Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and maintenance of your Olympus Pearlcorder S713 Microcassette Recorder. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
The Olympus Pearlcorder S713 is a compact microcassette recorder designed for clear audio recording and playback. It features a built-in stereo microphone, dynamic speaker, and voice activation capabilities.
Product Overview

This image displays the Olympus Pearlcorder S713 Microcassette Recorder, its original product box, and an Olympus XB 60 microcassette tape. The recorder is green and features a built-in speaker and controls. The packaging highlights features like VCVA (Voice Controlled Recording) and the model name.
Familiarize yourself with the various parts of your Pearlcorder S713 before proceeding with setup and operation. Key components include the microphone, speaker, control buttons (Record, Play, Stop, Rewind, Fast Forward), volume control, and cassette compartment.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the recorder.
- Slide the cover open.
- Insert two (2) AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
2. Loading a Microcassette
- Press the Eject button to open the cassette compartment.
- Insert a microcassette tape with the open side facing upwards and the tape window facing you.
- Gently close the cassette compartment until it clicks into place.
Operating Instructions
Recording
- Ensure a microcassette is loaded and the batteries are installed.
- Slide the REC (Record) switch forward. The recording indicator light will illuminate.
- Speak clearly into the built-in microphone.
- To stop recording, slide the STOP switch.
Playback
- Ensure a microcassette with recorded content is loaded.
- Slide the PLAY switch forward. Audio will play through the built-in speaker.
- Adjust the volume using the VOLUME control dial.
- To stop playback, slide the STOP switch.
Fast Forward and Rewind
- To fast forward, slide and hold the FF (Fast Forward) switch. Release to stop.
- To rewind, slide and hold the REW (Rewind) switch. Release to stop.
Voice Controlled Recording (VCVA)
The VCVA feature allows the recorder to automatically start recording when sound is detected and pause when silence occurs, conserving tape and battery life.
- To activate VCVA, ensure the recorder is in REC mode and then engage the VCVA switch (if present, refer to your specific model's controls).
- The recorder will now only record when sound above a certain threshold is detected.
Dual Recording Speeds
The Pearlcorder S713 supports dual recording speeds, allowing you to extend the recording time of a 90-minute microcassette to up to 3 hours. Consult the speed selector switch on your device to choose between standard and extended play modes.
Fast Playback Mode
This mode allows you to play back recordings 25 percent faster than regular speed, useful for reviewing content quickly. Engage the fast playback switch (if available on your model) during playback to activate this feature.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the recorder. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Tape Heads: Periodically clean the tape heads and pinch roller using a specialized microcassette head cleaning kit to ensure optimal audio quality.
- Battery Care: Remove batteries if the recorder will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
- Storage: Store the recorder in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Dead or incorrectly inserted batteries. | Replace batteries with new AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Poor recording quality | Dirty tape heads; microphone too far from sound source; faulty microcassette. | Clean tape heads; speak closer to the microphone; try a new microcassette. |
| No sound during playback | Volume too low; dirty tape heads; unrecorded tape; headphones not properly connected. | Increase volume; clean tape heads; ensure tape has recorded content; check headphone connection (3.5mm jack). |
| Tape not moving | Tape jammed; worn-out tape; mechanical issue. | Open compartment and gently check tape path; try a different tape. If issue persists, contact support. |
Specifications
- Model: Olympus Pearlcorder S713
- Manufacturer: Olympus
- Recording Medium: Microcassette Tape
- Microphone: Built-in Stereo Microphone
- Speaker: Built-in Dynamic Speaker
- Recording Speeds: Dual speeds (Standard and Extended Play)
- Voice Activation: VCVA (Voice Controlled Recording)
- Playback Features: Fast Playback (25% faster), Cue/Review
- Power Source: 2 x AA Batteries
- Battery Life: Approximately 17 hours (recording)
- Headphone Jack: 3.5 mm
- Dimensions (W x H x D): Approximately 2.3 x 4.8 x 1 inches (5.8 x 12.2 x 2.5 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 181 g (without batteries)
Warranty and Support
The Olympus Pearlcorder S713 Microcassette Recorder comes with a 90-day limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects under normal use.
For warranty claims, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase documentation or visit the official Olympus support website.





