Kenwood KAC 846 Manual

The Kenwood KAC 846 is a high-performance 4-channel car amplifier delivering 50W RMS per channel at 4 ohms, featuring MOSFET power supply, variable high/low pass filters, bass boost, speaker-level inputs, and comprehensive protection circuits. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, setup, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-channel MOSFET amplifier, speaker-level inputs, variable crossovers, bass boost control, and comprehensive protection circuits.

Feature	Description
Power Output	50W RMS x 4 channels at 4 ohms
MOSFET Power Supply	High-efficiency switching power supply
Speaker Level Inputs	Connect directly to factory head units
Variable High/Low Pass Filters	Adjustable crossover frequencies
Bass Boost	+12dB boost at 50Hz
Protection Circuits	Thermal, short-circuit, and DC offset protection
RCA Inputs	For aftermarket head unit connections
Remote Turn-on	Remote wire connection for automatic power on/off
Fuse Rating	25A x 2
Dimensions	11-13/16" W x 2-3/8" H x 9-7/16" D

Installation

Select proper mounting location and ensure adequate ventilation.

1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
2. Mount amplifier securely using provided hardware.
3. Connect power wire (8-gauge minimum) to battery positive terminal with inline fuse.
4. Connect ground wire to clean, unpainted metal surface.
5. Connect remote turn-on wire to head unit remote output.
6. Connect RCA cables from head unit to amplifier inputs.
7. Connect speaker wires to appropriate channels.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating and secure all connections to prevent electrical hazards.

First-Time Setup

Configure amplifier settings for optimal performance.

1. Set input level: Adjust gain control to match head unit output.
2. Configure crossover: Set high/low pass filters based on speaker application.
3. Set bass boost: Adjust if additional bass response is desired.
4. Test all channels: Verify proper operation of each speaker.
5. Fine-tune settings: Make final adjustments while playing music.

CAUTION! Start with conservative settings and gradually increase to prevent speaker damage.

Specifications

• RMS Power: 50W x 4 at 4 ohms (20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% THD)
• Max Power: 100W x 4 at 4 ohms
• Bridged Power: 150W x 2 at 4 ohms
• Frequency Response: 10Hz-50kHz (+1dB, -3dB)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB
• Input Sensitivity: 200mV-4V (RCA), 0.5V-8V (Speaker level)
• Crossover Frequency: 50Hz-200Hz (High Pass), 50Hz-200Hz (Low Pass)
• Bass Boost: 0 to +12dB at 50Hz
• Fuse Rating: 25A x 2
• Operating Voltage: 14.4V DC (11-16V allowable)

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power indicator, protection indicator.

Control Panel: Input level controls, crossover frequency selectors, bass boost control, input mode switch.

Input Level: Adjust to match head unit output voltage. Crossover: HPF for full-range speakers, LPF for subwoofers. Bass Boost: +12dB maximum at 50Hz. Input Mode: Select 2-channel or 4-channel input configuration.

Connecting Devices

Multiple input options: RCA inputs, speaker-level inputs.

1. Turn off vehicle and disconnect battery before making connections.
2. Use high-quality RCA cables for minimal noise interference.
3. Connect speaker wires observing proper polarity.
4. Ensure power and ground connections are secure and proper gauge.
5. Connect remote turn-on wire to head unit blue wire.

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

Operation Modes

Supports multiple configuration modes for various audio setups.

1. 4-channel mode: Standard operation for four separate speakers.
2. 3-channel mode: Channels 1-2 for front speakers, 3-4 bridged for subwoofer.
3. 2-channel bridged: Maximum power output for two speakers.
4. Bi-amp mode: Separate amplification for woofer and tweeter.
5. Input modes: 2-channel or 4-channel input selection.

WARNING! Do not bridge channels to impedance lower than 4 ohms.

Protection Features

Comprehensive protection circuits prevent damage to amplifier and connected components.

Protection Type	Function
Thermal Protection	Shuts down amplifier if temperature exceeds safe limits
Short-Circuit Protection	Protects against speaker wire shorts
DC Offset Protection	Prevents DC voltage from reaching speakers
Over-current Protection	Limits current during overload conditions
Under-voltage Protection	Shuts down if voltage drops below 10V

Care & Maintenance

Keep amplifier clean and ensure proper ventilation.

CAUTION! Do not block ventilation openings. Clean with dry cloth only; no liquids or chemicals.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. All trademarks property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power/ground connections	Check battery connection, fuse, ground connection
Protection mode active	Short circuit/overheating	Check speaker wires for shorts; allow amplifier to cool
Distorted sound	Gain setting too high	Reduce input level/gain control
No sound from channels	Input connections/settings	Check RCA cables; verify input mode selection
Amplifier overheats	Insufficient ventilation	Improve airflow; check impedance load

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

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com