owner’s manual
Dual Cassette Dubbing Deck
SCT-520
FEATURES
Your RCA SCT-520 Dual Cassette Dubbing Deck delivers
superb stereo sound through your receiver/amplifier. Its
features include:
Caution: Unplug the cassette deck's power cord when you
will not use the cassette deck for extended periods.
High-Speed Dubbing — lets you accurately copy tapes at
twice the normal speed.
FCC NOTICE
This system complies with the limits for a Class B digital device
as specified in Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits provide
reasonable protection against radio and TV interference in a
residential area. However, your equipment might cause TV or
radio interference even when it is operating properly. To
eliminate interference, you can try one or more of the following
corrective measures:
Continuous Play — automatically starts play in the first deck
when the tape playing in the second deck ends.
Dolby B Noise Reduction — reduces tape hiss and noise for
the best possible audio recording.
Auto Tape Selector — automatically adjusts equalization and
bias to match the type of tape you use.
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the distance between the equipment and the
radio or TV.
Caution: Most material on prerecorded tapes is copyrighted.
The unauthorized duplication of copyrighted material is a
violation of the copyright laws of most countries and such
duplication might result in fines and imprisonment. Note,
however, in the United States, it is not a violation of U.S.
copyright laws for a consumer to use an audio recording device
to duplicate musical recordings for noncommercial (personal)
use.
• Use outlets on different electrical circuits for the
equipment and the radio or TV.
• Consult your local RadioShack store if the problem still
exists.
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly
approved by RadioShack could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
This cassette deck is made and tested to meet exacting safety
standards. It meets both UL and FCC requirements.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or shock haz-
ard, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO
!
NOT OPEN.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELEC-
TRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER OR
BACK. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSON-
NEL.
This symbol is intended to alert you to
the presence of uninsulated danger-
ous voltage within the product’s enclo-
sure that might be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of elec-
tric shock. Do not open the product’s
case.
This symbol is intended to inform you
that important operating and mainte-
nance instructions are included in the
literature accompanying this product.
!
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Careful attention is devoted to quality standards in the
manufacture of your cassette deck, and safety is a major factor
in its design. However, safety is also your responsibility.
safety purpose of the polarized plug. If you need an extension,
use a polarized cord.
Power-Cord Protection — Route power-supply cords so they
are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed on
or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the product.
This section lists important information that will help you
properly use and enjoy your cassette deck. Read all the
included safety and operating instructions before using your
cassette deck. Follow them closely, and retain them for future
reference.
Lightning — For added protection for this product during a
lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for
long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and
disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent
damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.
Heed Warnings — Follow all warnings on the product and in
the operating instructions.
Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before
cleaning. Use only a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid
or aerosol cleaners.
Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords,
or integral convenience receptacles, as this can result in a risk
of fire or electric shock.
Attachments — Do not use attachments/accessories not
recommended by the product manufacturer, as they might
create a hazard.
Objects and Liquids — Never push objects of any kind into
this product through openings, as they may touch dangerous
voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or
electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
Water and Moisture — Do not use this product near water
(for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or
laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool).
Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself,
as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous
voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel.
Accessories — Do not place this product on an unstable cart,
stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing
serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the
product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table
recommended by the manufacturer or sold with the product.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mounting, and use
a recommended mounting accessory.
Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this product from the
wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel
under the following conditions:
Carts — Move the product on a cart carefully. Quick stops,
excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product/
cart to overturn.
• When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
• If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
product.
Ventilation — Slots and openings in the cabinet provide
ventilation, ensure reliable operation, and protect from
overheating. Do not block or cover these openings, and do not
place the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.
Do not place the product in a built-in installation such as a
bookcase or rack unless it provides proper ventilation as
specified by the manufacturer.
• If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
• If the product does not operate normally by following the
operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions, as an improper
adjustment of other controls may result in damage and
will often require extensive work by a qualified technician
to restore the product to normal operation.
Power Sources — Operate this product using only the power
source indicated on its marking label. If you are not sure of
your home's power type, consult your product dealer or local
power company.
• If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
• When the product exhibits a distinct change in
performance.
Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required,
be sure the service technician uses replacement parts specified
by the manufacturer or having the same characteristics as the
original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock, or other hazards.
Polarization — This product is equipped with a polarized AC
line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). This
plug will fit in the power outlet only one way. This is a safety
feature. If you cannot insert the plug fully into the outlet, try
reversing the plug. If the plug still doesn't fit, contact your
electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the
4
Safety Check — Upon completion of service or repairs to this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to
determine that the product is in proper operating condition.
Wall or Ceiling Mount — The product should be mounted to
a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.
Heat — The product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Non-use Periods — Unplug the cassette deck’s power cord
when you will not use it for extended periods.
5
PREPARATION
To AC Outlet
LINE OUT
Jacks
LINE IN
Jacks
READ THIS BEFORE OPERATING
CONNECTIONS
• Choose a location for your cassette deck carefully. Avoid
placing it in direct sunlight or close to a source of heat.
Also avoid locations subject to vibrations and excessive
dust, heat, cold, or moisture.
Connect your cassette deck to your receiver or amplifier using
the supplied audio cables.
1. Using one of the audio cables, connect the cassette deck’s
L and R LINE OUT jacks to the receiver or amplifier’s left
and right tape input jacks.
• Do not open the cabinet as this might result in damage to
the circuitry or electrical shock. If a foreign object should
get into the set, contact your dealer.
2. Using the other audio cable, connect the cassette deck’s
LINE IN jacks to the receiver or amplifier’s tape output
jacks.
• When removing the power plug from the wall outlet,
always pull directly on the plug, never yank the cord.
Note: If you are not sure which receiver/amplifier jacks to
use, refer to your receiver or amplifier’s owner’s manual.
• Do not attempt to clean the unit with chemical solvents, as
this might damage the finish. Use a clean, dry cloth.
3. Plug the AC power cord into an AC wall socket.
• Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.
6
OPERATION
POWER
PLAY
DOLBY NR
DUBBING SPEED/
REC LEVEL ATT
RECORD
STOP/EJECT
1. To turn on the cassette deck, press POWER.
RECORDING A CASSETTE TAPE (DECK 2)
2. Gently press STOP/EJECT
. (for DECK 1 or DECK
1. Select the source to record from on your receiver/amplifier
(CD, VCR, TUNER or DVD).
2) and load a cassette tape with its open end down and the
full reel to the left.
2. Gently press STOP/EJECT . on DECK 2 and insert
the tape to be recorded into the cassette holder.
3. Press DOLBY NR IN or OUT to turn Dolby Noise
Reduction on or off.
3. Press DOLBY NR IN or OUT to turn Dolby Noise
Reduction on or off.
4. Press PLAY . for the deck you selected in Step 2.
5. Press STOP/EJECT
tape.
. for the selected deck to stop the
4. Press RECORD . The RECORD indicator lights.
Note: Play the loudest part of the selection you want to record.
If the recording levels constantly peak in the +3 dB range (or if
the recording is distorted), press REC LEVEL ATT (Record
Level Attenuation) in. This reduces the input signal level.
6. Press POWER to turn off the cassette deck.
USING CONTINUOUS PLAY (DECK 2 TO
DECK 1)
DUBBING A CASSETTE TAPE
You can set the cassette deck to play one side of the tape in
DECK 2, then automatically play the tape in DECK 1.
1. Insert a prerecorded cassette tape into DECK 1 and a
blank tape for recording into DECK 2 to dub one side of a
tape.
1. Press PAUSE . and PLAY
2. Press PAUSE . and PLAY
3. Press PAUSE . on DECK 2.
on DECK 2.
on DECK 1.
2. Press DUBBING SPEED to NORM (for normal speed) or
HIGH (for high speed dubbing).
Note: At high speed, recording quality is slightly reduced.
Note: If you press PAUSE . on DECK 1 instead of
DECK 2, the tape in DECK 1 starts moving, but the sound
is muted. To correct this, press PAUSE . on DECK 1
again, then press PAUSE . on DECK 2.
3. Press RECORD . The RECORD (and HIGH SPEED, if
you set DUBBING SPEED to HIGH) indicator lights.
4. Press PLAY . on DECK 1.
When the tape in DECK 2 finishes playing, the tape in DECK 1
automatically begins playback.
5. Press STOP/EJECT
dubbing.
. on DECK 1 and 2 to stop
Note: If the original tape was recorded using Dolby NR, the
copy also has Dolby NR, regardless of how DOLBY NR is set. If
the tape you copy does not have Dolby NR, you cannot add it
to the tape you record.
7
CARE
To enjoy your RCA SCT-520 High Speed Dubbing Stereo
Cassette Deck for a long time:
To prevent the tape from being twisted:
• Don’t pull the tape out of the upper opening of the cassette
tape.
• Keep the cassette deck dry. If it gets wet, wipe it dry
immediately.
• If the tape is wound loosely inside the cassette, use the
tape deck on fast forward or reverse to tighten the tape.
• Use and store the cassette deck only in normal
temperature environments.
• If a small portion of tape is unwound from the cassette,
tighten the tape using a pencil.
• Handle the cassette deck gently and carefully. Don’t drop
it.
• Keep the cassette deck away from dust and dirt.
• Wipe the cassette deck with a damp cloth occasionally to
keep it looking new.
Modifying or tampering with the cassette deck’s internal
components can cause a malfunction and invalidate its
warranty. If your cassette deck is not performing as it should,
take it to your local RadioShack store for assistance.
Erasing Tapes
To record over a cassette tape, simply record as usual. The
cassette deck records over the previous recording.
TAPE TIPS
You can quickly erase both sides of a cassette tape using a bulk
tape eraser available at your local RadioShack store.
Tape Selection
For the automatic tape select function to work properly, metal
and chrome (cobalt) tapes must have identification holes.
Note: If you use metal tape, the recorded sound might not be
erased properly.
Erase-Protection Tabs
Preventing Accidental Erasure
Normal Tape
Cassette tapes have two erase-protection tabs — one for each
side. When a tab is in place, you can record on that side.
To prevent accidental erasure of a tape recording, use a
screwdriver to remove one or both of the cassette tape’s erase-
protection tabs. This prevents RECORD from being
pressed.
Chrome (Cobalt) Tape
Position Identification Holes
If you later decide to record on a tape side after you have
removed the erase-protection tab, place a piece of strong
plastic tape over that side’s erase-protection hole. Be sure you
cover only the hole originally covered by the erase-protection
tab.
We do not recommend long-play cassette tapes such as C-120s
because they are thin and can easily tangle.
Restoring Tape Tension and Sound Quality
Caution: Removing the erase-protection tabs does not prevent
a bulk eraser from erasing a cassette tape.
After you play a cassette tape several times, the tape might
become tightly wound on the reels. This can cause playback
sound quality to deteriorate. To restore the sound quality, fast-
forward the tape from the beginning to the end of one side,
then completely rewind it. Then loosen the tape reels by gently
tapping each side of the cassette’s outer shell on a flat surface.
Caution: Be careful not to damage the cassette when tapping
it. Do not touch the exposed tape or allow any sharp objects
near the cassette.
8
Environment
Avoid using the deck in the following conditions:
• In areas with high temperatures (near a heater, exposed to
direct sunlight, for example).
• In areas with extremely low temperatures.
• In areas where there is excessive humidity.
• In a dusty atmosphere.
• In areas where power line voltage fluctuations are severe
(in which case the use of a voltage regulator may be
advisable).
Cleaning the Tape-Handling Parts
Dirt, dust, or particles of the tape's coating can accumulate on
the tape heads and other parts that the tape touches. This can
greatly reduce the performance of the cassette player. After
every 20 hours of tape player operation, follow these steps to
clean the tape-handling parts or use a cassette deck cleaning kit
(available at your local RadioShack store).
1. Disconnect the power source.
2. Open the cassette compartment door and press PLAY
to expose the tape-handling parts.
3. Use a cotton swab dipped in denatured alcohol or tape
head cleaning solution to clean the tape guides, record/
play head, erase head, pinch roller, and capstan.
4. When you finish cleaning, press STOP/EJECT
. and
close the cassette compartment door. Then reconnect
power.
9
TROUBLESHOOTING
This product has been manufactured to the specifications of RadioShack and is covered by a limited warranty from RadioShack. If
your cassette deck is not operating as it should, take it to your local RadioShack store or call 1-800-THE-SHACK for assistance.
Problem
Probable Cause
Suggestion
Adjust the volume.
No sound while the tape is
operating.
Volume of stereo receiver/amplifier is set to
“0.”
Input function switch of amplifier is not set to Set the input function switch to TAPE.
TAPE.
Strange tone quality or ragged
sound.
Noise reduction switch is not in the correct
position.
Set the noise reduction switch to match
the appropriate kind of recorded tape
you are using.
RECORD cannot be operated.
Erase-protection tabs are removed.
Tape heads are dirty.
Cover the erase-protection tab slots with
adhesive tape.
Low volume or weak sound with
mute intervals.
Clean the tape heads.
10
SPECIFICATIONS
DECK 1 (only for playing)
Track system ............................................................................................................................................ 2 Track, 2-channel Stereo
Tape Speed .............................................................................................................................................................. 4.8 cm/second
Frequency Response:
Normal Tape ............................................................................................................................................................... 40–12.5k Hz
CrO2 Tape .................................................................................................................................................................. 40–12.5k Hz
Fast Forward and Rewind Time ............................................................................................................... 130 Seconds (C-60 Tape)
DECK 2 (for recording/playing)
Track System .......................................................................................................................................... 2 Track, 2-Channel Stereo
Recording System ............................................................................................................................................................... AC Bias
Erasing System .............................................................................................................................................................. AC Erasing
Tape Speed .............................................................................................................................................................. 4.8 cm/second
Frequency Response:
Normal Tape .................................................................................................................................................................. 40–14k Hz
CrO2 Tape ..................................................................................................................................................................... 40–15k Hz
Fast-Forward and Rewind Time ............................................................................................................... 130 Seconds (C-60 tape)
Wow and Flutter ............................................................................................................................................. 0.25% (JIS, WRMS)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Dolby B NR Off) ............................................................................................................. 55 dB (CCIRARM)
Noise Reduction Effect (Dolby B NR On) .......................................................................................................... 65 dB (CCIRARM)
General
Power Requirements ............................................................................................................................................ 120 V AC, 60 Hz
Power Consumption .............................................................................................................................................................. 11 W
Dimensions (W × H × D) ......................................................................................... 16.5 × 5.7 × 13 Inches (420 × 146 × 330 mm)
Weight (net) ..................................................................................................................................................... 10 lb. 1 oz (4.6 kg)
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to change and improvement without notice.
11
Limited One-Year Warranty
This product is warranted by RadioShack against manufacturing defects in material and workman-
ship under normal use for one (1) year from the date of purchase from RadioShack company-owned
stores and authorized RadioShack franchisees and dealers. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, Ra-
dioShack MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING
THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED
IN DURATION TO THE DURATION OF THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES CONTAINED
HEREIN. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, RadioShack SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY OR RE-
SPONSIBILITY TO CUSTOMER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY WITH RESPECT TO ANY
LIABILITY, LOSS OR DAMAGE CAUSED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY USE OR PERFOR-
MANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY, IN-
CLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM INCONVENIENCE, LOSS
OF TIME, DATA, PROPERTY, REVENUE, OR PROFIT OR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDEN-
TAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF RadioShack HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limita-
tion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to
you.
In the event of a product defect during the warranty period, take the product and the RadioShack
sales receipt as proof of purchase date to any RadioShack store. RadioShack will, at its option, un-
less otherwise provided by law: (a) correct the defect by product repair without charge for parts and
labor; (b) replace the product with one of the same or similar design; or (c) refund the purchase
price. All replaced parts and products, and products on which a refund is made, become the prop-
erty of RadioShack. New or reconditioned parts and products may be used in the performance of
warranty service. Repaired or replaced parts and products are warranted for the remainder of the
original warranty period. You will be charged for repair or replacement of the product made after the
expiration of the warranty period.
This warranty does not cover: (a) damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse,
accident, misuse, improper or abnormal usage, failure to follow instructions, improper installation or
maintenance, alteration, lightning or other incidence of excess voltage or current; (b) any repairs
other than those provided by a RadioShack Authorized Service Facility; (c) consumables such as
fuses or batteries; (d) cosmetic damage; (e) transportation, shipping or insurance costs; or (f) costs
of product removal, installation, set-up service adjustment or reinstallation.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
RadioShack Customer Relations, 200 Taylor Street, 6th Floor, Fort Worth, TX 76102
We Service What We Sell
12/99
RadioShack
A Division of Tandy Corporation
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
14-1400
03A00
Printed in China
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