Kenwood KDC 355U Manual

The Kenwood KDC 355U is a high-performance car stereo system featuring CD/MP3/WMA playback, AM/FM tuner with 18 presets, detachable faceplate security, front auxiliary input, variable color illumination, 4-channel preamp outputs, and advanced audio controls. 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 detachable faceplate, remote control, wiring harness, mounting sleeve, user manual.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA Playback	Supports CD, MP3, and WMA formats
AM/FM Tuner	18 station presets (6 FM, 6 AM, 6 FM2)
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Front AUX Input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Variable Color Illumination	Adjustable display colors
4-Channel Preamp Outputs	For external amplifier connection
Bass/Treble Controls	Adjustable audio equalization
Loudness	Enhances bass at low volumes
Source Tone Memory	Separate settings for each source
Clock Function	Digital clock display

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper vehicle compatibility.

Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle wiring (red to ignition, yellow to battery, black to ground).
Install mounting sleeve: Secure in dashboard opening.
Connect antenna and speakers: Ensure proper polarity.
Test unit before final assembly.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup procedure.

Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, use rotary knob to adjust.
Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button.
Adjust illumination: Use COLOR button to select preferred display color.
Set audio preferences: Adjust bass, treble, loudness, and balance/fader.
Test all functions: CD playback, radio, AUX input.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around unit. Do not block cooling vents.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 channels max
Supported Media: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
Tuner Sensitivity: FM 10.8 dBf, AM 25 μV
Preamp Outputs: 4 channels, 2.5V
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 95 dB
Power Supply: 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, COLOR button, eject button.

Remote: POWER, volume controls, track selection, preset buttons, menu navigation.

Audio Controls: Bass (-10 to +10), Treble (-10 to +10), Loudness (On/Off), Balance/Fader (-10 to +10). Display: Clock setting, illumination color selection (blue, green, red, amber). Radio: Manual tuning, seek tuning, preset memory. CD: Repeat, random play, scan.

Connecting Devices

AUX Input: Front 3.5mm jack for MP3 players, smartphones. Preamp Outputs: Rear RCA connectors for amplifiers.

Turn off unit before connecting devices.
AUX connection: Plug 3.5mm cable from external device to front input.
Amplifier connection: Use RCA cables from preamp outputs to amplifier inputs.
Select source: Press SOURCE to switch between CD, Tuner, AUX.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance. Keep cables away from power wires.

Playing Media

Supports CD, MP3, WMA formats.

Insert disc: Press eject button, load CD label side up.
Play: Unit automatically starts playback; use rotary knob for volume.
Track selection: Use >>| and |<< buttons for next/previous tracks.
Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold >>| or |<< buttons.
Repeat: Press RPT button for track or folder repeat.
Random: Press RDM button for random track play.
Scan: Press SCAN to sample each track for 10 seconds.
MP3 navigation: Use folder buttons to navigate directory structure.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped discs. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parking to deter theft. Security Code: Optional code entry if power is disconnected (default 0000).

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Do not use chemicals or abrasives. Store faceplate in protective case when removed.

CAUTION! Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture. Do not disassemble unit.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/connections	Check battery and ignition connections; verify fuse condition.
No sound	Speaker connections	Verify speaker wiring; check balance/fader settings.
CD won't play	Disc/format	Ensure disc is clean and compatible format; check for scratches.
Radio poor reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna is fully extended and properly connected.
Unit asks for code	Power interruption	Enter security code (default 0000 or personal code).
Remote not working	Batteries/distance	Replace batteries; ensure direct line of sight to unit.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 1 minute to reset unit.

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