deck

LINE

OUTIN

Setting the voltage selector (only on models supplied with a voltage selector)

Check that the voltage selector on the rear panel of the tape deck is set to the local power line voltage. If not, set the selector to the correct position using a screwdriver before connecting the AC power cord to an AC outlet.

VOLTAGE

220V 240V 120V

Connecting the AC power cord

Connect the AC power cord to an AC outlet. The dape deck’s Memory Backup function (page 17) keeps the various settings in memory even after you trun off the power as long as AC power cords is plugged in.

Where do I go next?

Now you’re ready to use your tape deck. For basic operations, go to pages 4 to 6; for advanced operations, go to the sections immediately after this one.

Advanced Playback Operations

Locating a Track (AMS/Auto Play/ Memory Play)

You can locate the following/previous tracks (AMS: Automatic Music Sensor) or the beginning of a tape quickly. You can even locate a specific point anywhere on a tape.

±≠

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC LEVEL

MEMORY

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

REC EQ

•

–30+3

–20+2

DOLBY NR

PHONES

OFF

•

BIAS

•

–200+20

•

LEVEL

•

Playing CDsGetting Started

Notes

• The AMS function may not work correctly if: — the blank space between tracks is less than 4 seconds long. — the signal strength of the left and right channels are very

different.

— there is a passage of low frequencies or very low volume

within a track.

• Since the counter is not a digital clock, it will differ from the actual elapsed playback or recording time.

Playing Using a T imer

You can start playing a tape at any time you want by connecting a timer (not supplied). Please also refer to the instructions of the timer if you need help.

RESET MEMORY(0

To locate

the beginning of the next or succeeding tracks (AMS*)

the beginning of the current track (AMS*)

the beginning of the preceding tracks (AMS*)

the beginning of a tape (auto play)

a particular point on a tape (memory play)

Press

± as many times as you want while playing. For example, to locate 2 tracks ahead, press twice.

≠ once while playing

≠ as many times as you

want while playing. For example, to locate 2 tracks behind, press three times.

MEMORY repeatedly until “MEMORY” disappears in the display. Then press 0 while holding down (.

MEMORY repeatedly until “MEMORY” appears in the display. Find the point you want, and press RESET to reset the tape counter and to memorize the point. To locate the memorized point, press 0 while holding down (. (Press 0 only to stop at “0.00.”)

TIMER

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC LEVEL

REC EQ

•

MEMORY

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

•

–30+3

–20+2

DOLBY NR

PHONES

OFF

•

BIAS

•

–200+20

LEVEL

•

1 Insert a cassette. 2 Set TIMER on the tape deck to PLAY. 3 Set the timer to the time you want.

The tape deck turns off. When the set time comes, the tape deck turns on and start playing.

4 After you have used the timer, set TIMER on the

tape deck to OFF.

GBGB

* You can use the AMS to locate up to the 30th track after or

before the current track.

You can change the indication on the display (Canadian model only)

Press DISPLAY on the remote repeatedly to change the display as follows:

n tape counter only n no display n full display

Advanced Recording Operations

Adjusting Bias, Recor ding Level and Recording Equalizer Calibration

Since there are many different types of cassettes on the market, the tape deck automatically sets the appropriate equalization characteristics and bias current for each tape type (ATS: Automatic Tape Selection). However, you can get better recording results by adjusting the bias current, recording level and recording equalizer.

MEMORY

RESET

≠ AMS ±

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

REC LEVEL

CALIBRATION

MONITOR

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

BIAS

REC LEVEL

REC EQ

•

–30+3

DOLBY NR

OFF

•

–20+2

–200+20

PHONES

LEVEL

•

REC LEVEL

6 Adjust REC LEVEL CALIBRATION so that only

appears. Make sure either 9 or ( does not appear. If ( appears, turn REC LEVEL CALIBRATION clockwise. If 9 appears, turn REC LEVEL CALIBRATION counterclockwise.

Only appears

7 Adjust REC EQUALIZER CALIBRATION so that

both meters reach the recommended level. Turn REC EQUALIZER CALIBRATION clockwise to increase both meters. Turn REC EQUALIZER CALIBRATION counterclockwise to decrease both meters.

EZPPAUSE

REC EQ

BIASrREC

1 Insert the cassette you want to record on. 2 Press CALIBRATION.

The display for adjusting the bias, recording level and recording equalizer appears.

3 Press r REC. 4 Press P PAUSE or ( to record the test tones. (You

can’t hear the test tones.) After two or three seconds, the meters showing the level of the test tones appear in the display. Then adjust, in sequence, the bias, recording level and recording equalizer.

5 Adjust BIAS CALIBRATION so that both meters

indicate equal signal levels. If the upper meter shows a higher level than the lower meter, turn the BIAS CALIBRATION clockwise. If the lower meter shows a higher level than the upper meter, turn the BIAS CALIBRATION counterclockwise.

Recommended level

Repeat steps 5 to 7 if necessary.

8 Press p to stop recording the test tones.

The display returns to normal.

9 Rewind the tape and start the actual recording.

You can also adjust the bias, recording level and the recording equalizer according to your own taste

For details, see page 17.

Notes

• Because the meters use a wider amplitude during tape calibration, they are more sensitive to slight changes in signal level.

• When you use metal (type IV) tapes, the frequency response to adjustments of the bias current is small. Therefore, adjusting the bias current with the range of this tape deck (a range of about ±20%) may not be effective.

Equal signal level

Advanced Recording Operations

Monitoring the Recorded Sound

You can compare the quality of the recorded sound with the sound of the program source while recording.

MONITOR

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC LEVEL

REC EQ

•

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

MEMORY

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

•

–30+3

–20+2

DOLBY NR

PHONES

OFF

•

While recording, press MONITOR repeatedly until “TAPE” appears in the display. You can monitor the sound being recorded.

To listen to the sound of the program source

Press MONITOR repeatedly until “SOURCE” appears in the display.

BIAS

•

–200+20

LEVEL

•

Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting)

You can insert a blank space of 4 seconds between each track. The blank spaces between tracks let you locate the track easily with the AMS function (see page 9). Also, use this function to eliminate only unwanted portions on the tape.

(rREC

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC LEVEL

REC EQ

•

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

RESET

MEMORY

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

•

–30+3

–20+2

DOLBY NR

PHONES

OFF

•

PPAUSE RREC MUTE

1 Start recording. 2 Press R REC MUTE once when you want to insert a

blank space. The REC indicator starts flashing and the tape moves on without recording any signals. After 4 seconds, the P PAUSE indicator lights up and the tape deck is now ready to resume recording.

BIAS

•

–200+20

LEVEL

•

GBGB

3 Press P PAUSE or ( to resume recording.

To insert a blank space longer than 4 seconds

Hold down R REC MUTE as long as you want. After 4 seconds, the REC indicator flashes faster. When you release the R REC MUTE , the P PAUSE indicator lights up and the tape deck is ready to resume recording. Press P PAUSE or ( to resume recording.

To insert a blank space of less than 4 seconds

After pressing R REC MUTE, press P PAUSE at any time. The deck changes to recording pause. To resume recording, press r REC instead of P PAUSE.

Advanced Recording Operations

Recording Using a Timer

You can start recording on a tape at any time you want by connecting a timer (not supplied). Please also refer to the instructions of the timer if you need help.

TIMER

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC EQ

REC LEVEL

•

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

TIMER

≠ AMS ±

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

MEMORY

RESET

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

rRPp

•

–30+3

–20+2

DOLBY NR

PHONES

OFF

•

1 Insert a cassette. 2 On the amplifier, select the program source you

want to record.

3 On the tape deck, set TIMER to REC. 4 Set the timer to the time you want.

The tape deck turns off. When the set time comes, the tape deck turns on and start recording.

5 After you have used the timer, set TIMER on the

tape deck to OFF.

Note

If the TIMER switch is set to REC, the tape deck will automatically start recording when you turn on the tape deck.

BIAS

•

–200+20

•

LEVEL

•

Synchro-Recording With a CD Player (Canadian Model Only)

By pressing CD SYNCHRO START on the remote (supplied with the Canadian model only), you can perform synchro-recording on your tape deck with a Sony CD player. This function is possible only with Sony CD players with remote control capability.

6 DISPLAY

RESET MEMORY

COUNTER

MONITOR

=0+)r

p(P

P=+

CD SYNCHRO

(STOP/START/STANDBY)

CD SYNCHRO

STOP START STANDBY

CASSETTE DECK

1 Insert a CD into the CD player. 2 Insert a cassette into the tape deck. 3 Press CD SYNCHRO STANDBY on the remote. The

CD player changes to play pause and the tape deck to recording pause.

4 Press CD SYNCHRO START on the remote. The

tape deck starts recording, and then the CD player starts playing.

To stop Synchro-Recording

Press CD SYNCHRO STOP.

CD(P/=/+)

To pause Synchro-Recording

Press P for the tape deck and CD player at the same time. Press both buttons again to resume Synchro-Recording.

You can use the remote of your tape deck to operate the CD player

To start CD play, press P twice; to pause CD play, press P once; to locate a CD track, press = or +.

Additional Information

Precautions

On safety

• Do not disassemble the cabinet — this may result in an electrical shock. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

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

On power sources

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

• The tape deck is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the tape deck itself has been turned off.

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

• Should the AC power cord (mains lead) need to be changed, have it done at a qualified service shop only.

On placement

• Place the tape deck in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat build-up in the tape deck.

• Do not place the tape deck: — on a soft surface such as a rug that might block the

ventilation holes on the bottom. — in a location near heat sources. — in a place subject to direct sunlight. — in an inclined position. — in a place subject to excessive dust or mechanical shock.

Notes on Cassette Tapes

To protect the recording

Break off the respective tab for side A or B.

Side A

Tab for side B

To record on a tape having a broken tab

Cover the respective tab hole for side A or B with adhesive tape.

When you are using a type II or type IV tape, be careful not to cover the slots that the deck uses to determine the tape type.

Type II

Detector slots

Tab for side A

Type IV

Detector slots

On cleaning the tape deck

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 tape deck, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

For the customers in the U.S.A.

For detailed safety precautions, see the leaflet “IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS.”

On tapes longer than 90 minutes

We do not recommend the use of tapes longer than 90 minutes except for a long continuous recording or playback. They are very thin and tend to be stretched easily.

On handling cassettes

• To prevent the heads and tape path from getting dirty, avoid touching the tape surface of a cassette.

• Place cassettes away from equipment with magnets, such as speakers and amplifiers; it may cause tape distortion or erase the recordings.

• Do not expose cassettes to direct sunlight, extremely cold temperature or moisture.

Additional Information

Cleaning

Inside of the cassette holder

Pinch rollers

Capstans

Erasing head

Recording head

Playing head

RESET

MEMORY

≠ AMS ±

TIMER

OPEN/CLOSE

0()

PAUSE REC MUTE

REC

rRPp

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

REC LEVEL

•

–30+3

DOLBY NR

OFF

•

• S

Demagnetizing the heads

After 20 to 30 hours of use, or when you notice a hissing sound or loss of high frequencies, demagnetize the heads with a commercially available demagnetizer for tape decks. Please refer to the instructions of the demagnetizer.

REC LEVEL

MONITOR

BIAS

REC EQ

•

–20+2

–200+20

PHONES

LEVEL

•

POWER §OPEN/CLOSE

Cleaning the heads and tape path

Clean the heads and tape path of the tape deck after every 10 hours of operation to guard against:

• a decrease in sound level

• excessive wow or flutter

• sound dropout

• incomplete erasure To ensure better recording, we recommend that you clean the heads and tape path before every recording.

1 Set the volume control on the amplifier to

minimum.

2 With the tape deck turned off, hold down § OPEN/

CLOSE and press POWER. The holder opens, the heads rise, and the pinch rollers begin to rotate.

3 Wipe the heads, the pinch rollers, and the capstans

with a cotton swab slightly moistened with alcohol or a commercially available cleaning fluid for tape decks.

4 When completed, press § OPEN/CLOSE again.

Do not insert a cassette until the cleaned areas are completely dry.

T roubleshooting

If you’ve experienced any of the following difficulties while using the tape deck, use this troubleshooting guide to help you remedy the problem. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

The cassette holder does not close.

Reinsert the AC power cord, then close the cassette holder.

The function buttons do not work.

The tape deck has just been turned on and does not operate for about 3 seconds. Wait until the P indicator stops flashing.

/ Check that the cassette is inserted correctly and

the cassette holder is closed completely.

Playback or recording begins when the power is turned on.

Set TIMER on the tape deck to OFF.

Additional Information

There is an unbalanced tone.

Check that the DOLBY NR control is set to the position where the tape was recorded.

/ The tape deck is placed near a TV or VCR. Place

the tape deck away from the TV or VCR.

The AMS function does not work properly.

One of the tracks contains a long pause, a passage of low frequencies or very low volume, or a gradual increase or decreace in volume.

/ The space before a track is less than 4 seconds

long. Insert a blank space of 4 seconds using R REC MUTE button.

/ The signal strength of the left and right channels

are very different.

/ There is noise in the space before a track. / You pressed ) button immediately before the

next track, or 0 button immediately after the beginning of the current track.

The tape stops before the tape has been fully rewound.

The tape is slack. Take up the tape slack.

/ If “MEMORY” is shown in the display, press

MEMORY repeatedly until the indication disappears.

/ The cassette shell is bent. Use another cassette.

The tape deck does not play or record.

The tape has reeled to the end.

/ The tape is slack. Take up the tape slack. / The record-protect tab has been removed from

the cassette. Cover the slot with tape (page 13).

/ Clean the heads and tape path and demagnetize

the heads (page 14).

/ Check that the tape deck is properly connected

(page 7).

/ Make sure the amplifier is correctly set.

There is excessive wow, flutter, or a sound dropout.

The capstans and pinch rollers are dirty. Clean

them (see page 14).

There is a decrease in sound level or a sound dropout./The tape does not erase completely./Noise increases.

/ The heads and tape path are dirty. Clean them

(see page 14).

/ The heads are magnetized. Demagnetize them

(see page 14).

GBGB

There is hum or noise.

The tape deck is placed near a TV or VCR. Place the tape deck away from the TV or VCR.

/ The tape deck is placed on or under the amplifier.

Place the tape deck away from the amplifier.

Additional Information

Specifications

System

Recording system

4-track 2-channel stereo

Wow and flutter TC-KA6ES

±0.05% W. Peak (IEC)

0.025% W. RMS (NAB) ±0.07% W. Peak (DIN)

TC-KA3ES

±0.04% W. Peak (IEC)

0.022% W. RMS (NAB)

±0.065% W. Peak (DIN)

Fast winding time (approx.)

90 sec. (with Sony C-60 cassette)

Bias

AC bias

Heads Head (×1)

Erasing Recording Playing

Motors

TC-KA6ES

S&F S&F SD SD

TC-KA3ES

LA LA

Capstan motor × 1 (direct drive linear torque BSL motor) Reel motor × 1 (DC motor) Assist (mechanism drive) motor × 1 (DC motor)

Signal-to-noise ratio (at peak level, weighted, and with Dolby NR off)

Type I tape, Sony Type I (NORMAL): 57 dB Type II tape, Sony Type II (HIGH): 59 dB Type IV tape, Sony Type IV (METAL): 61 dB

S/N ratio improvement Dolby NR on

Harmonic distortion Tape type

Type I tape Sony Type I (NORMAL)

Type IV tape Sony Type IV (METAL)

Frequency response (Dolby NR off) Tape type

Type I tape Sony Type I (NORMAL)

Type II tape Sony Type II (HIGH)

Type IV tape Sony Type IV (METAL)

Approximate values

5 dB at 1 kHz, 10 dB at 5 kHz 15 dB at 500 Hz, 20 dB at 1 kHz 10 dB at 100 Hz, 24 dB at 1 kHz

TC-KA6ES

0.4% (160 nWb/m 315 Hz, 3rd H.D.)

1.5% (250 nWb/m 315 Hz, 3rd H.D.)

TC-KA6ES

20 - 17,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)

20 - 19,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)

20 - 21,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)

20 - 16,000 Hz (±3 dB, –4dB recording)

TC-KA3ES

1.3% (250 nWb/m 315 Hz, 3rd H.D.)

TC-KA3ES

15 - 17,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)

15 - 20,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)

15 - 22,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC)

15 - 16,000 Hz (±3 dB, –4dB recording)

Inputs

Line inputs (phono jacks)

Sensitivity: 0.16 V Input impedance: 47 kilohms

Outputs

Line outputs (phono jacks)

Rated output level: 0.5 V at a load impedance of

47 kilohms

Load impedance: Over 10 kilohms

Headphones (stereo phone jack)

Output level: 0 - 3 mW at a load impedance of

32 ohms

General

Power requirements Where purchased

U.S.A. and Canada Europe Other countries

Power consumption

Power requirements

120 V AC, 60 Hz 220 - 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz 120, 220 or 240 V AC adjustable,

50/60 Hz

30 W

Dimensions (approx.) (w/h/d)

430 × 135 × 360 mm (17 × 5 3/8 × 14 1/4 inches) incl. projecting parts and controls

Mass (approx.)

7.6 kg (16 lbs 13 oz)

Supplied accessories

Audio connecting cords (2) Remote commander RM-J701 (1)* Sony batteries SUM-3(NS) (2)*

* Canadian model only

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Glossary

AMS

Automatic Music Sensor. A function that locates the beginning of a track by detecting a blank space of over 4 seconds between tracks.

Additional Information

Memory Backup

Function for storing tape deck operating parameters after the power is turned off. The memorized parameters are: — linear counter and counter memory parameters — MPX FILTER, Dolby HX PRO and MONITOR settings. To reset parameters to their original factory settings, turn on the tape deck while holding down both RESET and R REC MUTE.

ATS

Automatic Tape Selection. The tape deck automatically sets the appropriate equalization characteristics and bias current according to the tape type inserted in the deck.

Bias calibration

Adjustment for optimum recording. You can get better recording results with minimum distortion and flat frequency response by adjusting the bias current to the appropriate level. Lowering the bias current can boost high-frequency response, but also cause higher distortion. On the other hand, raising the bias current can minimize distortion, but also reduce highfrequency response. To balance both the bias current and highfrequency response, it is necessary to adjust the bias current appropriately. However, to suit your taste, you can also adjust the bias current as you want.

Output level

400 3k

15k

–

Dolby HX PRO system

Distortion and noise reduction system. The Dolby HX PRO system reduces distortion and noise in high-frequency response while recording. A tape recorded with this system brings the same high-quality sound even when you play the tape on the other tape decks.

MPX filter

Multiplex filter. A filter for eliminating the 19-kHz stereo carrier and the 38-kHz sub-carrier signals that may impair the Dolby NR system. Usually the tuner has an MPX filter. If you cannot get a satisfying result when recording FM broadcasts with Dolby NR system, your tuner does not have a filter or the filter is not working. In this case, set the MPX FILTER switch on the tape deck to ON.

Recording equalizer calibration

Adjustment for optimum recording. Use the REC EQ control to adjust the equalizer to suit your taste. Turning the control clockwise emphasizes the high and middle frequencies; turning the control counterclockwise reduces the high and middle frequencies.

Output level

400 3k

15k

–

Recording level calibration

Adjustment for optimum recording. Even when you have adjusted the recording level correctly, the playing level might turn out to be low depending on the tape used. By adjusting the recording level calibration, you can compensate for the low recording level. When you record on a tape with the Dolby NR system, this function works more effectively.

GBGB

Dolby NR (noise reduction) system

Noise reduction system for eliminating hissing noise. The Dolby NR system boosts the low-level signals in high frequency during recording and restores them during playback. There are 4 types in the Dolby NR system: A, B, C and S. A-type is for professional use (not available on this tape deck), and B, C and S-types are for consumer use. S-type has the maximum noise reduction capability, followed by C and B.

Output

level

Dolby

NR off

100 500 10k

noise reduction

Output level

400 3k

15k

–

Tape counter

A display element that shows the elapsed recording or playing time as a digital readout. Since the counter is not a digital clock, the displayed value will differ slightly from the actual elapsed recording or playing time. The counter value also includes the length of the leader tape.

Test tones

15-kHz, 3-kHz and 400-Hz signals produced by the tape deck when you do the bias, recording equalizer and recording level calibration.

Index

Adjusting

recording balance 5 bias calibration 10 recording equalizer calibration 10 recording level 4 recording level calibration 10

volume 6 AMS 9, 17 ATS 10, 17 Auto play 9 Automatic Music Sensor. See AMS Automatic Tape Selector. See ATS

B, C

Balance 5 Bias calibration 10, 17 Cassette. See Tape Checking the remaining time 5 Cleaning

cabinet 13

heads and tape path 14 Connecting. See Hookups Counter. See tape counter

D, E, F, G

Demagnetizing the heads 14 Dolby HX PRO system 5, 17 Dolby NR system 5, 6, 17 Glossary 17

H, I, J, K

Heads

cleaning 14

demagnetizing 14 Hooking up the system 7 Hookups 7 Insert

batteries into the remote 7

blank space 11

cassette 4, 6

P, Q

Playing

a tape 6 auto play 9 memory play 9 using a timer. See Timer playing

Precautions 13

Recording

equalizer calibration 10, 17 level calibration 10, 17 on a tape 4 using a timer. See Timer

recording Record muting 11 Remaining time 5

Searching. See Locating Specifications 16 Synchro-recording 12

Tape

counter 5, 9, 17

notes 13

path cleaning 14

protect the recording 13

type 4, 6, 13 Test tones 10, 17 Timer

playing 9

recording 12 Troubleshooting 15

U, V, W, X, Y, Z

Unpacking 7

Names of Controls

Buttons

CALIBRATION 10 CD SYNCHRO STANDBY 12 CD SYNCHRO START 12 CD SYNCHRO STOP 12 HX PRO 5 MEMORY 9 MONITOR 11 MPX (multiplex) FILTER 5 RESET 9

≠ / ± (AMS) 9 = / + CD (CD AMS) 12 0 (rewind) 6, 9 ( (play) 4, 9, 10 ) (fast-forward) 6

§ OPEN/CLOSE 4 - 6 p (stop) 5, 6 P PAUSE 4 - 6 P CD (CD pause) 12 R REC MUTE (record muting)

11 r REC (recording) 4, 10

Switches

DOLBY NR (noise reduction) 5, 6 POWER 4, 6, 14 TIMER 4, 6, 9, 12

Controls

BIAS 10, 17 PHONES LEVEL 6 REC (recording) EQ (equalizer) 10, 17 REC (recording) LEVEL 4 REC (recording) LEVEL (for calibration) 10, 17

Jack

PHONES 6

Others

Cassette holder 4, 6

Locating

beginning of the tape 9 particular point 9 tracks 9

M, N, O

Memory backup 17 Memory play 9 Monitoring sound 11 MPX filter. See Multiplex filter Multiplex filter 5, 17 Noise reduction 5, 17 Notes on cassette tapes. See Tape notes

Playing CDs

Index

GBGB

A VERTISSEMENT

Bienvenue!

A propos de ce

Afin d’éviter tout risque d’incendie ou d’électrocution, ne pas exposer cet appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité.

Afin d’écarter tout risque d’électrocution, garder le coffret fermé. Ne confier l’entretien de l’appareil qu’à un personnel qualifié.

Pour les utilisateurs au Canada

ATTENTION

POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, NE PAS UTILISER CETTE FICHE POLARISEE AVEC UN PROLONGATEUR, UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU UNE AUTRE SORTIE DE COURANT, SAUF SI LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE INSEREES A FOND SANS EN LAISSER AUCUNE PARTIE A DECOUVERT.

Merci pour l’achat de cette platine à cassette stéréo Sony. Avant de la mettre en service, veuillez lire attentivement ce mode d’emploi et le conserver pour toute référence future.

manuel

Les instructions de ce mode d’emploi concernent les modèles TC-KA6ES et TCKA3ES. Les illustrations de ce mode d’emploi représentent le TC-KA3ES. Les caractéristiques suivantes distinguent chaque modèle:

TC-KA6ES

• Tête SD

• Absence de touche HX PRO; la fonction Dolby HX PRO est toujours en service

• Commercialisé en Europe uniquement

TC-KA3ES

• Tête LA

• Touche HX PRO pour la mise en et hors service de la fonction HX PRO

• Commercialisé aux Etats-Unis, au Canada et dans les pays non européens.

Conventions

• Les instructions de ce mode d’emploi décrivent les commandes de la platine.

• Les symboles suivants sont utilisés dans ce mode d’emploi:

Indique des conseils et des suggestions qui facilitent une manipulation.

Indique une manipulation nécessitant l’utilisation de la télécommande. (Modèle pour le Canada uniquement)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Enregistrement sur une cassette 4 Lecture d’une cassette 6

Préparatifs

Déballage 7 Raccordement de la platine 7

Fonctions élaborées pour la lecture

Localisation d’une plage (AMS/Lecture automatique/Lecture mémorisée) 9 Programmation de la lecture avec une minuterie 9

Fonctions élaborées pour l’enregistrement

Calibrage du courant de polarisation, du niveau d’enregistrement et de l’égaliseur 10 Contrôle du son enregistré 11 Insertion d’un espace blanc pendant l’enregistrement (Silencieux d’enregistrement) 11 Programmation de l’enregistrement avec une minuterie 12 Enregistrement synchronisé avec un lecteur CD (modèle pour le Canada uniquement) 12

GBGB

Informations complémentaires

Précautions 13 Remarques sur les cassettes 13 Nettoyage 14 En cas de panne 15 Spécifications 16 Glossaire 17

Index 18

Fonctions de base

Enregistrement sur une cassette

Voir page 7 pour le raccordement.

TIMER

OFFREC PLAY

POWER

≠ AMS ±

0()

RESET

PAUSE REC MUTE

6 4

1 2

MONITOR

BIAS

REC EQ

PHONES

•

• S

LEVEL

OPEN/CLOSE

REC

MPX FILTER HX PRO CALIBRATION

MEMORY

rRPp

REC LEVEL

DOLBY NR

OFF

•

Allumez l’amplificateur et reproduisez la source de programme que vous voulez enregistrer.

Réglez TIMER sur OFF et appuyez sur POWER.

REC LEVEL

Pour protéger vos enregistrements contre un effacement accidentel

Brisez la ou les languettes de protection (voir page 13).

Appuyez sur § OPEN/CLOSE et introduisez une cassette.

avec la face à lire dirigée vers vous.

Appuyez sur r REC.

Le logement de la cassette se ferme et la platine est prête pour l’enregistrement. “SOURCE” et le type de cassette (I, II ou IV) apparaissent dans l’afficheur.

Tournez REC LEVEL pour ajuster le niveau d’enregistrement.

Le niveau d’enregistrement ne doit pas dépasser le niveau recommandé pour le type de cassette indiqué.

Quand tous les réglages sont terminés, arrêtez la source de programme.

Pour une cassette de type I ou II

Pour une cassette de type IV

Appuyez sur P PAUSE ou (.

L’enregistrement commence.

+ 50 hidden pages