JVC KD-X38MBS

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JVC Marine Audio System Instruction Manual

Model: KD-X38MBS

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your JVC Single DIN Marine Bluetooth USB/AUX Stereo Digital Media Receiver bundle. This comprehensive package includes the JVC KD-X38MBS receiver, Enrock 6.5-inch marine speakers with blue LEDs, a Pyle 4-channel marine amplifier, a JVC wired remote control, an AM/FM antenna, and speaker wire. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper installation and optimal performance.

Complete JVC Marine Audio System Bundle

An overview of the entire JVC marine audio system bundle, including the JVC receiver, Enrock marine speakers, Pyle amplifier, JVC wired remote, antenna, and speaker wire.

What's in the Box

Your JVC Marine Audio System bundle includes the following components:

  • JVC KD-X38MBS Single DIN Marine Digital Media Receiver
  • 4x Enrock 6.5" 180 Watt White Boat Speakers with Flashing Blue LEDs
  • Pyle 400W 4-Channel Marine Amplifier
  • JVC Wired Marine Remote Control
  • 22" Weather Resistant AM/FM Marine Antenna
  • 50 feet 16 Gauge Marine Grade Speaker Wire

Product Components Overview

JVC KD-X38MBS Marine Digital Media Receiver

JVC KD-X38MBS Marine Digital Media Receiver

Front view of the JVC KD-X38MBS single DIN marine digital media receiver, featuring a backlit display, control knobs, and USB/AUX inputs.

The JVC KD-X38MBS is a versatile marine digital media receiver designed for robust performance in marine environments. It features built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling, along with USB and AUX inputs for various digital devices. The receiver includes a MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels) and a conformal coated PCB for enhanced durability against moisture.

Key features include:

  • AUX/USB Inputs
  • Backlit Display
  • Conformal Coated PCB
  • 13-Band EQ for audio customization
  • 2-Zone Variable-Color Illumination
  • JVC Remote App Compatibility
  • 4.0V High-Voltage 3 Pre-Outs
  • Space Enhancement and Sound Response/Lift technologies
  • Audio Streaming Control
  • iPhone Bluetooth Automatic Pairing
  • 2-Line VA LCD Display
  • High Current 1.5A Charging via USB
  • Satellite Radio Ready (tuner sold separately)
  • Wired Remote Control (included in bundle) and Steering Wheel Remote Control Ready
  • AM/FM Tuner with 18FM, 6AM Preset Stations
  • MP3/WMA/WAV/AAC/FLAC Playback
  • Bluetooth Built-In
JVC Receiver Feature Icons

Visual representation of key features of the JVC receiver, such as Bluetooth, Pandora, USB, AUX, water resistance, AM/FM radio, LED lighting, remote app compatibility, dual phone connection, conformal coating, LCD display, K2 Technology, rapid charging, wireless music browsing, Spanish menu, and 13-band EQ.

Enrock 6.5" Marine Speakers with Flashing Blue LEDs

Pair of Enrock 6.5-inch Marine Speakers with Blue LEDs

A pair of Enrock 6.5-inch marine speakers, showcasing their white grilles and integrated blue LED lighting.

The Enrock EMLED265W marine speakers are designed to deliver clear audio in marine environments while adding visual appeal with integrated blue LED lighting. These 2-way speakers are built to withstand marine conditions and provide powerful sound output.

Specifications:

  • 6.5" Marine Speaker, 2-Way Design
  • 180 Watt Max Power Output
  • 60 Watt RMS Power Output
  • Blue Flashing Light LED (activates with audio signal)
  • Impedance: 4 Ohms

Pyle 400W 4-Channel Marine Amplifier

Pyle 400 Watt 4-Channel Marine Amplifier

The Pyle PLMRA400 400-watt, 4-channel marine amplifier, designed for robust audio output in marine environments.

The Pyle Elite Series marine amplifier provides reliable power for your speaker system. Its waterproof construction ensures durability and consistent performance in marine conditions.

Specifications:

  • 4 Channel Marine Amplifier
  • Max Power Output: 400 Watts
  • Output Power: 100 Watt x 4 MAX
  • Speaker Impedance: 4 ohms (4 ohms to 8 ohms allowable)
  • Amplifier Class: AB
  • Frequency Response: 15Hz - 30kHz

JVC Wired Marine Remote Control

JVC Wired Marine Remote Control

The JVC wired marine remote control, featuring buttons for volume, mute, source selection, and track navigation.

This wired remote control provides convenient access to essential functions of your JVC receiver from a remote location. Its IPX7 waterproof design ensures reliable operation even when exposed to water.

Features:

  • IPX7 Waterproof Design
  • Compatible with all JVC Steering Wheel Remote Ready Receivers
  • Controls: Track selection, fast-forward, rewind, volume, mute, and source selection

22" Weather Resistant AM/FM Marine Antenna

Marine AM/FM Antenna

A weather-resistant 22-inch AM/FM marine antenna, designed for reliable radio reception on boats.

This weather-resistant antenna is designed to provide clear AM/FM radio reception in marine environments, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite stations while on the water.

50 Feet 16 Gauge Marine Grade Speaker Wire

50 Feet of Enrock Marine Grade Speaker Wire

A spool of 50 feet of 16-gauge Enrock marine-grade speaker wire, suitable for connecting audio components in a marine setting.

The included 50 feet of 16-gauge marine-grade speaker wire is essential for connecting your speakers to the amplifier and receiver. Its marine-grade construction ensures durability and optimal signal transfer in harsh conditions.

Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your marine audio system. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified marine audio professional.

General Installation Guidelines:

  • Power Connection: Connect the receiver and amplifier directly to the boat's battery with appropriate gauge power and ground wires. Ensure an inline fuse is installed on the positive power lead close to the battery.
  • Grounding: Ensure all components are properly grounded to a common, clean ground point on the boat's chassis or battery negative terminal.
  • Speaker Wiring: Use the provided 16-gauge marine-grade speaker wire to connect the speakers to the amplifier. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) for each speaker.
  • RCA Connections: Connect the RCA pre-outs from the JVC receiver to the RCA inputs on the Pyle amplifier.
  • Remote Turn-On: Connect the remote turn-on lead from the JVC receiver to the remote turn-on input on the Pyle amplifier. This will power on the amplifier when the receiver is turned on.
  • Antenna Installation: Mount the AM/FM antenna in a location that provides clear reception, away from large metal objects or other electronic interference.
  • Wired Remote Installation: Install the JVC wired remote in a convenient, accessible location, ensuring its cable is routed safely and securely.
  • Water Protection: While components are marine-grade, always strive to install them in locations that minimize direct exposure to water spray or submersion where possible. Ensure all connections are sealed and protected.

Refer to the individual component manuals (if provided separately) for detailed wiring diagrams and specific mounting instructions.

Operating Instructions

JVC KD-X38MBS Receiver Operation:

  • Power On/Off: Press the SRC (Source) button to turn the unit on. Press and hold the SRC button to turn it off.
  • Source Selection: Press the SRC button repeatedly to cycle through available sources: Tuner (AM/FM), Bluetooth, USB, AUX.
  • Volume Control: Use the rotary knob to adjust the volume level.
  • Bluetooth Pairing:
    1. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device.
    2. Select 'Bluetooth' as the source on the receiver.
    3. On your device, search for Bluetooth devices and select 'KD-X38MBS'.
    4. Confirm pairing if prompted.
  • USB Playback: Insert a USB flash drive into the USB port. The unit will automatically detect and begin playing compatible audio files.
  • AUX Input: Connect an external audio device to the 3.5mm AUX input using a stereo audio cable. Select 'AUX' as the source.
  • Radio Tuning: In Tuner mode, use the seek buttons to find stations. Press and hold to auto-seek. Use the preset buttons (1-6) to store and recall your favorite stations.
  • Audio Settings: Access the menu to adjust settings such as 13-Band EQ, balance, fader, subwoofer level, and sound enhancement features.
  • JVC Remote App: Download the JVC Remote App from your device's app store to control the receiver from your smartphone.

Wired Remote Control Operation:

  • Volume: Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust volume.
  • Mute: Press the 'MUTE' button to silence audio. Press again to unmute.
  • Source: Press the 'SRC' button to change the audio source.
  • Track/Seek: Use the left/right arrow buttons to skip tracks or seek radio stations.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance will help prolong the life and performance of your marine audio system.

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the receiver, speakers, and amplifier. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. For the receiver display, use a microfiber cloth.
  • Saltwater Exposure: After exposure to saltwater, gently rinse components with fresh water (avoiding direct high-pressure spray on sensitive areas) and allow them to air dry completely.
  • Connections: Periodically inspect all wiring connections for corrosion or looseness. Clean and re-secure as necessary.
  • Storage: If storing the boat for an extended period, consider disconnecting the main power to the audio system to prevent battery drain.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your marine audio system, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No power to receiver/amplifierBlown fuse, loose power/ground connection, dead battery.Check inline fuse, verify power and ground connections, check boat battery voltage.
No sound from speakersLoose speaker wires, incorrect amplifier settings, amplifier not turning on, incorrect source selected.Check all speaker connections, ensure amplifier is powered on (remote turn-on), verify RCA connections, select correct audio source on receiver.
Bluetooth connection issuesDevice not in pairing mode, receiver not in Bluetooth source, interference.Ensure receiver is in Bluetooth mode, put device in pairing mode, try forgetting and re-pairing the device, move closer to the receiver.
Speaker LEDs not flashing/always onLEDs are designed to flash with audio signal, low volume.The Enrock speaker LEDs are designed to flash in harmony with the music. They may not be visible or active at very low volume levels. Increase volume to observe LED activity.
Poor radio receptionAntenna not connected, damaged antenna, interference.Check antenna connection to receiver, inspect antenna for damage, try moving to a different location to reduce interference.

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, contact JVC customer support or a qualified marine audio technician.

Specifications

JVC KD-X38MBS Receiver:

  • Power Output: 22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels
  • Pre-Outs: 3 (4.0V High-Voltage)
  • EQ: 13-Band
  • Charging: High Current 1.5A (USB)
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, AUX

Enrock 6.5" Marine Speakers:

  • Design: 2-Way
  • Max Power: 180 Watt
  • RMS Power: 60 Watt
  • Impedance: 4 Ohms
  • Features: Blue Flashing Light LED

Pyle 4-Channel Marine Amplifier:

  • Max Power Output: 400 Watts
  • Output Power: 100 Watt x 4 MAX
  • Speaker Impedance: 4 ohms (4 ohms to 8 ohms allowable)
  • Amplifier Class: AB
  • Frequency Response: 15Hz - 30kHz

General System Specifications:

  • Package Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 12 inches
  • Item Weight: 17.01 pounds
  • Color: White LED (Speakers)

Warranty and Support

Warranty information for JVC products is typically provided with the product packaging or available on the official JVC website. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty inquiries, please refer to the official JVC support channels or contact your authorized dealer. Detailed contact information can usually be found on the manufacturer's website.

© 2023 JVC. All rights reserved.

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