Kenwood KAC 7285 Manual

The Kenwood KAC 7285 is a high-performance 2-channel car amplifier designed for automotive audio systems. With 85 watts RMS per channel at 4 ohms, bridgeable operation, variable low-pass filter, bass boost, and speaker-level inputs, this amplifier provides versatile installation options and powerful sound reproduction. 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 Modes 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Power terminals, Speaker outputs, Input connectors, Control knobs, Protection circuitry.

Feature	Description
Power Output	85W x 2 RMS at 4 ohms, 130W x 2 RMS at 2 ohms
Bridgeable	Can be bridged for mono operation (260W RMS at 4 ohms)
Low-pass Filter	Variable 50-200Hz for subwoofer applications
Bass Boost	0 to +18dB at 40Hz
Input Sensitivity	200mV to 4V adjustable
Speaker-level Inputs	For direct connection to factory head units
Protection Circuitry	Thermal, overload, and short circuit protection
Power LED	Indicates power status and protection mode
Remote Turn-on	Remote turn-on capability
Dimensions	9-7/8" W x 2-3/8" H x 8-1/4" D

Installation

Choose proper mounting location and prepare wiring.

Mounting: Select dry, well-ventilated location; secure with provided screws.
Power Connection: Connect +12V to battery, ground to chassis, remote to head unit.
Speaker Connections: Connect speaker wires observing proper polarity.
Input Connections: Use RCA inputs or speaker-level inputs as needed.
Fuse Installation: Install appropriate fuse in power line near battery.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.

First-Time Setup

Configure amplifier settings after installation.

Input Level: Set input sensitivity to match head unit output.
Crossover: Adjust low-pass filter frequency based on speaker requirements.
Bass Boost: Set bass boost level as needed (start with minimum).
Bridge Mode: Configure for stereo or bridged mono operation.
Test Operation: Verify all channels working properly.

CAUTION! Set gains properly to avoid distortion and speaker damage.

Specifications

RMS Power: 85W x 2 @ 4 ohms, 130W x 2 @ 2 ohms
Bridged Power: 260W x 1 @ 4 ohms
THD: 0.08% at rated power
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 50kHz (+0, -1dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB
Input Sensitivity: 200mV - 4V
Crossover Frequency: 50-200Hz low-pass
Bass Boost: 0 to +18dB @ 40Hz
Operating Voltage: 14.4V DC (11-16V range)
Fuse Rating: 25A x 2

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Input level, Low-pass filter, Bass boost, Operation mode.

Control Knobs: INPUT LEVEL (gain), LOW PASS (crossover frequency), BASS BOOST (enhancement level).

Input Level: Adjust to match head unit output (start low, increase gradually). Low-pass Filter: Set cutoff frequency for subwoofers (typically 80Hz). Bass Boost: Increase low-frequency output at 40Hz. Operation Mode: Stereo (2-channel) or Bridged (mono) mode selection.

Connecting Devices

Power: Battery (+12V), Ground, Remote turn-on. Audio: RCA inputs or speaker-level inputs. Speakers: 2-channel or bridged mono output.

Disconnect vehicle battery before connections.
Use proper gauge wiring for power and speakers.
Connect RCA cables from head unit to amplifier inputs.
Connect speaker wires observing polarity (+/-).
Verify all connections are secure and insulated.

Tip: Use crimp connectors and heat shrink for reliable connections.

Operation Modes

Supports stereo and bridged mono operation.

Stereo Mode: Standard 2-channel operation for left/right speakers.
Bridged Mode: Combine channels for mono subwoofer operation.
Input Selection: Use RCA inputs for aftermarket head units.
Speaker-level Inputs: Connect directly to factory speaker wires.
Crossover Operation: Low-pass filter for subwoofer applications.
Bass Enhancement: Bass boost for low-frequency emphasis.
Protection Mode: Automatic shutdown during fault conditions.
Power Management: Efficient class AB operation.

WARNING! Do not operate below minimum impedance ratings. Ensure proper ventilation.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatic shutdown if overheating detected. Overload Protection: Current limiting during excessive demand. Short Circuit Protection: Shutdown if output shorted. DC Offset Protection: Prevents DC voltage at outputs.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not expose to moisture or extreme temperatures. Clean with dry cloth only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood service centers. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connections/fuse	Check battery, ground, remote connections; verify fuses.
No sound	Input/speaker connections	Verify RCA/speaker-level inputs; check speaker connections.
Distorted sound	Gain settings/impendance	Adjust input level; verify speaker impedance compatibility.
Protection mode	Overheating/short circuit	Allow to cool; check for shorted speaker wires.
Intermittent operation	Loose connections	Inspect all connections for tightness and corrosion.

Reset: Disconnect power and reconnect to reset protection circuits.

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