Jensen MPR420

JENSEN MPR420 Double DIN Car Stereo Receiver User Manual

Model: MPR420 | Brand: Jensen

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your JENSEN MPR420 Double DIN Car Stereo Receiver. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper function and to prevent damage. Keep this manual for future reference.

2. Safety Information

  • Professional Installation Recommended: Due to the complexity of car audio systems, professional installation is highly recommended. Incorrect installation can lead to damage to the unit or vehicle.
  • Power Source: Connect the unit only to a 12V DC negative ground electrical system.
  • Wiring: Ensure all wiring is correctly connected according to the wiring diagram. Insulate all exposed wires to prevent short circuits.
  • Volume Control: Keep the volume at a level that allows you to hear outside sounds, such as emergency vehicles. Prolonged exposure to high volume levels can cause hearing damage.
  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

  • JENSEN MPR420 Car Stereo Receiver
  • Wiring Harness
  • Mounting Hardware (screws, brackets)
  • User Manual (this document)

4. Product Overview

4.1 Front Panel Controls

The front panel of the MPR420 features a 7-character LCD display and various controls for easy operation.

Front view of the JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver with its 7-character LCD display and illuminated buttons.

Image: Front view of the JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver, showcasing its 7-character LCD display, central rotary knob, and various function buttons with blue backlighting. Key features like Bluetooth, USB, and AM/FM are indicated on the display.

  • Power/Mode Button: Turns the unit on/off and cycles through input modes (Radio, Bluetooth, USB, AUX).
  • Volume Knob: Adjusts the audio output level. Press to access audio settings.
  • Display Button (DISP): Changes display information (e.g., clock, station frequency).
  • Band Button: Selects radio bands (FM1, FM2, FM3, AM1, AM2).
  • Push-to-Talk (PTT) Button: Activates your smartphone's voice assistant.
  • USB Port: Connect USB devices for media playback and charging.
  • AUX Input: 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio sources.
  • Preset Buttons (1-6): Store and recall radio stations.

4.2 Rear Connections

The rear of the unit contains connections for power, speakers, antenna, and other accessories. Refer to the wiring diagram for specific connections.

Rear wiring harness for the JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver.

Image: A multi-colored wiring harness with a white connector, typically used for connecting the car stereo to the vehicle's power, ground, and speaker wires. Each wire is color-coded for specific functions.

5. Installation

Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. If you are unsure about any steps, consult a qualified professional.

5.1 Mounting the Unit

The MPR420 is a Double DIN unit. Ensure your vehicle's dashboard opening is compatible. Use the provided mounting brackets and screws to secure the unit in place.

JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver installed in a vehicle dashboard.

Image: The JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver seamlessly integrated into a vehicle's dashboard, demonstrating its double DIN fit and illuminated controls within the car's interior.

5.2 Wiring Connections

Connect the wiring harness to your vehicle's electrical system. Match the color-coded wires from the receiver's harness to the corresponding wires in your vehicle's wiring harness. Common connections include:

  • Yellow: Constant 12V (Battery)
  • Red: Switched 12V (Accessory)
  • Black: Ground
  • Blue: Power Antenna / Amplifier Remote Turn-On
  • Speaker Wires: Typically white/white-black, gray/gray-black, green/green-black, purple/purple-black for front left, front right, rear left, and rear right speakers respectively.

Always consult your vehicle's wiring diagram for accurate connections.

6. Setup

6.1 Initial Power On

After installation, press the Power button to turn on the unit. The display will illuminate.

6.2 Setting the Clock

  1. Press and hold the DISP button until the clock digits flash.
  2. Use the volume knob or tuning buttons to adjust the hours.
  3. Press the DISP button again to move to minutes, then adjust.
  4. Press DISP once more or wait a few seconds to save.

6.3 Bluetooth Pairing

To pair your mobile device with the MPR420:

  1. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device.
  2. On the MPR420, select the Bluetooth audio mode (BT AUDIO) using the Mode button.
  3. On your mobile device, search for available Bluetooth devices. The MPR420 will appear as "JENSEN MPR420".
  4. Select "JENSEN MPR420" to connect. A confirmation tone will sound upon successful pairing.

7. Operating Instructions

7.1 AM/FM Radio

  • Selecting a Band: Press the BAND button to cycle through FM1, FM2, FM3, AM1, AM2.
  • Manual Tuning: Press the tuning buttons (left/right arrows) briefly to adjust the frequency step-by-step.
  • Seek Tuning: Press and hold the tuning buttons to automatically seek the next strong station.
  • Storing Presets: Tune to your desired station, then press and hold one of the preset buttons (1-6) until you hear a beep. The station is now saved.
  • Recalling Presets: Briefly press a preset button (1-6) to recall a saved station.

7.2 Bluetooth Audio Streaming

Once paired, select BT AUDIO mode. You can play music from your connected device. Use the unit's track forward/backward buttons or your device to control playback. The volume can be adjusted via the unit or your device.

7.3 Bluetooth Hands-Free Calling

When a call comes in, the unit will display the caller ID (if available). Press the TALK button to answer, or the END CALL button to reject. During a call, use the volume knob to adjust call volume.

7.4 USB Playback

Insert a USB flash drive into the front USB port. The unit will automatically switch to USB mode and begin playing compatible audio files (MP3/WMA). Use the track forward/backward buttons to navigate tracks.

7.5 AUX Input

Connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player) to the front 3.5mm AUX input using an audio cable. Select AUX mode using the Mode button. Control playback and volume from the external device.

7.6 Voice Assistant (Siri/Google)

The MPR420 features a dedicated Push-to-Talk (PTT) button for activating your smartphone's voice assistant.

JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver highlighting the Push-to-Talk voice access feature.

Image: A close-up of the JENSEN MPR420 receiver's front panel, with an emphasis on the 'Push-to-Talk' button and a graphic illustrating voice access. This feature allows users to activate their smartphone's assistant for hands-free commands.

Press the PTT button to activate Siri or Google Assistant on your connected smartphone. You can then issue voice commands for navigation, music playback, calls, and more.

7.7 J-Link App Control

The J-Link App allows you to control your receiver via Bluetooth from your smartphone.

JENSEN MPR420 car stereo receiver highlighting the J-Link App feature.

Image: A visual representation of the J-Link App feature for the JENSEN MPR420 receiver. The image shows the receiver's front panel alongside a smartphone displaying the J-Link app interface, indicating remote control capabilities for settings, music, and stations.

Download the J-Link App from your smartphone's app store. Once installed and connected via Bluetooth, you can change settings, select songs, tune stations, and adjust volume directly from the app.

8. Maintenance

  • Cleaning the Unit: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the front panel. Do not use harsh chemicals, detergents, or abrasive cleaning solutions.
  • USB Port: Keep the USB port free of dust and debris.
  • Reset Button: If the unit malfunctions, locate the small reset button (often recessed) and press it with a pointed object (like a pen tip). This will restore factory settings.

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your MPR420, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No powerBlown fuse; Incorrect wiring; Vehicle battery issue.Check vehicle fuses and the unit's fuse. Verify power and ground connections. Check vehicle battery.
No soundVolume too low; Mute activated; Incorrect speaker wiring; Amplifier issue (if applicable).Increase volume. Check if mute is on. Verify speaker connections. Ensure external amplifier is powered on.
Bluetooth not connectingBluetooth not enabled on device; Unit not in pairing mode; Device already paired to another unit.Ensure Bluetooth is on and discoverable on your device. Select BT AUDIO mode on the unit. Forget previous pairings on your device and retry.
Poor radio receptionAntenna not connected; Damaged antenna; Weak signal area.Ensure antenna is securely connected. Inspect antenna for damage. Try tuning to different stations or moving to an area with better signal.
USB device not recognizedIncompatible file format; USB device not formatted correctly; Damaged USB device.Ensure files are MP3/WMA. Format USB device to FAT32. Try a different USB device.
Ground loop noise (hissing/whining)Improper grounding; Interference from vehicle's electrical system.Ensure the unit's ground wire is securely connected to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle chassis. Consider installing a ground loop isolator.

10. Specifications

  • Model: MPR420
  • Product Dimensions: 2.3 x 7 x 4 inches
  • Item Weight: 1.39 pounds
  • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
  • Special Features: RDS, Push-to-Talk Voice Assistant, USB Playback/Charging, AM/FM Tuner
  • Audio Output Mode: Stereo
  • Manufacturer: Dual Jensen

11. Warranty and Support

Jensen offers a comprehensive warranty for your MPR420 receiver.

Information about Jensen's warranty policy.

Image: A graphic detailing Jensen's commitment to quality and warranty information. It states a 3-year warranty upon online registration at Jensenmobile.com, with a standard 2-year warranty otherwise.

  • Standard Warranty: Your unit is covered by a 2-year warranty against manufacturer defects.
  • Extended Warranty: Register your product online at Jensenmobile.com (proof of purchase required) to extend your warranty to 3 years.
  • Customer Service: For technical assistance or warranty claims, please visit the official Jensen website or contact their customer support.

Related Documents - MPR420

Preview Jensen MPR420 AM/FM Receiver with Bluetooth: Installation and Owner's Manual
This manual provides detailed instructions for installing and operating the Jensen MPR420 AM/FM Receiver with Bluetooth. It covers preparation, wiring, control functions, audio modes (AM/FM, USB, Bluetooth, AUX), app integration, voice activation, troubleshooting, specifications, and warranty information.
Preview Jensen VX7022 Operation Manual - 6.2" Multimedia Receiver
Comprehensive operation manual for the Jensen VX7022 Double DIN Multimedia Receiver. Discover features like DVD/CD playback, SiriusXM Ready, Bluetooth, iPod/iPhone integration, Pandora, built-in navigation, and smartphone connectivity via HDMI/MHL. Includes setup, controls, troubleshooting, and specifications.
Preview JENSEN CMN86 Installation and Owner's Manual: Features, Setup, and Operation
Comprehensive installation and owner's manual for the JENSEN CMN86 6.8-inch 2 DIN multimedia mechless receiver. Learn about navigation, Bluetooth, camera inputs, and system operation.
Preview Jensen VX4025 Operation Manual: Features, Controls, and Usage
Comprehensive operation manual for the Jensen VX4025 Double DIN Multimedia Receiver. Learn about its features, controls, connectivity options including DVD, SiriusXM Ready, Bluetooth, iPod/iPhone, USB, and AV inputs.
Preview Jensen VX7020 Multimedia Receiver: Operating Instructions
User manual for the Jensen VX7020 6.2-inch Double DIN Multimedia Receiver, detailing features like DVD, Navigation, Bluetooth, iPod/iPhone, SiriusXM-Ready, and Pandora. Learn to operate and configure your car audio system.
Preview Jensen JMC-1250 Bluetooth 3-Speed Stereo Turntable System User Manual
Comprehensive user manual for the Jensen JMC-1250 Bluetooth 3-Speed Stereo Turntable Music System with Dual Cassette Deck. Learn about setup, operation, features, safety instructions, and troubleshooting.