2-672-838-12(2) DVD Recorder Operating Instructions To find out useful hints, tips and information about Sony products and services please visit: www.sony-europe.
WARNING To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. The mains lead must be changed only at a qualified service shop. This appliance is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER product. The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT MARKING is located on the laser protective housing inside the enclosure. CAUTION The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard.
Precautions • Do not attempt to replace or upgrade the hard disk by yourself, as this may result in malfunction. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits set out in the EMC Directive using a connection cable shorter than 3 metres. If the hard disk drive should malfunction, you cannot recover lost data. The hard disk drive is only a temporary storage space.
Copyrights Copy guard function • Television programmes, films, video tapes, discs, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such material may be contrary to the provisions of the copyright laws. Also, use of this recorder with cable television transmission may require authorization from the cable television transmitter and/or programme owner. • This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights.
Table of Contents WARNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Quick Guide to Disc Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Recordable and playable discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Playable discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GUIDE Plus+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Introduction to the GUIDE Plus+ System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Learning the common elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Troubleshooting guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Watching TV using the GUIDE Plus+ System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Erasing and Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Before Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Erasing and Editing a Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Erasing multiple titles (Erase Titles) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Erasing a section of a title (A-B Erase) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quick Guide to Disc Types Recordable and playable discs Icon used in this manual Formatting (new discs) Compatibility with other DVD players (finalising) HDD Formatting unnecessary Dub HDD contents to a DVD to play on other DVD players +RW Automatically formatted in +VR mode (DVD+RW VIDEO) Playable on DVD+RW compatible players (automatically finalised) VR mode -RWVR Playable only on VR mode Format in VR compatible players mode (page 32) (finalisation unnecessary) Video mode -RWVideo Format in
Usable disc versions (as of March 2006) • 8x-speed or slower DVD+RWs • 6x-speed or slower DVD-RWs (Ver.1.1, Ver.1.2 with CPRM*2) • 16x-speed or slower DVD+Rs • 16x-speed or slower DVD-Rs (Ver.2.0, Ver.2.1 with CPRM*2) • 8x-speed or slower DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs “DVD+RW,” “DVD-RW,” “DVD+R,” “DVD+R DL,” and “DVD-R” are trademarks. *1 When an unformatted DVD-R is inserted into this recorder, it is automatically formatted in Video mode.
Playable discs Type Disc Logo Icon used in this manual DVD VIDEO DVD Discs such as movies that can be purchased or rented This recorder also recognizes DVD-R Dual Layer (Video mode) discs as DVD Video compatible discs.
Maximum recordable number of titles Disc Number of titles* HDD 300 DVD-RW/DVD-R 99 DVD+RW/DVD+R 49 DVD+R DL 49 * The maximum length for one title is eight hours. Note on playback operations of DVD VIDEOs/VIDEO CDs Some playback operations of DVD VIDEOs/ VIDEO CDs may be intentionally set by software producers. Since this recorder plays DVD VIDEOs/VIDEO CDs according to the disc contents the software producers designed, some playback features may not be available.
Hookups and Settings Hooking Up the Recorder Follow steps 1 through 6 to hook up and adjust the settings of the recorder. Do not connect the mains lead until you reach “Step 4: Connecting the Mains Lead” on page 20. b Notes • • • • • 12 See “Specifications” (page 115) for a list of supplied accessories. Plug in cords securely to prevent unwanted noise. Refer to the instructions supplied with the components to be connected.
Step 1: Connecting the Aerial Cable and Set Top Box Controller If you have Hookup Set top box receiver with an aerial output (or aerial and SCART output) A (page 14) Set top box receiver with a SCART output only B (page 15) No set top box receiver C (page 16) Hookups and Settings Select one of the following aerial hookups. Do NOT set “Line3 Input” of the “Scart Setting” to “Decoder” in the “Video” setup (page 99) when making connection A or B.
A: Set top box receiver with an aerial output (or aerial and SCART output) With this hookup, you can record any programme position on the set top box receiver. To watch cable programmes, you need to match the programme position on the recorder to the aerial output programme position on the cable box. Place the set top box controller near the remote sensor on the set top box receiver.
. B: Set top box receiver with a SCART output only Place the set top box controller near the remote sensor on the set top box receiver. Wall Set top box controller (page 13) Hookups and Settings With this hookup, you can record any programme position on the set top box receiver. Be sure that the set top box receiver is turned on. To watch cable or satellite programmes, you need to match the programme position on the recorder to the input jack connected to the set top box receiver (i LINE 3/DECODER).
C: No set top box receiver Use this hookup if you watch cable programme position without a cable box. Also use this hookup if you are connecting just an aerial antenna. With this hookup, you can record any programme position by selecting the programme position on the recorder.
Step 2: Connecting the Video Cords Select one of the following patterns, A through D, according to the input jack on your TV monitor, projector, or AV amplifier (receiver). This will enable you to view pictures.
When playing “wide screen” images Some recorded images may not fit your TV screen. To change the picture size, see page 97. If you are connecting to a VCR Connect your VCR to the LINE 3/ DECODER jack on the recorder (page 27). b Notes • Do not connect more than one type of video cord between the recorder and your TV at the same time. • When you connect the recorder to your TV via the SCART jacks, the TV’s input source is set to the recorder automatically when you start playback.
Step 3: Connecting the Audio Cords Select one of the following patterns, A or B, according to the input jack on your TV monitor, projector, or AV amplifier (receiver). This will enable you to listen to sound.
b Notes • Do not connect your TV’s audio output jacks to the LINE IN (R-AUDIO-L) jacks at the same time. This will cause unwanted noise to come from your TV’s speakers. • With connection B, do not connect the LINE IN (R-AUDIO-L) and LINE 2 OUT (R-AUDIO-L) jacks to your TV’s audio output jacks at the same time. This will cause unwanted noise to come from your TV’s speakers.
Step 5: Preparing the Remote You can adjust the remote’s signal to control your TV. b Notes • Depending on the connected unit, you may not be able to control your TV with some or all of the buttons below. • If you enter a new code number, the code number previously entered will be erased. Hookups and Settings You can control the recorder using the supplied remote. Insert two R6 (size AA) batteries by matching the 3 and # ends on the batteries to the markings inside the battery compartment.
2 With the TV [/1 button pressed down, enter the TV’s manufacturer code using the number buttons. For instance, to enter “09,” press “0” then “9.” After you enter the last number, release the TV [/1 button. Code numbers of controllable TVs If more than one code number is listed, try entering them one at a time until you find the one that works with your TV.
4 Select “Command Mode,” and press ENTER. If the Command Mode for the recorder has not been changed, set the Command Mode for the remote to the default setting of DVD3. If the Command Mode for the remote is changed to DVD1 or DVD2, you will be unable to operate this recorder. Changing programme positions of the recorder using the remote You can change programme positions of the recorder using the number buttons. Hookups and Settings 5 Select “Others,” and press ENTER.
Step 6: Easy Setup Make the basic adjustments by following the on-screen instructions in “Easy Setup.” [/1 TV GUIDE
3 Press ENTER when “Finish” appears. “Easy Setup” is finished. Press ENTER to select “Continue.” 7 Select the provider using M/m, and press ENTER. 8 Select the receiver brand using M/m, and press ENTER. If you select “Other providers,” you can select a receiver brand from a list of all available brands. If your receiver brand is not on the list, select “???.” The receiver brand list is automatically updated, so your receiver may be available at a later date.
If you cannot get the recorder to control your set top box receiver Check the connection and position of the set top box controller (page 14). If your set top box receiver still does not operate with this recorder, refer to the instructions supplied with your set top box receiver and contact your cable or satellite company to see if they can provide you with a compatible set top box receiver.
Connecting a VCR or Similar Device Connecting to the LINE 3/DECODER jack Hookups and Settings After disconnecting the recorder’s mains lead from the mains, connect a VCR or similar recording device to the LINE IN jacks of this recorder. Use the DV IN jack on the front panel if the equipment has a DV output jack (i.LINK jack) (page 88). For details, refer to the instruction manual supplied with the connected equipment.
Connecting to the LINE 2 IN jacks on the front panel Connect a VCR or similar recording device to the LINE 2 IN jacks of this recorder. If the equipment has an S-video jack, you can use an S-video cord instead of an audio/video cord. VCR, etc.
Connecting a PAY-TV/Canal Plus Analogue Decoder Connecting a decoder TV PAY-TV/Canal Plus analogue decoder Hookups and Settings You can watch or record PAY-TV/Canal Plus analogue decoder programmes if you connect a decoder (not supplied) to the recorder. Disconnect the recorder’s mains lead from the mains when connecting the decoder.
Setting PAY-TV/Canal Plus analogue programme positions To watch or record PAY-TV/Canal Plus analogue programmes, set your recorder to receive the programme positions using the on-screen display. In order to set the programme positions correctly, be sure to follow all of the steps below. 4 Select “Scart Setting,” and press ENTER. 5 Press M/m to select “Video” or “RGB” for “Line1 Output,” “Decoder” for “Line3 Input,” and “Video” for “Line3 Output,” and press ENTER.
10 Select “System” using
Eight Basic Operations — Getting to Know Your DVD Recorder 1. Inserting a Disc +RW -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo DVD VCD +R -RVR CD DATA DVD DATA CD Z (open/ close) 2. Recording a Programme HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R This section introduces the basic operation to record a current TV programme to the hard disk (HDD) or to a disc (DVD). For an explanation of how to make timer recordings, see page 52. DVD HDD DVD PROG +/– TV/DVD 1 2 Press DVD.
4 About the Teletext function Recording starts. Recording stops automatically after 8 hours of continuous recording or when the HDD or DVD is full. Some broadcast systems ensure a Teletext service* in which the complete programmes and their data (title, date, programme position, recording start time etc.) are stored day by day. When recording a programme, the recorder automatically takes the programme name from the Teletext pages and stores it as the title name.
3. Playing the Recorded Programme (Title List) HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo Title List with Thumbnail Images (Example: DVD+RW) +R To play a recorded title, select the title from the Title List. HDD m DVD Extended Title List TITLE LIST
3 Select a title, and press ENTER. To change the title order (Sort) The sub-menu appears. The sub-menu displays options applicable only to the selected item. The displayed options differ depending upon the model, situation, and disc type. While the Title List menu is turned on, press OPTIONS to select “Sort Titles.” Press M/m to select the item, and press ENTER. 4 Sorted By Date In order of when the titles were recorded. The title that is recorded most recently is listed at the top.
To turn off the Title List Press TITLE LIST. z Hints • After recording, the first scene of the recording (the title) is automatically set as the thumbnail picture. • You can select “TITLE LIST” from the System Menu. b Notes • The title names may not appear for DVDs created on other DVD recorders. • It may take a few seconds for the thumbnail pictures to be displayed. • After editing, the title thumbnail picture may change to the first scene of the recording (title).
B Available functions for DVD VIDEOs ( angle/ audio/ subtitle, etc.), or playback data for DATA DVDs and DATA CDs C The current selected function or audio setting (appears only temporarily) Example: Dolby Digital 5.1 ch Rear (L/R) b Note Playing time of MP3 audio tracks may not be displayed correctly. Checking the remaining disc space 1 Insert a disc. See “1. Inserting a Disc” on page 32.
Example: Input Title Name 5. Changing the Name of a Recorded Programme HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R You can label a DVD, title, or programme by entering characters. You can enter up to 64 characters for a title or disc name, but the actual number of characters displayed in the menus such as the Title List will vary. The steps below explain how to change the name of the recorded programme.
To use the number buttons You can also use the number buttons to enter characters. Refer to the number next to each row of letters on your TV screen. 1 2 Press ENTER and select the next character. 3 Select “Finish” and press ENTER. You can execute options effective for the entire disc using the “Disc Information” display. z Hint You can switch between “A” (upper-case), “a” (lower-case), or “Symbol” by pressing INPUT SELECT.
b Note You can enter up to 64 characters for a DVD’s disc name. The disc name may not appear when the disc is played on other DVD equipment. Protecting a disc -RWVR -RVR 7. Playing the Disc on Other DVD Equipment (Finalise) +RW -RWVR -RWVideo +R -RVR -RVideo 1 Insert a disc. See “1. Inserting a Disc” on page 32. 2 Press OPTIONS to select “Disc Information,” and press ENTER. The “Disc Information” display appears. Available settings differ depending on the disc type.
+R -RVideo Finalising is necessary when playing on any equipment other than this recorder. After finalising, you cannot edit or record on the disc. Finalising the disc using “Disc Information” display 1 Insert a disc. See “1. Inserting a Disc” on page 32. 2 Z (open/ close) Press OPTIONS to select “Disc Information,” and press ENTER. 3 Select “Finalise,” and press ENTER. The display shows the approximate time required for finalising and asks for confirmation.
Unfinalising a disc 8. Reformatting a disc -RWVR -RWVideo +RW -RWVR -RWVideo For DVD-RWs (Video mode) DVD-RWs (Video mode) that have been finalised to prohibit additional recording or editing can be unfinalised to allow further recording or editing. For DVD-RWs (VR mode) New discs are automatically formatted when inserted. If necessary, you can manually reformat a DVD+RW or DVD-RW disc to make a blank disc.
z Hint By reformatting, you can change the recording format on DVD-RWs, or record again on DVDRWs that have been finalised. b Note On this model, 1 GB (read “gigabyte”) is equivalent to 1 billion bytes. The larger the number, the larger the disc space.
Learning the common elements GUIDE Plus+ Press TV GUIDE. Introduction to the GUIDE Plus+ System The GUIDE Plus+® system is a free interactive programme guide. It displays up to seven days of programme listings, including programme titles, promotions, and broadcast information. GUIDE Plus+ data for the television programme listings are carried by your local broadcast host channel and are received through your aerial, set top box receiver, or direct cable connection from the wall. Visit www.europe.guideplus.
“Info”: Shows information when available. “Editor”: Allows you to edit the channel lineup and channel display (page 51). “Setup”: Allows you to change the language, country/region, postal code, input source, or host channel. F Tiles: Shows the programme titles and category; green (sports), purple (movies), blue (children’s), teal (others). G Broadcast station Logo: Shows the broadcast station logo. H Time Slot: Indicates the currently selected time slot. Use
Watching TV using the GUIDE Plus+ System 3 Colour buttons TV GUIDE DAY – PAGE
Searching for a Programme using the GUIDE Plus+ System 4 Select a programme using M/m, and press ENTER. To enter a new keyword Select “Search” in the Menu Bar, and press ENTER. 2 3 Select “My Choice” using
Listing Up Your Favourite Programme Information (My TV) 3 “Channels”: Select the programme position using
Making changes to the GUIDE Plus+ System 4 Select an item using M/m, and press ENTER. 5 Select a setting using M/m, and press ENTER. Number buttons Colour buttons TV GUIDE
Searching for the GUIDE Plus+ host channel Changing the GUIDE Plus+ host channel manually The default host channel setting is set to “Automatic,” so you should not have to change the host channel setting. However, if the host channel has changed or moved, update the host channel setting. If you made connection according to “B: Set top box receiver with a SCART output only” (page 15), see “Changing the GUIDE Plus+ host channel manually” on page 50.
10 Select “Confirm” using
Timer Recording Before Recording Before you start recording… • Check that the disc has enough available space for the recording (page 37). For the HDD, DVD+RWs, and DVD-RWs, you can free up disc space by erasing titles (page 75). • Adjust the recording picture quality and picture size if necessary (page 58). Recording mode HDD RDRHX525 DVD* RDRHX725 HQ+ (High 8 quality) 20 – R 13 32 1 HSP R 19 46 1 hr. 30 min.
Recording stereo and bilingual programmes Pictures with copy protection cannot be recorded on this recorder. When the recorder receives a copy guard signal, the recorder continues to record but only a blank, grey coloured screen will be recorded. Copy control Recordable discs signals Copy-Free HDD +RW -RWVR -RWVideo +R -RVR -RVideo Copy-Once HDD Timer Recording The recorder automatically receives and records stereo and bilingual programmes based on the ZWEITON system or the NICAM system.
Timer Recording (GUIDE Plus+/VIDEO Plus+/ Manual) HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo 1 Press TV GUIDE. 2 Select a programme using
To adjust the recording quality See step 3 of “Adjusting the recording picture quality and size” on page 58. Rec Mode Adjust If there is not enough available disc space for the recording, the recorder automatically adjusts the recording mode to enable the entire programme to be recorded. Set “Rec Mode Adjust” of the “Timer Settings” to “On” in the “Recording” setup (page 102). The VIDEO Plus+ system is a feature that simplifies setting the timer.
4 Press ENTER. The date, start and stop times, programme position, etc. setting appear. The recorder is ready to start recording. • To record on a DVD See “Checking/Changing/Cancelling Timer Settings” on page 59. • To make more detailed timer settings See “Checking/Changing/Cancelling Timer Settings” on page 59. To confirm, change, or cancel a timer recording Setting the timer manually Number buttons Colour buttons SCHEDULE
6 Select the input source using M/m, and select the programme position using the number buttons or M/m. You can also select the programme position using the yellow button (“Channels”). 7 Press the green button (“Next”). 8 Press the green button (“Save”). The date, start and stop times, programme position etc. setting appear. The recorder is ready to start recording. To confirm, change, or cancel a timer recording See “Checking/Changing/Cancelling Timer Settings” on page 59.
“HDD Rec. Picture Size”/“DVD Rec. Picture Size”: Sets the picture size of the programme to be recorded. • 4:3 (default): Sets the picture size to 4:3. • 16:9: Sets the picture size to 16:9 (wide mode). • Auto (HDD only): Automatically selects the actual picture size. “DVD Rec. Picture Size” works with DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs (Video mode) when the recording mode is set to HQ, HSP, SP, LSP, or ESP. For all other recording modes, the screen size is fixed at “4:3.
Checking/Changing/ Cancelling Timer Settings HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo You can change or cancel timer settings using the SCHEDULE list. Creating chapters in a title The recorder can automatically divide a recording (a title) into chapters by inserting chapter marks at approximately 6 minute intervals during recording. To disable this function, set “Auto Chapter” in the “Recording” setup to “Off” (page 103).
3 Press the green button (“Edit”). z Hint You can also extend the recording time while recording by pressing OPTIONS and selecting “Extend Rec.” b Note The new settings become effective when you exit the GUIDE Plus+ system. About the PDC/VPS function 4 In the left column, select an item using the red button (“Back”) or the green button (“Next”), and adjust using the number buttons or
Cancelling timer settings 1 With the GUIDE Plus+ system turned off, press SCHEDULE. Recording From Connected Equipment The SCHEDULE list appears. HDD +RW 2 Select the timer setting you want to cancel using M/m. -RVR -RVideo 3 Press the red button (“Delete”). HDD +R DVD INPUT SELECT Press TV GUIDE or SCHEDULE. When the timer settings overlap The programme that starts first has priority and the second programme starts recording only after the first programme has finished.
3 Press INPUT SELECT repeatedly to select “L3.” 4 Select the desired audio signal when recording a bilingual programme to the HDD or DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs (VR mode). Press OPTIONS to select “Line Audio Input,” and press ENTER. Then select “Bilingual,” and press ENTER. For details about bilingual recording, see page 53. 5 Press REC MODE repeatedly to select the recording mode. For details about the recording mode, see page 52.
Recording from connected equipment without a timer You can record from a connected VCR or similar device. To connect a VCR or similar device, see “Connecting a VCR or Similar Device” on page 27. Use the DV IN jack on the front panel if the equipment has a DV output jack (i.LINK jack). 2 The connected equipment starts playback and the playback image is recorded by this recorder. To stop recording, press x REC STOP on this recorder. Press HDD or DVD.
3 The sub-menu appears. Playback 4 +RW -RVR -RVideo Select “Play,” and press ENTER. Playback starts from the selected title. Playing HDD Select the title, and press ENTER. -RWVR -RWVideo DVD VCD +R CD DATA DVD DATA CD HDD Z Number buttons AUDIO TOP MENU MENU DVD PROG +/– INPUT SELECT SUBTITLE TITLE LIST
To resume playback from the point where you stopped (Resume Play) When you press H again after you stop playback, the recorder resumes playback from the point where you pressed x. To start from the beginning, press OPTIONS to select “Play Beginning,” and press ENTER. Playback starts from the beginning of the title/track/scene. b Note You cannot resume playback during TV Pause.
Playback options To check the position of the buttons below, see the illustration on page 64. For MP3 or JPEG operations, see “Playing MP3 Audio Tracks or JPEG Image Files” on page 71. Buttons Operations AUDIO Selects one of the audio tracks recorded on the disc when pressed repeatedly in normal playback mode. HDD -RWVR -RVR DVD CD VCD DVD : Selects the language. HDD -RWVR VCD SUBTITLE CD -RVR : Selects the main or sub sound. : Selects stereo or monaural audio tracks.
b Notes • Angles and subtitles cannot be changed with titles recorded on this recorder. • Slideshows made with a DVD camcorder can only be played. Other play functions, such as fast forward, cannot be used. 2 • When playing DTS-encoded CDs, excessive noise will be heard from the analogue stereo jacks. To avoid possible damage to the audio system, the consumer should take proper precautions when the analogue stereo jacks of the recorder are connected to an amplification system.
b Notes • If the outlines of the images on your screen become blurred, set “BNR” and/or “MNR” to “Off.” • Depending on the disc or the scene being played, the above BNR, MNR, or FNR effects may be hard to discern. And, these functions may not work with some screen sizes. • When using the “Sharpness” function, noise found in the title may become more apparent. In this case, it is recommended that you use the BNR function with the “Sharpness” function.
Playing from the beginning of the programme you are recording (Chasing Playback) HDD -RWVR “Chasing Playback” allows you to view the recorded part of a programme while the recording is being made. You do not need to wait until the recording finishes. Press OPTIONS while recording to select “Chasing Playback,” and press ENTER. b Notes • For DVD-RWs (VR mode), this function does not work when recording: – on a 1x-speed DVD-RW. – in the HQ or HSP recording mode.
The display for entering the number appears. Example: Title Search Searching for a Title/ Chapter/Track, etc. HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo DVD VCD +R CD The number in parentheses indicates the total number of titles, tracks, etc. DATA DVD DATA CD You can search a disc by title, chapter, scene or track. As titles and tracks are assigned individual numbers, select the title or track by entering its number. You can also search for a scene using the time code.
To stop playback or slideshow Playing MP3 Audio Tracks or JPEG Image Files Press x. DATA DVD DATA CD Press OPTIONS to select “Play Beginning,” and press ENTER. You can play MP3 audio tracks and JPEG image files on DATA CDs (CD-ROMs/CDRs/CD-RWs) or JPEG image files on DATA DVDs (DVD-ROMs/DVD+RWs/DVD+Rs/ DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs). To fast forward or review a track To pause playback or slideshow Press X. To play the beginning of the track Press m/M during playback.
About MP3 audio tracks and JPEG image files MP3 is an audio compression technology that satisfies certain ISO/MPEG regulations. JPEG is an image compression technology. You can play MP3 (MPEG1 Audio Layer 3) format audio tracks and JPEG image files on DATA CDs (CD-ROMs/CD-Rs/CD-RWs) or JPEG image files on DATA DVDs (DVDROMs/DVD+RWs/DVD+Rs/DVD-RWs/ DVD-Rs). DATA CDs and DATA DVDs must be recorded according to ISO9660 Level 1, Level 2 or Joliet format for the recorder to recognize the JPEG image files.
z Hints • If you add numbers (01, 02, 03, etc.) to the front of the track/file names when you store the tracks (or files) in a disc, the tracks and files will be played in that order. • Since a disc with many trees takes longer to start playback, it is recommended that you create albums with no more than two trees.
Erasing and Editing Before Editing This recorder offers various edit options for various disc types. b Notes • You may lose the edited contents if you remove the disc or a timer recording starts while editing. • DVD discs created by DVD video cameras cannot be edited on this recorder. • If a message appears and indicates that the disc’s control information is full, erase or edit unnecessary titles. • When editing a DVD+R or DVD-R, finish all editing before finalising the disc.
To open up disc space To open up disc space on a DVD+RW or DVD-RW (Video mode), erase the title with the largest number in the title list. Erasing and Editing a Title Largest title number HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R This section explains the basic edit functions. Note that editing is irreversible. To edit the HDD or DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs (VR mode) without changing the original recordings, create a Playlist title (page 78).
“Set Thumbnail”: Changes the title’s thumbnail picture that appears in the Title List (page 35). “Make a Playlist”: Adds the entire title to the Playlist title as one scene (page 80). z Hints • You can erase multiple titles at one time (page 76). • You can automatically erase titles that have already played (page 102). • You can label or re-label DVDs (page 39). b Note DVD-RW/DVD-R (VR mode) playlist titles cannot be protected.
3 Press ENTER if point A is correct. If point A is incorrect, select point A using c/C, and press ENTER. The display for setting point B appears. 4 Select point B using m/M, and press ENTER. Playback pauses. 5 Press ENTER if point B is correct. 6 HDD -RWVR * -RVR * If you want to dub a long title to a disc but do not want to reduce the picture quality, divide the title into two shorter titles. Note that dividing a title cannot be undone.
Creating chapters manually HDD -RWVR -RVR You can manually insert a chapter mark at any point you like during playback or recording. Press CHAPTER MARK at the point where you want to divide the title into chapters. Each time you press the button, “Marking ...” appears on the screen and the scenes to the left and right of the mark become separate chapters. To erase chapter marks You can combine two chapters by erasing the chapter mark during playback. Press .
1 Press TITLE LIST. 7 If the Title List (Original) appears, press <. 2 Press OPTIONS to select “Create a Playlist,” and press ENTER. Select the OUT point using m/M, and press ENTER. Playback pauses. 8 Press ENTER if the OUT point is correct. If the OUT point is incorrect, select the OUT point using c/C, and press ENTER. The selected scene is added to the scene list. • To add more scenes, go to step 5. 9 Select “Select,” and press ENTER.
z Hint When a Playlist title is created, the IN and OUT points will become chapter marks, and each scene will become a chapter. b Note The picture may pause when the edited scene is played. To add the entire title to the Playlist title as one scene (Make a Playlist) 1 Press TITLE LIST. If the Title List (Playlist) appears, press ,. 2 Select the title and press ENTER. The sub-menu appears. 3 Select “Make a Playlist,” and press ENTER. The selected title is added to the Title List (Playlist).
Combining multiple Playlist titles (Combine) HDD -RWVR 1 -RVR Press TITLE LIST. If the Title List (Original) menu appears, press <. 2 Press OPTIONS to select “Combine,” and press ENTER. The display for selecting titles appears. 3 Select a title, and press ENTER. 4 b Note When the number of chapters in the title to be combined exceeds the limit, the chapters at the end are combined into a single chapter. Dividing a Playlist title (Divide) HDD -RWVR -RVR You can divide a Playlist title.
Dubbing (HDD y DVD) Before Dubbing HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R In this section, “dubbing” refers to “copying a recorded title on the internal hard disk drive (HDD) to another disc, or vice versa.” You can select to dub one title at a time (Title Dubbing – see “Dubbing a single title (Title Dubbing)” on page 85), or multiple titles all at once (Multiple Title Dubbing – see “Dubbing multiple titles (Dub Selected Titles)” on page 86).
Required times for High-speed Dubbing from HDD to DVD (for 60-minute programme)*1 Speed*2 6x 6x 8x HighRec. speed mode DVDRW Highspeed DVD+ RW High- High- DVD+R speed speed (Double DVD-R DVD+R Layer) 8x 2.4x Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 10 min. 10 min. 8 min. 8 min. 25 min. HSP Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 6 min. 6 min. 5 min. 5 min. 16 min. 40 sec. 40 sec. 40 sec. SP Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 5 min. 5 min. 3 min. 3 min. 12 min. 45 sec. 45 sec. 30 sec.
Allows you to dub from the HDD to a DVD or vice versa, in a dubbing mode that differs from the original recordings. For example, when you dub an HQ title (data size is large) in SP mode, you can reduce the data size, saving more titles using less space. Select a mode different from the original recording in “Dub Mode” in the steps of “Dubbing a single title (Title Dubbing)” (page 85) or “Dubbing multiple titles (Dub Selected Titles)” (page 86).
6 7 Dubbing HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo 1 Insert the DVD that you are going to dub to or from. 2 Press HDD or DVD to select the source. 3 Press TITLE LIST. Press
E Dubbing multiple titles (Dub Selected Titles) A maximum of 30 selected titles can be dubbed at once. : Indicates titles containing “Copy-Once” copy protection signals (page 84). When you select a title with , the display asks for confirmation. To “Move,” select “OK.” 1 Insert the DVD that you are going to dub to or from. 2 6 Press HDD or DVD to select the source. Repeat step 5 to select all of the titles you want to dub. 7 Select “OK,” and press ENTER.
To stop dubbing Press OPTIONS to select “Stop Dubbing,” and press ENTER. When asked for confirmation, select “OK,” and press ENTER. When dubbing (Move) is stopped partway, no part of the title will be moved to the dubbing target. However, note that this will decrease the free disc space for DVD+Rs/ DVD-Rs. z Hint You can turn off the recorder during dubbing. The recorder completes dubbing even after being turned off.
DV Dubbing Before DV Dubbing This section explains dubbing with a digital video camera via the DV IN jack on the front panel. If you want to dub by way of the LINE IN jacks, see “Recording from connected equipment without a timer” on page 63. The DV IN jack on this recorder conforms to the i.LINK standard. Follow the instructions in “Preparing for DV dubbing,” and then move on to the section on dubbing. For more information about i.LINK, see “About i.LINK” on page 116.
3 Press INPUT SELECT on the remote repeatedly to select “DV.” The front panel display changes as follows: programme position 4 Press REC MODE on the remote repeatedly to select the recording mode. The recording mode changes as follows: For details about the recording mode, see page 52. 5 Press OPTIONS on the remote to select “DV Audio Input,” and press ENTER. Then, select the setting for the audio input. 6 • You cannot connect more than one piece of digital video equipment to the recorder.
Recording an Entire DV Format Tape (One Touch Dubbing) HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R You can record the entire contents of a DV/ Digital8 format tape onto a disc with a single press of the ONE-TOUCH DUB button on the recorder. The recorder controls the digital video camera for the whole process, and completes the recording. How chapters are created The contents dubbed to the HDD or DVD become a single title.
2 Program Edit HDD +RW -RVR -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo Select “DV EDIT,” and press ENTER. The display asks if you want to start selecting scenes. +R You can select scenes from a DV/Digital8 format tape, and then automatically record selected scenes to the HDD or a DVD. To use this function, do the following: • If you have previously saved a programme, the display asks if you want to edit an existing programme or to create a new programme.
8 When you finish adding scenes, press m. The scene list is displayed. Data capacity required for the dubbing. This is displayed in red when the size exceeds the available space on the dubbing target media. 12 Select “Start,” and press ENTER. A Total duration of the programme The recorder starts recording the tape contents as programmed. B Total number of scenes C Scene information block 9 Select the scene information block you want to edit using
1 Select “Channel Setting” in “Basic,” and press ENTER. 2 Press M/m to select the programme position, and press ENTER. 3 Select the item you want to change using
Channel AFT Press M/m repeatedly until the programme position you want is displayed. The programme positions are scanned in the order shown in the table below. • If you know the number of the programme position you want, press the number buttons. For example, for programme position 5, first press “0” and then press “5.” • To disable a programme position, enter “00.” The disabled programme positions will be skipped when you press PROG +/–.
Channel Sort After the programme positions have been set, you can change the order of each programme position in the display list. 1 Select “Channel Sort” in “Basic,” and press ENTER. 2 Press M/m to select the row containing the programme position you want to move, and press ENTER. • To display other pages for programme positions 4 to 99, press M/m repeatedly.
3 Select the TV guide page number you want to modify, and press ENTER. Clock Auto Adjust Turns on the Auto Clock Set function when a programme position in your local area broadcasts a time signal. 4 5 Press the number buttons or
To set the clock manually If the Auto Clock Set function did not set the clock correctly for your local area, try another station for the Auto Clock Set function or set the clock manually. 1 Select “Clock” in “Basic,” and press ENTER. 2 Select “Auto Adjust,” and press ENTER. 3 4 5 Select “Off,” and press ENTER. Select “Present Time,” and press ENTER. To change the numbers, press < to return to the item to be changed, and press M/m. 6 Press ENTER to start the clock.
16:9 4:3 Letter Box 4:3 Pan Scan b Note Depending on the disc, “4:3 Letter Box” may be selected automatically instead of “4:3 Pan Scan” or vice versa. Component Out Selects whether or not to output video signals from the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks. On Outputs the component video signals. Select this when you want to view progressive signals. Off Outputs no signals. b Notes • When you set “Line1 Output” to “RGB,” you cannot set “Component Out” to “On.
b Notes • If your TV does not accept S-video or RGB signals, no picture appears on the TV screen even if you select “S Video” or “RGB.” See the instructions supplied with your TV. • You cannot select “RGB” when “Component Out” above is set to “On.” • SMARTLINK is available only when “Video” is selected. Line3 Input Selects a method of inputting video signals for the LINE 3/DECODER jack. The picture will not be clear if this setting does not match the type of video input signal.
Audio Connection Audio Settings (Audio) The “Audio” setup allows you to adjust the sound according to the playback and connection conditions. 1 Press SYSTEM MENU while the recorder is in stop mode. 2 3 Select “SETUP,” and press ENTER. Select “Audio,” and press ENTER. The “Audio” setup appears with the following options. The default settings are underlined. Audio ATT (attenuation) If the playback sound is distorted, set this item to “On.” The recorder reduces the audio output level.
• MPEG (DVD VIDEOs only) Selects the type of MPEG audio signal. PCM Select this when the recorder is connected to an audio component without a built-in MPEG decoder. If you play MPEG audio sound tracks, the recorder outputs stereo signals via the DIGITAL OUT (COAXIAL) jack. MPEG Select this when the recorder is connected to an audio component with a built-in MPEG decoder. • DTS (DVD VIDEOs only) Selects whether or not to output DTS signals.
Recording Settings (Recording) The “Recording” setup allows you to adjust recording settings. 1 Press SYSTEM MENU while the recorder is in stop mode. 2 3 Select “SETUP,” and press ENTER. Select “Recording,” and press ENTER. The “Recording” setup appears with the following options. The default settings are underlined. HQ Setting Selects the HQ mode used for recording on the HDD (page 52). HQ+ Records in higher quality (approximate 15 Mbps). HQ Records in the standard HQ mode. DVD Rec.
Synchro Rec Selects the recording destination used for Synchro-Recording (page 61). Record to HDD Records to the HDD. Record to DVD Records to DVDs. Disc Settings (DVD) The “DVD” setup allows you to adjust parental control, language and other DVD related settings. 1 Press SYSTEM MENU while the recorder is in stop mode. 2 3 Select “SETUP,” and press ENTER. Auto Chapter Selects whether to automatically divide a recording (a title) into chapters during recording or dubbing.
• When you have already registered a password, the display for entering the password appears. 2 5 The lower the value, the stricter the limitation. Discs rated higher than the selected level will be restricted. Enter your four-digit password using the number buttons, then select “OK” and press ENTER. 6 3 4 Select “Standard,” and press ENTER. The selection items for “Standard” are displayed. Select a geographic area as the playback limitation level, and press ENTER. The area is selected.
z Hint If you select “Others” in “DVD Menu,” “Subtitle,” or “Audio,” select and enter a language code from “Language Code List” on page 121 using the number buttons. b Note If you select a language in “DVD Menu,” “Subtitle,” or “Audio” that is not recorded on the DVD VIDEO, one of the recorded languages will be automatically selected. Remote Control Settings/ Factory Settings (Others) The “Others” setup allows you to set up other operational settings.
Command Mode Changes the Command Mode of the recorder if other DVD equipment is assigned the same Command Mode. For details, see “If you have a Sony DVD player or more than one Sony DVD recorder” on page 22. Factory Setup Allows you to select the setup settings by group, and return them to their default settings. Note that all of your previous settings will be lost. 1 Select “Factory Setup” in “Others,” and press , or ENTER. The display for selecting a group of settings appears.
Additional Information Troubleshooting If you experience any of the following difficulties while using the recorder, use this troubleshooting guide to help remedy the problem before requesting repairs. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer. Power The power does not turn on. , Check that the mains lead is connected securely. Picture There is no picture. , , , , , , , Picture noise appears.
TV channels cannot be changed. , The channel is disabled (page 94). , A timer recording started, which changed the channels. GUIDE Plus+ system does not appear. , Set “TV Type” of the “Video Output” in the “Video” setup in accordance with the screen size of your TV (page 97). , 1Even if you complete “Easy Setup,” TV programme listings do not appear until the recorder receives the GUIDE Plus+ data. 2Turn off the recorder, but do not unplug it. 3Wait for 24 hours.
An alternate audio track cannot be recorded or played. , The programme guide data may not be updated. Turn off the recorder and let the recorder receive the progrmme guide data. , Some broadcast stations support only two days of data. For details, see the following website: www.europe.guideplus.com , All of the GUIDE Plus+ data could not be received because the reception is poor. , When recording from connected equipment, set “Line Audio Input” in OPTIONS menu to “Bilingual” (page 63).
The recorder starts playing automatically. The MP3 audio tracks do not play. , The DVD VIDEO features an auto playback function. , The MP3 audio tracks are not recorded in a format that the recorder can play (page 71). Playback stops automatically. The JPEG image files do not play. , If the DVD has an auto pause signal, the recorder stops playback at the auto pause signal. , The JPEG image files are not recorded in a format that the recorder can play (page 71).
, There is not enough disc space for the recording. , The set top box was turned off. , The set top box controller was incorrectly connected (page 13). , The settings in “Setup” in the Menu bar have been changed (page 49). , The recorder was in the process of dubbing (HDDyDVD). , The recorder was in the process of DV Dubbing. Recording does not stop immediately after you press x REC STOP. , It will take a few seconds for the recorder to input disc data before recording can stop.
The recorder automatically starts recording when the satellite receiver is turned on. The clock does not appear in the front panel display when the recorder is turned off. , The Synchro-Rec function was activated. Turn off the satellite receiver and cancel the Synchro-Rec function (page 61). , “Dimmer” in the “Others” setup is set to “Save Power” (page 105). Dubbing Remote control The remote does not function. You dubbed a title, but the title did not appear in the HDD Title List.
The disc tray does not open and “LOCKED” appears in the front panel display. , The disc tray is locked. Cancel the Child Lock (page 65). The disc tray does not open and “TRAY LOCKED” appears in the front panel display. , Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. The disc tray does not open and you cannot remove the disc after you press Z (open/close). , Turn off the recorder. Once the clock appears in the front panel display, disconnect the mains lead.
Self-diagnosis Function (When letters/numbers appear in the display) When the self-diagnosis function is activated to prevent the recorder from malfunctioning, a five-character service number (e.g., C 13 00) with a combination of a letter and four numbers appears in the front panel display. In this case, check the following table. First three Cause and/or corrective characters of action the service number C 13 C 31 There is a problem in the HDD.
Notes about the discs • To keep the disc clean, handle the disc by its edge. Do not touch the surface. Dust, fingerprints, or scratches on the disc may cause it to malfunction. • Do not expose the disc to direct sunlight or heat sources such as hot air ducts, or leave it in a car parked in direct sunlight as the temperature may rise considerably inside the car. • After playing, store the disc in its case. • Clean the disc with a cleaning cloth. Wipe the disc from the centre out.
LINE 3/DECODER: 21-pin CVBS IN/OUT S-Video/RGB IN (RGB signals cannot be recorded) S-Video OUT (downstream) Decoder DV IN: 4-pin/i.LINK S100 DIGITAL OUT (COAXIAL): Phono jack/ 0.5 Vp-p/75 ohms COMPONENT VIDEO OUT (Y, PB/CB, PR/CR): Phono jack/Y: 1.0 Vp-p, PB/CB: 0.7 Vp-p, PR/CR: 0.7 Vp-p G-LINK: mini jack General Power requirements: 220-240 V AC, 50/ 60 Hz Power consumption: RDR-HX525: 42 W RDR-HX725: 44 W Dimensions (approx.): 430 × 65 × 328 mm (width/height/ depth) incl.
i.LINK baud rate i.LINK’s maximum baud rate varies according to the equipment. Three maximum baud rates are defined: S100 (approx. 100 Mbps*) S200 (approx. 200 Mbps) S400 (approx. 400 Mbps) The baud rate is listed under “Specifications” in the instruction manual of each equipment. It is also indicated near the i.LINK jack on some equipment. The maximum baud rate of equipment on which it is not indicated such as this unit is “S100.
Guide to Parts and Controls For more information, see the pages in parentheses. Remote J TV/DVD button (21) K TOP MENU/Red button (64) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 L CHAPTER MARK/Yellow button (78) CHAPTER MARK ERASE/Blue button (78) M SYSTEM MENU button (91, 93) TITLE LIST button (34, 64, 75) TV GUIDE button (44) N INFO (information) button (44) O SCHEDULE button (55) P
Front panel A [/1 (on/standby) button (24) B Front panel display (120) K HDD button/indicator (32) DVD button/indicator (32) C Disc tray (32) L D A (open/close) button (32) M ONE-TOUCH DUB button (90) E TIMER REC indicator (54) SYNCHRO REC indicator (61) N PROGRAM +/– buttons (32) The + button has a tactile dot*.
Front panel display HDD DVD SMARTLINK DVD NICAM VCD TV A HDD/DVD indicators Displays the selected media and the playing/recording status. • Clock • Programme position • TV Direct Rec indication (32): “TV” appears in the right most two digits.
Language Code List For details, see page 104. The language spellings conform to the ISO 639: 1988 (E/F) standard.
Index Words in quotations appear in the on-screen displays.
Erase all titles 76 “Erase Titles” 76 “Extend Time” 60 F “Factory Setup” 106 “File Search” 70 “Finalise” 41 “Finalise Disc” 105 Finalising 40 “FNR” 67 “Format” 42, 106 “Format DVD-RW” 105 Formatting 42 Freeze Frame 66 Front panel 119 Front panel display 120 G “Line3 Input” 99 “Line3 Output” 99 M Main sound 53, 66, 102 Mains Lead 20 “Make a Playlist” 80 Manual Clock Set 97 MENU 64 Menu DVD’s Menu 64 Top menu 64 “Mix” 89 “MNR” 67 “Move” 79, 92 MP3 audio tracks 71 MPEG 101 “My TV” 44 GB 43 “Grid” 44 GUIDE
Recording 52 picture adjustment 58 recording format 8 recording mode 33, 52 recording time 33, 52 while watching another programme 33 Recording time 52 Region code 11 Remote 21, 118 Resetting the recorder 106 Resume Play 65 “RGB” 24, 98 S S VIDEO 17 “S Video” 24, 98 Satellite receiver 15 Scan Audio 64 “Scart Setting” 98 Scene List 79 SCHEDULE 55, 56, 59, 61 “Schedule” 44 “Screen Saver” 99 “Search” 44, 70 Searching fast reverse/fast forward 66 locating the beginning of the title/ chapter/track 66 scan audio
