Kenwood VR 208 Manual

The Kenwood VR 208 is a high-performance audio/video receiver featuring Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, 5.1 channel surround sound, multiple audio/video inputs, AM/FM tuner with 40 presets, digital sound field processing, and versatile connectivity options. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit, Remote control, AM loop antenna, FM wire antenna, Batteries, Audio/video cables.

Feature	Description
Dolby Digital/DTS Decoding	5.1 channel surround sound processing
Power Output	100W per channel (front), 50W (center/surround)
Audio Inputs	CD, TAPE, MD, DVD, VCR
Video Inputs	Composite video, S-Video
Tuner Section	AM/FM with 40 station presets
Digital Sound Field	Hall, Theater, Live, Mono Movie
Speaker Terminals	Front L/R, Center, Surround L/R
Headphone Jack	3.5mm stereo headphone output
Remote Control	Full-function infrared remote
Display	Fluorescent display with dimmer

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place receiver on stable, well-ventilated surface.

1. Connect speakers: Match polarity (+/-) for front L/R, center, surround speakers.
2. Connect antenna: Attach AM loop antenna and FM wire antenna to respective terminals.
3. Connect source components: Use appropriate audio/video cables for CD, DVD, VCR, etc.
4. Connect to AC power: Use supplied power cord and ensure proper voltage.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block heat sinks. Use correct speaker impedance.

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; follow initial setup procedure.

1. Speaker setup: Verify all speakers are connected and functioning properly.
2. Input configuration: Assign appropriate inputs to source components.
3. Tuner setup: Auto-scan and store AM/FM stations.
4. Sound calibration: Adjust channel levels and distance settings.
5. Remote programming: Set remote control codes for compatible devices.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before making any connections. Handle with care.

Specifications

• Audio Section: Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic decoding
• Power Output: 100W x 2 (front), 50W x 3 (center/surround)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise: 100dB (line inputs)
• Tuner Section: AM/FM stereo with RDS
• Preset Stations: 40 total (AM/FM)
• Inputs/Outputs: 5 audio inputs, 3 video inputs, tape monitor
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 350W
• Dimensions: 17.1" W x 6.4" H x 15.7" D
• Weight: 22 lbs

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, INPUT SELECTOR, VOLUME, TUNER PRESETS, SOUND MODE, HEADPHONE JACK.

Remote: POWER, NUMERIC, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, TUNER, SOUND MODE, TRANSPORT CONTROLS.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Loudness, Channel Levels. Video Settings: Input assignment, Video mode. Tuner Settings: Auto/manual tuning, Preset memory. System Settings: Speaker configuration, Distance settings, Test tone.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: CD player, Tape deck, MD recorder. Video Sources: DVD player, VCR, Set-top box.

1. Turn off all components before connecting.
2. Use quality shielded cables for audio/video connections.
3. Match input jacks to source components (CD, DVD, VCR, etc.).
4. Connect speaker wires observing correct polarity.
5. Select input via INPUT SELECTOR on front panel or remote.

Tip: Use optical digital connections for best audio quality from DVD player.

Audio/Video Operation

Supports various audio formats and surround modes.

1. Source selection: Choose appropriate input (CD, DVD, VCR, etc.).
2. Sound mode: Select Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic, or DSP modes.
3. Volume control: Adjust master volume and individual channel levels.
4. Tone controls: Adjust bass/treble to preference.
5. Video switching: Route video signals through receiver to TV.
6. Recording: Use tape monitor for recording from other sources.

WARNING! Do not exceed maximum volume levels to prevent speaker damage.

Tuner Operation

AM/FM tuner with 40 station presets.

1. Tuning: Auto-scan or manual tuning for AM/FM stations.
2. Preset memory: Store up to 40 favorite stations.
3. RDS: Display station information (FM only).
4. Mono/stereo: Select mono for weak FM signals.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior. Keep ventilation openings clear.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE marked for European safety standards. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord/outlet	Check power connection; verify outlet functioning.
No sound	Speaker connections/mute	Check speaker wires; verify mute is off; check input selection.
Poor reception	Antenna placement	Reposition antennas; check connections.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstructions	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to sensor.
Overheating	Ventilation blocked	Ensure adequate ventilation; clear obstructions.
No surround sound	Source/connections	Verify digital audio connection; check source format.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset microprocessor.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.