Sony SRF-M78 Radio User Manual

The Sony SRF-M78 is a compact AM/FM stereo radio with a built-in speaker and headphone jack, featuring digital tuning, preset stations, auto-scan, bass boost, and a backlit LCD display. Powered by two AA batteries or an optional AC adapter, it includes a belt clip for portability, sleep timer, and alarm functions. 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. Using Preset Stations 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: AM/FM tuner, built-in speaker, headphone jack, LCD display with backlight, belt clip, and control buttons.

FeatureDescription
AM/FM TunerDigital tuning for AM and FM stereo reception
LCD DisplayShows frequency, time, preset number, and battery status
Preset StationsStore up to 20 stations (10 AM, 10 FM)
Headphone Jack3.5mm stereo jack for private listening
Bass BoostEnhances low-frequency sound
Auto-ScanAutomatically finds and stops at available stations
Sleep TimerTurns off radio after set time
Alarm FunctionWake to radio or buzzer
Power SourceTwo AA batteries or optional AC adapter (DC 3V)
Belt ClipAttaches to belt or bag for portability

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Insert batteries or connect AC adapter.

  1. Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Connect AC adapter: Plug adapter into DC IN 3V jack and into wall outlet (optional).
  3. Attach belt clip: Slide clip onto back of radio until it clicks into place.
  4. Extend antenna: Fully extend telescopic antenna for best reception.

WARNING! Use only recommended battery type; do not mix old and new batteries. Ensure proper polarity to avoid damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; set time and tune stations.

  1. Set time: Hold CLOCK button, use TUNING +/- to set hour/minute, press CLOCK again.
  2. Select band: Press BAND to switch between AM and FM.
  3. Tune stations: Use TUNING +/- manually or press and hold for auto-scan.
  4. Set presets: Tune to desired station, hold a number button (1-10) for 2 seconds.
  5. Adjust volume: Use VOLUME +/- buttons.

CAUTION! Keep away from strong magnetic fields to avoid interference.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME +/-, TUNING +/-, BAND, PRESET, BASS BOOST, DISPLAY (backlight).

Side Controls: HEADPHONE jack, DC IN 3V, HOLD switch.

Display: Shows frequency, time, preset number, battery icon, band indicator. Settings: Bass boost on/off, backlight duration (15 seconds), sleep timer (15-90 min), alarm set. Tuning: Manual with TUNING +/- or auto-scan (hold TUNING). Presets: Store/recall with number buttons 1-10.

Connecting Devices

Headphones: Plug into 3.5mm jack. AC adapter: Use Sony AC-E30A (optional).

  1. Turn off radio before connecting devices.
  2. Insert headphone plug fully into jack.
  3. For AC adapter, ensure voltage matches (DC 3V).
  4. Use HOLD switch to prevent accidental button presses.

Tip: Use headphones for private listening; disconnect when not in use to save battery.

Using Preset Stations

Store and recall up to 20 stations (10 AM, 10 FM).

  1. Store: Tune to desired station, press and hold a number button (1-10) until display flashes.
  2. Recall: Press BAND for AM/FM, then press corresponding number button.
  3. Scan presets: Press and hold PRESET to scan through stored stations.
  4. Overwrite: Store new station on same number to replace old preset.

Note: Presets are retained in memory when batteries are removed (backup capacitor).

Advanced Functions

Sleep Timer: Press SLEEP repeatedly to set 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 min; radio turns off automatically. Alarm: Set alarm time via CLOCK button; choose radio or buzzer; activate with ALARM ON/OFF. Bass Boost: Press BASS BOOST to enhance low frequencies. Backlight: Press DISPLAY to illuminate LCD for 15 seconds.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not expose to water or extreme temperatures. Keep antenna fully extended when not in use to prevent damage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Sony Corporation; trademarks owned by Sony. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteriesReplace with fresh AA batteries; check polarity.
Poor receptionAntenna positionExtend antenna fully; move to location with better signal.
No sound from speakerVolume/HOLDIncrease volume; ensure HOLD switch is off.
Presets lostBattery removalPresets may be lost if batteries removed for extended period; reprogram.
Display dimLow batteryReplace batteries; backlight may dim when battery low.
Alarm not workingSettingsEnsure alarm is set and ALARM is ON; check volume.

Reset: Remove batteries for 1 minute to reset microcomputer.

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

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