KEF KC92 Subwoofer User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the KEF KC92 powered subwoofer. KEF is confident that your KC92 will provide reliable, high-performance sound for many years. Please read this manual fully before connecting the KC92.

Inside the Box

The contents of the box may vary by region. Typically, you will find:

• KEF KC92 Subwoofer
• Power Cable
• User Manual
• Accessories (e.g., regional power cords, adapters)

Diagram shows the KEF KC92 subwoofer, power cable, and accessories.

Controls and Sockets

The rear panel of the KC92 features various controls and connection points:

• 1. Expansion port: For optional accessories like the KW1 wireless adapter.
• 2. Crossover frequency control: Adjusts the upper cut-off frequency of the subwoofer (40Hz - 140Hz).
• 3. Phase control: Adjusts the phase alignment between the subwoofer and main speakers (0° or 180°).
• 4. EQ: Equalizer settings, including 'Apartment Mode' for low-frequency reduction.
• 5. High level (speaker) input block: Connects to speaker outputs using speaker cables.
• 6. Line out high pass frequency (HPF): Sets the high-pass filter for the line output.
• 7. Power on/off: Main power switch.
• 8. AC power input: Connection for the power cable.
• 9. Mains indicator light: Shows power status.
• 10. Line output: Provides a line-level audio signal.
• 11. LFE/Line in smart connect input: Connects to LFE or line-level outputs from a preamp/receiver. Features automatic input detection.
• 12. Mode: Selects the power mode (Always On, Auto Wake Up, 12V).
• 13. Ground lift: Helps to reduce hum by isolating the ground connection.
• 14. Volume control: Adjusts the subwoofer's output level.
• 15. 12V: 12V trigger input for automatic power on/off.
• 16. System button: Used for system functions or updates.
• 17. Service port: For firmware updates and diagnostics.

Diagram shows the rear panel of the KEF KC92 subwoofer with numbered controls and sockets.

Positioning

The KC92 is designed for side-firing, meaning the drivers are on the sides. Ensure a minimum clearance of 77mm (3 inches) between the drivers and any wall for optimal performance and to prevent interference.

EQ Modes for Positioning:

• Room: Standard setting for most environments.
• Wall: For placement near a wall.
• Corner: For placement in a corner.
• Cabinet: For placement within a cabinet or enclosure.
• Apartment: Reduces very low frequencies (below 40Hz) to minimize disturbance to neighbors in apartments or shared living spaces.

Diagrams illustrate recommended subwoofer placement relative to walls and furniture, and the effect of different EQ settings.

Connections

The KC92 offers flexible connection options:

LINE INPUT from a Preamp or Receiver

Connect the LFE or Line Out from your preamp or receiver to the KC92's 'LINE INPUT' using RCA cables. The 'SmartConnect' feature automatically detects if one or two RCA cables are used, adjusting gain accordingly. A Y-adapter is not required.

Diagram shows connection from a stereo preamp/receiver's 'PRE AMP OUT' or 'LINE OUT' to the KC92's 'LINE INPUT' using RCA cables.

SPEAKER INPUT from a Stereo Amp or Receiver

Connect the speaker outputs of your stereo amplifier or receiver to the KC92's 'SPEAKER INPUT' using speaker cables. This method is useful when your source does not have line-level outputs.

Diagram shows connection from a stereo amplifier/receiver's speaker outputs to the KC92's 'SPEAKER INPUT' using speaker cables.

LFE Connection to 2 Subwoofers

To connect two KC92 subwoofers using the LFE output from your AV receiver or preamp, use two LFE cables, connecting each subwoofer's LFE input.

Diagram illustrates connecting two KC92 subwoofers to a surround preamp/receiver's LFE OUT.

Stereo Connection to 2 Subwoofers

For a stereo connection with two KC92 subwoofers, connect the stereo preamp/receiver's stereo outputs (Left and Right) to the respective inputs on each KC92 subwoofer.

Diagram illustrates connecting a stereo preamp/receiver's stereo outputs to two KC92 subwoofers.

Connection to Small Speakers in a Stereo Music System

This setup shows how to integrate the KC92 with a stereo system that includes small satellite speakers. The KC92 connects to the preamp/receiver's outputs, while the satellite speakers connect to the amplifier's outputs.

Diagram shows connection of KC92 and small satellite speakers to a stereo power amplifier and a stereo preamp/receiver.

Connection to LINE INPUT from KEF W2 Platform Speaker

When using the KC92 with KEF W2 platform speakers, set the KC92's MODE to 'LFE'. High and low pass frequencies are then managed via the KEF W2 platform speaker app.

Diagram shows connection from KEF W2 platform speakers to the KC92's LINE INPUT.

Connection to 12V Input

Use the 12V trigger input to automatically power the KC92 on or off when your compatible amplifier or receiver is turned on or off. Connect the 'TRIGGER OUT' from your preamp/receiver to the KC92's '12V' input.

Diagram shows connection from a surround preamp/receiver's 'TRIGGER OUT' to the KC92's '12V' input.

Connection to KW1 Wireless Subwoofer Adapter Kit

For wireless connectivity, refer to the detailed setup instructions in the KW1 user manual.

Diagram shows the KW1 wireless adapter being connected to the KC92.

Manual Controls Explained

Crossover Frequency Control

This control adjusts the upper cut-off frequency of the subwoofer, ranging from 40Hz to 140Hz with a 24dB/octave slope. Adjust it for the smoothest integration between your main/satellite speakers and the subwoofer. Clockwise rotation increases the cut-off frequency; anti-clockwise rotation decreases it.

Response Curves:

• 1. Ideal crossover: Flat response.
• 2. Crossover point too low: Causes a dip in the combined response.
• 3. Crossover point too high: Causes a hump in the combined response.

Use LFE mode when the subwoofer is used for the LFE (.1) channel in home theatre or when bass management is handled by an AV receiver, preamplifier, or active speaker system.

Volume Control

The volume control adjusts the subwoofer's output level relative to your satellite or AV speakers. Rotating clockwise increases the output level; rotating anti-clockwise decreases it. Start with the control near the midpoint and adjust for the best balance.

Phase Control

The phase control is typically set to 0°. However, setting it to 180° may yield higher output levels, especially if the subwoofer is placed far from the satellite speakers.

Mode Control

There are three power modes:

• Always On: The KC92 remains powered on and does not enter standby. Use the main power switch to turn it off.
• Auto Wake Up: The subwoofer automatically powers on when an audio signal is detected. It will turn off after 20 minutes of inactivity to save power. If used with KEF W2 platform speakers, the 'Force sub wake-up' feature in the KEF Connect app can synchronize power on/off.
• 12V: Powers the KC92 on/off automatically when connected to a compatible amplifier or receiver's 12V trigger output.

Firmware Update

Your subwoofer has a dedicated service port for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware current ensures the latest features and improvements. To perform an upgrade:

1. Visit the official KEF website at KEF.com.
2. Locate and download the specific firmware upgrade software tool for your KC92 model.
3. Carefully read the instructions provided with the software tool for a successful upgrade.

Specifications

For more information about KEF and its products, visit KEF.com. KEF reserves the right to amend or change specifications.

Contact Information

GP Acoustics (UK) Limited
Eccleston Road,
Tovil, Maidstone
Kent, ME15 6QP
UK

Visit KEF.com

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