Kenwood KA 109 Manual

The Kenwood KA 109 is a high-performance stereo integrated amplifier featuring 100W per channel output, MM/MC phono input, multiple audio inputs, tone controls, loudness contour, speaker A/B selection, and headphone output. Designed for audiophile-grade sound reproduction with low distortion and wide frequency response. 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. Operation Guide 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-power amplifier section, Phono input (MM/MC), Multiple line inputs, Tone controls, Speaker selector, Headphone output.

Feature	Description
Power Output	100W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz)
Phono Input	MM/MC compatible with selectable impedance
Line Inputs	CD, Tuner, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2
Tone Controls	Bass and Treble adjustment ±10dB
Loudness Contour	Compensates for low-volume listening
Speaker Selector	A/B speaker outputs with independent switching
Headphone Output	Standard 6.3mm jack for private listening
Power Switch	Main power on/off with standby indicator
Volume Control	Motorized potentiometer with smooth operation
Input Selector	Rotary knob for source selection

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface with adequate ventilation.

Connect speakers: Use speaker wire to connect to A/B speaker terminals observing polarity.
Connect audio sources: Use RCA cables to connect turntable, CD player, tuner, etc.
Connect power cord: Plug into AC outlet matching voltage requirements.
Ensure proper ventilation: Leave minimum 10cm clearance around amplifier.

WARNING! Amplifier generates heat during operation; ensure adequate ventilation. Use proper gauge speaker wire.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; verify all connections are secure.

Set input selector: Rotate to desired source (Phono, CD, etc.).
Adjust volume: Start at minimum level and gradually increase.
Select speakers: Choose A/B or both using speaker selector.
Set tone controls: Start at flat position (12 o'clock).
Phono setup: Select MM/MC setting matching your cartridge.

CAUTION! Always turn volume to minimum before powering on/off to prevent speaker damage.

Specifications

Power Output: 100W + 100W (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% THD)
Frequency Response: 5Hz-100kHz (+0/-3dB)
Input Sensitivity: Phono MM: 2.5mV, Phono MC: 0.2mV, Line: 150mV
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Phono MM: 86dB, Line: 100dB
Tone Control Range: Bass: ±10dB at 100Hz, Treble: ±10dB at 10kHz
Power Requirements: 120V/230V AC, 50/60Hz
Dimensions: 434mm (W) x 150mm (H) x 380mm (D)
Weight: 12.5kg

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power switch, Input selector, Volume control, Tone controls, Loudness, Speaker selector, Headphone jack.

Rear Panel: Power cord, Phono input, Line inputs, Speaker terminals, Pre-out/Main-in jacks.

Tone Controls: Bass and Treble adjustment with center detent. Loudness: Compensates for Fletcher-Munson curve at low volumes. Speaker Selector: A/B independent switching. Input Selector: Phono, CD, Tuner, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2. Volume: Motorized control with smooth tracking.

Connecting Devices

Phono: Use ground wire from turntable. Line inputs: CD, Tuner, Aux, Tape decks. Speakers: A/B outputs with proper polarity.

Turn off amplifier before making connections.
Match input types (Phono to phono input only).
Use quality interconnects for best performance.
Ensure secure speaker wire connections.

Tip: Keep signal cables away from power cords to minimize hum and interference.

Operation Guide

Supports various audio sources with optimal sound quality.

Power on: Switch power button; wait for protection circuit to engage.
Select source: Rotate input selector to desired input.
Adjust volume: Start low and increase to desired level.
Tone adjustment: Use bass/treble controls to suit listening preference.
Loudness: Engage for low-volume listening enhancement.
Speaker selection: Choose A, B, or A+B speaker outputs.
Headphone use: Automatically mutes speakers when plugged in.
Power off: Return volume to minimum before switching off.

WARNING! Do not operate without proper load (speakers connected). Avoid shorting speaker terminals.

Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Keep ventilation openings clear.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols. Service by qualified personnel only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Protection mode/connections	Check speaker connections; ensure no shorts; wait for protection reset.
Hum or noise	Grounding/cable routing	Ensure phono ground connected; separate signal/power cables.
One channel silent	Connection/balance	Check RCA cables; verify balance control centered.
Distorted sound	Overload/speakers	Reduce volume; check speaker impedance compatibility.
No power	Power cord/fuse	Verify power outlet; check rear panel fuse if equipped.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier if abnormal operation occurs.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.