Marantz PMD 220 Manual

The Marantz PMD 220 is a professional portable cassette recorder designed for field recording, interviews, and broadcast applications. Features include built-in condenser microphones, line inputs/outputs, VU meters, cue and review functions, automatic recording level control, manual level adjustment, battery/AC power operation, and durable construction. Below are key sections for operation, features, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in condenser microphones, VU meters, Line inputs/outputs, Cue/Review function, Auto/Manual recording level control.

Feature	Description
Built-in microphones	Stereo condenser microphones for direct recording
VU meters	Visual level indicators for recording and playback
Line inputs	For external audio sources
Line outputs	For connecting to amplifiers or recording devices
Cue/Review function	Quick tape review and cueing capability
Auto recording level	Automatic gain control for consistent recording levels
Manual level control	Precise manual adjustment of recording levels
Battery/AC operation	Flexible power options for field use
Headphone jack	For monitoring and private listening
Durable construction	Rugged design for professional field use

Controls and Indicators

Front Panel: POWER switch, RECORD button, PLAY button, STOP button, PAUSE button, CUE/REVIEW lever, VU meters, MIC/LINE switch, LEVEL controls.

Side/Rear Panel: MIC INPUT jacks, LINE INPUT jacks, LINE OUTPUT jacks, HEADPHONE jack, AC INPUT, BATTERY compartment.

Recording: AUTO/MANUAL level switch, RECORD LEVEL controls, VU meter monitoring. Playback: CUE/REVIEW for quick tape positioning, PAUSE for temporary stops.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; load cassette tape.

1. Insert cassette: Open door, insert tape with exposed tape facing outward.
2. Power source: Use batteries or connect AC adapter.
3. Select input: Choose MIC (built-in) or LINE (external sources).
4. Set recording level: Use AUTO for automatic control or MANUAL for precise adjustment.
5. Begin recording: Press RECORD and PLAY simultaneously.

WARNING! Use quality cassettes; avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

Recording Functions

Supports recording from built-in mics or external line sources.

1. Built-in microphone recording: Set input to MIC, adjust levels via VU meters.
2. External source recording: Connect to LINE INPUT, set input to LINE.
3. Auto level control: Switch to AUTO for automatic gain adjustment.
4. Manual level control: Switch to MANUAL, adjust LEVEL controls for optimal VU meter reading.
5. Monitoring: Use headphones for real-time audio monitoring.
6. Pause function: Press PAUSE to temporarily halt recording/playback.

Tip: Keep VU meters in the optimal range (typically -3 to 0 dB) for best recording quality.

Playback Functions

Playback through built-in speaker, headphones, or line outputs.

1. Basic playback: Press PLAY button.
2. Cue function: Hold CUE lever to fast-forward while hearing audio.
3. Review function: Hold REVIEW lever to rewind while hearing audio.
4. Pause: Press PAUSE to temporarily stop playback.
5. Stop: Press STOP to end playback.
6. Output selection: Use headphones for private listening or line outputs for external systems.

CAUTION! Do not leave tapes in player when not in use for extended periods.

Specifications

• Type: Portable Stereo Cassette Recorder
• Frequency Response: 40Hz - 14kHz (±3dB)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Better than 50dB
• Wow and Flutter: Less than 0.15%
• Inputs: MIC (built-in), LINE IN (RCA)
• Outputs: LINE OUT (RCA), HEADPHONE (1/4")
• Power Requirements: 6 x C batteries or AC adapter
• Dimensions: Standard portable recorder size
• Weight: Approximately 2.5 kg with batteries

Power Options

Operates on batteries or AC power.

1. Battery operation: Install 6 C batteries in compartment.
2. AC operation: Connect approved AC adapter to AC INPUT.
3. Battery life: Approximately 8-10 hours with alkaline batteries.
4. Power indicator: Check battery level via power LED.

WARNING! Use only recommended power sources; remove batteries when not in use for extended periods.

Input/Output Connections

Multiple connection options for various audio sources and destinations.

1. Microphone inputs: Built-in stereo condenser mics.
2. Line inputs: RCA connectors for external audio sources.
3. Line outputs: RCA connectors for connecting to amplifiers or recorders.
4. Headphone output: 1/4" stereo jack for monitoring.
5. AC input: For external power adapter.

Tip: Use quality cables and ensure proper connections for optimal audio quality.

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Head cleaning: Use approved head cleaning cassettes regularly.
2. Exterior cleaning: Wipe with dry, soft cloth only.
3. Storage: Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
4. Battery care: Remove batteries when not in use for extended periods.
5. Cassette care: Use high-quality tapes; avoid damaged cassettes.

CAUTION! Never use solvents or abrasive cleaners; do not disassemble unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliance. Manufactured to meet professional audio standards. Copyright © Marantz Professional. For technical support and service, contact authorized Marantz service centers or visit www.marantzpro.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries/power connection	Replace batteries; check AC adapter connection
Poor recording quality	Dirty heads/weak batteries	Clean heads; replace batteries; check tape quality
No sound during playback	Volume control/headphones	Adjust volume; check headphone connection
Tape not moving	Mechanical issue/broken tape	Check for obstructions; replace damaged tape
Distorted recording	Input level too high	Adjust recording level; use AUTO mode
VU meters not working	Battery level/mechanical issue	Check batteries; service required if persistent

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center for repairs.

Support: www.marantzpro.com