Marantz PMD660 Instruction Manual

The Marantz PMD660 is a professional portable solid-state recorder featuring built-in stereo microphones, XLR inputs with phantom power, CF card storage, USB connectivity, variable recording modes, and professional audio quality. Designed for field recording, journalism, and broadcast applications. Below are key sections for operation, features, setup, recording, playback, and maintenance.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in stereo condenser microphones, XLR inputs with +48V phantom power, CF card slot, USB port, LCD display, professional audio controls.

Feature	Description
Built-in microphones	Professional stereo condenser mics with selectable patterns
XLR inputs	Balanced inputs with +48V phantom power
CF card storage	CompactFlash card slot for digital recording
USB port	For file transfer and computer connectivity
LCD display	Backlit display showing recording parameters
Recording formats	MP3 and WAV formats with variable bit rates
Power options	AC adapter or battery operation
Headphone output	Monitor output with volume control
Line output	Balanced line level output
Recording modes	Manual and automatic level control

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare for first use.

Insert CF card: Open card slot cover, insert CompactFlash card properly.
Install batteries: Use recommended battery type; ensure proper polarity.
Connect power: Use supplied AC adapter for extended operation.
Format CF card: Use menu system to format card for first use.

WARNING! Use only recommended power sources. Do not force CF card insertion.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; familiarize with controls and display.

Power on: Slide power switch to ON position.
Select input source: Choose built-in mics or XLR inputs.
Set recording level: Use manual controls or auto level function.
Start recording: Press RECORD button; monitor levels on display.

CAUTION! Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture during operation.

Specifications

Recording Media: CompactFlash card (up to 8GB supported)
Recording Formats: MP3 (32-320 kbps), WAV (44.1/48 kHz, 16/24-bit)
Inputs: Built-in stereo mics, XLR (phantom power +48V), line input
Outputs: Headphone, line output, USB
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±1dB)
Signal-to-Noise: >90dB
Power Supply: 6V DC adapter or 4xAA batteries
Battery Life: Approx. 4-6 hours (alkaline batteries)
Dimensions: 165 x 65 x 35 mm
Weight: 450g (without batteries)

Controls and Functions

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

Side panels: Input selection, level controls, headphone volume, menu access.

Input selection: INT MIC (internal mics), EXT MIC (XLR inputs), LINE IN. Level control: Manual knobs or ALC (Automatic Level Control). Menu functions: File management, format card, system settings, USB mode. Display indicators: Recording level, battery status, file information, recording time.

Recording Procedures

Professional recording techniques for optimal audio quality.

Select input source: Choose between internal mics or external inputs.
Set recording level: Adjust manually or use ALC for automatic control.
Monitor audio: Use headphones to check audio quality during recording.
Start recording: Press RECORD; pause with PAUSE button.
Stop recording: Press STOP to end recording session.
File naming: Automatic file numbering with time/date stamps.

Tip: Always monitor recording levels to prevent distortion.

Playback & File Management

Review recordings and manage audio files.

Playback: Navigate to desired file, press PLAY.
Fast forward/rewind: Use navigation buttons during playback.
File deletion: Select file and use delete function in menu.
File protection: Mark important files as read-only to prevent accidental deletion.
Folder management: Create and organize folders for different projects.

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

Connectivity Options

External connections for expanded functionality.

USB connection: Connect to computer for file transfer.
External microphones: Connect professional mics to XLR inputs.
Line inputs: Connect audio sources like mixers or other recorders.
Headphone monitoring: Use for critical audio monitoring.
Line output: Connect to recording systems or amplification.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before making connections. Use proper cables.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care for extended product life.

Clean exterior with dry cloth only. Store in protective case when not in use. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Regularly check battery contacts for corrosion.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Avoid magnetic fields.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit won't power on	Batteries/AC adapter	Check battery installation; verify AC adapter connection.
No audio recording	Input selection/levels	Verify input source selection; check recording levels.
CF card error	Card compatibility/format	Use compatible CF card; format card in unit.
Poor audio quality	Input levels/mic placement	Adjust recording levels; optimize microphone placement.
USB not recognized	Driver/connection	Install proper drivers; check USB cable connection.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if available.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz Professional service centers.