Tascam Md Recorder/player MD-801RmkII, MD-801Pmkii Owners Manual

							 
È 
MD-801R@#/
MD-801P@# 
MD Recorder/Player
OWNER’S MANUAL
 
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE  COVER (OR BACK).  NO  USER-SERVICEABLE  PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the pres-
ence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying  the  appliance. The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.. 
This appliance has a serial number
located on the rear panel. Please record
the model number and serial number
and retain them for your records.
Model number
Serial number 
†
Ø
Ù 
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS 
APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. 
D00414800A 
						

							 
2   
   
––  TASCAM  MD-801R/P Mk II 
Important Safety Precautions 
IMPORTANT (for U.K. Customers) 
DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this equipment. 
If the plug fitted is not suitable for the power points in your
home or the cable is too short to reach a power point, then
obtain an appropriate safety approved extension lead or
consult your dealer.
If nonetheless the mains plug is cut off, remove the 
fuse and dispose of the plug immediately, to avoid 
a possible shock hazard by inadvertent connection to the
mains supply.
If this product is not provided with a mains plug, or one has
to be fitted, then follow the instructions given below:  
IMPORTANT: 
 The wires in this mains lead are coloured in
accordance with the following code: 
GREEN-AND-YELLOW : 
EARTH  
BLUE : 
NEUTRAL  
BROWN : 
LIVE  
WARNING: 
 This apparatus must be earthed.
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus
may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN-and-YELLOW must be
connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the
letter E or by the safety earth symbol  
  
 or coloured GREEN
or GREEN-and-YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the
terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured
BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to
the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured
RED.
When replacing the fuse only a correctly rated approved type
should be used and be sure to re-fit the fuse cover.
IF IN DOUBT — CONSULT A COMPETENT
ELECTRICIAN.
 
TO THE USER 
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residental area
is likely to cause harmful interference in which
case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.  
CAUTION  
Changes or modifications to this equipment not
expressly approved by TEAC CORPORATION
for compliance could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment. 
For the consumers in Europe
WARNING  
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this
product may cause radio interference in which case the user
may be required to take adequate measures.  
Pour les utilisateurs en Europe
AVERTISSEMENT  
Il s’agit d’un produit de Classe A. Dans un environnement
domestique, cet appareil peut provoquer des interférences
radio, dans ce cas l’utilisateur peut être amené à prendre
des mesures appropriées.  
Für Kunden in Europa
Warnung  
Dies is eine Einrichtung, welche die Funk-Entstörung nach
Klasse A besitzt. Diese Einrichtung kann im Wohnbereich
Funkstörungen versursachen ; in diesem Fall kann vom
Betrieber verlang werden, angemessene Maßnahmen
durchzuführen und dafür aufzukommen.
 
US and foreign patents licensed from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. 
						

							 
TASCAM  MD-801R/P Mk II  ––  
  
 3  CAUTION:
 
É 
Read all of these Instructions. 
É 
Save these Instructions for later use. 
É 
Follow all Warnings and Instructions marked on the audio
equipment.
1) Read Instructions 
 — All the safety and operating instructions should
be read before the product is operated. 
2) Retain Instructions  
— The safety and operating instructions should
be retained for future reference. 
3) Heed Warnings 
 — All warnings on the product and in the operating
instructions should be adhered to. 
4) Follow Instructions 
 — All operating and use instructions should be
followed. 
5) Cleaning 
 — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for clean-
ing. 
6) Attachments 
 — Do not use attachments not recommended by the
product manufacturer as they may cause hazards. 
7) Water and Moisture 
 — Do not use this product near water — for
example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet
basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like. 
8) 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. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufac-
turer’s instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by
the manufacturer. 
9) 
 A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops,
excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart com-
bination to overturn. 
10) 
  
Ventilation 
 — Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ven-
tilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product  and to protect it
from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked or covered. The
openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa,
rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in
installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided
or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to. 
11) Power Sources 
 — This product should be operated only from the
type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of
the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local
power company. For products intended to operate from battery power, or
other sources, refer to the operating instructions. 
12) Grounding or Polarization 
 — This product may be equipped with a
polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than
the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a
safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try
reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized plug. 
13) Power-Cord Protection 
 — Power-supply cords should be routed so
that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product. 
14) Outdoor Antenna Grounding 
 — If an outside antenna or cable
system is connected to the product, be  sure the antenna or cable system is
grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-
up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA
70, provides information with regard to proper grounding of the mast and
supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge
unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, con-
nection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding elec-
trode.  Note to CATV system installer:
 
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to
Section 820-40 of the NEC which provides guidelines for proper grounding
and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the
grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as
practical. 
15) 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. 
16) Power Lines 
 — An outside antenna system should not be located in
the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits,
or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an
outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touch-
ing such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal. 
17) Overloading 
 — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or
integral convenience receptacles as this can result in risk of fire or electric
shock. 
18) Object and Liquid Entry 
 — 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. 
19) Servicing 
 — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as open-
ing or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other
hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. 
20) Damage Requiring Service 
 — Unplug this product from the wall
outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following
conditions: 
a) 
when the power-supply cord or plug is damaged. 
b) 
if liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product. 
c) 
if the product has been exposed to rain or water. 
d) 
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 its normal operation. 
e) 
if the product has been dropped or damaged in any way. 
f ) 
when the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this
indicates a need for service. 
21) Replacement Parts 
 — When replacement  parts are required, be
sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the
manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. 
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other
hazards. 
22) Safety Check 
 — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine
that the product is in proper operating condition. 
23) Wall or Ceiling Mounting 
 — The product should be mounted to a
wall or ceiling only  as recommended by the manufacturer. 
24) Heat  
— The product should be situated away from heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers)
that produce heat.
ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250. PART H)
NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODEELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
Example of Antenna Grounding as per
National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70
GROUND
CLAMP
  IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 
						

							 
4   
   
––  TASCAM  MD-801R/P Mk II  
1
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE
KLASS 1 LASERAPPARAT
  
2
CAUTION  - INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN AND
INTERLOCKS DEFEATED. AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.
VORSICHT!UNSICHTBARE LASERSTRAHLUNGTRITT AUS.
WENN DECKEL GEÖFFNET UND WENN
SICHERHEITSVERRIEGELUNG ÜBERBRÜCKT IST.
NICHT DEM STRAHL AUSSETZEN !
VARNING  - OSYNLIG LASERSTRÅLNING NÄR DENNA DEL
ÄR ÖPPNAD OCH SPÄRR ÄR URKOPPLAD.
STRÄLEN ÄR FARLIG.ADVARSEL - USYNLIG LASERSTRÅLING VED ÅBNING, NÅR
SIKKERHEDSAFBRYDERE ER UDE AF FUNKTION.
UNDGÅ UDSÆTTELSE FOR STRÅLING.
VAROITUS! SUOJAKOTELOA EI SAA AVATA. LAITE SISÄLTÄÄ
LASERDIODIN, JOKA LÄHETTÄÄ (NÄKYMÄTÖNTÄ)
SILMILLE VAARALLISTA LASERSÄTEILYÄ.
ADVARSEL - USYNLIG LASERBESTRÅLING NÅR DENNE DELEN ER
ÅPEN OG SIKKERHETSSPERREN ER UTKOBLET.
UNNGÅ UTSETTELSE FOR STRÅLING.
  
CERTIFICATIONTHIS PRODUCT COMPLES WITH DHHS
RULES 21 CFR SUBCHAPTER J APPLI-CABLE AT DATE OF MANUFACTURETEAC CORPORATION
3-7-3 NAKA-CHO, MUSASHINO-SHI, TOKYO, JAPAN
MANUFACTURED TIF
1
For U.S.A.
 
É 
 CAUTION    
É  
ACHTUNG    
É 
 OBSERVERA    
É 
 ADVARSEL
SAFETY INFORMATION
 
1 
THIS LABEL IS ATTACHED TO THE PLACE AS ILLUSTRATED TO
INFORM THAT THE APPARATUS CONTAINS A LASER COMPO-
NENT. 
1
DIESE AUFKLEBEMARKE IST AN DEM IN DER ABBILDUNG
GEZEIGTEN ORT ANGEBRACHT UM DARAUF HINZUWEISEN,
DASS IM INNERN DES GER
1PÅSKRIFTEN SITTER PÅ APPARATEN SOM VISAS SOM UPPMAN-
ING OM ATT APPARATEN OMFATTAR EN INBYGGD LASERKO-
MPONENT.
1DETTE MÆRKAT ER ANBRAGT SOM VIST I ILLUSTRATIONEN
FOR AT ADVARE BRUGEREN OM AT APPARATET INDEHOLDER
EN LASERKOMPONENT.
2DETTE MÆRKAT ER SOM VIST PÅ ILLUSTRATIONEN ANBRAGT
PÅ INDERSIDEN AF TOPDÆKSLET FOR AT ADVARE BRUGEREN
OM AT YDERLIGERE FREMTRÆNGEN VIL VÆRE FORBUNDET
MED FARE FOR AT UDSÆTTE SIG FOR LASERSTRÅLING.
ADVARSEL — BETJENING AF ANDRE KONTROLLER OG REGULA-
TORER ELLER BENYTTELES AF ANDRE FREMGANGSMÅDER
END BESKREVET HERI ER FORBUNDET MED FARE FOR UDSÆT-
TELSE FOR LASERSTRÅLING.
VARING: APPARATEN INNEHÅLLER LASER KOMPONENT MED
STRÅLNING ÖVERSTIGANDE KLASS 1.
ADVARSEL: USYNLIG LASERSTRÅLING VED ÅBNING NAR
SIKKERHEDSAFBRYDERE ER UDE AF FUNKTION. UNDG
UDSAETTELSE FOR STRÅLING
VAROITUS! SUOJAKOTELOA EI SAA AVATA. LAITE SIS
LASERDIODIN. JOKA L
VAARALLISTA LASERS
ADVARSEL: USYNLIG LASERBESTRÅLING NÅR DENNE
DELEN ER ÅPEN OG SIKKERHETSSPERREN ER UTKOBLET
UNNGÅ UTSETTELSE FOR STRÅLING.
This product has been designed and manufactured according to FDA regulations title 21, CFR, chapter 1, subchapter J, based on the Radiation
Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968, and is classified as class 1 laser product. There is not hazardous invisible laser radiation during oper-
ation because invisible laser radiation emitted inside of this product is completely confined in the protective housings.
The label required in this reguration is shown 
1.
ÉCAUTION
- DO NOT REMOVE THE PROTECTIVE HOUSING USING SCREWDRIVER.
- USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZ-
ARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.
- IF THIS PRODUCT DEVELOPS TROUBLE, MAKE A CONTACT WITH OUR SERVICEMAN, AND DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT IN A 
TROUBLED STATE.
Optical pickup: Type  :  KMS-190A or KMS-190B
Manufacturer:  SONY Corporation
Laser output:  0.25 mW Min. (Play),
 5.0 mW Max. (Record)
Wavelength:  780 nm ±20 nm 
						

							 
Table of Contents 
  TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II  
–i 
1 - Introduction 
1.1 About the MiniDisc format ................ 1-1 
1.1.1 ATRAC compression .......................... 1-1
1.1.2 Buffer memory .................................... 1-1
1.1.3 Random access and U-TOC ............... 1-1
1.1.4 Track titling, etc. ................................. 1-2 
1.2 Care of MD media ............................... 1-2
1.3 About the MD-801R/P Mk II................ 1-2 
1.3.1 Unpacking the unit.............................. 1-3
1.3.2 Rack-mounting the unit ...................... 1-3
1.3.3 Care of the unit.................................... 1-3
1.3.4 Backup memory .................................. 1-4 
1.4 About this manual .............................. 1-4 
2 - Front and rear panel features 
2.1 Front panel.......................................... 2-1 
[1] POWER switch ........................................ 2-1
[2] Disc drive ................................................ 2-1
[3] EJECT key ............................................... 2-1
[4] TRACK keys ............................................ 2-1
[5] STOP key ................................................. 2-1
[6] PLAY key and indicator ......................... 2-1
[7] READY key and indicator ...................... 2-1
[8] RECORD key and indicator ................... 2-1
[9] PHONES jack and level control ............. 2-2
[10] CALL key ............................................... 2-2
[11] JOG key and indicator ......................... 2-2
[12] JOG/DATA dial ...................................... 2-2
[13] SHUTTLE wheel .................................... 2-2
[14] Display ................................................... 2-2
[15] MENU key .............................................. 2-2
[16] TITLE key............................................... 2-2
[17] TIME key ................................................ 2-2
[18] EDIT key ................................................ 2-3
[19] TOC WRITE key and indicator ............. 2-4
[20] AUTO READY key and indicator ......... 2-4
[21] AUTO CUE key and indicator .............. 2-4
[22] PLAY MODE key ................................... 2-4
[23] MEMO IN/CAPS key and indicator ...... 2-4
[24] LOC A/DEL & LOC B/INSERT keys 
and indicators ........................................... 2-4
[25] PITCH CONT key and indicator ........... 2-4
[26] REPEAT key and indicator .................. 2-4
[27] INPUT LEVEL controls ......................... 2-5
[28] INPUT selection switch ........................ 2-5
[29] DIGITAL INPUT switch ......................... 2-5
[30] REC MODE switch ................................ 2-5
[31] ANALOG INPUT switch ........................ 2-5 
2.2 Display ................................................ 2-5 
(1) RESUME indicator .................................  2-5
(2) 
  indicator ..................................  2-5
(3) CAPS indicator ......................................  2-5
(4) EDIT indicator ........................................  2-5
(5) DATE indicator.......................................  2-5
(6) TRACK TITLE indicator .........................  2-5
(7) DISC TITLE indicator .............................  2-6
(8) TRACK NO. display and indicator........  2-6
(9) Time display and indicators .................  2-6(10) PGM NO.................................................  2-6
(11) Dot-matrix alphanumeric display .......  2-6
(12) TOC EDIT indicator ..............................  2-6
(13) EOM .......................................................  2-6
(14) Peak level meters .................................  2-6
(15) REPEAT indicator ................................  2-6
(16) SINGLE indicator..................................  2-6
(17) A–B indicator ........................................  2-6 2.3 Rear panel .......................................... 2-6 [32] DIGITAL INPUT (AES/EBU)................... 2-6
[33] DIGITAL OUTPUT (AES/EBU)............... 2-6
[34] DIGITAL INPUT (COAXIAL) .................. 2-7
[35] DIGITAL OUTPUT (COAXIAL) .............. 2-7
[36] ANALOG INPUTS and trimmers 
(BALANCED) .............................................. 2-7
[37] ANALOG INPUTS (UNBALANCED)...... 2-7
[38] ANALOG OUTPUTS (MONITOR) .......... 2-7
[39] Analog output function DIP switch 
bank ............................................................ 2-7
[40] ANALOG OUTPUTS (LINE) and 
trimmers ..................................................... 2-7
[41] WORD SYNC IN ..................................... 2-8
[42] WORD SYNC THRU ............................... 2-8
[43] MODE SET DIP switch bank ................. 2-8
[44] KEYBOARD connector ......................... 2-8
[45] REMOTE (SERIAL) connector .............. 2-8
[46] REMOTE CONTROL connector............ 2-8
[47] REMOTE (PARALLEL) connector ........ 2-8
[48] ~ IN (power in connector) ..................... 2-8 3 - Menu items 3.1 Basic principles of menu operations3-1
3.2 Pitch control....................................... 3-1
3.3 Auto cue ............................................. 3-1
3.4 Frame display .................................... 3-1
3.5 Jog loop length .................................. 3-1
3.6 Resume setting .................................. 3-2
3.7 EOM disc ............................................ 3-2
3.8 EOM track ........................................... 3-2
3.9 Timer-controlled playback ................ 3-2
3.10 Incremental play .............................. 3-3
3.11 Serial communications ................... 3-3 3.11.1 Baud rate ............................................ 3-3
3.11.2 Word length........................................ 3-3
3.11.3 Parity................................................... 3-3
3.11.4 Stop bits ............................................. 3-3 3.12 Check items ..................................... 3-3 3.12.1 Spindle motor time ............................ 3-4
3.12.2 Laser pickup time .............................. 3-4
3.12.3 System software version .................. 3-4 
3.13 Auto track numbering level ............ 3-4
3.14 Copy ID ............................................. 3-4
3.15 Post-script recording ...................... 3-4 
4 - Basic operations 
4.1 Inserting and ejecting discs ............. 4-1
4.2 Playback of discs .............................. 4-1 
						

							  Table of Contents 
–ii 
 TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II  4.2.1 Playing back a whole disc.................. 4-1
4.2.2 Playback outputs ................................ 4-1
4.2.3 Monaural playback.............................. 4-1
4.2.4 Playing back a single track ................ 4-2
4.2.5 Entering the A and B location points 4-2
4.2.6 Playback between two location 
points ......................................................... 4-2
4.2.7 The CALL function .............................. 4-2
4.2.8 Relative time display .......................... 4-2
4.2.9 Repeat playback.................................. 4-3
4.2.10 Track search operations .................. 4-3
4.2.11 Cueing the next track automatically 4-3
4.2.12 Cueing to the first audio position in 
a track ........................................................ 4-3
4.2.13 Varispeed mode ................................ 4-3
4.2.14 Jog mode ........................................... 4-3
4.2.15 Shuttle mode ..................................... 4-4
4.2.16 Displaying track titles during 
playback..................................................... 4-4
4.2.17 Displaying the recording date ......... 4-4
4.2.18 Setting the time and date ................. 4-4  4.3 Recording operations........................ 4-4  4.3.1 General notes on recording using the
MD format .................................................. 4-5
4.3.2 Rebuilding the TOC ............................ 4-5
4.3.3 Basic recording ................................... 4-5
4.3.4 Track number incrementing............... 4-6
4.3.5 “Post-Script” recording ...................... 4-6
4.3.6 Replace recording............................... 4-6
4.3.7 Sound synchro recording .................. 4-7
4.3.8 Digital recording ................................. 4-7
4.3.9 Analog recording ................................ 4-8
4.3.10 Track title copying together with 
audio .......................................................... 4-8  5 - Editing operations  5.1 Basic editing operations ................... 5-1  5.1.1 Cancelling an edit operation .............. 5-1
5.1.2 Editing without saving the edits to 
disc ............................................................. 5-1  5.2 Dividing tracks ................................... 5-1
5.3 Erasing a track ................................... 5-2
5.4 Combining tracks .............................. 5-2
5.5 Moving tracks..................................... 5-3
5.6 A and B point erase operations........ 5-3 5.6.1 Normal A-B erase.................................5-4
5.6.2 Erasing to the end of a track ..............5-4
5.6.3 Erasing from the start of a track ........5-4
5.6.4 Erasing more than one track at a 
time .............................................................5-4
5.6.5 Retaining a track title for use by the 
second track after a division ....................5-5 5.7 Moving an A-B point .......................... 5-5
5.8 Restoring erased material ................. 5-6
5.9 Changing track attributes.................. 5-6
5.10 Erasing a complete disc .................. 5-7
5.11 Track and disc title entry ................. 5-7 5.11.1 Deleting characters ...........................5-8
5.11.2 Inserting characters ..........................5-8
5.11.3 Changing characters .........................5-8
5.11.4 Editing existing titles.........................5-8
5.11.5 Viewing titles ......................................5-8
5.11.6 Copying disc and track titles ............5-9 6 - Use of a keyboard with the MD-801 6.1 General transport operations............ 6-1
6.2 Edit operations, etc. ........................... 6-1 6.2.1 Entering programmed playback .........6-1
6.2.2 Checking and editing a programmed 
sequence ....................................................6-2
6.2.3 Time-based location ............................6-2 6.3 Flash start ........................................... 6-2
6.4 Direct track entry................................ 6-3
6.5 Track and disc title editing with the 
keyboard ................................................ 6-3 7 - Remote control of the MD-801 7.1 REMOTE (PARALLEL) connector ..... 7-1 7.1.1 Tally indicators ....................................7-1
7.1.2 Fader start ............................................7-2
7.1.3 Sequential playback and recording ...7-2 8 - Specifications, etc. 8.1 Error messages and troubleshooting 
guide ....................................................... 8-1
8.2 Specifications ..................................... 8-2 8.2.1 General MiniDisc .................................8-2
8.2.2 Analog I/O .............................................8-3
8.2.3 Digital I/O ..............................................8-3
8.2.4 Other connections ...............................8-3
8.2.5 General and electrical .........................8-3 8.3 Dimensional drawing ......................... 8-4 
						

							 
  TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II  
1–1 
1 - Introduction 
This manual covers the two models of the MD-801 
Mk II product line: the MD-801R Mk II, which is 
capable of recording and playing back on MiniDisc 
media, and the MD-801P Mk II, which is for play-
back only of such media. Apart from the recording 
and associated facilities provided on the MD-801R, 
the functionality and specifications of the two units 
are identical. For brevity, the unit will be referred to 
as the “MD-801” in instances where there is no dif-
ference between the recording and playback models.
When a section of this manual describes a function 
which is included as part of the MD-801R only, the 
section will be marked as below: 
3.12.2Laser pickup time 
This indicates how long…
There are no features which are unique to the MD-
801P model. 
1.1 About the MiniDisc format 
This section provides some basic information regard-
ing the MiniDisc format. If more detailed informa-
tion is required, the reader is referred to one of the 
many books on the subject. John Wilkinson,   
The Art 
of Digital Audio   
2nd ed. Oxford: Focal Press, 1994 is 
an excellent reference source, particularly Chapter 
12, which deals with the use of optical discs in audio 
applications.
The MiniDisc format (MD) is a convenient form of 
digital audio media, using optical playback, similar 
to CDs. 
The format of the MD is substantially smaller than 
that of the CD, and the disc itself is housed in a car-
tridge with a shutter, similar to that of a 3.5” floppy 
disc drive. The disc platter should never be removed 
from this cartridge.
Pre-recorded MDs, which are manufactured in the 
same way as commercial CDs, using a stamper pro-
cess, are read using a laser beam to read the pits 
stamped onto the disc. 
Recordable MDs are also available, and the technol-
ogy used for recording on a recordable MD is 
magento-optical, allowing the disc to be re-used 
many times. Shutters on both sides of the disc allow 
access to the disc surface by the recorder’s laser and 
magnetic head.
There is a third kind of MD, the hybrid, which con-
tains pre-recorded pits at the center of the MD, 
together with an area reserved for user recording.Full explanations of the principles of magneto-opti-
cal recording may be found in a number of excellent 
reference works, but briefly, during the recording 
process, the disc is exposed to a strong laser beam 
which heats the disc’s magnetic medium so that a 
magnetic field can be applied to change the orienta-
tion of the magnetic particles. On cooling, this orien-
tation is permanently fixed, unless the disc is 
reheated and re-recorded.
The MD format therefore provides the convenience 
and durability of an optical disc format with the reus-
abilty characteristics of tape. 
1.1.1 ATRAC compression 
If a MiniDisc were to be recorded using exactly the 
same techniques as a CD, the playback time would 
be only 15 minutes of stereo playback.
However, using a technique known as ATRAC 
(Adaptive TRansform Acoustic Coding), 74 minutes 
of stereo audio at 44.1 kHz sampling frequency with 
a 16-bit word length can be recorded on an MD.
ATRAC uses two important pyscho-acoustic princi-
ples to reduce the size of the recorded data: the 
greater sensitivity of the human ear to mid-range sig-
nals, relative to bass and treble signals, and the 
“masking” effect, whereby quieter signals are hidden 
by louder ones.
The ATRAC used in the MD-801R/P Mk II is a very 
recent version of this encoding scheme (4.5), result-
ing in an almost inaudible loss of signal quality. 
1.1.2 Buffer memory 
The ATRAC compression scheme has an additional 
advantage, as a RAM buffer must be provided for the 
compressed data, before it is decoded and sent to the 
D/A converters.
On the MD-801R/P Mk II, this buffer memory holds 
about 10 seconds’ worth of data. The advantage is 
that, unlike a CD player, the MD-801R/P Mk II is not 
vulnerable to mechanical shocks and vibration, etc., 
which can cause a CD player playback pickup to 
jump and cause audible skipping.  
1.1.3 Random access and U-TOC 
The format of a recordable MD is much closer to that 
of a computer disc than of conventional audio media. 
The random access nature of the disc media allows a 
logical “track” to be composed of sections of audio 
data recorded at different points on the disc.
In the same way that a computer’s operating system 
hides the details of the way that data is stored on the 
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1 - Care of MD media 
1–2 
 TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II 
disk from the user, and a file appears as one contigu-
ous block of data (even though it may be spread over 
many tracks and sectors of the disk), the MD player 
allows separated audio data to appear as a continuous 
audio track.
The MD-801 allows the creation and reading of a 
User Table of Contents (U-TOC) on recordable 
discs, which contain instructions to the player on the 
logical arrangement of the tracks, where to find the 
next audio segment to be played, etc. This is similar 
to the directory tracks provided as part of a computer 
disk operating system.
The random access facilities provided by the MD-
801 are significantly better than those to be found on 
consumer MD decks. The effective start time can be 
effectively zero, compared with hundreds of milli-
seconds on consumer units. 
1.1.4 Track titling, etc. 
In common with other forms of digital audio media, 
the MD medium allows other data to be recorded 
alongside the audio data. In the MD medium, this is 
used to provide alphanumeric disc and track titles, 
which are shown on the display of the player.
In the case of the MD-801R/P Mk II, this information 
may be conveniently entered through a standard 
computer keyboard (PS/2 compatible), or through the 
controls of the main unit.
In addition, a realtime clock allows date- and time-
stamping of tracks recorded on the unit or created or 
edited through TOC editing functions.
These times will be displayed when the disc is 
replayed on any one of the MD-801 series. 
1.2 Care of MD media 
The MD medium has been designed to be robust, and 
the integration of the disc into a cartridge protects the 
recorded surface from the worst effects of dust, fin-
gerprints, and scratches.
Even so, there are some commonsense precautions 
that you should take when storing and handling 
MiniDiscs.
• Do not open the shutter and touch the surface of the 
disc.
• Do not keep MiniDiscs in excessively dusty loca-
tions, in direct sunlight, in areas subject to high 
temperatures, or high levels of humidity.
• If the cartridge becomes dirty, clean it with a dry, 
soft cloth. Do not use any solvents or other liquids. 
1.3 About the MD-801R/P Mk II 
The MD-801R/P Mk II, based on the TASCAM MD-
801 series of MD recorder/players, and designed to 
meet the requirements of audio professionals, 
includes the following features:
• Full editing functions to divide, erase and combine 
tracks, etc.
• Auto cue function, allowing the playback point to 
be automatically cued to the first frame of a track, 
using a selectable sensitivity level
• Auto ready function, allowing the playback point 
to be “parked” in the play ready mode at the start of 
each track
• A resume function, which holds in backup memory 
the point where playback stopped, or the power 
was disconnected
• Incremental play mode, allowing cueing of the 
playback point to the start of the next track, as 
determined by a selectable audio threshold level, 
when playback is stopped
• “Soft mute” eliminates clicks, etc. when pausing 
and restarting playback
• Dual time display
• Three playback modes: normal (whole disc), track 
play, and A-B play (between two defined points)
• 3-point autolocation facility
• Repeat (disc, track, A-B)
• Either stereo or monaural playback may be 
selected
• Pitch change ±9.9% in 0.1% steps
• Shuttle operations up to 100 x normal speed, and 
jog to single-frame accuracy
• Digital outputs in COAXIAL (SPDIF) and AES/
EBU
• Word clock synchronization for inclusion of the 
MD-801 in an all-digital audio setup
• Two sets of analog outputs: –10 dBV unbalanced  
MONITOR 
 (RCA) and +4 dBu balanced   
LINE  
 
(XLR-type). The  
LINE  
 outputs may be trimmed 
for precise signal matching with other equipment
• Output selectable (using remote controllers) from 
either  
MONITOR  
 or   
LINE  
• High-quality DA convertor for optimum analog 
audio quality
• Level 4.5 ATRAC system
• PS/2-compatible computer keyboard connector 
allows titling and other remote control operations  
						

							 
1 - About the MD-801R/P Mk II 
  TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II  
1–3 
to be conveniently carried out using a standard key-
board
• Remote control possible from dedicated TASCAM 
remote control units (RC-801, RC-FS10/20, and 
RC-8), or through industry-standard parallel or 
serial interfaces
• Tally signals sent to controlling device at the end of 
each track played back
• Optional RAM buffer expansion module (BU-801) 
allows flash start of track playback
In addition, the MD801R Mk II provides the follow-
ing features:
• 20-bit A/D converter for increased audio quality 
when recording
• Selectable Copy ID modes, including the SCMS 
standard
• Integral sampling frequency converter, allowing 
digital recording from material recorded at fre-
quencies other than 44.1 kHz (48 kHz and 32 kHz)
• Digital inputs in both SPDIF and AES/EBU 
formats
• The ability to record in monaural mode, doubling 
the recording time available on a disc.
• Analog inputs in both +4 dBu balanced (XLR-
type) and –10 dBV unbalanced (RCA) formats. 
The balanced inputs may be trimmed to match 
input signal levels
• Replace recording function, allowing recording to 
be carried out in the middle of a track, while retain-
ing the track title
• Sound sync function to allow the unit to start 
recording automatically when a selectable audio 
threshold level is exceeded
• Title dubbing from another MD-801 unit (requires 
optional connecting cable PW-1XMD)
• Realtime clock for date- and timestamping 
recorded material 
1.3.1 Unpacking the unit 
When you unpack the unit, as well as the unit itself 
and this manual, you should find:
• Power cord
• Rack-mount kit
• Warranty card
If any items are missing, contact your TASCAM 
dealer. 
1.3.2 Rack-mounting the unit 
The MD-801 is equipped with integral rack-mount 
ears, and may be installed in any standard vertical 
19” rack. 
Remove the feet from the MD-801 using a Phillips 
screwdriver before installing the unit.
In addition to the 3U of space required for the MD-
801 itself, we strongly suggest leaving at least 1U of 
empty rack space above the MD-801 for ventilation 
purposes. 
1.3.3 Care of the unit 
The commonsense precautions that you should take 
with any piece of precision electronic equipment also 
apply to the MD-801. In particular:
• Do not subject the unit to severe shocks or vibra-
tion. Despite the buffer mechanism mentioned 
above, there is a risk of data loss, particularly while 
recording.
• Do not use the unit in very dusty or smoky environ-
ments. If the optical lens or the head becomes dirty 
as the result of such use, use a commercially-avail-
able MD lens and head cleaner to clean the lens.
• The exterior of the unit may be cleaned with a soft 
dry cloth, or a cloth barely dampened with a mild 
detergent solution. Do not use any solvent, thinner 
or alcohol-based cleaning agents to clean the unit.
The date and time clock (for timestamping of record-
ings and edits) is powered by a lithium battery. We 
suggest that this battery is changed about every two 
years. 
NOTE  
Do not attempt to change this battery by your-
self. Get an authorized TASCAM service cen- 
ter to perform this operation for you.
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1 - About this manual 
1–4 
 TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II 
1.3.4 Backup memory 
When the unit is powered down, the following set-
tings are memorized.
• AUTO READY status (see  
[20] 
)
• AUTO CUE settings and status (see  
[21] 
)
• The last used PLAY mode (see  
[22] 
)
• The two LOC points (A and B) (see  
[24] 
)
• Pitch control settings and status (see  
[25] 
)
• REPEAT status (see 4.2.9, Repeat playback)
• Menu settings (see 3, Menu items)
• If the resume function is turned on, the resume 
point is memorized 
1.4 About this manual 
This manual has been organized so that you should 
be able to find the section you need relatively 
quickly. We suggest that you familiarize yourself 
with at least the Table of Contents, so that you know 
where to look if you need information on a particular 
aspect of the unit’s operation.
An index is also provided, which should assist you in 
locating the desired section.
As mentioned earlier, when a section of this manual 
describes a function which is included as part of the 
MD-801R only, the section will be marked as below: 
3.12.2Laser pickup time 
This indicates how long…
There are no features which are unique to the MD-
801P model only.When characters are shown on the unit’s dot-matrix 
display, the following typeface is used:  
Input 
Mon 
. Alternatively, the alphanumeric display itself 
may be shown:
If a “preset” word or phrase is shown on the display, 
this is shown as follows:  
TRACK TITLE
 
.
Track times, program numbers, as shown in 7-digit 
numbers, are shown as  
034 
, etc.
If a front panel control or rear panel connection is 
mentioned, the following typeface is used (a little 
larger than that used for preset display words):  
TOC 
WRITE 
. The number of the control or connection, as 
given in 2, Front and rear panel features, may also 
be given, e.g.  
[5] 
.
If a front panel control or rear panel connection of 
another unit is specifically named, the folloiwng 
typeface is used:  
WORD IN  
.
When an optional PS/2-compatible keyboard is con-
nected to the MD-801, the keyboard keys are repre-
sented in the following typeface:
Press  
F1 
 to go back by one track.
If two keys are to be pressed together (i.e. the first-
named key is to be pressed and held down while the 
second is pressed), this is represented as:
Press  
SHIFT 
 +  
F1 
 to enter the erase track editing 
function.
•d
R
 
TITLE ?