Kenwood KDC X896 Manual

The Kenwood KDC X896 is a high-performance car audio receiver featuring advanced digital media playback, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, auxiliary input, CD playback capability, customizable audio settings, and intuitive controls. Designed for superior sound quality and user convenience with built-in amplifier, preset EQ modes, and expandable system compatibility. 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 Functions 6. Audio Settings 7. Bluetooth Connectivity 8. USB and Media Playback 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital media receiver, Remote Control, Front panel USB port, Auxiliary input, CD slot, Display with backlight, Function buttons.

FeatureDescription
Bluetooth connectivityFor hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB portFor connecting USB devices and charging
Auxiliary inputFor external audio sources
CD playbackSupports CD-DA, MP3, WMA formats
Power output50W x 4 channels maximum
EQ settingsPreset and customizable equalizer modes
Display dimmerAdjustable display brightness
Source selectSwitch between radio, CD, USB, BT, AUX
Volume controlMaster volume and balance/fader controls
Power antenna controlAutomatic antenna activation

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Prepare vehicle dashboard.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Remove existing radio: Use proper removal tools for your vehicle.
  3. Connect wiring harness: Match color-coded wires to vehicle harness.
  4. Connect antenna: Attach antenna cable to receiver.
  5. Secure unit: Insert receiver into dashboard and secure with mounting sleeve.
  6. Reconnect battery: Restore power and test functions.

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

Basic Operation

Power on unit; select desired source mode.

  1. Power on/off: Press SRC/OFF button to turn on; hold to turn off.
  2. Source selection: Press SRC to cycle through radio, CD, USB, BT, AUX.
  3. Volume adjustment: Turn VOL knob or use remote control.
  4. Playback control: Use playback buttons for play, pause, skip, etc.
  5. Mode selection: Access different functions via FUNCTION button.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving if it distracts from road attention.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: SRC/OFF, VOL knob, FUNCTION, EJECT, Display, USB port, AUX input.

Remote: Power, Volume, Source select, Playback controls, Preset buttons, Menu navigation.

Basic Functions: Source selection, Volume control, Playback control, Preset memory, Display settings. Advanced Functions: Audio settings (Bass, Treble, Balance, Fader), Bluetooth pairing, EQ presets, Clock setting, Dimmer control.

Audio Settings

Access audio menu via FUNCTION button.

  1. Bass/Treble: Adjust low and high frequency response (-7 to +7)
  2. Balance/Fader: Control speaker output distribution
  3. Loudness: Enhance low-volume listening
  4. EQ Presets: Select from FLAT, POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC
  5. Subwoofer control: Adjust subwoofer level if connected
  6. Time alignment: Adjust speaker timing for optimal sound stage

Tip: Use flat EQ setting for most accurate sound reproduction.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Pair mobile devices for hands-free operation.

  1. Enable Bluetooth: Press BT button or select via source menu.
  2. Enter pairing mode: Unit displays "PAIRING" when ready.
  3. Search on device: Find "KENWOOD X896" in Bluetooth settings.
  4. Connect: Enter PIN "0000" if prompted.
  5. Confirm pairing: Unit shows "CONNECTED" when successful.

WARNING! Only use hands-free features when vehicle is parked safely.

USB and Media Playback

Supports USB drives with MP3, WMA files.

  1. Connect USB: Insert USB device into front port.
  2. Select source: Choose USB mode via SRC button.
  3. Navigate files: Use folder up/down buttons to browse.
  4. Play control: Play, pause, skip, repeat, random functions available.
  5. File information: Display shows track name, artist, album if available.

CAUTION! Do not remove USB device during playback to avoid data corruption.

Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use soft cloth for display; avoid chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners; keep liquids away from unit.

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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck fuse; verify proper power and ground connections.
No soundSettings/speakersCheck volume; verify speaker connections; check mute function.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/rangeEnsure pairing mode; check device compatibility; reduce distance.
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityUse FAT32 format; check file compatibility; try different USB device.
CD not playingDisc/damageClean disc; check for scratches; ensure proper format.

Reset: Hold SRC and FUNCTION for 5 seconds to reset unit.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.

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