Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the ONKYO MD-185II MiniDisc Recorder. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your device. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit and keep it for future reference.
The ONKYO MD-185II is a high-quality MiniDisc deck designed for both playback and recording of MiniDisc media. It features robust construction and reliable performance for your audio needs.
Safety Information
Please observe the following safety precautions to prevent electric shock, fire, or damage to the unit:
- Power Supply: Connect the unit only to an AC 100V, 50/60Hz power outlet. Do not use power sources other than those specified.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings on the top, sides, or rear of the unit. Avoid placing the unit in an enclosed space without proper airflow.
- 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's openings.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Placement: Place the unit on a stable, level surface. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
Product Overview
The ONKYO MD-185II MiniDisc Recorder is a compact audio component designed for high-fidelity MiniDisc playback and recording. Below is an image of the unit, highlighting its general appearance and key front panel features.

Figure 1: Front view of the ONKYO MD-185II MiniDisc Recorder. The image displays the silver-colored unit with a central MiniDisc loading slot, a digital display above it, and various control buttons and knobs below the slot. Ventilation grilles are visible on the top and side panels.
Front Panel Controls and Indicators:
- Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.
- MiniDisc Slot: Insert or eject MiniDiscs here.
- Display Panel: Shows track information, recording levels, and operational status.
- Playback Controls: Play, Pause, Stop, Fast Forward, Rewind, Skip Track buttons.
- Recording Controls: Record, Pause/Rec Pause buttons.
- Input Selector: Selects the audio input source (e.g., Analog, Digital).
- Level Controls: Adjusts recording input levels.
- Headphone Jack: For private listening.
Rear Panel Connections:
- Analog Audio Input/Output (RCA): For connecting to amplifiers or other audio components.
- Digital Audio Input/Output (Optical/Coaxial): For connecting to digital audio sources or receivers.
- AC Power Inlet: Connects to the power cord.
Setup
1. Unpacking
Carefully remove the MD-185II unit and all accessories from the packaging. Retain the packaging materials for future transport or storage.
2. Connecting Power
- Ensure the unit's power switch is in the OFF position.
- Connect the supplied AC power cord to the AC inlet on the rear panel of the MD-185II.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a standard AC 100V, 50/60Hz wall outlet.
3. Connecting Audio
The MD-185II offers both analog and digital audio connections.
Analog Connection (RCA):
- Connect RCA cables from the ANALOG OUT jacks of the MD-185II to the ANALOG IN jacks of your amplifier or receiver.
- To record from an analog source, connect RCA cables from the ANALOG OUT jacks of your source device (e.g., CD player, cassette deck) to the ANALOG IN jacks of the MD-185II.
Digital Connection (Optical/Coaxial):
- For digital playback, connect an optical or coaxial digital cable from the DIGITAL OUT jack of the MD-185II to a corresponding DIGITAL IN jack on your digital amplifier or DAC.
- For digital recording, connect an optical or coaxial digital cable from the DIGITAL OUT jack of your digital source device to a corresponding DIGITAL IN jack on the MD-185II.
Operating
1. Basic Playback
- Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.
- Insert a MiniDisc into the disc slot with the label side facing up. The disc will be automatically loaded.
- Press the PLAY button. Playback will begin.
- Use the SKIP buttons to navigate between tracks.
- Press PAUSE to temporarily stop playback, and PLAY again to resume.
- Press STOP to end playback.
- Press the EJECT button to remove the MiniDisc.
2. Recording
The MD-185II supports both analog and digital recording.
Analog Recording:
- Insert a blank or recordable MiniDisc.
- Select the appropriate analog input using the INPUT SELECTOR.
- Start playback on your analog source device.
- Adjust the recording level using the REC LEVEL knobs to ensure the signal does not clip (indicated by the display).
- Press the REC button. The unit will enter record-pause mode.
- Press PLAY (or REC/PLAY) to start recording.
- Press STOP to end recording.
Digital Recording:
- Insert a blank or recordable MiniDisc.
- Select the appropriate digital input (Optical or Coaxial) using the INPUT SELECTOR.
- Start playback on your digital source device.
- Press the REC button. The unit will enter record-pause mode. Digital recording levels are typically fixed and do not require manual adjustment.
- Press PLAY (or REC/PLAY) to start recording.
- Press STOP to end recording.
3. Editing Functions (if applicable)
The MD-185II may offer basic editing functions such as track division, combining, or erasing. Refer to the on-screen display and specific buttons (e.g., EDIT, ERASE, MARK) for these operations. Detailed instructions for editing are typically found in the full product manual.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Unit:
- Before cleaning, disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn stains, use a cloth lightly dampened with water or a mild, non-abrasive detergent.
- Do not use abrasive cloths, cleaning sprays, or chemical solvents (e.g., benzene, thinner) as they may damage the finish.
- Avoid getting liquids inside the unit.
Disc Care:
- Handle MiniDiscs by their edges. Avoid touching the disc surface.
- Store MiniDiscs in their cases to protect them from dust and scratches.
- Keep discs away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong magnetic fields.
Troubleshooting
If you experience problems with your MD-185II, please consult the following table before contacting service personnel.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not connected securely. | Check power cord connection to the unit and wall outlet. |
| No sound during playback | Incorrect input selected on amplifier/receiver. Audio cables not connected properly. Volume on amplifier/receiver is too low. | Select the correct input. Check all audio cable connections. Increase volume. |
| Cannot record | Disc is write-protected. Incorrect input source selected. Recording level too low. | Slide the write-protect tab on the MiniDisc. Select the correct input source. Adjust recording level. |
| Disc does not load/eject | Disc inserted incorrectly. Mechanical issue. | Ensure disc is inserted correctly. Do not force. If problem persists, contact service. |
Specifications
- Model: ONKYO MD-185II
- Product Type: MiniDisc Recorder (MD Deck)
- Power Requirements: AC 100V, 50/60Hz
- Power Consumption: 12W
- Audio Inputs: Analog (RCA), Digital (Optical, Coaxial)
- Audio Outputs: Analog (RCA), Digital (Optical, Coaxial), Headphone
- Dimensions (Approx.): Width: [Not specified] mm, Height: [Not specified] mm, Depth: [Not specified] mm
- Weight (Approx.): [Not specified] kg
- Manufacturer Reference: MD-185II
- ASIN: B00OPS1IHC
- Date First Available: October 21, 2014
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice for improvement.
Warranty and Support
ONKYO products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ONKYO website. Please have your model number (MD-185II) and purchase details ready when contacting support.
For further assistance, please contact your local ONKYO authorized dealer or service center.





