Kenwood KAC 729S Manual

The Kenwood KAC 729S is a 2-channel car amplifier delivering 500W maximum power with high-quality audio performance. Features include MOSFET power supply, variable low-pass filter, bass boost, speaker-level inputs, preamp outputs, and protection circuits against short circuits, overheating, and overcurrent. 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, speaker terminals, RCA inputs/outputs, control knobs, protection circuitry.

FeatureDescription
MOSFET power supplyFor efficient power conversion and stable performance
Variable low-pass filterAdjustable from 50Hz to 200Hz
Bass boost+12dB boost at 40Hz
Speaker-level inputsFor direct connection to factory head units
Preamp outputsFor daisy-chaining multiple amplifiers
Protection circuitsShort circuit, thermal, and overcurrent protection
Power terminals+12V, ground, and remote turn-on
LED indicatorsPower and protection status
Heat sinkAluminum for efficient cooling
BridgeableCan be bridged for mono operation

Installation

Choose proper mounting location and prepare wiring.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
  2. Mount amplifier: Secure to solid surface using provided hardware.
  3. Connect power: Run +12V wire from battery (with fuse), ground to chassis.
  4. Connect audio: Use RCA cables or speaker-level inputs from head unit.
  5. Connect speakers: Match impedance requirements (2-8 ohms).
  6. Connect remote turn-on: To head unit's remote output.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not mount near heat sources. Use correct wire gauge for power connections.

First-Time Setup

Configure settings before operation.

  1. Set input level: Match head unit output (RCA or speaker level).
  2. Adjust low-pass filter: Set according to speaker capabilities.
  3. Set bass boost: Start at minimum, adjust to preference.
  4. Check connections: Ensure all wires are secure.
  5. Reconnect battery and test system.

CAUTION! Start with gain at minimum to prevent speaker damage during initial setup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front/rear panel controls for optimal audio configuration.

Control Panel: Input level, low-pass filter, bass boost, input selector.

Input Level: Adjusts sensitivity to match head unit output. Low-pass Filter: Controls frequency cutoff for subwoofers. Bass Boost: Enhances low frequencies at 40Hz. Input Selector: Chooses between RCA and speaker-level inputs. LED Indicators: Power (blue), Protection (red).

Connecting Devices

Multiple connection options for various audio setups.

  1. Power connections: +12V, ground, remote turn-on.
  2. Audio inputs: RCA or speaker-level inputs.
  3. Speaker outputs: 2-channel or bridged mono.
  4. Preamp outputs: For additional amplifiers.

Tip: Use high-quality cables and ensure solid connections for best performance.

Operation Guide

Proper usage for optimal performance.

  1. Power on: System turns on with head unit.
  2. Adjust volume: Start low, increase gradually.
  3. Fine-tune settings: Adjust filter and boost while playing music.
  4. Monitor temperature: Ensure adequate ventilation during extended use.
  5. Power off: System turns off with head unit.

WARNING! Do not operate at maximum volume for extended periods. Allow cooling between heavy use sessions.

Protection Features

Built-in safeguards for amplifier and connected components.

Short Circuit Protection: Automatically shuts down if output shorts. Thermal Protection: Reduces power or shuts down when overheated. Overcurrent Protection: Prevents damage from excessive current draw. DC Offset Protection: Protects speakers from DC voltage.

Care & Maintenance

Keep amplifier clean and properly maintained.

Use compressed air to remove dust from heat sink. Check connections periodically for corrosion. Ensure mounting remains secure. Keep free from moisture and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European markets. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck power, ground, remote connections; verify fuse.
Protection light onOverheat/shortAllow cooling; check speaker wires for shorts.
No soundInput/connectionsVerify input source; check RCA/speaker connections.
Distorted soundGain/clippingReduce gain; check head unit output level.
Amplifier shuts offOverload/voltageCheck impedance load; verify vehicle electrical system.

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

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

Kenwood KAC 729S Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025