Kenwood KD 2055 Manual

The Kenwood KD 2055 is a high-quality belt-drive turntable featuring semi-automatic operation, adjustable pitch control, anti-skating mechanism, and built-in phono preamp. Designed for audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts, it offers precise speed control, vibration-damped chassis, and S-shaped tonearm with removable headshell. Below are key sections for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Turntable Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Connecting to Audio System 7. Maintenance and Care 8. Troubleshooting 9. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Belt-drive mechanism, S-shaped tonearm, removable headshell, pitch control, anti-skating adjustment, built-in phono preamp, dust cover.

FeatureDescription
Drive SystemBelt-drive for reduced vibration and noise
Speeds33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM with pitch control
TonearmS-shaped with removable headshell
OperationSemi-automatic with auto-return
Anti-skatingAdjustable for proper tracking
Phono PreampBuilt-in for direct connection to line inputs
PlatterDie-cast aluminum with rubber mat
Dust CoverDetachable hinged cover
PowerAC adapter included

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

  1. Place turntable on stable, level surface away from speakers and vibration sources.
  2. Install platter: Place belt on motor pulley, then position platter on spindle.
  3. Install counterweight: Screw onto tonearm and adjust for cartridge balance.
  4. Install headshell and cartridge: Connect wires to cartridge terminals (red/right hot, white/left hot, green/right ground, blue/left ground).
  5. Connect AC adapter to power input.

WARNING! Handle tonearm and cartridge carefully to avoid damage. Keep away from magnetic fields.

Turntable Operation

Basic operation procedures for playing records.

  1. Power on: Switch POWER to ON position.
  2. Select speed: Choose 33, 45, or 78 RPM using speed selector.
  3. Lift dust cover and place record on platter.
  4. Lift tonearm from rest and move over record starting point.
  5. Lower tonearm gently onto record using cueing lever.
  6. For auto-return: Tonearm will automatically return to rest at record end.
  7. Manual stop: Lift tonearm using cueing lever and return to rest.

CAUTION! Never force tonearm movement. Always use cueing lever for lowering/raising.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Adjustments

Front panel controls: POWER switch, SPEED selector, START/STOP button.

Tonearm adjustments: Counterweight rotation for tracking force, anti-skating dial, height adjustment ring, cueing lever.

Tracking Force: Rotate counterweight to set recommended force for cartridge (typically 1.5-2.5g). Anti-skating: Set to match tracking force value. Pitch Control: Adjust fine speed using pitch control slider.

Connecting to Audio System

RCA output cables and ground wire connection.

  1. Phono input: Connect RCA cables to amplifier PHONO inputs (red to right, white to left).
  2. Line input: Switch PHONO/LINE selector to LINE if using built-in preamp.
  3. Ground wire: Connect to amplifier GROUND terminal.
  4. Power: Connect AC adapter to wall outlet.

Tip: Ensure all connections are secure. Keep audio cables away from power cords.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance for optimal performance.

  1. Cleaning: Use soft cloth for dust cover and chassis. Clean records with anti-static brush.
  2. Stylus care: Clean regularly with stylus brush. Replace when worn.
  3. Belt inspection: Check for stretching or wear periodically.
  4. Platter cleaning: Wipe with dry cloth to remove dust.

CAUTION! Never use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Unplug before cleaning.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No soundIncorrect connectionsCheck RCA and ground connections; verify input selection
Speed variationBelt slippingCheck belt position and condition; clean pulley
Tonearm not movingAuto-return mechanismCheck for obstructions; ensure proper setup
Distorted soundTracking force incorrectRecheck tracking force and anti-skating settings
Hum or noiseGround connectionEnsure ground wire connected securely
Platter not turningPower or belt issueCheck power connection; verify belt installed correctly

Warranty Information

Kenwood KD 2055 comes with 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper installation, or normal wear. For service, contact authorized Kenwood service center with proof of purchase.

Support: For technical assistance, visit www.kenwood.com or contact customer service at 1-800-KENWOOD.

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