SONY CFD-S05 BOOMBOX REVIEW (Part 1) Sports Passion. Modern-Day Gladiators Pursuing Glory. A Walk-Off Grand Slam. The World Series. NBA Finals. A Buzzer-Beating Basket. Exaltation. Gridiron. The Red Zone. Touchdown. The Super Bowl. Mega Bass. Power Play. A Defenseman’s Slapshot At The Point. The Stanley Cup Finals. Goal. FIFA World Cup Soccer Tournament Finale. A Penalty Kick. Goal. The Masters. Augusta National. A Birdie Putt. The Green Jacket. The Indy 500. The Checkered Flag. Grass Courts. Serve and Volley. Ground Strokes. Net Play. Wimbledon. A Cross Court Passing Shot. Championship Point. Ace. Glory. When Men and Women overcome life obstacles and become Champions in the arena of sport. The Sony CFD-S05 Boombox Stereo is an excellent Mega Bass portable radio for the nightstand by your bed to listen to the latest sporting events, sports audio highlights, sports scores, sports fantasy league update information, sports talk, local news, weather, politics and music programs before retiring for the evening. Whether its an audiobook, love song, classic rock, country music, the morning traffic update or an evening newscast, the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo can brighten up a dark, cold, windy, dreary and rainy winter day with great music or an up-to-the-minute news report in the home. Its also ideal for anyone that likes to play selections from their cassette library or make custom mix tapes from their CD collection. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo is the perfect addition for the boombox or portable radio enthusiast. With its magnificent sound output across the Tape, CD and Radio Inputs and versatile features, this Sony CFD-S05 boombox makes a great addition for home or outdoor summertime activities. This unit sports an impressive features list. Those high quality Sony CFD-S05 Portable Boombox features include: Digital FM/AM Tuner, 30 FM/AM Station Presets (20 FM Band Stereo/Mono Presets, 10 AM Band Mono Presets), Phase Locked Loop (PLL) Synthesized Tuner, FM Band IF Tuned Circuit: 10.7 MHz, AM Band IF Tuned Circuit: 455 kHz, FM/AM Band Selector button, FM Band Frequency Range: 87.5-108 MHz, AM Band Frequency Range: 530-1710 kHz, FM Band Stereo Decoder Circuit, FM Band Stereo Reception, FM Band Mono Reception, AM Band Mono Reception, digital tuning oscillator, manual FM/AM band scanning, automatic FM/AM band scanning, accurate digital tuner calibration, electromagnetic radio wave reception, directional Medium Wave reception, high sensitivity portable receiver, superior adjacent channel reception day or night, reference-grade superheterodyne tuning system, superheterodyne tuning circuit, IF amp, automatic gain control circuit, auto frequency control, auto scan tuning, auto tuning storage system, manual seek tuning, manual tuning controls, preset station tuning mode, preset tuning controls, manual preset station input, preset station replacement option, 4 Track, 2 Channel Stereo Cassette Player/Recorder, flat loading CD Player, push open/close CD compartment lid, CD pivot placement holder, analog-to-digital converter, 1-bit D/A converter for outstanding Sony sound, laser lens, laser beam, laser diode, CD optical block, CD jitter detection circuit, CD error correction circuit, CD clock generator circuit, CD spindle, CD pivot placement holder, CD chucking plate, digital signal processing, servo controller, CD clock, 20 Track RMS CD Programming, resume, program, repeat program, shuffle, repeat shuffle, repeat single track and repeat all tracks CD play modes, .WMA CD Playback, .WAV CD Playback, 80-minute (700MB) standard audio disc playback, 20-bit HDCD Playback at standard 16-bit audio CD resolution, hybrid SACD Playback, 12 cm audio disc playback, 8 cm audio disc playback, programmable track memory, CD-R/RW Playback, CD Player Frequency Response: 20Hz-20,000 Hz +/- 1db, CD Player Wow and Flutter: below measurable limit, NEVER TOUCH THE LENS consumer warning statement in disc compartment, digital multifunction LCD, LCD driver, LCD circuit, LCD panel assembly, 24-inch, 2-segment 360 degree rotational retractable metal telescopic whip antenna for precise FM Band reception, telescopic antenna placement holder, user-replaceable FM antenna, built-in ferrite bar antenna for accurate AM Band reception, FM/AM preset station memory retention after loss of battery or AC power, nonvolatile memory, mechanical tape transport controls including: Record, Play, Rewind, Fast Forward, Stop/Eject and Pause buttons, tactile dot on tape Play button, single tape transport motor, CD/Cassette synchronized recording, cassette recording off FM/AM Tuner, cassette recording from audio component connected to the black 3.5mm AUX Line Input Jack, cassette recording on AC and DC power sources, cassette recording with AM Band noise suppression, auto record level control, Type I normal bias cassette playback and recording, tape travel pulley, fast winding cassette mechanism, combination playback/record head, pinch roller, capstan, magnetic erase head, cassette erasure, single-direction cassette playback, cassette door spring, soft-eject cassette door, 4 tactile dots on cassette door, Cassette Player Frequency Response: 80Hz-10,000 Hz, 150-second fast winding time with Sony HF Series C-60 Cassette, twin cassette hubs, cassette player preamplifier, cassette recorder amplifier, cassette deck recording circuitry, cassette compartment case screws, rear panel green 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack (16-32 ohms impedance), front panel 3.5mm AUX Input Jack for connection to an MP3 Player, computer, portable TV, VCR or DVD Player, two-channel hi-fi stereo speaker system, two full-range 4-ohm impedance rated cone type 3.25-inch loudspeakers, audio crossover circuit, protective speaker grill guard, speaker cabinet, diaphragm, speaker magnet, voice coils, Red LED OPR/BATT indicator, LED driver, LED circuit, 3.4 Watts RMS total system amp power output at 10% T.H.D., bass-reflex sound system, two bass-reflex ports accentuates circulatory air movement for improved low end response on club music tracks, Mega Bass low frequency sound enhancement, Mega Bass ON/OFF button, fold-down recessed carry handle, Power ON/OFF button, digital Volume +/- Controls, 0-10 (30 Step) digital volume control scale, tactile dot on Volume + button, Tape button, CD button, Radio Band button, Mode button to switch between stereo and mono reception on the FM Band, direct input Tape, CD and Radio Band source selection, CD transport controls including: Play/Pause, Stop, Reverse Search, Reverse Skip, Forward Search and Forward Skip buttons, tactile dot on CD Play button, Display/Enter/Memory button for accessing elapsed CD track time and preset station number status, Audio IN button for access to 3.5mm Line Input Jack source component, Tuner Preset/CD Track Forward and Reverse Skip controls, large button interface, attractive gray/black exterior finish, white/black front panel lettering, centered front panel SONY logo, rear panel clear type SONY logo, bottom panel registered trademark SONY logo, universal stereo headphone jack symbol, battery polarity installation diagram, bottom panel battery compartment, 3-tab release detachable battery cover, PUSH OPEN battery cover removal indicator, battery cover removal downward directional arrow, product usage warning symbols, Part 15 F.C.C. Rules RF harmful interference compliance certification statement, D.H.H.S 21 C.F.R. SUBCHAPTER J Laser Beam Safety Certification Statement, 7-digit serial number sticker inside battery compartment, CD-DA Logo, CD-R/RW Playback Logo, U.L. Mark, rear panel AC IN Jack, built-in AC power transformer, 120V, 60Hz AC Power Rating, 13W AC Power Consumption, 9V DC Power Rating, detachable battery cover, DC positive/negative battery contact terminals, bottom panel battery compartment, set of four rubber feet on the bottom panel for secure placement on a tabletop, country of origin sticker, MADE IN CHINA imprint, printed circuit board network layout, double-sided printed circuit board, main printed wiring board, power printed wiring board, motor printed wiring board, key printed wiring board, audio in jack printed wiring board, switch printed wiring board, main printed wiring board conductor side, main printed wiring board component side, integrated circuits, IC system controllers, integrated circuit pins, IC controller on main printed wiring board, automatic power control circuit, ceramic chips, metal chips, short chips, fuses, solders, switches, ceramic vibrator, crystal vibrator, electrical wiring storage compartment, transistors, very large scale transistor integration, capacitors, resistors, diodes, RFI noise filters, semiconductors, solid-state electronic components, factory reset procedure by unplugging the unit and removing all the batteries until all LCD information is cleared from the display, 22 user-adjustable controls including: Record, PLAY, REWIND, FAST FORWARD, STOP/EJECT and PAUSE cassette player controls, POWER, MODE, DISPLAY/ENTER/MEMORY, TAPE, CD, RADIO BAND, AUDIO IN, MEGA BASS, VOLUME -/+, TUNE -/+, PLAY/PAUSE, STOP, PRESET -/+ REVERSE and FORWARD SKIP SEARCH tuner, preamplifier and CD Player buttons, 14 front panel buttons, 6 top panel case screws, 2 rear panel case screws, 2 bottom panel case screws, 2 CD compartment case screws, 2 cassette compartment case screws, 4 battery compartment case screws, 1 telescopic antenna place holder case screw, top panel boombox cabinet, front panel boombox cabinet, rear panel cabinet, bottom panel boombox cabinet, vast network of case screws inside boombox cabinet, high endurance plastic boombox casing, modular boombox panel construction, back panel/bottom panel air vents, slots and openings for proper air ventilation during product operation, portable audio product warranty card and it comes with operating instructions. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo is complimented with sturdy build quality, compact design, fantastic FM Stereo/AM radio reception and it is lightweight. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo’s telescopic whip antenna will be automatically disconnected when headphones are connected to it. At this point, the headphone connecting cord acts as the portable stereo’s FM antenna. Be sure to keep the headphone cord as straight and extended as possible for best FM Band reception during private listening. The telescopic whip antenna will be reinstated as soon as the headphones are disconnected from the portable stereo’s green 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack. Perfect FM stereo reception will be maintained during private listening as long as Sony MDR Series Stereo Headphones is connected to the portable stereo’s 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack. The ferrite bar AM Band antenna is never disconnected when headphones are connected to this boombox. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo is powered by 6 C alkaline batteries. The batteries are not included with the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo. There is no definitive answer as to the actual time that the C batteries will last. The battery life specifications (up to 19 hours) provided by Sony in the user manual are approximate, are offered under factory operating conditions and are accurate if Sony C cell LR14 alkaline batteries that are manufactured in Japan are used. The batteries are automatically disconnected as a direct current power source once this portable stereo is plugged into an AC power outlet. The battery compartment contains two rows of spring-loaded DC battery terminals. Each battery row holds three C batteries. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is compatible with the following C 1.5V or equivalent battery types: carbon-zinc (1.5V 3,800 mAh capacity recommended), alkaline (1.5V 8,350 mAh capacity recommended) and NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries (1.2V 5,000 mAh capacity recommended). Stay away from cheap no name label alkaline, carbon-zinc or rechargeable C batteries. Unknown brand supermarket, local pharmacy or dollar store C batteries are inferior, last a very short time span and leak in the battery compartment. Make sure to never mix old and new batteries, different battery types, different battery voltages and different battery brands. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox offers exemplary battery life with Duracell Coppertop DURALOCK Power Preserve Technology, Rayovac Ready Power or Energizer Max Power Seal Technology alkaline batteries. Battery life will be consumed more quickly if this product is used at an extremely cold location. The batteries should be removed from the battery compartment when the boombox is placed into storage for 30 days or more. The batteries should be replaced when the LED OPR/BATT light dims, the sound quality becomes weak or if the stereo fails to respond to user commands. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can also be powered by AC current with the supplied, detachable polarized plug AC power cord. The AC power cord is approximately 66-inches (5.5 ft., 1676.4 mm or 167.64 cm) in length. The extended power cord length provides for convenient placement of the Sony CFD-S05 boombox on a desk, nightstand, table or indoor stable flat surface in the home. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can be plugged into a wall outlet, power strip, surge protector or automotive DC-to-AC power inverter for stationary music playback. The digital LCD displays the following system information: FM Band indicator, AM Band indicator, FM/AM Station Frequency, FM “ST” Stereo indicator, FM “MO” Mono indicator, FM/AM Station Preset Number, MEGA BASS sound indicator, Volume “VOL” up/down indicator, Volume Level Number and Bar Graph Display, Audio In indicator, CD input indicator, CD PLAY indicator, CD blinking time display to indicate disc Pause mode, audio disc total track number, current track number, total disc play time, elapsed track playing time, TRACK indicator, Repeat Play arrow indicator, Repeat All tracks arrow indicator, Repeat 1 track indicator, “SHUF” Shuffle Play indicator, Shuffle Play repeat arrow indicator, “PGM” Program Play indicator, Repeat Circular Arrow with “PGM” Program Play indicator, Program Play mode FULL error message, Cd-- reading error indicator, TAPE input indicator, ISS 1, ISS 2 and ISS 3 AM Band noise suppression recording indicators. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is UL Listed. However, the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo does not come with a remote control. A remote control can’t be purchased separately because the Sony CFD-S05 boombox does not feature a built-in IR remote sensor. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox does not offer MP3 CD Playback, DVD Playback, DualDisc Playback, preset/custom equalizer sound modes, CD recording, anti-skip electronic shock protection, auto-reverse playback, timer recording, tape counter, adjustable FM/AM channel step tuning interval, TV Band audio, auto power-off function, 3.5mm Microphone Input Jack, 3.5mm/RCA dedicated Line Output Jack, condenser microphone, extra speaker jacks, external antenna inputs, backlit LCD, 12V DC IN Jack, 100-240V dual voltage AC power supply, iPod/iPhone dock, third party MP3 Player dock, built-in NiMH C cell battery charger, clock or a sleep timer. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is compatible with a third party plug-in digital timer to add sleep timer/alarm clock features to the portable stereo while operating in AC power mode only. This boombox remembers the last radio station tuned to, input source selection and playback volume level when its powered off. Resume play allows a return to the beginning of the last track played when CD playback was stopped. Resume play does not allow a return to the exact point in the track when disc playback was stopped. Resume play is cancelled once the CD Stop button is pressed twice consecutively during playback, the CD compartment lid is opened or when this boombox is powered off. Resume play does not function in shuffle or program CD playback modes. The Sony CFD-S05 Personal Audio System features a cassette deck recorder with superb mechanical operation that allows CDs to be copied to cassettes effortlessly. Cassette recording starts at the same time CD playback begins for exceptional dubbing results. My preference is for Sony CD-R 1-48X 700MB/80 minutes 50CDQ80RS Recordable Storage Media when copying homemade recordings to tape. Type I normal bias cassettes must be used for dubbing. Sony HF Series 60 or 90-minutes normal bias cassettes are recommended for best recording results. Do not use cassettes that are longer than 120-minutes for recording operations. Make sure to use AC power during recording sessions to maintain reliable operation and to conserve battery power. The stereo cassette recorder reduces unwanted noise or interference when recording programs off the AM Band. During AM Band program recording, press the Mode button on the front panel of this boombox to cycle between 3 distinct levels of Interference Suppress Switch (ISS) noise suppression (Interference Suppress Switch 1, Interference Suppress Switch 2, Interference Suppress Switch 3) via the LCD for best AM program recording results. The cassette deck does offer a full auto stop in Tape Play mode. A 3.5mm-male-to-3.5mm-male stereo patch cable is needed to connect an MP3 Player such as an iPod, iPod mini, iPod shuffle, iPod nano, iPod touch, iPod classic, iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPad, iPad 2, the new iPad, iPad Retina display, iPad mini, Zune MP3 Player, SanDisk Sansa Fuze MP3 Player, SanDisk Sansa Clip Zip MP3 Player, Coby MP3 Player, GPX MP3 Player, Grace Digital Audio MP3 Player, Archos MP3 Player, RCA MP3 Player, Creative Labs ZEN MP3 Player, Philips-Android MP3 Player, Mach Speed Eclipse MP3 Player, Motorola Droid RAZR, Motorola DROID RAZR M, Numark MP3 Player, Visual Land Flash Media MP3 Player, DPI MP3 Player, Supersonic MP3 Player, Video MP3 Player, Smartphone, BlackBerry, BlackBerry Bold, BlackBerry Curve, BlackBerry Torch, BlackBerry Storm, BlackBerry Storm 2, BlackBerry Z10, all-in-one computer, tablet PC, netbook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Mac Pro, iMac, HP ENVY, mobile phone, Nokia Lumia, Sharp Sidekick, LG Connect, HTC EVO, Sony Xperia Z, Samsung Galaxy S III, Samsung Galaxy S 4, Samsung-Galaxy S 5, Samsung-Galaxy MP3 Player, Sony Walkman MP3 Player or MP4 Video Player to this Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo. The 3.5mm stereo extension cable needed to make this connection is not included with the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. Purchase any of the following 3.5mm stereo patch cables to make this iPod/iPhone/MP3 Player/mobile phone connection to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox a digital portable music playback reality: 1. Dynex DX-MP353B, 2. Dynex DX-MP35B, 3. Dynex DX-AD105, 4. Rocketfish RF-PAUX2, 5. Dynex DX-MP3AX, 6. Dynex DX-DMP354 or 7. Dynex DX-DCAUX. Rest assured that any iPod’s 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Output Jack can be connected to the 3.5mm Auxiliary Line Input Jack on the Sony CFD-S05 Personal Audio Stereo System. Purchase an Apple Universal Dock for Apple iPod and iPhone Model:MC746LL/A or later model from an authorized Apple reseller to connect an iPod/iPhone to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The 3.5mm Line Output Jack on the Apple Universal Dock must be connected to the 3.5mm Line Input Jack on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox with an optional 3.5mm-male-to-3.5mm-male stereo patch cable to complete connections. Moreover, a Y-audio stereo patch cable (3.5mm-to-dual RCA stereo phono) such as the Dynex DX-MP3RCA7 Y-Audio Stereo Cable is needed to connect a TV or VCR to this Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is compatible with an optional battery powered FM transmitter for MP3 Player portable audio wireless playback. An MP3 Player or TV set can be played on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox via a user-selectable unused FM radio station frequency with an FM transmitter connected to the MP3 Player’s 3.5mm Headphone Jack. A portable AAA battery-operated FM transmitter with a 3.5mm Line Input Jack is compatible with the Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s FM Band Tuner. A Maxell P-13 Universal Digital FM Stereo Transmitter is recommended for MP3 Player wireless audio playback on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The built-in FM/AM Tuner can’t be upgraded to HD sound quality. Nonetheless, an external FM HD Radio Tuner can be added on to the Sony CFD-S05 Personal Audio System’s 3.5mm Stereo Line Input Jack. I recommend the following portable FM Band HD Radio Tuner’s for this on-the-go digital radio upgrade: Insignia NS-HD01, Insignia NS-HD01A, Insignia NS-HD02, Insignia NS-HDRAD and Coby HDR650. HD radio provides benefits to consumers including dramatically increased audio fidelity on FM/AM stations, wide dynamic range FM stereo sound, digital AM stereo sound on the FM HD radio sub-channels, live HD broadcasts of local professional sports teams, multiple simultaneous news, talk and music program feeds on FM HD1, HD2 and HD3 broadcast channels, auto HD/analog reception mode switching, broadcast HD logo on HD radio programs, HD radio signal strength meter, instant station frequency, artist info, song title, album info, album cover art and call sign FM station identification, iTunes tagging, live pause, bookmark feature, reduced multipath noise distortion artifacts, virtual elimination of noise, static, hissing, popping, fading and birdie sounds often found on conventional AM radio transmissions and real-time news, weather and traffic reports. The subscription free over-the-air HD broadcast signal does not provide extended reception coverage to geographical locations that are normally impossible to obtain high quality analog radio reception in. F.C.C. licensed HD radio transmissions are broadcast alongside their traditional analog counterpart. An HD radio receiver reverts back to analog transmissions when the broadcast digital signal is weak, obstructed or lost due to a poor reception area. A FM HD radio receiver connected to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox is not likely to obtain better long-range FM reception compared to this portable stereo’s integrated FM Stereo/AM Tuner. A portable SiriusXM satellite/internet radio tuner’s RCA or 3.5mm Line Output Jack can be connected to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s 3.5mm AUX Line Input Jack. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack is compatible with the following private listening accessories: monaural earphone, dual monaural earphone, flexible ear hook stereo-to-mono headphone, dynamic driver stereo headphones, electrostatic transducer stereo headphones, HD neodymium magnet stereo headphones, active noise-cancelling stereo headphones, passive noise-cancelling stereo headphones, digital noise-cancelling stereo headphones, noise-cancelling in-ear stereo headphones, behind-the-neck stereo headphones, behind-the-head stereo headphones, street style stereo headphones, balanced armature in-ear stereo earphones, collapsible headband stereo headphones, ear buds, ear-clip style earphones, clip-on stereo headphones, active style stereo headphones, vertical in-the-ear stereo headphones, around-the-ear stereo headphones, RF/IR wireless stereo headphones, digital surround sound wireless headphones, lightweight stereo headphones, water-resistant stereo headphones, open-air stereo headphones, extra bass driver stereo headphones, DJ stereo headphones, studio monitor stereo headphones, portable stereo headphone amplifier, 3.5mm stereo headphone jack splitter for simultaneous multiple user headphone listening sessions, 3.5mm monaural headphone extension cable and a 3.5mm stereo headphone extension cable. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox produces prodigious sound from the digital stereo headphone amplifier. Your choice of stereo headphones will greatly affect the sound quality and dynamic overall loudness from the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. To achieve tremendous loudness from the Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack, use stereo headphones that offer low driver impedance between 24-32 ohms measured at 1 kHz. Look to purchase stereo headphones that feature a high sensitivity rating measured in decibels. Look for stereo headphones with a sensitivity rating between 100db-117db/mW, a headphone driver frequency response rating between 20-20,000 Hz, large diameter neodymium magnet drivers between 30-70mm, 4-10 ft. oxygen-free copper litz wire coiled connecting cord, extra bass drivers, Copper-Clad Aluminum Wire (CCAW) voice coils, multiple layer P.E.T. dome diaphragms, plush urethane leather ear pads, handmade ear cushions, wide-molded adjustable headband, anti-resonance headphone construction, multiple case screws and high output power handling capacity measured in milliwatts (500-3,000mW) for sensational concert quality private listening indoors or outdoors. Sony MDR Series Stereo Headphones are the best choice for high-end private listening. The following Sony MDR Series DJ Style, Extra Bass or Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones achieve high-fidelity private listening on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox: 1. Sony MDR-XB1000, 2. Sony MDR-XB700, 3. Sony MDR-XB500, 4. Sony MDR-XB300, 5. Sony MDR-V900HD, 6. Sony MDR-Z1000, 7. Sony MDR-V700DJ, 8. Sony MDR-V600, 9. Sony MDR-V500DJ, 10. Sony MDR-V300, 11. Sony MDR-V250V, 12. Sony MDR-V6, 13. Sony MDR-V55/BR, 14. Sony MDR-ZX600/BLK, 15. Sony MDR-MA100, 16. Sony MDR-MA300, 17. Sony MDR-MA900, 18. Sony MDR-110LP, 19. Sony MDR-210LP, 20. Sony MDR-770LP, 21. Sony MDR-X10/BLK, 22. Sony MDR-X10/RED, 23. Sony MDR-XB600, 24. Sony MDR-XB800, 25. Sony MDR-XB400/GRN, 26. Sony MDR-NC500D, 27. Sony MDR-1R, 28. Sony MDR-G45LP, 29. Sony MDR-IF245RK and 30. Sony XBA-NC85D. The Mega Bass sound enhancer is active but can be switched off when using this boombox with stereo headphones. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is compatible with the following aftermarket accessories when stereo headphones are connected: 1. RadioShack 20-Ft. Stereo Headphone Cable 1/8” Jack to 1/8” Plug Model: 42-2562 |Catalog #: 42-2562, 2. RadioShack 6-Ft. Stereo Headphone Cable 1/8” Jack to 1/8” Plug Model: 42-2482 |Catalog #: 42-2482, 3. RadioShack Gold-Plated Volume Control Cable for Stereo Headphones Model: 42-2559 |Catalog #: 42-2559, 4. Auvio 3.5mm Headphone Splitter Model: 4201009 |Catalog # 421009 and 5. FiiO E5 Portable Headphone Amplifier. It is possible for the Sony CFD-S05 boombox to work outside of the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico on AC current with purchase of a Step Up/Down Voltage Converter/Transformer. The voltage transformer converts voltages from 110-120 Volts to 220-240 Volts so that electronic devices intended for the U.S. and Canadian markets can be powered abroad. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo’s product dimensions are: Width: 14-3/8, Height: 5-3/8, Depth: 9-1/8 and Weight: 5 lbs. 15 ounces. A 90-day labor and 1 year parts limited manufacturer warranty is included with the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is manufactured in China (PRC). Nonetheless, I can’t recommend the Sony CFD-S05 FM Stereo/AM boombox for use in China. The AM Band will not work correctly in the People’s Republic of China. There are approximately 300 FM/AM radio stations broadcasting in China today. FM/AM over-the-air radio programming subjects include: children’s programs, foreign language, opera, education, women’s programs, finance, medical and health, short stories, talk shows, traditional/classical music, lifestyle, crosstalk, sports, weather updates, entertainment game programs, music and traffic news. Some popular Chinese radio stations include: Beijing Traffic Radio FM 103.9 MHz, Beijing Entertainment Radio FM 87.6 MHz, Beijing News Radio FM 100.6 MHz/AM 828 kHz, CNR-1 The Voice of China FM 106.1 MHz, China Radio International FM 90.5 MHz and Beijing Music Radio FM 97.4 MHz. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can tune to any FM Band broadcast frequency in the desired target destination. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s default AM Band Channel Step can’t be changed from 10 kHz to 9 kHz to receive AM Band stations competently in China. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can’t tune in the following AM Band frequencies in China: 531 kHz, 549 kHz, 558 kHz, 567 kHz, 576 kHz, 585 kHz, 594 kHz, 603 kHz, 612 kHz, 621 kHz, 639 kHz, 648 kHz, 657 kHz, 675 kHz, 684 kHz, 693 kHz, 702 kHz, 711 kHz, 729 kHz, 738 kHz, 747 kHz, 756 kHz, 765 kHz, 774 kHz, 783 kHz, 792 kHz, 801 kHz, 819 kHz, 828 kHz, 837 kHz, 846 kHz, 855 kHz, 864 kHz, 873 kHz, 882 kHz, 891 kHz, 909 kHz, 918 kHz, 927 kHz, 936 kHz, 945 kHz, 954 kHz, 963 kHz, 972 kHz, 981 kHz, 999 kHz, 1008 kHz, 1017 kHz, 1026 kHz, 1035 kHz, 1044 kHz, 1053 kHz, 1062 kHz, 1071 kHz, 1089 kHz, 1098 kHz, 1107 kHz, 1116 kHz, 1125 kHz, 1134 kHz, 1143 kHz, 1152 kHz, 1161 kHz, 1179 kHz, 1188 kHz, 1197 kHz, 1206 kHz, 1215 kHz, 1224 kHz, 1233 kHz, 1242 kHz, 1251 kHz, 1269 kHz, 1278 kHz, 1287 kHz, 1296 kHz, 1305 kHz, 1314 kHz, 1323 kHz, 1332 kHz, 1341 kHz, 1359 kHz, 1368 kHz, 1377 kHz, 1386 kHz, 1395 kHz, 1404 kHz, 1413 kHz, 1422 kHz, 1431 kHz, 1449 kHz, 1458 kHz, 1467 kHz, 1476 kHz, 1485 kHz, 1494 kHz, 1503 kHz, 1512 kHz, 1521 kHz, 1539 kHz, 1548 kHz, 1557 kHz, 1566 kHz, 1575 kHz, 1584 kHz, 1593 kHz, 1602 kHz, 1611 kHz, 1629 kHz, 1638 kHz, 1647 kHz, 1656 kHz, 1665 kHz, 1674 kHz, 1683 kHz, 1692 kHz and 1701 kHz. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s Medium Wave band tuning range is crippled by its fixed 10 kHz channel step tuning. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox does have fixed FM Band channel step tuning and it is possible to tune in FM Band station frequency: 87.6 MHz, 87.8 MHz, 88.2 MHz, 88.4 MHz, 88.6 MHz, 88.8 MHz, 89.2 MHz, 89.4 MHz, 89.6 MHz, 89.8 MHz, 90.2 MHz, 90.4 MHz, 90.6 MHz, 90.8 MHz, 91.2 MHz, 91.4 MHz, 91.6 MHz, 91.8 MHz, 92.2 MHz, 92.4 MHz, 92.6 MHz, 92.8 MHz, 93.2 MHz, 93.4 MHz, 93.6 MHz, 93.8 MHz, 94.2 MHz, 94.4 MHz, 94.6 MHz, 94.8 MHz, 95.2 MHz, 95.4 MHz, 95.6 MHz, 95.8 MHz, 96.2 MHz, 96.4 MHz, 96.6 MHz, 96.8 MHz, 97.2 MHz, 97.4 MHz, 97.6 MHz, 97.8 MHz, 98.2 MHz, 98.4 MHz, 98.6 MHz, 98.8 MHz, 99.2 MHz, 99.4 MHz, 99.6 MHz, 99.8 MHz, 100.2 MHz, 100.4 MHz, 100.6 MHz, 100.8 MHz, 101.2 MHz, 101.4 MHz, 101.6 MHz, 101.8 MHz, 102.2 MHz, 102.4 MHz, 102.6 MHz, 102.8 MHz, 103.2 MHz, 103.4 MHz, 103.6 MHz, 103.8 MHz, 104.2 MHz, 104.4 MHz, 104.6 MHz, 104.8 MHz, 105.2 MHz, 105.4 MHz, 105.6 MHz, 105.8 MHz, 106.2 MHz, 106.4 MHz, 106.6 MHz, 106.8 MHz, 107.2 MHz, 107.4 MHz, 107.6 MHz and 107.8 MHz in China or a region of interest that separates FM Band frequencies at 100 kHz or .1 MHz intervals. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is engineered to receive FM stereo stations in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, U.S. territorial destinations and overseas. AM Band reception is optimized for the United States and Canada. Unlike an analog tuned boombox from yesteryear, the Sony CFD-S05 boombox must be tuned to a specific frequency to get correct FM/AM station reception. The digital tuning controls can’t be utilized to hone in on a preferred station in the same manner as an analog rotary tuning boombox until the desired FM/AM broadcast is received loud and clear. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox will work in China as long as it is supplied with six working 1.5V C alkaline batteries. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo’s Medium Wave reception may be impaired in many overseas geographical destinations because there is no way to change this boombox’s AM Band Channel Tuning interval from 10 kHz to 9 kHz. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can transfer cassette recordings to a personal computer in compressed .WAV and/or .MP3 digital file formats for personal archival purposes. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can be made part of an emergency prep kit in advance of a natural disaster, short-term power outage, long-term power outage, severe weather event, hurricane, tsunami, earthquake, blizzard, electrical storm, unplanned weather event, high-wind warning, tornado, dust storm, nuclear power plant leak, fire, water main break, building collapse, bridge collapse, construction site accident, boating vessel accident, oil spill, gasoline shortage, plane crash, train derailment, drought condition, emergency water usage restriction, water supply contamination, manmade catastrophe, terrorist attack, explosion, asteroid collision, during a period of civil unrest or to receive notice of abhorrent criminal conduct taking place in the neighborhood on FM or AM news radio broadcasts. I can’t recommend a wind-up hand crank radio. I have never reached a point in my life that I have experienced a complete disposable C battery shortage. I have never run out of alkaline battery power during a power outage that I can remember. C alkaline batteries are one of the most ubiquitous items for sale in the U.S. C batteries can be purchased at almost any store anywhere. Yes there are some exceptions but not many. Obviously, C alkaline batteries tend to become scarce immediately before, during or after a severe storm and power outage. One way to avoid a temporary C alkaline battery shortage and loss of battery power is to buy a spare set or several spare sets of C batteries for the Sony CFD-S05 boombox in case a store that sells C alkaline batteries can’t be found at the moment. The spare set of C alkaline batteries will last longer than the self-powered wind-up rechargeable radio. Duracell Coppertop DURALOCK Power Preserve Technology, Rayovac Ready Power or Energizer Max Power Seal Technology 1.5V C alkaline batteries are recommended for maximum sustained battery life of the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo during emergencies as circumstances require. A spare set of Duracell Coppertop DURALOCK Power Preserve Technology C, Rayovac Ready Power C and Energizer Max Power Seal Technology C alkaline batteries maintain full power in the product packing for up to 10 years from the date of purchase. As a result, long-term storage of C alkaline batteries is a favorable option to power the Sony CFD-S05 boombox during a nightmare public endangerment scenario. However, a wind-up radio may be a more desirable portable AM/FM/Shortwave/WB radio to take on a long camping trip, hunting trip and fishing excursion or to have during a power outage. The Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo offers stellar battery life on one set of C alkaline batteries and that is sufficient reason alone for me not to recommend a wind-up radio. Wind-up radios may also be inconvenient for customers that suffer from arthritis, joint diseases or maladies that cause pain in the hands. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox offers much better sound quality from its robust stereo speakers on radio broadcasts compared to a wind-up radio to provide increased voice clarity on vital up-to-the-minute weather reports, traffic updates, voluntary evacuation orders and mandatory evacuation orders on the FM/AM bands. The quality of radio reception (Local or DX) received on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox is dependent on a multitude of environmental factors, seasonal conditions, astronomical occurrences, principles of radio propagation, transmitter antenna electromagnetic polarization patterns, the laws of physics, F.C.C. regulations regarding power transmissions and circumstances that are beyond your control. Reception can change based on the time of day it is, atmospheric conditions, the presence of sun spots, solar flares, solar winds, solar storms during the daytime hours, the movement of radio waves from one part of the earth to another, close by ham radio operators, nearby power lines and electrical motors near the home, the proximity of appliances that emit RF interference to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox, the type of material that the home or room is made of, the distance from the antenna tower(s) to your home, the presence of mountains, hills or skyscrapers in the neighborhood, signal strength of the station being received and the quality of the Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s antennas and radio receiver all play a critical part in determining the quality of radio reception in the home or outdoors. It can’t be determined in the abstract if the tuner design of a boombox is responsible for the quality of radio reception that a customer receives. A digitally tuned portable stereo is not inherently superior in radio reception compared to its analog counterpart. A boombox tuner’s sensitivity and selectivity regarding weak signal and adjacent channel reception will thrive or dive based on the quality, electrical design, thermal design and craftsmanship of the portable stereo’s tuning circuitry, variable frequency oscillator, signal processing, noise filters, microcontroller, accurate calibration of the digital tuner and system FM/AM antennas. A digitally tuned boombox radio merely provides convenience to the listeners as they are able to store preset stations into memory. Customers can instantly recall their favorite radio stations and programs at the touch of a button on a digital tuner. A digitally tuned boombox usually suffers less from station-drift than an analog tuned boombox with a large tuning knob. Accurate, clear and drift-free radio reception for a boombox will inevitably vary. It is not possible to give a definitive answer as to the exact distance that a radio program can be received at a specific point of the day or night. Only a general range of reception can be estimated in miles when determining if a particular signal is capable of being received by the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. FM radio signals are broadcast at a higher altitude than AM signals. FM Band radio interference can be caused from multipath reflections of radio waves off tall buildings or nearby mountains in the neighborhood. The reception area of most FM signals can range between 40-100 miles. Under rare atmospheric conditions, referred to as Tropospheric Ducting, FM signal sky wave coverage over land or bodies of water during the warm summer months can extend outward up to a 190-500 mile radius from a station(s) transmitter during the daytime hours. Tropospheric Ducting forecasts are rated on a weakest signal to strongest signal geographical coverage area 0-10 index scale. Hilly or mountainous terrain work to defeat expanded Tropospheric Ducting FM radio wave propagation across the U.S. for the vast majority of FM Band listeners. FM coverage is shorter than AM because FM signals travel in straight lines (line-of-sight) and have reduced interaction with the earth’s ionosphere. FM monaural reception offers better sound compared to AM. FM mono signals are susceptible to much less interference than AM radio waves. FM stereo provides high-fidelity sound to the target audience and the shortest reception range in a radio market on the 87.5-108 MHz frequency spectrum. AM Band stations on the 530-1710 kHz frequency band periodically reduce power at night as required by F.C.C. regulations or perform maintenance operations on the transmitter that could adversely affect reception on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The transmission of AM radio is much longer than FM. In the daytime, AM radio traveling via ground wave transmission may reach listeners within a several hundred mile radius. At night, AM signals roaming via sky wave may travel hundreds or even thousands of miles away from the intended radio market. DX reception of remote AM Band stations is possible after sunset because of an AM broadcaster’s ability to bounce signals off the outer reaches of the earth’s atmosphere to Sony CFD-S05 boomboxes outside of the intended radio market. AM Band DX reception is best during the winter months and at its lowest point of performance in the summer. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox incorporates a ferrite bar antenna to bolster AM Band reception of Clear Channel Communications 50,000 Watt Stations. FM Band reception can be enhanced on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox by extending the telescopic whip antenna to achieve full quieting results. An examination of the various sources of radio interference is an important subject as it pertains to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s overall day-to-day operations. Most sources of radio frequency interference come from electronic devices within the home that emit RF or radio frequency waves. Radio interference may be caused by phenomenon occurring outside the home, in the immediate surrounding area of the home, deteriorating atmospheric conditions and/or interference from adjacent frequencies on the FM Band. Listeners experience interference from nearby electronic equipment in their home from such items as computers, cordless telephones, microwave ovens, cellular telephones, televisions, stereos, compact disc players, electric power tools and everyday household appliances. RF interference can be caused from lighting equipment, metal objects and nearby commercial radio or TV broadcasting equipment. A competing station that is adjacent to the station being listened to will bleed into the tuned station to degrade reception opportunities as well. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s Digital FM Band Tuner receives the following station frequencies in the New York City Metropolitan Area: 87.7, 88.3, 88.9, 89.1, 89.5, 89.9, 90.7, 91.1, 91.5, 92.3, 93.1, 93.5, 93.9, 94.7, 95.5, 96.3, 96.7, 97.1, 97.9, 98.3, 98.7, 99.5, 100.3, 100.7, 101.1, 101.9, 102.7, 103.5, 104.3, 105.1, 105.9, 106.7, 107.5 MHz. The Digital AM Band Tuner receives the following station frequencies in the New York City Metropolitan Area: 570, 620, 660, 710, 770, 820, 880, 930, 970, 1010, 1050, 1130, 1190, 1280, 1330, 1380, 1430, 1480, 1560, 1600, 1660 kHz. Receivable FM/AM stations vary by rural geographic destination or urban local radio market. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is capable of receiving the following classes of FM/AM stations in the United States as licensed by the F.C.C.: For the FM Band: Class A: 6,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmission power-Maximum Antenna Height 328 ft., Class B1: 25,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height: 328 ft., Class B: 50,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height 492 ft., Class C3: 25,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height 328 ft., Class C2: 50,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height 492 ft., Class C1: 100,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height 981 ft., Class C0: 100,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height 1476 ft. and Class C: 100,000 Watts maximum broadcast transmissions power-Maximum Antenna Height 1969 ft. For the AM Band: Class A: 10,000 Watts-50,000 Watts broadcast transmission power, Class B: 250 Watts-50,000 Watts broadcast transmissions power, Class C: 250 Watts-1,000 Watts broadcast transmissions power and Class D: 250 Watts-50,000 Watts broadcast transmissions power. Receivable FM/AM stations are categorized as commercial or non-commercial. Low-powered college radio stations located on the FM Band in NY can offer as few as 11 Watts of transmission power. High-powered college radio broadcasts can offer up to 46,000 Watts of transmission power on the FM dial. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is capable of receiving unlicensed (Part 15 F.C.C. Rules) FM stations such as those broadcast at a small college, local gym or in a multiple unit dwelling. Medium Wave coverage can be expanded upon indoors with an external omnidirectional passive antenna. For example, the Terk AM Advantage Indoor Antenna makes use of a wireless electromagnetic procedure known as inductive coupling to improve AM Band reception by placing the antenna in close proximity to the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. An external FM antenna, such as the C. Crane FM Reflect Dipole Antenna, can be attached via alligator clips to the whip antenna on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox for improved FM Band reception indoors. OEM replacement parts for the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Boombox Stereo can be ordered from the Best Buy Parts Store at bestbuy.partsearch or by clicking the PartStore link at the bottom of the bestbuy website. The most common consumer replaceable parts for the Sony CFD-S05 boombox are listed: 1. AC Power Cord, Sony Replacement Part # 183754111 at $18.46, 2. Sony CD Door/Latch/Switch, Sony Replacement Part # 416738601 at $8.41 and 3. Sony English Instruction Manual, Sony Replacement Part # 417456713 at $15.41. There are 3 OEM replacement parts available for online ordering for the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The pricing and availability of OEM Sony CFD-S05 boombox replacement parts at the Best Buy Parts Store is subject to change without notice. There are troubleshooting steps that can be taken before seeking in warranty or out-of-warranty repair service or purchasing a replacement item for a malfunctioning Sony CFD-S05 boombox. Some troubleshooting steps include: 1. Moving the portable stereo closer to a window to improve FM stereo /AM radio reception, 2. Placing a piece of adhesive tape over a broken cassette record tab and 3. Cleaning the audio compact disc prior to playback operations. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend that the Sony CFD-S05 boombox be brought in for an out-of-warranty repair that is cost prohibitive to a factory authorized service center should it experience a major failure after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. The auto tuning storage system (ATS) is a wonderful feature because it allows users to easily search, locate and store new FM/AM stations when crossing state lines to another local radio market or traveling to a different city within the same state on a business trip, vacation or to visit family. The cassette deck’s playback head/record head, erase head, capstan and pinch rollers should be cleaned after approximately every 10 hours of use with a wet or dry head cleaning tape. I recommend a Maxell 191018 Wet Audio Tape Head Cleaner for this application. The tape heads should be demagnetized from time to time with a tape head demagnetizer. Programmable track memory on a Sony CFD-S05 boombox allows storage up to 20 songs on any Red Book CD-DA audio disc into the portable stereo’s memory storage system in any playback order. For example, the following tracks may be programmed into memory: 2, 9, 20, 11, 8, 6, 4, 1, 7, 9, 13, 17, 15, 3, 10, 5, 19, 18, 12 and 16. Obviously, if a particular audio disc features less than 20 tracks, then the maximum number of tracks contained on that disc can be programmed into memory. If the audio disc features 25 tracks or any number over 20, then only a maximum number of 20 tracks can be programmed into the CD player’s memory. The tracks wanted in memory must be prioritized in this scenario. A CD Program Play “Full” indicator appears in the LCD if more than 20 tracks are programmed into memory. Program play mode selections can be repeated by pressing the MODE button on the main unit until the PGM and REP circular arrow symbols appear in the LCD. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox allows tracks that were programmed into memory to be recorded on cassette, if needed. CD program play mode is cancelled once the disc compartment door is opened, the Mode button on the main unit is pressed until the “PGM” indicator is removed from the LCD, power to the boombox is turned off, the CD PLAY button is pressed twice consecutively during disc playback, the batteries are completely consumed or AC power is removed from the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The program track memory play mode works with CD-R/RW discs, store purchased audio discs, 12 cm audio discs, 8 cm audio discs and audiobooks on CD as long as the Sony CFD-S05 boombox supports those types of media playback. Programmed tracks can be cancelled in its entirety before playback commences on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The consecutive playback order of all programmed tracks can be viewed by pressing the DISPLAY/ENTER button on the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox does not support MP3 CD Playback on CD recordable media. User-created MP3 audio discs from third party software programs on a personal computer like the Microsoft Windows Media Player will play in the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. The manufacturer does not list the Yellow Book MP3 Playback specification in the operating instructions. MP3 CD Playback is outside of the scope of normal product operation and feature guidelines as defined by the manufacturer. Some customers report success with MP3 CD Playback while others express their sincere disappointment in this item’s MP3 CD playback. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox only supports playback of audio discs that are burned in audio mode. There is no manufacturer support for compact discs burned in data mode. The CD Player plays copies of audio discs created in component stereo compact disc recorders. The CD-I compact disc standard was released to the buying public in 1991. The CD-I format includes interactive audio/video compact discs featuring embedded graphics, data or other multimedia applications. CD-I format stereo playback equipment allowed consumers to enjoy multimedia content from CD-I discs, CD+G, video CD, enhanced CD and karaoke discs. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can’t copy video, video games, game shows, educational software or graphics to cassette from CD-I format discs. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s CD Player can’t play CD-I data tracks as they will be automatically skipped. Discs labeled with the CD+G logo or CD-DA compliant music discs with embedded video clips or music videos will play in the CD Player but the video clips will be skipped for playback purposes. Periodic cleaning of the boombox chassis should be done with a soft cloth with a small amount of water or mild liquid soap detergent for more serious dirt or grass stains to keep it looking new. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox is U.L. Listed. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox operating instructions are divided into the following subject matter headings for compartmentalized system information retrieval: Owner’s Record, Warning, Note on Dual Discs, Music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies, Limited Warranty, Caution, Note, Caution, For customers in the USA, Important Safety Instructions, Power Sources, Specifications, Audio Power Specifications, Other Specifications, CD player section, Radio section, Cassette-corder section, General, Optional Accessory, Precautions, Discs that this unit can play, Discs that this unit cannot play, Notes on discs, On safety, On power sources, On placement, On operation, Notes on cassettes, Cleaning the cabinet, Basic Operations, Before using the unit, To turn on/off the power, Note, To adjust the volume, To listen through headphones, To reinforce the bass sound, Playing a CD, Tips, Listening to the radio, Playing a tape, Recording on a tape, Tips, Other Operations, Using the display, To check the total track number and playing time of the CD, To check the current track number of the CD, To check the current preset station number of the radio, Selecting a CD play mode, To cancel the selected play mode, To check the programmed track and playing order in the display, To change the current program, Tips, Presetting radio stations, If a station cannot be preset automatically, Tip, Playing preset radio stations, Connecting optional components, Tip, Troubleshooting, General, The power is not on, There is no audio, Noise is heard, CD player, The CD does not play or “Cd--“ is displayed even when a CD is in place, The sound drops out, Radio, Reception is poor, The audio is weak or has poor quality, The picture of your TV becomes unstable, Tape player, The tape does not move when you press an operation button, The record button does not function or the tape does not play or record and Poor or distorted playback, recording or erasing quality. It is important to compare and contrast the Sony CFD-S05 boombox with its competitive sibling, the Sony CFD-S350 boombox. The two units share numerous similar features including: Digital FM/AM PLL Synthesized Tuners, 30 FM/AM Station Presets, FM/AM retention of station presets after loss of AC or DC power options, auto tuning storage (ATS) systems, manual tuning modes, preset tuning modes, telescopic FM swivel antennas, ferrite bar AM Band antennas, FM Stereo Reception, FM Mono Reception, AM Band Mono Reception, fixed FM/AM channel step tuning intervals, 4 Track, 2 Channel stereo cassette decks, normal bias cassette playback, single-direction cassette playback, cassette recording from the FM/AM radio and CD Player, cassette erasure, cassette deck tape transport motors, tape travel pulleys, mechanical cassette transport buttons, single-disc CD players, 1-bit D/A converters for awesome Sony sound, analog-to-digital converters, push open/close disc compartment lids, CD-R/RW Playback, CD/Cassette dubbing, 20 Track RMS CD Programming, .WAV (Waveform Audio File Format) compressed file playback, .WMA (Windows Media Audio) compressed file format playback, repeat and shuffle CD play modes, digital easy-to-read large format LCDs, stereo speakers, cone type drivers, high-performance bass-reflex speaker systems, metal speaker grills to withstand summertime outings at the beach or on a boat, Mega Bass sound systems, LED OPR/BATT indicators, digital volume controls, 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jacks for private listening sessions, AC or DC power supply options, AC polarized plug power cords, 120V, 60Hz AC Power Supply, AC power transformers, separate DC power supply circuits, bottom panel battery compartments, multiple printed circuit board network layouts, UL logos, CD-DA logos, carry handles, lightweight portable audio designs, SONY logos, attractive silver/gray color schemes, place of manufacture nameplate imprints, multiple case screws and solid plastic build quality to hold up in challenging portable audio environments. There are some key differences between the two Sony boomboxes that consumers should be aware of before making their purchasing decision on the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo. The CFD-S05 features a 3.5mm Line Input Jack for connection to any MP3 Player for enhanced music playback capabilities while on-the-go. The CFD-S350 does not feature a 3.5mm or RCA Stereo AUX Input Jack for this task. The CFD-S05 does not include a remote control to control it from a short distance away. Conversely, the CFD-S350 is supplied with a full-function IR remote commander (powered by two AAA alkaline batteries) to control tuner access, CD playback modes, direct input source selection, Mega Bass sound mode and volume control amplifier management functions from across the room. The CFD-S350 operates on 6 D alkaline batteries to feed its more powerful stereo amplifiers. The CFD-S05 operates on 6 C batteries to accommodate its less powerful stereo amplifiers and for reduced battery run times compared to the CFD-S350. The CFD-350 has slightly larger physical dimensions and augmented weight compared to the CFD-S05. The CFD-S350 sounds significantly better than the CFD-S05 in radio, tape and compact disc playback modes. The CFD-S350 features a direct button press Power-On function. The CFD-S05 does not feature a Direct Power-On function as the Power button must be pressed each time to turn on the portable stereo. The CFD-S350 LCD provides remaining track time during audio disc playback. The CFD-S05 does not provide remaining track time information. The CFD-S05 features resume play in CD playback mode. The CFD-S350 does not feature resume play for convenient audiobook disc playback. The CFD-S05 can record music from an audio component connected to the 3.5mm Line Input Jack. The CFD-S350 can’t record audio from peripheral source audio components. The CFD-S350 features an adjustable sleep timer that can be accessed on the boombox and remote commander to fall asleep to music during late-night listening sessions. The CFD-S05 does not feature a sleep timer. Neither Sony boombox features MP3 CD Playback, anti-skip electronic shock protection, motorized CD door, boombox chassis lighting, CD recording, auto-reverse cassette playback, full-logic feather touch tape transport controls, tape counter, motorized cassette door, Dolby B noise reduction, Type IV metal tape playback, 3.5mm Microphone Input Jack, condenser microphone, PA system, simultaneous multiple sound source playback, preset equalizer sound modes, 12V DC IN Jack for automotive power applications, backlit LCD, clock, alarm clock, magnetic speaker shielding, AM Band stereo reception, extra speaker jacks, external antenna inputs, shortwave reception, TV Band audio or NOAA WB Channels. The CFD-S350 has more main amp output power rated at 4.6W (2.3W x 2 RMS at 10% T.H.D.) total output power. The CFD-S05 main amplifier section is only rated at 3.4W (1.7W x 2 RMS at 10% T.H.D.) total power output. The CFD-S350 consumes more AC and DC power than the CFD-S05. The CFD-S05 features Interference Suppress Switch (ISS) AM Band noise suppression when recording Medium Wave talk radio programs to cassette. The CFD-S350 does not provide ISS AM Band noise suppression cassette recording in its product feature set. The CFD-S350 features slightly larger stereo speakers than the CFD-S05. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox emerges as the winner in this portable audio boombox feature contest. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox offers a winning combination of a 3.5mm Line Input Jack for connection to any MP3 Player, AM Band ISS noise suppression recording capability, lightweight boombox chassis to accommodate portable audio tasks and efficient C alkaline battery operation that Sony CFD-S350 boombox just can’t match. Additional Sony CFD-S05 boombox troubleshooting steps include: 1. Check the battery compartment for battery acid leakage. If battery residue on the battery terminals is noticed, clean the terminals and then reinsert fresh name brand batteries. Always observe correct polarity in the battery compartment. 2. Use national name brand C alkaline batteries for maximum reliable operation of the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. 3. Make sure a fresh set of C alkaline batteries are installed inside the battery compartment of the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. 4. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox can be powered with environmentally friendly 1.2V NiMH rechargeable C batteries. 5. Tenergy 8 Pieces NiMH C Cell 5,000 mAh High Capacity High Rate Rechargeable Batteries can be installed for this direct current power solution. 6. Tenergy NiMH 1.2V C Rechargeable Batteries do not provide the recommended 1.5V DC current per C battery specification indicated in the operating instructions. 7. 1.2V NiMH C rechargeable batteries may offer slightly less performance with respect to audio quality and battery life compared to their 1.5V C alkaline counterparts. 8. Check the compact disc that you are trying to play. Is the compact disc scratched, damaged, warped or dirty? 9. If it is, the Sony CFD-S05 boombox will be unable to play the disc. Try a different CD and see if conditions improve. 10. Is the CD-R/RW disc finalized incorrectly? 11. If not, finalize the CD-R/RW disc on a CD recorder with CD recording software. 12. If so, check and make adjustments to the record settings in the CD burning software on the computer to correct the problem. 13. Make sure that the inserted CD-R/RW disc is not a blank disc. 14. Check for physical damage. 15. Has the malfunctioning Sony CFD-S05 boombox been dropped, exposed to water, dirt, sand, dust, rain and/or direct sunlight for significant periods of time? 16. The Sony CFD-S05 boombox will malfunction if any of these conditions are present and may not be correctable. 17. If the unit has been exposed to water, let the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo dry for a few hours before attempting to use it again. 18. Make sure that the CD laser lens is clean. 19. Refrain from touching the laser lens. Otherwise, the unit may malfunction. 20. Upgrade to a better pair of stereo headphones with low driver impedance (measured in ohms) and a high sensitivity rating (measured in decibels) to improve the Sony CFD-S05 boombox’s overall sound quality during private listening. 21. DJ style stereo headphones provide the best sound performance. 22. Keep the compact disc compartment lid closed when the Sony CFD-S05 CD Player is not in use. 23. Do not use a third party AC power cord for the Sony CFD-S05 boombox. 24. A third party AC power cord may cause noise during compact disc playback. 25. Keep the Sony CFD-S05 boombox clean to avoid unnecessary and premature CD Player failure. 26. Purchase a CD laser lens cleaner such as a Dynex CD Laser Lens Cleaner DX-CDDVDCL to correct CD playback issues. 27. Purchase a CD repair kit to correct disc playback problems like the Aleratec CD Repair System Model: 240131. 28. Borrow a CD from a friend and see if playback conditions improve. 29. If a friend’s CD plays correctly purchase a new audio CD to resolve disc playback snags. 30. As per the operating instructions under the “Troubleshooting” section, for the Sony CFD-S05 boombox states that if a CD does not play or stops playing suddenly, the direct cause is that the audio disc is installed upside down. 31. The store purchased audio disc must be inserted into the disc compartment with the label side facing up before the disc compartment door is closed to achieve proper playback. 32. Re-insert the disc in the disc compartment correctly to avoid disc playback stoppage. 33. The “Cd--” indicator appears in the LCD with two lines in place of track numbers because the Sony CFD-S05 Portable CD Player is attempting to read the audio CDs Table of Contents (TOC) so that playback can begin from track 1 and proceed to the last track under normal playback conditions. 34. The current disc can’t be read by the optical laser beam pick-up assembly and the “Cd--” error message appears in the LCD as a result. 35. If the Sony CFD-S05 Portable CD Player does not respond to this remedy then there is a significant chance that it has experienced a major failure. 36. Place the Sony CFD-S05 boombox on a flat stable surface during audio CD playback to avoid playback disruption. 37. Do not play irregularly shaped audio discs. 38. Do not block the ventilation holes in the Sony CFD-S05 boombox cabinet openings. 39. Wipe away excess water off the disc compartment, disc compartment lid, 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack, 3.5mm Line Input Jack and exterior casing to avoid irreparable damage on the Sony CFD-S05 Portable Stereo. 40. Are you attempting to play a homemade disc with MP3 files on it? 41. If so, change the audio disc to a store purchased audio CD to correct playback. 42. Keep the unit stored in its factory shipping container when not in use for an extended time period or when placing the item on a moving truck. 43. Do not attempt to service the unit. 44. Do not attempt to modify this set’s internal components. 45. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the unit. 46. Accurate FM/AM reception is difficult to accomplish inside of a parked car, moving car, subway, tunnel, basement, underground location and store or in an office building. 47. FM/AM reception often improves measurably during the nighttime hours. 48. Retain the user manual for complete operating instructions, C battery installation procedure and pictorial diagrams of controls, control descriptions, technical specifications, troubleshooting diagnostics and helpful troubleshooting resolution tips. 49. Register the Sony CFD-S05 boombox with Sony. 50. Refer all servicing needs of this product to a qualified or Sony factory authorized service technician.
Posted on: Thu, 19 Jun 2014 03:33:31 +0000
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