3-867-571-23(1)

Portable MiniDisc Recorder

Operating Instructions

MZ-R90 MZ-R91

1999 Sony Corporation

WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. Do not install the appliance in a confined space, such as a bookcase or built-in cabinet. Caution The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. CAUTION INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM Information

For customers in the USA

DISPOSAL OF NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE BATTERY.
NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE BATTERY. DISPOSE OF PROPERLY.
You can return your unwanted nickel metal hydride batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center. Note: In some areas the disposal of nickel metal hydride batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. For the Sony Service Center nearest you call 1-800-222-SONY (United States only). Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking nickel metal hydride battery.
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 generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. 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: 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. You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment. The built-in battery should be replaced by qualified personnel only. IN NO EVENT SHALL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE, OR LOSSES OR EXPENSES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECTIVE PRODUCT OR THE USE OF ANY PRODUCT.
Owners Record The serial number is located at the rear of the disc compartment lid and the model number is located at the top and bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to them whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. MZ-R90/R91 Serial No.
For Customers in Australia
If the supply cord of the AC power adaptor is damaged, the AC power adaptor must be returned to the manufacturer or his agent for the cord to be replaced. MD WALKMAN is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Welcome!

Welcome to the world of the MiniDisc! Here are some of the capabilities and features youll discover with the new MiniDisc Recorder. Recording MD Walkman in an ultracompact body Almost as small as a playback-only MD Walkman; easy to carry in your pocket or bag. Ultra-light body (MZ-R90) Magnesium lid for extra lightness. Ultra-compact body (MZ-R91) Fashionable design and colors. Low power consumption design Less drain and the longer service life for the rechargeable battery. 9-letter, backlit LCD remote control with editing capabilities You can now label tracks and discs, change track sequence, etc., with the easy-to-operate stick remote control.
Simultaneous labeling feature No more waiting for the recording to end; you can label tracks and discs while the MD is being recorded. Phrase bank function Phrases that you often use in track or disc names can be stored in the recorders memory and retrieved whenever you need them. Copying CD text If you use a CD text connecting cord (not supplied) to connect a Joint Text-compatible portable CD player to the recorder, CD text data (such as track and disc names) on the CD that is compatible to CDTEXT display will be recorded automatically during recording. Shock-resistant memory Offsets up to 40 seconds of optical read errors. High-fidelity recording Low-noise, low-distortion, high-fidelity recording through the optical digital input jack. Digital synchro-recording When recording from a digital equipment with optical output, the recorder automatically starts and pauses recording in sync with operation on the digital source. Digital REC level control. Long-time recording with monaural sound You can record up to 160 minutes (when using 80 minutes recordable MD) on a disc using monaural recording. Date and time stamp function The built-in clock automatically records the date and time whenever you make a recording. Digital AGC (Auto Gain Control) Automatic recording level adjustment without sacrificing superb digital sound.

Optical cable (with an optical or an Line cable (with 2 phono plugs or optical-mini plug)(page 15) a stereo-mini plug)(page 8) Analog Even when a digital source (such as a CD) is connected, the signal sent to the recorder is analog. Marked automatically after more than 2 seconds of blank or low-level segment. when the recorder is paused while recording. You can erase unnecessary marks after recording (Erasing a track mark, page 32).
Signal from the Digital source
Recorded track Marked (copied) automatically numbers at the same positions as the source. after more than 2 seconds of blank or low-level segment1). when the recorder is paused while recording. You can erase unnecessary marks after recording. (Erasing a track mark, page 32). Recorded sound level Same as the source. Can also be adjusted manually (Digital REC level control) (Adjusting the recording level manually (Manual recording), page 18).
Adjusted automatically. Can also be adjusted manually (Adjusting the recording level manually (Manual recording), page 18).

1) When

recording a CD or an MD, track numbers are automatically marked in the order of the original
Track marks may be copied incorrectly: when you record from some CD players or multi disc players using digital (optical) input. when the source is in shuffle or program play mode while recording using digital (optical) input. In this case, play the source in normal play mode. when recording BS or CS programs through digital (optical) input.
Recording with digital (optical) input (optical cable required)
Connect to a digital source using an optical cable (POC-5B or POC-5AB, not supplied) to make digital recordings. Digital recording is possible even from digital equipment with different sampling rates, such as a DAT deck or a BS tuner, using the built-in sampling rate converter.
CD player, MD player, digital amplifier, etc. Optical plug POC-5AB etc. (not supplied) POC-5B etc. (not supplied) Portable CD player, etc. Optical miniplug
You can make a digital recording only from an optical type output. When recording from a portable CD player, play it on AC power and disable the anti-skip function (such as ESP*). Digital output may be disabled on some portable CD players when the player is not run on AC power.
Electronic Shock Protection
Insert a recordable MD and start recording. For recording operations, see Recording an MD right away! (page 8). To record from a portable CD player, set the CD player to pause and then start recording.

Insert a recordable MD and start recording. Slide REC to the right. For other operations, see Recording an MD right away! (page 8).
You cannot record through the microphone while an optical cable is connected to the LINE IN (OPTICAL) jack. The recorder automatically switches input in the following order; optical input, microphone input, and analog input. The microphone may pick up the operating sound of the recorder itself. Use the microphone away from the recorder in such cases.
The recorder switches back to stereo recording when you record the next time.
If you record a stereo source in monaural, the sounds from left and right will be mixed. You cannot record in monaural if SYNCHRO REC is slid to ON. If you are recording digital input, make sure to slide SYNCHRO REC to OFF before you begin recording. The MDs recorded in monaural can be played back only with an MD player/recorder that has the monaural playing function.
Sound recorded through digital (optical) input can be monitored in stereo through headphones, etc.
Adjusting the recording level manually (Manual recording)
When you record, the sound level is adjusted automatically. If necessary, you can set the level manually.
Adjust the recording level while the recorder is in standby mode. You cannot adjust it while recording.

Jog lever

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While holding down X, slide REC to the right. The recorder stands by for recording. Press the jog lever, flip until RecVolume flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until ManualREC flashes in the display, and then press the lever.

ManualREC

To switch back to the automatic control, flip the jog lever until Auto REC flashes in the display, and then press the lever.

Play the source.

While observing the level meter in the display, adjust the recording level by flipping the jog lever or pressing > (+) or. (). Set the level so that the level meter reaches around (12 dB) mark beneath the display window. If the sound is too high, lower the recording level until the level meter just barely reaches the (OVER) mark beneath the display window.
Volume decreases < increases ,
Checking the remaining time or the recording position
You can check the remaining time, track number, etc. when recording or during stop.

On the recorder

REC indicator
Recording doesnt start in this step. If your source is an externally connected component, be sure to cue the source to the beginning of the material to be recorded before you start playback.

Press DISPLAY while recording or in stop mode. Each time you press the button, the display changes as follows.
Display window on the remote control
D Track number Track number
E Elapsed time Remaining time for recording Current time1)
D Track number Track number Number of tracks in the disc
E Elapsed time Track name1) Disc name1) Current time2)
If you want to check the playing position or track name while playing, see page 29.
Setting the clock to stamp the recorded time
To stamp the date and time on the MD when you record, you first need to set the clock. Once you set the clock, the recorder will include a time stamp each you record something. If you dont want to include a time stamp on the track, skip this operation.

Jog lever X

If you make a mistake while setting the clock Press x, and set the clock again from step 2. You can skip a step by pressing the jog lever. To display the current time When the recorder is not operating or while recording, press the jog lever, flip until DISPLAY appears in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until CLOCK flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. The current time appears in the display. To display the time in the 24hour system While setting the clock, press X. To display the time in the 12-hour system, press X again.
Charging the built-in battery for the clock
When you use the recorder for the first time or after a long period of disuse, charge the built-in battery. After setting the clock, leave the recorder connected to the AC power for about 2 hours to charge the built-in battery. Once charged, the built-in battery should last about a month without connecting to any of the power sources. The recorder will automatically charge the built-in battery while connected to AC power, dry battery or a rechargeable battery.
Connect the power source. Use the supplied AC power adaptor. Press the jog lever while no disc is inserted or the recorder is stopped. Flip the jog lever until CLOCK SET flashes in the display, and then press the lever. The digits of the year flash.

y 1m 1d

Change the current year by flipping the jog lever, and then press the lever. The digit of the month flashes. Repeat step 4 to enter the current month, date, hour, and minute. When you press the jog lever to enter the minute, the clock starts operating.
Copying CD text information while recording (Joint Text)
CD text connecting cable, CD that support CD-TEXT, and the CD player that support Joint Text required By connecting the recorder to a Sony portable CD player that supports Joint Text (the CD text copying function) (DEJ01), you can copy track and disc names automatically during recording. In addition to the CD text connecting cable (RK-TXT1), make sure to connect the recorder to the portable CD player with an optical cable.

Connect the supplied headphones with remote control
The CD text copying function can only be used with component (D-EJ01) with the logo shown below.

Various ways of playback

Selecting a track directly
You can select a desired track directly by using the jog lever.
Playing tracks repeatedly
You can play tracks repeatedly in three ways all repeat, single repeat, and shuffle repeat.
Flip the jog lever until the desired track appears in the display, and then press the jog lever.

Press to enter

While the recorder is playing or stopped, press the jog lever, flip until PLAY MODE flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever to select the play mode, and then press the lever. Each time you flip the lever, the display item indicated by A changes as shown in the table below. Pressing the jog lever while A is flashing causes the play mode to change. The new mode then appears in the window indicated by B.
The selected track name appears in the display and the recorder starts playing by pressing the jog lever. If the track has no name, the track number appears in the display.
If you do step 1 while the recorder is shuffling the tracks, shuffle play starts from the track that you selected.

Shuffle

Indication A/B No Repeat/
Play mode All the tracks are played once.
Indication A/B AllRepeat/F 1 Repeat/F 1 Shuffle/ F SHUF
Play mode All the tracks are played repeatedly. A single track is played repeatedly. After the currently selected track finishes playing, the remaining tracks are played repeatedly in random order.
Indication F SHUF (shuffle repeat)
Play mode After the currently selected track finishes playing, the remaining tracks are played repeatedly in random order

PLAYMODE

Press PLAYMODE while the recorder is playing or stopped. Each time you press the button, the play mode indication changes as follows.

Recorded date2)

If you want to check the remaining time or the recording position while recording or in stop mode, see page 19. The display that appears on the remote control is different from the ones on the recorder. See On the remote control (page 29) to check the display that appears on the remote control.
A LapTime 1 Remain AllRemain RecDate
Locking the controls (HOLD)
To prevent the buttons from being accidentally operated when you carry the recorder, use this function.
Press DISPLAY while playing. Each time you press DISPLAY, the display changes as follows.
Display window on the remote control HOLD
E Elapsed time Track name1) Disc name1)
Track number Track number The number of tracks in the disc

Recorded time2)

Slide HOLD in the direction of the. On the recorder, slide HOLD to lock the controls of the recorder. On the remote control, slide HOLD to lock the controls of the remote control. Slide HOLD in the opposite direction of the arrow to unlock the controls.
If you want to check the remaining time or the recording position while recording or in stop mode, see page 21. The display that appears on the recorder is different from the ones on the remote control. See On the recorder (page 28) to check the display that appears on the recorder.
Connecting to a stereo system (LINE OUT)
Connect the i/LINE OUT jack of the recorder to the LINE IN jacks of an amplifier or a tape player with a line cable (RK-G129 or RK-G136, not supplied). The output is analog. The recorder plays the MD digitally and sends analog signals to the connected equipment.
Portable DAT recorder Stereo system, etc.
If the AUDIO OUT parameter for the i/ LINE OUT jack is set to LINE OUT, VOL +/ or DIGITAL MEGA BASS will not function. The AUDIO OUT parameter for the i/ LINE OUT jack cannot be set to LINE OUT when the supplied remote control is connected. When you turn off the power, the AUDIO OUT parameter for the i/LINE OUT jack automatically switches to HeadPhone.
to LINE IN Stereo 2 phono plugs mini-plug RK-G136 (not supplied) R (red) L (white) RK-G129 (not supplied)

to i/ LINE OUT

When connecting a line cable (not supplied) to the i/LINE OUT jack of the recorder, be sure to set the AUDIO OUT parameter for the i/LINE OUT jack.
Press the jog lever, flip until AUDIO OUT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until LINE OUT flashes in the display, and then press the lever.

Editing recorded tracks

You can edit your recordings by adding/ erasing track marks or labeling tracks and MDs. Premastered MDs cannot be edited.

Notes on editing

Do not move or jog the recorder while TOC Edit* is flashing in the display. You cannot edit tracks on an MD that is record-protected. Before editing tracks, close the tab on the side of the MD. If you perform an editing operation while playing, be sure not to turn the power off until TOC Edit disappears in the display. The lid does not open until TOC Edit disappears in the display after editing.
Erase OK? and PushENTER appear alternately in the display. To cancel erasing, press x or T MARK.
Press the jog lever again. The track is erased and the next track starts to play. All the tracks after the one erased are automatically renumbered.

TOC = Table of Contents

To erase a part of a track Add track marks at the beginning and the end of the part you want to erase, then erase the part.

Erasing tracks

To erase a track
Note that once a recording has been erased, you cannot retrieve it. Make sure of the track you are erasing.

To erase the whole disc

You can quickly erase all the tracks and data of the MD at the same time. Note that once a recording has been erased, you cannot retrieve it. Be sure to check the contents of the disc you want to erase.

x T MARK

T MARK
While playing the track you want to erase, press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. : Name flashes in the display, and the recorder plays the selected track repeatedly. Flip the jog lever until : Erase flashes in the display, and then press the lever.
While the recorder is stopped, press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. : Name flashes in the display. Flip the jog lever until : Erase flashes in the display, and then press the lever. All Erase? and PushENTER appear alternately in the display. To cancel erasing, press x or T MARK.
Press the jog lever again. TOC Edit flashes in the display, and all the tracks will be erased. When erasing is complete, BLANKDISC appears in the display.

Erasing a track mark

When you record with analog (line) input, unnecessary track marks may be recorded where recording level is low. You can erase a track mark to combine the tracks before and after the track mark. The track numbers will change as follows.

Erase a track mark

Adding a track mark
You can add track marks so that the part after the new track mark is counted as a new track. The track numbers will increase as follows.

Track marking

Track numbers decrease
Track numbers increase. T MARK
While playing the track with the track mark you want to erase, press X to pause. Find the track mark by pressing. slightly. For example, to erase the third track mark, find the beginning of the third track. 00:00 appears in the display. MARK appears in the display for 2 seconds. Press T MARK to erase the mark. MARK OFF appears in the display. The track mark is erased and the two tracks are combined.
While playing or pausing an MD, press T MARK on the recorder at the point you want to mark. MARK ON appears in the display, and a track mark is added. The track number will increase by one.
To add track marks while recording Press T MARK on the recorder at the point you want to add a track mark.
When you erase a track mark, the date, time, and name assigned to the mark are also erased.

Moving recorded tracks

You can change the order of the recorded tracks.
Example Move track C from the third to the second track. Before moving
Flip the jog lever to select the destination track number. For the example above, MV 003 t 002 appears in the display. To cancel moving, press x or T MARK. Press the jog lever again. The track moves to the selected destination track.

DISPLAY Control

After moving

Jog lever x

Press DISPLAY for 2 seconds or more while playing the track you want to move. : Name flashes in the display and the recorder plays the selected track repeatedly. Press the control towards. or towards N > repeatedly until : Move appears in the display. Press x. For the example above, MV 003 t 003 appears in the display. Press the control towards. or towards N > repeatedly to select the destination track number. For the example above, MV 003 t 002 appears in the display. To cancel moving, press DISPLAY for 2 seconds or more. Press x again. The selected track moves just before the destination track.
While playing the track you want to move, press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. : Name flashes in the display and the recorder plays the selected track repeatedly. Flip the jog lever until : Move flashes in the display, and then press the lever. For the example above, MV 003 t 003 appears in the display.

Labeling recordings

You can name tracks during playback, discs during stop, and both during recording. Each name can be as long as 200 letters. Each disc can hold up to 1700 alphanumeric letters during playback or stop.

You can store phrases from a previously labeled track or disc. Do the procedure Relabeling recordings (page 36) and display the track or disc name that contains the phrase that you want to store. Press VOL +/ repeatedly to move the cursor to the right of the phrase. Then press X for 2 seconds or more to store the phrase.
Storing phrases using the EDIT menu
Press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until Name Bank flashes in the display, and then press the jog lever. Enter the phrase you want to store, and then press the jog lever for 2 seconds or more. Entry appears in the display and the phrase is stored.

Jog lever N X

Storing phrases while labeling a track or disc
Do the procedure Labeling recordings (page 34) to enter a phrase. After entering the phrase, press X for 2 seconds or more. Entry! appears in the display and the cursor flashes after the phrase you just stored. You can then continue with labeling operation.
Retrieving phrases stored in the phrase bank You can retrieve a phrase stored in the phrase bank anytime you want to use it in a track or disc name. There are two ways to retrieve a stored phrase: by displaying the stored phrases one by one during the labeling procedure, or by searching the phrase bank by the first letter of the desired phrase.
Searching for a phrase by displaying the stored phrase one by one
Do the procedure Labeling recordings (page 34) until : Name or : Name flashes in the display. Then press the jog lever. Press X repeatedly until the first phrase stored in the phrase bank continued appears in the display.
Flip the jog lever or press./> repeatedly. Flipping the jog lever or pressing the buttons causes the phrases stored in the phrase bank to appear one by one in sequential order. If you press X at this time, the first phrase stored in the phrase bank retrieved. Press the jog lever while the phrase you want is shown in the display. The cursor flashes after the phrase you just retrieved. You can then continue with labeling operation.
Flip the jog lever until the phrase you want to erase appears, and then press the lever. Erase! appears and the phrase is erased. If no phrase is stored in the phrase bank, EMPTY appears in the display.

Caring for others

Keep the volume at a moderate level. This will allow you to hear outside sounds and to be considerate of the people around you.
On the MiniDisc cartridge
When carrying or storing the MiniDisc, keep it in its case. Do not break open the shutter. Do not place the cartridge where it will be subject to light, extreme temperatures, moisture or dust.

On heat build-up

Heat may build up in the recorder if it is used for an extended period of time. In this case, leave the recorder turned off until it cools down.

On cleaning

Clean the recorder casing with a soft cloth slightly moistened with water or a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or solvent such as alcohol or benzene as it may mar the finish of the casing. Wipe the disc cartridge with a dry cloth to remove dirt. Dust on the lens may prevent the unit from operating properly. Be sure to close the disc compartment lid after inserting or ejecting an MD.

On installation

Never use the recorder where it will be subjected to extremes of light, temperature, moisture or vibration. Never wrap the recorder in anything when it is being used with the AC power adaptor. Heat build-up in the recorder may cause malfunction or damage.

Notes on batteries

Incorrect battery usage may lead to leakage of battery fluid or bursting batteries. To prevent such accidents, observe the following precautions: Install the + and poles of the batteries correctly. Do not try to recharge dry battery. When the recorder is not to be used for a long time, be sure to remove the batteries. If a battery leak should develop, carefully and thoroughly wipe away battery fluid from the battery compartment before inserting new ones.
Note on digital recording
This recorder uses the Serial Copy Management System, which allows only firstgeneration digital copies to be made from premastered software. You can only make copies from a home-recorded MD by using the analog (line out) connections.
Premastered software such as CDs or MDs.

Digital recording

Note on mechanical noise
The recorder gives off mechanical noise while operating, which is caused by the power-saving system of the recorder and it is not a problem.

To protect a recorded MD

DISC FULL

Data Save

TOC Edit

NAME FULL

Hi DC in

LOW BATT

MEM OVER

Error message NO COPY
Meaning/Remedy You tried to make a copy from a disc that is protected by the Serial Copy Management System. You cannot make copies from a digitally connected source which was itself recorded using digital connection. , Use analog connection instead (page 8). You tried to play or record with no disc in the recorder. , Insert an MD. The recorder could not detect digital input signals. , Make sure that the source is connected firmly (page 15). You tried to record or edit on a premastered MD (P/B stands for playback). , Insert a recordable MD. You tried to record or edit on a MD with the tab in the recordprotect position. , Slide the tab back (page 43). You tried to erase the track mark at the beginning of the first track. You tried to erase a track mark to combine tracks the recorder cannot combine (a track recorded in stereo and in mono, for example). You tried to set DIGITAL MEGA BASS while the AUDIO OUT parameter was set to LINE OUT. , Use the jog lever to set the AUDIO OUT parameter to HeadPhone (page 4, 13). You tried to press X or T MARK during synchro-recording. Heat has built up in the recorder. , Let the recorder cool down. There is no more space for new data when you are editing the MD. , Erase unnecessary tracks (page 31). You tried to record or edit on a track that is protected from erasing. , Record or edit on other tracks. You pressed a key on the recorder while editing on the remote control. You pressed a key on the remote control while selecting a menu on the recorder. You pressed VOL +/ while the AUDIO OUT parameter was set to LINE OUT. , Use the jog lever to set the AUDIO OUT parameter to HeadPhone (page 4, 13). You tried to use the CD text copying function to copy a track or disc name from a CD that has no text data (page 23).
NO DISC NO SIGNAL P/B ONLY

PROTECTED

TEMP OVER TR FULL TrPROTECT EDITING MENU LINE OUT

NO TEXT

Error message EMPTY BANK FULL
Meaning/Remedy You tried to erase data in the phrase bank but no data have been recorded. The phrase bank is almost full and cannot store the phrase you tried to enter. , Delete some phrases from the phrase bank, and then reenter the new phrase.

Specifications

System Audio playing system
MiniDisc digital audio system

LINE OUT: 194 mV, load impedance 10 kilohm * The i/LINE OUT jack connects either headphones or a line cable.

Laser diode properties

Material: GaAlAs Wavelength: = 790 nm Emission duration: continuous Laser output: less than 44.6 W (This output is the value measured at a distance of 200 mm from the lens surface on the optical pick-up block with 7 mm aperture.)
General Power requirements
Sony AC Power Adaptor (supplied) connected at the DC IN 3 V jack: 120 V AC, 60 Hz (US model) 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz (Australia and New Zealand model) 220 V AC, 50 Hz (China model) Nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery NH14WM (supplied) LR6 (size AA) alkaline battery (not supplied)
Recording and playback time
Maximum 80 minutes (MDW-80, stereo recording) Maximum 160 minutes (MDW-80, monaural recording) Maximum 74 minutes (MDW-74, stereo recording) Maximum 148 minutes (MDW-74, monaural recording)

Battery operation time

See Battery life (page 41)

Dimensions

MZ-R90 Approx. 78.9 17.3 72.0 mm (w/h/d) (31/8 11/16 27/8 in.) MZ-R91 Approx. 78.9 18.0 72.0 mm (w/h/d) (31/8 23/32 27/8 in.)

Revolutions

400 rpm to 1800 rpm (CLV)

Error correction

Advanced Cross Interleave Reed Solomon Code (ACIRC)
MZ-R90 Approx. 105 g (3.7 oz) the recorder only Approx. 148 g (5.2 oz) incl. a recordable MD, and NH-14WM nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery MZ-R91 Approx. 110 g (3.8 oz) the recorder only Approx. 153 g (5.4 oz) incl. a recordable MD, and NH-14WM nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery

Sampling frequency

44.1 kHz

Sampling rate converter

Input: 32 kHz/44.1 kHz/48 kHz

Coding

Adaptive TRansform Acoustic Coding (ATRAC)

Modulation system

EFM (Eight to Fourteen Modulation)

Supplied accessories

AC power adaptor (1) Headphones with a remote control (1) NH-14WM nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery (1) Dry battery case (1) Rechargeable battery carrying case (1) Carrying pouch (1) AC plug adaptor (China model only) (1)

Number of channels

2 stereo channels 1 monaural channel

J REMAIN (remaining time/tracks) indication (19)(28) Lights up along with the remaining time of the track, the remaining time of the MD, or the remaining number of tracks. K REC DATE (recorded/current date) indication Lights up along with the date and time the MD was recorded. When only DATE lights up, the current date and time are displayed. L Time display (20)(28) Shows the recorded time, current time, elapsed time of the track or MD being recorded or played. M Level meter (19) Shows the volume of the MD being played or recorded. N AM/PM indication (22) Lights up along with the time indication in the 12-hour system.
The headphones with a remote control

US model Other models

B C D E F G
A Headphones Can be replaced with optional headphones. B x (stop) button (12)(33)(35) C Control (12)(33)(35)(39) To play, press towards N > during stop. Press towards N > during play to search the beginning of the succeeding track; hold in this position to fast-forward. Press towards. during play to search the beginning of the preceding track; hold in this position to rewind. D HOLD switch (29) Slide to lock the controls of the remote control.
E X (pause) button (12)(35)(38) F PLAYMODE button (26)(36) G DISPLAY button (21)(29)(33)(36) H VOL +/buttons (12)(35) I Display window (21)(26)

For Customers in the USA

Unfold the supplied headphones as shown in the illustration below.
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan

3-867-571-32(1)

Portable MiniDisc Recorder
Portable MiniDisc Recorder MZ-R90/MZ-R91
GB Operating Instructions _________________________
FR Mode demploi _______________________________
DE Bedienungsanleitung __________________________
NL Gebruiksaanwijzing ___________________________
IT Istruzioni per luso ____________________________

MZ-R90 MZ-R91

1999 Sony Corporation

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. Caution The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. Listening for many hours at maximum volume may damage your hearing. Information IN NO EVENT SHALL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE, OR LOSSES OR EXPENSES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECTIVE PRODUCT OR THE USE OF ANY PRODUCT. MD WALKMAN is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
DISPOSAL OF NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE BATTERY. NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE BATTERY. DISPOSE OF PROPERLY. You can return your unwanted nickel metal hydride batteries to your nearest Factory Service Center. Note: In some areas the disposal of nickel metal hydride batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. For the Sony Factory Service Center nearest you call 416-499-SONY (Canada only). Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking nickel metal hydride battery.
This mark is valid for Russia only. For Customers in Canada

Caution

To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized AC plug with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.

Welcome!

Welcome to the world of the MiniDisc! Here are some of the capabilities and features youll discover with the new MiniDisc Recorder. Recording MD Walkman in an ultracompact body Almost as small as a playback-only MD Walkman; easy to carry in your pocket or bag. Ultra-light body (MZ-R90) Magnesium lid for extra lightness. Ultra-compact body (MZ-R91) Fashionable design and colors. Low power consumption design Less drain and the longer service life for the rechargeable battery. 9-letter, backlit LCD remote control with editing capabilities You can now label tracks and discs, change track sequence, etc., with the easy-to-operate stick remote control. Simultaneous labeling feature No more waiting for the recording to end; you can label tracks and discs while the MD is being recorded. Phrase bank function Phrases that you often use in track or disc names can be stored in the recorders memory and retrieved whenever you need them. Copying CD text If you use a CD text connecting cord (not supplied) to connect a Joint Text-compatible portable CD player to the recorder, CD text data (such as track and disc names) on the CD that is compatible to CDTEXT display will be recorded automatically during recording. Shock-resistant memory Offsets up to 40 seconds of optical read errors. High-fidelity recording Low-noise, low-distortion, high-fidelity recording through the optical digital input jack.
Digital synchro-recording When recording from a digital equipment with optical output, the recorder automatically starts and pauses recording in sync with operation on the digital source. Digital REC level control Allows manual adjustment of recording level even during digital recording. Long-time recording with monaural sound You can record up to 160 minutes (when using 80 minutes recordable MD) on a disc using monaural recording. Date and time stamp function The built-in clock automatically records the date and time whenever you make a recording. GB Digital AGC (Auto Gain Control) Automatic recording level adjustment without sacrificing superb digital sound.

Editing recorded tracks.. 31
Erasing tracks.... 31 To erase a track... 31 To erase the whole disc... 31 Adding a track mark.... 32 Erasing a track mark... 33 Moving recorded tracks... 33 On the recorder... 33 On the remote control... 34 Labeling recordings... 34 On the recorder... 34 On the remote control... 36 Storing phrases frequently used in labeling (Phrase Bank).. 37 On the recorder.... 37 On the remote control... 39

Power sources.. 41

Charging the nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery. 41 Using on a nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery.. 42 Using dry battery.... 42
Additional information. 43
Precautions... 43 Troubleshooting... 45 System limitations... 47 Messages.... 48 Specifications.... 51 What is an MD?... 52 Looking at the controls.. 54
Recording an MD right away!
The sound will be sent from the connected equipment as analog signal but will be recorded digitally on the disc. To record from a digital source, see Recording with digital (optical) input (optical cable required) (page 15). To record from an MD, see Note on digital recording (page 44).
1 Make connections. (Insert the cables
firmly and completely into the appropriate jacks.)
R (red) CD player, cassette recorder, etc. (source) to LINE OUT L (white) Line cable (RK-G129, not supplied)* to DC IN 3V to a wall outlet AC power adaptor (supplied)
Use the connecting cords without an attenuator. To connect to a portable CD player having a stereo mini-jack, use the RK-G136 connecting cord (not supplied).

to LINE IN (OPTICAL)

2 Insert a recordable MD.
Slide OPEN to open the lid.
Insert a recordable MD with the label side facing up, and press the lid down to close.

3 Record an MD.

Slide REC to the right. REC lights up and recording starts. Play the CD or tape you want to record.
To stop recording, press x.
After you press x, the recorder will automatically turn off in about 10 seconds (when using batteries) or about 5 minutes (when using AC power adaptor).
CD player, cassette recorder, etc. (source)

Signal from the Digital source
Recorded track Marked (copied) automatically numbers at the same positions as the source. after more than 2 seconds of blank or low-level segment1). when the recorder is paused while recording. You can erase unnecessary marks after recording. (Erasing a track mark, page 33). Recorded sound level Same as the source. Can also be adjusted manually (Digital REC level control) (Adjusting the recording level manually (Manual recording), page 18).
Adjusted automatically. Can also be adjusted manually (Adjusting the recording level manually (Manual recording), page 18).

1) When

recording a CD or an MD, track numbers are automatically marked in the order of the original
Track marks may be copied incorrectly: when you record from some CD players or multi disc players using digital (optical) input. when the source is in shuffle or program play mode while recording using digital (optical) input. In this case, play the source in normal play mode. when recording BS or CS programs through digital (optical) input.
Recording with digital (optical) input (optical cable required)
Connect to a digital source using an optical cable (POC-5B or POC-5AB, not supplied) to make digital recordings. Digital recording is possible even from digital equipment with different sampling rates, such as a DAT deck or a BS tuner, using the built-in sampling rate converter.
CD player, MD player, digital amplifier, etc. Optical plug POC-5AB etc. (not supplied) POC-5B etc. (not supplied) Portable CD player, etc. Optical miniplug
You can make a digital recording only from an optical type output. When recording from a portable CD player, play it on AC power and disable the anti-skip function (such as ESP*). Digital output may be disabled on some portable CD players when the player is not run on AC power.
Electronic Shock Protection
Insert a recordable MD and start recording. For recording operations, see Recording an MD right away! (page 8). To record from a portable CD player, set the CD player to pause and then start recording.
LINE IN (OPTICAL) jack is for both digital and analog input

The recorder automatically recognizes the type of line cable and switches to digital or analog input.
To start/stop recording in sync with the source player (Synchro-recording)
You can easily make digital recordings of a digital source on an MD. Before synchro-recording, make connections to the digital source with a digital cable, and insert a recordable MD.

CD players, etc.

You cannot pause manually during synchrorecording. When there is no sound from the player for more than 3 seconds during synchrorecording, the recorder goes into the standby mode automatically. When the sound comes from the player again, the recorder resumes synchro-recording. If the recorder is kept in the standby mode for 5 minutes or longer, the recorder stops automatically.
Do not switch SYNCHRO REC after step 3. Recording may not be done properly. When recording in monaural, follow steps 1 to 3 of Recording in monaural for double the normal recording time (page 17), and then do steps 1 and 3 of synchro-recording. Even when there is no recorded sound on the sound source, there may be cases when recording does not pause automatically during synchro-recording due to the noise level emitted from the sound source. If a silent portion is encountered for 2 seconds or more during synchro-recording, a new track mark is automatically added at the point where the silent portion ends. Synchro-recording cannot be done if the connecting cord is not an optical cable, or if the cable is connected to the MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack.

SYNCHRO REC

Slide SYNCHRO REC to ON. SYNC appears in the display.
SYNC doesnt appear if optical cable is not connected to the recorder.
Slide REC to the right. The recorder stands by for recording. Play the source sound. The recorder starts recording when it receives the playing sound.
Recording from a microphone
Connect a stereo microphone (ECM-717, ECM-MS907, ECM-MS957, etc.; not supplied) to the MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack.
Recording in monaural for double the normal recording time

For longer recordings, choose to record in monaural. The recording time becomes double the normal.

Jog lever REC

Stereo microphone X

to MIC (PLUG IN POWER)

While pressing X, slide REC to the right. The recorder stands by for recording. Press the jog lever, flip until REC MODE flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until Mono REC flashes in the display, and then press the lever. To switch back to stereo recording, press the lever while Stereo REC flashes in the display. Press X again to start recording. Play the sound source.
Insert a recordable MD and start recording. Slide REC to the right. For other operations, see Recording an MD right away! (page 8).
You cannot record through the microphone while an optical cable is connected to the LINE IN (OPTICAL) jack. The recorder automatically switches input in the following order; optical input, microphone input, and analog input. The microphone may pick up the operating sound of the recorder itself. Use the microphone away from the recorder in such cases.
The recorder switches back to stereo recording when you record the next time.
If you record a stereo source in monaural, the sounds from left and right will be mixed. You cannot record in monaural if SYNCHRO REC is slid to ON. If you are recording digital input, make sure to slide SYNCHRO REC to OFF before you begin recording. The MDs recorded in monaural can be played back only with an MD player/recorder that has the monaural playing function.
Sound recorded through digital (optical) input can be monitored in stereo through headphones, etc.
Adjusting the recording level manually (Manual recording)
When you record, the sound level is adjusted automatically. If necessary, you can set the level manually.
Adjust the recording level while the recorder is in standby mode. You cannot adjust it while recording.

Jog lever

./>
While holding down X, slide REC to the right. The recorder stands by for recording. Press the jog lever, flip until RecVolume flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until ManualREC flashes in the display, and then press the lever.

ManualREC

To switch back to the automatic control, flip the jog lever until Auto REC flashes in the display, and then press the lever.

Play the source.

While observing the level meter in the display, adjust the recording level by flipping the jog lever or pressing > (+) or. (). Set the level so that the level meter reaches around (12 dB) mark beneath the display window. If the sound is too high, lower the recording level until the level meter just barely reaches the (OVER) mark beneath the display window.

Protecting your hearing (AVLS)
Press the jog lever, flip until MEGA BASS flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever to select the play mode, and then press the lever. Each time you flip the lever, A and B change as follows.
The AVLS (Automatic Volume Limiter System) function keeps down the maximum volume to protect your ears.

BASS 2

Press the jog lever, flip until AVLS flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until AVLS ON flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. When you try to turn the volume too high, AVLS appears in the display. The volume is kept to a moderate level.
Indication A/B BASS 0/ BASS 1/ BASS BASS 2/ BASS
Play mode Normal play Mega Bass (moderate effect) Mega Bass (strong effect)
Checking the remaining time or the playing position
You can check the track name, disc name, etc. during playback.
A B Elapsed time Remaining time of the current track Remaining time after the current location Recorded time2)
While the recorder is playing, press the jog lever, flip until DISPLAY flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until the information you want flashes in the display. Each time you flip the lever, the display changes as follows.
Track number Track name1) Disc name1)

Recorded date2)

If you want to check the remaining time or the recording position while recording or in stop mode, see page 19. The display that appears on the remote control is different from the ones on the recorder. See On the remote control (page 29) to check the display that appears on the remote control.
A LapTime 1 Remain AllRemain RecDate B1) 1/4 2/4 3/4 4/4
Locking the controls (HOLD)
To prevent the buttons from being accidentally operated when you carry the recorder, use this function.
Press DISPLAY while playing. Each time you press DISPLAY, the display changes as follows.

Flip the jog lever until : Erase flashes in the display, and then press the lever. Erase OK? and PushENTER appear alternately in the display. To cancel erasing, press x or T MARK. Check that the track number you want to erase appears in the display, and then press the jog lever. The track is erased and the next track starts to play. All the tracks after the one erased are automatically renumbered.

TOC = Table of Contents

Erasing tracks

To erase a track

Note that once a recording has been erased, you cannot retrieve it. Make sure of the track you are erasing.
To erase a part of a track Add track marks at the beginning and the end of the part you want to erase, then erase the part.

To erase the whole disc

You can quickly erase all the tracks and data of the MD at the same time. Note that once a recording has been erased, you cannot retrieve it. Be sure to check the contents of the disc you want to erase.

T MARK

While playing the track you want to erase, press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. : Name flashes in the display, and the recorder plays the selected track repeatedly.
While the recorder is stopped, press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. : Name flashes in the display.
Flip the jog lever until : Erase flashes in the display, and then press the lever. All Erase? and PushENTER appear alternately in the display. To cancel erasing, press x or T MARK. Press the jog lever again. TOC Edit flashes in the display, and all the tracks will be erased. When erasing is complete, BLANKDISC appears in the display.

Adding a track mark

You can add track marks so that the part after the new track mark is counted as a new track. The track numbers will increase as follows.

Track marking

Track numbers increase
While playing or pausing an MD, press T MARK on the recorder at the point you want to mark. MARK ON appears in the display, and a track mark is added. The track number will increase by one.
To add track marks while recording Press T MARK on the recorder at the point you want to add a track mark.

Erasing a track mark

When you record with analog (line) input, unnecessary track marks may be recorded where recording level is low. You can erase a track mark to combine the tracks before and after the track mark. The track numbers will change as follows.

You cannot relabel premastered MDs or label MDs that have not been recorded. The recorder is able to display, but cannot label using Japanese Katakana characters. The recorder cannot rewrite a disc or track name of more than 200 letters that was created by another device.
Storing phrases while labeling a track or disc
Do the procedure Labeling recordings (page 34) to enter a phrase. After entering the phrase, press X for 2 seconds or more. Entry! appears in the display and the cursor flashes after the phrase you just stored. You can then continue with labeling operation.
You can store phrases from a previously labeled track or disc. Do the procedure Relabeling recordings (page 37) and display the track or disc name that contains the phrase that you want to store. Press VOL +/ repeatedly to move the cursor to the right of the phrase. Then press X for 2 seconds or more to store the phrase.
Flip the jog lever or press./> repeatedly. Flipping the jog lever or pressing the buttons causes the phrases stored in the phrase bank to appear one by one in sequential order. If you press X at this time, the first phrase stored in the phrase bank retrieved. Press the jog lever while the phrase you want is shown in the display. The cursor flashes after the phrase you just retrieved. You can then continue with labeling operation.
Storing phrases using the EDIT menu
Press the jog lever so that EDIT flashes in the display, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until Name Bank flashes in the display, and then press the jog lever. Enter the phrase you want to store, and then press the jog lever for 2 seconds or more. Entry appears in the display and the phrase is stored.
Searching for a phrase by its first letter
When labeling a track or disc, use VOL +/ to move the cursor to the letter which the desired phrase begins with. Press X to search. The phrase for that letter appears in the display. If there are two or more phrases that start with that letter, press X to see the next phrase. Press the jog lever while the phrase you want is shown in the display. The cursor flashes after the phrase you just retrieved. You can then continue with labeling operation.
Retrieving phrases stored in the phrase bank You can retrieve a phrase stored in the phrase bank anytime you want to use it in a track or disc name. There are two ways to retrieve a stored phrase: by displaying the stored phrases one by one during the labeling procedure, or by searching the phrase bank by the first letter of the desired phrase.
Searching for a phrase by displaying the stored phrase one by one

Erasing phrases You can erase phrases from the phrase bank while the recorder is stopped. You can also erase phrases when the recorder is empty.
Do the procedure Labeling recordings (page 34) until : Name or : Name flashes in the display. Then press the jog lever. Press X repeatedly until the first phrase stored in the phrase bank appears in the display.
Press the jog lever so that EDIT appears, and then press the lever again. Flip the jog lever until BankErase appears, and then press the lever.
Flip the jog lever until the phrase you want to erase appears, and then press the lever. Erase! appears and the phrase is erased. If no phrase is stored in the phrase bank, EMPTY appears in the display.
Press DISPLAY for 2 seconds or more. Press the control towards. or towards N > repeatedly until Name Bank flashes in the display, and then press x. Enter the phrase you want to store, then press x for 2 seconds or more. Entry appears in the display and the phrase is stored.
To cancel the operation, press x or T MARK.

DISPLAY X control

Retrieving phrases stored in the phrase bank
Storing phrases while labeling
Do the procedure On the remote control in Labeling recordings (page 36) to enter a phrase. After entering the phrase, press X for 2 seconds or more. Entry! appears in the display and the cursor flashes after the phrase you just stored. You can then continue with labeling operation.
Do the procedure On the remote control in Labeling recordings (page 36) until : Name or : Name appears in the display. Then press x. Press X repeatedly until the first phrase stored in the phrase bank appears in the display. Press the control towards. or towards N > repeatedly. Pressing the control towards. or towards N > causes the phrases stored in the phrase bank to appear one by one. If you press X at this time, the first phrase stored in the phrase bank retrieved. Press x while the phrase you want is shown in the display. The cursor flashes after the phrase you just retrieved. You can then continue with labeling operation.
Searching by the first letter of a phrase
When labeling a track or disc, use VOL +/ to move the cursor to the letter which the desired phrase begins with. Press X to search. The phrase for that letter appears in the display. If there are two or more phrases that start with that letter, press X to see the next phrase. Press x while the phrase you want is shown in the display. The cursor flashes after the phrase you just retrieved. You can then continue with labeling operation.

Press DISPLAY for 2 seconds or more. Press the control towards. or towards N > repeatedly until BankErase appears in the display, and then press x. Press the control towards. or towards N > repeatedly until the phrase you want to erase appears, and then press x. Erase! appears in the display and the phrase is erased. If there is no phrase stored in the phrase bank, EMPTY appears in the display.
To cancel the operation, press DISPLAY for 2 seconds or more.

Power sources

You can use the recorder on house current or as follows. In the recorder a nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery NH-14WM (supplied) With supplied battery case LR6 (size AA) alkaline battery (not supplied) It is preferable to use the recorder on house current when recording for a long time.
Insert the NH-14WM into the recorder and close the lid.
Charging the nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery
Before using the supplied NH-14WM nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery for the first time, charge it in the recorder.
Press x. Charging flashes, e appears in the display, and charging starts.
Connect the supplied AC power adaptor.

to wall output

Full charging of a completely discharged rechargeable battery takes about 3 hours. To cancel charging, press x.
If you press x/CHARGE immediately after charging has completed, charging will begin again, even though the battery is already fully charged. Charging stops when you try to operate the recorder during charging. Be sure to use the supplied AC power adaptor. Charging time may vary depending on the battery condition. When a rechargeable battery is charged for the first time or charged after a long period of disuse, battery life may be shorter than usual. Repeat discharging and recharging a few times. The battery life should return to normal. When the battery life of a fully charged rechargeable battery becomes about half the normal life, replace it.
AC power adaptor (supplied)

to DC IN 3V

When carrying the rechargeable battery, keep it in the supplied carrying case. It is dangerous to carry the battery out of its case in your pocket or a bag together with metallic objects such as key rings, as this may cause a short circuit. Remove the rechargeable battery from the recorder when it is not to be used for a long time.

Insert LR6 (size AA) dry battery (not supplied) with correct polarity.
Using on a nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery
Be sure the rechargeable battery is fully charged.
Battery life1) Batteries Recording
Playback Approx. 12 hours
NH-14WM nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery LR6 (size AA) Sony alkaline dry battery

Approx. 6.5 hours

Approx. 4 hours
Approx. 16.5 hours Approx. 29 hours
Insert the fully charged nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery with correct polarity.
NH-14WM nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery + One LR6 (size AA)

1) The

Approx. 14.5 hours

Using dry battery

battery life may be shorter due to operating conditions and the temperature of the location. 2) When you record, use a fully charged rechargeable battery.
Attach the supplied battery case. When to replace the batteries When the dry battery or rechargeable battery are weak, flashing r or LOW BATT appears in the display. Replace the dry battery or charge the rechargeable battery. The battery level indicator is approximate.
Stop the recorder before replacing battery.

Additional information

On the headphones

Precautions

On safety
Do not put any foreign objects in the DC IN 3V jack.

Road safety

Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It may create a traffic hazard and is illegal in many areas. It can also be potentially dangerous to play your recorder at high volume while walking, especially at pedestrian crossings. You should exercise extreme caution or discontinue use in potentially hazardous situations.

On power sources

Use house current, nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery, LR6 (size AA) battery, or car battery. For use in your house: Use the AC power adaptor
supplied with this recorder. Do not use any other AC power adaptor since it may cause the recorder to malfunction.
Preventing hearing damage
Avoid using headphones at high volume. Hearing experts advise against continuous, loud and extended play. If you experience a ringing in your ears, reduce the volume or discontinue use.

Polarity of the plug

The recorder is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the recorder itself has been turned off. If you are not going to use this recorder for a long time, be sure to disconnect the power supply (AC power adaptor, dry battery, rechargeable battery, or car battery cord). To remove the AC power adaptor from the wall outlet, grasp the adaptor plug itself; never pull the cord.

The lid does not open.

Symptom No sound comes through the headphones.
Cause/Solution The headphones plug is not firmly connected. , Plug in the plug of the headphones firmly to the remote control. Plug in the plug of the remote control firmly to i/LINE OUT. Volume is too low. , Adjust the volume by pressing VOL +/. AVLS is on. , Set AVLS to AVLS OFF (page 27). Disc playing stopped before it came to the last track. , Flip the jog lever (press the control towards. repeatedly on the remote) or open and close the lid once to go back to the beginning of the disc, and restart playing after checking the track number in the display. The recorder is placed where it receives continuous vibration. , Put the recorder on a stable place. A very short track may cause sound to skip. Strong magnetism from a television or such device is interfering with operation. , Move the recorder away from the source of strong magnetism. You pressed X after pressing. or >. , Press X before flipping the jog lever or pressing. or >. The rechargeable battery has been inserted incorrectly or the AC power adaptor has been connected incorrectly. , Insert the battery correctly or connect the AC power adaptor correctly.
An MD is not played from the first track.
Playback sound skips. Sound has a lot of static. Cannot find the track marks. The rechargeable battery does not start charging.
The built-in battery for the clock is weak. The clock loses time or the display , Connect the AC power adaptor to DC IN 3V on the recorder flashes. and the wall outlet to charge the built-in battery. After charging, set the clock again (page 22). Note that the clock The recording date may gain or lose up to about 2 minutes per month under normal was not stamped condition. onto the disc. The clock is not set. , Set the clock (page 22). The cable connecting the devices is not an optical cable. CD text information cannot , Use an optical cable to connect the devices. be recorded. The connected portable CD player does not supports CD-TEXT. , Connect a portable CD player (such as D-EJ01) that supports CD-TEXT (page 23). The inserted CD does not supports CD-TEXT. , Insert a CD that supports CD-TEXT. VOL +/ or DIGITAL MEGA BASS does not function The AUDIO OUT parameter is set to LINE OUT. , Set the AUDIO OUT parameter to HeadPhone(page 4).

System limitations

The recording system in your MiniDisc recorder is radically different from those used in cassette and DAT decks and is characterized by the limitations described below. Note, however, that these limitations are due to the inherent nature of the MD recording system itself and not to mechanical causes. Symptom TR FULL appears even before the disc has reached the maximum recording time (60, 74, or 80 minutes). TR FULL appears even before the disc has reached the maximum track number or recording time. Track marks cannot be erased. The remaining recording time does not increase even after erasing numerous short tracks. The total recorded time and the remaining time on the disc may not total the maximum recording time (60, 74, or 80 minutes). Cause When 254 tracks have been recorded on the disc, TR FULL appears regardless of the total recorded time. More than 254 tracks cannot be recorded on the disc. To continue recording, erase unnecessary tracks.

DISC FULL

Data Save

TOC Edit

NAME FULL

Hi DC in

LOW BATT

MEM OVER

Error message NO COPY
Meaning/Remedy You tried to make a copy from a disc that is protected by the Serial Copy Management System. You cannot make copies from a digitally connected source which was itself recorded using digital connection. , Use analog connection instead (page 8). You tried to play or record with no disc in the recorder. , Insert an MD. The recorder could not detect digital input signals. , Make sure that the source is connected firmly (page 15). You tried to record or edit on a premastered MD (P/B stands for playback). , Insert a recordable MD. You tried to record or edit on a MD with the tab in the recordprotect position. , Slide the tab back (page 44). You tried to erase the track mark at the beginning of the first track. You tried to erase a track mark to combine tracks the recorder cannot combine (a track recorded in stereo and in mono, for example). You tried to set DIGITAL MEGA BASS while the AUDIO OUT parameter was set to LINE OUT. , Use the jog lever to set the AUDIO OUT parameter to HeadPhone (page 4, 13). You tried to press X or T MARK during synchro-recording. Heat has built up in the recorder. , Let the recorder cool down. There is no more space for new data when you are editing the MD. , Erase unnecessary tracks (page 31). You tried to record or edit on a track that is protected from erasing. , Record or edit on other tracks. You pressed a key on the recorder while editing on the remote control. You pressed a key on the remote control while selecting a menu on the recorder. You pressed VOL +/ while the AUDIO OUT parameter was set to LINE OUT. , Use the jog lever to set the AUDIO OUT parameter to HeadPhone (page 4, 13) You tried to use the CD text copying function to copy a track or disc name from a CD that has no text data (page 23).
NO DISC NO SIGNAL P/B ONLY

PROTECTED

TEMP OVER TR FULL TrPROTECT EDITING MENU LINE OUT

NO TEXT

Error message EMPTY BANK FULL
Meaning/Remedy You tried to erase data in the phrase bank but no data have been recorded. The phrase bank is almost full and cannot store the phrase you tried to enter. , Delete some phrases from the phrase bank, and then reenter the new phrase.