1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Sony ICF-CD831 PSYC Clock Radio/CD Player. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit to ensure proper and safe operation. Keep this manual for future reference.

Front view of the red Sony ICF-CD831 PSYC Clock Radio/CD Player, showing the digital time display, CD compartment, and control buttons.
2. Safety Information
- Power Source: Operate the unit only on 120V AC, 60Hz. Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into an AC outlet.
- Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Allow adequate space around the unit for proper airflow to prevent overheating.
- Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or dripping/splashing liquids. Keep away from water sources like bathtubs, sinks, or swimming pools.
- Heat: Do not place the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing appliances.
- Cleaning: Unplug the unit from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
- Batteries: If using backup batteries, ensure correct polarity. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Remove batteries if the unit is not used for extended periods.
3. Package Contents
- Sony ICF-CD831 PSYC Clock Radio/CD Player Unit
- AC Power Cord
- User Manual (this document)
4. Setup
4.1 Power Connection
- Plug the AC power cord into the AC IN jack on the back of the unit.
- Plug the other end of the AC power cord into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
- For clock backup during power outages, insert 2 AA batteries (not included) into the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit.
4.2 Setting the Time
- Press and hold the TIME SET button. The hour digits will begin to flash.
- While holding TIME SET, press the HOUR button repeatedly to set the correct hour. Observe the PM indicator for afternoon hours.
- While holding TIME SET, press the MINUTE button repeatedly to set the correct minute.
- Release the TIME SET button to confirm the time.
For a visual guide on setting the time, refer to the video below:
Video: How to Set the Time on a Clock Radio. This video demonstrates the process of setting the current time on a similar clock radio device.
4.3 FM Antenna
Extend the FM wire antenna fully for optimal FM radio reception. Adjust its position for the best signal.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Controls
- POWER: Press to turn the unit ON or OFF.
- MODE: Press to switch between CD, Radio, and AUX modes.
- VOLUME +/-: Adjusts the audio output level.
- SNOOZE: Temporarily silences the alarm for a short period.
- DIMMER: Adjusts the brightness of the display.
5.2 Alarm Functions
The unit features dual alarms (AL1, AL2) that can be set independently.
- Press and hold the ALARM 1 SET or ALARM 2 SET button. The hour digits will flash.
- While holding the ALARM SET button, press HOUR to set the alarm hour.
- While holding the ALARM SET button, press MINUTE to set the alarm minute.
- Release the ALARM SET button.
- Press the ALARM ON/OFF button repeatedly to cycle through alarm sources: CD, RADIO, or BUZZER. The corresponding indicator will light up.
- To turn off a sounding alarm, press the ALARM ON/OFF button. To temporarily silence it, press SNOOZE.
5.3 CD Player Operation
- Open the CD compartment cover.
- Place a CD (audio CD or MP3 CD) onto the spindle with the label side facing up.
- Close the CD compartment cover.
- Press the MODE button to select CD mode. The display will show "CD" and then the track number.
- Press PLAY/PAUSE to start or pause playback.
- Press STOP to stop playback.
- Press PREV or NEXT to skip tracks. Hold these buttons for fast forward/rewind.
- Press REPEAT repeatedly to cycle through repeat modes (e.g., repeat one, repeat all).
5.4 Radio Operation
- Press the MODE button to select FM Radio mode. The display will show the frequency.
- Press TUNE +/- to manually tune to a station.
- Press and hold TUNE +/- to automatically scan for the next available station.
- To save a preset station: Tune to the desired station, then press and hold the PRESET button until the preset number flashes. Use PREV/NEXT to select a preset number, then press PRESET again to save.
- To recall a preset station: Short press the PRESET button, then use PREV/NEXT to select the desired preset.
5.5 USB Charging
The unit features a built-in 2.1A USB charging port for charging compatible smartphones and other devices.
- Connect your device's USB charging cable to the USB port on the back of the clock radio.
- Ensure the clock radio is powered on or in standby mode. Your device should begin charging.
For a demonstration of USB charging, refer to the video below:
Video: Desktop Alarm Clock CD Player with Wireless Charging. This video illustrates how to use the USB charging port on a similar device.
5.6 Auxiliary Input
Connect external audio devices (e.g., MP3 players, smartphones) using a 3.5mm audio cable (not included) to the AUX IN jack on the unit. Press the MODE button to select AUX mode.
For general operation modes including CD, Radio, and USB, refer to the video below:
Video: How to Operate in CD/Bluetooth/Radio/USB Modes. This video provides an overview of operating various modes on a similar device.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning the Unit: Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- CD Lens Care: To ensure optimal CD playback, occasionally clean the CD lens using a commercially available CD lens cleaner.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No power | Ensure the AC power cord is securely plugged into the unit and a working wall outlet. Check household circuit breaker. |
| CD not playing | Ensure the CD is clean and free of scratches. Check if the CD is inserted correctly with the label side up. Make sure the unit is in CD mode. |
| Poor radio reception | Extend and reposition the FM wire antenna for better signal. Move the unit away from other electronic devices that may cause interference. |
| Alarm not sounding | Verify that the alarm time is set correctly and the alarm is activated (AL1 or AL2 indicator is lit). Ensure the alarm source (CD, Radio, Buzzer) is selected. Check volume level for CD/Radio alarm. |
8. Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 9 x 4.3 x 8.1 inches
- Item Weight: 1.4 pounds
- Manufacturer: Sony
- Model Number: ICFCD831RED
- Color: Red
- Speaker Type: Stereo
- Compatible Devices: Smartphone (for USB charging)
- Power Source: AC 120V, 60Hz
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Sony support website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





