Introduction

Unpacking

PORTABLE MINIDISC PLAYER

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
Caution : Read this section carefully to ensure safe operation. Please read all of the safety and operating instructions before operating this unit. For best results, follow all warnings placed on the unit and adhere to the operating and use instructions. These safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
1. Power sources The unit should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance. 2. Power-cord protection Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, pay particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the unit. 3. Enclosure removal Never remove the enclosure. If the internal parts are touched accidentally, a serious electric shock might occur. 4. Drop Do not drop the unit or apply strong shock to it. (Damage due to dropping the unit is not covered by the warranty.) 5. Ventilation Avoid hindering the ventilation of the unit by covering it with a cloth, etc. 6. Abnormal smell If an abnormal smell or smoke is detected, immediately turn the power OFF and pull out the power cord. Contact your dealer or nearest service center. 7. Heat Avoid placing the unit under direct sunlight or near a source of heat such as heating equipment. Particularly, never leave it in an automobile or on the dashboard. 8. Temperature The unit may not function properly if used at extremely low, or freezing

We Want You

DMC-J3

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

KENWOOD CORPORATION
Unpack the unit carefully and make sure that all accessories are put aside so they will not be lost. Examine the unit for any possibility of shipping damage. If your unit is damaged or fails to operate, notify your dealer immediately. If your unit was shipped to you directly, notify the shipping company without delay. Only the consignee (the person or company receiving the unit) can file a claim against the carrier for shipping damage. We recommend that you retain the original carton and packing materials for use should you transport or ship the unit in the future. Keep this manual handy for future reference.

LISTENING

For A Lifetime
Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit youve just purchased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now its time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment offers. This manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Associations Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without annoying blaring or distortion and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing. Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing comfort level adapts to higher volumes of sound. So what sounds normal can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing. Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.

Before applying power

Accessories
Check that the following accessories are present.
AC adaptor (1) Stereo headphone (1) Remote control unit (1) Carrying case (1)
Caution : Read this section carefully to ensure safe operation. Units are designed for operation as follows. U.S. A.and Canada.. AC 120 V only U.K. and Europe.. AC 230 V only *Other countries... AC 110-120 /220-240V switchable
To establish a safe level:
Start your volume control at a low setting. Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it comfortably and clearly, and without distortion.
Once you have established a comfortable sound level:
Set the dial and leave it there. Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage or loss in the future. After all, we want you listening for a lifetime.
Rechargeable battery. NB-130 (1) * AC plug adaptor (1) * Use to adapt the plug on the power cord to the shape of the wall outlet. (Accessory only for regions where use is necessary.)

*AC voltage selection

AC adaptor shipped to other countries are equipped with an AC voltage selector switch. Refer to the following paragraph for the proper setting of this switch. AC adaptor operates on 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts AC. Before connecting the power cord to your AC outlet, make sure that the setting position of this switch matches your line voltage. If not, it must be set to your voltage in accordance with the following direction. Note: Our warranty does not cover damage caused by excessive line voltage due to improper setting of the AC voltage selector switch.
temperatures. The ideal ambient temperature is above +5C (41F). 9. Water and moisture The unit should not be used near water for example, near
We Want You Listening For A Lifetime
Used wisely, your new sound equipment will provide a lifetime of fun and enjoyment. Since hearing damage from loud noise is often undetectable until it is too late, this manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Associations Consumer Electronics Group recommend you avoid prolonged exposure to excessive noise. This list of sound levels is included for your protection. Decibel Level 70 80
AC voltage selector switch

220V 240V 110V 120V

a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc. 10. Dust and moisture Avoid places where is dusty or where the humidity is high. 11. Vibrations Avoid placing the unit on an unstable place such as a shelf or in a place subject to vibrations. 12. Magnetic fields Keep the unit away from sources of magnetic fields such as TV
Example Quiet library, soft whispers Living room, refrigerator, bedroom away from traffic Light traffic, normal conversation, quiet office Air conditioner at 20 feet, sewing machine Vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, noisy restaurant Average city traffic, garbage disposals, alarm clock at two feet.

B60-3671-JA (K.M.T) 98/ 2 1

220V 240V

110V 120V
sets, speaker systems, radios, motorized toys or magnetized objects. 13. Cleaning Do not use volatile solvents such as alcohol, paint thinner, gasoline, or benzine, etc. to clean the cabinet. Use a clean dry cloth. 14. Nonuse periods The power cord of the unit should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time. 15. Damage requiring service The unit should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
The AC adaptor is provided with a voltage selector switch which has been preset for 220-240 V. If using it with 110-120V power, switch to the 110-120V position.
A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged. B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the unit. C. The unit has been exposed to rain. D.The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance. E. The unit has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged. 16. Servicing The user should not attempt to service the unit beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel. 17.
THE FOLLOWING NOISES CAN BE DANGEROUS UNDER CONSTANT EXPOSURE
180 Subway, motorcycle, truck traffic, lawn mower Garbage truck, chain saw, pneumatic drill Rock band concert in front of speakers, thunderclap Gunshot blast, jet plane Rocket launching pad
Information courtesy of the Deafness Research Foundation.

Safety precautions

:Caution : Read this section carefully to ensure safe operation.
CAUTION TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT USE THE AC PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.

For the U.S.A.

WARNING :TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

For rechargeable battery

CAUTION:
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure. In compliance with Federal Regulations, following are reproductions of labels on, or inside the product relating to laser product safety. --------------------------------------------DMC-J3(En/M) 1 ------------------------------------------KENWOOD CORPORATION 2967-3, ISHIKAWA-CHO, HACHIOJI-SHI, TOKYO, JAPAN KENWOOD CORP. CERTIFIES THIS EQUIPMENT CONFORMS TO DHHS REGULATIONS NO. 21 CFR 1040.10, CHAPTER I, SUBCHAPTER J.

Separately sold option part
Rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride Battery. NB-130S (1 piece). NB-130 (2 pieces) Car battery adaptor.. DC-C70 Car cassette adaptor.. CAC-2
The marking of products using lasers (Except for some areas). CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

WARNING

The marking is located on the bottom panel and says that the component uses laser beams that have been classified as Class 1. It means that the unit is utilizing laser beams that are of a weaker class. There is no danger of hazardous radiation outside the unit. Use specified charger only. Do not disassemble or mutilate, cause burns. Do not incinerate or heat, may cause burns, burst or release toxic materiais. Do not short circuit may cause burns. Keep away from children.

For your records

Record the serial number, found on the back panel of the unit, in the spaces designated on the warranty card, and in the space provided below. Refer to the model and serial numbers whenever you call upon your dealer for information or service on this product. Model Serial Number
REQUIREMENT BY NEDERLAND GAZETTE
Batteries are supplied with this product. When they empty, you should not throw away. Instead, hand them in as small chemical waste.
------------------------------------------Location: Bottom Panel
Names and functions of parts Main Unit
HOLD indicator Play indicator HOLD knob

Power sources

Caution : Read this section carefully to ensure safe operation.
Playback (Basics) Playback
Cancel the HOLD function with the HOLD knob and then operate the keys. When the HOLD function is engaged, the unit will not respond to operation of the keys. For details, refer to "Avoiding Faulty Operation (HOLD)."

Power Supply

The specially provided rechargeable battery, commercially sold AA alkaline battery, the specially provided AC adaptor, the special car battery adaptor, and other power sources can be used for this unit. Use the power supply that suits the application of the unit.
Remaining battery life indicator Track number indicator 9 (VOL. UP) key 7 (STOP/ OFF) key LCD 3 (PLAY / PAUSE) key

Using the AC adaptor

To household outlet
When Using the Rechargeable Battery
1 Connect the remote control and headphone.

DISPLAY

To DC IN jack DC IN jack (Extemal jack) power AC adaptors may differ depending on the country or sales region.

TRACK NO.

BATTERY

STO P/

DC I N
Insert the battery making sure the positive (9) and negative (() poles are correctly aligned. When using the battery for the first time, charge the battery before using it.
Headphones may differ depending on the country or sales region. Commercially sold headphones with stereo mini plugs (3.5mm) can also be used.
When Using Commercially Sold AA Alkaline Battery (LR6)
2 Inserting a recorded MD

1 Open the disc holder.

Ni-MH/ALKALINE COMPATIBLE

4 (Skip down) key

(Skip up) key
Insert the AA alkaline battery making sure the positive (9) and negative (() poles are correctly aligned.
2 Insert the MD and close the disc holder by hand.

PHONES

PHONES jack

BLE M C-J3 D PLAYER DM

For use in a car
( (VOL. DOWN) key Disc Holder

Battery cover

Please use the separately sold car battery adaptor (DC-C70) and car cassette adaptor (CAC-2) for listening connected to a car stereo system.
Charging the rechargeable battery

OPEN knob

Do not force the disc holder open,for this will damage it.
Press the center of the MD until the disc is locked into place.

HOLD Function

3 Start playback
Power comes ON and Playback starts from the first song. Track titles are not displayed if the MD has no track titles on it. In this case, "NO TITLE" is first displayed and then the track number or elapsed time is displayed. The "3" indicator will illuminate and the playback status display will revolve. After the last track is over, playback will stop.

Remote Control

Functions marked with an asterrisk (*) indicate operations performed in SHIFT Mode.
(SKIP-SEARCH) key *Fast-forward mode SHIFT indicator

SHIFT B.B.

The specially provided rechargeable battery is not fully charged. When using it for the first time, charge the battery according to the following procedure.

Charge the battery with the power to the unit turned OFF. (The battery is not charged while the unit is in operation.) PHONES jack
B.B. (Bass boost) indicator Play indicator Volume indicator
4 (SKIP-SEARCH) key *Fast-reverse mode
1 Set the rechargeable battery in place.
1 Open the rehargeable battery cover. 1
Repeat mode indicator P: One Track Repeat mode PALL :All Tracks Repeatmode ALL : Random mode
Playback status indicator

PLAY/ PA US E

CH PHON SEAR ES

M AY PL

2 Insert the rehargeable battery and close the cover.

Main unit

Remote control
Remaining battery life indicator
Character information indicator
38 (PLAY/PAUSE -PLAY MODE) key *Repeated playback mode *Random playback mode 7 (STOP/OFF) key

PLAY OPERATION VOLUME

Skip Function
Using the 4 key and key, you can skip to the start of the track you want to listen to.

SHIFT key

TITLE/TRACK NO./TIME EL E EC NC TR O LUMIN ESCE
1 Slide the battery cover up. 2 Open the battery cover.
Insert the rechargeable battery making sure the positive (9) and negative (() poles are correctly aligned.

2 Charge the battery.

Skip Up Function
2 Press the STOP/OFF(7)key twice in succession.

Charging check

Skip Down Function

4FTrack number decreases

When the 4 is pressed repeatedly and the first track is reached, the first track will be played back. When the 4 key is pressed while playback is in progress, operation will skip to the start of the track currently being played back, and playback will resume from there. When the 4 key is pressed and held down, the track numbers will change rapidly (except during Random Playback).

Clip Volume UP key

UP DISPLAY DOWN BASS BOOST
1 Connect the specially provided AC adaptor.

FTrack number increases

When the is pressed repeatedly and the last track is reached, the last track will be played back. Each time the key is pressed during playback, the operation will skip to and play back the subsequent track. When the key is pressed and held down, the track numbers will change rapidly (except during Random Playback).

*DISPLAY mode

After 5 sec. Charging start (The indication goes out after charging.)
Volume DOWN key *BASS BOOST mode

Using the Clip

Press and release.

VOLUME

To DC IN jack The remote control unit can be clipped to a bag or a pocket.

HOLD switch

When the charging indication does not light though the rechargeable battery has been set correctly, it is possible that the life of the rechargeable battery has been reached. The time needed to charge the battery fully is about 4 hours. A fully charged battery can be used for about 5 hours. (Charging time may differ slightly depending on the environment the unit is used in.)

DMC-J3(En/M) 2

Playback (Basics)
Playback (Application) Fast forward / fast reverse (SEARCH) Setting AUTO POWER SAVE
Operate the key while playback is in progress. (only by remote control operation).

Playback (Application)

Convenient functions Avoiding faulty operation (HOLD)
When you are operating the unit on a train or when you are carrying it with the power off, this function allows you to prevent faulty operation due to accidental key operation. (Both the main unit and remote control should be carried with the HOLD function engaged.)

Adjust the volume

Min unit : Adjust the volume with the VOL. UP (9)/VOL DOWN (()keys. Remote control: Adjust the volume with the volume UP/volume DOWN keys.
1 Press the SHIFT key 2 Press and hold down either the 4 key or the key.
Volume level indicator (0 to 30). (The volume level is displayed on the remote control.) For forward search: keep pressing the key during playback. For reverse search: keep pressing the 4 key during playback.
Press during playback or stop status. Normally, the unit is set to "auto PS" mode to conserve the battery. When using the unit in a place where it is subject to vibration or impact, set "PS off" mode before operating the unit. (only by remote control operation).
When you lift your finger off the key, normal playback will be resumed.

1 Press the SHIFT key 2 Keep pressing the 38 key until the display appears.
The play mode changes each time the 38 key is pressed.
Activating HOLD status for main unit keys only
Activating HOLD status for remote control keys only

To release

UP DISPLAY

To pause playback

Press during playback status.
1. In fast forward mode, stop status is engaged when the end of the last track Notes is reached. 2. In reverse mode, playback starts when the start of the first track is reached. 3. Depending on recording conditions, sound interruptions may occur during a fast forward/reverse operation. Each time the key is pressed, pause and playback modes are changed over.
1 "auto PS": power conservation mode 2 "PS off" : skip guard mode

HOLD 3

DOWN BASS BOOST

Min unit

: Press the PLAY / PAUSE (3) Remote control : Press the PLAY / PAUSE (38)

Changing the display

(only by remote control operation).

To HOLD

Selecting Play Mode
Press during playback or stop status. (Random mode cannot be engaged while playback is in progress.) (only by remote control operation).

Stopping playback

Press during playback or pause status.
When pressed during STOP operation:
1 Press the SHIFT key 2 Press the volume UP key
The mode changes each time the
When pressed during PLAY operation:
1 Press the SHIFT key 2 Press the volume UPkey
Activating the operating tone (Beep)
The operating tone can be activated or deactivated. (only by remote control operation).
: Press the STOP /OFF (7) Remote control : Press the STOP /OFF (7)
1 Press the SHIFT key 2 Press the PLAY (3) key
Repeat / Random mode display
The Play Mode changes each time the 38 key is pressed.
Character information indication
volume UP key is pressed. 1 Disc name 2 Total number of tracks 3 Total playing time
volume UP key is pressed. 1 Title of track being played 2 Number of track currently being played 3 Elapsed time of track currently being played

When the bass is boosted, raising the volume excessively will result in sound
distortion. If this happens, either lower the bass level or the volume level.

DMC-J3(En/M) 3

For pleasant use

In case of difficulty

If you think the unit is not operating properly, check the symptoms before requesting service.

Specifications

System.. Mini disc digital audio system Read method. Noncontact optical reading system (semiconductor laser) Sampling frequency. 44.1 kHz Audio compression. ATRAC (Adaptive Transform Acoustic Cording) Number of channels. 2 channels
Cautions regarding use of rechargeable battery (Rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride Battery NB -130)
Do not use any battery other than the specially provided rechargeable battery. Use of another battery will damage the unit. The battery is a rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride battery. Because of the properties of this battery, it must be recharged at least once every 2 months, even if it is not used. The battery can be recharged about 500 times. If the battery is repeatedly recharged before its charge is completely used up, the battery service time may gradually decrease. This is due to the properties of the battery and does not indicate a malfunction. Allow the battery to be used up completely and then charge it fully. If this procedure is repeated several times, the rechargeable battery will display its proper performance. Replace the rechargeable battery with a new one when its service time is short even after it has been charged. (Use the separately sold NB-130 / NB-130S battery.) A small amount of power is used even when the unit is turned OFF. If the unit is not used for a long time, therefore, remove the battery and store it in a safe place.

Simple care

When dirty
Wipe with a dry, soft cloth.If the unit is very dirty, moisten the cloth slightly and wipe off the dirt. Afterwards, make sure you wipe the unit dry with a dry cloth.

Troubleshooting

Symptom

Unit fails to turn ON.

The disc holder is not securely closed. The battery is depleted. HOLD status is engaged. The volume is at minimum level.

Remedy

Close disc holder securely. Charge the battery. Deactivate HOLD status. Increase the volume.
Frequency response. 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz ( 3 dB) Wow & flutter. Less than unmeasurable limit ( 0.001 % W.PEAK) Input/Output terminal. Remote control/Phones jack Rated power output. 9 mW+9 mW Power source DC IN jack (4 5.1V) : Specially provided AC adaptor : Car battery adaptor (sold separately, DC-C70) DC 1.5V : Commercially sold AA alkaline battery (LR-6) X 1 DC 1.2V : Specially provided rechargeable battery (NB-130) X 1 (Charging time : About 4 hours) Battery life (Fully charge, with "auto PS" setting ON) Specially provided rechargeable battery (NB-130) X 1. Approx. 5 hours Commercially sold AA alkaline battery (LR-6) X 1.. Approx. 6 hours At 0.5mW+0.5mW output (32 load ). Standard value during continuous use/charging in an temperature of 25C. Time of use may vary depending on battery maker, battery type, use environment, and temperatute. Time will be shorter when "PS off" Mode is set. Dimensions (not including protruding parts) W :99 mm (3-7/8") H :17 mm (11/16") D :75 mm (2-15/16") Weight (Net). 115g (0.25 lb) not including the accessory rechargeable batter 140g (0.31 lb) including the accessory rechargeable battery 1. KENWOOD follows a policy of continuous advancements in development. For reason specifications may be changed without notice. 2. The full performance may not be exhibited in an extremely cold location (under a water-freezing temperature).

Taking care of plugs etc.
Always keep the plugs of headphones etc. clean. Dirtyplugs can cause noise or failure of remote control operation. 1. Do not use chemicals like benzine, thinner, etc., as they can cause deterioration and discoloration. 2. Do not apply oil to the unit, for this will cause it to malfunction. There is no sound.
The remote control or headphones Insert plug securely. Deactivate HOLD status. Charge the battery. Insert plug securely. Close disc holder securely. Replace the MD. Move the unit to a place

Handling of Mini Disc

Since the MD is in a cartridge, it can be handled without worrying about dirt or fingerprints. But soiling, warping, or other damage to the cartridge will result in faulty operation. Take the following precautions to ensure that you will always be able to enjoy the music on your MDs.
During battery charging or use of the unit, the battery may become warm. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.
are disconnected. The unit does HOLD status is engaged. not respond to The battery is depleted. key operation. The remote control or headphone plug is not securely inserted. The disc holder is not securely closed. The disc is scratched or damaged or the Sound skips. recording is not good. The unit is in a place where there is excessive vibration.
Do Not Touch the MD Directly

Storage Location

Do not store MDs in direct sunlight or in hot locations such as car interiors or in humid locations. Do not leave MDs on a beach or other location where sand or dirt can enter the cartridge.
Checking the remaining battery life and charge status
For handy reference, the remaining battery life is indicated on the display while the unit is in operation. When the remaining battery life is low, the scale will disappear. If the battery is used further, the remaining battery life display will start to flash. If you continue to use the unit under these conditions, the "LoBATT" indicator on the remote control will be displayed and the power will automatically be turned off. Main unit Remote control
Do not open the shutter and directly touch the MD. Forcing the shutter open will damage it.

Care and Maintenance

Using a dry cloth, wipe dirt or dust off the cartridge at regular intervals.
where there is little vibration or set to "PS off". Use the special rechargeable Battery does You are using commercial rechargeable battery (NB-130) not charge. battery. Wait until the unit has cooled The unit has become hot because of to normal temperature. exposure to direct sunlight etc. Use the accessory AC You are using another AC adaptor than adaptor. the accessory adaptor. Connect the AC adaptor The AC adaptors has become dissecurely. connected.
Meaning of display messages
When battery needs to be recharged
After battery has been fully charged

Affixing the Label

When affixing a label on the cartridge, take the following precautions and affix it properly. 1 Properly affix the label in its prescribed place. 2 Do not affix a label over another label. 3 Avoid air bubbles and turned-back corners. If the label is not properly affixed, it may get stuffed into the cartridge, making it impossible to remove the disc. If the label is not properly affixed, peel it off carefully and affix it properly.
Message "noDISC" "BLANK "

Meaning

There is no MD in the unit. Nothing is recorded on this MD.

Action

Insert a MD into the unit. Replace the disc with a
When the external power source terminal (AC adaptor, etc.) is used, the battery remaining life indicator will not be displayed.

"ERROR

"
The * UTOC contents are faulty. The disc is scratched or damaged, so
prerecorded MD when playing it back. Replace the MD. Replace the MD.
Wait until the inside of the unit

FCC WARNING:

This equipment may generate or use radio frequency energy. Changes or modifications to this equipment may cause harmful interference unless the modifications are expressly approved in the instruction manual. The user could lose the authority to operate this equipment if an unauthorized change or modification is made.

Playback is not possible. "LoBATT "
The inside of the unit has become hot

during charging.

cools down. NOTE:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment may cause harmful interference to radio communications, if it is not installed and used in accordance with the instructions. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: To household outlet Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Caution on condensation

Condensation (of dew) may occur inside the unit when there is a great difference in temperature between this unit and the outside. This unit may not function properly if condensation occurs. In this case, leave the unit for a few hours with the power left ON, and restart the operation after the condensation has dried up.
UTOC :A recordable MD has an area for recording so-called UTOC (User's Table of Contents) data. The UTOC contains number of tracks, playing time, written data, and other rewritable information.

Resetting the unit

The unit may not operate normally due to faulty handling or adverse power current effects caused by impact, excessive static electricity load, or power drop during use. If this occurs, take the following measures.
Be specially cautious against condensation in a following circumstance:
When this unit is carried from a place to another across a large difference in temperature, when the humidity in the room where this unit is installed increases, etc.
US and foreign patents licensed from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation
1 Pull the AC adaptor out of the power outlet. 2 Remove the rechargeable battery. 3 Wait about 30 seconds. 4 Plug the AC adaptor into the power outletand operate the unit.

For CANADA

AC adaptor may differ depending on the country or sales region.
Canadian IC Compliance Notice
NOTICE : This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-Caussig Equipment Regulations.