Kenwood KAC PS527 Manual

The Kenwood KAC PS527 is a 2-channel car amplifier with 500W max power output, MOSFET power supply, variable low-pass filter, bass boost, speaker level inputs, and protection circuits. Designed for automotive audio systems, it features compact size, efficient cooling, and compatibility with various head units. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, specifications, 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: 2-channel amplifier, MOSFET power supply, low-pass filter, bass boost, speaker level inputs, protection circuits.

Feature	Description
Power Output	500W max power (2-channel)
MOSFET Power Supply	Efficient and reliable power delivery
Low-Pass Filter	Variable frequency 50-200Hz
Bass Boost	0-18dB boost at 40Hz
Speaker Level Inputs	Connect to factory head units
Protection Circuits	Thermal, short-circuit, and DC offset protection
Compact Design	Space-saving installation
Efficient Cooling	Aluminum heatsink for optimal thermal performance

Installation

Choose proper location and prepare wiring connections.

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

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

First-Time Setup

Configure amplifier settings for optimal performance.

Gain adjustment: Set gain control to match head unit output.
Low-pass filter: Adjust frequency cutoff (50-200Hz) for subwoofers.
Bass boost: Set desired bass enhancement level (0-18dB).
Input level: Select RCA or speaker level input as needed.
Test operation: Verify all connections and test audio output.

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

Specifications

Channels: 2-channel
Max Power: 500W
RMS Power: 150W x 2 @ 4Ω
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 50kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB
Low-Pass Filter: 50-200Hz variable
Bass Boost: 0-18dB @ 40Hz
Input Sensitivity: 0.2-5V (RCA), 0.5-10V (Speaker level)
Dimensions: Compact design for easy installation
Operating Voltage: 14.4V DC (11-16V range)

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls and adjustment features.

Control Panel: Gain control, Low-pass filter frequency, Bass boost level, Power indicator, Protection indicator.

Gain: Adjust input sensitivity to match head unit output. Low-pass filter: Set cutoff frequency for subwoofer applications. Bass boost: Enhance low-frequency response. Input selector: Choose between RCA and speaker level inputs. Protection indicators: LED indicators for thermal, short-circuit protection.

Connecting Devices

Proper connection methods for various audio sources.

Head unit connection: Use RCA cables or speaker wires from head unit outputs.
Power connections: +12V to battery, ground to chassis, remote turn-on to head unit.
Speaker connections: Connect speakers observing proper polarity (+/-).
Multiple amplifiers: Use distribution blocks for clean power distribution.

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

Operation

Daily operation and usage guidelines.

Power on: Amplifier turns on automatically with head unit.
Volume control: Adjust volume at head unit, not amplifier gain.
Setting adjustments: Fine-tune filter and boost settings as needed.
Monitoring: Observe indicator lights for normal operation.
Power off: Amplifier turns off with head unit or ignition.

WARNING! Do not operate at maximum volume for extended periods to prevent overheating.

Protection Features

Built-in protection circuits for safe operation.

Thermal protection: Automatically reduces output or shuts down if overheating detected. Short-circuit protection: Protects against speaker wire shorts. DC offset protection: Prevents DC voltage from reaching speakers. Over-current protection: Limits current draw to safe levels. Protection indicators: LED shows when protection is active.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance procedures.

Keep amplifier clean and free of dust. Ensure adequate ventilation around heatsink. Check connections periodically for corrosion or looseness. Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners; use dry cloth only for cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC compliance: Class B digital device compliant with Part 15. CE marking: Meets European safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connections	Check +12V, ground, and remote connections; verify fuse
No sound	Input/output connections	Verify RCA/speaker inputs; check speaker connections
Distorted sound	Gain settings	Adjust gain control; check head unit output levels
Amplifier shuts off	Overheating/short circuit	Check ventilation; inspect speaker wires for shorts
Protection light on	Fault condition	Disconnect and check for shorts; allow to cool if thermal

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

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