4-267-386-11(1)

Mini HI-FI Component System

Operating Instructions

Getting Started Operations Additional Information

MHC-EX99/EX88/EX66 MHC-EX900/EX700/EX600

WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire, do not cover the ventilation opening of the apparatus with newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc. Do not place the naked flame sources such as lighted candles on the apparatus. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing, and do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus. As the main plug is used to disconnect the unit from the mains, connect the unit to an easily accessible AC outlet. Should you notice an abnormality in the unit, disconnect the main plug from the AC outlet immediately. Do not install the appliance in a confined space, such as a bookcase or built-in cabinet. Do not expose batteries or apparatus with battery-installed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like. The unit is not disconnected from the mains as long as it is connected to the AC outlet, even if the unit itself has been turned off. Excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones can cause hearing loss.

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.

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)
This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product. Applicable accessories: Remote commander

CAUTION
The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard.

This appliance is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER product. This marking is located on the rear exterior.

2GB

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.

Note on DualDiscs
A DualDisc is a two sided disc product which mates DVD recorded material on one side with digital audio material on the other side. However, since the audio material side does not conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard, playback on this product is not guaranteed.

Music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies

This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard. Recently, various music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies are marketed by some record companies. Please be aware that among those discs, there are some that do not conform to the CD standard and may not be playable by this product.

Note on copyright-protected content

The transferred music is limited to private use only. Use of the music beyond this limit requires permission of the copyright holders.

License and Trademark Notice

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

3GB

Table of Contents
Guide to parts and controls.......... 5

Additional Information
Precautions................................. 21 Troubleshooting......................... 22 Messages.................................... 27 Specifications............................. 29

Getting Started
Hooking up the system securely........................................ 8 Setting the clock .......................... 9

Operations
Playing a CD/MP3 disc ............. 10 Listening to the radio................. 11 Before using the USB device .... 12 Transferring music from a disc to a USB device ......................... 13 Playing a file from the USB device......................................... 15 Creating your own program (Program Play)........................... 16 Using optional audio components................................ 17 Adjusting the sound................... 18 Changing the display ................. 18 Changing the illumination brightness................................... 19 Using the timers......................... 20

4GB

Guide to parts and controls

This manual mainly explains operations using the remote, but the same operations can also be performed using the buttons on the unit having the same or similar names.

Main unit

To lock the buttons on the unit (Child lock function)

You can lock the buttons except ?/1 on the unit to prevent them from being operated by mistake. Hold down x on the unit until CHILD LOCK ON or CHILD LOCK OFF appears on the display. The buttons except ?/1 on the unit will be locked or unlocked. Note that the child lock will be cancelled when you disconnect the power cord.

5GB

Remote

H TUNING + button Press to tune to the desired station. > (go forward) button Press to select a track or file. M (fast forward) button Press to find a point in a track or file. I VOLUME control Turn to adjust the volume. J (USB) port Connect an optional USB device. K PHONES jack Connect the headphones. L DVD/PC IN L/R (audio in L/R) jacks Connect an audio component (Portable audio player, etc.). M TUNING button Press to tune to the desired station. . (go back) button Press to select a track or file.

1 ?/1 (on/standby) button Press to turn on or off the system. B Remote sensor C Z (open/close) button Press to load or eject a disc. D x (stop) button Press to stop playback or transferring. E REC TO USB button (page 13) Press to transfer music from a disc to the connected optional USB device. F DSGX button (page 18) Press to select the sound effect. G ENTER button Press to enter/confirm the settings.

m (rewind) button Press to find a point in a track or file. N OPTIONS button (page 12, 14, 19) Press to enter or exit the option menus. O EQ button (page 18) Press to select the sound effect. P FUNCTION button Press to select the function. Q NX (play/pause) button Press to start or pause playback.

6GB

R CLOCK/TIMER SELECT button (page 20) CLOCK/TIMER SET button (page 9, 20) Press to set the clock and the Play Timer. S REPEAT/FM MODE button (page 10, 11, 15) Press to listen to a disc, a USB device, a single track or file repeatedly. Press to select the FM reception mode (monaural or stereo). T TUNER/BAND button Press to select the tuner function. Press to select FM or AM reception mode. U m/M (rewind/fast forward) button Press to find a point in a track or file. T/t button Press to select the menu items. V + (select folder) button (page 10, 15, 16) Press to select a folder. W VOLUME +/ button Press to adjust the volume. X (select folder) button (page 10, 15, 16) Press to select a folder. Y CLEAR button (page 17) Press to delete a pre-programmed track or file. Z N (play) button Press to start playback. X (pause) button Press to pause playback.

wj ./> (go back/go forward) button Press to select a track or file. +/ (tuning) button Press to tune to the desired station. wk USB button Press to select the USB function. wl CD button Press to select the CD function. e; TUNER MEMORY button (page 11) Press to preset the radio station. ea PLAY MODE/TUNING MODE button (page 10, 11, 16) Press to select the play mode of a CD, MP3 disc or USB device. Press to select the tuning mode. es DISPLAY button (page 9, 17, 18) Press to change the information on the display. ed SLEEP button (page 20) Press to set the Sleep Timer.

7GB

Getting Started

Hooking up the system securely

A AM loop antenna B FM lead antenna (Extend it horizontally.) C To right speaker D To wall outlet E Speaker cord (Red/3) F Speaker cord (Black/#) G To left speaker H Subwoofer cord I To subwoofer

When unplugging the subwoofer cord

A Power
Connect the power cord to a wall outlet. If the plug does not fit the wall outlet, detach the supplied plug adaptor (only for models equipped with an adaptor).

D Subwoofer (MHC-EX99/EX900 only)

Connect the subwoofer to the SUBWOOFER jack with the subwoofer cord. Place the subwoofer vertically to obtain a better bass reproduction. Also, position the subwoofer: on a solid floor where resonance is unlikely to occur. at least a few centimeters away from the wall. away from the center of the room or place a bookshelf against a wall, to avoid generating a standing wave.

B Antennas
Find a location and an orientation that provide good reception when you set up the antennas. Keep the antennas away from the speaker cords, the power cord and the USB cable to avoid picking up noise.

C Speakers
Insert only the stripped portion of the cord.

8GB

Inserting batteries
Insert the two supplied R6 (size AA) batteries, matching the polarities shown below.

Setting the clock

Use buttons on the remote to set the clock.

1 Press ?/1 to turn on the system. 2 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET.

If PLAY SET flashes, press ./ > repeatedly to select CLOCK, and then press ENTER.

Getting Started

3 Press ./> repeatedly to set

the hour, and then press ENTER.
Notes
Do not mix an old battery with a new one or mix different types of batteries. If you do not use the remote for a long period of time, remove the batteries to avoid damage from battery leakage and corrosion. Batteries installed devices shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.

4 Use the same procedure to set

the minutes.
Note
The clock settings are lost when you disconnect the power cord or if a power failure occurs.

To display the clock when the system is off

Press DISPLAY repeatedly until the clock is displayed. The clock is displayed for about 8 seconds.

When carrying this system

Remove a disc if inserted and turn off the system, and then unplug the power cord.

9GB

Operations

Note on Repeat Play

REP1 indicates that a single track or file is repeated until you stop it.

Playing a CD/MP3 disc 1 Select the CD function.

Press CD (or FUNCTION repeatedly).

Note on shuffle play mode

When you turn off the system, the selected shuffle play mode (SHUF or SHUF) is cleared and the play mode returns to normal play mode.

2 Place a disc.
Press Z on the unit, and place a disc with the label side up on the disc tray. To close the disc tray, press Z on the unit.

Notes on playing MP3 discs

Do not save other types of files or unnecessary folders on a disc that has MP3 files. Folders that have no MP3 files are skipped. MP3 files are played back in the order that they are recorded onto the disc. The system can only play MP3 files that have a file extension of .mp3. Even when file name has the .mp3 file extension, if the actual file differs, playing this file may generate a loud noise which could damage the speaker system and the system may malfunction. The maximum number of: folders is 255 (including the root folder). MP3 files is 512. folder levels (the tree structure of files) is 8. Compatibility with all MP3 encoding/writing software, recording device, and recording media cannot be guaranteed. Incompatible MP3 discs may produce noise or interrupted audio or may not play at all.

3 Start playback.
Press N (or NX on the unit).

Other operations
To Press

Pause playback

X (or NX on the unit). To resume playback, press the button again. x. +/ repeatedly. ./>. Hold down m/M during playback, and release the button at the desired point. REPEAT repeatedly until REP or REP1 appears.

Stop playback Select a folder on an MP3 disc Select a track or file Find a point in a track or file

Notes on playing multisession discs

If the first session on the disc is a CD-DA session, the other sessions on the disc cannot be recognized regardless of the session format; only CD-DA tracks in the first session can be played back. If the session format for the first session is CD-ROM and the following sessions are recorded in the same format, the system will continue to play back MP3 files accordingly in multiple sessions until the system encounters another session recorded in a different format.

Select Repeat Play

To change the play mode

Press PLAY MODE repeatedly while the player is stopped. You can select normal play ( for all MP3 files in the folder on the disc), shuffle play (SHUF or SHUF* for folder shuffle), or program play (PGM).
* When playing a CD-DA (audio) disc, (SHUF) Play performs the same operation as normal (SHUF) Play.

10GB

Listening to the radio 1 Select TUNER FM or TUNER

AM. Press TUNER/BAND (or FUNCTION) repeatedly.

Presetting a radio station

Use buttons on the remote to preset stations.

2 Perform tuning.
For automatic scanning

1 Tune to the desired station. 2 Press TUNER MEMORY to select

the tuner memory mode.
Preset number

Press TUNING MODE repeatedly until AUTO appears, and then press +/ (or TUNING +/ on the unit). When a station is found, scanning stops automatically, and TUNED and ST (for stereo programs only) light up on the display.

Operations

3 Press +/ repeatedly to select

the desired preset number. If another station is already assigned to the selected preset number, the station is replaced by the new station.

If TUNED does not light up and the scanning does not stop, press x to stop scanning, then perform manual tuning (below). When you tune to a station that provides RDS services, the station name appears on the display.
For manual tuning

4 Press ENTER to store the

station.

5 Repeat steps 1 through 4 to

store other stations. You can preset up to 20 FM and 10 AM stations. The preset stations are retained for about half a day even if you disconnect the power cord or if a power failure occurs.

Press TUNING MODE repeatedly until MANUAL appears, and then press +/ (or TUNING +/ on the unit) repeatedly to tune to the desired station.
Tip
To reduce static noise on a weak FM stereo station, press FM MODE repeatedly until MONO appears to turn off stereo reception.

6 To bring up a preset radio

station, press TUNING MODE repeatedly until PRESET appears, and then press +/ repeatedly to select the desired preset number.

11GB

Before using the USB device

Check the websites below for the information about compatible USB devices. For customers in Europe and Russia: <http://support.sony-europe.com/> For customers in Latin America: <http://www.sony-latin.com/index.crp> For customers in other countries/regions: <http://www.sony-asia.com/support>
Notes
When USB cable connection is necessary, use the USB cable supplied with the USB device. When the USB device is connected, READING appears and USB MEMORY lights up on the display. It may take about 10 seconds before READING appears depending on the type of USB device connected. Do not connect the system and the USB device through a USB hub. When the USB device is connected, the system reads all the files on the USB device. If there are many folders or files on the USB device, it may take a long time to finish reading the USB device. With some connected USB devices, after an operation is performed, there may be a delay before it is performed by this system. Compatibility with all encoding/writing software cannot be guaranteed. If audio files on the USB device were originally encoded with incompatible software, those files may produce noise or interrupted audio, or may not play at all.

This system cannot transfer music from a disc or play audio files on the USB device in the following cases. When the number of audio files in a folder exceeds 999. When the total number of audio files on a USB device exceeds 5,000. When the number of folders on a USB device exceeds 255 (including the ROOT and MUSIC folders, and excluding empty folders). These numbers may vary depending on the file and folder structure. Do not save other types of files or unnecessary folders on a USB device that has audio files.

To select the memory on the USB device

If the USB device has more than one memory (for example, internal memory and a memory card), you can select which memory to use and then start playback or transferring. You cannot select a memory during playback or transferring. Make sure to select a memory before starting playback or transferring.

1 2 3

Press USB (or FUNCTION repeatedly) to select the USB function. Connect the USB device to the (USB) port. Press OPTIONS on the unit in stop mode. MEM SEL appears. If an audio file or a folder is selected, ERASE appears instead. Press ./> repeatedly to select MEM SEL. Press ENTER. Press ./> repeatedly to select a memory number. Proceed to step 6 if only one memory can be selected. To cancel this operation, press OPTIONS. Press ENTER.

4 5

6
12GB

To use the system as a battery charger

You can use the system as a battery charger for USB devices that have a rechargeable function when the system is on. The charging begins when the USB device is connected to the (USB) port on the unit. The charging status appears on the USB devices display. For details, refer to the operation manual of your USB device.
Note on charging the USB device with this system
You cannot use the system as a battery charger in the following cases. The CD player/USB device power is turned off and the tuner function is selected. See To improve disc loading performance (page 26). When the system is off.

Transferring music from a disc to a USB device

You can connect an optional USB device to the (USB) port on the unit and transfer music from a disc to the USB device. You can transfer music from a CD-DA disc or MP3 disc only. The audio format of files transferred by this system is MP3. The amount of free space required on the USB device is about 1 MB per minute when transferring music from a CD. Required free space may be larger when transferring music from an MP3 disc. You can easily transfer all the music on a disc to a USB device (CD SYNC). You can also transfer a track or MP3 file that is currently being played back (REC1).

Operations

1 Connect the USB device to the

(USB) port.

2 Select the CD function.

Press CD (or FUNCTION repeatedly).

3 Place a disc. 4 Set the USB device to stand by

for transferring.
Synchronized transfer (CD SYNC):

Press REC TO USB on the unit. To transfer only your favourite CD tracks or MP3 files, create your own program beforehand (see Creating your own program (page 16)). To transfer only MP3 files that are stored in a specific folder on the MP3 disc, press PLAY MODE repeatedly until appears while the player is stopped, and then press +/ repeatedly to select the desired folder before starting the transfer.

13GB

REC1:

Folder and file generation rules

When first transferring music to a USB device, a MUSIC folder is created below the ROOT folder and a transfer mode-oriented folder (CD-DA, CDMP3, REC1 or PROGRAM) is created within the MUSIC folder. Folders and files are generated within any of the transfer mode-oriented folders as follows.
CD SYNC1)
Music source MP3 CD-DA Folder name File name

Start playback of the track or MP3 file you want to transfer, then press REC TO USB on the unit.

5 Press ENTER to start

transferring.
When using CD SYNC

When the transfer is completed, access to the USB device and the CD player stop automatically.
When using REC1

When the transfer is completed, access to the USB device stops automatically and the CD player continues playback.

Same as the music source2) CDDA0013) TRACK0014)

To stop transferring
Press x.
REC1
Music source MP3 REC15) CD-DA
1) In

To erase audio files or folders from the USB device

Note that you cannot erase audio files and folders in shuffle play mode or program play mode.

Folder name

File name Same as the music source2) TRACK0014)

1 2 3 4 5

Connect the USB device to the (USB) port. Select the USB function. Press USB (or FUNCTION repeatedly). Press ./> or +/ repeatedly to select the audio file or folder you want to erase. Press OPTIONS on the unit in stop mode. Press ./> repeatedly to select ERASE, and then press ENTER. To cancel the erase operation, press OPTIONS. Press ENTER.

Program Play mode, the folder name is PGM_xxx, and the file name depends on the music source (CD-DA disc or MP3 disc). 2) Up to 32 characters of the name are assigned. 3) Folder numbers are assigned serially thereafter up to the maximum 999. 4) File numbers are assigned serially thereafter. 5) A new file is created in the REC1 folder each time REC1 is performed.

14GB

Notes
When transferring music from a CD, the tracks are transferred as 128 kbps MP3 files. When transferring music from an MP3 disc, MP3 files are transferred at the same bit rate as that of the original MP3 files. If you start transferring in shuffle play mode, repeat play mode or in program play mode (when no tracks or MP3 files are programmed), the selected play mode is automatically cancelled and the play mode switches to normal play mode. While transferring music from an MP3 disc, no sound is output and HI-SPEED appears. CD text information is not transferred in the created MP3 files. If you cancel the process in the middle of music transfer, an incomplete MP3 file will be created up to the point when the transfer was stopped. Transferring stops automatically if: the USB device runs out of space. the number of audio files on the USB device reaches the limit for the number that the system can recognize. If the folder to be erased contains non-MP3/ WMA/AAC format files or sub folders, these are not erased. If a folder or file that you are trying to transfer already exists on the USB device with the same name, a sequential number is added after the name without overwriting the original folder or file. Do not remove the USB device or disconnect the power cord during transfer or erase operations. Doing so may corrupt the data on the USB device or damage the USB device itself.

Playing a file from the USB device

The audio formats that can be played back on this system are: MP3, WMA* or AAC*
* Files with DRM (Digital Rights Management) copyright protection cannot be played back on this system. Files downloaded from an online music store may not be played back on this system.

Operations

1 Select the USB function.

Press USB (or FUNCTION repeatedly).

2 Connect a USB device to the

(USB) port. When the USB device is connected, the display changes as follows: READING t STORAGE*
* When connecting the USB device, the volume label is displayed next if recorded.

3 Start playback.
Press N (or NX on the unit).

Other operations
To Press

Pause playback

X (or NX on the unit). To resume playback, press the button again*. x. +/ repeatedly. ./>. Hold down m/M during playback, and release the button at the desired point. REPEAT repeatedly until REP or REP1 appears.

Stop playback Select a folder Select a file Find a point in a file

Select Repeat Play

* When playing a VBR MP3 file, the system may resume playback from a different point.

15GB

To change the play mode

Press PLAY MODE repeatedly while the USB device is stopped. You can select normal play ( for all files in the folder on the USB device), shuffle play (SHUF or SHUF), or program play (PGM).
Note on Repeat Play
REP indicates that all audio files on a USB device are repeated until you stop playback.

Creating your own program

(Program Play) Use buttons on the remote to create your own program.

1 Select the desired function.

CD

Note on shuffle play mode

When you turn off the system, the selected shuffle play mode (SHUF or SHUF) is cleared and the play mode returns to normal play mode ( ).

Press CD (or FUNCTION repeatedly) to select the CD function.

USB

Notes
The following instances can increase the time it takes to start playback: a USB device recorded with a complicated tree structure. the memory capacity is excessive. The system can play back to a depth of 8 folders only. This system does not necessarily support all the functions provided in a connected USB device. Resume play is cancelled when you turn off the system. Files and folders are displayed in the order of their creation on the USB device. The playback order for the system may differ from the order of the connected USB device. Folders that have no audio files are skipped. The file formats that this system can play are as follows: MP3: file extension .mp3 WMA: file extension .wma AAC: file extension .m4a, .mp4 or .3gp Note that even when file names have the above file extensions, if the actual files differ, playing these files may generate a loud noise which could damage the speaker system and the system may malfunction.

Press USB (or FUNCTION repeatedly) to select the USB function.

2 Select the play mode.

Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until PGM appears while the player is stopped.

3 Select the desired track or file

number. Press ./> repeatedly until the desired track or file number appears. When programming MP3/WMA/AAC files, press +/ repeatedly to select the desired folder, and then select the desired file.
Selected track or file number

Total playing time of the selected track or file

16GB

4 Program the selected track or

file. Press ENTER to enter the selected track or file.
CD

. appears when the total program time exceeds 100 minutes for a CD or when you select an MP3 file.
USB

Using optional audio components 1 Prepare the sound source.

Connect additional audio component to the DVD/PC IN L/R jacks on the unit using an audio analog cord (not supplied).

The total program time cannot be displayed, so . appears.

2 Turn down the volume.

Press VOLUME (or turn the VOLUME control on the unit).

5 Repeat steps 3 through 4 to

program additional tracks or files, up to a total of 25 tracks or files.

Operations

3 Select the PC function.

Press FUNCTION repeatedly.

6 To play your program of tracks

or files, press N. The program remains available until you open the disc tray. To play the same program again, select the CD function, and then press N.

4 Start playback.
Start playback of the connected component and adjust the volume.
Note
The system may enter standby mode automatically if the volume level of the connected component is too low. Adjust the components volume accordingly. See To turn off the automatic standby function (page 27).

To cancel Program Play

Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until PGM disappears while the player is stopped.

To delete the last track or file of the program

Press CLEAR while the player is stopped.

To view program information, such as total track number of the program

Press DISPLAY repeatedly.

17GB

Adjusting the sound

To Press

Changing the display

To Press

Generate a more DSGX on the unit. dynamic sound (Dynamic Sound Generator X-tra) Set the sound effect EQ.

Change DISPLAY repeatedly information on the when the system is display* turned on. Change Display mode (See below.) DISPLAY repeatedly when the system is turned off.

To turn on the subwoofer (MHCEX99/EX900 only)

1 2 3

Press OPTIONS on the unit. Press ./> repeatedly to select S-WOOFER, and then press ENTER. Press ./> repeatedly to select SW ON, and then press ENTER. To turn off the subwoofer, select SW OFF, and then press ENTER.

* For example, you can view CD/MP3 disc information or the USB device information, such as: track or file number during normal play. track or file name ( ) during normal play. artist name ( ) during normal play. album or folder name ( ) during normal play. total playing time and total number of tracks on the CD-DA disc (only when normal play mode is selected and the player is stopped). total number of folders (albums) on the MP3 disc (only when normal play mode is selected and the player is stopped). volume label if it exists on the disc or the USB device (only when normal play mode is selected and the USB device is in stop mode).

The system offers the following display modes.

Display mode When the system is off,

Demonstration Power Saving Mode1)

The demonstration is displayed. The display is turned off to conserve power. The timer and clock continue to operate. The clock is displayed.

Clock2)
1)

You cannot set the clock in Power Saving Mode. 2) The clock display automatically turns to Power Saving Mode after 8 seconds.

18GB

Notes on the display information

Characters that cannot be displayed appear as _. The following are not displayed: total playing time for an MP3 disc and USB device. remaining playing time for a file. The following are not displayed correctly: elapsed playing time of an MP3 file encoded using a VBR (variable bit rate). folder and file names that do not follow either the ISO9660 Level 1, Level 2 or Joliet in the expansion format. The following are displayed: remaining playing time for a track. ID3 tag information for MP3 files when ID3 version 1 and version 2 tags are used (ID3 version 2 tag information display has priority when both ID3 version 1 and version 2 tags are used for a single MP3 file). up to 15 characters of ID3 tag, WMA tag and AAC tag information using uppercase letters (A to Z), numbers (0 to 9), and symbols ( $ % ( ) * + , . / < = > @ [ \ ] _ ` { | } ! ? ^).

Changing the illumination brightness

To Do this

Change the 1 brightness of the illumination 2 around the VOLUME control

Press OPTIONS on the unit. Press ./> repeatedly to select ILLUMI, and then press ENTER. Press ./> repeatedly to select the desired mode, and then press ENTER.

Operations

19GB

Using the timers

The system offers two timer functions. If you use both timers, the Sleep Timer has priority. Use buttons on the remote to use the timer functions.
Sleep Timer:

4 Set the time to start playback.

Press ./> repeatedly to set the hour, and then press ENTER. Use the same procedure to set the minutes. OFF TIME appears and the hour indication flashes on the display.

5 Set the time to stop playback.

Use the same procedure as in step 4.

You can fall asleep to music. Press SLEEP repeatedly. If you select AUTO, the system automatically turns off after the current disc or USB device stops, or within 100 minutes.
Play Timer:

6 Select the sound source.

Press ./> repeatedly until the desired sound source appears, and then press ENTER. The display shows the timer settings.

7 Turn off the system.

Press ?/1. The system turns on 15 seconds before the preset time. If the system is already on at the preset time, the Play Timer will not be activated. Do not operate the system from the time the system turns on until the playback starts.

You can wake up to CD, FM/AM reception or USB device at a preset time. Make sure you have set the clock.

1 Prepare the sound source.

Prepare the sound source, and then press VOLUME +/ to adjust the volume. To start from a specific CD track or audio file, create your own program (page 16).

To check the setting

2 Select the timer set mode.

Press CLOCK/TIMER SET.

1 2

Press CLOCK/TIMER SELECT. Press ./> repeatedly to select PLAY SEL, and then press ENTER.

3 Set the play timer.

Press ./> repeatedly to select PLAY SET, and then press ENTER. ON TIME appears, and the hour indication flashes.

To cancel the timer

Repeat the same procedure as above until OFF appears in step 2 of To check the setting, and then press ENTER.

To change the setting

Start over from step 1 of Using the timers.

20GB

Additional Information

On safety

Precautions
Discs that this system CAN play

Audio CD CD-R/CD-RW (audio data/MP3 files)

Discs that this system CANNOT play

CD-ROM CD-R/CD-RW other than those recorded in music CD format or MP3 format conforming to ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet CD-R/CD-RW recorded in multisession that have not ended by closing the session CD-R/CD-RW of poor recording quality, CD-R/CD-RW that have scratches or are dirty, or CD-R/CDRW recorded with an incompatible recording device CD-R/CD-RW which is finalized incorrectly Discs containing files other than MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3 (MP3) files Discs of non-standard shape (for example, heart, square, star) Discs that have adhesive tape, paper, or sticker attached to them Rental or used discs with attached seals where the glue extends beyond the seal Discs that have labels printed using ink that feels tacky when touched
Notes on discs

Completely disconnect the power cord (mains lead) from the wall outlet (mains) if it is not going to be used for an extended period of time. When unplugging the unit, always grip the plug. Never pull the cord itself. Should any solid object or liquid get into the system, unplug the system, and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it again. AC power cord must be changed only at the qualified service shop.
On placement

Do not place the system in an inclined position or in locations that are extremely hot, cold, dusty, dirty, or humid or lacking adequate ventilation, or subject to vibration, direct sunlight or a bright light. Be careful when placing the unit or speakers on surfaces that have been specially treated (for example, with wax, oil, polish) as staining or discoloration of the surface may result. If the system is brought directly from a cold to a warm location or is placed in a very damp room, moisture may condense on the lens inside the CD player, and cause the system to malfunction. In this situation, remove the disc, and leave the system turned on for about an hour until the moisture evaporates.
On heat buildup

Additional Information

Before playing, wipe the disc with a cleaning cloth from the centre outward to the edge. Do not clean discs with solvents, such as benzine, thinner, or commercially available cleaners or anti-static spray intended for vinyl LPs. 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.

Heat buildup on the unit during operation is normal and is not cause for alarm. Do not touch the cabinet if it has been used continuously at a high volume because the cabinet may have become hot. Do not obstruct the ventilation holes.

21GB

On the speaker system

This speaker system is not magnetically shielded, and the picture on nearby TV sets may become magnetically distorted. In this situation, turn off the TV, wait 15 to 30 minutes, and turn it back on. If there is no improvement, move the speakers far away from the TV.
Cleaning the cabinet

Troubleshooting
1 2
Make sure the power cord and speaker cords are correctly and firmly connected. Find your problem in the checklist below, and take the indicated corrective action. If the issue persists, contact your nearest Sony dealer.

Clean this system with a soft cloth slightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent, such as thinner, benzine, or alcohol.

If PROTECT appears on the display

Immediately unplug the power cord, and check the following items after PROTECT disappears. Are the + and speaker cords shortcircuited? Is anything blocking the ventilation holes on the back of the system? After you have checked these above items and found to be all right, reconnect the power cord, and turn on the system. If the issue persists, contact your nearest Sony dealer.

22GB

General
The demonstration appears on the display after plugging in the power cord even though the system is not turned on.

The remote does not function.

Press DISPLAY once while the system is off. The demonstration disappears.
The system does not turn on.

Remove any obstacles between the remote and the remote sensor on the unit, and position the unit away from fluorescent lights. Point the remote at the systems sensor. Move the remote closer to the system.
Except ?/1, no buttons on the unit work, and CHILD LOCK appears on the display.

Is the power cord plugged in?

The system has entered standby mode unexpectedly.

This is not a malfunction. The system enters standby mode automatically in about 30 minutes when there is no operation and audio signal output. See To turn off the automatic standby function (page 27).
There is no sound.

The child lock function has been enabled. To disable the child lock, hold down x on the unit until CHILD LOCK OFF appears on the display.

Additional Information

CD/MP3 player
The sound skips, or the disc will not play.

Are the + and speaker cords shortcircuited? Are you using only the supplied speakers? Is anything blocking the ventilation holes on the back of the system?
Sound comes from one channel, or the left and right volumes are unbalanced.

Wipe the disc clean, and replace it. Move the system to a location away from vibration (for example, on top of a stable stand). Move the speakers away from the system, or place them on separate stands. At high volume, speaker vibration may cause the sound to skip.
Play does not start from the first track.

Place the speakers as symmetrically as possible. Connect only the supplied speakers.
Severe hum or noise.

Return to Normal Play by pressing PLAY MODE repeatedly until both PGM and SHUF disappear.
Starting playback takes more time than usual.

Move the system away from sources of noise. Connect the system to a different wall outlet. Install a noise filter (available separately) to the power cord.

The following instances can increase the time it takes to start playback. a disc recorded with a complicated tree structure a disc recorded in multisession mode a disc that has not been finalized (a disc to which data can be added) a disc that has many folders
The disc tray does not open and LOCKED appears.

Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

23GB

USB device
The connected USB device cannot be charged.

Select a function other than tuner function or turn on the CD player/USB device power. See To improve disc loading performance (page 26).
You cannot start transferring to a USB device.

The following problems may have occurred. The USB device is full. The number of files and folders on the USB device has reached the upper limit. The USB device is write-protected.
Transferring is stopped before it is finished.

Turn off the system and remove the USB device. If the USB device has a power switch, turn the USB device off and then on again after removing it from the system. Then perform transferring again. The USB device was disconnected or the power was turned off during the transfer process. Delete the partiallytransferred file, and perform transferring again. If this does not fix the problem, the USB device may be broken. Refer to the USB device operation manual for how to deal with this problem.
Files or folders on the USB device cannot be erased.

You are using an unsupported USB device. Check the information on the websites about compatible USB devices (page 12). The USB device is not formatted correctly. Refer to the USB device operation manual for how to format. Turn off the system and remove the USB device. If the USB device has a power switch, turn the USB device off and then on again after removing it from the system. Then perform transferring again. If the transfer and erase operations are repeated multiple times, the file structure within the USB device becomes fragmented. Refer to the USB device operation manual for how to deal with this problem.
Transferring music to a USB device results in an error.

Check if the USB device is writeprotected. The USB device was disconnected or the power was turned off during the erase operation. Delete the partiallyerased file. If this does not fix the problem, the USB device may be broken. Refer to the USB device operation manual for how to deal with this problem.
Are you using a supported USB device?

If you connect an unsupported USB device, some problems may occur. Check the information on the websites about compatible USB devices (page 12).
OVER CURRENT appears.

A problem has been detected with the level of electrical current from the (USB) port. Turn off the system and remove the USB device from the (USB) port. Make sure there is no problem with the USB device.
There is no sound.

You are using an unsupported USB device. Check the information on the websites about compatible USB devices (page 12).

The USB device is not connected correctly. Turn off the system and reconnect the USB device, then turn on the system and check if USB MEMORY lights up on the display.

24GB

There is noise, skipping, or distorted sound.

The USB device is not recognized.

Turn off the system and reconnect the USB device, then turn on the system. The music data itself contains noise, or the sound is distorted. Noise may have entered during the transfer process. Delete the file, and try transferring again. The bit rate setting used for encoding the audio file was low. Send files encoded with higher bit rates to the USB device.
The USB device cannot be connected into the (USB) port.

Turn off the system and reconnect the USB device, then turn on the system. Check the information on the websites about compatible USB devices (page 12). The USB device is not working properly. Refer to the USB device operation manual for how to deal with this problem.
Play does not start.

The USB device is being connected backwards. Connect the USB device in the correct orientation.
READING is displayed for an extended time, or it takes a long time before playback starts.

Turn off the system and reconnect the USB device, then turn on the system. Check the information on the websites about compatible USB devices (page 12). Press N (or NX on the unit) to start playback.
Play does not start from the first track.

Additional Information

The reading process can take a long time in the following cases. There are many folders or files on the USB device. The file structure is extremely complex. The memory capacity is excessive. The internal memory is fragmented. Thus, Sony recommends following guidelines. Total folders on USB device: 100 or less Total files per folder: 100 or less
Erroneous display

Return to Normal Play by pressing PLAY MODE repeatedly until both PGM and SHUF disappear.
Files cannot be played back.

Send the music data to the USB device again, as the data stored in the USB device may have been corrupted. The character codes that can be displayed by this system are numbers and alphabet only. Other characters are not displayed correctly.

The audio file does not have the extension .mp3, .wma, .m4a, .mp4 or .3gp. The audio file is a multiple track audio file. The file is a video file. The data is not stored in MP3/WMA/ AAC format. The data is stored in WMA lossless/ AAC lossless format. USB storage devices formatted with file systems other than FAT16 or FAT32 are unsupported.* If you use a partitioned USB storage device, only files on the first partition can be played. Playback is possible up to 8 levels. The number of folders has exceeded 255.

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 The number of files has exceeded 5,000. Files that are encrypted or protected by passwords, etc. cannot be played back.
* This system supports FAT16 and FAT32, but some USB storage devices may not support all of these FAT. For details, refer to the operation manual of each USB storage device or contact the manufacturer.

To improve disc loading performance

Turn on the CD player/USB device power using the CD/USB power management function. By default, the CD player/USB device power is turned off.

1 2 3

Press FUNCTION repeatedly to select the CD function. Press ?/1 to turn off the system. After STANDBY stops flashing, press DISPLAY to display the clock and then press ?/1 on the unit while holding down x on the unit. CD/USB PWR ON appears. Turning the CD player/USB device power on, decreases disc access time and improves loading performance. If there is poor tuner reception when the CD player/USB device power is turned on, return the setting to default. To turn off the CD player/USB device power, repeat the procedure until CD/ USB PWR OFF appears. Note that when turning off the CD player/USB device power in the tuner function, power is not supplied to the USB device, and the device is therefore not recognized and not charged by the system, even if connected.

Tuner
Severe hum or noise, or stations cannot be received. (TUNED or ST flashes on the display.)

Connect the antenna properly. Change antenna location and its orientation to obtain good reception. Keep the antennas away from the speaker cords, the power cord and the USB cable to avoid picking up noise. Consult your nearest Sony dealer if the supplied AM antenna has come off the plastic stand. Turn off nearby electrical equipment.

To change the AM tuning interval

(Except for European, Russian and Saudi Arabian models) The AM tuning interval is preset to 9 kHz or 10 kHz by factory default.

1 2 3

Tune to any AM station, and then turn off the system. Press DISPLAY to display the clock. While holding down TUNING + on the unit, press ?/1 on the unit. All the AM preset stations are erased. To reset the interval to the factory preset, repeat the procedure.

To reset the system to factory settings

If the system still does not operate properly, reset the system to factory settings. You cannot reset the system to factory settings in Power Saving Mode. Use buttons on the unit to reset the unit to its factory default settings.

Disconnect and reconnect the power cord, and then turn on the system.

26GB

Press x, FUNCTION and ?/1 at the same time. All user-configured settings, such as preset radio stations, timer, and the clock, are deleted.

Messages
One of the following messages may appear or flash on the display during operation.
COMPLETE

To turn off the automatic standby function

This system is equipped with an automatic standby function. With this function, the system enters standby mode automatically in about 30 minutes when there is no operation and audio signal output. By default, the automatic standby function is turned on. Use buttons on the unit to turn off the automatic standby function. Hold down ?/1 while the system is on, until AutoSTBY OFF appears. To turn on the function, repeat the procedure until AutoSTBY ON appears.
Notes
The message AUTOSTBY starts flashing on the display about 2 minutes before entering standby mode. The automatic standby function is not available with the FM/AM tuner function. The system may not enter standby mode automatically in the following cases; when an audio signal is detected. when a USB device is connected. during playback of audio tracks or files. while the preset Play Timer or Sleep Timer is in process.

The radio preset operation ended normally. The audio file or folder on the USB device has been erased.
DATA ERROR

You tried to play an unplayable file on the USB device.

Additional Information

DEVICE ERROR

The USB device could not be recognized or an unknown device is connected (page 24, 25).
DEVICE FULL

The USB device is full.

ERASE ERROR

Erase of audio files or folders on the USB device failed.

FATAL ERROR

The USB device has been disconnected while transferring or erasing audio files/ folders on the USB device.
FOLDER FULL

The number of folders on the USB device has reached its maximum.
FULL

You tried to program more than 25 tracks or files (steps).

LOCKED

The disc tray does not open. Contact your nearest Sony dealer.

27GB

NO DISC

PUSH SELECT

There is no disc in the player, or you have loaded a disc that cannot be played.
NO MEMORY

You tried to set the clock or timer during timer operation.

PUSH STOP

The memory selected for playback or transfer has no memory media inserted in the USB device.
NO STEP

All of the programmed tracks have been erased.

NO SUPPORT

You have pressed PLAY MODE during playback. You have pressed the buttons whose operation is only possible when playback is stopped.
READING

An unsupported USB device is connected.

NO TRACK

Playable file on the USB device is not loaded in the system.

NOT USED

The system is reading information of the disc. Some buttons are not available. The system is recognizing the USB device.
REC ERROR

You tried to perform a specific operation under conditions where that operation is prohibited.
NoDEVICE

Transferring did not start, stopped partway, or otherwise could not be performed (page 24).
REMOVED

The USB device has been removed.

SET CLOCK

No USB device is connected or the connected USB device has been stopped.
OVER

You tried to select the timer when the clock is not set.
SET TIMER

You have reached the end of the disc while pressing M during playback or pause.
OVER CURRENT

You tried to select the timer when the Play Timer is not set.
TIME NG

An over current from the was detected.

PROTECT

(USB) port

The Play Timer start and end times are set to the same time.
TRACK FULL

See If PROTECT appears on the display (page 22) to check what to do if this message appears.
PROTECTED

The number of files on the USB device has reached its maximum.

You tried to perform transferring or erase operation against a write-protected USB device.

28GB

Specifications
Main unit
Amplifier section
The following measured at AC 127 V, 60 Hz (Mexican model) The following measured at AC 220 V, 50/60 Hz (Argentine model) The following measured at AC 230 V, 50/60 Hz (Other models) MHC-EX99/EX900 Front Speaker: Power output (rated): 80 W + 80 W (at 3 , 1 kHz, 1% THD) RMS output power (reference): 135 W + 135 W (per channel at 3 , 1 kHz) Subwoofer: RMS output power (reference): 200 W (at 8 , 100 Hz) MHC-EX88/EX700 Power output (rated): 120 W + 120 W (at 4 , 1 kHz, 1% THD) RMS output power (reference): 200 W + 200 W (per channel at 4 , 1 kHz) MHC-EX66/EX600 Power output (rated): 50 W + 50 W (at 4 , 1 kHz, 1% THD) RMS output power (reference): 90 W + 90 W (per channel at 4 , 1 kHz)

Inputs
DVD/PC IN L/R (phono jacks): Sensitivity 700 mV, impedance 22 k

Outputs
PHONES (stereo mini jack): accepts headphones with an impedance of 8 or more SPEAKERS: MHC-EX99/EX900: impedance 3 MHC-EX88/EX700/EX66/EX600: impedance 4 SUBWOOFER (MHC-EX99/EX900 only): impedance 8

USB section
Supported bit rate: MP3 (MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3): 32 kbps 320 kbps, VBR WMA: 48 kbps 192 kbps AAC: 48 kbps 320 kbps Sampling frequencies: MP3 (MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3): 32/44.1/48 kHz WMA: 44.1 kHz AAC: 44.1 kHz (USB) port: Maximum current: 500 mA

29GB

Additional Information

CD player section
System: Compact disc and digital audio system Laser Diode Properties Emission Duration: Continuous Laser Output*: Less than 44.6 W
* 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.

Speaker
Front Speaker
SS-EX99 for MHC-EX99 SS-EX900 for MHC-EX900 SS-EX88 for MHC-EX88 SS-EX700 for MHC-EX700 Speaker system: 2-way 2-driver speaker system, Bass reflex Speaker unit: Woofer: 180 mm, cone type Tweeter: 40 mm, horn type Rated impedance: MHC-EX99/EX900: 3 MHC-EX88/EX700: 4 Dimensions (W/H/D): Approx. 230 mm 340 mm 210 mm Mass: Approx. 3.0 kg Quantity: 2 pieces SS-EX66 for MHC-EX66 SS-EX600 for MHC-EX600 Speaker system: 2-way 2-driver speaker system, Bass reflex Speaker unit: Woofer: 150 mm, cone type Tweeter: 40 mm, horn type Rated impedance: 4 Dimensions (W/H/D): Approx. 202 mm 306 mm 210 mm Mass: Approx. 2.5 kg Quantity: 2 pieces

Frequency response: 20 Hz 20 kHz Signal-to-noise ratio: More than 90 dB Dynamic range: More than 88 dB

Tuner section
FM stereo, FM/AM superheterodyne tuner Antenna: FM lead antenna AM loop antenna FM tuner section: Tuning range: 87.5 MHz 108.0 MHz (50 kHz step) Intermediate frequency: 200/250/300/350/400 kHz AM tuner section: Tuning range Latin American models: 530 kHz 1,710 kHz (10 kHz step) 531 kHz 1,710 kHz (9 kHz step) European, Russian and Saudi Arabian models: 531 kHz 1,602 kHz (9 kHz step) Other models: 531 kHz 1,602 kHz (9 kHz step) 530 kHz 1,610 kHz (10 kHz step) Intermediate frequency: 400 kHz

30GB

Subwoofer
SS-WG900 for MHC-EX99/EX900 Speaker system: Subwoofer system, Bass reflex Speaker unit: Subwoofer: 200 mm, cone type Rated impedance: 8 Dimensions (W/H/D): Approx. 282 mm 306 mm 295 mm Mass: Approx. 4.6 kg Quantity: 1 piece

General
Power requirements Mexican model: AC 127 V, 60 Hz European, Argentine and Russian models: AC 220 V 240 V, 50/60 Hz Other models: AC 120 V 240 V, 50/60 Hz Power consumption MHC-EX99/EX900: 85 W (0.5 W at the Power Saving Mode) MHC-EX88/EX700: 70 W (0.5 W at the Power Saving Mode) MHC-EX66/EX600: 45 W (0.5 W at the Power Saving Mode) Dimensions (W/H/D) (excl. speakers): Approx. 210 mm 312 mm 375 mm Mass (excl. speakers) MHC-EX99/EX900/EX88/EX700: Approx. 3.8 kg MHC-EX66/EX600: Approx. 3.6 kg Quantity of the main unit: 1 piece Supplied accessories: Remote Commander (1), R6 (Size AA) batteries (2), FM lead/AM loop antenna (1) Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Standby power consumption: 0.5 W

31GB

Additional Information

* 4 2 6 7 3 8 6 1 1 *

2011 Sony Corporation Printed in China

4-267-386-11(1)