Kenwood KAC 7252 Manual

The Kenwood KAC 7252 is a 2-channel car amplifier delivering high-quality audio performance with 500W max power output, MOSFET power supply, variable low-pass filter, bass boost, speaker-level inputs, and protection circuits. Designed for automotive audio systems, it features compact design, thermal overload protection, and versatile connectivity options. 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. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: MOSFET power supply, low-pass filter, bass boost control, speaker-level inputs, protection circuits.

Feature	Description
Power Output	500W max power (2-channel)
MOSFET Power Supply	Efficient and reliable power delivery
Low-Pass Filter	Variable frequency control (50Hz-200Hz)
Bass Boost	+12dB at 45Hz
Speaker-Level Inputs	Connect directly to factory head units
Protection Circuits	Thermal, overload, and short-circuit protection
Compact Design	Space-saving installation
RCA Inputs	For aftermarket head unit connection
Power LED Indicator	Blue power-on indicator
Remote Turn-On	Remote turn-on capability

Installation

Choose proper location and prepare wiring connections.

Select mounting location: Dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
Connect power wires: Run 8-gauge power cable from battery positive terminal to amplifier.
Connect ground wire: Secure to clean, unpainted metal surface on vehicle chassis.
Connect remote turn-on: Connect to head unit's remote turn-on wire (blue/white).
Connect audio inputs: Use RCA cables or speaker-level inputs.
Connect speakers: Ensure proper polarity and impedance matching.

WARNING! Disconnect battery negative terminal before installation. Use proper fuse rating near battery connection.

First-Time Setup

Configure amplifier settings for optimal performance.

Set input level: Adjust input level control to match head unit output.
Configure low-pass filter: Set frequency according to speaker capabilities (50Hz-200Hz).
Adjust bass boost: Use sparingly to avoid distortion.
Set gain control: Start at minimum, gradually increase while testing.
Verify connections: Ensure all wires are secure and properly connected.

CAUTION! Do not operate amplifier without proper ventilation. Avoid water exposure.

Specifications

Channels: 2-channel
Max Power: 500W
RMS Power: 150W x 2 @ 4 ohms
Frequency Response: 10Hz-50kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB
Low-Pass Filter: 50Hz-200Hz variable
Bass Boost: +12dB @ 45Hz
Input Sensitivity: 200mV-4V
Dimensions: Compact design for easy installation
Operating Voltage: 14.4V DC (11-16V range)

Controls and Settings

Access controls via top panel controls and input connections.

Front Panel: Power LED indicator, protection indicator.

Controls: Input level control, low-pass filter frequency, bass boost level, input selector (RCA/speaker level). Power: Remote turn-on capability, main power connection. Audio: Input level adjustment, filter settings, bass enhancement. Protection: Thermal shutdown, overload protection, short-circuit protection.

Connecting Devices

Power: Battery connection with fuse. Audio: RCA inputs or speaker-level inputs. Speakers: 2-channel output.

Disconnect battery before making connections.
Match wire gauge to power requirements (8-gauge minimum).
Use proper connectors for secure connections.
Route audio cables away from power wires to avoid noise.
Test all connections before final installation.

Tip: Use twisted-pair RCA cables for better noise rejection.

Operation Guide

Supports various audio sources and configurations.

Power on: Connect remote turn-on wire; amplifier powers on with head unit.
Input selection: Choose between RCA or speaker-level inputs.
Level setting: Adjust input level to match source unit output.
Filter adjustment: Set low-pass filter for subwoofer applications.
Bass enhancement: Use bass boost for low-frequency emphasis.
Monitor performance: Watch for protection mode activation.
Power off: Amplifier turns off with head unit or ignition.

WARNING! Do not operate with impedance below specified minimum. Avoid clipping distortion.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatically shuts down if temperature exceeds safe limits. Overload Protection: Protects against excessive current draw. Short-Circuit Protection: Safeguards output stages from short circuits.

Care & Maintenance

Keep amplifier clean and dry. Ensure proper ventilation. Check connections periodically for corrosion or looseness.

CAUTION! Do not cover amplifier or block ventilation. Avoid liquid exposure.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for vehicular use. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation; trademarks owned by Kenwood. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers. EMC compliance for automotive environments.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power/ground connections	Check battery connection; verify ground connection; check fuse.
Protection mode active	Overheating/short circuit	Allow cooling; check speaker wiring for shorts; verify impedance.
No sound output	Input/connection issues	Check RCA cables; verify input selection; test source unit.
Distorted sound	Gain settings/clipping	Reduce input level; check source unit volume; verify power supply.
Amplifier overheats	Ventilation/impedance	Improve ventilation; check speaker impedance; reduce gain settings.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset protection circuits.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service centers; www.kenwood.com