Kenwood HD552U Manual

The Kenwood HD552U is a high-performance digital audio system with HD radio capability, built-in CD player, USB connectivity, AM/FM tuner, auxiliary input, remote control, preset stations, digital display, and audio adjustments. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Radio Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital audio system with HD radio, CD player, USB port, Remote Control, Auxiliary input, Headphone jack, Power connector.

FeatureDescription
HD RadioDigital radio reception with crystal-clear sound
CD PlayerPlays audio CDs and CD-R/RW discs
USB PortFor connecting USB devices and playing digital audio files
Auxiliary InputFor external audio sources like MP3 players
Headphone JackFor private audio listening
AC Power InputFor power connection
Digital DisplayShows track information, radio stations, and settings
OPEN/CLOSEEjects CD from player
MUTEMutes sound temporarily
POWERTurns system on/off

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Connect power: Plug AC power cord into wall outlet.
  2. Connect antenna: Attach included AM/FM antenna for radio reception.
  3. Connect external devices: Use AUX input for MP3 players or other audio sources.
  4. Connect USB devices: Insert USB drive into USB port for digital audio playback.

WARNING! Keep away from heat sources and moisture. Ensure proper ventilation around the unit.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow initial setup procedure.

  1. Set clock: Press CLOCK button and set current time using numeric keys.
  2. Program radio stations: Use auto-scan feature to find and store favorite stations.
  3. Adjust audio settings: Use BASS and TREBLE controls to customize sound.
  4. Set sleep timer: Configure automatic shut-off for bedtime listening.

CAUTION! Place on stable surface away from edges to prevent falling.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, OPEN/CLOSE, VOLUME, BASS, TREBLE, BAND, TUNING, PRESET, MODE.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, OPEN/CLOSE, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, PRESET, PLAY/PAUSE, STOP, SKIP, REPEAT, CLOCK, SLEEP.

Audio: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE controls. Radio: AUTO SCAN, MANUAL TUNING, PRESET MEMORY. CD: PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, SKIP, REPEAT, RANDOM. System: CLOCK SET, SLEEP TIMER, DISPLAY MODE.

Connecting Devices

USB: Direct connection for USB drives. AUX: 3.5mm jack for external audio sources.

  1. Turn off system before connecting devices.
  2. For USB: Insert USB drive before powering on.
  3. For AUX: Connect audio cable from external device to AUX input.
  4. Select source: Press MODE to cycle through CD, USB, AUX, RADIO.

Tip: Use high-quality USB drives formatted in FAT32 for best compatibility.

Playing Media

Supports audio CDs, USB audio files (MP3, WMA).

  1. Insert media: For CD, press OPEN/CLOSE and load disc. For USB, insert drive.
  2. Select source: Press MODE to choose CD or USB.
  3. Play: Press PLAY; use SKIP for track navigation.
  4. Stop: Press STOP; eject CD with OPEN/CLOSE.
  5. Repeat: Press REPEAT for track/disc repeat modes.
  6. Random: Press RANDOM for shuffle playback.
  7. Fast forward/rewind: Hold SKIP buttons during playback.

WARNING! Do not touch CD lens; keep discs clean and free of scratches.

Radio Features

HD Radio: Digital reception with additional channels. Preset Memory: Store up to 30 stations.

  1. Select band: Press BAND for AM/FM selection.
  2. Auto scan: Press and hold TUNING for automatic station search.
  3. Manual tuning: Press TUNING briefly for manual station selection.
  4. Store presets: Tune to station, press and hold PRESET button (1-6).
  5. Recall presets: Press PRESET briefly to cycle through saved stations.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. For CD lens, use approved cleaning disc only.

CAUTION! Never use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. HD Radio technology manufactured under license from iBiquity Digital Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord/outletCheck power connection; try different outlet; ensure power switch is on.
CD won't playDisc/dirty lensCheck disc for damage; ensure proper side up; use cleaning disc if needed.
No USB recognitionFormat/compatibilityReformat USB to FAT32; check file formats (MP3, WMA); try different USB drive.
Poor radio receptionAntenna/positionExtend FM antenna fully; reposition for better reception; check connections.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstaclesReplace batteries; ensure clear path to IR sensor; check battery orientation.

Reset: Unplug unit for 2 minutes, then reconnect power.

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

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