Kenwood VR 517 Manual

The Kenwood VR 517 is a 5.1 channel audio/video receiver with Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, 100 watts per channel, AM/FM tuner, multiple audio/video inputs, digital optical and coaxial inputs, speaker level outputs, remote control, and various sound modes. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 input/output connections.

Feature	Description
Power output	100 watts per channel (6 ohms)
Audio decoding	Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic
Inputs	4 audio/video, 2 digital optical, 1 coaxial
Outputs	6 speaker terminals, subwoofer pre-out
Tuner	AM/FM with 30 station presets
Remote control	Full system control
Sound modes	Hall, Theater, Stadium, etc.
Display	Fluorescent display with dimmer
Power requirements	120V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions	17-1/8" W x 6-1/4" H x 15-3/4" D

Installation

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

1. Connect speakers: Match polarity (+/-) for front, center, surround channels.
2. Connect subwoofer: Use subwoofer pre-out or speaker level connections.
3. Connect source devices: DVD player, cable box, game console to appropriate 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 (large/small) and distances.
2. Input assignment: Assign digital inputs to specific sources.
3. Tuner setup: Auto-scan and store AM/FM stations.
4. Sound calibration: Use test tone for proper channel balance.
5. Remote programming: Code search for controlling other devices.

CAUTION! Set speaker impedance switch correctly for your speakers.

Specifications

• Power Output: 100W x 5 (6 ohms, 1kHz)
• Frequency Response: 10Hz - 100kHz
• Signal-to-Noise: 100dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.08%
• Input Sensitivity: 200mV
• Digital Inputs: 2 optical, 1 coaxial
• Video Inputs: 4 composite, 1 S-video
• Audio Inputs: 4 stereo, 1 phono
• Speaker Outputs: 5 channels + subwoofer
• Power Consumption: 280W

Controls and Settings

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

Remote: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, NUMERIC, TUNER, SOUND MODE, SETUP, TEST TONE.

Menu Settings: Speaker configuration, input assignment, tone controls, tuner presets, digital input selection. Sound Modes: Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic, Hall, Theater, Stadium. Tone Controls: Bass, Treble, Balance. Display: Dimmer settings, input source display.

Connecting Devices

Audio/Video Sources: DVD player, cable box, game console, VCR. Digital Sources: CD player, DVD player with optical/coaxial output.

1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
2. Use appropriate cables (composite, S-video, optical, coaxial).
3. Assign digital inputs in setup menu.
4. Connect speakers with proper polarity.
5. Select input source via front panel or remote.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio/video performance.

Audio/Video Operation

Supports various audio formats and surround sound modes.

1. Input selection: Choose source (DVD, TV, CD, etc.).
2. Sound mode: Select appropriate decoding (Dolby Digital, DTS, etc.).
3. Volume control: Adjust master volume and individual channel levels.
4. Tuner operation: AM/FM station selection and presets.
5. Muting: Temporary audio mute function.
6. Headphone: Private listening via front panel jack.
7. Test tone: Speaker calibration and level matching.

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

Sound Modes

Dolby Digital: 5.1 channel surround. DTS: Digital Theater Systems. Pro Logic: Matrix surround decoding. DSP Modes: Hall, Theater, Stadium for enhanced sound field.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; avoid liquids and aerosols.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation; keep away from heat and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. 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; ensure outlet working.
No sound	Input selection/volume	Verify input selection; check volume level; ensure mute off.
Poor FM reception	Antenna placement	Reposition FM antenna; ensure proper connection.
No surround sound	Source/decoding	Check source material; select proper sound mode.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstacles	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to sensor.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset microprocessor.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center.