Kenwood Presents New High Performance CD Receivers With Many Connectivity Options

Kenwood announced the introduction of five high-performance CD receivers that contain advanced built-in technologies intended for tech-savvy consumers.

Kenwood KDC-BT848U

The KDC-BT948HD ($350.00 suggested retail price) has a built-in combination of Bluetooth, HD Radio and Pandora internet radio link, making the KDC-BT948HD a standout model that truly fits the audio enthusiast lifestyle. The upgraded audio and data service features of HD Radio take full advantage of the audio performance and large display of the KDC-BT948HD. Pandora internet radio can now be controlled and viewed via the front panel of the KDC-BT948HD (or via iPhone), adding to driver safety and convenience (Internet access is required). Through wireless connection via Bluetooth, full names and numbers from a cell phone’s address book can be seen on the 5-line variable color LCD display, which has easier visibility and faster scrolling of multiple names and numbers as well as music files. Selectable text sizing allows the option to choose larger text or a higher quantity of text depending on user preference. This flexible, multi-lingual display gives the KDC-BT948HD the ability to easily operate external media devices such as USB, iPod, iTouch, iPhone, and content from satellite radio or Pandora internet radio (optional iPod or satellite radio accessories may be required). A unique master control center with volume knob duplicates many of the functions of the iPod for more intuitive operation.

The KDC-BT948HD can also integrate with existing steering wheel controls through a special wired interface (optional adapter might be required), maintaining driver safety and convenience. The KDC-BT948HD has three 4.0 volt preamp outputs with low-pass and high-pass filtering on board.

The KDC-BT848U ($270.00 suggested retail price) offers built-in Bluetooth and a dedicated front panel key that is reserved for wireless cell phone operation. An external Bluetooth microphone can be placed in an optimal location within the vehicle for improved hands-free communication. Adding to the safety factor is a three-line display that can be switched to a larger font, two-line format for easier reading of phone numbers, music and source data. Variable color illumination of the display and backlit keys allow the user to match the color of the KDC-BT848U to the dashboard lighting of almost any vehicle. With front panel mounted USB and 3.5mm auxiliary inputs, the KDC-BT848U can conveniently connect to a wide variety of portable devices such as iPod, iTouch, iPhone, thumb drive and portable mass storage. The KDC-BT648U ($230.00 suggested retail price) has the performance and functionality of the KDC-BT848U with the exception of variable color illumination and is equipped with a built-in Bluetooth microphone and 13 segment, single-line display.

A new integrated HD Radio solution for 2011 is the KDC-HD548U ($200.00 suggested retail price). The KDC-HD548U is the successor to last year’s industry-leading HD Radio model, the sales of which gave Kenwood the top-selling in-dash player with an integrated HD Radio tuner from April through October 2010, based on unit and dollar volume according to the NPD Group’s Retail Tracking Service. With built-in HD Radio, the KDC-HD548U gives the user a full digital radio experience. iTunes Tagging is made easy through pressing a dedicated button near the volume control. A front-panel USB input and stereo mini-plug auxiliary input allows for the playback of a wide variety of external media. And Mixed-Preset Memory gives the user one-touch direct access to selected AM, FM, HD Radio or iPod content.

The KDC-BT948HD, KDC-BT848U, KDC-BT648U and KDC-HD548U are covered by a one-year manufacturer’s limited warranty and are available through authorized Kenwood retailers.