Kenwood SP 230 Manual

The Kenwood SP 230 is a high-performance stereo power amplifier designed for home audio systems. With 100W per channel output, advanced cooling system, gold-plated connectors, and multiple input options, this amplifier delivers exceptional audio quality for music enthusiasts. Below are key sections covering features, installation, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting Audio Sources 7. Operation Guide 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-power amplifier circuit, gold-plated RCA inputs, speaker terminals, power switch, LED indicators, and advanced cooling system.

Feature	Description
Power Output	100W per channel (8Ω)
Input Connectors	Gold-plated RCA jacks
Speaker Terminals	Heavy-duty binding posts
Power Supply	Toroidal transformer
Cooling System	Temperature-controlled fan
Protection Circuits	Overload, short-circuit, thermal
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz (±0.5dB)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	>105dB
THD	<0.05%
Dimensions	430mm × 150mm × 380mm

Installation

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

Position amplifier: Ensure adequate ventilation space around unit.
Connect speakers: Use heavy-gauge speaker wire to binding posts.
Connect audio sources: Use high-quality RCA cables from preamp or source.
Connect power: Use included power cord to AC outlet.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; observe LED indicators.

Check connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected.
Power sequence: Turn on source components first, then amplifier.
Volume control: Start with low volume and gradually increase.
Test channels: Verify both channels are working properly.

CAUTION! Always use proper speaker impedance matching. Avoid shorting speaker terminals.

Specifications

Power Output: 100W × 2 (8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.05% THD)
Input Sensitivity: 1V for rated output
Input Impedance: 47kΩ
Damping Factor: >200 (8Ω, 1kHz)
Power Consumption: 350W maximum
Standby Power: <0.5W
Cooling: Temperature-controlled DC fan
Protection: DC offset, overload, thermal, short-circuit
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
Operating Temperature: 5°C to 35°C

Controls and Connections

Front Panel: POWER switch, LED indicators (Power, Protection, Signal). Rear Panel: RCA inputs, speaker terminals, AC input.

Connections: Input L/R (RCA), Speaker Outputs A/B, AC Power Input.

LED Indicators: Green (Power On), Red (Protection Mode), Blue (Signal Present). Protection circuits automatically engage during fault conditions and reset when normal.

Connecting Audio Sources

Inputs: Stereo RCA jacks for left and right channels. Speakers: Binding posts for speaker connections.

Turn off all components before connecting.
Connect source components using quality RCA cables.
Connect speakers ensuring proper polarity (+/-).
Use appropriate speaker wire gauge for distance.

Tip: Keep signal cables away from power cables to minimize interference.

Operation Guide

Designed for continuous high-performance audio reproduction.

Power on: Switch POWER to ON position.
Signal indication: Blue LED indicates signal presence.
Normal operation: Green power LED remains lit.
Protection mode: Red LED indicates fault condition.
Power off: Always turn off amplifier last in shutdown sequence.

WARNING! Do not operate with cover removed. High voltages present inside.

Protection Features

Multiple protection circuits: Overload, short-circuit, thermal, DC offset. Automatic shutdown and reset when safe conditions return.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Keep ventilation slots clear of dust.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners. Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © 2024 Kenwood Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord/outlet	Check power cord connection; verify outlet function.
Protection LED on	Short circuit/overload	Check speaker wires for shorts; reduce volume.
No sound	Connections/source	Verify input connections; check source component.
Distorted sound	Overload/clipping	Reduce volume level; check source signal.
Overheating	Ventilation blocked	Ensure adequate ventilation space around unit.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier if protection engages.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com