Sony MDR-XB950BT User Manual

Help Guide

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Use this manual if you encounter any problems, or have any questions.

How to Use

Getting started

Making connections

Listening to music

Making phone calls

Important information

Troubleshooting

List of Topics

How to Use

Troubleshooting

Getting started

Before first use

Features

Parts and controls

Supplied accessories

Charging the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

2

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Making connections

BLUETOOTH connection

One-touch connection (NFC) compatible Android devices

Android devices not compatible with one-touch connection (NFC)

iPhone (iOS devices)

Other BLUETOOTH devices

Multi point connection

Headphone cable connection

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

3

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Listening to music

Listening to music via a BLUETOOTH connection

Electro Bass Booster function

Sound quality mode

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

4

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Making phone calls

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

5

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Important information

Precautions

Trademarks

Support website

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

6

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Troubleshooting

Power

Charging

Sound

Pairing

One-touch connection (NFC)

BLUETOOTH connection

Phone calls

Resetting or initializing the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

7

List of Topics

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

How to Use

Getting started

Before first use

Read this first

Features

What you can do with the headset

Parts and controls

Location and function of parts BLUETOOTH function indicator

Supplied accessories

List of the included items

Charging the headset

System requirements for battery charge using USB Charging the headset Available operating time Checking the remaining battery charge

Making connections

BLUETOOTH connection

What you can do with the BLUETOOTH function How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices

One- touch connection (NFC) compatible Android devices

One- touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 4.1 or later) One- touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 2.3.3 or later, and less than Android 4.1) Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC) Switching the device by one touch (NFC)

Android devices not compatible with one - touch connection (NFC)

Pairing and connecting with an Android smartphone Connecting to a paired Android smartphone

iPhone (iOS devices)

Pairing and connecting with an iPhone Connecting to a paired iPhone

Other BLUETOOTH devices

Pairing and connecting with other BLUETOOTH devices

8

Connecting to a paired BLUETOOTH device

Multi point connection

Connecting the headset to both a music player and a smartphone or mobile phone Connecting the headset to 2 Android smartphones Connecting the headset to an Android smartphone and an iPhone

Headphone cable connection

Using the supplied headphone cable

Listening to music

Listening to music via a BLUETOOTH connection

Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Controlling the audio device (BLUETOOTH connection) Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

Electro Bass Booster function

Electro Bass Booster function Using the Electro Bass Booster function

Sound quality mode

Switching the sound quality mode Checking the sound quality mode

Making phone calls

Receiving a call Making a call Button functions for a phone call Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

Important information

Precautions

Precautions What is BLUETOOTH wireless technology?

Trademarks

Support website

Customer support websites

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

9

List of Topics

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Troubleshooting

What can I do to solve a problem?

Power

The headset is not turned on.

Charging

Charging cannot be done. Charging time is too long. The headset cannot be recognized by a computer. The remaining battery charge of the headset is not displayed on the screen of an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

Sound

No sound Low sound level Low sound quality Sound skips frequently during playback.

Pairing

Pairing cannot be done.

One- touch connection (NFC)

Unable to connect the headset to a BLUETOOTH device with one- touch connection (NFC)

BLUETOOTH connection

Unable to make a BLUETOOTH connection Distorted sound The correspondence distance is short. (Sound skips.) The headset does not operate properly.

Phone calls

No voice from callers Low voice from callers

Resetting or initializing the headset

Resetting the headset Initializing the headset

Help Guide

10

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Before first use

Read this first

View the type of manuals supplied and support information.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

11

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Features

What you can do with the headset

Check out the main features.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

12

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Parts and controls

Location and function of parts

View the names of buttons, connections and indicators on the headset.

BLUETOOTH function indicator

You can check the BLUETOOTH connection status of the headset by the indicators.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

13

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Supplied accessories

List of the included items

Check that all items are packed with the headset before use.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

14

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Charging the headset

System requirements for battery charge using USB

Confirm the computer system required to charge the headset via USB connection.

Charging the headset

You can charge the headset using the micro - USB cable supplied.

Available operating time

See the operating time available with a fully charged battery.

Checking the remaining battery charge

You can check the remaining battery charge of the rechargeable battery.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

15

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

BLUETOOTH connection

What you can do with the BLUETOOTH function

Check out the headset operations available with the BLUETOOTH connection.

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices

Learn about how to make a BLUETOOTH connection.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

16

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

One-touch connection (NFC) compatible Android devices

One-touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 4.1 or later)

By touching the headset with an NFC -compatible smartphone running the Android OS mentioned above, the headset turns on automatically and then pairs and makes a BLUETOOTH connection.

One-touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 2.3.3 or later, and less than Android 4.1)

By touching the headset with an NFC -compatible smartphone running the Android OS mentioned above, the headset turns on automatically and then pairs and makes a BLUETOOTH connection.

Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC)

You can disconnect the headset from the connected smartphone by touching the headset with it.

Switching the device by one touch (NFC)

You can switch devices by touching a new device once on the headset (One-touch connection switching).

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

17

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Android devices not compatible with one-touch connection (NFC)

Pairing and connecting with an Android smartphone

You can register (pair) an Android smartphone and the headset with each other, and make a BLUETOOTH connection.

Connecting to a paired Android smartphone

You can connect the headset with an Android smartphone that is already paired with the headset.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

18

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

iPhone (iOS devices)

Pairing and connecting with an iPhone

You can register (pair) an iPhone and the headset with each other, and make a BLUETOOTH connection.

Connecting to a paired iPhone

You can connect the headset with an iPhone that is already paired with the headset.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

19

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Other BLUETOOTH devices

Pairing and connecting with other BLUETOOTH devices

You can register (pair) a BLUETOOTH device and the headset with each other, and make a BLUETOOTH connection.

Connecting to a paired BLUETOOTH device

You can connect the headset with a BLUETOOTH device that is already paired with the headset.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

20

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Multi point connection

Connecting the headset to both a music player and a smartphone or mobile phone

You can make a call on a BLUETOOTH smartphone or mobile phone while listening to music from a BLUETOOTH music player.

Connecting the headset to 2 Android smartphones

You can connect 2 smartphones to the headset, one for listening to music and the other for making phone calls.

Connecting the headset to an Android smartphone and an iPhone

You can connect an Android smartphone and an iPhone to the headset simultaneously to use different functions on those devices.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

21

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Headphone cable connection

Using the supplied headphone cable

You can use the headset as ordinary wired headphones by connecting the supplied headphone cable.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

22

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Listening to music via a BLUETOOTH connection

Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH

You can enjoy listening to music from a BLUETOOTH device wirelessly via a BLUETOOTH connection.

Controlling the audio device (BLUETOOTH connection)

You can control music playback via a BLUETOOTH connection.

Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

After use, disconnect the headset from the BLUETOOTH device.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

23

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Electro Bass Booster function

Adjust the bass with the Electro Bass Booster function.

Using the Electro Bass Booster function

You can turn on or off the Electro Bass Booster function.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

24

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Sound quality mode

Switching the sound quality mode

You can select the sound quality mode when you turn on the headset.

Checking the sound quality mode

You can check the current sound quality mode for music playback.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

25

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Making phone calls

Receiving a call

You can receive an incoming call to a smartphone or mobile phone using the headset by the hands- free function.

Making a call

You can make a call with a smartphone or mobile phone using the headset by the hands-free function.

Button functions for a phone call

You can operate the smartphone or mobile phone by the headset via a BLUETOOTH connection.

Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

After use, disconnect the headset from the BLUETOOTH device.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

26

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Precautions

Precautions to use the headset, such as where to use, handling, maintenance

What is BLUETOOTH wireless technology?

Learn about BLUETOOTH wireless technology.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

27

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Trademarks

List of the licenses and trademarks

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

28

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Support website

Customer support websites

URLs of the customer support websites

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

29

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Troubleshooting

What can I do to solve a problem?

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

30

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Power

The headset is not turned on.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

31

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Charging

Charging cannot be done.

Charging time is too long.

The headset cannot be recognized by a computer.

The remaining battery charge of the headset is not displayed on the screen of an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

32

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Sound

No sound

Low sound level

Low sound quality

Sound skips frequently during playback.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

33

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Pairing

Pairing cannot be done.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

34

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

One-touch connection (NFC)

Unable to connect the headset to a BLUETOOTH device with one-touch connection (NFC)

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

35

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

BLUETOOTH connection

Unable to make a BLUETOOTH connection

Distorted sound

The correspondence distance is short. (Sound skips.)

The headset does not operate properly.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

36

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Phone calls

No voice from callers

Low voice from callers

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

37

Troubleshooting

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Resetting or initializing the headset

Resetting the headset

Initializing the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

38

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Read this first

In addition to this Help Guide, read the printed manuals supplied: “Quick Start Guide” and “Reference Guide.”

Quick Start Guide This covers initial settings and basic operations. Reference Guide This includes information about using your headset safely, and specifications of your headset. For information about the customer support Web site, access: (http://www.sony.net/)

About battery charging

Charge the headset before you use it for the first time.

Related Topic

Charging the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

39

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

What you can do with the headset

Bass Booster Provides an acoustically tight seal for superior sound isolation, deep bass sound and tight bass response. One-touch connection (NFC) Electro Bass Booster 40 mm driver unit reproduces natural and powerful bass. Earpads for delivering direct sound with comfort to the ears Comfortable head cushion Comfortable & stable fit for punchy deep bass Inward axis structure Swivels flat for easy portability USB charging Headphone cable included for passive operation. BLUETOOTH ver. 3.0 SBC, AAC and aptX compatible Approx. 20 hours of play time with 4 hours of charging. Compatible with multi pairing and multi point connections

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

40

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Location and function of parts

1. Slider Slide to adjust the length of the headband.

2. left unit

3. Built-in antenna The BLUETOOTH antenna is built into the headset.

4. Headband

5. right unit

6. N mark

7. Indicator (blue/red) Lights up in red or blue to indicate the power or communication status of the headset.

8. POWER button

9. BASS BOOST indicator (orange) Lights up when the Electro Bass Booster function is turned on.

10. BASS BOOST button Turns on or off the Electro Bass Booster function.

11. Micro-USB port

41

Connect a computer to this port with the supplied micro-USB cable to charge the headset.

12. INPUT jack Connect a music player, etc. to this jack by using the supplied headphone cable. Make sure that you insert the plug of the music player until it clicks. Otherwise, you may not hear the sound normally.

13. Microphone Picks up the sound of your voice when talking on the phone.

14. Jog switch ( / / / ) Controls various call and playback functions.

15. VOL (volume) +/- buttons The + button has a tactile dot.

Related Topic

BLUETOOTH function indicator Checking the remaining battery charge

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

42

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

BLUETOOTH function indicator

The indicator flashes in red or blue to indicate the BLUETOOTH connection status.

○: Turns on in blue/●: Turns on in red/ -: Turns off

Pairing mode

○ ● ○ ● ○ ● ○ ● ○ ● ○ ●...

Connectable

○ - - ○ - - ○ - - ○ - - ○ - - ○ - - ○ - - ○...

Connecting

○ ○ - ○ ○ - ○ ○ - ○ ○ - ○ ○ - ○ ○ - ○ ○...

Connected (HFP/HSP or A2DP)

○ - - - - - - - - - ○ - - - - - - - - -...

Connected (HFP/HSP and A2DP)

○ - ○ - - - - - - - ○ - ○ - - - - - - -...

Playing music or during a call (HFP/HSP or A2DP)

○ ○ - - - - - - - - ○ ○ - - - - - - - -...

Playing music or during a call (HFP/HSP and A2DP)

○ ○ ○ - - - - - - - ○ ○ ○ - - - - - - -...

Incoming call

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○...

Hint

When the remaining battery charge becomes low, the indicator turns from blue to red, except for pairing mode.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

43

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

List of the included items

After opening the package, check that all items in the list are included in the package. If items are missing, contact your dealer. Numbers in ( ) indicate the item amount.

Wireless Stereo Headset (1) Micro-USB cable (approx. 50 cm (19 3/4 in.)) (1)

Headphone cable (approx. 1.2 m (47 1/4 in.)) (1)

Reference Guide (1) Quick Start Guide (1) Other documents (1 set) (*)

*

May not be supplied in some countries or regions.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

44

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

System requirements for battery charge using USB

The headset contains a lithium ion rechargeable battery, which should be charged before using the headset for the first time.

Personal Computer with pre-installed with any of the following operating systems and USB port:

When using Windows® Windows® 8.1 / Windows® 8.1 Pro Windows® 8 / Windows® 8 Pro Windows® 7 Home Basic / Home Premium / Professional / Ultimate Windows Vista® (Service Pack 2 or later) Home Basic / Home Premium / Business / Ultimate When using Mac Mac OS X (version 10.3 or later)

Note

Sony does not guarantee proper operation in all system environments. When using Windows 8.1 update using Windows Update.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

45

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Charging the headset

The headset contains a lithium ion rechargeable battery. Charge the headset using the supplied micro-USB cable.

1. Connect the supplied micro-USB cable to the headset, and then connect the other end to a booted computer.

Make sure that you connect the plug of the micro- USB cable in the direction as shown in the illustration above. Make sure that the indicator (red) lights up. Charging is completed in about 4 hours (*) and the indicator (red) goes off automatically.

*

Time required for charging the empty battery to its full capacity.

Note

The headset cannot be turned on, nor can the BLUETOOTH and Electro Bass Booster functions be used, during charging. If the headset detects a problem while charging due to following causes, the indicator (red) may turn off, although charging is not complete. In this case, charge again within the charging temperature range. If the problem persists, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Ambient temperature exceeds the charging temperature range of 5 °C – 35 °C (41 °F - 95 °F). There is a problem with the battery.

If the headset is not used for a long time, the indicator (red) may not light up when you connect the micro-USB cable to charge the headset. In this case, do not disconnect the micro-USB cable from the headset and wait until the indicator (red) lights up. If the headset is not used for a long time, the battery may be quickly depleted, however, after a few recharges, the battery life will improve. If you store the headset for a long time, charge the battery to its full capacity once every 6 months to avoid over discharge. If the headset is not used for a long time, it may take longer to charge the battery. If the life of the built- in rechargeable battery drops significantly, the battery should be replaced. Consult your nearest Sony dealer for replacement of the rechargeable battery. Avoid exposure to temperature extremes, direct sunlight, moisture, sand, dust or mechanical shock. Never leave the

headset in a car parked in the sun.

46

If the computer enters into hibernation mode while connected to the headset, charging will not be completed properly. Check the setting of the computer before charging. The indicator (red) will go off automatically if the computer enters into hibernation mode. Charge the headset again in this case. Use the supplied micro-USB cable only, and connect directly to a computer. Charging will not be completed properly by an indirect connection, such as via a USB hub.

Hint

You can use the headset by connecting the supplied headphone cable, even while charging the headset. If charging starts while the headset is turned on, the headset will turn off automatically.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

47

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Available operating time

The available operating time of the headset on fully-charged battery are as follows:

Music playback time: Max. 20 hours (SBC/AAC)/Max. 20 hours (aptX) Communication time: Max. 20 hours Standby time: Max. 200 hours

About 7 hours of continuous communications is possible after 1 hour charging.

Note

Usage hours may be shorter depending on the Codec and the conditions of use.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

48

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Checking the remaining battery charge

You can check the remaining battery charge of the rechargeable battery.

When you turn on the headset by pressing the POWER button, the indicator (red) flashes. You can check the remaining battery charge by the number of times the indicator (red) flashes. You can also check the remaining battery charge when the headset is turned on. Pressing the POWER button will cause the indicator to flash and show the remaining battery charge.

3 times: High 2 times: Medium 1 time: Low (needs to charge)

When the battery is almost empty

The indicator turns red. When the battery becomes empty, the headset sounds a warning beep and turns off automatically.

When you are using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

When the headset is connected to an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch (iOS 5.0 or later) that supports HFP (Hands-free Profile), it will show an icon that indicates the remaining battery charge of the headset on the screen.

Compatible devices

iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch (iOS 5.0 or later) supporting Hands-free Profile (HFP)

iOS 7.X

iOS 5.X / 6.X

A: Remaining battery charge of the headset

49

B: High C: Medium D: Low (needs to charge)

Note

If you connect the headset to an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch with “Media audio” (A2DP) only in a multi point connection, the remaining battery charge will not be displayed correctly.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

50

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

What you can do with the BLUETOOTH function

The headset uses BLUETOOTH wireless technology, allowing you to listen to music or make phone calls wirelessly.

Listening to music

You can receive audio signals from a smartphone, mobile phone, or music player to enjoy music wirelessly.

Talking on the phone

You can make and receive a call with your hands free, while leaving your smartphone or mobile phone in your bag or pocket.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

51

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices

You can enjoy music and hands-free calling with the headset wirelessly by using your device’s BLUETOOTH function. How to connect devices via the BLUETOOTH function differs depending on whether or not the device supports onetouch connection (NFC).

Connecting the headset to a device that supports one - touch connection (NFC)

By touching the headset to an NFC-compatible smartphone, the headset turns on automatically and then makes a BLUETOOTH connection. Touching the headset to the smartphone again will disconnect the connection.

Compatible smartphones

NFC-compatible smartphones with Android 2.3.3 or later installed (excluding Android 3.x)

NFC

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a technology enabling short-range wireless communication between various devices, such as smartphones and IC tags. Thanks to the NFC function, data communication - for example, BLUETOOTH pairing - can be achieved easily by simply touching NFC-compatible devices together (i.e., at the N Mark symbol or location designated on each device).

Connecting to a device that does not support one-touch connection (NFC)

Pairing with a BLUETOOTH device

Pairing is the process required to create a link between BLUETOOTH devices to allow wireless connection. You must pair a device with the headset before you start using the headset.

Connecting the headset to a paired device

Once BLUETOOTH devices are paired, there is no need to pair them again. Connect a device already paired by the method that applies for that device.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

52

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

One-touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 4.1 or later)

By touching the headset with a smartphone, the headset turns on automatically and then pairs and makes a BLUETOOTH connection.

Compatible smartphones

One-touch connection (NFC) with the following smartphone is shown here.

NFC-compatible smartphones with Android 4.1 or later installed

NFC

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a technology enabling short-range wireless communication between various devices, such as smartphones and IC tags. Thanks to the NFC function, data communication - for example, BLUETOOTH pairing - can be achieved easily by simply touching NFC-compatible devices together (i.e., at the N Mark symbol or location designated on each device).

1. Unlock the screen of the smartphone.

2. Set the NFC function of the smartphone to on.

3. Touch the headset with the smartphone. Confirm that the screen of the smartphone is unlocked. Touch the smartphone on the N marked part of the headset. Keep touching the headset with the smartphone until

the smartphone reacts. Refer to the operating instructions of the smartphone for the designated location to be touched on the

smartphone.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing and connection. When the headset is connected with the smartphone, the blue indicator starts flashing slowly.

To disconnect, touch the smartphone again.

53

To connect a paired smartphone, perform steps 2 and 3.

Hint

If you cannot connect the headset, try the following.

Unlock the screen of the smartphone, and move the smartphone slowly over the N marked part of the headset. If the smartphone is in a case, remove the case.

If you touch an NFC- compatible smartphone with the headset, the smartphone terminates BLUETOOTH connection with any current device, and connects to the headset (One-touch connection switching).

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC) Switching the device by one touch (NFC) Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

54

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

One-touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 2.3.3 or later, and less than Android 4.1)

By touching the headset with a smartphone, the headset turns on automatically and then pairs and makes a BLUETOOTH connection.

Compatible smartphones

One-touch connection (NFC) with the following smartphone is shown here.

NFC-compatible smartphones with Android 2.3.3 or later (excluding Android 3.x) NFC-compatible smartphones with Android 4.1 or less

NFC

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a technology enabling short-range wireless communication between various devices, such as smartphones and IC tags. Thanks to the NFC function, data communication - for example, BLUETOOTH pairing - can be achieved easily by simply touching NFC-compatible devices together (i.e., at the N Mark symbol or location designated on each device).

1. Unlock the screen of the smartphone.

2. Set the NFC function of the smartphone to on.

3. Download and install the app “NFC Easy Connect .”

If you have already downloaded the app, proceed to step 4. “NFC Easy Connect” is a free Android app you can download from Google Play™. Download the app by searching for “NFC Easy Connect ” or access it by using the two- dimensional code. Fees may be charged for downloading the app. Access the following Web site:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sony.easyconnect

The App may not be available in some countries and/or regions. Use a two-dimensional code reader app.

4. Start the app “NFC Easy Connect” on the smartphone.

Make sure that the app screen is displayed on the smartphone.

5. Touch the headset with the smartphone.

55

Confirm that the screen of the smartphone is unlocked. Touch the smartphone on the N marked part of the headset. Keep touching the headset with the smartphone until

the smartphone reacts. Refer to the operating instructions of the smartphone for the designated location to be touched on the

smartphone.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing and connection. When the headset is connected with the smartphone, the blue indicator starts flashing slowly.

To disconnect, touch the smartphone again. To connect a paired smartphone, perform steps 4 and 5.

Hint

If you cannot connect the headset, try the following.

Start the app “ NFC Easy Connect” on the smartphone, and move the smartphone slowly over the N marked part of the headset. If the smartphone is in a case, remove the case. Make sure that the app “NFC Easy Connect” screen is displayed on the smartphone.

If you touch an NFC- compatible smartphone with the headset, the smartphone terminates BLUETOOTH connection with any current device, and connects to the headset (One-touch connection switching).

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC) Switching the device by one touch (NFC) Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH

Help Guide

56

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC)

You can disconnect the headset from the connected smartphone by touching the headset with it.

1. Unlock the screen of the smartphone.

If you installed the app “NFC Easy Connect” in the smartphone, start the app “NFC Easy Connect.”

2. Touch the headset with the smartphone.

Touch the smartphone on the N marked part of the headset.

Note

After the headset is disconnected from the smartphone, if no operation is performed for about 5 minutes, the headset turns off automatically. To turn off the headset before that, press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds. The indicator (blue) goes off and the headset turns off.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

57

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Switching the device by one touch (NFC)

When the headset is connected with a BLUETOOTH device, if you touch an NFC-compatible smartphone on the headset, the headset is connected with the smartphone that touched on the headset most recently (One-touch connection switching). However, if you are talking on a BLUETOOTH mobile phone connected to the headset, you cannot switch the BLUETOOTH connection by one touch. When the headset is connected with an NFC-compatible smartphone, if you touch the smartphone on another NFC compatible BLUETOOTH headset or BLUETOOTH speaker, the smartphone disconnects from the headset, and connects to the BLUETOOTH device it touched.

Note

Unlock the screen of the smartphone beforehand. If you installed the app “NFC Easy Connect” in the smartphone, start the app “NFC Easy Connect.”

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

58

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Pairing and connecting with an Android smartphone

Pairing is the process required to create a link between BLUETOOTH devices to allow wireless connection. You must pair a device with the headset to be able to make a BLUETOOTH connection for the first time. Before you start pairing operation, make sure that:

The smartphone is placed within 1 m (3 feet) of the headset. The headset is charged sufficiently. The operating instructions of the smartphone is on hand.

1. Enter pairing mode on this headset.

When you pair the headset with a device for the first time after you bought it, or after you initialized the headset (the headset has no pairing information), press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds when the headset is turned off. The headset enters pairing mode automatically. When you pair a 2nd or subsequent device (the headset has pairing information for other devices), press and hold the POWER button for about 7 seconds.

Make sure that the indicator flashes blue and red alternately after you release the button.

2. Unlock the screen of the Android smartphone.

3. Search for this headset on the smartphone.

i. Select [Setting] - [Bluetooth].

ii. Touch [

] next to [ Bluetooth].

iii. Touch [Bluetooth].

59

4. Touch [Search for devices].

5. Touch [MDR-XB950BT].

If passkey (*) input is required on the display of the smartphone, input “0000.” The headset and the smartphone are paired with each other and connected. If they are not connected, see “Connecting to a paired Android smartphone.” If [MDR-XB950BT] does not appear on the display, try again from step 3.

*

A Passkey may be called a “Passcode,” a “PIN code,” or a “Password.”

Note

If pairing is not established within about 5 minutes, pairing mode will be canceled and the headset will turn off. In this case, start over from step 1. Once BLUETOOTH devices are paired, there is no need to pair them again, except in the following cases:

Pairing information has been deleted after repair, etc. The headset is already paired with 8 devices and another device is to be paired. The headset can be paired with up to 8 devices. If a new device is paired after 8 devices are already paired, the paired device with the oldest connection time is replaced by the new one. When the pairing information for the headset has been deleted from the BLUETOOTH device. When the headset is initialized, all pairing information is deleted.

The headset can be paired with multiple devices, but can only play music from one paired device at a time.

Hint

60

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your Android smartphone. To delete all pairing information, see “Initializing the headset.”

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Connecting to a paired Android smartphone Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use) Initializing the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

61

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Connecting to a paired Android smartphone

1. Unlock the screen of the Android smartphone.

2. Turn on the headset.

Press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds.

Make sure that the indicator (blue) flashes after you release the button.

Check the connection status on the Android smartphone. If not connected, proceed to step 3.

3. Search for this headset on the smartphone.

i. Select [Setting] - [Bluetooth].

ii. Touch [

] next to [ Bluetooth].

iii. Touch [Bluetooth].

4. Touch [MDR-XB950BT].

62

Hint

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your smartphone. If the smartphone was connected with the headset the last time, an HFP/HSP connection is made when you turn on the headset. While the headset is on, you can make an A2DP connection (music playback) by pressing the button.

Note

If the headset tries to make a connection with a previously connected BLUETOOTH device, you may not be able to connect to the device you want to. If connection fails, terminate the BLUETOOTH connection from the device that was previously connected.

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Pairing and connecting with an Android smartphone Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

63

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Pairing and connecting with an iPhone

Pairing is the process required to create a link between BLUETOOTH devices to allow wireless connection. You must pair a device with the headset to be able to make a BLUETOOTH connection for the first time. Before you start pairing operation, make sure that:

The iPhone is placed within 1 m (3 feet) of the headset. The headset is charged sufficiently. The operating instructions of the iPhone is on hand.

1. Enter pairing mode on this headset.

When you pair the headset with a device for the first time after you bought it, or after you initialized the headset (the headset has no pairing information), press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds when the headset is turned off. The headset enters pairing mode automatically. When you pair a 2nd or subsequent device (the headset has pairing information for other devices), press and hold the POWER button for about 7 seconds.

Make sure that the indicator flashes blue and red alternately after you release the button.

2. Unlock the screen of the iPhone.

3. Select the BLUETOOTH setting on the iPhone.

i. Select [Settings].

ii. Touch [Bluetooth].

iii. Touch [ ] to change it to [ ].

64

4. Touch [MDR-XB950BT].

If passkey (*) input is required on the display of the iPhone, input “0000.” The headset and the iPhone are paired with each other and connected. If they are not connected, see “Connecting to a paired iPhone.” If [MDR-XB950BT] does not appear on the display, try again from step 3.

*

A Passkey may be called a “Passcode,” a “PIN code,” or a “Password.”

Note

If pairing is not established within about 5 minutes, pairing mode will be canceled and the headset will turn off. In this case, start over from step 1. Once BLUETOOTH devices are paired, there is no need to pair them again, except in the following cases:

Pairing information has been deleted after repair, etc. The headset is already paired with 8 devices and another device is to be paired. The headset can be paired with up to 8 devices. If a new device is paired after 8 devices are already paired, the paired device with the oldest connection time is replaced by the new one. When the pairing information for the headset has been deleted from the BLUETOOTH device. When the headset is initialized, all pairing information is deleted.

If the pairing information was deleted by initializing the headset, etc., delete from your iPhone the pairing information for the headset, and then pair them again. The headset can be paired with multiple devices, but can only play music from one paired device at a time.

Hint

65

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your iPhone. To delete all pairing information, see “Initializing the headset.”

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Connecting to a paired iPhone Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use) Initializing the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

66

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Connecting to a paired iPhone

1. Unlock the screen of the iPhone.

2. Turn on the headset.

Press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds.

Make sure that the indicator (blue) flashes after you release the button.

Check the connection status on the iPhone. If not connected, proceed to step 3.

3. Search for this headset on the iPhone.

i. Select [Settings].

ii. Touch [Bluetooth].

iii. Touch [ ] to change it to [ ].

4. Touch [MDR-XB950BT].

67

Hint

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your iPhone. If the iPhone was connected with the headset the last time, an HFP/HSP connection is made when you turn on the headset. While the headset is on, you can make an A2DP connection (music playback) by pressing the button.

Note

If the headset tries to make a connection with a previously connected BLUETOOTH device, you may not be able to connect to the device you want to. If connection fails, terminate the BLUETOOTH connection from the device that was previously connected.

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Pairing and connecting with an iPhone Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

68

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Pairing and connecting with other BLUETOOTH devices

Pairing is the process required to create a link between BLUETOOTH devices to allow wireless connection. You must pair a device with the headset to be able to make a BLUETOOTH connection for the first time. Before you start pairing operation, make sure that:

The BLUETOOTH device is placed within 1 m (3 feet) of the headset. The headset is charged sufficiently. The operating instructions of the BLUETOOTH device is on hand.

1. Enter pairing mode on this headset.

When you pair the headset with a device for the first time after you bought it, or after you initialized the headset (the headset has no pairing information), press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds when the headset is turned off. The headset enters pairing mode automatically. When you pair a 2nd or subsequent device (the headset has pairing information for other devices), press and hold the POWER button for about 7 seconds.

Make sure that the indicator flashes blue and red alternately after you release the button.

2. Perform the pairing procedure on the BLUETOOTH device to search for this headset.

[MDR-XB950BT] will be displayed on the list of detected devices on the screen of the BLUETOOTH device. If not displayed, repeat from step 1.

3. Select [MDR-XB950BT].

If passkey (*) input is required on the display of the BLUETOOTH device, input “0000.”

*

A Passkey may be called a “Passcode,” a “PIN code,” or a “Password.”

4. Make the BLUETOOTH connection from the BLUETOOTH device.

69

Depending on the BLUETOOTH device, the headset may be connected with the device automatically as soon as they are paired.

Note

If pairing is not established within about 5 minutes, pairing mode will be canceled and the headset will turn off. In this case, start over from step 1. When pairing with a BLUETOOTH device that cannot display a list of detected devices or that has no display, you may pair the device by setting both the headset and the BLUETOOTH device to pairing mode. At this time, if passkey is set other than “0000” on the BLUETOOTH device, pairing cannot be done with the headset. Once BLUETOOTH devices are paired, there is no need to pair them again, except in the following cases:

Pairing information has been deleted after repair, etc. The headset is already paired with 8 devices and another device is to be paired. The headset can be paired with up to 8 devices. If a new device is paired after 8 devices are already paired, the paired device with the oldest connection time is replaced by the new one. When the pairing information for the headset has been deleted from the BLUETOOTH device. When the headset is initialized, all pairing information is deleted.

The headset can be paired with multiple devices, but can only play music from one paired device at a time.

Hint

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your BLUETOOTH device. To delete all pairing information, see “Initializing the headset.”

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Connecting to a paired BLUETOOTH device Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use) Initializing the headset

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

70

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Connecting to a paired BLUETOOTH device

1. Turn on the headset.

Press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds.

Make sure that the indicator (blue) flashes after you release the button.

Check the connection status on the BLUETOOTH device. If not connected, proceed to step 2.

2. Make the BLUETOOTH connection from the BLUETOOTH device.

For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your BLUETOOTH device.

Hint

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your BLUETOOTH device. If the BLUETOOTH device was connected with the headset the last time, an HFP/HSP connection is made when you turn on the headset. While the headset is on, you can make an A2DP connection (music playback) by pressing the

button.

Note

If the headset tries to make a connection with a previously connected BLUETOOTH device, you may not be able to connect to the device you want to. If connection fails, terminate the BLUETOOTH connection from the device that was previously connected.

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices

71

Pairing and connecting with other BLUETOOTH devices Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

72

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Connecting the headset to both a music player and a smartphone or mobile phone

To talk using a BLUETOOTH smartphone or mobile phone while listening to music played on another BLUETOOTH compatible music player, the headset needs to be connected with each device with a BLUETOOTH connection.

1. Pair the headset with BLUETOOTH devices, respectively.

2. Make an A2DP BLUETOOTH connection between the headset and the BLUETOOTH music player.

3. Make an HFP or HSP BLUETOOTH connection between the headset and the BLUETOOTH smartphone or mobile

phone.

Note

If the smartphone or mobile phone was connected with the headset the last time, an HFP or HSP connection is made automatically when you turn on the headset. At the same time, an A2DP connection may also be made automatically. If this happens, disconnect the headset from the smartphone or mobile phone once using the phone, then connect the devices again by repeating the process from step 2.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

73

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Connecting the headset to 2 Android smartphones

When you connect the headset to a smartphone, usually the music playback function and the phone call function are both connected automatically. To make a multi point connection with 2 smartphones separately, one for listening to music and the other for making phone calls, change the settings of the smartphones so that only one of the functions is connected for each smartphone.

1. Pair the headset with both smartphones, respectively.

2. Use one of the smartphones to establish a BLUETOOTH connection with the headset.

3. On the smartphone connected to the headset, uncheck either [Phone audio] (HFP) or [Media audio] (A2DP).

Example: To connect “Media audio” (A2DP) only

Touch [Settings] - [Bluetooth] - the setting icon next to [MDR-XB950BT].

On the [ Paired Bluetooth device] screen, uncheck [ Phone audio].

4. Terminate the BLUETOOTH connection of the smartphone.

5. Use the other smartphone to establish a BLUETOOTH connection to the headset.

6. In the same way, uncheck the function that you did not uncheck in step 3.

7. Use the first smartphone to establish a BLUETOOTH connection again.

Both smartphones are connected to the headset with only one function enabled.

74

Hint

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your Android smartphones.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

75

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Connecting the headset to an Android smartphone and an iPhone

When you connect the headset to a smartphone, usually the music playback function and the phone call function are both connected automatically. To make a multi point connection using an Android smartphone and an iPhone separately for listening to music and making phone calls, change the settings on the Android smartphone so that only one of the functions is connected. Connect the Android smartphone first, and then connect the iPhone. You cannot set the iPhone to connect one function only.

1. Pair the headset with both Android smartphone and iPhone, respectively.

2. Use the Android smartphone to establish a BLUETOOTH connection with the headset.

3. On the Android smartphone connected to the headset, uncheck either [ Phone audio] (HFP) or [Media audio]

(A2DP).

Example: To connect “Media audio” (A2DP) only

Touch [Settings] - [Bluetooth] - the setting icon next to [MDR-XB950BT].

On the [ Paired Bluetooth device] screen, uncheck [ Phone audio].

4. Use the iPhone to establish a BLUETOOTH connection to the headset.

The iPhone is connected to the headset with both functions, but you can only use the function that you unchecked in step 3.

Hint

76

The above procedure is an example. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your Android smartphone.

Note

If you connect an Android smartphone with [Phone audio] (HFP), the remaining battery charge of the headset will not be displayed correctly on an iPhone.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

77

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Using the supplied headphone cable

You can use the headset as ordinary wired headphones by connecting a device via the supplied headphone cable. The headset can be charged while in use.

1. Connect a playback device to the INPUT jack with the supplied headphone cable.

If you connect the headphone cable when the headset is on, the headset turns off automatically.

Note

Make sure you connect the L-shaped plug to the playback device. Use the supplied headphone cable only. Make sure you insert the plug firmly. The BLUETOOTH and Electro Bass Booster functions cannot be used. The jog switch ( / / / ) and VOL +/- buttons cannot be used.

Hint

When an incoming call arrives, a ring tone will be heard via the headphones. Answer the call using your smartphone or mobile phone, and talk using the microphone of the phone. You can hear the voice of the caller from the headphones. If you disconnect the headphone cable from the smartphone or mobile phone, you can talk using the microphone and speaker of the phone.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

78

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH

You can enjoy listening to music and basic remote control operation of a BLUETOOTH device via a BLUETOOTH connection. The BLUETOOTH device is required to support the following BLUETOOTH profiles.

A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile): enables you to enjoy high-quality audio content wirelessly. AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile): enables you to adjust volume, etc.

The operation may vary depending on the BLUETOOTH device. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your BLUETOOTH device.

1. Connect the headset to a BLUETOOTH device.

2. Wear the headset.

Adjust the length of the headband. Put the headset with

indication on your left ear and indication on your right ear. The unit of the headset

has a tactile dot.

A: Tactile dot

3. Play back music or video on the BLUETOOTH device.

Adjust the volume on the BLUETOOTH device.

4. Adjust the volume by pressing the VOL +/- buttons of the headset.

Note

If the communication condition is poor, the BLUETOOTH device may react incorrectly to the operation on the headset.

Hint

The headset supports SCMS-T content protection. You can enjoy music, etc., from a device such as a mobile phone

or portable TV that supports SCMS -T content protection.

Depending on the BLUETOOTH device, it may be necessary to adjust the volume or set the audio output setting on

79

the BLUETOOTH device.

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Controlling the audio device (BLUETOOTH connection) Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use) Using the Electro Bass Booster function Switching the sound quality mode

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

80

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Controlling the audio device (BLUETOOTH connection)

If the BLUETOOTH device supports AVRCP, you can control it by the buttons on the headset. The functions available may vary depending on the BLUETOOTH device. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your BLUETOOTH device.

Each button has the following function:

:

Press once during pause to start playback. Press and hold for 2 seconds during playback to stop. Press once during playback to pause.

/ :

Press once to skip to the previous/next song. Press and hold to fast-reverse/fast-forward.

VOL +/ - :

Press the + or - button to adjust the volume.

Note

If the communication condition is poor, the BLUETOOTH device may react incorrectly to the operation on the headset. The available functions may vary depending on the BLUETOOTH device. When you operate the button illustrated above, it may operate differently or may not work at all.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

81

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

When you finish playing music with the BLUETOOTH device, perform any of the following operations to terminate the BLUETOOTH connection.

If using a device that supports one-touch connection (NFC), touch the device to the headset again. If using a device that does not support one-touch connection (NFC), operate from the BLUETOOTH device. Press and hold the POWER button on the headset for about 2 seconds to turn off the headset. Turn off the BLUETOOTH device.

Hint

When you finish playing music, the BLUETOOTH connection may terminate automatically, depending on the BLUETOOTH device.

Related Topic

Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC) Switching the device by one touch (NFC)

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

82

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Electro Bass Booster function

The Electro Bass Booster function enhances low frequencies. You can turn on or off the Electro Bass Booster function simply by pressing a button.

Related Topic

Using the Electro Bass Booster function

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

83

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Using the Electro Bass Booster function

You can enhance low frequencies thanks to the Electro Bass Booster function.

1. When the headset is on, press the BASS BOOST button.

The BASS BOOST indicator (orange) lights up.

To turn off the Electro Bass Booster function

Press the BASS BOOST button again.

Note

Since the function amplifies certain low frequencies, the effect may not be obtained with music that does not contain the frequencies to be amplified. The indicator turns on or off when the Electro Bass Booster function is turned on or off. However, no operation sounds are emitted. The on or off status of the Electro Bass Booster function remains and will be the same when you turn on the headset next time.

Related Topic

Electro Bass Booster function

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

84

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Switching the sound quality mode

The sound quality is set to the “Standard” mode (SBC high quality mode) as the default setting.

When using an AAC or aptX compatible device, select the “Priority on sound quality” mode. If the connection is unstable, such as when producing only intermittent sound, select the “Priority on stable connection” mode. To check the current sound quality mode, see “Checking the sound quality mode.”

1. Turn on the headset by pressing the POWER button for more than 2 seconds while holding the VOL+ or VOL–

button down.

If you turn on the headset while holding the VOL+ button down, a mode with more priority placed on sound quality is selected.

It switches from “Priority on stable connection” mode to “Standard” mode. It switches from “Standard” mode to “Priority on sound quality” mode.

If you turn on the headset while holding the VOL- button down, a mode with more priority placed on communications is selected.

It switches from “Priority on sound quality” mode to “Standard” mode. It switches from “Standard” mode to “Priority on stable connection” mode.

Note

When you turn on the headset by pressing the POWER button only, the headset does not indicate the sound quality mode with flashes of the indicator (blue). The playback time may become shorter, depending on the sound quality and the conditions under which you are using the headset. Depending on the ambient conditions in the area where you are using the headset, intermittent sound may still occur, even if the “Priority on stable connection” mode is selected.

Related Topic

85

Checking the sound quality mode

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

86

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Checking the sound quality mode

When the sound quality mode is switched, the headset indicates the remaining battery charge by flashing the indicator in red first, and then in blue to indicate the sound quality mode. You can check the current sound quality mode by the number of flashes of the indicator (blue). To check the current sound quality mode when the unit is turned on, hold the POWER button down and press the VOL+ or VOL- button within about 2 seconds (before the headset turns off). The current sound quality mode will be shown by the number of flashes of the indicator (blue).

“Priority on sound quality” mode: the indicator (blue) flashes 3 times

SBC (high quality), AAC or aptX is selected automatically.

“Standard” mode: the indicator (blue) flashes twice

SBC (high quality)

“Priority on stable connection” mode: the indicator (blue) flashes once

SBC

Related Topic

Switching the sound quality mode

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

87

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Receiving a call

You can enjoy a hands-free call with a smartphone or mobile phone that supports the BLUETOOTH profile HFP (Handsfree Profile) or HSP (Headset Profile), via a BLUETOOTH connection.

If your smartphone or mobile phone supports both HFP and HSP, set it to HFP. Operations may vary depending on the smartphone or mobile phone. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your smartphone or mobile phone.

Ring tone

When an incoming call arrives, a ring tone will be heard from the headset. The ring tone varies in the following ways, depending on your smartphone or mobile phone.

Ring tone set on the headset Ring tone set on the smartphone or mobile phone Ring tone set on the smartphone or mobile phone only for a BLUETOOTH connection

1. Connect the headset to a smartphone or mobile phone beforehand.

2. When you hear a ring tone, press the

When an incoming call arrives even while you are listening to music, playback pauses and a ring tone will be heard from the headset.

(call) button on the headset and receive the call.

If no ring tone is heard via the headset

The headset may not be connected with the smartphone or mobile phone with HFP or HSP. Check the connection status on the smartphone or mobile phone.

If playback does not pause automatically, operate the headset to pause playback.

3. Press the VOL+ or VOL- button to adjust the volume.

4. To end the call, press the

If you were listening to music when the call arrived, playback will resume when the call ends.

(call) button on the headset again.

Note

88

Depending on the smartphone or mobile phone, playback may not resume automatically even if you finish the call. Use a smartphone or mobile phone at least 50 cm (19 3/4 in.) away from the headset. Noise may result if the headset and the smartphone or mobile phone are too close.

Hint

Some smartphones or mobile phones have handset use priority when receiving a call. In the case of the HFP or HSP connection, switch the call device to the headset by holding the (call) button down for about 2 seconds or by using your smartphone or mobile phone. If you adjust the volume on the headset when not talking, the playback volume is adjusted. Volume for a call and listening to music can be adjusted independently. Even if you change the volume while playing back music, the volume of a call does not change.

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use) Making a call Button functions for a phone call

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

89

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Making a call

You can enjoy a hands-free call with a smartphone or mobile phone that supports the BLUETOOTH profile HFP (Handsfree Profile) or HSP (Headset Profile), via a BLUETOOTH connection.

If your smartphone or mobile phone supports both HFP and HSP, set it to HFP. Operations may vary depending on the smartphone or mobile phone. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your smartphone or mobile phone.

1. Connect the headset to a smartphone or mobile phone beforehand.

2. Operate your smartphone or mobile phone to make a call.

When you make a call, the dial tone is heard from the headset. If you make a call while you are listening to music, playback pauses. If no dial tone is heard via the headset, switch the call device to the headset using your smartphone or mobile phone or by holding the

(call) button down for about 2 seconds.

3. Press the VOL+ or VOL- button to adjust the volume.

4. To end the call, press the (call) button on the headset again.

If you make a call while you are listening to music, playback will resume when the call ends.

Note

Use a smartphone or mobile phone at least 50 cm (19 3/4 in.) away from the headset. Noise may result if the headset and the smartphone or mobile phone are too close.

Hint

If you adjust the volume on the headset when not talking, the playback volume is adjusted. Volume for a call and listening to music can be adjusted independently. Even if you change the volume while playing back music, the volume of a call does not change.

Related Topic

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices

90

Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use) Receiving a call Button functions for a phone call

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

91

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Button functions for a phone call

The available functions may vary depending on the profile supported by your smartphone or mobile phone. Even if the profile is the same, functions may vary depending on the smartphone or mobile phone. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your smartphone or mobile phone.

Supported profile: HFP

Outgoing call

Press the button once to cancel an outgoing call. Press and hold the button for about 2 seconds to change the call device between the headset and the smartphone or mobile phone.

Incoming call

Press the button once to answer a call. Press and hold the button for about 2 seconds to reject a call.

During call

Press the button once to finish a call. Press and hold the button for about 2 seconds to change the call device between the headset and the smartphone or mobile phone.

Supported profile: HSP

Outgoing call

Press the button once to cancel an outgoing call. (*)

Incoming call

Press the button once to answer a call.

During call

Press the button once to finish a call. (*)

*

Some devices may not support this function.

Related Topic

Receiving a call Making a call

Help Guide

92

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Precautions

Note on static electricity

Static electricity accumulated in the body may cause mild tingling in your ears. To minimize the effect, wear clothes made from natural materials.

Others

Do not place this headset in a place exposed to humidity, dust, soot or steam, subject to direct sunlight, or in a car waiting at a traffic signal. It may cause a malfunction. Using the BLUETOOTH device may not function on mobile phones, depending on radio wave conditions and location where the device is being used. If you experience discomfort after using the BLUETOOTH device, stop using the BLUETOOTH device immediately. Should any problem persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer. Listening with this headset at high volume may affect your hearing. For traffic safety, do not use this headset while driving or cycling. Do not put weight or pressure on this headset as it may cause the headset to deform during long storage. Do not subject the headset to excessive shock. Clean the headset with a soft dry cloth. Do not expose the headset to water. The headset is not waterproof. Remember to follow the precautions below.

Be careful not to drop the headset into a sink or other container filled with water. Do not use the headset in humid locations or bad weather, such as in the rain or snow. Do not get the headset wet. If you touch the headset with wet hands, or put the headset in a damp article of clothing, the headset may get wet and this may cause a malfunction of the headset.

If you have any questions or problems concerning this headset that are not covered in this manual, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

93

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

What is BLUETOOTH wireless technology?

BLUETOOTH wireless technology is a short-range wireless technology that enables wireless data communication between digital devices, such as a computer and digital camera. BLUETOOTH wireless technology operates within a range of about 10 m (30 feet). Connecting two devices as necessary is common, but some devices can be connected to multiple devices at the same time. You do not need to use a cable for connection, nor is it necessary for the devices to face one another, such is the case with infrared technology. For example, you can use such a device in a bag or pocket. BLUETOOTH standard is an international standard supported by thousands of companies all over the world, and employed by various companies worldwide.

Communication system and compatible BLUETOOTH profiles of the unit

Profile is standardization of the function for each BLUETOOTH device specification. The unit supports the following BLUETOOTH version and profiles: Communication system: BLUETOOTH Specification Ver. 3.0 Compatible BLUETOOTH profiles:

A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile): Transmitting or receiving audio content of high -quality. AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile): Controlling A/V equipment; pausing, stopping, starting playback, etc. HSP (Headset Profile)(*): Talking on the phone/Operating the phone. HFP (Hands-free Profile)(*): Talking on the phone/Operating the phone by hands-free.

*

When you use a BLUETOOTH mobile phone supported by both HFP (Hands-free Profile) and HSP (Headset Profile), set it to

HFP.

Maximum communication range

Use the devices within a range of about 10 m (30 feet) of line of sight. Maximum communication range may shorten under the following conditions.

There is an obstacle such as a person, metal, or wall between this unit and the BLUETOOTH device. A Wi-Fi device is in use near this unit. A microwave oven is in use near this unit. A device that generates electromagnetic radiation is in use near this unit.

Interference from other devices

Because BLUETOOTH devices and Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11b/g) use the same frequency, microwave interference may occur and resulting in communication speed deterioration, noise, or invalid connection if this unit is used near a Wi-Fi device. In such a case, perform the following.

Use this unit at least 10 m (30 feet) away from the Wi-Fi device.

94

If this unit is used within 10 m (30 feet) of a Wi-Fi device, turn off the Wi-Fi device.

Interference to other devices

Microwaves emitting from a BLUETOOTH device may affect the operation of electronic medical devices. Turn off this unit and other BLUETOOTH devices in the following locations, as it may cause an accident.

where inflammable gas is present, in a hospital, train, airplane, or a gas station near automatic doors or a fire alarm

Note

To be able to use the BLUETOOTH function, the BLUETOOTH device to be connected requires the same profile as this unit. Note also that even if the same profile exists, devices may vary in function depending on their specifications. Due to the characteristic of BLUETOOTH wireless technology, the sound played on this unit is slightly delayed from the sound played on the BLUETOOTH device during talking on the telephone or listening to the music. This unit supports security capabilities that comply with the BLUETOOTH standard to provide a secure connection when the BLUETOOTH wireless technology is used, but security may not be enough depending on the setting. Be careful when communicating using BLUETOOTH wireless technology. We do not take any responsibility for the leakage of information during BLUETOOTH communication. A device featuring the BLUETOOTH function is required to conform to the BLUETOOTH standard specified by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and be authenticated. Even if the connected device conforms to the above mentioned BLUETOOTH standard, some devices may not be connected or work correctly, depending on the features or specifications of the device. Noise or sound skips may occur depending on the BLUETOOTH device connected with this unit, the communication environment or the usage environment.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

95

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Trademarks

The BLUETOOTH word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Sony Corporation is under license. The N Mark is a trademark or registered trademark of NFC Forum, Inc. in the United States and in other countries. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc. iPad, iPhone, iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Microsoft, Windows and Windows Vista are registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Mac and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. The aptX® mark and the aptX logo are trade marks of CSR plc or one of its group companies and may be registered in one or more jurisdictions.

Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

4-546-438-11(1)

Help Guide

96

How to Use

Wireless Stereo Headset

MDR-XB950BT

Customer support websites

Please access the following support home page to get the support information about your headset: For customers in the U.S.A:

http://esupport.sony.com/

For customers in Canada:

http://esupport.sony.com/CA/

For customers in European countries:

https://www.sony-europe.com/

For customers in other countries/regions:

http://www.sony-asia.com/

4-546-438-11(1)

Sony MDR-XB950BT User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Table Of Contents

Getting started

Making connections

Listening to music

Important information

Troubleshooting

How to Use

Troubleshooting

Before first use

Features

Parts and controls

Supplied accessories

Charging the headset

BLUETOOTH connection

One-touch connection (NFC) compatible Android devices

Android devices not compatible with one-touch connection (NFC)

iPhone (iOS devices)

Other BLUETOOTH devices

Multi point connection

Headphone cable connection

Listening to music via a BLUETOOTH connection

Electro Bass Booster function

Sound quality mode

Making phone calls

Precautions

Trademarks

Support website

Troubleshooting

Power

Charging

Sound

Pairing

One-touch connection (NFC)

BLUETOOTH connection

Phone calls

Resetting or initializing the headset

Read this first

What you can do with the headset

Location and function of parts

BLUETOOTH function indicator

List of the included items

System requirements for battery charge using USB

Charging the headset

Available operating time

Checking the remaining battery charge

What you can do with the BLUETOOTH function

How to make a wireless connections to BLUETOOTH devices

One-touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 4.1 or later)

One-touch connection (NFC) with a smartphone (Android 2.3.3 or later, and less than Android 4.1)

Disconnecting the smartphone by one touch (NFC)

Switching the device by one touch (NFC)

Pairing and connecting with an Android smartphone

Connecting to a paired Android smartphone

Pairing and connecting with an iPhone

Connecting to a paired iPhone

Pairing and connecting with other BLUETOOTH devices

Connecting to a paired BLUETOOTH device

Connecting the headset to both a music player and a smartphone or mobile phone

Connecting the headset to 2 Android smartphones

Connecting the headset to an Android smartphone and an iPhone

Using the supplied headphone cable

Listening to music from a device connected via BLUETOOTH

Controlling the audio device (BLUETOOTH connection)

Disconnecting BLUETOOTH connection (after use)

Electro Bass Booster function

Using the Electro Bass Booster function

Switching the sound quality mode

Checking the sound quality mode

Receiving a call

Making a call

Button functions for a phone call

Precautions

What is BLUETOOTH wireless technology?

Trademarks

Customer support websites