marantz pmd660 manual english

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, and multiple recording formats. Designed for field recording, journalism, and audio professionals, it offers high-quality audio capture with intuitive controls. Below are key sections for operation, features, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Recording Settings 7. Playback & File Management 8. Connectivity Options 9. Maintenance & Care 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, headphone output, line output, and intuitive control interface.

FeatureDescription
Built-in microphonesProfessional stereo condenser mics with selectable patterns
XLR inputsBalanced inputs with phantom power for external mics
CF card storageCompactFlash card slot for reliable audio storage
USB connectivityFor file transfer to computer
Recording formatsMP3 and WAV formats with multiple quality settings
Headphone outputWith volume control for monitoring
Line outputFor connection to external audio systems
Power optionsAC adapter or battery operation
LCD displayBacklit display for easy viewing in all conditions
Auto recordingVoice-activated recording feature

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare for first use.

  1. Insert CF card: Open card slot cover, insert CompactFlash card until it clicks.
  2. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
  3. Connect power: Use supplied AC adapter for extended operation.
  4. Format CF card: Use menu option to format card for first-time use.

WARNING! Always use recommended CF cards; backup important data before formatting.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; familiarize with basic controls.

  1. Power on: Slide POWER switch to ON position.
  2. Select input source: Choose between built-in mics or XLR inputs.
  3. Set recording level: Adjust INPUT LEVEL knob while monitoring meters.
  4. Start recording: Press RECORD button, then press PLAY to begin.
  5. Stop recording: Press STOP button.
  6. Playback: Use transport controls to review recordings.

CAUTION! Avoid dropping unit; protect from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front panel: POWER switch, INPUT LEVEL, MIC/LINE switch, PHANTOM power, RECORD, PLAY, STOP, FF, REW.

Menu controls: MENU button, navigation keys, ENTER button. Display shows recording status, battery level, file information, and settings.

Input selection: Built-in mics or XLR inputs. Recording mode: MP3 or WAV format selection. Monitoring: Headphone volume control, peak indicators. File management: Create folders, delete files, format card.

Recording Settings

Access recording options via MENU button.

  1. Format selection: Choose MP3 or WAV recording format.
  2. Quality settings: Set bit rate (MP3) or sample rate/bit depth (WAV).
  3. Input source: Select built-in mics or XLR inputs.
  4. Phantom power: Enable +48V for condenser microphones.
  5. Auto record: Set voice-activated recording threshold.
  6. Low cut filter: Reduce low-frequency noise when needed.
  7. Pre-record: Buffer recording for capturing audio before pressing record.

Tip: Always monitor recording levels to avoid distortion.

Playback & File Management

Review and manage recorded files efficiently.

  1. Playback: Use PLAY, STOP, FF, REW buttons to navigate files.
  2. File navigation: Use navigation keys to select different files.
  3. Delete files: Select file and use DELETE option in menu.
  4. Create folders: Organize recordings into separate folders.
  5. USB transfer: Connect to computer for file backup and editing.
  6. Format card: Erase all data and prepare card for new recordings.

WARNING! Backup important recordings before formatting or deleting files.

Connectivity Options

Multiple connection options for various applications.

  1. Microphone inputs: XLR connectors for professional microphones.
  2. Headphone output: 3.5mm jack for private monitoring.
  3. Line output: RCA connectors for connection to audio systems.
  4. USB port: Type B connector for computer connection.
  5. DC input: For AC adapter power supply.

Tip: Use balanced XLR cables for best noise rejection with external mics.

Maintenance & Care

Proper maintenance ensures long-term reliability.

Clean exterior with dry, soft cloth. Keep unit dry and avoid extreme temperatures. Store in protective case when not in use. Regularly check battery contacts for corrosion.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Avoid exposing to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit won't power onDead batteries/power issueReplace batteries; check AC adapter connection.
No audio recordingInput selection/level settingCheck input source selection; adjust input level.
CF card errorCard not formatted/compatibleFormat card in unit; use recommended CF cards.
Poor audio qualityInput level/distortionAdjust input level; check microphone placement.
USB not recognizedDriver/connection issueInstall drivers; check USB cable and connection.

Reset: Menu > System > Initialize to restore factory settings.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz Professional service centers.

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