Yamaha Natural Sound MiniDisc Recorder MDX-793

Features

Contents

Parts Descriptions
  Front Panel
  Remote Control

Connections
  Analog Connections
  Digital Connections

Playback
  Skipping Tracks
  Searching
  Switching the Display
  Random Play
  Repeat Play
  Single Track Repeat
  Full Disc Repeat
  Part (A-B) Repeat
  Program Play

Recording
  Recording Level
  Auto Marking
  Time Rescue Recording
  Synchro Recording
  Monaural Recording
  Monitor Out

Editing
  Move
  Erase
  Disc Erase
  Track Erase
  Part Erase
  Combine
  Divide

Titling

Timer Operations
  Timer Recording
  Timer Playback

MD System Limitations

Copy Protection (SCMS)

Notes Regarding the Remote Control
  Remote Control Operation Range
  Battery Installation

Trouble Shooting

Display Messages

Specifications

Front Panel

Button or SectionFunction
Power Press to turn the unit on or off.
Disc Insertion Slot Insert the disc into this slot.
EJECT Press to remove the disc. If the TOC data has not yet been written, it is written automatically before the disc is ejected.
(TOC - (Table of Contents): This is the non-audio data contained on all MiniDiscs (track numbers, playback time, title data, etc.))
(UTOC - (User's Table of Contents): This is non-audio data that you can edit (track numbers, playback time, and title data))
Remote Control Sensor Receives the signals emitted from the remote control.
Display Panel Displays various information.
PLAY/PAUSE Press during stop mode (or pause) to start playback. Press while playing to pause. Press during record pause to start recording. Press while recording to pause recording.
STOP Press to stop recording or playback. Press to cancel an edit or title input operation.
REC Press during stop or pause to activate the record pause mode. Press while recording to manually add a track division.
TIMER Use to set the unit to play or record when activated by an external timer.
RANDOM Press to activate or deactivate the random play mode.
REPEAT S/F Press to select single track (S) or full disc (F) repeat.
REPEAT A-B Press to specify the A and B points for A-B repeat.
DISPLAY Press repeatedly to switch between the title and time displays.
SCROLL Press to scroll the disc (track) title across the display. Press while scrolling to pause the scroll.
TITLE Press to activate or deactivate the title mode.
CHARA. Press repeatedly to select different types of characters when titling a disc (track).
SET/ENTER Press to confirm the current operation or select an edit mode (etc.)
Jog dial [-/+] Use to skip to the beginning of the previous or next tracks. Use to select characters when inputting a disc (track) title.
SEARCH Press and hold to search quickly during play or pause. Use to move the cursor when inputting a disc (track) title.
INPUT Press repeatedly to select the input jacks you want to record from: ANALOG or DIGITAL (OPTICAL 1, OPTICAL 2, or COAXIAL).
RECORD LEVEL Knob Use to adjust the recording level when recording from the analog inputs.
PHONES Jack For connecting stereo headphones
PHONES LEVEL Knob Turn to adjust the volume of the headphones connected to the PHONES Jack.

Remote Control

Button or SectionFunction
REPEAT S/F(!) Press to select single track (S) or full disc (F) repeat. Press to select "!" when creating a disc (track) title.
REPEAT A-B(?) Press to specify the A and B points A-B repeat. Press to select "?" when creating a disc (track) title.
PROG (-) Press to activate or deactivate the program play mode. Press to select "-" when creating a disc (track) title.
RNDM (&) Press to activate or deactivate the random play mode. Press to select "&" when creating a disc (track) title.
Numbers/Characters Use to specify a track for playback. Press repeatedly to select a character when creating a disc (track) title.
CHAR. Press repeatedly to select upper-case or lower-case letters during title mode.
TITLE Press to activate or deactivate the title mode.
SEARCH Press and hold to search quickly during play or pause. Use to move the cursor when inputting a disc (track) title.
SKIP Press to skip to the beginning of the previous or next track during play, pause, or stop. Use to select characters when inputting a disc (track) title.
PLAY Press during stop (pause) to start playback. Press during record pause to start recording.
PAUSE Press to pause playback or recording.
DISPLAY Press repeated to switch between the title and time displays.
SCROLL Press to scroll the disc (track) title across the display. Press while scrolling to pause the scroll.
NUMBER Press before pressing a number button to input a number during title mode.
DELETE Press to delete the selected character when titling a disc (track).
SET Press to select automatic or manual marking of tracks during recording.
M-MARK Press to select automatic or manual marking of tracks during recording.
INPUT Press repeatedly to select the input jacks you want to record from: ANALOG or DIGITAL (OPTICAL 1, OPTICAL 2 OR COAXIAL).
MONO/ST Press during stop or pause to select either monaural or stereo recording.
REC Press during stop or pause to activate the record pause mode. Press while recording to manually add a track mark.
CD-P Press to start playback from a YAMAHA CD player.
SYNC Press during stop to activate Synchronized Recording.
TIME Press during record pause mode to activate Time Rescue Recording.
STOP Press to stop recording or playback. Press to cancel an edit or title input operation.

Connections

Do not plug this unit (or other components) until all other connections are complete. Connections should be made to the correct input/output on the other component. Also refer to the owner's manual supplied with the component you are connecting. If the placement of this unit causes noise in other equipment, such as a tuner, move them further apart.

Analog Connections

The white plug on the connecting cables corresponds to the L (left) channel and the red plug corresponds to the R (right) channel. Be sure to connect L (left) to L and R (right) to R. Also make sure that the plugs are fully inserted and that the connection if firm. The LINE OUT jacks on the MD recorder should be connected to the MD PLAY jacks on your amplifier. The LINE IN jacks on the MD recorder should be connected to the MD REC jacks on your amplifier. 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.

Digital Connections

The DIGITAL IN terminals can be connected to any component with an optical or coaxial output so you can make direct digital recordings. The DIGITAL OUT terminal can be connected to any component with an optical input so you can output digital audio from a MD. Before making OPTICAL connections, remove the terminal cover(s). In order to protect the terminals from duct, be sure to attach the terminal covers when the optical terminals are not being used.

Playback

Preparations

Be sure to set the TIMER switch to OFF, then press POWER to turn this unit on. Set your amplifier or receiver to MD.

  1. Insert a MiniDisc. With the label facing up and the arrow pointed toward the insertion slot.
  2. Press PLAY/PAUSE to start playback.
  3. Adjust the volume using the volume control on your amplifier or receiver.

To stop: Press STOP.

To pause: Press PLAY/PAUSE. Press again to resume playback.

To eject the MiniDisc: Press EJECT.

Note: The MONO indicator lights when playing monaural MiniDiscs.

Skipping Tracks

To skip to the next track: Turn the jog dial to the right or press SKIP on the remote

To skip to the previous track: Turn the jog dial to the left or press SKIP back on the remote. Turn one click to skip to the beginning of the current track. Turn an additional click to skip to the beginning of each previous track.

To skip to a specific track number: Press the number buttons on the remote corresponding to the track you desire. Example: To select track number 3 press 3. To select track number 17, press +10 once and then press 7. To select track number 27, press +10 twice then press 7.

To skip to the last track on the disc: Turn the jog dial left when the display is showing the total tracks and total playing time.

Searching

To search forward during play or pause: press and hold SEARCH on the front panel or remote.

To search in reverse during play or pause: press and hold SEARCH.

Note: Sound can be heard when searching in play mode to help you locate the desired position within the track. No sound is heard when searching in pause mode, but the search is conducted at a higher speed. When searching in play mode, playback stops when you reach the end of the last track. Searching may not function correctly when there are several consecutive tracks consisting of only a few seconds apiece.

Switching the Display

When you insert a MiniDisc the disc title is displayed automatically ("No Title" appears if there is no disc title). Pressing DISPLAY during stop or playback lets you display other information such as the remaining time and track titles.

During stop

Press DISPLAY to repeatedly to display the following information. 1-Total number of tracks and total playing time. 2-Time remaining on the MiniDisc (only on recordable MDs). 3-Disc Title.

During Playback

Press DISPLAY to repeatedly to display the following information. 1-Current track number and elapsed time. 2-Time remaining on the current track. 3-Track Title (If the track has not been given a name, "No Title" is displayed and the display switches back to the elapsed time.

To view the entire disc (track) title

If the disc (track) title is too long to fit in the display, press SCROLL. Press SCROLL while the title is scrolling to stop the scrolling. Press again to continue scrolling through the title.

Random Play

You can have the unit play all the tracks on a disc in a random sequence.

To start random playback

Press RANDOM or RNDM. The RANDOM indicator lights up and "RandomSearch" appears in the display while the unit selects a track. Playback starts automatically.

To cancel random playback

Press RANDOM or RNDM again to turn off the RANDOM indicator.

Note: Pressing SKIP forward during random play skips to another track at random. Pressing SKIP previous during random play skips to the beginning of the current track (you cannot return to previously played tracks). If you turn the unit off during random playback, it will be ready for random play the next time you turn the power back on.

Repeat Play

You can have the unit play a single track, the full disc, or just a part of a track repeatedly.

Single track repeat

  1. Select the track you want to repeat.
  2. Press S/F-REPEAT repeatedly to light the REPEAT S indicators.

To cancel

Press S/F-REPEAT repeatedly to turn off the REPEAT S indicators.

Note: Single track repeat is not available during random or program playback.

Full Disc Repeat

  1. Press S/F-REPEAT repeatedly to light the REPEAT F indicators.

To cancel

Press S/F-REPEAT repeatedly to turn off the REPEAT F indicators.

Notes: In program play mode, the entire program is played repeatedly. In random play mode, the unit reshuffles the tracks and plays them again after each track plays once.

Part (A-B) Repeat

This function lets you repeat a specific part of a track. It's a convenient way to study language, or learn the lyrics to your favorite song (etc.).

  1. Press A-B - REPEAT during playback to specify the beginning (A point) of the part you want to repeat. The REPEAT A indicators light up.
  2. Press A-B - REPEAT again to specify the end (B point) of the part you want to repeat. The REPEAT A-B indicators light up and the part you specified starts to repeat.
To cancel

Press STOP or A-B - REPEAT again.

Program Play

This function lets you enjoy listening to your favorite tracks in any order you desire.

  1. Press STOP to stop playback.
  2. Press PROG to light up the PROGRAM indicator.
  3. Program the desired track by pressing the corresponding numeric buttons. To select track number 3 press 3. To select track number 17, press +10 once and then press 7. To select track number 27, press +10 twice then press 7. The following display appears momentarily to show the step information: P-1 = Tr.3. The display then switches to the program status. Repeat this operation to program up to 30 steps.
  4. Press PLAY to start program playback.

To check the programmed data

Stop or pause the playback of a program and press SKIP forward or reverse to skip through the step information ( or use the jog dial on the front panel).

To delete a specific step

Stop program playback. Press SKIP forward or reverse to skip through the step information (or use the jog dial on the front panel). Press DELETE (or DELETE/CANCEL on the front panel) to delete the step. The higher steps are renumbered automatically.

To change a step

Stop program playback. Press SKIP forward or reverse to skip through the step information (or use the jog dial on the front panel). Use the numeric buttons to program a new track number for that step. The original track is cleared from memory and the new track is programmed.

To cancel a program

Press PROG to turn off the "PROGRAM" indicator, eject the disc, or set POWER to off.

Notes: If the total time exceeds 255 minutes "255mOver" is displayed instead of the total time. SKIP forward and reverse can be used during playback to skip between programmed tracks. SEARCH forward can be used during playback to search through all tracks in the current program. SEARCH reverse can be used during playback to return to the beginning of the current track.

To use headphones for private listening

Set the PHONE LEVEL knob on the front panel to "0" (minimum) and insert the headphones plug of your stereo headphones into the PHONES jack.

To adjust the volume level of the headphones

Use the PHONES LEVEL knob. Turn toward "10" (maximum) to increase the volume. Turn toward "0" (minimum) to decrease the volume.

Recording

This unit allows you to make recordings from a wide variety of program sources (both analog and digital). When recording an analog source (such as an LP or tape cassette) this unit converts the analog signals to a 44.1 kHz digital signal before recording them onto the MD. When recording a digital source, this unit converts the digital signals to 44.1 kHz for recording onto the MD. However, if you are recording a 44.1 kHz source signal (such as a CD through the optical or coaxial digital input) there is no conversion. This unit can record 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz digital signals.

Preparations

Be sure to set the TIMER switch to OFF, then press POWER to turn this unit on. Set your amplifier or receiver to program source to be recorded.

  1. Insert a MiniDisc. Make sure the label is facing up and the arrow is pointed toward the disc insertion slot.
  2. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the input connected to the sound source you want to record. For analog sources press to display ANALOG. For coaxial digital signals press to display DIGITAL COAX. For digital signals connected to optical input number one press to display DIGITAL OPT. 1. For digital signals connected to optical input number two press to display DIGITAL OPT. 2. Below the input indicator on the display a sampling frequency indicator will light and display the frequency of the digital source.
  3. Locate the point where you want to start recording. When recording from a blank MiniDisc, skip this step.

    To start recording from the end of a previous recording

    Press STOP to set this unit in stop mode.

    To record over a previous recording

    Turn the jog dial (or press SKIP forward or reverse) to select a track to be recorded over. The recording will start from the beginning of the deleted track.

    To record from a location within a previously recorded track Press SEARCH forward or reverse to locate the point within a track that you want to record from then press pause.

  4. Press REC to set this unit to record pause mode. The REC Pause indicators light up. "REC Standby" and the amount of time available for recording flash alternately in the display.

    If you selected a track number or location within a track and paused playback (in step three) to record over a track or portion of a track then "OverWriteOK?" appears in the display. To confirm, press ENTER. This operation will erase the selected track number (or point) and all subsequent material. To cancel, press CANCEL or STOP.

    If you selected ANALOG in step 2, adjust the recording level as described in "Recording Level."

    Note: When recording from a digital source that has a digital output (volume) control, set the output level (volume) to "MAX." Recordings may not be possible a low output levels (when the digital volume is turned down).

  5. Start playing the program source to be recorded.

  6. Press PLAY/PAUSE to start recording. The TOC indicators lights up. When the TOC indicator is lit, this means that the TOC information has not yet been written to the disc. After recording, eject the disc, or turn this unit's power off to write the TOC information and finalize the recording.

To stop recording

Press STOP.

To pause recording

Press PLAY/PAUSE. Press again to resume recording.

To eject the MiniDisc

Press EJECT.

TOC writing may be impossible (or track number marking may not perform as expected) when recording a damaged CD or a broadcast source under interference.

Recording Level

To set the recording level, first set this unit to the record pause mode (press REC). Then 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 causes the 0 dB level indicators to flicker. The OVER indicators should not light!

Note: Although some sources can be recorded with lower peak levels, setting the peak levels too low may degrade the quality of the recording (reduce the dynamic range).

Auto Marking

When making a recording, you can choose either automatic or manual marking. This feature operates somewhat differently for analog and digital signals.

Press M-MARK on the remote repeatedly to select automatic (MANUAL indicator out) or manual (MANUAL indicator lit) marking.

When recording analog signals

Auto: Track numbers are written in synchronization with the input level of the signal being recorded. In other words, if the source signal falls below a certain level for more than 1.5 seconds a track number is written automatically the next time the source signals rises above that level.

Manual: One track number is written automatically when you start recording, but none are written during recording. To mark a track number, press REC at the desired position while recording.

Note: When using manual marking, the marks must be set at least four seconds apart.

When recording digital signals

Track numbers are written in he same positions as the original source (CD, etc.) with either automatic or manual marking. To add additional track numbers, set M-MARK to MANUAL and press REC at the desired position while recording.

Note: When recording is paused, the portion recorded up to the pause is counted as an individual track. When recording is resumed, a new track number is created. On the other hand, if one track is recorded in continuous repetition, that track(s) is recorded as one continuous track with a single track number.

Time Rescue Recording

The Time Rescue (TIME) recording function allows you to start recording four seconds before you press record. During record pause mode, the MD recorder monitors the input signal and continuously maintains a four second memory "cache." Therefore, you can record a song that just started without cutting off the beginning. You may find this function useful when recording live broadcasts, or when you want to start recording from the beginning of a song without recording lots of commercials (etc.).

  1. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the input connected to the sound source you want to record.
  2. Locate the point where you want to start recording.
  3. Press REC to set this unit to record pause mode. The REC+PAUSE indicators light up. "REC Standby" and the amount of time available for recording flash alternately in the display. If you selected ANALOG in step one, adjust the recording level as described in "Recording Level."
  4. Press TIME(remote control only) to start recording when you hear the beginning of a song you want to record. Recording starts from the memory cache, allowing you to record from a point approximately four seconds before you pressed TIME

Note: To take advantage of the Time Rescue Recording function, be sure to wait four seconds between steps three and four.

Synchro Recording

The synchronized recording function lets you set this unit to start recording automatically when a sound signal is input. When operating this unit in combination with a remote controllable Yamaha CD player, you can use the CD-PLAY button on this unit's remote control to start playback from the CD player.

  1. Load the sound source into the source component. If necessary, program, or select the track you want to start recording from before proceeding to the next step. (Refer to the operation manual supplied with your source component for instructions regarding its use.)
  2. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the input connected to the sound source you want to record.
  3. Locate the point where you want to start recording.
  4. Press SYNC to set this unit to record pause mode. The REC+PAUSE indicators light up. "Synchro REC" and the amount of time available for recording flash alternately in the display. If you selected ANALOG in step two, adjust the recording level as described in "Recording Level."
  5. Start playing the sound source. (Press CD-P on the remote if recording from a Yamaha CD player.) The MD starts recording automatically when a sound signal is input. When the sound signal stops, the unit switches back to record pause mode and "Synchro REC" blinks in the display.
  6. To continue recording, repeat step five. When you have finished recording, press STOP on this unit to cancel the record pause mode.

Monaural Recording

Recording in monaural (mono) allows you to record up to 148 minutes of sound on one 74 minute MiniDisc. (When recording in stereo you can record up to 74 minutes of sound.) This may be useful when recording an interview, debate, or other whenever you want to record a long time on one MiniDisc.

  1. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the input connected to the sound source you want to record.
  2. Locate the point where you want to start recording.
  3. Press MONO/ST (on the remote control only) to light the MONO indicator.
  4. Press REC. The REC+PAUSE indicators light up. "REC Standby" and the amount of time available for recording flash alternately in the display. If you selected ANALOG in step one, adjust the recording level as described in "Recording Level."
  5. Press PLAY to start recording.

Monitor Out

When a disc is not loaded, you can use the monitor out function to monitor the sound of the input source. This allows you to enjoy better sound from your other digital source components, such as CD, by using this unit as a digital to analog converter.

  1. Press EJECT to remove the disc.
  2. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the input connected to the source you want to monitor.
  3. Press REC. "MONITOR OUT" appears in the display. Sound from the selected input will be output from this unit's analog and digital output terminals.
  4. Start playing the sound source selected in step two. The sound is output from the MD recorder's analog and digital output terminals.

To Cancel

Press REC again or press STOP or insert a MiniDisc.

Editing

One of the main advantages of the MD is its editing capabilities. You can remove the commercials from a radio broadcast, reorder songs into the order you want to listen, remove songs, combine songs, and even remove part of a song (without aid of a computer).

Editing Functions

This unit offers the following editing operations. (Please Note that track numbers are updated automatically when you perform a MOVE, ERASE, COMBINE or DIVIDE operations.)

Note: After performing and edit operation, the TOC indicator lights up to show that the TOC information has not yet been written to the disc. Undo is possible only when the TOC indicator is lit. However, if you perform a recording operation (by pressing REC, TIME, or SYNC), undo is not possible if the TOC indicator is lit.

Move

This function lets you change the position of any track. First, you select the track you want to move, then you specify the track number you want to move it to. After the move, the tracks located between the old and new positions are renumbered automatically. You can perform this operation repeatedly to completely reorder the disc.

To move a track

  1. Turn the jog dial to select the track you want to move.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Move ?", then press ENTER.
  3. Turn the jog dial to select the track's destination.
  4. Press ENTER.

To cancel before moving the track: Press CANCEL or STOP.

To undo MOVE

  1. Press STOP to set this unit to stop mode.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Undo Move", then press ENTER. "Undo OK ?" appears in the display.
  3. Press ENTER again to undo. To cancel, press CANCEL or STOP.

Erase

The ability to erase sound without having to re-record is another convenient function. You can erase the entire disc, a single track, or just part of a track.

Disc Erase

This operation lets you erase all audio and title (character) data to create a blank MD. Please note that once erased, this data cannot be recovered.

  1. Press STOP to set this unit to stop mode.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Disc Erase?", then press ENTER. "DiscEraseOK?" appears in the display.
  3. Press ENTER again. When all audio, name, and title data has been erased "Complete" appears in the display momentarily.

Track Erase

This operation lets you erase a single track. After you erase the track, the total number of tracks decreases by one and all tracks following that track are renumbered. If you plan to erase two or more tracks avoid confusion by erasing higher track numbers to lower track numbers. This prevents accidental renumbering of tracks you plan to erase.

  1. Turn the jog dial to select the track you want to erase.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Erase ?", then press ENTER. "(track number) EraseOK?" appears in the display.
  3. Press ENTER again. The track is erased and "Complete" appears momentarily.

To cancel before erasing the track: Press CANCEL or STOP.

To undo ERASE

  1. Press STOP to set this unit to stop mode.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Undo Erase", then press ENTER. "Undo OK ?" appears in the display.
  3. Press ENTER again to undo. To cancel, press CANCEL or STOP

Combine

This function lets you combine two consecutive tracks into one track. After you combine the tracks, the total number of tracks decreases by one and the tracks following the combined tracks are renumbered.

  1. Press STOP to stop playback.
  2. Turn the jog dial to select the second track of the two you want to combine.
  3. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Combine ?", then press ENTER. "Check" appears momentarily, then the unit plays the 4 seconds before and after the point where the tracks will be connected. "(track number)+(track number) OK ?" appears in the display.
  4. Press ENTER again. The tracks are combined and "Complete" appears momentarily.

To cancel before combining the tracks Press CANCEL or STOP.

To undo COMBINE

  1. Press STOP o set the unit into stop mode.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Undo Combine", then press ENTER. "Undo OK ?" appears in the display.
  3. Press ENTER again to undo. To cancel, press CANCEL or STOP

Notes: This operation is not possible when track 1 is selected. You can also divide the track later using the divide function. If "Can't Edit" appears in the display, the tracks cannot be combined. This sometimes happens when you have edited the same track many times. This is due to the technical limitations of the MD system and is not a mechanical error or malfunction.

Divide

This function lets you divide one track into two separate tracks by adding a new track number to a certain point in the track. If you add a tack number at the beginning of a section you want to hear, you can access it quickly by using the skip function during playback. After you divide a track, the total number of tracks increases by one and the tracks following the divided tracks are renumbered.

  1. Press PLAY to play the track you want to divide.
  2. Use SEARCH to locate the point within 2 seconds of where you want to divide the track.
  3. Press PAUSE
  4. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Divide OK ?", then press ENTER. "Check" appears momentarily, then "Divide OK ?" appears and the unit starts repeating the point where the track will be divided.
  5. If necessary, use the jog dial to adjust the position of the point where the track will be divided. The divide position can be adjusted up to two seconds (176 steps forward or back from the initial divide point).
  6. Press ENTER. The track is divided and "Complete appears momentarily.

To cancel before dividing the track: Press CANCEL or STOP.

To undo DIVIDE

  1. Press stop to set the unit into stop mode.
  2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Undo Divide", then press ENTER. "Undo OK ?" appears in the display.
  3. Press ENTER again to undo. To cancel, press CANCEL or STOP.

NOTES: You can also combine the tracks later using the COMBINE function.

Titling

This function lets you title recorded MDs and the individual tracks. Titles may consist of upper-case letters, lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. (Maximum of up to 250 characters per disc or track title).

  1. To title a disc: Press stop.
    To title a track.

  2. Press TITLE to activate the title mode. The cursor appears in the display.
  3. Using the front panel. Press CHARA. repeatedly to select upper-case, lower-case, and numbers. To access the symbols, press CHARA. repeatedly to select "A", then turn the jog dial to the left. Using the remote. Press CHAR. repeatedly to select between upper-case and lower-case letters. Press NUMBER to select numbers.
  4. Use the jog dial (or the character buttons (or SKIP back/SKIP forward) on the remote) to select a character, number, or symbol.
    Remote Example:
    To select "A", press 1[ABC] once.
    To select "B", press 1[ABC] twice.
    To select "C", press 1[ABC] three times.
    To select "1", press NUMBER, then press 1[ABC] once.
  5. Press SET to move the cursor into position for the next character.
  6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 to complete title
  7. Press TITLE to exit the title mode. If a title consists of more than 12 characters, it will scroll across the display once and then be displayed in abbreviated form (first 12 characters only).
  8. To undo TITLE
    1. Press STOP to display total track and total playing time on the disc.
    2. Press EDIT repeatedly to display "Undo Title", then press ENTER. "Undo OK ?" appears in the display.
    3. Press ENTER again to undo. To cancel, press CANCEL or STOP

Timer Operations

With a commercially available audio timer it is possible to make recordings and initiate playback automatically at any time. Make sure that all power cord connections between the time and amplifier/receiver are properly made. For details, refer to the instructions of your audio time. No change in any of the other connections between the recorder and amplifier/receiver, etc. is necessary.

Timer Recording (Radio)

  1. Turn on the power to each component, then set your tuner to the station you want to record.
  2. Set MD recording options. Digital or Analog input, auto or manual track marking, stereo or mono recording. Set record level for analog sources.
  3. Turn the volume on your amplifier/receiver to a low setting. This has no effect on the recording level.
  4. Set the timer to the times which you want to start and stop recording. It is recommended to set the timer a few minutes before and a few minutes after the broadcast to be recorded.
  5. Set TIMER to REC. When the preset time arrives, the timer turns on the components (amplifier/receiver, tuner, and MD recorder) and the MD recorder starts to record. When the stop time arrives, the timer starts the recording by turning off the components.

Note: When recording to a blank MD, recording starts from the beginning. When recording to a previously recorded MD, recording starts from the end of the last track. Set TIMER to OFF when not using the timer recording function. If the power is turned on (by pressing POWER, plugging in the power cord, etc.) when TIMER is set to REC, the MD recorder will start recording automatically.

Timer Playback

  1. Turn on the amplifier/receiver and adjust volume and tone controls.
  2. Set the input mode selector of your amplifier/receiver to MD.
  3. Set the timer to the times at which you want to start and stop playback.
  4. Set TIMER to PLAY. When the preset time arrives, the timer turns on the components (amplifier/receiver and MD recorder) and the MD recorder starts to play. When the stop time arrives, the timer stops the playback by turning off the components.

Note: Playback always starts from the beginning of the MD. The TIMER to OFF when not using the timer play function. If the power is turned on (by pressing POWER, plugging in the power cord, etc.) when TIMER is set to PLAY, the MD recorder will start to play and may cause a sudden output at high volume.

MD System Limitations

The recording system in your MD recorder is radically different from those used in cassette tape and DAT tape recorders and is characterized by the limitations described below. Note, however, that these limitations are inherent to the MD recording system and are not a result of mechanical trouble.

"Can't REC" is displayed before the maximum recording time has been reached. Once 255 tracks have been recorded on one MD, "Can't REC" is displayed regardless of the total recorded time. More than 255 tracks cannot be recorded on one MD. To continue recording, erase unnecessary tracks, combine tracks to reduce the total number of tracks, or use another recordable MD.

"Disc Full" is displayed before the maximum number of tracks (255) have bee recorded. During Automatic Track Marking, fluctuations in emphasis within songs may be interpreted as song intervals, increasing the song count and causing "Disc Full" to be displayed. The remaining recording time does not increase even after erasing numerous short track. Tracks under 12 seconds in length are not counted and so erasing them may not lead to an increase in the recording time.

"TOC Reading" is displayed continuously. The "TOC Reading" display lasts longer than normal when a brand new (blank) MD is inserted.

The total recorded time and the remaining time on the MD do not total to the maximum recording time. Recording is done in minimum units of 2 seconds each, no matter how short the material. The contents recorded may thus be shorter that the maximum recording capacity. Disc space may also be further reduced by scratches on the MD. This unit displays the length of the largest continuous blank area as the remaining time. Therefore, if there are several separate blank spaces, the remaining time will only display a time equivalent to the largest continuous blank space. If there is a 1 minute blank space and a 2 minute blank space, the remaining time display will be "2" minutes. If you then record 1 minute and 30 seconds, the remaining time display will become "1" minute(there will be a 30 second blank area).

Track numbers are not recorded correctly. Incorrect assignment of recording of track numbers may result when CD tracks are divided into several smaller tracks during digital recording.

It is not possible to erase part of a track using the A-B ERASE function. This unit organizes the audio data in sound groups and clusters. The minimum size of these units varies according to the number of channels being recorded. For a 2 channel (stereo) recording, a single unit may not consist of less than 10 seconds. For a 1 channel (mono) recording, a signal unit may not consist of less than 20 seconds.

Limitations when recording over an existing track. The correct remaining recording time may not be displayed. You may find it impossible to record over a track if that track has been recorded over several times already. If this happens, erase the track using the Erase Track Function. The remaining recording time may be shortened out of proportion to the total recorded time. Recording over a track to eliminate noise is not recommended since this may shorten the duration of the track. You may find it impossible to label a track while recording over it.

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

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

Copy Protection (SCMS)

As a digital audio component, this MD recorder conforms with the Serial Copy Management System (SCMS) standards. The SCMS restricts copies made by recording digital signals to first-generation copies only. Therefore, a MD recorded through a digital input cannot be used as a source for making another digital recording. However, subsequent recordings can be made from the first-generation copy by using the analog input/output jacks.

There are three general rules that apply to this unit:

Notes Regarding The Remote Control

Remote Range: about 20 feet
Remote Angle: about 30 degrees horizontal

There should be no large obstacles between the remote control and the remote sensor on the main unit. Strong light (especially from an inverted type fluorescent lamp) shining directly on the remote sensor may prevent proper operation. In such cases, reposition the main unit to avoid direct lighting.

Battery Installation

Battery replacement: When you notice a decrease in the operating range of the remote control, replace both batteries with new ones.

Notes: Use only AA, R6, or UM-3 batteries. Insert batteries with correct polarity (illustrated on battery compartment). Remove batteries when remote will not be used for extended periods of time. If batteries leak, then dispose of them immediately. Avoid touching the leaking material or letting it come in contact with clothing, etc. Clean the battery compartment thoroughly before installing new batteries.

Trouble Shooting

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

FaultCauseCure
The unit does not respond to operations MD is dirty or damaged(UTOC ERR). Replace the current MiniDisc with a new MiniDisc
MD recorder does not work normally. There is an influence of a strong external noise (lightning, excessive static electricity, etc..) or a mis-operation was performed while using this unit. Turn this unit power off and disconnect the AC power from the AC outlet. After about 30 seconds have passed, connect the power and try again.
Playback is not possible Moisture on laser pickup. The power is OFF. The disc has been loaded incorrectly. An unrecorded (blank) MD was loaded(BLANK DISC appears in the display). Leave the unit ON for 20 to 30 minutes for the moisture to evaporate before trying to play the disc. Press POWER to turn the power ON. Reload the disc with the label side facing up, and the arrow pointing toward the disc insertion slot. Insert a recorded MD.
Recording is not possible. The disc is record protected. A premastered MD is loaded(Playback MD appears in the display). The source is not connected correctly. The input setting is incorrect. The recording level is too low. The digital output level of the digital source is too low. There is not enough black space left on the MD. If the power cord was unplugged or there was a power outage during recording, that recording may be lost. Slide the record-protect tab to the closed position. Load a recordable MD. Check all connections again. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the correct input jacks. Turn REC LEVEL to adjust the recording level. Set the digital output level of the digital source to MAX. Load a recordable MD with fewer recorded tracks, or erase unnecessary tracks from the current MD. If recording was interrupted, try recording again starting from the beginning.
The MD cannot be removed when partially inserted. The carriage lock function has been activated. insert the MD completely, then press EJECT to eject the MD.
Excessive Noise. The unit is too close to a television or other component. Place the unit farther away from the television or other component.
The remote control does not operate. The batteries are exhausted. The remote transmitter is operated from an incorrect distance or angle. The remote control sensor is located in strong direct light. Replace exhausted batteries with fresh batteries. Operate the remote less than 20 feet from MD unit and within 30 degrees of sensor. Place the unit away from the strong light.

To clean the cabinet use a soft cloth slightly moistened with mild detergent solution.

Care of MiniDiscs

Do not expose the MD to direct sunlight or heat sources such as hot air ducts, nor leave it in a car parked in direct sunlight as there can be considerable rise in temperature inside the car. Periodically remove dust and debris from the cartridge surface by wiping it with a dry cloth. Because the MD itself is housed in a cartridge, you can handle it normally without being concerned about dirt or fingerprints. However, malfunctions may result if the cartridge itself is dirty or warped. Do not open the shutter on the MD cartridge. Trying to force the shutter open will damage the shutter.

Display Messages

DisplayMeaning
Can't Copy You cannot make a digital recording (SCMS)
Can't Edit Edit operations are not possible.
Can't Play! Timer playback is not possible. The loaded disc may be blank, damaged, or it may be an incompatible format.
Can't REC! Timer recording is not possible. The loaded disc may be protected or there may not be enough blank space remaining on the disc.
Can't REC Recording is not possible because there is not enough blank space remaining on the disc.
DIGin Unlock No digital signal being input to the selected digital input jack.
Disc Full Recording is not possible because there is no black space remaining on the disc.
Program Full Additional steps cannot be programmed because the maximum number of steps (30) have already been programmed.
Title Full Additional characters cannot be input for the current title because the maximum number of character for a single title (250) have already been input.
UTOC WError Error occurred when writing to the UTOC
Not Audio The inserted disc is not an audio MD.
Tr Protected The selected track cannot be edited because it is protected.
TOC Full The disc area allotted for TOC data has become full and further editing is not possible.
UTOC ERR L... Problem involving UTOC data.
TMP Over!! The temperature of the unit has exceeded the normal operating temperature. Turn off the unit and let it cool down. If the unit is installed in a place with little ventilation (such as a built-in bookcase), move the unit to another location with better ventilation.
TOC Writing The TOC data is being written to the disc. Do not move the unit or pull out the power cord. If you do, recorded material may not be saved normally.
TOC Reading The unit is reading the TOC data.
Protected The record protection on the inserted MD is set to "protect."
Playback MD The inserted MD is designed for playback only (You cannot record on this type of MD).
Monitor Out The monitor out function is active. The audio signal input to the selected input terminals is output from this unit's output terminals.

Specifications

Digital Audio System
System:  MiniDisc digital audio system
Disc:  MiniDisc
Recording Method:  Magnetic field variation overwrite
Reading Method:  Non-contact optical pickup
Laser:  Semiconductor laser
Laser Properties:
  Material:  GaAIAs
  Wavelength:  780 nm
    Pulse time read mode:  0.8 mW continuous
    Pulse time write mode:  max. 10 mW 0.5 s/min. cycle 1.5 s repetition
Recording/playback time:  74 min. (with MDW-74 disc) stereo  148 minutes mono
Revolutions:  400 to 900 rpm (CLV)
Error Correction:  ACIRC  (Advanced Cross Interleave Reed-solomon Code)
Sampling frequency: 44.1 kHz Recoding and Playback  (32 kHz & 48 kHz converter)
Coding:  ATRAC  (Adaptive TRansform Acoustic Coding)
Modulation System:  EFM  (Eight-to-Fourteen Modulation)
Number of channels:  2 (stereo) or 1 (mono - extended recording)
Frequency Response:  5 to 20,000 Hz +/- 0.5 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  > 98 dB playback
Wow and Flutter:  < measurable limit

Inputs
Line in (REC)
Type:  pin jack
Impedance:  > 22 k-ohms
Input level:  200 mV
Digital in (COAXIAL)
Type:  pin jack
Impedance:  > 75 ohms
Input level:  0.5 Vp-p
Digital in (OPTICAL)  1/2
Type:  square optical connector jack

Outputs
Line out (PLAY)
Type:  pin jack
Output level:  2.0 V  +/- 0.5 Vrms
Digital out (OPTICAL)
Type:  square optical connector jack
Phones
Type:  1/4" Stereo
Output level:  (-20 dB)  300 mW  +/- 60 mW

General
Power Supply:  120V, 60 Hz
Power Consumption:  20 W
Dimensions (H x W x D):  4-1/4" x 17-1/8" x 15-3/4"
Weight:  12 lbs.. 2 oz.
Accessories:  Remote Control/Audio Cords/Batteries

Specifications subject to change without notice.

A NOTE FROM THE TYPIST: I wanted to have a manual that I could word search and a scanned manual just doesn't allow that. I am sure that there are spelling and grammar errors of my doing; also, many diagrams had to be translated into words, thus, the difference in inflection and vocabulary. This manual is for your enjoyment and edification only and should not be used as a reference. Call 1-800-736-6837 for YAMAHA parts to receive an official copy of this manual for about $16.00. Enjoy! Chris Browne

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