Kenwood Excelon KDC X395 Owners Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X395 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, auxiliary input, CD playback, AM/FM tuner with 18 FM/6 AM presets, advanced audio controls, customizable display colors, and steering wheel control compatibility. 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: Main unit with detachable faceplate, Remote Control, Wiring harness, USB port, Auxiliary input, Bluetooth antenna.

FeatureDescription
Bluetooth connectivityFor hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB inputFor connecting USB devices and charging
Auxiliary input3.5mm jack for external audio sources
CD playbackSupports CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
AM/FM tuner18 FM and 6 AM station presets
Display customizationMultiple color options and brightness control
Audio controls13-band equalizer, high/low pass filters
Steering wheel controlCompatible with most steering wheel interfaces
Remote controlIncluded for convenient operation
Detachable faceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper wiring connections.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle wiring (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
  3. Connect speakers: Ensure proper polarity for each channel.
  4. Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using appropriate mounting sleeve.
  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 setup procedure.

  1. Set clock: Press SOURCE to enter clock setting mode.
  2. Program radio stations: Use auto-store or manual preset method.
  3. Configure Bluetooth: Pair mobile device for hands-free operation.
  4. Adjust audio settings: Set equalizer, balance, and fader controls.
  5. Customize display: Select color scheme and brightness level.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle safely before adjusting settings.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, BAND, TUNE/TRACK, MENU, EJECT.

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

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, bass boost, loudness, balance/fader, subwoofer level. Radio: Auto-store, manual tuning, local/distance reception. Display: 3-color variations, dimmer control. System: Clock setting, beep tones, reset function.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front panel port for flash drives and charging. Auxiliary: 3.5mm input for portable players. Bluetooth: Wireless audio and phone connectivity.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting devices.
  2. USB devices: Format as FAT32 for compatibility.
  3. Auxiliary: Use quality cable to minimize noise.
  4. Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode from source menu.

Tip: Use genuine Kenwood accessories for optimal performance.

Playing Media

Supports CD, USB, Bluetooth, and auxiliary sources.

  1. CD playback: Insert disc label side up; press play.
  2. USB playback: Connect device; select USB source.
  3. Track navigation: Use TUNE/TRACK buttons or remote.
  4. Repeat/shuffle: Access through function menu.
  5. Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold track buttons.
  6. Folder navigation: For USB devices with multiple folders.
  7. MP3 ID3 tag display: Shows artist and track information.

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

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling: Answer/end calls with remote or unit controls. Audio streaming: Wireless music playback from compatible devices. Phonebook access: Download and display contacts. Voice dialing: Supports Siri and Google Assistant.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth only. Remove faceplate when not in use. Avoid liquid cleaners and abrasive materials.

CAUTION! Do not expose to direct sunlight for extended periods. Store faceplate in protective case.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck battery and ignition connections; replace fuse if blown.
No soundSpeaker wiringVerify speaker connections; check balance/fader settings.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing modeEnable pairing on both devices; delete old pairings.
CD not playingDisc/loadingCheck disc for damage; ensure proper insertion.
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityReformat as FAT32; try different USB device.

Reset: Hold SOURCE while turning power on to reset unit.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com

Kenwood Excelon KDC X395 Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025