Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the operation, setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Sansui VHF6010 4-Head HiFi Stereo VCR. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit to ensure proper functionality and longevity.

Figure 1: Front view of the Sansui VHF6010 VCR. This image displays the front panel of the VCR, highlighting the tape loading slot, control buttons, and input jacks. Key features visible include the Sansui logo, "4 HEAD Hi-Fi STEREO" branding, and front panel controls for playback, recording, and channel selection.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully remove the VCR from its packaging.
- Place the VCR on a stable, flat surface with adequate ventilation. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
2. Connecting to a Television
Connect the VCR to your television using appropriate cables. Common connection methods include:
- RF Coaxial Cable: Connect the VCR's RF output to your TV's antenna input. Tune your TV to the VCR's output channel (typically channel 3 or 4).
- RCA Cables (Composite Video/Audio): Connect the VCR's VIDEO OUT (yellow) to the TV's VIDEO IN. Connect the VCR's AUDIO OUT (white for mono, red for right stereo, white for left stereo) to the TV's AUDIO IN.
3. Connecting External Devices (Front Panel Inputs)
The front panel of the Sansui VHF6010 features convenient input jacks for temporary connections:
- VIDEO IN (Yellow): For connecting external video sources like camcorders.
- L-AUDIO IN (White, Mono): For connecting external audio sources (left channel or mono).
- R-AUDIO IN (Red): For connecting external audio sources (right channel).
4. Power Connection
Plug the VCR's power cord into a standard AC outlet.
Operating Instructions
1. Basic Playback
- Press the POWER button to turn on the VCR.
- Insert a VHS tape into the tape slot.
- Press the PLAY button to begin playback.
- To stop playback, press the STOP/EJECT button. Press it again to eject the tape.
2. Fast Forward and Rewind
- Press F.FWD to fast forward the tape.
- Press REW to rewind the tape.
- Press PLAY or STOP/EJECT to stop fast forwarding or rewinding.
3. Recording
The Sansui VHF6010 features a REC/OTR (One-Touch Recording) button for immediate recording.
- Insert a recordable VHS tape with the safety tab intact.
- Select the desired input source (e.g., TV channel, external input) using the TV/VCR button or channel controls.
- Press the REC/OTR button to start recording. Pressing it multiple times may extend the recording time in increments.
- To stop recording, press the STOP/EJECT button.
4. Channel Selection
Use the CHANNEL up and down buttons to change television channels when the VCR is in TV tuner mode.
5. Special Features
- 4 HEAD Hi-Fi STEREO: Provides high-fidelity audio playback and recording.
- DIGITAL AUTO TRACKING: Automatically adjusts tracking for optimal picture quality.
- ON SCREEN PROGRAMMING: Allows for easy setup and timer recording via on-screen menus (refer to specific on-screen menu instructions in the full manual, if available).
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the VCR
- Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the VCR with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Tape Heads: For optimal performance, periodically clean the tape heads using a dry-type VCR head cleaner tape. Follow the instructions provided with the cleaning tape. Avoid manual cleaning of heads as it can cause damage.
2. Tape Care
- Store VHS tapes in their cases, away from dust, direct sunlight, and strong magnetic fields.
- Avoid exposing tapes to extreme temperatures or humidity.
- Rewind tapes fully before storing them.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power | Power cord unplugged; Power outlet not active. | Ensure power cord is securely plugged in; Test outlet with another device. |
| No Picture/Sound during Playback | Incorrect TV input selected; Loose video/audio cables; Dirty VCR heads. | Select correct TV input (e.g., Video 1, AV); Check all cable connections; Clean VCR heads. |
| Tape Won't Eject | Power off; Tape jammed. | Ensure VCR is powered on; Do not force the tape, consult a service technician if jammed. |
| Poor Picture Quality (Snowy/Distorted) | Dirty VCR heads; Old or damaged tape; Tracking issue. | Clean VCR heads; Try a different tape; Adjust tracking if VCR has manual tracking control (often automatic on this model). |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Sansui |
| Model Number | VHF6010 |
| Item Weight | 6.1 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 15.4 x 10.4 x 4.1 inches |
| ASIN | B00005O7LB |
| Date First Available | September 4, 1973 |
| Head System | 4-Head Hi-Fi Stereo |
| Tracking | Digital Auto Tracking |
| Programming | On Screen Programming |





