Kenwood DPX-306BT review

There are a lot of the 2 din car radio that populate its market today, and there are several alternatives that you can evaluate to understand which model is best for you. From this point of view, this particular Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT 2-D autoradio model can certainly be one of the alternatives that you will have to consider. And perhaps, we've been up to this now, this Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT might already win you.

Its display is certainly very nice, clean, modern and simple. The electric blue that dominates the display configuration is in our opinion perfect for a car radio that is intended to fit in the car, especially when it comes to a 2 din car tuner such as the Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT, which is of significant size and such as to attract the attention of the eye when looking at itself and in itself the dashboard of a car. Do not steal space from the other beauties of your car.

The perfect display?

The Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT car radio features a variable-dimensional LCD display with 14 x 13-segment segments and 7 x 4-digit segments. You can activate the display mode off as well as the demo mode. In addition, the display is surrounded by a beautiful shiny black frame, with a front in itself and chromed, with the possibility of using the Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT 2-channel radio with remote control.

The same 2 din car radio here we are now reviewing, then comes with Bluetooth technology, which facilitates the easy adoption of the most varied connection systems, while at the same time ensuring the ability to connect many and different devices even through physical ports. For example, the Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT 2-DIN car radio features a USB port and 16-pin Molex integrated connector, which allows you to play various types of file formats, from MP3 format to AAC format, from format WAV to WMA format.

Connectivity and steering wheel

A very useful feature that characterizes the 2-DIN car stereo Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT is in its ability to integrate with steering wheel controls, as well as the ability to receive the FM radio signal. In addition, it should be said that the Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT 2-DIN car radio can easily connect to iPod devices, but also with iPhone phones and smartphones, so that Apple users will be delighted to be able to communicate their best devices.

5 - ratings: 2

So without any shadow of doubt, the Kenwood Electronics DPX-306BT car radio is a privileged exponent of the 2-car car category, as it is also easy to recognize, and that this also means the specific needs of those who listen to that music . Above all, Apple users will be happy to enjoy such connectivity potential.

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Kenwood KDC-BT31U, A Bluetooth Head Unit

If we talk often Kenwood multimedia products, we must not forget that the Japanese also offers very good small open car radios on mobile sources such as KDC-BT31U!

The KDC-BT31U is a 1 DIN RDS car stereo laser. For music lovers, this handset has a CD player to a converter DIN MP3/WMA/AAC compatible. Digital age requires, it also has a USB port and a mini-jack auxiliary input to connect the headphone output of any MP3 player. Its strength is of course an integrated hands-free Bluetooth phone in the car. For the traditional functions, this unit has an FM RDS tuner, 4x50 W amplifier, an output line, 3-band EQ, a removable front panel and compatibility with the original steering wheel controls. The price of 149 Euros is very reasonable considering the benefits!

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Kenwood KTC-D600E, A digital TV tuner compatible with pay TV

With a beautiful range multimedia 2011, kenwood unveils new digital tuner to complement its multimedia stations. The KTC-D600E is distinguished by the presence of a slot for pay TV channels.

This new tuner retains the qualities of its predecessor KTC-D500E to s'avoir excellent reception quality, highly efficient discrete antennas, and the ability to be used with any screen. It can be connected by a bus station on a digital multimedia compatible Kenwood and control it with the touch screen. Otherwise, you have a video / audio output video standard, a remote control and IR receiver IR remote for use on any screen equipped with a video / audio input. Automatic Memory, Teletext, EPG, the possibility to update the software through a USB key, the features are complete. Novelty: it has a slot to slide the smart card pay TV channels. Thus, it is no longer limited to only 18 free DTT channels. Placed at 349 Euros, this tuner has a very good price / quality ratio in view of its qualities

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Kenwood KDC-5751SD, A very nice new car radio

Still active in the field of car audio, Kenwood has a new car, which should appeal to young consumers. Well equipped, open source mobile, scalable, the KDC-5751SD is no shortage of arguments to seduce!

The KDC-5751SD is a radio tuner with RDS Din laser. To ensure a good musical, the drive uses a 24 bit converter. This player is compatible with three audio formats (MP3, WMA and AAC). To play mobile sources, it has a USB port, a SD slot, iPod control and an auxiliary input, more difficult to complete. Optionally, the KDC-5751SD can receive the Bluetooth brand for telephony. If the amp 4x50 Watts Mosfet integrated not enough, three output lines are present. For the preamp, it has a 3-band equalizer, a low pass filter and a noise control for the subwoofer channel. Of course, this unit is protected by a removable front panel and is compatible with the original steering wheel controls. Modern and elegant design, display 3 lines of text to facilitate research in the playlists, the KDC-5751SD is very successful. The price is 189 Euros.

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Kenwood DNX5260BT Features Review

VGA monitor 2DIN 6.1 ", DVD and USB tuner with integrated Bluetooth and navigation unit. Made for iPod - Works with iPhone

Key Features

• Monitor 6.1 "VGA
• Text and Multilingual GUI
• Variable lighting (and GUI buttons)
• 1 AV input (front), 1 Video In for Rear-view option
• USB Direct Control of iPod and iPhone (with optional KCA-iP301V)
• Bluetooth (handsfree profile / SMS)
• Integrated Garmin navigation system (new platform), with maps included V12
• TMC (Pro) integrated
• Front SD slot for map upgrade
• Divx, MPEG 1 / 2 Video File & JPEG File, AAC, WMA, MP3

General Features

• 2-DIN format
• System Indicator (DSI)
• Security Code Function
• Adjusting On Screen Display (OSD)
• Graphic User Interface
• Variable Key Illumination Colour
• Rotary Encoder & Control Knob
• Memory Installation
• Memory Back-up
• Attenuator with Smooth Volume Return
• Touch Sensor Tone
• Remote controls with KNA-RCDV331
• Digital Clock
• ISO Connector
• Integrated Bluetooth hands-free
• Integrated navigation unit
• Made for iPod
• Output Power (MOSFET Power IC) 4 x 50W
• 3 RCA pre-outs: front, rear and subwoofer
• Pre-out Output Level 2V
• Auxiliary Input Front AV input with optional CA-C3AV

Navigation Features

• Touch Screen Control
• Graphical interface, easy-to-use
• Map included V12
• Updating Map Micro SD Card
• 3D Map Display
• 2D map view
• Auto Zoom
• Turn-by-Turn Voice Guidance
• Automatic recalculation
• Lighting Day / Night / Remote
• Recalculating the route in case of deviations
• Selection of preferred route
• Display of GPS information
• GUI primary / secondary
• Destination Search Address, Points of Interest, Recently Found, Favorites, Intersections, Cities, Highways, coordinates, phone number, map Browse
• Call through the POI Search
• EcoRoute
• Unit TMC (Traffic Message Channel) Yes, With Pro-TMC support in Germany
• EGNOS System Compatible
• Vehicle Position Sensing With GPS
• Trip Computer

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RT1000.1D A new amp in the range of MTX Thunder Road

 

 

Following the success of its range Thunder Road, MTX complete line of amplifiers by a new mono block, offering a price / power Attractive: the RT1000.1D.

True to the RT series, the RT1000.1D has a beautiful brushed aluminum frame with laser engraved logo. This amp is a single block operating in Class D, designed to facilitate major systems. For a perfect power supply, power terminal block supports up to 50 mm ² cables. For the feature, this amp has a low-pass crossover adjustable subsonic filter and a remote control sound level. Question power, develops RT1000.1D 1x600 Watts RMS into 4 Ohms or 1x1000 Watts RMS into 2 Ohms, something to make your hair stand on end. Its price is very well placed: 300 Euros.

 

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Kenwood LZH-D120G, A large screen overhead

28-06-2011 | by Alexander

On some cars, especially those with active head restraints, it is not always possible to install screens in the front seats. The solution is to use an overhead monitor. The Kenwood LZH-D120G is particularly well adapted to the MPV and SUV with a big screen.

 

The LZH is a screen-D120G ceiling of 10, 2 inches, an image about 26 inches diagonally. In a large vehicle, this will allow the three rear passengers to watch a movie comfortably. For better viewing comfort, the screen can be rotated right or left practice if only one passenger watches the video. In its base, this screen includes an overhead DVD player compatible with all formats, including DivX. 2 audio / video inputs will add other sources such as a tuner or game console. IR transmitter for wireless headphones will not disturb the driver. However, if you want to broadcast the sound of the DVD player to the original installation of the car, this overhead monitor has an FM transmitter. An IR remote is included with the course screen. The LZH-D120G sold 899 Euros.

 

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Kenwood KDC-W8531 Test and Review

KDC-W8531 This opens a new range of handsets CD / Tuner Kenwood from above.Sleek, front tilt, nice features, serious scalability, this product has everything to satisfy lovers of music in the car.

Presentation
The collection opens with Kenwood 2005 arrival of the KDC-W8531 we have tested exclusively for caraudiovideo.com! The air time is to streamline orders. The car manufacturers have long understood, the facades are no longer spotty recipe. The KDC-W8531 has therefore essential commands. Everything else is going through multiple function keys as we will see in this article.

The Package
We received a preproduction version of this unit. Not at the level of design and features but at the box. It was devoid of any entry, which will certainly not be the case in the store. The interior is filled with the handset, the surrounding metal, the beam ISO, the box of the facade and an infrared remote control.

Two elements have been delivered separately: the user manual is being finalized and the Media Manager software which will be discussed. Elements that will join the original carton when marketed.

Connectors
The KDC-W8531 is equipped with a conventional beam with ISO proprietary jack on one side and ISO supply cards and speakers of the other. Side extensions, this handset is a pilot changer. It has three RCA outputs 5 volts and an auxiliary input on RCA as well.

This is a very useful addition to connect all kinds of current sources as a DVD player or MP3 player. Also note that the handsets will soon be compatible with Kenwood's iPod via the changer socket and with the help of an adapter housing. Which further multiplies the number of sources available from the KDC-W8531!

Media Manager
Like any high-end handset that meets this Kenwood MP3 and WMA. Great news, it also supports AAC files, that is to say those used in the Apple world: iPod and iTunes. You should know however that songs purchased online will not be readable because of their protection. However, you can create your own songs in AAC format with iTunes.

To effectively manage its collection of digital music files, Kenwood car stereo book with his application Media Manager. The latter can be classified on your PC all your songs, rename them, to make playlists etc.. It is a tool for reading and management for PCs. But it is also the best opportunity to prepare compilations of MP3, WMA and AAC that we wish to burn to a CD-R to play in its KDC-W8531.

One can of course do it all yourself. But when a brand of car audio offers its products directly and that this application is pretty nice (very similar to iTunes in mind), it seemed important to know.

Useful functions
The grip of the KDC-W8531 is extremely simple. The number of keys is limited and we ask first whether functions have not been forgotten. This is absolutely not the case.

The left side, found the volume knob that also makes multifunction controller for all settings related to sound. On the screen, the keys 1 to 6 and those around them provide access to key functions. The number buttons can acquire new functions according to what is written above it on the screen. This is the principle of contextual menus. The large right knob is a multifunction joystick that provides access to changing tracks, radio, etc.. and navigation through menus.

As such, the display is very informative. It can even be configured to display information that is needed only. We can put some value in changing their color display. A spectrum analyzer is present and for those who wish not to be bothered by all these little events, we may simply turn off the display entirely (depending Blackout).

Settings

The sound settings would be sufficient for most users. There is here no advanced audio processor, but a full three-band parametric equalizer and a two-way active crossover that will make already good service.

The equalizer operates on the bass, midrange and treble. There is a choice between eight different frequencies for action on the serious (40/50/60/70/80/100/120/150 Hz), four for the medium and as for the treble. The Q is adjustable to four levels to the grave and two levels for the medium. Els for three, the gain is adjustable to 16 levels.

The active low-pass filter has five frequencies while the high-pass filter in eight different offers.The subwoofer output has a phase control (0 / 180 °). All these settings are complete enough to settle more than a correct installation of an already high level.

ACDrive & Voice Index
Under names a little odd, these functions allow the unit to read just the type of music or artist name song by listening to his "tag". This only works on files compressed MP3, WMA or AAC. We regret that this function is very useful and innovative little documented in the manual. Having had hands a copy of preproduction, we hope this section will be developed upon availability of the KDC-W8531 for sale.

The KFC-W8531 also features dual zone function to send a different signal between the outputs front and rear of the car. One can for example listen to the tuner in front and behind the CD.This may sound like a cacophony, but the use can be useful in certain cases or certain types of vehicles. Not to be overlooked so when we try sometimes uses unusual.

Our opinion
This is a combined unit that attracted us. Much by its possibilities, its equipment by its sonic benefits. It must be said that today, few handsets unit disappointing in terms of sound. The KDC-W8531 is doing handily with a balanced sound reproduction. The sound is detailed, very fine. The soundstage is well reproduced and this high. It does not adhere to the speakers on each side.

The equipment offered by Kenwood is very interesting. We cite the support of the AAC format, big news in the world of radio. Active filtering and equalization are timely. Finally, the bundled software worth a visit for anyone who manages many music files on their computer and want to easily prepare compilations for their car.

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KDC-4571SD, A car radio to with attractive price Kenwood

When AMICOM 2011, Kenwood has unveiled a rich array 2011. After you have presented some new media, here is a laser receiver with very good value for the money. The KDC-4571SD should quickly attract young consumers.

The KDC-4571SD design stays true to his usual Kenwood car radios, lasers, namely a stylish and elegant. To meet consumer demands high-tech, this unit makes great use of connectivity to mobile sources. On the front it has a USB port and an auxiliary input. It also features an SD memory card reader. The SD slot is compatible with SD-HC. But that's not all, via an optional cable, this unit can also control the iPod and iPhone. To the traditional functions, the KDC-4571SD includes RDS FM tuner, a CD player compatible with 3 formats audio amplifier 4x50 Watts, 3-band EQ, line out with a control system for a serious and a detachable faceplate with case. Of course, this unit is also compatible with the original steering wheel controls. Placed at 139.90 Euros, it has a very good value for money!

 

 

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Kenwood DNX-3028, A multimedia handset at the lowest price

The new Kenwood multimedia range is not only very rich, but Kenwood has made tremendous efforts to offer value for money very attractive. The DNX-3028 will surely delight young fans by the budget board video!

The DNX-3028 is a combined double DIN touch screen 6.1-inch DVD player in front. To meet the needs of young consumers, this drive is compatible with most files, including DivX. We find of course pleased, excellent GUI Kenwood, which is as beautiful and practical. To use mobile sources and other audio / video sources, it has an audio / video, USB, iPod compatibility with optional cable, and a rearview camera input. For standard functions, it has a FM RDS tuner, an amplifier 4x50 Watts, an equalizer "System Q and compatibility with the original steering wheel controls. Also note the presence of the dual zone function for distributing the video on screens deported. Optionally, you can add an IR remote and a browser (KNA-G620T). The DNX-3028 is priced at very attractive from 379 Euros.

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Kenwood KSC-SW01 Subwoofer Test

Of the original facility or facilities at small speakers (10 or 13 cm), the bass is often lacking. The solution passes inevitably by a subwoofer, if you want a good record in that register sound. But now, hard to overload the trunk of a small car or family car with a big box! To address this problem, Kenwood has released a subwoofer extraplat: KSC-SW01!

The savior of serious distress!

The caissons are enough extraplat now on the market. Their main interest is to fit underneath a seat. If drag boxes under the seats were easy before, it becomes more difficult today because of the electric seats, sports seats or chassis reinforcements. Most current boxes use a subwoofer with 20 cm. Even if they are extra flat, they are sometimes difficult to fit under a seat. We can always put it in a sidewall of the trunk, but the sound produced, the ideal is still able to put the box in the cockpit (especially in a sedan 3 volumes). To address this problem, Kenwood has just unveiled at Equip Auto, a subwoofer much more compact, 41% smaller than average to be more precise. A trial of the KSC-SW01 needed.

Benefits: a truly integrated subwoofer!

At a time when the car audio has to be integrated, the approach of Kenwood is very interesting. Indeed, the KSC-SW01 is very small: 27x18x7 cm. To get a box as compact, KSC-SW01 subwoofer uses a 16 cm. To provide good rigidity and prevent vibration noise, the housing is constructed of aluminum. Although intended to be hidden, Kenwood particularly neat finish his cabinet: beautiful black paint, vinyl finish on the upper surface, aluminum strapping around the gate of HP, blue LED ... Visually, the KSC-SW01 is very successful. And more so that the connector is hidden recess on a slice of the box. Thus, if the box is slightly visible, the aesthetics of the interior is preserved. The KSC-SW01 is designed to fit easily on any installation.

A remote control lets you control the bass level

This subwoofer Kenwood is an active model, that is to say, it incorporates an amplifier. This is a 2x37 amp, 5 watts to power the sub developed 16 cm dual voice coil 2 ohms. This enables consumers to take full power of the amp. To provide a good in bass, the sub uses a flat membrane paper with rubber suspension. To tune the subwoofer to the installation, the amplifier features a low-pass crossover adjustable to 24 dB (a steep slope to prevent him to reproduce frequencies too high). The amp also features a phase inversion, which is used or not depending on where you put the subwoofer in the car (this avoids having a serious localizable too).

The KSC-SW01 is compatible with all car radios

To handle the volume of serious, Kenwood provides an elegant wired remote control that will be developed on the dashboard. To be compatible with all radios (aftermarket and original), this box has entries Kenwood high and low. All wiring is grouped on a connector for easy installation. This box does not require a big power, it can be fed into the passenger compartment by connecting to the current distributor of the fuse box. This avoids having to pull a cable to the battery.

Discover and use: an amazing record!

To try this box, we plugged in an Alfa 156, car precisely where it is difficult to return a box extraplat in the cockpit. The HP declaring quickly pass when the music in the bass attack, this car was a very good testing ground for this box. First, he came under the passenger seat, something we never could have done with other boxes extraplat that we tested. The KSC-SW01 is really compact, it could also be mounted under the glove box (the dashboard of the 156 is fairly deep, the subwoofer is very discreet. The wiring is well designed, everything connects easily into the table board. Some fillings removed, a few connections, the installation takes very little time and is not complicated. To fix the housing, Kenwood provides Velcro and metal tabs to choose from. We come to listen!

This subwoofer Kenwood slips easily under a seat

The settings are very simple, since only the cutoff frequency of the active filter to solve. The potentiometer is calibrated to the values ​​most frequently used (50, 70, 100, 120 Hz), which will facilitate the work for neophytes. The phase inverter will not be solved only listen if you have the feeling that the bass comes from the back rather than forward. Already in the Smart demonstration at Equip Auto, this box we had bluffed, but there we were able to enjoy long and leisurely to get an opinion. And frankly, the KSC-SW01 is amazing to listen. The bass is dynamic, the attacks are free. From a standpoint stamps, the sound is firm, crisp and fast. The bass is really well kept, but as might be expected with such a box, it drops down into the subwoofer. This is not a fault and it makes perfect sense for a sub 16 cm. Power issue, nothing to beat a score noise either, it's also not the role of this box. But overall, whatever the style of music, listening is very good. Bass is well controlled and the aluminum casing offers good rigidity. If you push him in the corner, then the sound quality deteriorates, but at the same time, the KSC-SW01 is not made for that.

The notice 

The KSC-SW01 is designed to address the serious lack of a facility and to move discreetly in a car. To support an original installation or facility comprising small HP, he fills his role perfectly. His listening is pleasant and attentive metamorphosis, making it more vibrant by its bass response. In contrast to audiophiles, a shortage response in subwoofers. His power is sufficient, the receiver completes a box, but on a large installation power amplifiers for channels mid-range/tweeter, it will be a fair bit. In short, this box Kenwood has been developed to meet this need as fully integrated audio, reconciling love of music and car use. From this point of view, his mission is fully completed! When the price, it is the norm for this type of casing, and perfectly justified for the quality of the product. For those looking for an efficient and easily concealable box, KSC-SW01 is a product to know!

As usual in Kenwood, is making serious

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KAC-X4D Amp Kenwood Test

Among the big news from the PTS 2009, Kenwood unveiled its first digital broadband amplifier. After many brands such as Alpine, Pioneer, JL Audio, ..., Kenwood began to turn to the Class D technology, which offers many benefits to integrating an amp in a car. So discover the KAC-X4D!

Amp elected in 2009!

For a first attempt in the Class D amplification broadband Kenwood scored a master stroke. Indeed, the KAC-X4D has been awarded the EISA 2009 in the amplifier 2009. Admittedly, the digital amps are very practical, to integrate an amplifier into a car without cluttering up the boot. Compactness to hide the amp, low power consumption, low heat, higher efficiency (80% against 60% for Class D), ..., are the main interests of the Class D

Benefits: Compact and functional!

The KAC-X4D is a 4 channel amplifier. With dimensions of 23,5 x19, 2x5, 2 cm, the KAC-X4D is very compact and takes only little space in the car. We can easily hide in a corner lost (for bags) trunk or under a seat. To facilitate integration, all connections are grouped together on the same side of the amp. The KAC-X4D with forced ventilation, it can be hidden easily in a filling, being careful not to block ventilation openings. Dressed all in black, this amp has a very simple design. Only a small plaque adorned with the logo of the brand, brings a little fun with this amp. Small tip of Kenwood, the plate is removable and reversible: it can have the logo still readable, whatever the direction in which one climbs the amp.

Through its active filter, the KAC-X4D can animate any type of speakers

All orders for amp settings are grouped on the same side. It would have been better to put them on the hood, so they remain accessible when the receiver is embedded in a filling. Also for convenience, we would have liked the knobs are more graduates. For the feature, each pair of channels has an active filter with adjustable high pass and low pass. To effectively facilitate all types of HP, the filters are adjustable over a wide frequency range. Also note the presence of an input selector (2 or 4 channels); useful if the car has only one output line. The essential functions are present, but we would have liked a line out to feed another amp and settings as a small correction serious. But this is not essential.

The logo can be rotated to remain readable regardless of the position of the receiver

Of course, the KAC-X4D is bridgeable and 2 Ohm stability. This will handle all configuration types: conventional 4 HP, 2 HP front and a subwoofer, or two small subwoofers. In short, a simple amplifier and effective to meet the most current!

Discover and use: dynamic and musical!

From a performance perspective, the KAC-X4D delivers power very comfortable: 4x120 Watts RMS into 4 ohms. In bridge mode, power is 2x300 watts RMS into 4 ohms; than enough to host a pair of small woofers. Low distortion, wide bandwidth, power is obtained in good conditions. The KAC-X4D animate without any worries of HP. But more than the power itself is the dynamic that we note first. The attacks are fast, firm and frank. Listening is really lively and enjoyable: music live.

Although very compact, the KAC-X4D offers a very comfortable power

The KAC-X4D stamp well, offers a natural and realistic sound. It lacks a little finesse to be classified as pure hi-fi, but it must be recognized that for a Class D amp, his musicianship is remarkable. Say KAC-X4D prefers a little more dynamic audiophile side. But the musicianship is still very pleasant, and that listening is the expectations of young consumers. Furthermore, its momentum is well suited to modern music. The KAC-X4D asks only send power to the slightest touch of volume. Clearly, there is sure to have fun listening to this amp Kenwood.

The notice 

For a first amp of this type, Kenwood fate is a very good product. Compact, sober, he will be discreet in the car. Versatile, it can host any type of HP. Power, musicality, fast attacks, listening to the KAC-X4D is really nice. Apart from a few features (subsonic filter, phase correction) that we would have liked, there was no major fault with him. Admittedly, this is not an amp audiophile, but this is not an amp "big sound". The KAC-X4D is a very good compromise for those looking for an amp easily integrated, musical and powerful. Clearly, a practical and efficient amplifier to have fun without complicating their lives. In short, it is well worth the price EISA 2009. Finally, the price is average for a product like this.

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Kenwood KIV-700 Test and Review

To meet the demand of users of mobile sources in the car, turn out Kenwood car radios without CD. Not arriving first on the market, Kenwood made it big win for owners of iPod / iPhone. The KIV-700 moreover been awarded the EISA 2010-2011!

Compatible with the video files!

From a standpoint audiophile CDs are the best source of music, but we must recognize that MP3 players like the iPod are convenient by car. In a small device, we have all the disco and even its video library, which avoids constantly change CDs while traveling. The KIV-700 Kenwood has introduced a USB port and iPod control instead of the CD. This type of car is not new, but this model is particularly well equipped Kenwood by integrating the video and more music!

Benefits: Complete and scalable!

With its facade piano lacquer black color screen with QVGA resolution 3-inch, its keys with a choice of lighting color, the KIV-700 features a high-tech design very successful. With the rotary control with joystick, Kenwood married design and ergonomics. To not spoil the line of this unit, the auxiliary input and USB port are located on the rear panel. This USB cable is long enough to place the USB socket in the glove box or center console. This jack is used to get USB support, but also to control an iPod or iPhone. To control Apple devices, Kenwood series provides the specific cable. IPod control is complete and very well designed.

The KIV-700 can play video files on mobile media

IPod control manages the display of playlists with titles identical to Apple's player. In addition, it displays the album covers, can play podcasts and video files to iPod. The USB port can read USB drives and hard drives and is compatible with major formats (MP3, JPEG and MPEG4). Music Search function allows you to easily search a title in the playlists. More rarely, the KIV-700 can handle a USB hub, to connect both USB 2 and an iPod. The HUB USB are very easy on the shelf computer. Thus, there is no need to disconnect a plug in support for another. Kenwood has also provided an audio / video and a dual zone function, to allow passengers to view videos on a remote screen. Of course, the video driver can only stop. To complete the picture, we would have liked this handset has Bluetooth. But you can add this functionality with the optional KCA-BT300 box. For those who can not do without the CD and are seduced by this high-tech car, there's even a digital bus to control a Kenwood CD changer.

The KIV-700 can handle a USB hub to connect both key and iPod

For standard functions, it has an RDS tuner with 18 FM memory, an amplifier 4x50 Watts, an IR remote and is compatible with the original steering wheel controls. With 3 line outputs and a DSP equalizer and time alignment, the preamp is equipped to carry out a large facility with power amplifiers. To finish the presentation, and this is our main criticism, this handset is protected by an electronic code. It's less call, but we would have preferred a removable front panel (at least partial) much more secure!

Discover and use: simple to use and powerful!

In use, the handset shows relatively intuitive. Some functions such as audio adjustments need to browse the manual, but the nomadic media control is done with a breeze. IPod control is a wonder, we find exactly the Apple player rankings and navigates easily inside. With the Music Search, you can even search alphabetically. Although this is not essential, see album covers are very nice and fun. For media files contain nomadic quality, listening is very satisfactory musical and dynamic. The video playback is also carefree.

Whether for music or video, use the iPod is a pure delight

Admittedly, the screen is small to really take a movie, but the image quality is very good color and contrast. The DSP in this unit is not as complete as a standalone processor, but it already provides a lot of adjustments to correct the acoustics of the car (EQ, time alignment, size of the cabin, ...). It also helps manage a subwoofer channel. If these functions seem too complex, the KIV-700 also has preprogrammed sound effects (rock, pop, ...) and a classic setting balance / fader. The integrated amp offers a good momentum and lead smoothly to a conventional 4-speaker (preferably HP offers good performance). But it would be a shame not to enjoy the 3 line outputs to produce a powerful rig.

3 line outputs, DSP, the KIV-700 allows a beautiful high-tech facility

Finally, the tuner provides high quality reception and offers all the features of a good tuner RDS. By cons auxiliary input jack is a mini-jack on the rear frame, it will not forget to install a cable assembly if we ever wanted to connect the headphone output of an MP3 player. However, the iPod control is so nice, it would be a shame not to use an Apple music player with this high-tech unit. The KIV-700 is also compatible with leading iPod (Classic, Nano, iTouch), but also with the iPhone 3G and 3G.

The notice 

For his first car of this kind, Kenwood sign is an excellent product, well worth its price Eisa 2010-2011 in the car category. The KIV-700 is very pleasant to use and powerful. Fly his iPod with him is pure happiness. In fact, the only criticism we would have to be concerned with the lack two or three small functions. For example, we would have liked an entry reversing camera and Bluetooth is standard. But it was the absence of a detachable faceplate for security that we regret. With the rotary control, a detachable faceplate would be cumbersome, and often left in the glove box (thus the same risk of flight), which explains the choice of Kenwood. Anyway, for those who use only mobile sources is a very good product.

The KIV-700 can receive a Bluetooth module for telephony

In addition to its iPod function, it also appreciates its preamp for producing a hi-fi fun. Dual zone function is also welcome and will allow rear passengers to watch movies on the iPod screen remote. Finally, the price is average and is perfectly justified for a car of this type. Given its good quality screen and very good control of his iPod, we began to dream of a 2011 model that can take on the radio, the GPS of the iPhone and why not the Internet features for the webradio!

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2011 Kenwood car radios coming to market, KDC-4751SD

Since the beginning of each year, the range of Kenwood car audio facelift. For a first contact, we present a mid-range model, which should be enjoyed by young consumers: the KDC-4751SD!

Indeed, this unit has a design in line with Kenwood products, that is to say, modern and elegant. Its strong point is of course compatible with mobile carriers. To play MP3 music, it has a USB port, an SD slot and an auxiliary input. The KDC-4751SD has also control the iPod / iPhone. For standard functions, it boasts an RDS tuner, a CD player compatible with MP3/WMA/AAC, a 4x50 watt amplifier with an output line and compatibility with the original steering wheel controls. Corrections for noise, the KDC-4751SD has a 3 band equalizer, a bass boost and an active filter. Protection is of course provided by a removable front panel. Optionally, you can add an IR remote. The KDC-4751SD is sold 139 Euros, which is very attractive given the benefits and product qualities.

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Kenwood, DNX-4028BT, An attractive price multimedia station

At CES 2011, Kenwood has introduced several innovations. Among the first to be unveiled in Europe, here is a multimedia station, the DNX-4028BT, which has a value very attractive price.

The DNX-4028BT Double DIN is a handset with a 6.1 inch touch screen and DVD player in front. As usual in Kenwood, the GUI is very successful and is customizable. The DVD player is compatible with all formats including DivX. To read sources nomads, it has an auxiliary input, USB port and an iPod control (optional cable). It even has Bluetooth via a Bluetooth dongle / USB. Optionally, you can add a browser. For the rest, the DNX-4028BT has a PiP screen, RDS tuner, an amplifier 4x50 Watts, a rearview camera input, dual-zone function with an audio / video, and compatibility with the original steering wheel controls . Its price is 399 Euros.

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Kenwood KAC-X4D A digital amp

It's rare enough to point out is a wideband digital receiver that has been nominated in the category Amplifiers of the Year by EISA 2009. We must recognize that the Kenwood KAC-X4D is very good product.

Operating in Class D, KAC-X4D delivers 4x120 Watts RMS into 4 ohms. Naturally, it is as stable as 2 ohms and bridgeable. We can animate all kinds of speakers, and more so that this amp has a crossover per pair of channels. Very compact, low power-hungry, KAC-X4D fits easily into the cockpit. Finally, the KAV-X4D was also chosen for its sound and its very good results in measurements. Its price is 599 Euros.

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Kenwood KDC-W7044U An accessible and scalable radio

Located in the middle range, this handset lacks Kenwood assets to seduce: design, performance, scalability, ...

KDC-W7044U baptized, this item is a radio tuner with RDS laser. Large monochrome display multiple lines of text, double rotary controls, this unit successfully blends retro and modern. From a performance standpoint, this handset features a CD player compatible with three audio formats, a USB port and an auxiliary input to connect the headphone output of any MP3 player. Kenwood has not forgotten the scalability. Optionally, you can add a Bluetooth module for telephony and an interface to control an iPod. For the rest, benefits are conventional and relatively complete: compatibility steering wheel controls, amplifier 4x50 Watts, 2 line outputs ... The KDC-W7044U is 199 sold

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Kenwood unveils new subwoofer, KFC-W3012

 

A big powerful subwoofer for its first installation, Kenwood is that it happens. The KFC-W3012 has a price / performance ratio attractive for small budgets.

KFC-3012 subwoofer is a 30 cm single coil of 4 ohms. It is designed to operate in closed chamber of 35.4 liters or bass-reflex of 42.5 liters. Being rather compact, the KFC-3012 will deliver a box rather shallow. With its imitation carbon membrane, this sub offers a very nice design. He also announced a strong performance: 400 Watts RMS power and a response from 37-300 Hz His performance is average (86dB), the KFC-3012 will therefore require a good amp to be fully expressed. Its price is 99 Euros.

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Kenwood car stereo for boats, KMR-700U

Marine lines with the wind in their sails, Kenwood presents in turn a unit specially designed for boats. Resolutely turned towards the new technologies, the KMR-700U should quickly attract consumers.

Of course, this unit is treated to resist UV, sea water, weather. No CD player, KMR-700U is dedicated to music dematerialized. Behind the tilt, a housing can put an iPod or a USB (key players, small hard disks). These sources will be controlled and charged by the car radio. Of course, MP3 tags appear on the screen. Also note the presence of an auxiliary input. The concept is interesting because it allows the use of his beautiful iPhone or iPod while keeping it safe from water splashes. Optionally, you can even add a Bluetooth module for telephony. To the traditional functions, the KMR-700U has an RDS tuner, an amp 4x50 watts and 3 line outputs. We can also add a wired remote option. The KMR-700U is sold 399 euros.

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Fitting: BMW 520 D Hifimobile Kenwood

BMW 520D

Today, many cars have a color screen in the dashboard for functions on-board computer, air conditioning, radio base, ... But the basic versions of these screens and car radios do not offer multimedia function. This is particularly true of the BMW 520 D Touring Hifimobile which shows us how to capitalize on the original screen.

Keep the original screen to use a multimedia car radio!

On the current cars, it is not uncommon for the screen color of the car also serve essential functions of the car (air conditioning, computer, parking sensors, ...). We can not completely remove the original car, it would lose these features. However, there are still solutions on certain cars like the BMW, to put an aftermarket car stereo multimedia instead of the original car radio. 

It has done just that on this Hifimobile BMW. It has the color screen and a basic car, but do not have a GPS and multimedia features such as DVD. This requires know-how, but it is possible to mount a double DIN multimedia on this BMW, without losing the functions of the original system. Often there is no ready solution, and this type of work is the work of a specialist!

Originally, this BMW E60 has a color screen in the center of the dashboard

Initially, the car was disassembled Hifimobile original and the original screen. The original screen that have no audio / video interface Hifimobile rose OEM Davicom on the original screen. It will transfer the video signal from the radio to the original screen, and sound on the original installation of the car. This interface type is specific to the car, and Davicom (like other brands) offers many interfaces of this type. Then, the front of the car is uncoupled electronic box. The front of the radio buttons with air conditioning, it will be cut to keep only the plate with the heater controls.

Through an OEM interface, you can use the original screen for streaming multimedia

The electronics of the unit is dismantled to be relocated above the fuse box at the bottom of the glove box. It is essential to preserve the functional features of the car. Only the CD player will no longer suffice. At the center of the dashboard, it has a large shelter, which will set the caliper Hifimobile a combined double DIN Kenwood. This is the DNX65260BT was chosen for its comprehensive functions (DivX compatible DVD, GPS, Bluetooth, iPod control, USB port, ... Of course, the Kenwood is rewired to be compatible with the OEM interface and vehicle installation. Kenwood The handset is then clipped into the cradle as is done for all double DIN.

In place of the original car radio, fixed rack Hifimobile double DIN Kenwood

To replace the facade of the original car that has been deleted, Hifimobile remoulded bespoke facade reinforced resin. After several putty and sanding, we obtain a harmonious form, which blends into the design of the dashboard. To meet the aesthetics of the cockpit, the new facade is clad in a leather design very similar to the material of the dashboard. All functions of the car are stored, but instead of the original car radio, you have a multimedia station at the top!

A front fiber army is custom made to replace the original

If you wish to use the onboard computer, the video screen origin remains fully functional.Simply use the dial on the center console to navigate the on-board computer. With the OEM video interface, just press the scroll wheel on the BMW system to display the contents of the Kenwood on the original screen. We can spread the navigation or a DVD on the original screen.Even better, we can have an audio source on the receiver (eg iPod) and shipping on the original screen. Changes to the BMW are minimal. The design of the passenger is met, and it benefits from an excellent media source without losing the screen and the original functions. In short, a very nice integration. Our photo gallery allows you to discover all the steps in this assembly.

The onboard computer on the original screen and the audio can work together

MSDS: 
- Source: Kenwood DNX-5260BT 
- OEM Interface: Davicom 
- Other: fiber, resin, leather 
- Budget mounting: 700 Euros 
- Main products: 1780 Euros

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