Kenwood KDC 516S Manual

The Kenwood KDC 516S is a single-DIN car stereo receiver with CD player, USB input, auxiliary input, AM/FM tuner, detachable faceplate, and 50W x 4 maximum power output. Features include MP3/WMA playback, preset equalizer modes, loudness control, and compatibility with steering wheel 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: CD player, USB port, AUX input, AM/FM tuner, detachable faceplate, remote control.

FeatureDescription
CD PlayerPlays audio CDs, CD-R/RW with MP3/WMA files
USB PortFor USB flash drives and iPod connectivity
AUX Input3.5mm jack for external audio devices
AM/FM Tuner18 FM/6 AM presets with seek tuning
Power Output50W x 4 maximum power
Detachable FaceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft
EQ PresetsRock, Pop, Jazz, Classic, User settings
Loudness ControlEnhances bass at low volumes
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with optional interface
DisplayLCD with adjustable illumination

Installation

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.

  1. Remove existing stereo: Use removal tools to extract current unit.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
  3. Connect speakers: Front/rear channels with proper polarity.
  4. Connect antenna: Plug in antenna cable.
  5. Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using mounting sleeve.
  6. Reconnect battery and test functions.

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

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure initial settings.

  1. Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, use tuning knob to set time.
  2. Program radio presets: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button.
  3. Adjust audio settings: Use EQ button to select sound mode.
  4. Set display brightness: Use DIMMER button for day/night settings.
  5. Test all inputs: CD, USB, AUX, and radio functions.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before final assembly.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND, TUNE/TRACK, EQ, LOUD, SETUP.

Remote: POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, TRACK, PRESET, MUTE, DISP.

Audio Settings: EQ modes (ROCK, POP, JAZZ, CLASSIC, USER), Bass/Treble adjustment, Loudness, Fader/Balance. Radio: Manual/Seek tuning, Preset memory, Local/DX reception. System: Clock setting, Display dimmer, Beep on/off, Reset function.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect flash drive or iPod cable. AUX: 3.5mm cable from external device.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting devices.
  2. USB: Insert flash drive directly into USB port.
  3. AUX: Connect 3.5mm cable from device to AUX input.
  4. Select source: Press SOURCE to switch between CD/USB/AUX/Radio.

Tip: For best USB compatibility, format drives as FAT32.

Playing Media

Supports CD, USB, AUX, and radio playback.

  1. CD: Insert disc label side up; unit auto-plays.
  2. USB: Insert drive; navigate folders with TUNE knob.
  3. AUX: Connect device, select AUX source.
  4. Radio: Press BAND to select AM/FM, tune with TUNE.
  5. Track navigation: Use >>| and |<< buttons.
  6. Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold navigation buttons.
  7. Repeat: Press RPT button during playback.
  8. Random: Press RDM for shuffle play.

WARNING! Do not use damaged CDs; keep discs clean and scratch-free.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parking to deter theft. Security Code: Optional code can be set to disable unit if stolen.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Remove faceplate before cleaning; avoid moisture near controls.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE marked for European market. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck fuse, verify power connections, ensure battery connected.
No soundSpeaker connectionsVerify speaker wires connected properly, check fader settings.
CD won't playDisc format/damageUse supported disc formats, clean disc, check for scratches.
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityFormat as FAT32, use supported capacity (up to 32GB).
Poor radio receptionAntenna connectionEnsure antenna fully connected, check antenna condition.

Reset: Press RESET button with small tool if unit locks up.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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