The MB Quart GMR-2.5 is an AM/FM Bluetooth® Source Unit designed for marine and powersports applications, offering a robust and splash-proof entertainment solution. This device serves as a central hub for audio, providing radio reception, Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming, and wired inputs for various media sources. Its gauge-mount design ensures a clean and integrated look in dashboards, while its user-friendly interface allows for intuitive control of all functions.
Function Description
The GMR-2.5 primarily functions as an AM/FM receiver, allowing users to tune into their favorite radio stations. It supports both USA and Europe frequency ranges, making it versatile for different regions. Beyond radio, it offers comprehensive media playback options. The unit features Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless wireless audio streaming from any compatible mobile device. This allows users to enjoy their personal music libraries, podcasts, or streaming services without the need for physical connections. For wired connections, the GMR-2.5 includes a USB input, which can read music files from a USB device, and an auxiliary RCA input for connecting other audio sources.
The device also incorporates pre-amplifier unbalanced line outputs, which are crucial for expanding the audio system with external amplifiers, providing a more powerful and customized sound experience. A built-in clock is displayed on the splash-proof LCD, adding a practical utility feature. The unit is designed to deliver 160 Watts Peak Power, providing ample sound for most marine and powersports environments.
Usage Features
Operating the GMR-2.5 is straightforward, thanks to its clearly labeled buttons and intuitive menu structure.
- Power Control: A single POWER button manages the unit's on/off state and mutes the audio. A short press powers on or mutes, while a long press powers off.
- Volume Adjustment: Dedicated VOL+ and VOL- buttons allow for precise control over the audio volume, ensuring comfortable listening levels.
- Track/Station Navigation: Up and down arrow buttons facilitate easy navigation through radio stations (seeking strong signals) or music tracks (next/previous song). Holding these buttons down in USB mode enables fast forward or rewind.
- Band Selection: The BAND button is used to switch between AM and FM radio bands. In USB mode, this button doubles as a play/pause control, offering convenience for media playback.
- Mode Switching: The MODE button is central to selecting the audio source. A short press cycles through RADIO, Bluetooth (BT), MUSIC, USB, and AUX IN. This allows users to quickly switch between different entertainment options.
- Adjustment Menu: Pressing and holding the MODE button for 2 seconds grants access to the Adjustment Menu, where various audio and system settings can be customized.
- Bluetooth Connection: Connecting a Bluetooth device is simple. Users power on the GMR-2.5, enable Bluetooth on their mobile device, scan for "MB QUART," and select it to establish an automatic connection. The unit remembers previously paired devices for automatic reconnection within range.
- USB/MP3 Playback: Inserting a USB device automatically initiates music playback. The navigation buttons allow for track selection, fast forward, rewind, and play/pause.
- Clock Display and Adjustment: The clock can be displayed by holding the BAND button for 2 seconds. To adjust the time, hold the BAND button again until the hour flashes, then use the VOLUME buttons to set the hour. Repeat the process for minutes.
- Audio Customization: The Adjustment Menu offers a range of settings to tailor the audio output:
- Equalization (EQ): Users can select from preset EQ modes like FLAT, CLASSIC, POP, or ROCK, or keep it OFF.
- Area Tuning: This feature allows selection between USA and Europe frequency spacing, optimizing radio reception for the user's geographical location.
- Time Format: The clock display can be set to either 12-hour (USA) or 24-hour (Europe) format.
- BASS and TREBLE Levels: Independent controls for bass and treble allow users to fine-tune the low and high frequencies of the audio, ranging from -7 to +7.
- BALANCE Control: This setting adjusts the audio balance between the left and right speakers, from L7 (full left) to R7 (full right).
- FADER Control: The fader control adjusts the audio balance between the front and rear speakers, from F7 (full front) to R7 (full rear).
- LOUD Control: The Loudness feature can be toggled ON or OFF, enhancing bass and treble at lower volumes for a fuller sound.
- BEEP Control: Users can enable or disable the audible beep sound that confirms button presses.
Maintenance Features
The GMR-2.5 is designed with durability in mind, featuring a splash-proof LCD, which helps protect against water ingress common in marine and powersports environments. While specific maintenance instructions are not extensively detailed in the provided manual, general best practices for electronic devices in harsh conditions apply:
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the unit's exterior, especially the screen and buttons, with a soft, damp cloth can help maintain its appearance and functionality. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish or seals.
- Wiring Integrity: The manual emphasizes the importance of correct wiring during installation to prevent issues like no power or no sound. Periodically checking wiring connections for looseness or damage, especially in vibration-prone environments, can prevent operational problems.
- Fuse Replacement: In case of a "no power" issue, checking and replacing a blown fuse is a primary troubleshooting step, indicating the unit's design for user-level maintenance of basic electrical components.
- Antenna Connection: Ensuring the antenna cable is securely connected is crucial for optimal radio reception.
- Software/Firmware (Implied): While not explicitly mentioned, like many modern electronic devices, the GMR-2.5 may benefit from occasional firmware updates to improve performance or add features. Users are encouraged to visit the manufacturer's website for support, which often includes such resources.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a "Diagnostics & Trouble Shooting" section, offering solutions for common problems such as no power, no sound, no reception, USB stick not reading, and audio distortion. This guide empowers users to perform basic troubleshooting before seeking professional assistance. For more complex issues, users are directed to the MBQuart website's support section or FAQs, indicating a commitment to ongoing product support.
The GMR-2.5 is built to withstand challenging outdoor conditions, providing reliable audio entertainment with a focus on ease of use and robust performance.