Kenwood VR 357 Manual

The Kenwood VR 357 is a 5.1 channel AV receiver with Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, 100W per channel output, multiple audio/video inputs, AM/FM tuner, remote control, and various sound modes. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5.1 channel amplifier, Dolby Digital/DTS decoder, AM/FM tuner, multiple audio/video inputs, remote control.

Feature	Description
Power Output	100W per channel (front), 50W (center/surround)
Audio Decoding	Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic
Inputs	4 audio/video, 2 digital optical, phono input
Outputs	6-channel pre-out, headphone jack
Tuner	AM/FM with 30 presets
Sound Modes	Hall, Theater, Stadium, Jazz Club
Remote Control	Full system control
Display	Fluorescent display with dimmer
Speaker Terminals	5 sets of binding posts
Power Requirements	120V AC, 60Hz

Installation

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

1. Connect speakers: Match polarity (+/-) for all channels.
2. Connect audio sources: Use appropriate input jacks for CD, DVD, etc.
3. Connect video sources: Use composite or S-video inputs.
4. Connect antenna: AM loop and FM wire antennas included.
5. Plug into AC power outlet.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; follow initial setup procedure.

1. Speaker setup: Configure speaker sizes and distances in menu.
2. Tuner setup: Auto-scan and store FM/AM stations.
3. Input assignment: Assign sources to appropriate inputs.
4. Sound calibration: Use test tone for level matching.
5. Remote setup: Program remote for other components.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before making connections. Ensure all connections are secure.

Specifications

• Power Output: 100W x 2 (front), 100W (center), 100W x 2 (surround)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.08%
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB
• Input Sensitivity: 200mV
• Digital Inputs: 2 optical, 1 coaxial
• Analog Inputs: 4 stereo pairs, phono
• Video Inputs: 3 composite, 2 S-video
• Dimensions: 17-1/8" W x 6-1/4" H x 15-3/4" D
• Weight: 22 lbs

Controls and Settings

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

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

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Loudness. Speaker Settings: Size, Distance, Level. Tuner Settings: Preset memory, Auto scan. System Settings: Display dimmer, Remote codes.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: CD player, turntable, tape deck. Video Sources: DVD player, cable box, game console.

1. Turn off receiver before connecting devices.
2. Use appropriate cables for each source.
3. Connect digital sources to optical/coaxial inputs.
4. Connect phono cartridge to phono input only.
5. Select input via INPUT SELECT button or remote.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best performance. Keep cables organized.

Audio Modes

Supports various surround sound and DSP modes.

1. Dolby Digital: For 5.1 channel movie soundtracks.
2. DTS: Digital Theater Systems decoding.
3. Pro Logic: For matrixed surround sound.
4. DSP Modes: Hall, Theater, Stadium, Jazz Club.
5. Stereo: Direct 2-channel playback.
6. Mono: For mono sources.

Note: Some modes only work with specific source material. Auto-detect for digital formats.

Tuner Operation

AM/FM tuner with 30 station presets.

1. Select TUNER input.
2. Choose AM or FM band.
3. Tune manually or use auto-scan.
4. Store stations: Hold MEMORY, select preset number.
5. Recall presets: Use numeric buttons or up/down.
6. FM stereo: Auto-switches to stereo when signal strong.

Tip: Position antenna for best reception. Use manual tuning for weak stations.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or aerosols. Avoid heat and moisture. Service by qualified personnel only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE marked for European safety. 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; try different outlet; check fuse.
No sound	Input selection, volume	Select correct input; check volume level; verify speaker connections.
Distorted sound	Source, connections	Check source material; verify all connections secure.
Remote not working	Batteries, obstruction	Replace batteries; point directly at sensor; remove obstacles.
Poor tuner reception	Antenna, location	Reposition antenna; check connections; avoid interference.
Overheating	Ventilation, load	Ensure adequate ventilation; check speaker impedance.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center. Do not attempt internal repairs.