Kenwood Excelon KDC X994 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon KDC X994 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring advanced audio processing, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, SiriusXM readiness, HD Radio capability, and customizable sound settings. With 4V preamp outputs, 13-band EQ, and advanced crossover controls, this unit delivers exceptional audio quality. 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 Media Playback 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital media receiver, Remote Control, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, AUX input, Preamp outputs, HD Radio tuner.

FeatureDescription
BluetoothWireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB PortFor connecting USB devices and charging
HD RadioDigital radio reception with crystal-clear sound
SiriusXM ReadySatellite radio compatibility
4V Preamp OutputsHigh-voltage outputs for external amplifiers
13-Band EqualizerPrecise audio frequency adjustment
Advanced CrossoverHigh-pass and low-pass filter controls
Dual Phone ConnectionConnect two phones simultaneously
Variable Color DisplayCustomizable illumination colors
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with most steering wheel interfaces

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper wiring harness and mounting kit.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors and functions carefully.
  3. Mount receiver: Secure in dashboard using appropriate mounting sleeve.
  4. Connect antennas: Attach radio antenna and Bluetooth microphone.
  5. Test functions: Reconnect battery and verify all features work properly.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit; familiarize with main controls.

  1. Source selection: Press SOURCE to cycle through available inputs.
  2. Volume control: Use rotary knob or remote control buttons.
  3. Menu access: Press and hold FUNCTION for settings menu.
  4. Bluetooth pairing: Enter pairing mode from Bluetooth menu.
  5. Preset stations: Store favorite stations using memory buttons.

CAUTION! Adjust settings only when vehicle is parked for safety.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, FUNCTION, USB port, AUX input.

Remote Control: POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, MUTE, PRESET, BAND, MENU navigation.

Audio Settings: 13-band EQ, crossover settings, time alignment, loudness. Bluetooth: Pairing, phonebook access, call history. Display: Color customization, dimmer settings. System: Beep tones, language, reset options.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling capability.

  1. Enter pairing mode: Access Bluetooth menu, select "Pairing"
  2. Search from phone: Find "KDC-X994" in Bluetooth devices
  3. Confirm pairing: Enter PIN if required (default: 0000)
  4. Manage connections: Up to two phones can be connected
  5. Audio streaming: Select BT AUDIO as source

Tip: Keep phone within 3 feet during initial pairing process.

Audio Settings

Advanced audio customization for optimal sound quality.

  1. Equalizer: 13-band graphic EQ with preset and custom modes
  2. Crossover: High-pass and low-pass filters adjustable by channel
  3. Time Alignment: Adjust speaker delay for optimal staging
  4. Loudness: Bass enhancement at low volume levels
  5. Balance/Fader: Adjust sound distribution between speakers
  6. Subwoofer Level: Independent subwoofer volume control
  7. Source Level: Adjust volume per input source

WARNING! Excessive bass levels may damage speakers.

USB and Media Playback

Supports USB devices, MP3, WMA, AAC playback.

  1. Connect USB: Insert USB device into front port
  2. File navigation: Use folder up/down buttons to browse
  3. Play modes: Repeat, shuffle, scan functions available
  4. ID3 Tag display: Shows artist and song information
  5. Charging: USB port provides charging capability

Note: Format USB devices as FAT32 for best compatibility.

Maintenance

Keep unit clean and free from moisture. Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners; avoid liquid contact with controls.

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 the FCC Rules.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/connectionsCheck fuse, wiring harness, battery connection
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode/distanceEnter pairing mode, ensure phone is close, delete old pairing
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityReformat as FAT32, try different USB device
Poor radio receptionAntenna connectionCheck antenna cable, ensure proper connection
No sound from speakersSettings/wiringCheck speaker wires, audio settings, fader balance

Reset: Hold FUNCTION + press POWER to reset unit.

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

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