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Important Items

XD-980MD (En)

MD system

The Mini Disc system has the features as summarized in the following.

1Like CD (Compact Disc), playback can be started from any position. (Random access)

2 It uses a disc with a diameter of 64 mm that is accommodated in a cartridge.

3 Two types of discs can be used.

4 Up to 74 minutes of recording or playback is possible using high-efficiency coding technology. 5 Countermeasure against vibration is taken using semiconductor memory chip.

Two Mini Disc types

There are two types of Mini Disc, the one designed exclusively for playback and the other which is both recordable and playable.

Playback-only Mini Disc

This type of MD can be used only for playback, and is used by the commercially-available music MD software packages. The playback-only MD is an optical disc like the Compact Disc (CD). The signals are recorded as the presence or absence of small pits and read out by an optical, non- contact pickup.

High-efficiency coding technology “ATRAC”

The Mini Disc has only a half the size of the Compact Disc but provides the same recording time. This is made possible by ATRAC*, a newly developed high-efficiency coding technology.

* ATRAC: Adaptive TRansform Acoustic Coding

The ATRAC compresses the music data to about 1/5 the amount of data which would be obtained with conventional technology, by cutting off the sound components which do not pose problem in audition even when they are not present. This has made it possible to record or play up to 74 minutes.

Recordable Mini Disc

This MD is a magneto-optical disc which can be recorded by magnetic field modulation. To record signals, laser light is irradiated from the bottom side of the magneto-optical disc and magnetic field is applied from the upper side of it.

Sound-skip prevention memory

During playback, this unit always stores signals in memory temporarily to prevent sound from being skipped in case of vibration. As a result, even when the data from the optical pickup is interrupted due to vibration, etc., the music will not be interrupted because the memory holds the data for several seconds.

Mini Disc

Sound does not af- fect the sensitivity of ears

Lowest and highest frequencies are not audible unless the sound has a certain level of volume.

Sensitivity of ears

During normal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

playback

of data

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The sound data for

sec.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

several seconds is al-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ways stored during

Several

playback.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital memory

Lowest fre-

Highest fre-

quencies

quencies

Reproduced sound

Knowledge sections

Small sound near large sound

A small sound is not audible to human ears if it is produced at the same time as a large sound. (Masking ef- fect)

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In case of vibration

Even when the read- out from disc is inter- rupted momentarily due to vibration or shock, the repro- duced sound from the memory will not be interrupted.

Reproduced sound

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Kenwood XD-980MD instruction manual MD system, Important Items
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XD-980MD specifications

The Kenwood XD-980MD is a distinguished mini component stereo system that has garnered attention for its robust performance and user-friendly design. This compact system brings an array of features and technologies suited for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

One of the standout features of the Kenwood XD-980MD is its integrated MD (MiniDisc) player, which marked a significant advancement in portable audio storage during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The ability to record and play back high-quality audio on MiniDiscs provided users with options beyond traditional CD formats, enhancing the versatility of the system. The inclusion of a CD player also allows for seamless playback of standard audio CDs, making it suitable for various media formats.

The XD-980MD is equipped with a powerful amplifier that delivers dynamic sound performance with a total power output of around 100 watts. This ensures that even the most demanding tracks are played with clarity and depth, producing rich bass and crisp highs that can fill a room. The system also features a bass boost option, allowing users to tailor the audio output to their personal preferences.

In terms of connectivity, the Kenwood XD-980MD is well-equipped with a range of inputs, including line-in and phono inputs, which enable the connection of external devices such as turntables and smartphones. The presence of a built-in FM/AM tuner adds further versatility, allowing users to enjoy live radio broadcasts without requiring additional equipment.

Another notable characteristic of the XD-980MD is its user-friendly interface. The system features an easy-to-read LCD display that provides information on track details, radio stations, and settings, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The remote control included with the system enhances convenience, allowing users to navigate tracks and adjust settings from a distance.

In conclusion, the Kenwood XD-980MD stands out as a comprehensive mini stereo system that caters to diverse listening preferences. With its combination of MD and CD playback, powerful amplification, extensive connectivity options, and user-friendly design, it remains a popular choice for those seeking quality audio performance in a compact form factor. Whether you're enjoying classic vinyl records or modern digital tracks, the XD-980MD delivers an exceptional listening experience.
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