Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Onkyo FR-N7EX CD/MD Tuner Amplifier. This unit is designed to provide high-quality audio playback from various sources, including CDs, MiniDiscs (MDs), and USB devices, along with FM/AM radio reception. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your new audio system to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit and keep it for future reference.
Safety Information
To prevent electric shock, fire, or damage to the unit, observe the following safety precautions:
- Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
- Do not remove the cover or back. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings.
- Do not place the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Connect the power cord to an AC 100V, 50/60Hz outlet.
Setup
Follow these steps to set up your Onkyo FR-N7EX system.
1. Speaker Connection
Connect your speakers to the speaker terminals on the rear panel. Ensure correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative) for each speaker. The unit supports speakers with an impedance of 4 to 16 ohms.

Figure 1: Rear panel connections, including speaker terminals (red and black clips) and various audio input/output ports.
2. Antenna Connection
Connect the supplied FM and AM antennas to their respective terminals on the rear panel for radio reception.
3. Audio Source Connections
The FR-N7EX offers various input options:
- Digital Input: One optical digital input (PCM signal only) for connecting digital audio sources.
- Analog Inputs: Two analog audio inputs (RCA) for connecting external devices like a tape deck or other audio players.
- Front Line Input: A stereo mini-jack on the front panel for convenient connection of portable audio devices.
- USB Terminal: A front USB terminal for playing MP3/WMA files from a USB memory device and recording MP3 files.
4. Power Connection
After all other connections are made, plug the power cord into a suitable wall outlet.
Operating Instructions
This section details the basic operation of your FR-N7EX unit.

Figure 2: Front panel controls for playback, recording, and sound adjustments.
1. Power On/Off
Press the I/O STANDBY button on the front panel to turn the unit on or off.
2. Source Selection
Use the INPUT/CURSOR buttons or the remote control to select the desired input source (CD, MD, TUNER, USB, LINE IN, etc.).
3. CD Playback
- Insert a music CD or an MP3/WMA data disc into the CD slot.
- Select the CD source.
- Press the PLAY button to start playback.
4. MD Playback
- Insert a MiniDisc into the MD slot.
- Select the MD source.
- Press the PLAY button to start playback. The unit supports MDLP modes (SP, LP2, LP4, Mono).
5. USB Playback
- Insert a USB memory device containing MP3/WMA files into the front USB port.
- Select the USB source.
- Use the MULTI JOG dial and MENU buttons to navigate and select files for playback.
6. Tuner Operation
- Select the TUNER source.
- Use the tuning buttons to find your desired FM or AM station.
- The unit features 30 station memory presets and FM auto preset functionality.
7. Recording Functions (Dubbing)
The FR-N7EX supports various dubbing options:
- CD to MD: Record from CD to MD at up to 4x speed. The DLA Link (Digital Rec Level Adjustment) function automatically sets the optimal recording level.
- CD to USB: Record music CDs to MP3 files on a USB memory device.
- MD to USB: Transfer content from MD to USB.
- USB to MD: Record from USB to MD.
- Simultaneous Recording: Record from music CD to both MD and USB simultaneously.
- Digital Recording Volume: Adjust the recording level for digital MD recordings.
8. Sound Adjustment
- Volume Control: Adjust the main volume using the large rotary knob.
- BASS/TREBLE: Use these controls to adjust the low and high frequencies of the audio output.
- S.BASS: Activate the S.BASS function for enhanced deep bass response.
9. MD Group Function
Utilize the MD Group function to organize multiple tracks on a MiniDisc for easier navigation and management.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your unit.
- Cleaning the Unit: Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn stains, use a cloth lightly dampened with a mild detergent solution, then wipe dry. Do not use abrasive cleaners, alcohol, benzene, or thinners, as these can damage the finish.
- CD/MD Drive Care: Avoid touching the lens inside the CD player. Use a commercially available CD/MD lens cleaner if playback issues arise due to dust.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings on the top and rear of the unit are not blocked to prevent overheating.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter problems with your FR-N7EX, refer to the following common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not connected securely. | Check power cord connection to the unit and wall outlet. |
| No sound | Volume is too low or muted. Speakers not connected correctly. Incorrect input source selected. | Increase volume. Check speaker connections and polarity. Select the correct input source. |
| CD/MD does not play | Disc inserted incorrectly. Disc is dirty or scratched. | Reinsert disc correctly. Clean or replace disc. |
| USB device not recognized | USB device not formatted correctly or incompatible. | Ensure USB device is formatted to FAT16/FAT32. Try a different USB device. |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not connected or positioned poorly. | Connect antennas securely. Adjust antenna position for better reception. |
If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact Onkyo customer support.
Specifications
The following are the technical specifications for the Onkyo FR-N7EX CD/MD Tuner Amplifier:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rated Output Power | 14W + 14W (8Ω, 40Hz–20kHz, 0.4% THD, 2ch driven) 19W + 19W (4Ω, 1kHz, 0.4% THD, 2ch driven) |
| Practical Maximum Output | 26W + 26W (4Ω, JEITA) |
| Amplifier Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.4% (1kHz, 1W output) |
| Amplifier Frequency Response | 10Hz–100kHz (TAPE, ±3dB) |
| Amplifier S/N Ratio | 100dB (LINE, IHF-A) |
| Tone Control Max. Change | BASS: ±8dB/80Hz TREBLE: ±10dB/10kHz S.BASS1: +3dB/80Hz S.BASS2: +7dB/80Hz |
| CD Section Frequency Response | 10Hz–20kHz |
| MD Section Audio Frequency Response | 10Hz–20kHz |
| MD Recording/Playback Time | Max. approx. 5 hours 20 minutes (using 80-minute disc in LP4 mode) |
| Tuner Reception Range | FM: 76.0–90.0MHz AM: 522–1629kHz |
| Speaker Impedance | 4–16Ω |
| Power Consumption | 60W (Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law technical standards) |
| Standby Power Consumption | 0.2W |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 215 x 142 x 349 mm (8.5 x 5.6 x 13.7 inches) |
| Weight | 5.1 kg (11.2 lbs) |
| Audio Input Terminals | Digital x1 (Optical, PCM signal only) Analog x2 Stereo Mini-jack (front) x1 |
| Audio Output Terminals | Analog x1 Subwoofer Pre-out x1 |
| USB Terminal (Front) | 1 (Playback: MP3/WMA, Recording: MP3) |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Onkyo website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
If you require technical assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Onkyo customer service.





