1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the SANSUI M11 Compact MD Recorder. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your device. Please read it thoroughly before use and keep it for future reference.
2. Safety Information
- Power Supply: Ensure the unit is connected to an AC 100V, 50/60Hz power source. Using an incorrect voltage may cause fire or electric shock.
- Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Allow adequate space around the unit for proper airflow to prevent overheating.
- Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit.
- Foreign Objects: Do not insert any metal objects or flammable materials into the unit.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Placement: Place the unit on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong magnetic fields.
- Caution: To prevent electric shock and fire, do not remove screws other than those necessary for operation.
3. Package Contents
Please check that all items are present:
- SANSUI M11 Compact MD Recorder Unit
- AC Power Cord
- Remote Control (assumed)
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
4.1 Front Panel
The front panel provides access to the MD slot, display, and primary control buttons for playback, recording, and menu navigation.

Image 1: Front view of the SANSUI M11 Compact MD Recorder, showing the MD slot, display, and control buttons such as Eject, Play/Pause, Stop, Multi-Push Enter knob, Record, Input, and Character/Display.
- MD Slot: Insert MiniDiscs here.
- Display: Shows track information, time, and menu options.
- Eject Button: Ejects the MiniDisc.
- Play/Pause Button: Starts or pauses playback.
- Stop Button: Stops playback or recording.
- Multi-Push Enter Knob: Rotates to navigate menus and adjust settings, push to confirm.
- Record Button: Initiates recording.
- Input Button: Selects audio input source (e.g., Analog, Optical).
- Char/Display Button: Changes display information or enters characters during titling.
- Set/Scroll/Repeat Buttons: Used for menu settings, scrolling, and repeat playback functions.
- CD Synchro Button: For synchronized recording from a CD player.
4.2 Rear Panel
The rear panel features various input and output terminals for connecting to other audio components.

Image 2: Rear view of the SANSUI M11 Compact MD Recorder, showing the power input, RCA audio input/output, optical digital input/output, and system control ports.
- Power Input: Connect the supplied AC power cord here.
- Analog Audio Input (RCA L/R): Connect to the analog audio output of an external device (e.g., CD player, amplifier).
- Analog Audio Output (RCA L/R): Connect to the analog audio input of an amplifier or receiver.
- Optical Digital Input: Connect to the optical digital output of an external device.
- Optical Digital Output: Connect to the optical digital input of an external device (e.g., DAC, amplifier).
- System Control: For connecting to other SANSUI components for integrated control.
5. Setup
5.1 Connecting Power
- Ensure the unit is turned off.
- Connect the AC power cord to the Power Input on the rear panel of the M11.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a standard AC 100V, 50/60Hz wall outlet.
5.2 Audio Connections
Choose one of the following methods to connect the M11 to your audio system:
Analog Connection (RCA)
- Connect RCA cables from the Analog Audio Output (L/R) of the M11 to an available analog input (e.g., 'MD IN', 'AUX IN') on your amplifier or receiver.
- To record from an analog source, connect RCA cables from the analog audio output of your source device (e.g., cassette deck, turntable pre-amp) to the Analog Audio Input (L/R) of the M11.
Digital Connection (Optical)
- Connect an optical digital cable from the Optical Digital Output of the M11 to an available optical digital input on your amplifier or receiver.
- To record from a digital source, connect an optical digital cable from the optical digital output of your source device (e.g., CD player, DAT player) to the Optical Digital Input of the M11.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Powering On/Off
Press the power button (usually integrated with the main unit or on the remote) to turn the M11 on or off.
6.2 Loading and Ejecting an MD
- Loading: Insert a MiniDisc into the MD slot with the label side facing up until it clicks into place.
- Ejecting: Press the Eject button on the front panel.
6.3 Playback
- Load a MiniDisc.
- Press the Play/Pause button to start playback.
- Press Play/Pause again to pause, and press Stop to end playback.
- Use the skip buttons (usually integrated with the Multi-Push Enter knob or separate buttons) to navigate between tracks.
- Press the Repeat button to cycle through repeat play modes (e.g., repeat track, repeat disc).
6.4 Recording
General Recording Steps
- Insert a blank or recordable MiniDisc.
- Press the Input button to select the desired input source (Analog or Optical).
- Start playback on your source device.
- Press the Record button on the M11. The unit will enter record-pause mode.
- Press Play/Pause (or Record again) to start recording.
- Press Stop to end recording.
CD Synchro Recording
If your CD player supports CD Synchro recording and is connected via System Control or Optical Digital, you can use this feature:
- Connect your CD player to the M11.
- Load a CD into your CD player and a blank MD into the M11.
- Press the CD Synchro button on the M11.
- Start playback on your CD player. The M11 should automatically begin recording when the CD starts and stop when it finishes.
6.5 Editing Functions
The M11 offers basic editing capabilities for recorded MiniDiscs:
- Track Divide: Automatically or manually divide tracks during or after recording. Use the Edit button (if present) or menu options.
- Erase: Erase individual tracks or the entire disc.
- Titling: Use the Char/Display button and the Multi-Push Enter knob to enter track and disc titles.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- MD Slot: Keep the MD slot free of dust and debris. Do not insert anything other than MiniDiscs.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power cord and store the unit in a cool, dry place.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience problems with your SANSUI M11, refer to the following table:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not connected; Power outlet faulty | Check power cord connection; Try a different outlet |
| No sound during playback | Incorrect audio input selected on amplifier; Cables not connected properly; Volume too low | Select correct input on amplifier; Check all audio cable connections; Increase volume |
| Cannot record | MD is write-protected; Incorrect input source selected on M11; Source device not playing | Slide the write-protect tab on the MD; Select correct input (Analog/Optical) on M11; Ensure source device is playing audio |
| MD not recognized | MD inserted incorrectly; MD is damaged or dirty | Re-insert MD correctly; Try a different MD; Clean MD if necessary |
If the problem persists, please contact SANSUI customer support.
9. Specifications
- Brand: SANSUI
- Model: M11
- Power Requirements: AC 100V, 50/60Hz, 12W
- Dimensions (W x H x D): Approximately 36 x 8.6 x 22 cm (14.2 x 3.4 x 8.7 inches)
- Weight: Approximately 2.36 kg (5.2 lbs)
- Inputs: Analog Audio (RCA), Optical Digital Audio
- Outputs: Analog Audio (RCA), Optical Digital Audio
- ASIN: B00ECNDGZ2
- Country of Origin: Made in Japan
Specifications are subject to change without notice for improvement.
10. Warranty and Support
SANSUI products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official SANSUI website. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact your local SANSUI dealer or authorized service center.
