1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Big Ben Portable CD Radio, Model AU327434. This device combines a CD player, FM stereo radio, and USB playback capabilities in a compact, portable design. This manual provides essential information for safe and efficient use of your new audio system. Please read it thoroughly before operation and retain it for future reference.
2. Safety Information
Please observe the following safety precautions to prevent electric shock, fire, or damage to the unit:
- Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
- Do not block any ventilation openings.
- Ensure the power cord is not pinched or walked on.
- Unplug the unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Do not open the casing; there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the packaging:
- Big Ben Portable CD Radio (Model AU327434)
- AC Power Cord
- Remote Control
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your portable CD radio.

Figure 1: Front view of the Big Ben Portable CD Radio, Model AU327434. This image displays the main unit with its integrated speakers, CD compartment, control buttons, and LCD display. The design features a United Kingdom flag motif.
Front Panel Controls:
- LCD Display: Shows track number, time, radio frequency, and mode.
- CD Compartment: For inserting audio CDs.
- Function/Mode Button: Switches between CD, FM, USB, and AUX modes.
- Play/Pause Button: Starts or pauses CD/USB playback.
- Stop Button: Stops CD/USB playback.
- Skip/Search Buttons (Previous/Next): Skips tracks or searches within a track.
- Volume Control: Adjusts audio output level.
Rear Panel Connections:
- AC Power Input: Connects to the mains power cord.
- FM Antenna: Extendable telescopic antenna for radio reception.
- AUX Input: 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio devices.
- USB Port: For connecting USB storage devices for MP3 playback.
- Headphone Jack: 3.5mm jack for private listening (headphones not included).
5. Setup
5.1 Power Connection
- Ensure the unit is placed on a stable, flat surface.
- Connect the supplied AC power cord to the AC power input on the rear of the unit.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a standard wall outlet (AC 230V ~ 50Hz).
5.2 Antenna Setup
For optimal FM radio reception, fully extend the telescopic antenna located at the rear of the unit. Adjust its position for the best signal.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 General Controls
- Power On/Off: Press the Power button (usually combined with the Function/Mode button) to turn the unit on or off.
- Mode Selection: Press the Function/Mode button repeatedly to cycle through CD, FM, USB, and AUX modes. The selected mode will be indicated on the LCD display.
- Volume Adjustment: Rotate the Volume knob or use the Volume +/- buttons on the remote control to adjust the sound level.
6.2 CD Playback
This unit supports CD, CD-R, CD-RW, and MP3 CD formats.
- Press the Function/Mode button to select CD mode.
- Open the CD compartment door and carefully place a CD with the label side facing up.
- Close the CD compartment door. The unit will begin reading the disc, and the total number of tracks will appear on the LCD display.
- Press the Play/Pause button to start playback.
- Press the Skip/Search buttons (◀◀/▶▶) to navigate between tracks. Hold these buttons to fast forward or rewind within a track.
- Press the Stop button to stop playback.
- Repeat Function: Press the Repeat button (on unit or remote) to repeat the current track (Repeat 1) or all tracks on the disc (Repeat All).
- Random Function: Press the Random button (on unit or remote) to play tracks in a random order.
- Program Function: Allows you to program a specific playback order for tracks. Refer to the remote control section for detailed programming steps.
6.3 FM Radio Operation
- Press the Function/Mode button to select FM mode.
- Extend the telescopic antenna for better reception.
- Manual Tuning: Press the Skip/Search buttons (◀◀/▶▶) briefly to tune to the next available frequency.
- Auto Scan: Press and hold the Skip/Search buttons (◀◀/▶▶) for a few seconds to automatically scan and stop at the next strong station.
- The LCD display will show the current radio frequency. A stereo indicator will light up when a strong FM stereo signal is received.
6.4 USB Playback
This unit supports MP3 files stored on USB flash drives.
- Insert a USB flash drive into the USB port on the rear of the unit.
- Press the Function/Mode button to select USB mode.
- The unit will automatically read the MP3 files and begin playback.
- Use the Play/Pause, Stop, Skip/Search, Repeat, and Random buttons as you would for CD playback.
6.5 AUX Input
Connect external audio devices (e.g., smartphones, MP3 players) to the unit.
- Connect one end of a 3.5mm audio cable (not supplied) to the AUX input jack on the rear of the unit.
- Connect the other end of the cable to the headphone jack or audio output of your external device.
- Press the Function/Mode button to select AUX mode.
- Start playback on your external device. Adjust the volume on both the external device and the portable CD radio.
6.6 Headphone Use
For private listening, plug 3.5mm stereo headphones (not supplied) into the headphone jack on the rear of the unit. The internal speakers will automatically mute.
6.7 Remote Control
The included remote control allows for convenient operation from a distance. Ensure the battery is correctly inserted. Point the remote control towards the front of the unit.
- Power: Turns the unit on/off.
- Mode: Selects playback mode (CD/FM/USB/AUX).
- Volume +/-: Adjusts volume.
- Play/Pause, Stop, Skip/Search: Controls playback.
- Repeat: Repeats current track or all tracks.
- Random: Plays tracks in random order.
- Program: Initiates program playback sequence.
- Numeric Buttons (0-9): For direct track selection in CD/USB mode or frequency input in FM mode (if supported).
7. Maintenance
7.1 Cleaning
- Always unplug the unit from the power outlet before cleaning.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior surfaces.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
- For the CD lens, use a specialized CD lens cleaner disc (not supplied).
7.2 Storage
If the unit will not be used for an extended period, unplug it from the power outlet and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your portable CD radio, consult the following table for common problems and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not connected properly. | Ensure the AC power cord is securely plugged into the unit and the wall outlet. |
| No sound | Volume is too low or muted. | Increase the volume. Check if headphones are plugged in. |
| CD not playing / Disc error | Disc is dirty, scratched, or inserted incorrectly. | Clean the disc with a soft cloth. Check for scratches. Reinsert the disc with the label side up. Ensure it's a supported format (CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3 CD). |
| Poor FM reception | Antenna not extended or positioned correctly. | Fully extend and adjust the telescopic antenna. Try moving the unit to a different location. |
| USB not playing | USB drive not inserted correctly or unsupported format. | Ensure the USB drive is fully inserted. Check if files are in MP3 format. Try a different USB drive. |
| Remote control not working | Battery depleted or incorrect orientation. Obstruction between remote and unit. | Replace the battery. Check battery polarity. Remove any obstructions. Ensure remote is pointed at the unit's sensor. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AU327434 |
| Brand | Big Ben |
| CD Compatibility | CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3 |
| Display | Blue LCD |
| Radio Tuner | FM Stereo |
| Connectivity | USB, AUX Input (3.5mm), Headphone Jack (3.5mm) |
| Speakers | 2 External Stereo Speakers |
| Power Source | AC Mains Power |
| Color | Pink (with UK Flag design) |
| Bluetooth Compatible | No |
| Manufacturer | BigBen Interactive |
10. Warranty and Support
This product comes with a manufacturer's warranty of 1 year from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Information regarding spare parts availability is not provided at this time.