The TA-EX660/EX770 is an integrated stereo amplifier, serving as the amplifier section for the MHC-EX660 and DHC-EX770MD systems. Its mechanical and electrical specifications are largely similar to the TA-EX66/EX77 AEP/UK model, with this manual detailing only the differences.
Function Description
The TA-EX660/EX770 functions as the central amplifier for an audio system, providing power amplification for speakers and various input/output connections for different audio sources. It supports multiple audio inputs, including CD, MD, Tuner, Tape, and Video, as well as microphone input for karaoke functions. The amplifier also features audio outputs for MD, Tape, Video, and headphones.
Important Technical Specifications
For the AEP, UK model (TA-EX66/EX77):
- DIN Power Output: 45 + 45 watts (6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)
- Continuous RMS Power Output: 60 + 60 watts (6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10% THD)
- Music Power Output: 105 + 105 watts
For the HK, SP model (TA-EX66/EX77):
- Continuous RMS Power Output: 55 + 55 watts (6 ohms at 1 kHz, 5% THD)
- CD IN, MD IN (phono jacks): Voltage 450 mV, impedance 47 kilohms
- TUNER IN, TAPE IN, VIDEO1 IN, VIDEO2/AUX IN (TA-EX66/EX77: AEP, UK model), VIDEO2 IN (TA-EX77: HK, SP model) (phono jacks): Voltage 250 mV, impedance 47 kilohms
- MIX MIC (phone jack): Sensitivity 1 mV, impedance 10 kilohms or more
Outputs:
- MD OUT, TAPE OUT, VIDEO1 OUT (phono jacks): Voltage 250 mV, impedance 1 kilohm
- PHONES (stereo phone jack): Accepts headphones of 6 ohms or more.
- SPEAKER: Accepts impedance of 6 to 16 ohms.
General Specifications:
- Power Requirements:
- AEP, UK model: 220 – 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz
- HK, SP model: 220 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
- Power Consumption: 125 watts
- Dimensions (w/h/d) incl. projecting parts and controls: Approx. 280 × 122.5 × 298 mm
- Mass: Approx. 5.3 kg
Usage Features
The amplifier offers several user-adjustable features for sound control and source selection:
Adjusting the Sound:
- DBFB (Dynamic Bass Feedback): Reinforces bass sound. Users can select "LOW" or "HIGH" settings.
- Bass/Treble Adjustment: Independent knobs for increasing or decreasing bass and treble levels.
- -20dB MUTING: Mutes the sound by 20dB.
- SOURCE DIRECT: Bypasses audio effects circuits for a direct sound output.
Source Selection:
- A FUNCTION switch allows users to select various inputs such as CD, MD, Tuner, Tape, Video1, and Video2/AUX. Indicators light up to show the active source.
Karaoke Function:
- KARAOKE PON: Activates the karaoke mode, indicated by a lit indicator.
- MIC LEVEL: Adjusts the microphone volume.
- Vocal Reduction: Allows users to turn down the singer's voice from stereo CD, MD, or tape sources. This feature may not work effectively if the sound is recorded in monaural, if only a few instruments are playing, if a duet is being played, or if the source has strong echoes or chorus. Acoustic feedback (howling) can be mitigated by moving the microphone away from speakers or changing its direction.
Recording Features:
- Digital Recording (for MHC-EX66): Allows recording from the system's CD player to a connected MD deck via an optical cable.
- Analog Recording: Supports analog recording from various sources to an MD deck or tape deck using audio cords.
- Mixing and Recording Sounds (for DHC-MD77/EX77MD): Enables mixing microphone input with other audio sources and recording the combined sound.
Connecting External Devices:
- Connecting a TV/VCR: Audio output from a TV/VCR can be connected to the amplifier's VIDEO2/AUX IN or VIDEO1 IN terminals.
- Connecting Audio Components: Various audio components like CD players, MD decks, tuners, and tape decks can be connected to their respective input terminals.
- Connecting a Turntable: A turntable with an MM cartridge can be connected to the VIDEO2 (DHC-MD77) or VIDEO2/AUX (other models) input using an optional MM cartridge equalizer and audio cords. The mode selector should be set to ANALOG REC for recording.
Maintenance Features
Parts List:
The manual includes a detailed parts list, highlighting differences between the TA-EX66/EX77 and TA-EX660/EX770 models. Items marked with an asterisk (*) are not typically stocked and may incur delays when ordering.
Disassembly Instructions:
A step-by-step guide for disassembling the unit is provided, covering the case, front panel assembly, back panel, connector board, and main board. This is crucial for service and repair.
IC Pin Function Description:
Detailed descriptions of the pins for the system controller IC101 (MB89193A-157) on the panel board are provided, including their I/O type and function (e.g., MIC-IN, STANBY, K-PON, VOL-UP/DOWN, MUTE).
Block diagrams for key ICs like BA6208 (motor driver), SN74HC138AN (data outputs), MC14052BCP (multiplexer), and μPC1237HA (protection IC) are included. Waveforms for IC101 (XIN and XOUT) are also provided to aid in troubleshooting.
Circuit Board Locations:
An illustration shows the locations of various circuit boards within the amplifier, including the primary, secondary, connector, SW, panel, VOL, and main boards.
Schematic Diagram Notes:
Important notes for interpreting the schematic diagrams are provided, covering capacitor and resistor specifications, internal components, nonflammable/fusible resistors, panel designations, voltage and waveform measurements, and safety-related components. Components marked with a triangle (▲) or dotted line with a triangle are critical for safety and must be replaced with specified Sony parts.
Exploded Views:
Detailed exploded views of the case and front panel section, as well as the main section, are provided with part numbers and descriptions for easy identification and replacement of components. Hardware items are also listed.
This comprehensive manual ensures that users and service personnel have the necessary information for operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining the TA-EX660/EX770 integrated stereo amplifier.