CD Audio Records on Only One Channel Through the Tape Deck
Asked by
MellowPine42
I'm using a Technics SU-8077K stereo integrated amplifier with a Kenwood KX-440HX cassette deck. Vinyl records connected through the phono input record to cassette perfectly in stereo, but when I connect my CD player through the auxiliary input, the cassette deck records and displays only the right channel. The CD player sounds normal through the amplifier's speakers, and the amplifier's tape-dubbing and playback connections haven't fixed the problem. When I swap the left and right RCA plugs, the missing channel switches sides, so the issue seems to follow the left-channel input or connection. What should I check to isolate and fix the fault?
Answers
First isolate the problem before opening the cassette deck. Swap the CD player’s left and right RCA plugs at the source end. If the silent side changes, the fault is upstream of the deck—most likely the RCA cable, the CD player’s left output, or an oxidized connector. If it stays on the same amplifier channel, then investigate the amplifier or its tape-recording path. Also test the CD player directly through the auxiliary input and turn the balance fully left and right to confirm both channels are actually present. On equipment this old, dirty source or tape-monitor switches can also interrupt one channel, so cycle those switches repeatedly or clean them with proper contact cleaner.
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MellowPine42: I swapped the RCA plugs and the missing channel moved to the other side. The CD player does play both channels directly through the auxiliary input, so I’ll check the cable, connectors, and amplifier switches first.