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Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395

CD receiver

Add satellite radio for only $9.99 after $50 instant savings and $50 web rebate* after $50 instant savings and $50 web rebate*
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Item# 113KDCX395 offer details

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Kenwood

Our take on the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395

Kenwood Excelon car stereos offer strong performance with the assurance of a 2-year warranty. The KDC-X395 CD receiver is the junior member of the Excelon lineup, but it includes features and functionality designed for avid car audio fans, including a front-panel USB input, high-voltage preamp outputs, and other options for system expansion.

KDC-X395

Ready to go with your iPod®

Connect your player to the receiver's front-panel USB input, then press the "iPod" button to the right of the main control knob to access your player. Kenwood makes it so easy to navigate your tracks and playlists — dedicated "Search" and "Return" keys limit the need to work through menus when you're looking for a specific song.

You can also switch quickly to "passenger mode" to control your iPod or iPhone® from the device, useful if you're listening to streaming content like Internet radio stations. Once your iPod's connected, this Kenwood uses its own digital-to-analog converter to turn digital files into music, so you'll hear cleaner sound with less noise.

Plenty of entertainment options

The front-panel auxiliary input offers an instant connection for a satellite radio or another sound source. You can play all kinds of CDs, even discs that you've loaded with MP3 and WMA files. You can add a Kenwood HD Radio™ tuner or satellite radio to experience the best in radio. Kenwood's optional Bluetooth® adapter gives you the added safety of hands-free calling with compatible phones — just touch a button to answer a call and keep your hands on the wheel while you talk.

System building

rear panel

If you're adding outboard amps, you'll appreciate the clean signal from the three sets of 4-volt preamp outputs. The System E's crossover offers high- and low-pass filters, so you can trim low bass out of your speakers and adjust the character of your bass.

Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?
In most vehicles, you can use an adapter to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Kenwood stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and this Kenwood, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. Check the "Accessories" tab for compatible adapters.

Note: If you're going to use your iPod with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for specific iPod model compatibility with this receiver.

Highlights:

  • General features:
  • CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
  • built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
  • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RW discs including discs loaded with MP3 and WMA music files
  • detachable face with blue illumination
  • remote control
  • Audio features:
  • System Q Sound Control (6 EQ curves and a 3-band parametric equalizer)
  • Supreme Setting function restores high frequencies in music files
  • high- and low-pass filters for speaker and preamp outputs
  • subwoofer level controls
  • Expandability:
  • iPod direct control via USB input — no adapter necessary, but adding Kenwood's optional cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
  • compatible with Kenwood Bluetooth adapter, satellite radio, HD Radio tuner
  • inputs: front panel auxiliary and USB inputs
  • outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
  • Other features and specs:
  • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
  • warranty: 2 years
  • Our 60-day money-back guarantee
 

Hands-on research from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?)

Features and Specs

Features and Specs
General
Chassis Size Code
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,I,E,J,
CEA-2006 Compliant
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No
RMS Power Output
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22 watts
Peak Output
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50 watts
RMS Power Bandwidth
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20-20kHz
Preamp Outputs
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6-channel
Sub Preamp Outputs
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Yes
Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs
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No
Preamp Voltage
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4 volts
Display Color
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Bluish white
Key Button Color
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Blue
EQ Bands
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3
Wireless Remote
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Yes
Steering Wheel Control Compatible
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Adapter required
Parts Warranty
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2 Years
Labor Warranty
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2 Years
Expandability
AUX Input
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Front/Opt.Rear
USB Input
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Front
Memory Card Slot
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USB memory
Bluetooth Compatible
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Optional
Satellite Radio Ready
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Sirius or XM
HD Radio
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Optional
Navigation
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No
Changer Control
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Yes
iPod Compatibility
Full size
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Classic/5Gen
Nano
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Nano6/Nano5/Nano4/Nano3/Nano2/
Touch
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Touch4/Touch3/Touch2/Touch1
Mini
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No
iPhone
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Phone4S/Phone4/Phone3GS/Phone3
Tuner
FM Sensitivity
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11.2 dBf
European Tuning
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Yes
Seek/Scan
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Seek
Radio Data System
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Yes

Product Research

Product Research
What's in the box?

Download owner's manual

  • AM/FM CD receiver (with 10-amp fuse inserted into the chassis)
  • Sleeve (attached)
  • Face (attached)
  • Trim ring (attached)
  • Wiring harness
  • RC-405 Wireless remote control (with CR2025 3V lithium-battery installed)
  • Face pouch
  • 2 Removal tools
  • 4 Panhead ISO-mount screws
  • 4 Flathead ISO-mount screws
  • Face-fixing screw
  • Instruction Manual (Eng/Fre/Spa)
  • Warranty Card

Our Product Research Team

At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team — they open the box, verify contents, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices.

Display Features
Audio Section
Radio Functions
Disc Playback
USB/iPod/Aux Connectivity
Bluetooth/Remote Control
Optional Software

Display Features

Detachable Face: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 features a single front loading CD face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. The head unit includes a cloth pouch for storing the face-plate when detached. A face-fixing screw is supplied for making the face non-detachable, if desired.

Note: An optional soft face case (142DFC1X, sold separately) can also be purchased for this unit.

Fluorescent Display: The Kenwood head unit features a 14-segement, 13-character bluish white backlit fluorescent display with blue button illumination.

Display Illumination/Clock Display: When the unit is in Standby mode, the face/button illumination is "keyed." In addition, while the unit is in Standby mode, you can turn the clock display on or off. When the Clock Display is turned on and the unit is in Standby mode, the Clock Display is also "keyed." Pressing and holding the source button turns the unit off completely.

Display Dimmer: The display has two brightness settings to adjust the brightness of the display according to the surrounding illumination. You can change this setting within the menu from On or Off.

Demo Mode: This unit features a Demo mode which can be turned "on" or "off" within the menu.

Audio Section

24 Bit D/A Converter: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior CD sound quality.

MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 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-X395 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

Rotary Volume Control: The CD receiver uses a 3-way rotary volume control that increases and decreases the volume of the stereo from 0 to 35. The rotary knob also controls other audio settings such as Balance, Fader, Bass, Mid, Treble and preset EQ settings. In addition, the rotary knob allows you to scroll through and select your music tracks when the Music Search function is activated.

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 -8 to 0 (-8 to +8 for Aux source).

Supreme Setting: When MP3 and WMA files encoded at a low bit rate (less than 96 kbps, 44.1k, 48kHz) are played, the Supreme Setting 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 the Supreme Setting is Off, the unit plays the original sound stored in the audio file.

Speaker Settings: The Speaker Setting function tailors the System Q Sound Control settings according to the type of speakers in your vehicle. You may select a Speaker Setting of "SP Off" (flat), "SP OEM" (for OEM factory speaker systems), "SP 6x9/6" (for systems with 6" and 6"x9" speakers), or "SP 5/4" (for systems with 4" and 5" speakers).

System Q Sound Control: Eight EQ curves are preset into memory, allowing you to recall the best preset EQ curve for different types of music. Each preset has its own level settings for bass (100Hz), midrange (1kHz), and treble (12.5kHz). You can choose from the following preset EQ curves - Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Natural, Game, and User.

Detail Audio Control: The Excelon KDC-X395 features independent Bass, Treble and Midrange control when the System Q Sound Control is in User mode. The Detail Audio Control allows you to adjust the following settings for the Bass, Treble and Mid frequency levels.

3-Band EQ Detailed Audio Settings
Center Frequency Q-Factor Bass Extension Level
Bass 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 100, 120, or 150 Hz 1.00, 1.25, 1.50, or 2.00 On/Off -8 to +8
Midrange 0.5k, 1.0k, 1.5k, or 2.0k Hz 1.00 or 2.00 N/A
Treble 10.0k, 12.5k, 15.0k, or17.5k Hz N/A N/A

Bass Boost: The Kenwood CD receiver also features a Bass Boost control that can be set to the following levels - LV1, LV2 or Off.

Source Tone Memory: This feature allows you to store System Q bass, middle and treble tone settings for each source (CD, Tuner, Aux, and USB).

6ch/4V Preamp Outputs: The KDC-X395 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. The front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs are fixed to the rear chassis of the head unit.

Front & Rear High-Pass Filter: The KDC-X395 features an independent High-Pass Crossover for the front & rear channels when your front & rear speakers are connected by the unit's speaker-outputs or preamp-outputs. You can adjust the high-pass crossover from "Through", 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, or 180, 220Hz. The "Through" selection is a full-range setting. This feature is very helpful when you have smaller-type speakers in the front and larger-type speakers installed in the rear of the vehicle.

Subwoofer Controls: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 provides the following subwoofer preamp output controls.

  • Low-Pass Filter: The receiver features a built-in Low Pass Filter control for the unit's subwoofer preamp output. You can select from 50, 60, 80, 100, 120Hz, or "Through". The "Through" setting allows your external amplifier's crossover network to do all the filtering for your subwoofer.
  • Subwoofer Phase: You can adjust the phase of the subwoofer output between 180-degrees (Reverse) or 0-degrees (Normal).
  • Subwoofer Level: You can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level from the CD receiver. You select levels between -15 to +15.

Tel Mute: The Excelon KDC-X395 features a cell-phone mute wire (brown) in its harness that when hooked up to your car's phone system mute wire will automatically mute the receiver's audio signal when a call comes in.

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

Radio Functions

AM/FM Tuner: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 features a built-in AM/FM tuner. You can choose one of three tuning modes: Auto 1 (seek tuning), Auto 2 (cycles through and tunes the selected band's preset stations only with each button press), or Manual.

RDS: The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast information such as artist, title, and album when listening to compatible AM/FM stations.

Tuner Presets: The Excelon KDC-X395's tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank for storing presets. The Kenwood KDC-X395 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 of 6 stations can be assigned to a total of 6 preset buttons, regardless of AM/FM band and connected Satellite Radio tuner. You can recall a preset station without switching between bands.

Auto Memory Tuning: 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.

Direct Access Tuning: You can directly access an AM/FM station by entering in the frequency number using the include wireless remote control.

Mono Mode: This feature reduces the noise (static) when a stereo broadcast is received as monaural (for FM band only).

Satellite Radio Ready: There are several options for connecting an optional XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio receiver to this receiver:

  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio: To receive SIRIUS Satellite Radio, you can connect the optional SIRIUS Universal Vehicle Tuner  and the optional Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Interface (package # 700SIRKENW, sold separately); or you can connect the optional Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Interface and the SiriusConnect vehicle docking kit (package # 700SIRPKEN, sold separately), along with your compatible SIRIUS Dock & Play receiver.
  • XM Satellite Radio: To receive XM Satellite Radio connect the optional CNP2000UCA XM Tuner and the CNP-KEN1 Kenwood adapter cable (package item number 700XMKEN2).

    Note: A subscription is also required to receive satellite radio programming from SIRIUS or XM.

HD Radio Ready (with iTunes Tagging): With an optional Kenwood HD Radio tuner (113HR300, sold separately), you will be able to receive digital AM/FM broadcasts from local stations where available. This new technology will significantly improve audio quality and reception, as well as include information such as artist name and song titles or traffic news, viewable on the receiver's display. The Kenwood KTC-HR300 HD Radio tuner(113HR300) is also capable of iTunes tagging. iTunes tagging gives you the ability to tag a song (up to 50) and stores it to a connected iPod. The next time your iPod is connected to iTunes, the tagged songs are displayed with the option to purchase them from the iTunes Store.

Note: You cannot connect both a Satellite Radio Interface and HD Radio tuner to the head unit.

Disc Playback

Disc Compatibility: The unit features a single disc player that will playback CD-Audio, CD-Text, and finalized CD-R/CD-RW audio discs.

MP3/WMA Playback: The Excelon KDC-X395 can play MP3 (8-320 kbps) and WMA (32-192 kbps) audio files recorded on CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo, and Long file name formats. Each disc should have a maximum of 8 directory levels, 50 folders, and 255 files per folder with a maximum of 512 files and folders. During MP3/WMA  playback, the unit displays recorded ID3 Tag (ver. 1.x/2.x) information. The head unit will display up to 60 characters.

Text Scroll: The Excelon KDC-X395 will display CD text or Audio file text. You can set the text scrolling feature to two different modes (Auto or Manual) to scroll longer titles across the screen.

Music Search: The Kenwood AM/FM CD receiver features a Music Search feature which allows you to scroll through and select your MP3/WMA music folders and files, as well as scroll through your audio CD's music tracks using the head unit's rotary knob.

Direct Music Search: The supplied IR wireless remote control (RC-405) allows you to search for music directly by entering the track number.

Playback Modes: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 features the following Repeat, Random, and Scan playback modes.

  • Repeat Play: Track, File, or Folder
  • Random Play: Disc or Folder
  • Scan Play: Track or File (plays the first 10-seconds of each music track on a disc or music file in a folder)

Last Position Memory: If the unit is shut off or switched to the tuner mode while a CD is playing, the next time CD is selected as the source, playback will resume from the point where it left off.

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, CD-R/RW disc.
  • 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 Insert: The CD player will automatically reinsert the disc if it's ejected, but not removed for 20 seconds or more.

Changer Controls: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 offers connection and control of Kenwood's 10-disc CD-changer (113KDCC719, sold separately).

USB/iPod/Aux Connectivity

USB Port: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 features a front-panel USB (1.1/2.0) type-A port that is hidden behind a sliding cover. The USB port enables connection and control of a portable USB mass-storage class device with MP3 (8-320 kbps) and WMA (32-192 kbps) music files. The USB port is compatible with all USB mass storage class devices that support the FAT16 or FAT32 file system. Your USB device should only have a maximum of 8 directory levels, 255 folders, and 255 files per folder with a maximum of 65,025 files and folders. During MP3/WMA playback, the unit displays recorded ID3 Tag (ver. 1.x/2.x)  information. The head unit will display up to 60 characters. The KDC-X395 will also charge your connected USB device's battery, when the head unit is powered up.

Note: You cannot connect a USB device via a USB hub or Multi-Card Reader to this unit.

iPod/iPhone Direct Connection: The Excelon KDC-X395's front-panel USB port also acts as an iPod/iPhone high-speed direct connection when used with the optional Kenwood USB Direct Connection Cable (113KCIP102, sold separately) or the USB/iPod cable that comes with your iPod/iPhone. Using either cable allows audio playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of select iPod/iPhone models from the KDC-X395.

iPod/iPhone Audio Playback: The USB connection allows your iPod/iPhone's large music libraries to be loaded instantly to the head unit and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 24-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 110dB. The Kenwood head unit supports audio playback of music files and podcasts stored on your iPod or iPhone.

iPod/iPhone Control: You can choose to control the iPod/iPhone from the head unit or from your iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen.

  • Music Browsing: The Kenwood head unit allows you to navigate your iPod's music by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, Composer, Song, or Podcast. You can search these categories alphabetically or using a percentage search (0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%).
  • Playlists: You can create your own custom iPod/iPhone playlist (up to 10 songs) from the head unit.
  • Repeat & Random: The head unit supports Repeat (file) & Random (folder) playback functions of your connected iPod/iPhone.

iPod/iPhone Display: The Excelon KDC-X395 will display your iPod/iPhone's music file information when you are controlling your iPod or iPhone from the Kenwood head unit. The head unit will display Track number, Elapsed playing time, Artist name, Song title, and Album label. If you choose to operate your connected iPod/iPhone via its clickwheel or touchscreen controls, the KDC-X395 will not display your iPod/iPhone's music information (the head unit will instead display iPod MODE).

iPod/iPhone Charging: While connected and the ignition switch is set to ACC or ON, the head unit's USB connection will power and charge your iPod/iPhone.

Note: If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it.

iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of November 2011):

iPod/iPhone Model Generation Tested Version Media Type Control Type Display Type Charge
Audio Video head unit iPod/iPhone Song/Artist Text Track Info
dock connector 3rd N/A N N N N N N N
clickwheel
color
4th N/A N N N N N N N
mini 1st N/A N N N N N N N
2nd N/A N N N N N N N
video 5th 1.3 Y N Y N Y Y Y
classic 80GB 1.1.2 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
120GB 2.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
160GB 2.0.4 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
nano 1st 1.3.1 Y N Y N Y Y Y
2nd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3rd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
4th 1.0.4 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
5th 1.0.2 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
6th 1.1 PC Y N Y Y Y Y Y
touch 1st 2.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
2nd 4.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3rd 5.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
4th 5.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
iPhone 2G 3.1.3 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3G 4.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3GS 4.3.5 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
4 5.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y
4S 5.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y 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 revert to the older software version or wait until a newer software update is available.

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 Excelon KDC-X395 allows you to select the source type displayed when using the auxiliary input. You can choose from AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video, or TV. The Aux input must be turned on to function. The unit has 3 auxiliary input modes.

  • On1: Outputs the sound of the external unit connected to the Aux terminal when switched to the Aux source.
  • On2: Activates the attenuator function when turning on the power with the auxiliary source selected. This prevents the noise when no external unit is connected to the Aux terminal. Turn off the attenuator function when listening to output from an external unit.
  • Off: Disables the selection of the Aux source.

Rear Auxiliary Input "Ready": The unit already features a front panel auxiliary input, but if you need a second auxiliary input, one can be added to the rear of the unit. When used with an optional adapter, this unit can accept a rear input from an auxiliary source. When the CA-C1AUX adapter (113CAC1AX, sold separately) is used, you cannot connect an optional HD/Satellite Radio tuner to the head unit because the adapter plugs into the DIN changer control connection on the head unit.

Bluetooth/Remote Control

Bluetooth Ready: The unit is Bluetooth compatible using the optional Kenwood KCA-BT300 Bluetooth adapter (113BT300, sold separately). The Kenwood KCA-BT300 Bluetooth adapter allows you to make and receive calls on your Bluetooth-equipped cellular telephone, including the Apple iPhone, through the Kenwood Excelon in-dash head unit. You can even download your Phonebook information from your compatible mobile phone into the head unit. You can also stream music from a Bluetooth enabled mobile phone or digital audio player. You are able to register up to five compatible Bluetooth cell phones when using the KCA-BT300 adapter.

Note: Not all Bluetooth enabled mobile phones will be compatible with this unit. Please visit Kenwood.com for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled phones.

Wireless Remote Control: The Excelon KDC-X395 comes with an IR remote control (RC-405) for wireless operation of the head unit. The remote will control Audio, CD, USB, 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 also 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 the optional PAC SWI-JACK Steering Wheel Control Interface Adapter (127SWIJACK, sold separately); or the optional Metra ASWC Steering Wheel Control Interface Adapter (120ASWC, sold separately).

Note: Please consult the Crutchfield Car Selector to see if your vehicle is compatible.

Optional Software

Music Editor Compatible: The Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 supports the PC application, Kenwood Music Editor Lite (ver.1.1). Kenwood Music Editor Lite is a Windows-based desktop software that helps organize, manage and transfer MP3 and WMA music files to your USB devices from your PC. When you playback audio files that have been stored on your USB device using Kenwood Music Editor Lite through this unit, you can search a file by title, album, or artist name using the head unit's Music Search function.

System Requirements: The Kenwood Music Editor Light (ver.1.1) Windows-based software can be downloaded for free from Kenwood.com to your PC. The Kenwood Music Editor Light is compatible with the following Windows Microsoft Operating Systems.

  • Windows XP Professional, Home Edition SP2 or later (32-bit)
  • Windows Vista (32/64-bit)
  • Windows 7 (32/64-bit)
 

Product Reviews

Review Summary

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1-10 of 212 items >> Sort Results By: Date Reviewed | Rating | Helpfulness
 
5 out of 5

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395

Written By Mike P, Decatur IL on Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
I installed this in my work car that has 200,000 miles on it and I think I doubled the value of the car. The sound coming out of this deck through the factory speakers is amazing. Crutchfield's directions made it a simple installation. I bought this stereo for the iphone/ipod connection and it truly looks and sounds like a high end receiver. I'm thinking about buying another one for my pickup truck.
Pros:
Very cool display, love the blue lighted display and the ipod connection
Cons:
A little confusing adjusting the controls and switching from CD to tuner etc.
2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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"Coolness Factor"
Build Quality
Ease of Use
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5 out of 5

Excellent stereo, but potentially bad radio reception

Written By Stephen J, Atlanta, GA on Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
All in all, a fantastic device for digital media.
Pros:
Like other users have said, this is a very powerful device at an unbeatable price. I use it primarily for my iPod and CD's and couldn't be happier with those.
Cons:
Unfortunately, the FM receiver doesn't seem to be too hot in this unit. Unless I am very close to a large city, the radio sounds pretty fuzzy and distorted at times. If you are buying a receiver primarily for listening to the radio, you may want to double check that this one is right for you.
5 out of 5 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

AWESOME RADIO

Written By W, Tampa Fl. on Monday, January 09, 2012
 
Excellant product really looks good in my F150 Boss 5.4 Truck Just enough bells and whistles. The display is not too bright just right for night use. This radio is everything I expect from Kenwood. I HAVE HAD SEVERAL KENWOOD PRODUCTS SINCE THE 80's
Pros:
whats not to love about kenwood stereos.
4 out of 4 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

KDC-X395 Great Radio & Price!

Written By patbmc, Texas on Friday, December 30, 2011
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
We put the KDC-X395 in a 2000 Mustang. Warning on the removal instructions of the existing stereo! It sounds so easy but not so for the Mustang! You use the U shaped universal DIN removal tools in the holes no prob, but pulling the stereo and CD deck out was a nightmare. The old stereo came out in pieces in my hands! The trick ended up being that you have to remove the Dash trim around the stereo and AC controls first. You also have to remove the small trim ring about the gear shifter! Then the old receiver and CD deck will slide out like the instructions say. I guess I am a little thick headed, plus I hated to remove the existing trim because I was afraid it might break due to age. But, it came out in one piece and after that everything went just as the instructions say. We also used the Universal Din Pocket #003UPK750 from Crutchfield. This is a tray that takes the place of where you remove the separtae CD deck. It is a great price and now it gives you a tray to put your IPod in while it is hooked up to the new receiver. We are very happy with the radio! It sounds great and even makes the stock speakers come alive! My daughter especially loves the IPod controls and how it tells you the artist and song title. This same info also is displayed on the FM radio as well!
Pros:
IPod capability and great sound!
Cons:
Lots of buttons to press but remote can simplify.
2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

Awesome Receiver

Written By Brian, From New Hampshire on Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
I bought this receiver for my 2004 Chevy Silverado with a Bose stereo and I should have purchased it sooner. The foremost reason for the purchase was the iPod connectability, the sound quality is PHENOMENAL when compared to the factory receiver. The controls and features are very easy to use and understand, it has everything you would want in a radio.

The installation took about half a day and a call to Crutchfield. The call was well worth it because the tech support was great and the guy knew exactly what I was doing wrong (Make sure to connect the blue-white wire to the p-conn wire on the receiver). I would also recommend soldering the wires together for improved sound quality as well as the purchase the GM adaptor, its $50 and it keeps all the door chimes and On-star working. Follow the wiring instructions from the GM adaptor along with the receivers instructions and you should be fine. On a side note, most of the wires connect to absolutely nothing so just tape those together to avoid shorting out your receiver.

I highly advise you to purchase this receiver if you are looking for an improvement in sound quality for your music. Because everyone wants to here music the way it was intended to be heard, especially in a car that you spend hundreds of hours sitting in.
Pros:
The iPod connectability and sound quality are amazing. As well as the provided face plate from Crutchfield, which allows the radio to look like it actually belongs in your car... even though it took a bit of modification shown in the instructions.
Cons:
The installation was a bit confusing when it came to wiring
4 out of 4 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

sounda great!

Written By berttrude, Las Vegas on Saturday, January 21, 2012
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
Lets just say this stereo rocks the factory speakers sond great! easy to hook up, and use, color looks great. One thing that is good is the the volume knob is large, a good size. over all good.
Pros:
all pros
Cons:
no cons
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5 out of 5

Awesome radio!!

Written By js, palm bay,fl. on Sunday, January 22, 2012
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
I love this radio!! It was so easy to install! All the free extras were great!! I love Crutchfield !! Thanks!!!
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5 out of 5

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395

Written By , ceres, va on Friday, January 20, 2012
 
good sound.
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5 out of 5

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395

Written By sunil m, sugar land, tx on Thursday, January 19, 2012
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

 
very impressed with the features as well as overall performance. the choice of the colors of light even blends with the vehicle's dash lights. the kit fit just right around the radio unit. Did not see any uneven space within the opening.
Pros:
performance, layout, amplifier circuit,connections
Cons:
could not think of any
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5 out of 5

Nice deck

Written By Gary, Georgia on Friday, January 20, 2012
 
This is a very nice deck for the money, controls the iPod quite nicely. I will be using it for satellite radio as well. Super easy installation.
Cons:
I wish the volume control was knurled, it is too smooth.
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1-10 of 212 items >>

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Learn more about Car Receivers

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Video: Four Important Car Stereo Accessories

Video: Four Important Car Stereo Accessories

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10/1/2009
based on 206 ratings (3 comments)
 

In this short video, we present four of the most common accessories you should consider when purchasing a new car stereo. Everyone who installs a new stereo is likely to need at least one of these...

 

Accessories

Accessories we recommend

iPod Adapters
Keep one of these in your car, so you can leave your other cable at home.
Kenwood KCA-iP102 iPod® cable
Sends audio to select Kenwood receivers
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
P.I.E. iPod® Connection Cable
Heavy-duty USB to iPod cable
$34.99
In Stock
 
 
PAC USB Extension Cable
Connects to your car stereo's rear USB input — gives you a convenient spot to plug in your iPod® cable
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Auxiliary Input Cables
Plug your favorite portable device directly to your receiver's aux input.
Scosche I335 Mini Stereo Cable
3-ft. cable with a male miniplug on each end
$7.99
In Stock
 
 
Peripheral Stereo Miniplug Cable
3-foot cable: male miniplug to male miniplug (Model iSVE913)
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Scosche Mini to RCA Cable
6-ft. cable — stereo miniplug to male RCA plugs
$14.99
In Stock
 
 
Face Cases
Keep the receiver's face protected when it's out of the car.
SoundKase DFC1X
Soft face case for detachable faceplates (single-DIN)
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
Satellite Radio Tuners
Add the variety of satellite radio programming to your receiver Subscription required.
SIRIUS Kenwood Package
$59.98
In Stock
 
 
XM Direct 2 Kenwood Car Kit
Add XM Satellite Radio to your Kenwood receiver
$69.98
In Stock
 
 
SIRIUS Dock-and-Play Package for Kenwood
Control your dock-and-play SIRIUS radio from your Kenwood car stereo
$109.98
In Stock
 
 
Bluetooth Phone Kits
Make and receive hands-free phone calls with your compatible cell phone.
Kenwood KCA-BT300
Bluetooth® adapter for Kenwood receivers
$149.99
In Stock
 
 
HD Radio Tuners
Receive FM stations with CD-quality sound and AM stations that sound as good as today's analog FM stations.
Kenwood KTC-HR300
Add-on HD Radio™ tuner for select Kenwood receivers

Also available in:
Open Box: $89.99
Scratch & Dent: $89.99
$129.99
In Stock
 
 
Professional Installation
Get more info about having your new receiver put in by a qualified professional in your area.
InstallCard: In-dash Stereo
Prepaid professional in-dash receiver installation
 
USB Drives
Store and play back music from a USB drive.
Maxell USB 360°
USB flash memory drive (8GB)
$13.99
In Stock
 
 
Sony Micro Vault® N-Series
Portable USB backup drive (4GB)
$5.99
In Stock
 
After $12.00 Price Break
 
Sony Micro Vault® M-Series
4GB USB flash drive
$14.99
In Stock
 
 
Steering Wheel Audio Control Adapters
You can operate your new radio with your factory-installed steering wheel controls by adding an adapter.
Axxess ASWC
Steering wheel control interface — connects your car's steering wheel audio controls to an aftermarket stereo
$69.99
In Stock
 
 
PAC SWI-JACK
Steering wheel control interface for Alpine, Clarion, JVC, and Kenwood
$69.99
In Stock
 
 
CD Changers
You'll never want for tunes with a CD changer in your vehicle.
Kenwood KDC-C719
10-disc CD changer
$149.99
In Stock
 
After $30.00 Price Break
 

Extras

Auxiliary Input Adapters
Convert the CD changer input to a second auxiliary input with an adapter.
Kenwood CA-C1AUX
Auxiliary input adapter with female RCA connectors
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Installation Tools
Save money by doing the installation yourself. The right tools will help.
Posi-Products™ Car Stereo Connectors
16 connectors for installing a new car stereo
$6.49
In Stock
 
 
Scosche TK12V Car Stereo Tool Kit
The tools you need for a clean and professional car stereo installation
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Metra Crimp Tool and Connectors
Package contains crimp tool and over 150 pieces
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Metra Crimp Tool Set
Package contains light-duty crimp tool and 20 crimp caps
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
Rockford Fosgate Receiver Installation Kit
Crimp caps, connectors, and assorted hardware (Model IEC HUK)
$0.99
In Stock
 
After $5.00 Price Break
 
Metra Crimp Caps
Package contains 100 crimp caps — for 14- to 20-gauge wire
$3.99
In Stock
 
 
S&G Tool Aid 87650
Door Trim and Panel Removal Tool
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool
Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge wire
$19.99
In Stock
 
After $10.00 Price Break
 
Pro.Fit Trim Panel Tool
Remove your vehicle's trim panels without damage
$4.50
In Stock
 
 
Pro.Fit Hook Tool Set
Installation tools — pair
$4.99
In Stock
 
 
Pro.Fit Wire Worm
Installation tool helps route wiring through tight spaces
$12.99
In Stock
 
 
Bojo Trim Panel Tools
Set of 6 plastic tools — helps remove interior and exterior trim and door panels
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
Multi Wedge Trim Panel Tools
Set of six (flexible and rigid) tools — helps remove trim and door panels
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
DEI Heat Shrink Tubing
Black 4-foot length (Assortment)
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
Skewdriver Pro SPK4042
Ratcheting straight and offset screwdriver set with 40 bits (Skewdriver Pro with ratchet handle, pictured)
$49.99
In Stock
 
 
Wavetek Meterman 15XP Multimeter
With autoranging display — tests your electrical connections safely and easily
$99.99
In Stock
 
 
Show more items
Test Discs
Whether it's for sound quality or for maximum boom, there's no way to perfect your system like a professional test disc.
Autosound 2000 CD Set
$69.95
In Stock
 
 
 
Add selected to cart
 

For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/ISEO-rccbcspd/p_113KDCX395/Kenwood-Excelon-KDC-X395.html ).

Recommended Accessories See more accessories

Your featured item

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395
Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395
CD receiver
$119.99
In Stock
 
After $20.00 Price Break
 

iPod Adapters

Kenwood KCA-iP102 iPod® cable
Sends audio to select Kenwood receivers
$19.99
In Stock
 
 

Auxiliary Input Cables

Scosche I335 Mini Stereo Cable
3-ft. cable with a male miniplug on each end
$7.99
In Stock
 
 

Face Cases

SoundKase DFC1X
Soft face case for detachable faceplates (single-DIN)
$9.99
In Stock
 
 

Satellite Radio Tuners

SIRIUS Kenwood Package
$59.98
In Stock
 
 

Protect your gear with an extended warranty

Add 3 Year Warranty
Square Trade Warranty
$16.99
In Stock
 
 
 
Add selected to cart
 
Find the gear that's right for you
 
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Your Crutchfield Advisor knows the gear inside and out.
Call 1-888-955-6000
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  • Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395
  • Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395
  • Compare with
  • $119.99
  • After $20.00 Price Break
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Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395