Medeli DR-3 Digital Recorder User Manual

1. Introduction

The Medeli DR-3 is a portable digital recorder designed for high-quality audio capture of both speech and musical performances. It offers versatile recording options, intuitive controls, and a compact design, making it suitable for various recording environments. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your DR-3 recorder.

2. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your Medeli DR-3 Digital Recorder.

Figure 1: Medeli DR-3 Digital Recorder Front View

The image displays the Medeli DR-3 Digital Recorder. Key features include:

• Built-in Condenser Microphones: Located at the top, labeled 'L' (Left) and 'R' (Right) for stereo recording.
• External Microphone Input: An "EXT MIC" jack is positioned between the built-in microphones.
• Peak Indicators: Small blue and orange lights below the microphones, labeled "PEAK", to indicate audio input levels.
• Backlit LCD Display: A large blue screen showing recording time (e.g., "00:00:00"), SD card status ("<No SD Card>"), and real-time audio level meters for left and right channels. It also displays current status like "STOP FX:OFF".
• Control Buttons:
  • SPK / MONITOR: Button for speaker and monitoring functions.
  • EFFECT: Button to access and adjust audio effects.
  • A-B REPEAT: Button for repeating a selected section of audio.
  • RECORD: Button to start and stop recording.
• Navigation Pad: A circular pad with a central "MENU" button and directional arrows for navigating menus and settings.
• HOLD ON/OFF: Button to lock controls and prevent accidental changes.
• BACK/CANCEL: Button to go back in menus or cancel an action.

3. Getting Started (Setup)

3.1. Powering On/Off

• To power on, press and hold the HOLD ON/OFF button until the display illuminates.
• To power off, press and hold the HOLD ON/OFF button until the display turns off.

3.2. Battery Charging

The DR-3 features an integrated 3.7V 1500 mAh rechargeable battery, providing up to 10 hours of recording time.

• Connect the device to a 5V DC power adapter (not included) via the USB port for charging.
• The battery indicator on the display will show charging status.

3.3. Inserting an SD Card

The DR-3 supports SD cards (64MB to 4GB) and SDHC cards (4GB to 16GB) with FAT16/32 file systems.

• Locate the SD card slot (usually on the side or bottom of the device).
• Insert the SD card until it clicks into place. Ensure the card is inserted in the correct orientation.
• The display will indicate "SD Card" when successfully inserted.

4. Basic Operation

4.1. Recording Audio

The DR-3 can record in MP3 (up to 320 Kbps/48 kHz) or WAV (16/24 bit - 44.1/48 kHz) formats.

• Using Built-in Microphones: Position the recorder towards the sound source. The 'L' and 'R' microphones will capture stereo audio.
• Using External Microphones/Line-in: Connect an external microphone to the "EXT MIC" jack or an external audio source to the line-in input.
• Adjusting Input Level: Monitor the audio levels on the LCD display. Adjust the input gain to prevent peaking (indicated by the "PEAK" lights). The device includes an Auto Gain function for automatic level adjustment.
• Press the RECORD button to start recording. The time display will begin counting.
• Press the RECORD button again to stop recording. The file will be saved to the SD card.

4.2. Playback

You can listen to your recordings using the integrated speaker or headphones.

• Navigate through your recorded files using the navigation pad and MENU button.
• Select a file and press the appropriate button (usually the central MENU button or a dedicated play button) to start playback.
• Use the A-B REPEAT function to loop a specific section of a recording.

5. Advanced Features

• Audio Effects: The DR-3 offers 4 selectable effects with editable parameters: Room, Hall, Pitch Shift, and Delay. Access these via the EFFECT button and navigate the menu to customize.
• Vocal Enhancer: Improves the clarity of vocal recordings.
• MP3 Voice Canceler: Reduces or removes vocals from MP3 files, useful for karaoke or instrumental practice.
• Low Cut Filter: Reduces unwanted low-frequency noise (e.g., wind noise, rumble).

6. Specifications

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the recorder. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Care: For optimal battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Charge it regularly, even if not in use for extended periods.
• SD Card Care: Always safely eject the SD card from the device before removing it to prevent data corruption.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Medeli DR-3, refer to the following common solutions:

• Device does not power on:
  • Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the device to a power source.
  • Check if the HOLD function is activated. Deactivate it by pressing the HOLD ON/OFF button.
• No recording or "No SD Card" message:
  • Verify that an SD card is correctly inserted.
  • Ensure the SD card is formatted to FAT16/32.
  • Check if the SD card has sufficient free space.
  • The SD card might be locked (write-protected). Unlock it if necessary.
• Poor audio quality:
  • Adjust the recording level to avoid clipping (peak indicators lighting up constantly).
  • Ensure microphones (built-in or external) are positioned correctly and not obstructed.
  • Check microphone connections if using an external microphone.
  • Consider using the Low Cut Filter to reduce background noise.
• No sound during playback:
  • Increase the volume level.
  • Ensure headphones are properly connected if used.
  • Check if the integrated speaker is enabled (if applicable).

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact your local Medeli distributor. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support or further assistance, please visit the official Medeli website or contact their customer service department. Contact details can typically be found on the product packaging or the official website.