Kenwood KDC MP438U Manual

The Kenwood KDC MP438U is a car stereo receiver with CD/MP3/WMA playback, USB direct control, front auxiliary input, 50W x 4 high power output, detachable faceplate security, CD text display, loudness control, and advanced audio adjustments. Features include 3-band parametric EQ, SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready, and iPod direct connection capability. 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. Connecting Devices 7. Audio Playback 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, mounting sleeve, user manual.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3/WMA Playback	Plays CDs, MP3, and WMA formatted discs
USB Direct Control	Front panel USB port for flash drives
Front AUX Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for external devices
Power Output	50W x 4 channel high power
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
CD Text Display	Shows track information when available
3-Band Parametric EQ	Advanced equalizer with customizable settings
SIRIUS Ready	Satellite radio compatible with adapter
iPod Direct Control	Direct connection and control for iPod
Loudness Control	Enhances bass at low volume levels

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
Connect wiring harness following color-coded wires.
Slide unit into mounting sleeve and secure with brackets.
Reconnect battery and test all functions.
Attach faceplate for normal operation.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit by attaching faceplate or pressing power button.

Source selection: Press SOURCE to cycle through available sources.
Volume control: Turn VOL knob or use remote control buttons.
CD operation: Insert disc for automatic playback.
USB playback: Connect USB device to front port.
AUX input: Connect 3.5mm cable for external audio sources.

CAUTION! Do not remove faceplate while unit is playing. Always detach when parking vehicle.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (Max)
Supported Formats: CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20,000Hz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 95dB
Preamp Outputs: 2.5V front/rear/subwoofer
EQ Controls: 3-band parametric equalizer
Display: Multi-color LCD with dimmer
Security: Detachable faceplate with carrying case
Power Requirement: 12V DC negative ground

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER/VOL knob, SOURCE, BAND, TUNE/TRACK, AUDIO, SETUP.

Remote Control: POWER, VOLUME, MUTE, SOURCE, BAND, PRESET, TUNE/TRACK, AUDIO.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Midrange, Loudness, Balance, Fader. Setup Menu: Display dimmer, Beep tone, AUX mode, Clock setting. EQ Presets: ROCK, POP, JAZZ, CLASSIC, CUSTOM. Source-specific settings for each input mode.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front panel port for flash drives. AUX: 3.5mm front input. iPod: Requires KCA-iP100 adapter. SIRIUS: Requires SIRIUS tuner and antenna.

Turn off unit before connecting devices.
Use proper cables and adapters for each device type.
Select appropriate source mode after connection.
For iPod: Connect through adapter for full control functionality.

Tip: Format USB drives as FAT32 for best compatibility. Maximum capacity 32GB.

Audio Playback

Supports multiple audio sources with various playback options.

CD Playback: Insert disc, automatic play begins.
MP3/WMA: Navigate folders using TUNE knob.
USB Playback: Random, repeat, and scan modes available.
Track Selection: Use TUNE/TRACK buttons or numeric presets.
Fast Forward/Rewind: Press and hold TUNE/TRACK buttons.
Repeat: Press RPT for track/folder repeat.
Random: Press RDM for shuffle playback.
Display Modes: Press DISP to cycle through information displays.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or scratched discs. Keep USB connections clean and dry.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parking to deter theft. Security Code: Optional code can be set to prevent unauthorized use. Faceplate Storage: Use provided carrying case for protection.

Care & Maintenance

Clean faceplate with soft, dry cloth only. Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Keep discs and USB ports free from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Never use solvents or spray cleaners on the unit. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Compliant: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/faceplate	Check battery connection; ensure faceplate properly attached.
No sound	Settings/speakers	Check volume level; verify speaker connections; check mute setting.
CD won't play	Disc/format	Ensure disc is clean; check format compatibility; try different disc.
USB not recognized	Format/capacity	Reformat as FAT32; check device capacity limit; try different USB drive.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstruction	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to front panel.

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

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