Sony CDX-GT550 Car Stereo Manual

The Sony CDX-GT550 is an in-dash CD receiver with AM/FM tuner, MP3/WMA playback capability, front auxiliary input, 52W x 4 high power output, detachable faceplate security, and customizable illumination. It features a large display, rotary volume knob, and compatibility with optional CD changers and Bluetooth® adapters. 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 & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with CD slot, Detachable Faceplate, Remote Control (optional), Wiring harness, Antenna connector, Front AUX input.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA Playback	Plays standard audio CDs and MP3/WMA files on CD-R/RW
AM/FM Tuner	30 station presets (18 FM, 12 AM)
Front AUX Input	3.5mm jack for portable audio devices
Power Output	52W x 4 (max), 17W x 4 (RMS)
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Customizable Illumination	Select from multiple display colors
Rotary Volume Knob	Easy volume adjustment
Bass Boost Function	Enhances low-frequency response
Fader/Balance Control	Adjusts front/rear and left/right sound distribution
CD Changer Control	Compatible with Sony CD changers (optional)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is parked with ignition off.

Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal to prevent short circuits.
Remove existing stereo: Use removal tools to release old unit from dash.
Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors (red=ignition, yellow=battery, black=ground, etc.).
Connect antenna plug: Insert into rear antenna socket.
Secure unit in dash: Insert mounting sleeve, then slide unit into place.
Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Incorrect wiring can damage the unit or vehicle electrical system. Consult a professional if unsure.

First-Time Setup

After installation, power on the unit; follow initial settings.

Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, use TUNE/SEEK to adjust time.
Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold a preset button (1-6) to store.
Adjust sound settings: Use BASS, TREBLE, FADER, BALANCE controls.
Set illumination color: Press DISP to cycle through color options.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle to adjust settings.

Specifications

Disc Formats: CD, CD-R, CD-RW (MP3/WMA).
Tuner: FM/AM with 30 presets.
Output Power: 52W x 4 max (17W x 4 RMS).
Audio Input: Front 3.5mm AUX jack.
Preamp Outputs: Rear (for external amplifier).
Security: Detachable faceplate.
Display: Multi-color LCD.
Power Supply: 12V DC, negative ground.
Dimensions: DIN size (178mm x 50mm).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, BAND, TUNE/SEEK, DISP, OPEN/CLOSE (CD), AUX jack.

Remote (optional): POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, PRESET, MUTE, etc.

Audio: BASS, TREBLE, FADER, BALANCE, LOUDNESS (On/Off). Radio: Manual tuning, Seek, Preset memory. CD: Play, Pause, Skip, Repeat, Random. Display: Clock, Illumination color (Red, Green, Blue, etc.). Setup: Clock setting, Beep (On/Off), Reset.

Connecting Devices

AUX Input: Front 3.5mm jack for portable players. Optional: CD changer via changer control port, Bluetooth® adapter via AUX.

Turn off unit before connecting devices.
Plug 3.5mm cable from device into front AUX jack.
Select AUX source by pressing SOURCE button.
For CD changer, connect control cable to rear port and power accordingly.

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

Playing Media

Supports Audio CDs, MP3/WMA CDs.

Insert disc: Press OPEN/CLOSE, load CD label side up.
Play: Press PLAY; unit starts playback automatically.
Skip tracks: Press TUNE/SEEK up or down.
Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold TUNE/SEEK during playback.
Repeat/Random: Press RPT or RDM during CD play.
MP3/WMA navigation: Use FOLDER buttons to navigate directories.
Eject: Press OPEN/CLOSE to remove disc.

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

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parked to deter theft. Security Code: Optional code can be set (refer to manual).

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for faceplate and display. For CD lens, use approved cleaning disc only.

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

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

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/ignition	Check battery and ignition connections; verify fuse.
No sound	Mute/speakers	Check MUTE; verify speaker connections; adjust volume.
CD won't play	Disc/dirty lens	Ensure disc is clean and properly inserted; use cleaning disc.
Poor radio reception	Antenna	Ensure antenna is fully extended and connected securely.
Faceplate not attaching	Alignment	Align faceplate properly with unit; ensure no obstructions.

Reset: Press reset button on front with a small tool if unit locks up.

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