Kenwood KDC 119 Manual

The Kenwood KDC 119 is a single-DIN car stereo receiver featuring CD/MP3 playback, AM/FM radio with 18 FM/6 AM presets, detachable faceplate security, 4-channel amplifier (22W x 4), auxiliary input, CD changer controls, loudness, bass/treble/midrange controls, and source tone memory. Compatible with steering wheel remote interfaces. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, settings, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, wiring harness, mounting sleeve, remote control, user manual.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3 Playback	Plays audio CDs and MP3 files
AM/FM Tuner	18 FM and 6 AM station presets
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
4-Channel Amplifier	22 watts RMS x 4 channels
Auxiliary Input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
CD Changer Control	Compatible with Kenwood CD changers
Tone Controls	Bass, treble, midrange adjustments
Loudness	Enhances bass at low volumes
Source Tone Memory	Separate tone settings per source

Installation

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.

1. Remove existing stereo: Use DIN tools to release old unit.
2. Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
3. Connect speakers: Front/rear speaker wires (typically white, gray, green, purple).
4. Install mounting sleeve: Secure in dashboard opening.
5. Connect antenna and test: Reconnect battery, test all functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before installation to prevent short circuits.

Basic Operation

Power on unit by pressing SRC/PWR button.

1. Source selection: Press SRC to cycle through CD, Tuner, AUX.
2. Volume control: Turn VOL knob or use remote control.
3. Mute: Press MUTE button for instant silence.
4. Detach faceplate: Press release button and slide out for security.

CAUTION! Do not touch internal components while unit is powered on.

Specifications

• Power Output: 22W RMS x 4 channels (max 50W x 4)
• Tuner Sensitivity: FM 10.3 dBf, AM 25 μV
• Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise: 95 dB (CD)
• Separation: 60 dB
• Load Impedance: 4-8 ohms
• Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
• Dimensions: 178mm (W) x 50mm (H) x 153mm (D)

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: SRC/PWR, VOL knob, EJECT, BAND, MUTE, display window.

Remote Control: Power, volume, track selection, preset buttons, menu navigation.

Display Indicators: Clock, source, track number, preset number, play mode. Function buttons: Access various settings by holding buttons for 2 seconds.

Audio Settings

Access audio menu by pressing and holding AUDIO/TONE button.

1. Bass: Adjust low frequencies (-6 to +6)
2. Treble: Adjust high frequencies (-6 to +6)
3. Midrange: Adjust middle frequencies (-6 to +6)
4. Loudness: On/Off for bass enhancement
5. Balance: Left/right speaker balance
6. Fader: Front/rear speaker balance

Tip: Source tone memory saves separate settings for each audio source.

Radio Operation

Press BAND to select AM/FM. Tune manually with TUNE or seek with SEEK.

1. Store presets: Tune to station, hold preset button for 2 seconds.
2. Recall presets: Press numbered preset buttons.
3. Auto memory: Automatically stores strongest stations.
4. Local/DX: Switch between local and distance reception.

Tip: Use manual tuning for weak stations that auto-seek might skip.

CD/MP3 Playback

Insert CD with label facing up. Unit automatically begins playback.

1. Track selection: Use >>| and |<< buttons or numbered buttons.
2. Fast forward/rewind: Hold >>| or |<< during playback.
3. Repeat: Press RPT for track repeat, press twice for disc repeat.
4. Random: Press RDM for random track playback.
5. MP3 folder navigation: Use folder buttons for MP3 CD navigation.
6. Scan: Press SCAN to sample each track for 10 seconds.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped CDs.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parked to deter theft. Security Code: 4-digit code prevents unauthorized use if power is disconnected.

To set security code: Enter menu, select SECURITY, enter 4-digit code twice. If unit displays "CODE," enter security code to unlock.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized Kenwood service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/ fuse	Check battery and ignition connections; verify fuse integrity.
No sound	Speaker wiring	Verify speaker connections; check balance/fader settings.
CD won't play	Disc/loading	Ensure CD is clean, not scratched; check if label side up.
Poor radio reception	Antenna	Ensure antenna fully extended and properly connected.
"CODE" display	Security lock	Enter 4-digit security code to unlock unit.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset unit (note: security code required upon reconnect).

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.