Kenwood Excelon KDC X501 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X501 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring CD/MP3/WMA playback, USB connectivity, front auxiliary input, built-in MOSFET 50Wx4 amplifier, variable color illumination, 3 preamp outputs (4V), detachable faceplate security, and advanced audio controls including 13-band EQ, time alignment, and crossover settings. Compatible with iPod/iPhone via optional cable. 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. Audio Source Connections 7. Advanced Audio Settings 8. Security Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, remote control, wiring harness, mounting sleeve, user manual.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA Playback	Plays CDs, MP3, and WMA formats
USB Connectivity	Direct USB port for flash drives and devices
Front AUX Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for external audio sources
MOSFET Amplifier	50W x 4 high-power built-in amplifier
3 Preamp Outputs	4V preouts for external amplifiers
Variable Color Illumination	Adjustable display colors (512 colors)
13-Band Equalizer	Advanced EQ with preset and custom settings
Time Alignment	Advanced speaker timing adjustment
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
iPod/iPhone Compatible	Works with optional KCA-iP100 cable

Installation

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation. Follow vehicle-specific instructions.

Remove existing stereo: Use proper removal tools for your vehicle.
Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors (red-ignition, yellow-constant, black-ground).
Connect antenna and speakers: Ensure proper polarity.
Install mounting sleeve: Secure in dashboard opening.
Test functions: Reconnect battery and test all features before final assembly.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit by pressing SRC button. Attach faceplate if detached.

Source selection: Press SRC to cycle through CD, USB, AUX, Tuner.
Volume control: Turn knob or use remote VOL+/- buttons.
Playback controls: Use >>|, |<<, >>, << for track navigation.
Mode selection: Press FUNCTION for audio settings menu.
Display settings: Press DISP to change display information.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving if it distracts from safe vehicle operation.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (MOSFET power IC)
Preamp Outputs: 3 channels (Front/Rear/Sub) 4V
Frequency Response: 5Hz - 20,000Hz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 105dB (CD)
Supported Media: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
USB Support: USB 2.0, up to 32GB
Illumination: 512 colors adjustable
Dimensions: DIN size (7" x 2")
Operating Voltage: 14.4V DC (11-16V range)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: SRC, VOL knob, FUNCTION, DISP, AUX input, USB port. Remote: All front controls plus numeric keys.

Main Controls: POWER/VOL (rotary knob), SRC (source), FUNCTION (menu), >>|/|<< (skip), DISP (display).

Audio Settings: EQ (13-band equalizer), Loudness, Bass/Mid/Treble, Balance/Fader. Source Settings: Tuner presets, CD repeat/shuffle, USB folder play. System Settings: Illumination color, button beep, demo mode, reset.

Audio Source Connections

Multiple input options: Radio, CD, USB, AUX, optional iPod.

USB Connection: Connect USB device directly to front port.
AUX Input: Use 3.5mm cable for phones/MP3 players.
iPod Connection: Use optional KCA-iP100 cable for control/charging.
CD Insertion: Insert CD with label facing up.

Tip: For best USB performance, format drives as FAT32. Maximum 32GB supported.

Advanced Audio Settings

Access through FUNCTION menu for professional sound tuning.

13-Band Equalizer: Adjust 13 frequency bands individually.
Time Alignment: Set speaker distance for optimal staging.
Crossover Settings: HPF/LPF filters for speakers/subwoofer.
Loudness: Automatic bass boost at low volumes.
Balance/Fader: Adjust sound distribution between speakers.
Source Level Adjust: Balance volume between different sources.
EQ Presets: Rock, Pop, Jazz, Classical, User settings.

WARNING! Advanced settings may require audio knowledge. Refer to manual for detailed instructions.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove for theft prevention. Security Code: 4-digit code prevents unauthorized use (default 0000).

Care & Maintenance

Use soft dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid chemicals and abrasives. Store faceplate in protective case when detached.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or cleaners on display. Keep faceplate away from extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/faceplate	Check battery connection; ensure faceplate properly attached.
No sound	Settings/speakers	Check volume; verify speaker connections; check mute setting.
CD/USB not reading	Media/compatibility	Check disc for damage; verify format compatibility; clean lens.
Poor radio reception	Antenna/connection	Ensure antenna connected properly; check antenna amplifier power.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstruction	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to IR sensor.

Reset: Hold FUNCTION + DISP while powering on to factory reset.

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