Marantz PMD 720 Manual

The Marantz PMD 720 is a professional portable digital recorder featuring high-quality audio recording capabilities, built-in stereo microphones, XLR inputs with phantom power, USB connectivity, SD card storage, and multiple recording formats. Designed for field recording, journalism, and professional audio applications with robust construction and intuitive controls. Below are key sections for operation, features, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Professional digital recorder, built-in stereo microphones, XLR inputs, phantom power, USB port, SD card slot, LCD display, and intuitive control interface.

Feature	Description
Built-in stereo mics	High-quality condenser microphones for immediate recording
XLR inputs	Professional balanced audio inputs with phantom power
Phantom power	+48V phantom power for external microphones
USB connectivity	For file transfer and computer connection
SD card storage	Expandable storage via SD card slot
LCD display	Backlit display for settings and file information
Recording formats	MP3 and WAV formats at various bit rates
Battery power	AA batteries or optional AC adapter
Headphone output	For monitoring and playback
Line input/output	For connecting external audio devices

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare for first use.

1. Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, insert AA batteries observing polarity.
2. Install SD card: Insert compatible SD card into slot until it clicks.
3. Connect microphones: Use XLR inputs for external microphones if needed.
4. Power on: Slide power switch to ON position.

WARNING! Use only recommended power sources. Do not expose to moisture.

Basic Operation

Power on device; familiarize with basic controls.

1. Recording: Press REC button to start recording; REC indicator will illuminate.
2. Monitoring: Use headphone jack to monitor audio during recording.
3. Stop recording: Press STOP button to end recording session.
4. Playback: Use PLAY button to listen to recorded files.

CAUTION! Always use fresh batteries for important recordings.

Specifications

• Recording Media: SD card (up to 32GB supported)
• Recording Formats: MP3 (32-320 kbps), WAV (44.1/48 kHz, 16/24-bit)
• Inputs: XLR (balanced), built-in stereo mics, line input
• Outputs: Headphone, line output, USB
• Phantom Power: +48V for external microphones
• Power Source: 4x AA batteries or DC 6V adapter
• Battery Life: Approximately 5 hours (alkaline batteries)
• Display: Backlit LCD with 2 lines
• Dimensions: Professional portable size
• Weight: Lightweight for field use

Controls and Functions

Front panel: POWER switch, RECORD, STOP, PLAY, MENU, navigation buttons.

Side panels: XLR inputs, headphone jack, line in/out, USB port, SD card slot.

Menu functions: Recording quality, file management, system settings, format card, LCD contrast, auto power off, button lock. Navigation: Use arrow buttons to navigate menus, ENTER to select.

Recording Settings

Access recording settings via MENU button.

1. Select recording format: Choose between MP3 or WAV formats.
2. Set recording quality: Adjust bit rate and sample rate as needed.
3. Input source selection: Choose built-in mics, XLR inputs, or line input.
4. Monitor levels: Use level meters to set appropriate recording levels.

Tip: Use headphones to monitor audio quality during recording.

Playback & File Management

Supports playback of recorded files and basic file operations.

1. Play files: Navigate to file and press PLAY.
2. Fast forward/rewind: Use navigation buttons during playback.
3. Delete files: Use DELETE function in menu to remove unwanted recordings.
4. Create folders: Organize recordings into separate folders.
5. File naming: Automatic file naming with time/date stamps.

WARNING! Backup important files regularly. Format card only when necessary.

USB Connectivity

Connect to computer via USB for file transfer.

1. Connect USB cable to computer and PMD 720.
2. Select USB mode when prompted.
3. Access files as removable storage device.
4. Safely eject before disconnecting.

Maintenance & Care

Keep device clean and stored properly when not in use.

CAUTION! Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid liquids and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC compliant digital device. CE marked for European markets. Manufactured to professional audio standards. For technical support and warranty information, contact authorized Marantz service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/connection	Check battery installation; try AC adapter
Recording not starting	SD card/memory	Ensure SD card is inserted and has available space
Poor audio quality	Input levels/mics	Adjust input levels; check microphone connections
USB not recognized	Cable/connection	Try different USB cable; check computer drivers
Battery life short	Battery type/age	Use fresh alkaline batteries; avoid rechargeable if problematic

Reset: Menu > System > Initialize if available.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center for repairs.