Kenwood KAC 8105D Manual

The Kenwood KAC 8105D is a high-performance mono subwoofer amplifier delivering 1000W max power with 500W RMS at 2 ohms. Features include Class D design, variable low-pass filter (50-200Hz), bass boost (0-18dB at 50Hz), remote bass control capability, speaker level inputs, and protection circuits. 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 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mono amplifier chassis, remote bass control port, speaker level inputs, power/ground terminals, fuse holder.

FeatureDescription
Power Output500W RMS x 1 at 2 ohms (1000W max)
Class D DesignHigh-efficiency amplification
Low-Pass FilterVariable 50-200Hz
Bass Boost0-18dB at 50Hz
Remote Bass ControlOptional RC-10 remote
Speaker Level InputsFor factory head unit connection
Protection CircuitsThermal, overload, short circuit
Power/Ground Terminals4-gauge compatible
Fuse Rating40A x 1
Signal-to-Noise Ratio>100dB

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose secure mounting location.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery negative terminal.
  2. Mount amplifier: Secure to solid surface with provided hardware.
  3. Power connections: Connect +12V to battery, ground to chassis.
  4. Audio connections: Connect RCA inputs or speaker level inputs.
  5. Speaker output: Connect subwoofer(s) to output terminals.
  6. Remote turn-on: Connect to head unit remote wire.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating; use correct wire gauge. Keep amplifier dry and well-ventilated.

First-Time Setup

Reconnect battery; power on system; adjust settings.

  1. Gain adjustment: Set using test tone or music source.
  2. Low-pass filter: Set frequency cutoff (50-200Hz).
  3. Bass boost: Adjust if needed (0-18dB at 50Hz).
  4. Phase: Set to 0° or 180° for best bass response.
  5. Remote bass: Connect optional RC-10 for in-dash control.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls on amplifier end panel.

Controls: GAIN, LOW-PASS FILTER, BASS BOOST, PHASE, POWER/PROTECT LED.

Gain: Adjust input sensitivity (0.2-5V). Low-Pass Filter: Set cutoff frequency (50-200Hz). Bass Boost: Adjust low-frequency emphasis (0-18dB at 50Hz). Phase: Switch between 0° and 180°. Input Select: Choose between RCA or speaker level inputs.

Connecting Devices

RCA inputs: From head unit preamp outputs. Speaker level inputs: From factory speaker wires. Remote turn-on: From head unit remote wire.

  1. Disconnect battery before making connections.
  2. Use quality RCA cables for best performance.
  3. Ensure proper polarity for all connections.
  4. Secure all connections and route wires safely.

Tip: Keep power wires separated from audio cables to reduce noise.

Operation

Designed for mono subwoofer amplification.

  1. Power on: System turns on with head unit.
  2. Adjust volume: Start with low volume and increase gradually.
  3. Fine-tune settings: Adjust gain, filter, and bass boost as needed.
  4. Remote control: Use optional RC-10 for bass level adjustment.
  5. Monitor temperature: Ensure adequate ventilation during operation.

WARNING! Do not operate with impedance below 2 ohms. Avoid clipping distortion.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatically reduces output if overheating detected. Overload Protection: Protects against excessive current draw. Short Circuit Protection: Safeguards output stage. DC Offset Protection: Prevents DC voltage at outputs.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or water for cleaning. Disconnect power before maintenance.

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.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower/ground connectionsCheck battery connection; verify ground; check fuse.
No soundInput/remote turn-onVerify RCA connections; check remote wire; adjust gain.
DistortionGain setting/clippingReduce gain setting; check head unit volume.
OverheatingVentilation/impedanceImprove ventilation; verify speaker impedance.
Protection modeShort circuit/overloadCheck speaker wires for shorts; verify power supply.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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