Kenwood SQWX4 Manual

The Kenwood SQWX4 is a high-performance car audio crossover system featuring 4-channel capability, adjustable crossover frequencies, phase control, bass boost functionality, and multiple input/output configurations. Designed for professional car audio installations, it provides precise audio signal processing for optimal sound quality. 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 Modes 8. Audio Adjustments 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-channel crossover unit, RCA input/output connectors, crossover frequency controls, phase switches, bass boost circuit, power/ground terminals.

FeatureDescription
Channels4 independent audio channels
Crossover FrequencyAdjustable 50Hz - 500Hz range
Input Sensitivity0.2V - 4V adjustable
Phase Control0°/180° phase switching per channel
Bass Boost0-12dB boost at 45Hz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio>100dB
Power Requirement12V DC vehicle power
Dimensions200mm x 150mm x 50mm

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location in vehicle.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery negative terminal before installation.
  2. Mount unit securely using provided brackets or screws.
  3. Connect power: Red wire to +12V ignition, Black wire to chassis ground.
  4. Connect RCA inputs from head unit to crossover inputs.
  5. Connect RCA outputs to amplifier inputs.
  6. Reconnect battery and test operation.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating (10A recommended). Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; verify all connections are secure.

  1. Set input sensitivity: Start with minimum setting, adjust while playing music.
  2. Configure crossover frequencies: Set according to speaker capabilities.
  3. Adjust phase controls: Set to 0° initially, adjust for best bass response.
  4. Set bass boost: Start with minimum setting, increase as needed.
  5. Test all channels for proper operation.

CAUTION! Do not exceed amplifier input specifications. Set gains conservatively.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: Power indicator, input level controls, crossover frequency knobs.

Rear Panel: RCA input/output connectors, power terminals, ground terminal, remote turn-on connection.

Crossover Settings: Low-pass 50-500Hz, High-pass 50-500Hz independently adjustable per channel. Input Level: Fine-tune matching to head unit output. Phase: 0°/180° toggle switches per channel. Bass Boost: 45Hz center frequency, 0-12dB adjustment.

Connecting Devices

Input: RCA cables from head unit. Output: RCA cables to amplifiers. Power: 12V vehicle electrical system.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery before making connections.
  2. Use high-quality shielded RCA cables for audio connections.
  3. Ensure proper grounding to vehicle chassis.
  4. Connect remote turn-on to head unit remote output.
  5. Verify all connections are secure before powering on.

Tip: Route audio cables away from power wires to minimize noise.

Operation Modes

Supports full-range, high-pass, low-pass, and band-pass operation modes.

  1. Full-range mode: Bypass crossover for full frequency output.
  2. High-pass mode: Filter low frequencies to protect small speakers.
  3. Low-pass mode: Filter high frequencies for subwoofer applications.
  4. Band-pass mode: Combine high-pass and low-pass for midrange speakers.
  5. Independent channel control: Each channel can be set differently.
  6. Phase alignment: Adjust phase for optimal system integration.

WARNING! Do not set crossover frequencies beyond speaker specifications.

Audio Adjustments

Input Level Matching: Adjust to match head unit output voltage. Crossover Settings: Set according to speaker frequency response. Phase Control: Optimize for best system coherence.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Use compressed air to remove dust from connectors.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European markets. Copyright © 2025 Kenwood Corporation; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connectionCheck fuse, verify 12V at power terminal, ensure ground connection.
No audio outputInput/output connectionsVerify RCA cables connected properly, check input level settings.
Engine noiseGrounding issuesImprove ground connection, route cables away from ignition sources.
Distorted soundInput level too highReduce input sensitivity setting, check head unit output level.
Intermittent operationLoose connectionsCheck all wire connections, inspect RCA connectors for damage.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset unit.

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

Kenwood SQWX4 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025