Kenwood KDC 208U Manual

The Kenwood KDC 208U is a single-DIN car stereo receiver featuring CD/MP3 playback, AM/FM tuner with 18 presets, detachable faceplate security, front auxiliary input, 4-channel preamp outputs, and variable color illumination. With 50W x 4 maximum power output and compatibility with various audio formats, this receiver delivers quality sound for your vehicle. Below are key sections covering features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Audio Settings 7. Radio Operation 8. CD/MP3 Playback 9. Security Features 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

FeatureDescription
CD/MP3 PlaybackPlays audio CDs and MP3 files from CD-R/RW
AM/FM Tuner18 station presets (12 FM, 6 AM)
Detachable FaceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft
Front AUX Input3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Preamp Outputs4-channel (front/rear) for amplifier connection
Variable Color IlluminationAdjustable display colors to match vehicle interior
Power Output50W x 4 maximum, 22W x 4 RMS
Audio ControlsBass, treble, balance, fader, loudness
Clock FunctionDigital clock display
Remote ControlIncluded for convenient operation

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before beginning installation.
  2. Connect wiring harness following color-coded wires (red: ignition, yellow: constant power, black: ground).
  3. Slide mounting sleeve into dashboard opening and secure with provided brackets.
  4. Connect antenna cable and preamp outputs if using external amplifiers.
  5. Insert main unit into mounting sleeve until it clicks into place.
  6. Reconnect battery and test all functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect vehicle battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts or damage.

Basic Operation

Power on unit and familiarize yourself with basic controls.

  1. Power: Press SRC/OFF button to turn on/off.
  2. Source Selection: Press SRC/OFF repeatedly to cycle through CD, Tuner, AUX.
  3. Volume Control: Turn VOL knob clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease.
  4. Mute: Press VOL knob to temporarily mute audio.
  5. Display: Press DISP button to change display information.

NOTE: Unit will enter demo mode if not properly installed. Ensure constant power (yellow wire) is connected to battery.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front panel controls: SRC/OFF, VOL knob, DISP, BAND, buttons 1-6, open/close.

Remote Control: Power, volume up/down, source, track up/down, preset buttons, mute.

Audio Controls: Access audio menu by pressing AUDIO button. Adjust bass (-10 to +10), treble (-10 to +10), balance (L9 to R9), fader (F9 to R9), loudness (on/off). Display Settings: Adjust illumination color, dimmer function, clock setting. Source Functions: CD mode (play/pause, skip, repeat, random), Tuner mode (seek, manual tune, preset memory), AUX mode (external device playback).

Audio Settings

Customize sound to your preference using audio controls.

  1. Press AUDIO button to enter audio menu.
  2. Use buttons 1-6 to select different audio functions.
  3. Turn VOL knob to adjust selected setting.
  4. Press AUDIO again to exit menu.

Available settings: Bass level, Treble level, Balance (left/right), Fader (front/rear), Loudness (boost bass at low volumes), Source Level Adjuster (SLA) for volume matching between sources.

Radio Operation

AM/FM radio with 18 preset stations.

  1. Press SRC/OFF to select Tuner mode.
  2. Press BAND to switch between FM1, FM2, FM3, AM.
  3. Automatic Tuning: Press and hold SEEK up/down to scan for stations.
  4. Manual Tuning: Briefly press SEEK up/down to change frequency.
  5. Store Presets: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button (1-6) for 2 seconds.
  6. Recall Presets: Briefly press preset button to select stored station.

Tip: Use FM3 band for additional preset storage beyond FM1 and FM2.

CD/MP3 Playback

Plays standard audio CDs and MP3 files from CD-R/RW.

  1. Insert disc: Press open/close button, insert CD label-side up.
  2. Playback begins automatically for audio CDs.
  3. Track Selection: Press SEEK up/down to skip tracks.
  4. Fast Forward/Rewind: Press and hold SEEK up/down.
  5. Repeat: Press RPT button to repeat current track or all tracks.
  6. Random: Press RDM button for random track playback.
  7. MP3 Navigation: Use folder up/down buttons to navigate directories.
  8. Eject: Press open/close button to remove disc.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped CDs. Avoid exposing discs to direct sunlight or heat.

Security Features

Protect your investment with built-in security functions.

Detachable Faceplate: Press release button and slide faceplate off for theft prevention. Faceplate Storage: Store in protective case when not in use. Security Code: Optional 4-digit code can be set to disable unit if stolen (default: no code set). Code Setting: In standby mode, press and hold buttons 1 and 4 simultaneously, then follow on-screen prompts.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring connectionsCheck fuse, verify power and ground connections are secure.
No soundAudio settings/speakersCheck mute function, volume level, speaker connections.
CD won't playDisc format/damageEnsure disc is clean, not scratched; verify format compatibility.
Poor radio receptionAntenna connectionCheck antenna cable connection; ensure antenna is fully extended.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to unit.
Unit displays CODESecurity lockEnter 4-digit security code or contact dealer if code lost.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 1 minute to reset unit (will lose presets and settings).

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs. Customer support: 1-800-536-9663

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