Maxell UR 90 Audio Cassette Tapes

Introduction

The Maxell UR 90 audio cassette tapes are designed for everyday recording. Each tape features a low-noise surface, providing a suitable medium for both music and voice recording. With 60 minutes of recording time (30 minutes per side), these cassettes are ideal for use with personal and portable cassette players. This manual provides instructions for optimal use and care of your Maxell UR 90 audio cassette tapes.

Setup

1. Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the 24-pack of Maxell UR 90 audio cassette tapes from its packaging. Inspect each cassette for any visible damage before use. Ensure the plastic cases are intact and the tape reels are securely in place.

Image: Maxell UR 90 Audio Cassette 24-pack in its retail packaging.

2. Preparing the Cassette

Before first use, it is recommended to fast-forward the tape to the end and then rewind it to the beginning. This helps to ensure even tension of the tape and reduces the risk of tangling during recording or playback. Use a pencil or a small tool to gently turn the hubs if the tape appears loose.

Image: Individual Maxell UR 90 audio cassette tapes, showing the clear casing and tape reels.

Operating Instructions

1. Inserting the Cassette

1. Open the cassette compartment of your audio player or recorder.
2. Insert the Maxell UR 90 cassette with the desired side (A or B) facing up, ensuring the tape opening aligns with the player's heads.
3. Gently close the cassette compartment until it clicks into place.

2. Recording Audio

The Maxell UR 90 tapes offer a low-noise surface for clear recordings.

1. Ensure your audio recorder is connected to a power source and any external microphones or audio inputs are properly configured.
2. Press the RECORD button (often simultaneously with the PLAY button on some devices).
3. Begin your audio input (speaking into a microphone, playing music from another source).
4. Monitor recording levels to avoid distortion.
5. To stop recording, press the STOP button.
6. Each side of the UR 90 cassette provides approximately 30 minutes of recording time, totaling 60 minutes per tape.

3. Playback

1. Insert the recorded cassette into your player.
2. Press the PLAY button.
3. Adjust the volume to your desired level.
4. To stop playback, press the STOP button.

4. Fast Forward and Rewind

Use the FF (Fast Forward) and REW (Rewind) buttons on your player to quickly navigate through the tape.

5. Writing on Labels

Use the provided labels and a ballpoint pen to clearly mark the contents of your recordings. Avoid using felt-tip pens as the ink may bleed through the paper and damage the tape.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning Tape Heads

Regularly clean the tape heads, pinch rollers, and capstan of your cassette player/recorder. Dust and tape residue can accumulate, leading to poor sound quality or tape damage. Use a specialized head cleaning cassette or a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol.

2. Proper Storage

Store cassettes in their original cases, away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, humidity, and strong magnetic fields (e.g., speakers, televisions). Extreme conditions can degrade tape quality and lead to data loss.

3. Handling Precautions

Avoid touching the magnetic tape surface directly, as oils from your skin can contaminate the tape and affect sound quality. Handle cassettes by their edges.

Troubleshooting

• Tape Tangling: If the tape tangles, gently remove the cassette from the player. Use a pencil to carefully wind the loose tape back onto the reel. Inspect your player's pinch rollers and capstan for cleanliness and proper function.
• Poor Sound Quality: This can be caused by dirty tape heads or a worn-out tape. Clean the tape heads of your player. If the issue persists, the tape may be degraded or the player may require servicing.
• Tape Not Playing/Recording: Ensure the cassette is inserted correctly and the player is in the correct mode (Play/Record). Check if the erase protection tabs on the cassette are intact (if recording). Clean the player's heads and check for power.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Maxell products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official Maxell website or contact Maxell customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Manufacturer: Maxell Corporation of America