Kenwood KAC 848 Amplifier Manual

The Kenwood KAC 848 is a high-performance 4-channel car amplifier designed for automotive audio systems. With MOSFET power supply, variable high/low pass filters, bridgeable channels, and speaker-level inputs, it delivers clean power for your car audio setup. Below are key sections covering features, installation, specifications, 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: 4-channel MOSFET amplifier, speaker-level inputs, variable high/low pass filters, bridgeable outputs, thermal protection.

Feature	Description
MOSFET power supply	Efficient and reliable power delivery
4-channel operation	Power for front and rear speakers
Bridgeable outputs	Combine channels for higher power
Variable high/low pass filters	Adjustable crossover frequencies
Speaker-level inputs	Connect directly to factory head units
Thermal protection	Automatic shutdown to prevent overheating
Overload protection	Protects against short circuits
Remote turn-on	Automatic power on with head unit
LED power indicator	Visual status display
Compact design	Easy installation in tight spaces

Installation

Choose proper mounting location and prepare all necessary tools and cables.

Select mounting location: Choose dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
Connect power: Run power cable from battery positive terminal to amplifier.
Connect ground: Attach ground cable to clean, unpainted metal surface.
Connect RCA cables: Run from head unit to amplifier inputs.
Connect speakers: Wire speakers to appropriate amplifier channels.
Connect remote turn-on: Connect to head unit remote output.

WARNING! Disconnect battery negative terminal before installation. Ensure proper fuse rating for power cable.

First-Time Setup

Configure amplifier settings for optimal performance with your audio system.

Set input level: Adjust gain control to match head unit output.
Configure crossover: Set high/low pass filters based on speaker types.
Set bass boost: If needed, adjust bass enhancement carefully.
Test all channels: Verify proper operation of each speaker.
Fine-tune settings: Make final adjustments while playing music.

CAUTION! Avoid setting gain too high to prevent distortion and speaker damage.

Specifications

Channels: 4
RMS Power: 50W x 4 @ 4 ohms
Max Power: 150W x 4 @ 2 ohms
Bridged Power: 150W x 2 @ 4 ohms
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 50kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >95dB
Crossover: Variable 50Hz - 200Hz
Input Sensitivity: 200mV - 4V
Dimensions: Standard car amplifier size
Operating Voltage: 14.4V DC (11-16V range)

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power indicator, protection indicator. Top/side controls: Gain, crossover frequency, bass boost, input mode.

Control Functions: GAIN (input level adjustment), HPF/LPF (crossover selection), X-OVER FREQ (crossover frequency 50-200Hz), BASS BOOST (low frequency enhancement), INPUT MODE (2/4 channel selection).

Configuration: Set gain to match head unit output level. Select HPF for speakers, LPF for subwoofers. Adjust crossover frequency based on speaker capabilities. Use bass boost sparingly to avoid distortion.

Connecting Devices

Multiple connection options for various audio system configurations.

RCA inputs: Standard connection from aftermarket head units.
Speaker-level inputs: For factory head units without RCA outputs.
Power connections: Battery positive, ground, remote turn-on.
Speaker outputs: 4 channels for front/rear or component systems.
Bridged mode: Combine channels 1+2 and 3+4 for higher power.

Tip: Use high-quality cables and ensure secure connections to prevent noise and power loss.

Operation Modes

Flexible operation modes for different audio system configurations.

4-channel mode: Standard operation for front and rear speakers.
3-channel mode: Channels 1-2 for front, channels 3-4 bridged for subwoofer.
2-channel mode: All channels bridged for maximum power to two speakers.
Bi-amp mode: Use separate channels for woofer and tweeter in component systems.
Input modes: Select 2-channel or 4-channel input based on source.

WARNING! Ensure proper impedance matching when bridging channels to avoid amplifier damage.

Protection Features

Built-in protection circuits safeguard amplifier and connected components.

Thermal Protection: Automatic shutdown when internal temperature exceeds safe limits. Overload Protection: Prevents damage from short circuits and low impedance loads. DC Offset Protection: Detects and shuts down if DC voltage appears at outputs. Under-voltage Protection: Prevents operation below minimum voltage requirements.

Care & Maintenance

Keep amplifier clean and ensure proper ventilation for optimal performance.

Regular maintenance: Keep vents clear of dust and debris. Check connections periodically for corrosion or looseness. Ensure mounting surface is clean and dry. Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Never operate amplifier with cover removed. Do not block ventilation openings.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE certified for European markets. RoHS compliant. Manufactured to ISO 9001 quality standards. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power/ground connections	Check power cable fuse; verify ground connection; confirm remote wire voltage.
Protection mode active	Overheating/short circuit	Allow amplifier to cool; check speaker wires for shorts; verify impedance.
Distorted sound	Gain setting/input level	Reduce gain setting; check head unit output level; verify RCA connections.
No sound from channels	Input mode/wiring	Check input mode selection; verify RCA/speaker connections; test speakers.
Engine noise	Grounding/RCA routing	Improve ground connection; reroute RCA cables away from power wires.

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

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