Kenwood KDC 248U User Manual

The Kenwood KDC 248U is a single-DIN car stereo receiver featuring CD/MP3/WMA playback, AM/FM tuner with 18 presets, front auxiliary input, detachable faceplate security, high-power output, bass boost, loudness control, and customizable audio settings. Compatible with most vehicles and audio systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Security Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with CD player, Remote Control, Front AUX input, Detachable faceplate, Wiring harness, Antenna connector.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA playback	Plays CDs, MP3, and WMA formatted discs
AM/FM tuner	18 station presets (6 FM, 6 AM, 6 FM2)
Front AUX input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Detachable faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Power output	50W x 4 channels maximum power
Bass boost	Adjustable low-frequency enhancement
Loudness control	Automatic sound compensation at low volumes
Audio adjustments	Bass, treble, balance, fader controls
Illumination	Adjustable display brightness
Clock function	Digital clock display

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is turned off during installation.

Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
Remove existing stereo 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 and reconnect battery.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure proper wire connections.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup procedures.

Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, use tuning knob to set time.
Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button (1-6).
Adjust audio settings: Use BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER controls.
Set illumination: Adjust display brightness in settings menu.
Test all functions: CD playback, radio, AUX input.

CAUTION! Ensure unit is properly secured in dashboard before driving.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (max), 22W x 4 (RMS)
CD Formats: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
Tuner Sensitivity: FM 10.8 dBf, AM 27 μV
Audio Controls: Bass ±10 dB, Treble ±10 dB, Balance L/R, Fader F/R
Inputs: Front AUX (3.5mm), Antenna
Outputs: 4-channel speaker, Preamp outputs (optional)
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: 178mm (W) x 50mm (H) x 153mm (D)
Operating Temp: -20°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND button, AUDIO button, TUNING knob, EJECT button.

Remote: POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, PRESET, SEEK, AUDIO, MUTE (if included).

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER, LOUDNESS, BASS BOOST. Radio: PRESET stations, SEEK tuning, LOCAL/DX reception. Display: CLOCK, DIMMER settings. Security: Faceplate detachment.

Connecting Devices

AUX Input: Front 3.5mm jack for MP3 players, smartphones. Speakers: Standard 4-8 ohm speakers.

Turn off vehicle and unit before connecting devices.
Connect AUX cable from device to front input jack.
Select AUX mode by pressing SOURCE button.
Adjust volume on both device and car stereo.

Tip: Use quality cables for best audio performance. Keep connections clean and secure.

Playing Media

Supports CD, MP3, WMA formats.

Insert disc: Press EJECT, load CD with label side up.
Play: Unit automatically begins playback; use FF/REW for track navigation.
MP3/WMA: Navigate folders using TUNING knob; press to select.
Pause: Press PAUSE or mute during playback.
Random/Repeat: Press RPT or RDM for playback modes.
Scan: Press SCN to sample tracks.
Eject: Press EJECT to remove disc.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped discs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parked to deter theft. Security Code: Optional code setting (refer to manual for setup).

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Do not use chemicals or abrasives. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

CAUTION! Do not expose to moisture or extreme temperatures. Remove faceplate in hot conditions.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check battery connection; verify fuse; ensure proper ground.
No sound	Speaker connections	Check speaker wires; verify audio settings; test different source.
CD won't play	Disc/format	Ensure compatible disc format; clean disc; check for damage.
Poor radio reception	Antenna/location	Ensure antenna connected; adjust antenna position; check local signal.
Unit won't eject disc	Mechanical issue	Use manual eject tool; check for obstructions; power cycle unit.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset unit.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center; www.kenwood.com