Yamaha KX-W421, KX-W321 User Manual

KX-W421
KX-W321

U C A

Natural Sound Stereo Cassette Deck
Platine à cassette stéréo de la série “Natural Sound”

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

CLOSE % % CLOSE

! ⁄

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

PLAYPLAY

!⁄

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

00

—+

REC LEVELBALANCEPLAY TRIM

L R MIN MAX

OWNER’S MANUAL

MODE D’EMPLOI

DECK B

PHONES

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W321

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

CLOSE % % CLOSE

! ⁄

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

!⁄

PLAYPLAY

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

REC LEVEL

MIN MAX

DECK B

PHONES

Thank you for purchasing this YAMAHA stereo cassette deck.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

÷ Explanation of Graphical Symbols

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended to
alert you to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the product's
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

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

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN
OR MOISTURE.

1 Read Instructions — All the safety and operating

instructions should be read before the unit is operated.

2 Retain Instructions — The safety and operating

instructions should be retained for future reference.

3 Heed Warnings — All warnings on the unit and in the

operating instructions should be adhered to.

4 Follow Instructions — All operating and other instructions

should be followed.

5 Water and Moisture — The unit should not be used near

water — for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen
sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near swimming
pool, etc.

6 Carts and Stands — The unit should be used only with a

cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.

6A A unit and cart combination

should be moved with care. Quick
stops, excessive force, and uneven
surfaces may cause the unit and cart
combination to overturn.

7 Wall or Ceiling Mounting — The unit should be mounted

to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the
manufacturer.

8 Ventilation — The unit should be situated so that its

location or position does not interfere with its proper
ventilation. For example, the unit should not be situated on a
bed, sofa, rug or similar surfaces that may block the
ventilation openings: or placed in a built-in installation, such
as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air
through the ventilation openings.

9 Heat — The unit should be situated away from heat

sources such as radiators, stoves, or other units that
produce heat.

10 Power Sources — The unit should be connected to a

power supply only of the type described in the operating
instructions or as marked on the unit.

11 Power-Cord Protection — Power-supply cords should

be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or
pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying
attention to receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the unit.

12 Cleaning — The unit should be cleaned only as

recommended by the manufacturer.

13 No Use Periods — The power cord of the unit should be

unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long
period of time.

14 Object and Liquid Entry — Care should be taken so

that objects do not fall into and liquids not spilled into the
inside of the unit.

15 Damage Requiring Service — The unit should be

serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged;

or

B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the

unit; or

C. The unit has been exposed to rain; or
D. The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits

a marked change in performance; or

E. The unit has been dropped, or the cabinet damaged.

16 Servicing — The user should not attempt to service the

unit beyond those means described in the operating
instructions. All other servicing should be referred to
qualified service personnel.

17 Grounding or Polarization — The precautions should be

taken so that the grounding or polarization of the unit is not
defeated.

This unit is not disconnected from the AC power source
as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the
unit itself is turned off. This state is called the standby
mode. In this state, the unit is designed to consume a
very small quantity of power.

2

CAUTION: READ THIS BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR UNIT.

FCC INFORMATION (U.S.A.)

1.IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS UNIT!
This product, when installed as indicated in the
instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC
requirements. Modifications not expressly approved by
Yamaha may void your authority, granted by the FCC, to
use the product.

2.IMPORTANT: When connecting this product to
accessories and/or another product use only high quality
shielded cables. Cables supplied with this product
MUST be used. Follow all installation instructions.
Failure to follow instructions could void your FCC
authorization to use this product in the USA.

3.NOTE: This product has been tested and found to
comply with the requirements listed in FCC Regulations,
Part 15 for Class "B" digital devices. Compliance with
these requirements provides a reasonable level of
assurance that your use of this product in a residential
environment will not result in harmful interference with
other electronic devices. This equipment generates/uses
radio frequencies and, if not installed and used
according to the instructions found in the users manual,
may cause interference harmful to the operation of other
electronic devices. Compliance with FCC regulations
does not guarantee that interference will not occur in all
installations. If this product is found to be the source of
interference, which can be determined by turning the unit
"OFF" and "ON", please try to eliminate the problem by
using one of the following measures:

Relocate either this product or the device that is being
affected by the interference.

Utilize power outlets that are on different branch (circuit
breaker or fuse) circuits or install AC line filter/s.

In the case of radio or TV interference, relocate/reorient
the antenna. If the antenna lead-in is 300 ohm ribbon
lead, change the lead-in to coaxial type cable.

If these corrective measures do not produce satisfactory
results, please contact your local retailer that is
authorized to distribute this type of product. If you
cannot locate the appropriate retailer, please contact
Yamaha Electronics Corp., U.S.A.
6660 Orangethorpe Ave, Buena Park, CA 90620

The above statements apply ONLY to those products
distributed by Yamaha Corporation of America or its
subsidiaries.

1. This unit is a sophisticated stereo cassette deck. To ensure
proper operation for the best possible performance, please
read this manual carefully.

2. Choose the installation location of your unit carefully. Avoid
placing it in direct sunlight or close to source of heat. Also
avoid locations subject to vibration and excessive dust, heat,
cold or moisture. Keep it away from sources of hum such as
transformers or motors.

3. Do not open the cabinet as this may result in damage to the
deck or electrical shock. If a foreign object should get into
the deck, contact your local dealer.

4. When removing the power plug from the wall outlet, always
pull directly on the plug; never pull the cord itself.

5. Do not apply excessive force when operating switches and
knobs.

6. When moving the deck, be sure to first pull out the power
plug and remove all cords connecting the deck to other
equipment.

7. Do not attempt to clean this unit with chemical solvents as
this may damage the finish. Use a clean, dry cloth.

8. Never allow metallic items (e.g. screwdrivers, tools, etc.) to
come near the record/playback head assembly. Doing so
may not only scratch or damage the head’s mirror-smooth
finish, it may also change the magnetic characteristics of the
heads, causing a deterioration in reproduction quality.

9. Although the record/playback head used in this unit is a high
quality head with outstanding reproduction characteristics, it
can become dirty through the use of old tapes or from dust
accumulation over time. This can have a serious effect on
reproduction quality. Clean the heads regularly with one of
the commonly available head cleaners or with cleaning
solutions as explained later in this manual.

10. Be sure to read the “TROUBLESHOOTING” section of this
manual for advice on common operating errors before
concluding that your unit is faulty.

11. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.

12. Voltage Selector (General model only)
The voltage selector on the rear panel of this unit must
be set for your local mains voltage BEFORE plugging in
the AC mains supply. (Voltage selector adjustable
between 110/120/220/240 V AC.)

Note

Please check the copyright laws in your country to record from
records, compact discs, radio, etc. Recording of copyright
material may infringe copyright laws.

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

We Want You Listening For A Lifetime

YAMAHA and the Electronic Industries Association's
Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of
your equipment by playing it at a safe level. One that lets the
sound come through loud and clear without annoying blaring
or distortion – and, most importantly, without affecting your
sensitive hearing.
Since hearing damage from loud sounds
is often undetectable until it is too late,
YAMAHA and the Electronic Industries
Association's Consumer Electronics
Group recommend you avoid prolonged
exposure to excessive volume levels.

We
Want You

LISTENING

For A Lifetime

FOR CANADIAN CUSTOMERS

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

THIS CLASS B DIGITAL APPARATUS MEETS ALL
REQUIREMENTS OF THE CANADIAN
INTERFERENCE-CAUSING EQUIPMENT
REGULATIONS.

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEATURES ......................................................................... 4

CONNECTIONS.................................................................. 5

NOTES ON THIS MANUAL ................................................ 5

PLAYBACK (Common to DECKs A and B)......................... 6

BASIC OPERATION........................................................ 6

SELECTION SEARCH .................................................... 8

RELAY PLAYBACK ......................................................... 9

PLAY TRIM CONTROL ADJUSTMENT (KX-W421 only) 9

RECORDING .................................................................... 10

BASIC OPERATION...................................................... 10

REC MUTE OPERATION.............................................. 12

REC RETURN OPERATION ......................................... 12

FEATURES

÷ High Quality Hard Permalloy Recording/Playback Head in

Deck B and Playback Head in Deck A

÷ Dolby B/C Noise Reduction
÷ Play Trim Control for improved playback compatibility with

other decks (KX-W421 only)

÷ Auto Tape Selector
÷ Dolby HX Pro Dynamic Bias Servo (KX-W421 only)

DUBBING (From DECK A to DECK B) ............................. 13

CASSETTE TAPES .......................................................... 14

MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 15

OPTIONAL REMOTE CONTROL TRANSMITTER .......... 15

TROUBLESHOOTING ...................................................... 16

SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................ 17

÷ Relay Playback from DECK A to DECK B
÷ Selection Search
÷ Recording Mute Function
÷ Rec Return Operation
÷ Easy Dubbing Operation at Selectable Speed (Normal/

High)

÷ Peak Level Meters with Peak Hold Function
÷ Remote Control Capability with Optional Remote Control

Transmitter

Dolby noise reduction and HX Pro headroom extension
manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories
Licensing Corporation. HX Pro originated by Bang &
Olufsen.

4

“DOLBY”, the double-D symbol
trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

and “HX PRO” are

LINE IN-LINE OUT

PLAY

REC

3

4

L

R

TAPE PBREC OUT

L

R

Amplifier or receiver

CONNECTIONS

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

(U.S.A. model)

To an AC outlet

REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS

Make sure that power to both the deck and your amplifier/receiver is turned off
before making any connections.
÷ The White plug on the paired connecting cables corresponds to the Left

channel and the Red plug corresponds to the Right channel. Make sure that
the left and right channel connections are properly made, and that the plugs
are inserted firmly.

÷ The LINE OUT/PLAY jacks on the deck should be connected to the TAPE PB

(Playback/Input) jacks on your amplifier/receiver, and the LINE IN/REC jacks
on the deck should be connected to the REC OUT (Recording/Output) jacks
on your amplifier/receiver.

÷ The LINE OUT terminals on this unit are numbered 3 and the LINE IN jacks

are numbered 4. When connecting this unit to a YAMAHA amplifier or
receiver whose terminals are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4 ... (etc.), connect this
unit's LINE OUT terminals to the input terminals numbered 3 and connect this
unit's LINE IN terminals to the output terminals numbered 4 on the rear panel
of the amplifier or receiver.

÷ Connect the power cord to an AC wall outlet or to an AC outlet on the rear

panel of your amplifier/receiver (if provided).

NOTES ON THIS MANUAL

In this manual, the main operation buttons of the front panel are indicated based on DECK B when the operation is common to
both DECKs A and B. Since the locations of the buttons of DECK A and DECK B are the same, you can easily find the desired
button even when operating DECK A. This manual covers two models. In most cases, however, only model KX-W421 is shown
in the example illustrations.

Main operation buttons of DECK B

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

PLAYPLAY

!⁄

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

CLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0 0

–+

Stabilizer

CassetteStabilizerCassette

REC

LEVELBALANCE

L R MIN MAX

DECK B

PHONES

Example: KX-W421

Main operation buttons of DECK A

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

MODE

CLOSE

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

% %

! ⁄

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

5

PLAYBACK (Common to DECKs A and B)

Preparation for playback

÷ Turn on the STANDBY/ON switch.
÷ Set your amplifier or receiver to cassette deck function mode.

BASIC OPERATION - To play back a cassette tape

Example: KX-W421

!

45

RESET

⁄

EJECT

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

STANDBY/ON

RESET

DIRECTION

!⁄

MUTE/SEARCH REC/PAUSE

&

EJECT

&

%

CLOSECLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0

–+

StabilizerCassette

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

23

%

RESET DIRECTION

SEARCH

! ⁄

PLAY PLAY

&

DUBBING A # B

EJECT

NORMAL HIGH

1

Insert the cassette with the exposed tape side facing down. (The side
facing you is called the forward side and the opposite side is called the
reverse side.) To close the compartment, push the section of the
compartment door marked % CLOSE until it locks shut.

Cassette

REC

0

LR

Stabilizer

MIN MAX

DECK B

PHONES

LEVELBALANCE

PHONES

21

Refer to the following
description.

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

35

MODE

“/[/”/

RELAY

DIRECTION

4

Select the tape running direction for DECK A

PLAY

or B. Each time this button is pressed, the
Refer to the following
description.

tape running direction changes between

forward (#) and reverse (@), and the

corresponding indicator lights on the display.

To fast forward or rewind the tape
When the tape running indicator # is lit:

Pressing the ⁄ button fast forwards the tape while
pressing the ! button rewinds the tape.

When the tape running indicator @ is lit:

Pressing the ! button fast forwards the tape while
pressing the ⁄ button rewinds the tape.

To stop playback
Press the & button. To remove the cassette tape, press the

EJECT button. The cassette compartment door opens. To

set the unit to standby mode, press the STANDBY/ON
button.

To set the counter reading to “0000”

Press the RESET button. Use the tape counter to aid in
locating a point on a tape (0000 to 9999).

6

DOLBY NR selector setting (in step 2)

Be sure to set the DOLBY NR selector according to the
system used for recording.

OFF: For a tape recorded with DOLBY NR OFF.

B: For a tape recorded with DOLBY B NR.
C: For a tape recorded with DOLBY C NR.

:Both sides of the tape are played back. After

playing, the deck stops at the end of the tape.
(When the tape running direction is set to ¤, only
the reverse side is played.)

: Both sides of the tape are repeatedly played back

(up to 8 times).

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

REVERSE MODE selector setting (in step 3)

The auto reverse function allows the tape running direction
be reversed automatically. Select an auto reverse mode
(
(

, , or

).

) or manual reverse mode

RELAY

: When playback or fast forwarding (or rewinding) of

one side of a tape is finished, the deck stops at the
end of the tape.

Display during playback

The A or B indicator shown in
the display represents the
last deck operated.

Tape counter

Tape running direction
indicator (DECK A)

KX-W421/
KX-W321

RELAY

are played back sequentially. (See “RELAY
PLAYBACK” on page 9.)

¤

A

‹

DUB HIGH RECB C

RELAY

NORM

: Cassette tapes loaded in DECKs A and B

Tape running direction
indicator (DECK B)

Tape counter

¤

B

‹

L

—

30 dB

20 15 10 8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6

+

R

Peak level meters
Indicate the peaks of the signal levels during recording and playback over a –30 dB to +6 dB range. There are separate meters for each left

and right channel. These level meters have a peak hold function which holds the peak level for about 1.5 seconds.

To adjust the volume level

Use the volume control of the amplifier or receiver.

Note
Never press the EJECT button when the tape is in motion.

To use headphones

Insert the headphones plug into the PHONES jack. Since
the sound is also heard from the speakers, operate the
amplifier to cut off the sound from the speakers for private
listening.

7

Example: KX-W421

MUTE/SEARCH

RESET

!⁄

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

CLOSE

% %

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

! ⁄

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

!⁄

PLAYPLAY

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

CLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0

–+

Stabilizer

CassetteStabilizerCassette

REC

LEVELBALANCE

0

L R MIN MAX

DECK B

PHONES

SELECTION SEARCH - To play back a desired selection by searching for the beginning of the selection

To search for the next selection
When the # tape running indicator is lit:

⁄

Press
simultaneously.

MUTE/SEARCH

To search for the beginning of the current selection
When the # tape running indicator is lit:

!

MUTE/SEARCH

When the @ tape running indicator is lit:

!

Press
simultaneously.

MUTE/SEARCH

When the @ tape running indicator is lit:

⁄

MUTE/SEARCH

Press
simultaneously.

Press
simultaneously.

To search for the selection located before the current selection

÷ Operate the following buttons when the beginning of the current selection is being played.
When the # tape running indicator is lit:

!

Press
simultaneously.

MUTE/SEARCH

When the @ tape running indicator is lit:

⁄

Press
simultaneously.

MUTE/SEARCH

Notes

÷ The blank interval between selections must be at least 4 seconds long.
÷ Selection search may not operate properly with tapes recorded at a low recording level or which have excessive noise.

8

Example: KX-W421

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

CLOSE

% %

DECK A

OFF/ B/ C

! ⁄

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DOLBY NR

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

PLAYPLAY

!⁄

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

CLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0

–+

Stabilizer

CassetteStabilizerCassette

REC

LEVELBALANCE

0

L R MIN MAX

PLAY TRIMMODE

RELAY PLAYBACK - To play DECK A and DECK B sequentially

Load the cassette tapes into DECKs A and B, start playback from DECK A.
The playback patterns differ according to the setting of the MODE button. Refer to the following.

When the MODE button is set to

RELAY

:

DECK A (forward side \ reverse side) \ DECK B (forward side \ reverse side)

5

Up to 8 times

When the MODE button is set to

DECK A (forward side \ reverse side) DECK B (forward side \ reverse side)

5

:

5

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

DECK B

PHONES

Display

RELAY

Up to 8 times

When the MODE button is set to

:

Up to 8 times

DECK A (forward side \ reverse side) DECK B ( forward side \ reverse side)
÷ When the tape running direction is set to ™, only the reverse side is played.

When the MODE button is set to

:

DECK A (forward side or reverse side) DECK B (forward side or reverse side)

PLAY TRIM CONTROL ADJUSTMENT ( KX-W421 only)

When the level of high frequencies is either over emphasized or absent while playing a tape recorded on another cassette deck,
adjust the high frequency response with the PLAY TRIM control.

When high frequencies are too loud,
attenuate the high frequencies.

When high frequencies are too soft, boost
the high frequencies.

PLAY TRIM

0

PLAY TRIM

0

10 dB

100

1k

10kHz

1 High frequency sound is too loud.
2 Flat

1
2
3

3 High-frequency sound is too soft.

9

RECORDING

Preparation for recording

÷ Turn on the STANDBY/ON switch.
÷ Set your amplifier or receiver to cassette deck function mode.

BASIC OPERATION - To record a program source

Example: KX-W421

1

EJECT

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

STANDBY/ON

MUTE/SEARCH

RESET DIRECTION

%

! ⁄

StabilizerCassette

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

PLAY PLAY

&

SEARCH

DUBBING A # B

EJECT

NORMAL HIGH

23

Insert the cassette into DECK B with the
exposed tape side facing down. (The
side facing you is called the forward side
and the opposite side is called the
reverse side.)
To close the compartment, push the
section of the compartment door marked
% CLOSE until it locks shut.

47

RESET

&

EJECT

RESET

!

DIRECTION

!⁄

MUTE/SEARCH REC/PAUSE

&

2

Refer to the following
description.

⁄

%

CLOSECLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0

–+

1

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

5

Cassette

REC

0

LR

Stabilizer

MIN MAX

6

LEVELBALANCE

DECK B

PHONES

PHONES

3

Refer to the following
description.

MODE

“/[/”/

RELAY

4

DIRECTION

Select the tape running direction.
(Press the DIRECTION button for DECK B.) Each
time the button is pressed, the tape running direction
changes between forward (#) and reverse (@), and
the indicator lights on the display.

10

5

REC/PAUSE

The REC indicator
lights on the display.
The deck enters the
Rec/Pause mode.

67

LRMIN MAX

REC

LEVELBALANCE

0

Play the program source to be
recorded and adjust the

PLAY

Recording

starts.
recording level and balance.
(KX-W321 does not have a
REC BALANCE control.)

DOLBY NR selector setting (in step 2)
Set the DOLBY NR selector according to your purpose.

OFF: No noise reduction.

B: For recording the sources with Dolby B NR.
C: For recording the sources with Dolby C NR.

÷ Dolby noise reduction is an extremely effective method of

reducing undesirable background hiss on tapes. This unit
incorporates both Dolby B NR and the newer Dolby C NR
system. Dolby C NR is approximately twice as effective
as the earlier Dolby B NR.

REVERSE MODE selector setting (in step 3)

The auto reverse function allows the tape running direction
to be reversed automatically. Select the auto reverse mode
(

) or manual reverse mode ( ).

: When recording on one side of a tape is finished, the

deck stops at the end of the tape.

:Both sides of a tape are recorded. After recording,

the deck stops at the end of the tape.
÷ When the tape running direction is set to ™, only

the reverse side is recorded.

Setting the recording level (in step 6)

Play the loudest passage of the source to be recorded and
watch the meter readings.

Adjust the REC LEVEL control so that the highest peak
reaches +4 of the optimum recording level. Normally, it is
best to adjust the REC BALANCE control (KX-W421 only)
such that the left and right meter readings are even.

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

÷ If you select

automatically switches to

Display during recording

The A or B indicator shown in
the display represents the
last deck operated.

KX-W421/
KX-W321

or

, the reverse mode

RELAY

in step 5.

Tape counter
Use the tape counter to aid in locating a point on a tape (0000 to 9999).
To set the counter reading to “0000”, press the RESET button.

Tape running direction indicator

¤

L

—

30 dB

20 15 10 8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6

A

‹

MODE indicator

RELAY

¤

B C

DOLBY B/ C indicator

REC indicator

B

‹

REC

R

Peak level meters
Indicate the peaks of the signal levels during recording and playback over a –30 dB to +6 dB range. There are separate meters
for each left and right channel. These level meters have a peak hold function which holds the peak level for about 1.5 seconds.

To stop recording:
Press the & button.

To stop recording temporarily:

Press the REC/PAUSE button. To resume recording, press
the PLAY button.

+

11

Example: KX-W421

MUTE/SEARCH

!⁄

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

MODE

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

CLOSE

% %

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

! ⁄

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

PLAYPLAY

!⁄

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

REC MUTE OPERATION - Inserting a blank space during recording

During recording:

MUTE/SEARCH

During Rec mute operation, the REC indicator blinks.

A 4-second blank interval is automatically recorded on the
tape and then the deck enters Rec/Pause mode.
If a blank interval longer than 4 seconds is desired, keep
pressing for as long as you want. When the MUTE/
SEARCH button is released, the deck enters Rec/Pause
mode after making a 4-second blank interval.
To resume recording, press the PLAY button.

÷ If a blank interval shorter than 4 seconds is desired, press

the PLAY button at the desired point during Rec mute
mode. Recording will be resumed from that point.

CLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0

–+

Stabilizer

CassetteStabilizerCassette

REC

LEVELBALANCE

0

L R MIN MAX

DECK B

PHONES

REC RETURN OPERATION - To return to the point at which the recording started

During recording:

When the # indicator
is lit:

!

When the @ indicator
is lit:

⁄

DOLBY HX PRO DYNAMIC BIAS SERVO SYSTEM
(KX-W421 only)

This unit incorporates the Dolby HX Pro system which
automatically controls the effective bias to reduce
distortion and noise, improving high frequency
response during recording. Tapes recorded with this
system retain the same high quality even when played
back on any other cassette deck.

÷ If you press the PLAY button during recording, Rec Return

automatically rewinds the tape to the point where the
PLAY button was pressed.*
If you reset the tape counter to “0000” during recording,
Rec Return automatically rewinds the tape to the “0000”
point.
Rec Return functions according to the most recent
operation. For example, if you reset the tape counter to
“0000” and then press the PLAY button later, Rec Return
rewinds to the point where the PLAY button was pressed.

* The PLAY button cannot be used to mark a return point

while dubbing.

Synchronized recording function

When operating this unit in combination with the
YAMAHA CD Player which has SYNCHRO button on its
remote control transmitter, CD Synchronized recording
function can be utilized. This function is operated with
the remote control transmitter of the CD Player.
(Regarding the operation, refer to the manual of the CD
Player.)

12

DUBBING (From DECK A to DECK B)

You can make dubbing from DECK A to DECK B. Open the cassette compartments by pressing the EJECT buttons and load a
blank cassette tape in DECK B and the original cassette tape in DECK A.

Example: KX-W421

Display during dubbing

NORM or HIGH
indicator lights during
dubbing.

¤

L

–

30 dB

R

20 15 10 8 6 4 2 0 2 4 6

Lights during dubbing.

NORM

RELAY

A

‹

DUB HIGH RECB C

¤

B

‹

+

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

NATURAL SOUND CASSETTE DECK KX-W421

1

Set the MODE selector to

12

PLAYBACK

STANDBY/ON

O / p / ∏ / RELAY

or position.
If you select or

, the reverse

RELAY

MODE

CLOSE

% %

DECK A

DOLBY NR

OFF/ B/ C

! ⁄

&

SEARCH

EJECT EJECT

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

Set the

DIRECTION

buttons for DECKs
A and B.

DIRECTION RESETRESET DIRECTION

!⁄

PLAYPLAY

&

MUTE/SEARCH

REC/PAUSE

3

CLOSE

RECORD/PLAYBACK

PLAY TRIM

0

0

L R MIN MAX

–+

Set the dubbing speed to either NORMAL
(normal speed) or HIGH (twice the normal
speed) with the DUBBING buttons*.
Dubbing starts automatically.

mode automatically switches to

.

MODE

“/[/”/

RELAY

DIRECTION

DUBBING A # B

NORMAL HIGH

* Higher quality sound will be obtained with the

NORMAL setting.

2

Stabilizer

CassetteStabilizerCassette

DECK B

PHONES

REC

LEVELBALANCE

3

The corresponding NORM
or HIGH indicator lights on
the display.

To stop dubbing

Press the & button. (If you press the & button on DECK B,
both decks stop simultaneously and the dubbing mode is
cancelled. If you press the & button on DECK A, DECK A
stops immediately and then DECK B stops after recording a
4-second blank section.)
When the tape in DECK B reaches its end, DECK B stops
and then DECK A stops.
When the tape in DECK A reaches its end, DECK A stops
and DECK B stops after providing a blank section of about 4
seconds.

Available operations while dubbing

The Rec Return function can be carried out on DECK B.
Refer to “REC RETURN OPERATION” on the previous
page.

Note

During dubbing, Dolby NR is automatically set to off and the
recorded tape can be dubbed as is. (When the tape to be
dubbed is recorded with Dolby NR, this effect is also
dubbed.)

PLAY TRIM control adjustment (KX-W421 only)

For normal use, set the PLAY TRIM control to the center
position.
When the high frequencies sound is too noticeable or too
weak while monitoring the sound of DECK B, compensate
the high frequency response with the PLAY TRIM control
before dubbing. The compensated sound can be dubbed
onto DECK B.
As the compensation result depends on the quality of the
tape loaded in DECK A, the monitored sound cannot be
recorded as it is.
Refer to “PLAY TRIM CONTROL ADJUSTMENT” on page

9.

13

CASSETTE TAPES

CASSETTE TAPES

There are many different types of cassette tapes available.
However, they all conform to standard specifications so any
brand may be used with the deck.
÷ Classification of Cassette Tapes by Formulation:

Cassette tapes are available in four basic types depending
on their formulation, or type of magnetic material and
manufacturing process. These four types are commonly
known as Normal (Type I/NORM), Chrome (Type II/HIGH
<CrO

2>), Ferrichrome (Type III/FeCr), and Metal (Type IV/

METAL), and they each require specific tape deck
adjustments for optimum performance.

* YAMAHA does not recommend the use of 120 minute

length cassettes since the extreme thinness of the tape
makes them susceptible to mechanical and recording
problems.

AUTO TAPE SELECTOR DETECTION SLOTS

The deck has a built-in Auto Tape Selector which
automatically adjusts for the proper bias, level and
equalization according to the tape formulation — all you
have to do is to load a cassette and the Auto Tape Selector
does the rest.
The Auto Tape Selector determines which type of tape is
loaded by sensing detector slots in the top of the tape shell.
Each tape formulation has its own characteristic hole
markings standardized by the tape industry.
÷ Early model Metal (Type IV/Metal) tape formulation

cassette shells do not have the slots for Auto Tape
Selector operation. As a result, early model Metal type
tapes recorded on another deck will be played back with
the deck at the Chrome (Type II/HIGH <CrO
YAMAHA does not recommend using this kind of tape.

÷ The deck does not have the required setting for

Ferrichrome (Type III/FeCr) tape, since this tape
formulation is not widely used. Should you use a
Ferrichrome tape, it will be recorded and played back at
the Normal (Type I/NORM) settings, which will result in an
unnatural high frequency emphasis. This effect may be
compensated for somewhat by adjusting the PLAY TRIM
control and/or the tone controls of your amplifier/receiver
during playback.

2>) settings.

PROTECTING YOUR RECORDINGS

All cassette tapes are provided with erasure protection holes
to prevent accidental erasure of recorded contents. There is
a small tab covering the hole on each side of the cassette,
and it should be broken off after recording the tape. Without
this tab covering the hole, it is impossible to record onto that
tape. Thus, you can safely protect a recording for as long as
you wish without fear of accidental erasure. Should you wish
to use a cassette tape protected in this way for recording,
simply covering the hole with adhesive tape will permit
erasure and re-recording.
÷ When using Chrome (Type II/HIGH <CrO

(Type IV/METAL) tapes, make sure you do not cover the
hole intended for the Auto Tape Selector operation.

TAKING UP SLACK IN THE TAPE

As a precaution against tape entanglement and damage,
remove any slack in the tape before inserting cassettes into
the deck. This is accomplished by inserting a pencil, pen or
similar object into one of the spools and gently winding it
until all the slack is removed. You do not have to wind it too
tightly.
Be careful not to touch the tape part itself. It is very delicate
and touching it may damage the tape and its recorded
contents.

2>) or Metal

14

TYPE II TYPE IV

Detector slotsDetector slots

STORING CASSETTES

After putting a cassette tape back into its case, store it in a
location away from exposure to direct sunlight, humidity,
high temperatures, and magnetic fields (away from television
sets, speakers, etc.). High temperatures and humidity will
damage the tape itself, while exposure to magnetic fields
may cause a loss of recorded material. Avoid touching the
tape surface with your fingers, since dirt or finger oil will
contaminate the deck’s heads.

MAINTENANCE

30°

30°

CLEANING OF THE TAPE PATH

Continued high quality performance of your deck is
dependent upon periodic cleaning of the heads, capstan,
pinch roller, and all surfaces over which the tape travels.
Normal use will cause an accumulation of dirt and dust on
the heads, capstans, and pinch rollers. This can lead to
poor sound quality, drop outs (intervals with no sound),
unsteady tape speed, loss of high frequency response, etc.
Thus, clean the heads and all surfaces over which the tape
travels with a commercially available cleaning cassette and
fluid type cleaner.

OPTIONAL REMOTE CONTROL TRANSMITTER

With the optional remote control transmitter RKX1, you can
operate this unit at your listening position. For details, refer
to the instruction manual supplied with the remote control
transmitter.

DECK B

Heads

CapstanCapstan

Pinch rollerPinch roller

DEMAGNETIZATION

After 20-30 hours of use, enough residual magnetism will
build up on the heads to cause poor high frequency
reproduction. At this time you should use a commercially
available cassette tape-type head demagnetizer.

÷ When cleaning the tape path or demagnetizing the heads,

be sure to follow carefully the instructions of the
concerning materials such as cleaning fluid or head
demagnetizer.

REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION RANGE

Example: KX-W421

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

SINGLE DECK

¤‹

INTRO SCAN

DOUBLE DECK

DUBBING

DECK A/B DIR A DIR B

COUNTER

!

⁄

SEARCH

RESET

PLAY

!

⁄

STOP

REC/PAUSE REC MUTE

RKX1

s

Remote sensor

7 m (23 feet)

15

TROUBLESHOOTING

If your cassette deck fails to operate normally, check the following table. It lists common operating errors and simple measures
which you can take to correct the problem. If it cannot be corrected, or the symptom is not listed, disconnect the deck’s power
cord and contact your authorized YAMAHA dealer or authorized service center for help.

Fault

Tape doesn’t move in recording or
playback.

If it happens that this unit does not
work normally.

REC/PAUSE button fails to function.

Sounds become faint and sometimes
inaudible.

Recorded sound is distorted.

Tape is playing back, but no sound is
heard.

Excessive noise.

Cause

÷ Power plug is not properly plugged in.
÷ Cassette shell is warped or damaged.

÷ There is an influence of strong external

noise (lightning, excessive static
electricity, etc.) or a misoperation was
performed while using this unit.

÷ No cassette tape loaded.
÷ Protective tabs are broken off.

÷ Head is dirty.
÷ Head is magnetized.

÷ Tape is damaged or of poor quality.
÷ Tape is bad (stretched, deformed, etc.).

÷ Cassette shell is warped.

÷ Recording level is too high.

÷ Faulty connection between deck and

stereo amplifier/receiver.

÷ Head is dirty.
÷ Head is magnetized.
÷ Worn out or poor quality tape.
÷ Connection(s) improperly made.

÷ Affected by external electrical noise.

Cure

÷ Reinsert plug properly.
÷ Do not play damaged tapes.

÷ Turn the unit off and disconnect the AC

power from the AC outlet. After about
30 seconds have passed, connect the
power and try again.

÷ Load a cassette tape.
÷ Change tape or cover protective hole

with adhesive tape.

÷ Clean head.
÷ Demagnetize head using head

demagnetizer.

÷ Change to a different tape.
÷ Replace with a fresh tape.

÷ A warped cassette shell cannot be

fixed. Replace with another tape and
test.

÷ Check input level with signal level meter

and use lower rec level when recording.

÷ Check and secure connections.

÷ Clean head.
÷ Demagnetize head with head

demagnetizer.

÷ Change to better tape.
÷ Check input and output connections

and reinsert properly.

÷ Move deck away from electrical

appliances (TV, fluorescent light,
electric blanket, etc.).

Excessive wow (wavering of the
sound).

Tape stops in the middle of recording
or playback.

Fails to record.

Search does not operate correctly.

High frequencies in the playback
sound are emphasized and unpleasant
to listen to, and noise level (hiss) is
also high.

16

÷ Dirty capstan, pinch roller, etc., or poor

tape.

÷ Tape is wound unevenly.
÷ Slack tape, or tape spillage wound

around capstan.

÷ REC LEVEL control is set to too low.
÷ Protective tabs are broken off.

÷ Blank section is too short.
÷ Recorded section has low-level portions.

÷ Conversation, etc. has been recorded.
÷ Dolby NR-recorded tape is played back

in OFF position.

÷ Clean capstan and pinch roller, or

change to better tape.

÷ Rewind tape.
÷ Insert pencil in hole in cassette shell

and turn to take up slack.

÷ Adjust REC LEVEL control.
÷ Change tape or cover protective hole

with adhesive tape.

÷ Blank sections must be at least 4

seconds long.

÷ No remedy
÷ No remedy

÷ Play back in appropriate Dolby NR

position.

Fault

Cause

Cure

Playback sound is muffled and high
frequencies are inaudible.

When playing back tapes recorded on
other decks, meter deflections are
greater (smaller) than when recorded.

The remote control transmitter cannot
be operated.

÷ Normally-recorded tape is played back in

Dolby NR.

÷ Heads are dirty.
÷ Heads are magnetized.

÷ Basic levels are different for different

cassette decks.

÷ The batteries are exhausted.
÷ The remote control transmitter is

operated from an incorrect distance or
angle.

÷ The remote control sensor is lighted

strongly.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type..................................... Auto reverse 4-track, 2-channel

recording and playback stereo double cassette deck

Motors ......................................... DC servo motor x 2 (main)

Heads ....................Recording/playback: Hard Permalloy x 1

Erase: Double-gap Ferrite x 1

Playback: Hard Permalloy x 1

Rapid Transport .......................................... 100 sec. (C-60)

Wow and Flutter

WRMS ...................................................................... 0.08%

W.Peak ................................................................... ±0.15%

Signal-to-Noise Ratio

(Dolby NR off)...........................................................58 dB

(Dolby B NR on) .......................................................66 dB

(Dolby C NR on) .......................................................74 dB

Frequency Response (–20 dB)

<KX-W421>

Type I/Normal..............................20 ~ 17,000 Hz ±3 dB

Type II/High (CrO

Type IV/Metal .............................. 20 ~ 20,000 Hz ±3 dB

<KX-W321>

Type I/Normal..............................20 ~ 16,000 Hz ±3 dB

Type II/High (CrO

Type IV/Metal .............................. 20 ~ 19,000 Hz ±3 dB

Harmonic Distortion

KX-W421 .................................................... less than 0.8%

KX-W321 .................................................... less than 1.0%

Input Sensitivity/Impedance

Line ......................................................100 mV/43 k-ohms

Output Level

Line .....................................................570 mV/1.4 k-ohms

Phones..................................................... 0.25 mV/8 ohms

Channel Separation (1 kHz)...................... more than 40 dB

Crosstalk (125 Hz) ..................................... more than 55 dB

2) .................... 20 ~ 18,000 Hz ±3 dB

2) .................... 20 ~ 17,000 Hz ±3 dB

÷ Play back in OFF position.
÷ Clean heads and carry out

demagnetization with head
demagnetizer.

÷ This is not a fault.

÷ Replace batteries.
÷ Operate it from less than 7 meters

(about 23 ft.) and 30°.

÷ Place the unit away from the strong

light.

GENERAL

Power Supply

U.S.A. and Canada model ........................... 120 V, 60 Hz

Europe and U.K. model ............................... 230 V, 50 Hz

Australia model............................................ 240 V, 50 Hz

General model.................... 110/120/220/240 V, 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption

KX-W421 ............................................14 W/7 W (Standby)

KX-W321

U.S.A. and Canada model.............11 W/7 W (Standby)

Other models .................................12 W/7 W (Standby)

Dimensions (W x H x D)...................... 435 x 146 x 279 mm

(17-1/8" x 5-3/4" x 11")

Weight ........................................................... 5.0 kg (11 lbs.)

Accessory

Audio cord................................................................ 1 pair

* Specifications subject to change without notice.

ENGLISHFRANÇAISDEUTSCHSVENSKAITALIANOESPAÑOLDUTCH

17

Problème

Cause

Remède

Le son de lecture est étouffé et les

hautes fréquences sont inaudibles.

Lors de la lecture de bandes

enregistrées sur d’autres platines, les

déflexions du compteur sont plus

grandes (plus petites) qu’à

l’enregistrement.

La télécommande ne fonctionne pas.

÷ Une bande enregistrée normalement est

lue avec Dolby NR.

÷ Les têtes sont sales.
÷ Les têtes sont magnétisées.

÷ Les niveaux de base sont différents pour

diverses platines.

÷ La pile est déchargée.
÷ La télécommande est actionnée d’une

distance ou sous un angle incorrects.

÷ Le détecteur de la télécommande est

fortement éclairé.

CARACTERISTIQUES TECHNIQUES

Configuration des pistes ............. Platine à cassette double

stéréo avec inversion automatique pour l’enregistrement et

la lecture, 4 pistes, 2 canaux

Moteur ..............Moteur asservi CC x 2 (moteurs principaux)

Têtes...................Enregistrement/Lecture: Permalloy dur x 1

Effacement: Ferrite à double entrefer x 1

Lecture: Permalloy dur x 1

Transport rapide................................. 100 secondes (C-60)

Pleurage et scintillement

Eff., pondéré........................................................... 0,08%

Crête, pondéré ..................................................... ±0,15%

Rapport signal/bruit

(Dolby NR à l’arrêt)...............................................58 dB

(Dolby B NR en marche) ......................................66 dB

(Dolby C NR en marche) ......................................74 dB

Réponse en fréquence (–20dB)

<KX-W421>

Type I/normale ............................ 20 ~ 17.000 Hz ±3 dB

Type II/élevée (CrO

Type IV/métal .............................. 20 ~ 20.000 Hz ±3 dB

<KX-W321>

Type I/normale ............................ 20 ~ 16.000 Hz ±3 dB

Type II/élevée (CrO

Type IV/métal .............................. 20 ~ 19.000 Hz ±3 dB

Distorsion harmonique

KX-W421 ................................................... Moins de 0,8%

KX-W321 ................................................... Moins de 1,0%

Sensibilité d’entrée/impédance

Ligne .................................................... 100 mV/43 k-ohms

Niveau de sortie

Ligne ................................................... 570 mV/1,4 k-ohms

Casque..................................................... 0,25 mV/8 ohms

Séparation des canaux (1 kHz) ...............inférieure à 40 dB

Diaphonie (125 Hz) ................................... inférieure à 55 dB

2) .................. 20 ~ 18.000 Hz ±3 dB

2) .................. 20 ~ 17.000 Hz ±3 dB

÷ Lire en position OFF.
÷ Nettoyer les têtes et effectuer la

démagnétisation avec un
démagnétiseur de tête.

÷ Ceci n’est pas un défaut.

÷ Remplacer la pile.
÷ La faire fonctionner à moins de 7

mètres et sur 30°.

÷ Placer l’appareil à l’abri de lumières

fortes.

GENERALES

Alimentation

Modèle pour les Etats-Unis et le Canada

................................................................... 120 V, 60 Hz

Modèle pour l’Europe et le Royaume-Uni

................................................................... 230 V, 50 Hz

Modèle pour l’Australie ............................... 240 V, 50 Hz

Modèle général............................................ 110/120/220/

240 V, 50/60 Hz

Consommation

KX-W421 ................................................ 14 W/7 W (Veille)

KX-W321

Modèle pour les Etats-Unis et le Canada

............................................................ 11 W/7 W (Veille)

Autres modèles ................................. 12 W/7 W (Veille)

Dimensions (L x H x P) ....................... 435 x 146 x 279 mm

Poids ........................................................................... 5,0 kg

Câbles audio ......................................................... 1 paire

* Les caractéristiques techniques sont sujettes à des

changements sans préavis.

YAMAHA ELECTRONICS CORPORATION, USA 6660 ORANGETHORPE AVE., BUENA PARK, CALIF. 90620, U.S.A.
YAMAHA CANADA MUSIC LTD. 135 MILNER AVE., SCARBOROUGH, ONTARIO M1S 3R1, CANADA
YAMAHA ELECTRONIK EUROPA G.m.b.H. SIEMENSSTR, 22-34, 25462 RELLINGEN, BEI HAMBURG, F.R. OF GERMANY
YAMAHA ELECTRONIQUE FRANCE S.A. RUE AMBROISE CROIZAT BP70 CROISSY-BEAUBOURG 77312 MARNE-LA-VALLEE CEDEX02, FRANCE
YAMAHA ELECTRONICS (UK) LTD. YAMAHA HOUSE, 200 RICKMANSWORTH ROAD WATFORD, HERTS WD1 7JS, ENGLAND
YAMAHA SCANDINAVIA A.B. J A WETTERGRENS GATA 1, BOX 30053, 400 43 VASTRA FRÖLUNDA, SWEDEN
YAMAHA MUSIC AUSTRALIA PTY, LTD. 17-33 MARKET ST., SOUTH MELBOURNE, 3205 VIC., AUSTRALIA

Printed in Malaysia

32

VZ 79000-1