Cat. No. 31-3034
Digital Synthesize
AM/FM
Stereo Receiver
STA-3500
VOLUME
STA-3500 DIGITAL SYNTHESIZED AM/FM STEREO RECEIVER
PHONO
TUNER
LD/DVD
CD
STAND BY
POWER
TAPE 2
MONITOR
TAPE 1
VCR
SUPER
BASS
MIN
MAX
MEMORY
CLASS
STATION
TREBLE
BALANCE
BASS
PHONES
SPEAKERS
A
B
FM MONO
TUNING
FM/AM
OSR
L
R
Owner’s Manual
Please read before using this equipment.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This receiver is made and tested to meet exacting
safety standards. It meets both UL and FCC require-
ments
Careful attention is devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your receiver, and safety is
a major factor in its design. However, safety is also your responsibility.
This section lists important information that will help you properly use and enjoy your receiver and
accessories. Read all the included safety and operating instructions before using your receiver. Fol-
low them closely, and retain them for future reference.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
Heed Warnings — Follow all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use only a damp cloth for
cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
Attachments — Do not use attachments/accessories not recommended by the product manufac-
turer, as they might create a hazard.
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this sys-
tem to rain or moisture.
Water and Moisture — Do not use this product near water (for example, near a bathtub, washbowl,
kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool).
Accessories — Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use
only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer or sold with the
product. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mounting, and use a recommended mounting
accessory.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
!
DO NOT OPEN.
CAUTION
: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
Carts — Move the product on a cart carefully. Quick stops, excessive force, and
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICE-
ABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
uneven surfaces may cause the product/cart to overturn.
Ventilation — Slots and openings in the cabinet provide ventilation, ensure reli-
able operation, and protect from overheating. Do not block or cover these open-
ings, and do not place the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. Do
not place the product in a built-in bookcase or rack unless it provides proper ven-
tilation as specified by the manufacturer.
Power Sources — Operate this product using only the power source indicated on its marking label.
If you are not sure of your home's power type, consult your product dealer or local power company.
This symbol is intended to alert you to the
presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage
within the system’s enclosure that might be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock. Do not open the system’s
case.
Polarization — This product is equipped with a polarized AC line plug (a plug having one blade
wider than the other). This plug will fit in the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If
you cannot insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still doesn't fit, con-
tact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polar-
ized plug. If you need an extension, use a polarized cord.
Power-Cord Protection — Route power-supply cords so they are not likely to be walked on or
pinched by items placed on or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, conve-
nience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.
This symbol is intended to inform you that im-
portant operating and maintenance instruc-
!
Lightning — For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unat-
tended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the anten-
na or cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.
tions are included in the literature acc-
ompanying this system.
Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles,
as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
CAUTION
Objects and Liquids — 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.
Power Lines—Locate an outdoor antenna away from
power lines.
Nonuse Periods—Unplug the receiver’s power cord
when you will not use it for extended periods.
Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may
expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service person-
nel.
Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If an outside antenna
or cable system is connected to the receiver, ground
the antenna or cable system so as to provide some
protection against voltage surges and built-up static
charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA 80, provides information about proper
grounding of the mast and supporting structure,
grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge
unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-
discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes,
and requirements for the grounding electrode. See the
example below.
Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qual-
ified service personnel under the following conditions:
•
•
•
•
When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the product.
If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
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 techni-
cian to restore the product to normal operation.
•
•
If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance.
Antenna
Lead-In
Wire
Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician uses
replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or having the same characteristics as the original
part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
Ground Clamp
Safety Check — Upon completion of service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician
to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.
Antenna
Discharge Unit
(NEC Section 810-20)
Electric
Service
Wall or Ceiling Mount — The product should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended
by the manufacturer.
Grounding Conductors
(NEC Section 810-21)
Equipment
Grounding Clamps
Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Power Service Grounding
Electrode System
(NEC Article 250, Part H)
NEC -- National Electrical Code
3
Contents
Preparing Your Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Positioning Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Connecting Speakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Connecting Program Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Connecting the Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Using One Remote Control for More Than One Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Installing the Remote Control’s Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Using the AC Power Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Connecting to AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Tuning the Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Using FM Mono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Balance Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Muting the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Using Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Cassette Deck Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Using the Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
The FCC Wants You to Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Index to Features by Control Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
4
Preparing Your Receiver
Caution: Make all the necessary connections before you plug in or turn on the receiver.
Where you place your speakers can make a noticeable difference in your sys-
tem’s sound. The guidelines in this section will help you choose the best loca-
tions. After you use your receiver for a while, you might want to try different
locations for your speakers.
Positioning Speakers
a
L
R
Bass response depends largely on speaker location. For strong bass, place the
speakers in the corners of the room. If you want even stronger bass, place the
speakers directly on the floor. If the bass is too strong, move the speakers
slightly away from the corners of the room, or raise them 6 to 18 inches off the
floor. You can buy speaker stands at your local RadioShack store.
Halfway Point
Between Speake
b
a=b
The distance between the speakers should be about the same as the distance
between the normal listening point and the point halfway between the speakers.
If you place the speakers too close together, you reduce the stereo separation.
If you place them too far apart, you reduce the bass effect and create a hole in
the middle of the sound.
Person in Listening Area
Most speakers have a tweeter dispersion angle of about 60 degrees. Ideally,
your listening position should be just inside the overlap area of the tweeter dis-
persion. You can angle the speakers toward you for better stereo effect.
5
Preparing Your Receiver
Connecting Speakers
Preparing the Speaker Wires
Speaker wire consists of two conductors (individual wires) encased in insulation
and is usually color-coded or marked with a ridge along one side so you can
identify each conductor. Use these markings as a guide to help you properly
connect the speakers to your receiver.
Follow these guidelines when you select
and connect speakers.
• Only connect speakers that are rated
at between 8 and 16 Ohms.
Follow these steps to prepare the speaker wires.
• Be sure you properly connect all
speakers.
Wire Strands
• Do not connect two pairs of speakers
to a single set of terminals (A or B) at
the same time. When you use two
pairs of speakers, connect one set to
Speaker Wire
Speakers A
Speakers B
.
and one set to
• Realistic, Optimus, and other high-
quality speakers have color-coded
speaker terminals (red for positive
polarity and black for negative polar-
ity). Use these color-coded terminals
as a guide to help you properly con-
nect the speakers to the receiver.
Wire Strands
Conductor
1. Cut the speaker wires to the necessary length.
2. Separate the wires about 4 inches on each end.
• Use 16-gauge (or larger) speaker wire
for all speaker connections, and con-
sider possible speaker locations
before you decide how much speaker
wire you need.
3
3. Using a wire stripper, carefully strip about /4 inch of insulation from the
end of each conductor.
4. Twist the end of each conductor to secure any loose wire strands.
6
Preparing Your Receiver
Connecting the A and B Speakers
Notes:
Follow these steps to connect the right speaker to the receiver’s right A SPEAK-
ERS terminals.
• Be sure you connect the receiver’s
right and left positive (+) and negative
(–) terminals to the speaker’s corre-
sponding right and left positive (+) and
negative (–) terminals.
1. Press the receiver’s A SPEAKERS R (+) red lever and insert the ridged or
color-coded conductor’s end into the small hole. Pull back the lever to
secure the conductor.
• Fully insert the speaker wires to
ensure a good connection. Leave
extra wire at the back of the receiver
so you do not disconnect the wires
when you move the receiver.
2. Press the receiver’s A SPEAKERS R (–) black lever and insert the other
conductor’s end into the small hole. Pull back the lever to secure the con-
ductor.
Caution: To prevent a short circuit, twist
the end of each conductor to be sure
that stray speaker wire strands do not
touch other speaker terminals or any
other receiver terminals.
3. Connect the ridged or color-coded conductor’s loose end to the right
speaker’s positive (+) terminal.
4. Connect the remaining loose conductor to the right speaker’s negative (–)
terminal.
Repeat Steps 1 through 4 to connect the left speaker to the receiver’s A SPEAK-
ERS L terminals.
Repeat this entire process to connect a second pair of speakers to the B
SPEAKERS terminals.
SPEAKERS
R
L
A
B
A
B
R
L
Left
B Speakers
A Speakers
Left
7
Preparing Your Receiver
You can connect up to five external program sources to your receiver.
Connecting Program Sources
GND
IN
REC
PLAY
REC
PLAY
IN
IN
L
L
OUT
L
R
R
R
TAPE2
MONITOR
TAPE 1
/VCR
LD
/DVD
CD
CONTROL
PHONO
LINE
LINE
REC
REC
PLAY
REC
REC
PLAY
OUT PUT
OUT PUT
L
L
L
L
R
R
PLAY
PLAY
R
R
INPUT OUTPUT
INPUT OUTPUT
CD
Turntable
Cassette Deck
Cassette Deck
LD/DVD Player
CD Player
Connecting a Turntable
Connect a turntable with a magnetic cartridge only. Some older turntables use a
ceramic-type cartridge that does not work with this system.
Note: Use shielded audio cables with
phono connectors for all audio connec-
tions.
Connect the turntable’s left and right cables to the receiver’s left and right
PHONO
GND
jacks. Then connect the turntable’s ground wire to the receiver’s
terminal.
Connecting Cassette Deck(s)
TAPE 1/VCR
TAPE 2 MONITOR
and the
You can connect cassette decks to the
Note: If you place the cassette deck
directly above, below, or to the left of the
receiver, the receiver could interfere with
the cassette deck’s operation. If possi-
ble, position the cassette deck to the
right of the receiver or locate it away
from the receiver.
TAPE 1/VCR PLAY
jacks. Connect the cassette deck’s output jacks to the
or
TAPE 2 MONITOR PLAY
jacks, and connect the cassette deck’s input jacks to
TAPE 1/VCR REC
TAPE 2 MONITOR REC
jacks.
(audio) or
Connecting a CD Player
To connect a CD player to the receiver, connect the CD player’s left and right
R CD IN
L
output jacks to the receiver’s and
jacks.
Connecting Another Audio Source
Connect the audio outputs of another audio source, such as the audio from a
LD/DVD IN L
R
laser disc player, TV, VCR, or CD player, to the
and jacks.
8
Preparing Your Receiver
In many cities, the supplied indoor AM loop and FM antennas provide adequate
reception.
Connecting the Antennas
Warning: To prevent injury, read and fol-
low all cautions and warnings that
accompany the outdoor antenna.
AM Antennas
Assemble the included antenna’s base by swinging the base in the direction of
the arrow and inserting the antenna’s bottom tabs into the base’s slot. Then
AM LOOP ANTENNA
GND
terminals.
attach the antenna wires to the
and
Place the antenna on a flat surface and rotate it for the best AM reception.
If the receiver is in a rack or on a shelf and there is no room for the AM loop
antenna, use two screws (not supplied) to mount the base on the wall or
another location as shown.
Notes:
• Keep the AM loop antenna connected even when you use another indoor
antenna or an outdoor AM antenna.
• Ensure the antenna does not touch the receiver or other metal objects.
• Do not place the antenna near a CD player, a personal computer, or a TV
set
• If the wire between your AM loop antenna and receiver is too short, you
can add extra wire, available at your local RadioShack store.
AM Loop Antenna
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
GND
FM
UNBAL
GND
75
You can also use a RadioShack shortwave antenna kit (Cat. No. 278-
758), which makes an excellent outdoor AM antenna.
Connect the outdoor AM antenna wire to the receiver’s AM terminal, as shown.
ANTENNA
door AM Antenna
AM LOOP
FM
ANTENNA
GND
UNBAL
75
GND
FM Antennas
FM UNBAL 75
Connect the supplied FM antenna to the
as shown.
Ω terminal and extend it
FM Antenna
FM
UNBAL
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
GND
GND
75
ANTENNA
For better FM reception, you can also use a rabbit-ear TV antenna (for indoor
use only) or an outdoor VHF TV antenna. To connect the TV antenna to the
receiver, you need a VHF/UHF/FM splitter (not included). RadioShack stores
carry a full line of quality outdoor antennas and antenna connection accesso-
ries.
Note: For the best results, use 75-ohm
coaxial cable to connect an outdoor
antenna to the receiver.
9
Preparing Your Receiver
For the best radio reception, use an outdoor antenna. Follow these steps to
connect an outdoor FM antenna to the receiver using 75Ω cable.
Note: If your antenna has 300Ω twin-lead cable, consult your local RadioShack
store for the correct adapter.
FM UNBAL 75
1. Disconnect the supplied FM antenna from the receiver’s
terminal.
Ω
Inner Insulation
2. With a stripping tool, remove about 11/2 inches of the 75Ω cable’s outer
insulation to expose the cable’s shielding.
3. Fold back the insulation from the inner insulation.
Center Wir
4. Remove about 1 inch of the inner insulation from around the center wire.
Outer Insulation
Shielding
FM
5. Pull the shielding to one side. Connect the center wire to the receiver’s
Caution: The cable’s shielding should
GND
UNBAL 75
Ω terminal. Twist the shielding to secure any loose wire strands,
only touch the
terminal.
GND
and connect it to the
terminal.
FM Outdoor Antenna
Shielded
FM
UNBAL
GND
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
GND
Core
75
ANTENNA
Note: Grounding is not necessary for reception, but we recommend it to avoid
damage from lightning when you use an outdoor FM antenna and for better FM
reception. Use a separate piece of thick polyvinyl insulated wire to connect the
GND
terminal to an earth ground such as a metal cold-water pipe.
Warning: Never connect a wire to a gas pipe for grounding since sparks might
ignite the gas.
10
Preparing Your Receiver
If you also have an Optimus professional series CD player, VCR, or cassette
Using One Remote Control
for More than One Unit
CONTROL IN
deck with the OSR mark, you can connect its
jack to the receiver
so you can control all of your equipment with a single remote control. You can
also use the other component’s remote control by pointing it at the receiver’s
front panel.
Note: When you plug the cable into a
CONTROL IN
component’s remote sensor does not
function.
component’s
jack, that
1. Connect each component to the receiver as shown in “Connecting Pro-
gram Sources.”
CONTROL
Note: You must connect the audio cables between the receiver and the
other audio accessory to use your receiver’s remote control to control the
accessory.
IN
OUT
OUT
CONTROL
2. Connect the cable supplied with the CD player, VCR, or cassette deck
CONTROL OUT
between the receiver’s
CONTROL IN
jack and the other component’s
jack.
Other Component
with OSR Mark
Receiver
3. When you want to control more than one other component using the
CONTROL OUT CONTROL
receiver’s remote control, daisy-chain the
IN
and
Remote
Control
To the CONTROL IN ja
of Another Componen
Having the OSR Mark
connections as shown.
The remote control uses two AA batteries (not included). For the longest battery
life, we recommend alkaline batteries (such as RadioShack Cat. No. 23-557).
Installing the
Remote Control’s Batteries
1. Press and remove the battery compartment cover.
2. Place two fresh AA batteries in the compartment as indicated by the
polarity symbols (+ and –) marked in the compartment.
Cautions:
• Use only fresh batteries of the recom-
mended size and type.
3. Replace the battery compartment cover.
• Always remove old or weak batteries.
Batteries can leak chemicals that can
damage electronic circuits.
Note: If the remote’s range is reduced,
replace the batteries immediately.
11
Preparing Your Receiver
Your receiver has an AC power outlet that you can use to power an electronic
device, such as a turntable, cassette deck, VCR, and so on. This switched out-
let turns on and off with the receiver and provides a maximum of 100 Watts
(0.8A max).
Using the AC Power Outlet
Caution: Do not connect appliances with
high power consumption, such as a
heater, iron, monitor, or TV, to this AC
outlet. Doing so can cause a risk of over-
heating and fire, and could damage the
receiver.
Before you plug in the receiver’s power cord, double check all other connec-
tions.
Connecting to AC Power
To power the receiver, plug the supplied power cord into a standard AC outlet.
The power cord’s plug is polarized and fits only one way.
Warning: To prevent electric shock, do
not use this polarized plug with an exten-
sion cord, receptacle, or other outlet
unless you can fully insert the blades to
prevent blade exposure.
STAND BY
The
indicator lights whenever you supply power to the receiver and
turn it off.
CAUTION:
DO NOT CONNECT
TV SET OR MONITOR.
SPEAKERS
R
L
AC 120V 60HZ
A
B
A
B
SWITCHED
100W MAX
0.8A MAX
R
L
AC OUTLET
12
Basic Operation
Note: The controls on the remote control work the same as the buttons on the
receiver’s front panel.
Warning: To prevent possible hearing
loss, turn VOLUME to MIN before you turn
on the receiver or change the program
sources. After you turn on the receiver or
change the program source, adjust VOL-
UME to a comfortable listening level.
Follow these steps to use the receiver.
1. Press POWER to turn on the receiver’s power. It takes about 5 seconds to
begin hearing sound.
2. Select the speakers.
A
B SPEAKERS
If you connected speakers only to the (or )
terminals,
press SPEAKERS A (or B) to turn on only those speakers. Do not press
both SPAKERS A and B. Doing so disconnects all speakers.
A
B SPEAKERS
terminals,
If you connected speakers to both the and
do any of the following:
•
•
•
Press in SPEAKERS A or B to turn on either pair of speakers for a two-
speaker stereo effect.
Note: If you want to find out what a par-
ticular button or control is used for, see
Page 18(for the remote control) or Page
25(for the front panel) to find the page
where the button or control is described.
Press in SPEAKERS A and B to turn on both pairs of speakers for a
four-speaker stereo effect.
Press SPEAKERS A and B to the out position to silence all speakers
and listen privately with headphones (see “Using Headphones” on
Page 15).
3. Select a program source.
To tune to a radio station, see “Tuning the Radio” on Page 15.
TAPE 2 MONI-
To listen to signals from the component connected to
Note: If you select a source while TAPE 2
MONITOR is engaged, TAPE 2flashes
five times on the display, reminding you
to disengage the TAPE 2 MONITOR func-
TOR press TAPE 2 MONITOR so TAPE 2appears on the display.
,
TAPE 2 MONITOR
To listen to a source other than one connected to
,
be sure TAPE 2does not show on the display. If necessary, press TAPE
2 MONITOR so TAPE 2disappears.
Then press TAPE 1/VCR, LD/DVD, CD, TUNER, or PHONO, or repeatedly
press FUNCTION on the remote control, to display the desired program
source.
4. Adjust VOLUME clockwise to increase the volume and counterclockwise
to decrease it. Or, you can use VOLUME –/+ on the remote control.
5. Use the BASS and TREBLE controls to adjust the program’s tonal quality.
To enhance the bass level, press SUPER BASS.
6. Adjust BALANCE to suit your listening preferences. See “Balance Control”
on Page 14.
7. Press POWER to turn off the receiver.
13
Basic Operation
Tuning the Radio
Your receiver offers three types of electronic tuning—manual, automatic, and
memory.
Note: For weak signals, we recommend
manual tuning.
Manual and Automatic Tuning
Follow these steps to manually or automatically tune to the stations.
TUNER
FM/AM
to select the desired band.
1. Press
. Then press
The receiver tunes to and displays the frequency last selected in that
band.
TUNING
2. Press
or once to move to the next higher or lower frequency.
TUNING
Or, press and hold down
or to rapidly change frequencies.
Release the button to stop.
TUNING
To search for the next higher or lower FM station, release
or
as soon as the frequency starts to change. The receiver searches up or
down the FM band until it finds a strong station.
Notes:
• STEREOappears on the display when FM broadcasts are received in
stereo and the receiver is not set to FM mono.TUNEDappears on the
display when you tune to a strong station. To find a weak FM station,
FM MONO
press
until MONOappears. See “Using FM Mono” on
Page 15.
TUNING
TUNING
at the top of the frequency range or
•
If you press
at the bottom of the frequency range, the display returns to the other
end of the range.
Memory Tuning
Memory tuning lets you instantly tune to a stored frequency. You can store up to
30 AM or FM frequencies (10 frequencies in each of three classes) in the
receiver’s memory.
Follow these steps to store a station.
TUNER
FM/AM
to select the desired band.
1. Press
. Then press
2. Using either manual or automatic tuning, select the frequency you want to
store.
Notes:
• If you store a frequency in a memory
that already contains a frequency, you
replace the previous frequency.
FM MONO
If desired, press
for FM monaural sound (see “Using FM Mono”
on Page 16). This setting is stored in the memory.
• If your receiver is disconnected from
AC power for several days, it loses all
the stored frequencies.
MEMORY
3. Press
. MEMORYappears for 5 seconds.
CLASS
4. While MEMORYis on the display, press
want (1-3) appears on the display. Then press
station number you want appears on the display.
until the class number you
STATION
or until the
Repeat these steps to store additional frequencies. Do not enter a frequency
while the display flashes.
CLASS
To tune to a stored frequency, press
so the desired class number
STATION
/
appears on the display, then press
to select the station.
14
Basic Operation
Using FM Mono
FM MONO
To receive FM stations in stereo, press
until MONOdisappears from
the display. STEREOappears on the display when you receive an FM broadcast
in stereo.
FM MONO
You can improve the reception of weak FM stations by pressing
until
MONOappears. This reduces noise while you listen to a weak FM station, but
you get monaural instead of stereo sound.
BALANCE
The
control lets you adjust the sound balance between the left and
Balance Control
right speakers. If you properly position the speakers and your listening area is
centered between them, the center control setting is usually best (see “Position-
ing Speakers” on Page 5).
BALANCE
For an unusual speaker placement, adjust
as follows:
to select the FM band.
until MONOappears. The sound is monaural instead of
TUNER
FM/AM
1. Select
. Then press
FM MONO
2. Press
stereo, so each speaker delivers the same output.
BALANCE
3. Turn
until you hear the sound coming equally from each
speaker when you are in the listening area.
FM MONO
4. Press
until MONOdisappears from the display.
MUTING
To temporarily mute the sound, press
on the remote control. MUTING
again to restore the audio level.
Muting the Receiver
Using Headphones
MUTING
appears. Press
1
To listen with headphones (not supplied), insert the headphones’ /4-inch plug
PHONES
A
into the receiver’s front panel
B SPEAKERS
jack. To silence the speakers, set and
to the out position.
Listening Safely
To protect your hearing, note the following when using headphones.
• Set the volume to its lowest setting before you begin listening. After you
begin listening, adjust volume to a comfortable level.
• Do not listen at extremely high volume levels. Extended high-
volume listening can lead to permanent hearing loss.
• Once you set the volume, do not increase it. Over time, your ears adapt to
the volume level, so a volume level that does not cause discomfort might
still damage your hearing.
Cassette Deck Features
TAPE 1/
You can connect two cassette decks to the receiver. Selecting either
VCR
TAPE 2 MONITOR
lets you hear the playback from the cassette deck you
or
TAPE 1/VCR TAPE 2 MONITOR
)
connected to the receiver’s corresponding (
jacks.
,
15
Basic Operation
Using the TAPE 1/VCR Button
Press TAPE 1/VCR. TAPE 1appears on the display. You hear the playback
from the cassette deck or VCR you connected to the receiver’s TAPE 1/VCR
jacks.
Using the TAPE 2 MONITOR Button
Press TAPE 2 MONITOR. TAPE 2appears on the display along with the last
program source you selected. You can hear playback or monitor a recording
from the cassette deck you connected to the receiver’s TAPE 2 MONITOR jacks.
The TAPE 2 REC jacks continue to output the previously selected source when
you press TAPE 2 MONITOR.
To return to the previous source, press TAPE 2 MONITOR again so TAPE 2dis-
appears.
Notes:
• If you press TAPE 2 MONITOR when that cassette deck is neither playing
nor recording, the receiver mutes the current audio source. To hear the
audio source, press TAPE 2 MONITOR until TAPE 2disappears from the
display.
• Do not press TAPE 2 MONITOR while you are recording on the deck con-
nected to TAPE 2 REC. If you do, the recording is interrupted for about 1
second.
Recording a Program Source
The receiver sends the audio program source you select—TAPE 1/VCR, TAPE 2
MONITOR, LD/DVD, CD, TUNER, PHONO—to the TAPE 1/VCR REC and TAPE 2
MONITOR REC jacks. The VOLUME control does not affect the level of the signal
going to the tape decks.
When you record a program source using the Tape 2 cassette deck, you hear
the program source’s signal immediately after you record it onto the tape, if the
cassette deck you connected has a three-head monitor function. (Be sure to
read the owner’s manual for your cassette deck.)
Simultaneous Recording and Playback
You can record any non-tape program source on the Tape 1 cassette deck while
you listen to a cassette tape using TAPE 2 MONITOR.
Press the button for the desired program source (LD/DVD, CD, TUNER, PHONO),
then press the record button on the cassette deck connected to TAPE 1/VCR.
Tape 1 records the selected program source. Press TAPE 2 MONITOR, then start
playback on the cassette deck connected to TAPE 2 MONITOR. TAPE 2
appears and you hear Tape 2 play back while Tape 1 continues to record the
program source you selected.
16
Basic Operation
Dubbing a Cassette Tape
You can copy, or dub, a cassette tape from one cassette deck to another.
You can use either deck as the playback or recording deck. However, if you
want to monitor the cassette deck during dubbing, use the deck connected to
the TAPE 1/VCR jacks as the source, and the deck you connected to the TAPE 2
MONITOR jacks as the recording deck. Then press TAPE 2 MONITOR until TAPE
2appears on the display. See “Using the TAPE 2 MONITOR Button” on the pre-
vious page.
17
Using the Remote Control
The remote control works up to a distance of about 23 feet, and within a 30-
degree angle on either side of the receiver. Point the control at the receiver’s
front panel and press the desired button(s).
Many buttons on the remote control work the same as buttons on the receiver’s
front panel. Use these buttons exactly as you would use the corresponding but-
tons on the receiver.
Receiver/Amplifier Section
FUNC
Selects a program source (Tape 1/VCR, LD/DVD, CD, tuner,
FUNC
or phono). Repeatedly press
until the display shows
CD
BEST
your desired program source. See Page 13.
ASMS
DISC
– VOLUME +
Adjusts the system’s volume. See Page 13.
DECK1
DECK2
TAPE
RECEIVER POWER
TAPE 2 MONITOR
Turns the receiver on and off. See Page 13.
Switches the receiver to monitor the source connected to the
TUNING
STATION
TUNER
CLASS MUTING
TAPE 2 MONITOR
jacks. See Page 16.
FM MONO
FM/AM
Receive
Section
TAPE2
S.BASS
MONITOR
FUNC
S. BASS
MUTING
Press to enhance bass sound.
POWER
CD
VOLUME
TAPE
RECEIVER
Silences the receiver. Press again to restore the sound to its
previous level. See Page 14.
STA-3500
STEREO RECEIVER
OSR
SYSTEM REMOTE
STATION
CLASS
Press to move the next higher or lower station in memory.
Press to select the class of the station in memory
FM MONO
Press to disable the FM stereo mode to improve reception of
weaker FM stations.
TUNING
Manual Tuning:
Press once to select the next higher or
lower frequency. Or, press and hold down to rapidly change
frequencies.
Automatic Tuning (FM Only):
To search for the next lower
when the frequency
TUNING
or higher station, release
starts to change. The receiver searches up or down the band
until it finds a strong station.
FM/AM
Press to switch between AM and FM bands.
18
Using the Remote Control
CD Player Section
CONTROL OUT
Note: You must connect the CD player both to your receiver’s
and audio jacks for these functions to work.
CD POWER
Turns the CD player on and off (only for CD players having
the CONTROL IN/OUT feature).
|
ASMS
|
Returns to the beginning of the current track or advances to
the next track.
DISC SELECT
Selects discs in a multi-play CD changer.
Note: Some CD players might function with DISC SELECT.
Plays the CD.
CD
BEST
CD Player
Section
ASMS
DISC
DECK1
DECK2
Stops playback.
TAPE
Tape Sectio
Press to temporarily stop play. Press again to resume.
TUNING
STATION
TUNER
FM MONO
FM/AM
CLASS MUTING
BEST
With a CD changer that has the BEST track memory function,
such as an Optimus Professional Series CD-8200/8300/
8400, press to select and play your favorite CD tracks.
TAPE2
S.BASS
MONITOR
FUNC
POWER
CD
VOLUME
TAPE
RECEIVER
Cassette Deck Section
STA-3500
STEREO RECEIVER
OSR
SYSTEM REMOTE
Before operation, select TAPE 2 MONITOR or TAPE1/VCR.
CONTROL
Note: You must connect the cassette deck both to your receiver’s
OUT and audio jacks for these functions to work.
Press to start normal play.
Press to play the reverse side of an auto-reverse cassette
deck.
Press to cancel the current function.
Press to temporarily stop playback/recording. Press again to
resume.
and
Lets you quickly locate and play the beginning of recorded
material during play.
When the tape is stopped, lets you rapidly search forward or
backward to locate a specific section of the tape.
DECK 1/DECK 2
TAPE POWER
Selects Deck 1 or Deck 2 when you use a dual cassette deck.
When you use a single cassette deck, press DECK 2.
Turns the cassette deck on and off.
Note: TAPE POWER does not work with all Optimus Profes-
sional Series cassette decks.
19
Troubleshooting
If the receiver is not working as it should, the following suggestions might help. If you follow the suggestions in this chart and
the receiver still does not work properly, contact your local RadioShack store for assistance.
Problem
Cause
Solution
Power does not turn on.
No sound.
• Power cord is disconnected.
• Incorrect connections.
• Plug in the power cord.
• Check and correct the connections.
• Press MUTING.
• The mute function is activated.
• The volume is turned down.
• Speaker wires are disconnected.
• Neither set of speakers is selected.
• Turn up the volume.
• Connect the speaker wires.
• Press in SPEAKERS A or B.
• Both SPEAKERS A and B are pressed • Press SPEAKERS button again for
when only one set of speakers is
connected.
the terminals that have no speakers.
• TAPE 2 MONITOR is selected.
• Press TAPE 2 MONITOR again.
Sound is produced from only one
speaker.
• One of the speaker wires or input • Check all connections.
cord is disconnected.
• BALANCE is set too far to one side.
• Station not correctly tuned.
• Antenna not connected.
• Set BALANCE to the center position.
High noise level.
• Tune to a stronger station.
• Connect the antenna.
• FM antenna still coiled or is not point- • Stretch both ends of the antenna taut
ing in the correct direction. and reposition the antenna.
• AM loop antenna not pointing in the • Adjust the AM loop antenna.
correct direction.
• Noise is coming from another electri- • Try using an AC line noise filter to
cal appliance.
reduce the noise.
Tuning does not automatically stop
when searching for FM stations.
• Stations are too weak.
• Use a better antenna.
Remote control does not work.
• Batteries are dead or missing.
• Install fresh batteries.
• Poor angle or too great a distance • Use within 23 feet and within a 30-
from the remote sensor window.
degree angle of the remote sensor
window.
• There is an obstacle between you • Change your position or remove the
and the remote sensor window. obstacle.
• For CD players and cassette decks, • Connect the remote control cord.
the remote control cord is not con-
nected.
• A fluorescent light is shining on the • Turn off the light.
remote sensor window.
Remote does not control cassette
deck or CD player.
• Cassette deck or CD changer not • The feature only works with Optimus
compatible.
Professional Series components.
• Properly connect the control cable.
• Properly connect the audio cables.
• Control cable is not plugged in.
• Audio cables are not plugged in.
20
Care and Maintenance
Your STA-3500 Digital Synthesized AM/FM Stereo Receiver is an example of superior design and craftsmanship. The following
suggestions will help you care for the receiver so you can enjoy it for years.
Keep the receiver dry. If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately. Liquids can contain
minerals that can corrode the electronic circuits.
Handle the receiver gently and carefully. Dropping it can damage its circuit
boards and can cause the receiver to work improperly.
Use and store the receiver only in normal temperature environments. Tempera-
ture extremes can shorten the life of electronic devices, damage batteries, and
distort or melt plastic parts.
Keep the receiver away from dust and dirt, which can cause premature wear of
parts.
Wipe the receiver with a damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking new. Do not
use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents to clean the
CLEANER
receiver.
Use only fresh batteries of the recommended size and type in the remote con-
trol. Always remove old or weak batteries. They can leak chemicals that can
destroy electronic circuits.
Modifying or tampering with your receiver’s internal components can cause a malfunction and might invalidate the receiver’s
warranty and void your FCC authorization to operate it. If the receiver is not operating as it should, take it to your local
RadioShack store for assistance.
21
The FCC Wants You To Know
Your receiver might cause radio or TV interference even when it is operating
properly. To determine whether your receiver is causing the interference, turn off
your receiver. If the interference goes away, your receiver is causing it. Try to
eliminate the interference by:
• Moving your radio or TV away from the receiver
• Connecting your receiver to an outlet that is on a different electrical circuit
from the radio or TV
• Contacting your local RadioShack store for help
If you cannot eliminate the interference, the FCC requires that you stop using
your receiver.
22
Specifications
Amplifier
Front Channel Average Power Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Watts per Channel into 8 Ohms
From 40 to 20,000 Hz,
With No More than 0.9% Total Harmonic Distortion
Measured Pursuant to the Federal Trade Commission’s
Trade Regulation Rule on Amplifier Output Power Claims
Input Sensitivity/Impedance
Phono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.8 mV/47 kOhms
CD, LD/DVD, TAPE 1/VCR, Tape 2 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 mV/47 kOhms
Phono Overload Level (0.1% THD, 1 kHz) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 mV
Frequency Response
Phono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz ±0.5 dB
CD, LD/DVD, TAPE 1/VCR, TAPE 2 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Hz to 100,000 Hz +0/–3.0 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF, Short Circuited, A Network)
Phono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 dB
CD, LD/DVD, TAPE 1/VCR, Tape 2 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (EIA, at 1 Watt, 1 kHz)
Phono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 dB
CD, LD/DVD, TAPE 1/VCR, Tape 2 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 dB
FM Tuner
Frequency Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87.5 to 108 MHz
Usable Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mono: 11.2 dBf, IHF (1.0 µV/75 Ohms)
50 dB Quieting Sensitivity
Mono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16.8 dBf (1.9 µV/75 Ohms)
Stereo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38.6 dBf (23.3 µV/75 Ohms)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Mono . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 dB (at 85 dBf)
Stereo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 dB (at 85 dBf)
Distortion Stereo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.5% (1 kHz)
Alternate Channel Selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 dB (400 kHz)
Stereo Separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 dB (1 kHz)
Frequency Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hz to 15 kHz (±1 dB)
Antenna Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Ohms Unbalanced
AM Tuner
Frequency Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530 to 1700 kHz
Sensitivity (IHF, Loop Antenna) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350 µV/m
Selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 dB
23
Specifications
General
Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Volts AC, 60 Hz
Power Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190 Watts (UL)
AC Outlet Ratings Switched . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Watts (0.8 Amps) Maximum
Dimensions (HWD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51/2 × 169/16 × 11 3/4 Inches
(140 × 420 × 298mm)
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 lbs, 6oz (6.6 kg)
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to change and improvement without notice.
24
Index to Features by Control Name
This table lists the control and indicator names found on the front of your receiver, along with the page number where the con-
trol or indicator is discussed. To find a description for the buttons on the remote control, see “Using the Remote Control” on
Page 18.
Control
Page
BALANCE
BASS
15
13
CD
13
CLASS
FM MONO
FM/AM
14
15
14
LD/DVD
MEMORY
MUTING
PHONES
PHONO
POWER
13
14
16
16
13
13
SPEAKERS A and B
STATION
13
14
STANDBY
12
SUPER BASS
TAPE 1/VCR
TAPE 2 MONITOR
TREBLE
13
13, 16
13, 16
13
TUNER
13
TUNING
14
VOLUME
13
25
Notes
26
27
RadioShack Limited Warranty
This product is warranted against defects for 2 years from date of purchase from
RadioShack company-owned stores and authorized RadioShack franchisees and deal-
ers. Within this period, we will repair it without charge for parts and labor. Simply bring
your RadioShack sales slip as proof of purchase date to any RadioShack store. War-
ranty does not cover transportation costs. Nor does it cover a product subjected to mis-
use or accidental damage.
EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, RADIOSHACK MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRAN-
TIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE DURA-
TION OF THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES CONTAINED HEREIN. Some states
do not permit limitation or exclusion of implied warranties; therefore, the aforesaid limi-
tation(s) or exclusion(s) may not apply to the purchaser.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
We Service What We Sell
10/95
RadioShack
A Division of Tandy Corporation
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
<ARB1484-A>
7A6
Printed in Japan
|