Marantz PMD320 Owners Manual

The Marantz PMD320 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, interviews, and professional audio applications with intuitive controls and robust construction. Below are key sections for features, operation, connectivity, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Connectivity Options 7. Recording Modes 8. File Management 9. Maintenance & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Built-in stereo microphones	High-quality condenser microphones for field recording
XLR inputs	Professional audio inputs with phantom power (48V)
USB connectivity	For file transfer and computer connection
SD card slot	Supports SD/SDHC cards up to 32GB
LCD display	Backlit screen for menu navigation and status
Recording formats	WAV (16/24-bit) and MP3
Power options	Battery operation and AC adapter
Headphone output	For monitoring and playback
Line input/output	For external audio connections
Digital effects	Built-in limiter and low-cut filter

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare for first use.

Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, install recommended batteries.
Insert SD card: Format card using menu system before first use.
Connect power: Use AC adapter for extended recording sessions.
Connect microphones: Use XLR inputs for external microphones.

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

Basic Operation

Power on device; navigate menus using control buttons.

Recording: Press REC button to start recording; REC indicator lights.
Playback: Use PLAY button to review recordings.
Menu navigation: Use arrow buttons and ENTER to access settings.
File management: Create folders, delete files, and organize recordings.

CAUTION! Always monitor recording levels to prevent distortion.

Specifications

Recording Format: WAV (16-bit/44.1kHz, 24-bit/96kHz), MP3
Storage: SD/SDHC card (up to 32GB)
Inputs: XLR (mic/line), 1/8" stereo mini jack
Outputs: Headphone, line out, USB
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise: >90dB
Power Supply: 4x AA batteries or AC adapter
Battery Life: Approx. 5 hours (alkaline batteries)
Dimensions: Professional portable size
Weight: Lightweight for field use

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER, REC, STOP, PLAY, MENU, navigation buttons. Side: Headphone jack, USB port, DC input.

Menu System: Recording settings, file management, system setup, format options.

Recording: Input level control, format selection (WAV/MP3), pre-record function. Playback: Fast forward/rewind, skip files, A-B repeat. System: Date/time, backlight, auto power-off, language selection.

Connectivity Options

External microphones: XLR inputs with phantom power. Computer: USB for file transfer. Monitoring: Headphone output with level control.

Turn off device before connecting cables.
Match connectors properly (XLR for mics, USB for computer).
Check phantom power setting for condenser microphones.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Recording Modes

Supports multiple recording scenarios and quality settings.

Stereo recording: Using built-in microphones or external stereo pair.
Mono recording: Single channel recording option.
MP3 mode: For extended recording time with compressed audio.
WAV mode: For highest quality uncompressed audio.
Pre-record: Captures audio from 2 seconds before REC pressed.
Auto-record: Starts recording when sound detected above threshold.

WARNING! Monitor battery level during extended recordings.

File Management

Organize and manage audio files on SD card.

Create folders: Organize recordings by project or date.
Delete files: Remove unwanted recordings to free space.
File naming: Automatic naming with timestamp options.
USB transfer: Connect to computer for file backup.

Maintenance & Care

Keep device clean and properly stored. Use soft cloth for cleaning; avoid liquids.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or humidity. Store in protective case when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC compliant digital device. CE marked for European market. Copyright © Marantz Professional. For technical support, visit www.marantzpro.com or contact authorized service centers. Manufacturer: Marantz Professional, InMusic Brands, Inc.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/AC adapter	Check battery orientation; try AC adapter; ensure power switch on.
No sound recording	Input settings/microphone	Check input source selection; verify microphone connection; adjust input levels.
SD card error	Card format/damage	Reformat card in device; try different SD card; check for write protection.
Distorted audio	Input level too high	Reduce input gain; enable limiter function; check microphone placement.
USB not recognized	Driver/connection	Install drivers if required; try different USB cable; check computer USB port.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if available.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz Professional service center.