1. Introduction
The Philips AZ787 CD Soundmachine is a versatile portable audio system designed for enjoying your music collection through various sources. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Figure 1: Philips AZ787 CD Soundmachine, front view. This image displays the main unit with its speakers, control panel, and CD compartment.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety instructions before using this product. Keep these instructions for future reference.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the power voltage matches the rating label on the unit. Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Disconnect from power during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Allow sufficient space around the unit for proper airflow.
- Heat: Keep the unit away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.
- Batteries: Follow correct polarity when inserting batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Remove batteries if the unit is not used for extended periods to prevent leakage.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Philips AZ787 CD Soundmachine
- Remote Control
- Power Cable
- Quick Start Guide (multi-language)
4. Product Overview
The Philips AZ787 features a user-friendly design with clearly labeled controls and multiple audio input options.
4.1. Main Unit Controls
- Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.
- Source Selector: Switches between CD, FM Radio, USB, Cassette, and AUX input.
- Volume Control: Adjusts the audio output level.
- CD Controls: Play/Pause, Stop, Skip/Search (forward/backward), Program, Repeat, Shuffle.
- Cassette Controls: Play, Stop/Eject, Fast Forward, Rewind.
- FM Radio Controls: Tuning (digital), Preset Scan, Store Preset.
- USB Controls: Play/Pause, Stop, Skip/Search (forward/backward).
- Dynamic Bass Boost (DBB): Enhances bass response.
- Display: Shows current mode, track number, radio frequency, etc.
4.2. Rear Panel Connections
- AC Power Input: For connecting the power cable.
- AUX-in Jack: For connecting external audio devices.
- FM Antenna: Telescopic antenna for radio reception.
4.3. Remote Control
The compact remote control provides convenient access to most functions from a distance.
5. Setup
5.1. Power Connection
- Ensure the unit is switched off.
- Connect the supplied power cable to the AC power input on the rear of the soundmachine.
- Plug the other end of the power cable into a wall outlet.
5.2. Battery Installation (for portable use)
For portable operation, the soundmachine requires 6 x LR20 (D-size) batteries. The remote control requires 1 x CR2025 battery.
- Open the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the main unit.
- Insert 6 x LR20 batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
- For the remote control, open its battery compartment and insert 1 x CR2025 battery with correct polarity.
5.3. Antenna Adjustment
For optimal FM radio reception, fully extend the telescopic antenna. Adjust its position for the best signal.
6. Operation
6.1. Power On/Off
Press the Power button on the unit or remote control to turn the soundmachine on or off.
6.2. Source Selection
Press the Source button repeatedly to cycle through available audio sources: CD, FM Radio, USB, Cassette, and AUX.
6.3. CD Playback
The unit supports MP3/WMA-CD, CD, CD-R, and CD-RW discs.
- Select the CD source.
- Open the CD compartment cover.
- Place a CD with the label side facing up onto the spindle.
- Close the CD compartment cover. The unit will read the disc.
- Press Play/Pause to start playback.
- Use Skip/Search buttons to navigate tracks.
- Press Stop to end playback.
- To program tracks, press PROG during stop mode, select tracks, and press PROG again to confirm each selection. Press Play to start programmed playback.
6.4. Cassette Playback
The unit features an auto-stop cassette deck.
- Select the Cassette source.
- Open the cassette compartment.
- Insert a cassette tape.
- Close the cassette compartment.
- Press Play to start playback.
- Use Fast Forward or Rewind buttons to navigate the tape.
- Press Stop/Eject to stop playback and eject the tape.
6.5. FM Radio Operation
- Select the FM Radio source.
- Press the Tuning buttons to manually tune to a station.
- To auto-scan and store stations, press and hold the Scan button. The radio will automatically search and store available stations.
- Use the Preset buttons to select stored stations.
6.6. USB Direct Playback
Play MP3/WMA music files directly from a USB device.
- Insert your USB device into the USB Direct port.
- Select the USB source.
- The unit will automatically detect and begin playing compatible audio files.
- Use the Play/Pause, Stop, and Skip/Search buttons to control playback.
6.7. AUX Input
Connect external audio devices like smartphones or MP3 players.
- Connect one end of a 3.5mm audio cable (not included) to the AUX-in jack on the soundmachine.
- Connect the other end to the headphone or audio output jack of your external device.
- Select the AUX source.
- Start playback on your external device. Control volume via the soundmachine.
6.8. Sleep Timer
Set the sleep timer to automatically turn off the unit after a specified period.
- While the unit is playing, press the Sleep button (if available on remote/unit).
- Repeatedly press the Sleep button to cycle through the available sleep timer durations (e.g., 15, 30, 60, 90 minutes).
- The unit will automatically power off after the selected time.
6.9. Dynamic Bass Boost (DBB)
Activate DBB for enhanced bass performance.
- Press the DBB button to toggle the Dynamic Bass Boost feature on or off.
6.10. Headphone Use
The unit includes a headphone jack for private listening.
- Connect 3.5mm headphones to the headphone jack.
- The speakers will automatically mute when headphones are connected.
7. Maintenance
7.1. Cleaning the Unit
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents as they may damage the finish.
- For the CD lens, use a specialized CD lens cleaner disc.
7.2. Battery Care
- Remove batteries if the unit is not used for an extended period (e.g., one month or more) to prevent battery leakage and corrosion.
- Dispose of used batteries responsibly according to local regulations.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter problems with your Philips AZ787, consult the following table for common issues and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cable not connected; Batteries depleted or incorrectly inserted. | Check power cable connection; Replace batteries or ensure correct polarity. |
| No sound | Volume too low; Incorrect source selected; Headphones connected. | Increase volume; Select correct source; Disconnect headphones. |
| CD not playing | CD inserted incorrectly; Disc is dirty or scratched; CD compartment not closed. | Insert CD with label side up; Clean or replace disc; Close compartment securely. |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not extended or positioned correctly; Weak signal. | Extend and adjust the FM antenna; Try moving the unit to a different location. |
| USB device not recognized | Incompatible file format; USB device not properly inserted. | Ensure files are MP3/WMA; Reinsert USB device. |
9. Specifications
Technical specifications for the Philips AZ787 CD Soundmachine:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Philips |
| Model | AZ787 |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 27 x 43.5 x 17 cm |
| Power Source | Battery Powered (AC adapter also included) |
| Compatible Devices | MP3 Player, Personal Computer, Tablet, Smartphone (via AUX/USB) |
| Item Weight | 3000 Grams |
| Wattage | 12 watts |
| Speaker Type | Stereo |
| Number of Speakers | 2 |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Supported Audio Formats | CD, MP3, WMA |
10. Warranty and Support
10.1. Warranty Information
This product comes with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
10.2. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or warranty inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided in your Quick Start Guide or visit the official Philips support website. You can often find FAQs and additional resources online.