Kenwood DPX501BT Manual

The Kenwood DPX501BT is a digital media receiver with built-in Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, auxiliary input, and CD playback capability. Features include hands-free calling, audio streaming, customizable illumination, high-power output, and advanced audio controls. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Bluetooth Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital media receiver, Remote Control, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, AUX input, CD player, Illumination controls.

FeatureDescription
BluetoothFor hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB portFor connecting USB devices and charging
AUX inputFor external audio devices
CD playerPlays audio CDs and CD-R/RW
Power output50W x 4 channels maximum
IlluminationCustomizable display colors
EQ settingsBuilt-in equalizer presets
SourceSwitches between audio sources
Volume controlAdjusts audio output level
PowerTurns unit on/off

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper vehicle compatibility.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Mount receiver: Use DIN sleeve and mounting kit for secure installation.
  3. Connect wiring: Match wire colors (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
  4. Connect speakers: Ensure proper polarity and impedance matching.
  5. Reconnect battery and test unit.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Professional installation recommended.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial configuration.

  1. Set clock: Press SOURCE to enter setup mode, adjust time.
  2. Pair Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, search from mobile device.
  3. Configure audio: Use AUDIO menu for bass, treble, balance, fader.
  4. Set illumination: Choose from multiple color options.
  5. Save presets: Store favorite radio stations.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle for initial setup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via FUNCTION button. Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, EJECT.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, SOURCE, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, PRESET, AUDIO, DISP.

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER, LOUDNESS, SUBWOOFER. Bluetooth: PAIRING, CALL, PHONEBOOK. Display: DIMMER, COLOR, CONTRAST. System: CLOCK, BEEP, RESET.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front/rear port for flash drives. AUX: 3.5mm input for external audio. Bluetooth: Wireless connection for phones/audio.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting wired devices.
  2. Insert USB device fully into port.
  3. Connect AUX cable securely to both devices.
  4. Select source via SOURCE button (USB, BT, AUX, CD, RADIO).

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Playing Media

Supports CD, USB, Bluetooth, AUX, and radio playback.

  1. Insert media: Load CD or connect USB device.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; navigate folders with rotary encoder.
  3. Skip: PREV/NEXT for tracks; fast forward/rewind available.
  4. Repeat: Press RPT for track/folder repeat modes.
  5. Random: Press RDM for shuffle playback.
  6. EQ: Select from FLAT, POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC.
  7. Display: Show track info, time, folder structure.
  8. Presets: Store up to 18 radio stations (6 FM, 6 FM2, 6 AM).

WARNING! Do not use damaged discs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling: Answer/end calls with remote. Audio streaming: Play music from compatible devices. Phonebook access: Download contacts (compatible phones).

  1. Pairing: Enter pairing mode, search "KENWOOD" on device.
  2. Connection: Automatic reconnection when in range.
  3. Call functions: MUTE, VOLUME, TRANSFER during calls.
  4. Audio: A2DP streaming with track control.

Care & Maintenance

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for display. Clean CD lens with approved cleaner only.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers. This device complies with part 15 of FCC Rules.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck battery and ignition connections; replace fuse if blown.
No soundSettings/speakersCheck volume, mute, speaker connections, fader balance.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/distanceEnter pairing mode; ensure within range; delete old pairings.
CD not playingDisc/loadingCheck disc format; clean disc; ensure proper insertion.
USB not recognizedFormat/powerUse FAT32 format; ensure adequate power; try different device.

Reset: Press RESET button with small object.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center; www.kenwood.com

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