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JVC KD-R97MBS CD receiver for Jeep, powersports, or marine applications

Item # 105KDR97MB

Looking for a receiver that can handle all your music and stand up to the rigors of outdoor life? JVC's KD-R97MBS...

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Looking for a receiver that can handle all your music and stand up to the rigors of outdoor life? JVC's KD-R97MBS...

8 questions - 18 answers

Item # 105KDR97MB

About the JVC KD-R97MBS

Jon Paul

An all-in-one entertainer for your Jeep, ATV, or boat

Looking for a receiver that can handle all your music and stand up to the rigors of outdoor life? JVC's KD-R97MBS marine CD receiver offers an impressive array of features, including built-in Bluetooth® and Android™ compatibility, along with convenient front USB and AUX inputs. In addition to playing all your favorite CDs, this receiver gives you plenty of connections for all your devices, and you'll also have lots of options when you want to expand your system.

An all-in-one entertainer for your Jeep, ATV, or boat

Looking for a receiver that can handle all your music and stand up to the rigors of outdoor life? JVC's KD-R97MBS marine CD receiver offers an impressive array of features, including built-in Bluetooth® and Android™ compatibility, along with convenient front USB and AUX inputs. In addition to playing all your favorite CDs, this receiver gives you plenty of connections for all your devices, and you'll also have lots of options when you want to expand your system.

JVC KD-R97MBS CD Receiver

The reverse display is easy to read in bright sunlight.

You can adjust the color of the button illumination to match your vehicle's dash lighting. As an added bonus, the reverse display cuts through glare and makes this receiver ideal for convertibles and open-top off-road vehicles.

It's optimized for your iPhone®

Plug your iPod® or iPhone into the front USB port to enjoy complete control and faster charging. This JVC's built-in iPod controls let you access your playlists intuitively. If you use Pandora® or iHeartRadio, connect your iPhone® and access "play," "pause," "thumbs-up," and "thumbs-down" functions with the receiver's controls.

For added convenience, the 2-way control feature lets you pick your music using the receiver or the phone itself. If your phone is equipped with Siri® Eyes Free technology, you can talk to Siri through this receiver without ever touching your phone.

And it also works with Android

With the JVC Music Control app, you can get more from your music when you connect your Android smartphone (select operating systems only) via USB. You can list and search stored MP3 music by artist or album, or let the app analyze your songs and create a playlist that suits your mood. You can also enjoy your favorite Pandora® or iHeartRadio stations.

A useful USB connection

The powerful 1.5A front USB port keeps a smartphone charged while it's performing many battery-draining tasks at once. With your smartphone connected, you can use Drive Change Mode to listen to your phone's internal memory as one source and access its little microSD card as another. Drive Change also lets you switch between multiple memory cards in a USB multi-card reader or multiple USB thumb drives connected to a USB hub. The KD-R97MBS plays MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, and FLAC files stored on a thumb drive.

Easily expand your system

You can connect a SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required) and enjoy music, news, sports, and more, even when you're many miles offshore. Optional wired or wireless marine remotes from JVC let you add control stations around your boat. The KD-R97MBS includes front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs, which is good news if you're planning to add outboard amplifiers to your system.

Made for all-weather use

A marine-rated receiver has to stand up to salt, spray, sunlight, and rough weather. JVC designed the KD-R97MBS specifically for outdoor environments, with a conformal-coated circuit board and an anti-rust coating that helps prevent moisture-related damage. These no-nonsense features keep the music playing, so you can relax and enjoy yourself, whether you're out on the water or out in the woods.

Habla español

The KD-R97MBS lets you choose either English or Spanish as your menu and display language.

Bluetooth note: Use of this receiver's Bluetooth features will depend upon your phone's Bluetooth capabilities. Learn more in our article explaining Bluetooth profiles.

iPod/smartphone note: If you're going to use your iPod or smartphone with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for compatibility information.

READ LESS

Product highlights:

    General Features:
    • marine-rated CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
    • built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music streaming
    • detachable face with single-line display and variable-color illumination
    • conformal coated circuit board for water resistance
    • separated brightness control for LCD and button illumination
    • auto dimmer
    • menus can be displayed in English and Spanish
    Smartphone Features:
    • USB 1.5A connection charges devices quicker
    • works with Siri Eyes Free technology
    • built-in iPod control; 2-way iPod/iPhone control
    • control PANDORA® and iHeart Radio from your iPhone or Android
    Audio Features:
    • plays media loaded with MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, and FLAC files through USB
    • high- and low-pass filters
    • Easy EQ with 8 presets and 13-band graphic equalizer
    Expandability:
    • inputs: front USB 1.5A port, front auxiliary input
    • outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub)
    • compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
    • compatible with JVC's optional wired and wireless remotes
    Other Features and Specs:
    • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
    • ideal for Jeeps, boats, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, golf carts, and more
    • warranty: 2 years
    • MFR # KD-R97MBS

    What's in the box:

    • CD receiver (10A fuse)
    • Face (attached)
    • Sleeve (installed)
    • Trim ring (installed)
    • Wiring harness
    • Microphone w/ integrated bracket (attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle male 3.5mm connector)
    • 2 Radio removal tools
    • Face fixing screw
    • Instruction Manual (En/Fr/Sp)
    • Warranty Information
    • "Caution!" note (attached to wiring harness)
    • Face Fixing screw note

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    More details on the JVC KD-R97MBS

    Stacey B.

    Features & specs

    Expandability
    AUX Input Front
    Audio/video Input ---
    USB Input Front
    USB Port Power ---
    Backup Camera Input No
    Second Camera Input No
    CarPlay No
    Android Auto No
    Siri Control Bluetooth
    Alexa Voice Control
    Android Control Yes
    Memory Card Slot USB memory
    Bluetooth Compatible Built-in
    Satellite Radio Ready SiriusXM
    HD Radio No
    Navigation ---
    iPod Compatibility
    Full size Classic
    Nano 7/6/5/4/3
    Touch 6/5/4/3/2
    iPhone 7+/7/6S+/6S/6+/6/5S/5C/5/SE/4S
    General
    RMS Power (CTA-2006) N/A
    RMS Power (Manufacturer) 22 watts
    Peak Output 50 watts
    RMS Power Bandwidth 20-20kHz
    Preamp Outputs 6-channel
    Sub Preamp Outputs Yes
    Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs No
    Video Screen No
    Navigation App Compatible (iOS)
    Navigation App Compatible (Android)
    Preamp Voltage 4 volts
    Screen Size ---
    Screen Type ---
    Display Color White/Black
    Key Button Color Variable
    EQ Bands 13
    Wireless Remote No
    Steering Wheel Control Compatible Adapter required
    Parts Warranty 2 Years
    Labor Warranty 2 Years
    Tuner
    FM Sensitivity 8.2 dBf
    European Tuning Yes
    Seek/Scan Seek
    Radio Data System Yes
    File Playback
    Music File Playback MP3,WMA,AAC,WAV,FLAC
    High-res Playback N
    The JVC KD-R97MBS replaces these items:

    Product Research

    Marine & Remote Features|
    Built-in Bluetooth
    Android & iPhone Integration
    Internet+SiriusXM+AM/FM Radio
    Disc/USB/Aux Playback
    Audio Section
    Display Features

    Marine & Remote Features

    Marine Rated: The JVC KD-R97MBS marine receiver has a special water-resistant, anti-rust conformal coating placed on its main circuit board to protect its circuitry from the harsh, corrosive marine environment of boating and the outdoor elements of motorsport. Even though the conformal coating makes the receiver water-resistant, it is still recommended that it be used with a universal marine cover such as the Metra (120999005B, sold separately) or Scosche (142ACM1, sold separately).

    Optional Marine Wired Remote: The JVC RM-RK62M wired marine remote control (105RMRK62M, sold separately) is designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. The JVC add-on wired remote features source selector, music search, and volume control buttons. The remote will need to be hardwired to the head unit's blue/yellow remote input wire.

    Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The head unit features an OEM steering wheel remote control input wire (blue/yellow) within the included wiring harness that lets you keep your vehicle's (like your Jeep or Harley Davidson) factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with an optional steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately).

    Built-in Bluetooth

    Bluetooth Technology: The JVC KD-R97MBS is equipped with built-in Bluetooth (version 2.1+EDR/3.0), allowing you to make and receive phone calls wirelessly through the receiver; as well as stream music wirelessly from your smartphone to the head unit. In order to use Bluetooth wireless technology, your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to interpret certain profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth Profiles:

    • Hands-Free Communication: HFP 1.6 (Hands Free Profile), OPP 1.1 (Object Push Profile), PBAB 1.0 (Phone Book Access Profile).
    • Audio Streaming: A2DP 1.2 (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP 1.5 (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).
    Note: Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the JVC KD-R97MBS. Check here for the latest Bluetooth compatibility information.

    Secure Simple Pairing (SSP) + Auto Pairing (via USB): With Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the JVC KD-R97MBS without having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. You can even pair your Apple iPhone (iOS 5+) or Android smartphone (running JVC Music Play App) by simply connecting it to the JVC head unit via USB and following a single prompt on the head unit's display. When an already paired Bluetooth device is in close proximity to the receiver, the auto connection function automatically pairs the two units. You can pair up to ten Bluetooth-enabled devices to the JVC head unit, with a maximum of two Bluetooth phones and one Bluetooth audio device connected at one time.

    Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication (w/ External Mic): The head unit supports Bluetooth hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. And thanks to the latest Hands-Free Profile (HFP 1.6) with wideband speech capability, the KD-R97MBS provides more natural sound quality and details during wireless calls. The controls of the KD-R97MBS can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call, or end a call. The unit also includes an external microphone (with mounting bracket) featuring adjustable gain, so you can carry on your side of the conversation while listening to the caller through your vehicles speakers. During a conversation, you can switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your cell phone) and the Hands Free Mode.

    • Answering A Call: When a call comes in, a ring-tone will be heard through your vehicle's speaker and the caller's name or phone number will be displayed. You can answer the call from the head unit's front-panel controls, or setup the head unit to automatically answer the incoming call immediately or after 1-30 seconds. The KD-R97MBS also supports the Call Waiting function, so you can answer another incoming call while suspending the current call you are on. Your compatible cell-phone must also support this feature.
    • Dialing A Number: Using the KD-R97MBS, you can dial a phone number in one of the following ways:
      • Enter Phone #: Allows you to directly dial a phone number up to 32 digits from the head unit's front-panel rotary dial.
      • Preset Dialing: You can store up to 6 contacts in the memory of this unit for speed dialing.
      • Phone Book: You can download phone book data from your mobile phone to the CD receiver. You can then dial a contact within the phonebook from the head unit's front-panel controls.
      • Call History: The Call History is a list of calls that have originated from and were received by this unit that you can dial. You can select Outgoing, Incoming, or Missed calls.
      • Voice Dialing: If your mobile phone supports voice recognition, then you can dial out by voice command. Simply speak into the included microphone. 
    External Mic: The external wired microphone offers improved audio quality versus an integrated microphone, so you can be heard easier over noisy traffic and road noise. You can adjust the volume level, noise cancellation, and echo cancellation of the microphone without affecting the other sources. The external microphone features an attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle 3.5mm connector which plugs into the mic input on the rear-panel of the head unit. The microphone offers an integrated mounting bracket which can be clipped to your vehicle's sun-visor or taped to your dash.

    Wireless Audio Streaming: The JVC KD-R97MBS supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or audio player, plus song/artist information display and support for AAC music streaming.

    • Stored Music & Music Apps: You are able to stream your stored music library on your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, as well as music apps downloaded on your smartphone to the JVC KD-R97MBS for playback.
    • SBC + AAC Codecs: In addition to support for the standard SBC Bluetooth audio codec, the KD-R97MBS offers support of AAC.  By supporting AAC, the KD-R97MBS offers better audio performance of the music streamed from your Apple iPod, iPhone, or iPad.
    • Advanced Music Playback: In addition to basic playback functions (Play/Pause, FF/RW, Skip, Random/Repeat), the KD-R97MBS lets you browse your stored music by Playlist, Artist, Album, Song, etc. (AVRCP 1.4+ phones only).
    • Song/Artist Information: The head unit will also display your stored music and music app's song information; such as Artist name and Song/Album title (not compatible with all apps).
    Note: When an incoming call or outgoing call is in progress from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone, audio streaming will be paused so you can take your call. Once the call is finished, your streaming music will resume.

    Siri Eyes Free Control: When paired to an iPhone with Siri via Bluetooth, the JVC KD-R97MBS has the ability to access Siri through its front-panel control and external microphone. Simply press the "phone command" button on the KD-R97MBS to engage Siri and use the included microphone to communicate with Siri. Siri's voice will heard through your vehicle's speakers. All Siri functions including hands-free calling, music search, setting reminders, text-messaging, audible navigation, and more can be done through the head unit and its microphone. You can even ask Siri to get directions to a destination and the turn-by-turn instructions will heard through your vehicle's speakers, while the on-screen map still displays on your iPhone with Bluetooth; the head unit's audio is attenuated while Siri provides audible directions.

    Note: The head unit will only display hands-free calling and Bluetooth audio information (all other functions of Siri are only audible through the KD-R97MBS; visual data will still need to be viewed from your iPhone device).
    Android & iPhone Integration

    Android Open Accessory 2.0 (AOA 2.0) Connectivity:  The JVC KD-R97MBS's front-panel USB port lets you connect your AOA 2.0 compatible Android smartphone for music playback. JVC does not guarantee operation with all Android devices. Click here for the most current list of compatible Android smartphones. There are two Android AOA 2.0 modes to choose from based on what content you want to listen to and how you want to control it.

    • Hand Mode: The JVC KD-R97MBS supports Android Open Accessory 2.0 (AOA 2.0), which lets  you connect your Android  (OS 4.1+) smartphone to the KD-R97MBS's front-panel USB port and listen to stored music and music apps from your Android device through the JVC head unit. You'll be able to control basic playback functions such as Play/Pause and Previous/Next Track. Other advanced music navigation will still be done from your Android smartphone's touchscreen. In this mode, the head unit will not display song/artist information; only "Audio Mode" will show up on display. You'll continue to view song/artist information from the Android device's touchscreen. You'll also still be able to access other functions and applications from your Android smartphone's touchscreen, while listening to music through the head unit. If you make a call or answer a call from your smartphone while listening to music in this mode, the music will pause until you are finished with the call and then start back up again.
    • JVC Music Play App: Downloading the JVC Music Play app onto your Android (OS 4.1+) smartphone not only allows you to listen to stored music from your Android device through the JVC CD receiver connected via USB, but it also lets you browse your Android smartphone's music library from the head unit's front-panel controls. You can browse your store music library by Playlist, Artist, Song, Album, or Genre. You can also control Play/Pause and Previous/Next track from the head unit. In addition, the head unit will display song/artist information. You can exit the JVC Music Play app to access other functions and applications of your Android smartphone, while your stored music library is still playing through your head unit. If you make a call or answer a call from your smartphone while listening to music in this mode, the music will pause until you are finished with the call and then start back up again.

    iPhone Direct Connection: The JVC KD-R97MBS's front-panel USB port can be used to connect your Lightning-connector or 30-pin dock connector iPod/iPhone to the head unit. The KD-R97MBS supports audio playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of your compatible Apple device.

    • Lightning Connector: If you have a newer iPod/iPhone with the Lightning-connector, you can use JVC's Lightning connector-to-USB cable (105KSU62, sold separately) or the Lightning-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect your iPod/iPhone to the KD-R97MBS.
    • 30-Pin Dock Connector: If you have an older iPod/iPhone with a 30-pin dock connector, you can will need to use the dock connector-to-USB cable that comes with your Apple device or a "Made For iPod/iPhone" 30-pin-to-USB cable (sold separately) to connect your iPod/iPhone to the KD-R97MBS.

    iPhone Audio Playback: The USB connection allows your iPod/iPhone's stored music and music apps to be loaded instantly to the head unit and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 16-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 105dB. The JVC head unit supports audio playback of stored music, music apps, and podcasts on your iPod or iPhone. The KD-R97MBS provides music control and song/artist information display. You can choose between two operating modes.

    • Head Unit Mode + Song/Artist Info: From the head unit's front-panel controls you can search for stored music by Playlist, Artist, Album, Song, Podcast, Genre, and Composer. The contents of a Playlist or Category can be searched alphabetically or numerically. The KD-R97MBS also supports Repeat (file/all) and Random (album/all) playback functions of stored music on your iPod/iPhone. In addition, you'll be able to control basic playback functions (such as Play/Pause, Previous/Next Track) from stored music and select music apps streamed to your iPhone. During Head Unit Mode, the KD-R97MBS will display your iPod/iPhone's music file information such as Track number, Elapsed playing time, Artist name, Song title, and Album title. Newer iPod/iPhones with iOS 6.0+ allow you to continue to access your Apple device's touchscreen in this mode in order to access other applications; older iPod/iPhone devices will be locked during connection.
    • iPod/iPhone Mode: The iPod/iPhone Mode lets you control your older iPod/iPhone (iOS 5.1.1 and earlier) from its clickwheel or touchscreen. You'll still have access to basic playback controls (like Play/Pause & Previous/Next Track) from the head unit, but advanced navigation functions will be locked. No song/artist information is displayed in this mode. The unit will simply display "App & iPod Mode".

    USB Charging: The head unit's USB connection provides 1.5A of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone or Android smartphone when your vehicle's ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position (if your iPod/iPhone or Android smartphone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it).

    Apple Device Compatibility Chart: The JVC KD-R97MBS is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 3/8/2017):

    Apple Device Generation Tested Version Media Type Control Type Specific Apps Display Type Bluetooth Charge
    Audio Video Head Unit iPod/iPhone Pandora iHeart Radio Artist/Song Text Track Info Phone Audio Siri
    iPhone
    3G 4.2.1 Y N Y Y N N Y Y Y Y N Y
    3GS 6.1.6 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y N Y
    4 7.1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y N Y
    4S 9.3.5 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    SE 10.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    5/5C/5S 10.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    6/6+/6S/6S+ 10.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    7/7+ 10.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    touch
    2nd 4.2.1 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N Y N Y
    3rd 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y N Y N Y
    4th 6.1.6 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y N Y N Y
    5th 9.3.5 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y
    6th 10.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y
    nano
    3rd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    4th 1.0.4 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    5th 1.0.2 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    6th 1.2 PC Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    7th 1.02 PC Y N Y Y N N Y Y N Y N Y
    classic 80GB 1.1.2 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    120GB 2.0.1 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    160GB 2.0.4 Y N Y Y N N Y Y N N N Y
    Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.
    Internet+SiriusXM+AM/FM Radio

    Internet Radio Apps (for iPhone/Android): The JVC KD-R97MBS allows you to access Pandora and iHeartRadio online music services through your USB-connected iPhone or Bluetooth-connected Android smartphone. Your Apple iPhone must be connected to the KD-R97MBS via the Lightning or 30-pin cable supplied with your iPhone, or JVC's Lightning connector-to-USB cable (105KSU62, sold separately). Your Android smartphone must support A2DP/AVRCP/SPP Bluetooth profiles and be paired with the JVC KD-R97MBS. Your iPhone or Android smartphone device will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, LTE (4G), or WiFi.

    • Pandora App: The free Pandora App (either from Apple's App Store or Google Play) lets you play music from your Pandora music service account through the JVC KD-R97MBS using your USB-connected Apple iPhone (iOS 9.0+) or Bluetooth-paired Android smartphone. The JVC KD-R97MBS provides control over the Pandora music service and displays Artist, Album, and Song information. You can select Pandora stations from your station list and sort them by date or alphabetically. New stations can be created based on the current songs or artists playing. You can also skip song tracks within a station. You can even give songs a thumbs up/thumbs down and bookmark them on your Pandora account.
    • iHeartRadio Link: The free iHeartRadio Link app for JVC (either from Apple's App Store or Google Play) lets you play music from your iHeartRadio music service account through the JVC KD-R97MBS using your USB-connected Apple iPhone (iOS 5.0+), or Bluetooth paired Android smartphone (2.2+). The iHeartRadio music service provides access to more than 1,500 live radio stations from coast-to-coast (including pop, country, urban, rock, talk, and sports). The KD-R97MBS will provide control over the iHeartRadio Link app, as well as display station identification and song/artist information. From the head unit's front-panel controls, iHeartRadio stations can be searched by the following categories (Local, Genre, City, or My Stations). The Local selection provides a list of radio stations in your local listening area. The unit also provides over 22 Genres to choose from (including pop, country, hip-hop, jazz, etc.) to help you find the right radio station for you. In addition, you can search for radio stations by City. Cities can be searched alphabetically. You can even store your favorite stations (My Stations) for easier, quicker access.
    Note: Access to these Internet Radio services will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone or Android smartphone to connect to the Internet. Not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.

    SiriusXM-Ready: The JVC KD-R97MBS is SiriusXM-Ready and compatible with the SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner (220SXV300 sold separately). The SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner supports SiriusXM programming with access to 175+ SiriusXM channels via subscription; check out the most popular SiriusXM subscription packages here. Additional features of the SiriusXM Connect tuner include:

    • Channel List w/ Category Search: The Channel list displays a list of all available channels. You can also search and list channels in specific categories.
    • Song/Artist Info:  Displayed Information such as Channel Name, Artist Name, & Song Title can be viewed on the head unit's LCD.
    • SmartFavorite Presets: Up to 18 SiriusXM Satellite Radio station presets can be saved. These 18 SiriusXM presets are automatically identified as SmartFavorites for advanced features such as TuneStart & TuneScan (see below).
    • TuneStart & TuneScan: TuneStart allows you to rewind and replay up to 30 minutes of any of the missed news, talk, sports, or music content on any of your SmartFavorite Presets. TuneScan gives you a short preview of the songs that you have missed on each of your Smart Favorite Preset music channels or currently tuned music channel.
    • Parental Control: Channels containing unsuitable content for children can be blocked. When enabled, The Parental Control feature requires you to enter a 4-digit passcode to tune to the locked channels.
    Note: A separate SiriusXM Satellite Radio subscription is required (operates on the XM Network). However, you can easily add this SiriusXM tuner to an existing Sirius or XM account for a Multi-Radio Discount Plan.

    RDS AM/FM Tuner: The JVC KD-R97MBS features a built-in AM/FM tuner with manual, seek, and preset tuning. You can store a total of 18 FM stations presets and 6 AM station presets. The radio allows you to set your AM/FM stations manually or automatically. You can also switch the tuner's IF filter to Wide or Auto to increase/decrease the sensitivity. If an analog FM stereo broadcast is hard to receive, you can manually switch the tuner to Mono operation.

    • US or European Tuning: You can set the built-in AM/FM tuner between US standard and European tuning spacing.
    • RDS: The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast information such as artist, title, and album when listening to compatible AM/FM stations.
    • Radio Timer: The head unit's Radio Timer features lets you tune into a preset station at a specific time regardless of the head unit's current source (you can activate the Radio Timer once, daily, or turn it completely off).
    Disc/USB/Aux Playback

    Disc Compatibility: The unit features a single disc player that will playback CD-Audio and finalized CD-R/CD-RW audio discs. The unit also supports playback of MP3, WMA, & AAC music files loaded onto CD-R/RW discs.

    • Off Insert/Eject: A CD disc can be inserted or ejected with the power off. When a disc is inserted with the power off, the unit will automatically power up and begin playback.
    • Auto Reload: If the ejected disc is not removed within 20 seconds, the disc is automatically inserted again into the loading slot to protect it from dust. The source will change to CD, and the disc will begin playback, even if you have another source selected at the time.
    Note: For proper disc playback you must install the unit within 30-degrees of horizontal.

    USB Mass Storage Devices: The JVC KD-R97MBS features a front-panel USB (type-A) port that is hidden behind a flip-out cover. The USB port enables connection of USB mass storage class (MSC) devices; like USB thumbdrives and USB card readers, as well as select Android smartphones (Froyo/Gingerbread OS only) or Blackberry. You can insert a compatible USB MSC device into the head unit's USB port for playback, control, and song/artist display of a variety of music files.

    • Music Drive: The Music Drive feature lets you switch between multiple memory cards in a USB multi-card reader. When a mass storage class (MSC) compatible smartphone (like Android with Froyo/Gingerbread OS or Blackberry) is connected to the head unit's USB input, the unit's Music Drive features lets you select its internal memory or external memory (such as an SD card) for stored music playback.
    • USB Charging: USB devices that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port (max. 1.5A), and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

    Note: Not compatible with USB hubs.

    Compatible Music Files: The JVC KD-R97MBS supports the following types of music files recorded onto CD-R/RW discs or loaded onto a USB mass storage class device.

    Media Type CD (-R/RW) USB  (MSC)
    File System ISO9660 Level 1 or 2, Romeo, Joliet, or Windows long file name FAT 12/16/32
    Playable File Types MP3: bit rate of 8-320kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48kHz
    WMA:
    bit rate of 32-192kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48kHz
    AAC:
    bit rate of 8-320 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48 kHz
    MP3: bit rate of 8-320kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48kHz
    WMA:
    bit rate of 32-192kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48kHz
    AAC:
    bit rate of 8-320 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48 kHz
    WAV:
    bit depth of 16-bit w/ sampling frequency of 48kHz
    FLAC:
    bit depth of 16-bit w/ sampling frequency of 48kHz
    Maximum # of Folders/Files 999 folders/20,480 files (999 files per folder)
    Tags ID3 tag (version 1.0/1.1/2.2/2.3/2.4), WMA tag

    Playback & Search Functions: The JVC KD-R97MBS offers a variety of playback and search functions to help you find and enjoy your music on disc and USB.

    • Track/Folder List: The Track/Folder List displays a list of music folders and tracks on an inserted CD or USB device, so you can easily access your music.
    • Repeat: Track Repeat (plays the current track repeatedly), Folder Repeat (plays all tracks of the current folder repeatedly), Off (cancels repeat function)
    • Random: Folder Random (plays all tracks of the current folder, then the tracks of the next folder in random), All Random (plays all tracks of the current disc at random), Off (cancels random function)
    • Resume: If you change the source, playback also stops (without ejecting the disc or USB device). Next time you select CD or USB for the playback source, the player will start from where it has been stopped previously.

    Front-Panel Auxiliary Input: A front-panel stereo minijack is provided to allow the connection of almost any portable audio source with a 3.5mm headphone output. Simply connect your portable digital music player to the unit's front-panel auxiliary input, and you can listen to the audio from the portable player through the speakers in your mobile audio system.

    Audio Section

    MOSFET Amplifier: The JVC KD-R97MBS is equipped with a MOSFET amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET amplification circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased power with less distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More power means louder and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not pushing the limits of the amplification circuit. The power output specs for the KD-R97MBS are as follows:

    • Full Bandwidth Power: 22 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20-20kHz, 1% THD)
    • Maximum Output Power: 50 watts x 4 channels (200 total watts)

    Amp Gain: When you are using the KD-R97MBS with factory speakers (or those rated to less than 50 watts peak), the Amplifier Gain Control can limit the amount of power being sent to those speakers. When the Amp Gain Control is set to "low," the volume control ranges from 0 (minimum) to 25 (maximum). When using speakers rated higher than 50 watts peak, you can set the Amp Gain Control to "high," and the volume control will range from 0 to 35.

    6ch/4V Preamp Outputs + Sub Control: The KD-R97MBS features front, rear and subwoofer 4-volt preamp outputs. The front and rear speaker preamp outputs are balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading and offers independent level control (-50 to +10).

    Crossover Network: The JVC KD-R97MBS lets you choose between a 2-way or 3-way crossover network for your car audio application.

    • 2-Way Crossover: Allows you to set high-pass and low-pass crossovers for a standard Tweeter, Front, Rear, and Subwoofer speaker setup.
      • Speaker Size: select which size speakers are in your vehicle.
        • Tweeter: Small, Medium, Large, or None
        • Front & Rear: 3.5", 4", 4.75", 5", 6.5", 6.75", 7", 4x6", 5x7", 6x8", 6x9", 7x10" or None
        • Subwoofer: 6.5", 8", 10", 12", 15" or greater, None
      • X'Over: Select the high pass or low pass crossover settings for your speakers.
        • Tweeter: high pass filter (HPF)
          • Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Front & Rear: high pass filter (HPF)
          • Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, -24dB
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Sub: low pass filter (LPF)
          • Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, -24dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
    • 3-Way Crossover: Allows you to set high-pass and low-pass crossovers for a complex 3-way speaker system with Highs, Mids, and Sub.
      • Speaker Size: select which size speakers are in your vehicle.
        • Tweeter: Small, Medium, Large, or None
        • Midrange: 3.5", 4", 4.75", 5", 6.5", 6.75", 7", 4x6", 5x7", 6x8", or 6x9"
        • Woofer: 6.5", 8", 10", 12", 15" or greater, None
      • X'Over: Select the high pass or low pass crossover settings for your speakers.
        • Tweeter: high pass filter (HPF)
          • HPF Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Midrange: high pass filter (HPF) & low pass filter (LPF)
          • HPF Frequency:  30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • LPF Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Woofer: low pass filter (LPF)
          • LPF Frequency:  30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB

    Equalizer: The JVC KD-R97MBS is equipped with 8 EQ presets, an Easy EQ (3-band), a Pro EQ (13-band), and a Vol Link EQ. Choose the one that best fits your type of music listening.

    • EQ Preset: You can choose between the following EQ presets - Flat, Hard Rock, Pop, Hip Hop, R&B, Jazz, Classical, & User. The User mode allows you to select either the 3-band Easy EQ or 13-Band Pro EQ.
    • Easy EQ: The head unit's Easy EQ consists of a 3-band equalizer (Treble, Mid, & Bass). You can adjust the Treble, Mid, & Bass from -9 to +9.
    • Pro EQ: The units Pro EQ consists of a 13-band equalizer (100Hz, 160Hz, 250Hz, 400Hz, 630Hz, 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 6.3kHz, 10kHz, & 16kHz). Each frequency can be adjusted from -9 to +9. You can also adjust the Q-Factor of each frequency to 1.35, 1.50, or 2.0.
    • Vol Link EQ: The Vol Link EQ features  boosts certain frequencies ranges that becomes hard to hear due to road noise.

    K2 Technology: The KD-R97MBS employs K2 technology which dramatically improves the sound quality of compressed music files during CD, USB, and Bluetooth playback. When the K2 feature is activated, the sound becomes wider, smoother, and more natural.

    Sound Effects: The KD-R97MBS offers adjustable Sound Effects to provide a better listening experience inside your vehicle. Use the "Enhance" feature to virtually broaden the soundstage inside your vehicle. Use the "Sound Lift" feature to virtually lift the sound to ear level. And use the "Response" feature to virtually make the sound more realistic and live inside your car.

    Loudness, Bass Boost & Bass Extension: The Loudness feature boosts low and high frequencies to produce a well-balanced sound at a low volume level. The unit's Bass Boost enhances low bass frequencies at any volume level. There is also a Bass Extension feature which further enhances the unit's bass output.

    Volume Adjust: The input level of each source (other than FM) is adjustable relative to the FM radio volume, so there isn't a significant volume difference when changing sources. Each source is individually adjustable from -15 to +6.

    Key Beep: The in-dash head unit provides an audible beep to confirm button operation. This function can be turned On or Off.

    Display Features

    Detachable Face: The JVC KD-R97MBS features a detachable face to deter theft. No face case is included with this unit. An optional soft face case (142DFC1X, sold separately) can be purchased for this unit. A face-fixing screw is supplied for making the face non-detachable, if desired.

    Single-Line LCD: The head unit features a single-line LCD with black text and white backlit background. Adjustable brightness and dimmer settings are available for the LCD and button illumination.

    Variable Color Button Illumination: The KD-R970BTS features variable color button illumination. You can choose from one of 49 preset colors, have the unit scan through all 49 preset colors continuously (ColorFlow), or customize your own color by adjusting the intensity of Red, Green, and Blue from 0 to 31; resulting in approximately 30,000 custom color options. You can store a separate color for Daytime and Nighttime.

    Brightness & Dimmer Control: The JVC KD-R97MBS offers a brightness & dimmer control for the unit's LCD & button illumination.

    • Brightness: The unit offers a daytime and nighttime brightness settings for the LCD and button illumination. You can adjust the brightness level of each manually from 0-31.
    • Dimmer: The unit's dimmer control can be set automatically, manually, or via timer. Manually select "Off" for daytime brightness setting or "On" for nighttime brightness setting. Choose "Auto" which switches between day and nighttime brightness setting automatically when you turn off/on the headlights (orange/white wire of harness must be connected to headlamp circuit). You can even set a specific time for the "Off" and "On" dimmer setting to be activated.

    Day & Time: The unit displays a 12-or 24-hour clock, as well as the day (Sun/Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat). The day & time can be selected to remain on, even if the head unit is switched off (as long as the vehicle's key is in the accessory or start position).

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    Customer Q&A

    8 questions already asked

    Q
    What remotes are usable with this model? I don't want to install a boat remote in my Jeep!
    brad  Nov 08, 2017
    1 answer
    A
    I installed this unit in my 04 Jeep TJ and I bought the RM-RK52 remote for mine, It's a small hand held remote control. But I hardly ever use it... I really like the head unit though! It's worked Great for the three years that I've had it in my Jeep!
    rick  Nov 08, 2017
    Q
    is this unit single din ?
    clayton  Oct 06, 2017
    4 answers
    A
    No this is a double din
    stacie a  Oct 08, 2017
    A
    Yes I believe it is
    brian  Oct 06, 2017
    A
    Yes it is single din.
    william  Oct 06, 2017
    A
    Yes
    bert  Oct 06, 2017
    Q
    Does this unit have an output for an electric antenna?
    karl  Aug 18, 2017
    2 answers
    A
    Yes...but: The blue/white lead is always on and will trigger the antenna to be up the entire time your head unit is powered on. This is very annoying when compared to antenna only lead (blue) that cause your antenna to trigger only when the radio is the selected input. Apparently all the white screen JVC's are missing a dedicated blue lead. So make sure your radio is off for a car wash or if you ever cover your car or you'll be replacing your antenna next. I didn't realize this after i soldered my connections. Now I'm debating on sending back or installing a microswitch for the antenna lead. Other than that 3 days in and this seems to be a capable unit with fantastic display in a convertible with full sun. Absolutely no sun wash out.
    joseph  Oct 19, 2017
    A
    You can use the remote turn-on lead (blue/white) to trigger a motorized or amplified antenna, yes.
    ryan  Aug 23, 2017 (Staff)
    Q
    I turn the battery switch on my boat "OFF" all the time. The present Aquatronics stereo loses all of the pre-sets and audio setting each time I do this. Will the "backup memory" feature on this JVC KD-R97MBS keep that from happening with no constant direct feed from the boat's battery? Thanks!
    john  Jul 17, 2017
    2 answers
    A
    I installed this unit in my 04 Jeep Wrangler and it keeps the programmed stations when I've disconnected the battery for a few hours.
    rick  Jul 17, 2017
    A
    I disconnect the car battery in my Miata for five months during the winter. I got this radio last year, and this spring when I re-connected my battery and started my car up, my radio had lost all of its settings. I'm inclined to say no, it won't save your settings. I'd also not recommend this unit if you intend to use the USB feature. I'm quite displeased with it's firmware as it doesn't have a genuine "random" function for USB and CD audio playback, and the USB can't support more than ~2GBs of data before it takes too long to load the files. I originally got this radio with a 64GB USB drive so I could store a large volume of songs to play from, but ultimately I can only use about 2GB of files on that drive. Even at 4GB, it takes several minutes to read the data and start playback.
    korey  Jul 17, 2017
    Q
    Where is the microphone for the bluetooth, hand-free calling feature? Is it built-in or are there additional accessories required to support this feature?
    samantha  Mar 27, 2017
    1 answer
    A
    Thanks for your question. This unit includes an external Microphone w/ integrated bracket (attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle male 3.5mm connector). You can find this information on the main product page under "What's in the Box". Hope this helps.
    kenneth  Mar 27, 2017 (Staff)
    Q
    Want to get this unit for my road king with after market fairing. I have gone through 3 stereos so far. I think it's vibration. Will it handle vibration?
    eric  Jun 08, 2016
    3 answers
    A
    I've had this unit in my wrangler for a few months now. It has held up so far.
    mark  Jun 10, 2016
    A
    Have this in my wrangler and it bounces and bangs while offroading it's held up so far
    brent  Jun 08, 2016
    A
    I have had this head unit for a short time but so far so good..it has alot of features.. this unit replaced my OEM Harley head unit on my 07 ultra classic
    david  Jun 08, 2016
    Q
    I'm thinking about using this model on my harley touring bike. can this thing get wet? (rain, washing, etc.)
    chris  May 15, 2016
    4 answers
    A
    Would not recommend getting this wet intentionally.... I bought this for my sons convertible 4x4 with some marine speakers just in case it did get wet. I would imagine it will hold up better than ordinary radios. It has been a good unit with zero issues.
    stephanie  May 17, 2016
    A
    It's a marine radio designed to be used around water. I have it in a Jeep wrangler where it's been rained on a couple of times and it still works.
    barry  May 16, 2016
    A
    Not sure I would get it wet. We have mounted in a boat with a water resistant cover. It is nice to know it is rated for wet environments.
    cynthia w.  May 16, 2016
    A
    No idea. I'd call JVC directly & ask them.
    ryan  May 16, 2016
    Q
    what is the difference between the JVC KD-R97MBS and the KD-R85MBS ?
    shawn  Jan 29, 2016
    1 answer
    A
    The two are pretty similar, and the 97 is the newer model. The 85 has slightly stronger pre-amp outputs, but the 97 features more EQ options and variable button colors. Other than those minor things the feature sets are pretty identical.
    jeff  Feb 01, 2016 (Staff)
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