Kenwood VR 409 Manual

The Kenwood VR 409 is a high-performance AV receiver featuring Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, 5.1 channel surround sound, multiple audio/video inputs, AM/FM tuner, remote control, and advanced audio processing. With 100 watts per channel, digital optical inputs, and versatile connectivity options, this receiver delivers exceptional home theater performance. 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, remote control, multiple audio/video inputs, digital optical inputs, speaker terminals.

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, tape
Outputs	5.1 channel pre-out, tape monitor, headphone
Tuner	AM/FM with 30 station presets
Remote Control	Full-function infrared remote
Speaker Terminals	5 sets of binding posts
Display	Fluorescent display with dimmer
Dimensions	440mm x 150mm x 380mm (WxHxD)
Weight	9.5 kg

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 inputs (CD, DVD, VCR, etc.).
3. Connect video sources: Composite video inputs for each source.
4. Connect digital sources: Optical inputs for digital audio.
5. Connect antenna: AM loop and FM wire antennas.
6. Plug into AC power.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; follow initial setup procedure.

1. Set speaker configuration: Small/Large for each channel.
2. Set distance: Input speaker distances from listening position.
3. Set channel levels: Use test tone to balance all channels.
4. Program tuner: Auto-scan and store FM/AM stations.
5. Set input assignments: Configure digital inputs for sources.

CAUTION! Do not short-circuit speaker terminals. Ensure all connections are secure.

Specifications

• Power Output: 100W x 2 (front), 50W x 3 (center/surround)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.08%
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB
• Input Sensitivity: 200mV
• Digital Inputs: 2 optical, coaxial
• Analog Inputs: 4 audio/video, phono, tape
• Surround Formats: Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic
• Power Consumption: 280W
• Standby Power: 1W

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME, INPUT SELECT, TONE, SURROUND MODE, HEADPHONE.

Remote: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, SURROUND MODE, TUNER PRESETS, NUMERIC KEYPAD.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Loudness. Surround Settings: Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic, Stereo. Tuner Settings: Auto-scan, Manual tune, Preset memory. System Settings: Speaker configuration, Distance, Channel levels, Input rename.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: CD player, tape deck, turntable. Video Sources: DVD player, VCR, game console. Digital Sources: DVD player, set-top box.

1. Turn off receiver before connecting devices.
2. Use appropriate cables for each source type.
3. Assign digital inputs in setup menu.
4. Connect speakers with proper polarity.

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

Audio Setup

Optimize sound for your listening environment.

1. Speaker Configuration: Set size (Small/Large) for each channel.
2. Distance Settings: Input distance from listening position to each speaker.
3. Channel Levels: Use test tone to balance volume across all channels.
4. Crossover: Set frequency for small speakers (80Hz recommended).
5. Surround Mode: Select appropriate mode for source material.

WARNING! Do not exceed maximum power ratings. Use speakers with proper impedance.

Tuner Operation

AM/FM tuner with 30 station presets.

1. Select Tuner input on front panel or remote.
2. Auto-scan: Press and hold TUNE to scan for stations.
3. Manual tune: Use TUNE buttons to fine-tune frequency.
4. Store presets: Tune to station, press MEMORY, select preset number.
5. Recall presets: Use numeric keys or PRESET buttons.

Tip: Position antennas for best reception. FM antenna should be fully extended.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only. Do not use chemicals or aerosols.

CAUTION! Keep away from moisture and heat sources. Ensure proper ventilation at all times.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord, outlet	Check power cord connection; try different outlet.
No sound	Input selection, volume	Verify input selection; check volume level; ensure speakers connected.
Distorted sound	Speaker wires, overload	Check speaker wires for shorts; reduce volume.
Poor FM reception	Antenna, location	Reposition FM antenna; check connections.
Remote not working	Batteries, obstruction	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to sensor.
No digital sound	Input assignment, cables	Verify digital input assignment; check optical cable.

Reset: Press POWER while holding TONE buttons to factory reset.

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