I have a Pioneer, and I like that feature. Before I had this one I had another just like it, but I didn't put that back light thing. The time and "CD" burnt into the display.

Anyway, to remove it, shut it off by holding SOURCE. Press the 5 or 6 key. I think 6 is demo, 5 is reverse. Also, you can hold down the 2 key and get a menu of features.