TCWE625 - Cassette tape SONY - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Stereo Cassette Deck
Model	TC-WE625
Brand	Sony
Dimensions (W × H × D)	430 × 120 × 290 mm
Weight	4.3 kg
Power Supply	220 – 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption	30 W
Number of Decks	2 (A and B)
Recording System	4 tracks, 2 stereo channels
Dolby Noise Reduction	Dolby B, C
Dolby HX PRO System	Yes
Multi-AMS Function	Yes (music search)
RMS Playback (track programming)	Yes, up to 28 tracks
Automatic Bias Calibration	Yes
Automatic Recording Level Adjustment	Yes (Auto Rec Level)
Fade In and Fade Out (Fader)	Yes
Cassette Copying	Normal and high speed, RMS copy
Successive Recording (Relay)	Yes
Simultaneous Recording	Yes (A+B REC)
Synchronized Recording with CD Player	Yes (via CONTROL A1 cable)
Line Inputs	2 RCA jacks (L/R), sensitivity 0.16 V
Line Outputs	2 RCA jacks (L/R), level 0.5 V
Headphone Jack	6.35 mm stereo jack
Compatible Cassette Types	Type I (Normal), Type II (High), Type IV (Metal)
Head and Tape Path Cleaning	Every 10 hours of use
Accessories Included	2 audio connecting cords (2 x RCA)

Frequently Asked Questions - TCWE625 SONY

What is the difference between the TC-WE625 and the WE725 or WE825S models?

The TC-WE625 is an entry-level model. It does not have pitch control, high-speed forward and rewind, or Dolby S. It has fewer convenience features than higher models.

How to clean the heads and tape path?

Open the cassette compartment, remove the front cover, then wipe the heads, pinch rollers, and capstans with a cotton swab slightly moistened with alcohol or deck cleaning fluid. Do this every 10 hours of use or before important recordings.

Why are the function keys not responding?

This can happen right after power-on (wait 3 seconds), if the cassette is not properly inserted or if the compartment is not fully closed. Also check that the cassette is not damaged.

How to protect a recording from accidental erasure?

Break off the plastic protection tab on the edge of the cassette, side A or B. To re-record, cover the hole with adhesive tape.

What to do if playback or recording is impossible?

Check that the cassette is properly inserted, that the protection tabs are not removed, that the tape is not loose, that the heads are clean, and that the amplifier is correctly set. Refer to the troubleshooting guide in the manual.

How to use the automatic bias calibration function?

Insert the blank cassette, press DECK A or DECK B until 'CAL' appears, select the side with ◀ or ▷, then press PAUSE II. The calibration proceeds automatically. The unit is then ready for optimal recording.

Can a cassette be copied at high speed?

Yes, press the HIGH/NORMAL button twice to select high speed. 'HIGH' appears. High-speed copying is possible, but some buttons are disabled during operation.

How to create a blank space between tracks during recording?

During recording, press the REC MUTING (◦) button at the desired point. A 4-second space is inserted, then the unit pauses. Press PAUSE II to continue recording.

What does the 'A CAL' or 'CAL B' symbol on the display mean?

This indicates that automatic calibration data exists for the inserted cassette type. It is recommended to perform a new calibration each time you change cassette, as characteristics may vary even within the same type.

How to use the fade in or fade out function (Fader)?

For a fade in: follow the recording steps up to REC ●, then press FADER. Recording starts with the volume gradually increasing. For a fade out: during recording, press FADER to gradually decrease the volume until pause.

USER MANUAL TCWE625 SONY

Stereo Cassette Deck

Operating Instructions EN

Mode d'emploi F

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

About This Manual

The instructions in this manual are for models TC-WE825S, WE725 and WE625. Check your model number by looking at the rear panel of your tape deck. In this manual, the TC-WE825S is the model used for illustration purposes. Any difference in operation is clearly indicated in the text, for example, "TC-WE825S only."

Differences among the models

The three models covered by this manual are distinguished by their features, as listed in the table below. Check the table to verify the features available on your tape deck before you start operating it.

Feature\Model	WE825S	WE725	WE625
Pitch control	●	●
High-speed fast-forwarding and rewinding	●	●
Dolby S	●

Convention

The following icon is used in this manual:

Indicates hints and tips for making the task easier.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Getting Started

Unpacking 4

Hooking Up the System 4

Playing a Tape 5

Recording on a Tape 6

Advanced Playback Operations

Locating a Track (Multi-AMS/Auto Play/Memory Play) 8

Creating Your Own Program (RMS Play) 9

Advanced Recording Operations

Adjusting Bias and Recording Level Calibration Automatically 11

Adjusting the Recording Level Automatically (Auto Rec Level) 12

Fading In and Out (Fader) 13

Dubbing a Tape 13

Recording on Both Decks in Succession (Relay Recording) 14

Recording the Same Source on Both Decks (Simultaneous Recording) 15

Recording Your Own Program (RMS Dubbing) 15

Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting) 16

Synchro-Recording With a CD Player Through a Control A1 Cable 16

Additional Information

Precautions 18

Notes on Cassette Tapes 18

Cleaning 19

Troubleshooting 20

Specifications 21

Glossary 22

Index 22

Unpacking

Check that you received the following items:

• Audio connecting cords (2)

Hooking Up the System

This section describes how to hook up the tape deck to an amplifier or a CD player equipped with CONTROL A1 connectors. Be sure to turn off the power of each component before making the connections.

graph TD
    A["Tape deck"] --> B["Amplifier"]
    B --> C["CD player"]
    D["TO: to an AC outlet"] --> A
    E["TO: to a wall outlet"] --> B
    F["TO: to a wall outlet"] --> C
    G["TO: TAPE IN"] --> B
    H["TO: TAPE IN"] --> A
    I["TO: REC OUT"] --> B
    J["TO: CONTROL A1"] --> C

: Signal flow

Hookups

- Connecting the tape deck to an amplifier

Connect the amplifier to the LINE IN/OUT connectors using the supplied audio connecting cords.

When connecting an audio connecting cord, be sure to match the color-coded cord to the appropriate jacks on the components: Red (right) to Red and White (left) to White.

Be sure to make connections firmly to avoid hum and noise.

graph TD
    A["Tape deck"] --> B["LINE"]
    B --> C["L OUTIN"]
    B --> D["R OUTIN"]
    E["Amplifier"] --> F["TAPE"]
    F --> G["L REC OUT IN"]
    F --> H["R REC OUT IN"]

: Signal flow

- Connecting the tape deck to a CD player equipped with CONTROL A1 connectors

For information on connections through the CONTROL A1 connectors, refer to the pamphlet included with this manual.

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

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

Connecting the AC power cord

Connect the AC power cord to an AC outlet.

Where do I go next?

Now you're ready to use your tape deck.

For basic operations, go to pages 5 to 7; for advanced operations, go to the sections starting from page 8.

Playing a Tape

3 2 4

• See page 4 for hookup information.
- You can use either deck for playback.

To adjust the pitch (Pitch Control function) (TC-WE825S/WE725 only)

Push in the PITCH

CONTROL button to activate Pitch Control function and turn the control clockwise to raise the pitch or counterclockwise to lower it.

You can adjust the pitch during playback on deck A or normal-speed dubbing (but not during RMS play or RMS dubbing).

To play a tape recorded with the Dolby NR* system

Set DOLBY NR to ON and select the same position that the tape was recorded in—B, C, or S (TC-WE825S only).

You can connect the headphones to PHONES

* Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

"DOLBY" and the double-D symbol □□ are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

1 Turn on the amplifier and select the tape deck position.

2 Press ①, and then press ≜ and insert a cassette.

With the side you want to play facing you

no play

3 Set DIRECTION MODE.

To play back	Set to
One side only
Both sides continuously*
Both decks in succession*	RELAY

* The deck automatically stops after playing back five times.

4 Press ▷.

The deck starts playing. Adjust the volume on the amplifier. Do not press ① or ≡ while the tape deck is operating. If you do so, the tape may be damaged.

To	Press
Stop playing	■
Start playback from the reverse side	◀
Pause	PAUSE ■. Press the button again to resume play.
Fast-forward or rewind	▶▶ or ◀◀ when the deck is stopped
Increase the tape fast-forward or rewind speed (High-Speed Fast-Forwarding and Rewinding functions) (TC-WE825S/WE725 only)	▶▶ or ◀◀ again during fast-forwarding or rewinding
Take out the cassette	≡ after stopping playing

Basic Operations

Recording on a Tape

2 3 5 4 5 CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM CD-ROM

• See page 4 for hookup information.
• See "Dubbing a Tape" (page 13) to make a copy of the tape.

To check the approximate remaining time on a tape (TC-WE825S/WE725 only)

1 Locate the end of the recorded portion on the tape and press RESET for the deck you're using to reset the tape counter to "0.00".
2 Press ▶▶ to fast-forward the tape to its end. The tape counter shows the approximate remaining time.

Note

Since the counter is not a digital clock, the displayed value will differ slightly from the actual elapsed recording or playing time.

1 Turn on the amplifier and play the program source you want to record.
2 Press ①, and then press ≅ and insert a cassette.

With the side you want to record facing you

cord

3 Set DIRECTION MODE.

To record on	Set to
Only one side
Both sides*

* Recording stops when the tape reaches the end of reverse side.

4 Press REC ●.

▷ lights up for recording on the side facing you. If it doesn't, press ▷ once.

The tape deck automatically adjusts the recording level (see page 12). After the AUTO indicator lights up continuously, stop playing the program source. If you wish to adjust the recording level manually, see "To adjust the recording level manually" on page 7.

Do not press ① or ≜ while the tape deck is operating. If you do so, the tape may be damaged.

To protect recordings against accidental erasure Break out the record-protect tab(s) (see page 18).

5 Press PAUSE II or ▷. Recording starts.

6 Start playing the program source.

To	Press
Stop recording	■
Start recording from the reverse side ◀ twice in Step 5
Pause PAUSE ■. Press the button again toresume recording.
Take out the cassette ≅ after stopping recording

The Dolby HX PRO* system automatically works during recording Distortion and noise in the high-frequency response are reduced to produce high-quality sound that can be enjoyed even during playback on other tape decks.

Use these switches (controls) to perform additional operations

DOLBY NR REC LEVEL

To record with the Dolby NR system

Set DOLBY NR to ON, and select B, C, or S (TC-WE825S only) before you start recording.

To record FM broadcasts with the Dolby NR system

If the FM reception is unsatisfactory, set DOLBY NR to ON FILTER (multiplex filter) (see page 22).

To adjust the recording level manually

After pressing REC ● in Step 4 on page 6, turn REC LEVEL so that the peak level meters reach the recommended level for the corresponding tape type. After completing the adjustments, stop playing the program source, then continue the procedure from Step 5.

L-8 30 25 10 4 0 +4 -8 B For type I or type II tape For type IV tape

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

"DOLBY", the double-D symbol and "HX PRO" are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

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

You can locate the following/previous tracks within a range of 30 tracks (Multi-AMS: Automatic Music Sensor) or the beginning of a tape quickly (Auto Play). You can even locate a specific point anywhere on a tape (Memory Play).

RESET MEMORY RESET <> <

Note

Check the direction indicator of the deck you use. When you locate a track on the reverse side (when ◀ lights up), press the button(s) in the parentheses.

To locate	Press
The beginning of the next or succeeding tracks (Multi-AMS)	▶▶ (or ◀◀) as many times as you want during playback. For example, to locate 2 tracks ahead, press twice.
The beginning of the current track (Multi-AMS)	◀◀ (or ▶▶) once during playback.
The beginning of the preceding tracks (Multi-AMS)	◀◀ (or ▶▶) as many times as you want during playback. For example, to locate 2 tracks behind, press three times.
The beginning of a tape (Auto Play)	MEMORY on the deck being used repeatedly until “M” disappears in the display. Then press ◀◀ (or ▶▶) while holding down ▷> (or ◀).
A particular point on a tape (Memory Play)	MEMORY on the deck being used repeatedly until “M” appears in the display. Find the point you want, then press RESET to reset the tape counter and to memorize the point. To locate the memorized point and start playback, press ◀◀ (or ▶▶) while holding down ▷> (or ◀). (Press ◀◀ or ▶▶ to stop at “0.00” (TC-WE825S/WE725 only) or at “0000” (TC-WE625 only). )

Notes

• The Multi-AMS function may not work correctly if: — the blank space between tracks is less than 4 seconds long.
  — there is a passage of low frequencies or very low volume within a track.
  — the signal strength of the left and right channels are very different.

- The Multi-AMS function is inoperative on a deck whenever the other deck is playing, recording (except during dubbing), or in pause.

- Even if DIRECTION MODE is set to , the deck stops when the current side reaches the end during Multi-AMS operation.

- The tape counters are reset to "0.00" (TC-WE825S/WE725 only) or to "0000" (TC-WE625 only) when you turn off the tape deck.

Creating Your Own Program (RMS Play)

By creating a program, you can play back tracks on deck A in any order that you want. The Random Music Sensor (RMS) function lets you create a program of up to 28 tracks, from the 1st to the 14th tracks on each side of the tape.

RMS buttons (RMS/START, SET, CHECK, DISPLAY)

1 Press RMS/START.

"RMS" and a flashing cursor appear in the display.

2 Press (BACK) or (FRONT) to select the side of the tape.

or appears in the display.

3 Press ◀◀ or ▶▶ repeatedly until the track number you want appears in the display.

0 3 FRONT RMS BACK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Side of the cassette Track number

4 Press SET to store your selection.

To program the same track again, press SET once more.

1 3 FRONT RMS BACK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Track number

Order on the program

5 Repeat Steps 2 to 4 to program more tracks.

If "FULL" appears in the display

This means that you've already programmed 28 tracks and can't program any more.

6 Press RMS/START to start RMS Play.

The peak level meters appear in the display.

To stop RMS Play

Press ■ (CLEAR) once. The RMS program still remains.

To cancel RMS Play

Press ■ (CLEAR) repeatedly until the peak level meters appear in the display or eject the tape in deck A. When RMS Play is canceled, the RMS program is automatically erased.

To alternate between the RMS and peak level meter displays

Press DISPLAY.

You can play the program again after RMS Play ends press RMS/START.

Notes

• During RMS Play, you can only use CHECK, DISPLAY, ■ on deck A, and ■, ◀◀, ▶▶ on deck B.
• The RMS function may not work properly if a blank space between tracks is short.
• If there is a long blank space between tracks, the deck may fast-forward a portion of the blank space.
• If your program includes a number for a track that does not exist, the deck will skip that number during RMS Play.

Checking the order of tracks in the program

Press CHECK.

Each time you press this button, the display shows the track numbers in the order they were programmed.

After the last track in the program, "End" appears in the display.

(Continued)

Adding tracks to the end of a program

Press ■ (CLEAR) once, and follow Steps 2 to 5 in "Creating Your Own Program (RMS Play)" on page 9.

To create another program

Press ■ (CLEAR) until the order on the program returns to 0 and the cursor flashes above track number 1 in the display, then follow Steps 2 to 5 on page 9.

You can use your Sony remote to perform RMS programming

If your Sony stereo receiver's remote has RMS buttons, do the following steps.

1 Turn on the receiver and press TAPE.
2 Press RMS/START.
3 Press ▷ or ◁ to select the front or reverse side of the tape, and the number keys and the >10 key to specify the tracks.
4 Press RMS/START again to start RMS Play.

Note

For more information on the availability of Sony stereo receiver remotes with RMS capability, contact your nearest Sony dealer.

Adjusting Bias and Recording Level Calibration Automatically

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

DECK A / DECK B < / > PAUSE || < / > PAUSE ||

1 Insert the cassette you want to record on into either deck.
Make sure the record-protect tabs on the cassette have not been removed.
2 Press DECK A or DECK B until "CAL" appears in the display.
3 Press ▷ or ◀ to select the side of the tape to be recorded.

To select	Press
The front side
The reverse side

4 Press PAUSE III to start the automatic calibration procedure.

The automatic calibration procedure starts (i.e., recording test tones, rewinding, and playing back).

During the calibration, the counter changes from 9 to 0.

CAL B REC CA.L9

When the automatic calibration procedure ends, the tape rewinds to the original position, the counter returns to normal and the tape deck stops.

5 Start the actual recording (see page 6).

To cancel the automatic calibration function

Press ■ on the deck you're using.

If “A” or “B” flashes continuously

The automatic calibration procedure has been interrupted by:

— The end of the tape. Reverse the tape direction or rewind the tape to a new position that allows recording of the test tone.
— Damaged tape or dirty heads. Change the cassette or clean and demagnetize the heads (see page 19).

Updating the calibration setting

If you insert a cassette and “A CAL” or “CAL B” appears in the display, it means that automatic calibration data in that deck for that tape type (I, II or IV) exists. However, we recommend that you repeat the automatic calibration procedure each time you insert a new cassette since cassettes of the same type also vary in their characteristics.

Before recalibrating, be sure to turn off "A CAL" or "CAL B" by pressing DECK A or DECK B. Then start from Step 2 of the automatic calibration procedure.

Adjusting the Recording Level Automatically (Auto Rec Level)

The Auto Rec Level function automatically measures the peak signal level and adjusts the recording level accordingly. The Auto Rec Level function operates during normal recording, Relay Recording or Simultaneous Recording on either deck.

AUTO indicator REC LEVEL PAUSE II REC ▶ ARL

1 Follow Steps 1 to 3 of "Recording on a Tape" on page 6. Make sure that record-protect tabs on the cassette have not been removed.
2 Press REC ●. The AUTO indicator flashes and the deck automatically adjusts the recording level. The AUTO indicator lights up continuously after the recording level has been adjusted.
3 Press PAUSE II or ▷. Recording starts.

To cancel the Auto Rec Level function

Press ARL or turn REC LEVEL so that the AUTO indicator goes off. If you do either of these during recording, recording will continue but with the Auto Rec Level function turned off.

To stop recording

Press ■.

How the Auto Rec Level function adjusts the recording level

While the AUTO indicator is flashing, the deck sets the recording level as high as possible without causing distortion. If the signal level rises excessively after the start of recording, the deck gradually decreases the recording level.

You should adjust the recording level manually with EC LEVEL in the following cases:

—The recording level cannot be adjusted properly due to excessive noise in the program source. —The program source level is too low and the recording level does not increase.
During a quiet passage in a program source such as classical music, the recording level may not increase for some time. If a high sound level is expected later on in the track, play that portion first so that the right adjustment can be obtained.
—The recording level does not decrease for a long time. The Auto Rec Level function may not work properly when you try to record sound produced by a graphic equalizer that has extremely high-level signals.

To record with the optimum recording level

• To prevent changes in the recording level after recording starts, press REC ● while playing the highest sound level portion of the program source to be recorded. The result is a more natural-sounding recording.
• If you play the entire program source after the AUTO indicator has stopped flashing and is lit continuously, the deck will set the recording level for the portion of the program source with the highest signal level.

Recording level setting remains even after the recording has ended

After you have finished recording with the Auto Rec Level function, the AUTO indicator remains on and the recording level setting remains the same. To cancel the setting, do one of the following:

• Press ARL to turn off the AUTO indicator.
• Turn REC LEVEL.
• Turn the deck off.

Fading In and Out (Fader)

You can gradually increase the recording level at the beginning of a recording (fade in) or gradually decrease the recording level at the end of a recording (fade out).

It is convenient to use this function, for example, when the tape reaches to its end and you don't want the track to be cut off abruptly.

AUTO indicator FADER

To	Do the following:
Fade in	1 Follow Steps 1 to 4 of “Recording on a Tape” on page 6.2 Press FADER. During fade-in, the AUTO indicator flashes. When the fade-in has completed, the AUTO indicator lights up if the Auto Rec Level function is working, or goes off if the Auto Rec Level function is not working.
Fade out	Press FADER when you want to start fading out while recording. When the fade-out has completed, “REC” flashes in the display and the deck pauses.

Note

Fade-in or fade-out is not possible when you have used REC LEVEL to manually set the recording level to 0 (minimum) (see page 7).

Dubbing a Tape

You can copy a tape in deck A to a tape in deck B at normal or high speed.

DIRECTION MODE HIGH-NORMAL ■ PAUSE ■

1 Insert the recorded cassette into deck A and a blank cassette into deck B. Make sure the record-protect tabs on the cassette in deck B have not been removed.

2 Select the side(s) to be recorded on.

To record on	Set DIRECTION MODE to
One side
Both sides	Recording on the reverse side on deck B starts independently of playback on deck A.
	RELAY.Recording on the reverse side on deck B starts simultaneously with playback of the reverse side on deck A.

3 Select the dubbing speed.

To select	Press HIGH/NORMAL
Normal speed	Once
High speed	Twice

"HIGH" or "NORM" appears in the display. The tape deck changes to dubbing standby.

4 Select the side from which to start dubbing.

To record from	Press
The front side
The reverse side

5 Press PAUSE II on deck B to start dubbing.

(Continued)

To stop dubbing

During	Press
Normal-speed dubbing	■ on deck B
High-speed dubbing	■ on either deck

During high-speed dubbing

Only ■ is operative.

You don't have to adjust the recording level or select the Dolby NR system during dubbing

Dubbing is automatically performed with the same recording level and Dolby NR system as the original in deck A. If, however, you want to monitor the sound during normal-speed dubbing, set DOLBY NR to match the tape in deck A (see page 5).

You can adjust the pitch of the playback on deck A (TC-WE825S/WE725 only)

See page 5.

Note

If a TV set is placed near the tape deck, noise may occur during high-speed dubbing. In that case, turn the television set off or move it away from the tape deck.

Dubbing only specific portions

You can do this only during the normal-speed dubbing.

1 Press ■ on deck A at the portion you want to skip.
Deck B changes to recording pause.

2 Locate the point you want to resume recording on deck A, then stop the tape.

3 Press PAUSE II on deck B to resume dubbing.

Recording on Both Decks in Succession (Relay Recording)

You can make a continuous recording that starts on a cassette in deck A and ends on a cassette in deck B.

DIRECTION MODE REC ●/ ▷

1 Insert blank cassettes into both decks. Make sure that record-protect tabs on the cassettes have not been removed.

2 Select the Dolby NR system (see page 7).

3 Set DIRECTION MODE to RELAY.

4 Press REC ● on deck A. Deck A changes to recording pause.

5 Start playing the program source.

6 Adjust the recording level manually, if necessary (see page 7).

7 Start recording.

To record from	Press
The front side	on deck A
The reverse side	on deck A

To stop Relay Recording

During	Press
Recording on deck A	■ on deck A
Recording on deck B	■ on deck B

Note

Make sure that on deck B appears in the display. If it doesn't, press on deck B once; otherwise, Relay Recording stops when the reverse side of the cassette in deck B finishes.

Recording the Same Source on Both Decks (Simultaneous Recording)

You can record the same source on cassettes in deck A and B at the same time.

DIRECTION MODE A+B REC PAUSE II

1 Insert blank cassettes into both decks. Make sure that record-protect tabs on the cassettes have not been removed.
2 Select the Dolby NR system (see page 7).
3 Select the side(s) to be recorded on.

To record on	Set DIRECTION MODE to
Only one side
Both sides

4 Press A+B REC. Both decks change to recording pause.
5 Start playing the program source.
6 Adjust the recording level manually, if necessary (see page 7).
7 Select the side you want to start recording from on both decks.

To record from	Press
The front side
The reverse side

8 Press PAUSE II on deck B. Simultaneous Recording starts.

To stop Simultaneous Recording

Press ■ on both decks.

PAUSE ■ and REC MUTING ○ (see page 16) on deck B can control both decks at the same time

During Simultaneous Recording, PAUSE Ⅱ and REC MUTING ① on deck B control both decks, but not PAUSE Ⅲ and REC MUTING ④ on deck A.

Recording Your Own Program (RMS Dubbing)

You can record an RMS program that you've created (see "Creating Your Own Program (RMS Play)" on page 9). This function works only at normal speed.

RMS / START HIGH / NORMAL PAUSE II

1 Insert the recorded cassette into deck A and a blank cassette into deck B. Make sure the record-protect tabs on the cassette in deck B have not been removed.
2 Program tracks on deck A (see Steps 1 to 5 on page 9).
3 Press HIGH/NORMAL once to change the tape deck to dubbing standby.
4 Select the side of the tape in deck B you want to record on.

To start recording	Press
On the front side
On the reverse side

5 Press RMS/START or PAUSE ■ on deck B to start RMS Dubbing.

To stop RMS Dubbing

Press ■ on deck B. The RMS program remains even after RMS Dubbing stops.

To insert a blank space on the tape before you start RMS Dubbing

You can insert a blank space of 4 seconds or more on the tape in deck B by pressing REC MUTING O after Step 4.

For details, see "Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting)" on page 16.

A blank of 10 seconds is automatically inserted on the tape when you start RMS Dubbing if:

— you insert a new cassette into deck B. — the tape in deck B is completely rewound to its beginning and automatically stopped.

Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting)

You can insert a blank space of 4 seconds between each track. The blank spaces allow you to locate the start of specific tracks afterwards using the Multi-AMS function (see page 8). You can also use this function to erase unwanted portions on a tape.

PAUSE II REC MUTING O

1 Start recording.
2 Press REC MUTING ☐ where you want to insert a blank space.

"REC" flashes in the display and a blank is recorded on the tape.

After 4 seconds, ■ lights up and the tape deck changes to recording pause.

3 Press PAUSE II to resume recording.

If you want to insert a blank space longer than 4 seconds

Hold down REC MUTING ⊙ as long as you want.

After 4 seconds, "REC" flashes faster.

When you release REC MUTING 0, Ⅲ lights up and the tape deck changes to recording pause.

Press PAUSE Ⅲ to resume recording.

Synchro-Recording With a CD Player Through a Control A1 Cable

By pressing SYNCHRO, you can perform synchro-recording on your tape deck with a Sony CD player connected to the CONTROL A1 connector through an optional control A1 cable (see page 4). The control A1 cable supports advanced functions not possible with the commander-based CD synchro-recording function on previous models. Further information on the various operations made possible by a control A1 cable is provided in the pamphlet attached to this manual.

DIRECTION MODE SYNCHRO ◀ / ▶

1 Set the source selector on the amplifier to CD player.
2 Insert a CD into the CD player.
3 Select the play mode (CONTINUE, SHUFFLE, or PROGRAM) of the CD player.
4 Insert a cassette into deck B.
5 Select the side(s) to be recorded on.

To record on	Set DIRECTION MODE to
Only one side
Both sides	or RELAY

6 Select the side you want to start recording from on deck B.

To record from	Press
The front side
The reverse side

7 Press SYNCHRO.

If your CD player has the Peak Search function:

The SYNCHRO button indicator lights up and the CD player locates the highest signal level among the tracks to be recorded as the tape deck adjusts the recording level. When the recording level adjustment is completed, CD Synchro-Recording starts.

If your CD player does not have the Peak Search function:

The CD player changes to play pause and deck B to recording pause. Press PAUSE ■ on deck B to start Synchro-Recording.

To stop CD Synchro-Recording

Press ■ on deck B or the CD player.

You can use an optional remote to operate the CD layer

To start CD play, press ■ twice; to pause CD play, press ■ once; to locate a CD track, press ◀◀ or ▶▶.

If the SYNCHRO button indicator goes off after ashing three times

The tape cannot be recorded on because the record-protect tab(s) on the cassette has (have) been removed.

Length of tape used for recording

Tracks on a CD differ in length. Classical music CDs and others often have tracks that exceed the recording time of a single cassette side. In this case, record the tape manually.

When recording from the middle of the tape

A tape that is inserted and has not been played or recorded on is assumed by the deck to be a new tape, even if the present location is in the middle of the tape. The deck will transport the tape for 10 seconds before starting CD Synchro-Recording to bypass the portion corresponding with the leader. To begin CD Synchro-Recording without the ten-seconds delay, play or record on the tape for a few seconds before starting the CD Synchro-Recording procedure.

If the tape ends during CD Synchro-Recording on the front side of the tape (▷ lights up) and DIRECTION IODE is set to ⟶ or RELAY

Recording of the track ends immediately, the tape direction is reversed, and recording starts again from the beginning of the track. If the tape ends on the reverse side of the tape ( lights up), CD Synchro-Recording stops and the CD player stops playing.

Notes

• To prevent interruption of the recording process, do not press any operation buttons on the CD player during CD Synchro-Recording.
• Certain operation buttons on the tape deck are disabled during CD Synchro-Recording.

Precautions

On safety

• Do not disassemble the cabinet — this may result in an electrical shock. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
• Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet, unplug the tape deck and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further.

On power sources

• Before operating the tape deck, check that the operating voltage of the tape deck is identical with your local power supply. The operating voltage is indicated on the nameplate at the rear of the tape deck.
• If you are not going to use the tape deck for a long time, be sure to disconnect the tape deck from the wall outlet. To disconnect the AC power cord, grasp the plug itself; never pull the cord.
• AC power cord must be changed only at the qualified service shop.

On operation

• Because of a safety mechanism, the function buttons will not operate if the cassette holder is not completely closed, if there is no cassette in the cassette holder, or if a cassette has been incorrectly inserted into the cassette holder.
• Be sure to stop the tape before turning off the tape deck. Otherwise, the tape may be damaged.

On placement

• Place the tape deck in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat build-up in the tape deck.
• Do not place the tape deck:
  — on a soft surface such as a rug that might block the ventilation holes on the bottom.
  — in a location near heat sources.
  — in a place subject to direct sunlight.
  — in an inclined position.
  — in a place subject to excessive dust or mechanical shock.

On cleaning the tape deck

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

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

Notes on Cassette Tapes

To protect a recording on side A or B

Break out the respective tab.

Side A Tab for side B Tab for side A

To record on a tape with a missing record-protect tab

Cover the respective tab hole with adhesive tape.

Diagram of a CD-ROM drive with a tape roll, showing no text or symbols on the device itself

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

Type II Type IV Detector slots Detector slots

On tapes longer than 90 minutes

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

On handling cassettes

• To prevent the heads and tape path from getting dirty, avoid touching the tape surface of a cassette.
• Place cassettes away from equipment with magnets, such as speakers and amplifiers, which may cause tape distortion or erase the recordings.
• Do not expose cassettes to direct sunlight, extremely cold temperature, or moisture.

Cleaning

Head assembly Pinch rollers Capstans Erasing head Recording/playback head

Cleaning the heads and tape path

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

- low-quality sound

• a decrease in sound level

• excessive wow or flutter

- sound dropout

- incomplete erasure

• impairment of recording function

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

1 Press to open the cassette holder. Grasp the front cover on both sides and gently lift to remove it.

2 With the tape deck turned off, wipe the heads, the pinch rollers and the capstans with a cotton swab slightly moistened with alcohol or a commercially available cleaning fluid for tape decks.

3 Replace the front cover.

Demagnetizing the heads

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

Troubleshooting

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

The function buttons do not work.

→ The tape deck has been just turned on and does not operate for about 3 seconds. Wait until ■ stops flashing.
→ Check that the cassette is inserted correctly and the cassette holder is closed completely.

The tape deck does not play or record.

→ There is no cassette in the cassette holder.
→ The tape has come to the end.
→ The tape is slack. Take up the tape slack.
→ The record-protect tab has been removed from the cassette (see page 18).

→ Make sure the amplifier setting is correct.
→ Check that the tape deck connections are secure.
→ The heads and tape path are dirty. Clean them (see page 19).
→ The recording/playback head is magnetized. Demagnetize it (see page 19).

There is excessive wow, flutter or sound drop-out.

The capstans and pinch rollers are dirty. Clean them (see page 19).

There is a decrease in sound level, sound drop-out, or poor reproduction of high frequencies./The tape does not erase completely./Noise increases.

→ The recording/playback or erasing head and tape path are dirty. Clean them (see page 19).
→ The recording/playback or erasing head is magnetized. Demagnetize it (see page 19).

There is hum or noise.

→ The tape deck is placed near a TV or VCR. Move the tape deck away from the TV or VCR.
→ The tape deck is placed on or under the amplifier. Move the tape deck away from the amplifier.

There is an unbalanced tone.

→ Check that DOLBY NR position is the same as when the tape was recorded. An unbalanced tone may result when a tape recorded in the S Dolby NR system is played back in B or C system, or when a tape recorded in the B or C Dolby NR system is played back in the S system (TC-WE825S only).
The tape deck is placed near a TV or VCR. Move the tape deck away from the TV or VCR.

The tape stops before the tape has been fully rewound.

→ The tape is slack. Take up the tape slack.
If "M" is shown in the display, press MEMORY repeatedly until "M" disappears.
→ The cassette shell is bent. Use another cassette.

The Multi-AMS function does not work properly.

→ One of the tracks contains a long pause, a passage of low frequencies or very low volume, or a gradual increase or decrease in volume.
The space before a track is less than 4 seconds long. Insert a blank space of 4 seconds using REC MUTING O.
The signal strength of the left and right channels are very different.
→ There is noise in the space before a track.
→ You pressed ▶▶ (or ◀◀) immediately before the beginning of the next track or immediately after the beginning of the current track.

The DOLBY NR function does not work properly during playback.

The Pitch Control function is on and the frequency characteristics of the sound is altered. Push the PITCH CONTROL button again to turn off the function (TC-WE825S/WE725 only).

The High-Speed Fast-Forwarding and Rewinding functions do not work (TC-WE825S/WE725 only).

→ You pressed ▶▶ (or ◀◀) when there is little tape remaining in that direction. This is to protect the tape.
To protect the tape, the high-speed fast-forwarding or rewinding function may operate for only a short time or not at all when activated in the middle of the tape.

There is excessively loud tape transport noise during fast-forwarding or rewinding.

→ This noise is caused by the cassette and is not a mechanical problem.

does not work.

The tape deck is playing back or recording. Press ■ or PAUSE ■ to stop playback or recording before pressing ≜.
→ A power failure has occurred, the tape deck has been turned off or the power cord has been disconnected during tape operation. Reconnect the power or turn off the tape deck, then on again.

Specifications

System

Recording system

4-track 2-channel stereo

Fast-winding time (approx.)

90 sec. (with Sony C-60 cassette)

High-speed fast-winding time (approx.) (TC-WE825S and TC-WE725 only)

45 sec. (with Sony C-60 cassette)

Bias

AC bias

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

Type I tape, Sony Type I (NORMAL): 55 dB

Type II tape, Sony Type II (HIGH): 57 dB

Type IV tape, Sony Type IV (METAL): 58 dB

S/N ratio improvement (approximate values)

With Dolby B NR on: 5 dB at 1 kHz, 10 dB at 5 kHz

With Dolby C NR on: 15 dB at 500 Hz, 20 dB at 1 kHz

With Dolby S NR on (TC-WE825S only): 10 dB at 100

Hz, 24 dB at 1 kHz

Harmonic distortion

0.4% (with Type I tape, Sony Type I (NORMAL):

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

1.8% (with Type IV tape, Sony Type IV (METAL):

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

Frequency response (Dolby NR off)

Tape type
Type I tape, Sony Type I(NORMAL)	30 – 16,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC),20 – 17,000 Hz (±6 dB)
Type II tape, Sony Type II (HIGH)	30 – 17,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC),20 – 18,000 Hz (±6 dB)
Type IV tape, Sony Type IV(METAL)	30 – 19,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC),20 – 20,000 Hz (±6 dB),30 – 13,000 Hz (±3 dB, -4 dB recording)

Wow and flutter

±0.13% W. Peak (IEC)

0.07% W. RMS (NAB)

±0.18% W. Peak (DIN)

Variable pitch range (approx.)

-30 to +30%

Inputs

Line inputs (phono jacks)

Sensitivity : 0.16 V

Input impedance : 47 kilohms

Outputs

Line outputs (phono jacks)

Rated output level: 0.5 V at a load impedance of

47 kilohms

Load impedance : Over 10 kilohms

Headphones (stereo phone jack)

Output level : 0.25 mW at a load impedance of

32 ohms

General

Power requirements

	Power requirementsWhere purchased
Continental Europe	220 – 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Other countries	120/220/230 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Power consumption

30 W

Dimensions (approx) (w/h/d)

including projecting parts and controls

Mass (approx.)

4.3 kg

Supplied accessories

Audio connecting cords (2 phono plugs - 2 phono plugs) (2)

Optional accessory

Remote commander RM-J910

For more information on the availability of the remote commander, contact your nearest Sony dealer.

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Additional Information

Index

Glossary

ATS

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

Automatic calibration

The automatic adjustment of the bias current and recording level for the inserted tape.

This adjustment works together with the deck's ATS (Automatic Tape Selection, see above) to get the best possible recording results on any tape.

Auto rec level function

A function that automatically sets the recording level according to the peak signal level of the program source prior to recording.

When active, this function gradually decreases the recording level when the signal level rises excessively during recording.

Dolby HX PRO system

A system that reduces distortion and noise in high-frequency response during recording. A tape recorded with this system produces the same high-quality sound even when played on other tape decks.

Dolby NR (noise reduction) system

A system that eliminates tape hiss noise by boosting low-level signals in the high-frequency range during recording, then lowering them during playback.

There are four types of systems: A, B, C and S (TC-WE825S only). Type A is for professional use (and is not available on your tape deck), and types B, C and S are for consumer use. Type S has the maximum noise reduction capability, followed by types C and B.

Multi-AMS

Multi-Automatic Music Sensor is a function that locates the beginning of up to 30 tracks before or after the current track by detecting the blank space (of over 4 seconds) between tracks.

Multiplex filter

A filter for eliminating the 19-kHz stereo carrier and the 38-kHz sub-carrier signals that may impair the Dolby NR system. Though tuners are usually equipped with this filter, if you got poor results when recording FM broadcasts with the Dolby NR system, your tuner may not have a filter or the filter may not be working. In this case, set the DOLBY NR switch on the tape deck to ON FILTER.

Test tones

Signals (10-kHz and 400-Hz) generated by the tape deck for bias current and recording level calibration.

Index

A, B

Accessories

optional 21

supplied 4, 21

Adjusting

recording level automatically. See Auto rec level

recording level manually 7

volume 5

ATS 11,22

Audio connecting cord 4, 21

Auto play 8

Automatic Music Sensor. See Multi-AMS

Automatic calibration 11, 22

Automatic Tape Selection. See ATS

Auto rec level 12, 22

C

Cassette. See Tape

CD synchro-recording 16

Cleaning

cabinet 18

heads and tape path 19

Connecting. See Hooking up

Control A1 cable 4, 16

D, E, F, G

Difference among the models 2

Dolby HX PRO system 7, 22

Dolby NR system 5,7,22

Dubbing

high-speed dubbing 13

normal-speed dubbing 13

only specific portions 14

RMS dubbing 15

Fader 13

Fading

in. See Fader

out. See Fader

FILTER. See Multiplex filter

H, I, J, K

Heads

cleaning 19

demagnetizing 19

High-speed

fast-forwarding function 5

rewinding function 5

Hooking up

hookups 4

overview 4

Insert

blank space 16

cassette 5,6

L

Locating

beginning of the tape 8

particular point 8

tracks 8

M, N, O

Memory play 8

Multi-AMS 8,22

Multiplex filter 7, 22

P, Q

Pitch control function 5

Playing

auto play 8

basic play 5

memory play 8

RMS play 9

R

Random Music Sensor. See RMS play or dubbing

Recording

basic recording 6

CD synchro-recording 16

FM broadcasts 7

on both decks in succession. See Relay

recording

the same source on both decks. See

Simultaneous recording

Record muting 16

Relay recording 14

Remote commander 21

RMS dubbing 15

RMS play

adding tracks 10

checking the order of tracks 9

S

Searching. See Locating

Simultaneous recording 15

Specifications 21

T

Tape

ejecting 5,7

notes 18

path cleaning 19

protect the recording 18

type 18

Test tones 11, 22

Troubleshooting 20

U, V, W, X, Y, Z

Unpacking 4

Names of Controls

Buttons

A+B REC (simultaneous recording) 15

ARL (automatic recording level adjustment) 12

CHECK 9

DECK A/DECK B 11

DISPLAY 9

FADER 13

HIGH/NORMAL 13,15

MEMORY 8

PAUSE Ⅱ 5,7,11-13,15,16

PITCH CONTROL 5

REC ● (recording) 6, 12, 14

REC MUTING ◦ (record muting) 16

RESET 8

RMS/START 9,15

SET 9

SYNCHRO 16

合 (eject) 5-7,19

■ (stop/RMS CLEAR) 5, 7, 9, 13

▷ (forward play/RMS FRONT) 5 - 16

◀ (reverse play/RMS BACK) 5,7-11,

13 - 16

▶▶, ◀◀ (fast-forwarding and rewinding/AMS/

RMS +/−) 5,8,9

Switches

DIRECTION MODE 5,6,13-16

DOLBY NR 7

① (power) 5,6

Controls

PITCH CONTROL 5

REC (recording) LEVEL 7

Jacks

CONTROL A1 4

LINE IN 4

LINE OUT 4

PHONES 5

Others

AUTO indicator 6, 12, 13

Cassette holder 5, 6, 19

Peak level meters 7

AVERTISSEMENT

Diagram showing a device with labeled components and an arrow pointing to a component, possibly indicating assembly or inspection.

3 Réglez DIRECTION MODE.

Indicateur AUTO REC LEVEL PAUSE II REC ▶ ARL

DIRECTION MODE REC / ▶

PAUSE II REC MUTING O

Diagram of a CD-ROM drive with a tape roll, showing no text or symbols on the device itself

Type II Type IV

Dimensions (approx.) (l/h/p)

addition de plages 10

Indicator AUTO REC LEVEL PAUSE II REC ● ARL

PAUSE II REC MUTING O

Diagram of a CD tape with a magnified inset showing the cable attachment (no text or symbols present)

PAUSE III (pausa) 5, 7, 11 – 13, 15, 16

PITCH CONTROL (control de altura) 5

Diagram of a CD-ROM front panel with labeled buttons and control knobs

1 Pressione RMS/START.

DECK A / DECK B < / > PAUSE || < / > PAUSE ||

Indicator AUTO REC LEVEL PAUSE II REC ▶ ARL

PAUSE II REC MUTING O

Line drawing of a CD tape with a hand holding a scroll (no text or symbols)

Cabo control A1 4, 16