Kenwood KSC 35S Manual

The Kenwood KSC 35S is a high-performance car audio system featuring CD/MP3 playback, AM/FM tuner, USB connectivity, auxiliary input, remote control compatibility, and advanced audio controls. With 50W x 4 maximum power output, preset equalizer settings, and customizable audio adjustments, this system delivers exceptional sound quality for your vehicle. Below are key sections covering features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with CD/MP3 playback, USB port, AUX input, Remote control sensor, Front panel controls, Wiring harness connector.

Feature	Description
CD/MP3 Playback	Supports CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3 files
USB Port	For USB flash drives and device connectivity
AUX Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for external audio sources
AM/FM Tuner	30 station presets (18 FM, 12 AM)
Power Output	50W x 4 maximum power
Remote Control	Compatible with optional remote control
EQ Presets	Multiple equalizer settings (POP, ROCK, JAZZ, etc.)
LCD Display	Backlit display with track information
Fader/Balance	Independent front/rear and left/right audio control
Power Antenna	Automatic power antenna control

Installation

Remove existing car stereo and prepare wiring harness.

1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Ensure safety by disconnecting negative terminal.
2. Remove existing stereo: Use removal tools specific to your vehicle.
3. Connect wiring harness: Match color-coded wires (red - ignition, yellow - battery, black - ground).
4. Connect speakers: Front and rear speaker outputs (white, gray, green, purple pairs).
5. Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using appropriate mounting sleeve.
6. Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Professional installation recommended. Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrical issues.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initialize settings for optimal performance.

1. Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, use tuning knob to set time.
2. Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button (1-6).
3. Adjust audio settings: Use SOUND button to access EQ, fader, balance controls.
4. Set beep tone: Enable/disable button confirmation sounds in settings.
5. Configure display: Adjust dimmer and display mode settings.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before final installation.

Specifications

• Power Output: 50W x 4 (max), 22W x 4 (RMS)
• CD Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3 CDs
• USB Support: USB 2.0, up to 32GB storage devices
• Tuner Sensitivity: FM: 10.8 dBf, AM: 25 μV
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >80 dB
• Separation: >50 dB
• Power Requirement: 12V DC, negative ground
• Dimensions: 178mm (W) x 50mm (H) x 153mm (D)

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND button, SOUND button, numbered presets, OPEN/CLOSE for CD.

Remote Functions: POWER, VOLUME, MUTE, SOURCE, PRESET, TRACK, PLAY/PAUSE, BAND, SOUND.

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, FADER, BALANCE, LOUDNESS, EQ PRESETS (POP, ROCK, JAZZ, CLASSIC, FLAT). Radio: Manual tuning, Auto store, Local/DX reception. CD: Repeat, Random, Scan, Intro play. System: Clock, Display dimmer, Beep on/off.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front panel USB port for flash drives. AUX: 3.5mm input for MP3 players/phones. Remote: IR sensor on front panel.

1. USB devices: Insert compatible USB drive for MP3 playback.
2. Auxiliary input: Connect 3.5mm cable from external device to AUX port.
3. Remote control: Point optional remote at front panel IR sensor.
4. Power antenna: Connect blue wire to vehicle's power antenna lead.

Tip: Use high-quality USB drives formatted in FAT32 for best compatibility.

Playing Media

Supports CD, MP3 CDs, USB devices, and auxiliary input sources.

1. CD Playback: Insert CD, closes automatically, begins playback.
2. USB Playback: Insert USB device, press SOURCE to select USB mode.
3. MP3 Navigation: Use folder up/down buttons to navigate directories.
4. Track Selection: Number buttons for direct track access, arrows for sequential.
5. Play Modes: REPEAT (track/all), RANDOM, SCAN (10-second sampling).
6. Fast Search: Press and hold >> or << during playback.
7. Pause: Press PLAY/PAUSE to temporarily stop playback.
8. Eject: Press OPEN/CLOSE to remove CD.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular-shaped CDs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Audio Settings

Comprehensive audio adjustment options for optimal sound quality.

Setting	Function	Range
BASS	Adjust low frequencies	-7 to +7
TREBLE	Adjust high frequencies	-7 to +7
BALANCE	Left/right speaker balance	L9 to R9
FADER	Front/rear speaker balance	F9 to R9
LOUDNESS	Boost low/high frequencies at low volume	ON/OFF
EQ PRESET	Pre-configured equalizer curves	5 options

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Cleaning: Use soft, dry cloth for front panel and display.
2. CD lens: Use approved CD lens cleaner periodically.
3. Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow around unit.
4. Connections: Check wiring connections annually.

CAUTION! Never use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Avoid liquid contact.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/ignition	Check battery and ignition connections; verify fuse
No sound from speakers	Speaker wiring	Verify speaker connections; check fader/balance settings
CD won't play	Disc format/damage	Use compatible CD; clean disc; check for scratches
USB not recognized	Format/compatibility	Reformat to FAT32; try different USB device
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna connected; check local/DX setting
Remote not working	Batteries/obstruction	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset unit.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.