Kenwood KDC X796 Manual

The Kenwood KDC X796 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, CD playback, AM/FM tuner, advanced audio controls, and compatibility with various audio formats. With 50W x 4 channels, built-in amplifier, and customizable sound settings, this unit delivers exceptional audio quality for your vehicle. Below are key sections covering 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: Main unit with CD player, Remote Control, USB port, AUX input, Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM tuner, and various audio controls.

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 stations and RDS
Power output50W x 4 channels (max)
Audio controlsBass, treble, balance, fader, loudness
DisplayMulti-color LCD with customizable illumination
Remote controlIncluded for convenient operation
Power antenna controlAutomatic antenna activation

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
  2. Remove existing stereo from dashboard using appropriate tools.
  3. Connect wiring harness following color-coded connections.
  4. Connect antenna cable and ground wire securely.
  5. Slide unit into dashboard and secure with mounting sleeve.
  6. Reconnect battery and test all functions.

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

First-Time Setup

Initial configuration for optimal performance.

  1. Power on unit: Press SOURCE button to turn on.
  2. Set clock: Press and hold SETUP, navigate to clock settings.
  3. Pair Bluetooth: Enter pairing mode and connect mobile device.
  4. Program radio stations: Use auto-scan or manual tuning.
  5. Adjust audio settings: Set bass, treble, balance, and fader.
  6. Configure display: Set illumination color and brightness.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle safely before adjusting settings.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, BAND, TUNE/TRACK, SETUP, EJECT.

Remote: POWER, VOLUME, SOURCE, TRACK, BAND, PRESET, MUTE, SETUP.

Audio Settings: Bass (-10 to +10), Treble (-10 to +10), Balance (L9 to R9), Fader (F9 to R9), Loudness (On/Off). Display: Illumination color (Red/Blue/Green/White), Dimmer, Display mode. Bluetooth: Pairing, Phonebook access, Call history. System: Clock, Beep tone, Reset, Demo mode.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect USB device for audio playback and charging. AUX: 3.5mm input for external audio sources. Bluetooth: Wireless connection for audio and calls.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting devices.
  2. USB: Insert USB device directly into port.
  3. AUX: Connect 3.5mm cable from external device.
  4. Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode and connect from device.
  5. Select source using SOURCE button.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance. Keep USB devices formatted in FAT32.

Playing Media

Supports CD, USB, AUX, and Bluetooth audio sources.

  1. CD: Insert disc with label facing up, closes automatically.
  2. USB: Connect device, automatically detects and plays.
  3. AUX: Connect cable, select AUX source.
  4. Bluetooth: Pair device, select BT audio source.
  5. Navigation: Use TUNE/TRACK for previous/next track.
  6. Play modes: Repeat, random, scan available.
  7. Folder navigation: For USB devices with multiple folders.
  8. Fast forward/rewind: Press and hold TUNE/TRACK buttons.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged discs. Eject CDs properly using EJECT button. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling: Answer/end calls, reject calls, call waiting. Audio streaming: A2DP profile for high-quality music. Phonebook access: Download and access contacts. Voice dialing: Supported with compatible phones.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep unit dry and free from moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep CDs clean and free from 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 customer service at 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck fuse, wiring connections, and ground connection.
No soundVolume/muteCheck volume level, mute function, and speaker connections.
CD not playingDisc/loadingEnsure disc is clean, inserted properly, and compatible format.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/distanceDelete old pairing, ensure within range, restart pairing process.
USB not recognizedFormat/cableEnsure FAT32 format, try different USB device, check connection.

Reset: Press and hold SETUP for 10 seconds to reset unit.

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

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