Kenwood KAC 920 Manual

The Kenwood KAC 920 is a high-performance 2-channel car amplifier delivering 90W RMS per channel at 4 ohms, with MOSFET power supply, variable high-pass/low-pass filters, bass boost, and speaker-level inputs. Designed for automotive audio systems, it features thermal/overload/short circuit protection, gold-plated terminals, and compact chassis. 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, gold-plated RCA inputs, speaker terminals, variable crossover controls, bass boost, protection circuitry.

Feature	Description
Power Output	90W RMS x 2 channels at 4 ohms
MOSFET Power Supply	Efficient and reliable power delivery
Variable Crossover	High-pass/Low-pass filter (50-200Hz)
Bass Boost	0-18dB boost at 40Hz
Speaker Level Inputs	Connect to factory head units
Gold-plated Terminals	Corrosion-resistant connections
Protection Circuitry	Thermal, overload, short circuit protection
Compact Design	Space-saving chassis
LED Power Indicator	Blue LED shows power status
Bridgeable	Can be bridged for mono operation

Installation

Choose proper location and prepare wiring.

Select mounting location: Dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
Power connection: Connect +12V to battery, ground to chassis, remote to head unit.
Speaker connections: Connect speaker wires to appropriate terminals.
Input connections: Use RCA cables or speaker-level inputs.
Fuse installation: Install appropriate fuse near battery connection.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation. Ensure proper grounding to prevent damage.

First-Time Setup

Configure amplifier settings for optimal performance.

Gain adjustment: Set gain control to match head unit output.
Crossover settings: Select high-pass or low-pass as needed.
Bass boost: Adjust if additional bass enhancement required.
Input selection: Choose between RCA or speaker-level inputs.
Test operation: Verify all connections and test audio output.

CAUTION! Do not exceed recommended settings. Start with conservative settings and adjust gradually.

Specifications

Power Output: 90W RMS x 2 (4 ohms), 150W RMS x 2 (2 ohms)
Bridged Power: 300W RMS (4 ohms)
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 50kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >100dB
Crossover Frequency: 50-200Hz variable
Bass Boost: 0-18dB at 40Hz
Input Sensitivity: 0.2-5V (RCA), 0.5-10V (Speaker level)
Power Supply: 14.4V DC (11-16V operating range)
Fuse Rating: 25A x 2
Dimensions: 10.2" x 8.1" x 2.2"

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power terminal, input selection, gain control, crossover controls, bass boost.

Control Functions: - GAIN: Adjusts input sensitivity (min to max) - CROSSOVER: Selects high-pass/low-pass filter - FREQUENCY: Adjusts crossover frequency (50-200Hz) - BASS BOOST: Enhances low frequencies (0-18dB) - INPUT SELECT: Chooses between RCA and speaker-level inputs

Proper settings ensure optimal sound quality and prevent damage to speakers.

Connecting Devices

Multiple input options for various audio sources.

RCA inputs: For aftermarket head units with preamp outputs.
Speaker-level inputs: For factory head units without RCA outputs.
Power connections: +12V, ground, remote turn-on.
Speaker outputs: Connect positive and negative terminals properly.

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

Operation Guide

Daily operation and adjustment procedures.

Power on: Remote turn-on signal from head unit activates amplifier.
Volume control: Adjust head unit volume, then fine-tune with gain control.
Crossover adjustment: Set according to speaker capabilities and installation type.
Bass enhancement: Use bass boost sparingly for desired low-frequency response.
Mode selection: Choose stereo or bridged mono operation as needed.

WARNING! Do not operate at maximum volume for extended periods. Allow proper ventilation.

Protection Features

Built-in protection circuits prevent damage from various conditions.

Thermal Protection: Shuts down if internal temperature exceeds safe limits
Overload Protection: Protects against excessive current draw
Short Circuit Protection: Prevents damage from output shorts
DC Offset Protection: Guards against DC voltage at outputs
Overvoltage Protection: Protects against voltage spikes

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long-term reliability.

Keep amplifier clean and dry. Check connections periodically for corrosion. Ensure adequate ventilation. Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners. Disconnect power before cleaning.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check power, ground, remote connections; replace fuse if blown.
No sound	Input/settings	Verify input source; check gain setting; ensure head unit output.
Distorted sound	Gain/clipping	Reduce gain setting; check head unit volume; verify speaker impedance.
Amplifier shuts off	Overheating/overload	Allow to cool; check impedance load; ensure proper ventilation.
Protection light on	Short circuit/overload	Check speaker wiring for shorts; verify proper impedance matching.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.