1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the ONKYO CDR-SX7 Audio CD 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.
Safety Information
- Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
2. Product Overview
The ONKYO CDR-SX7 is an optical audio CD recorder designed for high-quality recording and playback. It features a 3-beam semiconductor laser pickup and advanced multi-bit D/A converter for superior audio performance.

Figure 1: Front view of the ONKYO CDR-SX7 Audio CD Recorder. This image shows the disc tray, display panel, and various control buttons for recording and playback.
Key Features:
- 2x Finalize speed for reduced waiting times.
- Digital and Analog recording volume control.
- Signal sync recording (digital input only).
- Automatic finalize function.
- 25-track program memory.
- AMCS dial for easy track selection.
- CD text input for disc, artist, and track names.
- Equipped with a sampling rate converter.
- Edit functions including REC LEVEL, CD DUBBING MODE, and ERASE (for CD-RW discs).
- System control remote control linkage (compatible with FR-SX7 and SX-9 remote controls).
3. Setup
3.1 Unpacking and Placement
Carefully remove the CDR-SX7 from its packaging. 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.
3.2 Connecting Audio Cables
- Analog Connection: Connect the analog audio output (RCA L/R) of your source device (e.g., amplifier, tape deck) to the ANALOG INPUT jacks on the rear of the CDR-SX7. Connect the ANALOG OUTPUT jacks of the CDR-SX7 to an available input on your amplifier or receiver.
- Digital Connection: For digital recording, connect the optical digital output of your source device to one of the DIGITAL INPUT (OPTICAL) jacks on the CDR-SX7.
3.3 Power Connection
After all audio connections are made, plug the power cord into a suitable AC outlet. The unit will enter standby mode.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Playback
- Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.
- Press the OPEN/CLOSE button to open the disc tray.
- Place an audio CD (CD-DA) or recorded CD-R/CD-RW disc onto the tray with the label side up.
- Press OPEN/CLOSE again to close the tray.
- Press the PLAY button to start playback.
4.2 Recording Audio CDs
The CDR-SX7 supports recording from both analog and digital sources onto CD-R and CD-RW discs.
4.2.1 Preparing a Blank Disc
- Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into the disc tray.
- The unit will display "BLANK DISC" or "ERASE DISC" (for CD-RW).
- If using a CD-RW that has been previously recorded, you may need to erase it first using the ERASE function (refer to section 4.3.3).
4.2.2 Recording from a Digital Source (Signal Sync Recording)
- Select the digital input source using the INPUT SELECTOR button.
- Start playback on your digital source device.
- Press the REC button on the CDR-SX7. The unit will automatically start recording when it detects an audio signal.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button.
4.2.3 Recording from an Analog Source
- Select the analog input source using the INPUT SELECTOR button.
- Adjust the recording level using the REC LEVEL control to prevent distortion.
- Start playback on your analog source device.
- Press the REC button on the CDR-SX7 to begin recording.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button.
4.3 Editing and Finalizing
4.3.1 Finalizing a Disc
After recording, a CD-R disc must be finalized to be playable on standard CD players. CD-RW discs do not require finalizing for playback on the CDR-SX7 but may need it for other players.
- With the recorded disc in the tray, press the FINALIZE button.
- Confirm the action when prompted. The unit will finalize the disc at 2x speed.
- The display will show "FINALIZING" and then "COMPLETE" when finished.
4.3.2 CD Text Input
You can input disc, artist, and track names using the CD Text function.
- During recording or after recording but before finalizing, press the CD TEXT button.
- Use the AMCS dial and other control buttons to input characters for the desired information.
- Press ENTER to confirm.
4.3.3 Erasing a CD-RW Disc
To reuse a CD-RW disc, you must erase its contents.
- Insert the CD-RW disc into the tray.
- Press the ERASE button.
- Confirm the erase operation when prompted. The disc will be erased.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning the Unit
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth.
- For stubborn stains, dampen the cloth with a mild detergent solution and wipe gently, then dry with a clean cloth.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, benzene, alcohol, or other volatile solvents, as they may damage the finish.
5.2 Disc Care
- Handle discs by their edges to avoid fingerprints on the recording surface.
- Store discs in their cases when not in use to protect them from dust and scratches.
- Clean dirty discs with a soft, lint-free cloth, wiping from the center outwards.
6. Troubleshooting
If you experience problems with your CDR-SX7, please consult the following table before contacting service personnel.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not securely plugged in. | Check power cord connection to the unit and wall outlet. |
| Disc does not play | Disc inserted incorrectly; Disc is dirty or scratched; Disc is not finalized (CD-R). | Insert disc with label side up; Clean or replace disc; Finalize the CD-R disc. |
| Cannot record | No blank disc inserted; Disc is full; Input source not selected; Recording level too low. | Insert a blank CD-R/CD-RW; Use a new disc or erase CD-RW; Select correct input; Adjust REC LEVEL. |
| Poor sound quality during recording | Recording level too high (distortion) or too low (noise). | Adjust the REC LEVEL control carefully before recording. |
7. Specifications
| Model | Optical Audio CD Recorder |
| Pickup | 3-beam semiconductor laser pickup |
| D/A Converter | Advanced multi-bit method |
| Digital Filter | 8x oversampling |
| Sampling Frequency | 44.1 kHz |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.004% (1 kHz, playback) |
| Channel Separation | 90 dB |
| Recording/Playback Time | Max. approx. 80 minutes (using 80-minute disc) |
| Frequency Response | 5 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Dynamic Range | 98 dB (playback), 92 dB (recording) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SN Ratio) | 98 dB (playback), 94 dB (recording) |
| Wow and Flutter | Below measurement limit |
| Output Level (Analog) | 2.0 Vrms |
| Power Consumption | 12 W |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 205.5 mm x 76 mm x 302.5 mm |
| Weight | 2.7 kg |
| Inputs | Analog x1, Digital Optical x2 |
| Outputs | Analog x1 |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ONKYO website. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact your local ONKYO dealer or authorized service center. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Online Support: www.onkyo.com