kenwood kdc 138 manual pdf

The Kenwood KDC-138 is a single-DIN CD receiver with USB connectivity, built-in amplifier, AM/FM tuner, detachable faceplate security, and compatibility with various audio formats. Features include 50W x 4 max power output, CD-R/RW playback, MP3/WMA file support, preset EQ settings, and rotary volume control. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, settings, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Guide 3. Basic Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Audio Settings 7. USB Playback 8. Security Features 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: CD receiver unit, Remote Control, Wiring harness, Detachable faceplate, USB port, Antenna connector.

Feature	Description
CD playback	Supports CD, CD-R, CD-RW media
USB connectivity	Direct USB input for audio playback
AM/FM tuner	30 station presets (18 FM, 12 AM)
Power output	50W x 4 channels maximum
Audio formats	MP3, WMA file support
Detachable faceplate	Security feature against theft
EQ presets	ROCK, POP, CLASSIC, etc.
Rotary volume	Easy volume adjustment
LCD display	Backlit display with track information
Power requirements	12V DC negative ground

Installation Guide

Ensure vehicle is turned off before installation.

Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
Remove existing stereo unit from dashboard.
Connect wiring harness: Match color-coded wires (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
Connect antenna cable and speaker wires.
Secure unit in dashboard mounting sleeve.
Reconnect battery and test operation.

WARNING! Professional installation recommended. Incorrect wiring may damage unit or vehicle electrical system.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; follow initial setup if required.

Source selection: Press SOURCE to cycle through CD, USB, TUNER modes.
Volume control: Turn rotary knob for volume adjustment.
Track navigation: Use SEEK buttons for previous/next track.
Preset stations: Hold numeric button to store current station.
Mute function: Press MUTE to temporarily silence audio.

NOTE: Unit remembers settings when powered off.

Technical Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (Max), 22W x 4 (RMS)
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20,000Hz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB
Preset Stations: 30 total (18 FM, 12 AM)
CD Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW
USB Support: MP3, WMA files up to 32GB
Power Requirement: 12V DC negative ground
Dimensions: 178mm(W) x 50mm(H) x 153mm(D)
Weight: 1.2 kg

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, SEEK buttons, EJECT, USB port.

Remote Control: POWER, Numeric buttons, SEEK, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, SOURCE.

Display: Shows current source, track info, time, station frequency. Function menu: Access by holding FUNCTION button for audio settings, clock setup, system reset.

Audio Settings

Access audio settings through FUNCTION menu.

EQ Presets: Select from ROCK, POP, CLASSIC, JAZZ, FLAT.
Bass/Treble: Adjust levels from -7 to +7.
Loudness: On/Off for enhanced low-volume listening.
Balance/Fader: Adjust speaker output distribution.
Audio Muting: Speed-dependent volume adjustment.

Tip: Reset to factory defaults if settings become unstable.

USB Playback

Supports USB flash drives with MP3/WMA files.

Connect USB device to front USB port.
Select USB source using SOURCE button.
Navigate folders using SEEK buttons.
Play/Pause with PLAY/PAUSE button.
Random/Repeat: Access through FUNCTION menu.

NOTE: Format USB drive as FAT32 for compatibility.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove for theft prevention. Security Code: Optional 4-digit code can be set. Anti-theft LED: Blinking red light indicates security active.

Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth only. Avoid chemical cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids on faceplate or controls. Keep discs and USB ports free of dust.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check fuse and wiring connections; verify battery connection.
No sound	Speaker connections	Verify speaker wire connections; check volume level.
CD won't play	Disc/loading	Ensure disc is clean and properly inserted; check format compatibility.
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Reformat USB as FAT32; check file format support.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna cable is securely connected; check antenna condition.

Reset: Hold FUNCTION button for 5 seconds to factory reset.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.