1. Introduction
The TASCAM CD-A580 v2 is a versatile, rack-mountable professional audio device designed for a wide range of applications. It integrates a cassette recorder, a CD player, and a USB memory recorder into a single unit, offering comprehensive media compatibility. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your CD-A580 v2.
Figure 1.1: Front view of the TASCAM CD-A580 v2. This image displays the front panel with the CD tray, cassette deck, USB port, and various control buttons and display.
Key features include:
- Rack-mountable design suitable for professional installations.
- High-stability and durable one-way IC logic transport control for cassette operations.
- Direct dubbing from CD to cassette or USB memory.
- Recording from line input to USB memory or cassette.
- Pitch control functionality (up to +/-10%) for cassette playback.
2. Important Safety Information
Please read these safety instructions carefully before using the unit. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Power Source: Connect the unit only to the specified power supply voltage. Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into an AC outlet.
- Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit to prevent overheating.
- Moisture and Liquids: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or dripping/splashing liquids. Never place objects filled with liquids on the unit.
- Foreign Objects: Do not insert any objects into the unit's openings. This could cause electric shock or damage.
- 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 locations with excessive vibration, dust, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight.
- Laser Product: This product contains a laser. Do not open the CD compartment while the unit is powered on.
3. Setup
3.1 Unpacking and Checking Contents
Carefully unpack the CD-A580 v2 and check that all included accessories are present:
- TASCAM CD-A580 v2 unit
- Remote control (RC-1329)
- AAA batteries for remote control (x2)
- Rackmount screws
- Instruction manual (with warranty information)
- TASCAM ID registration guide
3.2 Rack Mounting
The CD-A580 v2 is designed for standard 19-inch rack mounting. Use the provided rackmount screws to secure the unit into an equipment rack. Ensure sufficient space for ventilation above and below the unit.
3.3 Connecting the Unit
Figure 3.1: Rear panel of the TASCAM CD-A580 v2. This view shows the unbalanced RCA input and output jacks, the AC power inlet, and various safety certifications and warnings.
- Audio Connections:
- Line Input: Connect your audio source (e.g., mixer, preamplifier) to the LINE INPUT (UNBALANCED) RCA jacks on the rear panel. Ensure left (L) and right (R) channels are connected correctly.
- Line Output: Connect the LINE OUTPUT (UNBALANCED) RCA jacks to your amplifier, powered speakers, or recording device. Ensure left (L) and right (R) channels are connected correctly.
- Power Connection: Connect the supplied AC power cord to the AC IN connector on the rear panel and then to a suitable AC outlet.
- USB Memory: Insert a USB memory device into the USB port on the front panel for recording or playback.
- Headphones: Connect headphones to the headphone jack on the front panel for monitoring audio.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Playback
CD Playback:
- Press the OPEN/CLOSE button to open the CD tray.
- Place a CD onto the tray with the label side up.
- Press OPEN/CLOSE again to close the tray.
- Press the PLAY button to start playback.
- Use the SKIP buttons to navigate between tracks.
Cassette Playback:
- Press the EJECT button to open the cassette door.
- Insert a cassette tape into the deck.
- Close the cassette door.
- Press the PLAY button to start playback.
- Use the REWIND and FAST FORWARD buttons to navigate the tape.
- To adjust playback speed, use the PITCH CONTROL knob (up to +/-10%).
USB Memory Playback:
- Insert a USB memory device containing MP3 files into the USB port.
- Select the USB source using the SOURCE button.
- Use the navigation buttons to select desired files or folders.
- Press the PLAY button to start playback.
4.2 Recording
Recording to USB Memory:
- Insert a formatted USB memory device into the USB port.
- Select the desired input source (CD, Cassette, or Line Input) using the SOURCE button.
- Press the REC button to arm recording.
- Press PLAY on the source (CD/Cassette) or start audio from the Line Input.
- Press REC again to start recording.
- Press STOP to end recording.
Recording to Cassette Tape:
- Insert a recordable cassette tape into the deck.
- Select the desired input source (CD, USB, or Line Input) using the SOURCE button.
- Press the REC button on the cassette deck section to arm recording.
- Press PLAY on the source (CD/USB) or start audio from the Line Input.
- Press REC again to start recording.
- Press STOP to end recording.
4.3 Remote Control (RC-1329)
The included remote control provides convenient access to most functions. Ensure the AAA batteries are correctly installed. Point the remote control directly at the unit's remote sensor for optimal operation.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning the Unit: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
- CD Lens Cleaning: If CD playback becomes unreliable, use a commercially available CD lens cleaner disc.
- Cassette Head Cleaning: Periodically clean the cassette heads, pinch rollers, and capstans with a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol. This helps maintain optimal sound quality and prevents tape damage.
- Demagnetization: Demagnetize the cassette heads periodically using a cassette head demagnetizer to prevent high-frequency loss.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power cord and store the unit in a cool, dry place.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not connected; Power outlet faulty | Check power cord connection; Try a different outlet |
| No sound output | Incorrect audio connections; Volume too low; Wrong source selected | Verify RCA cable connections; Increase volume; Select correct input source |
| CD does not play | CD inserted incorrectly; CD dirty/scratched; Disc format not supported | Insert CD correctly; Clean or replace CD; Ensure disc is audio CD or MP3 CD |
| Cassette tape not playing/recording | Tape tangled/damaged; Heads dirty; Wrong direction selected | Check tape condition; Clean cassette heads; Ensure correct tape direction |
| USB recording fails | USB memory full; USB memory not formatted correctly; USB memory not compatible | Delete files or use another USB; Format USB to FAT32; Try a different USB device |
| Remote control not working | Batteries depleted/incorrectly inserted; Obstruction between remote and unit | Replace batteries, check polarity; Remove obstructions; Ensure remote is pointed at sensor |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | CD-A580 v2 |
| Brand | TASCAM |
| Product Type | Cassette Recorder, CD Player, USB Memory Recorder |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Power Consumption | 13 W |
| Compatible Items | Headphones, Headphone Jack |
| Number of Discs (CD) | 1 |
| Included Components | Remote control (RC-1329), Remote control batteries (AAA) x 2, Rackmount screws, Instruction manual (with warranty), TASCAM ID registration guide |
8. Warranty and Support
The TASCAM CD-A580 v2 comes with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty section within the included instruction manual for detailed terms and conditions, including coverage period and service procedures.
For technical support, service, or inquiries regarding your product, please contact TASCAM customer support or visit the official TASCAM website. Contact information can typically be found in the included documentation or on the manufacturer's website.