Car stereos have come a long way since their inception in the 1930s. Kenwood, a well-known brand in the audio industry, has been producing car stereos for decades. With their advanced features and high-quality sound, Kenwood car stereos have become a popular choice for car enthusiasts.
When it comes to choosing the best Kenwood car stereo, there are a few things to consider. One of the most critical factors is compatibility with your car’s make and model. You’ll also want to consider the size of the stereo, as well as its features. Some Kenwood car stereos come with built-in Bluetooth, allowing you to connect your phone and play music wirelessly. Others have advanced equalization settings, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your liking.
We tested several Kenwood car stereos to identify the ones that offer the best sound quality, compatibility, and features. Whether you’re looking for a basic stereo or a high-end model with all the bells and whistles, we’ve got you covered.
Best Kenwood Car Stereos
If you’re looking for a high-quality car stereo that offers great sound, easy installation, and a range of features, a Kenwood car stereo is an excellent choice. Kenwood has been a leader in car audio for many years, and their products are known for their reliability and quality. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best Kenwood car stereos on the market today, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a basic model or a top-of-the-line system with all the bells and whistles, we’ve got you covered.
KENWOOD KMM-BT332U Bluetooth Single DIN Car Stereo
Upgrade your car audio system with the KENWOOD KMM-BT332U Digital Media Receiver, the perfect addition for music lovers on-the-go!
Pros
- Enjoy built-in Amazon Alexa for hands-free control of your music and more.
- USB drive compatibility for MP3, WMA, WAV, AAC, and high-res FLAC files, so you can bring your entire music library on the road with you.
- Bluetooth connectivity with dual phone connection lets you make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly.
Cons
- Does not play CDs.
- Alexa button cannot be remapped to Google Assistant.
- Bluetooth audio may not play until switching sources a few times.
The KENWOOD KMM-BT332U Digital Media Receiver is a great choice for those looking to upgrade their car audio system. With its sleek 1.5-line display and variable-color illumination, it looks as good as it sounds. The built-in Amazon Alexa allows you to control your music, get directions, and more with just your voice, making it a convenient and safe choice for hands-free use.
The USB drive compatibility for various music file formats, including high-res FLAC files, means that you can bring your entire music library on the road with you. And with Bluetooth connectivity with dual phone connection, you can make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly.
While the KENWOOD KMM-BT332U does not play CDs, it offers a 13-band equalizer with digital time alignment and sound-shaping tools to get the most out of your digital music library. The Music Mix feature also allows music streaming playback and control from up to five paired smartphones.
Overall, the KENWOOD KMM-BT332U Digital Media Receiver is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their car audio system with convenient features and powerful sound.
Kenwood KMM-BT270U Bluetooth Digital Media Car Stereo Receiver with USB Port – AM/FM Radio, MP3 Player, High Contrast LCD, Detachable Face Plate, Single DIN, 13-Band EQ Without CD Player
Upgrade your car audio system with the Kenwood KMM-BT270U Car Stereo. Experience exceptional audio quality with the built-in MOSFET amplifier delivering up to 200 Watts Max power output, ensuring crystal-clear sound and deep bass for an immersive driving experience. With Bluetooth technology, you can wirelessly stream music and make hands-free calls from your smartphone. The USB connection allows for rapid charging of select smartphones and this digital media receiver supports various media formats, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite music from various sources. With trusted Kenwood brand quality, this car stereo is the perfect addition to enhance your driving experience.
Pros
- The Kenwood KMM-BT270U Car Stereo delivers exceptional audio quality with the built-in MOSFET amplifier delivering up to 200 Watts Max power output, ensuring crystal-clear sound and deep bass for an immersive driving experience.
- With Bluetooth technology, you can wirelessly stream music and make hands-free calls from your smartphone.
- Rapidly charge your compatible smartphones and devices while driving, thanks to the USB connection feature, ensuring your devices stay powered up and ready for use.
Cons
- This digital media receiver does not have a CD player.
- The Kenwood KMM-BT270U Car Stereo does not have a built-in GPS navigation system.
- The Kenwood KMM-BT270U Car Stereo display is not a touchscreen and is not compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
The Kenwood KMM-BT270U Bluetooth Digital Media Car Stereo Receiver is a great addition to your car audio system. With advanced connectivity options, powerful sound performance, and versatile media options, this car stereo is perfect for music lovers on the go. The built-in MOSFET amplifier delivers powerful and clear sound, while Bluetooth technology allows for seamless wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling from your smartphone. The USB connection feature allows for rapid charging of select smartphones, ensuring your devices stay powered up and ready for use. However, this digital media receiver does not have a CD player, a built-in GPS navigation system, and the display is not a touchscreen and is not compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
KENWOOD KDC-BT282U CD Car Stereo
The KENWOOD KDC-BT282U is a great option for those looking for a single DIN CD receiver that offers instant access to your car audio needs.
Pros
- Enjoy convenient control of popular apps like Spotify and Pandora, built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calls and streaming music, as well as the ability to use your smartphone like a wireless remote control with the KENWOOD Remote app.
- Sound quality enthusiasts will love the playback support of various types of music formats including FLAC files. Simple on-screen or app-assisted sound customization is also available for the EQ & Digital Time Alignment.
- Inputs include front-panel USB port and aux input and 2-channel preamp outputs (2.5-volt rear/subwoofer). Includes high quality external microphone.
Cons
- Clock kept switching times.
- No carrying case included.
- The radio quit working within 8 months of purchase.
The KENWOOD KDC-BT282U is a versatile car stereo that offers a lot of features for its price point. It’s easy to use and has great sound quality, making it a good choice for those who prioritize audio performance. However, some customers have reported issues with the clock and durability, so it may not be the most reliable option.
Kenwood DMX4707S Digital Media Touchscreen Receiver
If you’re looking for a reliable and feature-packed car stereo, the Kenwood DMX4707S is a great option.
Pros
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for safe and easy smartphone use while driving.
- Mirroring OA for Kenwood app allows you to mirror your Android phone’s content onto the receiver’s touchscreen monitor.
- Rear view camera input with parking guide lines and 13 band graphic EQ and time alignment for optimal sound performance.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the touchscreen not responding well.
- Apple CarPlay can sometimes disconnect for no apparent reason.
- Not much more advanced than older models.
The Kenwood DMX4707S is a top-of-the-line car stereo that offers a range of features to make your driving experience safer and more enjoyable. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, you can easily control your smartphone without taking your eyes off the road. The Mirroring OA for Kenwood app also allows you to mirror your Android phone’s content onto the receiver’s touchscreen monitor, making it easy to enjoy video and audio playback.
In addition to these features, the Kenwood DMX4707S also includes a rear view camera input with parking guide lines and a 13 band graphic EQ and time alignment for optimal sound performance. While some users have reported issues with the touchscreen not responding well and Apple CarPlay sometimes disconnecting for no apparent reason, overall the Kenwood DMX4707S is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed car stereo.
Kenwood DMX709S eXcelon Car Stereo
If you’re looking for a high-quality car stereo that provides a great user experience, the Kenwood DMX709S eXcelon is a great choice.
Pros
- The 6.8″ touchscreen display is large and easy to read, making it simple to navigate through menus and functions.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both supported, allowing you to easily connect your smartphone and access a wide range of features and functions.
- The stereo provides excellent sound quality, with a 13-band graphic equalizer and time alignment feature for optimal sound performance.
Cons
- The stereo is relatively expensive, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
- Some users have reported issues with the wireless connectivity features, which can be frustrating.
- The installation process can be somewhat complicated, especially if you’re not familiar with car stereo installation.
The Kenwood DMX709S eXcelon is a top-of-the-line car stereo that offers a range of features and functions to enhance your driving experience. With a large, easy-to-read touchscreen, support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and excellent sound quality, this stereo is a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s audio system.
The stereo also includes a range of additional features, such as three camera inputs, built-in adjustable parking guidelines, and support for SiriusXM radio (with an optional tuner). However, the stereo is relatively expensive, and some users have reported issues with the wireless connectivity features.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality car stereo that provides excellent sound quality and a range of features and functions, the Kenwood DMX709S eXcelon is definitely worth considering.
Kenwood KDC-BT378U CD Car Stereo Receiver
If you’re looking for a car stereo that offers great sound quality and a range of features, the Kenwood KDC-BT378U CD Car Stereo Receiver is worth considering.
Pros
- The detachable 13 digit LCD display is easy to read and provides a clear view of what’s playing.
- The 13-band graphic EQ with digital time alignment, high-pass filter, low-pass filter, phase, and level controls help to improve the sound quality of your music.
- The built-in Bluetooth (version 4.2) allows for hands-free calling and audio streaming with dual phone connection, and the Pandora and Spotify Internet radio control makes it easy to listen to your favorite music on the go.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the Alexa voice control feature.
- The lack of a remote control for volume adjustment can be inconvenient for some users.
- The user manual can be difficult to follow for those who are not familiar with car stereos.
The Kenwood KDC-BT378U CD Car Stereo Receiver is a great option for those who want a car stereo that offers a range of features and good sound quality. The detachable 13 digit LCD display is easy to read and provides a clear view of what’s playing, while the 13-band graphic EQ with digital time alignment, high-pass filter, low-pass filter, phase, and level controls help to improve the sound quality of your music. Additionally, the built-in Bluetooth (version 4.2) allows for hands-free calling and audio streaming with dual phone connection, and the Pandora and Spotify Internet radio control makes it easy to listen to your favorite music on the go.
However, some users have reported issues with the Alexa voice control feature, and the lack of a remote control for volume adjustment can be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, the user manual can be difficult to follow for those who are not familiar with car stereos. Overall, if you’re looking for a car stereo that offers good sound quality and a range of features, the Kenwood KDC-BT378U CD Car Stereo Receiver is definitely worth considering.
Kenwood DMX125BT Digital Media Car Stereo
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly car stereo that comes with a capacitive touchscreen display, rear camera input with guidelines, and USB Android Screen Mirroring, the Kenwood DMX125BT Digital Media Car Stereo is the one for you.
Pros
- The built-in Bluetooth with dual phone connection allows for hands-free calling and music streaming, and the high power smartphone charging ensures that your phone is charged up while you’re on the go.
- The full HD video file format playback (1920×1080) and 13-band equalizer with deep crossover settings and built-in time alignment provide an immersive audio and video experience.
- The rear USB input, rear A/V input, rear-view camera input, and rear video output (RCA) make it easy to connect and control your devices.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connection taking longer than it should to connect and the stereo shutting off by itself.
- The touch screen doesn’t always respond as expected, and the remote control is not very responsive.
- The volume button is not a knob, which some users find inconvenient.
The Kenwood DMX125BT Digital Media Car Stereo is a great option for those on a budget who still want a high-quality audio and video experience in their car. With its built-in Bluetooth, smartphone charging, and versatile inputs and outputs, it’s a great value for the price. However, some users have reported issues with connectivity and responsiveness, so be sure to consider your needs before making a purchase.
Kenwood Excelon KDC-X304 CD Car Stereo Receiver
If you’re looking for a car stereo receiver with a lot of features, the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X304 CD receiver is a great option. It has a variable-color display, Amazon Alexa voice control, and Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Pros
- Amazon Alexa voice control
- Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Three sets of 5-volt preamp outputs
Cons
- No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- No built-in navigation
- No wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay
The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X304 CD receiver is packed with features. With Amazon Alexa voice control, you can ask to play music, place calls, listen to audiobooks, hear the news, check the weather, control smart home devices, get directions, find parking, and more – all while you keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly stream music and make hands-free calls quickly and easily.
The KDC-X304 delivers a super-clean signal to amplifiers in your setup with its three sets of 5-volt preamp outputs. Combine those with the built-in 13-band equalizer and digital time alignment, and you’ve got a serious audio hub for an ever-growing sound system. You can also control the stereo using Kenwood’s free Remote app.
One of the downsides of the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X304 CD receiver is that it doesn’t have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto built-in. It also doesn’t have built-in navigation, which may be a dealbreaker for some. Additionally, there’s no wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, so you’ll need to connect your phone with a USB cable to use those features.
Overall, the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X304 CD receiver is a great option for those looking for a car stereo receiver with a lot of features. While it may not have some of the latest features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it still has a lot to offer.
Kenwood DPX504BT Double DIN in-Dash CD Receiver with Bluetooth
If you’re looking for a car stereo with excellent features and customization options, the Kenwood DPX504BT is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Built-in Alexa voice control
- Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and music streaming
- Access to Pandora, Spotify, and Apple Music Radio
Cons
- No touchscreen display
- Limited compatibility with Android smartphones for music streaming
- Some users report difficulty setting up Alexa voice control
The Kenwood DPX504BT offers a range of features that make it a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their car stereo. With built-in Alexa voice control, you can easily play music, get weather reports, control smart home devices, set reminders, and more. The Bluetooth connectivity allows for hands-free calling and music streaming, and you can access popular online music services like Pandora, Spotify, and Apple Music Radio.
One downside of the DPX504BT is that it does not have a touchscreen display, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, while the stereo can stream music from both iPhones and Android smartphones, Android users can only stream music via Bluetooth, not USB. Finally, some users report difficulty setting up Alexa voice control, which may be frustrating for those who prefer hands-free operation.
Overall, if you’re looking for a car stereo with excellent features and customization options, the Kenwood DPX504BT is an excellent choice. Its built-in Alexa voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, and access to popular music services make it a great option for anyone who spends a lot of time in their car.
Kenwood eXcelon DDX396BT Double DIN SiriusXM Ready Bluetooth in-Dash DVD/CD/AM/FM Car Stereo Receiver w/ 6.2″ Touchscreen
If you’re looking for a car stereo that delivers excellent sound quality and is easy to use, the Kenwood eXcelon DDX396BT is a great choice.
Pros
- The 6.2″ WVGA Clear Resistive Touch Panel makes it easy to control the stereo and adjust the settings.
- The built-in Bluetooth allows for hands-free calls and streaming music from your smartphone.
- The 13-Band EQ and Digital Time Alignment allow for easy customization of the sound.
Cons
- The screen can be difficult to see in bright sunlight.
- Some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connectivity.
- The software can be buggy and may require updates.
The Kenwood eXcelon DDX396BT is a great car stereo for those who want to enjoy high-quality sound while on the road. The touchscreen panel is easy to use, and the built-in Bluetooth allows for hands-free calling and music streaming. The 13-Band EQ and Digital Time Alignment features allow for easy customization of the sound.
However, the screen can be difficult to see in bright sunlight, and some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the software can be buggy and may require updates.
Overall, if you’re looking for a car stereo that delivers great sound quality and is easy to use, the Kenwood eXcelon DDX396BT is a solid choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best Kenwood car stereo, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection:
Compatibility
Before you buy a Kenwood car stereo, you need to make sure it is compatible with your vehicle. Check the stereo’s specifications to ensure it will fit and work with your car’s electrical system.
Features
Kenwood car stereos come with a variety of features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, built-in GPS navigation, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Consider which features are important to you and your driving needs.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is an important factor to consider when choosing a Kenwood car stereo. Look for stereos that offer high-quality sound, with features like equalizers and amplifiers that can help enhance your listening experience.
Display
The display on your Kenwood car stereo is also important, as it allows you to easily navigate through menus and control the stereo while driving. Look for a stereo with a clear and easy-to-read display that is large enough to see while driving.
Price
Finally, consider your budget when choosing a Kenwood car stereo. Prices can vary widely depending on the features and quality of the stereo, so be sure to choose one that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
