Kenwood SW 500 Manual

The Kenwood SW 500 is a high-performance powered subwoofer designed to enhance your audio experience with deep, powerful bass. Featuring a 10-inch woofer, built-in amplifier, adjustable crossover frequency, phase control, and auto power on/off functionality. Compatible with various home theater and audio systems. 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 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 10-inch woofer, built-in amplifier, line-level inputs, speaker-level inputs, adjustable crossover, phase switch, auto power on/off.

FeatureDescription
Woofer Size10-inch long-throw driver
Amplifier Power150W RMS (300W peak)
Frequency Response30Hz - 150Hz
Crossover Frequency50Hz - 150Hz adjustable
Phase Control0° / 180° switch
InputsLine-level (RCA), Speaker-level
Auto PowerAuto on/off sensing
Volume ControlAdjustable gain control
Power Requirements120V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions14" x 14" x 16" (WxHxD)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal placement for best bass response.

  1. Position subwoofer: Place in corner for maximum bass, away from walls for balanced response.
  2. Connect to amplifier: Use line-level RCA cables or speaker wire connections.
  3. Power connection: Plug into AC power outlet.
  4. Initial settings: Set volume to mid-point, crossover to 80Hz.

WARNING! Subwoofer is heavy; lift with care using proper technique. Ensure adequate ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on subwoofer; follow setup procedure.

  1. Connect to audio system: Use line-level outputs from receiver or speaker-level connections.
  2. Set crossover frequency: Adjust based on main speaker capabilities (typically 80Hz).
  3. Adjust phase: Set to 0° initially, adjust if needed for bass integration.
  4. Set volume level: Match subwoofer output to main speakers.
  5. Enable auto power: Leave in auto mode for energy efficiency.

CAUTION! Ensure stable placement; avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Rear panel controls: Power switch, Volume control, Crossover frequency, Phase switch, Line inputs, Speaker inputs.

Operation: POWER switch (On/Off/Auto), VOLUME control (gain adjustment), CROSSOVER frequency dial, PHASE switch (0°/180°).

Setup: Volume - adjust to blend with main speakers. Crossover - set based on main speaker roll-off. Phase - adjust for proper bass integration. Auto Power - enables energy-saving operation.

Connecting Devices

Line-level: RCA cables from receiver subwoofer output. Speaker-level: Speaker wire from amplifier outputs.

  1. Turn off all equipment before connecting.
  2. Line-level connection: Use RCA cable from receiver LFE/subwoofer output.
  3. Speaker-level connection: Connect speaker wires from amplifier to subwoofer inputs.
  4. Power on subwoofer and main system.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best performance. Ensure all connections are secure.

Operation

Designed for seamless integration with home theater and stereo systems.

  1. Power on: Set power switch to ON or AUTO position.
  2. Volume adjustment: Start at 50%, adjust to taste.
  3. Crossover setting: Match to main speaker capabilities.
  4. Phase adjustment: Optimize for room acoustics.
  5. Auto power: Unit automatically turns on when signal detected.

WARNING! Do not operate at maximum volume for extended periods. Allow proper ventilation.

Advanced Features

Auto Power Sensing: Automatically turns on when audio signal detected, off after no signal. Phase Control: Adjusts timing alignment with main speakers. Variable Crossover: Precise frequency blending with main speakers.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or solvents. Avoid blocking ventilation ports. Store in dry environment.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2006 Kenwood; trademarks of Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No soundPower/connectionsCheck power connection; verify input source; check cables.
Distorted soundOverload/placementReduce volume; check for proper ventilation; reposition subwoofer.
No auto powerSignal levelIncrease source volume; check input connections; set to ON mode.
Hum or noiseGround loop/cablesCheck cable routing; use ground lift adapter if needed; verify connections.
Weak bassSettings/placementAdjust volume and crossover; try corner placement; check phase setting.

Reset: Turn power off and on to reset protection circuits.

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

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