Teac W-890R - Reverse Cassette Deck Manual

Introduction

Before connecting and using the unit, please take time to read this manual thoroughly to ensure you understand how to properly set up and connect the W-890R, as well as the operation of its many useful and convenient functions. After you have finished reading this manual, please keep it in a safe place for future reference

Dolby NR
Dolby NR is designed to reduce tape hiss, a noise introduced during the recording and playback processes. This cassette deck is equipped with Dolby B-type Noise Reduction.
The Dolby NR system affects both recording and playback quality. In playback, be sure to set the DOLBY NR switch to the same position used when the recording was made.

Supplied accessories

In addition to this manual, the W-890R has been packed with the following:

Remote control unit (RC-1277)	x 1
Batteries (AA) for remote control unit	x 2
Stereo RCA pin cable	x 2
Owner's manual (this document)	x 1
Warranty card	x 1

Contact your TEAC supplier if any of these items are missing.

About this manual

In this manual, we use the following conventions:

• The names of keys and controls are given in the following typeface: EJECT.
• The alphanumeric portion of the display shows a message, this is shown in the following typeface: .
• If a preset indicator in the display (i.e. one which cannot change, but is either on or off) is shown, this is shown as follows: PARALLEL.

Precautions and notes for placement and use

The W-890R may be used in most areas, but to maintain top performance, and prolong operating life, observe the following notes, precautions and environmental conditions:

• Avoid exposing it to extremes of temperature and humidity and avoid mechanical shocks and vibration.
• Keep the unit away from strong magnetic fields (TV sets, computer monitors, large electric motors, etc.).
• The nominal temperature should be between 5°C and 35°C (41°F and 95°F).
• Relative humidity should be 30 to 90 percent.
• As the unit may become hot during operation, always leave sufficient space above the unit for ventilation. Do not install this unit in a confined space such as a bookcase, and do not put anything on top of the unit.
• Avoid installing this unit on top of any heat-generating electrical device such as a power amplifier.
• Make sure that the unit is mounted in a level position for correct operation.
• Do not open the sealed cabinet as this might result in damage to the circuitry or electrical shocks. If a foreign object should get inside the unit, contact your supplier or service agency.
• When removing the power plug from the wall outlet, always pull directory on the plug, never yank the cord.
• The voltage selector on the rear panel is only available on units for the North American market. Please set this to match your local supply. If you are in any doubt in this matter, consult an electrician

NOTE
When transporting the unit, always use the original packing materials. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you save all the packing materials that came with the W-890R, in case you need to transport it in the future. In addition, when transporting the unit, you should tape the cassette decks closed, using an adhesive tape that will not spoil the finish of the unit.

About cassette tapes

• Do not open the cassette or pull the tape out of the cassette.
• Do not touch the tape surface.
• Do not use or store the tape in a humid or dusty place.
• Keep the tape away from any magnetic sources, such as speakers or TVs, otherwise noise may be produced during playback or important recordings may be erased.

Cassette tapes that you should not use
Poor performance, errors, or malfunctions may result if you use any of the tapes described below. Some of these tapes may also cause tape clog problems that can damage the tape transport mechanism.

Cassettes that are imperfectly shaped
Do not use a deformed cassette or one that has unstable tape movement or makes a strange sound during fast-forward or rewind.

Long play tapes
Tapes that are longer than 90 minutes are very thin and stretch easily, so using them can result in wow and flutter. In addition, long tapes can become tangled in the equipment, so please use caution with them.

Endless tapes
Do not use these tapes because they can easily get tangled in the tape transport mechanism.

Automatic tape type detection function
This cassette deck can detect what type of tape is being used based on the detection holes in the cassette shell. Be sure to use cassettes with detection holes.
With this cassette deck, you can play back normal (Type I), chrome (Type II) and metal (Type IV) tapes. For recording, use normal (Type I) or chrome (Type II) tapes.
Each deck (TAPE I and TAPE II) is equipped with its own auto tape type detection function, so you can use different types of tape at the same time.

Tape slack
Slack can cause the tape to get tangled in the capstan or other rotating parts. To prevent this, take up all tape slack using a pencil or the like inserted into the reel hole.

Accidental erasure prevention tabs
Tabs on top of the cassette shell allow you to prevent important recordings from being erased by mistake. There are two tabs on each cassette shell: one for side "A" and the other for side "B".
Once these tabs have been removed using a screwdriver or the like, there is absolutely no chance of the recording function being activated.
To record on a cassette whose tab has been broken off, stick a piece of adhesive tape over the hole. Be careful not to block the tape type detection holes.

Maintenance

If the surface of the deck becomes soiled, wipe it clean with a dry, soft cloth. Never use volatile cleaners like thinners, benzine or alcohol because they will damage the surface finish.
Do not allow the deck to remain in contact with rubber or vinyl products for a long period of time, as these could damage the surface finish.

For safety, always unplug the power cord before performing any maintenance.

• Cleaning the heads
  If the head section gets dirty, the recording quality will deteriorate, resulting in degraded playback sound or "drops" in sound. Also, if the tape transport path gets dirty, the tape may get entangled in the rotating parts. It is therefore recommended that the heads, pinch rollers and capstans be cleaned regularly at intervals of 10-hour use with a cotton swab moistened with a commercially available, appropriate cleaning liquid.

NOTE
Do not make a recording or play back tape when the tape transport path is wet with cleaning liquid, as this could cause the tape to jam or clog.

Connections

• Plug the power cord into an AC outlet only after having made all other connections.
• Read the instructions of each component you intend to use with this unit.

1. LINE IN AND LINE OUT jacks
   Use RCA cables to make connections between this unit and your amplifier. Make sure to connect:
   White plug to White jack (L: left channel)
   Red plug to Red jack (R: right channel)

NOTE
Plugs must be firmly inserted into the corresponding jacks. Do not bundle the RCA cables together with the power cord and speaker cables. Doing so will degrade sound quality or generate noise.

2. VOLTAGE SELECTOR
   Switches the voltage to either 230 V or 120 V.

NOTE

• The voltage selector is not available on units for some markets.

IN NORTH AMERICA
USE ONLY ON 120V SUPPLY

3. AC power cord
   Plug this AC power cord into an AC wall socket.

NOTE

• Hold the power plug when plugging or unplugging the power cord. Never pull or yank on the power cord.
• Unplug the power cord when you are not going to use the unit for some time.

Features of the Product

Front panel

1. POWER switch
   This switches the unit power between off and on.

NOTE
The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power from the AC outlet with its POWER in the off position.

2. TAPE I compartment
3. RTZ key (TAPE I only)
   This key returns the tape to the counter zero point.
4. COUNTER RESET keys
   Pressing these keys reset the tape counter readings for TAPE I and TAPE II, respectively.
5. Synchro reverse key (SYNC REVERSE)
   Pressing this key activates the synchro reverse dubbing function.
6. REPEAT key
   This allows repeat playback of a selected section of the tape.
7. Display
   This shows tape counters, level meters, etc.
8. Parallel record key (PARALLEL REC)
   This key lets you simultaneously record on both decks.
9. Dubbing start key (DUB START)
   This key is used when copying the contents of a tape from TAPE I to TAPE II, either at normal or high speed.
10. TAPE II compartment
11. Reverse mode switch (REV MODE)
    This switch is used to switch between reverse modes.
12. TIMER switch
    This switch is provided for use with a commercially available audio timer, to allow timer controlled recording or playback. Normally, leave this switch to the OFF position.
13. DOLBY NR switch
    This switch toggles the Dolby Noise Reduction system on/off. In playback you need to set this switch to the same position as when the recording was made.
14. EJECT ( ) keys
    Pressing these keys opens the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments.
15. MIC jack and level control
    Insert your microphone into this jack and use the knob to adjust the level of mic input.

NOTE
The MIC jack is mono. You cannot use a stereo microphone with this cassette deck.

16. Headphones jack (PHONES)
    Plug your headphones into this jack.
17. PITCH CONTROL
    This control is used to vary the playback speed.
18. REC LEVEL
    This control is used to adjust the recording level.

Remote Control Unit

3. RTZ key (TAPE I only)
   This key returns the tape to the counter zero point.
4. COUNTER RESET keys
   Pressing these keys reset the tape counter readings for TAPE I and TAPE II, respectively.
5. Synchro reverse key (SYNC REVERSE)
   Pressing this key activates the synchro reverse dubbing function.
6. REPEAT key
   This allows repeat playback of a selected section of the tape.

9. Dubbing start key (DUB START)
   This key is used when copying the contents of a tape from TAPE I to TAPE II, either at normal or high speed.

19. Tape transport control keys
    RECORD ( ) key
    Pressing this key shifts the corresponding deck to record-pause mode.
    PAUSE ( ) key
    Pressing this key temporarily stops playback or recording.
    Recording mute (REC MUTE) key
    This key is for creating the 4-second blank space.
    key
    Fast-forward/Rewind
    STOP ( ) key
    Stop of playback/record
    PLAY ( ) key
    Reverse side play/Forward side play
20. Remote sensor
    When operating the remote control unit, point it towards here.

Using the Remote Control Unit

Cautions when using the remote control unit

• Point the remote control unit at the remote sensor of the cassette deck and operate the remote control unit at a distance of no more than 5 meters. Do not place objects between the remote control unit and remote sensor.
• Direct sunlight or very bright light will reduce the sensitivity of the remote sensor. If this is the case, use the control buttons on the cassette deck instead of the remote buttons.
• It is possible that other infrared-ray-sensitive equipment nearby may malfunction when you operate the remote control.

Loading batteries into the remote control unit

Remove the lid of the battery compartment, load two "AA" sized batteries in the indicated directions, and then replace the lid. When inserting batteries, be sure to observe proper polarity (+ and –).

If you have to put the remote control unit quite close to the remote sensor or if any remote buttons do not work, then the batteries are no longer fit for use and must be replaced. Be sure to always replace both batteries at once.

Important Cautions for Handling Batteries

Improper battery use can result in leakage or rupture. Observe the following instructions:

• Load the batteries in the correct direction as indicated in the battery compartment.
• Do not mix old and new batteries, or mix different types or brands of battery.
• Do not heat, disassemble, or throw batteries into fire or water.
• Do not store or carry batteries together with other small metal objects. Doing so can cause battery shorting, leakage or rupture.
• Do not try to recharge dry batteries.
• When the cassette deck is not going to be used for a long time (more than one month), take the batteries out of the battery compartment.
• If leakage into the battery compartment is observed, wipe up any liquid inside the compartment and load new batteries.

Display

1. Peak level meter
   This shows recording and playback levels.
2. SYNC REV
   This indicator lights when the synchro reverse dubbing function is switched on.
3. PARALLEL
   This indicator lights to indicate parallel recording is taking place.
4. Playback/recording direction indicator of TAPE I deck
5. Pause indicator
   This indicator lights when the TAPE I deck is temporarily stopped.
6. Tape counter of TAPE I deck
   The tape counter indicates the relative position of the tape. You can reset the counter to zero whenever you want.
   When an A-B repeat operation is on, is shown.
7. Record indicator
   This indicator lights when the TAPE I deck is in record mode.
8. Play indicator
   This indicator lights when the TAPE I deck is in play mode.
9. Dubbing indicator
   NORMAL DUB lights during normal speed dubbing, and HIGH DUB lights during high speed dubbing.
10. Play indicator
    This indicator lights when the TAPE II deck is in play mode.
11. Record indicator
    This indicator lights when the TAPE II deck is in record mode.
12. Tape counter of TAPE II deck
    The tape counter indicates the relative position of the tape. You can reset the counter to zero whenever you want.
    When an A-B repeat operation is on, is shown.
13. Pause indicator
    This indicator lights when the TAPE II deck is temporarily stopped.
14. Playback/recording direction indicator of TAPE II deck

Playback

Playback I

(either TAPE I or TAPE II)

1. Switch on the POWER.
2. Load a pre-recorded tape into the TAPE I or II deck.
   Press the EJECT key ( ) to open the cassette compartment. Insert the cassette tape with its open edge facing down, the desired side facing you. Then, close the cassette compartment by pushing on its front part.
   This cassette deck can play back Normal (Type I), Chrome (Type II) and Metal (Type IV) tapes.
   For the sake of simplicity, we refer to the tape side facing you as Side "A" and to the tape side facing away as Side "B". When you insert a cassette with Sides "A" and "B" reversed, Side "A" should read Side "B" and Side "B" should read Side "A".
   
3. Select a reverse mode setting using the REV MODE switch.
   

You have a choice of three settings:

	One way mode Set the switch to this position to playback only one side.
	Two way mode Set the switch to this position to play back both sides of the tape in one session. When playback reaches the end of side "A", the playback direction is automatically reversed, and playback continues on side "B".
	Repeat mode Set the switch to this position. Both sides of the tape are played back as many as 5 times. If a tape is in both the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments, the TAPE I and TAPE II decks continuously play the tapes.

4. Set the DOLBY NR switch.
   Set the switch to the ON position when playing back tapes recorded with Dolby NR.
   To play tapes recorded without Dolby NR, set the switch to the OFF position.
   
5. Press the PLAY ( or ) key.
   Pressing the key starts playback from side "A".
   Pressing the key starts playback from side "B".
   

Playback II

(either TAPE I or TAPE II)

1. To stop playback, press the STOP ( ) key.
   
2. To stop playback temporarily, press the PAUSE key. To resume playback, press the PAUSE key again, or press the PLAY ( or ) key.
   While playback is paused, pressing the PLAY key whose direction is opposite to the indicator ( or ) on the display, will switch the playback direction. This does not release the pause function. Press PAUSE or the same play key ( or ) again to start playback on the other side of the tape.
   
3. Fast forward/Rewind
   Press the or key while in stop mode to fast wind the tape.
   To stop the fast winding tape, press the STOP ( ) key.
   
4. Tape counter
   Press the COUNTER RESET key to reset the tape counter to. You can use this function for easy relocation of any desired point on the tape.
   
5. Pitch control (TAPE I deck only)
   This control varies the pitch of the music during playback (This control does not work during recording or dubbing).
   Turning the PITCH CONTROL knob clockwise increases the playback speed and raises the pitch up to +10%.
   Turning the PITCH CONTROL knob counterclockwise reduces the playback speed and lowers the pitch by a maximum of –10%.
   
6. To listen through headphones

There is no level control for the headphones output. Beware that sudden loud sounds may occur depending on recorded material. You should avoid prolonged exposure to high volume sound as this can damage your hearing.

Plug your headphones into the PHONES jack, and put on the headphones.
Plugging into the PHONES jack does not disable the line outputs.

Continuous playback

Continuous playback can be performed between TAPE I and TAPE II. When one tape is played back to the end, the other tape automatically starts playback, in a relay fashion.

1. Load pre-recorded tapes into the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments.
2. Set the DOLBY NR switch.
   Always set the DOLBY NR switch to the same position that was used for recording.
3. Set the REV MODE switch to the (CONT PLAY) position.
   
4. Press the PLAY ( or ) key of the deck you want to start first.
   

You can start continuous playback from either TAPE I or TAPE II. Playback cycles through four tape sides as follows, and will continue as many as 5 times when you start the playback from Side "A" on TAPE I, or until you stop the operation.

RTZ I

(TAPE I only)
When you press the RTZ I key, the TAPE I deck fast-forwards or rewinds the tape until the counter reads and then stops.

NOTE

• RTZ (Return-to-zero) only works on TAPEI.
• If the counter position is too close to the 0000 mark (greater than 9994 or less than 0005), the RTZ function cannot be used.

A-B Repeat playback

1. During playback, press the REPEAT key at the point where you want to start the repeat playback interval (A point). appears on the display when this point is set.
2. Next, press the REPEAT key at the point where you want to end the repeat playback interval (B point). appears on the display.
   The tape automatically rewinds to the A point where playback restarts. When the B point is reached, playback stops temporarily, the tape rewinds again to the A point, and playback continues to repeat.
3. Press the STOP ( ) key to end repeat playback.

• During repeat playback, only the REPEAT and STOP keys can be used.
• This function cannot be used for durations of less than 10 counts on the tape counter between the starting and end points.
• Only intervals in the current playback direction can be repeated.
• Repeat playback stops automatically after 20 repetitions.

Recording

Recording

(either TAPE I or TAPE II)

1. Turn on the power.
   
2. Load a tape for recording.
   Press the EJECT ( ) key to open the cassette compartment. Insert the cassette tape with its open edge facing down, side "A" facing you. Then close the cassette compartment by pushing in the cassette door until it clicks shut.
   

NOTE

• If the erasure prevention tabs of the loaded cassette tape have been broken off, stick a piece of adhesive tape over the hole(s).
• With this cassette deck you can use Normal (Type I) and Chrome (Type II) tapes for recording.

3. Set the REV MODE switch.
   : Set to this position to record on one side only.
   : Set to either of these positions to record on both sides.
   
4. Set the DOLBY NR switch.
   Set the switch to ON to record with Dolby Noise Reduction.
   Set to OFF to record without Dolby Noise Reduction.
   
5. Press the RECORD ( ) key.
   The deck enters the record-pause mode. and will light on the display.

NOTE

• If you want to record using the remote control unit, press the two RECORD keys on the remote control unit at the same time.
• To stop recording while the deck is in the record-pause mode, press the STOP key ( ).

6. Adjust the recording level.
   Start playback of your recording source and set the REC LEVEL control knob so that the level meter indicates "0 dB" at peaks.
   
7. Set the recording direction. (To record on only one side of the tape)
   Recording is made in the direction indicated by the play/record direction indicator ( ). To change this direction, press the opposite direction PLAY ( or ) key.
   

NOTE
Make sure that the arrow on the key ( ) you are going to press points in the opposite direction of the arrow on the indicator ( ) shown on the display. Failure to follow this instruction causes the deck to start recording in an unintended direction.

8. When everything is ready, start recording by pressing the PAUSE key or the PLAY key whose arrow points in the same direction as the indicator.
   To record on both tape sides, set the REV MODE switch to or and press the forward PLAY ( ) key. If you press the reverse PLAY ( ) key, recording will be done only on side "B". To stop recording, press the STOP ( ) key.
   

1. To stop recording temporarily
   Press the PAUSE key to stop recording temporarily.
   A second press of the key resumes recording.

To erase recordings

When you make a recording, the tape is overwritten (previous recording is erased). To erase a tape without making a new recording, set the REC LEVEL control to the minimum (0) position and press the RECORD ( ) key followed by the PLAY ( or ) key.

Quick record start

Press the RECORD ( ) key and press the PLAY ( or ) key corresponding to the direction you want the tape to run.

Recording silence

When you press the REC MUTE key during recording, the unit records no signal for about 4 seconds and then enters the record-pause mode. To resume recording, press the PAUSE key

• To create a blank of more than 4 seconds long
  Hold down the REC MUTE key for the desired length of time. When you release the key, the deck enters the record-pause mode.
• To create a blank of less than 4 seconds long
  Press the PAUSE key within 3 seconds of pressing the REC MUTE key.

NOTE
If you press the REC MUTE key when the deck is in the recordpause mode, no signal is recorded for about 4 seconds, and then the deck shifts back to the record-pause mode.

Mic mixing recording

This function allows you to record your voice and another audio source together on a cassette tape.
The mic sound is fed into both the Left and Right channels so it is located in the center of the stereo image.
You have the choice of either selecting the audio source you want on the amplifier connected to the LINE IN jacks of the deck, or plugging the desired source directly into the deck's LINE IN jacks.

NOTE

• To prevent feedback (howling), disable the speaker outputs from the amplifier. Use headphones to monitor recording.
• This cassette deck is not compatible with stereo mics. Always use a mono mic.

Adjusting mix recording level
To record a mix of voice and another audio source, you need to adjust the mic input level and then fine tune the overall recording level.

1. Plug your microphone into the MIC jack on the front panel.
2. Start playing the audio source, switch the deck into the record-pause mode (by pressing the RECORD ( ) key), and temporarily adjust the REC LEVEL control to a relatively low level.
3. Speak into the mic and adjust the MIC level control to get the optimum balance between your voice and the other source.
4. Fine tune the overall recording level using the REC LEVEL control so that the level meter reads 0 dB at peaks.
5. When everything is ready, start recording as instructed earlier in this manual.

Continuous recording

This function allows you to make uninterrupted recordings on both sides of two tapes.

1. Load cassette tapes for recording into the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments.
   
2. Set the REV MODE switch to the (CONT REC/PLAY) position.
   Set the DOLBY NR switch to the ON position if you want to.
   
3. Press the TAPE I deck's RECORD ( ) key.
   The deck enters the record-pause mode. and will light on the display. Now adjust the recording level and any other settings, as required.
   
4. Check the recording direction.
   If an indicator is lit which points in the direction opposite to the one desired, change the direction by pressing the opposite direction PLAY ( or ) key.
   

NOTE
Be careful not to press the PLAY ( or ) key whose arrow points in the same direction as the indicator. Doing so will start recording.
Recording is done in this order:

You can start recording from side "B" of TAPE I. But if you do so, side "A" of this tape is not recorded: when recording reaches the end of side "B", the TAPE II deck starts recording.

NOTE
The TAPE II deck always starts recording from side "A".

5. Start recording.
   Recording starts when you press the PAUSE key or the PLAY ( or ) key whose arrow points in the same direction as the indicator on the TAPE I deck.
   When recording is finished on the TAPE I deck, the TAPE II deck automatically starts recording.
   

NOTE
The transition from TAPE I to TAPE II takes several seconds.

1. To stop recording
   Press the STOP ( ) key of the deck which is currently recording.
   

Parallel recording

This function allows you to record the same material simultaneously on both TAPE I and TAPE II.
Load tapes into both decks and press the PARALLEL REC key to start recording.
Before starting recording, check and correct the following by performing steps 1 – 7 in "Recording" section such as Record direction, Reverse mode setting, Dolby NR setting, Recording level, etc.
When everything is ready, get back into stop mode if the deck is in another mode.
During parallel recording, the PARALLEL indicator is lit on the display.
During parallel recording, only the following keys work:
TAPE I deck: STOP ( )
TAPE II deck: PAUSE, REC MUTE, STOP ( )
Pressing the STOP ( ) key on either deck stops both tapes at once.

Dubbing from TAPE I to TAPE II

1. Insert a cassette tape for playback into the TAPE I compartment and a cassette tape for recording into the TAPE II compartment.
   
2. Set the tape transport direction on both decks.
   If the play/record direction indicator ( ) on the display points in the direction opposite to the one desired, press the PAUSE key followed by the PLAY ( or ) key corresponding to the desired direction. After changing the tape transport direction, be sure to press the STOP ( ) key to get out of the pause mode.
   

NOTE

• Be careful not to press the PLAY ( or ) key whose arrow points in the same direction as the indicator. Doing so will start playback.
• Set the REV MODE switch as required.
• You don't need to adjust the recording level or set the Dolby NR system, as both depend on the pre-recorded source tape.

3. Press either DUB START key to start dubbing.
   For normal speed dubbing, press the NORMAL key. For highspeed dubbing, press the HIGH key.
   

NOTE
High-speed dubbing makes a copy at approximately two times the normal speed. We recommend normal speed dubbing for best audio quality.
During dubbing, either the NORM DUB or HIGH DUB indicator lights steadily on the display.

During normal speed dubbing, only the following keys work:
TAEP I deck: STOP ( )
TAPE II deck: PAUSE, REC MUTE, STOP ( )
During high-speed dubbing, only the STOP ( ) key works.
Neither DUB START key works immediately after the tape is fastforwarded or rewound to the end. Wait for 5 seconds or more before pressing the key.

NOTE

• During dubbing, the pitch control does not work.
• Recording level adjustment is not necessary for dubbing, as the recording level is set to the level of the pre-recorded tape. Operating the REC LEVEL control, before or after starting dubbing, has no effect at all.
• If a nearby television set is switched on during high-speed dubbing, a high-pitched interference noise may be recorded on the tape. To avoid this, either perform dubbing at normal speed, or turn off the television.
• If you want to start dubbing using the remote control unit, press the two DUB START keys (NORMAL keys or HIGH keys), for either normal or high speed dubbing, on the remote control unit at the same time.

Editing during dubbing

(only at normal speed)
You can prevent unwanted songs or unnecessarily long blanks from being dubbed, or you can create blanks between songs.

1. At the desired point during dubbing, press the PAUSE key on the TAPE I deck. The TAPE II deck only enters the pause mode, allowing you to let unwanted songs go by.
   To create a 4-second blank between songs, press the REC MUTE key on the TAPE II deck. The TAPE II deck temporarily stops after recording no signal for 4 seconds.
   The TAPE I deck continues playback when the TAPE II deck is in pause mode.
2. To resume dubbing, press the PAUSE key on the TAPE II deck.

Synchro reverse dubbing from TAPE I to TAPE II

When you use this dubbing function and a shorter tape reaches the end of side "A", it momentarily stops until the other tape reaches the end of side "A". Then both tapes automatically switch over to side "B" and recording and playback re-start simultaneously.

If TAPE I is shorter than TAPE II
When TAPE I reaches the end of side "A", TAPE I stops and TAPE II enters the "blank recording" mode.
When TAPE II reaches the end, both TAPE I and II are reversed simultaneously. TAPE I starts playback and TAPE II resumes recording.
When TAPE I reaches the end of side "B", both TAPE I and II stop simultaneously.

If TAPE II is longer than TAPE I
When TAPE II reaches the end of side "A", TAPE II enters the recordpause mode, while TAPE I continues playback.
When TAPE I reaches the end, both TAPE I and II are reversed simultaneously. TAPE I starts playback and TAPE II resumes recording.
When TAPE II reaches the end of side "B", both TAPE I and II stop simultaneously.

1. Insert a cassette tape for playback into the TAPE I compartment and a cassette tape for recording into the TAPE II compartment.
   
2. Set the REV MODE switch to the two-way ( ) position.
   
3. Check the recording direction of both decks.
   If the reverse direction indicator ( ) lights on the display, press the PAUSE key followed by the forward PLAY ( ) key. Then, be sure to press the STOP ( ) key to get out of the pause mode.
   

NOTE

• Be careful not to press the PLAY ( or ) key whose arrow points in the same direction as the indicator. Doing so will start playback.
• You do not need to adjust the recording level or set the Dolby NR system, as both depend on the pre-recorded source tape.

4. Press the SYNC REVERSE key.
   The SYNC REV indicator will light on the display.
   The SYNC REVERSE key does not work if the reverse mode is set to any positions other than or if the transport direction of both decks is set to reverse ( ).
   
5. Press either DUB START key to start dubbing.
   

For normal speed dubbing, press the NORMAL key. For highspeed dubbing, press the HIGH key.
High-speed dubbing makes a copy at approximately two times the normal speed. We recommend normal speed dubbing for best audio quality. NORM DUB HIGH DUB During dubbing, either the or indicator lights steadily on the display.
During normal speed dubbing, only the following keys work:
TAPE I deck: STOP ( )
TAPE II deck: PAUSE, REC MUTE, STOP ( )
During high-speed dubbing, only the STOP ( ) key works.
Pressing the STOP ( ) key on either deck stops both tapes at once.
Neither DUB START key works immediately after the tape is fastforwarded or rewound to the end. Wait for 5 seconds or more before pressing the key.

NOTE

• During dubbing, the pitch control does notwork.
• Recording level adjustment is not necessary for dubbing, as the recording level is set to the level of the pre-recorded tape. Operating the REC LEVEL control, before or after starting dubbing, has no effect at all.
• If a nearby television set is switched on during high-speed dubbing, a high-pitched interference noise may be recorded on the tape. To avoid this, either perform dubbing at normal speed, or turn off the television.

Timer-Controlled Playback and Recording

Timer-Controlled Playback

1. Connect this unit and stereo system to a commercially available audio timer.
2. Set the power switch of all components to ON.
3. Load a prerecorded cassette tape in TAPE I or II.
   You can also insert tapes into both decks. In this case, TAPE I starts first.
4. Set the REV MODE switch to the required position.
   If you set the REV MODE switch to :
   a tape deck plays only Side "A" of the tape.
   • If a tape is in both the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments, the TAPE I deck plays Side "A" of the tape and then stops.
     If a tape is in the TAPE II compartment only, the TAPE II deck plays Side "A" of the tape.

If you set the REV MODE switch to : a tape deck continuously plays both sides of the tape.
When the tape deck reaches the end of Side "A" in playback mode, it automatically reverses the tape and continues to play Side "B".

• If a tape is in both the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments, the TAPE I deck plays both sides of the tape and then stops.
  If a tape is in the TAPE II compartment only, the TAPE II deck plays both sides of the tape.

If you set the REV MODE switch to :
both sides of a tape are continuously played for up to five times.

5. Set the DOLBY NR switch.
6. Set the TIMER switch to the PLAY position.
7. Set the audio timer to the required start (power on) and stop (power off) times. When this setting is completed, the power to all components will be switched off.
   When a preset start time is reached, power will be supplied and playback will start automatically. Playback always starts from side "A".

NOTE

• If you directly connect the deck's AC power cord to the AC outlet, playback automatically starts by simply pressing on the POWER switch of this deck when you set the TIMER switch to the PLAY position. When you do not use the timer, set the TIMER switch to the OFF position.

Timer-controlled recording

(Example: Recording a broadcast program)

1. Connect this unit and stereo system to a commercially available audio timer.
2. Set the power switch of all components to ON.
3. Load a recordable cassette tape(s) in TAPE I or II (or both decks for continuous recording).
4. Set the REV MODE switch to the required position.
   If you set the REV MODE switch to :
   a tape deck records on only Side "A" of the tape.
   • If a tape is in both the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments, the TAPE I deck records on Side "A" of the tape and then stops.
     If a tape is in the TAPE II compartment only, the TAPE II deck records on Side "A" of the tape.

If you set the REV MODE switch to :
a tape deck continuously records on both sides of the tape.
When the tape deck reaches the end of Side "A" in record mode, it automatically reverses the tape and continues to record on Side "B".

• If a tape is in both the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments, the TAPE I deck records on both sides of the tape and then stops.
  If a tape is in the TAPE II compartment only, the TAPE II deck records on both sides of the tape.

If you set the REV MODE switch to (continuous recording):
insert a tape into both the TAPE I and TAPE II compartments. The TAPE I and TAPE II decks continuously record on the tapes.

5. Set the DOLBY NR switch as required.
6. Tune in a broadcasting station to be recorded.
7. Press the RECORD ( ) key of the deck to be recorded to set the deck to the record-pause mode.
8. Adjust the recording level.
9. Set the TIMER switch to the REC position.
10. Set the audio timer to the required start (power on) and stop (power off) times. When this setting is completed, the power to all components will be switched off.
    When the preset start time is reached, power will be supplied and recording will start automatically. Recording always starts from side "A".

If you directly connect the deck's AC power cord to the AC outlet, recording automatically starts by simply pressing on the POWER switch of this deck when you set the TIMER switch to the REC position. When you do not use the timer for a while, be sure to set the TIMER switch back to the OFF position to prevent accidental erasure of your important tape.

Connections with a timer

Connecting a commercially available timer to your audio setup lets you wake up to your favorite cassette tape, or start recording at specified times.
Refer to the illustration below, and connect your audio components.

Troubleshooting

If you think that there is something wrong with this cassette deck, make the checks listed below before contacting a repair service. In some cases the problem may lie with another component. Check all components.
If the problem cannot be solved with any of the following checks, contact your nearest TEAC authorized service center or your dealer for help.

Cannot switch on the power

• Check the connection to the AC power supply. Check and make sure the AC source is not a switched outlet and that, if it is, the switch is turned on. Make sure there is power to the AC outlet by plugging another item such as a lamp or fan into the outlet.

No sound

• Check the connection to the amplifier.
• Check the amplifier settings.

Noisy playback

• Keep away from equipment that generates a magnetic field, such as a TV or microwave oven.

Transport control keys do not work

• Load a cassette tape if not loaded.
• If a cassette tape is loaded, reinsert it.

The cassette compartment does not close

• The cassette is not properly loaded. Reinsert it.

Poor sound quality

• Clean the heads.
• Check that the Dolby NR switch is set to the same position as when recording was made.

Cannot record

• If the erasure prevention tabs on top of the cassette are broken off, cover the holes using pieces of adhesive tape.
• Check the connection to the amplifier and to the source equipment.
• Set the amplifier input/output selectors correctly.
• Check the recording level setting.

Playback speed seems somewhat fast or slow

• Check the pitch control setting.

Auto reverse does not occur

• Set the REV MODE switch to or .
• If the REV MODE switch is set to , start playback from the tape side facing you (side "A").

Synchro reverse dubbing is not possible

• Set the REV MODE switch to the position.
• Load cassettes into both decks.
• Set the tape transport direction to on both decks.

Continuous play/record is not possible

• Set the REV MODE switch to the position.
• Load cassettes into both decks.
• To make a continuous recording, start with TAPE I.

NOTE
This cassette deck operates on a delicate microcomputer and there may be occasions when the deck does not function as expected because of external noise or interference. Problems you encounter on such occasions may be cured by turning off the power, waiting for 1 minute or more, then turning the power back on.

Specifications

Track System		4-track, 2-channel stereo
Heads Construction		Record/playback head x 1 (each deck) Erase head x 1 (each deck)
Tape Speed		4.8 cm/sec 9.5 cm/sec (high-speed dubbing mode)
Pitch Control		12%
Fast Winding Time		approximately 160 sec (C-60 tape)
Motor		DC servo motor (capstan)
Wow and Flutter		0.25% (WRMS)
Frequency Response (Overall)
Metal tape (Type IV, playback only)		30 Hz-19 kHz
Chrome tape (Type II)		30 Hz-18 kHz
Normal tape (Type I)		30 Hz-17 kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio (Overall)		58 dB (Dolby NR OFF, nominal recording level) 69 dB (Dolby NR ON, CCIR-ARM)
Line Input (RCA jack)		100 mV (input impedance 50k ohms)
Mic Input (mono 1/4" Phone jack)		0.38 mV (input impedance 200k ohms)
Line Output (RCA jack)		0.46 V (load impedance 50k ohms or more)
Headphones Output (stereo 1/4" Phone jack)		2 mW / 32 ohms
Power Requirements		U.S.A./Canada 120 V AC, 60 Hz U.K./Europe 230 V AC, 50 Hz
Power Consumption		22 W
Dimensions (including protruding parts)		435 (W) x 145 (H) x 286 (D) mm (17 1/8" x 5 11/16" x 11 1/4")
Weight		4.3 kg (9 1/2 lb)
Included Accessories
Remote control unit (RC-1277)		x 1
Batteries (AA) for remote control unit		x 2
Stereo RCA pin cable		x 2
Owner's manual (this document)		x 1
Warranty card		x 1

• Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
• Weight and dimensions are approximate.
• Illustrations may differ slightly from production models.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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 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.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
    
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

• Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
• Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such as a book case or similar unit.
• The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power from the AC outlet with its POWER or STANDBY/ON switch not in the ON position.
• The apparatus should be located close enough to the AC outlet so that you can easily grasp the power cord plug at any time.
• The main plug is used as the disconnect device; the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
• Batteries (battery pack or batteries installed) shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
• 
  CAUTION for products that use replaceable lithium batteries: there is danger of explosion if a battery is replaced with an incorrect type of battery. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
• Excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones can cause hearing loss.

TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

• DO NOT REMOVE THE EXTERNAL CASES OR CABINETS TO EXPOSE THE ELECTRONICS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE WITHIN.
• IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THIS PRODUCT, CONTACT TEAC FOR A SERVICE REFERRAL. DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT UNTIL IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED.

Documents / Resources

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Teac W-890R - Reverse Cassette Deck Manual