TCKE240 - Cassette tape SONY - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Stereo Cassette Deck
Brand	Sony
Model	TC-KE240
Recording System	4-track, 2-channel stereo
Frequency Response (Type I)	30-15000 Hz (±3 dB), 20-16000 Hz (±6 dB)
Frequency Response (Type II)	30-16000 Hz (±3 dB), 20-17000 Hz (±6 dB)
Frequency Response (Type IV)	30-18000 Hz (±3 dB), 20-19000 Hz (±6 dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (weighted, Dolby off)	Not specified (Dolby B improvement: 5 dB at 1 kHz, 10 dB at 5 kHz; Dolby C: 15 dB at 500 Hz, 20 dB at 1 kHz)
Harmonic Distortion (Type I)	0.4%
Harmonic Distortion (Type IV)	1.8%
Wow and Flutter	±0.15% W. peak (IEC), 0.1% W.RMS (NAB)
Fast Forward Time (C-60 cassette)	Approximately 100 seconds
Power Supply	AC 220-230 V, 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption	14 W
Line Inputs	RCA jacks, sensitivity 0.16 V, impedance 47 kΩ
Line Outputs	RCA jacks, nominal level 0.5 V into 47 kΩ
Headphone Output	6.35 mm stereo jack, 0.25 mW into 32 Ω
Noise Reduction	Dolby B and C with MPX filter for FM
Main Functions	Play, record, pause, stop, fast forward/rewind, eject, auto level adjustment, Multi-AMS (search up to 30 tracks), auto and memory play, fader in/out, silent recording (4 s), CD synchronized recording (via optional remote control)
Supported Cassette Types	Type I (Normal), Type II (Chrome), Type IV (Metal) with automatic detection (ATS)
Preventive Maintenance	Heads and tape path every 10 hours; demagnetization every 20-30 hours
Safety	Do not expose to moisture; disconnect if unused for long periods; use only on compatible mains
Supplied Accessories	2 audio connecting cords
Options	Remote control RM-J710 (not supplied)

Frequently Asked Questions - TCKE240 SONY

What to do if the function buttons do not respond?

Wait 3 seconds after powering on for the mechanism to stabilize. Check that the cassette is properly inserted and the compartment is completely closed. If the problem persists, refer to the Troubleshooting section of the manual.

Why is playback or recording impossible?

Check that a cassette is present, is not at the end, and that the protection tab has not been removed. Also ensure the heads and tape path are clean and the connections to the amplifier are correct. Refer to the troubleshooting guide.

How to clean the heads and tape path?

Turn off the deck, open the compartment, and wipe the heads, pinch rollers, and capstans with a cotton swab lightly moistened with alcohol or deck cleaning liquid. Do not insert a cassette until the areas are dry.

How to use the Multi-AMS function to locate a track?

During playback, press ► (or ◄) repeatedly to skip to the next or previous track. The search works on blank spaces of at least 4 seconds. To locate the beginning of a cassette, use auto play (MEMORY).

How to record with Dolby noise reduction?

Turn the DOLBY NR selector to B or C before recording. For FM broadcasts, use the MPX FILTER position. The same setting should be used during playback for optimal results.

What to do if the tape stops before fully rewinding?

The tape is probably slack. Manually retension it. Also check if the M (memory) indicator is lit; press MEMORY repeatedly to turn it off. If the cassette shell is deformed, use another cassette.

How to insert a 4-second blank space between tracks?

During recording, press REC MUTING at the desired point. A 4-second blank space is recorded and the deck pauses. For a longer space, hold the button down.

How to perform a fade-in or fade-out?

In recording mode, press FADER at the beginning (fade-in) or at the end (fade-out) of the recording. The sound level gradually increases or decreases. The function is disabled if the level is set to minimum.

Why is there humming or noise?

Move the deck away from a TV or VCR. Do not place it directly on or under the amplifier. Also check the cleanliness of the heads and the type of cassette used.

How to demagnetize the heads?

Use a commercially available cassette deck demagnetizer every 20 to 30 hours of use, or if you notice hiss or loss of high frequencies. Follow the demagnetizer's instructions.

USER MANUAL TCKE240 SONY

Stereo Cassette Deck

Operating Instructions GB

Mode d'emploi FR

Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

A946

Welcome!

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

About This Manual

The instructions in this manual are for models TC-RE340 and KE240. Check your model number by looking at the rear panel of your tape deck. In this manual, the TC-RE340 is the model used for illustration purposes. Any difference in operation is clearly indicated in the text, for example, "TC-RE340 only."

Differences between the models

The two models covered by this manual differ with respect to the features shown in the table below. Check the table to verify whether the features are available on your tape deck before you start operating it.

Model RE340 KE240

Feature

Auto reverse

Dolby HX Pro

Automatic calibration

Convention

• Instructions in this manual describe the controls on the cassette deck. You can also use the controls on the optional remote (not supplied) if they have the same or similar names as those on the deck.
  The following icons are used in this manual:

Indicates a task that requires use of the optional remote (not supplied).

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

AdvancedPlaybackOperations

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

Advanced Recording Operations

Adjusting Bias and Recording Level Calibration Automatically (TC-RE340 only) 9

Adjusting the Recording Level Automatically (Auto Rec Level) 10

Fading In and Out (Fader) 11

Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting) 11

Synchro-recording With a CD Player Through a Control A1II Cord 12

Synchro-recording With a CD Player Using a Remote 13

Additional Information

Precautions 14

Notes on Cassette Tapes 14

Cleaning 15

Troubleshooting 16

Specifications 17

Glossary 18

Index 18

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 A1II connectors. Be sure to turn off the power of each component before making the connections.

: 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.

: Signal flow

• Connecting the tape deck to a CD player equipped with CONTROL A1II connectors

For information on connections through the CONTROL A1I 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.

Basic Operations

Playing a Tape

See page 4 for hookup information.

To play a tape recorded with the Dolby* NR

Turn DOLBY NR to the same Dolby system that the tape was recorded in -B or C. Please note that the B and C settings on both sides are identical during playback since the MPX filter operates only during recording.

You can connect the

headphones to the PHONES jack

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

1 Turn on the amplifier and select the tape deck position.
2 Press POWER, and press EJECT 合 fully to open the cassette holder, then insert a cassette.

With the side you want to play facing you

3 Set DIRECTION MODE (TC-RE340 only).

To play back

Set to

One side only

Both sides once

Both sides continuously*

• The deck automatically stops after playing back five times.

4 Press

The deck starts playing. Adjust the volume on the amplifier.

Do not press POWER or EJECT 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 (TC-RE340 only)	<\(\triangleleft\)
Pause PAUSE■. Press the button again to resume play.
Fast-forward or rewind	\(▶or\triangleleftwhen the deck is stopped\)
Take out the cassette	EJECT\(\triangle\)after stopping playing

Basic Operations

Recording on a Tape

See page 4 for hookup information.

1 Turn on the amplifier and play the program source you want to record.
2 Press POWER, and press EJECT fully to open the cassette holder, then insert a cassette.

With the side you want to record facing you

3 Set DIRECTION MODE (TC-RE340 only).

To record on Set to

One side only

Both sides once

Both sides*

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

4 PressREC

The AUTO indicator flashes and the deck automatically adjusts the recording level (see page 10). 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 POWER or EJECT while the tape deck is operating. If you do so, the tape may be damaged.

When lights up in Step 4 (TC-RE340 only)

Press once to reverse the direction before proceeding to Step 5.

To protect recordings against accidental erasure

Break out the record-protect tab(s) (see page 14).

Press PAUSE I or

Recording starts.

6 Start playing the program source.

To Press

Stop recording

Start recording from the reverse side twice in Step 5 (TC-RE340 only)

Pause PAUSE II. Press the button again to

resume recording.

Take out the cassette EJECT after stopping recording

The Dolby HX Pro\* automatically works during recording (TC-RE340 only)

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 the following selectors and control to perform additional operations

To record with the Dolby NR

Turn DOLBY NR clockwise to the position you want — B or C before you start recording.

To record FM broadcasts with the Dolby NR

Turn DOLBY NR counterclockwise to the position you want (B or C with MPX FILTER) before you start recording. The filter turns on to make the Dolby NR system work more effectively. (For details on the MPX filter, see "Glossary" on page 18.)

Note

Even after adjusting the recording level, distortion may occur depending on the source that you're recording from. If this happens, turn REC LEVEL counterclockwise to lower the level.

• 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.

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.

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).

Note

Check the direction indicator of the deck. 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)	\( \blacktriangleright \)(or \( \blacktriangleleft \)) 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)	\( \blacktriangleleft \)(or \( \blacktriangleright \)) once during playback.
The beginning of the preceding tracks (Multi-AMS)	\( \blacktriangleleft \)(or \( \blacktriangleleft \)) 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 repeatedly until "M" disappears in the display. Then press \( \blacktriangleleft \)(or \( \blacktriangleleft \)) while holding down \( \blacktriangleright \)(or \( \blacktriangleleft \)).
A particular point on a tape (Memory Play)	MEMORY 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 \( \blacktriangleleft \)(or \( \blacktriangleleft \)) while holding down \( \blacktriangleright \)(or \( \blacktriangleleft \)).(Press \( \blacktriangleleft \)or \( \blacktriangleleft \)to stop at "00 00".)

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.
• Even if the DIRECTION MODE selector is set to or , the deck stops when the current side reaches the end during Multi-AMS operation. (TC-RE340 only)
• The tape counters are reset to "00 00" when you turn off the tape deck.

Adjusting Bias and Recording Level Calibration Automatically (TC-RE340 only)

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.

1 Insert the cassette you want to record on. Make sure the record-protect tabs on the cassette have not been removed.
2 Press AUTO CAL until "CAL" appears in the display.

Note

If the record-protect tab for that side has been removed (see page 14), "AUTO CAL" in the display flashes three times and automatic calibration cannot be performed.

3 Press PAUSE 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.

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

4 Start the actual recording (see page 6).

To cancel the automatic calibration function Press

If "AUTO CAL" flashes continuously

The automatic calibration procedure has been interrupted by:

The end of the tape. Turn the cassette over 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 14).

Updating the calibration setting

As long as the tape deck stays on, calibration data are saved and called up each time you insert a cassette of the same type (I, II or IV). "AUTO CAL" appears in the display when you insert a cassette to indicate that calibration data for that tape type 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 clear the existing calibration data by pressing AUTO CAL until "AUTO CAL" disappears from the display. 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 normally operates when you record by the procedure described in "Recording on a Tape" on page 6.

To cancel the Auto Rec Level function

Press ARL or turn REC LEVEL to turn off the AUTO indicator. 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 the REC LEVEL control 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.

To Do the following:

Fade in	1 Follow Steps 1 to 4 of “Recording on a Tape” on page 6.
	2 Start playing the program source and press FADER at the point where you want the fade-in to start. 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	While you’re still recording, press FADER at the point where you want the fade-out to start. 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 the REC LEVEL control is manually set to 0 (minimum) (see page 7).

Inserting a Blank Space During Recording (Record Muting)

You can insert a blank space of 4 seconds between the tracks. 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.

1 Follow Steps 1 to 5 of "Recording on a Tape" on pages 6 and 7. Recording starts.
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 I or 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, lights up and the tape deck changes to recording pause.

Press PAUSE I or to resume recording.

Synchro-recording With a CD Player Through a Control A1III Cord

By pressing the SYNCHRO button, you can perform synchro-recording on your tape deck with a Sony CD player connected to the CONTROL A1II connector through a Control A1II cord (not supplied). The Control A1II cord 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 A1II cord is provided in the pamphlet attached to this manual.

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.
5 Select the side(s) to be recorded on (TC-RE340 only).

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

6 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. To change the side of the tape to record on for the TC-RE340, press or before the level adjustment finishes.

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 the tape deck to recording pause. To change the side of the tape to record on for the TC-RE340, press or before the level adjustment finishes. Press PAUSE on the tape deck to start Synchro-Recording.

To stop CD Synchro-recording

Press on the tape deck or the CD player.

You can use an optional remote (not supplied) to operate the CD player

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 flashing rapidly

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 about 10 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 the DIRECTION MODE selector is set to or (TC-RE340 only)

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.

Synchro-recording With a CD Player Using a Remote

By pressing the START button on the optional remote RM-J910/J710 (not supplied), you can perform Synchro-recording on your tape deck with a Sony CD player. This function is possible only with Sony CD players with remote control capability.

Note

Use the B deck buttons on the RM-J910.

RM-J910 (for TC-RE340 only)
RM-J710 (for TC-KE240 only)

1 Set the source selector on the amplifier to CD player.
2 Insert a CD into the CD player and select the play mode (CONTINUE, SHUFFLE, or PROGRAM) of the CD player.
3 Insert a cassette.
4 Select the side(s) to be recorded on (TC-RE340 only).

To record on Set DIRECTION MODE to

Only one side←

Both sides → or ←

5 Press STANDBY.

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

To record on the reverse side

Press (RM-J910 only) once.

6 Press START.

To stop Synchro-recording

Press STOP.

When lights up in Step 5 (TC-RE340 only)

Press once to reverse the direction before proceeding to Step 6.

If your CD player has the Peak Search function

After performing Steps 1 to 3 above, press PRESET to turn on the Auto Rec Level function (see page 10). Then continue from Step 4 (RM-J910 only).

You can use the remote to operate the CD player

To start CD play, press twice; to pause CD play, press once; to locate a CD track, press or

Note

Some CD player might not start playback when you press START. In this case, press on the CD player to start playback.

Precautions

On safety

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

On power sources

• Before operating the tape deck, check that the operating voltage of the tape deck is identical with your local power supply. The operating voltage is indicated on the nameplate at the rear of the tape deck.
• The unit is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the unit itself has been turned off.
• If you are not going to use the tape deck for a long time, be sure to disconnect the tape deck from the wall outlet. To disconnect the AC power cord, 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.

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

Cover the respective tab hole with adhesive tape.

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.

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

* TC-KE240 has one pinch roller and one capstan.

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 EJECT to open the cassette holder.
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.

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

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 14).
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 15).
The recording/playback head is magnetized. Demagnetize it (see page 15).

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

The capstans and pinch rollers are dirty. Clean them (see page 15).

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 15).
The recording/playback or erasing head is magnetized. Demagnetize it (see page 15).

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.
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 the REC MUTING button.
The signal strength of the left and right channels are very different.
There is noise in the space before a track.
→You pressed the (or ) button immediately before the beginning of the next track or immediately after the beginning of the current track.

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.

EJECT does not work.

The tape deck is playing back or recording. Press the or PAUSE button to stop playback or recording before pressing the EJECT button.
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.)

100 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

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 – 15,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC), 20 – 16,000 Hz (±6 dB)
Type II tape, Sony Type II (HIGH)	30 – 16,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC), 20 – 17,000 Hz (±6 dB)
Type IV tape, Sony Type IV (METAL)	30 – 18,000 Hz (±3 dB, IEC), 20 – 19,000 Hz (±6 dB), 30 – 13,000 Hz (±3 dB, -4 dB recording)

Wow and flutter

± 0.15% W.Peak (IEC)

0.1% W.RMS (NAB)

± 0.2% W.Pcak (DIN)

Inputs

Line inputs (phono jacks)

Sensitivity: 0.16V

Input impedance: 47 kilohms

Outputs

Line outputs (phono jacks)

Rated output level: 0.5V at a load impedance of

47 kilohms

Load impedance: Over 10 kilohms

Headphones (stereo phone jack)

Output level: 0.25mW at a load impedance of

32 ohms

General

Power requirements

Europe and certain countries in Asia: 220 - 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Australia: 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Other countries: 110 - 120/220 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Power consumption

TC-RE340:15W

TC-KE240:14W

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

430·120·290 mm

Mass (approx.)

3.3 kg

Supplied accessories

See page 4.

Optional accessory

Remote commander RM-J910/J710

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

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

A system that reduces distortion, and increases high-frequency headroom 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)

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: A, B, C and S. 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.

MPX filter

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

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.

Test tones

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

Index

Index

A,B

Accessories

optional 17

supplied 4

Adjusting

recording level automatically. See Auto rec level

recording level manually 7

volume 5

ATS 9,18

Audio connecting cord 4

Auto play 8

Automatic Music Sensor. See Multi-AMS

Automatic calibration 9, 18

Automatic Tape Selection. See ATS

Auto rec level 10, 18

C

Cassette. See Tape

CD synchro-recording

through a control A1II cord 12

using a remote 13

Cleaning

cabinet 14

heads and tape path 15

Connecting. See Hooking up

Control A1II cord 4,14

D, E, F, G

Difference between the models 2

Dolby HX Pro 7,18

Dolby NR 5,7,18

Fader 11

Fading

in. See Fader

out. See Fader

FILTER. See MPX filter

H,I,J,K

Heads

cleaning 15

demagnetizing 15

High-speed

fast-forwarding function 5

rewinding function 5

Hooking up

hookups 4

overview 4

Insert

blank space 11

cassette 5,6

L

Locating beginning of the tape 8 particular point 8 tracks 8

M, N, O

Memory play 8
Multi-AMS 8, 18
MPX filter 7, 18

P, Q

Playing auto play 8 basic play 5 memory play 8

R

Recording basic recording 6 CD synchro-recording 12 FM broadcasts 7
Record muting 11
Remote commander 4,13,17

S

Searching. See Locating Specifications 17

T

Tape ejecting 5,7 notes 14 path cleaning 15 protect the recording 14 type 14 Test tones 9,18 Troubleshooting 16

U, V, W, X, Y, Z Unpacking 4

Names of Controls

Buttons

ARL (automatic recording level adjustment) 10
FADER 11
MEMORY 8
PAUSE 5,7,9-12
REC (recording) 6,7,12
REC MUTING (record muting) 11
RESET 8
SYNCHRO 12
EJECT 5,6,15
■ (stop) 5,7,9-12 (forward play) 5,6,8,10-12 (reverse play) 5,7,8,12 , fast-forwarding and rewinding/AMS) 5,8

Selectors

DIRECTION MODE 5,6,12,13 DOLBY NR 7

Switches

POWER 5,6

Controls

REC (recording) LEVEL 7, 10

Jacks

CONTROL A1II4 PHONES 5

Others

AUTO indicator 6,10,11
Cassette holder 5,6,15
Peak level meters 7
SYNCHRO button indicator 12

AVERTISSEMENT

Cassette type I, Sony Type I (NORMAL): 55 dB

Cassette type II, Sony Type II (HIGH): 57 dB

Cassette type IV, Sony Type IV (METAL): 58 dB

Dimensions (approx.) (1/h/p)

430·120·290mm

Poids (approx.)

3,3 kg

Accessoires fournis

Voir page 4.

Accessoire en option

Telecommande RM-J910/J710

(lecture face avant) 5,6,8,10-12

(lecture face arrriere) 5,7,8,12