kenwood dpx503u manual

The Kenwood DPX503U is a digital media receiver with built-in Bluetooth, USB connectivity, AM/FM tuner, and compatibility with various audio formats. Features include 4x50W max power output, dual phone connectivity, customizable illumination, advanced audio controls, and support for FLAC/WAV/MP3/WMA/AAC playback. 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, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM tuner, Audio inputs/outputs.

FeatureDescription
Bluetooth connectivityFor wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB portFor connecting USB devices and charging
AM/FM tunerWith 18FM/6AM presets
Audio outputs4-channel preamp outputs (2V)
Power output4x50W max power (4x22W RMS)
DisplayCustomizable illumination with variable color
Audio formatsSupports FLAC, WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC
Dual phone connectivityConnect two phones simultaneously
EQ settings13-band equalizer with digital time alignment
Steering wheel remoteCompatible with optional steering wheel controls

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper mounting in vehicle dashboard.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors and secure connections.
  3. Mount receiver: Secure in DIN slot using provided mounting sleeve.
  4. Connect antennas: Attach AM/FM antenna and GPS if applicable.
  5. Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial configuration prompts.

  1. Set clock: Press SOURCE to access menu, set time and date.
  2. Pair Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, search for "KENWOOD DPX503U" on phone.
  3. Program radio presets: Tune to desired stations, press and hold preset buttons.
  4. Adjust audio settings: Use AUDIO menu for EQ, balance, fader settings.
  5. Customize display: Set illumination color and dimmer settings.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel or remote control. Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME, SOURCE, MENU, TUNE/TRACK buttons.

Remote: POWER, SOURCE, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, PRESET, PLAY/PAUSE, TRACK buttons.

Audio Settings: 13-band EQ, bass boost, loudness, subwoofer level, time alignment. Bluetooth: Pairing, phonebook access, call history. System: Clock, display settings, reset options. Radio: Auto store, local/distance tuning.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front/rear port for storage devices. Bluetooth: Wireless audio and calls. Aux: 3.5mm input for external devices.

  1. Turn off vehicle before connecting devices.
  2. Connect USB: Insert flash drive or connect compatible device.
  3. Pair Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, connect from phone settings.
  4. Aux input: Use 3.5mm cable for external audio sources.

Tip: Format USB devices to FAT32 for best compatibility.

Playing Media

Supports USB playback, Bluetooth streaming, AM/FM radio.

  1. Select source: Press SOURCE to cycle through modes.
  2. USB playback: Navigate folders using TUNE knob, press to select.
  3. Bluetooth audio: Play from connected phone, control with unit buttons.
  4. Radio: Tune manually or use seek, store presets.
  5. Playback controls: PLAY/PAUSE, TRACK UP/DOWN, FF/REW.
  6. Repeat/shuffle: Access through AUDIO menu options.
  7. Folder navigation: Use TUNE knob to browse USB contents.

WARNING! Do not remove USB device during playback. Eject properly through menu.

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling: Answer/end calls with unit controls. Audio streaming: Wireless music playback from compatible devices. Dual phone: Connect two phones simultaneously.

  1. Pairing: Enter pairing mode, select "KENWOOD DPX503U" on phone.
  2. Phonebook: Sync contacts for voice dialing.
  3. Call history: Access recent calls through unit.
  4. Audio priority: Set which connected device streams audio.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep USB port clean and free of debris.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids on unit. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Bluetooth SIG qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/ignitionCheck power and ground connections; verify ignition wire.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode/distanceEnter pairing mode; ensure within range; delete old pairings.
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityReformat to FAT32; check device compatibility.
Poor radio receptionAntenna connectionEnsure antenna connected properly; check antenna condition.
No sound from speakersWiring/settingsCheck speaker wires; verify audio settings not muted.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if available.

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

kenwood dpx503u manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025