TROUBLESHOOTING

If your cassette deck fails to operate normally, check the following table. It lists common operating errors and simple measures which you can take to correct the problem. If it cannot be corrected, or the symptom is not listed, disconnect the deck’s power cord and contact your authorized YAMAHA dealer or authorized service center for help.

Fault

Cause

Cure

 

 

 

Tape doesn’t move in recording or

Ö Power plug is not properly plugged in.

Ö Reinsert plug properly.

playback.

Ö Cassette shell is warped or damaged.

Ö Do not play damaged tapes.

 

 

 

If it happens that this unit does not

Ö There is an influence of strong external

Ö Turn the unit off and disconnect the AC

work normally.

noise (lightning, excessive static

power from the AC outlet. After about

 

electricity, etc.) or a misoperation was

30 seconds have passed, connect the

 

performed while using this unit.

power and try again.

 

 

 

REC/PAUSE button fails to function.

Ö No cassette tape loaded.

Ö Load a cassette tape.

 

Ö Protective tabs are broken off.

Ö Change tape or cover protective hole

 

 

with adhesive tape.

 

 

 

Sounds become faint and sometimes

Ö Head is dirty.

Ö Clean head.

inaudible.

Ö Head is magnetized.

Ö Demagnetize head using head

 

 

demagnetizer.

 

Ö Tape is damaged or of poor quality.

Ö Change to a different tape.

 

 

 

Recorded sound is distorted.

Ö Tape is bad (stretched, deformed, etc.).

Ö Replace with a fresh tape.

 

Ö Cassette shell is warped.

Ö A warped cassette shell cannot be

 

 

fixed. Replace with another tape and

 

 

test.

 

Ö Recording level is too high.

Ö Check input level with signal level meter

 

 

and use lower rec level when recording.

 

 

 

Tape is playing back, but no sound is

Ö Faulty connection between deck and

Ö Check and secure connections.

heard.

stereo amplifier/receiver.

 

 

 

 

Excessive noise.

Ö Head is dirty.

Ö Clean head.

 

Ö Head is magnetized.

Ö Demagnetize head with head

 

Ö Worn out or poor quality tape.

demagnetizer.

 

Ö Connection(s) improperly made.

Ö Change to better tape.

 

Ö Affected by external electrical noise.

Ö Check input and output connections

 

and reinsert properly.

 

 

Ö Move deck away from electrical

 

 

appliances (TV, fluorescent light,

 

 

electric blanket, etc.).

 

 

 

Excessive wow (wavering of the

Ö Dirty capstan, pinch roller, etc., or poor

Ö Clean capstan and pinch roller, or

sound).

tape.

change to better tape.

 

Ö Tape is wound unevenly.

Ö Rewind tape.

 

 

 

Tape stops in the middle of recording

Ö Slack tape, or tape spillage wound

Ö Insert pencil in hole in cassette shell

or playback.

around capstan.

and turn to take up slack.

 

 

 

Fails to record.

Ö REC LEVEL control is set to too low.

Ö Adjust REC LEVEL control.

 

Ö Protective tabs are broken off.

Ö Change tape or cover protective hole

 

 

with adhesive tape.

 

 

 

Search does not operate correctly.

Ö Blank section is too short.

Ö Blank sections must be at least 4

 

 

seconds long.

 

Ö Recorded section has low-level portions.

Ö No remedy

 

Ö Conversation, etc. has been recorded.

Ö No remedy

 

 

 

High frequencies in the playback

Ö Dolby NR-recorded tape is played back

Ö Play back in appropriate Dolby NR

sound are emphasized and unpleasant

in OFF position.

position.

to listen to, and noise level (hiss) is

 

 

also high.

 

 

 

 

 

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Yamaha KX-W321, KX-W421 owner manual Troubleshooting, Fault Cause Cure

KX-W421, KX-W321 specifications

The Yamaha KX-W321 and KX-W421 cassette decks represent a significant advancement in analog audio technology, catering to audio enthusiasts who cherish the warm sound of cassette tapes. These decks are part of Yamaha's esteemed lineup and have established a loyal following due to their exceptional sound quality, user-friendly functionality, and innovative features.

One of the main features of both models is their dual transport design, which allows simultaneous playback and recording on separate cassette decks. This feature is particularly useful for creating high-quality copies of tapes or for mixing various audio sources seamlessly. Both decks support chrome and metal tapes, ensuring that users can achieve optimal sound quality regardless of the medium they choose.

The KX-W421 offers more advanced features compared to the KX-W321. One of the standout technologies in the KX-W421 is the Auto Reverse function. This technology allows for uninterrupted playback, automatically reversing the tape when one side is completed. This enhances the listening experience, especially for longer recordings or when users want continuous playback without manual intervention. Additionally, the KX-W421 boasts a built-in Dolby Noise Reduction system, which minimizes background noise and enhances overall sound clarity. This is an essential feature for maintaining sound fidelity, especially in older, worn cassettes.

Both models come equipped with a precision electronic tape counter, allowing users to easily track their position on the tape, making it convenient to find specific tracks or sections. Other desirable characteristics of the KX-W321 and KX-W421 include an adjustable recording level control, which allows users to fine-tune their recordings and avoid distortion. The high-quality construction of these decks also contributes to their durability and reliability, ensuring that they can withstand regular use.

In summary, the Yamaha KX-W321 and KX-W421 cassette decks are well-regarded for their excellent audio performance and practical features. With their dual transport capability, noise reduction technologies, and user-friendly controls, these cassette decks continue to delight audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Their blend of classic cassette functionality with reliable modern innovations makes them a thoughtful choice for anyone looking to explore or revisit the world of cassette tape audio.