Kenwood KDC X794 Manual

The Kenwood KDC X794 is a high-performance car audio 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 sound settings, and intuitive controls, this receiver delivers exceptional audio quality for your vehicle. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, settings, 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. Bluetooth Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital media receiver, Remote Control, USB port, AUX input, Bluetooth connectivity, CD player, AM/FM tuner.

FeatureDescription
Bluetooth connectivityFor wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB portFor connecting USB devices and charging
AUX inputFor external audio sources
CD playerPlays audio CDs and CD-R/RW
AM/FM tunerWith preset memory (18 FM, 6 AM)
Power output50W x 4 channels (max)
EQ settings13-band equalizer with presets
DisplayCustomizable color LCD
Steering wheel controlCompatible with most vehicles
PowerTurns unit on/off

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper wiring harness.

  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. Connect antenna: Attach vehicle antenna cable.
  4. Mount receiver: Secure in dashboard using mounting sleeve.
  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 prompts.

  1. Set clock: Press SOURCE to enter setup mode, adjust time.
  2. Pair Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, search for "KDC-X794" on your device.
  3. Program radio presets: Tune to desired stations, press and hold preset buttons.
  4. Adjust audio settings: Use EQ controls for preferred sound profile.
  5. Customize display: Set color and brightness preferences.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via FUNCTION button. Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME, SOURCE, EJECT, AUDIO CONTROLS.

Remote: POWER, SOURCE, VOLUME, TRACK UP/DOWN, PRESET, MUTE, MENU.

Audio Settings: EQ (ROCK, POP, JAZZ, etc.), bass/treble, fader, balance, loudness. System: Clock, display color, button illumination, Bluetooth settings. Radio: Preset memory, seek/scan, local/distance reception. Source: CD, USB, BT, AUX selection.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front/rear port for flash drives. AUX: 3.5mm input for external devices. Bluetooth: Wireless audio and calls.

  1. Turn off vehicle before connecting devices.
  2. USB: Insert flash drive or connect smartphone for charging/playback.
  3. AUX: Connect 3.5mm cable from external device.
  4. Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, connect from device settings.
  5. Select source via SOURCE button (USB, BT, AUX, CD).

Tip: Format USB drives to FAT32 for best compatibility.

Playing Media

Supports CD, USB, Bluetooth, and AUX sources.

  1. Insert media: Press EJECT for CD, insert USB drive, or connect via Bluetooth.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; navigate tracks with TRACK buttons.
  3. Pause: Press PAUSE during playback.
  4. Skip: TRACK UP/DOWN for next/previous tracks.
  5. Random/Repeat: Press RPT or RDM for playback modes.
  6. Folder navigation: Use FOLDER buttons for USB directory browsing.
  7. Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold TRACK buttons.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged discs. Keep USB ports clean and dry.

Bluetooth Features

Wireless Audio Streaming: Play music from compatible devices. Hands-free Calling: Answer/end calls, call history, voice dialing.

  1. Pairing: Enable BT on device, select "KDC-X794" from available devices.
  2. 2. Audio streaming: Automatically connects when device is in range.
  3. Phone functions: Use PHONE button for call management.
  4. Voice commands: Press and hold PHONE button for voice activation.

Note: Keep paired device within 10 feet for optimal connection.

Care & Maintenance

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for display and buttons. Compressed air for ports.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners. Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. ICES-003: Complies with Canadian EMI regulations. Bluetooth: Qualified Bluetooth device. Copyright © 2023 Kenwood Corporation; trademarks of JVCKENWOOD Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck battery connection; verify fuse; ensure proper ground.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/rangeDelete old pairing; restart both devices; ensure within range.
USB not recognizedFormat/cableReformat to FAT32; try different USB device; check cable.
Poor radio receptionAntenna/locationEnsure antenna connected; check antenna amplifier; adjust location.
CD not playingDisc/playerClean disc; check for scratches; ensure proper insertion.
No soundSettings/connectionsCheck volume; verify speaker connections; ensure mute is off.

Reset: Press RESET button with small pin if unit freezes.

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

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