Kenwood KDC BT21 Manual

The Kenwood KDC BT21 is a single DIN car stereo with Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, auxiliary input, AM/FM radio, CD player, and 50W x 4 channel output. Features include hands-free calling, audio streaming, customizable EQ settings, detachable faceplate, and wireless remote control. 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. Bluetooth Operation 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, Bluetooth antenna, USB port, Auxiliary input, CD slot.

Feature	Description
Bluetooth connectivity	For hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB port	For connecting USB devices and charging
Auxiliary input	For external audio devices
CD player	Plays audio CDs and CD-R/RW
AM/FM tuner	With 18 FM/6 AM presets
Power output	50W x 4 channels (max)
Detachable faceplate	For security and theft prevention
EQ settings	Customizable sound profiles
Remote control	Wireless operation from distance
Display	LCD with adjustable illumination

Installation

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

Disconnect negative battery terminal: For safety during wiring.
Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle wiring (red to ignition, yellow to battery, black to ground).
Mount unit: Insert into DIN slot and secure with mounting sleeve.
Connect antennas: Attach Bluetooth and radio antennas.
Reconnect battery and test functions.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup procedures.

Bluetooth pairing: Press SOURCE to select BT, then pair with mobile device.
Radio presets: Tune to desired stations and store in memory.
EQ settings: Adjust bass, treble, and sound profiles in audio menu.
Display settings: Set illumination color and brightness.
Security: Set PIN code for detachable faceplate.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle for initial setup.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 channels (max power)
Bluetooth Version: 2.1 + EDR
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >80dB
Supported Formats: CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA
USB Support: Up to 32GB FAT32
Operating Voltage: 12V DC
Dimensions: 178mm x 50mm x 153mm
Weight: 1.2kg

Controls and Settings

Access menus via FUNCTION button. Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, BAND, TUNE/TRACK buttons.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, SOURCE, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, PRESET, TUNE/TRACK.

Audio: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER, LOUDNESS, EQ presets (POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC). Display: DIMMER, COLOR settings. Bluetooth: PAIR, CALL, VOICE. System: BEEP, CLOCK, RESET.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front port for flash drives. Aux: 3.5mm input for external audio. Bluetooth: Wireless connection.

Turn off vehicle before connecting devices.
USB: Insert flash drive with supported audio files.
Aux: Connect 3.5mm cable from external device.
Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode and connect mobile device.

Tip: Ensure USB devices are formatted FAT32 for compatibility.

Bluetooth Operation

Supports hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Pairing: Press SOURCE to BT, then PAIR on unit. Search for "KDC-BT21" on mobile device.
Calls: Use CALL button to answer/end calls; voice dial with VOICE button.
Audio streaming: Play music from paired device automatically.
Phonebook: Sync contacts for voice dialing.
Disconnect: Turn off Bluetooth on mobile device or reset pairing.

WARNING! Focus on driving while using hands-free features. Do not browse phone while vehicle is in motion.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parked for theft prevention. PIN Protection: Set 4-digit code in security menu. Theft LED: Blinking red light indicates security active.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use chemicals or abrasives. Store detachable faceplate in protective case.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Keep faceplate away from direct sunlight.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check battery and ignition connections; replace fuse if blown.
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing mode/distance	Ensure unit in pairing mode; move device closer; delete old pairing.
No sound from speakers	Speaker wires/settings	Check speaker connections; adjust balance/fader settings.
CD not playing	Disc/format	Ensure disc is clean and properly inserted; check format compatibility.
USB not recognized	Format/capacity	Reformat to FAT32; ensure capacity under 32GB.

Reset: Press RESET button with small pin if unit freezes.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com