Kenwood Z828 Manual

The Kenwood Z828 is a high-performance car stereo system featuring AM/FM radio, CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, front auxiliary input, detachable faceplate security system, 4x50W maximum power output, bass/treble controls, loudness function, and preset station memory. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with detachable faceplate, remote control, wiring harness, mounting sleeve, user manual.

Feature	Description
CD Player	Plays CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA formats
AM/FM Tuner	30 station presets (18FM/12AM)
Power Output	4x50W maximum power
Auxiliary Input	Front panel 3.5mm audio input
Detachable Faceplate	Theft deterrent security system
Audio Controls	Bass, treble, balance, fader, loudness
Display	Multi-color LCD with adjustable illumination
Power	12V DC vehicle power supply
Dimensions	DIN size (178mm x 50mm)
Remote Control	Full function infrared remote

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure vehicle is turned off during installation.

1. Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
2. Remove factory radio using appropriate tools.
3. Connect wiring harness following color coding: red (ignition), yellow (battery), black (ground).
4. Connect speaker wires matching polarity (+/-).
5. Slide unit into mounting sleeve and secure.
6. Reconnect battery and test operation.

WARNING! Professional installation recommended. Ensure proper fuse rating and secure wiring.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup procedure.

1. Set clock: Press and hold CLOCK button, use tuning knob to set time.
2. Program radio stations: Tune to desired station, press and hold preset button.
3. Adjust audio settings: Use BASS, TREBLE controls for preferred sound.
4. Set display illumination: Choose color and brightness in settings menu.
5. Test CD playback with known good disc.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle for initial setup.

Specifications

• Power Output: 4x50W Max (4x22W RMS)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB
• CD Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA
• Tuner Sensitivity: FM: 10.8dBf, AM: 22dBμ
• Preset Memory: 30 stations (18FM/12AM)
• Power Supply: 12V DC negative ground
• Dimensions: 178mm(W) x 50mm(H) x 160mm(D)
• Operating Temp: -20°C to +60°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE button, BAND button, AUDIO button, eject button.

Remote Control: Power, volume, track selection, preset buttons, menu navigation.

Audio Settings: Bass (-10 to +10), Treble (-10 to +10), Balance (L9 to R9), Fader (F9 to R9), Loudness (On/Off). Display: Illumination color (red/blue/green/amber), brightness adjustment. Radio: Auto store, local/distance reception, stereo/mono mode.

Connecting Devices

Auxiliary Input: Front panel 3.5mm jack for portable devices. Speaker Connections: 4-channel output.

1. Turn off vehicle and unit before connecting devices.
2. Connect auxiliary device using 3.5mm audio cable.
3. Select AUX source mode to play external audio.
4. Ensure speaker impedance matches unit specifications (4-8 ohms).

Tip: Use quality cables for best audio performance.

Playing CD Media

Supports audio CD, MP3 CD, WMA CD formats.

1. Insert disc: Press eject button, load CD label side up.
2. Play: Unit automatically begins playback; use >>| and |<< for track navigation.
3. Stop: Press eject button to stop and remove disc.
4. Skip: Use track up/down buttons for navigation.
5. Repeat: Press RPT button for track/disc repeat modes.
6. Random: Press RDM button for shuffle playback.
7. Fast Forward/Rewind: Press and hold >>| or |<< buttons.
8. MP3 Navigation: Use folder buttons to navigate directory structure.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregular shaped discs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Security Features

Detachable Faceplate: Remove when parking to deter theft. Security Code: Optional code can be set to prevent unauthorized use.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Remove faceplate before cleaning. Store faceplate in protective case when not in use.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check fuse (10A), verify power connections, ensure ground connection.
No sound	Speaker wiring/settings	Check speaker connections, verify audio settings, ensure mute is off.
CD won't play	Disc format/damage	Use compatible disc format, clean disc, check for scratches.
Poor radio reception	Antenna connection	Ensure antenna fully extended and properly connected.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstruction	Replace batteries, ensure clear line of sight to unit.

Reset: Disconnect power for 1 minute to reset unit.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.