MEX-BT4100U - Car radio SONY - Free user manual and instructions

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SONY MEX-BT4100U - Car radio
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Product Type Bluetooth Car Stereo
Brand Sony
Model MEX-BT4100U
Dimensions 178 x 50 x 177 mm (standard DIN 1-DIN)
Weight Approximately 1.5 kg
Power Supply 12 V DC (vehicle)
Connectivity Bluetooth, USB, front AUX input
Bluetooth Functions Hands-free calling, A2DP audio streaming
Tuner FM/AM with RDS
Compatible Audio Formats MP3, WMA, AAC (via USB)
Output Power 4 x 55 W maximum
Display Backlit LCD display
Inputs/Outputs 1 AUX input, 1 subwoofer output
Maintenance and Cleaning Clean with a soft, dry cloth
Safety Protection fuse (10 A)
Spare Parts and Repairability Parts available via Sony after-sales service
General Information Multimedia steering wheel compatibility (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions - MEX-BT4100U SONY

How do I pair my phone with the Sony MEX-BT4100U car stereo?
Enable Bluetooth on your phone and put the car stereo in search mode (BT menu). Select 'MEX-BT4100U' from the list of devices and confirm the PIN code '0000' if prompted.
What audio formats are playable via USB?
The car stereo plays MP3, WMA, and AAC files stored on a USB drive. Ensure the drive is formatted as FAT32.
How do I reset the car stereo to factory settings?
Press the 'MENU' button, turn the knob until 'INITIAL' appears, then confirm. Select 'YES' to reset.
Can I use a 64 GB USB drive?
Yes, the car stereo supports USB drives up to 64 GB. However, for optimal performance, it is recommended to use a 32 GB or smaller drive.
How do I set the clock on the car stereo?
Press and hold the 'MENU' button, turn the knob until 'CLOCK' appears, then adjust the time using the + and - buttons.
Why is the sound stuttering over Bluetooth?
Check that your phone is close to the car stereo and no other Bluetooth devices are interfering. Re-pair the two devices if necessary.
How do I make a hands-free call?
When your phone is connected, dial the number from your phone or use the car stereo's buttons. The built-in microphone picks up your voice.
Can I connect an external amplifier?
Yes, the car stereo has a preamp output (subwoofer) that can be connected to an external amplifier.
How do I change the menu language?
In the main menu, select 'SETTINGS' then 'LANGUAGE' and choose your desired language (FR, EN, DE, etc.).
What should I do if the car stereo does not turn on?
Check the fuse (10 A) and the electrical connections. Ensure the yellow constant power wire and the red ignition wire are properly connected.

User questions about MEX-BT4100U SONY

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Download the instructions for your Car radio in PDF format for free! Find your manual MEX-BT4100U - SONY and take your electronic device back in hand. On this page are published all the documents necessary for the use of your device. MEX-BT4100U by SONY.

USER MANUAL MEX-BT4100U SONY

Bluetooth® Audio System

Operating Instructions GB

To cancel the demonstration (DEMO) display, see page 7.

Be sure to install this unit in the dashboard of the car for safety. For installation and connections, see the supplied installation/connections manual.

Laser Diode Properties

  • Emission Duration: Continuous
  • Laser Output: Less than 53.3µW (This output is the value measurement at a distance of 200mm from the objective lens surface on the Optical Pick-up Block with 7mm aperture.)

The nameplate indicating operating voltage, etc., is located on the bottom of the chassis.

CE

Hereby, Sony Corp., declares that this MEX-BT4100U is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC. For details, please access the following URL: http://www.compliance.sony.de/

Italy: Use of the RLAN network is governed:

  • with respect to private use, by the Legislative Decree of 1.8.2003, no. 259 ("Code of Electronic Communications"). In particular Article 104 indicates when the prior obtainment of a general authorization is required and Art. 105 indicates when free use is permitted; – with respect to the supply to the public of the RLAN access to telecom networks and services, by the Ministerial Decree 28.5.2003, as amended, and Art. 25 (general authorization for electronic communications networks and services) of the Code of electronic communications.

Norway: Use of this radio equipment is not allowed in the geographical area within a radius of 20 km from the centre of Ny-Alesund, Svalbard.

Notice for customers: the following information is only applicable to equipment sold in countries applying EU Directives

The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for EMC and product safety is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For any service or guarantee matters please refer to the addresses given in separate service or guarantee documents.

SONY MEX-BT4100U - Notice for customers: the following information is only applicable to equipment sold in countries applying EU Directives - 1

Disposal of waste batteries (applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the battery or on the packaging indicates that the battery provided with this product shall not be treated as household waste. On certain batteries this symbol might be used in combination with a chemical symbol. The chemical symbols for mercury (Hg) or lead (Pb) are added if the battery contains more than 0.0005% mercury or 0.004% lead. By ensuring these batteries are disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potentially negative consequences for the environment and human health which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of the battery. The recycling of the materials will help to conserve natural resources. In case of products that for safety, performance or data integrity reasons require a permanent connection with an incorporated battery, this battery should be replaced by qualified service staff only. To ensure that the battery will be treated properly, hand over the product at end-of-life to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. For all other batteries, please view the section on how to remove the battery from the product safely. Hand the battery over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of waste batteries. For more detailed information about

recycling of this product or battery, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Sony Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

ZAPPIN and Quick-BrowZer are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

Windows Media is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

This product is protected by certain intellectual property rights of Microsoft Corporation. Use or distribution of such technology outside of this product is prohibited without a license from Microsoft or an authorized Microsoft subsidiary.

iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano, and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

MPEG Layer-3 audio coding technology and patents licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson.

Android is a trademark of Google Inc. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Permissions.

Note on the lithium battery

Do not expose the battery to excessive heat such as direct sunlight, fire or the like.

Warning if your car's ignition has no ACC position

Be sure to set the Auto Off function (page 33). The unit will shut off completely and automatically in the set time after the unit is turned off, which prevents battery drain. If you do not set the Auto Off function, press and hold SOURCE/OFF until the display disappears each time you turn the ignition off.

Table of contents

Getting Started....6

Notes on Bluetooth function 6

Canceling the DEMO mode....7

Setting the clock 7

Detaching the front panel....7

Location of controls....8

Main unit....8

RM-X231 Remote commander 10

Radio 11

Storing and receiving stations 11

RDS....11

CD 13

Playing a disc....13

USB devices....14

Playing back a USB device 14

iPod 15

Playing back iPod....15

Operating an iPod directly — Passenger control .... 16

App Remote via USB (iPhone) 16

Two-way Music Control with iPhone....16

Searching and playing tracks....17

Playing tracks in various modes....17

Searching a track by name — Quick-BrowZer™....18

Searching a track by listening to track passages — ZAPPIN™ .....19

Changing the illumination ..... 19

Changing the color of display and buttons — Dynamic Color Illuminator ..... 19

Advanced color setting 20

Connecting Bluetooth devices 21

Bluetooth operations....21

Pairing....22

Connection 23

Handsfree calling 25

Music streaming....28

Initializing Bluetooth Settings 29

App Remote via Bluetooth wireless technology (Android phone)....29

Two-way Music Control with Android phone 30

Sound Settings and Setup Menu....30

Enjoying sophisticated sound functions — Advanced Sound Engine .....30

Adjusting setup items ....33

Using optional equipment....35

Auxiliary audio equipment....35

Additional Information. 36

Precautions 36

Maintenance 38

Specifications....39

Troubleshooting....40

Getting Started

Notes on Bluetooth function

Caution

IN NO EVENT SHALL SONY BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR OTHER DAMAGES INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF REVENUE, LOSS OF DATA, LOSS OF USE OF THE PRODUCT OR ANY ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT, DOWNTIME, AND PURCHASER'S TIME RELATED TO OR ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT, ITS HARDWARE AND/OR ITS SOFTWARE.

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

Safe and efficient use

Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by Sony may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Please check for exceptions, due to national requirement or limitations, in usage of Bluetooth equipment before using this product.

Driving

Check the laws and regulations on the use of cellular phones and handsfree equipment in the areas where you drive.

Always give full attention to driving and pull off the road and park before making or answering a call if driving conditions so require.

Connecting to other devices

When connecting to any other device, please read its user guide for detailed safety instructions.

Radio frequency exposure

RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded electronic systems in cars, such as electronic fuel injection systems, electronic antiskid (antilock) braking systems, electronic speed control systems or air bag systems. For installation or service of this device, please consult with the manufacturer or its representative of your car. Faulty installation or service may be dangerous and may invalidate any warranty that may apply to this device.

Consult with the manufacturer of your car to ensure that the use of your cellular phone in the car will not affect its electronic system. Check regularly that all wireless device equipment in your car is mounted and operating properly.

Emergency calls

This Bluetooth car handsfree and the electronic device connected to the handsfree operate using radio signals, cellular, and landline networks as well as user-programmed function, which cannot guarantee connection under all conditions.

Therefore do not rely solely upon any electronic device for essential communications (such as medical emergencies).

Remember, in order to make or receive calls, the handsfree and the electronic device connected to the handsfree must be switched on in a service area with adequate cellular signal strength.

Emergency calls may not be possible on all cellular phone networks or when certain network services and/or phone features are in use.

Check with your local service provider.

Canceling the DEMO mode

You can cancel the demonstration display which appears while this unit is turned off.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "DISPLAY" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "DEMO" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select "DEMO-OFF," then press it. The setting is complete. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

The display returns to normal reception/play mode.

Setting the clock

The clock uses a 24-hour digital indication.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "GENERAL" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "CLOCK-ADJ" appears, then press it.

The hour indication flashes.

3 Rotate the control dial to set the hour and minute.

To move the digital indication, press SEEK +/-.

4 After setting the minute, press MENU.

The setup is complete and the clock starts.

To display the clock, press DSPL.

Detaching the front panel

You can detach the front panel of this unit to prevent theft.

1 Press and hold SOURCE/OFF ①. The unit is turned off. 2 Press the front panel release button ②, then remove the panel by pulling it towards you.

Diagram showing hand positioning of a device with numbered parts and directional arrows indicating movement or force.

Caution alarm

If you turn the ignition switch to the OFF position without detaching the front panel, the caution alarm will sound for a few seconds. The alarm will only sound if the built-in amplifier is used.

Note

Do not subject the front panel to heat/high temperature or moisture. Avoid leaving it in a parked car or on a dashboard/rear tray.

Attaching the front panel

Engage part Ⓐ of the front panel with part Ⓑ of the unit, as illustrated, and push the left side into position until it clicks.

Diagram showing a device being inserted into a housing, labeled with parts A and B.

Location of controls

Main unit

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 SEEK+ OFF SOURCE CALL MODE SEEK- POWER/ENTER/MAN A/R PY AF/TA ALBUM 1 2 3- SHUF 4 MIC/ZAP 5 6 PAUSE SCRL AUX DSPL 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

This section contains instructions on the location of controls and basic operations.

1 SOURCE/OFF button*

Press to turn on the power; select the source (Radio/CD/USB/AUX/Bluetooth audio/Bluetooth phone).

Press repeatedly to change to another source.

Press and hold for 1 second to turn off the power.

Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to turn off the power and the display disappears.

Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to turn off the power and the display disappears.

Radio:

To tune in stations automatically (press); find a station manually (press and hold).

To tune in stations automatically (press); find a station manually (press and hold).

To skip a track (press); skip tracks continuously (press, then press again within about 2 seconds and hold); reverse/fast-forward a track (press and hold).

To skip a track (press); skip tracks continuously (press, then press again within about 2 seconds and hold); reverse/fast-forward a track (press and hold).

Bluetooth Audio *2 :

To skip a track (press); reverse/fast-forward a track (press and hold).

App Remote *3 :

To skip a track (press).

3 CALL button page 22

To enter the call menu (press); switch the Bluetooth signal (press and hold more than 2 seconds); receive/end a call (press).

4 Control dial/ENTER/MENU/APP

button page 16, 30, 33

Rotate to adjust volume.

Press to enter setup mode.

Press to receive/end a call.

Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to establish App Remote.

After pressing SOURCE/OFF, rotate then press to change the source.

5 Receptor for the remote commander

6 Disc slot

Insert the disc (label side up), playback starts.

7 Display window

8 ▲ (Eject) button

To eject the disc.

9 USB port pages 14, 15, 16

10 (BACK)/MODE button pages 11, 16, 26 Press to return to the previous display; select the radio band (FM/MW/LW). Press and hold to enter/cancel the passenger control (iPod). Press to activate/deactivate the appropriate device (this unit/cellular phone) (Bluetooth phone).

11 Front panel release button page 7

12 Q(BROWSE) button page 18 To enter the Quick-BrowZer™ mode (CD/USB).

13 AF (Alternative Frequencies)/TA (Traffic Announcement)/PTY (Program Type) button page 12 To set AF and TA (press); select PTY (press and hold) in RDS.

14 Number buttons Radio: To receive stored stations (press); store stations (press and hold).

CD/USB:

①/②: ALBUM ▼/▲ (during MP3/WMA/AAC playback) To skip an album (press); skip albums continuously (press and hold).

③: (Repeat)* 4 page 17

④: SHUF page 17

⑤: ZAP page 19

⑥: PAUSE

To pause playback. Press again to resume playback.

Bluetooth Audio *2:

①/②: ALBUM ▼/▲

③: (Repeat)*4 page 28

④: SHUF page 28

⑥: PAUSE

To pause playback. Press again to resume playback.

Bluetooth phone: page 26, 27 To call a stored phone number (press); to store a phone number as a preset (press and hold) (in the call menu). ⑤: MIC (during a call) page 26 To set the MIC gain (press); to select Echo Canceler/Noise Canceler mode (press and hold).

App Remote *3:

⑥: PAUSE To pause playback. Press again to resume playback.

15 DSPL (Display)/SCRL (Scroll) button page 11, 13, 14, 15, 24, 28 To change display items (press); scroll a display item (press and hold).

16 AUX input jack page 35

*1 If App Remote is established with iPhone/Android™ phone, the application name appears on the display when selecting the source. *2 When a Bluetooth audio device (supports AVRCP of Bluetooth technology) is connected. Depending on the device, certain operations may not be available. *3 When App Remote is established with iPhone/Android phone. Depending on the application, certain operations may not be available. *4 This button has a tactile dot.

Note

If the unit is turned off and the display disappears, the unit cannot be operated with the remote commander unless SOURCE/OFF on the unit is pressed, or a disc is inserted to activate the unit first.

RM-X231 Remote commander

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 OFF SOURCE MENU SOUND MODE ENTER Q + - + PSY DSPL/ - SCRL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 VOL 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Remove the insulation film before use.

Diagram of a device with a paper clip inserted into a package (no text or symbols)

1 OFF button

To turn off the power; stop the source; reject a call.

2 SOURCE button*

Press to turn on the power. Press repeatedly to change to another source (Radio/CD/USB/AUX/ Bluetooth audio/Bluetooth phone).

3 ← (I◄◄) / → (►►I) buttons

To control Radio/CD/USB/Bluetooth audio/App Remote, the same as SEEK -/+ on the unit. Setup items can be operated by ←→. After pressing SOURCE, press ←→ to change the source.

4 ←(BACK) button

To return to the previous display.

5 ENTER button

To apply a setting; receive a call; end a call.

6 PTY (Program Type) button

7 VOL (Volume) +2t - button

8 CALL button

To enter the call menu. To receive/end a call.

9 MODE button

Press to select the radio band (FM/MW/LW). Press and hold to enter/cancel the passenger control (iPod). Press to activate/deactivate the appropriate device (this unit/cellular phone) (Bluetooth phone).

10 SOUND/MENU button

To enter the SOUND menu directly (press); to enter setup mode (press and hold).

11 Q(BROWSE) button

12 ↑ (+)/↓ (-) buttons

To control CD/USB/Bluetooth audio device, the same as ①/② (ALBUM ▼/▲) on the unit. Setup items can be operated by ↑↓.

13 DSPL (Display)/SCRL (Scroll) button

14 Number buttons

To receive stored stations (press); store stations (press and hold). To call a stored phone number (press); to store a phone number as a preset (press and hold) (in the call menu) (Bluetooth phone). To pause playback (press ⑥).

*1 If App Remote is established with iPhone/Android phone, the application name appears on the display when selecting the source. *2 This button has a tactile dot.

Radio

Storing and receiving stations

Caution

When tuning in stations while driving, use Best Tuning Memory (BTM) to prevent an accident.

Storing automatically — BTM

1 Press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until "TUNER" appears. To change the band, press MODE repeatedly. You can select from FM1, FM2, FM3, MW or LW. 2 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "GENERAL" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until "BTM" appears, then press it.

The unit stores stations in order of frequency on the number buttons.

Tip

You can also press SOURCE/OFF, rotate the control dial to select "TUNER," then press it to select the source.

Storing manually

1 While receiving the station that you want to store, press and hold a number button (① to ⑥) until “MEM” appears.

Receiving the stored stations

1 Select the band, then press a number button (① to ⑥).

Tuning automatically

1 Select the band, then press ⒽSEEK +/- to search for the station.

Scanning stops when the unit receives a station. Repeat this procedure until the desired station is received.

Tip

If you know the frequency of the station you want to listen to, press and hold (SEEK) +/- to locate the approximate frequency, then press (SEEK) +/- repeatedly to fine adjust to the desired frequency (manual tuning).

RDS

FM stations with Radio Data System (RDS) service send inaudible digital information along with the regular radio program signal.

Notes

  • Depending on the country/region, not all RDS functions may be available.
  • RDS will not work if the signal strength is too weak, or if the station you are tuned to is not transmitting RDS data.

Changing display items

Press DSPL.

Setting AF (Alternative Frequencies) and TA (Traffic Announcement)

AF continuously retunes the station to the strongest signal in a network, and TA provides current traffic information or traffic programs (TP) if received.

1 Press AF/TA repeatedly until the desired setting appears.

Select To

AF-ON activate AF and deactivate TA.

TA-ON activate TA and deactivate AF.

AF/TA-ON activate both AF and TA.

AF/TA-OFF deactivates both AF and TA.

Storing RDS stations with the AF and TA setting

You can preset RDS stations along with the AF/TA setting. If you use the BTM function, only RDS stations are stored with the same AF/TA setting. If you preset manually, you can preset both RDS and non-RDS stations with the AF/TA setting for each.

1 Set AF/TA, then store the station with BTM or manually.

Receiving emergency announcements

With AF or TA on, emergency announcements will automatically interrupt the currently selected source.

Tip

If you adjust the volume level during a traffic announcement, that level will be stored into memory for subsequent traffic announcements, independently from the regular volume level.

Staying with one regional program — REGIONAL

When the AF function is on: this unit's factory setting restricts reception to a specific region, so you will not be switched to another regional station with a stronger frequency.

If you leave this regional program's reception area, set “REG-OFF” in setup during FM reception (page 33).

Note

This function does not work in the UK and some other areas.

This function enables you to select other local stations in the area, even if they are not stored on your number buttons.

1 During FM reception, press a number button (① to ⑥) on which a local station is stored.

2 Within 5 seconds, press again a number button of the local station.

Repeat this procedure until the local station is received.

Selecting PTY (Program Types)

Use PTY to display or search for a desired program type.

1 Press and hold AF/TA (PTY) during FM reception.

The current program type name appears if the station is transmitting PTY data.

2 Rotate the control dial until the desired program type appears, then press it.

The unit starts to search for a station broadcasting the selected program type.

Type of programs

NEWS (News), AFFAIRS (Current Affairs), INFO (Information), SPORT (Sports), EDUCATE (Education), DRAMA (Drama), CULTURE (Culture), SCIENCE (Science), VARIED (Varied), POP M (Pop Music), ROCK M (Rock Music), EASY M (M.O.R. Music), LIGHT M (Light classical), CLASSICS (Serious classical), OTHER M (Other Music), WEATHER (Weather), FINANCE (Finance), CHILDREN (Children's program), SOCIAL A (Social Affairs), RELIGION (Religion), PHONE IN (Phone In), TRAVEL (Travel), LEISURE (Leisure), JAZZ (Jazz Music), COUNTRY (Country Music), NATION M (National Music), OLDIES (Oldies Music), FOLK M (Folk Music), DOCUMENT (Documentary)

Note

You may receive a different radio program from the one you select.

Setting CT (Clock Time)

The CT data from the RDS transmission sets the clock.

1 Set "CT-ON" in setup (page 33).

Note

The CT function may not work properly even though an RDS station is being received.

CD

Playing a disc

This unit can play CD-DA (also containing CD TEXT) and CD-R/CD-RW (MP3/WMA/AAC files (page 36)).

1 Insert the disc (label side up).

Playback starts automatically.

To eject the disc, press ▲.

Notes

  • When ejecting/inserting a disc, keep any USB devices disconnected to avoid damage to the disc.
  • Corresponding codec is MP3 (.mp3), WMA (.wma) and AAC (.m4a).

Changing display items

Press DSPL.

Displayed items may differ depending on the disc type, recording format and settings.

USB devices

- MSC (Mass Storage Class)-type USB devices (such as a USB flash drive, digital media player, Android phone) compliant with the USB standard can be used. Depending on the digital media player or Android phone, setting the USB connection mode to MSC is required.

- Backup of data to a USB device is recommended.

Notes

  • Connect the USB device after starting the engine. Depending on the USB device, malfunction or damage may occur if it is connected before starting the engine.
  • Corresponding codec is MP3 (.mp3), WMA (.wma), AAC (.m4a) and AAC (.mp4).
  • For details on the compatibility of your USB device, visit the support site on the back cover.

Playing back a USB device

1 Open the USB cover, then connect the USB device to the USB port.

Diagram showing a device's internal structure with labeled components and a USB cable connection

Playback starts.

If a USB device is already connected, to start playback, press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until "USB" appears.

To stop playback, press and hold SOURCE/OFF for 1 second.

To remove the USB device, stop the USB playback, then remove the USB device.

Notes

  • Do not use USB devices so large or heavy that they may fall down due to vibration, or cause a loose connection.
  • Do not detach the front panel during playback of the USB device, otherwise USB data may be damaged.

Changing display items

Press DSPL.

Displayed items may differ depending on the USB device, recording format and settings.

Notes

• The maximum number of tracks is 10,000. - It may take time for playback to begin, depending on the amount of recorded data. - During playback or fast-forward/reverse of a VBR (Variable Bit Rate) MP3/WMA/AAC file, elapsed playing time may not display accurately. - Playback of the following MP3/WMA/AAC files is not supported: - lossless compression files - copyright-protected files - DRM (Digital Rights Management) files - Multi-channel audio files

iPod

In these Operating Instructions, “iPod” is used as a general reference for the iPod functions on the iPod and iPhone, unless otherwise specified by the text or illustrations.

For details on the compatibility of your iPod, see “About iPod” (page 37) or visit the support site on the back cover.

Playing back iPod

Before connecting the iPod, turn down the volume of the unit.

1 Open the USB cover, then connect the iPod to the USB port with a USB connection cable for iPod (not supplied)*.

* RC-100IP USB connection cable for iPod is recommended.

Diagram showing cable connection to an electronic device via USB cable, labeled with components 1, 2, and 3.

The tracks on the iPod start playing automatically from the point last played.

If an iPod is already connected, to start playback, press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until “USB” appears. (“IPD” appears in the display when iPod is recognized.)

To stop playback, press and hold SOURCE/OFF for 1 second.

To remove the iPod, stop the iPod playback, then remove the iPod.

Caution for iPhone

When you connect iPhone via USB, phone call volume is controlled by iPhone, not the unit. Do not inadvertently increase the volume on the unit during a call, as sudden loud sound may result when the call ends.

Note

Do not detach the front panel during playback of the iPod, otherwise data may be damaged.

Tip

The iPod is recharged while the unit is turned on.

Resuming mode

When the iPod is connected to the unit, playback starts in the mode set by the iPod. In this mode, the following buttons do not function.

  • ④ (SHUF)

Changing display items

Press DSPL.

Note

Some letters stored in iPod may not be displayed correctly.

Skipping albums, podcasts, genres, playlists and artists

To Do this
SkipPress 1/2(ALBUM ▼/▲) [press once for each skip]
Skip continuouslyPress and hold 1/2(ALBUM ▼/▲)[hold to desired point]

Operating an iPod directly — Passenger control

You can operate an iPod directly even when it is connected to the unit.

1 During playback, press and hold MODE.

“MODE IPOD” appears and you will be able to operate the iPod directly.

To exit the passenger control, press and hold ⓂMODE.

“MODE AUDIO” will appear and direct operation of the iPod will not be possible.

Note

The volume can be adjusted only by the unit.

App Remote via USB (iPhone)

Downloading the "App Remote"

application from App Store SM is required for iPhone.

If the application is downloaded to iPhone and connected to the unit, the following features are available:

  • Operate the unit to launch and control compatible applications on iPhone.
  • Operate iPhone with simple finger gestures to control the source of the unit.
  • Display detailed source information (song title, artist name, album art, etc.) on iPhone.

Available operations differ depending on the application. For details on available applications, visit the support site on the back cover.

Notes

  • For your safety, follow your local traffic laws and regulations, and do not operate the application while driving.
  • The “App Remote” application via USB is only available for iPhones with iOS 5 installed.

Two-way Music Control with iPhone

1 Open the USB cover, then connect iPhone to the USB port with a USB connection cable for iPhone (not supplied) * .

* RC-100IP USB connection cable for iPhone is recommended.

2 Start up the "App Remote" application.

3 Press and hold MENU (APP) on the unit for more than 2 seconds.

Connection to iPhone starts. When connection is established, the name of the application on iPhone appears when selecting a source, and some playback operations for the application become available. (Available operations differ depending on the application.) Likewise, some playback operations of the unit can be controlled by iPhone. For details on the operations on iPhone, see the help of the application.

Tip

You can also press MENU, rotate the control dial to select "APP REM," then press it to establish the connection. And then press SOURCE/OFF to select the source.

To terminate connection

Press and hold ⓂMENU.

Searching and playing tracks

Playing tracks in various modes

You can listen to tracks repeatedly (repeat play) or in random order (shuffle play). Available play modes differ depending on the selected sound source.

1 During playback, press ③ (⊂) or ④ (SHUF) repeatedly until the desired play mode appears.

Playback in selected play mode may take time to start.

Repeat play

Select To play
TRACK track repeatedly.
ALBUM album repeatedly.
PODCAST*1podcast repeatedly.
ARTIST*1artist repeatedly.
PLAYLIST*1playlist repeatedly.
GENRE*1genre repeatedly.
OFF track in normal order(Normal play).

Shuffle play

Select To play
SHUF ALBUMalbum in random order.
SHUF DISC*2disc in random order.
SHUF PODCAST*1podcast in random order.
SHUF ARTIST*1artist in random order.
SHUF PLAYLIST*1playlist in random order.
SHUF GENRE*1genre in random order.
SHUF DEVICE*3device in random order.
SHUF OFF track in normal order(Normal play).

*1 iPod only *2 CD only *3 USB and iPod only

Searching a track by name — Quick-BrowZer™

You can search for a track in a CD or USB device easily by category.

1 Press Q (BROWSE)*.

The unit enters the Quick-BrowZer mode, and the list of search categories appears.

When the track list appears, press

→ (BACK) repeatedly until the desired search category appears.

* During USB playback, press (BROWSE) for more than 2 seconds to directly return to the beginning of the category list.

2 Rotate the control dial to select the desired search category, then press it to confirm. 3 Repeat step 2 until the desired track is selected.

Playback starts.

To exit the Quick-BrowZer mode, press

Q (BROWSE).

Notes

  • When entering the Quick-BrowZer mode, the repeat/shuffle setting is canceled.
  • “ lights up when there is an upper layer, and “ lights up when there is a lower layer.

Searching by skip items — Jump mode

When many items are in a category, you can search for a desired item quickly.

1 Press SEEK + in Quick-BrowZer mode.

The item name will appear.

2 Rotate the control dial to select the item near the one desired.

The list is skipped in steps of 10% of the total number of items in the list.

3 Press MENU (ENTER).

The display returns to the Quick-BrowZer mode and the selected item appears.

4 Rotate the control dial to select the desired item and press it.

Playback starts if the selected item is a track.

To cancel Jump mode, press (BACK) or SEEK -.

When an iPod is connected to the unit, you can search for a desired item alphabetically.

1 Press SEEK + in Quick-BrowZer mode.

(8)

2 Rotate the control dial to select the first letter of the desired item, then press it.

A list of items beginning with the selected letter appears in alphabetical order.

3 Rotate the control dial to select the desired item, then press it.

Playback starts if the selected item is a track.

To cancel Alphabet search, press

SONY MEX-BT4100U - Searching by alphabetical order — Alphabet search - 2

(BACK) or SEEK -.

Notes

  • In Alphabet search, a symbol or article (a/an/the) before the selected letter of the item is excluded.
  • Depending on the search item you select, only Jump mode may be available.
  • Alphabet search may take some time, depending on the number of tracks.

Searching a track by listening to track passages — ZAPPIN™

By playing back short track passages in a CD or USB device in sequence, you can search for a track you want to listen to. ZAPPIN mode is suitable for searching for a track in shuffle or shuffle repeat mode.

1 Press ⑤ (ZAP) during playback.

Playback starts from a passage of the next track. You can select the playback time (page 33).

Track1 2 3 4 ZAP pressed. The part of each track to play back in ZAPPIN mode.

2 Press MENU (ENTER) or 5 (ZAP) when a track you want to listen is played back.

The track that you select returns to normal play mode from the beginning.

Pressing (BACK) will also play back the chosen track.

Tips

  • Press SEEK +/- in ZAPPIN mode to skip a track.
  • Press ①/② (ALBUM ▼/▲) in ZAPPIN mode to skip an album.

Changing the illumination

Changing the color of display and buttons — Dynamic Color Illuminator

Dynamic Color Illuminator allows you to change the color of the display and buttons on the main unit to match the car's interior. You can select from 12 preset colors, customized color and 5 preset patterns.

Preset colors:

RED, AMBER, M_AMBER, YELLOW, WHITE, LIGHT GREEN, GREEN, LIGHT BLUE, SKY BLUE, BLUE, PURPLE, PINK.

Preset patterns:

RAINBOW, OCEAN, SUNSET, FOREST, RANDOM.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "DISPLAY" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "COLOR" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select the desired preset color or pattern, then press it. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Note

If the control dial is rotated rapidly, the color of the display and the buttons may change too quickly.

Customizing the display and button color — Custom Color

You can register a customized color for the display and buttons.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "DISPLAY" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "CUSTOM-C" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until "BASE" appears, then press it.

You can select a preset color as a basis for further customizing.

When you select “BASE,” the customized color is overwritten.

4 Rotate the control dial to select from "RGB RED," "RGB GRN," or "RGB BLUE," then press it. 5 Rotate the control dial to adjust the color range, then press it. Adjustable color range: “0” – “32.” You cannot set “0” for all color ranges. 6 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Changing DAY/NIGHT color mode

You can set a different color for DAY/NIGHT mode according to the dimmer setting.

Color mode DIMMER*

DAY OFF or AUTO (turn off the head light *2)

NIGHT ON or AUTO (turn on the head light *2)

*1 For details on the DIMMER, see page 35. *2 Available only when the illumination control lead is connected. 1 Select "DAYNIGHT" in step 3 of "Customizing the display and button color — Custom Color."

2 Select "DAY" or "NIGHT." 3 Customize the preset color from step 3 to 5 of "Customizing the display and button color — Custom Color."

Advanced color setting

Changing the color with sound synchronization — Sound Synchronization

When you select a preset pattern, sound synchronization becomes effective.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "DISPLAY" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "SND SYNC" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select "SYNC-ON," then press it. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Displaying clear color — White Menu

You can display the menu more clearly (White) without concern for color setting.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "DISPLAY" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "WHT MENU" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select "WHITE-ON," then press it. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

To cancel White Menu, select "OFF" in step 3.

Start up effect — Start White

In the Start White setting, when you press SOURCE/OFF, the display and buttons on the main unit turn white once, then change to the customized color.

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "DISPLAY" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "START-WHT" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select "WHITE-ON," then press it. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

To cancel Start White, select "OFF" in step 3.

Connecting Bluetooth devices

Bluetooth operations

The Bluetooth function allows for handsfree calling and music streaming via this unit. To use the Bluetooth function, the following procedure is necessary.

① Pairing

When connecting Bluetooth devices for the first time, mutual registration is required. This is called "pairing." Registration is required only for the first time, as this unit and the other devices will recognize each other automatically thereafter.

② Connection

To use the device after pairing is made, start the connection. Sometimes pairing allows for connection automatically.

3 Handsfree calling/Music streaming

You can make/receive handsfree calls and listen to music when the connection is made.

If pairing is not possible, your device may not be compatible with this unit. For details on compatible devices, visit the support site on the back cover.

Installing the microphone

To capture your voice during handsfree calling, you need to install the microphone (supplied).

For details on how to connect the microphone, refer to the supplied “Installation/Connections” guide.

Operating the Bluetooth functions

1 Press CALL.

The call menu appears.

2 Rotate the control dial until the desired item appears, then press it.

3 Press ↩ (BACK)*.

The source returns to the Bluetooth phone.

* For PAIRING, REDIAL, VOICE DIAL and BT SIGNL settings, step 3 is not necessary.

The following items can be set:

PAIRING *1 (page 22)

PHONEBOOK (page 25)

REDIAL (page 26)

RECENT CALL (page 25)

VOICE DIAL (page 27)

DIAL NUMBER (page 26)

RINGTONE*1*2

Selects whether this unit or the connected cellular phone outputs the ringtone: "1 (this unit)" - "2 (cellular phone)."

AUTO ANS *1 (Auto Answer)

Sets this unit to answer an incoming call automatically: "OFF"- "1 (about 3 seconds)"-"2 (about 10 seconds)."

BT SIGNL *1 (Bluetooth Signal) (page 23, 24)

BT INIT *3 (Bluetooth Initialize) (page 29)

*1 You can also select these items by pressing MENU and rotating the control dial to select "BT."

*2 Depending on the cellular phone, this unit's ringtone may be output even if set to "2 (cellular phone)."

*3 Appears on the setup menu when the unit is turned off.

Pairing

The Bluetooth device (cellular phone, audio device, etc.) and this unit need to be “paired” before use between each other via the Bluetooth function.

graph LR A["Mobile Phone"] --> B["X Symbol"] B --> C["Physical Device"]

Tips

  • For details on pairing for a Bluetooth device, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the device.
  • You can pair up to 9 Bluetooth devices with this unit.

1 Place the Bluetooth device within 1 m (3 ft) of this unit. 2 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "PAIRING" appears, then press it.

The unit enters pairing standby mode.

8 Flashing

3 Set the Bluetooth device to search for this unit.

A list of detected devices appears in the display of the device to be connected. This unit is displayed as “Sony Automotive” on the device to be connected.

DR-BT30Q Sony Automotive XXXXXXXX

4 If passkey* input is required in the display of the device to be connected, input "0000."

If the device supports Bluetooth version 2.1, passkey input is not required.

* Passkey may be called "passcode," "PIN code," "PIN number" or "Password," etc., depending on the device.

Input passkey "0000"

This unit and the Bluetooth device memorize each other's information, and when pairing is made, stays lit.

The unit is ready for connection to the device.

Blank rectangular frame with a small circular icon in the top-right corner (no text or symbols)

Note

If “ continues to flash, the Bluetooth device may not be compatible with this unit. For details on compatible devices, visit the support site on the back cover.

5 Select this unit on the Bluetooth device to be connected.

“”or “” appears when the connection is made.

Notes

  • While connecting to a Bluetooth device, this unit cannot be detected from another device. To enable detection, enter the pairing mode and search for this unit from another device.
  • It may take time to search or connect.
  • Depending on the device, the confirmation display of the connection appears before inputting the passkey.
  • The time limit for inputting the passkey differs depending on the device. If the time expires, perform the pairing procedure from the beginning again.
  • This unit cannot be connected to a device that supports only HSP (Head Set Profile).

Tip

Connection between this unit and the Bluetooth device may be automatic, depending on the device.

Canceling pairing

Perform step 2 to cancel the pairing mode after this unit and the Bluetooth device are paired.

Connection

To use the device after pairing is made, start the connection. Sometimes pairing allows for connection automatically.

If pairing has already been achieved, start operation from here.

Illustration of a mobile phone and a handheld device with sound waves (no text or symbols)

Connecting a cellular phone

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "BT SIGNL" appears, then press it.

"lights up when Bluetooth signal is activated.

Blank rectangular frame with a small circular mark in the top-right corner (no text or symbols)

Note

When the Bluetooth signal for this unit is already ON, selecting "BT SIGNL" deactivates the Bluetooth signal.

Tip

You can also output the Bluetooth signal from this unit by pressing and holding CALL on this unit for more than 2 seconds.

2 Turn on the cellular phone and activate the Bluetooth signal.

3 Connect to this unit using the cellular phone.

"”" appears when the connection is made. If you select the Bluetooth phone source after the connection is made, the network name and the connected cellular phone name appear in the display.

Blank white rectangular area with no visible text, symbols, or graphics.

Icons in the display:

Signal strength status of connected cellular phone.*
Remaining battery status of connected cellular phone.*

* Turns off without handsfree connection. Differs depending on the cellular phone.

Changing display items

Press DSPL.

Connecting the last-connected cellular phone from this unit

1 Make sure the Bluetooth signal of the cellular phone is activated. 2 Press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until "BT PHONE" appears. 3 Press MENU (ENTER). "” flashes while the connection is being made, then stays lit while connected.

Notes

  • Some cellular phones require permission to access their phonebook data during handsfree connection to this unit. Obtain permission via the cellular phone.
  • While streaming Bluetooth audio, you cannot connect from this unit to the cellular phone. Connect from the cellular phone to this unit instead. A connecting noise may be heard over playback sound.

Tip

With Bluetooth signal on: when the ignition is turned to on, this unit reconnects automatically to the last-connected cellular phone. But automatic connection also depends on the cellular phone's specification. If automatic connection is not made, connect manually.

Connecting an audio device

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "BT SIGNL" appears, then press it.

"lights up when Bluetooth signal is activated.

Blank rectangular frame with a small circular icon in the top-right corner (no text or symbols).

2 Turn on the audio device and activate the Bluetooth signal. 3 Connect to this unit using the audio device.

“”appears when the connection is made.

Blank rectangular frame with a small icon in the bottom-right corner (no text or symbols).

Connecting the last-connected audio device from this unit

1 Make sure the Bluetooth signal of the audio device is activated. 2 Press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until "BT AUDIO" appears. 3 Press ⑥ (PAUSE). “”flashes while the connection is being made, then stays lit while connected.

Handsfree calling

Once the unit is connected to the cellular phone, you can make/receive handsfree calls by operating this unit.

SONY MEX-BT4100U - Handsfree calling - 1

SONY MEX-BT4100U - Handsfree calling - 2

SONY MEX-BT4100U - Handsfree calling - 3

Before handsfree calling, check the following:

① Make sure that “” and “” appear in the display. 2 If “” and “ do not appear, perform the connection procedure (page 23). 3 If you cannot connect this unit and the cellular phone via the Bluetooth function, perform the pairing procedure (page 22).

Receiving calls

When receiving a call, a ringtone is output from your car speakers or the connected cellular phone. The caller's name or phone number appears in the display.

1 Press CALL when a call is received with a ringtone.

The phone call starts.

Notes

  • Depending on the cellular phone, the caller's name may appear.
  • The ringtone and talker's voice are output only from the front speakers.

Rejecting a call

Press and hold SOURCE/OFF for 1 second.

Ending a call

Press CALL again.

Calling from the phonebook

When connecting to a cellular phone supporting PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile), you can access the phonebook, and make a call.

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "PHONEBOOK" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial to select an initial from the initial list, and then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select a name from the name list, and then press it. 4 Rotate the control dial to select a number from the number list, and then press it. The phone call starts.

Note

Depending on the cellular phone, contacts displayed on the unit may differ from the phonebook of the cellular phone.

Calling from the call history

When connecting to a cellular phone supporting PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile), you can access the call history stored in the cellular phone, and make a call.

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "RECENT CALL" appears, then press it.

A list of the call history appears.

2 Rotate the control dial to select a name or phone number from the call history, then press it.

The phone call starts.

Calling by phone number input

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "DIAL NUMBER" appears, then press it.

2 Rotate the control dial to enter the phone number, and lastly select "" (space), then press MENU (ENTER)*. The phone call starts.

* To move the digital indication, press SEEK -/+

Note

"_" appears instead of "#" on the display.

Calling by preset number

You can store up to 6 contacts in the preset dial. For details on how to store, see "Preset dial" (page 27).

1 Press SOURCE/OFF, rotate the control dial until "BT PHONE" appears, then press it. 2 Press a number button (① to ⑥) to select the contact you want to call. 3 Press MENU (ENTER). The phone call starts.

Calling by redial

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "REDIAL" appears, then press it.

The phone call starts.

Operations during a call

Presetting the volume of the ringtone and talker's voice

You can preset the volume level of the ringtone and talker's voice.

To adjust the ringtone volume:

Rotate the control dial while receiving a call. Ringtone volume can be adjusted.

To adjust the talker's voice volume:

Rotate the control dial during a call. The talker's voice volume can be adjusted.

Note

If the Bluetooth phone source is selected, rotating the control dial will only adjust the talker's volume.

Mic gain adjustment

You can adjust the volume for the other party. Press ⑤ (MIC) to adjust the volume levels (“MIC-LOW,” “MIC-MID,” “MIC-HI”).

EC/NC Mode (Echo Canceler/Noise Canceler Mode)

You can reduce echo and noise.

Press and hold ⑤ (MIC) to set to “EC/NC-1” or “EC/NC-2.”

Call transfer

In order to activate/deactivate the appropriate device (this unit/cellular phone), press MODE or use your cellular phone.

Notes

  • For details on cellular phone operation, refer to your cellular phone manual.
  • Depending on the cellular phone, handsfree connection may be cut off when call transfer is attempted.

Preset dial

You can store up to 6 contacts in the preset dial.

Notes

  • If your cellular phone supports PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile), you can select a phone number from the phonebook or call history.
  • Disconnecting the power supply lead will erase all the contacts in the preset dial.

1 Select a phone number that you want to store in the preset dial, from the phonebook, call history* or by inputting the phone number directly.

The phone number appears in the display of this unit.

* For the call history, you can also select from the caller name. In this case, the caller name appears in the display of this unit.

2 Press and hold a number button (① to ⑥) to select the preset number to store until “MEM” appears.

The contact is stored in the selected preset number.

Voice dial activation

You can activate voice dialing with a cellular phone connected to this unit by saying the voice tag stored on the cellular phone, then make a call.

1 Press CALL and rotate the control dial until "VOICE DIAL" appears, then press it.

2 Say the voice tag stored on the cellular phone.

Your voice is recognized, and the call is made.

Notes

  • Check that the unit and cellular phone are connected beforehand.
  • Store a voice tag on your cellular phone beforehand.
  • If you activate voice dialing with a cellular phone connected to this unit, this function may not always work in some cases.
  • Voice dialing may not work in some situations, depending on the effectiveness of the cellular phone's recognition function. For details, see the support site on the back cover.

Tip

Store voice tags while seated in the car, via this unit with “BT PHONE” source selected.

SMS indicator

While connecting a cellular phone to this unit, the SMS indicator informs you of any incoming or unread SMS messages.

If you receive a new SMS message, the SMS indicator flashes.

Blank white rectangular frame with a small icon set in the bottom-right corner (no text or symbols).

If there are any unread SMS messages, the SMS indicator stays lit.

Blank white rectangular area with no visible text, symbols, or graphics.

Note

Function of the SMS indicator may depend on the cellular phone.

Music streaming

Listening to music from an audio device

You can listen to music from an audio device on this unit if the audio device supports A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) of Bluetooth technology.

Illustration of a vinyl record device emitting sound waves, next to a control interface with a play button (no text or symbols).

1 Turn down the volume on this unit. 2 Press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until "BT AUDIO" appears. 3 Operate the audio device to start playback. 4 Adjust the volume on this unit.

Note

“BT AUDIO” does not appear in the display while running the “App Remote” application via the Bluetooth function.

Changing display items

Press DSPL.

Adjusting the volume level

The volume level is adjustable for any difference between the unit and the Bluetooth audio device.

1 Start playback of the Bluetooth audio device at a moderate volume. 2 Set your usual listening volume on the unit. 3 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it.

4 Rotate the control dial until "BTA VOL" appears, then press it. 5 Rotate the control dial to adjust the input level (“+18dB” - “0dB” - “- 8dB”), then press it. 6 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Operating an audio device with this unit

You can perform the following operations on this unit if the audio device supports AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile) of Bluetooth technology. (The operation differs depending on the audio device.)

To Do this
Skip albumsPress 1/2 (ALBUM ▼/▲) [press once for each album]
Repeat play Press 3 (REP)*1
Shuffle play Press 4 (SHUF)*1
Play Press 6 (PAUSE)*2 on this unit.
Pause Press 6 (PAUSE)*2 on this unit.
Skip tracksPress SEEK -/+ (◀◀/▶◀) [press once for each track]
Reverse/ Fast-forwardPress and hold SEEK -/+ (◀◀/▶◀) [hold to desired point]

*1 Press repeatedly until the desired setting appears. *2 Depending on the device, it may be necessary to press twice.

Operations other than the above should be performed on the audio device.

Notes

  • Depending on the audio device, information, such as title, track number/time, playback status, etc., may not be displayed on this unit. The information is displayed during Bluetooth audio playback only. • Even if the source is changed on this unit, playback of the audio device does not stop.

Initializing Bluetooth Settings

You can initialize all the Bluetooth related settings (pairing information, preset number, device information, etc.) from this unit.

1 Press and hold SOURCE/OFF for 1 second to turn off the power. 2 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until "BT" appears, then press it. The menu list appears.

3 Rotate the control dial to select "BT INIT," then press it. The confirmation appears.

4 Rotate the control dial to select "INIT-YES," then press it. "INITIAL" flashes while initializing the Bluetooth settings; "COMPLETE" appears when initializing has finished.

5 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Note

When disposing of this unit, preset numbers should be deleted with "BT INIT."

App Remote via Bluetooth wireless technology (Android phone)

Downloading the "App Remote" application from Google Play is required for Android phone. If the application is downloaded to an Android phone and connected to the unit, the following features are available:

  • Operate the unit to launch and control compatible applications on Android phone.
  • Operate Android phone with simple finger gestures to control the source of the unit.
  • Display detailed source information (song title, artist name, album art, etc.) on Android phone.
  • Read out incoming text messages/SMS automatically.

Available operations differ depending on the application. For details on available applications, visit the support site on the back cover.

Notes

  • For your safety, follow your local traffic laws and regulations, and do not operate the application while driving.
  • The "App Remote" application via the Bluetooth function is only available for Android phones with Android 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 or 4.0 installed. • Automatic reading of the SMS function is only available for Android phones with TTS Engine installed.

Two-way Music Control with Android phone

Before connecting the mobile device, turn down the volume of the unit.

1 Connect this unit and the mobile device via the Bluetooth function (page 21). 2 Start up the "App Remote" application. 3 Press and hold MENU (APP) on the unit for more than 2 seconds. Connection to the mobile device starts. When connection is established, the name of the application on the mobile device appears when selecting a source, and some playback operations for the application become available. (Available operations differ depending on the application.) Likewise, some playback operations of the unit can be controlled by the mobile device. For details on the operations on the mobile device, see the help of the application.

Note

When the mobile device is connected, the device number may appear. Make sure that the same numbers are displayed (e.g., 123456) in this unit and the mobile device, then press MENU on this unit and select "Yes" on the mobile device.

Tip

You can also press Ⓜ MENU, rotate the control dial to select “APP REM,” then press it to establish the connection. And then press ⓣ SOURCE/OFF to select the source.

To terminate connection

Press and hold MENU.

Sound Settings and Setup Menu

Enjoying sophisticated sound functions — Advanced Sound Engine

Advanced Sound Engine creates an ideal in-car sound field with digital signal processing.

Selecting the sound quality — EQ7 Preset

You can select an equalizer curve from 7 equalizer curves (XPLOD, VOCAL, EDGE, CRUISE, SPACE, GRAVITY, CUSTOM or OFF).

1 During reception/playback, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "EQ7 PRESET" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until the desired equalizer curve appears, then press it. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

To cancel the equalizer curve, select "OFF" in step 3.

Tip

The equalizer curve setting can be memorized for each source.

Customizing the equalizer curve — EQ7 Setting

“CUSTOM” of EQ7 allows you to make your own equalizer settings.

1 After selecting a source, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it.

2 Rotate the control dial until "EQ7 SETTING" appears, then press it.

3 Rotate the control dial until "BASE" appears, then press it.

You can select an equalizer curve as a basis for further customizing.

4 Rotate the control dial to select the equalizer curve, then press it.

5 Setting the equalizer curve.

① Rotate the control dial to select the frequency range, then press it.

SET BAND1 EQ7

BAND1: 63 Hz

BAND2: 160 Hz

BAND3: 400 Hz

BAND4: 1 kHz

BAND5: 2.5 kHz

BAND6: 6.3 kHz

BAND7: 16.0 kHz

② Rotate the control dial to adjust the volume level, then press it.

The volume level is adjustable in 1 dB steps, from -6 dB to +6 dB.

B1 + 5d8 EOT

Repeat steps ① and ② to adjust other frequency ranges.

6 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

The equalizer curve is stored in "CUSTOM."

Optimizing sound by Time Alignment — Listening Position

The unit can simulate a natural sound field by delaying the sound output from each speaker to suit your position.

The options for “POSITION” are indicated below.

FRONT L (1): Front left FRONT R (2): Front right FRONT (3): Center front ALL (4): In the center of your car

OFF: No position set

1 3 2 A 4 B C

You can also set the approximate subwoofer position from your listening position if the listening position is set to other than “OFF.”

The options for “SET SW POS” are indicated below.

NEAR (A): Near

NORMAL (®): Normal

FAR (©): Far

1 During reception/playback, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "POSITION" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until "SET F/R POS" appears, then press it. 4 Rotate the control dial to select from "FRONT L," "FRONT R," "FRONT" or "ALL," then press it. 5 Rotate the control dial until "SET SW POS" appears, then press it. 6 Rotate the control dial to select the subwoofer position from "NEAR," "NORMAL" or "FAR," then press it. 7 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

To cancel listening position, select "OFF" in step 4.

Adjusting the listening position

You can fine-tune the listening position setting.

1 During reception/playback, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "POSITION" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until "ADJ POSITION" appears, then press it. 4 Rotate the control dial to adjust the listening position, then press it. Adjustable range: "+3" – "CENTER" – "-3." 5 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

DM+ Advanced

DM+ Advanced improves digitally compressed sound by restoring high frequencies lost in the compression process.

1 During playback, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "DM+" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select "ON," then press it. 4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Tip

The DM+ setting can be memorized for each source other than the tuner.

Using rear speakers as subwoofer — Rear Bass Enhancer

Rear Bass Enhancer enhances the bass sound by applying a low pass filter setting (page 34) to the rear speakers. This function allows the rear speakers to work as a subwoofer if one is not connected.

1 During reception/playback, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "RB ENH" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until "RBE MODE" appears, then press it. 4 Rotate the control dial to select from "1," "2" or "3," then press it. 5 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

Using a subwoofer without a power amplifier — Subwoofer Direct Connection

You can use the subwoofer without a power amplifier when it is connected to the rear speaker cord.

Note

Be sure to connect a 4 - 8 ohm subwoofer to either of the rear speaker cords. Do not connect a speaker to the other rear speaker cord.

1 During reception/playback, press MENU, rotate the control dial until "SOUND" appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until "SW DIREC" appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial until "SW MODE" appears, then press it.

4 Rotate the control dial to select "1," "2" or "3," then press it. 5 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

For details on the settings for the subwoofer phase, position, low pass filter frequency and the low pass filter slope, see page 34.

Adjusting setup items

1 Press MENU, rotate the control dial until the desired category appears, then press it. 2 Rotate the control dial until the desired item appears, then press it. 3 Rotate the control dial to select the setting, then press it.* The setting is complete.

4 Press (BACK) to return to the previous display.

* For CLOCK-ADJ and BTM settings, step 4 is not necessary.

The following items can be set depending on the source and setting:

GENERAL:

CLOCK-ADJ (Clock Adjust) (page 7)

CAUT ALM *1 (Caution Alarm) Activates the caution alarm: "ON," "OFF" (page 7).

BEEP

Activates the beep sound: "ON," "OFF."

AUTO OFF

Shuts off automatically after a desired time when the unit is turned off: "NO," "30S (Seconds)," "30M (Minutes)," "60M (Minutes)."

AUX-A 1 2 (AUX Audio)

Activates the AUX source display: "ON," "OFF" (page 35).

CT (Clock Time)

Activates the CT function: "ON," "OFF" (page 13).

REGIONAL *3

Restricts reception to a specific region: "ON," "OFF" (page 12).

BTM *4 (page 11)

ZAPPIN*5

ZAP TIME (Zappin Time)

Selects the playback time for the ZAPPIN function.

- "Z.TIME-1 (about 6 seconds),"

"Z.TIME-2 (about 15 seconds),"

"Z.TIME-3 (about 30 seconds)."

ZAP BEEP (Zappin Beep)

Applies a beep sound between track passages: "ON," "OFF."

*1 When the unit is turned off. *2 Does not appear in App Remote. *3 When FM is received. *4 When the tuner is selected. *5 When the CD or USB is selected.

SOUND:

EQ7 PRESET (page 30)

EQ7 SETTING (page 30)

POSITION

SET F/R POS (Set Front/Rear Position) (page 31)

ADJ POSITION *1 (Adjust Position) (page 32)

SET SW POS *1 (Set Subwoofer Position) (page 31)

BALANCE

Adjusts the sound balance: "RIGHT-15" - "CENTER" - "LEFT-15."

FADER

Adjusts the relative level: "FRONT-15" - "CENTER" - "REAR-15."

DM+ *2 (page 32)

LOUDNESS (Dynamic Loudness)

Reinforces bass and treble for clear sound at low volume levels: "ON," "OFF."

ALO (Automatic Level Optimizer)

Adjust the playback volume level of all playback sources to the optimum level: "ON," "OFF."

RB ENH *3 (Rear Bass Enhancer)

RBE MODE (Rear Bass Enhancer Mode)

Selects the rear bass enhancer mode: "1," "2," "3," "OFF."

LPF FREQ (Low Pass Filter Frequency) Selects the subwoofer cut-off frequency: "50Hz," "60Hz," "80Hz," "100Hz," "120Hz."

LPF SLOP (Low Pass Filter Slope)

Selects the LPF slope: "1," "2," "3."

SW DIREC *4 (Subwoofer Direct Connection)

SW MODE (Subwoofer Mode)

Selects the subwoofer mode: "1," "2," "3," "OFF."

SW PHASE (Subwoofer Phase)

Selects the subwoofer phase: "NORM," "REV."

SW POS *1 (Subwoofer Position) (page 31)

Selects the subwoofer position: "NEAR," "NORMAL," "FAR."

LPF FREQ (Low Pass Filter Frequency) Selects the subwoofer cut-off frequency: "50Hz," "60Hz," "80Hz," "100Hz," "120Hz."

LPF SLOP (Low Pass Filter Slope)

Selects the LPF slope: "1," "2," "3."

S.WOOFER (Subwoofer)

SW LEVEL (Subwoofer Level)

Adjusts the subwoofer volume level: “+10 dB” – “0 dB” – “-10 dB.”

("ATT" is displayed at the lowest setting.)

SW PHASE (Subwoofer Phase)

Selects the subwoofer phase: "NORM," "REV."

SW POS *1 (Subwoofer Position)

Selects the subwoofer position: "NEAR," "NORMAL," "FAR."

LPF FREQ (Low Pass Filter Frequency) Selects the subwoofer cut-off frequency: "50Hz," "60Hz," "80Hz," "100Hz," "120Hz."

LPF SLOP (Low Pass Filter Slope)

Selects the LPF slope: "1," "2," "3."

HPF (High Pass Filter)

HPF FREQ (High Pass Filter Frequency) Selects the front/rear speaker cut-off frequency: "OFF," "50Hz," "60Hz," "80Hz," "100Hz," "120Hz."

HPF SLOP (High Pass Filter Slope)

Selects the HPF slope (effective only when HPF FREQ is set to other than "OFF"): "1," "2," "3."

AUX VOL *5 (AUX Volume Level)

Adjusts the volume level for each connected auxiliary equipment: “+18 dB” – “0 dB” – “-8 dB.”

This setting negates the need to adjust the volume level between sources.

BTA VOL (Bluetooth Audio Volume Level) *6 (page 28)

*1 Does not appear when “SET F/R POS” is set to “OFF.”

*2 Does not appear when the tuner is selected.

*3 When "SW DIREC" is set to "OFF."

*4 When "RBE MODE" is set to "OFF."

*5 When the AUX is selected.

*6 When Bluetooth audio source is activated.

DISPLAY:

DEMO (Demonstration)

Activates the demonstration: "ON," "OFF."

DIMMER

Changes the display brightness.

  • "AT": to dim the display automatically when you turn lights on. (Available only when the illumination control lead is connected.)
  • "ON": to dim the display.
  • "OFF": deactivate the dimmer.

COLOR (Preset Color)

Selects the preset color of the display and buttons on the main unit (page 19).

CUSTOM-C (Custom Color)

Selects a preset color as a basis for further customizing (page 20).

SND SYNC

Selects the color with sound synchronization: "ON," "OFF" (page 20).

WHT MENU

Sets the effect when the source is switched: "ON," "OFF" (page 20).

START-WHT

Sets the start up color: "ON," "OFF" (page 21).

AUTO SCR* (Auto Scroll)

Scrolls long items automatically: "ON," "OFF."

* When the CD, USB or Bluetooth audio is selected.

BT (Bluetooth):

For details on setup items for the Bluetooth settings, see page 22.

APP REM:

Starts establishing App Remote.

Using optional equipment

Auxiliary audio equipment

By connecting an optional portable audio device to the AUX input jack (stereo mini jack) on the unit and then simply selecting the source, you can listen on your car speakers.

Connecting the portable audio device

1 Turn off the portable audio device. 2 Turn down the volume on the unit. 3 Connect the portable audio device to the unit with a connecting cord (not supplied)*.

* Be sure to use a straight type plug.

AUX

Adjusting the volume level

Be sure to adjust the volume for each connected audio device before playback.

1 Turn down the volume on the unit. 2 Press SOURCE/OFF repeatedly until "AUX" appears. 3 Start playback of the portable audio device at a moderate volume. 4 Set your usual listening volume on the unit. 5 Adjust the input level (page 34).

Additional Information

Precautions

  • Cool off the unit beforehand if your car has been parked in direct sunlight.
  • Do not leave the front panel or audio devices brought in inside the car, or it may cause malfunction due to high temperature in direct sunlight.
  • Power antenna (aerial) extends automatically.

Moisture condensation

Should moisture condensation occur inside the unit, remove the disc and wait for about an hour for it to dry out; otherwise the unit will not operate properly.

To maintain high sound quality

Do not splash liquid onto the unit or discs.

Notes on discs

- Do not expose discs to direct sunlight or heat sources such as hot air ducts, nor leave it in a car parked in direct sunlight.

- Before playing, wipe the discs with a cleaning cloth from the center out. Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners.

- This unit is designed to play back discs that conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard. DualDiscs and some of the music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies do not conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard, therefore, these discs may not be playable by this unit.

Illustration of a hand holding a CD or DVD disc with arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols).

• Discs that this unit CANNOT play

  • Discs with labels, stickers, or sticky tape or paper attached. Doing so may cause a malfunction, or may ruin the disc.
  • Discs with non-standard shapes (e.g., heart, square, star). Attempting to do so may damage the unit.
  • 8 cm (1/3in) discs.

Notes on CD-R/CD-RW discs

  • The maximum number of: (CD-R/CD-RW only) – folders (albums): 150 (including root folder)
  • files (tracks) and folders: 300 (may less than 300 if folder/file names contain many characters)
  • displayable characters for a folder/file name: 32 (Joliet)/64 (Romeo)

- If the multi-session disc begins with a CD-DA session, it is recognized as a CD-DA disc, and other sessions are not played back.

• Discs that this unit CANNOT play

  • CD-R/CD-RW of poor recording quality.
  • CD-R/CD-RW recorded with an incompatible recording device.
  • CD-R/CD-RW which is finalized incorrectly.
  • CD-R/CD-RW other than those recorded in music CD format or MP3 format conforming to ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet/Romeo or multi-session.

Playback order of MP3/WMA/AAC files

graph TD A["MP3/WMA/AAC"] --> B["1"] B --> C["①"] B --> D["②"] B --> E["③"] B --> F["④"] B --> G["⑤"] B --> H["⑥"] B --> I["⑦"] style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333 style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333 style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333 style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333 style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333 style F fill:#ffc,stro…

About iPod

You can connect to the following iPod models. Update your iPod devices to the latest software before use.

Made for

- iPod touch (4th generation) - iPod touch (3rd generation) - iPod touch (2nd generation) - iPod classic - iPod nano (6th generation) - iPod nano (5th generation) - iPod nano (4th generation) - iPod nano (3rd generation) - iPod nano (2nd generation) - iPod nano (1st generation)* - iPhone 4S - iPhone 4 - iPhone 3GS - iPhone 3G

* Passenger control is not available for iPod nano (1st generation). - "Made for iPod" and "Made for iPhone" mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod or iPhone respectively and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod or iPhone may affect wireless performance.

About Bluetooth function

What is Bluetooth technology?

Bluetooth wireless technology is a short-range wireless technology that enables wireless data communication between digital devices, such as a cellular phone and a headset. Bluetooth wireless technology operates within a range of about 10 m (about 33 feet). Connecting two devices is common, but some devices can be connected to multiple devices at the same time.

  • You do not need to use a cable for connection since Bluetooth technology is a wireless technology, neither is it necessary for the devices to face one another, such is the case with infrared technology. For example, you can use such a device in a bag or pocket.
  • Bluetooth technology is an international standard supported by millions of companies all over the world, and employed by various companies worldwide.

On Bluetooth communication

  • Bluetooth wireless technology operates within a range of about 10 m. Maximum communication range may vary depending on obstacles (person, metal, wall, etc.) or electromagnetic environment. - The following conditions may affect the sensitivity of Bluetooth communication.
  • There is an obstacle such as a person, metal, or wall between this unit and Bluetooth device.
  • A device using 2.4 GHz frequency, such as a wireless LAN device, cordless telephone, or microwave oven, is in use near this unit.
  • Because Bluetooth devices and wireless LAN (IEEE802.11b/g) use the same frequency, microwave interference may occur and result in communication speed deterioration, noise, or invalid connection if this unit is used near a wireless LAN device. In such a case, perform the following.
  • Use this unit at least 10 m away from the wireless LAN device.
  • If this unit is used within 10 m of a wireless LAN device, turn off the wireless LAN device.
  • Install this unit and Bluetooth device as near to each other as possible.

- Microwaves emitting from a Bluetooth device may affect the operation of electronic medical devices. Turn off this unit and other Bluetooth devices in the following locations, as it may cause an accident.

- where inflammable gas is present, in a hospital, train, airplane, or petrol station

- near automatic doors or a fire alarm

  • This unit supports security capabilities that comply with the Bluetooth standard to provide a secure connection when the Bluetooth wireless technology is used, but security may not be enough depending on the setting. Be careful when communicating using Bluetooth wireless technology. • We do not take any responsibility for the leakage of information during Bluetooth communication.
  • Connection with all Bluetooth devices cannot be guaranteed.
  • A device featuring Bluetooth function is required to conform to the Bluetooth standard specified by Bluetooth SIG, and be authenticated.
  • Even if the connected device conforms to the above mentioned Bluetooth standard, some devices may not be connected or work correctly, depending on the features or specifications of the device.
  • While talking on the phone hands free, noise may occur, depending on the device or communication environment.
  • Depending on the device to be connected, it may require some time to start communication.

Others

  • Using the Bluetooth device may not function on cellular phones, depending on radio wave conditions and location where the equipment is being used.
  • If you experience discomfort after using the Bluetooth device, stop using the Bluetooth device immediately. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

If you have any questions or problems concerning your unit that are not covered in this manual, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Maintenance

Replacing the lithium battery of the remote commander

When the battery becomes weak, the range of the remote commander becomes shorter. Replace the battery with a new CR2025 lithium battery. Use of any other battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

① ② → + side up

Notes on the lithium battery

  • Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children. Should the battery be swallowed, immediately consult a doctor.
  • Wipe the battery with a dry cloth to assure a good contact.
  • Be sure to observe the correct polarity when installing the battery.
  • Do not hold the battery with metallic tweezers, otherwise a short-circuit may occur.

WARNING

Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, or dispose of in fire.

Cleaning the connectors

The unit may not function properly if the connectors between the unit and the front panel are not clean. In order to prevent this, detach the front panel (page 7) and clean the connectors with a cotton swab. Do not apply too much force. Otherwise, the connectors may be damaged.

Line drawing of a hand inserting a card into a device (no text or symbols).

Line drawing of a hand holding a pen or stylus, no text or symbols present.

Notes

- For safety, turn off the ignition before cleaning the connectors, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

- Never touch the connectors directly with your fingers or with any metal device.

Specifications

Tuner section

FM

Tuning range: 87.5 - 108.0 MHz

Antenna (aerial) terminal: External antenna (aerial) connector

Intermediate frequency: 25 kHz

Usable sensitivity: 8 dBf

Selectivity: 75 dB at 400 kHz

Signal-to-noise ratio: 80 dB (stereo)

Separation: 50 dB at 1 kHz

Frequency response: 20 - 15,000 Hz

MW/LW

Tuning range:

MW: 531 - 1,602 kHz

LW: 153 - 279 kHz

Antenna (aerial) terminal:

External antenna (aerial) connector

Intermediate frequency:

9,124.5 kHz or 9,115.5 kHz/4.5 kHz

Sensitivity: MW: 26 μV, LW: 45 μV

CD Player section

Signal-to-noise ratio: 120 dB

Frequency response: 10 - 20,000 Hz

Wow and flutter: Below measurable limit

USB Player section

Interface: USB (Full-speed)

Maximum current: 1 A

Wireless Communication

Communication System:

Bluetooth Standard version 2.1 + EDR

Output:

Bluetooth Standard Power Class 2 (Max. +4 dBm)

Maximum communication range:

Line of sight approx. 10 m (33 ft) *1

Frequency band:

2.4 GHz band (2.4000 - 2.4835 GHz)

Modulation method: FHSS

Compatible Bluetooth Profiles *2:

A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) 1.2

AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile) 1.3

HFP (Handsfree Profile) 1.5

PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile) SPP (Serial Port Profile)

*1 The actual range will vary depending on factors such as obstacles between devices, magnetic fields around a microwave oven, static electricity, reception sensitivity, antenna (aerial)'s performance, operating system, software application, etc.

*2 Bluetooth standard profiles indicate the purpose of Bluetooth communication between devices.

Power amplifier section

Output: Speaker outputs

Speaker impedance: 4 - 8 ohms

Maximum power output: 52 W × 4 (at 4 ohms)

General

Outputs:

Audio outputs terminal (front, rear, sub) Power antenna (aerial)/Power amplifier control terminal (REM OUT)

Inputs:

Remote controller input terminal

Antenna (aerial) input terminal

MIC input terminal

Power requirements: 12 V DC car battery (negative ground (earth))

Dimensions: Approx. 178 × 50 × 177 mm (7 1/8 × 2 × 7 in) (w/h/d)

Mounting dimensions: Approx. 182 × 53 × 160 mm (7 1/4 × 2 1/8 × 6 5/16 in) (w/h/d)

Mass: Approx. 1.2 kg (2 lb 11 oz)

Supplied accessories:

Remote commander: RM-X231

Microphone

Parts for installation and connections (1 set)

Optional accessories/equipment:

USB connection cable for iPod: RC-100IP

Your dealer may not handle some of the above listed accessories. Please ask the dealer for detailed information.

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Troubleshooting

The following checklist will help you remedy problems you may encounter with your unit. Before going through the checklist below, check the connection and operating procedures.

For details on using the fuse and removing the unit from the dashboard, refer to the installation/connections manual supplied with this unit.

If the problem is not solved, visit the support site on the back cover.

General

No power is being supplied to the unit.

→ Check the connection or fuse. → If the unit is turned off and the display disappears, the unit cannot be operated with the remote commander.

- Turn on the unit.

The power antenna (aerial) does not extend.

→ The power antenna (aerial) does not have a relay box.

No sound.

→ The ATT function is activated. → The position of the fader control “FADER” is not set for a 2-speaker system.

No beep sound.

→ The beep sound is canceled (page 33). → An optional power amplifier is connected and you are not using the built-in amplifier.

The contents of the memory have been erased.

→ The power supply lead or battery has been disconnected or not connected properly. → The unit is reset. – Store again in the memory.

Stored stations and correct time are erased. The fuse has blown.

Makes noise when the position of the ignition is switched.

→ The leads are not matched correctly with the car's accessory power connector.

During playback or reception, demonstration mode starts.

→ If no operation is performed for 5 minutes with “DEMO-ON” set, demonstration mode starts.

- Set "DEMO-OFF" (page 35).

The display disappears from/does not appear in the display window.

→ The dimmer is set to “DIM-ON” (page 35). → The display disappears if you press and hold SOURCE/OFF.

- Press SOURCE/OFF on the unit until the display appears.

→ The connectors are dirty (page 38).

The Auto Off function does not operate.

→ The unit is turned on. The Auto Off function activates after turning off the unit.

- Turn off the unit.

The operation buttons do not function. The disc will not eject.

→ Press DSPL and (BACK)/MODE for more than 2 seconds.

The contents stored in memory are erased.

For your safety, do not perform the reset operation while you are driving.

Radio reception

The stations cannot be received. The sound is hampered by noises

→ The connection is not correct.

  • Check the connection of the car antenna (aerial).
  • If the auto antenna (aerial) will not go up, check the connection of the power antenna (aerial) control lead.

Preset tuning is not possible.

→ Store the correct frequency in the memory. → The broadcast signal is too weak.

Automatic tuning is not possible.

→ The broadcast signal is too weak.

- Perform manual tuning.

RDS

The SEEK starts after a few seconds of listening.

→ The station is non-TP or has weak signal. – Deactivate TA (page 12).

No traffic announcements.

→ Activate TA (page 12). → The station does not broadcast any traffic announcements despite being TP. - Tune in another station.

PTY displays "----."

→ The current station is not an RDS station. → RDS data has not been received. → The station does not specify the program type.

Program service name flashes.

→ There is no alternative frequency for the current station. - Press SEEK +/- while the program service name is flashing. "PI SEEK" appears and the unit starts searching for another frequency with the same PI (Program Identification) data.

CD playback

The disc cannot be loaded.

→ Another disc is already loaded. → The disc has been forcibly inserted upside down or in the wrong way.

The disc does not play back.

→ Defective or dirty disc. → The CD-Rs/CD-RWs are not for audio use (page 36).

MP3/WMA/AAC files cannot be played back.

→ The disc is incompatible with the MP3/WMA/AAC format and version. For details on playable discs and formats, visit the support site.

MP3/WMA/AAC files take longer to play back than others.

→ The following discs take a longer time to start playback. - A disc recorded with a complicated tree structure. - A disc recorded in Multi Session.

- A disc to which data can be added.

The display items do not scroll.

→ For discs with very many characters, those may not scroll. → “AUTO SCR” is set to “OFF.” - Set "A.SCRL-ON" (page 35). - Press and hold (SCRL).

The sound skips.

→ Installation is not correct. - Install the unit at an angle of less than 45° in a sturdy part of the car. → Defective or dirty disc.

USB playback

You cannot play back items via a USB hub.

→ This unit cannot recognize USB devices via a USB hub.

Cannot play back items.

→ A USB device does not work. - Connect it again.

A USB device takes longer to play back.

→ The USB device contains files with a complicated tree structure.

The sound is intermittent.

→ The sound may be intermittent at a high-bit-rate of more than 320 kbps.

Application name is mismatched with the actual application in App Remote.

→ Launch the application again from the “App Remote” application.

Bluetooth function

The connecting device cannot detect this unit.

→ Before the pairing is made, set this unit to pairing standby mode. → While connected to a Bluetooth device, this unit cannot be detected from another device. - Disconnect the current connection and search for this unit from another device. → When the device pairing is made, set the Bluetooth signal output to on (page 22, 23, 24).

Connection is not possible.

→ The connection is controlled from one side (this unit or Bluetooth device), but not both. - Connect to this unit from a Bluetooth device or vice versa. → Check the pairing and connection procedures in the manual of the other device, etc., and perform the operation again.

The name of the detected device does not appear.

→ Depending on the status of the other device, it may not be possible to obtain the name.

No ringtone.

→ Adjust the volume by rotating the control dial while receiving a call. → Depending on the connecting device, the ringtone may not be sent properly. - Set "RINGTONE" to "1" (page 22). → The front speakers are not connected to the unit. - Connect the front speakers to the unit. The ringtone is output only from the front speakers.

The talker's voice volume is low.

→ Adjust the volume level.

The talker's voice cannot be heard.

→ The front speakers are not connected to the unit.

- Connect the front speakers to the unit. The talker's voice is output only from the front speakers.

A call partner says that the volume is too low or high.

→ Adjust the volume accordingly using mic gain adjustment (page 26).

Echo or noise occurs in phone call conversations.

→ Lower the volume. → Set EC/NC Mode to “EC/NC-1” or “EC/NC-2” (page 26). → If the ambient noise other than the phone call sound is loud, try reducing this noise. E.g.: If a window is open and road noise, etc., is loud, shut the window. If an air conditioner is loud, lower the air conditioner.

The phone is not connected.

→ When Bluetooth audio is played, the phone is not connected even if you press CALL. - Connect from the phone.

The phone sound quality is poor.

→ Phone sound quality depends on reception conditions of the cellular phone.

- Move your car to a place where you can enhance the cellular phone's signal if the reception is poor.

The volume of the connected audio device is low (high).

→ Volume level will differ depending on the audio device. - Adjust the volume of the connected audio device or this unit.

No sound is heard from the Bluetooth audio device.

→ The audio device is paused. - Cancel pause of the audio device.

The sound skips during playback of a Bluetooth audio device.

→ Reduce the distance between the unit and the Bluetooth audio device. → If the Bluetooth audio device is stored in a case which interrupts the signal, remove the audio device from the case during use. → Several Bluetooth devices or other devices which emit radio waves are in use nearby. - Turn off the other devices. - Increase the distance from the other devices. → The playback sound stops momentarily when the connection between this unit and the cellular phone is being made. This is not a malfunction.

The connected Bluetooth audio device cannot be controlled.

→ Check that the connected Bluetooth audio device supports AVRCP.

Some functions do not work.

→ Check if the connecting device supports the functions in question.

The name of the other party does not appear when a call is received.

→ The calling phone is not set to send the phone number.

A call is answered unintentionally.

→ The connecting phone is set to answer a call automatically.

→ “AUTO ANS” of this unit is set to “ANS-1” or “ANS-2” (page 22).

Pairing failed due to time out.

→ Depending on the connecting device, the time limit for pairing may be short.

– Try completing the pairing within the time.

Bluetooth function cannot operate.

→ Turn off the unit by pressing SOURCE/OFF for more than 2 seconds, then turn the unit on again.

No sound is output from the car speakers during handsfree call.

→ If the sound is output from the cellular phone, set the cellular phone to output the sound from the car speakers.

Application name is mismatched with the actual application in App Remote.

→ Launch the application again from the “App Remote” application.

While running the "App Remote" application via Bluetooth, the display automatically switches to "BT AUDIO."

→ The “App Remote” application or Bluetooth function has failed.

- Run the application again.

Error displays/Messages

CHECKING

→ The unit is confirming the connection of a USB device.

- Wait until confirming the connection is finished.

ERROR

→ The disc is dirty or inserted upside down. - Clean or insert the disc correctly. → A blank disc has been inserted. → The disc cannot play due to a problem. - Insert another disc. → USB device was not automatically recognized. - Connect it again. → Press ▲ to remove the disc.

FAILURE

→ The connection of speakers/amplifiers is incorrect.

- See the installation/connections manual of this model to check the connection.

HUB NO SUPRT (Hubs Not Supported)

→ USB hub is not supported on this unit.

NO AF (No Alternative Frequencies)

→ There is no alternative frequency for the current station.

- Press SEEK +/- while the program service name is flashing. The unit starts searching for another frequency with the same PI (Program Identification) data ("PI SEEK" appears).

NO DEV (No Device)

“USB” is selected as the source without a USB device connected. A USB device or USB cable has been disconnected during playback.

Connect a USB device and USB cable.

NO DISC

The disc is ejected, or “CD” is selected as the source without inserting a disc.

NO MUSIC

The disc or USB device does not contain a music file.

  • Insert a music CD in this unit.
  • Connect a USB device with a music file in it.

NO NAME

A disc/album/artist/track name is not written in the track.

NO TP (No Traffic Programs)

The unit will continue searching for available TP stations.

NOT FOUND

There is no item beginning with the selected letter in Alphabet search.

OFFSET

There may be an internal malfunction. Check the connection. If the error indication remains on in the display, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

OVERLOAD

The USB device is overloaded. Disconnect the USB device, then change the source by pressing SOURCE/OFF. Indicates that the USB device is out of order, or an unsupported device is connected.

PUSH EJT (Push Eject)

The disc cannot be ejected. Press ▲ (eject).

READ

The unit is reading all track and album information on the disc. Wait until reading is complete and playback starts automatically. Depending on the disc structure, it may take more than a minute.

USB NO SUPRT (USB Not Supported)

The connected USB device is not supported. For details on the compatibility of your USB device, visit the support site.

During reverse or fast-forward, you have reached the beginning or the end of the disc and you cannot go any further.

The character cannot be displayed with the unit.

For Bluetooth function:

BT BUSY (Bluetooth Busy)

The phonebook and the call history of the cellular phone are not accessible from this unit. - Wait for a while, and then try again.

The call history is empty.

BT Initialize failed. Phonebook access failed. Phonebook content was changed while accessing the cellular phone. - Access the phonebook in the cellular phone again.

MEM FAILURE (Memory Failure)

This unit failed to store the contact in the preset dial. - Make sure that the number you intend to store is correct (page 27).

MEMORY BUSY

This unit is storing data. - Wait until storing has finished.

NO DEV (No Device)

Bluetooth audio source is selected without a Bluetooth audio device connected. A Bluetooth audio device has been disconnected during a call. - Be sure to connect a Bluetooth audio device. Bluetooth phone source is selected without a cellular phone connected. A cellular phone has been disconnected during a call. - Be sure to connect a cellular phone.

NO INFO (No Information)

Network name and cellular phone name are not received with cellular phone connected.

P (preset number) EMPTY

The preset dial is empty.

→ Name or phone number cannot be displayed when browsing phonebook or call history.

→ Phone number is hidden by caller.

For App Remote operation:

APP ---- (Application)

→ Connection with the application is not made.

- Establish iPhone connection again.

APP MENU (Application Menu)

→ Button operation cannot be performed while a menu on iPhone/Android phone is open.

- Exit the menu on iPhone/Android phone.

APP NO DEV (Application No Device)

→ The device with the application installed is not connected.

- Connect the device, then establish iPhone connection.

OPEN APP (Open Application)

→ The “App Remote” application is not running.

- Start up the iPhone's application.

If these solutions do not help improve the situation, consult your nearest Sony dealer. If you take the unit to be repaired because of CD playback trouble, bring the disc that was used at the time the problem began.

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Manual assistant
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Product information

Brand : SONY

Model : MEX-BT4100U

Category : Car radio