MHC-GX750/RG551S/RX550

SERVICE MANUAL

Ver 1.0 2004. 04

MHC-GX750/RG551S/RX550 are composed of following models. As for the service manual, it is issued for each component model, then, please refer to them.

US Model

MHC-GX750/RX550

Canadian model

MHC-GX750

E Model

MHC-RG551S

COMPONENT MODEL NAME

MHC-GX750 COMPACT DISC DECK RECEIVER SYSTEM FRONT SPEAKER SYSTEM SUB WOOFER SPEAKER SYSTEM TRANSMITTER HCD-GX750 SS-RG555 SS-WG750 TMR-HT1 MHC-RG551S HCD-RG551 SS-RG555 SS-WG750 MHC-RX550 HCD-RX550 SS-RG555 SS-WG750

PARTS LIST

Part No. Description ACCESSORIES ************ 0 1-477-801-11 1-478-518-11 1-501-374-92 1-559-906-32 ADAPTOR, AC (AC-GSX100) (GX750) COMMANDER, STANDARD (RM-SC3) ANTENNA, LOOP (AM) (EXCEPT E3) CORD, CONNECTION (PHONO PLUGSTEREO MINI) (1m) (GX750) 1-754-094-12 ANTENNA, LOOP (AM) (E3) 1-754-243-11 4-236-961-01 4-252-491-13 4-252-491-22 4-252-491-31 ANTENNA (FM) FOOT (for SPEAKER) MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH) (EXCEPT MX) MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH) (CND,E3) MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH) (E51,AR,MX) Remark
4-252-491-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH,SPANISH) (E2) 4-252-491-81 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ARABIC) (E3)
Abbreviation AR : Argentina model CND : Canadian model E2 : 120 V AC Area in E model E3 : 240 V AC Area in E model E51 : Chilean and Peruvian model MX : Mexican model
The components identified by mark 0 or dotted line with mark 0 are critical for safety. Replace only with part number specified.
Les composants identifis par une marque 0 sont critiques pour la scurit. Ne les remplacer que par une pice portant le numro spcifi.
MINI HI-FI COMPONENT SYSTEM

9-877-776-01

2004D04-1 2004. 04

Sony Corporation

Home Audio Company Published by Sony Engineering Corporation

NOTICE FOR THE CUSTOMERS IN THE CANADA (MHC-GX750 only)
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Son utilisation est autorise seulement aux conditions suivantes: (1) il ne doit pas produire de brouillage et (2) lutilisateur du dispositif doit tre prt accepter tout brouillage radioelctrique reu, mme si ce brouillage est susceptible de compromettre le fonctionnement du dispositif.
NOTICE FOR THE CUSTOMERS IN THE U.S.A AND CANADA (MHC-GX750 only)
Replace the AC power adaptor with model AC-GSX100 only, if replacement is necessary.
Except for European model ENERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark. As an ENERGY STAR partner, Sony Corporation
has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

Table of Contents

How to use this manual.. 5 Playable discs.. 5 Selecting the surround effect. 23 Enhancing video game sound.. 23 Game Sync Mixing video game sound with other sound source.. 23 Game Mixing Singing along.. 24 (MHC-RG555 only)

Getting Started

Hooking up the system.. 7 Setting the clock. 10

CD/MP3 Play

Loading a disc.. 11 Playing a disc.. 11 Normal Play/Shuffle Play Playing repeatedly.. 13 Repeat Play Creating your own program. 14 Program Play
Falling asleep to music.. 25 Sleep Timer Waking up to music.. 25 Play Timer Timer recording radio programs. 26 Rec Timer
Presetting radio stations. 15 Listening to the radio.. 16 Preset Tuning Manual Tuning Using the Radio Data System (RDS). 17 (European model only)

Display

Turning off the display.. 27 Power Saving Mode Viewing information about the disc in the display.. 28 Changing the Power illuminator. 28 (MHC-GX750/GX450/RG555/ RG551S/RG444S/RG441/ RG333/RX550 only)

Tape Play

Loading a tape.. 18 Playing a tape.. 18

Optional Components

Hooking up optional components. 29 Transmitter.. 30 (MHC-GX750 only)

Tape Recording

Recording your favorite CD tracks on a tape.. 19 CD-TAPE Synchro Recording Recording on a tape manually.. 20 Manual Recording

continued

Notes on CD-R and CD-RW
Some CD-Rs or CD-RWs cannot be played on this system depending upon the recording quality or physical condition of the disc, or the characteristics of the recording device. Furthermore, the disc will not play if it has not been correctly finalized. For more information, see the operating instructions for the recording device. Discs recorded on CD-R/CD-RW drives may not be played back because of scratches, dirt, recording condition or the drivers characteristics. CD-R and CD-RW discs recorded in multisession that have not ended by closing the session are not supported. The system may be unable to play MP3 format files that do not have the.MP3 extension. Attempting to play non-MP3 format files that have the.MP3 extension may result in noise or malfunction. With formats other than ISO9660 level 1 and 2, folder names or file names may not be displayed correctly. The following discs take a longer time to start playback. a disc recorded with complicated tree structure. a disc recorded in Multi Session. a disc to which data can be added (nonfinalized disc).
Music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies
This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard. Recently, various music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies are marketed by some record companies. Please be aware that among those discs, there are some that do not conform to the CD standard and may not be playable by this product.
Cautions when playing a disc that is recorded in Multi Session
If the disc begins with a CD-DA session, it is recognized as a CD-DA (audio) disc, and playback continues until an MP3 session is encountered. If the disc begins with an MP3 session, it is recognized as an MP3 disc, and playback continues until a CD-DA (audio) session is encountered. The playback range of an MP3 disc is determined by the tree structure of files produced by analyzing of the disc. A disc with a mixed CD format will be recognized as a CD-DA (audio) disc.

Hooking up the system

Perform the following procedures 1 to 5 to hook up your system using the supplied cords and accessories. A model equipped with a sub woofer is used for illustration purpose.

AM loop antenna

FM lead antenna Sub woofer*

Front speaker (right)

Front speaker (left)
* MHC-GX750/GX450/RG551S/RG444S/RX550 only
1 Connect the front speakers.

Connect the right and left speaker cords to the SPEAKER terminals as shown below.
Insert only the stripped portion Red
2 Connect the sub woofer. (MHC-GX750/GX450/RG551S/RG444S/ RX550 only)
Connect the speaker cords to the SUB WOOFER OUT jack and CONTROL jack as shown below.

SUB WOOFER OUT jack

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

CONTROL jack

3 Connect the FM and AM antennas.
Set up the AM loop antenna, then connect it.
Keep the antennas away from the speaker cords.
4 For models with a voltage selector, set VOLTAGE SELECTOR to the local power line voltage.
Plug type A AM loop antenna
Refer to the print on your systems VOLTAGE SELECTOR for available settings.

* Saudi Arabian model: V

Extend the FM lead antenna horizontally Plug type B AM loop antenna
5 Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.
The demonstration appears in the display. When you press ?/1, the system turns on and the demonstration automatically ends. If the plug does not fit the wall socket, detach the supplied plug adaptor (only for models equipped with an adaptor).
Inserting two R6 (size AA) batteries into the remote
Extend the FM lead antenna horizontally Plug type C AM loop antenna
If you do not use the remote for a long period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage and corrosion.
Tip Extend the FM lead antenna horizontally North American model: Connect white side. Other models: Connect brown side.
With normal use, the batteries should last for about six months. When the remote no longer operates the system, replace both batteries with new ones.
Attaching the front speaker pads
Attach the supplied speaker pads to the bottom of the speakers to stabilize the speakers and prevent them from slipping. Front speaker (Left (4)/Right (4)) Sub woofer (4)*
Placing the sub woofer (MHC-GX750/GX450/RG551S/ RG444S/RX550 only)
To obtain a better bass reproduction, we recommend you to place the sub woofer on a solid floor where resonance is unlikely to occur.
Always place the sub woofer vertically, keeping it a few centimeters away from the wall. If the sub woofer is placed in the center of a room, the bass could be extremely weakened. This is due to the influence of the standing wave of the room. If this happens, move the sub woofer away from the center of the room or eliminate the cause of the standing wave, by placing a bookshelf against the wall, etc.
When carrying this system
Perform the following procedure to protect the CD mechanism. Use buttons on the unit for the operation.
Make sure that all discs are removed from the system. Hold down CD and then press ?/1 until STANDBY appears.
After a few seconds later, STANDBY disappears and LOCK appears.

Do this

If TUNED does not appear and the scanning does not stop
Tune in a station with a weak signal Set another station to the existing preset number
Set the frequency of the desired radio station as described in steps 3 through 8 of Manual tuning preset (page 15).
Follow the procedure described in Manual tuning preset (page 15). Start over from step 2. After step 5, press or + (or TUNING or + on the unit) repeatedly to select the preset number you want to store the other station.

Press TUNER MEMORY.

Preset number
To change the AM tuning interval (except for European, Russian and Saudi Arabian models)
The AM tuning interval is factory-preset to 9 kHz (or 10 kHz for some areas). To change the AM tuning interval, tune in any AM station first, then turn off the system. While holding TUNING MODE on the unit, press ?/1 on the unit. When you change the interval, all the AM preset stations are erased. To reset the interval, repeat the same procedure.

Listening to the radio

You can listen to a radio station either by selecting a preset station, or by manually tuning in the station.
Listening to a preset station

Preset Tuning

Preset radio stations in the tuners memory first (see Presetting radio stations on page 15).
You cannot change the AM tuning interval in Power Saving Mode (page 27).
The preset stations are retained for about a day even if you disconnect the power cord or if a power failure occurs. To improve broadcast reception, adjust the supplied antennas, or connect a commercially available external antenna.
Press TUNER BAND (or FUNCTION repeatedly) to switch the function to tuner. Press TUNER BAND repeatedly to select FM or AM. Press TUNING MODE repeatedly until PRESET appears in the display. Press or + (or TUNING or + on the unit) repeatedly to select the desired preset station.

Preset number Frequency

Listening to non-preset radio station

Manual Tuning

Using the Radio Data System (RDS)

(European model only)

Press TUNER BAND (or FUNCTION repeatedly) to switch the function to tuner. Press TUNER BAND repeatedly to select FM or AM. Press TUNING MODE repeatedly until AUTO and PRESET disappear from the display. Press or + (or TUNING or + on the unit) repeatedly to tune in the desired station.

Load a tape.
To play both decks in succession, press PLAY MODE repeatedly until RELAY (Relay Play)* appears in the display.

The tape starts playing.

* After the playback of the front side of deck A, deck B plays the front side, then stops.
Stop play Pause Fast-forward or rewind Remove a tape
Press x. Press X. Press again to resume play. Press m or M. Press PUSH Z on the unit.
Recording your favorite CD tracks on a tape
CD-TAPE Synchro Recording
You can record a whole CD on a tape. You can use TYPE I (normal) tape. The recording level is adjusted automatically. Use buttons on the unit for the operation.
Searching for the beginning of the current or the next track (AMS)1) To go forward
Press > (or turn l L on the unit clockwise) during forward playback. TAPE A (or TAPE B) >>> +1 appears. Press. (or turn l L on the unit counterclockwise) during reverse playback.2) TAPE A (or TAPE B) <<< +1 appears.

Tape Play/Tape Recording

Load a recordable tape into deck B, then press TAPE A/B repeatedly to select deck B. (MHC-RG555 only) Press PLAY MODE repeatedly to select g to record on one side. Select j (or RELAY) to record on both sides.

To go back

Press. (or turn l L on the unit counterclockwise) during forward playback. TAPE A (or TAPE B) <<< 1 appears. Press > (or turn l L on the unit clockwise) during reverse playback.2) TAPE A (or TAPE B) >>> 1 appears.
When you want to record from the reverse side, press hH twice or until the TAPE B reverse side indicator lights up. Then press x.
Press CD and load a disc you want to record.
AMS (Automatic Music Sensor) MHC-RG555 only
The AMS function may not operate correctly under the following circumstances: When the unrecorded space between songs is less than 4 seconds long. When the system is placed near a television.
If you have already loaded the disc, press DISC SKIP/EX-CHANGE to select the disc. When you want to record an album from an MP3 disc, be sure to press PLAY MODE repeatedly to select ALBM, then press ALBUM or + to select the desired album before proceeding.

Press CD SYNC.

When a tape is inserted, corresponding forward (N)/ reverse (n) indicators light. The reverse indicator lights up only for MHC-RG555.

Checking the total playing time and titles (CD/MP3)
Press DISPLAY in stop mode.
x When a CD/MP3 is in Normal Play mode
The total playing time is not displayed for a disc with MP3 audio tracks. ID3 tag applies to version 1 and version 2. If the MP3 audio track you play back has an ID3 tag, the ID3 tag information is displayed as a track title. In the following cases, elapsed playing time and remaining time of the track may not be displayed accurately. when an MP3 audio track of VBR (variable bit rate) is played. when fast forward or fast reverse is performed. For Russian model, MP3 and ID3 tag information can be displayed in Russian characters. However, depending on the encoding/writing software or recording device, the characters may not be correctly displayed.
TOC display1) or total album number of the disc2) or total track number of the current album2) t Album name2) or volume label2) t Clock display (for eight seconds) t Effect status
Changing the Power illuminator
(MHC-GX750/GX450/RG555/RG551S/ RG444S/RG441/RG333/RX550 only)
Press ILLUMINATION on the unit.
TOC = Table of Contents; displays current disc number, total number of tracks on the disc, and total playing time of the disc. For discs with MP3 audio tracks, album names or volume label may not be displayed depending on the play mode.
Each time you press the button, the power illuminator changes cyclically as follows: PATTERN 1 t PATTERN 2 t PATTERN 3 t PATTERN OFF
Hooking up optional components
To enhance your system, you can connect optional components. Refer to the operating instructions provided with each component. A model equipped with a sub woofer is used for illustration purpose.
Optional video game machine From the audio and video output of the video game machine
TV To the video input of a TV

ALBUM MUBLA

TUNING

A GAME INPUT VIDEO jack

Use a video cable (not supplied) to connect the video output of the optional video game machine to this jack.
D VIDEO/MD IN jacks (MHC-RG555 only)
Use audio cords (not supplied) to connect the audio output of the optional component (such as VCR or MD deck) to these jacks. You can then output audio through this system.

Make sure the power cord and speaker cords are correctly and firmly connected. Find your problem in the troubleshooting checklist below and take the indicated corrective action.
If the problem persists after doing all of the above, consult your nearest Sony dealer.
When the ?/1 indicator flashes
Immediately unplug the power cord and check the following items. If your system has a voltage selector, is the voltage selector set to the correct voltage? Check the voltage for your region, then make sure the voltage selector is set correctly. Are the + and speaker cords shortcircuited? Are you using only the prescribed speakers? Is anything blocking the ventilation holes on the rear of the system? Check all the above items and fix any problems found. After ?/1 indicator stops flashing, reconnect the power cord and turn on the system. If the indicator still flashes, or if the cause of the problem cannot be found even after checking all the above items, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Troubleshooting 33GB

The remote does not function. Remove the obstacle. Move the remote closer to the system. Point the remote at the systems sensor. Replace the batteries (R6/size AA). Locate the system away from the fluorescent light. There is acoustic feedback. Reduce the volume. For MHC-RG555, 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 15 to 30 minutes. If the color irregularity still persists, place the speakers farther away from the TV set. The sound from the connected source is distorted (MHC-RG555 only). If VIDEO appears in the display when you press VIDEO/MD on the unit, switch the display to MD (see Listening to audio from a connected component (MHC-RG555 only) on page 30).
Play does not start. Open the disc tray and check whether a disc is loaded. Wipe the disc clean (page 37). Replace the disc. Place the disc that this system can play (page 5). Place the disc correctly. Place the disc in the tray with the label side up. Remove the disc and wipe away the moisture on the disc, then leave the system turned on for a few hours until the moisture evaporates. Press N to start play. The sound skips. Wipe the disc clean (page 37). Replace the disc. Try moving the system to a place without vibration (e.g., on top of a stable stand). Try moving the speakers away from the system, or placing them on separate stands. When you listen to a track with bass sounds at high volume, the speaker vibration may cause the sound to skip. Play does not start from the first track. Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until both PGM and SHUF disappear to return to Normal Play. MP3 audio track cannot be played back.* Recording was not performed according to the ISO9660 level 1 or level 2 format or Joliet in the expansion format. The MP3 audio track does not have the extension.MP3. The data is not stored in MP3 format. Discs containing files other than MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3 files cannot be played. MP3 audio tracks take longer to play back than others.* After the system reads all tracks on the discs, playback may take more time than usual if: the number of albums or tracks on the disc is very large. the album and track organization structure is very complex. The album name, track title and ID3 tag do not appear correctly.* Use a disc that conforms with ISO9660 level 1, level 2 or Joliet in the expansion format. The disc ID3 tag is not ver. 1 nor ver. 2. * MHC-GX750/GX450/RG555/RG551S/RG444S/ RG441/RG333/RG222/RG221/RX550 only

CD/MP3 player

The disc tray does not open and LOCKED appears. Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. The disc tray does not close. Place the disc correctly. Always close the tray by pressing Z on the unit. Trying to press the tray closed with your fingers may cause problems with the player. The disc does not eject. You cannot eject the disc during CD Synchro Recording. Press x to cancel the CD Synchro Recording, then press Z on the unit to eject the disc. Consult your nearest Sony dealer.
Severe hum or noise/stations cannot be received. (TUNED or STEREO flashes in the display.) Set the proper band and frequency (page 15). Connect the antenna properly (page 8). Find a place and an orientation that provide good reception, then set up the antenna again. If you cannot obtain good reception, we recommend you connect a commercially available external antenna. The supplied FM lead antenna receives signals along its entire length, so make sure you extend it fully. Locate the antennas as far away from the speaker cords as possible. Try turning off surrounding electrical equipment. A stereo FM program cannot be received in stereo. Press FM MODE repeatedly until STEREO appears.
Transmitter (MHC-GX750 only)
There is no sound. Check the connection of the optional component. Check that the optional component is turned on. Turn up the volume on the connected optional component, if the transmitter is connected to the headphones jack. Change the radio frequency using the CHANNEL selector on the transmitter, then press WIRELESS on the unit again. If you connect the transmitter to the analog out jacks of an audio reproducer, make sure that the NOISE FILTER switch is set to OFF. Make sure that the NOISE FILTER switch is set to either ON or OFF (If the switch gets stuck between ON and OFF, the sound will be cut off). There is severe hum or noise. If the transmitter is connected to the headphones jack, turn down the volume of the connected optional component. If the connected optional component has the BASS BOOST or MEGA BASS function, set these function to OFF. If the connected optional component has a LINE OUT jacks, connect its LINE OUT jacks. Change the radio frequency with the CHANNEL selector on the transmitter then press WIRELESS on the unit again. If you connect the transmitter to the analog out jacks of an audio reproducer, make sure that the NOISE FILTER switch is set to OFF.

Tape deck

The tape does not record or play, or there is a decrease in sound level. The heads are dirty. Clean them (page 38). The record/playback heads are magnetized. Demagnetize them (page 38). The tape does not erase completely. The record/playback heads are magnetized. Demagnetize them (page 38). There is excessive wow or flutter, or the sound drops out. The capstans or pinch rollers are dirty. Clean them (page 38). Noise increases or the high frequencies are erased. The record/playback heads are magnetized. Demagnetize them (page 38). The tape does not record. No cassette is loaded. Load a cassette. The tab has been removed from the cassette. Cover the broken tab with adhesive tape (page 38). The tape has wound to the end.

If the system still does not operate properly after performing the above measures, reset the system as follows:
Disconnect the power cord. Reconnect the power cord. Press x, PLAY MODE/TUNING MODE and DISC 1 at the same time. Press ?/1 to turn on the system.
The system is reset to the factory settings. You should set the settings you made, such as the preset stations, clock, and timer.

Messages

One of the following messages may appear or flash in the display during operation.

CD/MP3

NO DISC There is no disc in the player or you have loaded a disc that cannot be played on this system (such as DVD, VCD, or CD-ROM without MP3 audio tracks, etc.). OVER You have reached the end of the disc while pressing M during playback or pause. PUSH STOP You pressed PLAY MODE during playback. READING The system is reading information of the disc. Some buttons are not available. STEP FULL You tried to program 26 or more tracks (steps).
NO TAB You cannot record the tape because the tab has been removed from the cassette. NO TAPE There is no tape in the tape deck.

On the speaker system

Precautions

On operating voltage

Before operating the system, check that the operating voltage of your system is identical with the voltage of your local power supply.
This speaker system is not magnetically shielded and the picture on TV sets may become magnetically distorted. In such a case, turn off the power of the TV set once, and after 15 to 30 minutes turn it on again. If there seems to be no improvement, locate the speaker system further away from the TV set.

On operation

If the system is brought directly from a cold to a warm location, or is placed in a very damp room, moisture may condense on the lens inside the CD player. Should this occur, the system will not operate properly. Remove the disc and leave the system turned on for about an hour until the moisture evaporates. When you move the system, take out any disc. If you have any questions or problems concerning your system, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

On safety

The unit is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the unit itself has been turned off. Unplug the system from the wall outlet (mains) if it is not to be used for an extended period of time. To disconnect the power cord (mains lead), pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself. Should any solid object or liquid fall into the system, unplug the system and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further. AC power cord must be changed only at the qualified service shop.

If you later want to reuse the tape for recording, cover the broken tab with adhesive tape.
With 6 ohm loads, both channels driven, from 120 10,000 Hz: rated 160 watts per channel minimum RMS power, with no more than 10% total harmonic distortion from 250 milliwatts to rated output.
MHC-GX450 POWER OUTPUT AND TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION:
Before placing a cassette in the tape deck
Take up any slack in the tape. Otherwise, the tape may get entangled in the parts of the tape deck and become damaged.
When using a tape longer than 90 minutes
The tape is very elastic. Do not change the tape operations such as play, stop, and fast-winding frequently. The tape may get entangled in the tape deck.
With 6 ohm loads, both channels driven, from 120 10,000 Hz: rated 125 watts per channel minimum RMS power, with no more than 10% total harmonic distortion from 250 milliwatts to rated output.
MHC-GX250 POWER OUTPUT AND TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION:

Cleaning the tape heads

Clean the tape heads after every 10 hours of use. Be sure to clean the tape heads before you start an important recording or after playing an old tape. Use a separately sold dry-type or wet-type cleaning cassette. For details, refer to the instructions of the cleaning cassette.
With 6 ohm loads, both channels driven, from 120 10,000 Hz: rated 140 watts per channel minimum RMS power, with no more than 10% total harmonic distortion from 250 milliwatts to rated output.
North American models: MHC-GX750/RX550
Front speaker Continuous RMS power output (reference): 160 + 160 watts (6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10% THD) Total harmonic distortion less than 0.07% (6 ohms at 1 kHz, 80 W) Sub woofer Continuous RMS power output (reference): 180 watts (6 ohms at 50 Hz, 10% THD) Total harmonic distortion less than 0.07% (6 ohms at 50 Hz, 90 W)
Demagnetizing the tape heads
Demagnetize the tape heads and the metal parts that have contact with the tape after every 20 to 30 hours of use with a separately sold demagnetizing cassette. For details, refer to the instructions of the demagnetizing cassette.

Wow and flutter

MHC-RG121
The following measured at AC 120, 127, 220, 240 V 50/60 Hz DIN power output (rated): 50 + 50 watts (6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN) Continuous RMS power output (reference): 60 + 60 watts (6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10% THD) Inputs VIDEO/MD IN (phono jacks) (MHC-RG555 only): voltage 450/250 mV, impedance 47 kilohms GAME INPUT AUDIO L/R (phono jacks): voltage 250 mV, impedance 47 kilohms GAME INPUT VIDEO (phono jack): 1Vp-p, 75 ohms MIC (phone jack) (MHC-RG555 only): sensitivity 1 mV, impedance 10 kilohms Outputs PHONES (stereo mini jack): accepts headphones of 8 ohms or more VIDEO OUT (phono jack): max. output level 1Vp-p, unbalanced, Sync negative, load impedance 75 ohms SPEAKER: accepts impedance of 6 to 16 ohms SUB WOOFER OUT (MHC-GX750/GX450/ RG551S/RG444S/RX550 only): accepts impedance of 6 to 16 ohms

Tuner section

FM stereo, FM/AM superheterodyne tuner FM tuner section Tuning range North American model: Russian model:
Other models: Antenna Antenna terminals Intermediate frequency AM tuner section Tuning range Pan-American models:
87.5 108.0 MHz (100-kHz step) 65.0 74.0 MHz (There is no stereo effect. 10-kHz step) 87.5 108.0 MHz (50-kHz step) 87.5 108.0 MHz (50-kHz step) FM lead antenna 75 ohms unbalanced 10.7 MHz

CD player section

System Laser Compact disc and digital audio system Semiconductor laser (=780 nm) Emission duration: continuous 2 Hz 20 kHz (0.5 dB) nm More than 90 dB More than 90 dB
530 1,710 kHz (with the tuning interval set at 10 kHz) 531 1,710 kHz (with the tuning interval set at 9 kHz) European, Russian and Saudi Arabian models: 531 1,602 kHz (with the tuning interval set at 9 kHz) Other models: 530 1,710 kHz (with the tuning interval set at 10 kHz) 531 1,602 kHz (with the tuning interval set at 9 kHz) Antenna AM loop antenna Antenna terminals External antenna terminal Intermediate frequency 450 kHz
Frequency response Wavelength Signal-to-noise ratio Dynamic range

Speaker

North American models: Front speaker SS-RG555 for MHC-GX750/ RX550
Speaker system Speaker units Woofer: Sub woofer: Tweeter: Nominal impedance Dimensions (w/h/d) Mass 3-way, 3-unit, bass-reflex type 15 cm, cone type 15 cm, cone type 5 cm, cone type 6 ohms Approx. 295 mm Approx. 5.1 kg net per speaker

Front speaker SS-RG444 for MHC-RG222/ RG221
Speaker system Speaker units Sub woofer: Woofer: Tweeter: Nominal impedance Dimensions (w/h/d) Mass 3-way, 3-unit, bass-reflex type 13 cm, cone type 13 cm, cone type 5 cm, cone type 6 ohms Approx. 235 mm Approx. 3.7 kg net per speaker
Front speaker SS-RG121 for MHC-RG121

MHC-RG100:

55 watts 0.25 watts (at the Power Saving Mode) 155 watts 275 watts 155 watts 180 watts 180 watts 110 watts

Supplied accessories

Other models: MHC-RG555: MHC-RG551S: MHC-RG441: MHC-RG222: MHC-RG221: MHC-RG121:
Dimensions (w/h/d) incl. projecting parts and controls Amplifier/Tuner/Tape/CD section: Approx. 425 mm Transmitter (MHC-GX750 only) Approx. 103 mm Mass North American models: HCD-GX750: Approx. 10.5 kg HCD-GX450: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-GX250: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RX550: Approx. 10.5 kg European and Russian models: HCD-RG444S: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RG333: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RG222: Approx. 8.5 kg HCD-RG121: Approx. 8.5 kg HCD-RG100: Approx. 8.0 kg Other models: HCD-RG555: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RG551S: Approx. 10.5 kg HCD-RG441: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RG222: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RG221: Approx. 10.0 kg HCD-RG121: Approx. 8.5 kg Transmitter (MHC-GX750 only) Approx. 146 g
Remote Commander (1) R6 (Size AA) batteries (2) AM loop antenna (1) FM lead antenna (1) Transmitter (MHC-GX750 only) (1) AC adaptor (MHC-GX750 only) (1) Connecting cord phono plug-stereo miniplug (1m) (MHC-GX750 only) (1) Speaker pads MHC-GX750/GX450/ RG551S/RG444S/ RX550 (12) MHC-GX250/RG555/ RG441/RG333/RG222/ RG221/RG121/RG100 (8)
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
List of button locations and reference pages

How to use this page

Use this page to find the location of buttons and other parts of the system that are mentioned in the text.

Illustration number r

TAPE A/B ed (18, 19, 20, 24)
R Name of button/part R Reference page

Main unit

ALPHABETICAL ORDER AO PZ BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS
ALBUM +1) qh (12, 14, 19) ALBUM 1) wg (12, 14, 19) CD eg (9, 11, 14, 19, 20) CD SYNC wj (19) Deck A wk (18) Deck B qj (18, 19, 20, 24) DISC q; (12, 14, 35) DISC SKIP/EX-CHANGE qs (11, 12, 14, 19) Disc tray 9 (11) DISPLAY 2 (17, 27, 28) Display window 5 EFFECT ON/OFF 8 (22, 22) ENTER qa (14, 15, 22) EQ BAND 7 (22) GAME es (20, 23, 30) GAME INPUT AUDIO L/R jacks wd (20, 29) GAME INPUT VIDEO jack wf (29) GAME MIXING wh (23) GROOVE 8 (21) ILLUMINATION2) 3 (28) MIC jack3) ws (24) MIC LEVEL3) wa (24) Operation Dial ( EQ +/l L) 6 (12, 14, 19, 22)
P FILE qd (22) PHONES jack ql PLAY MODE wl (12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 35) Power illuminator2) qk (28) PRESET EQ qd (22) REC PAUSE/START wj (19, 20, 23, 24) Remote sensor 4 SURROUND 8 (23) TAPE A/B ed (18, 19, 20, 24) TUNER/BAND ef (15, 16, 20) TUNING MODE wl (15, 16, 35) TUNING + qh (15, 16) TUNING wg (15, 16) VIDEO/MD3) ea (20, 30) VOLUME control w; (21) WIRELESS4) ea (32)

?/1 (power) 1 (8, 16, 27, 30, 33, 35) X (pause) wg (12, 19) Z (eject) qf (11) PUSH Z (deck B) (eject) qg (18) x (stop) wg (12, 19, 19, 24, 35) M (fast forward) qh (12, 19) H or hH3) (play) qh (12, 18, 19) m (rewind) wg (12, 19) Z PUSH (deck A) (eject) e; (18) 1) MHC-GX750/GX450/RG555/ RG551S/RG444S/RG441/ RG333/RG222/RG221/RX550 only 2) MHC-GX750/GX450/RG555/ RG551S/RG444S/RG441/ RG333/RX550 only 3) MHC-RG555 only 4) MHC-GX750 only
q; eg ef ed es ea e; wl wk wj qa

qs qd qf qg qh qj qk ql

wh wg wf wd ws wa
Sub woofer (MHC-GX750/GX450/RG551S/RG444S/RX550 only)

ALPHABETICAL ORDER

Indicator 1 SUB WOOFER ON/OFF 2 (21)

Remote control

ALPHABETICAL ORDER AE FZ BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS
ALBUM * qd (12, 14) ALBUM +* qa (12, 14) CD qk (11, 14) CLEAR qg (14) CLOCK/TIMER SELECT 2 (26, 27) CLOCK/TIMER SET 3 (10, 25, 26) DISC SKIP q; (12, 14) DISPLAY wa (17, 27, 28) ENTER 9 (10, 14, 15, 25, 26) EQ qf (22)
FM MODE 4 (17) FUNCTION 6 (11, 14, 15, 16) PLAY MODE w; (12, 14, 18) REPEAT 4 (13) SLEEP ws (25) TAPE qj TUNER BAND 5 (15, 16) TUNER MEMORY ql (15) TUNING MODE w; (15, 16) VOLUME +/ qs (21, 25)
?/1 (power) 1 (8, 26) m/M (rewind/fast forward) 7 (12, 19) /+ (tuning) qh (15)./> (go back/go forward) qh (10, 12, 19) N (play) 8 (12, 18) X (pause) 8 (12, 19) x (stop) 8 (12, 19, 19) * MHC-GX750/GX450/RG555/ RG551S/RG444S/RG441/ RG333/RG222/RG221/RX550 only

ws wa w; ql qk qj qh

qg qf qd

9 q; qa qs

Sony Corporation Printed in China