Sony CDX-GT500EE Car Stereo Manual

The Sony CDX-GT500EE is a high-performance car stereo featuring a CD/MP3/WMA player, AM/FM tuner with 30 presets, front auxiliary input, detachable faceplate security, and 52W x 4 high power output. It includes features like MIXTRAX for seamless music transitions, EQ7 sound settings, and compatibility with iPod/iPhone via optional adapter. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, 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 Media 8. Security Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, Remote Control, Wiring harness, Antenna connector, Front AUX input, USB port (optional adapter).

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA Player	Plays CDs, MP3, and WMA files
AM/FM Tuner	30 preset stations (18 FM, 12 AM)
Front AUX Input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Power Output	52W x 4 (max)
MIXTRAX	Creates seamless DJ-style transitions
EQ7	7-band equalizer with preset sound modes
iPod/iPhone Control	Via optional CD-IP500 adapter
LCD Display	Multi-color illumination
Remote Control	Included for convenient operation

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is turned off.

Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
Remove existing stereo: Use removal keys to release unit.
Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle wiring (red=ignition, yellow=battery, black=ground).
Connect antenna: Plug into rear antenna connector.
Secure unit: Slide into dash and secure with mounting sleeve.
Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Incorrect wiring may damage unit or vehicle electrical system. Consult professional if unsure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup.

Set clock: Press and hold DISP to enter clock setting mode.
Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button (1-6).
Adjust sound settings: Use SOUND button to select EQ7 modes (ROCK, POP, etc.).
Set illumination: Press DIMMER to adjust display brightness.
Enable security: Detach faceplate when leaving vehicle.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle for initial setup.

Specifications

Power Output: 52W x 4 (max), 17W x 4 (RMS).
Tuner: FM/AM with 30 presets.
Audio Formats: CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA.
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 95dB (CD).
Inputs: Front AUX (3.5mm), optional USB via adapter.
Outputs: Front/Rear/Subwoofer pre-outs (2V).
Power Supply: 12V DC, negative ground.
Dimensions: DIN size (178mm x 50mm).
Operating Temp: -10°C to +60°C.

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, BAND, SOUND, DISP, DIMMER, EJECT, AUX port.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, VOLUME, MUTE, SOURCE, BAND, PRESET, PLAY/PAUSE.

Sound Settings: EQ7 modes (ROCK, POP, JAZZ, etc.), Bass/Treble adjustment, Loudness (On/Off). Display: Clock setting, Dimmer control (3 levels). Radio: Manual tuning, Auto memory, Local/DX reception. CD: Random/Repeat play, Intro scan, Folder selection (MP3).

Connecting Devices

AUX Input: Front 3.5mm jack for smartphones/MP3 players. iPod/iPhone: Optional CD-IP500 adapter. USB: Optional adapter for flash drives.

Turn off unit before connecting devices.
Connect 3.5mm cable to AUX port and device headphone jack.
Select AUX source by pressing SOURCE repeatedly.
For iPod, connect adapter to rear port and select CD source.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Playing Media

Supports CDs, MP3/WMA CDs, and external devices.

Insert CD: Press EJECT, load disc label-side up.
Play: Press PLAY; skip tracks with PREV/NEXT.
MP3 Navigation: Use FOLDER buttons to navigate directories.
MIXTRAX: Press MIXTRAX button to activate DJ-style transitions.
Repeat/Random: Press RPT or RDM during playback.
Intro Scan: Press SCAN to sample first 10 seconds of each track.
Pause: Press PLAY/PAUSE to temporarily stop playback.
Eject: Press EJECT to remove disc.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped discs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Press release button and slide faceplate off. Security Code: Optional 4-digit code (default 0000) can be set in menu. Anti-Theft LED: Blinks when faceplate removed to deter theft.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth. Avoid liquids and abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not insert foreign objects into CD slot. Keep faceplate away from direct sunlight and heat.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE compliant for European market. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact Sony customer service at 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/ fuse	Check connections; replace fuse (10A).
No sound	Mute/volume	Disable mute; increase volume; check speaker connections.
CD won't play	Disc/format	Ensure disc is clean; check format compatibility (MP3 bitrate 32-320kbps).
Poor radio reception	Antenna	Extend antenna fully; check connection.
Faceplate not attaching	Alignment	Align guides properly; clean connectors.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstruction	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight.

Reset: Disconnect power for 1 minute to reset unit.

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