Kenwood KDC X997 Manual

The Kenwood KDC X997 is a high-performance car stereo receiver featuring advanced audio processing, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, CD playback, and extensive audio customization options. With built-in amplifier, variable color display, and support for various audio formats, this receiver delivers premium sound 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. Audio Playback 8. Bluetooth Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with display, Remote Control, Wiring harness, USB port, AUX input, Bluetooth antenna, CD slot.

FeatureDescription
Bluetooth connectivityFor hands-free calling and audio streaming
USB portFor connecting USB devices and charging
AUX inputFor external audio sources
CD playbackSupports CD-DA, MP3, WMA formats
Variable color displayCustomizable illumination colors
Built-in amplifier50W x 4 channels maximum power
Audio processing13-band equalizer, time alignment, crossover
SOURCECycles through available audio sources
VOLUMEAdjusts audio output level
POWERTurns unit on/off

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper mounting location.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Remove existing stereo: Use appropriate removal tools for your vehicle.
  3. Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors and functions carefully.
  4. Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using supplied brackets.
  5. Connect antenna and Bluetooth module: Attach to designated ports.
  6. Reconnect battery and test: Verify all functions work properly.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial configuration prompts.

  1. Set clock: Press SETUP, navigate to clock settings.
  2. Configure Bluetooth: Pair with mobile device for hands-free operation.
  3. Adjust display: Set illumination color and brightness preferences.
  4. Audio settings: Configure equalizer, balance, and fade settings.
  5. Source priority: Set default audio source on startup.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around unit to prevent overheating.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via SETUP button. Front Panel: POWER, SOURCE, VOLUME, EJECT.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, SOURCE, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, PRESET, SETUP.

Audio Settings: Equalizer (13 bands), Loudness, Bass Boost, Subwoofer level. Display: Color selection, Dimmer, Button illumination. Bluetooth: Pairing, Phonebook access, Audio streaming. System: Clock, Beep tones, Reset to factory defaults.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front/rear port for storage devices. AUX: 3.5mm input for external audio. Bluetooth: Wireless audio and phone connectivity.

  1. Turn off unit before connecting wired devices.
  2. Use compatible USB drives formatted FAT32.
  3. For AUX input, use quality audio cables to minimize noise.
  4. Bluetooth pairing requires unit to be in pairing mode.

Tip: Format USB drives to FAT32 for best compatibility.

Audio Playback

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

  1. Select source: Press SOURCE to cycle through available inputs.
  2. Play/Pause: Use transport controls for audio playback.
  3. Track navigation: Use SKIP buttons or numeric keys for direct access.
  4. Folder navigation: For USB devices with multiple folders.
  5. Repeat/Shuffle: Access through P.MODE or function menu.
  6. Sound adjustments: Use equalizer and audio settings for customization.
  7. Preset stations: Store up to 18 FM/AM stations.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged CDs or foreign objects into CD slot.

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling: Answer/end calls, voice dialing. Audio streaming: Wireless music playback from compatible devices.

  1. Pairing: Enter pairing mode, search from mobile device.
  2. Phonebook access: Download contacts for voice dialing.
  3. Call history: View recent calls through unit interface.
  4. Audio quality: Adjust streaming quality in Bluetooth settings.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning display and controls. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep CDs clean and free of scratches.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials; 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, mute, speaker connections, fade/balance settings.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode/distanceEnter pairing mode, ensure device within range, delete old pairings.
USB not recognizedFormat/cableReformat to FAT32, try different cable, check device compatibility.
CD skippingDisc/vehicle vibrationClean disc, ensure proper mounting, check for vibration sources.

Reset: Hold SETUP for 5 seconds, select Factory Reset.

Service: Authorized Kenwood service centers; www.kenwood.com

Kenwood KDC X997 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025