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The KENWOOD KRC-430 is a cassette-receiver designed to provide audio entertainment in a vehicle. It combines a radio tuner with a cassette player, offering various features for both radio reception and tape playback, along with sound quality adjustments and installation considerations.
The primary function of the KRC-430 is to serve as an in-car audio system. It allows users to listen to FM and AM radio broadcasts and play cassette tapes. The device is designed for a 12V DC power supply with negative grounding, making it suitable for most standard vehicle electrical systems.
For radio reception, the unit features both Seek Tuning and Manual Tuning. Seek Tuning automatically scans for and stops at broadcast stations, while Manual Tuning allows for precise frequency selection. The device supports two FM bands (FM1 and FM2) and one AM band. A "Local" tuning option is available, which, when activated during Seek Tuning or Auto Memory, will only stop at stations with satisfactory reception conditions, useful in areas with strong signals or to filter out weak ones.
The KRC-430 also includes Preset Station Tuning, enabling users to store their favorite radio stations for quick access. Up to six stations can be memorized for each band (FM1, FM2, and AM) using dedicated preset switches. If a new station is preset on a switch that already has a station memorized, the old preset will be replaced.
An Auto Memory function is provided, which automatically scans the selected band and memorizes the six strongest stations. This feature is particularly convenient for quickly setting up presets when traveling to new areas. Once six stations are memorized, the auto memory function automatically releases, and the last stored station is received.
For cassette playback, the unit supports standard audio cassettes. When a tape is inserted, playback begins automatically. The device includes Fast Forward (FF) and Rewind (REW) functions to navigate through the tape. To stop fast forward or rewind, a soft press of the reverse switch is required. The KRC-430 also features a Program function, which allows users to switch between the A and B sides of the cassette tape during playback by pressing the REW switch softly or simultaneously pressing both FF and REW.
The unit is compatible with different tape types, offering a Metal Switch for playing back CrO2 or Metal tapes, which typically require different equalization settings for optimal sound. Additionally, it incorporates Dolby B NR (Noise Reduction), which can be activated when playing tapes recorded with the Dolby B NR system to reduce tape hiss and improve sound clarity.
A unique feature is Tape Advance, which allows users to quickly jump to the beginning of the current music track or the next music track. Pressing the REW switch during playback will rewind to the beginning of the current music, while pressing the FF switch will fast forward to the beginning of the next music. However, it's noted that Tape Advance may not function properly if the interval between music tracks is less than 5 seconds or if a low sound volume portion continues for more than 5 seconds.
The KRC-430 offers several controls for adjusting sound level and quality. A Volume Control knob allows for increasing or decreasing the overall sound level. A Balance Control (pull-out knob) adjusts the sound distribution between the left and right speakers, while a Fader Control adjusts the sound distribution between the front and rear speakers.
For sound enhancement, the unit includes a Loudness Switch. When activated, this circuit compensates for the human ear's reduced sensitivity to bass at low listening volumes, providing a fuller sound. Separate Bass Control and Treble Control knobs allow users to fine-tune the low and high frequencies of the audio output to their preference.
The device features a detachable case, which is a security measure. The unit is inserted into this case, and locks secure it. To remove the unit, a T.P.C. button is pressed, and a handle is lifted to release the lock, allowing the unit to be pulled out. It is crucial to eject any cassette tape before removing the unit from its case.
The KRC-430 also has a Channel Space Selection function, offering two spacing frequencies for both FM (200 kHz or 50 kHz) and AM (10 kHz or 9 kHz). This feature is useful for adapting the tuner to different regional broadcasting standards. To change the channel space, the power must be turned OFF, then the "1" and "5" preset station switches are pressed simultaneously while turning the power ON. Repeating this process will revert to the home position (200 kHz for FM and 10 kHz for AM). It's important to note that this feature is not used in the United States or Canada. When the channel space is changed, memorized contents are retained.
Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity and optimal performance of the KRC-430. The manual provides guidelines for handling cassette tapes, such as checking for slack before loading and using a pencil to tighten it if necessary. It also warns against exposing tapes to direct sunlight or high temperatures, which can deform the cassette shell or tape. The use of 120-minute tapes is discouraged due to their thinness, which makes them prone to twisting around the pinch roller.
Head Cleaning is recommended periodically. Magnetic particles from the tape can accumulate on the head surface, leading to noise and poor sound quality. Users are advised to clean the head with a cleaning tape available from a KENWOOD dealer, following the cleaner's directions.
The manual also highlights the importance of cleaning the rear connections. Periodically, the connector at the rear of the unit should be wiped with a cloth moistened with alcohol to ensure good electrical contact.
A critical maintenance note concerns the internal lithium backup battery. The KRC-430 includes this battery to retain memory in the microprocessor, such as preset stations. If the unit can no longer retain its memory, it indicates that this battery may have been discharged. The estimated life of this backup battery is about 7 years. In such a case, the unit should be brought to an authorized service center for battery replacement.
For general cleaning of the unit, users are instructed to turn off the power. Abrasive pads, thinner, benzine, or similar substances should not be used. Instead, the front panel and other exterior surfaces should be wiped with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a neutral detergent.
The manual also includes a Troubleshooting Guide to help users identify and resolve common issues before seeking professional service. For example, if there's no sound from one channel, the balance/fader control might be rotated to one side. Poor radio reception could be due to an unextended antenna. Inferior tonal quality or tape creaks might indicate a stained head, requiring cleaning.
Installation instructions emphasize safety, advising to remove the negative terminal of the battery before wiring to prevent short-circuiting. It also provides details on connecting various leads, including power, ground, memory backup, and speaker wires. A warning is given regarding the BTL (Bridge-Tied Load) output, stressing that speaker wires should never touch the chassis (ground) to prevent short circuits. The use of a car fuse box for the backup and power supply leads is recommended as an added protection measure. The manual also describes how to insert the detachable case into the console and secure it. For Japanese-made cars, specific instructions are given for tightening the TP screw into designated holes. Finally, it mentions an optional "ELECTRONIC CHASSIS LOCK" (CK-50A) that can be used with the unit for enhanced security.
FM Tuner Section| frequency range (200 kHz space) | 87.9 MHz~ 107.9 MHz |
|---|---|
| frequency range (50 kHz space) | 87.5 MHz~ 108.0 MHz |
| usable sensitivity | 12.0 dBf (1.1 xV/75 ohms) |
| 50 dB quieting sensitivity | 15.2 dBf (1.6 pV/75 ohms) |
| frequency response (+3 dB) | 30 Hz~ 15 kHz |
| signal to noise ratio | 73 dB |
| image response ratio | 70 dB |
| IF response ratio | 120 dB |
| stereo separation (1 kHz) | 40 dB |
AM Tuner Section| frequency range (10 kHz space) | 530 kHz~ 1, 700 kHz |
|---|---|
| frequency range (9 kHz space) | 531 kHz~ 1, 611 kHz |
| sensitivity | 28 dB (30 pV) |
Cassette Deck Section| tape speed | 4.76 cm/sec |
|---|---|
| wow and flutter | 0.12% (WRMS) |
| fast winding time (C-60) | 100 sec |
| frequency response (120 us) | 30 Hz~ 14 kHz (+3 dB) |
| frequency response | 30 Hz~ 16 kHz (+3 dB) |
| stereo separation (1 kHz) | 43 dB |
| signal to noise ratio (NR OFF) | 54 dB |
| signal to noise ratio (Dolby-B ON) | 63 dB |
Audio Section| max output power | 25 Wx 2 |
|---|---|
| power output | 20 W x 2 into 4 ohms, 1 kHz at 10% THD, 15 W x 2 into 4 ohms, 30 Hz~ 20 kHz at 1% THD |
| bass boost | 100 Hz +10 dB |
| treble boost | 10 kHz +10 dB |
| preout level | 1 V/10 k ohms |
General| operating voltage | 14.4 V (11~16 V allowable) |
|---|---|
| current consumption | 6 A at Rated Power |
| installation size | 182 x 52 x 159 mm (7-1/6 x 2 x 6-1/4 in.) |
| weight | 2.0 kg (4.4 lb) |
