Kenwood Excelon KDC X598 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X598 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 remote control compatibility. 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 Auxiliary Playback 8. Audio Settings 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit, Remote Control, Wiring harness, USB extension cable, Installation accessories.

Feature	Description
Bluetooth	Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB Input	For iPod, iPhone, and USB storage devices
Auxiliary Input	3.5mm jack for external audio sources
CD Playback	Supports CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
AM/FM Tuner	18 FM and 6 AM station presets
Display Customization	Multiple color options and dimmer settings
Audio Controls	Bass, treble, balance, fader, loudness
Remote Control	Included for convenient operation
Power Output	50W x 4 channels maximum
Preamp Outputs	Front, rear, and subwoofer outputs

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

Disconnect negative battery terminal before beginning installation.
Connect wiring harness following color-coded wiring diagram.
Secure unit in dashboard using provided mounting sleeve.
Connect antenna, USB extension, and auxiliary cables.
Reconnect battery and test all functions.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit; familiarize yourself with basic controls.

Source selection: Press SOURCE button to cycle through modes (Radio, CD, USB, BT, Aux).
Volume control: Use VOL knob or remote control buttons.
Track selection: Use SEEK buttons or remote for next/previous tracks.
Preset stations: Store favorite stations in memory banks.
Display settings: Access through FUNCTION menu for color and brightness adjustments.

CAUTION! Avoid operating controls while driving. Set preferences before driving.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (Max), 22W x 4 (RMS)
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 22kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 95dB (CD)
Preset Stations: 18 FM / 6 AM
Bluetooth Version: 2.1 + EDR
USB Support: iPod, iPhone, USB mass storage
CD Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
Display: Customizable 13-color illumination
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: 7" W x 2" H x 6-1/2" D

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOL knob, SOURCE, FUNCTION, SEEK/TRACK, EJECT.

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

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER, LOUDNESS, SUBWOOFER control. Display: 13-color customization, dimmer settings. Bluetooth: Pairing mode, phonebook access, call history. System: Clock setting, beep tones, reset function.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling capabilities.

Enable pairing mode: Press SOURCE until BT appears, then hold FUNCTION.
Search for device: On your phone, search for "KDC-X598" in Bluetooth settings.
Complete pairing: Enter PIN "0000" if prompted.
Audio streaming: Play music from your connected device.
Phone calls: Answer/end calls using remote or unit controls.

Tip: Keep paired device within 33 feet for optimal connectivity.

USB and Auxiliary Playback

Supports various digital media formats and external devices.

USB connection: Connect device to USB port using extension cable.
File navigation: Use SEEK buttons to browse folders and tracks.
Playback modes: Repeat, random, and intro scan available.
Auxiliary input: Connect external audio source to 3.5mm jack.
Charging: USB port provides charging capability for compatible devices.

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

Audio Settings

Comprehensive audio customization for optimal sound quality.

Equalizer: Multiple preset modes (POP, ROCK, JAZZ, etc.). Bass/Treble: ±10dB adjustment. Balance/Fader: Fine-tune speaker output. Loudness: Enhance low-volume listening. Subwoofer Control: Level and phase adjustment. Time Alignment: Advanced speaker timing correction.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and protected for long-lasting performance.

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning display and controls. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep CDs clean and free of scratches. Store in protective cases when not in use. Regularly check connections for corrosion or looseness.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials or liquids. Keep away from extreme temperatures and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Bluetooth qualified design. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/connections	Check fuse, wiring harness, and battery connection
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing mode/distance	Ensure pairing mode active; move device closer
CD not playing	Disc/loading	Check disc for damage; clean lens if needed
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna fully connected and extended
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Use FAT32 format; check device compatibility
No sound from speakers	Audio settings/wiring	Check balance/fader settings; verify speaker wiring

Reset: Hold FUNCTION + EJECT for 5 seconds to factory reset.

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