MDR-RF985RK(UC2/AU2) [US, FR] 4-429-926-12 (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.
–
–
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)
–
–
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 time1)
3.5 hours2) 25 hours3)
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.
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
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)
Charge the headphones. If the power indicator is still off after
charging, take the headphones to a Sony dealer.
Use the headphones near the transmitter, or change the
position of the transmitter.
Do not place the transmitter on a metallic table.
If you connect the transmitter to an A/V component using the
headphone jack, lower 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 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
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.
Charge the headphones. If the power indicator is still off after
charging, take the headphones to a Sony dealer.
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.
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
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.
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
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.
–
–
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
45