OK, I am back in AC mode. (I am plugged into the ac adaptor supplied with the stereo and have RC connectors going from the output on the back of the stereo to the input on my home stereo. I have run it like this for years so I am certain that the connection is viable. I went to several display types and (one was an equalizer) and they jumped and flashed as expected to the music( I assume as there was no sound) I set the sound to 0 and left the equalizer where it was +0. I didn't find the display that showed the counter although it was in that mode when connected to the 12v system and the counter was working nicely.
BTW what does the mute icon look like? I can't find a picture of it in the user's guide

Thanx again
riogolf