1 − Introduction8 TASCAM SS-CDR1In this manual, we use the term “recordable” disc todescribe a CD-R or CD-RW disc that has not been final-ized, i.e. further recording is possible on the disc.Recordable discsAbout CD-R and CD-RW discsCD-R discs can be recorded once only. Once theyhave been used for recording, they cannot be erased orre-recorded. However, if space is available on the disc,additional material can be recorded. The packaging ofCD-R discs will include one of the following logos:By contrast, a CD-RW disc can be used in much the sameway as a CD-R disc, but the last track or tracks recordedcan be erased before the disc has been “finalized”, and thespace on the disc can be re-used for other recordings. Thepackaging of CD-RW discs will include one of the follow-ing logos:High SpeedHowever, you should note that an audio CD created usinga CD-RW disc may not play back satisfactorily on everyaudio CD player. It will, naturally, be playable on theSS-CDR1. This is in no way a limitation of the SS-CDR1itself, but of the difference between the different types ofmedia and the methods used to read them.There are precautions that you should take when handlingCD-R and CD-RW discs.Avoid touching the recording (non-label) side of a disc on•which you will be recording. Recording on a disc requiresa cleaner surface than playing back, and fingerprints,grease, etc. can cause errors in the recording process.CD-R and CD-RW discs are sensitive to the effects of•heat and ultraviolet rays. It is important that they are notstored in a location where direct sunlight will fall onthem, and which is away from sources of heat such asradiators or heat-generating electrical devices.Always store CD-R and CD-RW discs in their cases to•avoid dirt and dust accumulating on their surfaces.When labeling CD-R and CD-RW discs, always use a•soft oil-based felt-tipped pen to write the information.Never use a ball-point or hard-tipped pen, as this maycause damage to the recorded side.Always keep the recording sides of the discs away from•grime and dust to avoid a reduction in sound quality.To clean a disc, wipe gently with a soft dry cloth fromthe center towards the outside edge. Do not use thinner,gasoline, benzene or LP cleaning fluid, as these willdamage the disc and cause the disc unplayable.Do not put labels or protective sheets on the discs and do•not use any protective coating spray.If you are in any doubt as to the care and handling of a•CD-R and CD-RW discs, read the precautions suppliedwith the disc, or contact the disc manufacturer directly.About finalizingAlthough audio data may be written on a CD-R or CD-RWdisc, a standard CD player will not be able to read the data(i.e. play back the audio) until a final *TOC has been writ-ten at the start of the disc.*TOC:Table of contentsInformation of recorded data, which contains titles, startingand ending addresses, and etc..The process of writing this table of contents is known as“finalizing”. Once this has been done, no further data canbe written to the disc. See “Finalizing” on page 43 fordetails. In the case of a CD-RW disc which has been final-ized, the whole of the disc may be erased, or the disc maybe “refreshed”, and the disc re-used.In addition, a CD-RW disc that has been finalized may be“unfinalized”, i.e. only the TOC is removed. This allowsfurther tracks to be recorded to the disc, provided thatthere is space on the disc.The SS-CDR1 has been designed for the playback ofCD-DA (standard audio) format discs and MP3 files record-ed on the discs using the ISO9660 format: In addition toordinary 5-inch and 3-inch CDs, it can also play properlyrecorded CD-R and CD-RW discs.Always insert the compact discs into the unit with their•label facing upward.To remove a disc from its case, press down on the center•of the disc holder, then lift the disc out, holding it care-fully by the edges.Handling of compact discs