3-249-510-13(1)
Portable
MiniDisc Recorder
Operating Instructions
“WALKMAN” is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation to
represent Headphone Stereo products.
trademark of Sony Corporation.
is a
MZ-N510
© 2002 Sony Corporation
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.
• In the event a problem occurs with this
software as a result of defective
manufacturing, SONY will replace it.
However, SONY bears no other
responsibility.
• The software provided with this
recorder cannot be used with equipment
other than that which is so designated.
• Please note that, due to continued efforts
to improve quality, the software
specifications may be changed without
notice.
• Operation of this recorder with software
other than that provided is not covered
by the warranty.
Program © 2001, 2002 Sony Corporation
Documentation © 2002 Sony Corporation
3
Table of contents
Recorder Operations
(Synchro-recording) ........................................................................24
4
6
Software Operation
Transferring audio data from your computer to the
Listening to an MD .............................................................................. 83
computer ......................................................................... 83
Listening to an MD with the Net MD disconnected from the
Using other functions! .......................................................................... 84
7
For users with OpenMG Jukebox, SonicStage, or SonicStage
For Windows Millennium Edition/Windows 98 Second Edition
8
9
Before using this product
This manual explains the recorder operations and the installation and basic use of the
supplied SonicStage software. For details on the various operations, refer to the pages
indicated below.
When using the recorder
Recorder Operation (pages 11 to 67)
3-249-510-11(1)
an ordinary MiniDisc Walkman.
Portable
MiniDisc Recorder
Operating Instructions
page 11
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Recorder Operation_
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page 68
Software Operation
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Troubleshooting and explanations (page 57)
This section shows the troubles you may find while using the
recorder, and their solutions.
“WALKMAN” is
a
registered trademark of Sony Corporation to
represent Headphone Stereo products.
trademark of Sony Corporation.
is
a
MZ-N510
©2002 Sony Corporation
When using the Net MD (the recorder) connected to your
computer
SonicStage software. Refer to these pages for details.
Other information (page 86)
This section shows the troubles you may find while using the SonicStage software, and
their solutions. It also has the list of frequently asked questions and answers.
SonicStage Ver. 1.5 Help
This is an online help that you can view on your computer
screen.
Refer to online help for details on the use of the software. To
Notes on the “Software Operation” section
• The displayed items in the illustrations that appear in this section may differ from the actual items
displayed by the software.
• Explanations in this section assume familiarity with basic Windows operations. For details on the use
of your computer and the operating system, please refer to the respective manuals.
• Explanations in this section cover general Net MD products. For this reason, some explanations (and
some illustrations) may not be applicable to your Net MD. Please refer to the operating instructions of
your Net MD as well.
10
Checking the supplied accessories
Headphones/earphones with
a remote control (1)
AC power adaptor (1)
NH-7WMAA Nickel metal
hydride rechargeable
battery (1)
Dedicated USB cable (1)
Optical cable (1)
Battery carrying case (1)
Carrying case with a belt clip (1) (European model only)
∗Do not play a CD-ROM on an audio CD player.
11
Looking at controls
The recorder
A Display window
B GROUP button
C X (pause) button
D END SEARCH button
E MENU button
I REC (record) • T MARK button
J USB connecting jack
K Handstrap hole
Use the hole to attach your own strap.
L Battery compartment (at the bottom)
M LINE IN (OPTICAL) jack
F OPEN button
N HOLD switch
G VOL +*, – button
To prevent the buttons from being
accidentally operated when you carry
the recorder, use this function.
* VOL + has a tactile dot.
H 4-way control key
ENTER • N*
O i (headphones/earphones) jack
.,> (search/AMS)
x • CANCEL/CHG (stop/cancel/
charge)
P DC IN 3V jack
* N has a tactile dot.
12
The display window of the recorder
8
1
2
3 4 5 6
7
SOUND
.
L P 2 4 1 2
9
q;
qa
qs
I Battery indication
qd
A MONO (monaural) indication
B LP mode indication
C Sound indications
Shows approximate battery condition.
J
: Indication for remaining playing
time of the current track or of the disc
: Indication for remaining
D Disc indication
Shows that the disc is rotating for
recording or playing an MD.
recordable time of the disc
K Time display
E Level meter
L Character information display
Displays the disc and track names,
error messages, track numbers, etc.
Shows the volume of the MD being
played or recorded.
F Disc name/track name indication
Lights up when labeling a disc or a
track.
M Play mode indications
Shows the play mode (shuffle play,
repeat play, group play, bookmark
play, etc.) of the MD.
G SYNC (synchro-recording) indication
H REC indication
Lights up while recording. When
flashing, the recorder is in record
standby mode.
13
The headphones/earphones with a remote control
4
5
1
6
2
7
3
8
A Clip
D Headphones/earphones
Can be replaced with optional
headphones/earphones.
B HOLD switch
To prevent the buttons from being
accidentally operated when you carry
the recorder, use this function.
E Volume Control (VOL+, –)
Turn to adjust the volume.
C
(group) +, – button
F NX* (to press): play, pause
∗ NX has a tactile dot.
G x (stop) button
H ., > (search/AMS) button
14
Getting started
Charge the rechargeable battery before using. Even if the rechargeable
battery is not charged, you can use the recorder as long as the AC
power adaptor is connected.
1
Insert the rechargeable battery
Insert the NH-7WMAA
rechargeable battery minus
end first.
Slide OPEN to open the
battery compartment lid.
Close the lid.
E
e
Using the dry battery
Insert one LR6 (size AA) alkaline dry battery (not supplied) instead of the rechargeable
battery.
continued
15
2
Charge the rechargeable battery.
to a wall
outlet
AC power adaptor
to DC IN 3V
4-way control key
(x • CANCEL/CHG)
1Connect the AC power adaptor to DC IN 3V.
2Press x • CANCEL/CHG while the recorder is stopped.
“Charge” flashes, e appears in the display, and charging starts. When charging
is completed, the battery indication disappears.
Full charging of a completely discharged rechargeable battery takes about 2
hours.
3Disconnect the AC power adaptor.
For models supplied with the AC plug adaptor
If the AC power adaptor does not fit the wall outlet, use the AC plug adaptor.
Note
Charge the battery at a temperature of +5°C (+41°F) to +40°C (+104°F). The charging time may vary,
depending on the surrounding temperature.
16
3
Make connections and unlock the
controls.
1Connect the headphones/earphones 2Slide HOLD to the opposite direction of
with the remote control to i.
the arrow (.) to unlock the controls.
Connect firmly
HOLD
To i
Connect firmly
Battery life
For details, refer to “Battery life” (page 53)
When recording
(Unit: Approx. hours)
Batteries
SP
Stereo
LP2
Stereo
LP4
Stereo
NH-7WMAA nickel metal hydride
rechargeable battery
6
9
10
LR6 (SG)
10
14
18.5
Sony alkaline dry battery
When playing
(Unit: Approx. hours)
Batteries
SP
Stereo
LP2
Stereo
LP4
Stereo
NH-7WMAA nickel metal
hydride rechargeable battery
15
42
16
48
20
56
LR6 (SG)
Sony alkaline dry battery
17
Recording an MD 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. For other recording operations, see
1
Insert an MD.
1Press OPEN to open the lid.
2Insert an MD with the label side facing
front, and press the lid down to close.
Make sure to
check the
record-protect
tab is closed.
18
2
Make connections. (Insert the cables
firmly and completely into the appropriate jacks.)
Portable
CD player,
etc.
CD player, MD
player, DVD
to a
wall
video player, etc.
outlet
to a digital (optical) out jack
Optical mini-plug
AC power
adaptor
Optical plug
Optical cable*
to DC IN 3V
to LINE IN (OPTICAL)
3
Record an MD.
1Set the sound source you want to record
to pause.
END SEARCH
MENU
2While the recorder is stopped, hold
down REC • T MARK and press N.
The recorder starts recording.
REC • T MARK
3Play the source you want to record.
Track marks are automatically added at
the same point as the sound source.
To stop recording, press x.
4-way control key
N, ., >, x
Note
If you record on a previously recorded disc, the recorder is factory set to overwrite the entire contents of
the disc. If you want the recording to start after the existing contents, do the procedure “Recording
19
To
Press
Record from the end of the Press END SEARCH, press N while holding down REC •
current contents1)
Record over partway
through the previous
recording1)
Press N or press . or > to find the start point of
recording, and then press x to stop.
Press N while holding down REC • T MARK.
Pause
Press X2).
Press X again to resume recording.
Remove the MD
Press x and open the lid.3) (The lid does not open while
“TOC Edit” flashing in the display.)
1) If “R-Posi” is set to “Fr End”, recording operations will always start from the end of the previously
2) A track mark is added at the point where you press X again to resume recording while pausing; thus
the remainder of the track will be counted as a new track.
3) If you open the lid while “R-Posi” is set to “FrHere”, recording will begin from the top of the disc the
next time you record. Check the point to start recording on the display.
• Note the following when recording from a
portable CD player:
If the recording does not start
• Make sure the recorder is not locked (pages
• Make sure the MD is not record-protected
• Premastered MDs cannot be recorded over.
—Some portable CD players may not be
capable of digital out when the AC power
adaptor is disconnected. If this is the case,
connect the AC power adaptor to the
portable CD player and use it on AC power
as the power source.
Notes
—On some portable CD players, optical
output may not be possible when using an
anti-skip function (e.g., ESP* or G-
PROTECTION). If this is the case, turn off
the anti-skip function.
• Do not change the rechargeable battery during
operation even if the recorder is connected to
AC power adaptor. The operation may stop.
• “Edit” flashes while data of the recording (the
track’s start and end points, etc.) is being
recorded. Do not move the recorder or
∗ Electronic Shock Protection
disconnect the power source while the
indication is flashing in the display.
z
• If the power supply is disrupted (i.e. the
battery is removed or becomes exhausted or
the AC power adaptor is disconnected) during
a recording or editing operation, or while
“Edit” appears in the display, it will not be
possible to open the lid until power is restored.
• The recording level is adjusted automatically.
• You can monitor the sound during recording.
Connect the headphones/earphones with
remote control to i and adjust the volume by
turning towards VOL + or – (pressing VOL +
or – on the recorder). This does not affect the
recording level.
20
Playing an MD right away!
1
Insert an MD.
1Press OPEN to open the lid.
2Insert an MD with the label side facing
front, and press the lid down to close.
2
Play an MD.
1Press N on the recorder.
(Press NX on the remote control.)
4-way control key
(N, ., >, x)
A short beep sounds in the headphones/
earphones.
VOL+, –
2Press VOL + or – to adjust the volume
on the recorder.
X
(Turn the volume control towards VOL +
or – on the remote control.)
The volume will be shown in the
display.
To stop play, press x.
Volume
Control
A long beep sounds in the headphones/
earphones when you operate. After you stop the
recorder, the recorder will automatically turn
off in about 10 seconds (when using battery) or
about 3 minutes (when using an AC power
adaptor).
NX
x
., >
Playback starts from the point you last stopped
playing.
To start with the first track of the disc, press N
on the recorder or NX on the remote control
for 2 seconds or more.
21
To
Operation on the
recorder
Operation on the remote
control
Pause
Press X. Press X again to
resume play.
Press NX.
Press NX again to resume
play.
Cue to the current
track or the previous
track
Press ..
Press . repeatedly.
Press ..
Press . repeatedly.
Cue to the next track
Press >.
Press >.
Go backwards or
forward while playing
Press and hold . or >. Press and hold . or >.
Search for a specific
Press and hold . or >
Press and hold . or >
while pausing.
position while viewing while pausing.
a elapsed time
(Time Search)
Search for a specific
track while viewing
track numbers
Press and hold . or >
Press and hold . or >
while the recorder is stopped. while the recorder is stopped.
(Index Search)
Cue to the beginning
of the every 10th track
(only during playback
of the disc with no
group settings1))
—
Press
+ or – button
Remove the MD
Press x and open the lid.2)
Press x and open the lid.
2) Once you open the lid, the point to start play will change to the beginning of the first track.
If the play does not start
17).
Note
The playback sound may skip if:
• the recorder receives stronger continuous
shock.
• a dirty or scratched MD is played.
22
Various ways of recording
Display: A/B
Viewing various
information
You can check the remaining time, track
number, etc. when recording or during
stop. Group-related items appear only
when a track with group settings is played
and then stopped.
B
(selected
item)
A
B(After a
few
seconds)
—
LapTim
Elapsed time Track
number
RecRem
Remaining
time for
Track
number
recording
GP Rem
Remaining
time after
the current
track in a
group
Group
name
MENU
AllRem
Remaining
time after
the current
location
Disc name
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >)
Note
Depending on whether the group function is
used or not, the operating conditions, and the
disc settings, you may not be able to select
certain indications or the indications may
appear different.
1 Press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“DISP” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
z
For more details about the indications in the
display while playing, see “Viewing various
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
the information you want appears in
the display, and then press ENTER.
Each turn changes the display as
follows:
LapTim t RecRem t
GP Rem t AllRem
Display window on the recorder
A
B
When you press ENTER, Aand B
appear in the display.
23
6 Press N while pressing REC •
To start/stop recording
in sync with the sound
source
T MARK.
7 TPlhaeyrtehceosrdoeurrcsetaynodus wbyanfot rtorerceocrodridn.g.
(Synchro-recording)
The recorder stars recording
automatically when it receives the
playing sound. “REC” light up in the
display.
During synchro-recording, the recorder
starts and stops recording in sync with the
sound source. When recording from
digital equipment (such as a CD player),
you can omit operating both the recorder
and the sound source, and easily make
digital recording. You can make synchro-
recording only when the optical cable is
connected.
To stop recording
Press x.
z
When there is no sound from the player for
about 3 seconds during synchro-recording, 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.
MENU
REC • T MARK
Notes
• The pause function cannot be turned on or off
manually during synchro-recording. Press x
to stop recording.
• Do not switch the “SYNC-R” setting while
recording. Recording may not be done
properly.
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
• Even when there is no 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.
1 Make connections.
Use the appropriate optical cable to
suit the source equipment. Connect
the cable firmly to the appropriate
• If a silent portion is encountered for
approximately 2 seconds during synchro-
recording from a sound source other than a
CD or an MD, a new track mark is
automatically added at the point where the
silent portion ends.
2 jWachkisle. the recorder is stopped, press
MENU.
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
“R-SET” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
4 Press . or > repeatedly until
“SYNC-R” appears in the display,
and then press ENTER.
5 Press . or > repeatedly until
“ON” appears in the display, and then
press ENTER.
24
4 Press . or > repeatedly to
select the desired recording mode,
and then press ENTER.
Long-time recording
(MDLP)
Recording Display
Recording
time3)
Select each recording mode according to
the recording time that you want.
Stereo recording is possible at 2 times
(LP2) or 4 times (LP4) the normal
(stereo) recording time. Monaural
recording at 2 times normal recording
time is also possible.
MDs recorded in monaural, LP2, or
LP4 mode can be played back only
on MD players or recorders with
monaural, LP2, or LP4 playback
mode.
mode1)
window
on the
recorder
SP stereo
SP
Approx. 80
min.
LP2 stereo LP2
LP4 stereo LP4
Monaural2) MONO
Approx.160
min.
Approx.320
min.
Approx.160
min.
1) For better sound quality, record in normal
stereo (stereo) or LP2 stereo mode.
MENU
2) If you record a stereo source in monaural, the
sounds from left and right will be mixed.
3) When using an 80-minute recordable MD
REC • T MARK
5 Press N while pressing REC •
T MARK.
6 TPlhaeyrtehceosrdoiunrgcestyaortus.want to record.
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
To stop recording
Press x.
The recorder keeps the setting of the
recording mode when you record the next
time.
1 Press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“R-SET” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
z
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
“R-MODE” appears in the display,
and then press ENTER.
Audio components that support the LP2 stereo
or LP4 stereo modes are indicated by the
or
logo marks.
continued
25
Notes
1 Make connections.
• It is recommended that you use the AC power
adaptor for long recordings.
Use the appropriate connecting cord
to suit the source equipment*. When
connecting the cable, make sure to
insert the connectors firmly.
• When you record in LP4 mode, momentary
noise may be produced on very rare occasions
with certain sound sources. This is because of
the special digital audio compression
technology that enables a recording time 4
times longer than normal. If noise is produced,
it is recommended that you record in normal
stereo or LP2 mode to obtain better sound
quality.
2 Press N while pressing REC •
T MARK.
3 TPlhaeyrtehceosrdoiunrgcestyaortus.want to record.
Recording from a TV or
a radio (Analog
Recording)
This section explains how to record from
an analog equipment such as a cassette
recorder, a radio, or TV.
Adding track marks
while recording
You can add track marks (track number)
while recording.
MENU
X
TV, Cassette
recorder, etc.
T MARK
to LINE OUT jacks, etc.
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
R (red)
L
(white)
Adding track marks manually
Line cable
RK-G129/G136,etc
1 While the recorder is recording, press
T MARK.
REC •
T MARK
N
to LINE IN
(OPTICAL)
26
Example: Eight minutes of recording has
been completed when the Auto Time
Mark time interval is set to 5 minutes.
A track mark will be added at the 8-
minute point (after the start of recording)
and after each 5-minute interval
thereafter.
Adding track marks
automatically (Auto Time
Mark)
Use this feature to add track marks
automatically at specified intervals when
recording through the analog input
connector. This function is convenient for
recording long period of time, such as
lectures, meetings, etc.
When the time interval set for Auto
Time Mark exceeds the elapsed
recording time:
The recorder adds track marks when the
set Auto Time Mark time interval has
elapsed.
1 While the recorder is recording or in
2 rPerceossrd.ing paours>e, prersespeMatEeNdlUy.
“R-SET” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
Example: Three minutes of recording has
been completed when the Auto Time
Mark time interval is set to 5 minutes.
A track mark will be added at the 5-
minute point (after the start of recording)
and after each 5-minute interval
thereafter.
3 Press . or > repeatedly
“TimeMk” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
“OFF” appears in the display.
z
4 Press > to show “ON” in the
“T” appears after the track display on the
recorder for track marks added by Auto Time
Mark.
5 dPirsepslsa.y, andotrh>en prerespseEaNteTdlEyRu.ntil
the desired time interval appears in
the display, and then press ENTER.
Notes
• If you add a track mark by pressing T MARK
or X (pause), etc, while recording, Auto Time
Mark will begin automatically adding a track
mark each time the selected time interval has
elapsed.
Pressing . or > changes the
time setting (Time:) by 1 minute,
within the range of 1 to 99 minutes.
• The setting will be lost when the recording
stopped.
To cancel Auto Time Mark
Using Auto Time Mark to add
track marks while recording
When the elapsed recording time
exceeds the time interval for Auto
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.
27
7 While observing the level meter in the
display, adjust the recording level by
pressing . or >.
Adjusting the recording
level manually
The sound level is adjusted automatically
while recording. If necessary, you can set
the recording level manually during both
analog and digital recording.
Set the level so that the maximum
input lights up the fifth segment on
the level meter.
If the sixth segment lights up, lower
the level by pressing ..
MENU
X
fifth segment
REC • T MARK
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
Recording does not 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
1 While pressing X, press REC •
T MARK.
8 sPtraerstspXlayabgaacikn.to start recording.
The recorder stands by for recording.
2 Press MENU.
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
“R-SET” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
To switch back to automatic
level control
4 Press . or > repeatedly until
“RecVol” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
Notes
• You cannot adjust the left and right channel
levels separately.
• Once you stop recording, the recorder will
revert to automatic recording level adjustment
mode the next time you start a recording
operation.
5 Press . or > repeatedly until
“Manual” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
• To adjust the recording level manually during
procedure in this section with “SYNC-R” is
set to “OFF”. Then change the “SYNC-R”
setting to sync “ON”, and start recording
6 Play the source.
28
Various ways of playback
Indication: A/B
Viewing various
information
You can check the track or disc name,
track number, the elapsed playing time of
the current track, the number of the tracks
recorded on the MD, the group name, and
the total number of tracks in a group.
B
(Selected
item)
A
B(After
a few
seconds)
LapTim
Elapsed time Track
number
1 Rem
Remaining
time of the
current track
Track
number
MENU
GP Rem
AllRem
Remaining
time after the name
current track
Group
in a group
Remaining
time after the
current
Disc name
location
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
Note
Depending on whether group play or normal
play is selected, the operating conditions, and
the disc settings, you may not be able to select
certain indications or the indications may
appear different.
1 While playing, press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“DISP” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
z
If you want to check the remaining time or the
recording position while recording or in stop
mode, see “Viewing various information”
Each time you press . or >, the
display changes as the follows:
Display window on the recorder
A
B
29
Indication A/
Play mode
Selecting the play
mode
B1)
1 Trk/1
A single track is
played once.
You can select from various play modes
such as repeat play, shuffle play, or
bookmark play.
TrPLAY/
Bookmarked tracks
play back in order
of their track
MENU
number.
Shuff/SHUF
All the tracks are
played in random
order
1) Group play mode (
) appears whenever you
play a disc with group settings. For more
details, see “Selecting the play mode for group
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
4 Select “RepON” (playing a track
repeatedly) or “RepOFF”.
1 While the recorder is playing, press
When you select “RepON”, “
appears on Aand the playback
repeats with the play mode selected in
”
2 MPrEesNsU.. or > repeatedly until
“P-MODE” flashes in the display, and
then press ENTER again.
3 Press . or > repeatedly to
select play mode, and then press
ENTER.
Listening to selected tracks
only (Bookmark Play)
You can bookmark tracks on a disc and
play them only. The sequence of
Display window on the recorder
bookmarked tracks cannot be changed.
A
To bookmark the tracks
1 While playing the track you want to
bookmark, press and hold N for 2 seconds
or more.
Shuff
B
Flashing slowly
When you press >, Bchanges.
When you press ENTER, Aappears.
B 007
The first track of the bookmark play is set.
You can bookmark up to 20 tracks.
Indication A/
Play mode
B1)
Normal/—
All the tracks are
played once.
30
To play the bookmarked tracks
Adjusting treble or bass
(Digital Sound Preset)
You can adjust the treble and bass to suit
your taste. The player can store two sets
of treble-bass adjustments, which can
then be selected later during playback.
1 During playback, press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“P-MODE” appears in the display, and then
press ENTER.
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
“
TrPLAY” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
RepOFF” appears.
4 Select “ RepON” (playing the bookmark
“
MENU
play repeatedly) or “
RepOFF”.
5 Press ENTER.
The Bookmarked tracks start playing,
starting with the smallest track number.
To erase a bookmark
While playing the track for which you
want to erase the bookmark, press and
hold N until “B. OFF” appears.
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
Note
If you open the lid, all bookmarks are canceled.
Selecting the sound quality
Factory settings
Factory settings of the Digital Sound
Preset are as follows:
• “SOUND1”: bass +1, treble ±0
• “SOUND2”: bass +3, treble ±0
1 Press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“SOUND” appears in the display, and
3 tPhreenssp.ress EoNr T>ER.repeatedly until
“SOUND1” or “SOUND2” flashes in
the display, and then press ENTER.
To cancel Digital Sound Preset
Select “OFF” in step 3.
31
To cancel selecting
Press CANCEL.
Adjusting the sound quality
You can change the preset sound quality
and store the results in “SOUND1” or
“SOUND2”.
z
• Settings can also be changed while playback
is momentarily paused (X).
• If the recorder is not operated approximately
for 3 minutes, the current setting is stored and
the display automatically switches to normal
playback.
1 While playing, press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“SOUND” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
Notes
• When you use the Digital Sound Preset, the
sound may break or become distorted
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
“SET” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
depending on the settings or the track. In this
case, change the settings of the sound quality.
• Changing to another Digital Sound Preset
during a recording operation will not affect
the quality of recorded sound.
4 Press . or > repeatedly to
select “SOUND1” or “SOUND2”,
and then press ENTER.
The display shows the currently
selected “BASS” sound setting.
5 Press . or > repeatedly to
adjust the sound level.
Shows “ SOUND1” or “ SOUND2” is
selected
The sound can be adjusted in 8 steps
(–4, –3, ...±0, ...+2, +3).
6 Press ENTER.
“BASS” is set and the display
changes to “TRE” (treble) setting
7 mProedsse.. or > repeatedly to
adjust the sound level, and then press
ENTER.
“TRE” (treble) is set.
The sound settings are saved and the
playback display appears again.
32
Editing recorded tracks
The number of titles that can be stored on
a disc depends on the number of
characters that are input for track names,
group names, and disc name.
Before editing
You can edit your recordings by adding/
erasing track marks or labeling tracks and
MDs.
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.
Notes
• Premastered MDs cannot be edited.
• Close the record-protect tab on the side of the
MD before editing.
END SEARCH
• The recorder is recording editing results while
“TOC Edit” is flashing in the display.
— Do not move or jog the recorder.
— Do not disconnect the power source.
— The lid does not open.
MENU
X
Labeling recordings
(Name)
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
You can name tracks and discs using the
recorder’s character palette.
Labeling
Note
You can label a track and a disc while the
recorder is stopped, recording, or playing.
Note that if you lable a track while the
recorder is stopped, the track must be the
currently selected.
Available characters
• Capital and small letters of the English
alphabet
• Numbers 0 to 9
• ! " # $ % & ( ) * . ; < = > ?
@ _ ` + – ' , / : _ (space)
For labeling a group, see “Labeling
1 Press MENU.
Maximum number of
characters per name
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“EDIT” appears in the display, and
3 tPhreenssp.ress EoNr T>ER.repeatedly until
“Name” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
Track names, group names, and disc
name: Approx. 200 each (containing a
mixture of all available characters)
Maximum number of
characters that can be input
per disc
Alphanumeric characters and symbols
only: Approx. 120 titles of about 10
characters each (a maximum of about
1,700 characters)
continued
33
4 Press . or > repeatedly until
the following item appears in the
display, and then press ENTER.
7 cPhreasrsacEteNrsTEofRthfeorla2bseelcnoanmdes.or more.
When labeling a
track
“T : Name”
A track or disc is labeled.
When labeling a
disc
“D : Name”
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
The cursor flashes in the letter input
area and the track, group, or disc is
ready to be labeled.
To cancel labeling
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
Note
When the recording is stopped while labeling a
track or a disc during recording, or when the
recording moves on to the next track while
labeling a track, the input at that point is entered
automatically.
_
The cursor flashes.
Re-labeling recordings
Follow the procedure of the “Labeling”
(page 33) to relabel a name.
5 Press VOL + or – to select a letter and
press ENTER.
The selected letter appears and the
cursor moves to the next input
position.
The buttons used for character input
and their functions are listed below.
Note
The recorder cannot rewrite a disc or track
name of more than 200 letters that was created
by another device.
Functions
Operations
To select a
character
Press VOL + or –.
Moving recorded tracks
(Move)
You can change the order of the recorded
tracks.
To enter a letter
To enter a name
Press ENTER.
Press ENTER for 2
seconds or more.
To insert a blank Press END
space before the SEARCH and press
Note
To move tracks in a disc with group settings,
see page 43.
cursor
VOL + at the same
time.
To delete a letter Press END
SEARCH and press
VOL – at the same
time.
To switch capital Press X.
and small letters.
To cancel
labeling.
Press x or MENU.
34
Example
Move track C (track number 3) from the
third to the second track.
6 Press ENTER.
The track moves to the selected
destination track.
For example above, “002” appears in
the display.
Before moving
A
B
C
B
D
D
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
A
C
To cancel moving
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
After moving
MENU
Dividing a track (Divide)
You can divide a track with a track mark,
creating a new track from the part
following the track mark. The track
numbers will increase as follows.
Note
4-way control key
You cannot add a track mark on a track that has
been checked-out from your computer.
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
1
2
3
4
5
1 While playing the track you want to
2 mProevsse,.pressoMr >ENUr.epeatedly until
“EDIT” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
Track marking
1
2
3
4
Track numbers increase
The recorder plays the selected track
repeatedly.
4-way control key
(., >)
3 Press . or > repeatedly until
“Move” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
T MARK
4 Press . or > repeatedly until
“T : Move” appears in the display,
and then press ENTER.
For example above, “tTr003”
appears in the display.
5 Press . or > repeatedly to
select the destination track number.
35
The track numbers will change as follows:
Dividing a track directly
1
2
3
4
3
1 While playing or pausing an MD,
press T MARK on the recorder at the
point you want to mark.
Erase a track mark
“MK ON” appears in the display, and
a track mark is added. The track
number will increase by one.
1
2
Track numbers decrease
To add track marks while
recording (except while
synchro-recording)
4-way control key (.)
X
Press T MARK on the recorder at the
point you want to add a track mark.
You can use Auto Time Mark to add track
marks automatically at specified intervals
T MARK
1 While playing the track with the track
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.
mark you want to erase, press X to
2 pFainudset.he track mark by pressing
..
For example, to erase the third track
mark, find the beginning of the third
track. “00:00” appears in the display.
“MK” appears in the display for a few
Notes
• You cannot erase a track mark on a track that
has been checked-out from your computer.
• To combine groups or tracks in a disc with
group settings, see page 43.
• You cannot combine tracks recorded in
different recording mode.
3 sPerceossndTs.MARK to erase the mark.
“MK OFF” appears in the display.
The track mark is erased and the two
tracks are combined.
z
When you erase a track mark, the date, time,
and name assigned to the mark are also erased.
36
Note
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
When you erase a track mark between the two
consecutive tracks that are assigned into
different groups, the second track is re-assigned
into the group containing the first track. In
addition, if you combine a track that is assigned
to a group with a track that is not assigned to a
group (two consecutive tracks), the second
track takes the same group assignment as the
first track.
“EDIT” appears in the display, and
3 tPhreenssp.ress EoNr T>ER.repeatedly until
“Erase” appears in the display, and
4 tPhreenssp.ress EoNr T>ER.repeatedly until
“T : Ers” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
“Erase?” and “ENTER” appear
5 PalrteesrsnaEtNelTyEinRt.he display.
Erasing tracks and a
whole disc contents
(Erase)
You can erase unnecessary tracks or all
tracks on a disc.
The track is erased and the next track
starts to play. All the tracks after the
one erased are automatically
renumbered.
Notes
To erase a part of a track
Add track marks at the beginning and the
end of the part you want to erase, then
• You cannot erase tracks that have been
checked out from your computer. You cannot
erase an entire disc if it contains a checked-out
track. In this case, check in the track or tracks
to the computer.
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
MENU
To cancel erasing
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
4-way control key
(., >, x)
To erase a track
Note that once a recording has
been erased, you cannot retrieve it.
Make sure of the track you are
erasing.
1 While playing the track you want to
erase, press MENU.
37
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 before you erase it.
1 Play the disc you want to erase to
2 cPhreescskxthetocostnotpe.nts.
3 Press MENU.
4 Press . or > repeatedly until
“EDIT” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
5 Press . or > repeatedly until
“Erase” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
6 Press . or > repeatedly until
“D : Ers” appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
“Erase?” and “ENTER” appear
alternately in the display.
7 Press ENTER.
“EDIT” appears in the display, and all
the tracks will be erased.
When erasing is complete, “BLANK”
appears in the display.
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
To cancel moving
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
38
Using the group function
You can create a maximum of 99 groups
on a disc.
What is the group
function?
The group function is provided to allow
playback of discs with group settings. The
group function is convenient for playback
of MDs on which several albums or CD
singles have been recorded in MDLP
(LP2/LP4) mode.
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.
Recording tracks using
the group function
What is a disc with group
settings?
The recorder can operate various
functions in units of group; that is tracks
that have been recorded on a disc as a part
of separate groups, as shown below.
END SEARCH
MENU
GROUP
REC •
T MARK
Before group settings are made (normal
play)
Disc
4-way control key
(N, ., >)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 12 13 1415
Recording a track to a new
group
Track 1 to 5 are assigned to group 1.
Track 8 to12 are assigned to group 2.
Track 13 to15 are assigned to group 3.
Track 6 to 7 are not assigned to a
group.
During recording, you can add a new
group at the end of the currently recorded
tracks on a disc.
After setting the group (group play)
Disc
1 While the recorder is stopped, press
2 EWNhDileSpErAesRsiCngH.GROUP, press REC •
3 TPlaMyAthReKsoaunrdceNso.und.
Group 3
Group 1
Group 2
1 2345 6 7 1 2345 1 23
A new group will be added after the
current contents on a disc.
Tracks that were not assigned to a group
are treated as being part of “ Group - -” .
To stop recording
Press x.
The material that was recorded up until x
was pressed is entered as a new group.
39
Recording a track to an
existing group
You can add a track to an existing group.
1 Press GROUP, and then press . or
> until the group you want to add
2 ParterassckNto awphpielearpsriensstihnegdRisEpClay•.
+, –
3 TPlaMyAthReKs.ource sound.
Playing a track in group play
Newly recorded track is added after
the current contents in the group.
In group play, all groups are played in
order, starting with group 1, followed by
the unassigned tracks (“Group - -”).
Playback stops after all the tracks have
been played.
z
• To add a track that is currently playing to a
group, stop or pause playing the track first,
• You can set the recorder to always create a
new group without pressing the GROUP
1 Press MENU.
2 Press . or > repeatedly until
“P-MODE” appears in the display,
and then press ENTER.
Playing groups
The recorder can operate various
playback with a disc which has group
setting.
3 Press . or > repeatedly to
select “
ENTER.
Normal”, and then press
To cue to the start of a group
(Group Skip)
MENU
On the recorder
1 Press GROUP.
2 While “
” flashing, press . or >.
Pressing – button cues to the first track in the
current group. Pressing the button again cues
to the first track of the previous group.
4-way control key
(., >)
On the remote control
1 Press “
”+ or –.
40
Selecting the play mode for
group play (Group Play Mode)
Editing groups
The shuffle play and repeat play function
can be used during group play mode.
Assigning tracks or groups as
a new group (Group Setting)
1 Press MENU.
With this function, you can assign
existing tracks or groups to a new group,
and also you can assign a track that
currently belongs to no group to an
existing group.
2 Press . or > until “P-MODE”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
Disc
3 Press . or > repeatedly to
select the play mode, and then press
ENTER.
Track number
Group 2
Group 1
following play modes are displayed.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112
Display
Play mode
Assigning tracks 1 to 3 to a new
group
Assigning group 1 and group 2
to a new group
All tracks in the groups
play back once (starting
(Normal
Group Play) with the first track in
group 1).
, SHUF
(In-Group
Shuffle)
Shuffle play starts with
the group that is
currently playing, and
continues with the
succeeding groups.
Disc
Group 2
Group 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112
4 Select “RepON” or “RepOFF”.
“
” appears in the display.
Playback repeats in the respective
group play mode (Group Repeat
Play).
Group assignment of non-consecutive
tracks is not possible (for example, track 3
and tracks 7 to 8 cannot be assigned to a
new group).
Display
Play mode
Track numbers appear according to their
order on the disc, not their order within
the group.
Repeat play of tracks
within a group
,SHUF
Repeat shuffle play of
tracks within a group
continued
41
Notes
5 Press . or > until the number
of the desired last track appears in the
display, and then press ENTER.
• You can create a maximum of 99 groups on a
disc. 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.
This selects the last track of the new
group.
• The tracks or groups must be sequential. If the
desired tracks or groups are not consecutive,
you must move them to make them
consecutive before you can assign them
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
MENU
To cancel the operation
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
Notes
track of an existing group or a track that does
not belong to a group.
sure the track comes after the one selected in
track of an existing group or a track that does
not belong to a group.
4-way control key
(ENTER • N, ., >, x)
1 While the recorder is stopped, press
2 MPrEesNsU.. or > until “EDIT”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
Releasing a group setting
3 Press . or > until “G : Set”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
MENU
The track number of the first track
(“STR”) appears in the display.
4-way control key
(., >, x)
STR:01
1 Select a group you want to release
and check the contents (see “”
4 Press . or > until the number
of the desired first track appears in the
display, and then press ENTER.
This selects the first track of the new
group.
3 Press MENU.
42
4 Press . or > until “EDIT”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
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. You can
also move a track that is not belong to a
group into an existing group.
5 Press . or > until “G : Rls”
appears in the display, and press
ENTER.
“G : Rls?” and “ENTER” appear
alternately in the display.
Disc
6 Press ENTER.
Group 2 Group 3
Group 1
The group setting of the selected
group is released.
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 2 3
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
Moving track number 2 in
group 1 to track number 3 in
group 2
To cancel the operation
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
Disc
Labeling recorded groups
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
You can label a group while the recorder
is recording or playing a track in the
group. You can also label a group while a
track in the group is selected and the
recorder is stopped.
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3
MENU
(page 33) and select “G : Name” in
4-way control key
(., >, x)
1 While playing the track you want to
2 Pmroevsse,.pressoMr >ENUu. ntil “EDIT”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
continued
43
3 Press . or > until “Move”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
6 Press . or > until the number
of the destination track (within a
group when moving into a different
group) appears in the display, and
then press ENTER.
4 Press . or > until “T : Move”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
The selected track number appears in
the display.
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
pGP04
5 When moving a track out of a group,
To cancel moving
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
skip this step.
When moving a track into a different
group, press . or > until the
destination group appears in the
display, and then press ENTER.
Changing the order of a group
on a disc (Group Move)
MENU
The indications will appear
alternately as follows, for example.
pGP04-
4-way control key
(., >, x)
The destination group
1 While playing a track within a group
whose order you want to change,
2 pPrreessss M.ENUor. > until “EDIT”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
-001
The number of the track within the
destination group
3 Press . or > until “Move”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
4 Press . or > until “G : Move”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
44
5 Press . or > to select the
destination point on the disc, and then
press ENTER.
5 Press . or > until “Erase”
6 EPrNeTssE.R. or > until “G : Ers”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
appears in the display, and then press
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
The group name,“G : Ers?” and
“ENTER” appear alternately in the
To cancel moving
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
7 dPirsepslsaEy.NTER.
The group is erased.
To erase a group
To return the preceding
settings
Press x.
You can erase tracks in a selected group.
Note that once a recording has
been erased, you cannot retrieve it.
Be sure to check the contents of
the group before you erase it.
To cancel erasing
Press x for 2 seconds or more.
Note
You cannot erase tracks that have been checked
out from your computer. You cannot erase a
group if it contains a checked-out track. In this
case, check in the track or tracks to the
computer.
MENU
4-way control key
(., >, x)
1 Select a group you want to erase and
check the contents (see “To cue to the
3 Press MENU.
4 Press . or > until “EDIT”
appears in the display, and then press
ENTER.
45
Other operations
Useful settings
The recorder has many menus with useful functions for recording, playback, editing, etc.
The following table shows the menu items that you can select.
Category
Function
What it does
Site page
General
Beep on/off
Turns the beep sound on or off.
operations
Recording
Synchro-
Recording
Simplifies operations during digital
recording.
Long-time
recording
LP4, or monaural).
Adding track
marks (Divide)
Adds track marks automatically at
specified intervals.
Adjusting the
recording level
Selecting the
record-starting
point
Allows you to specify whether
material is overwritten or not when
recording.
Group recording Sets the recorder to create a new
group with each recording operation.
Playing
mode
play, shufful play, etc.
Changing the
sound quality
two sets of treble-bass adjustment.
quickly
cue to a track quickly.
Limiting the
maximum
volume
to protect your hearing.
Display
Editing
Viewing
information
window.
Labeling (Name) Labels tracks, groups, or the disc.
(track and
disc)
(group)
46
Category
Editing
Function
What it does
Site page
Moving
(track)
(group)
Erasing
Erases tracks, groups, or the entire
disc contents.
(track and
disc)
(group)
to groups a new group.
Releasing a group Releases group settings.
47
How to use the menu items
To set the menu items, do the following procedure.
1 Press MENU to enter the menu.
2 Press . or > to select the item.
3 Press ENTER to enter the selection.
4-way control key
The setting will be entered when you press
ENTER at the last.
MENU
To return the preceding setting
Press x.
To cancel the operation while setting
Press and hold x for 2 seconds or more.
48
Turning off the beep sound
Creating a new group when
recording
You can turn on/off the beep sound on the
recorder and the remote control.
By pressing N while pressing REC •
T MARK, you can set the recorder to
create a new group automatically each
time you record. This is convenient when
recording several CDs in succession.
1 Enter the menu and select “OPTION”
2 S- e“lBeEctE“PO”F. F”.
1 While the recorder is stopped, enter
To turn on the beep sound
Select “ON”.
the menu and select “R-SET” -
2 “SGel-eRctE“CG”-.ON”.
Recording without
To turn the setting to normal
overwriting existing material
Select “G-OFF”.
If you wish to avoid recording over the
current contents of an MD, do the
following procedure. All new material
will then be recorded from the end of the
current contents. The recorder is factory
set to record over existing material.
Starting the playback quickly
(Quick Mode)
After pressing the playback button or
cueing to the track, the playback can start
quickly.
1 Enter the menu and select “OPTION”
2 S- e“lRe-cPto“sFir”.End”.
1 Enter the menu and select “OPTION”
2 S- e“lPeocwt “eQr”U. ICK”.
To start recording over the
current contents
Display window on the recorder
Select “FrHere”.
z
• To temporarily record without recording over
the current contents, press END SEARCH
before the start of recording. The recording
will begin after the last track, even if “R-Posi”
is set to “FrHere” (factory setting). The
remaining recordable time on the disc will
appear in the display when you press END
SEARCH.
QUICK
To switch back to the normal
setting
Select “NORMAL”.
• If the group recording setting (“G-REC”) is
set to “G-ON”, the recorder will always set to
“Fr End”.
continued
49
Notes
• When the power mode is set to “QUICK”, the
power remains on within the recorder even
when nothing appears in the display. This
leads to a shorter battery life. For this reason,
it is recommended that you charge the battery
daily.
• If no recorder operation (including opening or
closing of the lid) occurs for an hour, the
power in the recorder automatically turn off.
For this reason, the next time you start
playback or do another operation, the recorder
will not respond quickly. The unit, however,
will return to quick mode afterwards.
Protecting your hearing
(AVLS)
The AVLS (Automatic Volume Limiter
System) function keeps down the
maximum volume to protect your ears.
1 Enter the menu and select “OPTION”
2 -Se“lAeVctL“SO”N. ”.
When you try to turn the volume too
high, “AVLS” appears in the display.
The volume is kept to a moderate
level.
To cancel the AVLS
Select “AVLS OFF”.
50
List of menus
Menus on the recorder
Items listed under “Menu 1” are the selectable items which appear when you press MENU,
items listed under “Menu 2” are the selectable items which appear when you select an item
in Menu 1, and “Menu 3” are the selectable items which appear when you select an item in
Menu 2.
Note
Different indication may be displayed depending on the operating conditions and disc settings.
Menu 1
Menu 2
Name
Menu 3
EDIT
T : Name y G : Name y D : Name
G : Set
G : Rls
Move
—
—
T : Move y G : Move
Erase
T : Ers y G : Ers y D : Ers
DISP
LapTim
—
—
RecRem (while
recording and
stopped)/1 Rem
(while playing)
GP Rem
AllRem
—
—
P-MODE Normal
1 Trk
RepOFF (factory setting) y RepON
TrPLAY
Shuff
Normal
Shuff
OFF
SOUND
R-SET
—
SOUND1
SOUND2
SET
—
—
SOUND1 y SOUND2
R-MODE
RecVol
SP (factory setting) y LP2 y LP4 y MONO
Auto (factory setting) y Manual
MK OFF (factory setting) y MK ON
G-OFF (factory setting) y G-ON
OFF (factory setting) y ON
TimeMk
G-REC
SYNC-R
51
Menu 1
Menu 2
AVLS
BEEP
Menu 3
OPTION
OFF (factory setting) y ON
OFF y ON (factory setting)
FrHere (factory setting) y Fr End
NORMAL (factory setting) y QUICK
R-Posi
Power
52
Power sources
When playing
(Unit: approx.hours)(JEITA)
SP LP2 LP4
Stereo Stereo Stereo
You can use the recorder on house current
or as follows.
— a nickel metal hydride rechargeable
battery NH-7WMAA
Batteries
— an LR6 (size AA) alkaline dry
battery
Nickel metal 15
hydride
16
20
rechargeable
battery
It is preferable to use the recorder on
house current when recording for a long
time. When using a battery, make sure it is
a fully charged rechargeable battery or a
new alkaline dry battery to prevent
operations (e.g., recording and editing)
from failing due to insufficient battery
power.
LR6 Sony
alkaline dry
battery
42
48
56
When to replace the batteries
When the dry battery or rechargeable
battery is 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.
It may be more or less than the indication
depending on the operating condition.
Battery life
The battery life may be shorter due to
operating conditions, the temperature of
the location, or alkaline dry battery you
use.
When recording
Note
(Unit: approx.hours)(JEITA1))
Stop the recorder before replacing battery.
Batteries
SP
LP2
LP4
Stereo Stereo Stereo
Nickel metal
hydride
6
9
10
rechargeable
battery2)
LR6 Sony
alkaline dry
battery3)
10
14
18.5
1) Measured in accordance with the JEITA (Japan
Electronics and Information Technology
Industries Association) standard.
2) When using a 100% fully charged nickel metal
hydride rechargeable battery (NH-7WMAA).
3) When using a Sony LR6 (SG) “STAMINA”
alkaline dry battery (produced in Japan).
53
Additional information
On the headphones/earphones
Road safety
Precautions
Do not use headphones/earphones 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 safety
Do not put any foreign objects in the DC IN 3V
jack.
On power sources
• Use house current, nickel metal hydride
rechargeable battery, LR6 (size AA) battery,
or car battery.
• For use in your house: Do not use any other
AC power adaptor since it may cause the
recorder to malfunction.
Preventing hearing damage
Avoid using headphones/earphones 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
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.
• Connect the AC power adaptor to an easily
accessible AC outlet. Should you notice an
abnormality in the AC power adaptor,
disconnect it from the AC outlet immediately.
• 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.
On the remote control
The supplied remote control is designated for
this recorder only. You cannot use the recorder
with a remote control supplied with other
equipment.
Note on charging
• Be sure to use the supplied AC power adaptor.
• Charge the rechargeable battery at a
temperature of +5° C (+41° F) to +40° C
(+104° F).
• Though the battery and the recorder may
become hot during the charging procedure,
this poses no danger.
• If you are charging the battery for the first
time or after a long period of disuse, the
battery may not charge up to its rated capacity.
This is a normal characteristic. After you use
and recharge the battery a few times, it will
return to its normal charge capacity.
On heat build-up
Heat may build up in the recorder if it is used
for an extended period of time. This, however,
is not a malfunction.
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.
54
On the MiniDisc cartridge
To protect a recorded MD
• When carrying or storing the MiniDisc, keep
it in its case.
To record-protect an MD, slide open the tab at
the side of the MD. In this position, the MD
cannot be recorded. To record again, slide the
tab back so the tab is visible.
• Do not break open the shutter.
• Do not place the cartridge where it will be
subject to light, extreme temperatures,
moisture or dust.
• Attach the supplied MD label only in the
space designated for it on the disc. Do not
stick it on any other disc surface.
Tab
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.
Recorded material is
Back of the MD
protected.
• 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.
Recorded material is
not protected.
• To obtain the best sound quality, use a dry
cloth to wipe the plugs of the headphones/
earphones or the remote control. Dirty plugs
may cause sound distortion or intermittent
breaks in the sound.
Note on maintenance
Clean the terminals periodically with a cotton
swab or a soft cloth.
If you have any questions or problems
concerning your recorder, please consult your
nearest Sony dealer. (If a trouble occurred when
the disc was in the recorder, we recommend that
the disc be left in the recorder when you consult
your Sony dealer so that the cause of trouble
may be better understood.)
Notes on battery
Incorrect battery usage may lead to leakage of
battery fluid or bursting battery. To prevent
such accidents, observe the following
precautions:
• Install the + and – poles of the battery
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 battery.
• If a battery leak should develop, carefully and
thoroughly wipe away battery fluid from the
battery compartment before inserting new
ones.
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.
55
Power requirements
Sony AC Power Adaptor connected at the DC
IN 3V jack:
Specifications
120 V AC, 60 Hz (Models for USA, Canada,
Mexico, and Taiwan)
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.)
Recording and playback time (when
using MDW-80)
Maximum 160 min. in monaural
Maximum 320 min. in LP4 stereo
Revolutions
380 rpm to 2,700 rpm (CLV)
Error correction
230 V AC, 50/60 Hz (Models for continental
Europe, Singapore and Thailand)
240 V AC, 50 Hz (Model for Australia)
220 V AC, 50 Hz (Model for China)
230 - 240 V AC, 50 Hz (Models for U.K. and
Hong Kong)
220 V AC, 50 Hz (Model for Argentine)
100 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz (Other models)
The recorder:
Nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery
NH-7WMAA 1.2V 700 mAh (MIN) Ni-MH
LR6 (size AA) alkaline battery
Battery operation time3)
Dimensions
Approx. 81.0 × 27.7 × 74.4 mm (w/h/d)
ACIRC (Advanced Cross Interleave Reed
Solomon Code)
Sampling frequency
44.1 kHz
(31/4 × 11/8 × 3 in.)
Mass
Approx. 103 g (3.6 oz) the recorder only
Sampling rate converter
Input: 32 kHz/44.1 kHz/48 kHz
Coding
ATRAC (Adaptive TRansform Acoustic
Coding)
1)The LINE IN (OPTICAL) jack is used to
connect either a digital (optical) cable or a line
(analog) cable.
2)The i jack connects either headphones/
earphones or a line cable.
ATRAC3 — LP2/LP4
3)Measured in accordance with JEITA.
Modulation system
EFM (Eight to Fourteen Modulation)
Frequency response
20 to 20,000 Hz ± 3 dB
US and foreign patents licensed from Dolby
Laboratories.
Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
Inputs1)
Line in:
Optional accessories
Optical Cable
POC-15B, POC-15AB, POC-DA12SP
MDR-series stereo headphones/earphones*
SRS-series active speakers
stereo mini-jack for analog input
(minimum input level 49 mV)
optical (digital) mini-jack for optical
(digital) input
Outputs
i: stereo mini-jack
Maximum output level
Your dealer may not handle some of the above
listed accessories. Please ask the dealer for
detailed information about the accessories in
your country.
2.5 mW + 2.5 mW; load impedance
16 Ω (European models)
5 mW + 5 mW; load impedance
16 Ω (Other models)
∗ When using optional headphones, use only
headphones/earphones with stereo mini
plugs. You cannot use headphones/
earphones with micro plugs.
56
Troubleshooting and explanations
Troubles and solutions
If you find any troubles operating the recorder, follow the steps below.
2 iInffyoorumcaatinonno.t solve the problem after you made checks, consult your nearest Sony
dealer.
While charging
Symptom
Cause/Solution
The rechargeable
battery does not
start charging. The
rechargeablebattery
cannot be fully
charged.
• 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.
The recorder
become hot during
the charging
• This is not a trouble and poses no danger.
procedure.
While recording
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
The recorder
overwrites existing
materials when
record.
• The record starting-position setting (“R-Posi”) is set to
“FrHere”.
, Set “R-Posi” setting to “Fr End”.
The recording starts • The group recording (“G-REC”) is set to “G-ON”. (You cannot
from the end of the
disc even when “R-
Posi” is set to
overwrite tracks when “G-REC” is set to “G-ON”.)
“FrHere”.
“R-Posi” (the record- • The group recording (“G-REC”) is set to “G-ON”.
starting point) cannot
be set to “FrHere”.
then set “R-Posi” to “FrHere”.
57
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
Recording cannot be • Audio sources may not be securely connected.
done correctly.
, Disconnect the audio sources once and connect them again
• There is no digital signal from the portable CD player.
, When recording digitally from a portable CD player, use the
AC power adaptor and disable the anti-skip function (such as
• The analog recording was made using a connecting cord with an
attenuator.
, Use a connecting cord without an attenuator.
• Recording level is too small to record (when adjusting the
recording level manually).
• The power sources was disconnected or a power outage occurred
during recording.
, The recording result is not recorded on the disc. Make
recording again.
• The premastered MD is inserted.
, Replace to the recordable MD.
• The remaining recordable time on the disc is 12 seconds or less
(“FULL” appears).
, Replace the disc.
Recording stops
automatically while
recording.
• You tried to overwrite a track which is checked out from the
computer. (Tracks that are checked out from the computer
cannot be overwrite. The recording stops automatically.)
, Check back the checked out track into the computer.
, Record from the end of the disc.
Stereo sound is heard • This is normal. During digital recording, the sound will be stereo
in the headphones/
earphones while
recording in
in the headphones/earphones, even though the recorded sound is
monaural.
monaural.
Momentary noise is • Due to the special digital audio compression technology used in
heard when
recording.
LP4 stereo mode, momentary noise may occur on very rare
occasions with certain sound sources.
, Record in SP or LP2 mode.
The lid does not open • The lid does not open until “Edit” disappears in the display.
after recording.
58
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
“TrFULL” appears
even before the disc
has reached the
maximum recording
time (60, 74, or 80
minutes) and the
recording cannot be
done.
• This is due to the MiniDisc system limitation. When 254 tracks
have been recorded on the disc, “TrFULL” appears regardless of
the total recorded time. More than 254 tracks cannot be recorded
on the disc.
, To continue recording, erase unnecessary tracks.
The remaining
recording time does
not increase even
after erasing
numerous short
tracks.
• This is due to the MiniDisc system limitation. Tracks of under
12 seconds (in SP stereo), 24 seconds (in LP2 stereo mode or
monaural), or 48 seconds (in LP4 stereo mode) in length are not
counted and so erasing them may not lead to an increase in the
recording time.
While playing
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
An MD is not
• Repeat play is selected.
played normally.
, Use MENU on the recorder to change back to the normal play.
• Playback mode is changed.
, Use MENU on the recorder to change back to the normal play.
An MD is not
played from the
first track.
• Disc playing stopped before it came to the last track.
, Press N (or NX on the remote control) for 2 seconds or
more to start playing
Playback sound
skips.
• 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.
, Try not to create a track under one second long.
Sound has a lot of • Strong magnetism from a television or such device is interfering
static.
with operation.
, Move the recorder away from the source of strong magnetism.
The volume of the • The track was recorded in analog (When recorded in digital, the
recorded track is
low.
recording level will be automatically adjusted as same as the sound
source), or you used a connecting cord with an attenuator.
, Use a correct connecting cord.
• The recording level was low.
, Adjust the recording level manually when recording.
Volume cannot be • AVLS is on.
turned up.
59
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
No sound comes
through the
headphones/
earphones.
• The headphones/earphones plug is not firmly connected.
, Plug in the plug of the headphones/earphones firmly to the
remote control. Plug in the plug of the remote control firmly to
i.
• The plug is dirty.
, Clean the plug.
The recorder skips • The GROUP button has been pressed (
is flashing in the
to several tracks
ahead or behind
when you press
. or > on
recorder.
display).
, The recorder returns to normal if no operation has made for 5
seconds.
The edited tracks
may exhibit sound
dropout during
• This occurs due to the MiniDisc system limitation. The
fragmentation of data may cause sound dropout while searching
because the tracks are played in higher speed than normal
playback.
search operations.
R-channel sound is • R-channel sound is not output if connecting to a cassette deck or an
not output when
playing a track
recorded from a
cassette deck or an
amplifier, or when
listening a track
with connected
cassette deck or
through an
amplifier with a monaural cord.
, Make sure to use a stereo connecting cord. However, if the
connected equipment is a monaural specification, R-channel
sound will not be output even if connecting with stereo
connecting cord.
amplifier.
While Editing
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
The lid does not
open.
• The power sources have been disconnected during recording or
editing, or the battery have been exhausted.
, Set the power sources again, or replace the exhausted battery
with new ones.
Editing could not • The power sources have been disconnected or a power outage
be done.
occurred while editing.
, Editing result up to that point is not recorded on the disc. Do
the editing operation again
The tracks that are • This is due to the MiniDisc system limitations. To erase a track that
checked out from
your computer
has been checked out from your computer, check it back in first,
and then erase it using the SonicStage software.
cannot be erased.
60
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
Track marks
cannot be erased.
• This is due to the MiniDisc system limitations. When the data of a
track is fragmented, the track mark of a fragment under 12 seconds
long (recorded in SP stereo), 24 seconds long (recorded in LP2
stereo mode or monaural mode), or 48 seconds long (recorded in
LP4 stereo mode) cannot be erased. You cannot combine tracks
recorded in different recording modes, e.g., a track recorded in
stereo and a track recorded in monaural; nor can you combine a
track recorded with digital connection and a track recorded with
analog connection.
The disc cannot be • The component does not support LP2 stereo or LP4 stereo.
edited on another
component.
, Edit on other component that support LP2 stereo or LP4 stereo.
“TrFULL” appears • This is due to the MiniDisc system limitation. Repeated recording
even before the
disc has reached
the maximum
track number or
recording time.
and erasing may cause fragmentation and scattering of data.
Although those scattered data can be read, each fragment is
counted as a track. In this case, the number of tracks may reach 254
and further recording is not possible. To continue recording, erase
unnecessary tracks.
While using group function
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
The group
function does not
operate.
• While using a disc with no group setting, an attempt was made to
select some group-related menu.
, Use a disc with group setting.
A track cannot be • This is due to the MiniDisc system limitations. Group information
recorded to a new
group. A new
group cannot be
created.
has been written to the area where the disc name is stored. The disc
name and track names are recorded in the same area, which can
store a maximum of approximately 1,700 characters. If the total
number exceeds this amount, a new group cannot be created even
though group mode is on. It is also impossible to make group
settings at this time.
61
Others
Symptom
Cause/Remedy
The recorder does • The rechargeable battery is not charged.
not work or works
poorly.
, Charge the rechargeable battery.
• The volume is low.
, Turn up the volume.
• 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.
• 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.
, Take the MD out and leave the recorder in a warm place for
several hours until the moisture evaporates.
• The rechargeable battery or dry battery is weak (“LoBATT”
flashes or nothing appears).
, Charge the rechargeable battery or replace the dry battery with
the new one, or connect the supplied AC power adaptor to the
recorder.
• The dry battery have been inserted incorrectly.
, Insert the battery correctly.
• The disc is damaged or does not contain proper recording or
editing data.
, Reinsert the disc. Rerecord the disc. If the error message still
appears, replace it with another disc.
• While operating, the recorder received a mechanical shock, too
much static, abnormal power voltage caused by lightning, etc.
, Restart the operation as follows.
1 Disconnect all the power sources.
2 Leave the recorder for about 30 seconds.
3 Connect the power source.
62
Messages
If the following error messages flash in the display window, check the chart below.
Error message Meaning/Remedy
AVLS
• AVLS is set to “ON” so that the volume will not increase anymore.
FULL
• You tried to set the 21st bookmark.
, You can set up to 20 bookmarks. Set bookmarks within 20.
BLANK
BUSY
• An MD with no recording on it is inserted.
• You tried to operate the recorder while it was accessing the
recorded data.
, Wait until the message goes out (in rare cases, it may take a
few minutes).
CannotCHG
Edit
• You tried to charge at a place where the temperature is too high.
, Charge the battery at a temperature of 5°C (+41°F) to +40°C
(+104°F).
• The MD player is recording information (track start and end
position) from the memory to the disk.
, Wait until this process is completed. Do not expose the player
to physical shock, nor disrupt power supply.
ERROR
FULL
• There is an internal malfunction in the system.
message appears again, please consult your nearest Sony
dealer.
• The remaining recording time on the disc is 12 seconds (stereo), 24
seconds (LP2 stereo or monaural), 36 seconds (LP4 stereo), or
less.
, Replace the disc.
• You tried to enter more than 200 letters to label a single track or
disc.
• You tried to enter a total of more than 1,700 letters for track or disc
names.
• You tried to create a 100th group.
, You can create only up to 99 groups on a disc. Keep the group
number within 99.
HiDCin
HOLD
• 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.
• The recorder is locked.
, Slide HOLD against the arrow to unlock the recorder
(page 17).
63
Error message Meaning/Remedy
LoBATT
• Battery is weak.
MEMORY
• You tried to record with the recorder placed where it receives
continuous vibration.
, Put the recorder on a stable place, and start recording again.
NO CHG
NoCOPY
• You tried to charge at a place where the temperature is too high.
, Charge the battery at a temperature of +5°C (+41°F) to +40°C
(+104°F).
• 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.
NoDISC
NoEDIT
• You tried to play or record with no disc in the recorder.
, Insert an MD.
• You selected “G : Ers” with a disc without group setting.
, You cannot erase groups with a disc with no groups.
• You selected, “G : Set”, “G : Rls”, “Move”, or “Erase” while
recording.
• You tried to erase the track mark at the beginning of the first track
or group.
• 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 overwrite a track marks.
NoMARK
NO OPR
• You selected bookmark play without setting bookmarks.
• You tried to make the Auto Time Mark setting while recording
through digital connection.
• You tried to press X or T MARK during synchro-recording.
NO SET
• You tried to make the following settings while recording.
— Recording mode
— Recording level
— Selection of “G-REC” in menu
— Selection of “R-Posi” during recording to a group.
No SIG
• The recorder could not detect digital input signals.
PbONLY
• You tried to record or edit on a pre mastered MD (Pb stands for
“playback”).
, Insert a recordable MD.
Rd ERR
• The recorder cannot read the disc information correctly.
, Reinsert the disc.
64
Error message Meaning/Remedy
Rec ERR
• Recording was not correctly done.
, Place the recorder at a place with no vibrations and record
again.
• The disc is soiled with an oil film or finger prints, is scratched, or
is not a standard disc.
, Try recording again with another disc.
SAVED
Saving
• You tried to record or edit on a MD with the tab in the record-
protect position.
• The MD player is recording information (sounds) from the
memory to the disc.
, Wait until this process is completed. Do not expose the player
to any physical shock, nor disrupt power supply.
SEL GR
• You selected “G : Name”, “G : Move”, or “G : Ers” while the
recorder is stopped or while playing a track that does not belong to
a group.
, Select a track within a group you want to edit, and then do the
editing operation again.
TEMP
• Heat has built up in the recorder.
, Let the recorder cool down.
TOC ERR
• The recorder cannot read the disc information correctly.
, Insert another disc.
TrFULL
TrPROT
• Track number 254 has been reached.
• You tried to record or edit on a track that is protected from erasing.
, Record or edit on other tracks.
• You tried to edit a track that has been checked out from a
computer.
, Check the track back in to the computer and then edit.
65
Explanations
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
digital (optical) input, and “Recording from a TV or a radio (Analog Recording)” (page 26)
to record using analog (line) input.
Difference Digital (optical) input
Analog (line) input
Connectable Equipment with an digital (optical)
Equipment with an analog (line)
output jack (Cassette deck, radio,
record player, etc.)
source
output jack (CD player, DVD player,
etc.)
Usable cord Optical cable (with an optical or an
optical-mini plug) (page 19)
Line cable (with 2 phono plugs
or a stereo-mini plug) (page 26)
Signal from Digital
the source
Analog
Even when a digital source (such
as a CD) is connected, the signal
sent to the recorder is analog.
Track
Marked (copied) automatically
• at the same positions as the source
(when the sound source is a CD or an
MD).
Marked automatically
• after more than 2 seconds of no
segment.
marks1)
• after more than 2 seconds of no
(with a sound source other than a CD
or an MD).
• when the recorder is paused
while recording.
• when the recorder is paused (3
seconds of no sound is encountered
while synchro-recording)
Recorded
sound level
Same as the source.
Adjusted automatically. Can also
Can also be adjusted manually (Digital
REC level control) (“Adjusting the
Note
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 programs with audio that is digitally broadcast (e.g., digital TV) are recorded through the digital
(optical) input.
66
The meaning of “no sound”
“No sound” describes a recorder condition in which the input level is about 4.8 mV during
analog input or less than –89 dB during optical (digital) input (with 0 dB as full bit (the
maximum recordable level for a MiniDisc)).
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 MD by
using the analog (line out) connections.
Premastered software such as CDs or
MDs.
Microphone, record player, tuner, etc. (with
analog output jacks).
Digital recording
Analog recording
Home-recorded MD
Digital recording
Home-
recorded
MD
No
digital
recording
Recordable
MD
No
digital
recording
Recordable
MD
Recordable
MD
Restrictions on the editing of tracks checked out from your
computer
This unit was designed so that editing functions (i.e., erasing tracks, adding track marks, and
erasing track marks) do not function for tracks that have been checked out from your computer.
This is to prevent the loss of check-in authorization by the checked-out tracks. To edit these
tracks, first check them back into the computer, and then edit them on the computer.
About the DSP TYPE-S for ATRAC/ATRAC3
This recorder supports DSP TYPE-S, a specification for high-level Sony MiniDisc decks
equipped with digital signal processors (DSP). This specification allows the recorder to produce
high-quality sound from tracks recorded in MDLP mode. Since it retains DSP TYPE-R support,
the recorder produces superior results during recording or playback in SP (normal stereo) mode.
Suppressing the skips of the sound (G-PROTECTION)
The G-PROTECTION function was developed to provide a higher level of shock resistance than that of
existing players.
67
Recording audio data to
your computer
You can record audio data to your computer from
Audio CDs
Internet
On the computer
Listening
You can listen to an audio CD in the CD-
ROM drive of your computer, or audio
data in the hard disk drive (page 83).
68
What is a Net MD?
Net MD is a standard that enables the transfer of audio data from a computer to a MiniDisc
device. To use this Net MD with your computer requires a software application called
“SonicStage”.
SonicStage software provides a database for managing audio data in the computer and
functions for playing the audio data in various play modes, editing the data, and
transferring the results to other devices and hardware connected to the computer. It is an
integrated software application with a variety of functions for enjoying music.
Transferring audio data to
the Net MD
You can transfer audio data stored in your computer to an MD
To a Net MD
Creating a music
library
Editing
You can easily edit audio data or add
You can create a music library of your
favorite songs on your computer.
69
Basic Operations
Basic operational flow using the Net MD
The following is the basic steps that you will take following the purchase of your recorder.
Through these steps, you will prepare and set up your computer for use of your recorder as
a Net MD. Do the following steps, and refer to the indicated pages for details.
1 Providing the required system
environment.
2 Installing the software onto your
computer.
3 Connecting the Net MD to your computer.
4 Storing audio data to your computer.
In this manual, recording from an audio CD is explained.
5 Transferring audio data from your
computer to an MD (Check-out).
6 Listening to an MD.
You can listen to audio data that have been checked out from your computer to your Net
MD.
70
Providing the required system environment
System requirements
The following hardware and software are required in order to use the SonicStage software
for the Net MD.
Computer
IBM PC/AT or Compatible
• CPU: Pentium II 400 MHz or higher (Pentium III 450 MHz or higher
is recommended.)
• Hard disk drive space1): 120 MB or more
• RAM: 64 MB or higher (128 MB or higher is recommended)
Others
• CD-ROM drive (capable of digital playback by WDM)
• Sound Board
• USB port (supports USB 2.0 Full Speed (previously USB 1.1))
Operating
System
Factory installed:
Windows XP Home Edition/Windows XP Professional/Windows
Millennium Edition/Windows 2000 Professional/Windows 98 Second
Edition
Display
Others
High Color (16bit) or greater, 800 × 480 dots or more (800 × 600 dots
or more is recommended)
• Internet access: for Web registration and EMD services
• Windows Media Player (version 7.0 or higher) installed for playing
WMA files
1)
This software is not supported by the following environments:
• Macintosh
• Windows XP versions other than Home Edition or Professional
• Windows 2000 versions other than Professional
• Windows 98 versions other than Second Edition
• Windows NT
• Windows 95
• Personally constructed PCs or operating systems
• An environment that is an upgrade of the original manufacturer-installed operating system
• Multi-boot environment
• Multi-monitor environment
Notes
• We do not ensure trouble-free operation on all computers that satisfy the system requirements.
• We do not ensure trouble-free operation of the system suspend, sleep, or hibernation function on all
computers.
71
Installing the software onto your computer
This section explains the installation of the SonicStage Ver.1.5 software supplied with your
Net MD.
Before installing the software
1 Make sure to note the following before installing the software.
Do not connect the dedicated USB cable before the installation!
The SonicStage software may not correctly load or operate if the dedicated USB
cable is connected to your computer during the installation.
Close all other Windows applications before starting the installation!
Make sure to close any virus-check software, as such software usually demand large
amounts of system resources.
2 Depending on the following operating system or software already installed
on your computer, refer to the reference pages before installing the
software.
Windows XP
• To install this software, you must log on with a
user name with “Computer Administrator”.
• If you perform the “System Restore” function in
the Windows “System Tools” menu, the tracks
managed by SonicStage may become corrupted
and rendered unplayable.
, page 86
Windows Millennium Edition
• If you perform the “System Restore” function of
the Windows “System Tools” menu, the tracks
managed by SonicStage may become corrupted
and rendered unplayable.
, page 87
Windows 2000
• You must log on as “Administrator” before
installing the software.
, page 87
OpenMG Jukebox,
SonicStage, or SonicStage
Premium
• Depending on the version of your software, the
existing software may be overwritten by the new
version or it may co-exist with SonicStage
Ver.1.5. As the installation process will depend
on the version, see the reference page for details.
, page 88
72
Installing SonicStage Ver.1.5
1 Turn on your computer and start up Windows.
2 Insert the installation CD-ROM for SonicStage into the CD-ROM drive of
your computer.
The setup program starts up automatically
and the SonicStage Ver.1.5 installation
window appears.
3 Click to select [SonicStage 1.5].
To use this software with the Net MD, you must install SonicStage Ver.1.5 and the Net
MD driver.
Click [SonicStage 1.5]
• When installing SonicStage for
the first time
• When SonicStage, SonicStage
Premium, or OpenMG Jukebox
is installed on the computer
continued
73
4 Follow the displayed instructions.
Read the instructions carefully.
The installation may take 20 to 30 minutes,
depending on your system environment
5 After the installation is completed, click [Restart] to restart the computer.
Make sure to restart your computer only after
the installation has completed.
Was the installation successful?
Notes
• Do not delete, move, or edit any of the installed folders using Explorer or any other application. Doing
so could cause the SonicStage database to become unstable or corrupted.
• While the installation is still in progress, do not interrupt the operation or take the CD-ROM out of the
CD-ROM drive. Doing so may render it impossible to install the software thereafter.
74
Connecting the Net MD to your computer
After the software installation is completed, connect the Net MD to your computer.
Refer to the operating instructions of the Net MD as well.
1 Insert a recordable disc into the Net MD.
2 Make the power source and the dedicated USB cable connections with the Net
MD and the computer.
AC
power
adaptor
To the USB jack/
dedicated jack
To the USB
connecting
terminal
Net MD
devices*
Dedicated
USB cable
To the DC IN
jack
Computer
* If a cradle is supplied with your Net MD, connect the dedicated USB cable to the
USB cradle and place the Net MD onto the USB cradle.
3 Check the connections.
When the connections have been properly
made, “PCppMD”* appears in the display of
the Net MD.
*Depending on the device, “Net MD” may be
displayed.
Notes
• When using the Net MD connected to your computer, it is recommended that you run the recorder
from an AC outlet. If you use a battery to run the Net MD, be sure to use a new dry cell or a fully
charged rechargeable battery. We do not assure the results should there be a mis-operation, check-out
failure, or destruction of audio data caused by insufficient battery power.
• When using the Net MD with the cradle, place the cradle on a stable surface so that the dedicated USB
cable does not become detached.
75
Storing audio data to your computer
This section explains how to record and store audio data from an audio CD to the hard disk
drive of your computer.
The procedure in this section is used to record all tracks on an audio CD. To record only
specific tracks from a CD, or from other sound sources, see the online help for details
Note
The system may malfunction if your computer changes to system suspend or hibernation mode while
the software is playing, recording, or connecting to an external device or media* such as a Net MD.
∗ For this software, the word “MD” refers to the built-in MD slot on the computer, and “Device/
Media” to a Net MD that is externally connected over a USB cable.
Starting SonicStage
Do one of the following:
• Double click
([SonicStage] icon) on the computer.
• Select [Start] - [Programs]* - [SonicStage] - [SonicStage].
∗ [All Programs] in the case of Windows XP
SonicStage starts up and the main window appears.
76
Recording audio CDs to the hard disk drive
In SonicStage Ver.1.5, the hard disk drive is called the “Music Drive”. The Music Drive
manages all audio data stored by SonicStage.
1 Insert the audio CD that you want to record into the CD-ROM drive of your
computer.
The CD window appears in the display.
Note
When you record an audio CD from your CD-ROM drive for
the first time, the “CD Drive Optimization” dialog box
appears when you insert the audio CD. Clicking [Start]
initiates a check of the CD-ROM drive to verify that the CD-
ROM drive is able to perform the recording properly.
2 Click
.
The recording navigation window* appears in the
display.
∗The recording navigation window makes it easy to make a
recording. Simply by doing 1, 2 and 3 in the next step,
you can select the audio source in the left panel and the
recording destination in the right panel.
3 Select
(CD) for [1 Sources] and
(Music Drive) for [2 Targets],
then click 3
[Jump to Record Window].
The display changes to the recording window.
continued
77
4 Click
select the recording mode.
in the middle of the recording window and
When recording data in LP2 mode:
select ATRAC3 132kbps
When recording data in LP4 mode:
select ATRAC3 66kbps
Click here
5 If the list panel is not displayed, click
.
List panels appear under the recording window. The
contents of the audio CD appear in the left list panel.
6 Click
[Record All].
Recording starts.
Upon completion, recorded tracks appear in the right list panel.
To stop recording
Click
([Stop]).
To resume recording, click
. When recording is resumed, it starts from the beginning
of the track that was last stopped.
78
Labeling audio data
After recording has completed, you can label the audio data in the Music Drive. Once
audio data in the Music Drive is labeled, the label information will be transferred to a disc
along with the audio data, allowing you to view the data on your Net MD.
(Music Drive).
“All Playlists” appears and all the albums stored on the
Music Drive appear in the Music Drive window.
2 Double click the desired album name.
A list of the audio files in that album appears.
3 Click
in the lower right part of the display.
The editing panel appears in the display.
4 Select an item by clicking [Title], [Album], [Artist], or [Genre], and then
right-click and select [Rename].
You can also click [V] at [Album] or [Artist] to display a dropdown list, and then select
an item from the list.
5 When the track title is highlighted, enter the text data from the keyboard.
z
You can also import names from a database with the
([CD Info]) button for use in labeling tracks or
79
Transferring audio data from your computer to the
Net MD (Check-out)
Audio data stored on the Music Drive can be transferred to your Net MD. This process is
called “Check-out”. The number of times a track can be checked out is restricted in this
Playlist
Checking out audio files to the Net MD
This section explains how to check out all audio files in a playlist*.
∗ A playlist is a container that allows the stored audio files in the Music Drive to be classified by
genre, artist, etc.
1 Click
to display the recording navigation window.
2 Select
(Music Drive) for [1 Sources] and
(Device/Media) for [2
Targets], then click 3
([Jump to Record Window]).
The display changes to the recording window.
80
3 Click
in the middle of the display and select the
Standard transfer mode: Data are transferred in the format of the original files.
Maximum available transfer space: All data are transferred in LP4 mode.
SP transfer mode: All data are converted and transferred in normal stereo mode. Select
this mode if you listen to checked-out data on equipment that does not support
MDLP mode.
4 If the list panel is not displayed, click
.
A playlist appears in the display.
5 Confirm that the audio files you are about to check out are okay for checking
out.
The music notations beside the track number in the left
panel of the list represent the number of times the file
can be checked out (e.g.
out three more times). If
= the track can be checked
appears beside the track
number, the file cannot be checked out.
6 Click
[Check-Out All].
Checking out of the files starts.
All files in the playlist are checked out to the connected Net MD.
To cancel a check-out
Click
([Stop]).
81
Notes
• Once a check-out (or check-in) has started, do not disconnect the dedicated USB cable or power
source until the check-out operation has completed. These actions may damage the data or cause the
system to malfunction.
• Make sure not to bump the Net MD after check-out has started. If you do, the contents of the
recording may not be stored correctly.
• Due to the limitations of the MD system, you may not be able to record the full amount of remaining
recording time.
• Due to the limitations of the MD system, a maximum of about 1,700 characters can be stored for disc
name, group names and track names on the disc. Take note of this fact when checking out a large
number of tracks.
82
Listening to an MD
You can listen to an MD on the Net MD while it is connected to your computer. When
disconnected from your computer, the Net MD can be used as an ordinary MiniDisc
device.
Listening to an MD with the Net MD connected to the
computer
If you listen to an MD with the Net MD connected to the computer, be sure to listen with
the Net MD itself (connecting to the headphones/earphones, speakers, etc.). The MD sound
cannot be heard from headphones/earphones that are connected to the computer.
Listening to an MD with the Net MD disconnected from the
computer
Listen to the MD after disconnecting the dedicated USB cable from the computer and the
Net MD.
Notes
Generally, you cannot erase or divide/combine checked-out audio files. If you want to edit such files,
check them back in first. Checked-out files can be edited on some MD devices; however, erasing a track
will decrease the number of times the file can be checked out, and dividing or combining tracks will
83
Advanced operations
Using other functions!
Using the SonicStage online help
This manual explains only the basic operations of the SonicStage software. However, the
software has a host of other functions that allow you to carry out various operations, such
as importing audio files from the Internet, classifying and managing audio files, and
playing in various play modes. For information and details on the various menus and
operations, go to the online help.
To display online help
Click
(help) while the SonicStage
software is running.
z
You can display the online help by selecting the following:
[Start]–[Programs]*–[SonicStage]–[SonicStage Help]
∗ [All Programs] in the case of Windows XP.
84
Viewing online help
The Tabs
The right side frame
The left side frame
Let’s find out how to use the online help first. An explanation on the use of the online help
can also be found in the online help.
1 Double click [Overview] in the left-hand frame.
2 Click [About this Help file].
The explanation will appear in the right-hand frame.
3 Read the text.
Scroll the display if necessary.
Click underlined words to jump to their explanations.
Note
In the online help, “Device/Media’ is the
general term for external devices such as Net
MDs, Network Walkmans (i.e., portable IC
audio players or portable “Memory Stick”
audio players), and MusicClips.
Device/Media
85
Other information
Settings and Precautions
Settings according to OS
The settings and precautions will differ according to the operating system being used.
Check the items that apply to your system.
For Windows XP users
Restrictions when running the SonicStage software under Windows XP
• To install this software, you must log on with a user name with “Computer
Administrator”* as an attribute.
• You must log on with the user name “Administrators” or “Power Users” to use the
SonicStage software.
• Both edition of Windows XP (Home/Professional) can be used.
• The NTFS format of Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional (factory
installed) can be used only with the standard (factory) settings.
∗ To check whether the user name has the attribute of “Computer Administrator”
Go to [Start]- [Control Panel]-[User Account], and then check the user name displayed on the
window.
When using SonicStage under Windows XP
If you use the “System Restore” function in Windows “System Tools”, audio data managed
by SonicStage may become corrupted and rendered unplayable.
Before executing the system restoration procedure, you should first back up all audio files
and restore them after doing the system restoration procedure.
For details about backup procedures, refer to online help.
Note
Restoring backup data requires access to the Internet. If an audio file becomes unplayable after
restoring the system, an error dialog box may appear. If this occurs, do as instructed by the message.
86
For Windows Millennium Edition users
When using SonicStage under Windows Millennium Edition
If you use the “System Restore” function in Windows “System Tools”, audio data managed
by SonicStage may become corrupted and rendered unplayable.
Before executing the system restoration procedure, you should first back up all audio files
and restore them after doing the system restoration procedure.
For details about backup procedures, refer to online help.
Note
Restoring backup data requires access to the Internet. If an audio file becomes unplayable after
restoring the system, an error dialog box may appear. If this occurs, do as instructed by the message.
For Windows 2000 users
Restrictions when running the SonicStage software under Windows 2000
• You must log on as “Administrator” to install the SonicStage software.
• You must log on with the user name “Administrators” or “Power Users” to use the
SonicStage software.
• Of the Windows 2000 versions, SonicStage is supported only by Windows 2000
Professional.
• The NTFS format of Windows 2000 Professional (factory installed) can be used only
with the standard (factory) settings.
For Windows 98 Second Edition users
Importing MP3 files to the computer or playing WAV files on the computer
Microsoft Media Player version 7.0 or higher is required for importing MP3 files or
playing WAV files. Users of earlier versions can download the most recent version from the
Microsoft website (http://www.microsoft.com/).
87
For users with OpenMG Jukebox, SonicStage, or SonicStage
Premium installed on their computer
Note
Confirm whether any tracks have been checked out from your computer.
If tracks have been checked out from OpenMG Jukebox, an earlier version of SonicStage,
or SonicStage Premium, it may not be possible to check those tracks back in with
SonicStage Ver.1.5. It is recommended to check in the tracks before installing SonicStage
Ver.1.5.
Check the following contents before installing SonicStage Ver.1.5.
The installation items and procedure will vary depending on the software installed on your
computer.
Users with OpenMG Jukebox installed
Installed Version
What to do
Ver.1.0~2.1
Install SonicStage 1.5. OpenMG Jukebox Ver.1.0-2.1 is
automatically uninstalled and replaced.1)
Ver.2.2
OpenMG Jukebox Ver.2.2 and SonicStage Ver.1.5 can co-
exist in the computer.
If you install SonicStage Ver.1.5, then OpenMG Jukebox
Ver.2.2 will be automatically upgraded to the latest version.
1)
Audio files recorded with OpenMG Jukebox Ver.1.0-2.1 are automatically converted to SonicStage
Ver.1.5 files. For safety sake, it is recommended that you back up your audio data with the back-up
tool before doing the upgrade to SonicStage Ver.1.5.
Users with an earlier version of SonicStage installed
Installed Version
What to do
Ver.1.0~1.5
Install SonicStage Ver.1.5. The earlier version is
automatically uninstalled and replaced.1)
1)
Audio files recorded with SonicStage Ver.1.0-1.5 are automatically converted to SonicStage Ver.1.5
files. For safety sake, it is recommended that you back up your audio data with the back-up tool before
doing the upgrade to SonicStage Ver.1.5.
Users with a SonicStage Premium installed
Installed Version
What to do
SonicStage Premium
Install SonicStage Ver.1.5. SonicStage Ver.1.5 and
SonicStage Premium can co-exist in the computer.
88
Precautions on the co-existence of SonicStage Ver. 1.5 with OpenMG Jukebox
Ver.2.2 or SonicStage Premium
• Make sure the OpenMG Jukebox Ver.2.2 icon is not displayed in the task tray. If it is, the Net MD may
not be recognized by your computer.
• Audio data recorded on the computer are stored in a common file and used by both applications.
Therefore, if you delete an audio file (e.g., one album) in one application, it will be deleted in the other
software as well.
Precaution on using a computer on which OpenMG Jukebox Ver.1.0-2.1 or
SonicStage Ver.1.0-1.2 is installed
After installing SonicStage Ver.1.5, make sure you do not replace SonicStage Ver.1.5 with OpenMG
Jukebox Ver.1.0-2.1 or SonicStage Ver.1.0-1.2., as all audio data in the Music Drive may be lost. If you
begin the installation of OpenMG Jukebox Ver.1.0-2.1 or SonicStage Ver.1.0-1.2 by mistake, stop the
installation immediately.
Note on hard disk drive space
120 MB or more free space on the hard disk drive is required. If your computer does not
have enough space, the software will not be properly installed. The required free space
differs according to the version of your Windows OS, or the amount of audio files that you
handle.
Notes on system suspend/hibernation mode
• If the computer changes to system suspend/hibernation mode during the recording of a
CD or the checking in/out of a data file, the audio data may be lost or the computer may
not wake up properly. The computer suspend/hibernation function should therefore be
turned off.
• If you change the media while the computer is in system suspend/hibernation mode,
audio data may be lost after the computer wakes up.
• If the computer changes to system suspend/hibernation mode, the computer may not
recognize the Net MD when it wakes up. If this happens, disconnect the USB cable and
reconnect it again.
Backing up the audio data
Before doing any procedure that may affect the operating system itself (such as a system
recovery), you should back up all of your audio data with the [SonicStage backup tool]
from the [Start] - [Programs] - [SonicStage].
89
Uninstalling the SonicStage software
To uninstall the SonicStage software, follow the procedures below.
For Windows XP users
Log on with a user name with “Computer Administrator” as an attribute.
Refer to the operating instructions of your computer for details on logging on as an
administrator.
1 Click [Start]–[Control Panel].
The “Control Panel” window appears.
2 Double-click [Add/Remove Programs].
The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.
3 Click [Change or Remove Programs].
4 Click [SonicStage 1.5.XX] in the “Currently Installed Programs” list, and
then click [Change and Remove].
5 Click [OpenMG Secure Module 3.1]* in the “Currently Installed Programs”
list, and then click [Change and Remove].
Do as instructed by the message and restart the computer. When the computer restarts,
the uninstallation will be completed.
* If SonicStage Ver.1.5 is co-existing with OpenMG Jukebox Ver.2.2 or SonicStage Premium on your
computer, and you uninstall one or the other, make sure [OpenMG Secure Module 3.1] is not
uninstalled since it is commonly used with both software applications.
For Windows Millennium Edition/Windows 98 Second Edition
users
1 Click [Start]–[Settings]–[Control Panel].
The “Control Panel” window appears.
90
2 Double-click [Add/Remove Programs].
The Add/Remove Programs Properties window appears.
3 Click [SonicStage 1.5.XX] in the list of programs for automatic removal, and
then click [Add/Remove].
4 Click [OpenMG Secure Module 3.1]* in the list of programs for automatic
removal, and then click [Add/Remove].
Do as instructed by the message and restart the computer. When the computer restarts,
the uninstallation will be completed.
For Windows 2000 users
Log on as “Administrator”, and then follow the instructions below.
Refer to the operating instructions of your computer for details on logging on as an
administrator.
1 Click [Start]–[Settings]–[Control Panel].
The “Control Panel” window appears.
2 Double-click [Add/Remove Programs].
The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.
3 Click [Change or Remove Programs].
4 Click [SonicStage 1.5.XX] in the “Currently Installed Programs” list, and
then click [Change/Remove].
5 Click [OpenMG Secure Module 3.1]* in the “Currently Installed Programs”
list, and then click [Change/Remove].
Do as instructed by the message and restart the computer. When the computer restarts,
the uninstallation will be completed.
* If SonicStage Ver.1.5 is co-existing with OpenMG Jukebox Ver.2.2 or SonicStage Premium on your
computer, and you uninstall one or the other, make sure [OpenMG Secure Module 3.1] is not
uninstalled since it is commonly used with both software applications.
91
Troubleshooting
Please do the following steps if you encounter a problem while using the SonicStage
software. In case a message appears, it is recommended that you write it down.
A variety of information can also be found in the operating procedures and “Settings and
Precautions” (page 86) as well.
Step 2: Check the symptoms in the SonicStage 1.5 online help
Check “Troubleshooting” under “Additional information” in the online help.
Useful information may also be found in other sections in the online help.
Step 3: If the trouble cannot be solved after checking the above
references.
Check the following table and then consult your nearest Sony dealer.
92
Computer
• Manufacturer:
• Model:
• Type: Desktop type / Laptop type
Name of operating system:
RAM capacity:
Hard disk drive (containing SonicStage and audio data)
• Capacity of the drive:
• Free space:
Installed folder containing SonicStage (if other than the default folder)1)
• Location of the installed folder:
Version of the software (SonicStage Ver.1.5)2):
Error Message (if one appeared):
If an externally connected CD-ROM drive is used
• Manufacturer:
• Model:
• Type: CD-ROM / CD-R/RW / DVD-ROM / Other (
)
• Type of connection to the computer: PC card / USB / IEEE1394 / Other (
)
If another device with USB connection is used
• Name of the device (or devices):
1)
If you do not specify the destination, the software is installed at C:\Program Files\Sony\SonicStage.
To check the SonicStage software version, go to [Menu] - [About SonicStage] in the SonicStage
window, or see the version information on the supplied CD-ROM.
2)
93
If your computer does not recognize the Net MD
• Is the Net MD connected correctly to your computer?
— If the Net MD is not firmly connected to the computer, the Net MD will not be
recognized by your computer.
— Reconnect the dedicated USB cable. If the computer still does not recognize the Net
MD, disconnect the Net MD, restart the computer, and connect the dedicated USB
cable again.
• Is an MD inserted in the Net MD?
Check if an MD is inserted in the Net MD.
• If your computer does not recognize your Net MD even when the Net MD is
connected and a disc is inserted, the Net MD driver may not be correctly
installed.
Go to the [USB Controller] in the Windows Device Manager window to verify that your
Net MD is correctly recognized.
A [!] mark in the Device Manager window indicates that your Net MD is not correctly
recognized. Reinstall the Net MD driver.
1 Click [Start]–[Settings]–[Control Panel].1)
2 Double click [System] in the control panel.2)
3 Click the [Hardware]3) tab, and then click [Device Manager].
The Device Manager window appears.
1)
In Windows XP, select [Start]–[Control Panel].
2)
In Windows XP, double click [System] if the control panel is in the “classic” format, or click
[Performance and Maintenance] and then [System] if the control panel is in the “category” format.
Depending on your system, the [Hardware] tab may not be provided. In this case, click the [Device
3)
Manager] tab to display the Device Manager window.
If the installation was not successful
• Be sure to close all Windows applications before you start the installation.
If 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.
• Be sure not to connect the Net MD to your computer before you start the
installation.
If the dedicated USB cable is connected to your computer before the installation, the
installation cannot be done correctly. Connect the dedicated USB cable after the
installation completed.
• Make sure your computer has enough hard disk drive space.
120MB of free space or more on the hard disk drive is required. If your computer does
not have enough space, the installation may not be possible.
94
• If the installation seems to be stopped
It may take 30 minutes or more for the installation to complete, depending on your
computer or CD-ROM drive.
During the installation, watch out for the occurrence of any of the following problems.
Problem
Cause/Remedy
The installation appears to have Check for the appearance of an error message beneath
stopped before it has
completed.
the installation window.
t Press the [Tab] key while holding down the [Alt]
key. If an error message has appeared, press the [Enter]
key. The installation will resume. If there is no
message, the installation is still in progress. Wait a little
while longer.
The progress bar on the display The installation is progressing normally. Please wait.
is not moving. The access lamp
has not lit for a few minutes.
• If the installation is still unsuccessful after all that you have done.
— The installation can be done by copying all files to the hard disk as follows:
1 Create a new folder on the hard disc.
2 Insert the supplied CD-ROM (SonicStage Ver.1.5) into the CD-ROM drive.
3 When the installation window appears, click [Exit] to cancel the installation.
4 Right-click the start menu and start up Explorer.
5 Select [SS15E] on the CD-ROM drive, and then click [Edit] -[Select All].
6 Click [Edit]-[Copy to Folder] (or [Edit]-[Copy]) to copy all files to the folder that you
7 Remove the CD-ROM from the CD-ROM drive, open the folder that was copied to the
hard disk and double-click [setup.exe].
8 When the installation window appears, follow the displayed instructions to install
[SonicStage 1.5].
— The installation may be done by installing the software from [Start]-[Run].
95
Information and explanations
Net MD FAQ
This section introduces frequently asked questions and answers on the Net MD.
On the Net MD
What is a “Net MD”?
Net MD is a specification that allows audio data in a computer to be transferred to a
MiniDisc through a USB cable.
Till now, MiniDiscs could be used to record only analog sources (through a microphone or
analog input) or PCM sources such as CDs. Recording audio files on a computer was
impossible. However, thanks to SonicStage and other music management software based
the recording of computer files to MDs.
1)
Copyright protection technology for managing audio data recorded on computers, etc.
Technology for verifying the copyright-protection status of audio data in check-out/check-in
2)
operations between a computer and a Net MD device.
File type for recording to an MD.
3)
How does the SonicStage software make using MDs more convenient?
• It allows you to record audio data from your computer to your MD.
• Editing operations are easily done using on-screen operations.
— Labeling: Allows use of keyboard for easy labeling of contents.
— Moving tracks or groups: Allows tracks or groups to be moved simply by dragging
and dropping. Track movements are easy to see.
— Group settings: Groups are easy to create or release.
These operations can be used to edit tracks on a disc in the Net MD. If you want to edit
the contents of an MD, connect the Net MD to your computer, and edit the tracks in the
SonicStage Device/Media window.
Can tracks recorded on the Net MD be checked in to a computer?
No, they cannot.
Audio data that was originally checked out from a computer can only be checked back into
the same computer. Tracks that are recorded on the Net MD using a microphone or through
an analog or digital connection cannot be transferred to the computer or copied.
Computer k MiniDisc : OK.
MiniDisc k Computer : OK only for tracks originally checked out from the computer.
96
On Editing
Can checked-out tracks be edited on the Net MD?
• Things you can do on the Net MD:
— Label contents.
— Assign or release groups
— Move tracks or groups.
• Things you cannot do on the Net MD:
— Add track marks (divide)/erase track marks (combine).
— Delete tracks, groups, or the entire disc contents.
97
On copyright protection
The OpenMG technology* allows you to enjoy digital music, while maintaining the
copyrights of its holders. OpenMG Jukebox encrypts audio files in OpenMG format and
stores them on the hard disk of your computer to prevent unauthorized distribution.
* The copyright protection technology of this software conforms to SDMI (Secure Digital Music
Initiative) specifications.
This software places some restrictions on recording and playback to protect copyrights.
You can check in audio files only to the same computer from which they were checked out.
They cannot be copied or checked in to other computers.
You can check-in audio files
only to the computer which
they were checked out.
Check-out can
be made for
three times.
You cannot copy or
move audio files to
another computer.
98
Restrictions on audio content
High-quality digital audio content is widely available through music distribution services
on the Internet. To protect the copyrights of its holders from unauthorized distribution,
some audio content is distributed with certain restrictions on recording and playback. For
example, the playback period or playback count for the data may be limited. In such cases,
checking out of the audio contents may not be possible.
Depending on the contents, some audio data that could be checked out are subject to
editing restrictions on the Net MD; e.g., audio contents cannot be erased or track marks
cannot be added or erased.
It is not possible to check in tracks other than those that were checked out from your
computer (for example, tracks recorded using a microphone or through analog or digital
connection).
Features by copyright protection by OpenMG
The SonicStage software features OpenMG, a copyright protection technology developed
by Sony to protect music copyrights. OpenMG uses high-level cryptographic technology to
protect music contents with computers.
Users should be aware of the restrictions described below.
• Music recorded on the hard disk using the SonicStage software cannot be played when
copied to other computers.
• Installation of the same SonicStage software to other computers is not permitted.
• Usage Rules
If Usage Rules are included in the music by way of the copyright holder or the distributor,
operation will be restricted to use permitted by the Usage Rule. For music, such as
compact discs, that does not contain a Usage Rule, the Default Usage Rule of SDMI will
apply. This Default Usage Rule states that one file can be checked out up to three times
only.
• On music contents that are not compatible with the SonicStage software
Under the supervision of SDMI, this software prohibits recording of music with a copy
prohibition signal.
• Upgrading SonicStage software
This software was developed in accordance with the current arrangement between Sony
and SDMI. If this arrangement is modified in the future, some of the software functions
may become unavailable. Sony may offer an upgrade kit in this case at additional user
expense.
99
Glossary
ATRAC3
ATRAC3, which stands for Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding3, is audio compression
technology that satisfies the demand for high sound quality and high compression rates.
The ATRAC3 compression rate is approximately 10 times higher than that of the Audio
CD, resulting an increased data capacity for the media.
“Check-In /Check-Out”
Check-out is to transfer music files from a personal computer to an external device/media
(such as a Network Walkman). Returning checked-out music files to the same computer is
to check in. (You cannot move checked-out music files to another computer.)
You can check out a music file, check it back in, and then check it out again an infinite
number of times. The SDMI rules provide that up to four copies of a music file can be
checked out at one time. OpenMG employs a method whereby three copies of a song can
be checked out simultaneously, while the fourth copy is maintained as a master on your PC.
Electronic Music Distribution (EMD) service
EMD is a website that distributes music files which are available for purchase.
MP3
MP3, which stands for MPEG-1 Audio Layer3, is a standard for audio file compression
determined by the Motion Picture Experts Group, an ISO (International Organization for
Standardization) working group. It enables compression of audio files to about 1/10 of the
data size of a standard compact disc. Since the MP3 encoding algorithm is disclosed, there
are various encoders/decoders that are compliant with this standard, including freeware that
is available for no charge. The MP3 standard is therefore widely used in the computer field.
Music Drive
Music Drive is a music database for managing audio data on a computer. In Music Drive,
audio files can be managed along with such information as artist names, track names, and
CD jacket images, or can be combined and categorized in different playlists.
OpenMG
Copyright protection technology for the import and management of musical content from
distribution services or CDs. By using software that are compliant with OpenMG, audio
contents can be encrypted before storage on a hard disk drive to allow playback of those
audio files on that computer. OpenMG also prevents the unauthorized distribution of the
contents via the Internet or other networks.
Playlist
A playlist is like a container that can be used to hold and categorize files stored in Music
Drive. For example, by making a “jazz” playlist and then putting your favorite jazz tracks
into the playlist, you can play all of the tracks repeatedly or check them all out at the same
time.
100
Recording mode (Bit rate)
This is a measure of data volume per second. The rate is expressed in bps (bits per second).
In SonicStage, the bit rate can be selected for recording an audio CD or converting MP3
and WAV format audio files into ATRAC3 format from among three rates: 132 kbps, 105
kbps or 66 kbps. In the case of 105 kbps, 105,000 bits of information is processed per
second. If the bit rate is large, that means a large amount of information is used to play the
music. Thus, 105 kbps data produces better sound quality than 66 kbps data, and 132 kbps
data provides better sound quality than 105 kbps data. However, audio files in formats such
as MP3 have different encoding methods, and so the sound quality is not determined by the
bit rate alone.
SDMI
SDMI, which stands for Secure Digital Music Initiative, is a forum that consists of over
130 companies in the fields of recorded audio content, computers, and consumer
electronics. It is dedicated to the development of integrated copyright protection
technology that can be used worldwide.
SDMI is working to create a framework for preventing the improper usage of audio files
and to promote legal music distribution services. The copyright protection technology
OpenMG is based on the SDMI standard.
Windows Media Audio
This is an audio compression technology that includes the management system called
“Windows Media Rights Manager”.
Windows Media Technology
This is a technology that includes a contents management system called Windows Media
Rights Manager which encrypts contents and distributes music contents along with their
conditions for usage, distribution, etc. Audio files supporting Windows Media
Technologies (WMT) downloaded via EMD* can be imported into and managed by
OpenMG Jukebox.
* EMD may not be available in certain areas of the world.
101
Index
A
G
Accessories
G-PROTECTION 67
Group
optional 56
supplied 11
erasing 45
moving 44
Auto Time Mark 26
AVLS 50
play 40
recording 39
releasing 42
setting 41
B
skip 40
Group Program Play 41
back up 89
Bookmark
H
add 30
play 31
hard disk
C
storing 77
I
CD-ROM 71
Charging 16
Checking
Installing 73
L
Labeling
playing position 29
a disc 33
tracks 33
labeling 79
M
Cleaning 55
Combining tracks 36
Connecting 75
Manual recording 28
MDLP 25
Menus 51
Move
groups 43
tracks 34
MP3 100
analog 26
digital 19
when charging 16
copyright protection 98
D
delete (software) 90
Divide
N
Name
directly 36
rehearsal 36
DSP TYPE-S 67
a disc 33
groups 43
tracks 33
E
EMD services 100
Erasing
Net MD driver 94
No sound 67
a whole disc 38
groups 45
tracks 37
O
Online help 84
OpenMG 100
102
P
Play mode
groups 40
tracks 30
Q
Quick mode 49
R
Recording
analog 26
digital 18
level 28
MDLP mode 25
without overwriting tracks 49
Recording navigation window 77
Relabeling 34
S
SDMI 101
start (software) 76
Synchro-recording 24
System environment 71
System limitations 71
T
Track mark
Add (Divide) 35
Erase (Combime) 36
Transferring
to the computer 76
to the Net MD 80
U
Uninstalling
Windows 2000 91
Windows 98 Second Edition 90
Windows Millennium Edition 90
Windows XP 90
USB
cable 11
W
Windows 2000 91
Windows 98 Second Edition 90
Windows Millennium Edition 90
Windows XP 90
WMA 101
WMT 101
103
*
3
2
4
9
5
1
0
1
3
*
(1)
Printed in Malaysia
|