Sony MEX-DV800 Manual

The Sony MEX-DV800 is a high-performance car audio receiver featuring a built-in DVD player, AM/FM tuner, CD playback, USB connectivity, Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and compatibility with various audio/video formats. It includes a motorized detachable faceplate for security, customizable illumination, advanced audio controls (EQ, crossover), and support for steering wheel controls. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Bluetooth & Hands-Free 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Motorized detachable faceplate, DVD drive, USB port, AUX input, Bluetooth module, Remote Control, Preamp outputs, Steering wheel control interface.

FeatureDescription
Motorized FaceplateDetachable security faceplate with automatic opening/closing
DVD PlaybackPlays DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW discs
USB PortFor connecting USB drives and iPod/iPhone (with optional cable)
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming (A2DP/AVRCP)
AUX Input3.5mm auxiliary input for external audio devices
Preamp OutputsFront, rear, and subwoofer outputs (4V)
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with most factory steering wheel controls (adapter required)
EQ & Crossover13-band equalizer, high/low-pass filters
IlluminationCustomizable button and display colors
Remote ControlIncluded for convenient operation

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is turned off and battery disconnected.

  1. Remove existing stereo: Use appropriate removal tools for your vehicle.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle harness (power, ground, speakers).
  3. Connect antenna: Plug vehicle antenna cable into receiver.
  4. Connect additional devices: Attach USB, AUX, Bluetooth microphone, and preamp outputs as needed.
  5. Secure unit: Slide into dash and secure with mounting sleeve.
  6. Reconnect battery and test.

WARNING! Disconnect vehicle battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts or use menu system.

  1. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
  2. Pair Bluetooth: Enable Bluetooth on phone, search for "MEX-DV800" and pair.
  3. Adjust illumination: Customize display and button colors in DISPLAY settings.
  4. Tune radio: Auto-scan or manually program FM/AM stations.
  5. Configure audio: Set EQ, crossover, fader, balance to preference.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via SRC/MENU button. Front Panel: Power/Volume knob, Eject, Function buttons.

Remote: Power, Numeric buttons, Play/Pause, Skip, Menu, Audio, Mode.

Audio Settings: EQ (Presets/ Custom), Loudness, Bass Boost, Fader/Balance, Crossover (HPF: 50-250Hz, LPF: 50-250Hz). Source Settings: Bluetooth pairing, USB mode, AUX gain. Display: Illumination color (256 colors), Dimmer, Button light. System: Language, Reset, Beep tone.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect flash drive or iPod/iPhone (with cable). AUX: 3.5mm cable to external device. Bluetooth: Built-in for phone/audio. Video: RCA composite output to external screen.

  1. Ensure unit is off before connecting.
  2. Insert USB device into port (supports FAT32, up to 32GB).
  3. Plug AUX cable into front/rear input.
  4. For video, connect yellow RCA cable to external monitor.
  5. Select source via SRC button.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio/video performance.

Playing Media

Supports DVD, CD, USB media, Bluetooth audio.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media label-side up.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; navigate with arrow buttons or remote.
  3. USB playback: Insert drive, unit reads automatically; browse folders with arrow keys.
  4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for tracks/chapters.
  5. Repeat/Shuffle: Press RPT or SHUF during playback.
  6. Fast Search: Hold FF or REW to scan.
  7. Title/Chapter Select: Use numeric buttons for DVDs.
  8. Audio Track/Subtitle: Use AUDIO or SUBT during DVD playback.

WARNING! Do not use damaged discs. Keep USB drives within capacity limits. Do not eject while reading.

Bluetooth & Hands-Free

Pairing: Menu > Bluetooth > Pairing > Search on phone. Answer/End calls with PHONE button. Audio Streaming: Select BT AUDIO source. Phonebook access: Sync contacts via Bluetooth.

Note: Microphone must be installed and positioned near driver for clear calls.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning faceplate and display. Do not use solvents. Keep discs and USB ports free of dust.

CAUTION! Do not spray cleaners directly on unit. Remove faceplate before cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. ICES-003: Complies with Canadian EMI regulations. Bluetooth: Qualified under Bluetooth SIG. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit does not power onPower/ground connectionCheck wiring harness; verify fuse; ensure battery connected.
No sound from speakersSpeaker wires/settingsVerify speaker connections; check fader/balance; ensure mute off.
Bluetooth not pairingPhone compatibility/distanceEnsure Bluetooth enabled on phone; delete old pairing; stay within range.
Disc not readingDisc format/damageUse supported disc format; clean disc; eject and reinsert.
USB not recognizedFormat/capacityReformat to FAT32; use drive under 32GB; try different USB port.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionReplace batteries; point directly at sensor; remove obstacles.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset (will erase all settings).

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

Sony MEX-DV800 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025