Sony SBH20
Sony SBH20 Stereo Bluetooth Headset User Manual
Model: SBH20
Introduction
The Sony SBH20 Stereo Bluetooth Headset provides a convenient and high-quality audio experience for your mobile devices. Featuring NFC for quick pairing, this compact headset allows you to enjoy music and manage calls wirelessly, offering freedom of movement and clear sound.
What's in the Box

The retail packaging for the Sony SBH20 Stereo Bluetooth Headset, showcasing the white headset and earbuds.

A closer view of the Sony SBH20 headset and its included earbuds as packaged.

An illustration detailing the contents of the Sony SBH20 package, including the headset, earbuds, and charging cable, along with key specifications.
- Sony SBH20 Stereo Bluetooth Headset
- Earbuds (with short cord)
- USB Charging Cable
- User Manual (this document)
Product Overview
The Sony SBH20 is a compact, clip-on Bluetooth headset designed for wireless audio streaming and call management. It features intuitive controls and NFC for easy pairing.
Controls and Indicators
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Power Switch | Turns the headset ON/OFF. |
| Play/Pause/Call Button | Plays/pauses music, answers/ends calls. |
| Volume +/- Buttons | Adjusts audio volume. |
| Next/Previous Track Buttons | Skips to the next or previous track. |
| Micro USB Port | For charging the headset. |
| 3.5mm Audio Jack | Connects to wired headphones. |
| NFC Detection Area | For quick pairing with NFC-enabled devices. |
| LED Indicator | Indicates power, pairing status, and battery level. |
Setup
Charging the Headset
Before first use, fully charge the SBH20 headset. Connect the supplied USB charging cable to the headset's Micro USB port and the other end to a USB power source (e.g., computer USB port or USB wall adapter). The LED indicator will show charging status, typically glowing red while charging and turning off or changing color when fully charged.
Pairing with a Device
NFC Pairing (Recommended for NFC-enabled devices)

The Sony SBH20 headset positioned near a smartphone, demonstrating the NFC pairing process.
- Ensure NFC is enabled on your smartphone or device.
- Turn on the SBH20 headset using the power switch.
- Touch your NFC-enabled device to the NFC detection area on the SBH20 (usually indicated by an 'N' mark).
- Follow the on-screen prompts on your device to complete the pairing. The headset will confirm successful pairing.
Bluetooth Pairing (for non-NFC devices or manual pairing)
- Turn on the SBH20 headset.
- Press and hold the Play/Pause/Call button until the LED indicator flashes blue and red, indicating pairing mode.
- On your device, go to Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
- Select "SBH20" from the list of found devices.
- If prompted for a passcode, enter "0000".
- Once paired, the LED indicator will flash blue, and the headset will be ready for use.
Operating the Headset
Music Playback
- Play/Pause: Press the Play/Pause/Call button once.
- Next Track: Press the Next Track button once.
- Previous Track: Press the Previous Track button once.
- Volume Up/Down: Press the Volume +/- buttons on the side of the headset.
Call Management
- Answer Call: Press the Play/Pause/Call button once when a call comes in.
- End Call: Press the Play/Pause/Call button once during an active call.
- Reject Call: Press and hold the Play/Pause/Call button for approximately 2 seconds when a call comes in.
- Redial Last Number: Double-press the Play/Pause/Call button when no call is active.
Multi-Point Connection
The SBH20 supports connecting to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. To enable this feature, power on the headset while holding the Play/Pause/Call button (refer to your device's specific instructions for multi-point setup). Once enabled, you can pair with a second device following the standard Bluetooth pairing procedure. The headset will intelligently switch between devices for calls and audio.
Maintenance
- Keep the headset dry. Moisture, rain, and liquids can damage the internal circuits.
- Do not expose the headset to extreme temperatures (hot or cold), as this can shorten the life of electronic devices and distort plastic parts.
- Clean the headset with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents.
- Store the headset in a clean, dust-free environment when not in use.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the headset. Unauthorized modifications may void your warranty.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Headset does not turn on. | Ensure the battery is charged. Connect to a power source and try again. If the issue persists, the battery may be depleted or faulty. |
| Cannot pair with device. | Ensure the headset is in pairing mode (flashing blue/red LED). Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device and it's within range (10 meters). Try restarting both devices. Clear previous Bluetooth connections on your device if necessary. |
| No audio or low volume. | Check the volume levels on both the headset and your connected device. Ensure the earbuds are properly connected to the 3.5mm audio jack. Confirm the headset is selected as the audio output device on your phone/tablet. |
| Connection drops frequently. | Ensure there are no obstructions (walls, large objects) between the headset and your device. Keep devices within the 10-meter Bluetooth range. Avoid strong electromagnetic interference from other electronic devices. |
| Sound quality is poor. | Ensure the headset is within range of your device and there is no interference. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the Bluetooth connection. Check if the audio source quality is high. |
Specifications
- Model: Sony SBH20
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 3.0, NFC
- Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile), HFP (Hands-Free Profile), HSP (Headset Profile)
- Range: Up to 10 meters (33 feet)
- Audio Jack: 3.5mm stereo
- Charging Port: Micro USB
- Dimensions: 1.3 x 0.47 x 1.3 inches (33 x 12 x 33 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 3.53 ounces (100 grams)
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) @ 1kHz: <0.3%
- Max SPL @ 1kHz: 110 dB
- Headphone Driver Units: 9.2 mm dynamic
- Compatible Devices: Cellphones, Smart Speakers, Televisions, Tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled audio sources.
- Color: White
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This Sony SBH20 Stereo Bluetooth Headset is covered by a 90-day limited hardware warranty from the manufacturer. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your original proof of purchase for any warranty claims. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or normal wear and tear.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or to inquire about warranty service, please visit the official Sony support website or contact Sony customer service directly. You can find the most up-to-date contact information and support resources on their website.
Sony Official Website: www.sony.com