Marantz PMD560 User Manual

The Marantz PMD560 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 advanced recording formats including WAV and MP3. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Recording and Playback 8. File Management 9. Care & Cleaning 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 comprehensive control buttons.

Feature	Description
Built-in stereo microphones	High-quality condenser microphones for professional recording
XLR inputs	Professional audio inputs with phantom power (48V)
USB port	For computer connection and file transfer
SD card slot	For expandable storage up to 32GB
LCD display	Backlit screen for easy viewing in all conditions
Recording formats	WAV (16/24-bit) and MP3
Power source	AA batteries or AC adapter
Headphone output	For monitoring and playback
Line input/output	For connecting external audio devices
Recording modes	Stereo, mono, and multiple sample rates

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, install 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
Install SD card: Insert compatible SD card into slot until it clicks.
Connect external microphones: Use XLR inputs for professional microphones.
Connect power: Use AC adapter for extended recording sessions.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on device; configure initial settings.

Set date and time: Access SYSTEM menu to set current date and time.
Format SD card: Use FORMAT function in menu for new cards.
Configure recording settings: Set preferred format (WAV/MP3), sample rate, and bit depth.
Test recording: Make a short test recording to verify functionality.

CAUTION! Always format new SD cards in the device for optimal performance.

Specifications

Recording formats: WAV (16-bit/44.1kHz to 24-bit/96kHz), MP3 (32-320kbps)
Storage: SD/SDHC cards up to 32GB
Inputs: 2 XLR/TRS combo jacks, stereo line input
Outputs: Stereo line output, headphone output
Microphones: Built-in stereo condenser microphones
Phantom power: 48V for external microphones
Power supply: 4 AA batteries or DC 6V adapter
Battery life: Approx. 5 hours (alkaline batteries)
Dimensions: 155 x 68 x 35 mm
Weight: 320g (without batteries)

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER, RECORD, STOP, PLAY, PAUSE, REWIND, FAST FORWARD.

Menu navigation: MENU button, navigation wheel, ENTER button for selection.

Recording settings: Format selection (WAV/MP3), sample rate, input level, limiter, low cut filter. Playback settings: Repeat mode, playback speed, A-B repeat. System settings: Date/time, display contrast, auto power off, button lock.

Connecting Devices

External microphones: XLR inputs with phantom power. Computer: USB connection for file transfer. Headphones: 3.5mm stereo jack for monitoring.

Turn off device before connecting external equipment.
Connect microphones to XLR inputs, ensuring proper cable connection.
Use USB cable for computer connection and file management.
Connect headphones for real-time monitoring during recording.

Tip: Enable phantom power only when using condenser microphones.

Recording and Playback

Professional audio recording with multiple format options.

Prepare recording: Set input levels using level meters and adjust gain.
Start recording: Press RECORD button; recording begins immediately.
Monitor recording: Use headphones to monitor audio quality.
Stop recording: Press STOP to end recording session.
Playback: Use PLAY button to review recordings.
Navigation: Use REWIND and FAST FORWARD to locate specific sections.
Marking: Use MARK button to set cue points during recording.

WARNING! Always monitor recording levels to prevent distortion.

File Management

Organize and transfer recordings efficiently.

File navigation: Use folder system to organize recordings by date/project.
File deletion: Delete unwanted files through menu system.
Formatting: Regularly format SD card for optimal performance.
Backup: Always maintain backup copies of important recordings.

Care & Cleaning

Proper maintenance ensures long-term reliability.

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning exterior. Clean connectors with compressed air. Store in protective case when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 compliance: Class B digital device. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © Marantz Professional. For technical support, visit www.marantzprofessional.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Device not powering on	Batteries/ power supply	Check battery installation; try AC adapter; ensure power switch is on.
No sound during recording	Input settings/microphones	Check input source selection; verify microphone connection; adjust input levels.
SD card error	Card compatibility/format	Use compatible SD card; format card in device; check for write protection.
Poor recording quality	Settings/environment	Adjust input levels; enable limiter; check microphone placement.
USB connection issues	Cables/drivers	Use certified USB cable; install required drivers; check computer settings.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if experiencing persistent issues.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz Professional service centers for repairs.