Kenwood KA 87 Manual

The Kenwood KA 87 is a high-performance stereo integrated amplifier featuring 80 watts per channel, MM/MC phono input, multiple audio inputs, tone controls, loudness compensation, and speaker A/B switching. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, specifications, 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.

FeatureDescription
Power Output80W + 80W (8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz)
Phono InputMM/MC switchable with loading options
InputsCD, Tuner, Aux, Tape 1, Tape 2
Tone ControlsBass ±10dB, Treble ±10dB
LoudnessCompensation switch
Speaker SelectorA/B/A+B/Off
Headphone JackStandard 6.3mm stereo
Power Consumption280W maximum
Dimensions430 x 150 x 380mm (W x H x D)
Weight11.5kg

Installation

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

  1. Connect speakers: Use speaker A/B terminals, observing correct polarity.
  2. Connect audio sources: Use appropriate input jacks (CD, Tuner, Aux, Tape).
  3. Connect phono: Use phono input for turntable with proper grounding.
  4. Plug into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block heat sinks. Use correct speaker impedance.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; allow warm-up time for optimal performance.

  1. Select input source: Rotate input selector to desired source.
  2. Adjust volume: Start with low volume and increase gradually.
  3. Set tone controls: Adjust bass and treble to preference.
  4. Select speakers: Choose A, B, or A+B speaker output.
  5. Phono setup: Set MM/MC switch according to cartridge type.

CAUTION! Do not operate with cover removed. Keep away from moisture.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

Rear Panel: AC input, Phono input, Line inputs, Tape loops, Speaker terminals, Ground terminal.

Input Selection: CD, Tuner, Aux, Phono, Tape 1, Tape 2. Tone Controls: Bass and treble with defeat option. Loudness: Frequency compensation at low volumes. Speaker Selection: A, B, A+B, or off. Balance: Left/right channel balance adjustment.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: Use appropriate RCA cables for each input. Speakers: Connect to A/B terminals observing polarity.

  1. Turn off amplifier before connecting devices.
  2. Match input type to source (Phono for turntable, Line for other sources).
  3. Use proper grounding for phono connections.
  4. Ensure secure speaker connections.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Operation Guide

Daily operation procedures for optimal performance.

  1. Power on: Allow 30 seconds warm-up for stable operation.
  2. Source selection: Rotate input selector to desired source.
  3. Volume control: Adjust gradually to desired listening level.
  4. Tone adjustment: Use bass/treble controls to suit room acoustics.
  5. Loudness: Engage for enhanced bass at low volumes.
  6. Speaker selection: Choose appropriate speaker combination.
  7. Headphone use: Automatically mutes speaker outputs.

WARNING! Avoid maximum volume settings for extended periods.

Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners. Service by qualified personnel only.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety standards. Manufactured to Kenwood quality standards. For service and support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers. Keep original packaging for service transportation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No soundPower/speaker selectionCheck power connection; verify speaker selection; check volume level.
Distorted soundOverload/speakersReduce volume; check speaker impedance; verify source quality.
Hum or noiseGrounding/cablesCheck phono ground; ensure proper cable connections; separate from interference sources.
One channel silentBalance/connectionsCheck balance control; verify cable connections; test with different source.
OverheatingVentilation/impedanceEnsure adequate ventilation; check speaker impedance; reduce volume if necessary.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.

Kenwood KA 87 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025