1

MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Mini Hi-FiComponentSystem

© 2001 Sony Corporation

Operating Instructions

4-232-653-12 (1)

MHC-VX888

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do notexpose the unit to rain or moisture.To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet.Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

Do not install the appliance in a confined space,such as a bookcase or built-in cabinet.

This appliance is classifiedas a CLASS 1 LASERproduct. The CLASS 1LASER PRODUCTMARKING is located onthe rear exterior.

This stereo system is equipped with the Dolby B-typenoise reduction system*.* Manufactured under license from Dolby

Laboratories Licensing Corporation.DOLBY and the double-D symbol ; aretrademarks of Dolby Laboratories LicensingCorporation.

The MHC-VX888 consists of the followingcomponents:– Tuner/CD player/Stereo cassette deck/Amplifier

(main unit) HCD-VX888– Sound Broad Amplifier TA-DX80– Speaker System

• Front Speakers SS-VX888• Surround Speakers SS-RS80V

Don’t throw a battery, dispose it asthe injurious wastes.

This system can play thefollowing discs

VIDEO CDs Audio CDs

Disc logo

Contents Audio + Video Audio(moving pictures)

Disc size 12 cm/8 cm 12 cm/8 cm

Play time 74 min./20 min. 74 min./20 min.

Note on VIDEO CDsThis system conforms to VIDEO CDs without PBC*functions (Ver. 1.1) and VIDEO CDs with PBCfunctions (Ver. 2.0) of VIDEO CD standards. Youcan enjoy two kinds of playback according to the disctype.

Disc type You can

VIDEO CDs without Enjoy video playbackPBC functions (moving pictures) as(Ver. 1.1 discs) well as audio CDs.

VIDEO CDs with Play interactivePBC functions software using menu(Ver. 2.0 discs) screens displayed on the

TV screen (menuplayback), in addition tothe video playbackfunction of VIDEO CDswithout PBC functions.Moreover, you can playhigh or standard qualitystill picture.

* PBC = Play Back Control

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Table of Contents

Parts Identification

Main unit ............................................... 4Sound Broad Amplifier ......................... 5Remote Control ..................................... 6

Getting Started

Hooking up the system .......................... 7Inserting the batteries into the remote

control ............................................. 9Setting the time .................................... 10Saving the power in standby mode ...... 10

VIDEO CD/CD

Loading the VIDEO CD/CD ............... 11Playing the VIDEO CD

–– Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat Play ................................... 11

Playing a VIDEO CD with PBCfunctions (Ver. 2.0)–– PBC Play .................................. 12

Playing a CD–– Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat Play ................................... 13

Programming the VIDEO CD/CDtracks–– Program Play ............................ 14

Using the VIDEO CD/CD display ...... 15Using the on-screen display ................ 15Locating a specific part of a disc ......... 16Resuming playback from the point you

stopped a VIDEO CD–– Resume Play ............................. 17

Adjusting the picture–– Picture Effect ............................ 17

Tuner

Presetting radio stations ....................... 18Listening to the radio

–– Preset Tuning ........................... 19

Tape

Loading a tape ..................................... 20Playing a tape ...................................... 20Recording to a tape

–– CD Synchro Recording/High Speed Dubbing/RecordingManually/Program Edit ................. 21

Timer-recording radio programs ......... 22

Sound Adjustment

Adjusting the sound ............................. 24Selecting the sound system.................. 24Selecting the audio emphasis effect .... 24Adjusting the graphic equalizer ........... 25Selecting the surround effect ............... 25Making a personal audio emphasis file

— Personal file .............................. 25

Other featuresChanging the spectrum analyzer

display ........................................... 26Singing along: Karaoke ....................... 26Mixing and recording sounds .............. 27Falling asleep to music

— Sleep Timer .............................. 27Waking up to music

— Daily Timer .............................. 28

Optional componentsConnecting MD deck/VCR ................. 29Connecting a Video Game Player ....... 29Connecting external antennas .............. 30

Additional Information

Precautions .......................................... 31Troubleshooting ................................... 32Specifications ...................................... 34Glossary ............................................... 36

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Parts Identification

Main unitThe items are arranged in alphabetical order. Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) fordetails.

1 2 3 4

5

6

7

8

9

0

L

K

M

NOPQRTUVW S

X

wg

wh

wj

wk

wl

ea es ed ef

rdrs

ra r; el

eg

ejeh

ek

rf

e;

CD 6 (9, 11~14, 21, 22)CD SYNC HI-DUB qj (21, 22)CINEMA SPACE el (25)

DECK A Z wf (20, 21)DECK B Z qd (20, 21)DIRECTION ed (20~22, 27)DISC 1~3 2 (11~14, 22)DISC SKIP EX-CHANGE 4

(11~14)Disc tray 3 (11)DISPLAY ea (10, 15, 32)DOLBY NR ef (20~22)

ECHO LEVEL wj (26)EDIT ed (22)EFFECT ON/OFF rd (24, 26)ENTER ej (10, 12, 14, 17, 18, 22,

23, 25, 28, 33)

FM MODE ef (19, 33)

GAME e; (30)GAME EQ rs (8, 24, 30)GROOVE ra (24)

KARAOKE PON wl (26)

MD (VIDEO) 9 (29, 32)MIC 1/2 wg (26)MIC LEVEL wh (26)MOVIE EQ eh (8, 24, 30)MUSIC EQ rf (8, 24, 30)

P FILE ek (25)PICTURE EFFECT wd (17)PHONES jack qs

: Connect the headphonesPLAY MODE eg (11, 13, 14, 22,

33)

REC PAUSE/START qg (21, 22,27)

REPEAT ef (12, 14)

SHUTTLE qa (12, 13)SPECTRUM es (26)SURROUND SPEAKER MODEwk (24)

TAPE A/B 8 (20, 21, 27)TUNER/BAND 7 (18, 19, 21)TUNER MEMORY eg (18)

VOLUME control q; (24, 28): Adjusts the volume.

BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS

@/1 (power) 1 (8, 9, 19, 29, 32,33)

Z OPEN/CLOSE (disc tray)5 (11, 12, 14)

x (stop) w; (11~13, 16, 17, 20,21, 27, 33)

nN (play) ql (11~14, 16, 17,21, 27, 36)

> (go forward) qh (11~14,16~21)

X (pause) qk (11, 13, 20). (go back) wa (11~14, 16~21)m/– (rewind) ws (12, 13,

18~20, 33)M/+ (fast forward) qf (12, 13,

18~20)v/V/b/B (cursor) r; (10, 22, 23,

25, 28)

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Pa

rts Ide

ntific

atio

n

5

Sound Broad AmplifierThe items are arranged in alphabetical order. Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) fordetails.

LED 1 (24)LED Display 2 (24)SURROUND SPEAKER LEVEL 4 (24)SURROUND SPEAKER MODE 3 (24)

1

2

3

4

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Remote ControlThe items are arranged in alphabetical order. Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) fordetails.

4 5 6

1 2 3

7 8 9

A B C D E

K

7

8

9

0

L

P

MN

Q

T

O

R

S

UVWX

Y

Z

6

wjwk

wl

e;

ea

esedef

egeh

rars

r;el

ejek

CD ra (9, 11~14, 21, 22)CINEMA SPACE ql (25)CLEAR ed (14, 16)CLOCK/TIMER SELECT 2

(23, 28)CLOCK/TIMER SET 3 (10, 22,

28)

D.SKIP qs (11~14)DISPLAY ej (10, 15, 32)

EFFECT ON/OFF qk (24, 26)ENTER ws (10, 12, 14, 17, 18,

22, 23, 25, 28, 33)

GAME el (30)GAME EQ wg (8, 24, 30)

KARAOKE PON ef (26)KEY CONTROL qj (26)

MD (VIDEO) ek (29, 32)

MOVIE EQ wa (8, 24, 30)MUSIC EQ wh (8, 24, 30)

NEXT ea (12, 16, 17)Numeric buttons eh (13, 16, 17)

ON SCREEN qa (15)

PREV ea (12, 16, 17)PICTURE EFFECT wj (17)P FILE wd (25)

REPEAT 9 (12, 14)RETURN O qg (12)

SLEEP 1 (27)SURROUND SPEAKER MODEwk (24)

SPECIAL MENU 0 (15~17)SPECTRUM eg (26)SELECT qd (12)

TAPE A/B rs (20, 21, 27)TUNER/BAND r; (18, 19, 21)TV @/1 4 (9)TV VIDEO 8 (9)TV VOL +/– 6 (9)TV CH +/– 7 (9)

VOL +/– w; (24, 28): Adjusts the volume.

BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS

@/1 (power) 5 (8, 9, 19, 29, 32,33)

nN (play) qd (11~14, 16, 17,21, 27, 36)

X (pause) qf (11, 13, 20)x (stop) qh (11~13, 16, 17, 20,

21, 27, 33). (go back)/PRESET – e;

(11~14, 16~21)> (go forward)/PRESET + e;

(11~14, 16~21)m (rewind)/TUNING – wl (12,

13, 18~20, 33)M (fast forward)/TUNING + wl

(12, 13, 18~20)v/V/b/B (cursor) wf (10, 22, 23,

25, 28)

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Getting Started

Hooking up the systemDo the following procedure 1 to 9 to hook up your system using the supplied cords andaccessories.

1Connect the flat cord to the SYSTEMCONTROL connectors until it clicks.

2Connect the power cord from the mainunit to the ~ AC IN of the Sound Broadamplifier.Be sure to make this connection before youconnect the main unit's power cord to a walloutlet.

3Connect the speakers.Connect the speaker cords of front speakersto the SPEAKER jacks as below.

4Connect the surround speaker .Connect the surround speaker cords to theSPEAKER jacks of the sound broadamplifier.

1

1

2 3

8

4

7

7

5

6

AM loop antenna

Front speaker(Left)

Front speaker(Right)

FM antenna

Surroundspeaker (Right)

Surroundspeaker (Left)

Sound BroadAmplifier

Main Unit

To disconnect

R

+L

+

–

Insert only the stripped portion.

Black/Stripe (#)Red/Solid (3)

R

+L

+

–

Insert only the stripped portion.

Grey with black line (#)Solid grey (3)

continued

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Hooking up the system (continued)

VIDEO OUT

AUDIO OUT

S VIDEO OUT

NoteKeep the speaker cords away from the antennas toprevent noise.

5Connect the FM/AM antennas.Set up the AM loop antenna, then connectit.

Jack type A

Jack type B

6Connect the video input jack of your TVto the VIDEO OUT jack using thesupplied cable.

TipFor even higher quality video images, you can use anoptional S. Video cable to connect the S. VIDEOinput jack on your TV to the S. VIDEO OUT jack.S. VIDEO is available for Video CD output only.

7 For models with a voltage selector, setVOLTAGE SELECTOR to the position ofyour local power line voltage.Set the same voltage range for the soundbroad amplifier and main unit.

8Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.The demonstration appears in the display.When you press ?/1, the system turns onand the demonstration automatically ends.If the supplied adaptor on the plug does notfit your wall outlet, detach it from the plug(only for models equipped with theadaptor).

9Set the color system according to yourTV while the power is off.

The color systemof your TV

NTSC

PAL

AUTO*

* When your TV automatically changes the colorsystem according to the input signal.

TipColor system is available for Video CD output only.

Do this

Press ?/1 while holding downGAME EQ. The color system isset to NTSC.

Press ?/1 while holding downMUSIC EQ. The color system isset to PAL.

Press ?/1 while holding downMOVIE EQ. The color system isset to AUTO.

Extend the FM leadantenna horizontally.

AM loop antenna

Extend the FM leadantenna horizontally.

AM loop antenna

FM75

AM

COAXIAL

FM75

AM

COAXIAL

220V 230-240V120V

230 - 240V

220V120V

Sound BroadAmplifier

Main Unit

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To attach the front speaker padsAttach the supplied front speaker pads to thebottom of the speakers to stabilize the speakersand prevent them from slipping.

Positioning the speakers

Place the front speakers at an angle of 45degrees from your listening position.

When carrying this systemDo the following to protect the CD mechanism.

1 Make sure that all discs are removed fromthe unit.

2 Hold down CD and then press ?/1 until“LOCK” appears.

3 Release ?/1 first, then release CD.

4 Unplug the AC power cord.

]}

Press

TV ?/1.

TV/VIDEO

TV CH +/–

TV VOL +/–

AA (R6)batteries

Inserting the batteriesinto the remote control

Using the remote

To

Turn the TV onor off

Switch the TV’svideo input

Change the TVChannel

Adjust the volumeof the TV speaker

TipWhen the remote no longer operates the system,replace both batteries with new ones.

NoteIf you do not use the remote for a long period of time,remove the batteries to avoid possible damage frombattery leakage.

Frontspeaker(L)

Frontspeaker(R)

Surroundspeaker(L)

Surroundspeaker(R)

45º

Main UnitSound BroadAmplifier

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Setting the time

1 Turn on the system.

2 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on theremote.When you set the time for the first time,proceed to step 5.

3 Press cursor V/v repeatedly to selectCLOCK SET.

4 Press ENTER.

5 Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set thehour.

6 Press ENTER.

7 Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set theminute.

8 Press ENTER.

The clock starts working.

TipIf you have made a mistake or want to change thetime, start over from step 2.

NoteThe clock settings are canceled when you disconnectthe power cord or if a power failure occurs.

Saving the power instandby mode

Press DISPLAY repeatedly when thepower is off.Each time you press the button, thesystem switches cyclically as follows:Demonstration t Clock t Power SavingMode

Tips• The ?/1 indicator light up even in the Power

Saving Mode.• The timer works in the Power Saving Mode.

NoteYou cannot set the time in the Power Saving Mode.

To cancel the Power Saving ModePress DISPLAY once to show thedemonstration, twice to show the clock display.

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

VID

EO

CD

/CD

Loading the VIDEO CD/CD

1 Press Z OPEN/CLOSE.The CD compartment slides out.

2 Place a VIDEO CD/CD with the labelside up on the disc tray.

To insert additional discs, press DISC SKIPEX-CHANGE to rotate the disc tray.

3 Press Z OPEN/CLOSE to close the CDcompartment.

Playing the VIDEO CD––Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat

Play

You can play both VIDEO CDs without PBCfunctions (Ver. 1.1) and VIDEO CDs with PBCfunctions (Ver. 2.0).

This unit lets you play the VIDEO CD indifferent play modes.

1 Turn on your TV and select the videoinput.Refer to the operating instructions suppliedwith your TV if you need help.

2 Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until themode you want appears in the display.

Select

ALL DISCS

1 DISC

SHUFFLEALL DISCS

SHUFFLE1 DISC

PROGRAM

3 Press one of the DISC 1~3 buttons.If you press nN when CD is selected asthe function (press CD) and the disc tray isclosed, play starts from the VIDEO CDloaded on tray whose disc tray numberappears in the display.

TipYou cannot change the play mode during playback.

Other Operations

To

Stop playback

Pause

Select a track orscene*2

VIDEO CD/CD

When you play aVIDEO CD/CD single,place it on the innercircle of the tray.

To play

All VIDEO CDs in the disc traycontinuously.

The VIDEO CDs you haveselected in the original order.

The tracks on all VIDEO CDs inrandom order.

The tracks on the VIDEO CDyou have selected in randomorder.

The tracks on all VIDEO CDs inthe order you want (see“Programming the VIDEO CDtracks”).

Tracknumber Playing time

Disc presenceindicator

Disc tray number

Do this

Press x.

Press X*1.Press again to resume play.

Press > to go forward, .to go back. When you playVIDEO CDs with PBCfunctions (Ver 2.0), see page 12.

continued

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Playing the VIDEO CD (continued)

To

Find a point in atrack or scene

Select a VIDEOCD in stop mode

Switch to CDfunction fromanother source

Remove theVIDEO CD

Exchange otherVIDEOCDs while playing

Play repeatedly(Repeat Play)

Cancel Repeatplay

*1 There may be some disturbance in the VIDEOImage.

*2 Only when PBC function is set to off or whenplaying VIDEO CDs without PBC functions.(Version 1.1)

*3 All the tracks repeated up to five times.You cannot use this function during SHUFFLEALL DISCS.

*4 To repeat the current track you are playing.

TipPressing the CD while the power is off automaticallyturns the power on and CD is selected as a function.When the system is in the power saving mode, thisfunction does not work.

Do this

There are two types ofsearching:1 (Manual Search)Turn SHUTTLE clockwise (togo forward) or counterclockwise (to go back) until itclicks during playback and hold.Release SHUTTLE when youreach the desired point.2 (Lock Search function)Press M or m duringplayback. Each time you pressthe button, speed changes asfollows:1 (slow) t 2 (normal) t3 (high) t 1 (slow) …Press nN to stop searchingand start playback at the desiredpoint.

Press one of the DISC 1~3buttons or DISC SKIP EX-CHANGE (or D. SKIP on theremote).

Press CD or DISC 1~3(Automatic Source Selection).

Press Z OPEN/CLOSE.

Press DISC SKIPEX-CHANGE.

Press REPEAT repeatedly toselect “REPEAT”*3 or“REPEAT 1”*2* 4.

Press REPEAT until “REPEAT”or “REPEAT 1” disappears fromthe display.

Playing a VIDEO CD withPBC functions (Ver. 2.0)

–– PBC Play

You can use menus on your TV screen to enjoythe disc’s interactive software. The menuformat and structure may differ with each disc.

1 Press CD.

2 Press nN to start playing a VIDEOCD with PBC functions (Ver. 2.0).The VIDEO CD and PBC indicators lightup and a PBC menu appears on your TV.• Video CD : Indicator lights during

playback of a VIDEO CD.• PBC : Indicator lights during PBC

playback of a PBC compatible VIDEOCD (Ver. 2.0).

• PBC OFF : Indicator lights when a PBCcompatible VIDEO CD (Ver. 2.0) isplayed without using the PBC functions.

3 Press . or > repeatedly to select anumber from the menu, then pressENTER/SELECT (press the numericbutton on the remote).

4 Continue according to the instructionson the menus to enjoy interactiveplayback.

To

Stop play

Go to the nextmenu page or scene

Go back to theprevious menupage or scene

Go back to theprevious menu

Do this

Press x.

Press NEXT on the remote.

Press PREV on the remote.

Press RETURN O on theremote.

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VID

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CD

/CD

Tracknumber Playing time

Disc presenceindicator

Disc tray number

To

Cancel playbackwith PBC function(Ver 2.0)

Select a menunumber using theremote

Tips• When appears on the TV screen, you have

pressed an invalid button. Press a button indicatedby the instructions on the menu screen.

• When you press NEXT on the remote during menuplayback or while playing moving pictures, the nextscene on the disc appears. Also refer to theinstructions supplied with the disc.

Playing a CD––Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat

Play

This unit lets you play the CD in different playmodes.

Do this

Press . or > repeatedly inthe stop mode to select the trackyou want, then press ENTER (orpress numeric button on theremote).The PBC OFF indicator lightsup and playback begins fromselected track. Still images,which is as the menu screen willnot be shown.

Press numeric button in theorder you want. To enter 11 orover, first press > 10, then pressnumeric buttons. To enter 0, usethe10/0.

1 Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until themode you want appears in the display.

Select

ALL DISCS

1 DISC

SHUFFLEALL DISCS

SHUFFLE1 DISC

PROGRAM

2 Press one of the DISC 1~3 buttons.If you press nN when CD is selected asthe function (press CD) and the disc tray isclosed, play starts from the CD loaded ontray whose disc tray number appears in thedisplay.

TipYou cannot change the play mode during playback.

Other Operations

To

Stop playback

Pause

Select a track

Find a point in atrack

Select a CD in stopmode

To play

All CDs in the disc traycontinuously.

The CDs you have selected inthe original order.

The tracks on all CDs in randomorder.

The tracks on the CD you haveselected in random order.

The tracks on all CDs in theorder you want (see“Programming the CD tracks”).

Do this

Press x.

Press X.Press again to resume play.

During play or pause, press> (to go forward) or . (togo back).

There are two types ofsearching:1 (Manual Search)Turn SHUTTLE clockwise (togo forward) or counterclockwise (to go back) until itclicks during playback and hold.Release SHUTTLE when youreach the desired point.2 (Lock Search function)Press M or m. Press nNto stop searching and startplayback at the desired point.

Press one of the DISC 1~3buttons or DISC SKIP EX-CHANGE (or D. SKIP on theremote).

continued

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

To

Switch to CDfunction fromanother source

Play repeatedly(Repeat Play)

Cancel Repeatplay

Exchange otherCDs while playing

Remove the CD

*1 All the tracks repeated up to five times.You cannot use this function during SHUFFLEALL DISCS.

*2 To repeat the current track you are playing.

TipPressing the CD while the power is off automaticallyturns the power on and CD is selected as a function.When the system is in the power saving mode, thisfunction does not work.

Programming the VIDEOCD/CD tracks

–– Program Play

You can make a program of up to 25 tracksfrom all the VIDEO CD/CDs in the order youwant them to be played.

1 Load a VIDEO CD/CD.

2 Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until“PROGRAM” appears in the display.

3 Press one of the DISC 1~3 buttons toselect a VIDEO CD/CD.To program all the tracks on a CD at once,proceed to step 5 while “AL” appears on thedisplay.

Do this

Press CD or DISC 1~3(Automatic Source Selection).

Press REPEAT repeatedly toselect “REPEAT”*1 or“REPEAT 1”*2.

Press REPEAT until “REPEAT”or “REPEAT 1” disappears fromthe display.

Press DISC SKIPEX-CHANGE.

Press Z OPEN/CLOSE.

Tracknumber

Total playing time(including selectedtrack)

Disc traynumber

4 Press . or > repeatedly until thetrack you want appears in the display.

5 Press ENTER.The track(s) is (are) programmed. Theprogram step number appears, followed bythe total playing time.

6 To program additional tracks, repeatsteps 3 to 5.Skip step 3 to select tracks from the samedisc.

7 Press nN.

To

Cancel ProgramPlay

Clear a track fromthe end

Add a track tothe program instop mode

Tips• The program you made remains in the CD player

even after it has been played back. Press nN toplay the same program again.

• If “--.--” appears instead of the total playing timeduring programming, this means:– you have programmed a track number

which exceeds 20.– the total playing time has exceeded 100 minutes.

Press

PLAY MODE repeatedly until“PROGRAM” or “SHUFFLE”disappears from the display.

CLEAR on the remote in stopmode.

1 Select the disc tray withDISC 1~3 button.

2 Select the track by pressing. or >.

3 Press ENTER.

Playing a CD (continued)

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

VID

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CD

/CD

Using the on-screendisplay

You can check the current operating status anddisc information of VIDEO CDs or audio CDsduring playback or in stop mode.

Press ON SCREEN or press SPECIALMENU and select 4 on the remote.Each time you press this button, the on-screendisplay changes as follow:

ON SCREEN ON t ON SCREEN OFF

ON SCREEN display

1VIDEO CD/CDstatus

In stop mode

During playback

2KARAOKE effect status

3Play mode or “AUTO PBC”** “AUTO PBC” appears for a VIDEO CD with

PBC functions.

4VIDEO CD/CDstatus

In program mode

Other conditions

5VIDEO CD/CDstatus

In the stop mode

During playback

* AUDIO CD only.

4

2

1

CONTINUE REPEAT

KARAOKE 25 : 40

RESUME VCD STOP

65

78

23 1

DISC 1

1. D2–1

2. D2–2

3. D2–3

4. D2–4

5. D3–1

6. D3–2

7. D3–5

8. D3–6

Displayed item

“RESUME” or no display

Current disc and tracknumber.

Using the VIDEO CD/CDdisplay

You can check the remaining time of thecurrent track or that of the VIDEO CD/CD.

When a CD TEXT disc is loaded, you cancheck the information stored on the disc, suchas the titles or artist names. When the unitdetects CD TEXT discs, the “CD-TEXT”indication appears in the display.

Press DISPLAY.Each time you press the button, the displaychanges cyclically as follows:

During normal playbackPlaying time on the current track tRemaining time on the current track tRemaining time on current CD (1 DISC mode)or “--.-- ” display (ALL DISCS mode) t Titlename of the current track*1 t Clock display(for eight seconds) t Effect status

(VIDEO CDs with PBC functions (Ver 2.0)):Playing time on the current track*2 t clockdisplay (for eight seconds) t Effect status

In the stop modeWhen the CD player is in program mode andthere is a program:

The last track number of the program and thetotal playing time t Total number ofprogramed track (for eight seconds) t Titlename and the artist name of the CD*1 t Clockdisplay (for eight seconds) t Effect status

In other conditions:

Total number of tracks and total playing timet Title name and the artist name of the CD*1

t Clock display (for eight seconds) t Effectstatus

*1 With CD TEXT disc only (certain characterscannot be displayed). Depending on the disc, someCD TEXT information may not appear.

* 2 May not appears with still images, etc.

Displayed item

“STOP”.

Elapsed time of the currenttrack.*

Displayed item

Programmed disc and tracknumbers.

No display.

continued

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6Total playing time of the current disc** In program mode, total playing time of the

program appears.

7 “REPEAT”, “REPEAT 1” or no display

8Key control level or no display

TipDepending on the condition, some items are displayedand others are not.

To switch language of on-screendisplay (Chinese model only)You can switch the messages in the on–screendisplay from Chinese to English.

1 Press SPECIAL MENU.

2 Press 5.

The messages switch from Chinese to English.

To switch back to Chinese messages, repeat theabove operation.

Locating a specific partof a disc

Before using, make sure to turn on your TVscreen.

These function cannot be used during playbackof VIDEO CDs with PBC functions (Ver. 2.0).

Use the remote for the operation.

To use special menu with VIDEO CDswith PBC functions (Ver. 2.0)Cancel the PBC function (see “Cancel playbackwith PBC function” on page 13).

To enter the time or track numberwith the remotePress the numeric buttons (see “To enter tracknumber 11 or over” on page 13).

To stop playbackPress x.

Locating by elapsed time

–– Time Search

1 Press SPECIAL MENU.

2 Press 1 to select “1) TIME SEARCH.”

3 Press the numeric buttons (1 – 10/0) toenter the time (in minutes) for thesection you want.The selected elapsed time appears on theTV screen.To reenter the time: Press CLEAR, and thenpress numeric buttons again.

4 Press nN.Playback starts from the selected time.

Locating the track you want

–– Disc Digest

You can select the track you want by viewingthe first frame of each track. Nine differenttracks can be displayed on the TV screen at onetime.

1 Press SPECIAL MENU.

2 Press 2 to select “2) DISC DIGEST.”The first frame of tracks 1 through 9 on thecurrent disc are displayed.The sound of the first three seconds of eachtrack on an audio CD plays, but there is nosound when using a VIDEO CD.

3 Press the numeric buttons (1 – 9) toselect the track you want.

To display the next 9 tracksPress NEXT or >. The first frame of tracks10 through 18 are displayed.

When there are more tracks in the disc, “>”appears in the upper right corner of the TVscreen.

To display previous tracks, press PREV or..

To switch to the digest of anotherdisc during disc digestPress D. SKIP during disc digest.

Using the on-screen display(continued)

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VID

EO

CD

/CD

Locating a section within atrack

–– Track Digest

You can divide a VIDEO CD track into ninedifferent sections and display the first scene ofeach section on the TV screen.

1 Press SPECIAL MENU.

2 Press 3 to select “3) TRACK DIGEST.”The current track is divided intonine sections and the first frame of eachsection is displayed.The sound of the first three seconds of eachsection on an audio CD plays, but there isno sound when using a VIDEO CD.

3 Press the numeric buttons to select thesection you want.Playback starts from a point near theselected frame.

To switch to the digest of anothertrack during track digestPress PREV/. or NEXT/> during trackdigest.

Notes• Tracks less than 40 seconds long may be divided

into fewer than nine sections.• You cannot use this function during Shuffle Play or

Program Play.

Resuming playback fromthe point you stopped aVIDEO CD

–– Resume Play

The unit memorizes the point where youstopped the VIDEO CD so you can resumefrom that point. Resume play is not cancelledwhen you turn off the system.

Resume Play is not available for an audio CD.

1 While playing a VIDEO CD, press x tostop playback.“RESUME” appears on your TV screen. If“RESUME” does not appear, Resume Playis not available.

2 Press nN.The player starts playback from the pointyou stopped the VIDEO CD in step 1.

To view from the beginning of theVIDEO CDWhen “RESUME” appears in the display, pressx, then press nN.

Notes• Resume Play is not available in the Digest, Shuffle,

or Program Play modes.• Depending on where you stopped the VIDEO CD,

the player may resume playback from a differentpoint.

• Resume play is cancelled when:– you press numeric buttons, PLAY MODE, x,

DISC SKIP EX-CHANGE (or D. SKIP on theremote), SPECIAL MENU or ./>.

– you remove the VIDEO CD.– you unplug the unit’s AC power cord.

Adjusting the picture–– Picture Effect

You can adjust the hue and sharpness of thepicture.

1 Press PICTURE EFFECT duringplayback.

2 Press cursor b or B repeatedly toadjust the hue.

3 Press cursor v or V repeatedly toadjust the sharpness.

4 Press ENTER or PICTURE EFFECT.

TipThe hue and sharpness can be adjusted in 11 steps(from –5 to +5).

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Tuner

Presetting radio stationsYou can preset 20 stations for FM and 10stations for AM.

1 Press TUNER/BAND repeatedly toselect FM or AM.

2 Press and hold M or m (or TUNING+/– on the remote) until the frequencyindication starts to change, thenrelease.Scanning stops when the system tunes in astation. “TUNED” and “STEREO” (for astereo program) appear.

3 Press TUNER MEMORY.A preset number appears in the display.

4 Press . or > to select the presetnumber you want to store.

5 Press ENTER.“COMPLETE” appears in the display.The station is stored.

6 Repeat steps 1 to 5 to store otherstations.

To tune in a station with a weaksignalPress M or m (TUNING +/– on the remote)repeatedly to tune in the station manually.

To change the AM tuning intervalThe AM tuning interval is factory set to 9 kHz(10 kHz in some areas). To change the AM tuninginterval, select any AM station first, then turn off thepower. While holding down the ENTER button, turnthe power back on. When you change the interval,AM preset stations will be erased. To reset theinterval, repeat the same procedure.

Tips• The preset stations are retained for half a day even

if you unplug the power cord or if a power failureoccurs.

• Pressing TUNER/BAND while the power is offautomatically turns the power on and TUNER isselected as a function. When the system is in thepower saving mode, this function does not work.

Preset number

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Tu

ne

r

Listening to the radio–– Preset Tuning

Preset radio stations in the tuner's memory first(see “Presetting radio stations”).

1 Press TUNER/BAND repeatedly toselect FM or AM.

2 Press . or > (or press PRESET+/– on the remote) to tune in the presetstation you want.

To Turn off the radioPress ?/1.

To listen to non-preset radio stationsPress M or m (or TUNING +/– on theremote) repeatedly for manual tuning or pressand hold M or m (or TUNING +/– on theremote) for automatic tuning.

Tips• When an FM program is noisy, press FM MODE so

that “MONO” appears in the display. There will beno stereo effect, but the reception will improve.

• To improve broadcast reception, reorient theantennas.

Preset number* Frequency

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Loading a tape

1 Press TAPE A/B repeatedly to selectDeck A or B.

2 Press Z on the selected deck.

3 Insert a recorded tape in deck A or Bwith the side you want to play facingforward.

Playing a tapeYou can use TYPE I (normal) or TYPE II(CrO2) tapes.

1 Load a tape.

2 Press DIRECTION repeatedly to selectg to play one side. Select j to playboth sides. Select RELAY* (relay play)to play both decks in succession.

3 Press nN.Press nN again to play the reverse side.The tape starts playing.

* Relay Play always follow this cyclic sequence:Deck A (front side) t Deck A (reverse side) tDeck B (front side) t Deck B (reverse side)

Tape

Tape presence indicator

Insert with theside you want toplay/record facingforward.

To

Stop play

Pause

Fast-forward

Rewind

Tips• During Cycle or Relay Play, the deck stops

automatically after repeating the sequence fivetimes.

• Pressing TAPE A/B while the power is offautomatically turns the power on and TAPE isselected as a function. When the system is in thepower saving mode, this function does not work.

• When you want to reduce the hiss noise in low-levelhigh-frequency signals, press DOLBY NR so that“DOLBY NR” appears.

• When a tape (tapes) is (are) inserted, correspondingpresence indicators light up.

Searching for the beginning of atrack (AMS*)During playback, press . or > repeatedlyfor the number of songs you want to skipforward (or backward).

The search direction, + (forward) or – (back),and number of songs being skipped (1~9)appear in the display.

Example: searching forward 2 songs

* AMS (Automatic Music Sensor)

NoteThe AMS function may not operate correctly underthe following circumstances:– When the unrecorded space between songs is less

than 4 seconds long.– When the unit is placed near a television.

Do this

Press x.

Press X.Press again to resume play.

Press M while playing thefront side, or press m whileplaying the reverse side.

Press m while playing thefront side, or press M whileplaying the reverse side.

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Ta

pe

Recording to a tape–– CD Synchro Recording/High Speed Dubbing/Recording Manually/

Program Edit

You can record from a CD, tape or radio. You can use TYPE I (normal) or TYPE II (CrO2) tapes.The recording level is adjusted automatically.

Recording from a tape(High-Speed Dubbing)

Recording from a CD(CD Synchro Recording) Recording Manually

Insert a recordable tape into deck B.

Press TAPE A/B to selectTAPE A.

Press CD. Press CD, TAPE A/B orTUNER/BAND.

Load the tape you want torecord into deck A.

Load the CD you want torecord.

Load the CD/tape, ortune to the station youwant to record.

Press CD SYNC HI-DUB. Press REC PAUSE/START.

DECK B stands by for recording.

Press DOLBY NR to reduce the hiss noise in low level high frequency signals(except recording from a tape).

REC PAUSE/START button flashes.

Press DIRECTION repeatedly to select g to record on one side.Select j (or RELAY) to record on both sides.

Press REC PAUSE/START. If you are recording manually, press nN to startplaying the source.Recording starts.

Tips• When you record on both sides, be sure to start

from the front side. If you start from the reverseside, recording stops at the end of the reverse side.

• If you want to record from the reverse side, pressTAPE A/B to select deck B after step 1. PressnN to start playback of the reverse side, thenpress x when you want to start recording. TheTAPE B reverse side indicator lights up.

• If you set direction to j when the tapes you usehave different lengths, the tapes in each deckreverses independently. If you select RELAY, thetapes in both decks reverse together.

• For recording from the radio:If noise is heard while recording from the radio,move the respective antenna to reduce the noise.

Press x to stop recording.

Steps

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

• For recording from a CD to a tape manually, youcan press . or > to select tracks duringrecording pause mode (after step 4 and before step6).

NoteYou cannot listen to other sources while recording.

continued

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Recording a CD by specifyingtrack order

— Program Edit

You can record tracks from all the CDs in theorder you want. When programming, makesure the playing times for each side do notexceed the length of one side of the tape.

1 Load a CD and a recordable tape intodeck B, then press CD.

2 Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until“PROGRAM” appears in the display.

3 Press one of the DISC 1–3 to select aCD.To program all the tracks on a CD at once,proceed to step 6 while “AL” appears in thedisplay.

4 Press . or > repeatedly until thetracks you want appears in the display.

5 Press ENTER.The track(s) is (are) programmed. Theprogram step number appears, followed bythe total playing time.

6 To program additional tracks, repeatsteps 3 to 5.Skip step 3 to select tracks from the samedisc.

7 Press CD SYNC HI-DUB.Deck B stands for recording. To reduce hissnoise in low-level high frequency signals,press DOLBY NR so that “DOLBY NR”appears in the display. The REC PAUSE/START button flashes.

8 Press DIRECTION to select g torecord on one side or j (or RELAY)to record on both sides.

9 Press REC PAUSE/START.Recording starts.

To

Cancel ProgramEdit

Clear a track fromthe end

TipTo check the required tape length for recording a CD,press EDIT until “EDIT” flashes after you haveloaded a CD and pressed CD. The required tapelength for the currently selected CD appears, followedby the total playing time for side A and side Brespectively (Tape Select Edit).

NoteYou cannot use Tape Select Edit for discs containingover 20 tracks.

Timer-recording radioprograms

To timer-record, you must preset the radiostation (see “Presetting radio stations” on page18) and set the clock (see “Setting the time” onpage 9) beforehand.

1 Tune in the preset radio station (see“Listening to the radio” on page 19).

2 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on theremote.“DAILY 1 SET” appears.

3 Press cursor V/v repeatedly to select“REC SET”, then press ENTER.“ON” appears and the hour indicationflashes in the display.

4 Set the time to start recording.Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set the hour,then press ENTER.The minute indication starts flashing.Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set theminute, then press ENTER.The hour indication flashes again.

Press

PLAY MODE repeatedly until“PROGRAM” or “SHUFFLE”disappears from the display.

CLEAR on the remote in stopmode.

Recording to a tape (continued)

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Ta

pe

5 Set the time to stop recording followingthe above procedure.The start time appears, followed by the stoptime, the preset radio station to be recorded(e.g., “TUNER FM 5”), then the originaldisplay appears.

6 Insert a recordable tape into deck B.Make sure the tape is in forward direction.

7 Turn off the power.When the recording starts, the volume levelis set to the minimum.

To

Check the setting

Cancel timeroperation

Notes• You cannot activate the Timer-recording and Daily

Timer at the same time.• When you used the Sleep Timer, Daily Timer and

Timer recording will not turn on the system untilthe Sleep Timer turns it off.

• If the power is on at the preset time, the Timerrecording does not work.

• The power turns on 15 seconds before the presettime.

Do this

Press CLOCK/TIMERSELECT on the remote andpress cursor V/v repeatedly toselect “REC SEL”. Then, pressENTER. To change the setting,start over from step 1.

Press CLOCK/TIMERSELECT on the remote andpress cursor V/v repeatedly toselect “TIMER OFF”. Then,press ENTER.

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

Sound Adjustment

Adjusting the soundYou can reinforce the bass and create a morepowerful sound.

Press GROOVE.Each time you press this button, the displaychanges cyclically as follows:

V-GROOVE t GROOVE t GROOVE OFF

GROOVEThe volume switches to power mode and theequalizer curve changes.

V-GROOVEThe lower bass frequency of the music you arelistening to is powerfully reinforce, theequalizer curve changes and loudness isincreased.

Selecting the soundsystem

You can enjoy different sounds by selecting thesound mode you want.

1 Press SURROUND SPEAKER MODE (orturn SURROUND SPEAKER MODE onthe sound broad amplifier) to select thesound mode you want.LINK : Reproduces the same sound with thedifferent output level.MATRIX SURR : Reproduces a wide rangeof sound that actually can sense the size ofthe room.SUB WOOFER : Reproduces the low bassfrequencies sound.

2 Turn SURROUND SPEAKER LEVEL toadjust the surround speaker volume.

Notes• If you turn VOLUME (or press VOL +/– on the

remote) all the speaker volume change.• The indicator on the sound broad amplifier will

light green when the main unit is powered on andwill light red when the main unit is on standbymode.

Selecting the audioemphasis effect

The audio emphasis menu lets you select thesound characteristics according to the soundyou are listening to.

Selecting the preset effect from themusic menu

Press MUSIC EQ, MOVIE EQ or GAME EQ(or PRESET EQ on the remote) repeatedly toselect the preset effect you want.The preset effect name appears in the display.See the chart “Music menu options”.

To Cancel the effect Press EFFECT ON/OFF repeatedly until“EFFECT OFF” appears.

Music menu options“ SURR” appears if you select an effect withsurround effects.

MENU Effectbutton

MUSIC ROCKEQ POP

JAZZDANCESOULORIENTAL*

MOVIE ACTIONEQ DRAMA

MUSICAL

GAME ARCADEEQ RACING

ADVENTURE

* CLASSIC for Latin American models only.

For

standard musicsources.

soundtracks andspecial listeningsituations.

Video games.

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Adjusting the graphicequalizer

You can adjust the sound by raising orlowering the levels of specific frequencyranges.

Before operation, first select the audioemphasis you want for your basic sound.

1 Press one of the cursor b/B/v/V.

2 Press cursor b/B to select thefrequencies or surround, then presscursor v/V to adjust the frequencieslevel or to select the surround effect.

3 Press ENTER to exit.

Selecting the surroundeffect

You can enjoy this system's surround effect.

Press CINEMA SPACE repeatedly toselect the surround effect you want.Each time you press the button, the displaychanges cyclically as follows:

SURR OFF t C. SPACE LOW tC. SPACE MID t C. SPACE HIGH tSURR ON

NoteWhen you choose other sound effects, the surroundeffect will be canceled.

Frequency band Frequency level

Making a personal audioemphasis file

— Personal file

You can create a personal file of sound effectsettings (surround effect and graphic equalizer)and store them in the memory of the unit. Youcan create up to three personal files.

Before operation, first select the audioemphasis you want for your basic sound.

1 Obtain the sound effect you want bychanging the graphics equalizer andsurround effect.

2 Press and hold down P File.The personal file number appears in thedisplay.

3 Use cursor b/B/v/V to select thepersonal file number (P FILE) whichyou want to store the sound effectsettings.

4 Press ENTER.The adjusted sound effect are stored underthe selected personal file. The settingspreviously stored at this memory locationare erased and replaced by a new settings.

To call up the personal filePress P FILE repeatedly until the personal filenumber you want appears in the display.

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

To

Use VIDEO CDs

Cancel karaoke mode

Adjust the microphoneecho

Adjust the key

TipYou can use two microphones connecting to MIC 1or MIC 2 at the same time.

Notes• With some songs, vocals may not be canceled when

you select “KARAOKE PON”.• During KARAOKE PON, equalizer and surround

settings cannot be changed.• If you press EFFECT ON/OFF or recall a sound

effect, the karaoke mode is canceled.

Changing the spectrumanalyzer display

You can enjoy changing the display whilelistening to the music.

Press SPECTRUM.Each time you press the button, the displaychanges cyclically as follows:

SPECTRUM 1 t SPECTRUM 2 tSPECTRUM 3 t PATTERN 1 tPATTERN 2 t PATTERN 3 tPATTERN OFF*

* The display slightly dims

Singing along: KaraokeYou can sing along with any stereo CD or tapeby turning down the singer’s voice. You needto connect an optional microphone.

1 Turn MIC LEVEL to MIN to turn downthe microphone control level.

2 Connect an optional microphone toMIC 1 or MIC 2.

3 Press KARAOKE PON.Each time you press the button, the displaychanges cyclically as follows:

KARAOKE PON t MPX R* tMPX L* t KARAOKE OFF

* Only for CD.The “m” indicator appears in the displaywhen a karaoke mode is activated.To sing karaoke by decreasing the vocallevel of the music source, select“KARAOKE PON”.To sing karaoke of multiplex CD select“MPX R” or “MPX L”.

4 Start playing the music and adjust thevolume.

5 Adjust the microphone volume byturning MIC LEVEL.

Other featuresDo this

Turn on your TV and selectthe video input.

Turn MIC LEVEL to MINand disconnect themicrophone from MIC 1 orMIC 2, then pressKARAOKE PONrepeatedly until “m”disappears.

Turn ECHO LEVEL toadjust the echo effect. Tocancel the echoing, turnECHO LEVEL to the MIN.

Press KEY CONTOL # or2 on the remote to suit yourvocal range. You can adjustthe key higher or lower in13 halftone steps (26 ~ #6).This function can be usedon the CD function only.

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Mixing and recordingsounds

You can “mix” sounds by playing one of thecomponents and singing or speaking into amicrophone (not supplied).The mixed sound can be recorded on a tape.

1 Do the procedure for singing along(steps 1 through 5 on page 26). Then,insert a recordable tape in deck B.

2 Press one of the function buttons youwant to record from (e.g., CD).When you want to record from TAPE A,press TAPE A/B repeatedly until TAPE Ais selected.

3 Press REC PAUSE/START.Deck B stands by for recording. The RECPAUSE/START button flashes.

4 Press DIRECTION repeatedly to selectg to record on one side. Select j(or RELAY) to record on both sides.

5 Press REC PAUSE/START.Recording starts.

6 Press nN to start playing the sourceto be recorded.Start singing along with the music.

To stop recordingPress x.

Tips• If acoustic feedback (howling) occurs, move the

microphone away from the speakers or change thedirection of the microphone.

• If you want to record your voice through themicrophone only, you can do so by selecting theCD function and not playing a CD.

• When high level sound signals are input, the unitautomatically adjusts the recording level to preventdistortion of the recorded sound signal (Auto LevelControl function).

Press

SLEEP once.

SLEEP to select the time youwant.

SLEEP repeatedly until “SLEEPOFF” appears.

Notes• The instrumental sound may be reduced as well as

the singer’s voice when the sound is recorded inmonaural.

• The singer’s voice may not be reduced when:— only a few instruments are playing.— a duet is being played.— the source has strong echoes or chorus.— the singer’s voice deviates from the center.— the voice on the source is singing in high

soprano or tenor.

Falling asleep to music— Sleep Timer

You can let the system turn off at the presettime, so you can sleep to the music.

Press SLEEP on the remote.Each time you press the button, the minutedisplay (the turn-off time) changes as follows:

AUTO t 90 t 80 t 70 t … t 10 tOFF t AUTO* …* The power turns off when the current CD or tape

finishes playback (for up to 100 minutes).

To

Check theremaining time

Change the timeto turn off

Cancel the SleepTimer function

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Waking up to music— Daily Timer

You can wake up to music at a preset timeevery day. Make sure you have set the clock(see “Setting the time” on page 10).

1 Prepare the music source you want toplay.• CD: Load a CD. To start from a specific

track, make a program (see “Programmingthe VIDEO/CD tracks” on page 14).

• Tape: Load a tape with the side you wantto play facing forward.

• Radio: Tune in the preset station youwant (see “Presetting radio stations” onpage 18).

2 Adjust the volume.

3 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on theremote.“DAILY 1 SET” appears.

4 Press cursor V/v repeatedly to select“DAILY 1 (2) SET”, then press ENTER.“ON” appears and the hour digits flash inthe display.

5 Set the time to start playback.Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set the hour,then press ENTER.The minute indication starts flashing.Press cursor V/v repeatedly on the remoteto set the minute, then press ENTER.The hour indication flashes again.

6 Set the time to stop playback followingsteps 4 and 5 above.

7 Press cursor V/v repeatedly until themusic source you want appears.The indications change as follows:

t TUNER y CD PLAY T

t TAPE PLAY T

8 Press ENTER.The type of timer (DAILY 1 or DAILY 2),followed by the start time, stop time and themusic source appears, then the originaldisplay appears.

9 Turn off the power.

To

Check the setting

Change the setting

Cancel the timeroperation

TipThe power turns on 15 seconds before the preset time.

Notes• When you use the Sleep Timer, Daily Timer will

not turn on the system until the Sleep Timer turns itoff.

• If the power is on at the preset time, the DailyTimer does not work.

Do this

Press CLOCK/TIMER SELECTon the remote and press cursorV/v repeatedly to select therespective mode (DAILY 1 orDAILY 2), then press ENTER.

Start from step 1.

Press CLOCK/TIMER SELECTon the remote and press cursorV/v repeatedly to select“TIMER OFF”, then pressENTER.

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Op

tion

al c

om

po

ne

nts

Connecting MD deck/VCRYou can connect your MD deck or VCR to thissystem. Be sure to match the color of the plugsand the connectors.

To

Make a digitalrecording fromCD to MD

Make an analogrecording from CD,TAPE or TUNER

Record the audio andvideo signals fromVIDEO CD on toVIDEO TAPE

Listen to theconnected MD deck

Listen to theconnected VCR

Do This

Connect the optical cable.

Connect the AUDIO OUTjacks to the audio input of theMD deck.

Connect the AUDIO OUTjacks to the audio input ofVCR. Connect the VIDEOOUT jack to the video inputof the VCR.

Press MD (VIDEO).

Hold down MD (VIDEO) andpress ?/1 when the power ison. This switches the “MD”function to “VIDEO”. Onceyou enable the “VIDEO”function, just press MD(VIDEO).

Optional components

To the audio/video output of avideo game player.

To the video input of TV

Optical coverholder

To the audiooutput of yourMD deck/VCR

To theDIGITAL INjack of yourMD deck

To the audioinput of yourMD deck/VCR

TipWhen you remove the optical cover, keep it at theoptical cover holder provided.

NoteIf the sound is distorted or too loud when selecting“VIDEO”, or you want to switch back to “MD”,repeat the operation described above to switch to“MD”.

Connecting a Video GamePlayer

You can enjoy the video games with audioemphasis by connecting a video game player.

continued

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MHC-VX888 4-232-653-11 (1)

FM75

AM

COAXIAL

IEC standard socketconnector (not supplied)

FM75

AM

COAXIAL

75-ohm coaxial cable(not supplied)

FM75

AM

COAXIAL

Insulated wire (not supplied)

FM75

AM

COAXIAL

Insulated wire (not supplied)

To

Listen or watchthe game

Select the musicmenu.

Notes• Pressing the GAME while the power is off

automatically turns the power on and GAME isselected as a function. When the system is in thepower saving mode, this function does not work.

• If you press GAME, your last selected GAME EQpreset effect (ARCADE, RACING orADVENTURE) will be restored.

Connecting externalantennas

Connect an external antenna to improve thereception.

FM antennaConnect an optional FM external antenna. Youcan also use the TV antenna instead.

Jack type A

Jack type B

AM antennaConnect a 6- to 15- meter (20- to 50- feet)insulated wire to the AM antenna terminal.Leave the supplied AM loop antennaconnected.

Jack type A

Jack type B

Connecting a Video Game Player(continued)

Press

GAME (or GAME on theremote).

GAME EQ/MUSIC EQ/MOVIE EQ (or PRESET EQon the remote). (See“Selecting the audio emphasiseffect” page 24)

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Ad

ditio

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l Info

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tion

Additional Information

Precautions

On operating voltageBefore operating the unit, check that the operatingvoltage of your unit is identical with the voltage ofyour local power supply.

On safety• The unit is not disconnected from the AC power

source (mains) as long as it is connected to the walloutlet, even if the unit itself has been turned off.

• Unplug the unit from the wall outlet (mains) if it isnot to be used for an extended period of time. Todisconnect the cord (mains lead), pull it out by theplug. Never pull the cord itself.

• Should any solid object or liquid fall into thecomponent, unplug the unit and have thecomponent checked by qualified personnel beforeoperating it any further.

• The AC power cord must be changed only at thequalified service shop.

On placement• Do not place the unit in an inclined position.• Do not place the unit in locations where it is:

— extremely hot or cold— dusty or dirty— very humid— vibrating— subject to direct sunlight

On heat build up• Although the unit heats up during operation, this is

not a malfunction.• Place the unit in a location with adequete

ventilation to prevent heat built-up in the unit.If you continuously use this unit at a large volume,the cabinet temperature of the top, side and bottomrises considerably. To avoid burning yourself, do nottouch the cabinet. To prevent a malfunction, do notcover the ventilation hole for the cooling fan.

On operation• If the unit is brought directly from a cold to a warm

location, or is placed in a very damp room, moisturemay condense on the lens inside the CD player.Should this occur, the unit will not operate properly.Remove the CD and leave the unit turned on forabout an hour until the moisture evaporates.

• When you move the unit, take out any discs.If you have any questions or problems concerningyour unit, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Notes on CDs• Before playing, clean the CD with a cleaning cloth.

Wipe the CD from the center out.• Do not use solvents.• Do not expose the CD to direct sunlight or heat

sources.

Note on CD-R/CD-RW playbackDiscs recorded on CD-R/CD-RW drives may not beplayed back because of scratches, dirt, recordingconditions or the drive's characteristics. Besides, thediscs, which are not yet finalized at the end ofrecording, cannot be played back.

To save a tape permanentlyTo prevent a tape from being accidentally recordedover, break off the cassette tab, refer to attachedinstruction with the tape.

Cleaning the cabinetUse a soft cloth slightly moistened with milddetergent solution.

Before placing a cassette in the tapedeckTake up any slack in the tape. Otherwise the tape mayget entangled in the parts of the tape deck and becomedamaged.

When using a tape longer than 90minutesThe tape is very elastic. Do not change the tapeoperations such as play, stop, and fast-winding etc.frequently. The tape may get entangled in the tapedeck.

Cleaning the tape headsClean the tape heads after every 10 hours of use.When the tape heads become dirty:

— the sound is distorted— there is a decrease in sound level— the sound drops out— the tape does not erase completely— the tape does not record

Make sure to clean the tape heads before you start animportant recording or after playing an old tape. Useseparately sold dry-type or wet-type cleaning cassette.For details, refer to the instructions of the cleaningcassette.

Demagnetizing the tape headsDemagnetize the tape heads and the metal parts thathave contact with the tape every 20 to 30 hours of usewith a separately sold demagnetizing cassette. Fordetails, refer to the instructions of the demagnetizingcassette.

In case color irregularity is observedon nearby a TV screenWith the magnetically shielded type of speakersystem, the speakers can be installed near a TV set.However, color irregularity may still be observed onthe TV screen depending on the type of your TV set.

continued

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If color irregularity is observed…Turn off the TV set once, then turn it on after 15 to 30minutes.

If color irregularity is observedagain…Place the speakers farther away from the TV set.

TroubleshootingIf you run into any problem using this unit, usethe following check list.

First, check that the power cord is connectedfirmly and the speakers are connected correctlyand firmly.

Should any problem persist, consult yournearest Sony dealer.

General

The display starts flashing as soon as you plugin the power cord even though you haven’tturned on the power (demonstration mode).

Press DISPLAY when the power is turned off.The demonstration mode appears automatically thefirst time you plug in the power cord or if there is apower outage.

The clock setting is canceled.

• The power cord is disconnected or a powerfailure occurs. Redo “Setting the time” (on page10). If you have set the timer, redo “Waking upto music” (on page 28) and “Timer-recordingradio programs” (on page 22).

The radio presetting/timer setting is canceled.

• The power cord is disconnected or a powerfailure occurs for longer than half a day. Redo“Presetting radio stations” (on page 18).

There is no sound.

• Turn VOLUME clockwise.• The headphones are connected.• Insert only the stripped portion of the speaker

cord into the SPEAKER jack. Inserting the vinylportion of the speaker cord will obstruct thespeaker connections.

• The protective device on the amplifier has beenactivated because of short circuit. (“PROTECT”and “PUSH POWER” flash alternately.) Turn offthe unit, eliminate the short-circuit problem andturn on the power again.

• There is no audio output during timer recording.

There is severe hum or noise.

• A TV or VCR is placed too close to the stereosystem. Move the stereo system away from theTV or VCR.

The sound from the connected source isdistorted.

• If “VIDEO” appears in the display when youpress MD (VIDEO), switch the display to “MD”(see “Note: Connecting MD deck/VCR” on page29).

“-- --:-- --” flashes in the display.

• A power interruption occurred. Set the clock andtimer settings again.

The timer does not function.

• Set the clock correctly.

DAILY 1 SET, DAILY 2 SET and REC SET do notappear when you press the CLOCK/TIMER SETbutton.

• Set the timer correctly.• Set the clock.

The remote does not function.

• There is an obstacle between the remote and thesystem.

• The remote is not pointing in the direction of thesystem’s sensor.

• The batteries have run down. Replace thebatteries.

There is acoustic feedback.

• Decrease the volume level.• Move the microphone away form the speakers or

change the direction of the microphone.

The color irregularity on a TV screen persists.

• Turn off the TV set once, then turn it on after 15to 30 minutes. If the color irregularity stillpersists, place the speakers farther away from theTV set.

“PROTECT”and “PUSH POWER” appearalternately.

• A strong signal was input. Press ?/1 to turn offthe power, leave the system turned off for awhile, then press ?/1 again to turn on the power.

• Check the speaker cables in case “PROTECT”and “PUSH POWER” appear alternately againafter you turn the system on.

Precautions (continued)

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Speakers

Sound comes from one channel or unbalancedleft and right volume.

• Check the speaker connection and speakerplacement.

Sound lacks bass.

• Check that the speaker’s + and – jacks areconnected correctly.

VIDEO CD/CD Player

There is no picture.

• Check that the player is connected securely.• Make sure you operate the TV correctly.• Make sure you set the color system correctly,

according to your TV (color) system.• Press CD.

The CD tray does not close.

• The CD is not placed properly.

The CD will not play.

• The CD is not lying flat in the disc tray.• The CD is dirty.• The CD is inserted label side down.• Moisture condensation has built up. Remove the

CD and leave the system turned on for about anhour until the moisture evaporates.

Play does not start from the first track.

• The player is in program or shuffle mode. PressPLAY MODE repeatedly until “PROGRAM” or“SHUFFLE” disappears.

“OVER” is displayed.

• You have reached the end of the CD. Press m.

Tape Deck

The tape does not record.

• The tab has been removed from the cassette (see“To save a tape permanently” on page 31).

• The tape has reeled to the end.

The tape does not record nor play or there is adecrease in sound level.

• The heads are dirty. Clean them (see “Cleaningthe tape heads” on page 31).

• The record/playback heads are magnetized.Demagnetize them (see “Demagnetizing the tapeheads” on page 31).

The tape does not erase completely.

• The record/playback heads are magnetized.Demagnetize them (see “Demagnetizing the tapeheads” on page 31).

There is excessive wow or flutter, or the sounddrops out.

• The capstans or pinch rollers are dirty. Cleanthem (see “Cleaning the tape heads” on page 31).

Noise increases or the high frequencies are erased.

• The record/playback heads are magnetized.Demagnetize them (see “Demagnetizing the tapeheads” on page 31).

Tuner

Severe hum or noise (“TUNED” or “STEREO”flashes in the display).

• Adjust the antenna.• The signal strength is too weak. Connect the

external antenna.

A stereo FM program cannot be received in stereo.

• Press FM MODE so that “MONO” disappears.

If other troubles not described aboveoccur, reset the system as follows:

1 Press x, ENTER and ?/1 at the sametime.

2 Unplug the power cord.

3 Plug the power cord back in.

4 Press ?/1 to turn on the power.The unit is reset to factory settings. All thesettings you made are cleared.

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VIDEO CD/CD player sectionSystem Compact disc and digital

audio systemLaser Semiconductor laser

(λ=795nm)Laser Output Max. 44.6 µW*

*This output is the valuemeasured at a distance of200 mm from theobjective lens surface onthe Optical Pick-up Blockwith 7 mm aperture.

Frequency response 2 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)Wave length 780 – 790 nmSignal-to-noise ratio More than 90 dBDynamic range More than 90 dBVideo color system format

NTSC, PALCD OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT(Square optical connector jack, rear panel)Wave length 660 nmOutput level –18 dBm

Tape player sectionRecording system 4-track 2-channel stereoFrequency response 40 – 13,000 Hz (±3 dB),(DOLBY NR OFF) using Sony TYPE I

cassette40 – 14,000 Hz (±3 dB),using Sony TYPE IIcassette

Wow and flutter ±0.15% W.Peak (IEC)0.1% W.RMS (NAB)±0.2% W.Peak (DIN)

Specifications

Amplifier sectionHCD-VX888The following measured at AC 120, 220, 240V,50/60 HzDIN power output (rated) 160 + 160 watts

(6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)Continuous RMS power output (reference)

200 + 200 watts(6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10%THD)

TA-DX80The following measured at AC 120, 220, 240V,50/60 HzDIN power output (rated) 75 + 75 watts

(6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)Continuous RMS power output (reference)

100 + 100 watts(6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10%THD)

InputsGAME (VIDEO): 1Vp-p, 75 ohms(phono jacks)GAME (AUDIO): voltage 250 mV,(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohmsMD/VIDEO (AUDIO) IN: voltage 450 mV/250 mV,(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohmsMIC 1/2: sensitivity 1 mV,(phone jack) impedance 10 kilohmsOutputsVIDEO OUT: max. output level(phono jacks) 1 Vp-p, unbalanced,

Sync negative, loadimpedance75 ohms

S. VIDEO OUT: Y: 1 Vp-p, unbalanced,(4-pin/mini-DIN jack) Sync negative,

C: 0.286Vp-p,load impedance 75 ohms

AUDIO OUT: voltage 140 mV,(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohmsPHONES: accepts headphones of 8(stereo mini jack) ohms or moreFRONT SPEAKER: accepts impedance of 6 to

16 ohmsSURROUND SPEAKER: accepts impedance of

6 to 16 ohms

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Tuner sectionFM stereo, FM/AM superheterodyne tuner

FM tuner section

Tuning range 87.5 – 108.0 MHzAntenna FM lead antennaAntenna terminals 75 ohm unbalancedIntermediate frequency 10.7 MHz

AM tuner section

Tuning rangeLatin American models: 530 – 1,710 kHz

(with the interval set at10 kHz)531 – 1,710 kHz(with the interval set at9 kHz)

Middle Eastern models: 531 – 1,602 kHz(with the interval set at9 kHz)

Other models: 531 – 1,602 kHz(with the interval set at9 kHz)530 – 1,710 kHz(with the interval set at10 kHz)

Antenna AM loop antennaAntenna terminals External antenna terminalIntermediate frequency 450 kHz

SpeakerFront speaker SS-VX888Speaker system 3-way, 3-unit,

bass-reflex type,magnetically shielded

Speaker unitsSuper Woofer: 15 cm, cone typeWoofer: 15 cm, cone typeTweeter: 5 cm, cone typeNominal impedance 6 ohmsDimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 250 x 385.4 x

326 mmMass Approx. 6.7 kg net per

speaker

Surround speaker SS-RS80VSpeaker system 2 way, 2 unit,

bass-reflex type,magnetically shielded

Speaker unitsWoofer 15 cm, cone typeTweeter 4 cm, cone typeNominal impedance 6 ohmsDimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 179 x 250 x 295

mmMass Approx. 3.5 kg net per

speaker

GeneralPower requirementsAustralian models: 230 – 240 V AC,

50/60 HzMexican models: 120 V AC, 60 HzThailand models: 220 V AC, 50/60 HzOther models: 120 V, 220 V or

230 – 240 V AC,50/60 HzAdjustable with voltageselector

Power consumptionHCD-VX888 250 wattsTA-DX80 180 watts

Dimensions (w/h/d)HCD-VX888 Approx. 280 x 360 x 425

mmTA-DX80 Approx. 150 x 360 x 343

mm

MassHCD-VX888 Approx. 10.5 kgTA-DX80 Approx. 5.5 kg

Supplied accessories: AM loop antenna (1)Remote commander (1)Batteries (2)Video cable (1)Cord (with connectors) (1)FM lead antenna (1)Front speaker pads (8)Surround speaker pads (8)

Design and specifications are subject to changewithout notice.

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Sony Corporation Printed in Malaysia

Glossary

Auto PauseAn automatically pauses according to the signalencoded on the disc while playing a VIDEOCD. If the CD player does not resume play fora long time, press nN to resume playmanually.

Menu PlaybackPlayback using the menu screens recorded onVIDEO CDs with PBC functions. You canenjoy simple interactive software using themenu playback function.

Playback Control (PBC)Signals encoded on VIDEO CDs (Version 2.0)to control playback.

By using menu screens recorded on VIDEOCDs with PBC functions, you can enjoyplaying simple interactive software, softwarewith search functions, and so on.

When you select a VIDEO CD with PBCfunctions on this player, the PBC indicatorlights up.

TrackSections of a picture or a music piece on disc.Each track is assigned a track number to helpyou locate the track you want.

VIDEO CDA compact disc which contains movingpictures.

VIDEO CDs contain compact pictureinformation using the MPEG 1 format, one ofthe world wide standards of digital compacttechnology. The picture information iscompressed about 120 times. Consequently, a12 cm VIDEO CD can contain up to 74minutes of moving pictures.

VIDEO CDs also contain compact audioinformation. Sounds outside the range ofhuman hearing are compressed while thesounds we can hear are not compressed.VIDEO CDs can hold six times the audioinformation of conventional audio CDs.

There are two versions for VIDEO CDs:

Version 1.1 (VIDEO CDs without PBCfunctions):

You can play only moving pictures and sounds.

Version 2.0 (VIDEO CDs with PBC functions):

You can play still pictures and enjoy PBCfunctions.

This player can play to both versions.

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