Kenwood KDC MP142 Manual

The Kenwood KDC MP142 is a single-DIN car stereo with CD/MP3/WMA playback, built-in AM/FM tuner, front auxiliary input, detachable faceplate security, 4-channel 50W maximum power output, bass boost, loudness control, and preset EQ curves. Compatible with most vehicles and featuring easy installation. 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. Audio Sources 7. Playback Functions 8. Security Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit, Remote Control, Wiring harness, Mounting sleeve, User manual.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA playback	Plays audio CDs and compressed audio files
AM/FM tuner	18 FM/6 AM presets with seek/scan functions
Front AUX input	3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Detachable faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
4-channel output	50W x 4 maximum power
Bass boost	Enhances low-frequency response
Loudness control	Compensates for low volume listening
EQ presets	Multiple sound profiles (ROCK, POP, etc.)
Clock display	Digital clock with time setting
Volume control	Rotary knob for precise level adjustment

Installation

Disconnect vehicle battery before installation. Follow wiring diagram carefully.

Remove existing stereo: Use removal tools to extract old unit from dashboard.
Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors (red-ignition, yellow-battery, black-ground).
Connect speakers: Front/rear channels as per vehicle configuration.
Install mounting sleeve: Secure in dashboard opening.
Insert main unit: Slide into mounting sleeve until it clicks.
Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure proper grounding.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; insert faceplate if detached.

Source selection: Press SOURCE to cycle through CD, TUNER, AUX.
Volume adjustment: Turn VOLUME knob clockwise to increase.
CD playback: Insert disc label-side up; playback starts automatically.
Radio tuning: Press BAND to select AM/FM; use TUNE or SEEK.
Preset stations: Hold 1-6 buttons to store current station.
AUX input: Connect external device to front 3.5mm jack.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving if it distracts attention from road.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (max), 22W x 4 (RMS)
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB
Supported Formats: CD-DA, MP3, WMA
Preset Stations: 18 FM, 6 AM
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: 178mm x 50mm x 159mm (WxHxD)
Operating Temp: -20°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER/VOLUME, SOURCE, EJECT, BAND, TUNE, MENU.

Remote functions: POWER, Numeric buttons, VOLUME, MUTE, SOURCE, PRESET, SEEK.

Audio settings: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER, LOUDNESS, BASS BOOST. System settings: CLOCK, BEEP, DIMMER, RESET. Playback modes: REPEAT, RANDOM, SCAN. Radio settings: LOCAL/DX, ASM (auto station memory).

Audio Sources

CD: Insert standard audio CDs or CD-R/RW with MP3/WMA files. TUNER: AM/FM radio with auto-seek. AUX: External devices via front input.

CD mode: Supports folder navigation for MP3 files.
TUNER mode: Manual tuning or auto-seek for stations.
AUX mode: Automatic detection when device connected.

Tip: Use high-quality CDs without scratches for optimal playback.

Playback Functions

Advanced playback controls for enhanced listening experience.

Repeat: Press RPT to repeat track/folder/all.
Random: Press RDM for random track playback.
Scan: Press SCAN to sample each track for 10 seconds.
Fast forward/rewind: Hold >> or << during playback.
Folder navigation: Use << and >> to navigate MP3 folders.
Track select: Use numeric buttons or TUNE knob.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged or irregular-shaped discs.

Security Features

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

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Avoid chemical cleaners. Store faceplate in protective case when removed.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Keep discs clean and scratch-free.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check fuse and wiring connections; verify battery connection
No sound	Volume/speakers	Check volume level; verify speaker connections; check mute function
CD won't play	Disc/format	Ensure disc is clean; check format compatibility; try different disc
Poor radio reception	Antenna	Check antenna connection; extend antenna fully; adjust location
Unit asks for code	Power loss	Enter security code (default 0000); contact dealer if code lost

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset unit.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.