Sony CDX-737 Car Stereo Manual

The Sony CDX-737 is an in-dash CD receiver designed for automotive use, featuring AM/FM tuner with 18 FM and 6 AM presets, CD playback, CD-R/RW compatibility, detachable faceplate security, 4-channel amplifier (52W x 4 max), bass/mid/treble controls, loudness function, source tone memory, and optional CD changer control. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing CD Media 8. Security Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, Remote Control (optional), Wiring harness, Antenna connector, Pre-out jacks, CD loading slot.

FeatureDescription
Detachable FaceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft
CD PlayerPlays audio CDs, CD-R, CD-RW
AM/FM Tuner18 FM presets, 6 AM presets
Pre-out JacksFront/Rear/Subwoofer outputs for external amps
Power Output52W x 4 max (typically 22W x 4 RMS)
Bass/Mid/Treble ControlsAdjustable tone settings
Loudness FunctionEnhances bass at low volumes
Source Tone MemoryRemembers tone settings per source
CD Changer ControlCompatible with Sony CD changers
Clock & Sleep TimerBuilt-in clock with sleep function

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is off and battery disconnected.

  1. Remove existing stereo: Use DIN tools to release old unit.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match colors (red=ignition, yellow=battery, black=ground).
  3. Connect antenna: Plug antenna cable into rear connector.
  4. Connect speakers: Ensure proper polarity (+/-).
  5. Secure unit: Slide into dash and secure with mounting sleeve.
  6. Reconnect battery and test.

WARNING! Disconnect vehicle battery before installation to prevent short circuits. Ensure all connections are secure and insulated.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup.

  1. Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK, use tuning knob to set time.
  2. Program radio presets: Tune to station, press and hold preset button (1-6/1-18).
  3. Adjust tone settings: Use BASS/MID/TREBLE controls to preference.
  4. Set loudness: Press LOUD to enable/disable bass enhancement.
  5. Detach faceplate: Press RELEASE button and store securely.

CAUTION! Do not force CD into slot. Ensure proper electrical connections.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND button, tuning knob, CD slot, faceplate release.

Remote (optional): POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, PRESET, PLAY/PAUSE, SKIP.

Audio: BASS, MID, TREBLE, LOUDNESS, BALANCE, FADER. Radio: Manual/Auto tuning, Preset memory. CD: PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, SKIP, REPEAT, RANDOM. Setup: CLOCK, SLEEP timer, BEEP on/off.

Connecting Devices

Antenna: Standard motorola plug. Speakers: 4-8 ohm speakers. External amp: Use pre-out jacks.

  1. Turn off vehicle and disconnect battery.
  2. Match speaker wires (front left/right, rear left/right).
  3. Connect pre-outs if using external amplifier.
  4. Reconnect battery and test each source.

Tip: Use crimp connectors or solder for secure connections. Avoid routing wires near moving parts.

Playing CD Media

Supports audio CD, CD-R, CD-RW.

  1. Insert disc: Label side up, gently push into slot.
  2. Play: Press SOURCE to select CD mode; playback starts automatically.
  3. Skip tracks: Press >>| or |<< for next/previous.
  4. Pause: Press PLAY/PAUSE to pause/resume.
  5. Repeat/Random: Press RPT for repeat track/all; press RDM for random play.
  6. Eject: Press and hold << or eject button (if equipped).
  7. Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold >>| or |<< during playback.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped CDs. Do not insert foreign objects into CD slot.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Press RELEASE button to remove; store separately. Code Security: If equipped, enter security code after power loss (default 0000 or 1111).

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for faceplate and unit. CD lens cleaner can be used periodically.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep faceplate away from extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBattery/wiringCheck fuse (10A); verify ignition (red) and battery (yellow) wires.
No soundSpeaker connectionsCheck speaker wires for shorts/opens; verify balance/fader settings.
CD won't playDisc/loadingEnsure disc is clean, label side up; try different CD.
Poor radio receptionAntennaEnsure antenna fully extended and connected; check for obstructions.
Faceplate not attachingAlignment/dirtClean connectors on faceplate and unit; align properly and push firmly.
Unit asks for codePower lossEnter security code (default or user-set).

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset unit (note: may require code entry).

Service: 1-800-222-7669; www.sony.com/electronics/support

Sony CDX-737 Car Stereo Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025