1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Koss HG857 Portable CD System. The HG857 is a versatile audio system featuring a CD player, digital AM/FM tuner, and dual cassette decks, designed for both portable use and as a compact stereo system. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your unit to ensure proper operation and to maximize its performance.
Figure 1: Front view of the Koss HG857 Portable CD System with the CD compartment open, showing the main unit and detachable speakers.
2. Setup
2.1 Unpacking
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure you have the main unit, two detachable speakers, the remote control, and this instruction manual. Retain the packaging for future transport or storage.
2.2 Connecting Speakers
The Koss HG857 features detachable speakers. Connect the speaker wires from each speaker to the corresponding speaker terminals on the rear of the main unit. Ensure correct polarity (red to red, black to black) for optimal sound.
Figure 2: Rear view of the Koss HG857 system, showing the main unit with detachable speakers connected, highlighting the speaker terminals and power input.
2.3 Powering the Unit
AC Power
Connect the AC power cord to the AC inlet on the rear of the unit and then plug it into a standard AC 120V, 60Hz wall outlet.
Battery Power
For portable use, the unit requires 8 D-size batteries. Open the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit and insert the batteries, observing the correct polarity (+/-) as indicated.
Figure 3: Detailed view of the Koss HG857 rear panel, showing the AC power input, speaker terminals, and the extendable FM antenna.
2.4 Antenna Setup
For FM reception, extend the telescopic antenna fully. For AM reception, the unit uses a built-in ferrite bar antenna; rotate the unit for best reception.
3. Operation
3.1 Basic Controls
- POWER Button: Press to turn the unit ON or OFF.
- VOLUME Control: Rotate to adjust the overall sound level.
- BALANCE Control: Adjusts the balance between the left and right speakers.
- DYNAMIC BASS BOOST (DBB): Activates or deactivates enhanced bass response.
3.2 CD Player Operation
- Open the CD compartment lid.
- Place a CD with the label side facing up.
- Close the CD compartment lid.
- Press the CD/AUX button to select CD mode.
- Press the PLAY/PAUSE button to start playback.
- Use SKIP/SEARCH buttons to navigate tracks or fast forward/rewind.
- PROGRAM: Allows programming up to 20 tracks in a desired order.
3.3 Radio Tuner Operation
- Press the TUNER button to select AM or FM band.
- Use the TUNING buttons to manually tune to a station.
- Press and hold TUNING buttons for automatic station search.
- PRESET: Store and recall up to 20 AM/FM stations.
3.4 Cassette Deck Operation
The unit features dual cassette decks (Deck A and Deck B).
Playback
- Open the cassette door and insert a cassette tape.
- Press the TAPE button to select tape mode.
- Press PLAY on either Deck A or Deck B to start playback.
- Use REWIND, FAST FORWARD, and STOP/EJECT buttons as needed.
Recording
You can record from CD, Radio, or Tape A to Tape B.
- Insert a blank, recordable cassette into Deck B.
- Select the desired source (CD, TUNER, or TAPE A).
- Press the RECORD button on Deck B. Playback from the source will begin automatically.
- Press STOP on Deck B to end recording.
3.5 Remote Control
The included remote control allows convenient operation of most functions from a distance. Ensure the remote has working batteries and is pointed towards the main unit's sensor.
Figure 4: The multi-function remote control for the Koss HG857, showing various buttons for CD, tuner, and tape operations.
3.6 Headphone Jack
A stereo headphone jack is provided for private listening. Plugging in headphones will mute the speakers.
4. Maintenance
4.1 Cleaning
Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. For the CD lens, use a specialized CD lens cleaner.
4.2 Battery Replacement
If using battery power, replace all 8 D-size batteries when the unit's performance degrades. Ensure proper polarity.
4.3 CD and Cassette Care
- Handle CDs by their edges to avoid fingerprints and scratches.
- Store cassettes away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Periodically clean cassette heads with a head cleaner.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | AC cord not plugged in; Batteries depleted or incorrectly inserted. | Check AC connection; Replace batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| No sound | Volume too low; Headphones connected; Speakers not connected properly. | Increase volume; Disconnect headphones; Check speaker connections. |
| CD skips or does not play | CD dirty or scratched; CD inserted incorrectly; Unit in wrong mode. | Clean CD; Reinsert CD label side up; Select CD mode. |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not extended/positioned; Weak signal. | Extend and adjust FM antenna; Rotate unit for AM; Try a different location. |
| Cassette playback issues | Tape tangled or damaged; Heads dirty. | Check tape condition; Clean cassette heads. |
| Remote control not working | Batteries depleted or incorrectly inserted; Obstruction between remote and unit. | Replace remote batteries; Ensure clear line of sight to unit's sensor. |
6. Specifications
- Model: HG857
- Power Source: AC 120V, 60Hz; 8 x D-size batteries
- CD Player: Top-loading, 20-track programmable
- Radio Tuner: Digital AM/FM, 20 station presets
- Cassette Decks: Dual cassette, recordable
- Speakers: Detachable 3-way speakers with Dynamic Bass Boost
- Connectivity: Stereo headphone jack
- Dimensions (approx.): 27.8 x 12.5 x 11.6 inches (Package Dimensions)
- Weight (approx.): 16.7 pounds (Item Weight)
- Manufacturer: Koss Audio & Video
- First Available: September 4, 1999
7. Warranty & Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Koss website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
Koss Official Website: www.koss.com
