Kenwood KDC MP538U Manual

The Kenwood KDC MP538U is a CD receiver with MP3/WMA playback capability, built-in amplifier (50W x 4 max), detachable faceplate security system, CD-R/RW compatibility, 24-station preset memory (18FM/6AM), optional auxiliary input, bass boost, loudness, and high/low pass filters. Features include random/repeat play, audio adjustments, and illumination color customization. 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 Adjustments 7. Security Features 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. 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 CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA formats
Power Output	50W x 4 max (22W x 4 RMS)
Detachable Faceplate	Security feature to prevent theft
Preset Memory	24 stations (18FM/6AM)
Bass Boost	0-10 dB adjustable bass enhancement
Loudness	Automatic bass/treble compensation
Audio Input	Optional auxiliary input for external devices
Illumination	Adjustable display color (green/amber)
Random/Repeat	Folder/track random and repeat modes
High/Low Pass Filter	Adjustable crossover for speakers/subwoofer

Installation

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.

Mounting: Insert mounting sleeve into dashboard opening, bend tabs to secure.
Wiring: Connect wiring harness following color codes (red: ignition, yellow: battery, black: ground).
Antenna: Connect vehicle antenna cable.
Speakers: Connect speaker wires observing polarity.
Security: Install detachable faceplate after testing.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and fuse protection. Professional installation recommended.

Basic Operation

Reconnect battery; insert faceplate until click.

Power: Press SRC to turn on/off; volume knob controls level.
Source Selection: Press SRC to cycle through CD, Tuner, Aux.
CD Playback: Insert disc; auto-play starts. Use >>| and |<< for track skip.
Tuner: Press BAND to select FM/AM; seek or manual tune stations.
Presets: Store stations by holding 1-6 buttons; recall with single press.

CAUTION! Do not remove faceplate while unit is powered on.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 max (22W x 4 RMS)
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 105dB (CD)
Preset Memory: 24 stations (18FM/6AM)
Compatible Formats: CD-DA, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA
Illumination: Green/Amber selectable
Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
Dimensions: 178mm(W) x 50mm(H) x 160mm(D)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Volume knob, SRC, BAND, >>|, |<<, Menu/Setup button.

Remote: Power, Volume, Track skip, Preset buttons, Mute, Mode.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Fader, Loudness, Bass Boost. Tuner Settings: Local/DX, ASM (Auto Store Memory). Display: Dimmer, Illumination color. CD Settings: Random, Repeat, Scan. Security: Faceplate removal code.

Audio Adjustments

Press and hold AUDIO to access sound settings.

Bass/Treble: Adjust ±7 levels each.
Balance/Fader: Adjust speaker balance and front/rear fader.
Loudness: On/Off for low-volume bass enhancement.
Bass Boost: 0-10 dB boost at 60Hz.
HPF/LPF: High/Low Pass Filter for speaker/subwoofer integration.

Tip: Reset to flat response by holding AUDIO for 3 seconds.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parked to deter theft. Security Code: Set 4-digit code in menu; unit will require code if power disconnected.

Maintenance

Clean faceplate with soft, dry cloth only. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Store faceplate in protective case.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check battery and ignition connections; replace fuse.
No sound	Speaker wiring	Verify speaker connections; check balance/fader settings.
CD won't play	Disc format/damage	Ensure compatible format; clean disc; check for scratches.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Secure antenna cable; check local/DX setting.
Security code prompt	Power loss	Enter 4-digit security code (default 0000).

Reset: Disconnect battery for 1 minute to reset unit.

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