Kenwood Excelon KDC X496 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X496 is a high-performance CD receiver with built-in Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and advanced audio controls. Features include 4V preamp outputs, 13-band EQ, time alignment, digital media playback, hands-free calling, and compatibility with various audio formats. 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 Media Playback 8. Audio Settings 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: CD receiver with Bluetooth, USB port, AUX input, remote control, detachable faceplate, and advanced audio processing.

Feature	Description
Bluetooth	Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB Port	For connecting USB devices and charging
AUX Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for external devices
CD Playback	Plays CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
Preamp Outputs	4V preamp outputs (Front/Rear/Subwoofer)
13-Band Equalizer	Advanced EQ with customizable presets
Time Alignment	Adjusts audio timing for optimal sound staging
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Remote Control	Included for convenient operation
Display	Customizable illumination and display settings

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
Mount unit using DIN sleeve and mounting kit.
Connect wiring harness following color codes.
Connect antenna, speakers, and amplifier if used.
Reconnect battery and test all functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure proper grounding.

Basic Operation

Power on unit and familiarize with basic controls.

Power: Press SRC/OFF to turn on/off.
Source Selection: Press SRC to cycle through sources (CD, USB, BT, AUX).
Volume Control: Turn VOL knob or use remote.
Playback Controls: Use PLAY, PAUSE, SKIP buttons.
Mode Selection: Access different audio modes via FUNCTION button.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving until familiar with controls. Keep volume at safe levels.

Specifications

Max Power Output: 50W x 4 channels
RMS Power: 22W x 4 channels
Preamp Outputs: 4V (Front, Rear, Subwoofer)
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 22kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 95dB
Bluetooth Version: 3.0 + EDR
USB Support: USB 2.0, up to 32GB
Supported Formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: DIN size (178mm x 50mm)

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: SRC/OFF, VOL, MENU, FUNCTION, playback buttons.

Remote: Power, volume, source selection, playback controls, menu navigation.

Audio Settings: 13-band EQ, bass boost, loudness, fader, balance. Source Settings: Bluetooth pairing, USB mode, AUX input level. System Settings: Display settings, illumination color, button beep, security code.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Pair mobile devices for wireless audio and hands-free calling.

Enter Bluetooth mode: Press SRC until BT appears.
Pair device: Select "KDC-X496" from phone's Bluetooth menu.
Enter PIN: Use "0000" if prompted.
Confirm connection: Phone shows connected status.
Make calls: Use phonebook access or dial manually.

Tip: Keep phone within 3 feet for optimal Bluetooth performance.

USB and Media Playback

Supports USB devices and various audio formats.

Connect USB: Insert USB device into port.
Select source: Press SRC until USB appears.
Navigate files: Use folder up/down and skip buttons.
Play modes: Repeat, random, intro scan.
File support: MP3, WMA, AAC up to 320kbps.
Charging: USB port charges compatible devices.

WARNING! Do not remove USB device during playback. Format USB as FAT32 for compatibility.

Audio Settings

Advanced audio controls for customized sound experience.

13-Band EQ: Adjust frequencies from 50Hz to 16kHz. Time Alignment: Set delay for each speaker position. Crossover: High-pass and low-pass filters. Loudness: Automatic bass boost at low volumes. Subwoofer Level: Independent subwoofer volume control.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and protected for longevity.

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning faceplate. Store detachable faceplate in protective case. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture. Regular firmware updates when available.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Never submerge in water.

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 FCC Rules.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/connections	Check fuse, wiring harness, battery connection
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing mode/distance	Enter pairing mode, ensure device within range, reset connections
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Format USB as FAT32, check file formats, try different device
No sound from speakers	Speaker wiring/settings	Check speaker connections, verify output settings, test with headphones
CD not playing	Disc/loading	Clean disc, check for scratches, ensure proper insertion

Reset: Hold MENU + SRC for 5 seconds to factory reset.

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