Panasonic Cd Stereo System Sc-ak600 Operating Instructions

							RQT6243-1PP
CD Stereo System
Operating Instructions
Model No.  SC-AK600
Before connecting, operating or adjusting this product, please read these
instructions completely.
Please keep this manual for future reference.
PC
For U.S.A. only
The servicenter list and warranty can be found on pages
29 and 30. 
						

							Before using
2
RQT6243
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.
SystemSC-AK600
Main unitSA-AK600
FrontSB-AK600
Speakers CenterSB-PC93
SurroundSB-PS90
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
Main unit SA-AK600
Front speakers SB-AK600
Center speaker SB-PC93
Surround speakers SB-PS90
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
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.
User memo:
DATE OF PURCHASE
DEALER NAME
DEALER ADDRESS
TELEPHONE NUMBER
Before using
Supplied accessories.............................................. 3
Listening caution..................................................... 3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS................... 4
Installation ................................................................ 5
Connections............................................................. 6
Location of controls................................................ 7
The remote control.................................................. 8
Disc operations
Playing discs............................................................ 9
Starting play from a specific track................................ 10
Repeat play.................................................................. 10
Program play............................................................... 11
Other modes of play (CD Play Mode function)............. 12
Radio operations
The radio: manual tuning...................................... 13
The radio: preset tuning........................................ 14
Tape operations
Cassette tapes....................................................... 15
Recording operations
Before recording.................................................... 16
Recording discs..................................................... 17
Recording the radio............................................... 17
Sound quality/sound field operations
Using the built-in sound quality settings............. 18
Enhancing the sound quality................................ 18
Adjusting the bass................................................ 18
Enjoying surround sound..................................... 19
DOLBY DIGITAL.......................................................... 20
DOLBY PRO LOGIC.................................................... 20 
						

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3
RQT6243
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 ... 1 pc.
(RSA0006-J)
Supplied accessories
AM loop antenna.... 1 pc.
(RSA0033-1)
Remote control
transmitter.............. 1 pc.
(N2QAGB000018)
Remote control
batteries................ 2 pcs.
R6, AA, UM-3
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.
Timer and other operations
Convenient functions............................................ 22
Using headphones (not included)........................ 22
Turning DEMO off.................................................. 23
Auto-off function.................................................... 23
Setting the time...................................................... 23
Using the timers.................................................... 24
Using the play/record timer.......................................... 24
Using the sleep timer................................................... 25
Using other equipment.......................................... 26
Connecting other equipment........................................ 26
Optional antenna connections...................................... 26
Listening to an external digital source.......................... 27
Listening to an external analog source........................ 27
Recording an external source...................................... 27
Reference
Troubleshooting guide.......................................... 28
Servicenter List (ONLY FOR U.S.A.).................... 29
Warranty (ONLY FOR U.S.A.)................................ 30
Product Service..................................................... 30
About discs............................................................ 31
Maintenance........................................................... 31
Specifications.........................................Back Cover
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.
Listening caution 
						

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RQT6243
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 page 31 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.
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.
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENTGROUND
CLAMPANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)
NEC — NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 
						

							Before using
5
RQT6243
B
A
120° 30°
30°
C
30–35 mm     (13/16–13/8) 70 mm
(2
3/4)
7–9 mm(19/64–3/8)
(
9/32–23/64)
Ø7.5–9.5 mm
Front speaker (left) Front speaker (right)
Subwoofers
Center speaker
(SB-PC93)
Front speaker (left)
(SB-AK600)Front speaker (right)
(SB-AK600)
Surround speaker
(left) (SB-PS90)Surround speaker
(right) (SB-PS90)
The front, center, and surround speakers should be placed
at approximately the same distance from the listening po-
sition. The angles in the diagram are approximate.
Installation
Placement of front speakers
Place so that the subwoofers face out.
Note
•Keep your speakers at least 10mm (13/32) away from the system
for proper ventilation.
•The subwoofers are located on the sides of the speakers.
Leave 10-cm clearance for them to be effective.
Placement of center/surround
speakers
Center speaker (SB-PC93)
The small speaker with the short cord is the center speaker.
The model numbers are printed on the back of the speakers.
Note
Do not place the center speaker on the main unit as sound quality will
be affected.
Surround speakers (SB-PS90)
The small speakers with the long cords are surround speakers.
Place on either side of listening position, or slightly to the rear, about
1 meter higher than ear level with the Panasonic logo facing towards
the listening position.
The effect varies with the type of music and music source.
CAttaching to a wallSurround speakers can be attached to a wall.
Set the speaker onto screws and slide through bracket to lock into
position.
Note
The wall or pillar on which the speakers are to be attached should be
capable of supporting 5 kg (11 Ib.) per screw.
Notes on speaker useLYou can damage your speakers and shorten their useful life if
you play sound at high levels over extended periods.
LReduce the volume in the following cases to avoid damage.
•When playing distorted sound.
•When the speakers are receiving howling from a microphone
or record player, noise from FM broadcasts, or continuous
signals from an oscillator, test disc, or electronic instrument.
•When adjusting the sound quality.
•When turning the unit on or off.
Positioning for best effectHow you set up your speakers can affect the bass and the sound
field. Note the following points.
•Place speakers on flat secure bases.
•Placing speakers too close to floors, walls, and corners can result
in excessive bass. Cover walls and windows with a thick curtain.
•Place the front speakers at least 5 cm from walls as they have
bass reflex ports in the rear.
If irregular coloring occurs on your television
These speakers are designed to be used close to a television, but
the picture may be affected with some televisions and set-up
combinations.
If this occurs, turn the television off for about 30 minutes.
The television’s demagnetizing function should correct the problem.
If it persists, move the speakers further away from the television.
A
B 
						

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6
RQT6243
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 26.)
2Connect the AM loop antenna.
Stand the antenna up on its base. Keep loose antenna cord
away from other wires and cords.
3Connect the speaker cables.
A Center and surround speaker cables
B Front (L/R) speaker cables
Connect the cords to the terminals of same color.•Never short-circuit positive (+) and negative (–) speaker wires.•Be sure to connect only positive (red or gray) wires to positive
(+) terminals and negative (black, blue or gray with blue line)
wires to negative (–) terminals.
Incorrect connection can damage the speakers.
 Caution
Use only the supplied speakers.
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 dam-
age has occurred or if you experience a sud-
den change in performance.
•Do not attempt to attach these speakers to
walls using methods other than those
described in this manual.
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.
For your referenceInformation you enter into the unit’s memory, except for time,
remains intact for up to a week after the AC power supply cord is
disconnected.
Connections
1
3
1 2
3
4
2
SURROUND CENTER
13
Gray
Blue
Gray with
blue lineGray
RL
FRONT
13Red
BlueBlack
Gray
Blue
Red
Black
Gray
2
(L)
B
A
B
2
(R)
3A
R
AM loop antenna
Surround speaker
(right)
(SB-PS90)
Adhesive tape
FM indoor antenna
Center speaker
(SB-PC93)Surround speaker
(left)
(SB-PS90)
Connect the left (L)
side in the same
way. 
						

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7
RQT6243
Location of controls
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.
3Record button (aREC)............................................. 17
4Headphone jack (PHONES)...................................... 22
5Disc direct play buttons (CD 1 ~ CD 5)..................... 9
6Disc tray open/close button (c OPEN/CLOSE)........ 9
7Disc tray
8Digital input, PCM FIX mode select button and
indicator  (DIGITAL INPUT 1/2)..........................20, 27
9Dolby Pro Logic button and indicator (p PL) ....... 20
!Super sound EQ button (SUPER SOUND EQ)........ 18
Preset EQ select button (PRESET EQ)................... 18
#Subwoofer button and indicator
(SUBWOOFER)........................................................... 18
$Display
%Volume control (VOL)................................................. 9
&Cassette holder open button (c OPEN)................. 15
(Cassette holder.......................................................... 15
)Tuner/band select button (TUNER, BAND)............. 13
~AUX 1/2 button (AUX 1/2).......................................... 27
+CD skip/search, tape fast-forward/rewind, tune/preset
channel select, time adjust buttons
(g, 3/REW, f,4/FF)...................... 9, 13-15, 23
,Tape play button ( : TAPE)..................................... 15
-CD play/pause button (:/ J CD ) ............................... 9
.Stop/program clear and demonstration button
(L STOP, –DEMO)..................................... 9, 11, 15, 23
20
22
19
2118BAND
CD
STOPSTOP/ REW/ REW
TUNER AUX 1/2TA P E
/ FF/ FF
DEMODEMO
17 
						

							Before using
8
RQT6243
TESTESTCH SELECTCH SELECTCH H LEVEVEL
SUBWOOFER
789
0
DISDISPLAYAYDIDIMMEMERPLAY  AY MODE
PROGRAM
45610
MU TING
PRESET EQ
CLCLOCKCK TIMER TIMERPLAY
RECRECSLEEPSLEEPAUTO OFFTO OFF
DISC123
TUNERCD
S.SOUND EQ
VOLUMEVOLUME
TAPE
DEDELAYAYPL
AUXDIGITAL-IN
REWFF
2
25
24
9 ,
26
1920
14
30
32
31
21
34
36
23
27
17
29
12 10 ,
11
35
33
30 30 ˚˚
28
A
B
C
Buttons
Buttons such as 2 function in exactly the same way as the buttons
on the main unit.
No. Name Ref. page
/Sleep timer/auto off button
(SLEEP, –AUTO OFF)..........................................23, 25
:Numbered buttons (≥10, 1–9, 0) .........................10, 14
;Display button (DISPLAY)......................................... 10

						

							9
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Disc operations
1
2
3
4
A
B
1
4
3
DEMOSTOP,
STOP
DEMO
OPEN  CLOSE
CD 1CD 2CD 3CD 4CD 5
UPDOWN
VOL
Elapsed playing time
(Of current track number)
Number of tracks
Total playing time Label must face upward.
Disc indicator
Playing discs
This unit can play CD-DA (digital audio) format audio CD-R and
CD-RW that have been finalized (a process that enables CD-R/
CD-RW players to play audio CD-R and CD-RW) upon completion of
recording.
It may not be able to play some CD-R or CD-RW due to the condition
of the recording.
1Press [c OPEN/CLOSE] button.
The unit will come on automatically and the tray opens.
2Set disc in the tray.
To continue loading CDs in the other trays
Press another [(CD 1) ~ (CD 5)] to select the required tray and
press [c OPEN/CLOSE] to open the tray.
The current tray closes and the selected tray automatically
opens.
Press [c OPEN/CLOSE] to close the tray.
3Press [(CD 1) ~ (CD 5)] to play your
desired disc.
(If the desired CD is indicated on the display panel, the same
operation can be accomplished by pressing [:/ J CD].)
The selected disc is played.
Use the CD Play Mode function’s ALL-DISC mode to play CD
in succession. (A page 12)
4Adjust the volume.
ATo stop the disc play
Press [L STOP, –DEMO].
BWhen “     ” appears on the display
It indicates there are 16 or more tracks on the disc in the playing
position.
Disc indicator
The disc indicator on the display lights whenever the tray is in the
playing position whether it is loaded or not.
One touch play
If the unit is in standby mode and a disc is loaded, press [:/ J CD] or
[(CD 1) ~ (CD 5)].
The unit will come on automatically and play will start.
To pausePress [:/ J CD] during playback.
To resume playback, press [:/ J CD].
To search forward/Hold down [g, 3/REW] (backward)
backwardor [f, 4/FF] (forward) during
playback or pause mode.
To skip forward/Press  [g,3/REW] (backward) or
backward[f,4/FF] (forward) during
playback or pause mode.
Note
•During 1-Disc Random play or All-Disc Random play (A page 12),
you cannot skip to tracks which have already been played.
•During program play (A page 11), 1-Disc Random play or All-Disc
Random play, you can search forward or backward only within the
current track.
•During program play, skipping is always in the programmed order,
whether forward or backward.
•Always stop the changer before loading or changing discs. You
cannot change discs while a disc is playing.
•Do not disconnect the AC power supply cord from the household
AC outlet during disc changing operation.
Track number 
						

							10
RQT6243
Disc operations
1
2
A
B
TESTESTCH SELECTCH SELECTCH H LEVEVEL
SUBWOOFERSUBWOOFER
789
0
DISDISPLAYAYDIDIMMEMERPLAY  AY MODE
PROGRAM
45610
MUMUTING PRESET T EQ
CLCLOCKCK TIMER TIMERPLAY
RECRECSLEEPSLEEPAUTO OFFTO OFF
DISC123
TUNERUNERCD
S.SOUND EQS.SOUND EQ
VOLUMEVOLUME
TAPEPEDEDELAYAYPL
AUXAUXDIGITAL-INDIGITAL-IN
REWFF
2
1
DISPLAYPLAY MODE
45 12
3
DISC
789
0 456
10 12
3
TESTDISPL AY
CPL AY MODE
Repeat play
Remote control only
CPress and hold [PLAY MODE] before or
during play.
“REPEAT ON” and “” are displayed.
To cancel repeat play
Press and hold [PLAY MODE] once again. “REPEAT OFF” is
displayed and “
” is cleared.
To repeat your favorite tracks
1. Program the tracks you want (A page 11).
2. Press and hold [PLAY MODE] and make sure “REPEAT ON” and
“
” are displayed.
3. Press [CD :/ J]. Playback will start.
To use repeat play with CD Play Mode function
Set the desired mode (A page 12), press and hold [PLAY MODE]
before or during playback, and make sure “REPEAT ON” and “
”
are displayed.
Playing discs
CD display
Remote control only
This function allows you to display the remaining play time of the
current track.
During play or pause mode
Press [DISPLAY].
Every time you press the button:
Elapsed play time ↔ Remaining play time
 Note
When track number 25 or greater is playing, remaining play time
display shows “– –:– –”.
Starting play from a specific track
Remote control only
1Press [DISC] and (within 10 seconds) [1]–[5]
to select the disc.
2Select the track with the numbered
buttons.
To select a track 10 or over, press [≥10] then the two digits.
Play starts from the selected track.
 Note
You cannot use this function with 1-RANDOM or A-RANDOM mode.
A
B
Remaining play time