Kenwood KDC X496 Manual

The Kenwood KDC X496 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, CD playback, AM/FM tuner, advanced audio controls, and smartphone integration. With 50W x 4 channels, built-in amplifier, customizable EQ settings, and intuitive controls, this receiver delivers exceptional sound quality and user experience. 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. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit, Remote Control, Wiring harness, USB cable, Bluetooth antenna, Installation accessories.

Feature	Description
Bluetooth connectivity	For hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB input	For connecting USB devices and smartphones
CD playback	Supports CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
AM/FM tuner	30 station presets (18 FM, 12 AM)
Power output	50W x 4 channels (max)
Audio inputs	RCA preamp outputs (front/rear/sub)
Display	Customizable illumination and dimmer
EQ settings	6-band equalizer with presets
Steering wheel control	Compatible with optional interface
Power requirements	12V DC negative ground

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure proper vehicle compatibility.

Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
Remove factory radio using appropriate tools.
Connect wiring harness following color codes.
Connect antenna and Bluetooth antenna.
Secure unit in dashboard and test all functions.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit; familiarize with basic controls.

Source selection: Press SOURCE to cycle through modes (Radio, CD, USB, BT).
Volume control: Use VOL knob or remote control buttons.
Track selection: Use SEEK buttons or remote for CD/USB playback.
Mode selection: Access different audio sources and settings.
Display settings: Adjust brightness and illumination in setup menu.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Set all controls before driving.

Specifications

Power Output: 50W x 4 (Max), 22W x 4 (RMS)
Tuner: FM/AM with 30 presets
CD Playback: CD, CD-R, CD-RW compatible
USB: Supports MP3, WMA, AAC playback
Bluetooth: Version 3.0 + EDR
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise: 95dB (CD)
Preamp Outputs: 3 pairs (front, rear, sub)
Power Supply: 12V DC negative ground
Dimensions: Standard DIN size (178mm x 50mm)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOL knob, SOURCE, SEEK/TRACK, MENU, EJECT.

Remote: POWER, Volume, Mute, Source, Track selection, Preset buttons.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Fader, Loudness, EQ presets. System Settings: Display dimmer, Beep tones, Clock setting, Bluetooth pairing. Radio Settings: Preset memory, Local/DX reception, Auto store.

Bluetooth Connectivity

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

Enable Bluetooth on mobile device.
Press SOURCE to select BT mode.
Select "KDC-X496" from available devices list.
Enter PIN "0000" if prompted.
Confirm pairing on both devices.

Tip: Keep mobile device within 3 feet for optimal Bluetooth performance.

USB and Media Playback

Supports USB drives and smartphone connectivity.

Connect USB device to USB port.
Press SOURCE to select USB mode.
Navigate folders using SEEK/TRACK buttons.
Play/Pause with appropriate button.
Fast forward/reverse by holding SEEK buttons.
Repeat/Shuffle modes available in menu.

WARNING! Do not remove USB device during playback. Use only compatible file formats.

Audio Settings

Customize sound to match vehicle acoustics and preferences.

EQ Presets: FLAT, POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC, USER. Sound Controls: Bass (-6 to +6), Treble (-6 to +6), Balance (L9 to R9), Fader (F9 to R9), Loudness (On/Off). Advanced: Subwoofer level control, HPF/LPF filters.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Avoid liquids and abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners on display. Keep CDs and USB ports free of dust and debris.

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/connections	Check fuse, wiring harness, ground connection.
Bluetooth not pairing	Device compatibility	Reset Bluetooth; ensure device is discoverable; check PIN.
CD not playing	Disc/loading	Check disc format; clean disc; ensure proper insertion.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Check antenna cable; ensure secure connection.
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Use FAT32 format; check file types; try different USB device.

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

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center or visit www.kenwood.com