Kenwood SQWX4 User Manual

The Kenwood SQWX4 is a high-performance car audio amplifier with advanced signal processing capabilities, featuring 4-channel output, built-in crossover networks, bass boost control, variable low-pass/high-pass filters, speaker-level inputs, preamp outputs, thermal/overload/short circuit protection, and MOSFET power supply. Rated for 12V DC operation. 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. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-channel amplifier, crossover controls, bass boost, input level controls, power/ground terminals, speaker outputs.

Feature	Description
Channels	4-channel stereo amplification
Power Output	High-power MOSFET design
Crossover	Variable low-pass/high-pass filters
Bass Boost	Adjustable bass enhancement
Inputs	RCA and speaker-level inputs
Outputs	Speaker terminals and preamp outputs
Protection	Thermal, overload, short circuit
Power Supply	12V DC operation
Dimensions	Compact chassis design
Mounting	Universal mounting options

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

Disconnect vehicle battery: Ensure safety during installation.
Mount amplifier: Secure to stable surface using provided hardware.
Connect power: Run power cable from battery to amplifier.
Connect ground: Secure ground wire to clean metal surface.
Connect speakers: Wire speakers to appropriate channels.
Connect audio source: Use RCA cables or speaker-level inputs.
Connect remote turn-on: Wire to head unit remote output.

WARNING! Ensure proper fuse rating; secure all connections to prevent shorts.

First-Time Setup

Reconnect battery; power on system; adjust settings.

Set input level: Adjust gain control for optimal signal.
Configure crossover: Set low-pass/high-pass frequencies.
Adjust bass boost: Set desired bass enhancement level.
Balance channels: Adjust individual channel levels.
Test operation: Verify all channels working properly.

CAUTION! Start with conservative settings; avoid distortion.

Specifications

Channels: 4-channel stereo
Power Rating: High-power MOSFET design
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 50kHz
Crossover: Variable low-pass/high-pass filters
Bass Boost: Adjustable 0-18dB at 45Hz
Input Sensitivity: 200mV - 4V
Signal-to-Noise: >100dB
Power Supply: 12V DC operation
Protection: Thermal, overload, short circuit

Controls and Settings

Front/Rear panel controls: Gain, crossover frequency, bass boost, input selection.

Controls: Input level controls, crossover switches, bass boost, phase control.

Crossover: Low-pass (20Hz-250Hz), High-pass (50Hz-500Hz). Bass Boost: 0-18dB at 45Hz. Input Level: Adjust for optimal signal matching. Phase: Normal/Reverse for speaker alignment.

Connecting Devices

Power: Battery connection with fuse. Audio: RCA inputs or speaker-level. Speakers: 2-8 ohm loads.

Disconnect battery before making connections.
Use appropriate gauge wiring for power/ground.
Match speaker impedance to amplifier requirements.
Secure all connections to prevent vibration issues.

Tip: Use twisted pair RCA cables to reduce noise interference.

Operation Modes

Supports stereo, mono, and bridged operation modes.

Stereo Mode: Standard 4-channel operation.
Bridged Mode: Combine channels for higher power.
Tri-mode: Mixed stereo and mono operation.
Crossover Modes: Full range, high-pass, low-pass.
Input Modes: RCA or speaker-level input selection.

WARNING! Ensure proper mode selection to prevent damage.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatic shutdown at high temperatures. Overload Protection: Current limiting. Short Circuit Protection: Output protection.

Care & Maintenance

Keep amplifier clean and dry. Ensure proper ventilation. Check connections periodically.

CAUTION! Do not block ventilation; avoid moisture exposure.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check battery connection; verify fuse; ensure ground connection.
No sound	Input/speaker connections	Verify input source; check speaker wiring; adjust gain control.
Distortion	Gain setting/overload	Reduce gain setting; check input level; verify power supply.
Overheating	Ventilation/impedance	Improve ventilation; check speaker impedance; reduce volume.
Protection mode	Short circuit/overload	Check speaker wires for shorts; verify proper impedance.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset protection.

Service: Authorized Kenwood service centers; www.kenwood.com