Marantz 2285 Manual

The Marantz 2285 is a classic stereo receiver from the 1970s featuring 85 watts per channel RMS power, dual power meters, phono input for turntables, tuner section with AM/FM reception, multiple audio inputs, tone controls, loudness compensation, and speaker selector. Known for its warm sound signature and distinctive blue-lit tuning dial. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, specifications, and maintenance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Connecting Components 7. Tuner Operation 8. Maintenance 9. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Power amplifier section, preamplifier with phono stage, AM/FM tuner, front panel controls, rear panel connections.

FeatureDescription
Power Output85 watts per channel RMS into 8 ohms
Tuner SectionAM/FM stereo with tuning meters
Phono InputMM cartridge compatible with adjustable capacitance
Tone ControlsBass, midrange, treble with defeat switch
Loudness ControlCompensates for low volume listening
Speaker SelectorA/B speaker switching
Headphone JackFront panel 1/4" stereo jack
Power MetersDual VU meters for power output display
InputsPhono, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2
OutputsSpeaker terminals, tape outputs, preamp out

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, ventilated surface.

  1. Connect speakers: Use speaker wire to connect to A or B speaker terminals.
  2. Connect turntable: Use phono input for magnetic cartridges.
  3. Connect other sources: Use Aux input for CD players, tape decks, etc.
  4. Connect antenna: FM 300 ohm terminals for best reception.
  5. Plug into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block ventilation slots. Use correct speaker impedance.

Operation

Power on receiver; allow warm-up for optimal performance.

  1. Select input: Choose Phono, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2, or Tuner.
  2. Adjust volume: Start at minimum volume when powering on.
  3. Use tone controls: Adjust bass, midrange, treble to preference.
  4. Tuner operation: Select AM/FM band and tune to stations.
  5. Speaker selection: Choose A, B, or both speaker sets.

CAUTION! Avoid operating at maximum volume for extended periods to prevent damage.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: Power switch, input selector, volume, balance, tone controls, loudness, speaker selector, tuning knob, function switches.

Main Controls: Power, Volume, Balance, Bass, Midrange, Treble, Loudness, Input Selector, Speaker Selector, Tuning, Mode Selector.

Tone Controls: Bass ±10dB at 50Hz, Midrange ±6dB at 1kHz, Treble ±10dB at 15kHz. Function Switches: Mono/stereo, high filter, loudness contour, tape monitor. Tuner: Tuning meter, signal strength meter, FM muting.

Connecting Components

Speaker connections: A/B terminals. Source connections: Phono, Aux, Tape inputs. Antenna: FM 300 ohm terminals.

  1. Turn off power before making connections.
  2. Match cable types to appropriate inputs.
  3. Use proper speaker wire gauge for distance.
  4. Ensure secure connections to prevent shorts.

Tip: Keep signal cables away from power cords to reduce hum.

Tuner Operation

AM/FM stereo reception with tuning indicators.

  1. Select FM or AM band using mode selector.
  2. Rotate tuning knob until center meter indicates peak.
  3. Use signal strength meter for best reception quality.
  4. Engage FM muting to eliminate inter-station noise.
  5. For stereo reception, ensure stereo indicator is lit.

WARNING! Use proper antenna for best reception; outdoor antenna recommended for weak signal areas.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning of controls with contact cleaner. Keep ventilation clear. Check connections periodically.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning. Do not use liquids on controls. Service by qualified technician only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No soundSpeaker connections/powerCheck speaker wires; verify power on; check input selection
Distorted soundOverload/speaker impedanceReduce volume; check speaker impedance matches requirements
Hum or noiseGrounding/cable placementCheck ground connections; separate signal and power cables
Poor FM receptionAntenna/tuningImprove antenna connection; fine tune station
One channel deadBalance control/cablesCheck balance setting; verify source cable connections

Service: Consult qualified Marantz service technician for internal repairs.

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