Problem with audio output on Kenwood KA-8004

[Krysch]

Hi,

I recently bought this amplifier (Kenwood KA-8004) from a local dealer in India, where I live. The amp is 110v so I bought a step down transformer to convert the Indian 220v down to 110v as well.

Whilst the amp was in above average cosmetic condition, when I hooked it up to a set of Dali Spektor 1 speakers, the sound level was extremely low- so low that at max volume I could barely hear the music. This was using the Aux 1 port- Aux 2 didn't work at all and the tuner port was the same as Aux 1. Basically the music sounds as if it's coming from half a mile away.

I need your help and advise on what could be potentially wrong and what can/do I do to fix the issue. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thanks folks

Krish Narendran
Bangalore, India

 

[gort69]

First thing to check is that the NORMAL/SEPARATE switch on the rear panel is set to NORMAL

If using an AUX input make sure the TAPE switch is set to SOURCE

 

[Krysch]

@gort69 , thanks so much. That did the trick. The switch must have been moved in transit. Would have never occurred to me but for your suggestion. Thanks again!

 

[gort69]

Glad that's all it was.

That switch separates the amp and preamp so that either can be used separately - a really nice feature. Most likely the previous owner was using it that way.

 

[Krysch]

@gort69 Yes that was a relief. Thanks! I have another question, using the Tuner or Aux 2 input provides very scratchy feedback. Do you think it's just something that'll go away with use of a contact cleaner to remove old grit and oxidization or is there a bigger issue? Aux 1 is perfect.