Kenwood KDC BT948HD Manual

The Kenwood KDC BT948HD is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, CD playback, AM/FM tuner with 18 presets, detachable faceplate security, 4-channel amplifier (22W RMS x 4), built-in equalizer with preset sound profiles, hands-free calling, and audio streaming capabilities. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, settings, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Bluetooth Connectivity 7. USB and Media Playback 8. Audio Settings 9. Security Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, Remote Control, Wiring harness, Bluetooth antenna, USB extension cable.

Feature	Description
Bluetooth connectivity	For hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB input	For connecting USB devices and charging
CD playback	Supports CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
AM/FM tuner	18 station presets (6 FM, 6 AM, 6 FM2)
Power output	22W RMS x 4 channels (max 50W x 4)
Detachable faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
EQ settings	Built-in equalizer with multiple presets
AUX input	3.5mm auxiliary input for external devices
Steering wheel control	Compatible with steering wheel remote interfaces
Display illumination	Multi-color display with adjustable settings

Installation

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.

Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors to vehicle harness (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
Connect speakers: Front and rear speaker outputs (white, gray, green, purple pairs).
Install Bluetooth antenna: Connect to designated port on rear of unit.
Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using appropriate mounting sleeve.
Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating and secure all connections to prevent electrical issues.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; follow initial setup prompts.

Source selection: Press SOURCE button to cycle through modes (Radio, CD, USB, BT, AUX).
Volume control: Turn knob or use remote volume buttons.
Mode selection: Access different functions via function button.
Preset stations: Hold 1-6 buttons to store current station.
Detach faceplate: Press release button and slide faceplate out for security.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving; set controls before driving.

Specifications

Power Output: 22W RMS x 4 channels (4 ohm)
Max Power: 50W x 4 channels
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 80dBA
Bluetooth Version: 3.0 + EDR
Supported Formats: MP3, WMA, AAC (USB), CD-DA, CD-R/RW
Display: Multi-color LCD with adjustable illumination
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: DIN size (178mm x 50mm)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power/Volume knob, Source button, Function knob, Eject button, USB port.

Remote: Power, Volume, Source, Preset buttons, Play/Pause, Track navigation.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Fader, Loudness, EQ presets (Pop, Rock, Jazz, etc.). System Settings: Display color, Dimmer, Beep tone, Bluetooth pairing, Clock setting. Source Settings: Radio band selection, CD repeat/shuffle, USB folder play.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Pairing mobile devices for hands-free operation and audio streaming.

Enter BT mode: Press SOURCE until BT appears on display.
Enable pairing: Hold Function button to enter pairing mode.
Search on device: Find "KDC-BT948HD" in Bluetooth settings.
Connect: Enter PIN "0000" if prompted.
Test: Make call or play audio from connected device.

Tip: Keep phone within 3 feet for optimal Bluetooth performance.

USB and Media Playback

Supports USB drives and portable media players.

Connect device: Plug USB cable into front port or extension.
Select source: Press SOURCE until USB mode activates.
Navigation: Use track buttons to browse folders and files.
Play modes: Repeat, Shuffle, Random play available.
Fast search: Hold track buttons for rapid file navigation.
Charging: USB port provides 5V/1A charging capability.

WARNING! Safely eject USB devices before removal to prevent data corruption.

Audio Settings

Customize sound output for optimal listening experience.

Setting	Function	Range
Bass	Low frequency adjustment	-7 to +7
Treble	High frequency adjustment	-7 to +7
Balance	Left/Right speaker balance	L15 to R15
Fader	Front/Rear speaker balance	F15 to R15
Loudness	Bass boost at low volumes	On/Off
EQ Preset	Pre-configured sound profiles	Flat, Pop, Rock, Jazz, etc.

Security Features

Detachable faceplate: Remove when parked to deter theft. Security code: Optional code protection (write down code in safe place).

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers. This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check battery and ignition connections; verify fuse condition.
No sound	Speaker connections	Verify speaker wire connections; check volume and mute settings.
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing mode/distance	Enter pairing mode; ensure device within range; delete old pairing.
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Use FAT32 format; check file compatibility; try different USB device.
CD not playing	Disc type/damage	Use compatible disc types; clean disc surface; check for scratches.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna fully connected; check for damaged antenna cable.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 1 minute to reset unit memory.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.