Kenwood KDC HD548U Owners Manual

The Kenwood KDC HD548U is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring HD Radio technology, USB connectivity, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, CD playback, AM/FM tuner with 18FM/6AM presets, detachable faceplate security, 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. Bluetooth 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
HD Radio	Digital radio reception with crystal-clear sound
Bluetooth	Wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB Port	For connecting USB devices and charging
CD Player	Plays CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
AM/FM Tuner	18 FM and 6 AM station presets
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Audio Controls	Bass, treble, balance, fader adjustments
AUX Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for external devices
Remote Control	Full-function remote included
Display	Multi-color LCD display with dimmer

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Ensure vehicle is parked with ignition off.

Disconnect negative battery terminal before beginning installation.
Remove existing stereo and prepare wiring harness.
Connect wiring harness following color-coded wiring diagram.
Secure unit in dashboard using mounting sleeve.
Reconnect battery and test all functions.

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

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure basic settings for optimal performance.

Power on unit: Press SRC button to turn on.
Set clock: Hold SETUP button, navigate to clock settings.
Pair Bluetooth: Access Bluetooth menu to pair mobile device.
Program radio presets: Tune to desired stations and hold preset buttons.
Adjust audio settings: Set bass, treble, balance to preference.

CAUTION! Do not operate controls while driving. Park vehicle safely before adjusting settings.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 channels (max)
CD Formats: CD, CD-R, CD-RW
USB Support: MP3, WMA playback from USB devices
Bluetooth: Version 2.1 + EDR, A2DP, HFP
Tuner Sensitivity: FM 10.3 dBf, AM 25 µV
Display: Multi-color LCD with adjustable dimmer
Power Requirement: 12V DC negative ground
Dimensions: 7-1/8" (W) x 2" (H) x 6-3/8" (D)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: SRC (source), VOL knob, BAND, TUNE, SETUP, eject button.

Remote Control: Power, volume, track selection, preset buttons, menu navigation.

Audio Settings: Bass (-10 to +10), Treble (-10 to +10), Balance (L9 to R9), Fader (F9 to R9). System Settings: Clock, display dimmer, beep on/off, Bluetooth settings, reset function. Radio Settings: Local/distance tuning, auto store, preset memory.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect USB device to front USB port. Bluetooth: Pair mobile devices. AUX: Connect 3.5mm audio cable to front AUX input.

Ensure unit is powered on and in appropriate source mode.
For USB: Insert USB device, select USB source.
For Bluetooth: Enter pairing mode, search for "KDC-HD548U" on mobile device.
For AUX: Connect cable, select AUX source.

Tip: Use high-quality USB cables for reliable data transfer and charging.

Playing Media

Supports CD, USB, Bluetooth, and AUX audio sources.

CD Playback: Insert CD, press SRC to select CD mode.
USB Playback: Connect USB device, select USB source.
Track Navigation: Use TUNE knob or remote to skip tracks.
Play Modes: Repeat, random play available in menu.
Fast Forward/Rewind: Press and hold TUNE buttons.
Folder Navigation: For USB devices with multiple folders.
Text Display: Shows track title, artist when available.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged CDs. Keep liquids away from unit and connected devices.

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming capabilities.

Pairing: Access Bluetooth menu, select "Pairing", search from mobile device.
Call Functions: Answer/end calls with remote or unit buttons.
Audio Streaming: Stream music from compatible Bluetooth devices.
Phonebook Access: Download contacts for voice dialing (if supported).
Auto Connection: Paired devices connect automatically when in range.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Remove faceplate when not in use for security and protection.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. This device complies with part 15 of FCC Rules. Copyright © 2025 Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/ignition	Check power and ground connections; verify ignition wire connection.
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing mode/distance	Ensure unit in pairing mode; check device compatibility; reduce distance.
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Use FAT32 formatted devices; check file format compatibility.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna cable securely connected; check antenna condition.
CD skipping	Disc/damage	Clean disc; check for scratches; ensure proper insertion.

Reset: Hold SETUP button for 5 seconds to reset to factory defaults.

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