Sony XR-3690RDS Car Stereo Manual

The Sony XR-3690RDS is an advanced car stereo system featuring RDS (Radio Data System) technology, CD playback with MP3/WMA compatibility, AM/FM tuner with 30 presets, front auxiliary input, detachable faceplate security, 4x50W high power output, bass boost, and customizable audio settings. Designed for 12V DC vehicle electrical systems. 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, CD slot.

Feature	Description
RDS Technology	Displays station information like name and song title
CD/MP3/WMA Playback	Plays audio CDs and compressed MP3/WMA files
AM/FM Tuner	30 station presets (18 FM, 12 AM)
Front AUX Input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Power Output	4 x 50W maximum power
Bass Boost	Enhances low-frequency response
Audio Settings	Adjustable bass, treble, balance, fader
LCD Display	Backlit display with adjustable dimmer
Power Source	12V DC, negative ground vehicles

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is turned off.

Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal first for safety.
Remove existing stereo: Use removal tools if necessary.
Connect wiring harness: Match colors (red=ignition, yellow=constant, black=ground).
Connect antenna: Plug antenna cable into rear connector.
Mount unit: Slide into dashboard opening and secure with brackets.
Reconnect battery: Attach negative terminal last.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial configuration.

Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, adjust with tuning knob.
Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button.
Adjust audio settings: Use BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER controls.
Set display dimmer: Adjust via DISP button for day/night viewing.
Test CD playback: Insert disc to verify proper operation.

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

Specifications

Power Output: 4 x 50W max (4 x 22W RMS).
Tuner: AM/FM with RDS, 30 presets.
CD Compatibility: Audio CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA.
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >80dB.
Inputs: Front AUX (3.5mm), antenna.
Outputs: 4-channel speaker outputs.
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground.
Dimensions: DIN size (178mm x 50mm x 160mm).
Operating Temperature: -20°C to 60°C.

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND, TUNING knob, EJECT, AUX input.

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

Audio Settings: BASS (-10 to +10), TREBLE (-10 to +10), BALANCE (L/R), FADER (F/R). Display: DIMMER (day/night), CLOCK setting. Radio: AUTO STORE for automatic preset programming, RDS ON/OFF. Security: Detachable faceplate with storage case.

Connecting Devices

AUX Input: Front 3.5mm jack for portable players. Speakers: 4-channel output (front/rear).

Turn off vehicle and unit before connecting.
Connect AUX device: Use 3.5mm cable from device to front input.
Select source: Press SOURCE until AUX appears on display.
Speaker connections: Match polarity (+/-) for proper sound.

Tip: Use quality cables for best audio performance.

Playing Media

Supports CD, MP3, WMA formats.

Insert disc: Press EJECT, load CD label side up.
Play: Press PLAY; tracks play automatically.
Skip tracks: Press >>| or |<< for next/previous.
Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold SKIP buttons.
Repeat: Press RPT for track/disc repeat.
Random: Press RDM for shuffle play.
MP3 navigation: Use folder buttons to navigate directories.
Eject: Press EJECT to remove disc.

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

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parked to deter theft. Security Code: Optional 4-digit code can be set (default 0000).

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Remove faceplate before cleaning. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check connections; verify fuse (10A) in vehicle fuse box.
No sound	Mute/speakers	Check MUTE; verify speaker connections; adjust volume.
CD won't play	Disc/format	Ensure compatible disc; clean disc; check for scratches.
Poor radio reception	Antenna	Ensure antenna fully extended and properly connected.
Display dark	Dimmer setting	Adjust DISP button; check vehicle lighting circuit.
Faceplate won't attach	Alignment	Clean contacts; align properly and press firmly.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset unit.

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