Multitrack Cassette Recorder
User’s Guide
Manuel de l’utilisateur
Bedienungsanleitung
Guía del Usuario
NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM
1234
TRACK
STEREO
STOPFFREWPLAYREC/PAUSEREHE
MIC/LINE
1
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
MIC/LINE
2
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
MIC/LINE
3
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
MIC/LINE
4
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
MASTER
1
2
3
4
GROUP
1
3
2
4
ASSIGN
1
3
2
4
ASSIGN
12
AUX RETURN
LEVEL
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
1
3
2
4
MULTITRACK CASSETTE RECORDER
010
010
010
010
010
010
MIN MAX
CUE LEVEL
MONITOR
SELECT
STEREO
CUE
MONITOR/PHONES
TAPE
9.5 4.8
SYNC START IN OUT
AUTO PUNCH
MEMO
REPEAT
1
2
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
REC
1 2 3 4LR
REC SELECT
1 2 3 4
PHONES PUNCH I/O
TAPE SPEED CONTROL
4.8 / 9.5
PITCH
O
AUTO
PUNCH I/O
CLEARSYNC
CHECK MEMO LOCATE1
MEMO LOCATE2
COUNTER
RESET
RETURN
TO ZEROREPEAT
FCC INFORMATION (U.S.A.)
1. IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS UNIT!
This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC requirements. Modifications not expressly approved by Yamaha
may void your authority, granted by the FCC, to use the product.
2. IMPORTANT: When connecting this product to accessories and/or another product use only high quality shielded cables. Cable/s supplied with this product MUST
be used. Follow all installation instructions. Failure to follow instructions could void your FCC authorization to use this product in the USA.
3. NOTE: This product has been tested and found to comply with the requirements listed in FCC Regulations, Part 15 for Class “B” digital devices. Compliance with
these requirements provides a reasonable level of assurance that your use of this product in a residential environment will not result in harmful interference with
other electronic devices. This equipment generates/uses radio frequencies and, if not installed and used according to the instructions found in the users manual, may
cause interference harmful to the operation of other electronic devices. Compliance with FCC regulations does not guarantee that interference will not occur in all
installations. If this product is found to be the source of interference, which can be determined by turning the unit “OFF” and “ON”, please try to eliminate the
problem by using one of the following measures:
Relocate either this product or the device that is being affected by the interference.
Utilize power outlets that are on different branch (circuit breaker of fuse) circuits or install AC line filter/s.
In the case of radio or TV interference, relocate/reorient the antenna. If the antenna lead-in is 300 ohm ribbon lead, change the lead-in to coaxial type cable.
If these corrective measures do not produce satisfactory results, please contact the local retailer authorized to distribute this type of product. If you can not locate the
appropriate retailer, please contact Yamaha Corporation of America, Electronic Service Division, 6600 Orangethorpe Ave, Buena Park, CA 90620
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA CORPORATION OF AMERICA.
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR
THE UNITED KINGDOM
Connecting the Plug and Cord
IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance
with the following code:
BLUE : NEUTRAL
BROWN : LIVE
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 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.
Making sure that neither core is connected to the earth terminal of the
three pin plug.
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA - KEMBLE
MUSIC (U.K.) LTD.
CANADA
THIS DIGITAL APPARATUS DOES NOT EXCEED THE “CLASS B”
LIMITS FOR RADIO NOISE EMISSIONS FROM DIGITAL
APPARATUS SET OUT IN THE RADIO INTERFERENCE
REGULATION OF THE CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNICATIONS.
LE PRESENT APPAREIL NUMERIQUE N’EMET PAS DE BRUITS
RADIOELECTRIQUES DEPASSANT LES LIMITES APPLICABLES
AUX APPAREILS NUMERIQUES DE LA “CLASSE B”
PRESCRITES DANS LE REGLEMENT SUR LE BROUILLAGE
RADIOELECTRIQUE EDICTE PAR LE MINISTERE DES
COMMUNICATIONS DU CANADA.
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA CANADA
MUSIC LTD.
Dette apparat overholder det gaeldende EF-direktiv vedrørende
radiostøj.
Cet appareil est conforme aux prescriptions de la directive
communautaire 87/308/CEE.
Diese Geräe entsprechen der EG-Richtlinie 82/499/EWG
und/oder 87/308/EWG.
This product complies with the radio frequency interference
requirements of the Council Directive 82/499/EEC and/or
87/308/EEC.
Questo apparecchio é conforme al D.M.13 aprile 1989
(Direttiva CEE/87/308) sulla soppressione dei radiodisturbi.
Este producto está de acuerdo con los requisitos sobre
interferencias de radio frequencia fijados por el Consejo
Directivo 87/308/CEE.
YAMAHA CORPORATION
1
Precautions
User’s Guide
Precautions
1 Avoid excessive heat, humidity, dust, and vibration.
Keep the MT4X away from locations where it is likely to be
exposed to high temperatures or humidity, such as direct
sunlight, near radiators, stoves, etc. Also avoid locations which
are subject to excessive dust accumulation or vibration which
could cause mechanical damage.
2 Avoid physical shocks
Strong physical shocks can cause damage. Handle the unit with
care.
3 Clean with a soft dry cloth
Never use solvents such as benzine or thinner to clean the
MT4X. Wipe it clean with a soft dry cloth.
4 Do not open the case or attempt repairs or modification
yourself
The MT4X contains no user-serviceable parts. For other than
routine cleaning, refer all maintenance to qualified YAMAHA
service personnel. Opening the case and/or tampering with the
internal circuitry will void the warranty.
5 Make sure power is off before making or removing
connections
Always turn the power OFF prior to connecting or
disconnecting cables. This will prevent damage to the MT4X as
well as other connected equipment.
6 Handle cables carefully
Always plug and unplug cables — including the AC cord — by
gripping the connector, not the cord.
7 Always use the correct power supply
The MT4X is sold configured to the appropriate power
specifications for the local area. The power supply voltage and
power consumption are listed on the bottom panel. If you move
to an area with a different AC mains voltage, be sure to check
with your nearest YAMAHA dealer before using the unit.
8 Keep the heads and tape path clean
To ensure consistent high performance and sound quality from
the MT4X, it is important to clean the heads and tape path
regularly — ideally before each recording session. Use a
cleaning kit specifically designed to use with cassette tape
equipment.
9 Use only high-quality chrome cassette tape
The MT4X is designed to be used with Chrome tape (CrO
2
tape
— Bias: HIGH or TYPEII position; EQ: 70
µ
s). It will not work
properly with Ferrichrome tape formulations. You may
experience high frequency distortion if you use such tapes.
The use of tapes longer than 90 minutes (C-120 and longer) is
not recommended. These tapes are much thinner and therefore
prone to poor performance or failure.
TDK SA 46 – 90 and Maxell XLII 46 – 90 are recommended.
10 Handle the cassette tapes properly
You should fast forward and rewind new tapes before you
record on them. This will prevent any possible binding that
could be caused by the tape being tightly wound at the factory.
It is best not to use the first and last 20 seconds of a tape. The
splice between the leader and the tape can cause distortion.
When loading a cassette, check that the tape is not loose, then
load the tape firmly into the cassette compartment. If the tape is
not loaded properly, the unit may jam or otherwise malfunction.
11 Use the dbx™ switch correctly
To obtain the best possible sound quality, you should always use
the dbx™ noise reduction system to playback tapes that were
recorded with the dbx™ system on. If the tape was recorded
without dbx™, turn the noise reduction system off.
The dbx™ noise reduction system was manufactured based on a
patent licence from THAT Corporation. dbx is a trademark of
Carillion Electronics Corporation.
Contents
Precautions
1
Introduction
2
Features2
Structure of the MT4X3
1 Controls and Connections
5
Channel Modules6
Master Module7
Recorder Controls8
Transport Controls10
Multi-function Display10
Front Panel Connections11
Rear Panel Connections12
Power Connections13
2 Example System
14
3 Recording Functions
15
Monitoring15
Initial recording16
Overdubbing19
Punch-in/out recording21
Ping-pong recording29
Mixdown32
4 Synchronization
34
FSK recording35
Synchronized playback36
Synchronized mixdown39
5 Memory Functions
41
Memo Function41
Repeat Function42
Recording Levels Function42
Appendix
44
Troubleshooting44
Maintenance45
Specifications46
Block Diagram48
Dimensions49
Tracking Sheet49
Glossary51
Introduction
2
User’s Guide
Introduction
Your MT4X Multitrack Cassette recorder is a powerful recording tool that will allow you to capture your
music at a very high level of sound quality. It is an advanced technology, easy-to-use four-track cassette
tape recorder with a comprehensive four-channel mixer.
In order to make use of the many features of the MT4X and to obtain the best performance, please read this
manual thoroughly — and keep it in a safe place for future reference.
Features
General
The MT4X consists of a four-channel mixer section and a four-track cassette tape recorder section inside a
compact enclosure. Independent recording and playback is possible for each track. This allows you to
create high-quality multi-track recordings.
Mixer
• The mixer section is equipped with independent stereo buses for greater flexibility.
• Continuously variable gain controls are provided for each input channel. These can be used with any
input source, from microphones to electronic instruments.
• Each channel has a three band equalizer (HIGH, MID, and LOW) giving you flexible tone-shaping
capabilities.
• Dual AUX SEND and AUX RETURN (stereo) connectors allow you to add effects from external signal
processors. You can assign the AUX RETURN signal to each channel as required.
Recorder
• The dbx
noise reduction system provides substantial noise reduction and a wide dynamic range.
• An automatic punch-in/out recording function and a rehearsal function make recording easier and
more accurate. Locate functions, such as memory and return-to-zero are provided for additional
convenience.
• A large, multi-functional display shows the recording and playback levels, along with a tape counter
and other indicators, giving you immediate and helpful information about the status of the MT4X.
• The pitch control allows you to vary the tape speed with in a range of approximately
±
10%. This can be
useful when you have to compensate for pitch variations during an overdub.
• The tape transport is a full-logic mechanism, making recording and playback operation smooth and
simple.
• The transport offers two speeds: 9.5 cm/sec and 4.8 cm/sec.
3
Introduction
User’s Guide
Structure of the MT4X
L/MONO
AUX RETURN
21
L/MONO
ASSIGN ASSIGN
MASTER
1
2
3
4
GROUP
1
3
2
4
1
3
2
4
12
AUX RETURN
LEVEL
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
1
3
2
4
010
010
010
010
010
010
MIN MAX
CUE LEVEL
MONITOR
SELECT
STEREO
CUE
MONITOR/PHONES
MIC/LINE
3
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
STEREO OUT
LR
MONITOR OUT
LR
TAPE OUT
312SYNC/4
AUX SEND
12
REC SELECT
1 2 3 4
0
0
0
PHONES
MIC/LINE INPUT
Introduction
4
User’s Guide
Structure of the MT4X
The MT4X can be divided into three basic sections – the mixer, the recorder, and the bus lines which
connect them:
Mixer
The mixer has four input channels. It adjusts the input signals at each respective channel and sends them
to the bus lines.
The signals input to each channel of the mixer can be switched to either input signals (MIC/LINE) or
playback signals (TAPE). When TAPE is selected, the playback signal from each track is input to the
corresponding channel. The tone of the signal is adjusted through the equalizer and the volume at the
channel faders. It is then sent to the bus lines using the ASSIGN keys and PAN control.
Bus Lines
There are four main bus lines (group buses) which receive the input signals from each respective channel
of the mixer. If signals from two or more input channels are sent to a bus line, these signals are overlaid or
mixed.
There is also a STEREO bus (L, R), an AUX bus (1, 2), and a CUE bus.
Recorder
The signals from the bus lines are recorded by the cassette recorder. It also sends the signal to the
TAPE OUT connectors and back to the mixer (including the CUE bus).
Also refer to the "Block Diagram" on page 48.
5
Controls and Connections
User’s Guide
1 Controls and Connections
NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM
1234
TRACK
STEREO
STOPFFREWPLAYREC/PAUSEREHE
MASTER
MULTITRACK CASSETTE RECORDER
1
2
3
4
GROUP
1
3
2
4
ASSIGN
1
3
2
4
ASSIGN
12
AUX RETURN
LEVEL
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
1
3
2
4
010
010
010
010
010
010
MIN MAX
CUE LEVEL
MONITOR
SELECT
STEREO
CUE
MONITOR/PHONES
TAPE
9.5 4.8
SYNC START IN OUT
AUTO PUNCH
MEMO
REPEAT
1
2
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
REC
1 2 3 4LR
REC SELECT
1 2 3 4
PHONES PUNCH I/O
TAPE SPEED CONTROL
4.8 / 9.5
PITCH
O
AUTO
PUNCH I/O
CLEARSYNC
CHECK MEMO LOCATE1
MEMO LOCATE2
COUNTER
RESET
RETURN
TO ZEROREPEAT
MIC/LINE
1
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
MIC/LINE
2
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
MIC/LINE
3
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
MIC/LINE
4
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
ON
POWER
OFF
AUX RETURN
2
L/MONO
1
L/MONO
STEREO OUT
LR
MONITOR OUT
LR
TAPE OUT
312SYNC/4
AUX SEND
12
MIC/LINE INPUT
3124
RR
AC IN
Channel Modules
Master Module Recorder Controls
Transport Controls
Multi-function Display
Front Panel
Connections
Rear Panel Connections
Power Connections
Controls and Connections
6
User’s Guide
Channel Modules
1
GAIN control
This rotary control adjusts the level of the signal from a microphone or
instrument plugged into the MIC/LINE INPUT connector (
h
).
2
Equalizer controls
These rotary controls are used to adjust the high, middle and low band
frequency levels. To help you select the “flat” setting easily, each control
has a centre-detent at the “0” position.
HIGH
±
12 dB at 12kHz - shelving
MID
±
12 dB at 1kHz - peaking
LOW
±
12 dB at 80Hz - shelving
0
MIC/LINE
1
HIGH
GAIN
MID
LOW
AUX
PAN
1
3
2
4
LINE MIC
-12 +12
-12 +12
-12 +12
AUX 1 AUX 2
R
EVEN
L
ODD
MIC/
LINE
TAPE
ASSIGN
C
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
2
4
7
6
5
3
1
10k 20k1k10020
–15
–10
–5
0
5
10
15
FREQUENCY (Hz)
RESPONSE (dB)
50
5k2k500200
3
AUX controls
This rotary control is used to send the channel signal after the fader (
7
) to the auxiliary send buses.
Rotated fully counter-clockwise sends the signal to the AUX 1 bus, fully clockwise to the AUX 2 bus.
In the centre-detent “0” position, no signal is sent to either bus.
4
ASSIGN keys
These keys are used to select the group bus.
1-ASSIGN-2 selects the first track group - groups 1 and 2.
3-ASSIGN-4 selects the second track group - groups 3 and 4.
Use the PAN control (
5
) to select the individual track groups.
5
PAN control
This rotary control sets the stereo pan position of the channel signal. It is also used to select the
individual track groups for recording.
1 2
3 4
7
Controls and Connections
User’s Guide
ODD/L: Rotated fully counter-clockwise sends the signal to the odd (1 or 3) numbered track of the
selected track group (ASSIGN keys
4
) and to the left channel of the STEREO bus.
EVEN/R: Rotated fully clockwise sends the signal to the even (2 or 4) numbered track of the
selected track group (ASSIGN keys) and to the right channel of the STEREO bus.
6
Input select (TAPE - MIC/LINE) key
This key selects the input source for the channel. Pressed in ( ), it selects the tape track
corresponding to the channel module (for example, the channel 1 key selects track 1). In the out
position ( ), the source is the MIC/LINE INPUT connector (
h
).
7
Channel fader
This linear control is used to set the channel level. For optimal performance and signal balance, the
fader should be positioned between 7 and 8.
Master Module
8
AUX RETURN - ASSIGN keys
These keys assign the signal from the AUX RETURN connectors
(
i
) to the selected group bus.
9
Auxiliary return LEVEL controls
These rotary controls adjust the level of the auxiliary return
signal.
0
MONITOR SELECT keys
These keys are used to select the group buses, the stereo bus,
and the cue bus signals. The signals are routed to the
MONITOR OUT (
f
) connectors on the rear panel and the
stereo PHONES (
d
) connector on the front of the MT4X.
GROUP
: These keys select groups 1 and 3 and groups 2 and 4
respectively. If you select both keys, groups 1 and 3 will be sent
to the left channel and groups 2 and 4 will be sent to the right
channel.
STEREO
: This key selects the stereo bus signal.
CUE
: This key selects the cue bus signals. These are the playback
signals direct from the cassette tracks. When you are recording,
the record signal is monitored.
A
CUE LEVEL controls
These rotary controls adjust the level of the signal from each
track before it is sent to the cue bus.
B
MONITOR/PHONES level control
This rotary control adjusts the volume level of the stereo
PHONES (
d
) connector and the MONITOR OUT (
f
)
connectors.
MASTER
1
2
3
4
GROUP
1
3
2
4
ASSIGN
1
3
2
4
ASSIGN
12
AUX RETURN
LEVEL
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
1
3
2
4
010
010
010
010
010
010
MIN MAX
CUE LEVEL
MONITOR
SELECT
STEREO
CUE
MONITOR/PHONES
C
B
0
9
8
A
Controls and Connections
8
User’s Guide
C
Master fader
This linear control is used to set the level of the master stereo bus. For optimal performance and
signal balance, the fader should be positioned between 7 and 8.
Recorder Controls
D
Cassette tape com-
partment
E
Multi-function display
This
FLD (Fluorescent
Light Display) shows
the
operating modes and signal
levels of the MT4X. See
"Multi-function Display" on
page 10.
F
TAPE SPEED CONTROL
These controls consist of a
rotary PITCH control and a
tape speed (4.8/9.5) select
key.
The PITCH control can
adjust the tape speed by
approximately
±
10%.
The tape speed (4.8/9.5)
select key is used to switch
the tape speed between
9.5 cm/sec and 4.8 cm/sec.
9.5 cm/sec will be selected
automatically when the
power is turned on.
Note:
The tape speed
cannot be changed while the
tape transport is in motion.
Press the STOP key (
W
),
then press the tape speed
select key.
NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM
1234
TRACK
STEREO
TAPE
9.5 4.8
SYNC START IN OUT
AUTO PUNCH
MEMO
REPEAT
1
2
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
REC
1 2 3 4LR
REC SELECT
1 2 3 4
TAPE SPEED CONTROL
4.8 / 9.5
PITCH
O
AUTO
PUNCH I/O
CLEAR
SYNC
CHECK MEMO LOCATE1
MEMO LOCATE2
COUNTER
RESET
RETURN
TO ZERO
REPEAT
E
D
F
G
O PJ K L N QM
I
H
G
REC SELECT keys
These keys are used to arm the tracks for recording. When you press a REC SELECT key, the record
select indicator (
c
) for the corresponding track flashes on the multi-function display (
E
).
H
REPEAT key
This key is used to start and cancel the repeat function. When the repeat function is active, the MT4X
will repeatedly playback a selection between two memory points set with the MEMO keys (
O
). See
"Repeat Function" on page 42.
9
Controls and Connections
User’s Guide
When the automatic punch-in/out function is active, the REPEAT key causes the MT4X to
immediately start the rehearsal mode. See "Using the automatic punch-in/out function" on page 21.
I
RETURN TO ZERO key
This key rewinds the tape to the point where the tape counter (
Y
) reads “0000”. The tape counter
flashes while the tape rewinds.
J
dbx key
This key is used to turn the dbx‘ noise reduction system on and off. By default, the dbx™ system is
turned on when the MT4X is first powered on.
The dbx™ system has no effect on track 4 when the SYNC key (
K
) is on. See "FSK recording" on
page 35.
K
SYNC key
This key defeats the dbx™ noise reduction system on track 4. This allows you to record FSK signals
onto the track. See "FSK recording" on page 35.
L
CLEAR key
This key clears the stored memory points. When automatic punch-in/out is active (the
AUTO PUNCH indicator
^
is illuminated), this key clears the current setting (but does not clear
the memory points).
M
AUTO PUNCH I/O key
This key is used to start and cancel the automatic punch-in/out function. See "Using the automatic
punch-in/out function" on page 21.
N
CHECK key
This key is used to verify the memory points. Press and hold this key and the press one of the
MEMO keys (
O
). The corresponding MEMO indicator (
a
) will flash and the stored value will be
shown on the tape counter (
Y
).
O
MEMO (1, 2) keys
These keys store the current tape counter (
Y
) value as memory points. When you press one of these
keys, the corresponding MEMO indicator (
a
) will light and the point stored.
You can clear the memory points by pressing the CLEAR key (
L
), removing the cassette tape, or
turning off the power.
P LOCATE (1, 2) keys
These keys locate to the stored memory points. When you press one of these keys, the MT4X will
fast forward or rewind to the corresponding memory point.
Q COUNTER RESET key
This key resets the tape counter (Y) to “0000”.
Note: The repeat interval must be more than three counts on the tape counter (Y).
Note: The locate interval must be more than three counts on the tape counter (Y).
Controls and Connections 10
User’s Guide
Transport Controls
R REHE key and indicator
This key is used to perform a recording
rehearsal. While the LED indicator over the key
is illuminated, you can simulate a recording
session. This allows you to check recording
levels or practice punch-in/out without actually
recording.
STOPFFREWPLAYREC/PAUSEREHE
R S T U V W
S REC/PAUSE key and indicator
This key is used to record. Before you can actually record, you must arm the tracks with the
REC SELECT keys (G). Press this key to place the MT4X in record standby mode. Once you press
the PLAY key (T), recording will begin.
Press the key again to pause the recording.
T PLAY key and indicator
U REW key
This key is used to rewind the cassette tape.
V FF key
This key is used to fast forward the cassette tape.
W STOP key
Multi-function Display
This section details the indicators of the FLD (Fluorescent Light Display) multi-function display
(E).
X TAPE indicator
This indicator illuminates when a cassette tape is inserted in the cassette tape compartment. If you
press any of the transport keys before you have inserted a tape, the indicator will flash.
TAPE
9.5 4.8
SYNC START IN OUT
AUTO PUNCH
MEMO
REPEAT
1
2
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
+9
6
3
0
3
6
10
-20
REC
1234 LR
\
]
X
^
a b
c
Z
[
Y
11 Controls and Connections
User’s Guide
Y Tape counter
This indicator displays tape position.
Z Level meters
These indicators display the signal level within a range of -20 dB to +9 dB. The individual tracks and
the stereo bus are displayed.
• When dbx™ is off, the normal signal limit is approximately 0 dB.
• When dbx™ is on, the normal signal limit is approximately +6 dB.
[ Tape speed indicator
These indicators show the current tape speed selection, either 9.5 cm/sec or 4.8 cm/sec. When the
MT4X is first powered on, it defaults to 9.5 cm/sec.
\ dbx indicator
This indicator illuminates when the dbx™ noise reduction system is turned on.
] SYNC indicator
This indicator illuminates when SYNC key (K) has been switched on.
^ AUTO PUNCH indicators
These indicators show the status of the automatic punch-in/out function. See "Using the automatic
punch-in/out function" on page 21.
a MEMO indicators
These indicators illuminate when their respective memory points have been set.
b REPEAT indicator
This indicator illuminates while the repeat function is active.
c REC SELECT - TRACK indicators
These indicators flash when you arm the corresponding track by pressing one of the REC SELECT
keys (G). The armed indicators switch from flashing to illuminated when you press the REC/
PAUSE key (S).
Front Panel Connections
Note: The meters can be switched to peak hold. To switch peak hold on or off, press the
COUNTER RESET key (Q) while holding down the STOP key (W).
d PHONES connector
This 1/4” phone connector is used for a pair of stereo headphones
(8 Ω to 40 Ω).
e PUNCH I/O footswitch connector
This connector is used to plug in an optional footswitch (FC5) for
punch-in/out recording. See "Using the optional footswitch" on
page 28.
d e
PHONES PUNCH I/O
Controls and Connections 12
User’s Guide
Rear Panel Connections
f MONITOR OUT
connections
• Output impedance: 1 kΩ
• Nominal output level:
-10 dB (at 10 kΩ load)
These RCA/Phono connectors
are used to plug in a monitor
amplifier or powered
loudspeakers. The same signal
which is output from the
PHONES connector (d) is also
output from these connectors.
AUX RETURN
2
L/MONO
1
L/MONO
STEREO OUT
LR
MONITOR OUT
LR
TAPE OUT
312SYNC/4
AUX SEND
12
MIC/LINE INPUT
3124
RR
gf h
i
j k
g STEREO OUT connections
• Output impedance: 1 kΩ
• Nominal output level: -10 dB (at 10 kΩ load)
These RCA/Phono connectors are used to output the final stereo mixdown to the master recorder —
typically, a stereo tape deck.
h MIC/LINE INPUT connections
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• Nominal input level: -10 dB to -50 dB
These 1/4” phone connectors are used to input microphones, electronic instruments, and line-level
sources.
i AUX RETURN (1, 2) connections
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• Nominal input level: -10 dB (AUX RETURN - LEVEL control nominal)
These 1/4” phone connectors are used to input the signals from external effects devices and other
signal processors. If the external device is monaural, plug it into one of the L/MONO connectors.
j AUX SEND (1, 2) connections
• Output impedance: 1 kΩ
• Nominal output level: -10 dB (at 10 kΩ load)
These 1/4” phone connectors are used to output signals to external effects devices and other signal
processors.
k TAPE OUT (1 to 4/SYNC) connections
• Output impedance: 1 kΩ
• Nominal output level: -10 dB (at 10 kΩ load)
These RCA/Phono connectors are used to output the individual tracks directly from the recorder
section of the MT4X.
13 Controls and Connections
User’s Guide
Power Connections
l AC IN inlet
Connect the supplied power cord here.
m POWER switch
This switch turns the power on and off.
Note: Always make sure the Master fader (C) is set to “0” and the MONITOR/PHONES level control
is set to “MIN” when turning the MT4X on or off.
CAUTION (FOR CANADIAN MODEL)
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY
INSERT.
ON
POWER
OFF
AC IN
l m
Example System 14
User’s Guide
2 Example System
NS-10M STUDIO
NS-10M STUDIO
Master Recorder
Amplifier
AUX RETURN
2
L/MONO
1
L/MONO
STEREO OUT
LR
MONITOR OUT
LR
MIC/LINE INPUT
3124
TAPE OUT
312SYNC/4
AUX SEND
12
RR
Sequencer
Rhythm
Programmer
MIDI Converter
FSK Signal
MIDI
OUT
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
Delay Processor
Multi-effect Signal Processor
Microphone
Bassguitar
Bass Effect Processor
Compressor
MIDI
OUT
MIDI IN
MIDI IN
FC5 Footswitch
Headphones
Synthesizer
15
Recording Functions
User’s Guide
3 Recording Functions
The basic functions of multitrack recording are as follows:
Monitoring
The MT4X offers you a great deal of flexibility in monitoring the status of your recordings. You can
monitor the individual channel groups, the stereo bus, the cue bus, or any combination.
Of these three monitor sources, you will probably find the cue bus is the most useful. This bus allows you
to monitor the previously recorded tracks as well as new material independently of the mixer section. It is
sometimes very important to be able to listen directly to the tracks, for example, to compare different
mixer settings to the original signal.
You adjust the overall monitoring level with the MONITOR/PHONES control.
Monitoring
Monitoring the recording or playback to listen for mistakes or
unwanted distortion.
Initial recording
Recording the first instrument or part.
Overdub recording
Recording additional instruments or parts while monitoring the
previously recorded tracks.
Punch-in/out recording
Correct mistakes or add short segments to an existing track.
Ping-pong recording
Bounce several existing tracks onto another track.
Mixdown
Mix the results of your multitrack recording onto a stereo master
tape.
You control monitoring with the MONITOR SELECT keys
0
:
GROUP
The GROUP keys allow you to monitor the group bus signals. If you only
press one key, you will hear monaural output. If you press both keys, you will
hear groups 1 and 3 in the left channel and groups 2 and 4 in the right channel.
The signals on the group buses go directly to the recorder.
STEREO
The STEREO key allows you to monitor the stereo bus signal. You can monitor
the signals from the four input channels as well as the AUX RETURN signal.
Some of these signals may not have been assigned to the group bus, allowing
you to listen to signals that will not be recorded.
CUE
The CUE key allows you to monitor the playback signals directly from the
cassette tracks. You can set the volume for each track with the CUE LEVEL
controls. The cue bus is monaural.
When you are recording, the record signal is monitored.
1
2
3
4
GROUP
MIN MAX
MONITOR
SELECT
STEREO
CUE
MONITOR/PHONES
Recording Functions
16
User’s Guide
Initial recording
The first step in multitrack recording is to record the initial tracks. Usually, these are your rhythm tracks:
bassguitar, rhythm guitar, and drums.
Preparations for recording
1) Insert a cassette tape into the cassette tape compartment (
D
).
2) Connect the input source to the corresponding MIC/LINE INPUT connector for each channel.
3) Set the input select key (
6
) to the MIC/LINE position.
4) Rotate the GAIN control (
1
) to adjust the initial level of the input signal.
If you have plugged a microphone into the corresponding connector, rotate the control fully
clockwise to the MIC setting.
If you have plugged a synthesizer into the connector, or are running a bassguitar or guitar through a
signal processor (line level output), rotate the control fully counter-clockwise to the LINE setting.
Note:
Before you record anything, you must connect the MT4X to both an input source and a monitoring
system. See "Example System" on page 14.
Note:
This level setting is temporary — just to get a rough signal level based on the type of input you have
connected. Be aware that you could easily be sending a signal that is overloading the gain amplifier and
causing distortion. To set the final level, see steps 10 and 11.
Track to be recorded
a
b
a
n
d
o
n
p
o
e
p
l
e
Track 1Track 1
Track 2Track 2
Track 3Track 3
Track 4Track 4
17
Recording Functions
User’s Guide
5) Using the ASSIGN keys (
4
) and the PAN control (
5
) select the group bus you want the input
signal to go to.
If the PAN control is set to a position partway between L/ODD and R/EVEN, the input signal will
be sent to both the odd and even group buses.
If you press both ASSIGN keys, the input signal will be sent to at least two group buses.
6) Press the REC SELECT keys (
G
) for the tracks you want to record.
The corresponding REC SELECT - TRACK indicator (
c
) on the display will flash.
Press the REC SELECT key again to cancel the selection.
7) Press the MONITOR SELECT - CUE key (
0
). Adjust the CUE LEVEL controls (
A
) for the selected
tracks. Set the monitor volume with the MONITOR/PHONES level control (
B
).
8) Press the COUNTER RESET key (
Q
) to set the tape counter (
Y
) to “0000”.
Set the recording levels
In order to obtain the best possible sound quality, it is very important to set optimal recording levels. If
you set the levels too low, you will be able to notice tape noise. If you set the levels too high, the tape will
be saturated and distortion will result. Therefore, you should set the recording levels to the highest level
before distortion sets in.
The MT4X is equipped with sensitive peak-hold level meters (
Z
). You can monitor the level of the
individual tracks and the stereo bus. Use the level meters in conjunction with the monitoring modes (see
"Monitoring" on page 15) to set your recording levels.
Press the
ASSIGN key:
and rotate the
PAN control:
The input signal is sent to the first (odd) group.
Press the
ASSIGN key:
and rotate the
PAN control:
The input signal is sent to the second (even)
group.
Press the
ASSIGN key:
and rotate the
PAN control:
The input signal is sent to the third (odd)
group.
Press the
ASSIGN key:
and rotate the
PAN control:
The input signal is sent to the fourth (even)
group.
Group 1
→
Track 1
Group 2
→
Track 2
Group 3
→
Track 3
Group 4
→
Track 4
Tip:
You can ignore step 7 and use any monitor mode or combination that you are comfortable with. See
"Monitoring" on page 15.
1 2
1 2
3 4
3 4
REC SELECT
1 2 3 4
Recording Functions
18
User’s Guide
9) Press the REC/PAUSE key (
S
).
The indicator above the key lights and any flashing REC SELECT - TRACK indicators will be
illuminated.
10) Set the channel fader (
7
) to the nominal level between “7” and “8”.
11) Adjust the GAIN control while watching the level meters.
• When dbx™ is off, adjust the gain control so that the +3 dB segment occasionally illuminates.
• When dbx™ is on, adjust the gain control so that the +9 dB segment occasionally illuminates.
Record the track
12) Press the PLAY key (
T
).
The indicator above the key lights and the MT4X starts the tape. Start playing.
13) When the track is complete, press the RETURN TO ZERO key (
I
) to stop and rewind the tape.
The indicators above the REC/PAUSE and PLAY keys switch off and the REC SELECT - TRACK
indicators resume flashing.
Check the completed recording
Once the tape has rewound back to “0000” on the tape counter, you should check the recording.
14) Press the PLAY key to playback the tape.
15) If the recording needs to be redone, repeat the previous steps.
• If the problem with the recording was a musical error, press the REC/PAUSE key and repeat
steps 12 to 14.
• If the problem was due to incorrect recording levels or other engineering problems, adjust the
parameters by repeating steps 4 to 14.
16) When you are finished with an instrument, you should set the channel fader to “0”. You may even
want to disconnect the input source.
Note:
The meters display a range of -20 dB to +9 dB. If the meters exceed the normal limit momentarily, this is
usually perfectly acceptable. Cassette tape is reasonably forgiving of transients – and human hearing has difficulty
detecting the minor distortion that results. Where you start getting audible problems is when the meters are
constantly above the normal limit. You must lower the levels in order to maintain decent sound quality.
Note:
The MT4X can recall and display the maximum recording levels obtained during a session. See
"Recording Levels Function" on page 42.
Tip:
If your song starts with drums, bassguitar, and guitars all on the first bar, you will need to record a
count-in.
Tip:
You may want to use the STOP key (
W
) to stop the tape and mark a memory point. See "Memory
Functions" on page 41.
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