Kenwood Excelon KDC X493 Owners Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X493 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB connectivity, iPod/iPhone compatibility, advanced audio controls, SiriusXM readiness, and customizable illumination. 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 iPod Operation 8. Audio Settings 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit, Remote Control, Wiring harness, Installation accessories, User manual.

FeatureDescription
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
USB PortFor USB devices and charging
iPod/iPhone ControlDirect control and charging capability
SiriusXM ReadySatellite radio compatibility
Advanced Audio Controls13-band EQ, time alignment, crossover
Customizable IlluminationRGB color selection
Max Power50W x 4 channels
RCA Preouts3 sets (front, rear, subwoofer)
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with interface adapters
File SupportMP3, WMA, AAC, WAV

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper vehicle compatibility.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
  2. Connect wiring harness following color-coded wires.
  3. Mount unit securely in dashboard opening.
  4. Connect antenna, USB, and other cables.
  5. Reconnect battery and test operation.

WARNING! Professional installation recommended. Ensure proper fuse rating and secure all connections.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; familiarize with basic controls.

  1. Source selection: Press SOURCE to cycle through available sources.
  2. Volume control: Use volume knob or remote control buttons.
  3. Menu access: Press and hold FUNCTION for settings menu.
  4. Bluetooth pairing: Access BT AUDIO menu for device pairing.

CAUTION! Adjust volume while parked. Avoid distractions while driving.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power/Volume knob, Source button, Function button, Eject button.

Remote: Power, Volume, Source, Preset, Menu navigation buttons.

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, Bass boost, Loudness, Crossover settings. System Settings: Display color, Dimmer, Beep tones, Bluetooth settings. Source Settings: Play mode, Random, Repeat functions.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Pair mobile devices for hands-free operation and audio streaming.

  1. Access BT AUDIO from source menu.
  2. Select "Pairing" and make device discoverable.
  3. Select "KENWOOD" from device's Bluetooth list.
  4. Enter PIN "1234" if prompted.
  5. Confirm connection and test features.

Tip: Up to 5 devices can be paired. Only one can be connected at a time.

USB and iPod Operation

Supports USB drives and iPod/iPhone connectivity.

  1. Connect USB device to USB port.
  2. Select USB source; unit will read compatible files.
  3. For iPod: Use dedicated cable for full control.
  4. Navigate files using folder/track buttons.
  5. Use play modes: Repeat, Random, Scan.

WARNING! Safely eject USB devices. Do not disconnect while reading data.

Audio Settings

Advanced audio customization for optimal sound quality.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth only. Avoid chemicals and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Keep liquids away from unit and connections.

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.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck battery connection; verify fuse condition; ensure proper ground.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/rangeDelete old pairings; ensure device discoverable; check distance.
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityUse FAT32 format; check file compatibility; try different USB device.
No sound from speakersSettings/wiringCheck speaker wires; verify audio settings; test different sources.
Poor radio receptionAntenna/connectionEnsure antenna fully connected; check antenna condition; relocate if necessary.

Reset: Hold RESET button for 3 seconds to restore factory settings.

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

Kenwood Excelon KDC X493 Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025