Marantz Professional Recorder PMD660 Manual

The Marantz Professional Recorder PMD660 is a portable solid-state recorder designed for professional audio recording applications. It features built-in stereo microphones, XLR inputs with phantom power, CF card storage, USB connectivity, multiple recording formats, and professional audio quality. Below are key sections for operation, features, setup, 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. USB Connectivity 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, LCD display, professional audio circuitry.

FeatureDescription
Built-in MicrophonesProfessional stereo condenser mics with selectable patterns
XLR InputsBalanced XLR inputs with +48V phantom power
CF Card StorageCompactFlash card storage (up to 4GB supported)
Recording FormatsWAV (16/24-bit) and MP3 formats
USB PortFor file transfer and computer connectivity
LCD DisplayBacklit display for status and settings
Power OptionsAC adapter or battery operation
Headphone OutputStereo headphone jack with volume control
Auto RecordVoice-activated recording feature
Low Cut FilterReduces low-frequency noise and rumble

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare for first use.

  1. Insert CF card: Open card slot cover, insert CompactFlash card.
  2. Power connection: Connect AC adapter or install batteries.
  3. Microphone setup: Connect external mics to XLR inputs if needed.
  4. Headphones: Connect for monitoring during recording.
  5. Format CF card: Use menu to format card for first use.

WARNING! Use only approved power supplies. Handle CF cards with care to avoid damage.

Basic Operation

Power on recorder; follow basic recording procedures.

  1. Power on: Switch POWER to ON position.
  2. Select input source: Choose built-in mics or XLR inputs.
  3. Set recording level: Adjust input level using LEVEL controls.
  4. Start recording: Press RECORD button.
  5. Monitor: Use headphones to monitor audio quality.
  6. Stop recording: Press STOP button.

CAUTION! Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture. Handle with care during transport.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

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

Input Section: Input select (MIC/LINE), phantom power switch, level controls, low cut filter. Menu System: Access via MENU button - format card, set recording mode, adjust settings. Display: Shows recording time, battery level, file information, settings status.

Recording Settings

Access recording options via menu system.

  1. Recording format: Select WAV or MP3 format.
  2. Sample rate: Choose 44.1kHz or 48kHz (WAV).
  3. Bit depth: Select 16-bit or 24-bit (WAV).
  4. MP3 bitrate: Set from 32kbps to 320kbps.
  5. Input source: Built-in mics or XLR inputs.
  6. Phantom power: Enable/disable +48V power.
  7. Low cut filter: Activate to reduce low-frequency noise.
  8. Auto record: Set voice-activated recording threshold.

Tip: Use headphones to monitor while adjusting recording levels.

Playback & File Management

Playback recorded files and manage storage.

  1. Playback: Press PLAY button to listen to recordings.
  2. Navigation: Use arrow buttons to skip between files.
  3. File deletion: Delete unwanted files via menu option.
  4. Folder management: Create and organize folders on CF card.
  5. File naming: Automatic file naming with timestamp.
  6. Format card: Erase all data and prepare card for new recordings.

WARNING! Backup important recordings before formatting card.

USB Connectivity

Connect to computer for file transfer.

  1. Connect USB cable to recorder and computer.
  2. Set USB mode in menu (storage device).
  3. Access CF card as removable drive on computer.
  4. Transfer files via drag-and-drop.
  5. Safely eject device before disconnecting.

Maintenance & Care

Keep recorder clean and properly maintained.

Clean exterior with dry cloth only. Store in protective case when not in use. Regularly backup recordings. Check battery contacts for corrosion. Keep CF card contacts clean.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or solvents for cleaning. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBatteries/AC adapterCheck battery installation; verify AC adapter connection
Recording not startingCF card issuesEnsure card is properly inserted and formatted
Poor audio qualityInput levels/settingsAdjust input levels; check microphone connections
USB not recognizedCable/connectionTry different USB cable; check USB mode setting
Short battery lifeBattery type/ageUse fresh alkaline batteries; avoid rechargeable NiMH
File corruptionCard errorsFormat card; recover files via computer if possible

Reset: Menu > System > Initialize settings if available.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz Professional service centers.

Marantz Professional Recorder PMD660 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025