This document provides a comprehensive service manual for the Optonica Stereo Cassette Tape Deck, specifically models RT-1616H, RT-1616HB, and RT-1616HW. It covers various aspects from general specifications to detailed adjustment procedures and parts lists, essential for maintenance and repair.
Function Description
The Optonica Stereo Cassette Tape Deck is designed for high-fidelity audio recording and playback using cassette tapes. It incorporates advanced features to ensure stable and accurate performance, including a Quartz-Locked PLL Servo Motor system for precise tape speed and a Dolby Noise Reduction system for improved sound quality. The deck supports both recording and playback modes, with mechanisms for fast forward, rewind, and pause. It also includes an APSS (Auto Program Search System) for convenient track location.
Important Technical Specifications
Type: 4-track, 2-channel stereo cassette tape recorder/player deck with built-in Dolby noise reduction system.
Power Source: AC 110/220/240V, 50/60Hz.
Power Consumption: 13W.
Semiconductors: 4 IC, 23 transistors, 15 diodes.
Dimensions (W x H x D): 442 mm (17-3/8") x 158 mm (6-1/4") x 252 mm (9-15/16").
Weight: 6.0 kg (13.2 lbs) for RT-1616H/HB, 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs) for RT-1616HW.
Input Circuitry:
- Microphone jacks: 6.8K ohms, 0.2 mV.
- Line input jacks: 50K ohms, 80 mV.
- Record/playback socket: 6.8K ohms, 0.2 mV.
Output Circuitry:
- Headphone jack: 8 ohms, 63 mV.
- Line output jacks: 50K ohms, 300 mV.
- Record/playback socket: 50K ohms, 300 mV.
Tape Speed: 4.8 cm/sec (1-7/8 ips).
Recording System: AC bias system (85 kHz).
Erasing System: AC erasing.
Fast Forward & Rewind Time: 100 seconds (C-60).
Wow and Flutter: 0.07% (DIN 45 500), 0.18% (WRMS).
Frequency Response:
- Normal tape: 40 – 12,500 Hz (DIN 45 500), 40 – 15,000 Hz (C-60UD).
- MAXELL C-60UDXL II tape: 40 – 14,000 Hz (DIN 45 500), 40 – 16,000 Hz.
Signal to Noise Ratio: 52 dB, For normal tape, at LINE IN, without Dolby N.R. system.
Dolby N.R. Effect: 10 dB (at over 5 kHz).
Distortion: 1.5%.
Channel Separation: 35 dB.
Erase Ratio: 55 dB.
Input Sensitivity and Input Impedance:
- Microphone: 0.2 mV, 6.8K ohms.
- Record/playback socket: 0.2 mV, 6.8K ohms.
Output Level and Loaded Impedance:
- Line in: 300 mV, 50K ohms.
- Headphones: 63 mV ("0" VU), 8 ohms.
- Record/playback socket: 300 mV ("0" VU), 50K ohms.
- Line out: 300 mV ("0" VU), 50K ohms.
Usage Features
The Optonica cassette deck is designed for user-friendly operation with several key features:
- Dolby Noise Reduction System: Enhances audio quality by reducing tape hiss during recording and playback.
- APSS (Auto Program Search System): Allows users to quickly locate desired tracks on a cassette tape. This system automatically searches for program gaps, simplifying navigation.
- Mains Voltage Selection: The unit supports multiple AC voltage inputs (110/220/240V), which can be adjusted via a selector switch, making it adaptable to different regions.
- Record Level Controls: Independent controls for adjusting recording levels, ensuring optimal audio input.
- Input/Output Flexibility: Equipped with microphone jacks, line input/output jacks, and a record/playback socket, offering versatile connectivity options for various audio setups.
- Headphone Output: A dedicated headphone jack for private listening and monitoring.
Maintenance Features
The service manual provides detailed instructions for various maintenance and adjustment procedures, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the device:
- Disassembly Procedures: Step-by-step guides for removing the cabinet, bottom lid, and front panel, facilitating access to internal components for repair or inspection. Specific instructions are provided for different models (RT-1616H/HB and RT-1616HW) due to variations in decorative plates.
- Mechanism Block Removal: Instructions for detaching the mechanism block, including belt removal and wiring disconnections, crucial for servicing the tape transport system.
- Mechanical Adjustments:
- Pause Mechanism Adjustment: Ensures proper disengagement of the take-up idler and pressure roller from the take-up turntable and capstan.
- Pressure Roller Pressure Adjustment: Calibrates the force exerted by the pressure roller on the capstan, vital for stable tape movement and consistent sound.
- Capstan's Thrust Clearance Adjustment: Adjusts the axial play of the capstan for smooth rotation.
- Take-up Pulley Position Adjustment: Ensures correct contact between the take-up idler and pulley.
- Torque Check: Procedures for measuring torque in Play, Fast Forward, and Rewind modes to verify the tape transport system's performance.
- Plunger/Solenoid Position Adjustment: Ensures accurate operation of the plunger/solenoid interlocking lever for reliable mode changes.
- Electrical Adjustments:
- Record Amplifier Bias Oscillator Adjustment: Calibrates the bias oscillator for optimal recording quality.
- Erase Current Check: Verifies the erase current for effective tape erasure.
- Record Amplifier Input Sensitivity Adjustment: Adjusts input sensitivity for various input sources.
- Record/Playback Head Azimuth Adjustment: Aligns the recording/playback head for maximum frequency response and channel separation.
- Playback Sensitivity Adjustment: Calibrates playback sensitivity for accurate audio reproduction.
- Level Meter Sensitivity Adjustment: Ensures accurate display of audio levels on the meters.
- Record/Playback Sensitivity Adjustment: Fine-tunes overall record and playback sensitivity.
- Dolby Noise Reduction Circuit Check: Procedures for verifying the functionality and calibration of the Dolby system.
- Circuit Descriptions: Detailed explanations of the Dolby Noise Reduction system, APSS, Quartz-Locked PLL Servo Motor, and Motor Control Circuit, aiding in troubleshooting and understanding device operation.
- Exploded Views and Parts Lists: Comprehensive diagrams and lists for the cabinet and mechanism, including part numbers and descriptions, essential for identifying and ordering replacement components.
- Wiring Diagrams: Detailed schematics of the printed wiring boards, facilitating electrical troubleshooting and repair.
- Safety Precautions: Warnings regarding dangerous voltage inside the unit and instructions for proper mains lead wiring (e.g., for UK users), emphasizing safety during maintenance.
- Fuse Protection: Specifies the use of a 3A fuse for mains plug or distribution board protection.
This manual is an indispensable resource for technicians and service personnel to effectively maintain, troubleshoot, and repair the Optonica Stereo Cassette Tape Deck, ensuring its continued high-quality performance.