Car Stereos Reviews

Until now, the problem with many in-car GPS navigation systems has been confusing user interfaces, poor display screens, restricted map coverage, and slow performance. To address the growing need of drivers to have a strong and reliable navigation tool, Panasonic developed the Strada, HDD mobile navigation system, a user-friendly, high-capacity car navigation system which can easily instruct average, non-technical drivers where they are, where they've been, and how to get to their next destination.

While serving as a driver's electronic navigator between points A, B and C, or any other combination, the Strada CN-NVD905U system can deliver radio broadcasts, real-time traffic information, and CD audio and DVD movie and can even play music and videos from an iPod allowing your car to be another source for on demand entertainment.

Moving beyond navigation and entertainment, Panasonic's new navigation system also boasts several safety and convenience features, such as hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, an optional back-up camera to help avoid fender benders and the ability to program specific geographic areas that the driver wants to avoid.



Complete with high-speed data to provide the driver with possible restaurant choices, gas stations and hotel accommodations along their trip, the Strada system, named after the Italian word for street, is truly the perfect driving companion.

This receiver has it all, including a built-in Bluetooth hands-free cell phone module. Other features include USB direct control for portable music devices, 3-line text full dot display, interactive illumination effect, and a multi-control wheel that makes finding music fast and easy.

Kenwood KDC-BT838U CD receiver, January 19, 2009

By	J. Szabo "red2002yzfr1" (Allentown, PA) -

This head unit is well worth the price. I am anti-iPod guy and this unit having an USB connection made it very easy to "digitally" connect a hard drive. I now have a 200 gig hard drive (~$150) in my vehicles, never with out a type of music. This unit allows you to navigate the hard drive from the units screen. With the provided software, you can make playlist or just add music to the hard drive. It also has bluetooth, so you can also stream music that way. The unit also come with hands free, there is a mic with a cord on it long enough to put anywhere. If your state is (or has) mandated hands free devices and you are not one to want to look like a cyborg, this unit will comply with the law. It mutes the music, diplays the caller, push a knob and your connected. Once hooked up, everything is automatic, just get into your car, start it and it connects. It will download your phonebook to the unit so you can dial from the unit. Here is another good thing, ever leave home without your cell phone, well you wont ever again, tells you not connected within a minute of starting your vehicle. I would definitly recommend this to my poorest friend, well worth the investment.

This product is available at Amazon.com (Click Here)

With one-touch access to entertainment, navigation, and Bluetooth technology, Kenwood's DNX8120 is the ultimate all in one. A highly advanced in-dash system, the DNX8120 offers guidance by Garmin, premium NAVTEQ mapping, and built-in Bluetooth technology for hands-free cell phone operation and voice dialing. The DNX8120 provides superior sound quality, a 6.95" touchscreen with advanced GUI, and the industry's fastest access to iPod audio and video files.



You can find it at Amazon.com:
Price: $999.00

The Kenwood Excelon DNX9140 navigation receiver gives you turn-by-turn directions from its internal Garmin navigation system, plus built-in Bluetooth for safer hands-free calling. The DNX9140's VGA screen boasts a level of detail and brightness that's steps ahead of lesser models, for vibrant movie playback when you're parked, and outstanding detail and clarity when you're using the intuitive menus and navigation features.



You can find it at Amazon.com:
List Price: $2,000.00
Price: $1,349.95
You Save: $650.05 (33%)

JVC's KW-XG700 is a great replacement for your stock double-DIN unit, with CD/MP3/WMA playback, a front auxiliary input, iPod and Satellite Radio Capability, and front and rear preamp outputs for system expansion.

Amazon.com Price: $269.95

A full-featured double-DIN CD receiver with room to grow. Click to enlarge.

Front panel auxiliary input for external audio devices and USB for music streaming/iPod connection.

Includes wireless remote. Click to enlarge.

USB Port
A USB port allows connection with an HDD, USB memory and digital audio players for playback of MP3/WMA/WAV/AAC audio files WMA-DRM protected music files can also be played (not compatible with DRM-protected music purchased from Apple iTunes Music Store).

Ready for Bluetooth Wireless Technology
With KS-BTA200 optional adapter, Bluetooth Wireless Technology can be used with compatible devices. Use the adaptor with the KW-XG700 and you will be able to register a maximum of five mobile phones for hands-free calling. With voice-recognition mobile phones, you can dial by just saying the name in your phone book. The wireless functions work even if your mobile phone is tucked away in your bag or pocket. You can also stream music from a compatible digital audio player for listening on your car stereo.

CD and MP3/WMA Playback
Enjoy your favorite CDs or burnt CD-R/RWs, or get more bang for your buck with MP3/WMA discs--burn hours of music to one disc (or stream directly from a USB device) and get ID3-TAG support for display of artist and song info.

iPod Control
Enjoy even more connections and full operation with the optional KS-PD100 adapter with all three units. The iPod can be controlled from the headunit, and song information is displayed with the same categories and layers as an iPod.

AM/FM Radio with HS-IV Tuner
The KW-XG700's AM/FM radio has standard features like automatic presetting of strongest signals.

The HS-IV tuner features higher sensitivity, thanks to three IF bandwidths (wide, middle and narrow). It also includes AM Noise Canceller plus upgraded IF filters that help avoid the distortion caused by interference from adjacent stations.

To get even more from the airwaves, add a JVC adapter for Sirius or XM SAT Radio reception.

Auxiliary Input
Use the front auxiliary input to connect external audio devices like MP3 players.

Two Preamp Outputs
With a 50W x 4 MOSFET amplifier, the KW-XG700 is ready to rock, but if you'd like to add onto the system, two preamp outputs are provided for setting up external amps.

Wireless Remote
A full-featured wireless remote is include for controlling receiver functions.

Available at Amazon.com (Click Here)

Current Owner´s Review:

Excellent unit for the price, January 12, 2008

By	Timothy K. Li "licotimli" (Fullerton, CA United States) -

This unit had all the features that I wanted in a double-DIN headunit. The only thing I would improve is the trim piece that is included was not wide enough for fitment in my Acura, and I had to glue an extra piece of black plastic behind the included trim to fill the 1/8" space on each side. The other minor complaint that I deducted was its somewhat weak tuner section with was not as good as my provious unit, a Pioneer. I noticed some stations had static at some places in my neighborhood which previously were clear. Otherwise, I think this is a great double-DIN headunit for someone who does not want a touch-screen, and who want real buttons.

Available at Amazon.com (Click Here)

The JVC KW-AVX820 DVD/CD/USB receiver features a 7-inch widescreen touch panel display, proximity sensor and detachable face. Built-in Bluetooth wireless technology gives you hands-free cell phone calling and wireless audio streaming. Also included is a full-speeed USB 2.0 port for USB devices or iPod/iPhone control. With playback of AAC/WAV/MP3/WMA files, a 7-band iEQ, an internal MOSFET 50W x 4 amplifier, and plenty more, this is a very competitive 2-DIN multimedia system.

Expanded connection, control, and convenience. Click to enlarge.

Includes wireless remote. Click to enlarge.

Add the KS-U30 for full charging and video display for iPod and iPhone video.

Built-In Bluetooth

• Stress-free calls with clear communication.
• Dial by Phone Book, Dialed Calls, Received Calls, or Number Input.
• Audio Streaming capability for high quality wireless music playback from Bluetooth enabled cell phones or digital

CDs, DVDs and More
Enjoy your favorite CDs or watch some video on DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW or VCDs.

You can also enjoy your favorite WMA/MP3/WAV/AAC audio files, or take in MPEG1/2 videos or JPEG images, from disc or from a USB device.

AM/FM Radio
The KW-AVX820 features an AM/FM radio with standards like automatic presetting. You can also add SAT or HD radio with additional accessories.

The HS-IVi tuner features higher sensitivity, thanks to three IF bandwidths (wide, middle and narrow). It also includes AM Noise Canceller plus upgraded IF filters that help avoid the distortion caused by interference from adjacent stations.

To get even more from the airwaves, add JVC optional hardware for HD Radio or SAT Radio reception.

Detachable Faceplate Screen With Stylish Frame Design
With its smooth slope from side to bottom, the faceplate's simple streamlined contour blends perfectly with your car interior. The KW-AVX820's Faceplate (with Monitor) fully detaches from the unit for convenience and security, or you can remove it during extreme winter or summertime temperatures.

Customizable Interface
Choose from 12 different GUI colors and multiple graphic options to match your car interior.

Multimedia Connectivity
Connect, control, and charge your iPod or iPhone with full speed using its existing charging cable. Also compatible with Portable HDD Devices, USB Flash Memory Drives, and Digital Audio Players (KS-U30 Cable required for iPod/iPhone video connections).

Proximity Sensor
The KW-AVX820 features a proximity sensor that detects as your hand approaches to operate. The unit then illuminates the DVD/Video Menu icons on-screen.

Dial in Your Sound
Perfect your sound with a three-band parametric equalizer and Loudness control for low level listening.

Input and Output
Three pairs of gold-plated 5V preamp outputs are provided for adding a little extra power to the KW-AVX820's onboard 50W x 4 amplifier.

Gold-plated AV and Video inputs are also included for use with video game systems or other devices, and you can also use the composite video output terminals to send video to a passenger screen.

Wireless Remote
A full-featured wireless remote is include for controlling receiver functions.

What's in the Box
JVC KW-AVX820 Receiver, trim ring, sleeve, remote control, wiring harness, installation hardware, installation manual, instructions.

Introducing the Pioneer AVH-P4100DVD In-Dash Double-DIN DVD Multimedia AV Receiver with 7-inch Widescreen Display, including DVD Video, DivX, MP3/WMA/iTunes AAC playback, iPod Direct Control (CD-IU50V Required), and Bluetooth Adapter Ready (CD-BTB200 Required). Now Playing In A Dash Near You
This is what Drive-In Movies were supposed to be. Audio/Video players improve on CD Players by adding a nice large touch screen. With features like touch-slide control and improved iPod interface, taking your favorite movies, music, and other media on the road is better than ever.

Pioneer AVIC-F900BT In-Dash Navigation AV Receiver with DVD Playback and Built-In Bluetooth. Click to enlarge.

Controlling your movies and music has never been easier with the slick touch panel display.

Back connections of the Pioneer AVH-P4100DVD.

Now playing in a dash near you: Your calls, CDs, DVDs, your iPod and more.

Widen Your Horizons
With a 15 percent larger display that the AVH-P3100DVD, the AVH-P4100DVD's motorized display hides the CD slot, allowing you to enjoy all of your Audio/Video content on the full-color 7-inch screen.

iPod Made Easy
Simply plug your iPod directly into the unit using the CD-IU50V iPod cable, and you are ready to rock and roll. Touch slide scrolling, Alphabetical Hi-Speed Search, Album Art, and improved Link Search make it easy to find your music.

Bring Your Music To Life
Hear the detail, warmth, and clarity the way the artist intended it, from all of your highly compressed MP3, WMA and AAC files. By restoring data that tends to get lost in the digital compression process, we can make your music sound close to CD quality.

Smooth Operator
Controlling your movies and music has never been easier. With a smooth swipe of your finger on the touch panel display, you can fastforward and rewind Audio/Video content (Note: Touchslide Fastforward/Rewind function not available on iPod).

Now It's Personal
Select among five display colors and 112 key panel illumination to match car interior lighting, color, and design. You can even set your favorite JPEG file as wallpaper. Parked with no place to go? Now you can enjoy a slideshow of your photos on a CD or USB Device.

Fed up with your Bluetooth headset?
Here's a better hands-free solution. Use the available CD-BTB200 Bluetooth Adapter and Bluetooth-enabled cellular phones for easy, safe, and hands-free operation. The unit acts like a speakerphone, channeling the sound through your car speakers which makes the call sound better. It also automatically mutes your music so that you'll never miss a call (Note: Optional CD-BTB200 adapter required).

What else does this model have to offer?
The AVH-P4100DVD also includes additional features like built-in AUX input for your media devices. Features that are designed to expand your system, customize your experience, provide superior sound quality and easy operation.

• 3 RCA Hi-Volt pre-outs for adding on external amps and speakers simplify system expansion.
• Play your MP3, WMA, iTunes AAC from CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, or USB Device.
• Built-in MOSFET 50 W x 4 amplifier for excellent sound quality, minimal distortion and efficient power handling.
• Supertuner IIID advanced analog and digital processing assure superior imaging, less distortion and noise, and stronger, smoother broadcast signal reception.

What's in the Box
Pioneer AVH-P4100DVD, wiring harness, installation hardware, operation manual, installation guide, warranty sheet.


An Owner Review:

Simply awesome,

September 10, 2009

By	Stuart Chiavassa "Ogredad" (Los Angeles CA) -

This is a great unit. Plenty of hook up versatility, screen doesn't wash out in bright sunlight, plenty of adjustment for sound etc thru head unit for minor changes after you've dialed in a seperate amp. Video quality is way better than expected. For the money, you can't go wrong

Available at Amazon Check Price!

I bought this about 9 months ago and it's still a great purchase. It's relatively easy to install (once I found the documentation for my car that told me which wire is the speed sensor wire and found a found a path through my car's dash).

The hard drive is great, because it holds the maps so you don't have to use a separate maps DVD. There is also about 20 GB of space for your own MP3's. I figure the hard drive will be the first thing to go...but so far it is going strong.

Copying music to the hard drive....UGH. From a DVD, it takes about 2-3 minutes to copy 1 albums worth of MP3s from a DVD This doesn't seem like a long time, but when you want to copy 5 GB of MP3s, that means about two hours. A long time to sit in the car pushing buttons. Make sure they are properly tagged and in separate folders by Artist/Album).

I haven't bothered to encode MP3s from audio CD's (well, I did it once and it was painfully slow - about 15 minutes to copy a 60 minute album). When you encode from Audio CD, the artist and song names are just random junk unless you take the time to fix it. If the CD has CD-Text, then the song names will show up properly, but in my experience most commercial audio CD's do not have CD-Text.



MP3s played from the Hard drive do not auto resume from the previous song position after turning your car on. MP3s played from Disc or Ipod adapter DO resume correctly. HOWEVER, if the 4 GB DVD is full on MP3s, it takes about 30-40 seconds for the stereo to enumerate all the tracks and start playback. Sound quality is decent and their is a full EQ with factory and user definable levels.

There are a ton of features on this thing but one drawback is that you can't use more than one external connector at a time. In other words, you can use the bluetooth adapter OR the ipod adapter OR the Aux adapter OR the XM adapter. Changing the adapters requires pulling the stereo out and switch it...not a trivial thing.

Also, I would not recommend the ipod adapter. Yes it is capable of charging the ipod (sometimes) but it is not compatible with some of the newer ipods, in particular it does not work with my 1st gen ipod touch or my iphone 3G. It did work with my ipod 5th gen video charging and playback (until that was stolen). HOWEVER a major drawback of the ipod adapter is you HAVE to use the interface on the stereo which is AWFUL if you have more than 50 or so songs on your ipod (especially if they aren't tagged properly by artist album). With that in mind I would recommend the KS-U58 adapter which has just a 3.5 mm stereo jack (headphone mini) which can interface with any mp3 player. It is a lot cheaper than the ipod adapter. No it will not charge, but when your friend rides along and they want to listen to their ipod it is a PAIN to teach them how to use the stereo's interface, so the standard 3.5 mm adapter lets them use the ipod's interface.

I have not used the bluetooh or XM adapters.

The navigation is very good in my experience (mostly navigating in the Boston/New England area - City, suburbs, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut). Re-routing works flawlessly, and the paths are pretty good (if only it could be configured to ignore Fenway on gameday!) It only says generic street names (e.g. "Continue on Ninety-three North" or "Make a left on U-S twenty-eight", it will not say "Harvard Street" or "Commonwealth Ave". For some reason the accuracy of the roundabout directions surprises me, it will say "Take the 3rd exit at the traffic circle" which is impressive.

The speed sensor wire has come loose two times in two years. Navigation will not work AT ALL without the speed sensor wire. It was relatively easy to pop the hood and re-clamp the connector. I'm sure if I'd had it professionally installed, they would have done a better job than I of securing the connection.

No touchscreen or voice commands, if those are deal breakers for you, but honestly I'm am SOOO glad I have this instead of a Tom-Tom or Garmin. It doesn't take up a power outlet, less concerned about it being stolen (detachable faceplate FTW), and it's always there when I need it, and it has a MP3 hard drive built in. I bought it for Music and Navigation and couldn't be happier...the purpose of a review is to be critical and point out flaws that others may have a problem with. I consider the unit's flaws to be minor so I think this stereo is great after-market option that rivals the newer factory installed in dash units in features (if not screen size).

Available at Amazon Check Price!

JVC KW-NX5000 Vehicle Multimedia Receiver w/ 3.5" Color Display Feature

• 40GB Hard Drive
• iPod/Satellite Radio/Bluetooth Ready

Another owner review:

Small but full of Technology, August 31, 2007

By	Solomore (Fort Irwin, CA) -

This is one hell of a unit. I have had it for 3months now and suffice it to say it has everything you could ever ask for. For example, if you decide to adjust the sound settings, watch out, you might rip your speakers or are you into satelite radios...it is Sirius and XM radio ready. Navigation is superb and as far as I am concerned, it is on par with my 2007 Yukon navigation system. I have watched full lenght movies on the screen with front passengers and connected video monitors on the headrests for rear passengers. There are so much more to this unit; bluetooth, MP3/ZUNE/IPOD adapter, 13million POI etc
I love it and will buy another if I ever have to.

Available at Amazon Check Price!

Both innovative and stylish, exclusive El Kameleon technology provides the ultimate antitheft security advantage. The KD-AVX44s faceplate converts to a stealthy black appearance when the power is turned off appearing unnoticeable to potential car stereo thieves. Once powered on, El Kameleon comes to life as a full function Multimedia player complete with a unique electro-static touch panel operation interface and 3-D graphical menu system.

The powerful built-in amplifier and high-quality digital-to-analog converter make the most of your music, and the 7-band equalizer lets you adjust a range of selectable frequencies to create the perfect sound for your car's interior. If you're building a complete system, use the three sets of preamp outputs to add amplifiers and subwoofers.

Built-in iPod controls keep your favorite playlists on tap, and you can even stream your iPod videos by adding an adapter. If you have a Bluetooth enabled phone, the receiver's built-in Bluetooth capabilities let you take your phone calls through the receiver while you keep both hands on the wheel.

Owner´s Review:

THIS IS THE DVD IN DASH PLAYER WITH THE MOST VALUE, PERIOD,

January 26, 2009

By	Gregory J. Doyle "gdoyle05" -

This DVD Player is amazing, when i sit in my car it connects to my phone via bluetooth so i can talk to people from my stereo. I would recommend this Head Unit to anyone.

PROS: Plays .avi files (Divix); Plays iPod videos (with adapter, which is worth buying); can upgrade to HD radio; can upgrade to GPS; Stylish; Bluetooth is the BEST

CONS: iPod interface is really slow.

Note: buy the "USB iPod adapter" that will play videos and stream songs

You can have your JVC KD-AVX44 here

JVC's KD-AVX11 is a great way to get mobile video in a one-DIN space, along with a host of other cutting edge features. Take your CDs/DVDs, MP3/WMA/WAV files, DivX movies, and JPEGs on the road. Easily add support for Bluetooth wireless, SAT radio, steering wheel remotes, and direct control of your iPod. The KD-AVX11 starts out big, and lets you go bigger.

Mobile video and cutting edge features in a one-DIN space.

2.7-inch LCD with 16:9 aspect ratio.

JVC add-ons available for direct iPod connection (above), Bluetooth, SAT radio and more.

Wireless remote included.

Detachable Control Panel
At the heart of the KD-AVX11 is its motorized, detachable control panel. It's where you'll find the built-in 2.7-Inch LCD. With 560 x 220 resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio, it's a great way to enjoy video and images, and you can select from several different wallpapers to get the look you like.

CD and DVD Playback
Enjoy your favorite CDs or watch some video on DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW or VCDs. Use the gold-plated video output terminals to send video to a passenger screen.

AM/FM Radio
The KD-AVX11 features an AM/FM radio with standards like automatic presetting. You can also add SAT radio with additional accessories.

GIGA MP3 MULTI--Play MP3, WMA, and WAV Files Burned on DVD
The KD-AVX11 features GIGA MP3 MULTI, which plays MP3, WMA, or WAV files burned on DVD. With MP3 and WMA files, the 4.7GB capacity of a DVD can store up to 2,500 songs on a single disc--equal to 250 pre-recorded CDs. If you want even more superior sound quality, WAV files can be burned onto a DVD. WAV is an uncompressed PC music file format that delivers CD-quality sound. A single DVD disc can store 100 WAV files--equal to 10 pre-recorded CDs. Now you can enjoy non-stop entertainment with CD-quality sound, without an additional CD changer.

Bluetooth Ready
Bluetooth Wireless Technology is available with an optional adapter (KS-BTA200) for the KD-AVX11. A maximum of five compatible mobile phones can be registered for hands-free calling. With voice-recognition mobile phones, you can dial by just saying the name in your phone book. The wireless functions work even if your mobile phone is tucked away in your bag or pocket. You can also stream music from a compatible digital audio player, for listening on your car stereo.

Save up to $252.36 (56%) on Amazon.com (Click Here)

DivX Video Files
The KD-AVX11 system is a DivX Ultra Certified product, and can play PC-created DivX� video files on a DivX� can fit up to 10 movies onto 1 DVD, or 1 movie onto 1 CD, without sacrificing picture quality.

Ready for iPod
You can listen to iPod music with an optional KS-PD100 adapter. The iPod can be controlled from the head unit, and song information is displayed with the same categories and layers as an iPod.

MPEG 1/MPEG 2 Playback
Play MPEG 1 and MPEG 2 video files burned on DVD or CD, TV programs recorded from a PC, or personal footage from digital camcorders, without the hassles of authoring or decoding.

JPEG Pictures
JPEG digital still photos can be displayed on their own or as slideshows.

Setup/Control With the Multi-Functional Monitor
You can use the built-in monitor to set the system's parameters (EQ, balance, fader, etc.). Operation is easy with user-friendly interface and controls. Searching through music folders with GIGA MP3 MULTI is also a snap.

Expandability
With its 50W x 4 MOSFET amplifier, the KD-AVX11 packs a lot of punch. But if you need more, three sets of preamp outputs (front, rear, and sub) are included.

A/V Input
Connect external devices like video game systems with the A/V input.

What's in the Box
JVC KD-AVX11 DVD/CD Receiver, trim ring, sleeve, remote control, wiring harness, installation hardware, installation manual, instructions.

JVC KD-AVX11 on Amazon.com (Click Here)

What an owner has to say:

This JVC DVD Receiver Rocks, June 19, 2009

By	Alan Matsunaga "bulletmatsu" (bulletmatsu) -

I have had this JVC KD-AVX11 for about 1-1/2 years. It rocks. I picked up the backup camera accessory kit. Let me start by saying, the screen is short from being too small, it is large enough to see all the details in movies and music videos. The bluetooth phone works great and its microphone is very good. The backup camera is cystal clear. I had one of those wireless ones before, this one blows them away. Even at night it is bright and clear. The Ipod connector is okay. The only problem with it is that you can't see more than one song at a time on the dispay. But what is amazing is the usb port. Connect a 20 gig usb drive with as many songs as you want and it will show up on the display in groups of 6-8 songs. Easly to scroll and pick songs. The only disadavantage is that if you have too much songs (more than 10 gigs)then it will take about 20 seconds to read the drive. Also, videos can be watched from your usb drive too. You will have to have a separate usb drive for video (cant read multiple media - music is dominant media). Hope this review help you.

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