Crutchfield Kenwood KDC-X301 Manual

The Kenwood KDC-X301 is a single-DIN CD receiver with built-in Bluetooth connectivity, USB port for audio playback and device charging, auxiliary input, 50W x 4 channels, variable color illumination, detachable faceplate security, and compatibility with various audio formats. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, settings, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Bluetooth Connectivity 7. USB and Auxiliary Playback 8. Audio Settings 9. Security Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: CD receiver with Bluetooth, USB port, AUX input, detachable faceplate, remote control.

FeatureDescription
BluetoothWireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB PortFor audio playback and device charging
Auxiliary Input3.5mm jack for external audio sources
CD PlaybackSupports CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
Power Output50W x 4 channels (max power)
Detachable FaceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft
Variable ColorAdjustable illumination to match vehicle interior
Remote ControlIncluded for convenient operation
Preset Memory18 FM/6 AM station presets
Audio SettingsBass, treble, balance, fader controls

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
  2. Connect wiring harness following color-coded wires.
  3. Secure unit in dashboard using mounting sleeve.
  4. Connect antenna cable and all audio inputs.
  5. Reconnect battery and test all functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect vehicle battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts.

Basic Operation

Power on unit and familiarize with basic controls.

  1. Power: Press SRC/OFF button to turn on/off.
  2. Source Selection: Press SRC to cycle through CD, USB, BT, AUX, Tuner.
  3. Volume: Rotate knob or use remote volume buttons.
  4. Play/Pause: Control playback during CD/USB/BT operation.
  5. Track Selection: Use seek buttons or remote to skip tracks.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving; set all controls before driving.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: SRC/OFF, volume knob, function buttons, eject.

Remote: Power, volume, track selection, source, preset buttons.

Audio Settings: Access through Function menu - Bass, Treble, Balance, Fader, Loudness, Subwoofer control. System Settings: Clock, illumination color, beep tone, language, Bluetooth pairing. Tuner Settings: Auto store, local/distance reception, preset memory.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Pair mobile devices for wireless audio and hands-free calling.

  1. Enter Bluetooth mode by pressing SRC until "BT" displays.
  2. Enable Bluetooth on mobile device and search for "KDC-X301".
  3. Select unit from device list and enter PIN "0000" if prompted.
  4. Confirm pairing on both devices.
  5. Use phone book access and call history features if supported.

Tip: Keep mobile device within 3 feet for optimal Bluetooth performance.

USB and Auxiliary Playback

Connect USB devices or auxiliary sources for expanded audio options.

  1. USB: Connect compatible device to USB port for audio playback and charging.
  2. AUX: Connect 3.5mm cable from external device to AUX input.
  3. Select source using SRC button until "USB" or "AUX" displays.
  4. Control playback using unit controls or remote.
  5. Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC (USB only).

WARNING! Do not remove USB device during playback to prevent data corruption.

Audio Settings

Customize sound to match listening preferences and vehicle acoustics.

SettingFunctionRange
BassAdjust low frequency response-7 to +7
TrebleAdjust high frequency response-7 to +7
BalanceLeft/right speaker balanceL16 to R16
FaderFront/rear speaker balanceF16 to R16
LoudnessBoost bass at low volumesOn/Off
SubwooferControl subwoofer output level0 to +15

Security Features

Detachable faceplate prevents unauthorized use and theft.

  1. To remove: Press release button and slide faceplate out.
  2. To attach: Align connectors and push until it clicks.
  3. Security code: Set personal code if unit displays "CODE".
  4. Storage: Keep faceplate in protective case when not installed.

CAUTION! Never force faceplate during removal or installation.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. This device complies with part 15 of FCC Rules. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact Crutchfield customer service at 1-888-955-6000.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit won't power onPower connection/securityCheck fuse and wiring; enter security code if prompted
No sound from speakersSpeaker connectionsVerify speaker wires connected; check fader/balance settings
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode/deviceEnsure unit in pairing mode; delete old pairing from device
CD won't playDisc format/damageUse compatible disc format; clean disc surface
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityUse FAT32 format; ensure compatible audio files

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset unit.

Service: 1-888-955-6000; www.crutchfield.com

Crutchfield Kenwood KDC-X301 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025