MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
1
GB
Mini Hi-Fi
Component
System
Operating Instructions
4-244-569-11 (1)
MHC-GN900
MHC-GN800
MHC-GN700/GX8800
MHC-GN600
© 2003 Sony Corporation
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located at the rear of the unit. Record the serial
number in the space provided below. Refer to them whenever you call upon your
Sony dealer regarding this product.
Model No. Serial No.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
2
GB
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose 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 classified
as a CLASS 1 LASER
product. The CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
MARKING is located on
the rear exterior.
To prevent fire, do not cover the ventilation of the
apparatus with newspapers, table-cloths, curtains, etc.
And don’t place lighted candles on the apparatus.
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objects
filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
Don’t throw away the battery with
general house waste, dispose of it
correctly as chemical waste.
NOTICE FOR THE CUSTOMERS IN THE
U.S.A.
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
WARNING
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following
measures:
– 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 is
connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications
not expressly approved in this manual could void
your authority to operate this equipment.
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.
Notes on CD-R and CD-RW discs
This unit can play the following discs:
Type of discs Label on the disc
Audio CDs
MP3 files
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
3
GB
• Disc recorded in CD-R/CD-RW drives may not be
played back because of scratches, dirt, recording
condition or the drive’s characteristics.
• You cannot play a CD-R/CD-RW that is not
finalized*.
• Playback of multi-session CD-R/CD-RW is not
supported.
* A process necessary for a recorded CD-R/CD-RW
disc to be played back on the audio CD player.
About this manual
The instructions in this manual are for
models MHC-GN900, MHC-GN800, MHC-
GN700, MHC-GX8800 and MHC-GN600. In
this manual, the MHC-GN800 is used for
illustration purposes unless stated otherwise.
The MHC-GN900 consists of the
following components:
– Tuner/CD player/Stereo cassette
deck/Amplifier (main unit) HCD-GN900
– Speaker System
• Front speakers SS-GN900
The MHC-GN800 consists of the
following components:
– Tuner/CD player/Stereo cassette
deck/Amplifier (main unit) HCD-GN800
– Subwoofer SS-WG800
– Speaker System
• Front speakers SS-GN800
• Surround speakers SS-RS800
The MHC-GN700/MHC-GX8800 consists
of the following components:
– Tuner/CD player/Stereo cassette
deck/Amplifier (main unit) HCD-GN700/
HCD-GX8800
– Speaker System
• Front speakers SS-GN800
• Surround speakers SS-RS800
The MHC-GN600 consists of the
following components:
– Tuner/CD player/Stereo cassette
deck/Amplifier (main unit) HCD-GN600
– Speaker System
• Front speakers SS-GN800
Table of Contents
List of Button Location and
Reference Pages
Main unit ............................................... 5
Subwoofer
1)
............................................ 6
Remote Control ..................................... 6
Getting Started
Hooking up the system .......................... 7
Inserting two R6 (size AA) batteries into
the remote ........................................ 9
Setting the clock .................................... 9
CD
Loading a CD ...................................... 10
Playing a CD
–– Normal Play/Shuffle Play/
Repeat Play ................................... 10
Playing a disc with MP3 audio
tracks ............................................. 11
Programming the CD tracks
–– Program Play ............................ 13
Tuner
Presetting radio stations ....................... 14
Listening to the radio
–– Preset Tuning ........................... 15
–– Manual Tuning ......................... 15
Tape
Loading a tape ..................................... 16
Playing a tape ...................................... 16
Recording to a tape
–– CD Synchro Recording/
Recording Manually/
Program Edit ................................. 17
Timer-recording radio programs ......... 18
continued
1)
MHC-GN800 only.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
4
GB
Sound Adjustment
Adjusting the sound ............................. 20
Selecting the sound system
1)
................ 20
Using the subwoofer
2)
.......................... 20
Selecting the preset effect .................... 21
Adjusting the graphic equalizer and
storing the personal file ................. 21
Selecting the surround effect ............... 22
Display
Changing the spectrum analyzer
display ........................................... 23
Adjusting the brightness of the
display ........................................... 23
Changing the power illuminator .......... 23
Turning off the display
— Power Saving Mode ................. 23
Using the CD display .......................... 24
Other Features
Enhancing the video game sound
— Game Sync ............................... 25
Mixing video game sound with other
sound source
— Game Mixing ........................... 25
Singing along ....................................... 25
Falling asleep to music
— Sleep Timer .............................. 26
Waking up to music
— Daily Timer .............................. 26
Optional Components
Hooking up optional components ........ 28
Listening to audio from a connected
component ..................................... 29
Recording on a connected
component ..................................... 29
Connecting external antennas .............. 29
Troubleshooting
Problems and remedies ........................ 30
Messages ............................................. 32
Additional Information
Precautions .......................................... 33
Specifications ...................................... 34
Table of Contents (continued)
1)
MHC-GN800/GN700/GX8800 only.
2)
MHC-GN800 only.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
List of Button Location and Reference Pages
5
GB
ALBUM +/– qg (12, 13)
AMP MENU rd (15, 23)
CD r; (9–13, 17, 18)
CD SYNC qj (17, 18)
DECK A wk (16)
DECK B wd (16–18)
DIRECTION 9 (16–18)
DISC 1~3 3 (10, 12, 13, 18)
DISC SKIP EX-CHANGE 4 (10–12)
Disc tray 6 (10)
DISPLAY ra (23, 24)
Display 2
EDIT 9 (18)
EFFECT ON/OFF rf (21)
FM MODE 8 (15, 32)
GAME eh (25, 29)
GAME EQ ea (21)
GAME INPUT (jacks) wj (17, 25)
GAME MIXING ef (17, 25)
GROOVE ed (20)
IR (receptor) rs
ILLUMINATION wl (23)
MD (VIDEO) ej (29, 30)
MIC (jack) wh (25)
MIC LEVEL wg (25)
MOVIE EQ qh (21)
MUSIC EQ eg (21)
OPEN/CLOSE Z 5 (10–12)
P FILE wa (21, 22)
PHONES (jack) wf (30)
PLAY MODE 7 (10, 11, 13, 18,
31)
Power illuminator e; (23)
PUSH ENTER q; (9, 13, 14, 18,
19, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 32)
REC PAUSE/START qk (17, 18,
25)
REPEAT 8 (11, 12)
SURROUND (MHC-GN900/
GN600 only) w; (22)
SURROUND SPEAKER MODE
(except for MHC-GN900/
GN600) w; (20)
TAPE A/B ek (16, 17)
TUNER/BAND el (14, 15)
TUNER MEMORY 7 (14)
VOLUME ws (20, 30)
SYMBOLS
@/1 (power) 1
hH (play) qa
x (stop) qs
X (pause) qd
– . (go backward) qf
> + (go forward) qf
m (rewind) qg
M (fast forward) qg
V/v/B/b q;
A A (Eject A) es
A B (Eject B) ql
List of Button Location and Reference Pages
ALPHABETICAL ORDER
A - D
M - Q
wk
e
k
wl
e
l
e;
ea
es
eg
ed
ef
ej
eh
r
d
r;
r
a
r
s
rf
X
wg
wh
wj
L
M
N
O
qh
qj
q
l
qk
w;
wa
ws
W
0
K
4 5 6
1
2 3
7
8
9
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.
Main unit
Illustration number
r
PLAY MODE 7 (10, 11, 13, 18, 31)
R R
Name of button/part Reference page
E - L
R - Z
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
6
GB
Remote Control
D
E
R
S
T
U
V
ABC
Y
X
W
qh
qj
qa
qs
qd
qf
7
q;
qg
8
9
6
CD ql (9–13, 17, 18)
CLEAR 7 (13, 18)
CLOCK/TIMER SELECT 2
(19, 27)
CLOCK/TIMER SET 3 (9, 18, 26,
30)
D.SKIP 9 (10, 12)
ENTER qd (9, 13, 14, 18, 19, 21,
22, 23, 26, 27, 32)
EFFECT ON/OFF qf (21)
GAME w; (25, 29)
MD (VIDEO) q; (29, 30)
PRESET – wd (14, 15)
PRESET + wf (14, 15)
PRESET EQ qj (21)
P FILE qh (21, 22)
SURROUND (MHC-GN900/
GN600 only) qs (22)
SURROUND SPEAKER MODE
(except for MHC-GN900/
GN600) qs (20)
SLEEP 1 (26)
TAPE A/B qa (16, 17)
TUNER/BAND qk (14, 15)
TUNING – wa (14, 15)
TUNING + ws (14, 15)
VOL +/– 8 (20)
SYMBOLS
@/1 (power) 4
nN (play) wg
X (pause) 5
x (stop) 6
.(go backward) wd
> (go forward) wf
m (rewind) wa
M (fast forward) ws
M/m/</, qg
A - M
P - Z
ALPHABETICAL ORDER
Subwoofer
LINK (indicator) 2 (20)
MATRIX SURR 1 (indicator) 3 (20)
MATRIX SURR 2 (indicator) 4 (20)
SUBWOOFER LEVEL 6 (20)
SUBWOOFER ON/OFF 1 (20)
SURROUND SPEAKER MODE 5 (20)
A - Z
A
B
6
E
D
C
ALPHABETICAL ORDER
(MHC-GN800 only)
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Getting Started
7
GB
Getting Started
Hooking up the system
Do the following procedure 1 to 6 to hook up your system using the supplied cords and
accessories.
AM loop antenna
Front speaker
(Left)
Front speaker
(Right)
FM antenna
Surround
speaker (Left)
(MHC-GN800/
GN700/GX8800
only)
LR
_
Insert only the stripped portion.
Black/Stripe (#)
Red/Solid (3)
Surround
speaker (Right)
(MHC-GN800/
GN700/GX8800
only)
Black/Stripe (#)Blue/Solid (3)
Insert only the stripped portion.
Main Unit
Subwoofer
(MHC-GN800
only)
1 Connect the front speakers.
Connect the speaker cords to the FRONT
SPEAKER terminals.
Red
LR
+
_
Blue
2 Connect the surround speakers
(MHC-GN800, MHC-GN700 and
MHC-GX8800 only).
Connect the speaker cords to SURROUND
SPEAKER terminals.
Note
Keep the speaker cords away from the antennas to
prevent noise.
1
3
2
2
6
1
4
5
4
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
8
GB
3 Connect the subwoofer
(MHC-GN800 only).
Connect the subwoofer cords to the
SUBWOOFER terminals and the system
cord to the SYSTEM CONTROL jack. Be
sure to match the color of the cord and
terminals/jacks.
Notes
• Be sure to make this connection before you connect
the main unit’s power cord to a wall outlet.
• Place the subwoofer at least 0.3 meters (1 feet)
away from the main unit.
4 Connect the FM and AM antennas.
Set up the AM loop antenna, then connect
it.
To disconnect
+
Insert only the stripped portion.
Black/Stripe (#)Grey/Solid (3)
Grey
220V
120V
230-
VOLTAGE SELECTOR
240V
Extend the FM lead
antenna horizontally
AM loop antenna
5 For models equipped with a voltage
selector, set VOLTAGE SELECTOR to
the position of your local power line
voltage.
6 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 supplied adaptor on the plug does not
fit your wall outlet, detach it from the plug
(only for models equipped with an adaptor).
To connect optional components
See page 28.
To attach the speaker pads
Attach the supplied speaker pads to the bottom
of the speakers to stabilize the speakers and to
prevent them from slipping.
SUBWOOFER terminals
SYSTEM CONTROL jack
–AM
FM75
Ω
COAXIAL
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Getting Started
9
GB
Inserting two R6 (size AA)
batteries into the remote
E
e
e
E
R6 (AA)
batteries
Tip
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.
Note
If you do not use the remote for a long period of time,
remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from
battery leakage.
Setting the clock
1 Press ?/1 to turn on the system.
2 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on the
remote.
3 Press M or m repeatedly to set the hour.
4 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
5 Press M or m repeatedly to set the
minute.
6 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
The clock starts functioning.
To adjust the clock
1 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on the
remote.
2 Press M or m repeatedly to select
“CLOCK SET?” and then press PUSH
ENTER (or ENTER on the remote).
3 Do the same procedure as steps 3 to
6 above.
Note
The clock settings are cancelled when you disconnect
the power cord or if a power failure occurs.
Front
speaker
(L)
Front
speaker
(R)
45º
Surround
speaker
(L)
Surround
speaker
(R)
Main Unit
Subwoofer
*
0.3m
Positioning the speakers
(Except for MHC-GN900/GN600)
Place the front speakers at an angle of 45
degrees from your listening position.
* (MHC-GN800 only)
Place the subwoofer at least 0.3 meters (1 feet)
away from the main unit.
Notice for carrying this system
Do the following to protect the CD
mechanism.
1 Make sure that all discs are removed
from the main unit.
2 Hold down CD and then press ?/1 until
“LOCK” appears in the display.
3 Release ?/1 first, then release CD.
4 Unplug the AC power cord.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
10
GB
Select
ALL DISCS
(Normal Play)
1 DISC/ALBM
(Normal Play)
ALL DISCS SHUF
(Shuffle Play)
1 DISC SHUF/
ALBM SHUF
(Shuffle Play)
PGM
(Program Play)
Loading a CD
1 Press OPEN/CLOSE Z.
The disc tray slides out.
2 Place a CD with the label side up on the
disc tray.
To insert additional discs, press DISC SKIP
EX-CHANGE to rotate the disc tray.
3 Press OPEN/CLOSE Z to close the disc
tray.
Playing a CD
––Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat
Play
This system lets you play the CD in different
play modes.
1 Press CD.
2 When playback is stopped, press PLAY
MODE repeatedly until the play mode
you want lights up in the display.
CD
LINK
LINK
ALL DISCS
SURR
EFFECT
V - GROOVE
B
A
Track
number Playing time
Disc presence
indicator
Disc tray
number
When you play a
CD single, place it
on the inner circle
of the tray
3 Press hH.
Tip
You cannot change the play mode during playback.
To change the play mode, press x to stop playback.
Other Operations
To
Stop playback
Pause playback
Select a track
Find a point in a track
Select a CD when
playback is stopped
Switch to CD function
from another source
To play
All CDs in the disc tray
continuously.
The CD you have selected in the
original order.
The tracks on all CDs in random
order.
The tracks on the CD you have
selected in random order.
The tracks on all CDs in the
order you want them to be
played back (see “Programming
the CD tracks” on page 13).
Do this
Press x.
Press X. Press again to
resume playback.
Press > (to go forward)
or . (to go backward).
Press and hold down M or
m during playback and
release it at the point you
want.
Press one of the DISC 1~3
buttons or DISC SKIP EX-
CHANGE (or D.SKIP on
the remote).
Press CD or one of the
DISC 1~3 buttons
(Automatic Source
Selection).
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
CD
11
GB
To
Play repeatedly
(Repeat Play)
Cancel Repeat
Play
Exchange other CDs
while playing
Remove the CD
*1
All the tracks on the CD are played back repeatedly
up to five times. You cannot select “REP” and
“ALL DISCS SHUF” at the same time.
*2
The current track is played back repeatedly until
“REP 1” is cancelled.
Tips
• When you press CD or one of the DISC 1~3 buttons
to switch to CD function from tuner, you may
require a longer time to access the disc. Set “CD
POWER ON” by CD manage function (page 15).
• If you press CD while the power is off, the power
turns on and CD is selected as a function.
Playing a disc with MP3
audio tracks
About MP3 audio tracks
MP3 (MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3) is a standard
technology and format for compressing a sound
sequence. The track is compressed to about
1/10 of its original size. Sounds outside the
range of human hearing are compressed while
the sounds we can hear are not compressed.
Notes on discs
You can play MP3 audio tracks recorded on
CD-ROMs, CD-Rs (recordable CDs) and
CD-RWs (rewritable CDs).
Do this
Press REPEAT repeatedly to
select “REP”
*1
or “REP 1”
*2
.
Press REPEAT until “REP”
or “REP 1” disappears from
the display.
Press DISC SKIP
EX-CHANGE.
Press OPEN/CLOSE Z.
Track
number
Playing time
LINK
LINK
ALL DISCS
SURR
EFFECT
V - GROOVE
B
A
Disc tray
number
The disc must be in the ISO 9660
*
level 1,
level 2 or Joliet format.
*
ISO 9660 Format
The most common international standard
for the logical format of files and folders
on a CD-ROM. There are several
specification levels. In Level 1, file names
must be in the 8.3 format (no more than
eight characters in the name, no more than
three characters in the extension “.MP3”)
and in capital letters. Folder names can be
longer than eight characters. There can be no
more than eight nested folder levels. Level 2
specifications allow file names and folder
names up to 31 characters long.
––Normal Play/Shuffle Play/Repeat
Play
This system lets you play a disc with MP3
audio tracks in different play modes.
1 Press CD.
2 When playback is stopped, press PLAY
MODE repeatedly until the play mode
you want lights up in the display.
continued
Disc presence
indicator
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
12
GB
Select
ALL DISCS
(Normal Play)
1 DISC
(Normal Play)
ALBM
(Normal Play)
ALL DISCS SHUF
(Shuffle Play)
1 DISC SHUF
(Shuffle Play)
ALBM SHUF
(Shuffle Play)
PGM
(Program Play)
3 Press hH .
Other Operations
To
Stop playback
Pause playback
Select a track
Select an album
*1
Find a point in a track
*2
Select a disc when
playback is stopped
To play
All discs in the disc tray
continuously.
The disc you have selected in the
original order.
The album you have selected in
the original order.
The tracks on all discs in random
order.
The tracks on the disc you have
selected in random order.
The tracks in the album you have
selected in random order.
The tracks on all discs in the
order you want them to be
played back (see “Programming
the CD tracks” on page 13).
Playing a disc with MP3 audio tracks
(continued)
Do this
Press x.
Press X. Press again to
resume playback.
Press > (to go forward)
or . (to go backward).
Press ALBUM +/–.
Press and hold down M or
m on the remote during
playback and release it at the
point you want.
Press one of the DISC 1~3
buttons or DISC SKIP
EX-CHANGE (or D.SKIP
on the remote).
Press CD or one of the DISC
1~3 buttons (Automatic
Source Selection).
Press REPEAT repeatedly to
select “REP”
*3
or “REP 1”
*4
.
Press REPEAT until “REP”
or “REP 1” disappears from
the display.
Press DISC SKIP
EX-CHANGE.
Press OPEN/CLOSE Z.
*1
You cannot select an album during ALL DISCS
SHUF and 1 DISC SHUF.
*2
You may not be able to search between multiple
tracks. Furthermore, the playing time may not be
displayed correctly depending on the MP3 audio
tracks.
*3
All the tracks on the CD are played back repeatedly
up to five times. You cannot select “REP” and
“ALL DISCS SHUF” at the same time.
*4
The current track is played back repeatedly until
“REP 1” is cancelled.
Tips
• When you press CD or one of the DISC 1~3 buttons
to switch to CD function from tuner, you may
require a longer time to access the disc. Set “CD
POWER ON” by CD power manage function
(page 15).
• If you press CD while the power is off, the power
turns on and CD is selected as a function.
Notes
• With formats other than ISO 9660 and Joliet, album
titles or track titles may not be displayed correctly.
• When naming, be sure to add the file extension
“.MP3” to the track title.
• If you save up the extension “.MP3” to a track other
than MP3 audio tracks, the unit cannot recognize
the track properly and will generate random noise
that could damage your speakers.
• You are recommended not to save other type of
tracks or unneccessary album on a disc that has
MP3 audio tracks.
• The disc recorded with complicated tree structure
takes a longer time to start playback.
• When the disc is inserted, the player reads all the
tracks in that disc. If there are many albums or non
MP3 audio tracks on the disc, it may take a longer
time for playback to begin or for the next MP3
audio track to start playback.
Switch to CD function
from another source
Play repeatedly
(Repeat Play)
Cancel Repeat
Play
Exchange other discs
while playing
Remove the disc
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
CD
13
GB
• An album that does not include an MP3 audio track
is skipped.
• Maximum album number: 150 (including root
folder).
• The maximum number of MP3 audio tracks and
albums that can be contained in a single disc is 300.
• Playback is possible up to 8 levels.
• Playback follows the recorded order of albums and
tracks on the disc.
• There may be an exception to these rules depending
on the disc.
• Depending on the encoding/writing software,
recording device, or the recording media used at the
time an MP3 audio track is recorded, you may
encounter problems such as cannot playback, sound
interruptions, and noise.
Programming the CD
tracks
–– Program Play
You can make a program of up to 25 tracks
from all the CDs in the order you want them to
be played back.
1 Press CD.
2 Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until
“PGM” lights up in the display.
3 Press one of the DISC 1~3 to select a
CD.
To program all the tracks on a CD at once,
proceed to step 5 while “AL” appears on the
display.
4 Press . or > repeatedly until the
track you want appears in the display.
Track
number
Total playing
time (including
selected track)
LINK
LINK
ALL DISCS
SURR
EFFECT
V - GROOVE
B
A
Disc tray
number
5 Press PUSH ENTER.
The track(s) is (are) programmed. The
program step number appears, followed by
the total playing time.
6 Program additional discs or tracks.
To program
Other discs
Other tracks on the
same disc
Other tracks on other
discs
7 Press hH.
Other Operations
To
Cancel Program Play
Clear a track from
the end
To program the MP3 audio tracks
After step 3, press ALBUM +/– repeatedly
until the album you want appears, then proceed
to step 4.
Tips
• The program you made remains in the system’s
memory even after it has been played back. Press
hH to play the same program again.
• If “--.--” appears instead of the total playing time
during programming, this means:
– you have programmed a track number
which exceeds 20.
– the total playing time has exceeded 100 minutes.
– you have programmed an MP3 audio track.
Repeat steps
3 and 5
4 and 5
3 to 5
Do this
Press PLAY MODE
repeatedly until “1 DISC” or
“ALL DISCS” lights up in
the display.
Press CLEAR on the remote
when playback is stopped.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
14
GB
Tuner
Preset number
Setting presets through
automatic tuning
1 Press TUNER/BAND repeatedly to
select “FM” or “AM”.
2 Press and hold M or m (or TUNING
+ or – on the remote) until “AUTO”
appears in the display and the
frequency indication starts to change,
then release.
Scanning stops when the system tunes in a
station. “TUNED” and “STEREO” (for a
stereo program) lights up in the display.
3 Press TUNER MEMORY.
A preset number appears in the display.
The stations are stored from preset
number 1.
Presetting radio stations
You can preset up to 20 FM stations and 10
AM stations. You can then tune in any of those
stations simply by selecting the corresponding
preset number.
There are two ways to store the station presets.
To
Automatically tune in
all of the stations that
can be received in your
area and store your
favourite stations
manually
Manually tune in and
store the radio frequency
of your favourite stations
Do this
Setting presets through
automatic tuning
Setting presets through
manual tuning
4 Press > or . (or PRESET + or –
on the remote) repeatedly to select the
preset number you want to store.
5 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
“Complete!” appears in the display. The
station is stored.
6 Repeat steps 1 to 5 to store other
stations.
Setting presets through
manual tuning
1 Press TUNER/BAND repeatedly to
select “FM” or “AM”.
2 Press M or m (or TUNING + or – on
the remote) repeatedly to tune in the
station you want.
3 Press TUNER MEMORY.
A preset number appears in the display.
The stations are stored from preset number
1.
4 Press > or . (or PRESET + or – on
the remote) repeatedly to select the
preset number you want.
5 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
“Complete!” appears in the display. The
station is stored.
6 Repeat steps 1 to 5 to store other
stations.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Tuner
15
GB
Other Operations
To
Tune in a station
with a weak signal
Set another
station to an
existing preset
number
To improve tuner reception
When the tuner reception is poor, set the CD power
manage function to “CD POWER OFF”. The default
setting is “CD POWER ON”.
1 Press CD.
2 Press @/1 to turn off the system.
3 Press @/1 while holding x. “CD
POWER OFF” appears.
To reset to “CD POWER ON”
Repeat the procedure above.
Notes
• When “CD POWER OFF” is selected, the CD
access time is increased.
• You cannot change the setting in Power Saving
Mode.
To change the AM tuning interval
(Except Middle Eastern models)
The factory settings for AM tuning interval is 9 kHz
(10 kHz in some areas). To change the AM tuning
interval, select any AM station first, then turn off the
power. While holding down the AMP MENU button,
turn the power back on. When you change the
interval, AM preset stations will be erased. To reset
the interval, 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 failure
occurs.
• If you press TUNER/BAND while the power is off,
the power turns on automatically and TUNER is
selected as a function.
Do this
Follow the procedure described
in “Setting presets through
manual tuning”.
Start over from step 1. After step
3, press > or . (or
PRESET + or – on the remote)
repeatedly to select the preset
number you want to store the
other station.
Preset number
Frequency
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
Before tuning to preset stations, be sure to
preset them (see “Presetting radio stations”
on page 14).
1 Press TUNER/BAND repeatedly to
select “FM” or “AM”.
2 Press > or . (or PRESET
+ or – on the remote) repeatedly to tune
in the preset station you want.
Listening to non-preset radio
station
— Manual Tuning
1 Press TUNER/BAND repeatedly to
select “FM” or “AM”.
2 Press M or m (or TUNING + or – on
the remote) repeatedly to tune in the
station you want.
Tips
• To improve broadcast reception, adjust the supplied
antennas.
• When an FM stereo program has static noise, press
FM MODE repeatedly until “MONO” appears.
There will be no stereo effect, but the reception will
improve.
• Press and hold M or m (or TUNING + or – on
the remote). The frequency indication changes and
scanning stops when the system tunes in a station
(Automatic Tuning).
• To record from the radio, see “Recording to a tape”
on page 17 or “Timer-recording radio programs” on
page 18.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
16
GB
Loading a tape
1 Press TAPE A/B repeatedly to select
Deck 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 select
“g” to play one side, “j” to play
both sides or “RELAY”* (Relay Play) to
play both decks in succession.
3 Press hH.
The tape starts playing.
Press hH again to play the reverse side.
* Relay Play follows this cyclic sequence:
Deck A (front side) t Deck A (reverse side) t
Deck B (front side) t Deck B (reverse side)
Tape
Tape presence indicator
Insert with the
side you want to
play/record facing
forward.
To
Stop playback
Pause playback
Fast-forward
Rewind
Remove the cassette
Tips
• During j or Relay Play, the deck stops
automatically after repeating the sequence five
times.
• If you press TAPE A/B while the power is off, the
power turns on automatically and TAPE is selected
as a function.
• When a tape (tapes) is (are) inserted, corresponding
presence indicators light up.
Searching for the beginning of a
track (AMS*)
During playback, press > or . repeatedly
for the number of songs you want to skip
forward (or backward).
The search direction, + (forward) or
– (backward), and the number of songs being
skipped (1~9) appear in the display.
* AMS (Automatic Music Sensor)
Note
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 unit is placed near a television.
Example: searching forward 2 songs
LINK
LINK
ALL DISCS
SURR
EFFECT
V - GROOVE
B
A
Do this
Press x.
Press X. Press again to resume
playback.
Press M while playing the
front side, or press m while
playing the reverse side.
Press m while playing the
front side, or press M while
playing the reverse side.
Press A A or A B.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Tape
17
GB
Recording to a tape
–– CD Synchro Recording/Recording Manually/Program Edit
You can record from a CD, tape, radio or other connected components. The recording level is
adjusted automatically.
Recording from a CD
(CD Synchro Recording)
Recording Manually
Insert a recordable tape into deck B.
Press CD.
Press a function button for the recording source.
Load the CD you want to
record.
Load the CD or tape (or other audio sources),
or tune to the station you want to record.
Press CD SYNC. 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 start
playing 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 reverse
side, 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 and
press hH twice to start playback of the reverse
side. Press x at the point where you want to start
recording. The TAPE B reverse side indicator lights
up.
• For recording from the radio:
If noise is heard while recording from the radio,
move the respective antenna to reduce the noise.
• For recording from a CD to a tape manually:
You can press > or . to select tracks during
recording pause mode (after step 4 and before step
6).
Press x to stop recording.
Steps
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
• You can mix the sound from the component
connected to the GAME INPUT jacks with another
function such as CD, tape, radio or MD connected
to this system. To record the mixed sound, press
GAME MIXING after step 4 of “Recording
Manually” and then press REC PAUSE/START to
start recording. Game Mixing does not function
during CD Synchro Recording.
Note
You cannot listen to other sources while recording.
continued
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
18
GB
Recording a CD by specifying
track order
— Program Edit
You can record tracks from all the CDs in the
order you want. When programing, make sure
the playing times for each side do not exceed
the length of one side of the tape.
1 Insert a recordable tape into deck B,
then press CD.
2 Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until
“PGM” lights up in the display.
3 Press one of the DISC 1~3 button to
select a CD.
To program all the tracks on a CD at once,
proceed to step 5 while “AL” appears in the
display.
4 Press > or . repeatedly until the
tracks you want appears in the display.
5 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
The track(s) is (are) programmed. The
program step number appears, followed by
the total playing time.
6 To program additional tracks, repeat
steps 3 to 5.
Skip step 3 to select tracks from the same
disc.
7 Press CD SYNC.
Deck B standby for recording. The REC
PAUSE/START indicator flashes.
8 Press DIRECTION repeatedly to select
“g” 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 from
the end
Tip
To check the required tape length for recording a CD,
press EDIT after you have loaded a CD and pressed
CD. The required tape length for the currently
selected CD appears, followed by the total playing
time for side A and side B respectively (Tape Select
Edit).
Note
You cannot use Tape Select Edit for discs containing
over 20 tracks or MP3 audio tracks.
Timer-recording radio
programs
To timer-record, you must preset the radio
station (see “Presetting radio stations” on
page 14) and set the clock (see “Setting the
clock” on page 9) beforehand.
1 Tune in the preset radio station (see
“Listening to the radio” on page 15).
2 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on the
remote.
“DAILY SET?” appears in the display.
3 Press M or m repeatedly to select
“REC SET?”, then press PUSH ENTER
(or ENTER on the remote).
“ON” appears and the hour indication
flashes in the display.
Do This
Press PLAY MODE
repeatedly until “1 DISC” or
“ALL DISCS” lights up in
the display.
Press CLEAR on the remote
when playback is stopped.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Tape
19
GB
4 Set the time to start recording.
Press M or m repeatedly to set the hour,
then press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on
the remote).
The minute indication starts flashing.
Press M or m repeatedly to set the minute,
then press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on
the remote).
5 Repeat step 4 to set the time to stop
recording.
The start time appears, followed by the stop
time, the preset radio station to be recorded
(e.g., “TUNER FM 5”), then the original
display appears.
6 Insert a recordable tape into deck B.
Make sure the tape is in forward direction.
7 Press @/1 to turn off the power.
When the recording starts, the volume level
is set to the minimum.
To
Check the setting
Change the setting
Cancel timer
operation
Notes
• If you do not turn off the power before the preset
time, the timer-recording does not function.
• The power will turn on 15 seconds before the preset
time.
Do this
Press CLOCK/TIMER
SELECT on the remote and
press M or m repeatedly to
select “REC SELECT?”. Then,
press PUSH ENTER (or
ENTER on the remote).
Start from step 1.
Press CLOCK/TIMER
SELECT on the remote and
press M or m repeatedly to
select “TIMER OFF?”. Then,
press PUSH ENTER (or
ENTER on the remote).
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
20
GB
Sound Adjustment
Adjusting the sound
You can reinforce the bass and create a more
powerful sound.
Press GROOVE repeatedly.
Each time you press the button, the display
changes cyclically as follows:
GROOVE t V-GROOVE t GROOVE OFF
GROOVE
The volume switches to power mode and the
equalizer curve changes to suit the music
source.
V-GROOVE
The volume switches to power mode and the
equalizer curve changes to suit the movie
source.
Selecting the sound
system
(MHC-GN800/GN700/GX8800 only)
You can enjoy different sounds by selecting the
sound mode you want.
MHC-GN800 only
Press SURROUND SPEAKER MODE
repeatedly (or turn SURROUND SPEAKER
MODE on the subwoofer) to select the
sound mode you want.
Each time you press the button, the indicators
on the subwoofer and the display changes
cyclically as follows:
LINK
1)
t MATRIX SURR 1
2)
t
MATRIX SURR 2
3)
MHC-GN700/GX8800 only
Press SURROUND SPEAKER MODE
repeatedly to select the sound mode you
want.
Each time you press the button, the display
changes cyclically as follows:
LINK
1)
t MATRIX SURR
2)
1)
LINK : Reproduces the same sound with
different output levels.
2)
MATRIX SURR/MATRIX SURR 1 :
Reproduces a wide range of sound that can
actually sense the size of the room.
3)
MATRIX SURR 2 : Reproduces a wide range
of sound that can actually sense the size of
the room. The surround sound is reinforced.
Using the subwoofer
(MHC-GN800 only)
You can use the sound of the subwoofer to suit
the sound source.
1 Press SUBWOOFER ON/OFF on the
subwoofer to turn on the subwoofer.
The indicator lights up when the subwoofer
is turned on.
Press the button again to turn off the
subwoofer.
2 Turn SUBWOOFER LEVEL to adjust the
level.
You will be able to listen to low bass
frequency sound.
Tip
You can use VOLUME (or VOL + or – on the
remote) to adjust the volume of the subwoofer linked
to the front speakers.
Notes
• If you turn VOLUME (or press VOL +/– on the
remote), the volume for all speakers will change.
• When you turn on the main unit, the last selected
SURROUND SPEAKER MODE indicator on the
subwoofer lights up.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Sound Adjustment
21
GB
Frequency band Frequency level
LINK
LINK
ALL DISCS
SURR
EFFECT
V - GROOVE
B
A
For
standard music
sources.
soundtracks and
special listening
situations.
Play station 1, 2 and
other video game
music sources.
Selecting the preset
effect
Press MUSIC EQ, MOVIE EQ or GAME EQ
(or PRESET EQ on the remote) repeatedly
to select the preset effect you want.
The preset effect name appears in the display.
See the chart “Preset effect options”.
To cancel the effect
Press EFFECT ON/OFF repeatedly until
“EFFECT OFF” appears in the display.
Preset effect options
“
SURR
” lights up if you select an effect with
surround effects.
MENU Effect
button
MUSIC ROCK
EQ POP
JAZZ
DANCE
SOUL
ORIENTAL*
MOVIE ACTION
EQ DRAMA
MUSICAL
GAME ARCADE
EQ RACING
ADVENTURE
* CLASSIC for North and Latin American models
only.
Adjusting the graphic
equalizer and storing the
personal file
You can adjust the sound by raising or
lowering the level of specific frequency band,
then store up to three personal files (P FILE) in
the memory.
Before adjustment, select the preset effect you
want for your basic sound.
1 Press < or , repeatedly to select a
frequency band or surround effect,
then press M or m repeatedly to adjust
the level or select the surround effect
you want.
2 Press and hold P FILE until the
personal file number appears in the
display.
3 Press M and m or < and , repeatedly
to select the personal file number
where you want to store the equalizer
setting.
You can select from “P FILE 1” to
“ P FILE 3”.
4 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
The setting is stored automatically in the
personal file number you selected in step 3.
The previous setting stored at this memory
location is erased and replaced by the new
setting.
continued
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
22
GB
To call up the personal file
Press P FILE repeatedly until the personal file
number you want appears in the display.
Tip
If you do not want to store a personal file, press
PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the remote) after
step 1.
Selecting the surround
effect
(MHC-GN900/GN600 only)
Press SURROUND.
Each time you press the button, the display
changes as follows:
SURROUND ON ( )
Y
SURROUND OFF
(MHC-GN800/GN700/GX8800 only)
1 Press < or , repeatedly to select
“SURROUND”, then press M or m
repeatedly to adjust the surround
effect.
2 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
Note
When you select certain sound effects, the surround
effect may be cancelled.
Adjusting the graphic equalizer and
storing the personal file (continued)
SURR
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Display
23
GB
Display
Changing the spectrum
analyzer display
1 Press AMP MENU.
“SPECTRUM” appears in the display.
2 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
The last selected spectrum appears.
3 Press < or , repeatedly to select the
setting you want.
The display changes as follows:
4 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
Adjusting the brightness
of the display
1 Press AMP MENU.
“SPECTRUM” appears.
2 Press M or m repeatedly to select
“DIMMER”, then press PUSH ENTER
(ENTER on the remote).
The last selected dimmer appears.
3 Press < or , repeatedly to select the
setting you want.
The display changes as follows:
4 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
Changing the power
illuminator
You can select the power illuminator as you
want.
Press ILLUMINATION repeatedly to select
the power illuminator you want when the
system is turned on.
Each time you press the button, the power
illuminator mode changes cyclically as follows:
PATTERN 1 t PATTERN 2 t PATTERN 3
t PATTERN 4 t PATTERN OFF
Notes
• When you turn VOLUME (or press VOL +/– on the
remote), power illuminator shows the current
volume level.
• During the demonstration display, you can turn on
or off power illuminator by pressing
ILLUMINATION.
Turning off the display
— Power Saving Mode
The demonstration display and the clock
display can be turned off to minimize the
amount of power consumed during standby
mode (Power Saving Mode).
Press DISPLAY repeatedly while the
system is turned off until the
demonstration display or the clock display
disappears.
To cancel Power Saving Mode
Press DISPLAY once to show the
demonstration display or twice to show
the clock display.
Each time you press the button, the system
changes cyclically as follows:
Demonstration
1)
t Clock
2)
t Power Saving
Mode
1)
The display changes and the indicators flashes even
when the system is turned off.
2)
“--.-- ” appears in the display if you have not set the
clock.
DIMMER 2 T
tDIMMER 3T
continued
t DIMMER 1 y
t SPECTRUM 2
Y
SPECTRUM 3
R
SPECTRUM 1T
Y
SPECTRUM OFF
R
t SPECTRUM 4
T
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
24
GB
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 item do
not functions:
— Setting the time.
— Changing the AM tuning interval.
— Pressing a function button to turn the power on.
— Switching the function of MD (VIDEO).
— Changing “CD POWER” settings (page 15).
Using the CD display
When a CD TEXT disc is loaded, you can
check the information stored on the disc, such
as the titles. When the unit detects CD TEXT
discs, “CD TEXT” lights up in the display.
Checking the remaining time
Press DISPLAY repeatedly during
playback.
Each time you press the button, the display
changes cyclically as follows:
Playing time of the current track t Remaining
time of the current track
1)
t Remaining time
of the current CD
2)
t Title of the current
track
3)
t Title of the current album (for a few
seconds)
4)
t Clock display (for a few seconds)
t Effect status
Checking the total playing time
Press DISPLAY repeatedly when playback
is stopped (except for Program Mode).
Each time you press the button, the display
changes cyclically as follows:
Total number of tracks or albums and the total
playing time
5)
t Disc title
3)
or title of the
current album
4)
t Clock display (for a few
seconds) t Effect status
Press DISPLAY repeatedly when playback
is stopped during Program Play and there
is a program.
Each time you press the button, the display
changes cyclically as follows:
The last track number of the program and the
total playing time
6)
t Total number of
programmed tracks (for a few seconds)
7)
t Disc title
8)
t Clock display (for a few
seconds) t Effect status
1)
“--.-- ” appears while MP3 audio tracks are played
back.
2)
“--.-- ” appears in the following cases:
– while MP3 audio tracks are played back.
– All play modes except “1 DISCS” or “ALBM”.
3)
Only for CD TEXT disc and a disc with MP3
audio tracks.
When the CD TEXT disc contains more than 20
tracks, the current track title is not displayed from
track 21 onwards.
4)
Only for a disc with MP3 audio tracks.
5)
“--.-- ” appears for a disc with MP3 audio tracks.
6)
“--.-- ” appears in the following cases:
– When the CD contains 21 tracks or more, and
the track number which exceeds 20 is selected.
– When the total program exceeds 100 minute.
– When the program list contains MP3 audio
tracks.
7)
“NO STEP” appears if there is no program.
8)
Except for MP3 audio tracks.
Note
Some characters may not be displayed for track title,
album title or disc title.
Turning off the display (continued)
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Other Features
25
GB
Other Features
Enhancing the video game
sound
— Game Sync
You need to connect a video game player
(see “Hooking up optional components” on
page 28).
Press GAME.
“GAME EQ” is selected automatically.
Tip
If you press GAME while the power is off, the power
turns on automatically and GAME is selected as the
function.
Mixing video game sound
with other sound source
— Game Mixing
You can mix the sound from the component
connected to the GAME INPUT jacks with
another function such as CD, tape, radio or
MD connected to this system.
1 Select the source sound you want.
2 Press GAME MIXING.
Each time you press the button, the level of
the game sound changes cyclically as
follows:
MIXING LOW t MIXING MID t
MIXING HIGH t MIXING OFF
Tips
• To record the mixed sound, press GAME MIXING
after step 4 of “Recording Manually” on page 17
and then press REC PAUSE/START to start
recording.
• The GAME MIXING indicator lights up while
Game Mixing is activated and it will remain active
while the power is on even if the function is
changed.
Notes
• Game Mixing is cancelled when you press REC
PAUSE/START.
• Game Mixing does not function during CD Synchro
Recording.
Singing along
You can sing along with any stereo CD or tape.
You need to connect an optional microphone.
1 Turn MIC LEVEL to MIN to turn down
the microphone volume.
2 Connect an optional microphone to MIC
jack.
3 Start playing the music and adjust the
volume.
4 Adjust the microphone volume by
turning MIC LEVEL.
After you have finished
Turn MIC LEVEL to MIN and disconnect the
microphone from MIC jack.
Tips
• You can mix and record sound from the
microphone after step 2. To record the sound see
“Recording Manually” on page 17. To stop
recording, press x.
• If acoustic feedback (howling) occurs, move the
microphone away from the speakers or change the
direction of the microphone.
• If you want to record your voice through the
microphone only, you can do so by selecting the
CD function and not playing a CD.
• When high level sound signals are input, the system
automatically adjust the recording level to prevent
distortion of the recorded sound signals (Auto Level
Control Function).
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
26
GB
Waking up to music
— Daily Timer
You can wake up to music at a preset time
every day. Make sure you have set the clock
(see “Setting the clock” on page 9).
1 Prepare the music source you want to
play.
• CD: Load a CD. To start from a specific
track, make a program (see “Programming
the CD tracks” on page 13).
• Tape: Load a tape with the side you want
to play facing forward.
• Radio: Tune in the preset station you
want (see “Listening to the radio” on page
15).
2 Adjust the volume.
3 Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on the
remote.
“DAILY SET?” appears in the display.
4 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
“ON” appears and the hour digits flash in
the display.
5 Set the time to start playback.
Press M or m repeatedly to set the hour,
then press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on
the remote).
The minute indication flashes.
Press M or m repeatedly to set the minute,
then press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on
the remote).
6 Set the time to stop playback following
step 5 above.
7 Press M or m repeatedly until the music
source you want appears.
The display changes as follows:
t TUNER y CD PLAY T
t TAPE PLAY T
Falling asleep to music
— Sleep Timer
You need to use the remote to activate the
Sleep Timer. You can set the system to turn off
at a preset time, so you can fall asleep to the
music.
Press SLEEP.
Each time you press the button, the minute
display (the turn-off time) changes cyclically as
follows:
AUTO* t 90 t 80 t 70 t … t 10 t
OFF
* The system turns off when the current CD or tape
finishes playback (for up to 100 minutes).
To
Check the remaining
time**
Change the time to turn
off
Cancel the Sleep Timer
** You cannot check the remaining time when you
select “SLEEP AUTO”.
Do this
Press SLEEP once.
Press SLEEP
repeatedly to select the
time you want.
Press SLEEP
repeatedly until
“SLEEP OFF” appears
in the display.
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Other Features
27
GB
8 Press PUSH ENTER (or ENTER on the
remote).
The type of timer, followed by the start
time, stop time and the music source
appears, then the original display appears.
9 Press @/1 to turn off the system.
Other Operations
To
Check the setting
Change the setting
Cancel the timer
operation
Notes
• If you do not turn off the power before the preset
time, the Daily Timer does not function.
• The power will turn on 15 seconds before the preset
time.
Do this
Press CLOCK/TIMER
SELECT on the remote and
press M or m repeatedly to
select “DAILY SELECT?”,
then press PUSH ENTER
(or ENTER on the remote).
Start from step 1.
Press CLOCK/TIMER
SELECT on the remote and
press M or m repeatedly to
select “TIMER OFF?”, then
press PUSH ENTER (or
ENTER on the remote).
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
28
GB
Optional Components
Hooking up optional components
To enhance your system, you can connect optional components. Refer to the operating instructions
provided with each component.
A VIDEO INPUT jack
Use a video cable (not supplied) to connect the
video output of the optional video game player
to this jack.
B AUDIO INPUT jacks
Use audio cords (not supplied) to connect the
audio output of the optional video game player
to these jacks. You can then output audio
through this system.
Note
To enjoy video game sound, see “Enhancing the
video game sound” on page 25, or see “Selecting the
preset effect” on page 21 for video game sound
effects.
C CD DIGITAL OUT jack
Use a digital optical cable (square, not
supplied) to connect the digital input of the
optional MD deck to this jack. You can then
record digital audio from this system.
D MD (VIDEO) IN jacks
Use audio cords (not supplied) to connect the
audio output of the optional component (such
as MD deck or VCR) to these jacks. You can
then output audio through this system.
E VIDEO OUT jack
Use a video cable (not supplied) to connect the
video input of TV to this jack.
Note
The video game player image may appear on the TV
screen even if the system is turned off.
MD deck or VCR
From the audio output of the
MD deck or VCR
TV
To the video input of a TV
MD deck
Video game player
To the digital input
jack of the MD deck
From the audio and video
output of the video game player
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Optional Components
29
GB
Recording on a connected
component
Listening to audio from a
connected component
To
Listen to a
connected MD deck
Listen to a
connected VCR
Listen to the sound
of a connected
video game player
Notes
• If you press MD (VIDEO) while the power is off,
the power turns on automatically and MD (VIDEO)
is selected as the function.
• If the sound is distorted or too loud when VIDEO
function is selected, or you want to switch back to
MD function, repeat step 2 of “Listen to a
connected VCR”.
• If you press GAME while the power is off, the
power turns on automatically and GAME is selected
as a function. The equalizer switches to GAME EQ
and the previously selected effect is restored.
Do This
1 Connect the audio cords.
See “Hooking up optional
components” on page 28.
2 Press MD (VIDEO).
Start playing the connected
MD deck.
1 Connect the audio cords.
See “Hooking up optional
components” on page 28.
2 Hold down MD (VIDEO)
and press @/1 while the
power is on. Release @/1
first, then release MD
(VIDEO). This switches the
function from MD to
VIDEO. Start playing the
connected VCR.
1 Press GAME.
2 Select the preset effect.
See “Selecting the preset
effect” on page 21.
To
Make a digital
recording from CD
onto a connected
MD deck
Tip
When you remove the optical cover, keep it for future
use.
Do This
1 Connect the optional optical
cable. See “Hooking up
optional components” on
page 28.
2 Start recording.
Refer to operating
instructions provided with
the connected MD deck.
Connecting external
antennas
Connect an external antenna to improve the
reception.
FM antenna
Connect an optional FM external antenna. You
can also use the TV antenna instead.
FM75
Ω
COAXIAL
– AM
AM antenna
Connect a 6 to 15 meter (20 to 50 feet)
insulated wire to the AM antenna terminal.
Leave the supplied AM loop antenna
connected.
FM75
Ω
COAXIAL
–AM
Insulated wire
(not supplied)
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
30
GB
Problems and remedies
If you run into any problem using this unit, use
the following check list.
First, check that the power cord is connected
firmly and the speakers are connected correctly
and firmly.
Should any problem persist, consult your
nearest Sony dealer.
When the `/1 indicator flashes
Immediately unplug the power cord and check the
following items.
• Is the voltage selector set to correct voltage?
Check the voltage for your region, then make
sure the voltage selector is set correctly.
• Are the + and – speaker cords short circuited?
• Are you using only the prescribed speakers?
• Is anything blocking the ventilation holes on the
rear of the system?
After checking the above items and fixing any
problems, connect the power cord again 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.
General
The display starts flashing as soon as you plug
in the power cord even though you haven’t
turned on the power.
• The demonstration mode started. Press @/1 (see
step 6 on page 8).
The clock/timer setting is cancelled.
• The power cord is disconnected or a power
failure occurs. Redo “Setting the clock”
(on page 9). If you have set the timer, redo
“Waking up to music” (on page 26) and
“Timer-recording radio programs” (on page 18).
The radio presetting is canceled.
• The power cord is disconnected or a power
failure occurs for longer than half a day. Redo
“Presetting radio stations” (on page 14).
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 terminal. Inserting the
vinyl portion of the speaker cord will obstruct the
speaker connections.
• 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 the
MD (VIDEO) jacks is distorted.
• If “VIDEO” appears in the display when you
press MD (VIDEO), switch to “MD” function
(see “Listen to a connected VCR” on page 29).
“-- --:-- --” appears in the display.
• A power failure occurred. Set the clock and timer
settings again.
The timer does not function.
• Set the clock correctly.
• You cannot activate the Daily timer and Timer-
recording simultaneously.
“DAILY SET?”, and “REC SET?” do not appear
when you press the CLOCK/TIMER SET button
on the remote.
• Set the timer correctly.
• Set the clock.
The remote does not function.
• There is an obstacle between the remote and the
system.
• The remote is not pointing in the direction of the
unit’s sensor.
• The batteries have run down. Replace the
batteries.
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 15
to 30 minutes. If the color irregularity still
persists, place the speakers farther away from the
TV set.
Troubleshooting
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Troubleshooting
31
GB
Speakers
Sound comes from only one channel or
unbalanced left and right volume.
• Check the speaker connection and speaker
placement.
Sound lacks bass.
• Check that the speaker’s + and – terminals are
connected correctly.
CD Player
The disc tray does not open and “LOCKED”
appears on the front panel display.
• Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized
Sony service facility.
The disc tray does not close.
• The disc is not placed properly.
The CD does not play.
• The disc is not lying flat in the disc tray.
• The disc is dirty.
• The disc is inserted label side down.
• Moisture condensation has built up. Remove the
disc and leave the system turned on for about an
hour until the moisture evaporates.
Disc access takes a longer time.
• Set “CD POWER ON” by CD power manage
function (page 15).
Playback does not start from the first track.
• The player is in Program Play or Shuffle Play
mode. Press PLAY MODE repeatedly until
“1 DISC”, “ALBM” or “ALL DISCS” appears.
MP3 audio track cannot be played back.
• Recording was not performed according to the
ISO 9660 level 1, level 2, or Joliet in the
expansion format.
• The MP3 audio track does not have the extension
“.MP3”.
• The data is not stored in MP3 format.
• The discs containing tracks other than MPEG
1, 2 and 2.5 Audio Layer-3 files cannot be
played back.
MP3 audio tracks take a longer time to playback
than others.
• After the unit reads all tracks on the disc,
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 title, track title, and ID3 tag do not
appear correctly.
• Use a disc that conforms with ISO 9660 level 1,
level 2, or Joliet in the expansion format.
• The ID3 tag is not version 1 or version 2.
The album title, track title, ID3 tag and the CD
TEXT characters do not appear properly.
• The character code that can be displayed by this
unit are as follows.
— Upper cases (A to Z)
— Lower cases (a to z)
— Numbers (0 to 9)
— Symbols (< > * +, – / [ ] \ _)
Other characters may not be displayed correctly.
continued
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
32
GB
Tape Deck
The tape does not record.
• The tab has been removed from the tape. Cover
the broken tab with adhesive tape.
• The tape has reeled to the end.
The tape does not record nor play or there is a
decrease in sound level.
• The tape heads are dirty. (See “Cleaning the tape
heads” on page 34).
• The record/playback heads are magnetized. (See
“Demagnetizing the tape heads” on page 34).
The tape does not erase completely.
• The record/playback heads are magnetized. (See
“Demagnetizing the tape heads” on page 34).
There is excessive wow or flutter, or the sound
drops out.
• The capstans or pinch rollers are dirty. (See
“Cleaning the tape heads” on page 34).
Noise increases or the high frequencies are erased.
• The record/playback heads are magnetized. (See
“Demagnetizing the tape heads” on page 34).
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.
• Set “CD POWER OFF” by CD power manage
function (page 15).
A stereo FM program cannot be received in
stereo.
• Press FM MODE so that “MONO” disappears.
If the system still does not operate
properly after performing the above
measures, reset the system as
follows:
1 Unplug the power cord.
2 Plug the power cord back in.
3 Press x, AMP MENU and ?/1 at the same
time.
4 Press ?/1 to turn on the system.
The system is reset to factory settings. All the
settings are cleared.
Messages
One of the following messages may appear or
flash in the display during operation.
CD
Cannot Edit
• You pressed EDIT before disc is ready.
• You have programmed a disc with MP3 audio
tracks.
NO STEP
• You have cleared all the tracks you programmed.
OVER
• You have reached the end of the disc while
pressing M during playback or pause.
No Disc
• There is no disc on the disc tray.
Push STOP!
• You pressed PLAY MODE during playback.
Step Full!
• You tried to program 26 or more tracks (steps).
TAPE
No Tab
• You cannot record the tape because the tab has
been removed from the tape.
No Tape
• There is no tape in the tape deck.
Problems and remedies (continued)
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Additional Information
33
GB
Additional Information
Precautions
On operating voltage
Before operating the unit, check that the operating
voltage of your unit is identical with the voltage of
your local power supply.
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 unit from the wall outlet (mains) if it is
not to be used for an extended period of time. To
disconnect the cord (mains lead), pull it out by the
plug. Never pull the cord itself.
• Should any solid object or liquid fall into the
component, unplug the unit and have the
component checked by qualified personnel before
operating it any further.
• For customers in United States
One blade of the plug is wider than the other for the
purpose of safety and will fit to the wall outlet only
one way. If you are unable to insert the plug fully
into the outlet, contact your dealer.
• The AC power cord must be changed only at the
qualified 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
• Use caution when placing the unit or speakers on
surfaces that have been specially treated (with wax,
oil, polish, etc.) as staining or discoloration of the
surface may result.
On heat build-up
• 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 cabinet
temperature of the top, side and bottom rises
considerably. To avoid burning yourself, do not touch
the cabinet.
To prevent a malfunction, do not cover the ventilation
hole for the cooling fan.
If you have any questions or problems concerning
your unit, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.
On operation
• If the unit 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 unit will not operate properly.
Remove the CD and leave the unit turned on for
about an hour until the moisture evaporates.
• When you move the unit, take out any discs.
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 do
so may damage the unit. Do not use such discs.
Music discs encoded with copyright
protection technologies
This product is designed to playback discs that
conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard.
Recently, various music discs encoded with copyright
protection technologies are marketed by some record
companies.
Please be aware that among those discs, there are
some that do not conform to the CD standard and may
not be playable by this product.
Note on CD-R/CD-RW playback
Discs recorded on CD-R/CD-RW drives may not be
played back because of scratches, dirt, recording
conditions or the drive's characteristics. Besides, the
discs which are not yet finalized at the end of
recording, cannot be played back.
Cleaning the cabinet
Use a soft cloth slightly moistened with mild
detergent solution.
To save a tape permanently
To prevent a tape from being accidentally recorded
over, break off the cassette tab. Refer to the
instructions of the tape.
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.
continued
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
34
GB
Specifications
AUDIO POWER SPECIFICATIONS
(MHC-GX8800 USA model only)
POWER OUTPUT AND TOTAL HARMONIC
DISTORTION:
With 6-ohm loads, both channels driven, from
120 Hz – 10 kHz; rates 200 watts per channel
minimum RMS power, with no more than 10% total
harmonic distortion from 250 miliwatts to rated
output.
Amplifier section
MHC-GX8800
Total harmonic distortion
Less than 0.1%
(6 ohms at 1 kHz, 100 W)
MHC-GN900
The following are measured at AC 127V, 60 Hz
(Mexican model only)
The following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V
50/60 Hz (except Mexican model)
DIN power output (rated) 205 + 205 watts
(4 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)
Continuous RMS power output (reference)
275 + 275 watts
(4 ohms at 1 kHz, 10%
THD)
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 etc.
frequently. The tape may get entangled in the tape
deck.
Cleaning the tape heads
Clean the tape heads after every 10 hours of use.
Make sure to clean the tape heads before you start an
important recording or after playing an old tape. Use
separately sold dry-type or wet-type cleaning cassette.
For details, refer to the instructions of the cleaning
cassette.
Demagnetizing the tape heads
Demagnetize the tape heads and the metal parts that
have contact with the tape every 20 to 30 hours of use
with a separately sold demagnetizing cassette. For
details, refer to the instructions of the demagnetizing
cassette.
MHC-GN800 (HCD-GN800)
The following are measured at AC 127V, 60 Hz
(Mexican model only)
The following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V
50/60 Hz (except Mexican model)
DIN power output (rated) 170 + 170 watts
(6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)
Continuous RMS power output (reference)
220 + 220 watts
(6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10%
THD)
MHC-GN800 (SS-WG800)
The following are measured at AC 127V, 60 Hz
(Mexican model only)
The following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V
50/60 Hz (except Mexican model)
Continuous RMS power output (reference)
180 watts
(8 ohms at 100 Hz, 10%
THD)
MHC-GN700
The following are measured at AC 127V, 60 Hz
(Mexican model only)
The following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V
50/60 Hz (except Mexican model)
DIN 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-GN600
The following are measured at AC 127V, 60 Hz
(Mexican model only)
The following are measured at AC 120, 220, 240V
50/60 Hz (except Mexican model)
DIN power output (rated) 130 + 130 watts
(6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)
Continuous RMS power output (reference)
165 + 165 watts
(6 ohms at 1 kHz,
10% THD)
Inputs
GAME (VIDEO): 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms
(phono jack)
GAME (AUDIO): Voltage 250 mV,
(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohms
MD/VIDEO (AUDIO) IN: voltage 450 mV/250 mV,
(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohms
MIC: sensitivity 1 mV,
(phone jack) impedance 10 kilohms
Outputs
VIDEO OUT: max. output level 1 Vp-p,
(phono jacks) unbalanced, Sync.
negative load impedance
75 ohms
PHONES: accepts headphones of
(stereo mini jack) 8 ohms or more
FRONT SPEAKER: accepts impedance of 6 to
16 ohms
SURROUND SPEAKER: accepts impedance of
(MHC-GN800/GN700/ 24 ohms or more
GX8800 only)
SUBWOOFER: accept impedance of
(MHC-GN800 only) 8 ohms or more
Precautions (continued)
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
Additional Information
35
GB
CD player section
System Compact disc and digital
audio system
Laser Semiconductor laser
(λ=795nm)
Laser Output Max. 44.6 µW*
*This output is the value
measured at a distance of
200 mm from the
objective lens surface on
the Optical Pick-up Block
with 7 mm aperture.
Frequency response 2 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
Wave length 795 nm
CD OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT
(Square optical connector jack, rear panel)
Wave length 660 nm
Output Level –18 dBm
Tape player section
Recording system 4-track 2-channel stereo
Frequency response 50 – 13,000 Hz (±3 dB),
using Sony TYPE I
cassette
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 MHz
Antenna FM lead antenna
Antenna terminals 75 ohm unbalanced
Intermediate frequency 10.7 MHz
AM tuner section
Tuning range
North and Latin American
models: 530 – 1,710 kHz
(with the interval set at
10 kHz)
531 – 1,710 kHz
(with the interval set at
9 kHz)
Middle Eastern models: 531 – 1,602 kHz
(with the interval set at
9 kHz)
Other models: 531 – 1,602 kHz
(with the interval set at
9 kHz)
530 – 1,710 kHz
(with the interval set at
10 kHz)
Antenna AM loop antenna
Antenna terminals External antenna terminal
Intermediate frequency 450 kHz
Speaker
Front speaker SS-GN900 (MHC-GN900 only)
Speaker system 2-way, 3-unit,
bass-reflex type
Speaker units
Woofer: 16 cm, cone type
Tweeter: 2.5 cm, dome type
Nominal impedance 4 ohms
Dimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 526 x 291 x
288 mm
Mass Approx. 9.5 kg net per
speaker
Front speaker SS-GN800 (MHC-GN800/
GN700/GX8800/GN600 only)
Speaker system 3-way, 4-units,
bass-reflex type
Speaker units
Sub Woofer: 20 cm, cone type
Woofer: 8 cm, cone type
Tweeter: 5 cm, cone type
Nominal impedance 6 ohms
Dimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 265 x 415 x
320 mm
Mass Approx. 8.0 kg net per
speaker
Surround speaker SS-RS800 (MHC-GN800/
GN700/GX8800 only)
Speaker system 2 way, 3 units,
bass-reflex type
Speaker units
Woofer 10 cm, cone type
Tweeter 5 cm, cone type
Nominal impedance 24 ohms
Dimensions (w/h/d)
Approx. 175 x 415 x
190 mm
Mass Approx. 4.4 kg net per
speaker
Subwoofer SS-WG800 (MHC-GN800 only)
Subwoofer system 1 way, 1 unit,
bass-reflex type
Speaker units
Sub Woofer 20 cm, cone type
Nominal Impedance 8 ohms
Dimensions (w/h/d)
Approx. 265 x 415 x
320 mm
Mass Approx. 7.6 kg
continued
MHC-GN800 4-244-569-11 (1)
36
GB
Sony Corporation Printed in Malaysia
General
Power requirements
Mexican models: 127 V AC, 60 Hz
Argentina models: 220 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Other models: 120 V, 220 V or
230 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Adjustable with voltage
selector
Power consumption
MHC-GN900 345 watts
MHC-GN800 250 watts
MHC-GN700 205 watts
MHC-GX8800 220 watts
MHC-GN600 145 watts
Dimensions (w/h/d)
HCD-GN900/GN800/GN700/
GX8800/GN600 Approx. 280 x 360 x
386.5 mm
Mass :
HCD-GN900 Approx. 12.2 kg
HCD-GN800 Approx. 13.6 kg
HCD-GN700/GX8800 Approx. 11.4 kg
HCD-GN600 Approx. 10.5 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-GN800/GN700/
GX8800 only)
Subwoofer pads (4)
(MHC-GN800 only)
Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
Specifications (continued)
