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Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 CD receiver

Item # 113KDCX300

The KDC-X300 CD receiver may be the most affordable model in the Kenwood Excelon lineup, but it's hardly a...

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The KDC-X300 CD receiver may be the most affordable model in the Kenwood Excelon lineup, but it's hardly a...

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Item # 113KDCX300

About the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300

Dave Delamere

Far from entry-level

The KDC-X300 CD receiver may be the most affordable model in the Kenwood Excelon lineup, but it's hardly a no-frills car stereo. In addition to the high-voltage preamp outputs and deep sound-shaping controls that Excelon models are known for, you get a front USB port for a wired connection for your iPhone® or Android™, along with built-in Bluetooth® that allows you to stream your music wirelessly. And Kenwood backs up this Excelon receiver with a 2-year warranty.

Far from entry-level

The KDC-X300 CD receiver may be the most affordable model in the Kenwood Excelon lineup, but it's hardly a no-frills car stereo. In addition to the high-voltage preamp outputs and deep sound-shaping controls that Excelon models are known for, you get a front USB port for a wired connection for your iPhone® or Android™, along with built-in Bluetooth® that allows you to stream your music wirelessly. And Kenwood backs up this Excelon receiver with a 2-year warranty.

Wireless for two phones

For the times when you have to share the ride, the KDC-X300 enables you to pair two Bluetooth-equipped phones and quickly switch between them for hands-free calling and audio streaming — no more digging into tedious menus to change phones. The front panel display lets you know which phone is active.

Lots of music options

This Kenwood also offers direct control over a connected iPod® or iPhone. You can also play, control, and charge select Android phones that are plugged into the front-panel USB port using the receiver's built-in AOA (Android Open Accessory 2.0). You can enjoy your favorite Pandora® and iHeartRadio® Internet Radio stations from your iPhone via USB or from your Android using Bluetooth.

And if that isn't enough music for you, you can also satisfy your music fix using the receiver's sensitive AM/FM radio or CD player. You can also plug a portable music player into front aux input, or a thumb drive full of MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, or FLAC music files into the front USB port.

The supporting cast of features

With this Kenwood's impressive amplification, so you'll notice an improvement in the sound of your factory or aftermarket speakers. You can use the dynamic 13-band graphic equalizer to adjust the tone for your separate sources. The KDC-X300 also provides three pairs of hot 4-volt RCA preamp outputs, providing an ultra-clean signal when adding additional amps for even more punch to your sound. With its variable color adjustment, you get to pick the color for the receiver's single-line display for just the right look in your dash.

Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?

In most cars, you'll need an adapter to retain those controls with this car stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and radio, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. You'll see the adapters that work with your vehicle when you add this receiver to your cart.

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:
    • CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
    • built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • plays media loaded with MP3, AAC, WMA, WAV, and FLAC music files (See Details tab for model compatibility)
    • detachable face with 13-digit LCD display and variable-color illumination
    Smartphone Features:
    • built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming with dual phone connection
    • built-in Android AOA control and charging of select Android devices (Android version 4.1 and higher) using the USB connection
    • built-in iPod, iPhone, and iPad control (See Details tab for model compatibility)
    • Pandora and iHeartRadio Internet radio control with iPhone and Android
    Audio Features:
    • 13-band graphic equalizer with Drive EQ
    • bass boost and loudness controls
    • subwoofer low-pass filter, phase, and level controls
    Expandability:
    • inputs: front-panel auxiliary input and USB port with sliding covers
    • outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, and subwoofer)
    Other Features and Specs:
    • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
    • warranty: 2 years
    • MFR # KDC-X300

    What's in the box:

    • CD receiver (10A fuse)
    • Face (attached)
    • Trim ring (attached)
    • Sleeve (installed)
    • Wiring harness
    • Remote control (RC-406)
    • CR2025 3V lithium-battery (installed in remote)
    • Microphone w/ bracket (attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle male 3.5mm connector)
    • 2 Removal tools
    • Face-fixing screw
    • Instruction Manual (En/Fr/Sp)
    • Warranty Card

    Featured video:

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    46 reviews

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    More details on the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300

    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
    Bluetooth Compatible Built-in
    Satellite Radio Ready No
    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/5/4S/4/
    General
    RMS Power (CTA-2006) N/A
    RMS Power (Manufacturer) ---
    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 Variable
    Key Button Color Variable
    EQ Bands 13
    Wireless Remote Yes
    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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 replaces these items:

    Product Research

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

    Built-in Bluetooth

    Bluetooth Technology: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 is equipped with built-in Bluetooth (ver. 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 1.5 (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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300. Visit Kenwood's Support Site for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled phones.

    Secure Simple Pairing (SSP) + Auto Pairing (via USB): With Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 without having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. You can even pair your Apple iPhone (iOS 5+) or Android smartphone (running Kenwood Music Play App) by simply connecting it to the Kenwood 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 Kenwood head unit, with a maximum of two Bluetooth phones and one Bluetooth audio device connected at one time, making it easier to switch between devices.

    Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication (w/ External Mic): The head unit supports Bluetooth hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The controls of the KDC-X300 can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call, or end a call. The unit also includes an external microphone (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 KDC-X300 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 KDC-X300, 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 control knob or remote control.
      • Preset Dial: Allows you to register up to 6 phone numbers for quick dialing. The preset numbers can be accessed from the head unit's front-panel controls.
      • Phone Book: You can download phone book data from your mobile phone to the KDC-X300. You can then dial a contact within the phonebook from the head unit's front-panel controls. Contacts are categorized as Home, Office, Mobile, Other, or General.
      • 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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 for playback.
    • SBC + AAC Codecs: In addition to support for the standard SBC Bluetooth audio codec, the KDC-X300 offers support of AAC.  By supporting AAC, the KDC-X300 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 KDC-X300 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 and connected to an iPhone with Siri via Bluetooth, the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 has the ability to access Siri through its front-panel controls and external microphone. Simply press-and-hold down on the head unit's Answer Button 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 KDC-X300 and its microphone. You even can 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 Siri. The head unit's audio is attenuated while Siri provides audible directions.

    Note: The head unit's display will only indicate hands-free calling and Bluetooth audio information (all other functions of Siri are only audible through the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300; 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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300's front-panel USB port lets you connect select Android smartphones that support AOA 2.0 for music playback. Kenwood 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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 supports Android Open Accessory 2.0 (AOA 2.0), which lets  you connect your Android smartphone (OS 4.1+) to the KDC-X300's front-panel USB port and listen to stored music and music apps from your Android device through the Kenwood 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 "Hand 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.
    • Kenwood Music Play: Downloading the Kenwood Music Play app onto your Android (OS 4.1+) smartphone with AOA 2.0 support not only allows you to listen to stored music from your Android device through the Kenwood 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 Kenwood 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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300'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 KDC-X300 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 Kenwood's Lightning connector-to-USB cable (113KCIP103 sold separately) or the Lightning-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect your iPod/iPhone to the KDC-X300.
    • 30-Pin Dock Connector: If you have an older iPod/iPhone with a 30-pin dock connector, you can use Kenwood's dock connector-to-USB cable (113KCIP102, sold separately) or the dock connector-to-USB cable that comes with your Apple device to connect your iPod/iPhone to the KDC-X300.

    iPhone Audio Playback w/ DAC Bypass: 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 110dB. The Kenwood head unit supports audio playback of stored music, music apps, and podcasts on your iPod or iPhone. The KDC-X300 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; you can even skip through the stored music files in specific increments (0.5/1/5/10%). The KDC-X300 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 KDC-X300 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".

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

    Apple Device Compatibility Chart: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features(as of 9/20/2016):

    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 Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
    4S 10.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    5/5C/5S 10.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    6+/6/6S/6S+ 10.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    7/7+ 10.0 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 Y Y
    3rd 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Y Y
    4th 6.1.6 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Y Y
    5th 9.3.5 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y
    6th 9.3.5 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y 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 1.02PC 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 & AM/FM Radio

    Internet Radio Apps (for iPhone & Android): The Kenwood KDC-X300 allows you to access Pandora and iHeartRadio online music services through your USB-connected iPhone or Bluetooth-connected Android y smartphone. Your Apple iPhone must be connected to the KDC-X300 via the Kenwood KCA-iP103 cable (sold separately), Kenwood KCA-iP102 cable (sold separately), or the cable supplied with your iPhone. Your Android smartphone must support A2DP/AVRCP/SPP Bluetooth profiles and be paired with the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300. Your iPhone or Android smartphone 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 the Pandora music service through the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 using your USB-connected Apple iPhone (iOS 7.0+) or Bluetooth paired Android smartphone. The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 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 or thumbs down, as well as bookmark song information. An active Pandora account is required.
    • iHeartRadio Link: The free iHeartRadio Link app for Kenwood (either from Apple's App Store or Google Play) lets you play music from the iHeartRadio music service through the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 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 KDC-X300 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. An active iHeartRadio account is required.
    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.

    RDS AM/FM Tuner: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 features a built-in AM/FM tuner with RDS. You can choose one of four tuning methods: Auto 1 (seek tuning), Auto 2 (cycles through and tunes the selected band's preset stations only with each button press), Manual, or Direct (via remote).

    • Presets: The KDC-X300's tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank for storing presets. Not only does the CD receiver's tuner allow you manually enter your desired presets you can choose to have the unit automatically put stations with good reception in the memory banks automatically; this is a handy feature when traveling. The Kenwood KDC-X300 offers two preset modes.
      • Normal: You can store 6 presets for each AM/FM bank giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM presets (total of 24).
      • Mix: A total of 6 preset stations can be assigned to the head unit's 6 preset buttons, regardless of AM/FM band. This lets you recall a preset station without switching between bands.
    • RDS: The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast information such as artist & track information when listening to compatible AM/FM stations.
    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.

    • CD Read: This function sets the method for reading a CD disc. You can choose between two modes - CD1 (automatically distinguishes between audio file disc and music CD when playing a CD or CD-R/RW disc) or CD2 (when unable to play a special formatted CD, set this function to CD2 to force playing; some music CD  discs may be unplayable even when set to this mode).
    • 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 15 seconds, the disc is automatically inserted again into the loading slot to protect it from dust.
    Note: For proper disc playback you must install the unit within 30-degrees of horizontal.

    USB Mass Storage Devices: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 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, USB hubs, and USB card readers; as well as select Android smartphones (Froyo/Gingerbread OS only). 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 (up to 5) in a USB multi-card reader or multiple USB thumbdrives (up to 5) connected to a USB hub. When a mass storage class (MSC) compatible smartphone (like Android with Froyo/Gingerbread OS) 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.

    Compatible Music Files: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 supports the following types of music files recorded onto CD-R/RW discs or loaded onto USB mass storage class devices.

    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 32-192 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 32-192 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48 kHz
    |WAV:
    bit depth of 16-bit w/ sampling frequency of 44.1kHz
    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, AAC tag, FLAC tag

    Playback & Search Functions: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 offers a variety of playback and search functions to help you find and enjoy your music on disc and USB.

    • Music Search: The Kenwood AM/FM CD receiver features a Music Search feature which allows you to scroll through and select your music folders and files, as well as scroll through your audio CD's music tracks using the head unit's rotary knob.
    • Direct Search: The supplied IR wireless remote control (RC-406) allows you to search for music directly by entering the track number for discs and USB.
    • Repeat & Random: You can repeat the playback of a music file or folder on a CD or USB device. You can also randomly play back all files on al disc or within in a folder of a USB device.
    • Last Position Memory: If the unit is shut off or switched to the tuner mode while a CD or USB is playing, the next time CD or USB is selected as the source, playback will resume from the point where it left off.

    Aux In: The unit is equipped with a front panel 3.5mm minijack auxiliary input that can be used to input audio from a portable audio source, such as a portable MP3 player. The Aux input must be turned on to function. The KDC-X300 allows you to select the source type displayed when using the auxiliary input. You can choose from AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video, or TV.

    Audio Section

    Excelon Series: The KDC-X300 CD receiver is part of Kenwood's Excelon series line-up. It incorporates the latest technologies and delivers the highest sonic performance. From advanced audio tuning capabilities, crossover and equalizer system, high-voltage preouts (4V), plus a two-year warranty - Kenwood Excelon represents exceptional audio quality with long-lasting dependability.

    16 Bit D/A Converter: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 utilizes a 16-bit digital to analog converter for superior sound quality.

    MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 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 KDC-X300 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

    6Ch/4V Pre-Outs + Sub Control: The KDC-X300 is fitted with front, rear and subwoofer 4V pre-outs. The front and rear speaker preamp outputs are balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading and features independent level control (-50 to +10).

    Speaker Size: You can 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), and Sub (6.5", 8", 10", 12", 15" or greater, None).

    High Pass & Low Pass Crossovers: You are able to select independent high pass crossovers for your tweeters, front speakers, and rear speakers; as well as a low pass crossover for the head unit's sub output.

    • Tweeter: Set high pass filter (HPF) for tweeters.
      • Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
      • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
    • Front & Rear: Independently set high pass filter (HPF) for front & rear speakers.
      • 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: Set low pass filter (LPF) for the sub output.
      • 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

    Equalizer: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 offers 8 EQ Presets for east adjustment, a 13-band EQ for customized tuning, a Drive EQ mode to overcome road noise, and a Stage EQ for better imaging. Separate EQ settings and EQ presets can be stored for each source or you can apply one EQ preset or curve to all sources.

    • Preset EQ: The integrated equalizer offers 8 preset sound modes (Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Natural, Drive EQ, or User) suitable for the music genre of your choice.
    • 13-Band EQ: The User mode allows you to manually adjust the head unit's 13-band EQ (62.5Hz, 100Hz, 160Hz, 250Hz, 400Hz, 630Hz, 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 6.3kHz, 10kHz, & 16kHz). Each frequency's gain level can be adjusted from -9dB to +9 dB, while the Q-factor can be adjusted to 1.35, 1.5, or 2.0
    • Drive EQ: The Drive EQ mode helps you hear your music over road noise. It boosts certain frequencies ranges that becomes hard to hear due to road noise.
    • Stage EQ: Stage EQ virtually lifts the sound up to ear-level for better imaging inside your vehicle.

    Audio Settings: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 offers a variety of audio settings to further enhance your music listening experience.

    • Sound Reconstruction: When MP3, WMA, AAC files encoded at a low bit rate (less than 96 kbps, 44.1k, 48kHz) are played, the Sound Reconstruction function restores their high frequencies so the sound quality is closer to files encoded at a high bit rate. The processing is optimized for the compression format and the bit rate used. When Sound Reconstruction is Off, the unit plays the original sound stored in the audio file.
    • Space Enhancer & Sound Realizer: The Spacer Enhancer widens the soundstage inside your vehicle, while the Sound Realizer makes your music sound more realistic.
    • 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 at extremely low frequencies.
    • Volume Offset: The level of each source may be independently adjusted to prevent radical leaps in output volume when switching from one source to another. The available settings range 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 Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 features a single front loading CD face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. There is no protective face case included. 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.

    Variable Color Illumination: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X300 features variable color display and button illumination. You can choose from one of 24 preset colors, have the unit scan through all 24 preset colors continuously, or customize your own color (RGB; 0-9). The custom setting allows you to individually adjust the intensity of Red, Green, and Blue (from 0-9) to better match your vehicle's interior lights. The same color setting is applied to both the display and buttons, or you can choose a different color for Zone 1 and Zone 2 (see owner's manual illustration). The Kenwood logo remains red.

    Text Scroll: The KDC-X300 will display song/artist information text from CD, USB, and Android. You can set the text scrolling feature to three different modes (Auto, Once, or Off) to scroll longer titles across the screen.

    Brightness & Dimmer: You can adjust the brightness of the LCD and button illumination from 0-31. You can also dim (on or off) the display and button illumination. You can even set a specific time for the "Off" and "On" dimmer setting to be activated.

    12Hr/24Hr Clock: The head unit can be set to display a 12hr or 24hr clock. The unit also displays the day (Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, or Sat). The clock is only displayed when selected and does not displayed simultaneously with song/artist or station information. 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).

    Demo Mode: This unit features a Demo mode which can be turned On or Off within the menu.

    Remote Control

    Wireless Remote Control: The KDC-X300 comes with an IR remote control (RC-406) for wireless operation of the head unit. The remote will control Audio, CD, USB, iPod/iPhone, Android, Bluetooth, and Tuner functions. It is powered by a single CR2025 3V lithium-cell battery (supplied).

    • Numeric Keypad: The wireless remote control features a numeric keypad (0-9) which allows direct track access of your music tracks & files (from CD or USB), as well as AM/FM presets.
    • Attenuator: The CD receiver features an Attenuator button on the supplied remote control that turns the volume down very quickly with one touch of the button.

    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 factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with an optional steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately). Please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to see if your vehicle is compatible.

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    Customer Q&A

    1 question already asked

    Q
    If I am replacing a 2 year old Kenwood unit, will the harness still fit a new Kenwood?
    james  Nov 27, 2016
    1 answer
    A
    This is very unlikely. The pin configurations in the harnesses change from year to year.
    jeff  Nov 28, 2016 (Staff)

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