Kenwood Basic C1 Manual

The Kenwood Basic C1 is a high-performance stereo preamplifier featuring multiple input selections, tone controls, tape monitoring, phono input for turntables, headphone output, and advanced audio circuitry. Designed for audiophiles, it delivers pristine sound quality with low distortion and wide frequency response. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, specifications, and maintenance.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-quality preamplifier circuit, multiple input selection, tone controls, tape monitoring, phono input, headphone output.

Feature	Description
Input Selector	Multiple source selection (Phono, CD, Tuner, Aux, Tape)
Tone Controls	Bass and treble adjustment with defeat switch
Phono Input	MM/MC cartridge compatibility with adjustable loading
Tape Monitor	Dual tape deck monitoring and dubbing
Headphone Output	1/4" stereo jack for private listening
Balance Control	Left/right channel balance adjustment
Volume Control	Precision stepped attenuator
Power Switch	Main power on/off control
Loudness Control	Compensates for low-volume listening
Output Level	Fixed and variable output options

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface away from heat sources.

1. Connect audio sources: Use appropriate RCA cables for each input (Phono, CD, Tuner, etc.)
2. Connect to amplifier: Use main output RCA jacks to power amplifier inputs
3. Connect tape deck: Use tape record/playback jacks for tape monitoring
4. Plug into AC power outlet
5. Connect turntable to phono input if using vinyl playback

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding for phono input. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Operation Guide

Power on unit; allow 30 seconds for circuit stabilization.

1. Select input source: Turn INPUT SELECTOR to desired source (Phono, CD, Tuner, etc.)
2. Adjust volume: Use VOLUME control to set listening level
3. Tone adjustment: Use BASS and TREBLE controls as needed; defeat for flat response
4. Balance control: Adjust for optimal stereo image
5. Tape monitoring: Engage TAPE MONITOR for tape deck playback

CAUTION! Always turn volume down before switching inputs or powering on/off.

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 10Hz - 100kHz (+0/-1dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.005% (1kHz)
• Input Sensitivity: Phono: 2.5mV, Line: 150mV
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 90dB (line), 80dB (phono)
• Tone Control Range: ±10dB at 100Hz (bass), ±10dB at 10kHz (treble)
• Inputs: Phono, CD, Tuner, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2
• Outputs: Main Out, Tape Out, Headphone
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15W
• Dimensions: 17" W × 3.5" H × 12" D
• Weight: 8.8 lbs

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER switch, INPUT SELECTOR, VOLUME, BALANCE, BASS, TREBLE, TONE DEFEAT, LOUDNESS, TAPE MONITOR, HEADPHONE jack.

Rear Panel: Phono input, CD input, Tuner input, Aux input, Tape 1/2 inputs/outputs, Main outputs, AC power cord.

Input Selection: Rotate knob to select source. Tone Controls: Adjust bass and treble; defeat for pure signal path. Loudness: Compensates for Fletcher-Munson curve at low volumes. Balance: Adjusts left/right channel balance. Tape Monitor: Switches between source and tape playback.

Connecting Components

Audio Sources: Use high-quality RCA cables for all connections. Amplifier: Connect MAIN OUT to power amplifier inputs.

1. Turn off all components before connecting
2. Match left/right channels (typically red/white RCA connectors)
3. Connect turntable ground wire to ground terminal
4. Use Tape 1/2 loops for recording and playback
5. Ensure secure connections; avoid cable strain

Tip: Use shielded cables for phono input to minimize hum and noise.

Tone Control Settings

Flexible tone adjustment for optimal listening experience.

1. Bass Control: Adjust low frequencies (20Hz-300Hz)
2. Treble Control: Adjust high frequencies (3kHz-20kHz)
3. Tone Defeat: Bypasses tone circuitry for pure signal path
4. Loudness: Engages frequency compensation at low volumes
5. Start with flat response (tone defeat on) and adjust to preference

Note: Tone controls affect both main and tape outputs.

Phono Stage Operation

Dedicated phono input for turntable connection with RIAA equalization.

1. Connect turntable to PHONO input RCA jacks
2. Connect turntable ground wire to ground terminal
3. Select PHONO on input selector
4. Adjust volume gradually; phono signal is higher level than line sources
5. For moving coil cartridges, use external step-up transformer if required

WARNING! Do not connect line-level sources to phono input as damage may occur.

Maintenance & Care

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Clean controls with contact cleaner if scratchy.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasives. Keep ventilation openings clear. Service by qualified technician only.

Technical Information

Designed and manufactured to Kenwood's high quality standards. Uses premium components including metal film resistors, polypropylene capacitors, and gold-plated connectors. Circuit design optimized for minimal noise and distortion. Complies with relevant safety and EMI standards.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one channel	Cable/balance control	Check RCA cables; adjust balance control; verify source output
Hum in phono input	Ground connection	Ensure turntable ground wire connected; check cable shielding
Scratchy controls	Dirt in potentiometers	Clean with contact cleaner; rotate controls through full range
Distorted sound	Input overload	Reduce source output level; check for line source in phono input
No power	Power cord/outlet	Check power cord connection; verify outlet function; check fuse

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.

Support: Consult dealer or Kenwood customer service for additional assistance.