Kenwood KDC X500 Manual

The Kenwood KDC X500 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring CD/MP3/WMA playback, built-in amplifier, detachable faceplate security, AM/FM tuner with 18 presets, auxiliary input, USB connectivity, customizable illumination, bass boost, and advanced audio controls. 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. Playing Media 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.

FeatureDescription
CD/MP3/WMA PlaybackSupports various audio formats
Built-in Amplifier50W x 4 channel maximum power
Detachable FaceplateSecurity feature to prevent theft
AM/FM Tuner18 station presets (6 FM, 6 AM, 6 FM2)
Auxiliary Input3.5mm jack for external devices
USB ConnectivityFor MP3 players and USB storage
Customizable IlluminationAdjustable display colors
Bass BoostEnhanced low-frequency response
Loudness ControlAutomatic sound optimization
Audio ControlsBass, treble, balance, fader adjustments

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper vehicle compatibility.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Remove existing stereo: Use removal tools if necessary.
  3. Connect wiring harness: Match color-coded wires to vehicle harness.
  4. Install mounting sleeve: Secure in dashboard opening.
  5. Connect antenna and test: Ensure all functions work before final assembly.

WARNING! Always disconnect vehicle battery before installation to prevent electrical shorts.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial configuration steps.

  1. Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, adjust time with tuning knob.
  2. Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button.
  3. Adjust audio settings: Set bass, treble, balance, and fader to preference.
  4. Configure illumination: Select display color in settings menu.
  5. Test all functions: Verify CD, radio, and auxiliary inputs work properly.

CAUTION! Ensure proper wiring connections to avoid electrical issues.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND button, AUDIO controls, EJECT button.

Remote Control: POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, PRESET, MUTE, AUDIO, DISP.

Audio Settings: BASS (-10 to +10), TREBLE (-10 to +10), BALANCE (L9 to R9), FADER (F9 to R9). Display: Illumination color selection, dimmer control. Radio: Manual/auto seek, local/distance reception. CD: Repeat, random, scan modes.

Connecting Devices

Auxiliary: 3.5mm jack on front panel. USB: Front panel USB port for storage devices.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting devices.
  2. Connect auxiliary cable to 3.5mm jack for MP3 players/phones.
  3. Insert USB device directly into front USB port.
  4. Select appropriate source (AUX or USB) to play connected media.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Playing Media

Supports CDs, MP3/WMA files, USB devices, auxiliary input.

  1. Insert CD: Press EJECT, load disc label-side up.
  2. Play CD: Unit automatically begins playback.
  3. Skip tracks: Press >>| or |<< buttons.
  4. USB playback: Insert USB device, select USB source.
  5. Auxiliary input: Connect device, select AUX source.
  6. Repeat/Random: Press RPT or RDM buttons during playback.
  7. Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold >>| or |<< buttons.
  8. Scan: Press SCAN to sample each track for 10 seconds.

WARNING! Do not use damaged discs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove for theft prevention. Security Code: Programmable code to deter unauthorized use.

Care & Maintenance

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

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE certified for European markets. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/connectionsCheck fuse, wiring connections, battery connection
No soundSpeaker connectionsVerify speaker wires connected properly, check mute function
CD won't playDisc/loading issueCheck disc for damage, ensure proper insertion, clean lens
Poor radio receptionAntenna connectionEnsure antenna connected securely, check antenna condition
USB not recognizedDevice compatibilityUse compatible USB device, format properly, check file types

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset unit.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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