JENSEN MCR-250 Portable Cassette Player Recorder with AM/FM Radio User Manual

JENSEN MCR-250 Portable Cassette Player Recorder with AM/FM Radio

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: MCR-250
• Type: Portable Cassette Player/Recorder with AM/FM Radio
• Compliance: FCC Regulations Part 15
• Power Source: AC Power
• Double Insulation for User Safety

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Instructions

1. Read and keep the user manual for future reference.
2. Avoid water exposure and moisture. Keep dry.
3. Do not open the device. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
4. Avoid placing the device near heat sources or blocking ventilation openings.
5. Use only specified power sources and replacement parts.

Operation Instructions

1. Plug the device into a compatible power outlet.
2. Turn on the cassette player/recorder using the power button.
3. To listen to the radio, switch to FM/AM mode and adjust the frequency.
4. To play a cassette, insert it into the player and press play.
5. Use the volume control to adjust the sound level.

Maintenance Instructions

1. Clean the device with a dry cloth only.
2. Avoid spills and exposure to liquids.
3. If the device malfunctions seek professional servicing.
4. Do not attempt to repair or open the device yourself.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What should I do if the device is exposed to moisture?

If the device is exposed to moisture, disconnect it from the power source immediately and do not attempt to use it. Seek professional servicing to prevent any damage.

Can I use this product with batteries?

This product is designed for AC power use only. Do not attempt to use batteries as a power source.

• PLEASE READ THIS USER MANUAL COMPLETELY BEFORE OPERATING THIS UNIT AND RETAIN IT FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

WARNING

TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARDS, DO NOT USE THIS PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE, OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE. TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARDS, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

• The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
• CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK), NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
• The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
• The Caution Marking is located at the back enclosure of the apparatus. The Rating plate is located at the back enclosure of the apparatus.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install under the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the product. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for a long period.
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 moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. This appliance shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing water and no object filled with liquids such as vases shall be placed on the apparatus.
16. Do not overload the wall outlet. Use only the power source as indicated.
17. Use replacement parts as specified by the manufacturer.
18. Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks.
19. Power Sources – This product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. For products intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instruction.
20. Object and Liquid Entry – Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
21. Damage Requiring Service – Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
    • a) When the power supply cord or plug is damaged,
    • b) If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product,
    • c) If the product has been exposed to rain or water,
    • d) If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.
    • e) If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way, and
    • f) When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this indicates a need for service.
22.  The mains plug is used as a disconnect device and it should remain readily operable during intended use. To disconnect the apparatus from the mains completely, the mains plug should be disconnected from the mains socket outlet completely.
23. Battery shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire, or the like.
24. Minimum distances of 10 cm around the apparatus for sufficient ventilation.
25. The ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items, such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc.
26. No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
27. The use of apparatus in moderate climates.
28. Attention should be drawn to the environmental aspects of battery disposal.
29. Operation temperature should be kept between -5°C 45°C.
30. CAUTION: Risk of explosion if the battery is replaced by an incorrect type.
31. High or low extreme temperatures that a battery cannot be subjected to during use, storage, or transportation and low air pressure at high altitudes.
32. Replacement of a battery with an incorrect type can defeat a safeguard.
33. Disposal of a battery into a fire or a hot oven, or mechanically crushing or cutting of a battery, can result in an explosion.
34. Leaving the battery in an extremely high temperature surrounding environment can result in an explosion or the leakage of flammable liquid or gas.
35. A battery subjected to extremely low air pressure may result in an explosion or the leakage of flammable liquid or gas.

• This symbol indicates that this product incorporates double insulation between hazardous mains voltage and user-accessible parts.

CAUTION:

• TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH THE WIDE BLADE OF THE PLUG TO THE WIDE SLOT. FULLY INSERT THE PLUG TO THE MAIN POWER SOCKET.

COMPLIANCE WITH FCC REGULATIONS

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. this device may not cause harmful interference
2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, under Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used under the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

PROTECT YOUR FURNITURE

• This model is equipped with non-skid rubber ‘feet’ to prevent the product from moving when you operate the controls.
• These ‘feet’ are made from non-migrating rubber material specially formulated to avoid leaving any marks or stains on your furniture. However certain types of oil-based furniture polishes, wood preservatives, or cleaning sprays may cause the ‘feet’ to soften, and leave marks or a rubber residue on the furniture.
• To prevent any damage to your furniture we strongly recommend that you purchase small self-adhesive felt pads, available at hardware stores and home improvement centers everywhere, and apply these pads to the bottom of the rubber ‘feet’ before you place the product on fine wooden furniture.

DEAR JENSEN® CUSTOMER

• Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit you’ve just purchased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now it’s time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment offers.
• This manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe level.
• One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without annoying blaring or distortion and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing.
• Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort level” adapts to higher volumes of sound.
• So what sounds “normal” can be loud and harmful to your hearing.
• Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.

To establish a safe level:

• Start your volume control at a low setting.
• Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it comfortably and clearly, and without distortion.

Once you have established a comfortable sound level:

• Set the dial and leave it there.
• Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage or loss in the future. After all, we want you to listen for a lifetime.

We Want You Listening For a Lifetime

• Used wisely, your new sound equipment will provide a lifetime of fun and enjoyment.
• Since hearing damage from loud noise is often undetectable until it is too late, this manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group recommend you avoid prolonged exposure to excessive noise.

Customer’s Record:

• The serial number of this product is found on its back cover. You should note the serial number of this unit in the space provided as a permanent record of your purchase to aid in identification in the event of theft or loss.

LOCATION OF CONTROLS

POWER SOURCE

• The MCR-250 operates using standard 120V 60Hz AC household power or 6 x “C” size (UM-2) batteries (Not included).

BATTERY OPERATION

NOTES:

• Disconnect the AC power cord.
• For best performance and longer operating time, we recommend the use of alkaline batteries.

1. Remove the Battery Door on the back of the unit.
2. Following the polarity diagram shown in the battery compartment insert 6 x “C” size (UM-2) batteries and close the door.

BATTERY WARNING

1. Be sure that the batteries are installed correctly. Wrong polarity may damage the unit.
2. Use only the size and type of batteries specified.
3. Do not mix old and new batteries.
4. Do not mix alkaline, standard (carbon-zinc) or rechargeable (nickel-cadmium) batteries.
5. If the unit is not to be used for an extended time, remove the batteries. Old or leaking batteries can cause damage to the unit and may void the warranty.
6. Do not try to recharge batteries not intended to be recharged; they can overheat and rupture. (Follow the battery manufacturer’s directions).
7. Do not dispose of batteries in a fire, batteries may leak or explode.
8. The battery shall not be exposed to excessive heat, such as sunshine, fire, or the like.

AC POWER CONNECTION

1. Insert one end of the power cord into the AC Socket (#19) at the back of the MCR-250.
2. Connect the power cord to the AC power source.
3. When the unit is operated from an AC power source, the internal battery source will automatically be disconnected.

LISTENING TO RADIO

1. Turn on the radio by setting the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the RADIO position.
2. Use the Band Selector (#5) to choose the AM or FM band.
3. Use the TUNING knob (#14) to tune to your desired radio station.
4. Adjust the VOLUME knob (#15) to obtain the desired sound level.
5. To turn off the radio, set the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the TAPE/OFF position.

TIPS FOR BEST RECEPTION

• AM – The AM antenna is located inside the cabinet of the unit. If AM reception is weak, change the position of the unit until the internal antenna picks up the strongest signal.
• FM – To ensure maximum FM tuner reception, fully extend the FM telescopic antenna and rotate it for the best FM radio reception.

TAPE OPERATION

Playing a tape

1. Set the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the TAPE/OFF position.
2. Press the STOP/EJECT button (#9) to open the CASSETTE HOLDER (#1).
3. Insert a tape and close the CASSETTE HOLDER (#1).
4. Press the PLAY button (#12) to start playback.
5. Adjust the VOLUME knob (#15) to obtain the desired sound level.
6. To pause playback, press the PAUSE button (#8). Press the PAUSE button (#8) again to resume playback.
7. To stop playback, press the STOP/ EJECT button (#9).
8. To search backward or forward, press the REWIND or F.FWD buttons (#11 or #10) and press the PLAY button (#12) or STOP/EJECT button (#9) at the point you want to stop.

Recording from radio/ auxiliary source

1. Set the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the TAPE/OFF position.
2. Press STOP/EJECT button (#9) to open the CASSETTE HOLDER (#1).
3. Insert a tape and close the CASSETTE HOLDER (#1).
4. Select the desired sound source with the FUNCTION selector (#6).
   • In radio mode, tune to your desired radio station.
   • In AUX mode, start playback from your auxiliary source.
5. Press the RECORD button (#13). PLAY button (#12) is depressed automatically.
6. To pause the recording, press the PAUSE button (#8). Press the PAUSE button (#8) again to resume recording.
7. To stop recording, press the STOP/EJECT button (#9).
8. To listen to your recording, set the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the TAPE /OFF position. Press the REWIND button (#11) to rewind the tape to search your recording, then press PLAY (#12) to listen.

Recording from the built-in microphone

1. Set the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the TAPE/OFF position.
2. Press STOP/EJECT button (#9) to open the CASSETTE HOLDER (#1).
3. Insert a tape and close the CASSETTE HOLDER (#1).
4. Press the RECORD button (#13). PLAY button (#12) is depressed automatically.
5. To pause the recording, press the PAUSE button (#8). Press the button again to resume recording.
6. To stop recording, press the STOP/EJECT button (#9).
7. To listen to your recording, press the REWIND button (#11) to rewind the tape to search your recording, then press the PLAY button (#12) to listen.

Note: The Built-in microphone (#2) is located on the front of the unit. Place the recorder near the sound source to be recorded.

AUX OPERATION

This unit provides an auxiliary audio signal input jack for connecting external audio devices like MP3 players, CD players, smartphones, and iPods (except iPod shuffle 3rd generation) to listen to your external source through the speakers of this system.

1. You need an audio cable (not included) with one 3.5 mm stereo plug on each end of the cable.
2. Plug one end of the cable into the AUX-IN jack (#7) located on the top of the unit and the other end of the cable into the Line-out Jack or Headphone Jack of your external audio device.
3. Turn on the external audio device.
4. Turn on the unit by setting the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the AUX position.
5. The volume level can now be controlled through the VOLUME knob (#15) of the unit. Operate all other functions on the auxiliary device as usual.
6. Set the FUNCTION selector (#6) to the TAPE/OFF position to turn off the unit.

Notes:

1. If you connected the Line-out Jack of your external device then you only need to adjust the volume control of this system. If you connected the Headphone Jack of your external device then you may need to adjust both the volume control of your external device and the volume control of this system to find the most desirable volume setting.
2. Remove the audio cable from the AUX IN jack when you finish listening. Don’t forget to switch off the power on your external device as well.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

1. Do not subject the unit to excessive force, shock, dust or extreme temperature.
2. Do not tamper with the internal components of the unit.
3. Clean your unit with a dry cloth. Solvent or detergent should never be used.
4. Avoid leaving your unit in direct sunlight or hot, humid, or dusty places.
5. Keep your unit away from heating appliances and sources of electrical noise such as fluorescent lamps or motors.

ABOUT CASSETTE TAPES

• Whenever you record on a cassette any previously recorded material is erased as the new material is recorded.
• To prevent you from accidentally erasing material that you wish to save, blank cassettes are equipped with erase prevention tabs for each side of the tape.
• If the erase prevention tab for side A is removed, you cannot accidentally record on side A. The RECORD button (#13) cannot be depressed if the erase prevention tab on the cassette has been removed.
• To prevent accidental erasing on side A of a cassette use a small screwdriver or similar tool to break off the erase prevention tab for side A. This prevents the record key from locking.
• If later you do wish to record on side A of the cassette, cover the tab opening with a piece of cellophane tape. This will allow the RECORD button (#13) to function again.

CASSETTE CARE

Two common causes of trouble experienced when using cassettes are

1. Tape Jamming – Leading to uneven speed in playback, and
2. Tape Tangling – Where the tape wraps itself around vital parts of the mechanism.

To reduce the likelihood of these problems occurring, the following precautions should be observed:

• Check that there are no loose layers of tape visible through the cassette center window (see Fig.1).
• Take up any loose layers, using a pencil or hexagonal barreled ballpoint pen, before inserting the cassette into the machine (see Fig.2)
• If the cassette feels tight while performing the operation shown (see Fig.2), the tape may be jamming due to ridges formed in the winding of the tape (visible through the center window).
• These may be removed, in most cases, by fast winding of the cassette from one end to the other and back again.
• Use only well-known brands of tape. Avoid use of C-120 cassettes.
• Furthermore, do not expose cassettes to direct sunlight, dust, or oil, and do not touch the tape surfaces.

HEAD CLEANING

• The tape heads, pinch roller, and capstan require periodic cleaning. This removes particles of the metal oxide coating that wear off the tape accumulate on these parts and impair performance.
• Switch off the power, press the STOP/EJECT button (#9) to open the cassette door, and press the PLAY button (#12).
• Clean the tape heads, pinch roller, and capstan with a soft cloth or cotton pad dampened in isopropyl alcohol or special tape head cleaner.

1. Avoid operating your unit under direct sunlight or in hot, humid, or dusty places.
2. Keep your unit away from heating appliances and sources of electrical noise such as fluorescent lamps or motors.
3. Unplug the unit from the electrical power outlet immediately in case of malfunction.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If you experience difficulties in the use of this music system, please check the following or call 1-800-777-5331 for Customer Service.

for AM or FM.

– FM: The telescopic antenna is not extended.

– AM: The bar antenna is not positioned correctly.

| – Retune the AM or FM broadcast station.

– Fully extend the F M telescopic antenna.

– Reposition the unit until the

best reception is obtained.

AM or FM no sound.| – Unit not set to AM or FM band.

– Volume at minimum.

| – Slide the band selector to the AM or FM position.

– Increase Volume.

The cassette Player no sound| – Unit not at TAPE function mode

– Volume at minimum

| – Select TAPE function mode.

– Increase volume.

Sound distorted| Dirty tape head| Clean the head.
Speed varies| – Tape old or worn

– Dirty roller and capstan

| – Replace the tape.

– Clean roller and capstan.

The cassette Recorder will not record| Prevention tab removed| Cover the hole with tape.

SPECIFICATIONS

• POWER SUPPLY AC 120V 60Hz, 10W
  • DC 6 x1.5V type R14/ UM-2/ “C” size batteries (not included)
• FREQUENCY RANGE FM 88 – 108 MHz
  • AM 530 – 1710 kHz
• At Spectra, environmental and social responsibility is a core value of our business. We are dedicated to the continuous implementation of responsible initiatives to conserve and maintain the environment through responsible recycling.
• Please visit us at http://www.spectraintl.com/green.htm for more information on Spectra’s green initiatives or to find a recycler in your area.

LIMITED WARRANTY

90-DAY LIMITED WARRANTY AND SERVICE VALID IN THE U.S.A. ONLY

• SPECTRA MERCHANDISING INTERNATIONAL, INC. warrants this unit to be free from defective materials or factory workmanship for a period of 90 days from the date of original customer purchase provided the product is utilized within the U.S.A.
• This warranty is not assignable or transferable. Our obligation under this warranty is the repair or replacement of the defective unit or any part thereof, except batteries, when it is returned to the SPECTRA Service Department, accompanied by proof of the date of original consumer purchase, such as a duplicate copy of a sales receipt.
• You must pay all shipping charges required to ship the product to SPECTRA for warranty service.
• If the product is repaired or replaced under warranty, the return charges will be at SPECTRA’s expense.
• There are no other express warranties other than those stated herein.

This warranty is valid only under the conditions set forth below:

1. The warranty applies to the SPECTRA product only while:
   • a. It remains in the possession of the original purchaser and proof of purchase is demonstrated.
   • b. It has not been subjected to accident, misuse, abuse, improper service, usage outside the descriptions and warnings covered within the user manual, or non-SPECTRA-approved modifications.
   • c. Claims are made within the warranty period.
2. This warranty does not cover damage or equipment failure caused by electrical wiring not in compliance with electrical codes or SPECTRA user manual specifications, or failure to provide reasonable care and necessary maintenance as outlined in the user manual.
3. Warranty of all SPECTRA products applies to residential use only and is void when products are used in a nonresidential environment or installed outside the United States.

• This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. TO OBTAIN SERVICE please remove all batteries (if any) pack the unit carefully and send it freight prepaid to SPECTRA at the address shown below. IF THE UNIT IS RETURNED WITHIN THE WARRANTY PERIOD shown above, please include a proof of purchase (dated cash register receipt) so that we may establish your eligibility for warranty service and repair of the unit without cost. Also, include a note with a description explaining how the unit is defective. A customer service representative may need to contact you regarding the status of your repair, so please include your name, address, phone number, and email address to expedite the process.
• IF THE UNIT IS OUTSIDE THE WARRANTY PERIOD, please include a check for $20.00 to cover the cost of repair, handling, and return postage. All out-of-warranty returns must be sent prepaid.
• It is recommended that you contact SPECTRA first at 1-800-777-5331 or by email at custserv@spectraintl.com for updated information on the unit requiring service.
• In some cases, the model you have may be discontinued, and SPECTRA reserves the right to offer alternative options for repair or replacement.
• SPECTRA MERCHANDISING INTERNATIONAL, INC.
• 4230 North Normandy Avenue,
• Chicago, IL 60634, USA. 1-800-777-5331
• To register your product, visit the link on the website below to enter your information http://www.spectraintl.com/wform.htm
• Model Number: MCR-250 ____
• Serial Number: ____

References

• Spectra Merchandising International, Inc. - Product Registration - United States

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