Panasonic Cd Stereo System Sc-ak500, Sc-ak490, Sc-ak300, Sc-ak200 Operating Instructions

							RQT6085-4PP
CD Stereo System
Operating Instructions
Model No.  SC-AK500
SC-AK490
SC-AK300
SC-AK200
Before connecting, operating or adjusting this product, please read these
instructions completely.
Please keep this manual for future reference.
PC
The illustrations show SC-AK500. 
						

							Before using
2
RQT6085
Dear customer
Thank you for purchasing this product.
For optimum performance and safety, please read these instructions
carefully.
These operating instructions are applicable to the following system.
These operating instructions, however, fundamentally explain the op-
eration of system SC-AK500.
SystemSC-AK500 SC-AK490 SC-AK300 SC-AK200
Main unitSA-AK500 SA-AK490 SA-AK300 SA-AK200
SpeakersSB-AK500 SB-AK500 SB-AK300 SB-AK200
Before using
Supplied accessories.............................................. 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS................... 4
Listening caution..................................................... 5
Placement of speakers............................................ 5
About the remote control........................................ 5
Battery installation.......................................................... 5
Correct method of use................................................... 5
Connections............................................................. 6
Basic connections (for supplied accessories)................. 6
Optional antenna connections........................................ 7
External unit connection................................................. 7
Front panel controls................................................ 8
Turning the demo function off.............................. 10
Convenient functions............................................ 10
Auto-off function.................................................... 11
Setting the time...................................................... 11
Radio operations
Listening to radio broadcasts............................... 12
Presetting radio broadcasts................................. 13
Compact disc operations
About compact discs............................................ 14
Listening to compact discs.................................. 15
Playing MP3 (SC-AK500 and SC-AK490 only)............ 15
Program play............................................................... 17
To listen to specific CDs and tracks
(CD Play Mode function)........................................... 18
Direct access play........................................................ 19
Repeat play.................................................................. 19
CD display................................................................... 19
Cassette deck operations
Listening to tapes.................................................. 20
The model number and serial number of this product can be
found on either the back or the bottom of the unit.
Please note them in the space provided below and keep for
future reference.
MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL NUMBER
User memo:
DATE OF PURCHASE
DEALER NAME
DEALER ADDRESS
TELEPHONE NUMBER
CAUTION!
THIS PRODUCT UTILIZES A LASER.
USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE
OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN
MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.
DO NOT OPEN COVERS AND DO NOT REPAIR YOURSELF.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
Table of contents
Please check and identify the supplied
accessories.
Use numbers indicated in parentheses when
asking for replacement parts.
(Only for U.S.A.)
To order accessories contact 1-800-332-5368
or web site (http://www.panasonic.com).
AC power supply cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1 pc.
(RJA0065-1D)
FM indoor antenna (RSA0006-J) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1 pc.
Supplied accessories
WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK
OR PRODUCT DAMAGE, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
APPARATUS TO RAIN, MOISTURE, DRIPPING OR
SPLASHING AND THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH
LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHALL BE PLACED
ON THE APPARATUS.
CAUTION!
DO NOT INSTALL, OR PLACE THIS UNIT, IN A BOOKCASE,
BUILT-IN CABINET OR IN ANOTHER CONFINED SPACE.
ENSURE THE UNIT IS WELL VENTILATED.  TO PREVENT
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK OR FIRE HAZARD DUE TO
OVERHEATING, ENSURE THAT CURTAINS AND ANY OTHER
MATERIALS DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE VENTILATION VENTS.
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK MATCH WIDE
BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT. 
						

							Before using
3
RQT6085
AM loop antenna
(N1DADYY00002).......... 1 pc.
Remote control transmitter.............................................. 1 pc.Batteries........... 2 pcs.
R6, AA, UM-3The 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.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE SCREWS.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
•SC-AK500 and SC-AK490:
(N2QAGB000015)
Recording operations
Before recording (Deck 2 only)............................ 21
Recording from compact discs............................ 22
Tape-to-tape recording.......................................... 22
Recording from radio broadcasts........................ 23
Sound quality operations
Using the built-in sound quality settings............. 24
Enhancing the sound quality................................ 24
Timer operations
Using the timer...................................................... 25
Using the play/record timer.......................................... 25
Using the sleep timer................................................... 27
Reference
Using an external unit........................................... 27
Troubleshooting guide.......................................... 28
Servicenter List (ONLY FOR U.S.A.).................... 29
Warranty (ONLY FOR U.S.A.)................................ 30
Specifications........................................................ 31
Maintenance............................................Back Cover
Product Service......................................Back Cover
THE FOLLOWING APPLIES ONLY IN THE U.S.A.:
CAUTION:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that inter-
ference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equip-
ment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equip-
ment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
¡Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
¡Increase the separation between the equipment and re-
ceiver.
¡Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.
¡Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equip-
ment would void the user’s authority to operate this device.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Opera-
tion is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
•SC-AK300:
(Silver: N2QAGB000013)
(Black: N2QAGB000017)
•SC-AK200:
(N2QAGB000013) 
						

							Before using
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RQT6085
Safety
1. Power source—Connect the unit to a power source of the type
described in these instructions or as marked on the unit.
2. Polarization—The unit is equipped with a polarized power plug
where one blade is wider than the other. This safety feature
ensures that the plug fits into your household AC outlet only one
way. If the plug doesn’t fit one way, try reversing it. If the plug
still doesn’t fit, contact an electrician to replace the obsolete
outlet. Do not attempt to defeat the safety purpose of the plug.
3. Power cord protection—Route the AC power supply cord so
that it will not be walked on or pinched by items placed on or
against it. Never take hold of the plug or cord with wet hands.
Always grasp the plug body firmly when connecting and
disconnecting it.
4. Overloading—When connecting the AC power supply cord, be
careful not to overload the household AC outlet, extension cord,
or outlet from any other device as this can result in fire or electric
shock.
5. Nonuse periods—Turn the unit off when it is not in use. Unplug
the unit from the household AC outlet if it is not to be used for a
long time. Unplug the unit during lightning storms.
6. Attachments and accessories—Use only the attachments and
accessories recommended in these operating instructions.
Installation
Placement
1. Ventilation—Situate the unit so that it receives proper ventilation.
Do not install in a confined space such as a bookcase or cabinet.
Allow at least 10 cm (4
 inches) clearance from the rear of the
unit. To prevent the risk of electric shock or fire due to overheating
ensure curtains and other materials do not obstruct the unit’s
ventilation.
2. Foreign material—Ensure objects and liquids do not get into
the unit. Avoid exposing the unit to excessive smoke, dust,
mechanical vibration, and shock.
3. Magnetism—Situate the unit away from equipment and devices
that generate strong magnetic fields.
4. Stacking—Do not place heavy objects on top of this unit.
5. Surface—Place the unit on a flat, level surface.
6. Carts and stands—Use the unit only with carts
and stands recommended by the manufacturer.
Move carts with care. Sudden stops, excessive
force, and uneven surfaces can cause carts to
overturn.
7. Wall and ceiling mounting—Do not mount the unit on walls or
ceilings unless specified in the instructions.
Environment
1. Water and moisture—Do not use the unit near water, such as
near a bathtub or swimming pool. Avoid damp basements.
2. Heat—Situate the unit away from heat sources, such as radiators.
Do not situate where temperatures fall below 5°C (41°F) or rise
above 35°C (95°F).
3. Power lines—Take care when setting up an outdoor antenna
that it is not near overhead power lines, electric lights, or electri-
cal circuits, and that there is no danger of the antenna falling on
power lines, electric lights, or electrical circuits. When installing
an outdoor antenna, take extreme care not to touch such power
lines or circuits, as contact with them can be fatal.
Maintenance
(See back cover for details.)
Unplug the unit from the household AC outlet before cleaning.
Clean with a damp cloth.
Do not use abrasive pads, scouring powders, or solvents.
Service
1. Damage requiring service—The unit should be serviced by
qualified service personnel if:
(a) The AC power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
(b) Objects or liquids have gotten into the unit; or
(c) The unit has been exposed to rain; or
(d) The unit does not operate normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance; or
(e) The unit has been dropped or the cabinet damaged.
2. Servicing—Do not attempt to service the unit beyond that
described in these operating instructions. Refer all other servicing
to authorized servicing personnel.
3. Replacement parts—When parts need replacing ensure the
servicer uses parts specified by the manufacturer or parts that
have the same characteristics as the original parts. Unauthorized
substitutes may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
4. Safety check—After repairs or service, ask the servicer to
perform safety checks to confirm that the unit is in proper working
condition.
NEC–NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read these operating instructions carefully before using the unit. Follow the safety instructions on the unit and the safety precautions listed below.
Keep these operating instructions handy for future reference.
4. Outdoor antenna grounding—If you connect an outdoor an-
tenna, ground the antenna system to protect against voltage
surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National
Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70-1990, provides information
about grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding
of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of ground-
ing conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to
grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding elec-
trode. Refer to this diagram.
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) ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENTGROUND
CLAMP 
						

							Before using
5
RQT6085
Battery installation
About the remote control
Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit you’ve just pur-
chased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now it’s time to
consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equip-
ment offers. This manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Associ-
ation’s Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of
your equipment by playing it at a safe level. One that lets the sound
come through loud and clear without annoying blaring or
distortion—and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive
hearing.
We recommend you to avoid prolonged exposure to excessive noise.
Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort level”
adapts to higher volumes of sound. So what sounds “normal” can
actually be loud and harmful to your hearing.
Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE
your hearing adapts.
To establish a safe level:
•Start your volume control at a low setting.
•Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it comfortably and
clearly, and without distortion.
Once you have established a comfortable sound level:
•Set the dial and leave it there.
Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage
or loss in the future. After all, we want you listening for a lifetime.
Operation notes
•Do not place obstacles between the remote control signal sensor
and remote control unit.
•Do not expose the remote control signal sensor to direct sunlight or
to the bright light of a fluorescent light.
•Take care to keep the remote control signal sensor and end of the
remote control unit free from dust.
•If this system is installed in a rack with glass doors, the glass doors’
thickness or color might make it necessary to use the remote control
a shorter distance from the system.
To prevent damage
•Never place heavy items on top of the unit.
•Do not disassemble or reconstruct the unit.
•Do not spill water or other liquids into the unit.Remote control
signal sensor
Transmission
windowAbout 7 meters in front of
the signal sensor
Use of batteries
•Align the poles (+ and –) properly when inserting the batteries.
•Do not mix old and new batteries or different types of batteries.
•Do not recharge ordinary dry cell batteries.
•Do not heat or disassemble the batteries. Do not allow them to
contact flame or water.
•Remove the batteries if the unit is not to be used for a long time.
•Do not keep together with metallic objects such as necklaces.
•Do not use rechargeable type batteries.
•Do not use batteries if the covering has been peeled off.
Mishandling of batteries can cause electrolyte leakage which can
damage items the fluid contacts and may cause a fire.
If electrolyte leaks from the batteries, consult your dealer.
Wash thoroughly with water if electrolyte comes in contact with any
part of your body.
Correct method of use
Placement of speakers
Place the speakers so that the super tweeter is on the outside.
Super tweeter
Speakers are designed identically so that no left or right channel
orientation is necessary.S
 Notes
•Keep your speakers at least 10 mm (13/32˝) away from the system for
proper ventilation.
•These speakers do not have magnetic shielding. Do not place them
near televisions, personal computers or other devices easily
influenced by magnetism.
•To avoid damage to the speakers, do not touch the speaker cones
if you have taken the nets off.R6, AA, UM-3
30 30 ˚˚
R6/LR6, AA, UM-3
SC-AK500SC-AK300
SC-AK200
SC-AK500SC-AK300SC-AK200
Listening caution
SC-AK490
SC-AK490 
						

							Before using
6
RQT6085
Basic connections (for supplied
accessories)
•
Plug the AC power supply cord into a household AC outlet only
after all other connections have been made.
•To prepare the antenna wires and speaker cords, twist the vinyl
cover tip and pull off.
1Connect the FM indoor antenna.
Tape the antenna to a wall or column, in a position where radio
signals are received with the least amount of interference.
 Note
For best reception sound quality:
An FM outdoor antenna is recommended. (See page 7.)
2Connect the AM loop antenna.
After attaching the antenna, turn on the system and tune in a
broadcast station. Put the antenna where the reception is best
and interference is minimal.
3Connect the speaker cables.
Connect each end of the speaker cables to the terminal lever of
the same color so (+) and (–) are correct. Never allow the
exposed wires to contact each other when connected.
Incorrect connection can damage the unit.
 Caution
•Use only the supplied speakers.
The combination of the main unit and speakers provide the
best sound. Using other speakers can damage the unit and
sound quality will be negatively affected.
Caution
•Use the speakers only with the recom-
mended system.
Failure to do so may lead to damage to the
amplifier and/or the speakers, and may result
in the risk of fire.
Consult a qualified service person if damage
has occurred or if you experience a sudden
change in performance.
•Do not attach these speakers to walls or
ceilings.
4Connect the AC power supply cord.
Note
The included AC power supply cord is for use with this unit
only. Do not use it with other equipment.
Connections
GND
FM ANT
    (       )
LOOP
EXT AM A
NT
2
1
3
1
2
3
4
1
2
12
AM loop antenna
Red (+)
Blue (–)Black (–)Adhesive tape
FM indoor antenna
Gray
Blue
BlackGray (+)
Red 
						

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7
RQT6085
30 mm
(1 3/16˝)
15 mm
(19/32˝)
1
2
3
GND
A
LOOP
EXT AM 
ANT
5 -12 m(16 – 40 ft.)
B
C
RL
(L)(R)
1
2
FM ANT
    (       )
Connections
Shield braid
Core wire
Rear panel of this unit FM outdoor antenna
(not included)
AM loop
antenna
(included) 75 Ω coaxial cable (not included)
Analog player (not included) AM outdoor antenna (not included)
Optional antenna connections
You may need an outdoor antenna if you use this system in a
mountainous region or inside a reinforced concrete building, etc.
FM outdoor antenna
Disconnect the FM indoor antenna if an FM outdoor antenna is in-
stalled.
1Remove a piece of the outer vinyl insulator.
2Twist the shield braid.
3Expose the core wire.
Note
An outdoor antenna should be installed by a qualified technician only.
AM outdoor antenna
Connect the outdoor antenna without removing the AM loop antenna.
Run 5 to 12 m of vinyl-covered wire horizontally along a window or
other convenient location.
Note
When the unit is not in use, disconnect the outdoor antenna to prevent
possible damage that may be caused by lightning. Never use an
outdoor antenna during an electrical storm.
External unit connection
•
An analog player with a built-in phono equalizer can be connected.
•For details, refer to the instruction manual of the units which are to
be connected.
•When units other than those described above are to be connected,
please consult with your audio dealer.
A
B
C 
						

							Before using
8
RQT6085
Front panel controls
Main unit
No. Name Ref. page
1AC supply indicator (AC IN)
This indicator lights when the unit is connected to the AC power
supply.
2Standby/on switch (f/I, POWER)
Press to switch the unit from on to standby mode or vice versa.
In standby mode, the unit is still consuming a small amount of
power.
3Display button (DISPLAY)..................................15, 19
4Display
5Preset EQ select button (PRESET EQ)................... 24
6Record button (aREC).............................................. 22
7Deck select button (DECK 1/2)................................ 20
8Deck 1 open button (c DECK 1 OPEN).................. 20
9Deck 1 cassette holder.............................................. 20
!Disc tray
Remote control signal sensor (SENSOR)................. 5
#Disc direct play buttons (1 ~ 5)............................... 16
$CD tray open/close button (c) ................................ 16
%Volume control (VOL DOWN, UP)............................ 12
&Headphone jack (PHONES)...................................... 27
(Deck 2 open button (c DECK 2 OPEN).................. 20
)Deck 2 cassette holder.............................................. 20
Center console
~Super sound EQ button (SUPER SOUND EQ)........ 24
+AUX button (AUX)...................................................... 27
,Tuner/band select button (TUNER/BAND).............. 12
-CD play/pause button (CD :/ J) .............................. 16
.Tape play button (TAPE :) ...................................... 20
/CD skip/search, tape fast-forward/rewind, tune/preset
channel select, time adjust buttons
(g/REW/4, 3/FF/f) ...................11, 12, 13, 16, 20
:Stop/program clear and demonstration button
(L/–DEMO)................................................10, 16, 17, 20
A
A
B
REWFFDEMO
CDAU
XTAPETUNER/BAND
2022
1921
18
24
23
SUPER SOUND EQ
B
11 
						

							Before using
9
RQT6085
SLEEPSLEEP
7890
DISPDISPLAYAYDIMMERDIMMERPLAY  AY MODEODEPRPROGRARAM
4561010
VOLUMEVOLUME
MUMUTING PRESET T EQ S.S.SOUND D EQ
CLCLOCKCK TIMER TIMERPLAY
RECRECAUTO OFFTO OFF
FFREWFFREW
DISCDISC123
TUNERTUNERAUXAUXTAPETAPECDCD
225
26
327
19
20
23
18
14
2928
30
3231
21
22
33
345
Remote control
Buttons such as 2 function in exactly the same way as the buttons
on the main unit.
No. Name Ref. page
2Standby/on button (f) ............................................... 11
;Sleep timer/auto off button
(SLEEP, –AUTO OFF)..........................................11, 27
Play timer/record timer button (rPLAY/REC)......... 25
?Clock/timer button (CLOCK/TIMER)............11, 25, 26
@Disc button (DISC)..................................................... 17
[Program button (PROGRAM).............................13, 17
\Play mode select button
(PLAY MODE).....................................12, 18, 19, 20, 23
-CD play/pause button (CD :/ J) .............................. 16
.Tape play button (TAPE :) ...................................... 20
]Stop/program clear button (L) .....................16, 17, 20
^Muting button (MUTING)........................................... 10
5Preset EQ select button (PRESET EQ)................... 24
Front panel controls 
						

							Before using
10
RQT6085
B
A
C
DEMO
Turning the demo function off
If the clock has not been set, a demonstration of the display is shown
when the unit is switched to standby mode.
This function is set to on at the time of purchase.
During standby mode
Press and hold [L/–DEMO] until “NO
DEMO” is displayed.
The display changes each time the button is held down.
NO DEMO (off)↔DEMO ON (on)
To show a demonstration of the display
Press and hold [L/–DEMO] until “DEMO ON” is displayed.
Note
•You cannot turn demo function off when the unit is on.
•(SC-AK500) (SC-AK300)
DEMO function cannot be turned on in Full-Dim mode.
•(SC-AK490) (SC-AK200)
DEMO function cannot be turned on when Dimmer is on.
Convenient functions
A
To mute the volume
Remote control only
This feature is convenient when you have a telephone call, etc.
Press [MUTING].
Press the button again to cancel.
“MUTING” goes out.
Muting can also be cancelled by lowering the volume all the
way (--dB).
When the system is turned off, the muting operation will be automatically
cancelled.
Remote control only
Use this for better television viewing.
Press [DIMMER].
Every time you press the button:
Semi-Dim: The backlights of the display are turned off.
Full-Dim:   The display is dimmed and the backlights of the display
and the indicator, except for the AC supply indicator, are
turned off.
Press [DIMMER].
The display is dimmed and the indicator is turned off.
(The AC supply indicator remains on.)
Press [DIMMER] again to restore the display.
To dim the display panelB
SC-AK500SC-AK300
SC-AK200
Semi-DimFull-Dim
Restores the 
ori
ginal display
C
SC-AK490