background image

Operating Instructions

AAC WMA MP3 CD Player/Receiver 

Model:

 CQ-RX420W

WMA MP3 CD Player/Receiver

Model:

 CQ-RX320W/CQ-RX321W/

 CQ-RX322W/
 CQ-RX220W/CQ-RX221W/
 CQ-RX222W/CQ-RX225W

• Please read these instructions carefully before using this product and keep this manual for future reference.
• All illustrations throughout this manual represent model CQ-RX420W unless otherwise specified. 

Q’ty

Mounting Collar

(YEFX0217263A)

1

Trim Plate

(YGFC051023)

1

Power Connector

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX220W\  

(K1HY14YY0004)

\CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\  \CQ-RX221W\  

\CQ-RX222W\  \CQ-RX225W\

(K1HY13YY0003)

\CQ-RX121W\  \CQ-RX122W\   

(K1HY13YY0007)

1

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  

\CQ-RX322W\  \CQ-RX225W\ 

Remote Control Unit (includes a battery) 

(EUR7641010)

1

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  

\CQ-RX322W\  \CQ-RX225W\  

Removable Face Plate Case 

(YGFA134302)

1

Instruction kit

   

Q’ty

Operating Instructions

(English: YGFM286163)

 

(

0ÎCCÅÃÄ

: YGFM286164)*

*Not supplied with CQ-RX225W.


set

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

OO-OOOOO

System Upgrade Guidebook

\CQ-RX420W\

(YGFM262951) 

Operating Instructions USB

\CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\ 

(YGFM262955)  

1

Installation Instructions

(YGFM294539) 

1

Accessories

Installation kit 

(YEP0FZ5698)

Q’ty

Lock Cancel Plate


set

Mounting Bolt 

(5 mm 

)

Rubber Bushing

(CQ-RX420W)

Notes:

• The number in parentheses underneath each accessory part 

name is the part number for maintenance and service.

• Accessories and their part numbers are subject to modification 

without prior notice due to improvements.

• Mounting Collar and Trim Plate are mounted on the main unit at 

shipment.

English

Safety Information

 Read the operating instructions for the unit and all other 

components of your car audio system carefully before using the 
system. They contain instructions about how to use the system in 
a safe and effective manner. Panasonic assumes no responsibility 
for any problems resulting from failure to observe the instructions 
given in this manual. 

Warning

This pictograph intends to alert you to the presence 
of important operating instructions and installation 
instructions. Failure to heed the instructions may result 
in severe injury or death.

 This manual uses pictographs to show you how to use the product 

safely and to alert you to potential dangers resulting from improper 
connections and operations. The meanings of the pictographs 
are explained below. It is important that you fully understand the 
meanings of the pictographs in order to use this manual and the 
system properly.

Caution

This pictograph intends to alert you to the presence 
of important operating instructions and installation 
instructions. Failure to heed the instructions may result in 
injury or material damage.

 Warning

Observe the following warnings when using this 
unit. 

 The driver should neither watch the display nor operate 
the system while driving.

Watching the display or operating the system will distract the 
driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and can cause accidents. 
Always stop the vehicle in a safe location and use the parking 
brake before watching the display or operating the system.

 Use the proper power supply.

This product is designed for operation with a negative grounded 
12 V DC battery system. Never operate this product with other 
battery systems, especially a 24 V DC battery system.

 Keep batteries and insulation film out of reach of infants.

Batteries and insulation film can be ingested, so keep them out of 
the reach of infants. If an infant ingests a battery or insulation film, 
please seek immediate medical attention.

 Protect the Deck Mechanism.

Do not insert any foreign objects into the slot of this unit.

 Do not disassemble or modify the unit.

Do not disassemble, modify the unit or attempt to repair the 
product yourself. If the product needs to be repaired, consult your 
dealer or an authorized Panasonic Service Center.

 Do not use the unit when it is out of order.

If the unit is out of order (no power, no sound) or in an abnormal 
state (has foreign objects in it, is exposed to water, is smoking, or 
smells), turn it off immediately and consult your dealer.

 The remote control unit should not lie about in the car.

If the remote control unit lies about, it could fall on the floor while 
driving, get wedged under the brake pedal, and lead to a traffic 
accident.

 Refer fuse replacement to qualified service personnel.

When the fuse blows out, eliminate the cause and have it replaced 
with the fuse prescribed for this unit by a qualified service 
engineer. Incorrect replacement of the fuse may lead to smoke, 
fire, and damage to the product.

Observe the following warnings when installing.

 Disconnect the lead from the negative (–) battery 
terminal before installation.

Wiring and installation with the negative (–) battery terminal 
connected may cause electrical shock and injury due to a short 
circuit. Some cars equipped with the electrical safety system have 
specific procedures of battery terminal disconnection.

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE PROCEDURE MAY LEAD TO THE 
UNINTENDED ACTIVATION OF THE ELECTRICAL SAFETY SYSTEM 
RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND PERSONAL 
INJURY OR DEATH.

 Never use safety-related components for installation, 
grounding, and other such functions.

Do not use safety-related vehicle components (fuel tank, brake, 
suspension, steering wheel, pedals, airbag, etc.) for wiring or 
fixing the product or its accessories.

 Installing the product on the air bag cover or in a location 
where it interferes with airbag operation is prohibited.

 Check for piping, gasoline tank, electric wiring, and 
other items before installing the product.

If you need to open a hole in the vehicle chassis to attach or wire 
the product, first check where the wire harness, gasoline tank, 
and electric wiring are located. Then open the hole from outside if 
possible.

 Never install the product in a location where it interferes 
with your field of vision.

 Never have the power cord branched to supply other 
equipment with power.

 After installation and wiring, you should check the 
normal operation of other electrical equipment.

The continuation of their using in abnormal conditions may cause 
fire, electrical shock or a traffic accident.

 In the case of installation to an airbag-equipping 
car, confirm warnings and cautions of the vehicle 
manufacturer before installation.

 Make sure the leads do not interfere with driving or 
getting in and out of the vehicle.

 Insulate all exposed wires to prevent short circuiting.

 Caution

Observe the following cautions when using this unit.

 Keep the sound volume at an appropriate level.

Keep the volume level low enough to be aware of road and traffic 
conditions while driving.

 This unit is designed for use exclusively in automobiles.

 Do not operate the unit for a prolonged period with the 
engine turned off.

Operating the audio system for a long period of time with the 
engine turned off will drain the battery.

 Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight or excessive heat.

Otherwise these will raise the interior temperature of the unit, and 
it may lead to smoke, fire, or other damage to the unit.

 Do not use the product where it is exposed to water, 
moisture, or dust.

Exposure of the unit to water, moisture, or dust may lead to 
smoke, fire, or other damage to the unit. Make especially sure that 
the unit does not get wet in car washes or on rainy days. 

 Set the volume level to low enough before the AUX 
connection is completed.

Failure to observe this, the loud noise may come out and damage 
your speakers and your hearing. Direct connection of the speaker/
headphone output of an external device without any attenuator 
may distort sound or damage the connected external device. 

Observe the following cautions when installing.

 Refer wiring and installation to qualified service 
personnel.

Installation of this unit requires special skills and experience. For 
maximum safety, have it installed by your dealer. Panasonic is not liable 
for any problems resulting from your own installation of the unit.

 Follow the instructions to install and wire the product.

Not following the instructions to properly install and wire the 
product could cause an accident or fire.

 Take care not to damage the leads.

When wiring, take care not to damage the leads. Prevent them 
from getting caught in the vehicle chassis, screws, and moving 
parts such as seat rails. Do not scratch, pull, bend or twist the 
leads. Do not run them near heat sources or place heavy objects 
on them. If leads must be run over sharp metal edges, protect the 
leads by winding them with vinyl tape or similar protection.

 Use the designated parts and tools for installation.

Use the supplied or designated parts and appropriate tools to 
install the product. The use of parts other than those supplied 
or designated may result in internal damage to the unit. Faulty 
installation may lead to an accident, a malfunction or fire.

 Do not block the air vent or the cooling plate of the unit.

Blocking these parts will cause the interior of the unit to overheat 
and will result in fire or other damage.

 Do not install the product where it is exposed to strong 
vibrations or is unstable.

Avoid slanted or strongly curved surfaces for installation. If the 
installation is not stable, the unit may fall down while driving and 
this can lead to an accident or injury. 

 Installation  Angle

The product should be installed in a horizontal position with the 
front end up at a convenient angle, but not more than 30˚.
The user should bear in mind that in some areas there may be 
restrictions on how and where this unit must be installed. Consult 
your dealer for further details.

 Wear gloves for safety. Make sure that wiring is 
completed before installation.

 To prevent damage to the unit, do not connect the power 
connector until the whole wiring is completed.

 Do not connect more than one speaker to one set of 
speaker leads. (except for connecting to a tweeter) 

Observe the following cautions when handling the 
battery for the remote control unit.

 

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\  

\CQ-RX225W\

• Use only specified battery (CR2025).
• Match the polarity of the battery with the (+) and (–) marks in the 

battery case.

• Replace a dead battery as soon as possible.
• Remove the battery from the remote control unit when not using it 

for an extended period of time.

• Insulate the battery (by placing them in a plastic bag or covering 

them with vinyl tape) before disposal or storage.

• Dispose of the battery according to the local regulations.
• Do not disassemble, recharge, heat or short the battery. Do not 

throw a battery into a fire or water.

In case of battery leakage

• Thoroughly wipe the battery liquid off the battery case and insert 

new battery.

• If any part of your body or clothing comes into contact with battery 

liquid, wash it with plenty of water.

• If battery liquid comes into contact with your eyes, wash them with 

plenty of water and get immediate medical attention. 

Observe the following cautions when using USB 
device. 

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\

• Do not connect a USB device directly to this unit. If the USB device 

is connected directly to this unit and an accident occurs, or if the 
brakes are applied suddenly, the driver or passenger may bump 
into the USB device and may get injured. 

• Position the USB device and USB extension cable so that they do 

not obstruct your driving. 

• Do not connect any USB device other than USB memory, a USB 

audio player or iPod series (

\CQ-RX420W\

). Do not connect 

multiple USB devices to the USB connector. Drawing power for 
multiple USB devices from the connector could cause overheating 
and smoking.

• Do not suddenly disconenct the USB device while “READING” is 

displayed, or perform an operation immediately after connecting 
the USB device. USB device is not recognized correctly. 

Before Reading These Instructions

Panasonic welcomes you to our constantly growing family of electronic products owners.
We endeavor to give you the advantages of precise electronic and mechanical engineering, manufactured with carefully selected components, and 
assembled by people who are proud of the reputation their work has built for our company. We know this product will bring you many hours of 
enjoyment, and after you discover the quality, value and reliability we have built into it, you too will be proud to be a member of our family. 

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\

The instruction manual consists of 2 books. One is “Operating Instructions” describing the operations of the main unit. 
The other is “System Upgrade Guidebook” describing the optional devices such as CD changer. (

\CQ-RX420W\

The other is “Operating Instructions USB” describing the USB connector on the front panel. (

\CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\

Maintenance/Fuse

Your product is designed and manufactured to ensure the minimum of maintenance. Use a dry, soft cloth for routine exterior 
cleaning. Never use benzine, thinner, or other solvents.

If the fuse blows out, consult your dealer, or your nearest authorized Panasonic Service Center.

Anti-Theft System

This unit is equipped with a removable face plate. Removing this face plate makes the unit totally inoperable.

Cleaning 

the Unit

Fuse

Notes:

• Do not touch the contacts on the face plate and the main 

unit, since this may result in poor electrical contact.

• If dirt or other foreign substances get on the contacts, wipe 

them off with a clean and dry cloth.

Face Plate Removing/Mounting

(Anti-Theft System)

 Warning

• Use fuses of the same specified rating (

15 A

). Using substitutes or fuses with higher ratings, or connecting the unit directly 

without a fuse could cause fire or damage to the unit. 

If the replaced fuse fails, contact your nearest authorized 

Panasonic Service Center.

Removing

1

Turn off the power.

2

Press 

[

]

. The face plate will open.

3

Pull it out toward you.

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\  

\CQ-RX225W\ 

4

Put the face plate in the case. 

Mounting

1

Slide the left side of the face plate in place.

2

Press the right end of face plate until a 
“click” is heard.

Expansion Module (Hub Unit)

\CQ-RX420W\ 

Connection of the Expansion Module (hub unit, CY-EM100N) allows 
users to connect up to 4 optional devices shown below. 

Wide Array of Components for System Upgrade 

\CQ-RX420W\ 

Various optional components allow users to obtain availability of wide 
range of system upgrade. Upgrading the system delivers relaxed AV 
space in a car. For further information, refer to the separate 

System 

Upgrade Guidebook. 

• 

iPod

The optional adaptor (Direct Cable for iPod: CA-DC300N) allows 
you to connect the optional iPod series. 
iPod is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other 
countries. 

• CD Changer

The optional adaptor (Conversion Cable for DVD/CD Changer: 
CA-CC30N) allows you to connect the optional Panasonic CD 
changer unit (CX-DP880N).

• 

Bluetooth

®

 

Using the optional Bluetooth Unit (CY-BT200N) and a Bluetooth 
device enables hands-free telephony and Bluetooth Audio listening 
with this unit. 

 

Note: 

This unit does not support CY-BT100N. 

 

Bluetooth

®

 

  The Bluetooth word mark and logo are owned by the Bluetooth 

SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Panasonic Corporation is 
under license. Other trademarks and trade name are those of their 
respective owners.

Features

SQ (Sound Quality)

You have 6 preset modes (FLAT, ROCK, POP, VOCAL, JAZZ, CLUB). You 
can customize your settings for these and save them for instant recall.

SQ3 (3-Band Sound Quality) 

Center frequency and level are adjustable in each of 3 bands. This lets 
you fine-tune sound quality for each genre to suit car-interior acoustics 
and your personal preferences. (

 “Sound Control”) 

USB Connector

\CQ-RX420W\ 

The USB Connector is equipped on the front panel. 

(

 

System Upgrade Guidebook)

 

\CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\

  

\CQ-RX322W\

 

The USB Connector is equipped on the front panel. 

(

 Operating Instructions USB)

By connecting a USB memory (not included) to USB connector via a 
USB extension cable (USB 2.0, not included), you can enjoy MP3/
WMA/AAC files (

\CQ-RX420W\

), MP3/WMA files (

\CQ-RX320W\

   

\CQ-RX321W\

  

\CQ-RX322W\

) stored on the USB memory (not 

included) in your car. 

\CQ-RX420W\  

By connecting iPod series to USB connector via a USB extension cable 
for iPod (USB 2.0, not included), you can enjoy music files stored on 
the iPod series in your car. 

AUX (AUX1) Input Terminal

The AUX input terminal is equipped on the front panel. 
Your mobile audio player and other devices are connectable to this unit 
without any difficulty.  

Printed in China

Specifications

General

Power supply 

:  DC 12 V (11 V – 16 V DC), test 

voltage 14.4 V, negative ground

Current consumption 

:  Less than 2.1 A

 

 

 (CD mode; 0.5 W x 4 channels)

Maximum power output 

:  50 W x 4 channels (at 1 kHz), 

volume control maximum 

Power output 

:  18 W x 4 CH (1 kHz, 1 %, 4 

Tone/SQ adjustment range  : SQ Low/Bass: ±12 dB 
 

 

 (at 60 Hz, 80 Hz, 100 Hz, 200 Hz)

 

 

 SQ Mid: ±12 dB 

 

 

 (at 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, 3 kHz)

 

 

 SQ High/Treble: ±12 dB 

 

 

 (at 10 kHz, 12 kHz, 15 kHz, 18 kHz)

Speaker impedance 

: 4 – 8 

\CQ-RX420W\ 

 

\CQ-RX320W\ 

 

\CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\ 

\CQ-RX220W\ 

 

\CQ-RX221W\ 

 

\CQ-RX222W\  \CQ-RX225W\

Pre-amp output voltage 

: 2.0 V (CD mode, 1 kHz, 0 dB)

Pre-amp output impedance  : 200 

\CQ-RX420W\ 

 

\CQ-RX320W\ 

 

\CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\ 

USB Connector 

 

 

USB Standard Compatibility  : 1.1/2.0 Full Speed

 

Maximum Supply Current : 500 mA

Front AUX input
 

Input impedance 

: 10 k

 

Allowable external input  : 2.0 V

 Connector 

3.5 

mm 

 Stereo mini-pin 

Dimensions (W x H x D) 

: 178 x 50 x 160 mm 

Weight : 

1.2 

k

g

 

Disc Player

Sampling frequency  

: 8 times oversampling

DA converter 

: 1 bit DAC System

Pick-up type 

: Astigma 3-beam

Light source 

: Semiconductor laser

Wave length 

: 790 nm

Frequency response 

: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±1 dB)

Signal to noise ratio 

: 96 dB

Total harmonic distortion 

: 0.01 % (1 kHz)

Wow and flutter 

: Below measurable limits

Channel separation 

: 85 dB

Notes:

• Remote Control Unit for CQ-RX220W/CQ-RX221W/ 

CQ-RX222W/CQ-RX121W/CQ-RX122W is option (CA-RC80N). 

• The optional remote control is available from your local dealer. 

(CA-RC80N)

Power 
Mode 
(Source) 

Tune
Track selection 
Fast forward/fast reverse

(CA-RC80N)

Mute/attenuation 

Volume 

Band
Pause 

FM Radio

Frequency range 

: 87.50 MHz – 108.00 MHz

Usable sensitivity 

: 6 dB/μV (S/N 30 dB)

Stereo separation 

: 35 dB (at 1 kHz) 

\CQ-RX420W\ 

 

\CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX220W\ 

AM (MW) Radio

Frequency range  

: 531 kHz – 1 602 kHz

Usable sensitivity 

: 28 dB/μV (S/N 20 dB)

AM (LW) Radio

Frequency range  

: 153 kHz – 279 kHz

Usable sensitivity 

: 32 dB/μV (S/N 20 dB) 

\CQ-RX321W\ 

 

\CQ-RX322W\  \CQ-RX221W\ 

 

\CQ-RX222W\  

\CQ-RX225W\  \CQ-RX121W\ 

 

\CQ-RX122W\ 

AM Radio

Frequency range  

: 531 kHz – 1 602 kHz

Usable sensitivity 

: 28 dB/μV (S/N 20 dB)

Notes:

• Specifications and design are subject to modification without 

notice due to improvements.

• Some figures and illustrations in this manual may be different 

from your product.

Notes on MP3/WMA/AAC

Notes on MP3/WMA/AAC

Playable Audio File 

CQ-RX420W

MP3/WMA/AAC

CQ-RX320W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX321W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX322W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX220W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX221W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX222W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX225W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX121W

MP3/WMA

CQ-RX122W

MP3/WMA

Notes for AAC playback is only for the model CQ-RX420W.

What is MP3/WMA/AAC?

MP3* (MPEG Audio Layer-3) and WMA (Windows Media

TM

 

Audio) are the compression formats of digital audio. The former 
is developed by MPEG (Motion Picture Experts Group), and 
the latter is developed by Microsoft Corporation. Using these 
compression formats, you can record the contents of about 
10 music CDs on a single CD media (This figures refer to data 
recorded on a 650 MB CD-R or CD-RW at a fixed bit rate of 
128 kbps and a sampling frequency of 44.1 kHz).

*MPEG Layer-3 audio coding technology licensed from 
Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson. 

AAC is an abbreviation for “Advanced Audio Coding”.
It has been defined as a standard for audio compression 
technology using MPEG 2 and MPEG 4.

Note:

 MP3/WMA/AAC encoding and writing software is not 

supplied with this unit.

Points to Remember When Making MP3/
WMA/AAC Files

Common

• High bit rate and high sampling frequency are recommended 

for high quality sounds.

• Selecting VBR (Variable Bit Rate) is not recommended 

because playing time is not displayed properly and sound 
may be skipped. 

• The playback sound quality differs depending on the 

encoding circumstances. For details, refer to the instructions 
of your own encoding software and writing software.

MP3

• It is recommended to set the bit rate to “128 kbps or more” 

and “fixed”.

WMA

• It is recommended to set the bit rate to “64 kbps or more” 

and “fixed”.

• Do not set the copy protect attribute on the WMA file to 

enable this unit to play back. 

AAC

• It is recommended to set the bit rate to “128 kbps or more” 

and “fixed”.

• The formats and extensions for AAC data vary according to 

the encoder software used. 

• AAC files which can be played on this unit have the “.m4a” 

extension and were encoded with Apple iTunes

®

 version 7. 

• The file extension for files encoded with the iTunes Apple 

Lossless Encoder is “.m4a”, but such files cannot be played 
on this player.

• Files under copyright protection cannot be played. 

 

Caution

Never assign the “.mp3”, “.wma” or “.m4a” file 
name extension to a file that is not in the MP3/
WMA/AAC format. This may not only produce 
noise from the speaker damage, but also damage 
your hearing.

iTunes is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. 
and other countries/regions. 

Windows Media, and the 
Windows logo are trademarks, or 
registered trademarks of Microsoft 
Corporation in the United States 
and/or other countries/regions.

 

Notes on MP3/WMA/AAC (continued)

Display Information

Displayed items

• 

CD-TEXT

Disc title
Track title

• 

MP3 (ID3 tag)

Album name
Title name/artist name

• 

MP3/WMA/AAC

Folder name
File name

• 

WMA (WMA tag)

Album name
Title name/artist name

• 

AAC (Song information) 

Album name
Title name/artist name

Displayable characters

• Displayable length of file name/folder name: within 

32 characters. (Unicoded file and folder names are reduced 
by half in the number of displayable characters.)

• Name files and folders in accordance with the standard of 

each file system. Refer to the instructions of writing software 
for details.

• ASCII character set and special characters in each language 

can be displayed. 

• Some Cyrillic characters in the Unicode can be displayed. 

ASCII character set

A to Z, a to z, digits 0 to 9, and the following symbols:
(space) ! ” # $ % & ’ ( )  * + , - . / : ; < = > ? @ [ \ ] ˆ _ ` { | } ~

Special Characters

À Á Â Ã Å à á â ã å
Ä ä
Ò Ó Ô Õ Ö ò ó ô õ ö
Ù Ú Û Ü ù ú û ü

Notes:

• With some software in which MP3/WMA/AAC format files 

have been encoded, the character information may not be 
displayed properly. 

• Undisplayable characters and symbols will be converted into 

an asterisk ( ). 

• It is recommended that the length of the file name is less 

than 8 characters (excluding the file extension). 

Recording MP3/WMA/AAC Files on a CD-
Media/USB-Device

• 

You are recommended to minimize the chances of making 
a disc that contains both CD-DA files and MP3/WMA/AAC 
files.

• 

If CD-DA files are on the same disc as MP3, WMA or AAC 
files or the songs may not play in the intended order, or 
some songs may not play at all.

• 

When storing MP3 data, WMA data or AAC data

 

on the 

same disc, use different folders for each data.

• Do not record files other than MP3/WMA/AAC files and 

unnecessary folder on a disc.

• The name of an MP3/WMA/AAC file should be added by 

rules as shown in the following descriptions and also comply 
with the rules of each file system. 

• The file extension “.mp3”, “.wma” or “.m4a” should be 

assigned to each file depending on the file format.

• You may encounter trouble in playing MP3/WMA/AAC files or 

displaying the information of MP3/WMA/AAC files recorded 
with certain writing software or CD recorders.

• This unit does not have a play list function.
• Although Multi-session recording is supported, the use of 

Disc-at-Once is recommended.

Supported file systems

CD-media

ISO 9660 Level 1/Level 2, Apple Extension to ISO 9660, Joliet, 
Romeo

Note:

 Apple HFS, UDF 1.50, Mix CD and CD Extra are not 

supported.

USB-device 

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\ 

File system is FAT12/16/32

Compression formats

(

Recommendation:

 “Points to Remember When Making MP3/WMA/AAC Files” 

Left) 

\CQ-RX420W\  

Compression method 

Bit rate

VBR

Sampling frequency

MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3 (MP3)

32 k – 320 kbps Yes

32, 44.1, 48 kHz

MPEG 2 Audio Layer-3 (MP3)

8 k – 160 kbps

Yes

16, 22.05, 24 kHz

MPEG 2.5 Audio Layer-3 (MP3)

8 k – 160 kbps

Yes

8, 11.025, 12 kHz

Windows Media Audio Ver. 2

9*

64 k – 160 kbps Yes

32, 44.1, 48 kHz

MPEG 4 Advanced Audio Coding Low Complexity 
(AAC LC)

16 k – 320 kbps Yes

8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 
44.1, 48 kHz

* WMA 9 Professional/LossLess/Voice are not supported. 

Notes on MP3/WMA/AAC (continued)

Folder Selection Order/File Playback Order

Maximum number of files/folders

• Maximum depth of trees: 8

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\ 

• Maximum number of files 
   CD-media: 999 
    USB device: 65 535

 

• Maximum number of files in one folder
   CD-media: 999 
    USB device: 999 
• Maximum number of folders: 
    CD-media: 256 (Root folder is included.)  
    USB device: 255 (Root folder is included.) 

\CQ-RX220W\  \CQ-RX221W\  \CQ-RX222W\  \CQ-RX225W\  

\CQ-RX121W\  \CQ-RX122W\ 

• Maximum number of files: 999
• Maximum number of files in one folder: 999
• Maximum number of folders: 256 (Root folder is included.) 

Notes:

• You can shorten the duration between data read and 

playback by decreasing the quantity of files or folders, or the 
depth of the hierarchy.

• This unit counts the number of folders irrespective of the 

presence or absence of an MP3/WMA/AAC file.

• If the selected folder does not contain any MP3/WMA/AAC 

files, the nearest MP3/WMA/AAC files in the order of 
playback will be played.

• Playback order may be different from other MP3/WMA/AAC 

players even if the same disc is used.

• “ROOT” appears when displaying the root folder name. 

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\  

• Empty folders stored on the USB memory are not included in 

the folder count. 

• Depending on the connected USB memory, the order in 

which the files are played back may differ to the order in 
which the files were stored.

1

1

4

5

6

2

3

8

7

8

Root folder 
(Root Directory)

Folder Selection 

In the order 

Tree 1 Tree 2 Tree 3 Tree 4

Tree 8 (Max.)

File Selection 

In the order 

CD-media

USB-device 

\CQ-RX420W\  \CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\ 

Tree 1 Tree 2 Tree 3 Tree 4 Tree 5

Tree 8 (Max.)

1

4

5

2

3

1

5

Root folder 
(Root Directory)

Folder Selection 

In the order 

File Selection 

In the order 

\CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\  \CQ-RX220W\  \CQ-RX221W\  \CQ-RX222W\  \CQ-RX225W\

\CQ-RX121W\  \CQ-RX122W\

Compression method 

Bit rate

VBR

Sampling frequency

MPEG 1 Audio Layer-3 (MP3)

32 k – 320 kbps Yes

32, 44.1, 48 kHz

MPEG 2 Audio Layer-3 (MP3)

8 k – 160 kbps

Yes

16, 22.05, 24 kHz

MPEG 2.5 Audio Layer-3 (MP3)

8 k – 160 kbps

Yes

8, 11.025, 12 kHz

Windows Media Audio Ver. 2

9*

64 k – 160 kbps Yes

32, 44.1, 48 kHz

* WMA 9 Professional/LossLess/Voice are not supported. 

If You Suspect Something Wrong

Check and take steps as described below.
If the described suggestions do not solve the problem, it is 
recommended to take the unit to your nearest authorized Panasonic 
Service Center. The product should be serviced only by qualified 
personnel. Please refer the checking and the repair to professionals. 
Panasonic shall not be liable for any accidents arising out of neglect 
of checking the unit or your own repair after your checking.

Never take measures especially those other than 
indicated by 

italic

 letters in “Possible Solution” described 

below because those are too dangerous for users to 
handle themselves.

Troubleshooting

 Warning

• Do not use the unit in an irregular condition, for example, 

without sound, or with smoke or a foul smell, which can cause 
ignition or electric shock. Immediately stop using the unit and 
consult your dealer.

• Never try to repair the unit by yourself because it is dangerous 

to do so.

Common

No power

• 

Start the engine. (Or turn the ignition 
switch to the ACC position.)

•  Verify the wiring. (battery lead, power 

lead, ground lead, etc.)

•  Fuse blown 

(Contact the nearest Panasonic 

Service Center.)

• 

Ask a professional for fuse replacement.

•  Be sure to use the same rated fuse.

No sound

• 

Disable the mute function.

• Verify the wiring.
• 

Wait until the dew disappears before 
turning on the unit.

Noise

• Make sure that grounding is established 

properly.

No sound from 
left, right, front, 
or rear speaker

• 

Adjust the balance and fader.

• Verify the wiring.

Left and right 
sounds are 
reversed

• Connect the speaker lead correctly.

Radio

Frequent noise

• 

Tune in to another station of high-intensity 
waves.

• Make sure that the antenna mounted point 

is grounded properly.

Preset data 
deleted

• 

The preset memory is cleared to return 
to the original factory setting when 
the power connector or battery is 
disconnected.

Error Display Messages (Disc Player)

(The disc is ejected automatically.)
The disc is dirty or upside down.
• 

Check the disc.

(The disc is ejected automatically.)
The disc has scratches.
• 

Check the disc.

No operation by some cause.
• 

If normal operation is not restored, 
consult your dealer or the nearest 
Service Center to ask for repairs.

Cannot read the file
• 

Check the disc.

A WMA/AAC file can be copyrighted.
• The file protected by copyright is not 

playable.

Trouble

Possible Solution

Trouble

Possible Solution

\CQ-RX420W\ 

Note:

 Refer to the 

System Upgrade Guidebook

 for error messages 

regarding optional products. 

\CQ-RX320W\  \CQ-RX321W\  \CQ-RX322W\  

Note:

 Refer to the 

Operating Instructions USB

 for error messages 

regarding optional products. 

Disc Player

No sound, or disc 
is automatically 
ejected

• 

Load the disc correctly.

• 

Clean the disc.

Sound skip, poor 
sound quality

• 

Clean the disc.

Sound skip due to 
vibration

• The maximum permissible tilt angle is 

30°.

• Secure the unit.

Disc not ejectable

• 

Press 

[

]

. If the disc is still not ejected, 

contact the nearest Panasonic Service 
Center.

Notes on Discs

N

otes on CD/CD Media (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW)

Printed side

How to hold the disc

• Do not touch the underside of the disc.
• Do not scratch on the disc.
• Do not bend the disc.
• When not in use, keep disc in the case.

Do not use discs that fit any of the descriptions given 
below. Using these discs may damage the discs or cause 
the unit to malfunction. 

• 

Special discs in a shape which is not round

    

    

• 

Partly or wholly transparent disc

Wholly transparent disc

Partly transparent disc

Wholly semi-transparent disc may not be played back.

• 

Discs with adhered labels, etc. on them

Disc with adhered stickers 
or tape

Labels created by a printer

Protective films or sheets

Discs accessories (stabilizers, 
etc.)

• 

Damaged or deformed discs

Shoddily made discs

Discs with cracks, scratches or 
parts missing

Discs with burrs 
Please remove the burrs 
before use. 

Disc Insert

The surfaces of new discs tend to be slippery. Therefore, 
when using such a disc for the first time, it may not load 
satisfactorily even when it has been inserted into the unit. At 
a time like this, insert the disc into the unit as far as it will go 
until it is loaded properly. 

• When inserting a disc into or ejecting and removing it 

from the unit, insert it straight in or eject and remove it 
straight out in parallel with the unit. 

  Observe, the disc may be scratched or marked in the 

process. 

• When inserting a disc, do not put one disc on another. 

Failure to observe this may cause the discs to be 
jammed. 

Do not leave discs in the following places:

• Direct sunlight
• Near car heaters
• Dirty, dusty and damp areas
• On seats and dashboards

Disc cleaning

• Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe from the center outward. 

<Correct>

<Wrong>

• Do not attach any seals or labels to your discs. 
• Do not write on the disc label in a heavy pen or ballpoint 

pen. 

Notes on CD-Rs/RWs

• You may have trouble playing back some CD-R/RW discs 

recorded using CD recorders (CD-R/RW drives), either 
due to their recording characteristics or dirt, fingerprints, 
scratches, etc. on the disc surface.

• CD-R/RW discs are less resistant to high temperatures 

and high humidity than ordinary music CD. Leaving them 
inside a car for extended periods may damage and make 
playback impossible.

• The unit may not successfully playback a CD-R/RW, 

that was made by the combination of writing software, 
a CD recorder (CD-R/RW drive) and a disc if they are 
incompatible with one another. 

• This player cannot play the CD-R/RW discs if the session is 

not closed.

• Be sure to observe the handling instructions of CD-R/RW 

discs. 

• This player cannot play CD-R/RW discs which contain 

other than CD-DA or MP3/WMA/AAC data (Video CD, etc.).

If you use commercial CDs, they must have either of these labels shown at 
right. 
Some copy-protected music CDs are not playable.

 

Copyright

It is prohibited by copyright laws to copy, distribute and 
deliver copyrighted materials such as music without the 
approval of copyright holder except enjoying yourself 
personally.  

No warranty

Above description complies with our investigations as 
of June 2008. It has no warranty for reproducibility and 
displayability of MP3/WMA/AAC.

YGFM286163A   FT0808-1108   

Differences Among 10 Models

This operating instruction manual is for 10 models CQ-RX420W, CQ-RX320W, CQ-RX321W, CQ-RX322W, CQ-RX220W, CQ-RX221W,  
CQ-RX222W, CQ-RX225W, CQ-RX121W and CQ-RX122W. All illustrations throughout this manual represent model CQ-RX420W unless otherwise 
specified. The following table describes the differences among 10 models.

Models

Features

CQ-RX420W

CQ-RX320W

CQ-RX321W

CQ-RX322W

CQ-RX220W

Removable Face Plate Case Included

Included

Included

Included

Not included

Remote Control Unit

Included

Included

Included

Included

Not included

System Upgrade Guidebook Included

Not included

Not included

Not included

Not included

Operating Instructions USB

Not included

Included

Included

Included

Not included

System-up Connector

Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Preamp Out Connector

2 (Front/Rear)

1 (Rear)

1 (Rear)

1 (Rear)

1 (Rear)

USB Connector

Supported (USB iPod)

Supported

Supported

Supported

Not Supported

AAC playback

Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

RDS

Supported

Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Supported

Button logo color

Blue

Blue

Red

Green

Blue

WMA MP3 CD Player/Receiver

Model:

 CQ-RX121W/CQ-RX122W

(CQ-RX121W)

(CQ-RX420W)

Web Site: http://panasonic.net

Models

Features

CQ-RX221W

CQ-RX222W

CQ-RX225W

CQ-RX121W

CQ-RX122W

Removable Face Plate Case Not included

Not included

Included

Not included

Not included

Remote Control Unit

Not included

Not included

Included

Not included

Not included

System Upgrade Guidebook Not included

Not included

Not included

Not included

Not included

Operating Instructions USB

Not included

Not included

Not Included

Not Included

Not included

System-up Connector

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Preamp Out Connector

1 (Rear)

1 (Rear)

1 (Rear)

Not Supported

Not Supported

USB Connector

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

AAC playback

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

RDS

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Not Supported

Button logo color

Red

Green

Green

Red

Green

\CQ-RX220W\  \CQ-RX221W\  \CQ-RX222W\  \CQ-RX121W\  

\CQ-RX122W\  

Request for use of the Removable Face Plate Case: 

• To avoid trouble and ensure safety, use the optional Removable 

Face Plate Case (YGFA134302). 

 Caution

THIS PRODUCT IS A CLASS 

I

 LASER PRODUCT.

USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF 
PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY 
RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.
DO NOT OPEN COVERS AND DO NOT REPAIR BY YOURSELF. 
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

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