Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Thomson RK201CD Portable Radio Cassette and CD Player. This manual provides important information regarding the setup, operation, and maintenance of your new device. Please read it thoroughly before use and keep it for future reference.
The Thomson RK201CD is a versatile audio system designed for portable use, featuring an FM radio tuner, a top-loading CD player, and a front-loading cassette player. It can be powered by AC mains or batteries, offering flexibility for home or on-the-go listening.
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.
- Do not open the casing; refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Dispose of batteries responsibly.
Package Contents
Please check that the following items are included in your package:
- Thomson RK201CD Portable Radio Cassette and CD Player Unit
- AC Power Cord
- User Manual (this document)
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the various parts and controls of your Thomson RK201CD unit.

Figure 1: Front View - This image displays the front of the unit, highlighting the integrated stereo speakers, the cassette tape compartment, and various control buttons for playback and radio tuning. The digital display is visible above the cassette deck.

Figure 2: Top View - This image shows the top of the unit, featuring the circular lid for the CD player. The telescopic antenna is extended, and additional control knobs and switches are visible on the top panel, including volume and function selectors.
Key Components:
- CD Compartment: Top-loading CD player.
- Cassette Deck: Front-loading cassette player.
- Speakers: Integrated stereo speakers.
- Telescopic Antenna: For FM radio reception.
- Function Selector: Switch between CD, Radio, Cassette, and AUX modes.
- Volume Control: Rotary knob to adjust audio output.
- Tuning Knob: For selecting radio frequencies.
- Playback Controls: Play, Stop, Pause, Fast Forward, Rewind buttons for CD and Cassette.
- AUX-in Jack: For connecting external audio devices.
Setup
1. Power Connection
Your Thomson RK201CD can be powered by AC mains or batteries.
AC Power:
- Ensure the unit is switched off.
- Connect the supplied AC power cord to the AC input jack on the unit.
- Plug the other end of the AC power cord into a standard 230V wall outlet.
Battery Power:
For portable use, the unit requires 6 x 'C' (LR14) size batteries (not included).
- Locate the battery compartment on the bottom or rear of the unit.
- Open the battery compartment cover.
- Insert 6 'C' (LR14) batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Note: When operating on AC power, batteries are automatically disconnected. Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
2. Antenna Adjustment
For optimal FM radio reception, extend the telescopic antenna fully. Adjust its position and direction to achieve the best signal clarity.
Operating Instructions
1. General Operation
- Power On/Off: Use the main power switch or function selector to turn the unit on or off.
- Volume Control: Rotate the VOLUME knob to increase or decrease the sound level.
- Function Selection: Use the FUNCTION selector switch to choose between RADIO, CD, TAPE (Cassette), or AUX modes.
2. Radio Operation (FM)
- Switch the FUNCTION selector to "RADIO".
- Extend the telescopic antenna.
- Rotate the TUNING knob to select your desired FM radio station.
- Adjust the antenna position for the best reception.
3. CD Player Operation
- Switch the FUNCTION selector to "CD".
- Open the CD compartment lid by gently pressing the "OPEN" area.
- Place a CD with the label side facing up onto the spindle.
- Close the CD compartment lid firmly. The display will show the total number of tracks.
- Press the PLAY/PAUSE button (▶/II) to start playback.
- Press PLAY/PAUSE again to pause playback; press it once more to resume.
- Press the STOP button (■) to stop playback.
- Press the SKIP FORWARD button (▶▶|) to skip to the next track.
- Press the SKIP BACKWARD button (|◀◀) to skip to the beginning of the current track, or press twice to go to the previous track.
4. Cassette Player Operation
- Switch the FUNCTION selector to "TAPE".
- Press the STOP/EJECT button (■/▲) to open the cassette compartment door.
- Insert a cassette tape with the open edge facing upwards and the side to be played facing you.
- Close the cassette compartment door.
- Press the PLAY button (▶) to start playback.
- Press the FAST FORWARD button (▶▶) to fast forward the tape.
- Press the REWIND button (◀◀) to rewind the tape.
- Press the STOP/EJECT button (■/▲) to stop playback. Press again to eject the tape.
5. AUX-in Operation
The AUX-in jack allows you to connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player, smartphone) to play audio through the RK201CD's speakers.
- Connect one end of a 3.5mm audio cable (not included) to the AUX-in jack on the RK201CD.
- Connect the other end of the audio cable to the headphone jack or audio output of your external device.
- Switch the FUNCTION selector to "AUX".
- Start playback on your external device.
- Adjust the volume on both the RK201CD and your external device for optimal sound.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Unit
- Always unplug the unit from the power outlet before cleaning.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior surfaces.
- For stubborn stains, dampen the cloth slightly with water and a mild detergent, then wipe dry immediately.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents as they may damage the finish.
CD Player Lens Care
To ensure optimal CD playback, keep the CD lens clean. Use a commercially available CD lens cleaner disc if necessary.
Cassette Deck Care
Periodically clean the tape heads, capstan, and pinch roller using a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol. This helps maintain sound quality and prevents tape damage.
Storage
If storing the unit for an extended period, remove all batteries and disconnect the AC power cord. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Troubleshooting
If you experience problems with your unit, please consult the following table before seeking professional service.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | AC cord not connected; Batteries depleted or incorrectly inserted. | Check AC cord connection; Replace batteries or ensure correct polarity. |
| No sound | Volume too low; Incorrect function selected; Headphones connected. | Increase volume; Select correct function (CD, Radio, TAPE, AUX); Disconnect headphones. |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not extended or adjusted; Weak signal. | Extend and adjust the telescopic antenna; Try moving the unit to a different location. |
| CD not playing | CD inserted incorrectly; CD dirty or scratched; CD compartment not closed. | Insert CD with label side up; Clean or replace CD; Close CD compartment firmly. |
| Cassette not playing or poor sound | Tape inserted incorrectly; Tape heads dirty; Tape tangled. | Ensure tape is inserted correctly; Clean tape heads; Try a different tape. |
Specifications
| Model: | RK201CD |
| Brand: | Thomson |
| Power Source: | AC 230V; 6 x 'C' (LR14) batteries (not included) |
| Audio Output Mode: | Stereo |
| Speaker Type: | Stereo |
| Wattage: | 2 watts |
| Supported Audio Formats: | CD, Cassette |
| Connectivity Technology: | AUX |
| Compatible Devices: | MP3 Player, PC, Tablet, TV, Smartphone (via AUX-in) |
| Dimensions: | Approximately 33.2 x 23.4 x 17.4 cm |
| Weight: | 2.14 Kilograms |
Warranty and Support
Thomson products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Thomson website.
For technical support or service inquiries, please contact your local Thomson dealer or authorized service center. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





