Sony DVD Player RDR GX300 User Manual

2-149-120-11(1)  
DVD Recorder  
Operating Instructions  
RDR-GX300  
© 2004 Sony Corporation  
 
If you have any questions or  
problems concerning your recorder,  
please consult your nearest Sony  
dealer.  
13 Unplug this apparatus during  
lightning storms or when unused  
for long periods of time.  
On recording  
• Note that the contents of the  
recording cannot be compensated  
for under any and all conditions,  
including conditions that may  
arise due to a malfunction of this  
unit.  
14 Refer all servicing to qualified  
service personnel. Servicing is  
required when the apparatus has  
been damaged in any way, such  
as power-supply cord or plug is  
damaged, liquid has been spilled  
or objects have fallen into the  
apparatus, the apparatus has  
been exposed to rain or  
IMPORTANT SAFETY  
INSTRUCTIONS  
• Make trial recordings before  
making the actual recording.  
1
2
3
4
5
Read these instructions.  
Keep these instructions.  
Heed all warnings.  
Follow all instructions.  
Do not use this apparatus near  
water.  
Copyrights  
moisture, does not operate  
normally, or has been dropped.  
• Television programs, films, video  
tapes, discs, and other materials  
maybe copyrighted. Unauthorized  
recording of such material may be  
contrary to the provisions of the  
copyright laws. Also, use of this  
recorder with cable television  
transmission may require  
6
7
Clean only with dry cloth.  
Do not block any ventilation  
openings. Install in accordance  
with the manufacturer’s  
instructions.  
About this manual  
• Instructions in this manual  
describe the controls on the  
remote. You can also use the  
controls on the recorder if they  
have the same or similar names as  
those on the remote.  
• The on-screen display illustrations  
used in this manual may not match  
the graphics displayed on your TV  
screen.  
• The explanations regarding discs  
in this manual refer to discs  
created on this recorder. The  
explanations do not apply to discs  
that are created on other recorders  
and played back on this recorder.  
8
9
Do not install near any heat  
sources such as radiators, heat  
registers, stoves, or other  
apparatus (including amplifiers)  
that produce heat.  
Do not defeat the safety purpose  
of the polarized or grounding-  
type plug. A polarized plug has  
two blades with one wider than  
the other. A grounding type plug  
has two blades and a third  
grounding prong. The wide  
blade or the third prong are  
provided for your safety. If the  
provided plug does not fit into  
your outlet, consult an  
authorization from the cable  
television transmitter and/or  
program owner.  
• This product incorporates  
copyright protection technology  
that is protected by U.S. patents  
and other intellectual property  
rights. Use of this copyright  
protection technology must be  
authorized by Macrovision, and is  
intended for home and other  
limited viewing uses only unless  
otherwise authorized by  
Macrovision. Reverse engineering  
or disassembly is prohibited.  
electrician for replacement of  
the obsolete outlet.  
10 Protect the power cord from  
being walked on or pinched  
particularly at plugs,  
Copy guard function  
Since the recorder has a copy guard  
function, programs received through  
an external tuner (not supplied) may  
contain copy protection signals  
(copy guard function) and as such  
may not be recordable, depending  
on the type of signal.  
convenience receptacles, and the  
point where they exit from the  
apparatus.  
11 Only use attachments/  
accessories specified by the  
manufacturer.  
12 Use only with the cart, stand,  
tripod, bracket, or table specified  
by the manufacturer, or sold  
with the apparatus. When a cart  
is used, use caution when  
moving the cart/apparatus  
combination to avoid injury  
from tip-over.  
IMPORTANT NOTICE  
Caution: This recorder is capable  
of holding a still video image or  
on-screen display image on your  
television screen indefinitely. If  
you leave the still video image or  
on-screen display image displayed  
on your TV for an extended period  
of time you risk permanent damage  
to your television screen. Plasma  
display panels and projection  
televisions are especially  
susceptible to this.  
3
 
Table of Contents  
4
 
5
 
Ways to Use Your DVD Recorder  
Remote cable box or satellite receiver control – Set top box control  
, Connect the supplied set top box controller  
to have the recorder change the channel of  
your cable box or satellite receiver during a  
timer recording (page 14).  
CH 103!  
103  
Quick access to recorded titles – Title List  
, Display the Title List to see all of the titles  
on the disc, including recording date,  
channel, recording mode and thumbnail  
image (page 32). The recorder will  
automatically take program label  
information from the XDS (Extended Data  
Service)* and display it as the title name  
Title List  
My Movies 1.5/4.7GB  
TITLE LIST ORIGINAL  
1
2
3
4
2ch 1:00PM  
Wed 9/15 1:00PM( 1H00M)SP  
5ch 8:00PM 9:00PM  
Fri 9/17 8:00PM( 1H00M)SLP  
12ch 9:00AM 9:30AM  
Sat 9/25 9:00AM( 0H30M)EP  
3ch 8:00PM 8:30PM  
Sat 9/25 8:00PM( 0H30M)SLP  
-
2:00PM  
Sort  
Date  
2ch  
Title  
-
5ch  
Number  
-
12ch  
-
3ch  
* not available in some areas.  
Play the beginning of a title while it is being recorded – Chasing Playback  
, If you are using a DVD-RW (VR mode),  
Recording  
you can watch a program from the  
beginning while it is being recorded  
The game isn’t over  
yet, but I’ll start  
watching it from the  
beginning now.  
6
 
 
Watching one title while recording another – Simultaneous Rec and Play  
, If you are using a DVD-RW (VR mode),  
Recording  
you can watch a previously recorded  
program while recording another program  
on the same disc (page 57).  
I think I’ll watch  
yesterday’s golf game  
now, even though I  
am recording a movie.  
Creating your own program – Playlist  
, Record a program on a DVD-RW (VR  
Original  
mode), then delete, move and add scenes at  
will to create your own, original program  
Playlist  
Dynamic surround sound – TVS  
, Enjoy virtual surround sound effects from  
just your TV’s speakers with the TV Virtual  
Surround settings when playing a DVD  
VIDEO with multichannel audio tracks  
such as Dolby Digital (5.1ch) (page 53).  
A list of recordable and playable discs is on page 8.  
7
 
Quick Guide to Disc Types  
Recordable and playable discs  
Icon  
Compatibility with  
other DVD players  
(finalizing)  
Disc  
Logo  
used in Formatting  
this  
manual  
Type  
(new discs)  
Playable on DVD+RW  
compatible players  
(automatically finalized)  
Automatically  
formatted  
+
RW  
DVD+RW  
VR  
Format in VR  
mode  
(page 35)  
Playable only on VR mode  
compatible players  
(finalization unnecessary)  
-
RWVR  
mode  
DVD-  
RW  
Playable on most DVD  
players (finalization  
necessary) (page 36)  
Format in  
Video mode  
(page 35)  
Video  
mode  
-
RWVideo  
Playable on DVD+R  
compatible players (finalization  
necessary) (page 36)  
Automatically  
formatted  
+
R
DVD+R  
DVD-R  
Playable on most DVD  
players (finalization  
necessary) (page 36)  
Automatically  
formatted  
-
R
“DVD+RW,” “DVD-RW,” “DVD+R,” and “DVD-R,”  
are trademarks.  
Usable disc versions (as of May 2004)  
• 4x-speed or slower DVD+RWs  
• 2x-speed or slower DVD-RWs (Ver.1.1, Ver.1.1  
with CPRM* )  
• 8x-speed or slower DVD+Rs  
• 8x-speed or slower DVD-Rs (Ver.2.0)  
*1  
CPRM (Content Protection for Recordable Media) is  
a coding technology that protects copyrights for  
images.  
1
*2  
Only if the recording mode is SP, HSP, or HQ, and  
“Rec Screen Size” is set to “16:9.”  
Erasing titles does not free up disc space.  
*3  
8
 
         
Recording Features  
Editing Features  
Auto  
Chapter  
Manual  
Chapter  
Record  
16:9 sizes title name  
Change  
Rewrite  
(page 41)  
Delete title A-B Erase Playlist  
(page 63) (page 63) (page 65)  
(page 78) (page 65) (page 48) (page 62)  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
No  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
No  
Yes  
No  
No  
No  
No  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
No  
No  
No  
No  
Yes  
No  
No  
No  
Yes *2  
Yes  
No  
Yes *3  
Yes *3  
No  
Yes *2  
Discs that cannot be recorded on  
• 4x-speed compatible DVD-RWs (Ver. 1.2/4x)  
• DVD-RWs (Ver. 1.0)  
• DVD+RWs that are not 2.4x-speed compatible  
• Dual layer discs  
• 8 cm discs  
,continued  
9
 
Playable discs  
Icon  
Disc  
Logo  
used in  
this  
Type  
Characteristics  
manual  
Discs such as movies that can be purchased or rented  
DVD  
VCD  
CD  
DVD VIDEO  
VIDEO CDs or CD-Rs/CD-RWs in  
VIDEO CD/Super VIDEO CD format  
VIDEO CD  
Music CDs or CD-Rs/CD-RWs in music CD format  
that can be purchased  
CD  
CD-ROMs/CD-Rs/CD-RWs created on a PC or  
similar device in music format containing MP3  
audio tracks  
DATA CD  
DATA CD  
z Hint  
Discs that cannot be played  
• All CD-ROMs (including PHOTO CDs)  
• CD-Rs/CD-RWs, other than those recorded in  
music CD format, MP3 format, or Video CD  
format  
This DVD recorder can play 8 cm CDs and 8 cm DVDs  
as well.  
• Data part of CD-Extras  
• DVD-ROMs  
• DVD Audio discs  
• DVD-RAMs  
• HD layer on Super Audio CDs  
• DVD VIDEOs with a different region code (see  
below)  
• A disc recorded in a color system other than  
NTSC, such as PAL or SECAM  
10  
 
 
Note on playback operations of DVD VIDEOs/  
VIDEO CDs  
Notes  
• You cannot mix VR mode and Video mode on the same  
DVD-RW. To change the disc’s format, reformat the  
disc (page 35). Note that the disc’s contents will be  
erased after reformatting.  
• You cannot shorten the time required for recording  
even with high-speed discs. Also, you cannot record on  
the disc if the disc is not 1x speed compatible.  
• It is recommended that you use discs with “For Video”  
printed on their packaging.  
• You cannot add new recordings to DVD-Rs or DVD-  
RWs (Video mode) that contain recordings made on  
other DVD equipment.  
• In some cases, you may not be able to add new  
recordings to DVD+RWs that contain recordings made  
on other DVD equipment. If you do add a new  
recording, note that this recorder will rewrite the DVD  
menu.  
Some playback operations of DVD VIDEOs/  
VIDEO CDs may be intentionally set by software  
producers. Since this recorder plays DVD  
VIDEOs/VIDEO CDs according to the disc  
contents the software producers designed, some  
playback features may not be available. Also, see  
the instructions supplied with the DVD VIDEOs/  
VIDEO CDs.  
Region code (DVD VIDEO only)  
Your recorder has a region code printed on the rear  
of the unit and will only play DVD VIDEOs  
(playback only) labeled with identical region  
codes. This system is used to protect copyrights.  
DVD VIDEOs labeled  
recorder.  
will also play on this  
ALL  
• If the disc contains PC data unrecognizable by this  
recorder, the data may be erased.  
If you try to play any other DVD VIDEO, the  
message “Playback prohibited by region code.”  
will appear on the TV screen. Depending on the  
DVD VIDEO, no region code indication may be  
labeled even though playing the DVD VIDEO is  
prohibited by area restrictions.  
• Some DVD+RWs/DVD+Rs, DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs, or  
CD-RWs/CD-Rs cannot be played on this recorder due  
to the recording quality or physical condition of the  
disc, or the characteristics of the recording device and  
authoring software. The disc will not play if it has not  
been correctly finalized. For more information, see the  
operating instructions for the recording device.  
X
Region code  
RDR–XXXX  
00V 00Hz  
NO.  
00W  
0-000-000-00  
Music discs encoded with copyright protection  
technologies  
This product is designed to playback discs that  
conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard.  
Recently, various music discs encoded with  
copyright protection technologies are being  
marketed by some record companies. Please be  
aware that among those discs, there are some that  
do not conform to the CD standard and may not be  
playable by this product.  
11  
 
 
Using the cable box/satellite  
receiver control function  
Hookups and Settings  
The cable box/satellite receiver control function  
can be used with hookup A or B. It allows the  
recorder to control a cable box or satellite receiver  
via the supplied set top box controller. The  
recorder controls channels on the cable box or  
satellite receiver for timer recording. You can also  
use the recorder’s remote control to change  
channels on the cable box/satellite receiver  
whenever the cable box/satellite receiver is turned  
on, even if the recorder is turned off.  
Hooking Up the Recorder  
Follow steps 1 to 7 to hook up and adjust the  
settings of the recorder.  
Notes  
• Plug cords securely to prevent unwanted noise.  
• Refer to the instructions supplied with the components  
to be connected.  
• You cannot connect this recorder to a TV that does not  
have a video input jack.  
• Be sure to disconnect the power cord of each  
component before connecting.  
To use the cable box/satellite receiver control  
function, you need to connect the set top box  
controller and set the code number and output  
channel (page 23). After setting up the cable box/  
satellite receiver control, check that the recorder  
can correctly control the cable box or satellite  
receiver (page 26).  
Step 1: Unpacking  
Note to CATV system installer (in USA)  
This reminder is provided to call the CATV  
system installer’s attention to Article 820- 40 of  
the NEC that provides guidelines for proper  
grounding and, in particular, specifies that the  
cable ground shall be connected to the grounding  
system of the building, as close to the point of  
cable entry as practical.  
Check that you have the following items:  
• Audio/video cord (pinplug × 3 y pinplug × 3)  
(1)  
• Power cord (1)  
• Antenna cable (1)  
• Remote commander (remote) (1)  
• Set top box controller (1)  
• Size AA (R6) batteries (2)  
Notes  
• If your antenna is a flat cable (300-ohm twin lead  
cable), use an external antenna connector (not  
supplied) to connect the antenna to the recorder.  
• If you have separate cables for VHF and UHF  
antennas, use a UHF/VHF band mixer (not supplied) to  
connect the antenna to the recorder.  
Step 2: Connecting the  
Antenna Cable and Set Top  
Box Controller  
Select one of the following antenna hookups. Do  
not connect the power cord until you reach “Step  
If you have  
Hookup  
Cable box with a video/audio output A (page 13)  
or a satellite receiver  
Cable box with an antenna output  
only  
Cable without cable box, or antenna C (page 14)  
only (no cable TV)  
12  
 
               
A: Cable box or satellite receiver with a video/audio output  
With this hookup, you can record any channel on the cable box or satellite receiver. Be sure that the  
satellite receiver or cable box is turned on.  
To watch cable or satellite programs, you need to match the channel on the recorder (L1 or L3) to the  
input jack connected to the cable box or satellite receiver (LINE IN 1 or 3).  
Place the set top box controller  
Wall  
near the remote sensor on the  
cable box/satellite receiver.  
Set top box  
controller  
Cable box/  
satellite receiver  
Antenna cable  
(supplied)  
AUDIO  
OUT  
R
VIDEO  
OUT  
S VIDEO  
ANT IN  
TO TV  
L
to antenna input  
TV  
Audio/video  
cord (supplied)  
S-video cord (not  
supplied)  
ET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
AUDIO L VIDEO  
S VEO  
R
1
3
to SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
to LINE IN  
1 or 3  
VHF/UHF  
IN  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
DIGITAL OUT  
LINE OUT  
L VIDEO  
Y
S
VIDEO  
S
VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
R
AUDIO  
1
2
COAXIAL  
PCM/DTS/  
1
3
P
B
R
OUT  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
OPTICAL  
P
~
AC IN  
DVD recorder  
: Signal flow  
z Hints  
• If your cable box or satellite receiver has an S-video jack, you can use an S-video cord (not supplied) instead of the  
audio/video cord.  
• If you connect an S-video cord to the LINE IN 1 jack, set “Line1 Input” in Video Setup to “S VIDEO” (page 75). If  
you connect an S-video cord to the LINE IN 3 jack, set “Line3 Input” in Video Setup to “S VIDEO” (page 74).  
,continued  
13  
 
       
B: Cable box with an antenna output only  
With this hookup, you can record any channel on the satellite receiver or cable box. Be sure that the  
satellite receiver or cable box is turned on.  
To watch cable programs, you need to match the channel on the recorder (2ch, 3ch, or 4ch) to the antenna  
output channel on the cable box (2ch, 3ch, or 4ch).  
Wall  
Set top box  
controller  
(supplied)  
Cable box  
Place the set top box controller  
near the remote sensor on the  
cable box/satellite receiver.  
ANT IN  
TO TV  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
to SET TOP  
BOX  
CONTROL  
Antenna cable  
(supplied)  
to VHF/UHF IN  
DVD recorder  
VHF/UHF  
IN  
VHF/UHF  
IN  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
DIGITAL OUT  
COAXIAL  
LINE OUT  
L VIDEO  
Y
S
VIDEO  
S
VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
R
AUDIO  
1
2
1
3
P
B
R
OUT  
PCM/DTS/  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
OPTICAL  
P
~
AC IN  
OUT  
TV  
to VHF/UHF OUT  
to antenna  
input  
: Signal flow  
14  
 
     
C: Cable without cable box, or antenna only (no cable TV)  
Use this hookup if you watch cable channels without a cable box. Also use this hookup if you are using  
a VHF/UHF antenna or separate VHF and UHF antennas.  
With this hookup, you can record any channel by selecting the channel on the recorder.  
Wall  
to VHF/UHF IN  
DVD recorder  
VHF/UHF  
VHF/UHF  
IN  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
IN  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
DIGITAL OUT  
COAXIAL  
LINE OUT  
L VIDEO  
Y
S
VIDEO  
S
VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
R
AUDIO  
1
2
1
3
PB  
OUT  
PCM/DTS/  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
OPTICAL  
P
R
~
AC IN  
OUT  
TV  
to VHF/UHF OUT  
to antenna input  
Antenna cable (supplied)  
: Signal flow  
15  
 
   
Step 3: Connecting the Video Cords  
Select one of the following patterns A through C, according to the input jack on your TV monitor,  
projector, or AV amplifier (receiver). This will enable you to view pictures. Audio connections are  
A
B
S-video cord  
(not supplied)  
INPUT  
INPUT  
VIDEO  
Audio/video  
cord (supplied)  
S VIDEO  
L
TV, projector, or AV  
amplifier (receiver)  
AUDIO  
R
(yellow)  
TV, projector, or AV  
amplifier (receiver)  
to LINE OUT (S VIDEO) 1 or 2  
to LINE OUT (VIDEO) 1 or 2  
VHF/UHF  
DVD recorder  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
IN  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
DIGITAL OUT  
LINE OUT  
L VIDEO  
Y
S
VIDEO  
S
VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
R
AUDIO  
1
2
COAXIAL  
1
3
P
B
R
OUT  
PCM/DTS/  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
OPTICAL  
P
~
AC IN  
to COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
(red)  
(blue)  
(green)  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO IN  
C
Y
(green)  
(blue)  
(red)  
P
B
R
P
Component video  
cord (not supplied)  
TV, projector, or AV  
amplifier (receiver)  
: Signal flow  
Note  
Do not connect more than one type of video cord between the recorder and your TV at the same time.  
16  
 
     
A Connecting to a video input jack  
Using the PROGRESSIVE button  
Connect the yellow plug of the audio/video cord  
(supplied) to the yellow (video) jack. You will  
enjoy standard quality images.  
Note that you cannot use the PROGRESSIVE  
button with this connection.  
By using the PROGRESSIVE button on the  
remote, you can select the signal format in which  
the recorder outputs video signals: Interlace or  
Progressive.  
Connect the recorder using the COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT jacks (pattern C above), and press  
PROGRESSIVE repeatedly. “PROGRESSIVE”  
appears in the front panel display when the  
recorder outputs progressive signals.  
Yellow  
Yellow  
White (L)  
White (L)  
Red (R)  
Red (R)  
Progressive  
Select this when:  
– your TV accepts progressive signals, and,  
– the TV is connected to the COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT jacks.  
B Connecting to an S VIDEO input  
jack  
Note that the pictures will not be clear or no  
picture will appear if you select progressive signal  
output when either of the above conditions is not  
met.  
Connect an S-video cord (not supplied). You will  
enjoy high quality images.  
Note that you cannot use the PROGRESSIVE  
button with this connection.  
Interlace  
Set to this position when:  
– your TV does not accept progressive signals, or,  
– your TV is connected to jacks other than the  
COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks (LINE OUT  
(VIDEO) or S VIDEO).  
C Connecting to component video  
input jacks (Y, PB, P  
R)  
z Hint  
Connect the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks  
using a component video cord (not supplied) or  
three video cords (not supplied) of the same kind  
and length. You will enjoy accurate color  
reproduction and high quality images.  
If your TV accepts progressive 480p format  
signals, you must use this connection and then  
press PROGRESSIVE on the remote to send  
progressive video signals. For details, see “Using  
the PROGRESSIVE button” (page 17).  
When you select progressive signal output, you can fine-  
tune the signal according to the type of software you are  
watching (page 75).  
Note  
Consumers should note that not all high definition  
television sets are fully compatible with this product and  
may cause artifacts to be displayed in the picture. In the  
case of 480 progressive scan picture problems, it is  
recommended that the user switch the connection to the  
‘standard definition’ output. If there are questions  
regarding our TV set compatibility with this model 480p  
DVD recorder, please contact our customer service  
center.  
Green  
Blue  
Green  
Blue  
Red  
Red  
When playing wide screen” images  
Some recorded images may not fit your TV  
screen. To change the aspect ratio, see page 74.  
If you are connecting to a VCR  
Connect your VCR to the LINE IN (VIDEO) jack  
on the recorder (page 29).  
17  
 
                 
Step 4: Connecting the Audio Cords  
Select one of the following patterns A or B, according to the input jack on your TV monitor, projector,  
or AV amplifier (receiver).  
This will enable you to listen to sound.  
A
INPUT  
VIDEO  
(red)  
(yellow)  
Audio/video  
cord (supplied)  
(white)  
(red)  
(white)  
L
AUDIO  
(yellow)*  
R
LINE OUT  
VIDEO  
TV, projector, or AV  
amplifier (receiver)  
S VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
1
2
to LINE OUT (R-AUDIO-L) 1 or 2  
VHF/UHF  
IN  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
DIGITAL OUT  
COAXIAL  
LINE OUT  
L VIDEO  
Y
S
VIDEO  
S
VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
R
AUDIO  
1
2
1
3
P
B
R
OUT  
PCM/DTS/  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
OPTICAL  
P
~
AC IN  
DVD recorder  
to DIGITAL OUT (COAXIAL or  
OPTICAL)  
DIGITAL OUT  
COAXIAL  
PCM/DTS/  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
or  
OPTICAL  
Coaxial digital cord  
(not supplied)  
Optical digital cord (not supplied)  
to optical  
digital input  
to coaxial  
digital input  
[Speakers]  
Rear (L)  
[Speakers]  
Rear (R)  
B
Front (L)  
Front (R)  
AV amplifier (receiver)  
with a decoder  
Center  
Subwoofer  
: Signal flow  
* The yellow plug is used for video signals (page 17).  
z Hint  
For correct speaker location, see the operating instructions supplied with the connected components.  
Note  
Do not connect your TV’s audio output jacks to the LINE IN (AUDIO L/R) jacks at the same time. This will cause  
unwanted noise to come from your TV’s speakers.  
18  
 
     
A Connecting to audio L/R input  
B Connecting to a digital audio  
jacks  
input jack  
1
This connection will use your TV’s or stereo  
amplifier’s (receiver’s) two speakers for sound.  
Connect using the audio/video cord (supplied).  
If your AV amplifier (receiver) has a Dolby*  
2
Digital or DTS* decoder and a digital input jack,  
use this connection.  
Connect using a coaxial or optical digital cord (not  
supplied).  
Yellow  
Yellow  
White (L)  
White (L)  
Red (R)  
Coaxial cord  
Optical cord  
Red (R)  
• Surround effect (page 53)  
TV: Dynamic, Wide, Night  
• Surround effect  
Dolby Digital (5.1ch), DTS (5.1ch)  
Stereo amplifier (receiver): Standard, Night  
*1  
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.  
“Dolby,” “Pro Logic,” and the double-D symbol are  
trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.  
“DTS” and “DTS Digital Out” are trademarks of  
*2  
Digital Theater Systems, Inc.  
Notes  
• After you have completed the connection, make the  
appropriate settings under “Audio Connection” in Easy  
Setup (page 23). Otherwise, no sound or a loud noise  
will come from your speakers.  
• The surround sound effects of this recorder cannot be  
used with this connection.  
Note  
Do not connect your TV’s audio output jacks to the LINE  
IN (AUDIO L/R) jacks at the same time. This will cause  
unwanted noise to come from your TV’s speakers.  
19  
 
   
Step 5: Connecting the  
Power Cord  
Step 6: Preparing the  
Remote  
Connect the supplied power cord to the AC IN  
terminal of the recorder. Then plug the recorder  
and TV power cords into an AC outlet. After you  
connect the power cord, you must wait for a  
short while before operating the recorder. You  
can operate the recorder only after the front panel  
display lights up and the recorder enters standby  
mode.  
You can control the recorder using the supplied  
remote. Insert two size AA (R6) batteries by  
matching the 3 and # ends on the batteries to the  
markings inside the battery compartment. When  
using the remote, point it at the remote sensor  
on the recorder.  
If you connect additional equipment to this  
recorder (page 29), be sure to connect the power  
cord only after all connections are complete.  
~
N  
1
to AC IN  
Notes  
2
• If the supplied remote interferes your other Sony DVD  
recorder or player, change the command mode number  
for this recorder (page 22).  
to AC outlet  
• Use the batteries correctly to avoid possible leakage  
and corrosion. Do not touch the liquid with bare hands  
should leakage occur. Observe the following:  
– Do not use a new battery with an old battery, or  
batteries of different manufacturers.  
– Do not attempt to recharge the batteries.  
– If you do not intend to use the remote for an extended  
period of time, remove the batteries.  
– If battery leakage occurs, wipe out any liquid inside  
the battery compartment, and insert new batteries.  
• Do not expose the remote sensor (marked  
on the  
front panel) to strong light, such as direct sunlight or  
lighting apparatus. The recorder may not respond to the  
remote.  
20  
 
         
Code numbers of controllable TVs  
If more than one code number is listed, try  
entering them one at a time until you find the one  
that works with your TV.  
Controlling TVs with the remote  
You can adjust the remote control’s signal to  
control your TV.  
If you connected the recorder to an AV amplifier  
(receiver), you can also use the supplied remote to  
control the AV amplifier’s (receiver’s) volume.  
Manufacturer  
Sony  
Code number  
01 (default)  
04  
Akai  
Notes  
• Depending on the connected unit, you may not be able  
to control your TV or AV amplifier (receiver) with  
some or all of the buttons below.  
• If you enter a new code number, the code number  
previously entered will be erased.  
• When you replace the batteries of the remote, the code  
number may be reset to the default setting. Set the  
appropriate code number again.  
AOC  
04  
Centurion  
Coronado  
Curtis-Mathes  
Daewoo  
Daytron  
Fisher  
12  
03  
12, 14  
04, 22  
03, 12  
TV/DVD  
switch  
11  
"/1  
General Electric  
Gold Star/LG  
Hitachi  
04, 06, 10  
03, 04, 17  
02, 03, 04  
04, 10, 12  
09  
1
4
7
2
5
8
0
3
6
9
CH +/–  
Number  
buttons, SET  
VOL +/–  
J.C.Penney  
JVC  
TV/VIDEO  
KMC  
03  
Magnavox  
Marantz  
MGA/Mitsubishi  
NEC  
03, 04, 08, 12, 21  
04, 13  
1 Slide the TV/DVD switch to TV.  
2 Hold down [/1.  
04, 12, 13, 17  
04, 12  
3 Enter your TVs manufacturer code (see  
Code numbers of controllable TVs”  
below) using the number buttons.  
Panasonic  
Philco  
06, 19  
02, 03, 04, 08  
08, 21  
Philips  
4 Release [/1.  
Pioneer  
06, 16  
When the TV/DVD switch is set to TV, the  
remote performs the following:  
Portland  
Proscan  
Quasar  
03  
10  
[/1  
Turns your TV on or off  
06, 18  
VOL +/–  
Adjusts the volume of your  
TV  
Radio Shack  
RCA  
05, 10, 14  
04, 10  
CH +/–  
Selects the channel on your  
TV  
Sampo  
12  
TV/VIDEO  
Switches your TV’s input  
source  
Samsung  
Sanyo  
03, 04, 12, 20  
11, 14  
Number buttons and  
SET  
Selects the channel on your  
TV  
Scott  
12  
Sears  
07, 10, 11  
03, 05, 18  
Sharp  
,continued  
21  
 
   
Code numbers of controllable AV amplifiers  
(receivers)  
If more than one code number is listed, try  
entering them one at a time until you find the one  
that works with your AV amplifier (receiver).  
Manufacturer  
Sylvania  
Teknika  
Toshiba  
Wards  
Code number  
08, 12  
03, 08, 14  
07, 18  
Manufacturer  
Sony  
Code number  
78, 79, 80, 91  
84, 85, 86  
92, 93  
03, 04, 12  
12  
Yorx  
Denon  
Zenith  
14, 15  
Kenwood  
Onkyo  
81, 82, 83  
99  
Controlling the volume of your AV  
amplifier (receiver) with the remote  
Pioneer  
Sansui  
87  
TV/DVD  
switch  
Technics  
Yamaha  
97, 98  
94, 95, 96  
"/1  
1
4
7
2
5
8
0
3
6
9
Number  
buttons, SET  
If you have a Sony DVD player or  
more than one Sony DVD recorder  
VOL +/–  
If the supplied remote interferes with your other  
Sony DVD recorder or player, set the command  
mode number for this recorder and the supplied  
remote to one that differs from the other Sony  
DVD recorder or player.  
1 Slide the TV/DVD switch to DVD.  
The default command mode setting for this  
recorder and the supplied remote is DVD3.  
2 Hold down [/1, and enter the  
manufacturer code (see the table below)  
for your AV amplifier (receiver) using the  
number buttons.  
1
4
7
2
5
8
0
3
6
9
3 Release [/1.  
The VOL +/– buttons control the AV  
amplifier’s volume.  
If you want to control the TV’s volume, slide  
the TV/DVD switch to TV.  
SYSTEM  
MENU  
z Hint  
M/m,  
ENTER  
O RETURN  
If you want to control the TV’s volume even when the  
TV/DVD switch is set to DVD, repeat the steps above  
and enter the code number 90 (default).  
COMMAND  
MODE  
22  
 
   
1 Press SYSTEM MENU.  
The System Menu appears.  
Step 7: Easy Setup  
2 Select “ SETUP, and press ENTER.  
Follow the steps below to make the minimum  
number of basic adjustments for using the  
recorder. If you do not complete Easy Setup, it  
will appear each time you turn on your recorder.  
Settings are made in the following order.  
SETUP  
Settings  
Video  
Tuner Preset  
Set VCR Plus+ Channels  
Clock  
Audio  
Features  
Options  
Set Top Box Control  
Language  
OSD Language Setup  
Easy Setup  
m
Clock Setup  
3 Select “ Options,” and press ENTER.  
m
Cable Box/Sat. Control Setup  
SETUP  
m
Settings  
Video  
Format DVD :  
Dimmer :  
VR  
Normal  
On  
Tuner and Channel Setup  
Audio  
Auto Display :  
Command Mode :  
Factory Setup  
Features  
Options  
DVD3  
m
Easy Setup  
TV Type Setup  
m
4 Select “ Command Mode, and press  
ENTER.  
Audio Connection Setup  
m
Finished!  
SETUP  
Settings  
Video  
Format DVD :  
Dimmer :  
VR  
Normal  
On  
Audio  
Auto Display :  
Command Mode :  
Factory Setup  
"/1  
Features  
Options  
DVD1  
DVD2  
DVD3  
1
4
7
2
5
8
0
3
6
9
Easy Setup  
CH +/–  
Number  
buttons  
5 Select the Command mode (DVD1, DVD2,  
or DVD3), and press ENTER.  
6 Slide the COMMAND MODE switch on the  
remote so it matches the mode you  
selected above.  
</M/m/,,  
ENTER  
O RETURN  
To return to the previous step  
Press O RETURN.  
1 Turn on the TV.  
2 Press [/1.  
The recorder turns on.  
,continued  
23  
 
     
Once the clock is set, the Setup Display for  
cable box/satellite receiver control appears.  
3 Switch the input selector on your TV so that  
the signal from the recorder appears on  
your TV screen.  
“Initial settings necessary to operate the DVD  
recorder will be made. You can change them  
later using Setup. Before you start, check that  
you have made all necessary connections.”  
appears.  
EASY SETUP  
Set Top Box Control  
3/6  
Do you want to control your set top box  
with this recorder?  
(Changes to the current setting will erase all timer settings.)  
Yes  
No  
• If this message does not appear, select “Easy  
Setup” from “SETUP” in the System Menu  
to run Easy Setup. For details, see “Settings  
7 Set the cable box/satellite receiver  
control, and press ENTER.  
4 Press ENTER.  
If you want to use the cable box/satellite  
receiver control (page 14), select “Yes.”  
If you do not have a cable box, select “No,”  
then go to step 11.  
The Setup Display for selecting the language  
used in the on-screen display appears.  
EASY SETUP  
Language  
1/6  
8 Enter the brand code of your cable box/  
satellite receiver.  
Select the screen Language.  
English  
Français  
Español  
Use M/m to select the number and </, to  
move the cursor.  
5 Select a language, and press ENTER.  
EASY SETUP  
Set Top Box Control  
3/6  
The Setup Display for clock setting appears.  
Enter the brand code of your set top box.  
-
-
-
-
EASY SETUP  
Clock  
2/6  
Select a method for setting the clock.  
If you select "Auto", this recorder will look for a  
time signal when you turn it off.  
Auto  
Manual  
9 Press ENTER.  
EASY SETUP  
Set Top Box Control  
3/6  
6 Select “ Manual,” and press ENTER.  
Press M/m to set the month and press ,. Set  
the day, year, hour, and minutes in the same  
way. The day of the week is set automatically.  
If you used antenna hookup C (page 15), you  
can select “Auto.” The recorder will  
Select input line or Set Top Box's output channel.  
Line1  
Line2  
Line3  
Ch2  
Ch3  
Ch4  
automatically search for a channel that carries  
a time signal when you turn off the recorder  
after finishing Easy Setup.  
10Select the cable box output channel.  
If you connect your cable box or satellite  
receiver to the recorder’s audio/video input  
(page 13), select “Line1,” “Line2,” or  
“Line3,” then go to step 13.  
24  
 
 
If you connect the satellite receiver or cable  
box to the recorder’s antenna input (page 14),  
select “Ch2,” ‘Ch3,” or “Ch4” and press  
ENTER, then go to step 13. See the  
instructions supplied with your cable box to  
confirm the cable box’s antenna output  
channel.  
“4:3 Letter Box”: For standard TVs.  
Displays “wide screen” pictures with bands  
on the upper and lower sections of the screen.  
“4:3 Pan Scan”: For standard TVs.  
Automatically displays “wide screen”  
pictures on the entire screen and cuts off the  
sections that do not fit.  
“16:9”: For wide-screen TVs or standard TVs  
with a wide screen mode.  
For details, see “TV type” on page 74.  
11Select whether or not you have a cable  
connection.  
14Press ENTER.  
EASY SETUP  
Tuner Preset  
4/6  
The Setup Display for selecting the type of  
jack used to connect to your amplifier  
(receiver) appears.  
Select the way in which you will receive channels.  
Antenna  
Cable  
EASY SETUP  
Audio Connection  
6/6  
Is this recorder connected to an amplifier (receiver)?  
Select the type of jack you are using.  
Yes : LINE OUT(R-AUDIO-L)  
Yes : DIGITAL OUT  
No  
If you use an antenna only (no cable TV),  
select “Antenna.”  
If you use a cable connection without a cable  
box, select “Cable.”  
12Press ENTER.  
15Select the type of jack (if any) you are  
using to connect to an amplifier (receiver),  
and press ENTER.  
The Tuner Preset function automatically starts  
searching for all of the receivable channels  
and presets them.  
If you did not connect an AV amplifier  
(receiver), select “No,” then go to step 19.  
If you connected an AV amplifier (receiver)  
using just an audio cord, select “Yes: LINE  
OUT (R-AUDIO-L),” then go to step 19.  
If you connected an AV amplifier (receiver)  
using either a digital optical or coaxial cord,  
select “Yes: DIGITAL OUT.”  
EASY SETUP  
Tuner Preset  
4/6  
Searching for receivable channels.  
Please wait.  
Ch45  
16Select the type of Dolby Digital signal you  
wish to send to your amplifier (receiver).  
To set the channels manually, see page 71.  
After the Tuner Preset is finished, the Setup  
Display for selecting the aspect ratio of the  
connected TV appears.  
EASY SETUP  
Audio Connection  
6/6  
Dolby Digital  
13Select the setting that matches your TV  
type.  
D-PCM  
Dolby Digital  
EASY SETUP  
TV Type  
5/6  
Select your TV screen type.  
16 : 9  
If your AV amplifier (receiver) has a Dolby  
Digital decoder, select “Dolby Digital.”  
Otherwise, select “D-PCM.”  
4 : 3 Letter Box  
4 : 3 Pan Scan  
,continued  
25  
 
         
17Press ENTER.  
Checking the cable box/satellite  
receiver control setting  
The Setup Display for the DTS signal appears.  
EASY SETUP  
Audio Connection  
6/6  
1 Point the remote at the recorder (not at the  
cable box/satellite receiver.)  
DTS  
2 Press CH +/– and check that the channel  
changesonthecablebox/satellitereceiver  
window.  
On  
Off  
3 Press the number buttons and check that  
the channel changes on the cable box/  
satellite receiver window.  
18Select whether or not you wish to send a  
DTS signal to your amplifier (receiver),  
and press ENTER.  
To fix the set top box controller to your cable  
box/satellite receiver  
Once you have confirmed that the set top box  
controller controls your cable box or satellite  
receiver, fix it in place.  
If your AV amplifier (receiver) has a DTS  
decoder, select “On.” Otherwise, select “Off.”  
19Press ENTER when Finish” appears.  
Easy Setup is finished. All connections and  
setup operations are complete.  
1
Remove the backing on the double-sided tape.  
If you use the cable box/satellite receiver  
control, check that the control works correctly  
(see below).  
EASY SETUP  
Easy Setup is finished.  
2
Attach it so that the cable mouse is directly  
above the remote control sensor on your cable  
box/satellite receiver.  
Finish  
To return to the previous step  
Press O RETURN.  
z Hint  
If you want to run Easy Setup again, select “Easy Setup”  
in the Setup Display (page 81).  
If you cannot get the recorder to control your  
cable box/satellite receiver  
Check the settings at “Set Top Box Control” in  
Settings Setup (page 73).  
Check the connection and position of the cable  
mouse (page 13).  
If your cable box or satellite receiver still does not  
operate with this recorder, contact your cable  
company to see if they can provide you with a  
compatible cable box or satellite receiver.  
Notes  
• If there are only a few channels in your area that carry  
time signals, setting the clock automatically may take  
up to about 20 minutes after the recorder turns off. If  
nothing happens even after you wait about 20 minutes,  
set the clock manually in “Clock” of “Settings”  
• To record TV programs using the timer, you must set  
the clock accurately.  
• If you use an S-video cord to connect your cable box or  
satellite receiver, set “Line1 Input” or “Line3 Input” in  
Video Setup to “S Video” (page 75).  
26  
 
     
®
Setting Up the VCR Plus  
SETUP  
Settings  
Tuner Preset  
System  
Video  
Audio  
Set VCR Plus+ Channels  
Clock  
Features  
Options  
Set Top Box Control  
Language  
Setting up your recorder involves coordinating the  
TV channel number (the number you turn to on  
your TV or recorder to watch a program) with the  
guide channel (the number that’s assigned to that  
channel in your TV program guide).  
To find the guide channel numbers, look at the  
“Channel Line-up Chart” in the program guide for  
your area that features VCR PlusCode numbers.  
Use the Channel Line-up Chart to coordinate the  
guide channel number with the TV channel  
number. For example, if HBO is listed in the  
Channel Line-up Chart as channel 33, and the  
recorder receives HBO on channel 5, coordinate  
these numbers using the following procedure.  
Easy Setup  
3 Select Settings,and press ENTER.  
4 Select Set VCR Plus+ Channels, and  
press ENTER.  
Settings - Set VCR Plus+ Channels  
Guide CH  
- -  
TV CH  
- -  
----  
Channel list  
5 Select Guide CH – TV CH, and press  
ENTER.  
1
4
7
2
5
8
0
3
6
9
Settings - Set VCR Plus+ Channels  
Number  
buttons, SET  
Guide CH  
- -  
TV CH  
- -  
SYSTEM  
MENU  
6 Enter the guide channel number assigned  
in the program guide using the number  
buttons, and press SET.  
</M/m/,,  
ENTER  
O RETURN  
Settings - Set VCR Plus+ Channels  
Guide CH  
33
TV CH  
33  
1 Press SYSTEM MENU while the recorder is  
stopped.  
7 Enter the TV channel number using the  
number buttons, and press SET.  
SYSTEM MENU  
TITLE LIST  
TIMER  
Settings - Set VCR Plus+ Channels  
TIMER LIST  
SETUP  
Guide CH  
33
TV CH  
5
2 Select “ SETUP, and press ENTER.  
,continued  
27  
 
         
If you connected a cable box or satellite  
receiver to the recorder and set “Set Top Box  
Control” to “On,” enter the TV channel  
number on your cable box.  
If you connected a cable box and set “Set Top  
Box Control” to “Off,” enter the cable box  
output channel (Usually 2ch, 3ch, or 4ch). See  
the instructions supplied with your cable box  
to confirm the cable box’s output channel.  
8 Repeat steps 5 to 7 for each guide channel  
numberthatdoesnotmatchtheTVchannel  
number.  
9 Press SYSTEMMENU repeatedly to exit the  
menu.  
To return to the previous step  
Press O RETURN.  
To check the channel settings  
When displaying the “Set VCR Plus+ Channels”  
menu, select “Channel List,” then press ENTER.  
The display lists the channels for which the guide  
channel number does not match the TV channel  
number.  
Settings - VCR Plus+ Channel List  
Page1  
Guide CH  
TV CH  
21  
Guide CH  
TV CH  
18  
5
2
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
45  
53  
- -  
- -  
- -  
- -  
- -  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
32  
6
9
- -  
10  
11  
25  
28  
121  
13  
- -  
- -  
36  
- -  
2
- -  
Close  
To go to the next page, press m.  
To return to the previous page, press M.  
28  
 
 
Connecting a VCR or Similar Device  
After disconnecting the recorder’s power cord from an AC outlet, connect a VCR or similar recording  
device to the LINE IN jacks of this recorder.  
See also the instruction manual supplied with the connected equipment.  
Connecting to the LINE IN 1 or 3 jacks  
If the equipment has an S-video jack, you can use an S-video cord instead of an audio/video cord.  
VCR, etc.  
LINE OUTPUT  
AUDIO  
VIDEO  
S Video  
R
L
Audio/video cord  
(not supplied)  
S-video cord  
(not supplied)  
to LINE IN 1 or 3  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
S VIO  
R
AUDIO  
L
1
3
DVD recorder  
VHF/UHF  
IN  
COMPONENT  
VIDEO OUT  
SET TOP BOX  
CONTROL  
LINE IN  
VIDEO  
DIGITAL OUT  
COAXIAL  
LINE OUT  
L VIDEO  
Y
S
VIDEO  
S
VIDEO  
R
AUDIO  
L
R
AUDIO  
1
2
1
3
P
B
R
OUT  
PCM/DTS/  
DOLBY DIGITAL  
OPTICAL  
P
~
AC IN  
: Signal flow  
,continued  
29  
 
         
Connecting to the LINE 2 IN jacks on the front panel  
Connect a VCR or similar recording device to the LINE 2 IN jacks of this recorder. If the equipment has  
an S-video jack, you can use an S-video cord instead of an audio/video cord.  
VCR, etc.  
OUTPUT  
VIDEO  
AUDIO  
S VIDEO  
L
R
S-video  
cord (not  
supplied)  
Audio/video cord  
(not supplied)  
LINE 2 IN  
S VIDEO  
VIDEO  
L
(MONO) AUDIO R  
to LINE 2 IN  
DVD recorder  
: Signal flow  
z Hint  
When the connected equipment outputs only monaural sound, use audio cables that distribute monaural sounds to left/  
right channels (not supplied).  
Notes  
• Do not connect the yellow LINE IN (VIDEO) jack when using an S-video cord.  
• Do not connect the output jack of this recorder to another equipment’s input jack with the other equipment’s output  
jack connected to the input jack of this recorder. Noise (feedback) may result.  
• Pictures containing copy protection signals that prohibit any copying cannot be recorded.  
• If you pass the recorder signals via the VCR, you may not receive a clear image on your TV screen.  
DVD recorder  
VCR  
TV  
Be sure to connect your VCR to the DVD recorder and your TV in the order shown below. To watch videotapes, watch  
the tapes through a second Line input on your TV.  
LINE IN 1  
VCR  
DVD recorder  
TV  
LINE IN 2  
• Do not connect more than one type of video cord between the recorder and your TV at the same time.  
30  
 
   
Allows you to set a new timer recording  
setting.  
Guide to Displays  
C TIMER LIST (page 44):  
Using the On-Screen Menus  
Turns on the Timer List menu, which allows  
you to check, change, or cancel timer settings.  
+
-
-
+
-
R
RWVR RWVideo  
RW  
R
DVD  
D SETUP (page 69):  
VCD  
CD DATA CD  
Turns on the Setup Display, which allows you  
to set up the recorder to suit your preferences.  
This section introduces the System Menu, TOOLS  
menu, and sub-menu. By using these displays, you  
can perform most of the recorder’s operations.  
Sub-menu  
The sub-menu appears when you select an item  
from a list menu (e.g. a title from the Title List  
menu), and press ENTER. The sub-menu displays  
options applicable only to the selected item. The  
displayed options differ depending on the  
situation and disc type.  
1
4
7
2
5
8
0
3
6
9
Number  
buttons, SET  
Select an option by pressing M/m and ENTER.  
Example: The Title List menu  
TOOLS  
SYSTEM  
MENU  
My Movies 1.5/4.7GB  
TITLE LIST ORIGINAL  
</M/m/,,  
ENTER  
Close  
O RETURN  
1
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4
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8
2ch  
5ch  
12ch  
3ch  
25ch  
L2  
1:00PM - 2:00P
Play  
Sort  
Date  
8:00PM - 9:00P
Play Beginning  
Title  
9:00AM - 9:30A
Erase  
Number  
Protect Title  
8:00PM - 8:30P
Title Name  
8:00PM - 8:30P
Set Thumbnail  
9:00PM - 9:30P
A-B Erase  
8ch  
9:00PM - 9:30PM Tue 10/26  
125ch 10:00AM - 10:30AM Thu 10/28  
System Menu  
Options for the selected item  
The System Menu appears when you press  
SYSTEM MENU, and provides entries to all of  
the recorder’s main functions, such as timer  
recording and setup.  
Select an option by pressing M/m and ENTER.  
SYSTEM MENU  
TITLE LIST  
TIMER  
TIMER LIST  
SETUP  
A TITLE LIST (page 32):  
Turns on the Title List menu, which shows  
recorded titles on the disc.  
,continued  
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