RCA Stereo Receiver STA 3850 User Guide

owner’s manual  
STA-3850  
STEREO RECEIVER  
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
Careful attention is devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of  
your cassette deck, and safety is a major factor in its design. However,  
safety is also your responsibility.  
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.  
This section lists important information that will help you properly use  
and enjoy your cassette deck. Read all the included safety and operating  
instructions before using your cassette deck. Follow them closely, and  
retain them for future reference.  
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 personnel.  
Heed Warnings — Follow all warnings on the product and in the  
operating instructions.  
Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this product from the wall  
outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the  
following conditions:  
Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning.  
Use only a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol  
cleaners.  
• 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.  
Attachments — Do not use attachments/accessories not  
recommended by the product manufacturer, as they might create a  
hazard.  
• 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 normal operation.  
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.  
• If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.  
• When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance.  
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.  
Carts — Move the product on a cart carefully. Quick  
stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause  
the product/cart to overturn.  
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.  
Ventilation — Slots and openings in the cabinet provide ventilation,  
ensure reliable operation, and protect from overheating. Do not block  
or cover these openings, and do not place the product on a bed, sofa,  
rug, or other similar surface. Do not place the product in a built-in  
installation such as a bookcase or rack unless it provides proper  
ventilation as specified by the manufacturer.  
Wall or Ceiling Mount — The product should be mounted to a wall  
or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.  
Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such  
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including  
amplifiers) that produce heat.  
Non-use Periods — Unplug the cassette desk’s power cord when you  
will not use it for extended periods.  
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.  
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, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.  
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized 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, convenience receptacles,  
and the point where they exit from the product.  
Lightning — For added protection for this product during a lightning  
storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time,  
unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable  
system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and  
power-line surges.  
Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or  
integral convenience receptacles, as this can result in a risk of fire or  
electric shock.  
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CONTENTS  
Preparation .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 5  
Positioning Speakers ................................................................................................................................................................... 5  
Connecting Speakers ................................................................................................................................................................... 5  
Preparing the Speaker Wires ................................................................................................................................................ 5  
Connecting Speakers to the A and B Terminals ................................................................................................................... 5  
Connecting Program Sources ...................................................................................................................................................... 6  
Connecting a Turntable ........................................................................................................................................................ 6  
Connecting a CD Player ....................................................................................................................................................... 6  
Connecting a Cassette Deck ................................................................................................................................................. 6  
Connecting Another Audio Source ...................................................................................................................................... 6  
Connecting the Antennas ............................................................................................................................................................ 6  
AM Antennas ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6  
FM Antennas ........................................................................................................................................................................ 7  
Installing the Remote Control’s Batteries ................................................................................................................................... 8  
Connecting to AC Power ............................................................................................................................................................. 8  
Operation ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 9  
Using the Sleep Timer ................................................................................................................................................................. 9  
Tuning the Radio ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9  
Manual and Automatic Tuning ............................................................................................................................................ 9  
Direct Tuning (Remote Control Only) ............................................................................................................................... 10  
Memory Tuning ......................................................................................................................................................................... 10  
Automatically Storing Stations .......................................................................................................................................... 10  
Manually Storing a Station ................................................................................................................................................ 10  
Tuning to a Station in Memory .......................................................................................................................................... 10  
Adjusting Balance ..................................................................................................................................................................... 11  
Muting the Receiver .................................................................................................................................................................. 11  
Using Headphones ..................................................................................................................................................................... 11  
Listening Safely ................................................................................................................................................................. 11  
Cassette Deck Features .............................................................................................................................................................. 11  
Using the Tape Monitor Button .......................................................................................................................................... 11  
Recording a Program Source ............................................................................................................................................. 11  
Using the Reset Button .............................................................................................................................................................. 11  
Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................................. 12  
Care and Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................................... 13  
The FCC Wants You to Know ................................................................................................................................................... 13  
Specifications ................................................................................................................................................................................... 14  
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PREPARATION  
Caution: Make all the necessary connections before you plug in  
or turn on the receiver.  
terminals and the other pair to the B SPEAKERS  
terminals.  
• Optimus, and other high-quality speakers have color-  
coded speaker terminals (red for positive polarity and  
black for negative polarity). Use these color-coded  
terminals as a guide to help you properly connect the  
speakers to the receiver.  
POSITIONING SPEAKERS  
Use 16-gauge (or larger) speaker wire for all speaker  
connections, and consider possible speaker locations before  
you decide how much speaker wire you need.  
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.  
Speaker (not supplied) placement can make a noticeable  
difference in your system’s sound. The guidelines in this  
section will help you choose the best locations. After you use  
your receiver for a while, you might want to try different  
locations for your speakers.  
Follow these steps to prepare the speaker wires.  
1. Cut the speaker wires to the necessary length.  
2. Separate the wires about 4 inches on each end.  
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.  
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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.  
Caution: Twisting the end of each conductor helps prevent  
a short circuit because stray speaker wire strands do not  
touch other speaker terminals or any other receiver  
terminals.  
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.  
Connecting Speakers to the A and B Terminals  
Note:  
• Be sure you connect the receiver’s right and left positive  
(+) and negative (–) terminals to the speaker’s  
corresponding right and left positive (+) and negative (–)  
terminals.  
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 dispersion. You can angle the  
speakers toward you for better stereo effect.  
• 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.  
CONNECTING SPEAKERS  
Follow these steps to connect each speaker (A right or left or B  
Follow these guidelines when you select and connect speakers.  
right or left).  
• Only connect speakers that are rated at between 8 and 16  
ohms.  
1. Press open the receiver’s positive (+) red lever for the  
speaker you want to connect and insert the ridged or color-  
coded conductor’s end into the small hole. Release the  
lever to secure the conductor.  
• Be sure you properly connect all speakers.  
• 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 pair to the A SPEAKERS  
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turntable’s ground wire to the receiver’s GND screw  
terminal.  
Connecting a CD Player  
To connect a CD player to the receiver, connect the CD  
player’s left and right output jacks to the receiver’s L and R CD  
IN jacks.  
Connecting a Cassette Deck  
2. Press open the receiver’s negative () black lever for the  
same speaker and insert the other conductor’s end into the  
small hole. Release the lever to secure the conductor.  
You can connect a cassette deck to the TAPE MONITOR jacks.  
Connect the cassette deck’s output jacks to the PLAY jacks, and  
connect the cassette deck’s input jacks to the REC jacks.  
3. Connect the ridged or color-coded conductor’s loose end  
to the speaker’s positive (+) terminal.  
Connecting Another Audio Source  
4. Connect the remaining loose conductor to the speaker’s  
negative (–) terminal.  
Connect the audio outputs of another audio source, such as the  
audio from a laser disc player, TV, or VCR to the AUX jacks.  
CONNECTING  
PROGRAM SOURCES  
CONNECTING THE ANTENNAS  
In many areas, the supplied indoor AM loop and FM antennas  
provide satisfactory reception.  
Note: Use shielded audio cables with phono connectors for all  
audio connections.  
AM Antennas  
You can connect up to four external program sources to your  
receiver.  
Assemble the supplied AM 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. 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.  
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.  
Connect the turntable’s left and right cables to the receiver’s L  
(left) and R (right) PHONO IN jacks. Then connect the  
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Attach the antenna wires from the AM loop antenna to the AM  
and GND (ground) ANTENNA terminals.  
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 antennas and antenna connection accessories.  
Warning: To prevent injury, read and follow all cautions and  
warnings that accompany the outdoor antenna.  
For the best radio reception, use an outdoor antenna. Follow  
these steps to connect an outdoor FM antenna to the receiver  
using 75coaxial cable.  
Place the antenna on a flat surface and rotate it for the best AM  
reception.  
Note: If your antenna has 300twin-lead cable, connect it to  
the FM 300ANTENNA terminals.  
Notes:  
1. Disconnect the supplied FM antenna from the receiver’s  
• Keep the AM loop antenna connected even when you use  
another indoor antenna or an outdoor AM antenna.  
FM 300ANTENNA terminal.  
2. With a stripping tool, remove about 11/2 inches of the 75Ω  
• Ensure that the antenna does not touch the receiver or any  
other metal object.  
cable’s outer insulation to expose the cable’s shielding.  
Inner Insulation  
• Do not place the antenna near a CD player, a personal  
computer, or a TV set.  
• If the wire between the AM loop antenna and your  
receiver is too short, you can add extra wire, available at  
your local RadioShack store.  
Center Wire  
Outer Insulation  
Shielding  
You can also use an optional 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 ANTENNA terminal as shown.  
3. Fold back the shielding from the inner insulation.  
4. Remove about 1 inch of the inner insulation from around  
the center wire.  
5. Pull the shielding to one side. Connect the center wire to  
the receiver’s FM 75ANTENNA terminal. Twist the  
shielding to secure any loose wire strands, and connect it  
to the GND ANTENNA terminal.  
FM Antennas  
Note: For the best results, use 75-ohm coaxial cable to connect  
an outdoor antenna to the receiver. Connect the supplied FM  
antenna to the FM 300ANTENNA terminal as shown then  
extend it.  
Shielding  
FM  
300  
FM  
75Ω  
AM  
GND  
Center  
Wire  
Caution: The cable’s shielding should only touch the GND  
ANTENNA terminal.  
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Note: Grounding is not necessary for reception, but we  
recommend it for better FM reception and to avoid damage  
from lightning when you use an outdoor FM antenna. Use a  
separate piece of thick polyvinyl insulated wire to connect the  
GND ANTENNA terminal to an earth ground, such as a metal  
cold-water pipe.  
CONNECTING TO AC POWER  
Warning: To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized  
plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless  
you can fully insert the blades to prevent blade exposure.  
Before you plug in the receiver’s power cord, double check all  
other connections.  
Warning: Never connect a wire to a gas pipe for grounding  
since sparks might ignite the gas.  
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.  
INSTALLING THE  
REMOTE CONTROL’S BATTERIES  
Cautions:  
• Use only fresh batteries of the required size and  
recommended type.  
• Do not mix old and new batteries, different types of  
batteries (standard, alkaline, or rechargeable), or  
rechargeable batteries of different capacities.  
• Dispose of old batteries promptly and properly. Do not  
burn or bury them.  
• Always remove old or weak batteries. Batteries can leak  
chemicals that can damage electronic circuits.  
Your remote control requires two AA batteries (not included)  
for power. For the best operation and longest life, we  
recommend alkaline batteries, available at your local  
RadioShack store.  
The STAND BY indicator lights when the receiver is plugged  
in but turned off.  
1. To remove the battery compartment cover, push the  
compartment’s tab in the direction of the arrow, then lift  
off the cover.  
Note: The receiver has a built-in circuit to protect it against  
overheating or short circuits. If your receiver automatically  
turns off (stand by mode), let it cool for several minutes. If the  
receiver overheated, it should play normally when you turn it  
back on. If there is a short circuit in your receiver, it will turn  
off again when you turn on the receiver. If this happens, check  
with your local RadioShack store for service.  
2. Place two fresh AA batteries in the compartment as  
indicated by the polarity symbols (+ and –) marked inside.  
3. Replace the battery compartment cover.  
Note: If the remote’s range is reduced, replace the batteries.  
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OPERATION  
Warning: To prevent possible hearing loss, turn VOLUME to  
MIN before you turn on the receiver or change the program  
source. After you turn on the receiver or change the program  
source, adjust VOLUME to a comfortable listening level.  
7. When you finish using the receiver, press POWER to turn  
it off.  
USING THE SLEEP TIMER  
You can use the supplied remote control by pointing it at the  
receiver’s front panel and pressing 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 buttons on the receiver.  
The sleep timer lets you set the receiver to play for up to 90  
minutes, then automatically turns off.  
1. To set the timer, turn on the receiver then press SLEEP on  
the remote control. The display dims and shows SLEEP  
90SLEEP.  
Follow these steps to use the receiver.  
1. Press POWER to turn on the receiver. It takes about 5  
2. To set the sleep timer for less than 90 minutes, repeatedly  
press SLEEP to decrease the time by 10 minutes for each  
press of the button. Once you select the time, the receiver  
displays the program source. (SLEEPstays on the display  
in small letters until automatic shut-off.)  
seconds to hear sound.  
2. Select the speakers. An indicator lights next to the A and/  
or B to show which speakers are on.  
If you connected speakers only to the A (or B)  
SPEAKERS terminals, press SPEAKERS A (or B) to turn  
on only those speakers. Do not press both SPEAKERS A  
and B because doing so turns off all speakers even though  
both indicators are on.  
3. To briefly see the time remaining, press SLEEP once.  
TUNING THE RADIO  
If you connected speakers to both the A and B SPEAKERS  
terminals, you can:  
Your receiver has four types of electronic tuning — manual,  
automatic, direct, and memory.  
• Press SPEAKERS A or B to turn on either pair of speak-  
Note: For weak signals, we recommend manual tuning.  
ers for a two-speaker effect.  
• Press SPEAKERS A and B to turn on both pairs of  
Manual and Automatic Tuning  
speakers for a four-speaker effect.  
Press SPEAKERS A and/or B to turn off all speakers so  
you can listen privately with headphones (see “Using  
Headphones” on Page 11).  
Follow these steps to manually or automatically tune to the  
stations.  
1. Press FM or AM on the front panel (or on the remote  
control) to select the desired band. The receiver tunes to  
and displays the frequency last selected in that band.  
3. Select a program source.  
To tune to a radio station, see “Direct Tuning (Remote  
Control Only)” on Page 10.  
2. If CHappears on the right side of the display, press MODE  
to change the receiver to manual-tuning mode. MANUAL  
briefly appears.  
To listen to signals from the component connected to the  
TAPE MONITOR jacks, press TAPE MONITOR so TAPE  
MONappears.  
3. To manually select the next higher or lower frequency,  
press TUNING UP or DOWN once. Or, hold down the  
button to rapidly scan through the frequencies; release the  
button to stop scanning.  
To listen to a source other than the one connected to the  
TAPE MONITOR jacks, press TAPE MONITOR so TAPE  
MONdisappears. Then press CD, PHONO, or AUX (CD,  
PHONO, or AUXappears).  
To automatically search for the next higher or lower  
station, briefly hold down TUNING UP or DOWN to begin  
rapidly scanning through the frequencies. The receiver  
searches up or down the band, stopping on the next strong  
station.  
4. Turn VOLUME clockwise to increase the volume or  
counterclockwise to decrease it. Or, you can use VOLUME  
and  
on the remote control.  
5. To adjust the tone, turn BASS and TREBLE toward + or  
. To increase the high and low ranges of sound at low  
volume, press LOUDNESS. (To turn off this feature, press  
LOUDNESS again.)  
Notes:  
TUNEDappears when the received signal is strong.  
STEREOappears when the received FM broadcasts are  
in stereo.  
6. To adjust the balance of sound between the left and right  
speakers, see “Adjusting Balance” on Page 11.  
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• If you press TUNING UP at the top of the frequency  
range or TUNING DOWN at the bottom of the frequency  
range, the frequency at the opposite end of the range  
appears.  
Repeat these steps to automatically store stations in the other  
band.  
Manually Storing a Station  
When the receiver automatically stores stations, some of them  
might not be your favorites. Or, the 30-channel memory might  
have filled up before the receiver reached your favorite station  
at the high end of the frequency range. Follow these steps to  
manually replace a station in memory.  
Direct Tuning (Remote Control Only)  
Follow these steps to directly enter a frequency.  
1. Press FM or AM on the front panel (or on the remote  
control) to select the desired band. The receiver tunes to  
and displays the frequency last selected in that band.  
1. Press FM or AM on the front panel (or on the remote  
control) to select the desired band. The receiver tunes to  
and displays the frequency last selected in that band.  
2. Press DIRECT TUNING on the remote control. DIRECT  
INscrolls by, followed by AM– – – – kHzfor AM or FM– –  
.– – MHzfor FM. The first flashes.  
2. If CHappears on the right side of the display, press MODE  
to change the receiver to manual-tuning mode. MANUAL  
briefly appears.  
3. Enter the desired frequency using the remote control’s  
number buttons.  
3. Use either automatic or manual tuning to find the desired  
station.  
Notes:  
• If you press 1 to enter a FM frequency, such as 103.5,  
10automatically appears. If you also press the zero, the  
frequency that appears would be 100.30.  
4. Press MEMORY. MEMORYflashes on the display.  
5. While MEMORYflashes, press TUNING UP or DOWN until  
the desired memory channel number appears.  
• The last zero always appears automatically in both FM  
and AM frequencies.  
6. Press MEMORY again to store the station immediately. Or,  
wait about 5 seconds and the station is automatically  
stored in the selected channel.  
• If you do not press a key within 5 seconds, the receiver  
exits direct tuning. Start over at Step 2.  
Notes:  
• If you store a frequency in a memory that already contains  
a frequency, you replace the previous frequency.  
MEMORY TUNING  
Memory tuning lets you instantly tune to a stored frequency.  
You can store up to 30 AM and 30 FM frequencies in the  
receiver’s memory. The receiver automatically stores the first  
30 stations found in the selected band into the memory. You  
can also manually store a station into memory.  
• If your receiver is disconnected from AC power for several  
days, it loses all the stored frequencies.  
Tuning to a Station in Memory  
1. Press FM or AM on the front panel (or on the remote  
control) to select the desired band. The receiver tunes to  
and displays the frequency last selected in that band.  
Automatically Storing Stations  
1. Press FM or AM on the front panel (or on the remote  
control) to select the desired band. The receiver tunes to  
and displays the frequency last selected in that band.  
2. If CHdoes not appear on the right side of the display, press  
MODE to change the receiver to memory-tuning mode.  
PRESETbriefly appears.  
2. Hold down MEMORY for more than 2 seconds. MEMORY  
and CHappear while the receiver steps through the  
frequencies, beginning with the low end (87.5 MHz for  
FM or 530 kHz for AM).  
3. Press TUNING UP or DOWN (or PRESET CALL  
and  
on the remote control) to tune to the next higher or  
lower station stored in memory.  
Or, press PRESET SCAN to scan through the stations in  
memory. The receiver tunes to each station for about 5  
seconds. When you hear the station you want to listen to,  
press PRESET SCAN again.  
3. When the receiver finds a station, it stores in the first  
memory channel, the CHnumber increments, and the  
receiver looks for the next station. When the receiver finds  
the thirtieth station or when it reaches the high end of the  
frequency range, MEMORYdisappears and the receiver  
tunes to the lowest frequency station in the band.  
You can also tune to a station in memory by using the  
remote control’s number buttons to enter the channel  
number. For single-digit channels, enter 0 first (for  
example, enter 06 for Channel 6).  
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Notes:  
To improve the reception of weak FM stations, press FM  
CASSETTE DECK FEATURES  
You can connect a cassette deck to the receiver. Selecting  
TAPE MONITOR lets you hear the playback from the cassette  
deck you connected to the receiver’s TAPE MONITOR jacks.  
MODE. This reduces signal noise, but you hear monaural  
instead of stereo sound.  
• For stations with a weak signal, we recommend manual  
tuning.  
Using the Tape Monitor  
Button  
ADJUSTING BALANCE  
Press TAPE MONITOR. TAPEMONappears, along with the last  
program source you selected. You can hear the playback or  
monitor a recording from the cassette deck you connected to  
the receiver’s TAPE MONITOR jacks.  
The BALANCE control lets you adjust the sound balance  
between the left and right speakers. If you properly position the  
speakers and your listening area is centered between them, the  
center control setting is usually best (see “Positioning  
Speakers” on Page 5).  
The TAPE MONITOR REC jacks continue to output the  
previously selected sound source after you press TAPE  
MONITOR.  
For an unusual speaker placement, press AM to select the AM  
band or select any source and play a monaural audio source.  
Turn BALANCE until you hear the sound coming equally from  
each speaker when you are in the listening area.  
To return to the previous source, press TAPE MONITOR again  
so TAPEMONdisappears.  
Note: If you press TAPE MONITOR when that cassette deck is  
neither playing nor recording, the receiver mutes the current  
audio source. To hear the audio source, press TAPE MONITOR  
so TAPEMONdisappears.  
MUTING THE RECEIVER  
To temporarily mute the sound, press MUTING on the remote  
control. The MUTE indicator on the receiver flashes. Press  
MUTING again to restore the audio level. The MUTE indicator  
turns off.  
Recording a  
Program Source  
The receiver sends the audio of the program source you  
select—TAPE MONITOR, AUX, CD, FM/AM (tuner), or  
PHONOto the TAPE MONITOR REC jacks. The VOLUME  
control does not affect the level of the signal going to the tape  
decks.  
USING HEADPHONES  
To listen with headphones (not supplied), insert the  
1
headphones’ /4-inch plug into the receiver’s front panel  
PHONES jack. To silence the speakers and listen with  
headphones without disturbing others, press SPEAKERS A  
and/or B so both indicators are off.  
When you record a program source using the 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.)  
Listening Safely  
To protect your hearing, note the following when using  
headphones.  
USING THE RESET BUTTON  
• Set the volume to its lowest setting before you begin  
listening. After you begin listening, adjust the volume to a  
comfortable level.  
If the receiver is subjected to a strong magnetic field or an  
electric shock, it might operate erratically. If this happens, turn  
off the receiver and press the rear panel RESET button with a  
straightened paperclip or other pointed object.  
• Do not listen at extremely high volume levels. Extended  
high-volume listening can lead to permanent hearing loss.  
Caution: Pressing RESET clears everything stored in the  
receiver’s memory.  
• 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.  
11  
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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  
Suggestion  
Plug in the power cord.  
Power does not turn on.  
No sound.  
Power cord is disconnected.  
Incorrect connections.  
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 SPEAKERS A or B.  
Both SPEAKERS A and B are selected  
when only one set of speakers is  
connected.  
Press SPEAKERS A or B to turn off the  
speakers that are not connected.  
TAPE MONITOR is selected.  
Press TAPE MONITOR so TAPEMON  
turns off.  
Sound from only one speaker.  
High noise level.  
One of the speaker wires or the input cord Check all connections.  
is disconnected.  
BALANCE is set too far to one side.  
Station not correctly tuned.  
Antenna not connected.  
Set BALANCE to the center position.  
Adjust tuning.  
Connect the antenna.  
FM antenna still coiled or is not pointing Stretch both ends of the antenna taut and  
in the correct direction.  
reposition the antenna.  
AM loop antenna not pointing in the  
correct direction.  
Adjust the AM loop antenna.  
Noise is coming from another electrical  
appliance.  
Try using an AC line noise filter to  
reduce the noise.  
Automatic tuning does not stop when  
searching for stations.  
Stations are too weak.  
Use a better antenna.  
Remote control does not work.  
Batteries are weak or missing.  
Install fresh batteries.  
Poor angle or too great a distance from  
the remote sensor window.  
Use the remote control within the  
effective range.  
There is an obstacle between you and the Change your position or remove the  
remote sensor window.  
obstacle.  
A fluorescent light is shining on the  
remote sensor window.  
Turn off the light.  
12  
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CARE AND MAINTENANCE  
To enjoy your RCA STA-3850 Stereo Receiver for a long  
time:  
• Keep the receiver dry. If it gets wet, wipe it dry  
immediately.  
• Use and store the receiver only in normal temperature  
environments.  
• Handle the receiver gently and carefully. Don’t drop it.  
• Keep the receiver away from dust and dirt.  
• Wipe the receiver with a damp cloth occasionally to keep  
it looking new.  
Modifying or tampering with the receiver’s internal  
components can cause a malfunction and invalidate its  
warranty.  
This receiver has been manufactured to the specifications of  
RadioShack and is covered by a limited warranty from  
RadioShack. If your receiver is not operating as it should, take  
it to your local RadioShack store or call 1-800-THE-SHACK  
for assistance.  
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.  
13  
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SPECIFICATIONS  
Amplifier  
Power Output ................................................................................................................................. 50 Watts per Channel into 8 Ohms  
From 40 to 20,000 Hz,  
With No More than 0.5% Total Harmonic Distortion  
Measured Pursuant to the Federal Trade Commission’s  
Trade Regulation Rule on Amplifier Output Power Claims  
Input Sensitivity/Impedance  
Phono ....................................................................................................................................................................... 2.5 mV/47 kohms  
CD, AUX, TAPE MONITOR ................................................................................................................................. 200 mV/47 kohms  
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF, Short-Circuited, A Network)  
Phono .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 72 dB  
CD, AUX, TAPE MONITOR ..................................................................................................................................................... 95 dB  
FM Tuner  
Frequency Range ...................................................................................................................................................... 87.5 to 108 MHz  
Usable Sensitivity ............................................................................................................................................. Mono: 15 µV/m, EMF  
Signal-to-Noise Ratio  
Mono ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 68 dB  
Stereo .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 63 dB  
Distortion ............................................................................................................................................................ Stereo: 0.5% (1 kHz)  
Alternate Channel Selectivity .................................................................................................................................... 45 dB (400 kHz)  
Stereo Separation ........................................................................................................................................................... 35 dB (1 kHz)  
AM Tuner  
Frequency Range ....................................................................................................................................................... 530 to 1720 kHz  
Sensitivity (IHF, Loop Antenna) ......................................................................................................................................... 500 µV/m  
Selectivity ................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 dB  
Signal-to-Noise Ratio ................................................................................................................................................................. 35 dB  
General  
Power Requirements ............................................................................................................................................ 120 Volts AC, 60 Hz  
Power Consumption ............................................................................................................................................................. 120 Watts  
Dimensions (HWD) ................................................................................................................................... 51/8 × 169/16 × 121/4 Inches  
(130 × 420 × 310 mm)  
Weight ............................................................................................................................................................................. 14 lb (6.3 kg)  
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to change and improvement without notice.  
14  
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NOTES  
15  
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Limited Two-Year Warranty  
This product is warranted by RadioShack against manufacturing defects in material and workman-  
ship under normal use for two (2) years from the date of purchase from RadioShack company-  
owned stores and authorized RadioShack franchisees and dealers. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED  
HEREIN, RadioShack MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES,  
INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,  
ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE DURATION OF THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES  
CONTAINED HEREIN. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, RadioShack SHALL HAVE NO LIABIL-  
ITY OR RESPONSIBILITY TO CUSTOMER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY WITH RE-  
SPECT TO ANY LIABILITY, LOSS OR DAMAGE CAUSED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY USE  
OR PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WAR-  
RANTY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM INCONVE-  
NIENCE, LOSS OF TIME, DATA, PROPERTY, REVENUE, OR PROFIT OR ANY INDIRECT,  
SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF RadioShack HAS BEEN AD-  
VISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.  
Some states do not allow the limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion of in-  
cidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.  
In the event of a product defect during the warranty period, take the product and the RadioShack  
sales receipt as proof of purchase date to any RadioShack store. RadioShack will, at its option, un-  
less otherwise provided by law: (a) correct the defect by product repair without charge for parts and  
labor; (b) replace the product with one of the same or similar design; or (c) refund the purchase  
price. All replaced parts and products, and products on which a refund is made, become the prop-  
erty of RadioShack. New or reconditioned parts and products may be used in the performance of  
warranty service. Repaired or replaced parts and products are warranted for the remainder of the  
original warranty period. You will be charged for repair or replacement of the product made after the  
expiration of the warranty period.  
This warranty does not cover: (a) damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse,  
accident, misuse, improper or abnormal usage, failure to follow instructions, improper installation or  
maintenance, alteration, lightning or other incidence of excess voltage or current; (b) any repairs  
other than those provided by a RadioShack Authorized Service Facility; (c) consumables such as  
fuses or batteries; (d) cosmetic damage; (e) transportation, shipping or insurance costs; or (f) costs  
of product removal, installation, set-up service adjustment or reinstallation.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from  
state to state.  
RadioShack Customer Relations, 200 Taylor Street, 6th Floor, Fort Worth, TX 76102  
04/99  
We Service What We Sell  
RadioShack  
A Division of Tandy Corporation  
Fort Worth, Texas 76102  
31-5002  
08A99  
Printed in China  
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