Sony MDR-RF985R User Guide - Page 1

English

Wireless Stereo Headphone System

WARNING

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this

apparatus to rain or moisture.

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this

apparatus to dripping or splashing, and do not place objects

filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

Do not expose the batteries (battery pack or batteries installed)

to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like for a long time.

To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer

servicing to qualified personnel only.

Do not install the appliance in a confined space, such as a

bookcase or built-in cabinet.

As the main plug of AC power adaptor is used to disconnect the

AC power adaptor from the mains, connect it to an easily

accessible AC outlet. Should you notice an abnormality in it,

disconnect it from the AC outlet immediately.

Excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones can

cause hearing loss.

Information

You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not

expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to

operate this equipment.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call:

Sony Customer Information Services Center

1-800-222-7669 or http://www.sony.com/

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name:

SONY

Model No.:

MDR-RF985R

(Headphones Unit)

Responsible Party:

Sony Electronics Inc.

Address:

16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127

USA

Telephone No.:

858-942-2230

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation

is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may

not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must

accept any interference received, including interference that

may cause undesired operation.

Note

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the

limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC

Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable

protection against harmful interference in a residential

installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate

radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in

accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful

interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur

in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful

interference to radio or television reception, which can be

determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is

encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of

the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different

from that to which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for

help.

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS

standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device

must accept any interference, including interference that may

cause undesired operation of the device.

For the state of California, USA only

Perchlorate Material - special handling may apply, See

www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate

Perchlorate material: Lithium battery contains

perchlorate

For the customers in the USA and

Canada

RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable.

You can help preserve our environment by

returning your used rechargeable batteries to

the collection and recycling location nearest

you.

For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable

batteries, call toll free 1-800-822-8837, or visit

http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion

batteries.

Checking the included

items

RF stereo transmitter

TMR-RF985R (1)

Wireless stereo headphones

MDR-RF985R (1)

AC adaptor (1)

Connecting cable (stereo mini

plug



pin plug × 2), 1 m (1)

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How to use

Tips for charging

When the transmitter’s contact pins meet the headphones’

contact points, the CHG indicator lights up red. If they do not

meet, the indicator will not light up. Confirm that the

headphones make a “click” sound when you put them on the

transmitter. When the headphones are correctly placed on the

transmitter, the upper surface of the headphones becomes level

with the transmitter.

The CHG indicator turns off when charging is complete.

Charging and usage time

Approx. charging time

Approx. usage time

1)

3.5 hours

2)

25 hours

3)

1) at 1 kHz, 0.1 mW + 0.1 mW output

2) hours required to fully charge an empty battery

3) Time may vary, depending on the temperature or conditions

of use.

To recharge the headphone battery

after use

Place the headphones on the transmitter after use. The CHG

indicator lights up, then charging starts.

When charging is complete, there is no need to remove the

headphones from the transmitter.

Remaining battery

To check the remaining battery charge of the headphones, turn

on the headphones, and check the power indicator near the

POWER switch. The battery is still serviceable when the indicator

lights up green.

Charge the headphones if the power indicator turns off, dims,

flashes, or the sound becomes distorted or noisy.

Notes

Insert the AC adaptor plug firmly.

Be sure to use the supplied AC adaptor. Using AC adaptors

with different plug polarity or other characteristics can cause

product failure.

Unified

polarity plug

The battery capacity may decrease if the headphones are

turned on and placed on the transmitter with the AC adaptor

disconnected.

The transmitter automatically turns off while charging the

headphones.

If the headphones are used outside the recommended

temperature range, the CHG indicator flashes and charging

stops. Charge in an environmental temperature of between

5°C and 35°C (between 41 °F and 95 °F).

If you haven’t used the headphones for a long period of time,

the life of the rechargeable battery may become short. This will

improve when you repeat the charging and discharging

process several times.

When the battery life reduces to half, this may be the end of

battery lifetime. For how to change batteries, consult your

place of purchase or a Sony dealer.

Do not store the headphones in hot places for a long period of

time. When storing them for more than a year, charge the

battery once a year to prevent over discharge.

Do not touch the contact pins of the transmitter. If the contact

pins become dirty, charging may not be possible.

Charging may not be completed if the transmitter’s contact

pins and headphones’ contact points are dusty. Wipe them

with a cotton bud, etc.

Tips for volume setting

If you connect the transmitter to the headphone jack of the

A/V component, set the volume of the A/V component as high

as possible but not so high that the audio signal becomes

distorted.

When watching videos, be careful not to raise the volume too

high in quiet scenes. You may hurt your ears when a loud

scene is played.

Tips for better reception

Receiving performance

This system utilizes very high frequency signals in the 900 MHz

band so the receiving performance may deteriorate due to the

surroundings. The following examples illustrate conditions that

may reduce the reception range or cause interference.

Inside a building with walls containing steel beams

An area with many steel file cabinets, etc.

An area with many electrical appliances capable of generating

electromagnetic fields

The transmitter is placed on a metal instrument.

An area facing a roadway

Noise or interfering signals exist in the surroundings due to

radio transceivers in trucks, etc.

Noise or interfering signals exist in the surroundings owing to

wireless communication systems installed along roadways.

Effective area of the transmitter

The optimum distance is up to approximately 45 m (150 ft)

without the system picking up some interference. However, the

distance may vary depending on the surroundings and

environment.

If the system picks up some noise within the above mentioned

distance, reduce the distance between the transmitter and the

headphones, or select another channel.

When you use the headphones inside the effective area of the

transmitter, the transmitter can be placed in any direction from

the listener.

Even within the signal reception area, there are some spots

(dead spots) where the RF signal cannot be received. This

characteristic is inherent to RF signals, and does not indicate

malfunction. By slightly moving the transmitter, location of the

dead spot can be changed.

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Replacing the earpads

The earpads are replaceable. If the earpads become dirty or

worn out, replace them as illustrated below. The earpads are not

commercially available. You can order replacements from the

store where you purchased this system, or at your nearest Sony

dealer.

1

Remove the old earpad by pulling it out of the groove on the

housing.

2

Place the new earpad on the driver unit.

Hang the edge of the earpad on one side of the driver unit’s

groove edge, then turn the edge of earpad around the driver

unit as illustrated below.

When the earpad is securely inserted into the groove, adjust

the earpad to the vertical position.

Troubleshooting

If you run into any problems using this system, use the following

checklist. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony

dealer.

No sound/Low sound

Turn on the headphones.

Check the connection of the A/V component or the AC

adaptor.

Check that the A/V component is turned on.

If you connect the transmitter to an A/V component using the

headphone jack, raise the volume level on the connected A/V

component within the range where the sound is not distorted.

Change the radio frequency with the CHANNEL selector on the

transmitter, then press the AUTO TUNING button on the right

housing of the headphones.

Use the headphones near the transmitter, or change the

position of the transmitter.

Charge the headphones. If the power indicator is still off after

charging, take the headphones to a Sony dealer.

Raise the headphone volume.

Distorted or intermittent sound

(sometimes with noise)



Use the headphones near the transmitter, or change the

position of the transmitter.

Do not place the transmitter on a metallic table.


headphone jack, lower the volume level on the connected A/V


Change the radio frequency with the CHANNEL selector switch

on the transmitter, then set to the same radio frequency with

the AUTO TUNING button on the right housing of the

headphones.

Loud background noise


headphone jack, raise the volume level on the connected A/V




Do not place the transmitter on a metallic table.

Use the headphones near the transmitter.

The sound cuts off

The transmitter turns off if no signal or low signal is input for 4

minutes. If you connect the transmitter to an A/V component

using the headphone jack, raise the volume level on the

connected A/V component within the range where the sound

is not distorted.

Battery cannot be charged/CHG

indicator flashes, or does not light up

Put the headphones on the transmitter correctly so that the

CHG indicator lights up.

The transmitter’s contact pins and headphones’ contact points

are dusty.

Wipe them with a cotton bud, etc.

You cannot charge while the CHG indicator flashes. Charge in

an environmental temperature of between 5°C and 35°C

(between 41 °F and 95 °F).

Check that the AC adaptor is connected to the transmitter.

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Precautions

If the transmitter is not to be used for a long period of time,

disconnect the AC adaptor from the AC outlet by holding the

plug. Do not pull on the cord.

Do not leave this system in a location subject to direct

sunlight, heat or moisture.

This system is guaranteed for use in the temperature range of

5 °C to 35 °C (41 °F to 95 °F).

You may hear some noise when you disconnect the AC

adaptor from the transmitter before taking off the

headphones.

Avoid exposure to temperature extremes, direct sunlight,

moisture, sand, dust or mechanical shock.

Notes on headphones

To reduce the risk of hearing damage

Avoid using headphones at high volume. Hearing experts advise

against continuous, loud and extended play. If you experience a

ringing in your ears, lower the volume or discontinue use.

Caring for others

Keep the volume at a moderate level. This will allow you to hear

outside sounds and to be considerate to the people around you.

If you have any questions or problems concerning the system

that are not covered in this manual, please consult your nearest

Sony dealer.

Be sure to bring the headphones and the transmitter to the Sony

dealer when requiring repair work.

Features

Thank you for purchasing the Sony MDR-RF985RK Wireless

Stereo Headphone System. Before operating the unit, please

read this manual thoroughly and retain it for future reference.

Some features are:

Wireless system that allows you to listen to a program free

from the restriction of a cord

Easy connection to TV and Hi-Fi Audio system component

Fast recharging function with secure charging mechanism

Noise reduction system to reproduce a clear sound with

minimum transmission noise

Automatic tuning on headphones for optimum signal

reception

3 transmission channels available

Up to 45 meters (150 feet) reception range*

Long playback time (approx. 25 hours)

High fidelity sound reproduction

Volume control function on the headphones

* Transmission distance varies depending on conditions of use.

Specifications

RF stereo transmitter (TMR-RF985R)

Modulation

FM stereo

Carrier frequency

915.5 MHz, 916.0 MHz, 916.5 MHz

Channel

Ch1, Ch2, Ch3

Transmission distance

Approx. 45 m (150 ft) of longest

Audio inputs

Pin jacks (left/right)

Stereo mini jack

Power requirements

DC 12 V (from the supplied AC adaptor)

Dimensions

Approx. 120 mm × 264 mm × 120 mm

(4

3

/

4

× 10

1

/

2

× 4

3

/

4

in) (w/h/d)

Mass

Approx. 470 g (1 lb 0.58 oz)

Rated power consumption

3.0 W

Operating temperature

5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F)

Wireless stereo headphones (MDR-RF985R)

Frequency response

10 Hz – 22,000 Hz

Power source

Built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery

Mass

Approx. 320 g (11.29 oz)

Operating temperature

5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F)

Included items

RF stereo transmitter TMR-RF985R

Wireless stereo headphones MDR-RF985R

AC adaptor (12 V) (1)

Connecting cable (stereo mini plug



pin plug × 2), 1 m (39

3

/

8

in) (1)

Card warranty (1)

Operating Instructions (this manual) (1)

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

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Connect the AC adaptor.

Charge the headphones.

To AC

outlet

(Red)

(Off)

Complete when indicator

turns off.

Connect the A/V component, following hookup



or



below.



Using the headphone jack of the A/V component

L (white)

R (red)

Stereo mini plug

Headphone jack

(Stereo mini jack)

TV, Digital music player, etc.

L (white)

R (red)

Stereo mini plug

Audio out

(L/R) jacks

Stereo system, Blu-ray Disc player, DVD player, TV*, etc.

* In case of no headphone jack.

If you cannot receive a clear audio signal

First change the radio frequency with the CHANNEL selector switch on the transmitter,

then briefly press the AUTO TUNING button on the headphones.

Noise Reduction process

The transmitter compresses the audio signal and converts it to RF signal. The headphones convert

the received RF signal to an audio signal and decompresses it. This process reduces noise picked

up during transmission.

input signal

output signal

decompression

compression

dynamic range

Transmitter unit

Headphones unit

RF transmission

noise level (low)



The transmitter compresses the audio signals dynamic range, then converts it to RF signal.



Noise may occur due to long distance transmission, etc.



The headphones convert the RF signal to an audio signal.



Noise may occur during conversion.



Decompression of the audio signals dynamic range reduces the noise level and improves the

S/N (signal-to-noise) ratio.

Adjust the volume.

After use

Turn off the power of the headphones.

About sending RF signals

The transmitter starts sending RF signals automatically

when it detects an audio signal from the connected

component. Note that;

Noise may occur depending on the transmitter

position and room conditions. It is recommended to

place the transmitter in a location that produces the

clearest sound.

If the transmitter is placed on a metallic table, you may

hear noise, or the reception range may decrease. Do

not place on a metallic table.

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If no signal or low signal is input

for about 4 minutes

When no signal is input for about 4 minutes, the

transmitter turns off automatically*. The POWER

indicator of the transmitter blinks for 60 seconds, then

turns off. The transmitter restarts after receiving an audio

signal again.

The transmitter may also turn off if low signal is input for

about 4 minutes. In this case, raise the volume of the

connected A/V component within the range where the

sound is not distorted, then lower the volume of the

headphones.

* If signal noise is output from the connected A/V

component, the transmitter may not turn off, even

when no audio signal is input.

Start playback of the A/V component.

Wear the headphones.

Before listening

To reduce the risk of hearing damage, first lower the volume.

Tactile dot

Up

Down

Tactile dot



Using the audio out (L/R) jacks of the A/V component

If you want to receive audio on the headphones while at the same time hearing audio from the television speakers:

connect the transmitter to your Cable Box/Satellite Box rather than your television.

3

1

2

6

4

5

Wireless Stereo

Headphone System

©2012 Sony Corporation

Printed in China

4-429-926-

12

(1)

MDR-RF985RK

Operating Instructions

Mode d’emploi

Sony MDR-RF985R User Guide - Page 1

Sony MDR-RF985R Manual

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