Marantz Professional PMD-602A Manual

The Marantz Professional PMD-602A is a high-quality portable cassette recorder designed for professional audio recording applications. Featuring durable construction, professional-grade recording capabilities, built-in condenser microphone, line inputs/outputs, headphone monitoring, variable speed control, and battery/AC power operation. 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. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Professional cassette mechanism, built-in condenser microphone, line inputs/outputs, headphone jack, variable speed control, battery/AC power operation.

Feature	Description
Built-in microphone	High-quality condenser microphone for direct recording
Line inputs	RCA connectors for external audio sources
Line outputs	RCA connectors for connecting to amplifiers/mixers
Headphone jack	3.5mm stereo jack for monitoring
Variable speed control	±12% pitch adjustment capability
AC power input	For mains power operation
Battery operation	Portable operation with batteries
RECORD/PLAY	Combined record and playback function
STOP/EJECT	Stops operation and ejects cassette
VOLUME CONTROL	Adjusts playback/recording level

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, install batteries observing polarity.
Connect AC adapter: Plug AC adapter into power input and wall outlet.
Connect audio devices: Use line inputs for external sources; outputs for monitoring/recording.
Insert cassette: Press STOP/EJECT to open compartment, insert cassette properly.

WARNING! Use only recommended power supply. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

First-Time Setup

Prepare unit for first use.

Power source selection: Choose between battery or AC adapter operation.
Cassette preparation: Ensure cassette is properly wound and undamaged.
Level adjustment: Set recording levels using built-in microphone or line inputs.
Monitor setup: Connect headphones for audio monitoring during recording.

CAUTION! Always use high-quality cassettes for best recording results.

Specifications

Type: Portable cassette recorder
Frequency Response: 40Hz - 14kHz (Normal tape)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 58dB (Dolby NR off)
Wow and Flutter: 0.15% (WRMS)
Inputs: Microphone, Line In (RCA)
Outputs: Line Out (RCA), Headphone
Power Supply: AC adapter or batteries
Battery Life: Approximately 4 hours with alkaline batteries
Dimensions: Standard portable recorder size
Weight: Lightweight portable design

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: RECORD/PLAY, STOP/EJECT, FF, REW, PAUSE, VOLUME, TONE control.

Additional features: Built-in condenser microphone, battery indicator, recording level meter, variable speed control.

Recording: Adjust input levels using volume control. Monitoring: Use headphone jack for real-time monitoring. Playback: Control volume and tone settings. Speed adjustment: Use variable speed control for pitch correction or creative effects.

Connecting Devices

Line inputs: Connect external audio sources (mixers, instruments). Line outputs: Connect to amplifiers, recording devices. Headphone: For private monitoring.

Turn off unit before making connections.
Use appropriate cables (RCA for line connections).
Set input levels to avoid distortion.
Monitor through headphones during recording.

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

Recording and Playback

Professional cassette recording and playback operations.

Recording preparation: Insert cassette, ensure tape is at beginning.
Start recording: Press RECORD/PLAY simultaneously.
Monitor levels: Watch level meter for proper recording levels.
Pause recording: Use PAUSE button for temporary stops.
Playback: Press PLAY to listen to recordings.
Fast operations: Use FF and REW for tape navigation.
Speed adjustment: Use variable speed control as needed.
Tone control: Adjust high frequency response.

WARNING! Do not expose recorded tapes to magnetic fields. Store in cool, dry place.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Head cleaning: Use isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs regularly.
Capstan cleaning: Clean capstan and pinch roller.
Demagnetization: Use head demagnetizer periodically.
Battery care: Remove batteries when not in use for extended periods.

CAUTION! Unplug unit before cleaning. Use only recommended cleaning supplies.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European markets. Manufactured to professional audio standards. Copyright © Marantz Professional. For technical support and service, contact authorized Marantz service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/AC adapter	Check battery installation; verify AC adapter connection.
Poor recording quality	Dirty heads/tape quality	Clean recording heads; use high-quality tape.
Speed variations	Belt wear/mechanism	Check belt condition; service mechanism if needed.
No audio output	Volume setting/connections	Check volume control; verify cable connections.
Tape eating/jamming	Mechanical issues	Stop immediately; check tape path and mechanism.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz Professional service centers for repairs.

Support: Refer to manufacturer's website for technical documentation and updates.