The CFD-V17 was a CD radio cassette recorder, sometimes called a cassette-corder, released by Sony in the late 1990s. This device provided programmable CD play, stereo and mono AM/FM radio, and a single cassette player that could record from CD or radio stations. Like other magnetic tape devices, the cassette player sometimes suffered from playback problems, including obstructions or incorrect settings.
Incorrect Tape Format
The Sony CFD-V17 can play only Type I, or normal, tapes. Type II, or high position, and Type IV, or metal, tapes can cause playback problems, including sound distortion. Avoid recording onto these types of tapes as they will not work correctly in this player.
Incorrect Settings
In order to play or record a tape in a multi-function device such as the Sony CFD-V17, you must set the player in the correct mode. To record, make sure the Function selector has been set to AM, FM or CD. To play a tape, set the Function lever to Tape - CD/Radio Off. In other modes, the tape player mechanism may work, but the machine won't produce any sound.
Cassette Door Problems
If you place a cassette tape in the player but the tape refuses to move after you press play or record, there may be a problem with the cassette door. Make sure that the compartment is completely closed and that there are no obstacles around the hinge. Check to see that the door has not become warped and that the cassette clicks into place when you close the door.
Disuse
If you haven't used your CFD-V17 for long periods of time, the cassette-corder may not work properly the first time you start it. After getting the player out of storage, Sony recommends setting it in playback mode and pressing "play" a few minutes before inserting a cassette tape. This allows the player to "warm up" slightly before use and increases the chances of successful playback.
Grit
Using the player in dusty areas such as construction zones, sculpture labs and outdoor play areas can cause grit and dirt to enter the tape player. Since it is a mechanical device, the player may stop working if its moving parts become clogged. Keep the CFD-V17 out of dusty areas whenever possible. If it does get dirty, vacuum all visible parts. Use a crevice tool along any seams and other openings in the machine to remove as much dirt as possible. Disassembling and reassembling the player after cleaning may allow it to work again, but dirt can break the CFD-V17's cassette-corder permanently.
Tags: tape player, cassette player, cassette tape, dusty areas, play record, playback problems