Kenwood PS 430 User Manual

The Kenwood PS 430 is a high-performance stereo power amplifier delivering 30 watts per channel, featuring dual mono construction, gold-plated RCA inputs, speaker terminals, aluminum front panel, and robust power supply. Designed for audiophile-grade sound reproduction with low distortion and wide frequency response. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual mono amplifier design, gold-plated input terminals, speaker outputs, power switch, aluminum chassis.

FeatureDescription
Power Output30W + 30W (8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% THD)
Input Sensitivity150mV for rated output
Frequency Response10Hz-50kHz (+0/-3dB)
Input Impedance47kΩ
Signal-to-Noise Ratio100dB (IHF-A)
Damping Factor40 (8Ω, 1kHz)
Power RequirementsAC 120V, 60Hz, 130W max
Dimensions420mm (W) x 106mm (H) x 290mm (D)
Weight7.5kg
Input ConnectorsRCA gold-plated (L/R channels)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface with adequate ventilation.

  1. Position amplifier: Allow minimum 10cm clearance on all sides for proper ventilation.
  2. Connect audio sources: Use high-quality RCA cables from preamp or source components.
  3. Connect speakers: Use appropriate speaker wire to speaker terminals.
  4. Connect power: Plug into AC power outlet last.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating. Do not block ventilation slots.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier following proper sequence.

  1. Connect all audio components before powering on.
  2. Turn volume to minimum on preamp or source component.
  3. Power on amplifier: Switch POWER button to ON position.
  4. Adjust volume gradually to desired listening level.
  5. Allow 30 minutes warm-up for optimal performance.

CAUTION! Always power on amplifier last and power off first to prevent speaker damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel: POWER switch, standby indicator. Rear panel: RCA input connectors, speaker terminals, AC power inlet.

Operation: Power ON/OFF switch controls main power. Standby indicator shows operational status. No user-adjustable gain or tone controls - designed for pure amplification.

Speaker Connections: Ensure proper polarity (red to red, black to black). Use appropriate speaker wire gauge for your installation distance.

Connecting Devices

Audio Inputs: RCA connectors for left and right channels. Speaker Outputs: Binding posts for speaker connections.

  1. Turn off all components before making connections.
  2. Connect source components using high-quality RCA cables.
  3. Connect speakers observing correct polarity.
  4. Ensure all connections are secure and tight.
  5. Keep signal cables away from power cords to minimize interference.

Tip: Use high-quality cables and keep runs as short as possible for best performance.

Operation Guidelines

Designed for continuous high-quality audio reproduction.

  1. Power sequence: Always turn on amplifier last in system startup.
  2. Volume control: Adjust at source component or preamplifier.
  3. Normal operation: Indicator light shows power status.
  4. Thermal protection: Automatic shutdown if overheating occurs.
  5. Power down: Turn off amplifier first when shutting down system.
  6. Long-term use: Designed for continuous operation at rated power.
  7. Speaker matching: Compatible with 4-16Ω speakers.

WARNING! Do not operate without proper load connected. Avoid shorting speaker terminals.

Maintenance

Unplug from AC power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior cleaning.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. All trademarks property of their respective owners. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound outputPower/connectionsCheck power connection; verify input source is active; check speaker connections.
Distorted soundOverload/connectionsReduce volume level; check for loose connections; verify speaker impedance compatibility.
Amplifier shuts offOverheating/protectionAllow to cool; ensure adequate ventilation; check for short circuits.
Hum or noiseGrounding/cablesCheck ground connections; separate signal and power cables; verify source component grounding.
One channel silentCable/connectionCheck RCA cable for damaged channel; verify source component output; swap channels to isolate issue.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.

Support: www.kenwood.com or regional service centers

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