3-266-536-11(1) Portable MiniDisc Recorder MZ-NH900 Portable MiniDisc Recorder Operating Instructions page 12 Recorder Operation ______________________________ page 106 Software Operation ______________________________ “WALKMAN” is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation to represent Headphone Stereo products. is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not install the appliance in a confined space, such as a bookcase or built-in cabinet. To prevent fire, do not cover the ventilation of the apparatus with news papers, table cloths, curtains, etc. And don’t place lighted candles on the apparatus. To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: MZ-NH900 Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr, San Diego, CA 92127 USA Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Notice for users On the supplied software • Copyright laws prohibit reproducing the software or the manual accompanying it in whole or in part, or renting the software without the permission of the copyright holder. • In no event will SONY be liable for any financial damage, or loss of profits, including claims made by third parties, arising out of the use of the software supplied with this recorder.
Table of contents About available functions and supplied manuals ........................................................... 10 Recorder Operation Looking at controls ............................................. 13 Getting started .................................................... 17 Recording a disc right away! .............................. 21 Playing a disc right away! ................................... 25 Using menus ........................................................
Various ways of playback ................................... 43 Viewing various information ......................................................................43 Selecting the play mode ..............................................................................45 Searching for a track (Search) .....................................................................52 Adjusting the sound (Virtual-Surround • 6-Band Equalizer) ......................53 Changing playback speed (Speed Control) ................
Additional information ........................................ 84 Precautions ..................................................................................................84 Specifications ..............................................................................................86 Troubleshooting and explanations ..................... 88 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................88 Messages ...........................................
Software Operation What you can do with MD Simple Burner/ SonicStage .................................................... 106 Installing ........................................................... 108 Providing the required system environment ..............................................108 Installing the software onto your computer ...............................................109 Using MD Simple Burner ................................... 111 Before using MD Simple Burner ...............................
About available functions and supplied manuals This section explains the functions of this portable MiniDisc recorder and the manuals that have been supplied with it. Please refer to the manual that applies to each use of the recorder. Learning more about Hi-MD “Hi-MD” is a new MiniDisc format with advanced capabilities over the standard MD format. The “What you can do with the Hi-MD Walkman” flyer This flyer explains the major features of Hi-MD Walkman and how it differs with standard MD Walkman.
Using the recorder while it is connected to a computer The supplied SonicStage software allows you to transfer audio data between the recorder and the computer. The supplied MD Simple Burner software allows you to record audio data to the recorder. Audio CDs Internet Music files Software Operation (pages 106 to 130) This section explains the installation and basic operations of the supplied SonicStage/MD Simple Burner software.
Checking the supplied accessories AC power adaptor (1) Battery charging stand (1) Remote control (1) Headphones (USA model only) (1) Earphones (except USA model) (1) Dedicated USB cable (1) NH-10WM Nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery (1) Dry battery case (1) Battery carrying case (1) Optical cable (1) CD-ROM (SonicStage/MD Simple Burner) (1)* Carrying pouch (except USA model) (1) * Do not play a CD-ROM on an audio CD player.
Looking at controls The recorder 1 q; qa 2 qs qd 3 qg qf 4 qh 5 8 qj 6 qk 7 A •NAVI/ MENU button Press lightly to go to the NAVI (navigation) setting mode (page 48). Press for 2 seconds or more to go to MENU setting mode (page 27). B Battery compartment C Jog dial Operation Function Press towards . find the beginning of the previous track, rewind Press towards > find the beginning of the next track, fast forward Press towards VOL +1) or VOL –.
L M N O P Q OPEN switch Display window T MARK button USB cable connecting jack LINE IN (OPT) jack MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack There is a tactile dot beside the MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack. R HOLD switch Slide the switch in the direction of the arrow to disable the buttons on the recorder. To prevent the buttons from being accidentally operated when you carry the recorder, use this function.
The headphones/earphones with a remote control A F B G C H D I J E A Volume Control (VOL +, –) Turn to adjust the volume. B x (stop) button C Jog lever (NX/ENT, ., >) Operation Function Press NX/ENT play, pause, enter Press towards find the beginning of the previous track, rewind Press towards find the beginning of the next track, fast forward . > F Clip See “Using the clip for the remote control” (page 16).
Using the clip for the remote control It may be hard for you to read the indications in the display if the remote control is attached upside down with the clip in its current position. In this case, attach the clip in the opposite direction as shown below. 1 Remove the clip. 2 Attach the clip in the opposite direction.
Getting started Charge the rechargeable battery before using. 1 Insert the rechargeable battery. 1 Slide OPEN to open the 2 Insert the NH-10WM battery compartment lid. 2 3 Close the lid. rechargeable battery E end first. Charging the rechargeable battery. 1 Connect the AC power adaptor to the battery charging stand and the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet. To a wall outlet AC power adaptor Battery charging stand (rear) 2 Place the recorder on the battery charging stand.
z Full charging of a completely discharged rechargeable battery takes about 2.5 hours. Charging time may vary depending on the battery condition. Using the dry battery 1 Attach the dry battery case to the recorder. 2 Insert the battery minus end first. Rear of the recorder 1 2 Insert a LR6 (size AA) alkaline dry battery. To operate the recorder for the longest possible time, use the dry battery together with a fully charged rechargeable battery. 3 Make connections and unlock the controls.
z You can also charge the rechargeable battery by connecting the AC power adaptor directly to the recorder. Connect the AC power adaptor to DC IN 3V on the recorder, and then press x • CANCEL/ CHG while the recorder is stopped. When to charge the rechargeable battery or replace the dry battery You can check the battery condition on the display window of the recorder or the remote control.
Battery life When recording continuously in Hi-MD mode (Unit: approx.hours)(JEITA1)) Disc type Batteries Linear PCM Hi-SP Hi-LP 1GB Hi-MD disc NH-10WM2) 3.5 5 6 LR63) 2.5 3.5 4 NH-10WM + LR6 6 8.5 10 NH-10WM 3.5 5 6 LR6 4.5 7 8 NH-10WM + LR6 8 12 14 60/74/80-minute standard disc 1) Measured in accordance with the JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association) standard.
Recording a disc right away! This section explains the basic procedure for making digital recordings using an optical cable connected to a CD player, Digital TV or other digital equipment. Make sure to use the optical cable. 1 Make connections. (Insert the cables firmly and completely into the appropriate jacks.) 1 Connect the AC power adaptor to the 2 Connect the optical cable to the recorder and a house current. recorder and an external component. CD player, MD player, DVD video player, etc.
2 Insert a recordable disc. 1 Slide OPEN to open the lid. 2 Insert a disc with the label side facing front, and press the lid down to close. Make sure to check the record-protect tab is closed. 3 Confirm the operation mode. This recorder has two operation modes, “Hi-MD mode” and “MD mode”. The operation mode is automatically recognized whenever the disc is inserted. After you insert a disc, check the operation mode on the display window of the recorder.
4 Record a disc. 1 Select and pause the sound source to be recorded. 2 Make sure that disc indication has stopped rotating in the display window on the recorder. PAUSE Make sure that disc indication has stopped. Connected component 3 While the recorder is stopped, press and slide zREC on the recorder. “REC” lights up and recording starts. zREC 4 Play the source you want to record. If you insert a previously recorded disc, the recording starts after the existing contents.
If the recording does not start • Make sure the recorder is not locked (pages 14, 18). • Make sure the disc is not record-protected (pages 22, 85). • Premastered discs cannot be recorded over. Notes • When you record on a 1GB Hi-MD disc, connect the AC power adaptor to the recorder, charge the rechargeable battery fully (battery level indication shows ), or use a new alkaline dry battery (battery level indication shows ).
Playing a disc right away! 1 Insert a recorded disc. 1 Slide OPEN to open the lid. 2 Insert a disc with the label side facing front, and press the lid down to close. 2 Play a disc. 1 Press the 5-way control key (NENT) on the recorder. Press the jog lever (NX/ENT) on the remote control. A short beep sounds in the headphones/ earphones when you operate. 2 Press the 5-way control key towards VOL + or – to adjust the volume on the recorder.
To Operation on the recorder Operation on the remote control Stop Press x. Press x. Pause Press X. Press X again to resume play. Press the jog lever (NX/ENT). Press the jog lever again to resume play. Turn the jog dial to select a Select a track directly viewing track number or track, and then press NENT to enter. name — Find the beginning of the current track Press the 5-way control key towards .. Press the 5-way control key towards .
Using menus How to use the menu items The recorder has many menus with useful functions for recording, playback, editing, etc. To set the menu items, do the following procedure. If you are doing a menu operation for the first time after purchasing the recorder, “Menu Mode” flashes in the display. Before the menu operation, you can set “Menu Mode” to “Simple” (only basic menu items appear) or “Advanced” (all menu items appear).
On the recorder NAVI/MENU 5-way control key (NENT) Jog dial x 1 2 3 4 Press and hold NAVI/MENU for 2 seconds or more to enter the menu. Turn the jog dial to select the item. Press the 5-way control key (NENT) to enter the selection. Repeat steps 2 and 3. The setting will be entered when you press the 5-way control key (NENT) at the last. To return the preceding setting Press x. To cancel the operation while setting Press x for 2 seconds or more.
List of menus The following table shows the menu items that you can select. Some items can be set with both the recorder and the remote control, and some can be set with either the recorder or the remote control. Items listed under “Menu 1” are the selectable items which appear when you enter the menu, and items listed under “Menu 2” are the selectable items which appear when you select an item in Menu 1. It is possible to display all menu items only when “Menu Mode” is set to “Advanced”.
Menu 1 Menu 2 Function Site page Option Menu Mode Changes the menu items that are displayed. page 74 AVLS* Sets a limit on the maximum volume to protect your hearing. page 74 Beep* Turns the beep sound on or off. page 75 Backlight Selects the status of the backlight in the display window on the remote control. page 75 Disc Mem* Stores the recorder settings (Disc Memory). page 76 QuickMode* Sets the recorder to start playback quickly.
Menu 1 Menu 2 Function Site page Sound Normal Customizes the surround or equalizer mode settings. page 54 Search* Searches for tracks by track name, group name, artist name, or album name. page 52 SpeedCtrl* Varies the playback speed without changing the pitch (Speed Control). page 56 Audio Out* Outputs sound from the i/LINE OUT jack when page 57 listening to a connected component.
Various ways of recording Before recording Selecting the operation mode This recorder has two operation modes, “Hi-MD mode” and “MD mode”. The operation mode is automatically recognized whenever the disc is inserted. After you insert a disc, check the operation mode on the display window of the recorder. “Hi-MD” lights up when the operation mode is Hi-MD and “MD” lights up when the operation mode is MD.
Viewing various information You can check the remaining time, track number, etc. when recording or during stop. DISPLAY A B Track number • Group name and album name (Hi-MD)1) • Group name and track name (MD)1) Track number Selected sound mode name and its indication 1) The disc name appears when the currently selected track is not in a group. While recording A/B 1 Press DISPLAY repeatedly. Each time you press the button, the display changes as follows.
While the recorder is stopped C/D/ On the recorder Jog dial E NAVI/MENU 5-way control key (NENT) 1 2 C D E Group number and track number Elapsed time • Track name and artist name (HiMD) • Track name(MD) Group number and track number • Remaining time for recording / remaining free space (Hi-MD) • Remaining time for recording (MD) • “RecRemain” and “FreeSpace” (Hi-MD) • “RecRemain” (MD) Numbers of tracks after the current track Remaining time after the current location in the disc.
While recording C/D/E C D E Elapsed time Level meter Group number and track number Remaining Group number and time for recording. track number • Disc name • Group and artist name and name (Hialbum MD)1) name (HiMD)2) • Disc name (MD)1) • Group name (MD)2) Recording from a microphone Stereo microphone* “RecRemain” zREC NAVI/MENU Track name Jog dial 5-way control key (NENT) To MIC (PLUG IN POWER) 1) Track number appears if the currently selected track is not in a group.
2 Turn the jog dial until “Sens High” or “Sens Low” appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection. Sens High: When recording a soft sound or a sound with a normal volume. Sens Low: When recording with a loud or close-range sounds, such as those during an oral recording or a music concert. To change the microphone recording level adjustment mode When recording with a microphone, you can select automatic adjustment mode which sets the microphone recording level to suit the sound source.
Recording from a TV or radio (Analog Recording) This section explains how to record from equipment with analog output, such as a cassette recorder, radio, or TV. This operation can be done on the recorder only. TV, cassette recorder, etc. Selecting the recording mode Select each recording mode according to the recording time that you want. Discs recorded in Hi-MD or MD (MDLP) mode can be played back only on MD players or recorders with Hi-MD or MD (MDLP) playback mode.
Recording Display mode Recording time Hi-SP stereo • Approx. 140 min. on an 80minute standard disc • Approx. 475 min. on a 1GB Hi-MD disc Hi-LP stereo Hi-SP Hi-LP • Approx. 610 min. on an 80minute standard disc • Approx. 2,040 min. on a 1GB Hi-MD disc Notes • It is recommended that you use the AC power adaptor for long recordings. • When you record in LP4 mode, momentary noise may be produced on very rare occasions with certain sound sources.
4 While observing the level meter in the display, adjust the recording level by turning the jog dial. Set the level so that the meter segments light up around –12dB segment. If a high sound level causes the level meter to reach the OVER segment, lower the recording level. Each level meter shows the following.
To cancel Time Mark Select “Off” in step 1. Using Time Mark to add track marks while recording When the elapsed recording time exceeds the time interval for Time Mark: The recorder adds track marks at the point you set the time interval and from that point the recorder adds a track mark whenever the time interval has elapsed. Example: Eight minutes of recording has been completed when the Time Mark time interval is set to 5 minutes.
Note It will not be possible to make a group setting if the tracks, groups and disc name on a disc exceed the maximum number that can be input (in MD mode only). Jog dial NAVI/MENU GROUP Recording tracks to an existing group You can add a track to an existing group. Adding a new track at the end of the selected group 1 zREC 5-way control key (NENT) X To create a new group automatically when recording The recorder is factory set to create a new group automatically by sliding zREC to the right.
To start/stop recording in sync with the sound source (Synchro-recording) During synchro-recording, the starting and stopping of recording occurs are synchronized with the sound source. This simplifies digital recordings (e.g., from a CD player) since the need to operate the recorder or the sound source is eliminated. Synchro-recording is only possible with the optical cable connected. Jog dial NAVI/MENU 5-way control key (NENT) 1 2 Make connections.
Various ways of playback Viewing various information You can check the track name, disc name, etc. during playback. A B Track number • Group name and album name (Hi-MD)1) • Group name and track name (MD)1) Track number Selected sound mode name and its indication Track number • Codec, track mode, and bitrate (Hi-MD) • Track mode (MD) DISPLAY 1) The disc name appears when the currently selected track is not in a group. Note 1 While playing, press DISPLAY.
2 Turn the jog dial until the information you want appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection. Each turn changes the display as follows. Lap Time t 1 Remain t AllRemain t Title1/Title2 (Hi-MD) t Sound t Codec (Hi-MD)/ TrackMode (MD) When you press NENT, the selected information appears at C, D and E.
Selecting the play mode You can listen to tracks in various play modes. The play mode can consist of a combination of Main play mode, Sub play mode and Repeat play. • Main play mode: selects the playback unit, such as tracks or groups • Sub play mode: selects the type of play • Repeat play: selects Repeat play DISPLAY P-MODE/ Indication A/B Play mode Group/ Group play (Tracks in the selected group are played.) 1) Artist/ 1) Album/ Artist play (Tracks of a specified artist are played.
2 Press + or – to select a desired artist. The recorder plays the tracks by the same artist on the disc, from the first track to the last track, in recorded order. Listening to tracks of a selected album (Album Play) (in Hi-MD mode only) If the track data includes the album name, you can listen to tracks of a selected album only. 1 2 While playing the track in the desired album, do step 1 and select “Album” in step 2 of “Playing tracks in Main play mode” (page 45).
Playing tracks in Sub play mode By specifying Sub play modes, you can listen to tracks selected in Main play mode in various ways. For example, by selecting “Group” in Main play mode and “SHUF” in Sub play mode, the recorder will play the tracks in the selected group in random order. Press P-MODE/ repeatedly. Each time you press the button, the play mode changes as follows.
To cancel Repeat Play Press P-MODE/ for 2 seconds or more until disappears in the display. Indication A/B 1) Album/ On the recorder Jog dial GROUP Playing tracks in Main play mode 1 2 While playing, press NAVI/MENU. The recorder enters navigation mode and the Main play mode display appears. Turn the jog dial to select the desired play mode, and then press NENT to enter the selection. Each time you turn the jog dial, A changes as follows. When you press NENT, B appears in the display.
2 3 Turn the jog dial until the desired group appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter. A list of the tracks in the selected group appears. Turn the jog dial until the desired track appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection. The name of the group to which current track belongs appears in the display. The recorder plays the tracks in that group, from the current track to the last track. z You can cue to the start of a group.
Listening to selected tracks only (Bookmark Play) 4 5 To bookmark the tracks 1 While playing the track you want to bookmark, press NENT for 2 seconds or more. Repeat step 3 to program more tracks. After programming the tracks, press NENT for 2 seconds or more. The program is stored, “PGM” appears in the display and the first track in the program starts playing. Programming groups (Group Program) 1 Bookmark flashes. 2 Repeat step 1 to bookmark the other tracks.
Playing tracks in Sub play mode/Repeat Play Listening to a section of a track repeatedly (A-B Repeat) 1 1 2 Enter the menu and select “SubPMode”. Turn the jog dial to select the desired play mode, and then press NENT to enter the selection. Each time you turn the jog dial, A changes as follows. When you press NENT, B appears in the display. 1 While playing a track that contains the section you want to repeat, enter the menu and select “SubPMode” “A-BRepeat”. “A-” flashes in the display.
Searching for a track (Search) You can easily search for a track by track name, group name, artist name, or album name. Artist names and album names can be viewed in the case of discs used in HiMD mode only. This operation can be done on the recorder only. Jog dial x 5-way control key (NENT) 1 2 Enter the menu and select “Useful” “Search”. Turn the jog dial to select the item you want to use for searching, and then press NENT to enter.
Adjusting the sound (Virtual-Surround • 6Band Equalizer) You can vary the virtual sound to create different acoustics, or modify the sound to suit your taste and store it for later use. The following two effect can be selected. V-SUR (Virtual-Surround VPT Acoustic Engine) Provides 4 kinds of virtual surround conditions. 6-BAND EQUALIZER Provides 6 different sound qualities. Volume control A B Club SUR C Arena SUR A 4 Press the jog lever to enter the selected surround mode.
To modify and store the sound You can modify the sound and store the results in “Custom1” and “Custom2”. 1 2 3 Jog dial NAVI/MENU Do steps 1 to 3 of “Selecting the sound quality (6-Band Equalizer)” (page 53), and slide the jog lever until “Custom1” or “Custom2” appears. Press the jog lever. Slide the jog lever repeatedly to select the frequency. Frequency (100 Hz) From the left, you can select 100 Hz, 250 Hz, 630 Hz, 1.
Selecting the sound quality (6Band Equalizer) 1 2 To modify and store the sound 1 While playing, enter the menu and select “Sound” - “Sound EQ”. Turn the jog dial repeatedly to select the sound mode and then press NENT to enter the selection. 2 While the recorder is playing, enter the menu and select “Sound” “Sound EQ” - “Custom1” or “Custom2”. Press the 5-way control key towards . or > to select the frequency. A Frequency (100 Hz) From the left, you can select 100 Hz, 250 Hz, 630 Hz, 1.
Changing playback speed (Speed Control) The speed control function is useful for language study and other purpose. This function changes the playback speed without changing the playback pitch. The playback speed can be varied from +100% to –50% the normal speed, in 13 steps. DISPLAY On the recorder Jog dial 5-way control key (NENT) 1 x 2 Jog lever 1 2 While playing, enter the menu and select “Useful” – “SpeedCtrl”. The player changes to speed-setting mode.
Connecting to a stereo system (LINE OUT) You can listen to the playback sound from connected component. 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. Stereo System, etc. To LINE IN Stereo miniplug 2 phono plugs L (white) R (Red) Line cable 2 3 Enter the menu and select “Useful” “Audio Out”. Turn the jog dial until “Line Out” appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection.
Editing recorded tracks Before editing Adding titles (Title) You can edit your recordings by adding/ erasing track marks or labeling tracks and discs. You can add titles to tracks, groups and discs. You can add artist names and album names to tracks on a disc used in Hi-MD mode.
3 Note If you enter the symbol “//” between the characters in disc names such as “abc//def”, you may be unable to use the group function (in MD mode only). Volume control Turn the volume control repeatedly to select a letter and press the jog lever to enter. The selected letter stops flashing and the cursor moves to the next input position. The cursor flashes at the next input position. DISPLAY P-MODE/ SOUND The buttons and control used for character input and their functions are listed below.
Note When the recording is stopped or the recording moves on to the next track while labeling titles during recording, the input at that point is entered automatically. On the recorder Jog dial NAVI/MENU GROUP Re-labeling You can change the track name, artist name, album name, group name, or disc name by doing the procedure for “Labeling” (page 59).
3 Letter input area The cursor flashes. Press the 5-way control key towards VOL –. The cursor shifts from the letter input area to the character palette. The cursor and character alternate. Character palette Since only a part of the character palette is visible on the display, use the controls or buttons to move the cursor and enter characters. Labeling 1 2 Enter the menu and select “Edit” “Title”. 4 Select a letter using the 5-way control key and press NENT to enter.
Functions1) Operations To insert a blank space. Press GROUP and press the 5-way control key towards > at the same time. To delete a letter. Press GROUP and press the control key towards . at the same time. To cancel labeling. Press x for 2 seconds or more. To move the cursor Press the 5-way from the letter input control key towards area to the character VOL –. palette. To move the cursor from the character palette to the letter input area.
4 Notes • When the total number of characters in the titles on a disc exceed the maximum that can be input: —If the disc is being used in Hi-MD mode, you can make a group setting, but cannot add a group name in step 4. —If the disc is being used in MD mode, you cannot make a group setting. • The tracks or groups must be sequential.
Releasing a group setting (Group Release) Select a group you want to release and check the contents (see “Playing tracks in a group (Group Play)” (page 45)). 2 3 Enter the menu and select “Edit” “ : Release”. “Group Release?” and “PUSH YES:ENTER NO:CANCEL” appear alternately in the display. Press NENT to release a group. DISPLAY Moving recorded tracks or groups (Move) x You can change the order of the recorded tracks or groups.
1 2 While playing the track you want to move, enter the menu and select “Edit” - “Move” - “ : Move”. The selected track number appears in the display. Slide the jog lever repeatedly until the destination track number flashes in the display. For the example, since track C will be moved to track “02”, slide the jog lever until “003 t Tr02” appears in the display. Moving a track in a disc with group setting You can move a track from one group out of the group or to another group.
3 Slide the jog lever repeatedly until the destination track number appears in the display, and then press the jog lever to enter the selection. On the recorder Jog dial NAVI/MENU Example: When moving the track to the track number “03” in the second group (GP02). Changing the order of a group on a disc 1 2 While playing a track within a group whose order you want to change, enter the menu and select “Edit” “Move” - “ : Move”.
Moving a track in a disc with group settings Changing the order of a group on a disc 1 1 2 3 Do step 1 of “Changing the order of a track on a disc” (page 66). When moving a track out of a group, skip this step. When moving a track to a different group, turn the jog dial until the destination group appears in the display, and then press NENT. Turn the jog dial until the destination track number appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection.
Erasing tracks and the entire disc (Erase) You can erase unnecessary tracks or all tracks on a disc. When erasing tracks that have been transferred from the computer If you erased tracks that have been transferred from the computer, the transfer authorization of the tracks will be as follows. • If the tracks were transferred in Hi-MD mode, the transfer authorization of the tracks are restored automatically when you insert the disc into the recorder and then connect the recorder to the computer.
4 Press the jog lever to erase the group. The group is erased. On the recorder To erase the whole disc You can quickly erase all the tracks and data of the disc 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 before you erase it. In case of a Hi-MD disc or standard disc in Hi-MD mode, only audio data is erased. Other data such as text or image data will not be erased.
To erase the whole disc 1 2 3 4 Dividing a track (Divide) Play the disc you want to erase to check the contents. Press x. Enter the menu and select “Edit” “Erase” - “AllErase”. “ALL TRACK Erase OK?” and “PUSH YES:ENTER NO:CANCEL” appear in the display. If the disc contains tracks that have been transferred from the computer, “TrkFromPC Erase OK?” appears in the display. Press NENT to erase the whole disc. “SYSTEM FILE WRITING” appears in the display, and all the tracks will be erased.
Dividing a track directly 2 While playing or pausing, 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. Adjusting the dividing point before dividing a track (Divide Rehearsal) 1 While playing, press T MARK for 2 seconds or more. Four seconds of the track from the point T MARK is pressed is played back repeatedly. Press the 5-way control key towards . or > to adjust the point to divide.
Combining tracks (Combine) 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. This operation can be done on the recorder only. 2 3 Find the track mark by pressing the 5way control key towards . slightly. For example, to erase the third track mark, find the beginning of the third track. “00:00” appears in the display.
Formatting the disc (Format) DISPLAY When using a disc in Hi-MD mode, you can use the Format function to restore a disc to the condition it was in at the time of purchase. You can use this function only when using a disc in Hi-MD mode. Disc type After disc formatting 1GB Hi-MD disc “NO TRACK” appears. All data including non-audio data will be erased.
Other operations Changing the displayed menu items (Menu Mode) You can specify the display of all items in the menu (Advanced mode) or only basic items (Simple mode). Refer to “List of menus” (page 29) to check the menu items that cannot be displayed. Protecting your hearing (AVLS) The AVLS (Automatic Volume Limiter System) function keeps down the maximum volume to protect your ears. DISPLAY DISPLAY Jog lever 1 Jog lever 1 2 2 Enter the menu and select “Option” “Menu Mode”.
2 Turn the jog dial until “AVLS On” appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection. 2 Turn the jog dial until “Beep Off” appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection. Turning off the beep sound Turning on/off the backlight You can turn off/on the beep sound on the recorder and the remote control. The backlight of the display window of the remote control can be set to remain on or off.
z Storing the settings for individual discs (Disc Memory) The recorder is factory set to automatically store settings for each disc. The recorder automatically stores the settings for a disc and retrieves them whenever the disc is inserted. The following setting can be stored: • Program play • Bookmark • “Custom1” and “Custom2” settings of 6-Band Equalizer You can check the setting as follows.
Starting the playback quickly (Quick Mode) On the recorder Jog dial NAVI/MENU The recorder is factory set to quickly start playback after the playback button is pressed. You can check the setting as follows. DISPLAY 5-way control key (NENT) 1 Jog lever 1 2 While the recorder is stopped or playing, enter the menu and select “Option” - “QuickMode”. 2 Enter the menu and select “Option” “QuickMode”. Turn the jog dial until “Quick On” appears in the display, and then press NENT to enter the selection.
Selecting the disc mode (Disc Mode) On the recorder Jog dial When you insert a 60/74/80-minute standard disc (blank) into the recorder, you can use this function to specify use of the disc in Hi-MD mode or MD mode. If you want to use the disc recorded on this unit on another component that does not support Hi-MD, record the disc with “Disc Mode” in the menu set to “MD”. DISPLAY 5-way control key (NENT) 1 2 Jog lever 1 2 Enter the menu and select “Option” “Disc Mode”.
Adjusting the contrast of the display window (Contrast Adjustment) Changing the operational direction of the display You can adjust the contrast of the display window on the recorder. This function can be set with the recorder only. When you turn the jog dial clockwise, the display scrolls downward. This is the factory setting. You can change the factory setting to scroll in the opposite direction. This function can be set with the recorder only.
Using the recorder with a computer What you can do through connection with a computer Connecting the recorder to your computer To use the recorder connected to a computer, you must install the software from the supplied CD-ROM. For details on the installation procedure, refer to the “Software Operation” section. When you connect the dedicated USB cable directly to the USB connecting jack on the recorder, power (bus power) is supplied from the USB port of the computer.
When you unplug the dedicated USB cable from the computer or remove the disc from the recorder Be sure to remove the recorder or the disc as follows. If not, damage to the data may occur. Computer To the USB port Dedicated USB cable 1 2 3 To the USB cable connecting jack Make sure that “REC” is not displayed in the display window. Press x on the recorder. “EJECT DISC OK” appears in the display. Depending on the conditions, it may take some time until “EJECT DISC OK” appears in the display.
• We do not ensure trouble-free operation on all computers that satisfy the system requirements. Storing non-audio data to a disc If you connect the recorder to a computer with a disc in Hi-MD mode inserted, the disc is recognized as storage media by the Windows Explorer, allowing you to store non-audio data such as text data or image data. For the storage space for each disc, refer to the next page.
The storage space for each disc (formatted with the recorder/the SonicStage software) Disc type Total size Disc management space1) Free space 60-minute standard disc 219 MB (229,965,824 bytes) 832 KB (851,968 bytes) 218 MB (229,113,856 bytes) 74-minute standard disc 270 MB (283,312,128 bytes) 832 KB (851,968 bytes) 269 MB (282,460,160 bytes) 80-minute standard disc 291 MB (305,856,512 bytes) 832 KB (851,968 bytes) 290 MB (305,004,544 bytes) Hi-MD disc 964 MB (1,011,613,696 bytes) 832 KB (8
Additional information • Never wrap the recorder in anything when it is Precautions On safety Do not put any foreign objects in the DC IN 3V jack. being used with the AC power adaptor. Heat build-up in the recorder may cause malfunction or damage. On the headphones/earphones Road safety On power sources • Use house current, nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery, or LR6 (size AA) battery.
• Because of the battery’s characteristics, the On batteries capacity of the rechargeable battery may be smaller than normal when it is used for the first time or after a long period of disuse. In this case, charge and discharge the battery several times. The normal battery life will be restored. • If the capacity of the rechargeable battery drops to half the normal amount, replace with the new one.
On maintenance Clean the terminals periodically with a cotton swab or a soft cloth as illustrated. Specifications Audio playing system MiniDisc digital audio system Laser diode properties Material: GaAlAs Wavelength: λ = 790 nm Emission duration: continuous Laser output: less than 44.6 µW (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.
Inputs1) Optional accessories MIC: stereo mini-jack (minimum input level 0.
Troubleshooting and explanations Troubleshooting If a problem occurs during recorder operation, follow the steps described below before consulting the nearest Sony dealer. If any messages appear, it is recommended to take notes. 1 2 Check to see if the problem is listed in, “Troubleshooting” (page 88). Check “Messages” (page 96) for the problem as well. If after step 1 you still cannot solve the problem, consult your nearest Sony dealer.
While recording Symptom Cause/Remedy “NotENOUGH POWER TO REC” appears and recording cannot be done on a 1GB Hi-MD disc. • Recording is not possible when using a 1GB Hi-MD disc even when the battery level indication shows enough power remaining while the recorder is stopped or playing. This is because of a mechanism that disables recording when the remaining battery power is estimated by the recorder to be insufficient due to the high power consumption required for 1GB Hi-MD disc recording.
Symptom Cause/Remedy Stereo sound is heard • This is normal. During digital recording, the sound will be stereo in in the headphones/ the headphones/earphones, even though the recorded sound is earphones while monaural. recording in monaural. Momentary noise is heard when recording. • Due to the special digital audio compression technology used in LP4 stereo mode, momentary noise may occur on very rare occasions with certain sound sources. , Record in SP or LP2 mode.
While playing Symptom Cause/Remedy A disc is not played normally. • Repeat play is selected. , Press P-MODE/ to change back to the normal play (page 45). • Playback mode is changed. , Enter the Main play mode or Sub play mode to change back to the normal play (page 45). A disc is not played from the first track. • Disc playing stopped before it came to the last track. , Press the jog lever (NX/ENT) on the remote control or press the 5-way control key (NENT) for 2 seconds or more to start playing.
Symptom Cause/Remedy The recorder skips to • You pressed GROUP before pressing the 5-way control key towards . or >. the next or previous , The recorder returns to normal if no operation is made for 5 group (or skips several seconds. tracks ahead or behind) when you press the 5-way control key towards . or >. The edited tracks may exhibit sound dropout during search operations. • This occurs due to the MiniDisc system limitation.
Symptom Cause/Remedy Tracks cannot be combined. • This is due to the MiniDisc system limitations. When the tracks are scattered and the length of each track is short*, you may not be able to combine the tracks. * Combining tracks of the following lengths may not be possible.
Symptom Cause/Remedy Even though the recorder is recognized by the computer, it does not operate normally. • A USB hub is used. , Connect the dedicated USB cable directly to the USB port of the computer. • You are using the recorder at a place with vibration. , Use the recorder at a place with no vibration. The recorder cannot • The SonicStage or MD Simple Burner software is active. be used as a storage , Close the SonicStage or MD Simple Burner software. device. • A standard disc is inserted.
Symptom Cause/Remedy The recorder does not work or works poorly. • No disc is inserted. , Insert a recorded disc. • The HOLD function is turned on (“HOLD” appears in the display when you press an operation button on the recorder). , On the recorder, disable HOLD by sliding the HOLD switch to the opposite direction of the arrow (pages 14, 18). • The lid is not firmly closed. , Close the lid until it clicks. Then slide OPEN to open the lid. • Moisture has condensed inside the recorder.
Messages If the following messages flash in the display window on the recorder, check the chart below. Message Meaning/Remedy AVLS NO VOLUME OPERATION • AVLS is set to “AVLS On” and so the volume cannot rise higher. , Set AVLS to “AVLS Off” (page 74). BLANKDISC • A disc with no recording on it is inserted. BUSY WAIT A MOMENT • The recorder is accessing disc information. • You tried to operate the recorder while it was accessing the recorded data.
Message Meaning/Remedy DC IN TOO HIGH • Voltage of the power supply is too high (The supplied AC power adaptor or the recommended car battery cord is not used). , Use the supplied AC power adaptor or the recommended car battery cord. DISC FULL • The remaining recording time on the disc is 12 seconds (SP stereo), 24 seconds (LP2 stereo or monaural), 36 seconds (LP4 stereo), or less. , Replace the disc.
Message Meaning/Remedy NO DIGITAL COPY • 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 37). NO DISC • You tried to play or record with no disc in the recorder. , Insert an MD. NO DISC MEMORY • You tried to erase a setting in the Disc Memory on a disc that contains no settings in the Disc Memory (page 76).
Message Meaning/Remedy PC – –MD • The recorder is connected to the computer. PROTECTED DISC • You tried to record or edit on a disc with the tab in the record-protect position. , Slide the tab back (page 85). PUSH STOP BUTTON • You tried to open the lid by sliding the OPEN switch while the recorder was storing disc information with the dedicated USB cable connecting the recorder to a computer. , Operation must be done only after pressing x and “SYSTEM FILE WRITING” has disappeared from the display.
Explanations About Hi-MD “Hi-MD” is a new MiniDisc format. Incorporating the new ATRAC3plus audio compression technology, Hi-MD is a new recording format that delivers longer recording times than ordinary MDs. Hi-MD discs can also be used as a computer storage medium for non-audio data such as text and images. For more details on Hi-MD, refer to the supplied flyer “What you can do with the Hi-MD Walkman”. About ATRAC3plus ATRAC3plus is an enhanced version of ATRAC3.
List of the recording time for each disc When using a disc in Hi-MD mode Recording time1) When recording on the recorder Recording Codec/ mode on Bit rate the recorder 1GB Hi-MD disc 80-minute standard disc 74-minute standard disc 60-minute standard disc PCM Linear PCM/ 1.
When using a disc in MD mode Recording time1) When recording on the recorder Recording mode on the recorder Codec/ Bit rate 80-minute standard disc 74-minute 60-minute standard disc standard disc SP ATRAC/292kbps 80 minutes 74 minutes 60 minutes LP2 ATRAC3/ 132kbps 2 hours and 40 minutes 2 hours and 28 minutes 2 hours LP4 ATRAC3/66kbps 5 hours and 20 minutes 4 hours and 56 minutes 4 hours MONO (monaural) Monaural 2 hours and 40 minutes 2 hours and 28 minutes 2 hours Recording time1)
Note on digital recording This recorder uses the Serial Copy Management System, which allows only first-generation digital copies to be made from premastered software. You can only make copies from a home-recorded disc by using the analog (line out) connections. Premastered software such as CDs or MDs. Microphone, record player, tuner, etc. (with analog output jacks).
Difference between digital (optical) and analog (line) inputs The input jack of this recorder works as both digital and analog input jacks. Connect the recorder to a CD player or a cassette recorder using either digital (optical) input or analog (line) input. To record, see “Recording a disc right away!” (page 21) to record using digital (optical) input, and “Recording from a TV or radio (Analog Recording)” (page 37) to record using analog (line) input.
What you can do with MD Simple Burner/SonicStage What you can do with MD Simple Burner MD Simple Burner allows you to record music tracks from an audio CD in the CD drive of your computer to an MD Walkman, without first recording the music tracks to the computer. MD Walkman Audio CD What you can do with SonicStage SonicStage allows you to import audio data to your computer from music sources such as audio CDs and the Internet, and then transfer the audio data stored in your computer to an MD.
Basic operational flow using an MD Walkman MD Simple Burner SonicStage Providing the required system environment (page 108) Installing the software onto your computer (page 109) Recording music tracks from an audio CD in the CD drive of your computer (page 111) Importing audio data to your computer (page 115) Connecting an MD walkman to your computer (see “Recorder Operation”) Software Operation Connecting an MD walkman to your computer (see “Recorder Operation”) Transferring audio data from your c
Installing Providing the required system environment System requirements The following system environment is required in order to use the SonicStage/MD Simple Burner software for the MD Walkman. Computer IBM PC/AT or Compatible • CPU: Pentium II 400 MHz or higher (Pentium III 450 MHz or higher is recommended.) • Hard disk drive space: 200 MB or more (1.5 GB or more is recommended) (The amount space will vary according to Windows version and the number of music files stored on the hard disk.
Installing the software onto your computer Before installing the software • Make sure to close any virus-check software, as such software usually demands a large amount of system resources. • When you use the MD Walkman, make sure to install the software with the supplied CDROM. — If OpenMG Jukebox, SonicStage or Net MD Simple Burner is installed already, the previous software will be overwritten by the new version. The new version retains the functions of the older version, but with new functions added.
3 Click [Install SonicStage and MD Simple Burner] and then follow the displayed instructions. Click [Install SonicStage and MD Simple Burner] Read the instructions carefully. Depending on your region, the buttons other than [Install SonicStage and MD Simple Burner] may differ from those in the illustration above. The installation may take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your system environment. Make sure to restart your computer only after the installation is completed.
Using MD Simple Burner Before using MD Simple Burner MD Simple Burner allows you to record music tracks from an audio CD in the CD drive of your computer to the MD Walkman. There are two ways to record from an audio CD. • Simple mode (page 112) You can use MD Walkman operations to record an entire CD or only the first track without launching MD Simple Burner. • Standard mode (page 113) You can launch MD Simple Burner to record using computer operations. Record an entire CD or selected tracks.
Recording using MD Walkman operations (Simple mode) 1 Insert a recordable disc into the MD Walkman and then connect the MD Walkman to the computer. For details about connections, see the “Recorder Operation” section. Do not disconnect the power source or the dedicated USB cable before the transfer has completed. 2 Insert the audio CD that you want to record into the CD drive of your computer. The CDDB registration window appears when you use the CDDB for the first time.
Recording by computer operations (Standard mode) To start MD Simple Burner, click [Start] – [All Programs]* – [MD Simple Burner] – [MD Simple Burner]. ∗ [Programs] in the case of Windows 2000 Professional/Windows Millennium Edition/Windows 98 Second Edition z There are other ways to start up MD Simple Burner as follows: • Double-click the MD Simple Burner icon in the task tray, or right-click and select [Show Standard Mode]. • Double-click the MD Simple Burner shortcut icon on the desktop.
The window for recording selected tracks from an audio CD Track information (CD) Artist name [CONFIG] Click here to do the following: -Set the CD-ROM drive -View version information for MD Simple Burner -Confirm CD information registered in the CDDB Total time of the selected tracks of CD Album Title [Get CD info] Information of an audio CD (album name, track title, etc.) will be reflected in the track list.
Using SonicStage Importing audio data This section explains how to record and store audio data from an audio CD to My Library of SonicStage on the hard disk drive of your computer. You can record or import music from other sources such as the Internet and your computer’s hard disk. Refer to SonicStage Help for details. Notes • Only audio CDs with a mark can be used with SonicStage. • We do not guarantee normal operation in the case of the copy-controlled CDs.
4 If necessary, click to uncheck tracks you do not want to record. If you unchecked a box by mistake, click it again to restore the check. To check all boxes, click . To uncheck all boxes, click . 5 If necessary, change the format and bit rate for audio CD recording. When you click [Format/Bit Rate] on the right side of the screen, “CD Recording Format [My library]” dialog box will appear. The dialog box will ask you to select the format and bit rate for recording the audio CD. 6 Click .
Transferring audio data from your computer to the MD Walkman Audio data stored in My Library of SonicStage can be transferred to your MD Walkman an infinite number of times. Transfer Destination list [Transfer] The My Library list [Transfer Mode] 1 Connect your MD Walkman to the computer. After making the connections, “Hi-MD” or “Net MD” is displayed in the Transfer Destination list in the upper right of the screen. For details about connections, see “Recorder Operation”.
4 If necessary, change the transfer mode. As the default setting, tracks in the OpenMG (LPCM/ATRAC3/ATRAC3plus) format will be transferred in the same format and bit rate (normal transfer). If the device connected to the computer does not support the above format, the format and bit rate will be converted to those of the device. In some case, this process may take time.
Transferring back audio data from the MD Walkman to your computer Transfer Destination list [Transfer] The My Library list List of tracks on the MD Transferring from the MD Walkman back to your computer Audio data that has been transferred from your computer and stored on the MD can be transferred back to My Library of SonicStage on your computer. 1 Connect your MD Walkman to the computer. For details about connections, see “Recorder Operation”.
To stop transferring Click . Note Tracks transferred to the MD Walkman from another computer cannot be transferred back to My Library on your computer. Importing tracks recorded on a Hi-MD Walkman* to your computer Tracks that have been recorded on a Hi-MD Walkman* can be imported to My Library of SonicStage on your computer only once. ∗ Only tracks recorded in Hi-MD mode 1 Insert recordable disc into the Hi-MD Walkman and connect the device to your computer.
To stop importing Click . Note Notes • You cannot import tracks that were recorded in a Net MD mode to your computer, or tracks that have been recorded on a device that does not support Hi-MD mode. • Before importing tracks recorded on the Hi-MD Walkman to the computer, click [Properties] on the right side of the screen to confirm the status of the [Import Settings] check box (it is checked by default).
Using SonicStage Help SonicStage Help provides further details on how to use SonicStage. SonicStage Help allows you to search easily for information from a list of operations, such as “Importing audio data” or “Transferring audio data”, or from large list of keywords, or by typing in words that might lead you to the appropriate explanations. To display SonicStage Help Click [Help] – [SonicStage Help] while SonicStage is running.
Understanding SonicStage Help The right side frame The left side frame 1 Double click [Overview] in the left-side frame. 2 Click [About This Help File]. The explanation will appear in the right-side frame. 3 Read the text. Scroll the display if necessary. Click underlined words to jump to their explanations.
Referring to SonicStage Help Click [Contents] on the left side of the Help window to view a list of items for each operation. Click on any items for details.
Backing up audio data We recommend that you back up your music data as a precaution against hard disk crashes or computer replacement.
Other information Uninstalling SonicStage/MD Simple Burner To uninstall SonicStage/MD Simple Burner, follow the procedures below. 1 Click [Start]–[Control Panel]*. ∗ [Settings]–[Control Panel] in the case of Windows 2000 Professional/Windows Millennium Edition/Windows 98 Second Edition 2 Double-click [Add/Remove Programs]. 3 Click [SonicStage 2.x.xx] or [MD Simple Burner 2.0.xx] in the “Currently Installed Programs” list, and then click [Change and Remove]*.
On copyright protection The OpenMG technology allows you to enjoy digital music, while maintaining the copyrights of its holders. SonicStage encrypts audio files in OpenMG format and stores them on the hard disk of your computer to prevent unauthorized distribution. Restrictions on audio content High-quality digital audio content is widely available through music distribution services on the Internet.
Troubleshooting Please refer to the following steps if you encounter a problem while using SonicStage/MD Simple Burner. 1 Check the symptoms in this “Troubleshooting” section. 2 Check the symptoms in SonicStage Help when you use SonicStage. 3 If the problem cannot be solved after checking the above references. Check the following table and then consult your nearest Sony dealer.
The software cannot be installed onto your computer Problem Cause/Remedy The installation was not successful. You are using an OS that does not support this software. tSee page 108 for more details. All windows applications are not closed. tIf you start the installation while other programs are running, a malfunction may occur. This is especially true for programs that require large amounts of system resources, such as virus-check software. There is not enough hard disk space on your hard disk.
Using a MD Walkman connected to the computer Problem Cause/Remedy Your computer does not recognize the MD Walkman. The MD Walkman is not firmly connected with the supplied dedicated USB cable to the computer. tReconnect the MD Walkman to the computer firmly. tRemove and reconnect the MD Walkman. If the computer still does not recognize the MD Walkman, disconnect the cable, restart the computer, and then make the connection again. A disc is not inserted in the MD Walkman.
Index Numerics E 6-Band Equalizer 53 EMD service 108 Erasing a whole disc 69 groups 68 tracks 68 A Accessories optional 87 supplied 12 ATRAC3plus 100 AVLS 74 F Format 73 B G Backlight 75 Battery battery life 20 dry battery 18 rechargeable battery 17 BEEP 75 Bookmark add 46, 50 play 46, 50 G-PROTECTION 103 Group erasing 68 moving 66 recording 40 releasing 64 setting 62 C CD drive 108 CDDB 108, 112 CD-ROM 109 Charging 17 Checking playing position 43 remaining time 33, 43 Cleaning 85 Combining track
P W Play mode Main Play Mode 45, 48 Repeat Play 47, 51 Sub Play Mode 47, 51 Windows 2000 Professional 108, 113, Q Quick mode 77 R Recording adding track marks 39 analog 37 digital 21 from microphone 35 level 36, 38 mode (Hi-MD/MDLP) 37 Recording mode 112 Recording mode (Bit rate) 116, 120 Relabeling 60 S Search 52 Simple Mode 112 SonicStage 115 SonicStage Help 122 Speed Control 56 Start (software) MD Simple Burner 113 SonicStage 115 Synchro-recording 42 System environment 108 System limitations 108
This warranty is valid only in Canada.
This warranty is valid only in the United States.