Kenwood KDC X496 Owners Manual

The Kenwood KDC X496 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB connectivity, CD playback, AM/FM tuner with 18 FM/6 AM presets, detachable faceplate security, advanced audio controls with 13-band equalizer, SiriusXM Ready capability, and compatibility with various audio formats. 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. Bluetooth Operation 8. Audio Settings 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, Remote Control, Wiring harness, Bluetooth antenna, USB port, Auxiliary input, CD slot.

FeatureDescription
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
USB PortFor connecting USB devices and charging
CD PlayerPlays CD, CD-R, CD-RW formats
AM/FM Tuner18 FM and 6 AM station presets
Detachable FaceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft
13-Band EqualizerAdvanced audio customization
SiriusXM ReadyCompatible with satellite radio
Auxiliary Input3.5mm jack for external audio sources
Remote ControlFull function remote included
Power Output50W x 4 channels maximum

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper wiring connections.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Connect wiring harness: Match colors to vehicle wiring (red to ignition, yellow to battery, black to ground).
  3. Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using appropriate mounting sleeve.
  4. Connect antennas: Attach car antenna and Bluetooth antenna.
  5. Reconnect battery and test unit.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup procedures.

  1. Pair Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, search from mobile device.
  2. Set radio presets: Tune to desired stations, press and hold preset buttons.
  3. Adjust audio settings: Configure equalizer, balance, and fade.
  4. Set clock: Access system menu to set time and date.
  5. Configure security: Set PIN for detachable faceplate.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle for initial setup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, MENU, EJECT, Function buttons.

Remote: POWER, SOURCE, VOLUME, TRACK, PRESET, MENU, Numeric buttons.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Midrange, Balance, Fader, Loudness, Subwoofer control. System Settings: Clock, Display dimmer, Beep tone, Language, Bluetooth settings. Radio: Manual tuning, Auto memory, Local/DX switching. CD: Repeat, Random, Scan modes.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect USB devices for audio playback. Auxiliary: 3.5mm input for external audio. Bluetooth: Wireless connection for phones and audio devices.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting devices.
  2. Use appropriate cables for each connection type.
  3. Select source via SOURCE button (USB, BT, AUX, CD, TUNER).
  4. For USB: Format must be FAT16 or FAT32.

Tip: Ensure Bluetooth antenna is properly connected for best wireless performance.

Bluetooth Operation

Supports hands-free calling and audio streaming.

  1. Pairing: Press SOURCE to BT, enter pairing mode, search from phone.
  2. Calling: Answer/end calls with phone button, use microphone for voice.
  3. Audio streaming: Play music from paired device automatically.
  4. Phonebook: Access contacts through unit display.
  5. Multiple devices: Supports pairing with multiple phones.

WARNING! Use hands-free features only when safe to do so. Avoid distractions while driving.

Audio Settings

13-band equalizer with preset and custom modes. Sound settings: Bass, Treble, Midrange, Balance, Fader, Loudness, Subwoofer level and phase.

Preset EQ modes: POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC, FLAT. Custom EQ: Adjust 13 frequency bands individually. Time alignment: Adjust speaker delay for optimal sound staging.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth only. Remove faceplate when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck power connections; replace fuse if blown.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode/antennaEnter pairing mode; ensure Bluetooth antenna connected.
CD not playingDisc/dirty lensCheck disc format; clean lens with proper cleaner.
Poor radio receptionAntenna connectionEnsure car antenna properly connected.
USB not recognizedFormat/cableFormat USB to FAT32; try different cable.

Reset: Press reset button on faceplate or disconnect battery.

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

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