Kenwood PS 50 Manual

The Kenwood PS 50 is a powerful 50-watt stereo power amplifier designed for high-quality audio reproduction. Featuring robust construction, thermal protection, and versatile connectivity options, this amplifier delivers clean, distortion-free sound for home audio systems. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Power amplifier unit, speaker terminals, input connectors, power switch, LED indicators.

Feature	Description
Power Output	50 watts per channel (8 ohms)
Input Connectors	RCA phono inputs for left and right channels
Speaker Terminals	Binding posts for secure speaker connection
Power Switch	Main power on/off control
LED Indicators	Power and protection status indicators
Thermal Protection	Automatic shutdown in overheating conditions
Short Circuit Protection	Protects against speaker short circuits
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz (±0.5dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	>95dB
Total Harmonic Distortion	<0.05%

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, well-ventilated surface.

1. Positioning: Ensure adequate ventilation space around amplifier (minimum 10cm clearance on all sides).
2. Power Connection: Connect power cord to AC outlet (220-240V, 50/60Hz).
3. Speaker Connection: Connect speakers to binding posts observing correct polarity.
4. Source Connection: Connect audio sources to RCA input connectors.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier and configure initial settings.

1. Power Connection: Plug into appropriate AC power outlet.
2. Speaker Connection: Connect speakers ensuring positive/negative terminals match.
3. Source Connection: Connect preamplifier or audio source to input connectors.
4. Power On: Switch power on; verify LED indicators illuminate properly.
5. Volume Setting: Start with volume at minimum and gradually increase.

CAUTION! Always turn volume to minimum before powering on/off to prevent speaker damage.

Specifications

• Power Output: 50W + 50W (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.05% THD)
• Input Sensitivity: 1V for 50W output
• Input Impedance: 47k ohms
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.5dB)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >95dB (A-weighted)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05% (at rated power)
• Damping Factor: >100 (8 ohms, 1kHz)
• Power Requirements: AC 220-240V, 50/60Hz
• Dimensions: 430mm (W) x 105mm (H) x 310mm (D)
• Weight: 6.5kg

Controls and Connections

Front Panel: Power switch, power LED, protection LED. Rear Panel: RCA input connectors, speaker terminals, power cord socket.

Controls: Power ON/OFF switch. Indicators: Green LED (power), Red LED (protection mode). Connections: Stereo RCA inputs, 4-way binding posts for speakers, IEC power socket.

Operation: Power on with source volume at minimum. Allow 30 seconds warm-up for optimal performance. Monitor protection LED for fault conditions.

Connecting Audio Sources

Connect various audio sources using appropriate cables and connectors.

1. Preamplifier Connection: Use RCA cables from preamp outputs to amplifier inputs.
2. Source Components: Connect CD players, tuners, or other line-level sources.
3. Speaker Connection: Use quality speaker cable; observe polarity markings.
4. Multiple Speakers: Ensure impedance matches amplifier specifications.

Tip: Use high-quality interconnects and speaker cables for best performance.

Operation Guide

Proper operation procedures for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Power Sequence: Turn on source components first, then amplifier.
2. Volume Control: Adjust volume using source component or preamplifier.
3. Warm-up Period: Allow 15-30 minutes for optimal sound quality.
4. Power Down: Turn off amplifier first, then source components.
5. Standby: No standby mode; switch off when not in use.
6. Load Matching: Ensure speaker impedance is within specified range.
7. Ventilation: Monitor temperature during extended operation.
8. Protection Reset: Power cycle if protection mode activates.

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

Protection Features

Comprehensive protection circuits for amplifier and connected components.

Thermal Protection: Automatic shutdown if internal temperature exceeds safe limits. Short Circuit Protection: Detects and protects against speaker short circuits. DC Offset Protection: Prevents DC voltage from reaching speakers. Overload Protection: Limits output during excessive drive conditions.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Regular dust removal from ventilation slots recommended.

Regulatory Information

CE compliant for European markets. RoHS compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality standards. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound output	Power/connections	Check power connection; verify input and speaker connections; ensure source is active.
Protection LED lit	Overload/overheat	Allow cooling; check for short circuits; reduce volume; power cycle.
Distorted sound	Overload/clipping	Reduce volume level; check source quality; verify speaker impedance.
Hum or noise	Ground loops/cables	Check cable routing; ensure proper grounding; use shielded cables.
One channel silent	Connection/balance	Check input and speaker connections; verify source balance settings.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier to reset protection circuits.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for internal repairs.