1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient use of your ONKYO K-185II-S Auto-Reverse Cassette Deck. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the unit and retain it for future reference. The K-185II-S is a high-quality stereo cassette deck designed for both playback and recording, featuring auto-reverse capability and advanced noise reduction technologies.
Figure 1.1: Front view of the ONKYO K-185II-S Auto-Reverse Cassette Deck. This image displays the main controls and cassette compartment on the front panel of the unit.
2. Key Features
- Dolby B/C NR: Integrated Dolby B and C Noise Reduction systems to minimize tape hiss during playback and recording.
- Dolby HX PRO: Equipped with Dolby HX PRO headroom extension for improved high-frequency recording linearity.
- Auto Tape Selector: Automatically detects and sets the correct equalization and bias for Normal, High (CrO2), and Metal type tapes.
- Metal Tape Recording Capability: Supports recording on Type IV (Metal) cassette tapes for enhanced sound quality.
- Skip Search Function: Allows for quick navigation between tracks on a recorded cassette tape.
- Auto-Reverse: Enables continuous playback or recording in both directions of the tape without manual intervention.
3. Setup
3.1 Unpacking
Carefully remove the cassette deck from its packaging. Ensure all accessories, if any, are present. Retain the packaging materials for future transport or storage.
3.2 Placement
Place the unit on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive dust or vibration. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
3.3 Connections
- Audio Output Connection: Connect the LINE OUT jacks on the rear of the K-185II-S to the LINE IN or TAPE IN jacks on your amplifier or receiver using RCA audio cables.
- Audio Input Connection (for recording): Connect the LINE IN jacks on the rear of the K-185II-S to the LINE OUT or TAPE OUT jacks of your amplifier, receiver, or other audio source (e.g., CD player, tuner) using RCA audio cables.
- Power Connection: Plug the AC power cord into a standard AC100V, 50/60Hz wall outlet.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Playback
- Press the EJECT button to open the cassette compartment.
- Insert a cassette tape with the open edge facing down and the side to be played facing forward. Close the compartment.
- Press the PLAY button. The tape will begin to play.
- Adjust the volume on your amplifier or receiver.
- To stop playback, press the STOP button.
- Use the REWIND or FAST FORWARD buttons to navigate the tape.
4.2 Recording
- Insert a blank cassette tape into the compartment. Ensure the tape's erase protection tabs are intact if you intend to record.
- Select the desired audio source on your amplifier or receiver (e.g., CD, Tuner) that is connected to the K-185II-S LINE IN jacks.
- Press the RECORD button (usually simultaneously with the PLAY button). The recording indicator will illuminate.
- Start playback on your audio source.
- Monitor the recording levels using the unit's level meters and adjust the recording level control on the K-185II-S (if available) or the output level of your source component to prevent distortion.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button.
4.3 Auto-Reverse Function
The K-185II-S automatically reverses tape direction at the end of a side during playback or recording. This allows for continuous operation without manually flipping the tape. The direction indicator will show the current playback/recording direction.
4.4 Dolby Noise Reduction
Engage the Dolby NR (Noise Reduction) switch to either 'B' or 'C' position to reduce tape hiss. Use the same Dolby setting for playback as was used for recording to ensure proper sound reproduction.
4.5 Skip Search Function
To use the skip search function, press the SKIP SEARCH button (or equivalent) during playback. The deck will fast forward or rewind to the next or previous silent gap between tracks. Refer to the front panel controls for specific button labels.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning Heads and Pinch Rollers
Regularly clean the tape heads, pinch rollers, and capstans to ensure optimal sound quality and prevent tape damage. Use a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Perform this cleaning after approximately 10-20 hours of use or if sound quality deteriorates.
5.2 Demagnetizing Heads
Over time, tape heads can become magnetized, leading to increased noise and dull sound. Use a tape head demagnetizer periodically (e.g., every 50-100 hours of use) to demagnetize the heads. Follow the demagnetizer's instructions carefully.
5.3 Exterior Cleaning
Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord disconnected; Power outlet faulty | Check power cord connection; Try a different outlet |
| No sound during playback | Incorrect input selection on amplifier; Audio cables disconnected; Volume too low | Select correct input on amplifier; Check audio cable connections; Increase amplifier volume |
| Poor sound quality (dull, muffled) | Dirty tape heads; Magnetized tape heads; Incorrect Dolby NR setting | Clean tape heads; Demagnetize tape heads; Ensure Dolby NR setting matches recording |
| Recording not possible | Tape erase protection tab removed; Incorrect input source selected | Cover the erase protection tab with tape; Select the correct input source on your amplifier |
| Tape speed unstable (wow and flutter) | Dirty pinch rollers/capstans; Worn drive belt (internal) | Clean pinch rollers/capstans; If problem persists, professional service may be required |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Type | Auto-reverse Stereo Cassette Deck |
| Noise Reduction System | Dolby B/C NR, Dolby HX PRO |
| Track Format | 4-track, 2-channel stereo |
| Recording Method | AC Bias |
| Erasing Method | AC Erase |
| Tape Speed | 4.8 cm/sec |
| Wow and Flutter | 0.07% (WRMS) / 0.14%W PEAK |
| Frequency Response (Normal Tape) | 20-15,000Hz (30-14,000Hz ±3dB) |
| Frequency Response (High Tape) | 20-16,000Hz (30-15,000Hz ±3dB) |
| Frequency Response (Metal Tape) | 20-17,000Hz (30-16,000Hz ±3dB) |
| S/N Ratio (Metal, Dolby NR OFF) | 58dB (3% THD level) |
| S/N Ratio Improvement (Dolby B) | 10dB (at 5kHz) |
| S/N Ratio Improvement (Dolby C) | 20dB (at 5kHz) |
| Input Jacks | Line (1 system) |
| Input Sensitivity (Line) | 600mV |
| Input Impedance (Line) | 50kΩ |
| Output Jacks | Line (1 system) |
| Standard Output (Line) | 500mV (0dB) |
| Load Impedance (Line) | 50kΩ or more |
| Motor | 1 DC Servo Motor |
| Heads | 1 Hard Permalloy (Rec/Play), 1 Ferrite (Erase) |
| Power Supply | AC100V, 50/60Hz |
| Power Consumption | 9W |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 185 × 131 × 289 mm |
| Weight | 2.9 kg |
8. Warranty and Support
Specific warranty information for the ONKYO K-185II-S is not provided within this manual. For details regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ONKYO website. Contact information for customer support can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or in accompanying documentation.