Kenwood Excelon KDC X696 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X696 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, auxiliary input, CD playback, advanced audio controls, and customizable display options. With 50W x 4 channels, built-in amplifier, and extensive equalization settings, it delivers exceptional sound quality for automotive audio systems. 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. Audio Settings 8. USB and Auxiliary Input 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital media receiver, Remote Control, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, Auxiliary input, CD player, Customizable display.

Feature	Description
Bluetooth	Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB Input	For connecting USB devices and charging
Auxiliary Input	3.5mm jack for external audio sources
CD Player	Plays CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
Power Output	50W x 4 channels (max)
Display	Customizable colors and brightness
EQ Settings	13-band equalizer with presets
SOURCE	Cycles through input sources
VOLUME	Adjusts audio level
POWER	Turns unit on/off

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal before installation.
Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle wiring using supplied harness.
Mount receiver: Secure in dashboard using appropriate mounting sleeve.
Connect antennas: Attach power antenna and FM/AM antennas.
Reconnect battery and test functions.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit; select source and adjust settings.

Power on: Press POWER button; unit displays startup screen.
Select source: Press SOURCE to cycle through radio, CD, USB, Bluetooth, Aux.
Adjust volume: Use VOLUME knob or remote control buttons.
Play media: Insert CD or connect USB device for automatic playback.
Bluetooth pairing: Enter pairing mode from Bluetooth menu.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving; set all controls before driving.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 channels (max power)
Bluetooth: Version 3.0 with A2DP, AVRCP profiles
Audio Inputs: USB, Auxiliary 3.5mm, Bluetooth
CD Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
Display: Customizable multi-color LCD
EQ Controls: 13-band equalizer, 6 preset modes
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: Standard DIN size (7" x 2")

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER, SOURCE, VOLUME, EJECT, FUNCTION. Remote control: All basic functions plus numeric keys.

Menu Navigation: Press FUNCTION to access settings menu. Use arrow keys to navigate through options.

Audio Settings: EQ presets (POP, ROCK, JAZZ, etc.), Bass/Treble controls, Loudness, Balance/Fader. Display Settings: Color customization, Dimmer, Button illumination. System Settings: Bluetooth pairing, Clock setting, Reset functions.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling capability.

Enter pairing mode: Press FUNCTION > Bluetooth > Pairing.
Search on device: Enable Bluetooth on phone and search for "KDC-X696".
Connect: Select unit from available devices list.
Accept pairing: Confirm passkey if prompted (usually 0000).
Test connection: Play audio from phone to verify streaming.

Tip: Keep phone within 3 feet during initial pairing for best results.

Audio Settings

Advanced audio controls for customized sound experience.

EQ Presets: Select from POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC, VOCAL, FLAT.
Custom EQ: Adjust 13 frequency bands manually in EQ menu.
Loudness: Enhance bass at low volume levels.
Balance/Fader: Adjust speaker balance front/rear and left/right.
Subwoofer Control: Adjust subwoofer level and crossover settings.
Time Alignment: Adjust audio timing for optimal staging.

Note: Save custom settings to memory presets for quick recall.

USB and Auxiliary Input

Connect external devices for expanded media playback.

USB Connection: Insert USB device; unit automatically detects and begins playback.
File Support: MP3, WMA, WAV audio files; folder navigation supported.
Auxiliary Input: Connect 3.5mm cable from external device to AUX port.
Playback Control: Use unit controls or remote to play/pause/skip tracks.
Charging: USB port provides 5V/1A charging for connected devices.

WARNING! Do not remove USB device during playback to prevent data corruption.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care ensures long-term performance and reliability.

Cleaning: Use soft, dry cloth for display and controls. Avoid liquids and abrasive cleaners. CD Maintenance: Keep discs clean and free of scratches. Storage: Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners on display; may cause damage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. All trademarks 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 connections, and ground wire.
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing mode/distance	Ensure unit in pairing mode; move phone closer.
CD not playing	Disc/damage	Check disc for scratches; ensure proper insertion.
No sound from speakers	Settings/connections	Check volume, mute, speaker wires, and fader settings.
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Ensure USB is FAT32 format; try different device.

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

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