1GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Mini Hi-FiComponentSystem

© 2002 Sony Corporation

Operating Instructions

4-238-409-11 (2)

MHC-GX8000/RG77MHC-RG66T

GB

Owner’s RecordThe model and serial numbers are located on the rear panel. Record the serial numberin the space provided below. Refer to them whenever you call upon your Sony dealerregarding this product.

Model No. Serial No.

2GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

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.

To prevent fire, do not cover the ventilation of theapparatus with news papers, table-cloths, curtains,etc. And don’t place lighted candles on the apparatus.

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objectsfilled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

Don’t throw away the battery withgeneral house waste, dispose of itcorrectly as chemical waste.

NOTICE FOR THE CUSTOMERS IN THEU.S.A.

This symbol is intended to alert theuser to the presence of uninsulated“dangerous voltage” within theproduct’s enclosure that may be ofsufficient magnitude to constitute arisk of electric shock to persons.

This symbol is intended to alert theuser to the presence of importantoperating and maintenance (servicing)instructions in the literatureaccompanying the appliance.

WARNINGThis equipment has been tested and found to complywith the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuantto Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits aredesigned to provide reasonable protection againstharmful interference in a residential installation. Thisequipment generates, uses, and can radiate radiofrequency energy and, if not installed and used inaccordance with the instructions, may cause harmfulinterference to radio communications. However, thereis no guarantee that interference will not occur in aparticular installation. If this equipment does causeharmful interference to radio or television reception,which can be determined by turning the equipmentoff and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct theinterference by one or more of the followingmeasures:– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.– Increase the separation between the equipment and

receiver.– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit

different from that to which the receiver isconnected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TVtechnician for help.

CAUTIONYou are cautioned that any changes or modificationsnot expressly approved in this manual could voidyour authority to operate this equipment.

ENERGY STAR® is a U.S.registered mark.As an ENERGY STAR® partner,Sony Corporation has determinedthat this product meets theENERGY STAR® guidelines forenergy efficiency.

About this manualThe instructions in this manual are formodel MHC-GX8000, MHC-RG77 andMHC-RG66T. In this manual, the MHC-RG77is used for illustration purposes unless statedotherwise.

3GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Table of Contents

List of Button Location andReference Pages

Main unit ............................................... 4Remote Control ..................................... 5

Getting StartedHooking up the system .......................... 6Inserting two size AA (R6) batteries into

the remote ........................................ 8Setting the clock .................................... 8

CDLoading the CD ..................................... 9Playing the CD

–– Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat Play ..................................... 9

Programming the CD tracks–– Program Play ............................ 10

TunerPresetting radio stations ....................... 11Listening to the radio

–– Preset Tuning ........................... 11

TapeLoading a tape ..................................... 12Playing a tape ...................................... 12Recording to a tape

–– CD Synchro Recording/High Speed Dubbing/RecordingManually/Program Edit ................. 13

Timer-recording radio programs ......... 14

Sound AdjustmentAdjusting the sound ............................. 16Selecting the speaker system ............... 16Selecting the preset effect .................... 16Adjusting the graphic equalizer and

storing the personal file ................. 17Selecting the surround effect ............... 17

Other FeaturesChanging the spectrum analyzer

display ........................................... 18Adjusting the brightness of the

display ........................................... 18Enhancing the video game sound

— Game Sync ............................... 18Mixing the sound

— Game Mixing ........................... 18Singing along ....................................... 19Falling asleep to music

— Sleep Timer .............................. 19Waking up to music

— Daily Timer .............................. 20

DisplayTurning off the display

— Power Saving Mode ................. 21Using the display ................................. 21

Hooking Up the OptionalComponents

Connecting an MD deck/VCR ............ 22Connecting a Video Game Player ....... 22Connecting external antennas .............. 23

TroubleshootingProblems and remedies ........................ 24

Additional InformationPrecautions .......................................... 26Specifications ...................................... 27

4GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

CD eg (7, 9, 10, 13, 14)CD SYNC HI-DUB qf (13, 14)DECK A A wh (12~14)DECK B A qh (12~15)DIMMER 9 (18)DIRECTION q; (12~14)DISC 1~3 4 (9, 10)DISC SKIP EX-CHANGE 5 (9, 10)Disc tray 3 (9)DISPLAY 7 (21)

EDIT q; (14)EFFECT ON/OFF rs (16)ENTER ra (10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 20,

25)FM MODE qs (11, 25)

GAME ea (18, 22)GAME EQ rd (18)GAME INPUT wd (13, 18)GAME MIXING wl (13, 18)GROOVE rf (16)IR (receptor) 2

MD (VIDEO) es (22, 24)MIC wa (19)MIC LEVEL w; (19)MOVIE EQ ek (16)MUSIC EQ eh (16)OPEN/CLOSE Z 6 (9, 10)P FILE r; (17)PHONES (jack) ql (24)PLAY MODE e; (9, 10, 14)

REC PAUSE/START qg (13, 14)REPEAT qs (10)SPECTRUM 8 (18)SURROUND el (17)SURROUND SPEAKER MODE

(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only)wj (16)

TAPE A/B ed (12, 13)TUNER/BAND ef (11)TUNER MEMORY e; (11)VOLUME qa (20)

BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS

@/1 1hH wsx qdX wk> qj. wgM/+ qkm/– wfv/V/b/B ej

List of Button Location and Reference Pages

ALPHABETICAL ORDER

A - D

M - Q

1 23 4 5 6

7

8

9

0

K

L

MN

O

qh

qj

qk

qlw;wawsW

Xwg

wh

wj

wk

wl

e;

eaes

eg

ed

efejeh ek

el

rar;rdrs

rf

How to use this pageUse this page to find the location of buttons and otherparts of the system that are mentioned in the text.

Main unit

Illustration number r

PLAY MODE e; (9, 10, 14) R R

Name of button/part Reference page

E - L

R - Z

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

List o

f Bu

tton

Lo

ca

tion

an

d R

efe

ren

ce

Pa

ge

s

5GB

Remote Control

D

E

R

S

T

U

V

A B C

Y

XW

qh

qj

qa

qs

qd

qf

7

q;

qg

8

9

6

CD ql (7, 9, 10, 13, 14)CLEAR 7 (10, 14)CLOCK/TIMER SELECT 2

(15, 20)CLOCK/TIMER SET 3 (8, 14,

20)D.SKIP 9 (9)ENTER qd (8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17,

20)EFFECT ON/OFF qf (16)GAME w; (18, 22)MD (VIDEO) q; (22)

PRESET – wd (11)PRESET + wf (11)PRESET EQ qj (16)P FILE qh (17)SURROUND SPEAKER MODE

(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only) qs(16)

SURROUND qs (17)SLEEP 1 (19)TAPE A/B qa (12, 13)TUNER/BAND qk (11)TUNING – wa (11)TUNING + ws (11)VOL +/– 8 (20)

BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS

@/1 4hH wgX 5x 6. wd> wfm waM wsv/V/b/B qg

A - M P - Z

ALPHABETICAL ORDER

6GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Getting Started

Hooking up the systemDo the following procedure 1 to 5 to hook up your system using the supplied cords andaccessories.

AM loop antenna

Front speaker(Left)

Front speaker(Right)

FM antenna

4

5

3

12

2

Surroundspeaker (Left)

(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only)

1Connect the front speakers.Connect the speaker cords to the SPEAKER(MHC-RG66T)/FRONT SPEAKER(MHC-GX8000/RG77) jacks.

2Connect the surround speaker(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only).Connect the speaker cords to SURROUNDSPEAKER jacks.

NoteKeep the speaker cords away from the antennas toprevent noise.

LR

+

_

3Connect the FM and AM antennas.Set up the AM loop antenna, then connectit.

Insert only the stripped portion.

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

Extend the FM leadantenna horizontally.

AM loop antenna

Extend the FM leadantenna horizontally.

AM loop antenna

FM75

AM

FM75

AM

Jack type A

Surroundspeaker (Right)(MHC-GX8000/

RG77 only)

Jack type B

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

Insert only the stripped portion.

Red

LR

+

_

Blue

7GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Ge

tting

Sta

rted

4 For models with a voltage selector, setVOLTAGE SELECTOR to the position ofyour local power line voltage.

5Connect 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 an adaptor).

To connect optional componentsSee page 22.

To attach the speaker padsAttach the supplied speaker pads to the bottomof the speakers to stabilize the speakers andprevent them from slipping.

220V

120V

230-240V

Frontspeaker(L)

Frontspeaker(R)

45º

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

Notice for carrying this system

Do the following to protect the CDmechanism.

1 Make sure that all discs are removedfrom the 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.

Surroundspeaker(L)

Surroundspeaker(R)

(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only)

(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only)

8GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Inserting two size AA (R6)batteries into the remote

TipWith normal use, the batteries should last for aboutsix months. When the remote no longer operates thesystem, 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.

Setting the clock

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 V or v repeatedly to selectCLOCK SET.

4 Press ENTER.

5 Press V or v repeatedly to set the hour.

6 Press ENTER.

7 Press V or v repeatedly to set theminute.

8 Press ENTER.

The clock starts functioning.

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.

E

e

eE

AA (R6)batteries

9GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

CD

Loading the CD

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

2 Place a CD with the label side up on thedisc tray.

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

3 Press OPEN/CLOSE Z to close the CDcompartment.

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

Play

This unit lets you play the CD in different playmodes.

1 When playback is stopped, press PLAYMODE repeatedly until the mode youwant appears in the display.

2 Press one of the DISC 1~3 buttons.If you press hH when CD is selected asthe function (press CD) and the disc tray isclosed, playback starts from the selectedCD.

TipYou cannot change the play mode during playback.

Other Operations

To

Stop playback

Pause playback

Select a track

Find a point in a track

Select a CD whenplayback is stopped

Switch to CD functionfrom another source

CD

When you play a CDsingle, place it on theinner circle of thetray.

Select

ALL DISCS

1 DISC

SHUFFLEALL DISCS

SHUFFLE1 DISC

PROGRAM

To play

All CDs in the disc traycontinuously.

The CD you have selected in theoriginal 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 them to beplayed (see “Programming theCD tracks” on page 10).

Do this

Press x.

Press X.Press again to resumeplayback.

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

Press and hold down Mor m during playback andrelease it at the point youwant.

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

Press CD or one of theDISC 1~3 buttons(Automatic SourceSelection).

continued

ALL1 DISCS

Tracknumber Playing time

Disc presenceindicator

Disc tray number

10GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

To

Play repeatedly(Repeat Play)

Cancel RepeatPlay

Exchange other CDswhile 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.

Programming the CDtracks

–– Program Play

You can make a program of up to 25 tracksfrom all the CDs in the order you want them tobe played.

1 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 5 while “AL” appears on thedisplay.

Playing the CD (continued)

Do this

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

Press REPEAT until“REPEAT” or “REPEAT 1”disappears from the display.

Press DISC SKIPEX-CHANGE.

Press OPEN/CLOSE Z.

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 hH.

To

Cancel Program Play

Clear a track fromthe end

Add a track to theprogram whenplayback is stopped

Tips• The program you made remains in the system’s

memory even after it has been played back. PresshH to play 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.

Tracknumber

Total playing time(including selectedtrack)

PROGRAM

Disc traynumber

Do this

Press PLAY MODErepeatedly until “1 DISC” or“ALL DISCS” appears inthe display.

Press CLEAR on the remotewhen playback is stopped.

1 Press one of the DISC1~3 buttons to select aCD.

2 Press . or >repeatedly to select thetrack.

3 Press ENTER.

11GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Tu

ne

r

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 “AUTO”appears in the display and thefrequency indication starts to change,then release.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 weaksignal (Manual Tuning)Press M or m (TUNING +/– on the remote)repeatedly to tune in the station manually.

To change the AM tuning interval(Except Middle Eastern models)The 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.

Preset number

AUTO

MHz

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.

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 listen to non-preset radio stationsPress M or m (or TUNING +/– on theremote) repeatedly (Manual Tuning) or pressand hold M or m (or TUNING +/– on theremote) (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.

MHz

Preset number Frequency

12GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Loading a tape

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

2 Press Z on the selected deck.

3 Insert a tape in deck A or B.

Playing a tape

1 Load a tape.

2 Press DIRECTION repeatedly to selectg to play one side, j to play bothsides or RELAY* (Relay Play) to playboth decks in succession.

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

* 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 playback

Pause playback

Fast-forward

Rewind

Tips• During j 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 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.

* 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.

Example: searching forward 2 songs

ALL1 DISCS

Do this

Press x.

Press X.Press again to resumeplayback.

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.

13GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Ta

pe

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

Program Edit

You can record from a CD, tape, radio or other connected component. The recording level is adjustedautomatically.

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 repeatedlyto select TAPE A.

Press CD. Press a function buttonfor the recording source.

Load the tape you want torecord into deck A.

Load the CD you want torecord.

Load the CD or tape(or other audiosources), or tune to thestation you want torecord.

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

DECK B stands by for recording.

REC PAUSE/START indicator 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 hH to startplaying the source (for CD or Tape).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.

• For recording from the reverse side:After step 1, press TAPE A/B to select deck B andpress hH twice to start playback of the reverseside. Press x at the point where you want to startrecording. The TAPE B reverse side indicator lightsup.

• (High-Speed Dubbing only)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:You can press . or > to select tracks duringrecording pause mode (after step 4 and before step6).

• You can mix the sound from the componentconnected to the GAME INPUT jacks with anotherfunction such as CD, tape, radio or an MDconnected to this system. To record the mixedsound, press GAME MIXING after step 4 of“Recording Manually” and then press RECPAUSE/START to start recording. Game Mixingdoes not function during High-Speed Dubbing andCD Synchro Recording.

NoteYou cannot listen to other sources while recording.

continued

14GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Recording a CD by specifyingtrack order— Program Edit

You can record tracks from all the CDs in theorder you want. When programing, make surethe playing times for each side do not exceedthe length of one side of the tape.

1 Insert a recordable tape into deck B,then press CD.

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

3 Press one of the DISC 1–3 button toselect a CD.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 standby for recording. The RECPAUSE/START indicator flashes.

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

9 Press REC PAUSE/START.Recording starts.

Recording to a tape (continued) To

Cancel Program Edit

Clear a track fromthe end

TipTo check the required tape length for recording a CD,press EDIT after you have loaded a CD and pressedCD. The required tape length for the currentlyselected CD appears, followed by the total playingtime for side A and side B respectively (Tape SelectEdit).

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” onpage 11) and set the clock (see “Setting theclock” on page 8) beforehand.

1 Tune in the preset radio station (see“Listening to the radio” on page 11).

2 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on theremote.“DAILY1 SET” appears.

3 Press V or v repeatedly to select “RECSET”, then press ENTER.“ON” appears and the hour indication flashin the display.

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

Do This

Press PLAY MODErepeatedly until “1 DISC” or“ALL DISCS” appears inthe display.

Press CLEAR on the remotewhen playback is stopped.

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MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

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

Change the setting

Cancel timeroperation

Notes• If the power is on at the preset time, the Timer

recording does not work.• The power turns on 15 seconds before the preset

time.

Do this

Press CLOCK/TIMERSELECT on the remote andpress V or v repeatedly toselect “REC SEL”. Then, pressENTER.

Start from step 1.

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

16GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

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:

GROOVE t V-GROOVE t GROOVE OFF

GROOVEThe volume switches to power mode and theequalizer curve changes.

V-GROOVEThe volume switches to power mode, the lowbase frequencies are powerfully reinforced, andthe equalizer curve changes.

Selecting the speakersystem

(MHC-GX8000/RG77 only)

You can enjoy different sounds when youselect the surround speaker mode.

Press SURROUND SPEAKER MODE toselect the surround speaker mode youwant.LINK : Reproduces the same sound with thedifferent output level.

MATRIX SUR : Reproduces a wide range ofsound that actually can sense the size of theroom.

Selecting the preseteffect

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 “Preset effect options”.

To cancel the effectPress EFFECT ON/OFF repeatedly until“EFFECT OFF” appears.

Preset effect options

“SUR” 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 and North American modelsonly.

For

standard musicsources.

soundtracks andspecial listeningsituations.

Play station 1, 2 andother video gamemusic sources.

17GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

So

un

d A

dju

stme

nt

Adjusting the graphicequalizer and storing apersonal file

You can adjust the sound by raising orlowering the level of specific frequency band,then store up to three personal files (P FILE) inthe memory.

Before operation, select the preset effect youwant for your basic sound.

1 Press b or B repeatedly to select afrequency band or surround, thenpress v or V to adjust the level orselect the surround effect.

2 Press and hold P FILE until thepersonal file number appears in thedisplay.

3 Press v or V or B or b to select thepersonal file number (P FILE) whereyou want to store the equalizer setting.

4 Press ENTER.The setting is automatically stored as thepersonal file you selected in step 3. Theprevious setting stored at this memorylocation is erased and replaced by the newsetting.

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

TipIf you do not want to store a personal file, pressENTER after step 1.

Frequency band Frequency level

Selecting the surroundeffect

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

SURROUND ON (SUR)

Y

SURROUND OFF

NoteWhen you choose other sound effects, the surroundeffect may be cancelled.

18GB

MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Other Features

Changing the spectrumanalyzer display

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

Adjusting the brightnessof the display

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

DIMMER 1 t DIMMER 2 t DIMMER 3

Enhancing the video gamesound

— Game Sync

You need to connect a video game player(see “Connecting a Video Game Player” onpage 22).

Press GAME.

Tips• In standby mode, the system automatically turns on.• The previously selected GAME EQ is automatically

selected.• This operation cannot be performed in the Power

Saving Mode.

Mixing the sound— Game Mixing

You can mix the sound from the componentconnected to the GAME INPUT jacks withanother function such as CD, tape, radio oran MD connected to this system.

1 Select source sound you want.

2 Press GAME MIXING.Each time you press the button, the level ofthe game sound changes cyclically asfollows:MIXING LOW t MIXING MID tMIXING HIGH t MIXING OFF

Tips• To record the mixed sound, press GAME MIXING

after step 4 of “Recording Manually” on page 13and then press REC PAUSE/START to startrecording.

• The GAME MIXING indicator lights up whileGame Mixing is activated and it will remain activewhile the power is on even if the function ischanged.

Notes• Game Mixing is cancelled when you press REC

PAUSE/START.• Game Mixing does not function during High Speed

Dubbing and CD Synchro Recording.

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Singing alongYou can sing along with any stereo CD orTape. You need to connect an optionalmicrophone.

1 Turn MIC LEVEL to MIN to turn downthe microphone volume.

2 Connect an optional microphone to MICjack.

3 Start playing the music and adjust thevolume.

4 Adjust the microphone volume byturning MIC LEVEL.

After you have finished.Turn MIC LEVEL to MIN and disconnect themicrophone from MIC jack.

Tips• You can mix and record sound from microphone

after step 2. To record the sound see “RecordingManually” on page 13. To stop recording, press x.

• If acoustic feedback (howling) occurs, move themicrophone 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 adjust the recording level to preventdistortion of the recorded sound signals (AutoLevel/ Control Function).

NoteThe microphone does not function during High SpeedDubbing.

Falling asleep to music— Sleep Timer

You can set the system to turn off at a presettime, so you can fall asleep 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* The power turns off when the current CD or tape

finishes playback (for up to 100 minutes).

To

Check the remainingtime

Change the time to turnoff

Cancel the Sleep Timer

Do this

Press SLEEP once.

Press SLEEPrepeatedly to select thetime you want.

Press SLEEPrepeatedly until“SLEEP OFF” appears.

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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 clock” on page 8).

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

track, make a program (see “Programmingthe CD tracks” on page 10).

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

• Radio: Tune in the preset station youwant (see “Listening to the radio” on page11).

2 Adjust the volume.

3 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on theremote.“DAILY1 SET” appears.

4 Press V or v repeatedly to select“DAILY1 SET (or DAILY2 SET)”, thenpress ENTER.“ON” appears and the hour digits flash inthe display.

5 Set the time to start playback.Press V or v repeatedly to set the hour,then press ENTER.The minute indication flashes.Press V or v repeatedly on the remote toset the minute, then press ENTER.The hour indication flashes again.

6 Set the time to stop playback followingstep 5 above.

7 Press V or v repeatedly until the musicsource 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 (“DAILY1” or“DAILY2”), followed by the start time, stoptime and the music source appears, then theoriginal display 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.

NoteIf the power is on at the preset time, the Daily Timerdoes not work.

Do this

Press CLOCK/TIMERSELECT on the remote andpress V or v repeatedly toselect the respective mode(“DAILY1” or “DAILY2”),then press ENTER.

Start from step 1.

Press CLOCK/TIMERSELECT on the remote andpress V or v repeatedly toselect “TIMER OFF”, thenpress ENTER.

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Display

Turning off the display— Power Saving Mode

The demonstration display (the display changesand the indicators flash even when the systemis turned off) and the clock display can beturned off to minimize the amount of powerconsumed during standby mode (Power SavingMode).

Press DISPLAY repeatedly while thesystem is turned off until thedemonstration display or the clock displaydisappears.

To cancel Power Saving Mode

Press DISPLAY once to show thedemonstration, twice to show the clockdisplay.

Each time you press the button, the systemchanges cyclically as follows:

Demonstration t Clock* t Power SavingMode* “--.-- ” appears in the display if you have not set the

clock.

Tips• The @/1 indicator lights up even in Power Saving

Mode.• The timer continues to operate in Power Saving

Mode.• During Power Saving Mode, the following

functions do not work:— Setting the time.— Changing the AM tuning interval.— Pressing a function button to turn the power on.— Switching the function of MD (VIDEO).

Using the displayYou can check the remaining time of thecurrent track or that of the CD.

When a CD TEXT disc is loaded, you cancheck the information stored on the disc, suchas the titles. When the unit detects CD TEXTdiscs, the “CD-TEXT” indication appears inthe display.

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

During normal playbackPlaying time of the current track t Remainingtime of the current track t Remaining time ofthe current CD (“1 DISC” mode) or “--.-- ”display (“ALL DISCS” mode) t Title nameof the current track1) t Clock display (foreight seconds) t Effect status

When playback is stoppedWhen the CD player is in program mode andthere is a program:

The last track number of the program and thetotal playing time2) t Total number ofprogrammed tracks (for eight seconds)3) tTitle name of the CD1) t Clock display (foreight seconds) t Effect status

In other conditions:

Total number of tracks and the total playingtime t Title name of the CD1) t Clockdisplay (for eight seconds) t Effect status1) With CD TEXT discs only (certain characters

cannot be displayed). Depending on the disc,some CD TEXT information may not appear.

2) “--.-- ” appears in the following cases:– when the CD contains 21 tracks or more,

and the track number which exceeds 20 isselected.

– when the program time exceeds 100 minutes.3) “CD NO STEP” appears in the display if there is

no program track.

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MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Hooking Up the Optional Components

Connecting a Video GamePlayer

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

To

Listen to the soundof a connectedvideo game player

Select the preset effect

NotePressing GAME while the power is off automaticallyturns the power on and GAME is selected as afunction. The equalizer also switches to GAME EQand the previously selected effect is restored.

To the audio and video output of yourvideo game player.

To the video input of your TV

Do this

Press GAME (or GAME onthe remote).

(See “Selecting the preseteffect” on page 16)

Optical cover holder

To theDIGITAL INjack of yourMD deck

To the audiooutput of yourMD deck/VCR

Connecting an MD deckor VCR

You 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

Listen to the analogsound of a connectedMD deck

Listen to theconnected VCR

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

Notes• Pressing the MD (VIDEO) while the power is off

automatically turns the power on and MD isselected as a function.

• If the sound is distorted or too loud when VIDEOfunction is selected, or you want to switch back toMD function, repeat the operation described aboveto switch to MD function.

Do This

Connect an optional opticalcable.

Press MD (VIDEO).

Hold down MD (VIDEO) andpress @/1 while the power ison. Release @/1 first, thenrelease MD (VIDEO). Thisswitches the function fromMD to VIDEO. Once youswitched to the VIDEOfunction, just press MD(VIDEO).

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Connecting externalantennas

Connect an external antenna to improve thereception.

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

FM75

AM

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

FM75

AM

Insulated wire (not supplied)

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MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

Problems and remediesIf 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.

The demonstration mode started. Press @/1. (seestep 5 on page 7)

The clock/timer setting is canceled.

• The power cord is disconnected or a powerfailure occurs. Redo “Setting the clock”(on page 8). If you have set the timer, redo“Waking up to music” (on page 20) and“Timer-recording radio programs” (on page 14).

The radio presetting is canceled.

• The power cord is disconnected or a powerfailure occurs for longer than half a day. Redo“Presetting radio stations” (on page 11).

There is no sound.

• Turn VOLUME clockwise.• The headphones are connected to the PHONES

jack.• 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 unit.Move the unit away from the TV or VCR.

The sound from the component connected to theMD (VIDEO) jacks is distorted.

• If “VIDEO” appears in the display when youpress MD (VIDEO), switch to “MD” function(see “Note: Connecting an MD deck/VCR” onpage 22).

“-- --:-- --” appears in the display.

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

The timer does not function.

• Set the clock correctly.• You cannot activate the Daily timer and Timer-

recording simultaneously.

“DAILY1 SET”, “DAILY2 SET”, and “REC SET”do not appear when you press the CLOCK/TIMER SET button.

• 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 theunit’s sensor.

• The batteries have run down. Replace thebatteries.

There is acoustic feedback.

• Decrease the volume level.• Move the microphone away from 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 is input. Turn off the power,leave the system turned off for a while, then turnon the power again. If “PROTECT” and “PUSHPOWER” still appear alternately check thespeaker cords.

Speakers

Sound comes from only one channel orunbalanced left and right volume.

• Check the speaker connection and speakerplacement.

Sound lacks bass.

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

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CD Player

The disc tray does not open and “LOCKED”appears on the front panel display.

• Contact your Sony dealer or local authorizedSony service facility.

The disc tray does not close.

• The CD is not placed properly.

The CD does 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.

Playback does not start from the first track.

• The player is in Program Play or Shuffle Playmode. Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until“1 DISC” or “ALL DISCS” appears.

“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,cover the broken tab with adhesive tape.

• 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. (See “Cleaning the tapeheads” on page 26).

• The record/playback heads are magnetized. (See“Demagnetizing the tape heads” on page 26).

The tape does not erase completely.

• The record/playback heads are magnetized. (See“Demagnetizing the tape heads” on page 26).

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

• The capstans or pinch rollers are dirty. (See“Cleaning the tape heads” on page 26).

Noise increases or the high frequencies are erased.

• The record/playback heads are magnetized. (See“Demagnetizing the tape heads” on page 26).

Tuner

There is severe hum or noise (“TUNED” or“STEREO” flashes in the display).

• Adjust the antenna.• The signal is too weak. Connect an external

antenna.

A stereo FM program cannot be received instereo.

• 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 are cleared.

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MHC-RG77 4-238-409-11 (2)

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• Place the unit in a location with adequate

ventilation to prevent heat build-up in the unit.• 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 buildup• Although the unit heats up during operation, this is

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

ventilation to prevent heat build-up in the unit.If you use this unit at a large volume, the cabinettemperature of the top, side and bottom risesconsiderably. To avoid burning yourself, do not touchthe cabinet.To prevent a malfunction, do not cover the ventilationhole 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.• Discs with non-standard shapes (e.g., heart, square,

star) cannot be played on this unit. Attempting to doso may damage the unit. Do not use such discs.

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.

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

To save a tape permanentlyTo prevent a tape from being accidentally recordedover, break off the cassette tab. Refer to theinstructions of the tape.

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.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.

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Specifications

Amplifier sectionMHC-GX8000Total harmonic distortion

Less than 0.1 % (6 ohmsat 1 kHz, 100 W)

MHC-RG77The following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V50/60 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)

MHC-RG66TThe following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V50/60 HzDIN power output (rated) 100 + 100 watts

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

145 + 145 watts(6 ohms at 1 kHz,10% THD)

InputsGAME (VIDEO): 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms(phono jack)GAME (AUDIO): Voltage 250 mV,(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohmsMD/VIDEO (AUDIO) IN: voltage 450 mV/250 mV,(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohmsMIC: sensitivity 1 mV,(phone jack) impedance 10 kilohms

OutputsVIDEO OUT: max. output level 1 Vp-p,(phono jacks) unbalanced, Sync.

negative load impedance75 ohms

PHONES: accepts headphones of(stereo mini jack) 8 ohms or moreFRONT SPEAKER: accepts impedance of 6 to

16 ohmsSURROUND SPEAKER: accepts impedance of(MHC-GX8000/RG77 24 ohms or moreonly)

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 795 nmCD 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 50 – 13,000 Hz (±3 dB),

using Sony TYPE Icassette

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

Tuner section

FM 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 and North American models:

530 – 1,710 kHz(with the interval set at 10kHz)531 – 1,710 kHz(with the interval set at 9kHz)

Middle Eastern models: 531 – 1,602 kHz(with the interval set at 9kHz)

Other models: 531 – 1,602 kHz(with the interval set at 9kHz)530 – 1,710 kHz(with the interval set at 10kHz)

Antenna AM loop antennaAntenna terminals External antenna terminalIntermediate frequency 450 kHz

continued

AUDIO POWER SPECIFICATIONS

(MHC-GX8000 USA model only)

POWER OUTPUT AND TOTALHARMONIC DISTORTION:

With 6-ohm loads, both channels driven, from120 Hz - 10 kHz; rates 200 watts per channelminimum RMS power, with no more than 10%total harmonic distortion from 250 miliwatts torated output.

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Sony Corporation Printed in Malaysia

SpeakerFront speaker SS-RG88Speaker system 3-way, 3-unit,

bass-reflex typeSpeaker unitsSuper Woofer: 15 cm, cone typeWoofer: 15 cm, cone typeTweeter: 5 cm, cone typeNominal impedance 6 ohmsDimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 250 x 395 x

310 mmMass Approx. 6.2 kg net per

speaker

Surround speaker SS-RS88 for MHC-GX8000/RG77Speaker system 2 way, 2 unit,

bass-reflex typeSpeaker unitsWoofer 13 cm, cone typeTweeter 5 cm, cone typeNominal impedance 24 ohmsDimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 175 x 360 x 260

mmMass Approx. 3.4 kg net per

speaker

GeneralPower requirementsNorth America and Mexican models:

120 V AC, 60 HzArgentina/Thailand models:

220 V AC, 50/60 HzOther models: 120 V, 220 V or 230 - 240

V AC, 50/60 HzAdjustable with voltageselector

Power consumptionMHC-GX8000/RG77 240 wattsMHC-RG66T 230 watts

Dimensions (w/h/d)HCD-GX8000/RG77/RG66T

Approx. 280 x 360 x 445mm

Mass :HCD-GX8000/RG77/RG66T

Approx. 11.0 kg

Supplied accessories: AM loop antenna (1)Remote commander (1)Batteries (2)FM lead antenna (1)Front speaker pads (8)Surround speaker pads (8)(MHC-GX8000/RG77only)

Design and specifications are subject to changewithout notice.

Specifications (continued)