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Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889

CD receiver with MP3/WMA/AAC playback

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Item# 113KDCX889 offer details

Item# 113KDCX889

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Our take on the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889

When you're out to serve up a tasty dish of delicious sound, use the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889 CD receiver as the key ingredient!

You'll love the way this receiver's blend of MOSFET power and 24-bit digital-to-analog converters delights your aural palate with lush and faithful playback, regardless of the source you're listening to. Adjust the advanced System Q EX with its four-band parametric equalizer to ensure that the great sound fits snugly with your vehicle's acoustics. You can also throw in a dash of digital SRS WOW™ effects to add fullness and depth, and focus the sound in just the right spot.

The KDC-X889 adds a variety of spices to the mix with its format-playback capabilities. It'll not only handle your standard and home-burned CDs, it also has the power to play the discs you've loaded with MP3s, WMAs, and even the CD tracks you've converted into AAC files.

To help you make your way through your digital files and folders, the KDC-X889 offers Kenwood's remarkable AC Drive with Voice Index on Tap. A voice guide in the system itself will actually tell you the names of each of your files. You'll be able to surf your music collection while keeping your eyes safely on the road. The included software lets you encode your files to make them compatible with the AC Drive.

The receiver is also garnished with satellite radio controls. Just add a compatible SIRIUS or XM tuner, antenna, and subscription, and you'll have access to a veritable entertainment buffet — over 120 channels of music (all commercial-free), sports, news, talk, and much more. You also have the option of adding an HD Radio tuner, which will allow you to receive, where available, FM signal that sounds CD-like, and AM that sounds like FM, plus lots of info extras.

Of course, no entrée is complete without perfect presentation, and the KDC-X889 certainly excels here. It features a bright, customizable multicolor display with full-motion animations on a motorized faceplate. Even more impressive: the included G-Analyzer feature which can show you the G-forces you're pulling during acceleration, braking, and cornering. Not a bad way to show off your performance machine!

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Highlights:

  • CD receiver with built-in amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
  • motorized, detachable face with fine-dot 3-D multicolor FL display
  • G-Analyzer measures G-force during acceleration, braking, and cornering
  • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs (including discs loaded with MP3, WMA, or AAC files)
  • SRS WOW sound enhancements (raises the soundstage, improves imaging, and strengthens bass)
  • System Q EX Sound Control (6 EQ presets, speaker size matching, and 4-band parametric EQ)
  • Digital E's+ crossover system
  • Advanced Codec (AC) Drive with Voice Index on Tap gives verbal confirmation of digital music file and folder names
  • satellite radio controls (SIRIUS or XM subscription, tuner, and antenna required to receive the satellite radio signal) — service is available only in the lower 48 states, not available in Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories
  • HD Radio-ready (will control Kenwood's HD Radio tuner)
  • CD changer controls
  • auxiliary input
  • dual-zone audio control
  • 5-volt front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs
  • Bass Management System (B.M.S.) — provides remote control over compatible Kenwood Excelon amplifiers
  • ODD (Offset Dual Differential) 24-bit digital-to-audio converter system for improved sound
  • CR-2 tuner
  • 18 FM/6 AM presets
  • wireless remote
  • clock
  • CD frequency response 10-20,000 Hz
  • CD signal-to-noise ratio 110 dB
  • FM sensitivity 9.3 dBf
  • 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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IEJ
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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30-20kHz
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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5 volts
Display Color
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64 colors
Key Button Color
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Red or Green
EQ Bands
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4
Wireless Remote
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Yes
Steering Wheel Control Compatible
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Parts Warranty
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2 Years
Labor Warranty
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2 Years
Expandability
AUX Input
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Rear
USB Input
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Memory Card Slot
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No
Bluetooth Compatible
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Satellite Radio Ready
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Both
HD Radio
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Navigation
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No
Changer Control
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Yes
iPod Compatibility
Full size
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Nano
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Touch
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Mini
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iPhone
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Tuner
FM Sensitivity
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9.3 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/MP3/WMA receiver with 10A fuse inserted in chassis
  • Wiring harness
  • Sleeve
  • Trim ring
  • Face
  • Hard plastic face case
  • Wireless remote control (RC-527)
  • 2 "AA" batteries
  • 2 Removal tools
  • 4 Panhead ISO-mount screws
  • 4 Countersunk ISO-mount screws
  • Face fixing screw with flat washer
  • Kenwood Advanced Codec Drive CD-ROM Ver3.30 Type A
  • Instruction Manual (English)
  • Instruction Manual (French/Spanish)
  • Media Manager Installation Manual (6 languages)
  • "Register Online" card
  • Warranty Card
  • Kenwood Car Audio Passport
  • Sheet concerning Demo mode (attached to receiver)
  • Warning sheet concerning watching the G-Analyzer Display while driving

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.

Features
Changer Controls

Minimum Computer Requirements

Features

Display Modes: The Kenwood KDC-X889 features a large, bright, 64-color fluorescent display with 5 selectable display modes:

  • Graphic Display (Display Type A): You can choose between 3 "movies", a slideshow of 6 still images or 5 different spectrum analyzer modes. Text information is displayed briefly for tuner and CD functions before the selected graphic reappears.
  • Graphic + Text Display (Display Type B): One line of text is displayed along with one of the graphics listed above; see Graphic Display (Display Type A), above, for list of available graphics. Selectable text information is available for each source.
  • 3-line, 2-column Text Display (Display Type C): Three lines of text information are displayed, each with a text label icon and the text display. You can choose what information to display for each line (clock, frequency, playback time, CD text, ID3 tags, etc.), plus choose a text display color between white, yellow, or blue.
  • Text + Source Icon Display (Display Type D): Two lines of text information are displayed (selectable information and colors). On the right end of the display is an icon to indicate the currently selected source. The bottom line features function labels for the multi-function keys located directly below.
  • G-Analyzer Display (Display Type E): Measurements of G-forces (gravity) on the vehicle are displayed. You can select between "G-Graphic", G-Meter (Graphic), G-Meter (Text), or G-Counter display.

Picture Downloading: You can download one movie and one wallpaper image from a special Kenwood website for use in the above Graphic Displays. New images can be recorded onto a CD-R or CD-RW disc, and loaded into the receiver.

G-Analyzer: This unit is equipped with a sensor that measures the forces of gravity on the vehicle. This sensor enables the receiver to calculate G-forces during acceleration, braking, and cornering. The G-Analyzer also has a stop watch that can be automatically started when forward or reverse G-forces are detected. Setup and calibration for acceleration and braking must be performed before using the G-Analyzer.

AAC/MP3/WMA Playback: The receiver can play AAC, MP3 and WMA files recorded on CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, and Romeo formats. Each disc should have a maximum of 8 directory levels, 100 folders, and 4096 files per folder. During MP3/WMA playback, the unit displays any recorded ID3 Tag information. AAC ID3 tags cannot be displayed.

Kenwood Advanced CODEC Drive: The KDC-X889 features Advanced CODEC Drive (ACDrive) to help you organize your digital music files and burn CDs with advanced features. With the PhatNoise Media Manager (on the supplied CD-ROM software), you can browse compressed audio files by playlists, artists, albums or genres. The receiver's built-in Voice Index will "announce" artist, album, and genre names when an ACDrive disc is played. The software will also help you rip music from CDs and encode them as AAC files. To help you keep up-to-date, the Media Manager software allows you to download new CODECs and features and download them to a CD for upgrading the receiver. (See Minimum Computer Requirements below for installing the software on your computer).

Motorized Angled Faceplate: When inserting or ejecting a disc, the motorized faceplate automatically slides down and out to expose the disc slot. Furthermore, you can set the faceplate at one of three angles for best visibility of the display, in addition to the fully closed position.

Offset Dual Differential: The KDC-X889's high quality sound is produced by the unit's Offset Dual Differential (ODD) Digital-to-Analog system. Dual D/A converters are used, and the digital processing is isolated and controlled separately for the front channels to improve channel separation.

24-Bit Burr-Brown D-A Converter: The KDC-X889 features an audiophile-quality 24-bit Burr-Brown digital-to-analog converter for superb CD sound. The Burr-Brown D-A converter maximizes the musical resolution of CDs, CD-R/Ws, and AAC/MP3/WMA-encoded discs.

Satellite Radio Ready: You can connect a satellite radio tuner to the KDC-X889 in a number of ways. The unit is directly compatible with the Sirius SIR-KEN1 Satellite Tuner for Kenwood (item # 607SIRKEN1). The Terk XMDirect universal XM Satellite Radio tuner (209XMD1000) can be connected to and controlled by the head unit when used with the XMDirect Smart Adapter for Kenwood (209XMDKEN1). In addition, you can connect an independently controlled "plug 'n play" unit such as the Delphi SKYFi2 or Kenwood Here2Everywhere to the head unit through the optional Aux Input adapter (113CAC1AX or 113KCAS210).

Note: In addition to the optional satellite tuner, you will also need the proper antenna and a subscription to Sirius or XM Satellite Radio.

Sound Field Control (S.F.C.): The unit's Sound Field Control features the following audio adjustments:

  • Crossover (XOver):
    • Front High Pass Filter:
      • Center Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180 Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, or Through (no filter)
      • Slope: 12dB/Oct, 18dB/Oct, or 24dB/Oct
    • Rear High Pass Filter:
      • Center Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180 Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, or Through (no filter)
      • Slope: 12dB/Oct, 18dB/Oct, or 24dB/Oct
    • Subwoofer Low Pass Filter: (adjustable when Subwoofer is "On")
      • Center Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180 Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, or Through (no filter)
      • Slope: 12dB/Oct, 18dB/Oct, or 24dB/Oct
      • Phase: Normal or Reverse
  • Digital Time Alignment (DTA):
    • Front Speakers: 0 to 20.33 feet in 1/6' increments
    • Rear Speakers: 0 to 20.33 feet in 1/6' increments
    • Subwoofer: 0 to 20.33 feet in 1/6' increments
  • Seat Positions Settings: Choose between Front-Left, Front-Right, Front, or All
  • Preset Memory: Call Mode 1 & 2 and Memory Mode 1 & 2

Sound Management System (S.M.S.): In order to optimize the sound quality, you can use the Sound Management System to set the vehicle and speaker sizes. The S.M.S. settings include the following:

  • Cabin Setting: Choose from Compact, Full Size Car, Wagon 1, Wagon 2, Mini Van 1, Mini Van 2, SUV, Mini Van Long, or Off
  • Speaker Select Front: Choose from 4", 5", 6-1/2", 6-3/4", 7", 4" x 6", 5" x 7", 6" x 8", 6" x 9", 7" x 10", or O.E.M.
  • Speaker Select Rear: Choose from 4", 5", 6-1/2", 6-3/4", 7", 4" x 6", 5" x 7", 6" x 8", 6" x 9", 7" x 10", O.E.M or None.
  • Speaker Select Subwoofer: Choose from 6-1/2", 8", 10", 12", 15" or over, or None
  • Preset Memory: Call Mode 1 & 2 and Memory Mode 1 & 2

Equalizer Control: Equalizer Control allows you to use one of the System Q presets, or set your own custom settings for the front and back speakers independently, using the 4-band Equalizer. The EQ adjustments are as follows:

  • System Q Setting: You can select from Natural, Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, or User.
  • Equalizer Settings:
    • Levels: Independent front and rear EQ level of -9dB to +9dB.
    • Quality Setting: Independent front and rear Q setting of 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, or 2.00
    • Center Frequency: Independent front and rear frequency settings from these 4 bands:
      • Band 1: 60Hz, 80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 160Hz, or 200Hz
      • Band 2: 250Hz, 315Hz, 400Hz, 500Hz, 630Hz, 800Hz, or 1kHz
      • Band 3: 1.25kHz, 1.6kHz, 2kHz, 2.5kHz, 3.15kHz, or 4kHz
      • Band 4: 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz, or 16kHz
  • Preset Memory: Call Mode 1 & 2 and Memory Mode 1 & 2

SRS WOW: The KDC-X889 is equipped with SRS WOW, a technology developed by SRS (Sound Retrieval Systems) Labs, which restores the loss that occurs to compressed audio delivered over the Internet and broadcast media, and reduces the hollow-sounding effects caused by smaller speakers. SRS WOW incorporates other SRS technologies such as TruBass, Focus, and SRS for improving the sound of CDs and radio:

  • TruBass: uses harmonics to enhance the bass frequencies
  • Focus: adjusts the vertical position of the front speaker and sound image by virtual adjustment
  • SRS 3D: creates a natural 3-dimensional sound field (not available for Tuner source)

WOW Control: You can select a WOW effect level (Low, Mid, High, or Through), each with a specific value for TruBass, Focus, and SRS 3D. You can also set your own values and store them under the WOW User memory:

  • Focus: 1-9 or Off
  • TruBass Front: 1-4 or Off
  • TruBass Rear: 1-4 or Off
  • SRS 3D: 1-4 or Off

DSP Bypass: You can bypass the unit's Digital Signal Processor (DSP) when you do not want the sound to be affected.

Source Tone Memory: This feature allows you to store System Q bass, middle and treble tone settings for each source (CD, FM, AM, Satellite, and CD changer).

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.

Built-in Amp Switch: If the audio signals are output to external amplifiers, you can turn off the internal amplifier to improve audio quality.

Dual Zone System: The KDC-X889's Dual Zone System allows you to output one source to the front channels and another source to the rear channels. The main source can be the internal disc player, tuner, or a source connected via the 13-pin CD changer input. The sub source is a device connected to the rear RCA auxiliary input. You can assign the sub source to either the front or rear channels. When the Dual Zone System is activated, the volume of the front channels is controlled by the volume knob, while the volume of the rear channels is controlled in the Audio Control menu.

CR-2 Advanced Tuner: This unit uses Kenwood's CR-2 Advanced tuner for clear radio reception. 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.

HD Radio Ready: With an optional Kenwood HD Radio tuner (item # 113HR100TR), 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.

Radio Data System (RDS): The unit's tuner features RDS (Radio Data System). RDS is a service used by some radio stations to transmit data outside of normal radio broadcast signals. When an RDS station is received, you can immediately find out what kind of data is being transmitted by looking at the program service name which appears in the display after the frequency. RDS features an emergency transmission function which interrupts regular programming to broadcast an emergency announcement (such as a tornado or severe storm). There is also a switchable Traffic Information function, which will automatically tune a traffic bulletin when it is broadcast, even when you're not listening to the radio. If activated, you can synchronize the head unit's clock with RDS station time data.

Clean Reception System Circuit (CRSC): This circuit controls multi-path distortion by reducing stereo separation. As stereo separation is reduced, multi-path has less effect on the radio signal, improving reception in areas with tall buildings and mountains. The CRSC circuit can be turned on or off.

Disc/Station Naming: You can enter and store names of up to 8 characters for CDs and radio stations. Characters can include upper case letters, numbers, symbols, and special accent characters. The memory can store names for up to 30 stations and 10 discs in the internal CD player. The number of disc names you can store for an external CD changer depends upon the capability of the changer.

Disabled System Indicator: A red indicator will blink on the unit after the faceplate is removed, warning potential thieves. This feature can be turned On or Off.

Security Code: You can enter a 4-digit security code which must be used when the unit is removed from the vehicle, or the constant power source is disconnected from the unit. When constant power is restored to the unit, the security code must be entered before the unit becomes operational. The security code may be disabled if desired.

Bass Management System (B.M.S.): You can remotely adjust the bass boost of a compatible Kenwood amplifier with the Bass Management System (B.M.S.). When properly connected, you can set the bass boost to Flat, +6dB, +12dB, and if the amplifier is capable, +18dB. In addition, you can set the B.M.S. frequency offset to "Normal" or "Low". The "Low" setting drops the bass boost normal center frequency by 20%. Note: The pink/black lead on the receiver's wiring harness should be connected to the amp's B.M.S. terminal.

Remote Control: The KDC-X889 comes with the RC-527 wireless remote control with a full numeric keypad. The remote includes volume control for the rear channels when the unit is operating in the Dual Zone mode. It is powered by 2 "AA" batteries (supplied). The dimensions of the remote are: L=5.369", W=1.968", D=1.198".

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: When the dimmer control is set to "on", the display automatically dims when the vehicle lights are turned on. When set to "off", the display doesn't dim. Note: In order for the display dimmer feature to operate, the orange/white wire in the supplied wiring harness must be connected to the vehicle's headlight circuit.

Auxiliary Input: The KDC-X889 is equipped with a built-in auxiliary input. There is a set of stereo RCA jacks on a 12-inch pigtail on the back of the receiver for connecting an external audio source. The Auxiliary input can be activated/deactivated through the menu. When it's activated, you can select one of six names for the source: Aux, TV, Video, Game, Portable or DVD. When deactivated, Auxiliary does not appear as a source. With an optional adapter (item 113CAC1AX or 113KCAS210), you can also turn the unit's CD changer input into a second auxiliary input.

Changer Controls

Compatibility: This unit is directly compatible with Kenwood changers manufactured in 1998 or later. If the changer has an O-N switch, the switch will need to be set to the "N" position. If you have a Kenwood changer manufactured before 1998, you will need the KCA-S210A switching adapter. Changers manufactured before 1994 require the CA-DS100 converter cord (113CADS100) and the KCA-S210A switching adapter.

Changer Controls: In addition to basic disc navigation features, this unit has the following changer controls: direct disc access (using the remote), direct track access (using the remote), track intro scan, track repeat, disc repeat, disc random, and all disc random.

CD Text/MD Display: When connected to a CD Text capable CD changer or an MD changer, this unit can display disc and track titles for discs encoded with disc and track title information. The text information can be scrolled manually or automatically.

Minimum Computer Requirements

PhatNoise Media Manager Software: To use Media Manager software, the following software and hardware are required:

  • Software: Microsoft Windows 98SE, ME, 2000, or XP
  • Hardware:
    • Personal computer (main unit, display, and peripheral units) incorporating a 500MHz or better Pentium II processor (or the equivalent) on which the above OS can run normally
    • 128MB RAM or more
    • Hard disc with 200MB free space
    • CD-R/CD-RW drive
  • Others: Internet connection environment
  • Note: Administrator authority is required when installing Media Manager in Windows 2000 or XP
 

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1-10 of 13 items >> Sort Results By: Date Reviewed | Rating | Helpfulness
 
4 out of 5

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889

Written By Mitch, Memphis TN on Friday, December 02, 2005
 
I have a 789 in one car which I loved and wanted to try the 889 in my other car - without question Kenwood's Excelon is the best sounding HU I have ever used,better than Alpines 9830 and 9833 by far also Pioneers 860/8MP line up doesnt compare either.
However the instructions on this 889 horrid,be prepared to spend some time sorting through the booklet,which is also shared with the 789 model and that makes it even more confusing - Kenwood goofed big time with the booklet...Setting presets on the radio is another area Kenwood goofed youll have to hit each button twice to get to your fav station - dummys..
If you can sort through all the confusion and sillyness you will have an awsome sounding head unit without a doubt - I would have gave this unit 5 stars but the poor instructions and the presets ticked me off
so I only gave 4 stars
14 out of 15 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

Great Sound

Written By jake_erwin, Wichita, KS on Friday, November 04, 2005
 
This HU has to be the best sounding HU i have heard. The 24 bit burr brown DAC is sweet! Deffinatly will need to have the instruction manual handy when learning this but i believe it has everything in there you need to figure out how to operate this beast. The Demo mode is quite anoying but in the back of the instruction manual it does tell you how to turn it off and i think it is pretty clear and easy. Because there are so many functions and so few keys it makes it tricky to switch between options but once you get the hang of the ones that you use most often it is quite easy. I had this thing down within 2 hrs. that is including instalation time...coming from the cursed X717 D-mask.

Can't wait to get my 4 chanel amp so i can get even better preformance!
9 out of 9 people found this helpful
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4 out of 5

Insturctions???

Written By pwatanab, Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, August 20, 2005
 
The Good:
-Probably the best sounding head unit I've ever owned. Can you say 24 bit BurrBrown DAC's?
-Works great with the Ipod connection, extremely simple to operate
-More bells and whistles than you can shake a stick at

The Bad:
-The Instruction manuel is terrible, I repeat, terrible. It took me the better part of an afternoon (and a phone call to Kenwood Tech support, and they were awesome) just to get the unit out of it's stupid, worthless, frustrating demo mode.
-Operation is less intuitive than some others. I've owned Clarion units in the past that were much more user friendly. However, they also had far fewer features. This thing has so many DSP features it's difficult to tune it without the manuel.
19 out of 19 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

Superb sound

Written By Paul, Chicago, IL on Sunday, August 07, 2005
 
This is one excellent sounding reciever! The graphics are slightly lacking, and G analyzer only works if mounted exactly level, But sound is Amazing!! My last excelon died due to D-mask, so i really wanted to avoid excelon but i had the cd changer and sirius so i reluctantly chose another excelon and didn't skimp on this one. SRS WOW is pretty cool, and creates an awesome soundstage, cabin settings and speaker size settings make Digital time alignment & Xover settings ez. Definitly sounds better than my old one (excelon kdc - x859).
13 out of 13 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

best kenwood head unit

Written By Matt, Hadley, MA on Tuesday, August 02, 2005
 
I bought this head unit about two months ago and since then I haven't had any problems with it, it's been absolutley perfect. The features and visualizations are nice, and there are many of each. I especially liked the feature that allowed me to measure the G-Forces on my car. The sound quality was excellent, much better and crisper than the stock reciever I had on before. Real easy to install, and even easier to use. Recently, when getting some new amps installed at a professional audio shop, one of the guys working on the car commented on the reciever, saying it was one of the best head units Kenwood made. So far, it's treated me excellently, and overall, I'd have to say it's flawless.
16 out of 16 people found this helpful
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4 out of 5

Good sound, but G-analyzer disappointing

Written By Aaron, Wichita Falls, TX on Tuesday, August 02, 2005
 
The sound quality on the deck is great, has nice 5v preouts plus auxilary input (great for hooking up a laptop and watchin movies on trips), and u can turn off the internal amplifier which is nice if u use external amps. One thing that they don't mention is that the g-analyzer will not work unless the deck is mounted perfectly horizontal. I have a 2000 Acura 3.2 TL and the deck mounts at about a 30 degree angle, and with this angle the analyzer doesn't work. So that is disappointing, but other than that everything else has worked fine. Sounds great with lots of tweaking options.
16 out of 16 people found this helpful
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4 out of 5

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889

Written By destro 73, florida on Saturday, June 18, 2005
 
Pros:unmatched sound quality in this price range,eq features are also unmatched,excellent fm reception,5v preout(low impedance),connectivity options also unmatched. cons:animated graphics picture quality is poor(but they can be turned off),too many menus and options for a novice(you will have to keep the manual in your vehicle unless you have the memory of an elephant),Has Bms amp control and kenwoods amp control is Ams(not compatible with thier own amps)how stupid is that? Excellent service from crutchfield as always.If you are like myself and like pristine sound this is your receiver.I have owned alpine,eclipse,pioneer,clarion,jvc,and none of them match the sound quality of this kenwood.(I also use amps) so if your not using an amp you are not realizing the full potential of your receiver.
21 out of 22 people found this helpful
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5 out of 5

Crutchfield should preview these things

Written By Martin, Pennsauken, NJ on Tuesday, May 24, 2005
 
I first would like to say that some people are providing false info about this receiver. There is all the info you need in the software for the Phat Noice Media. Whoever wrote that review must not look at everything in the box. Or you bought it from a bootleg website or used. I love this headunit. It has every feature you could possibly ever need. I have 6 1/2 MBQuart Components in the front. MBQuart 6x9's in the rear deck. And im pushing The last great model of Fosgate 12's before they went commercial. Power Punch Hx2's. I am pushing these subs with a 1,000 watt Memphis amp, and pushing the highs with 375 watt Memphis amp. A 1 farat digital power cap. Also have the Sirius tuner and antenna hooked up. This unit has more functions with the parametric EQ than my previous seperate single din Kenwood Digital EQ. If your into seriously setting up your car stereo get this head unit. IF you just like to pop something in that looks cool but doesnt do much, go buy the other crap. Take my word for it, with alittle time you'll be able to fine tune your system to perfection.

Thanks for taking the time to read my review.
Martin, NJ
29 out of 32 people found this helpful
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3 out of 5

Good Reciever..Bad Program

Written By xiong v, Eau Claire, WI on Friday, May 13, 2005
 
I bought a lower model of this deck (KDC-MP828). But to me..it has the same feature in that it is not a exlecon. When comparing the specification to the Apline CDA-9855, which is the same price range, it has a better option and easier to control and navigate. I like the Technology (G-analyzer) that came with the deck in that messure the G-force during acceleration, braking, and cornering of your car.

The downside is that i don't like the program (Voice Mangager) that came with the deck and the screen is two small for the image and text. In order to search for Mp3 songs file, you have to use software to burn your mp3. Once you use the software to burn the mp3, its only complatable with the kenwood deck and not other deck. Plus the voice manager can't read other language properly.
19 out of 26 people found this helpful
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4 out of 5

Kenwwod x889

Written By Albert, Wichita Kansas on Wednesday, April 13, 2005
 
Not bad very impressed! Not hard to hook up at all. Installed in my 2003 Chevy Silverado. Had to also install the Kenwood eXcelon KFC-X178 6-3/4" 2-way Speakers, Kenwood eXcelon KFC-X468C 4"x6" 2-way Speakers, and last but not least Metra VT-GMRC-01 GM Class II Data bus Interface.. Very easliy done about 4 hours worth of work but no problem and save 200 bucks on install by doing it myself..
24 out of 34 people found this helpful
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1-10 of 13 items >>

Learn more about Car Receivers

Learn more about Car Receivers

CD Receivers Shopping Guide

CD Receivers Shopping Guide

Robert Ferency-Viars
12/10/2011
based on 568 ratings (22 comments)
 

With so many in-dash CD receivers to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Answering these questions below will help you narrow down your choices to get the right CD player for you.

 
What's 'Appening?

What's 'Appening?

Matt Freeman
3/18/2011
based on 77 ratings (10 comments)
 

In just a few short years, iPod control has become a prominent feature of car stereos. Car A/V companies have acted just as quickly to develop stereos that let you take advantage of the iPhone's...

 
Video: Four Important Car Stereo Accessories

Video: Four Important Car Stereo Accessories

Joshua Crane
10/1/2009
based on 150 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...

 
Video: What are Digital Media Receivers?

Video: What are Digital Media Receivers?

Zak Billmeier, Ken Nail
8/14/2008
based on 7 ratings (3 comments)
 

Crutchfield car audio experts discuss a new trend in car stereos: the digital media receiver.

 
DVD Receivers — they're not just for movies

DVD Receivers — they're not just for movies

Zak Billmeier
12/6/2011
based on 77 ratings (3 comments)
 

DVD receivers are great for playing movies, but they offer much more than that for your car stereo setup. Large touchscreens, loads of built-in features, and easy viewability are just some of the...

 

Accessories

Accessories we recommend

iPod Adapters
Keep one of these in your car, so you can leave your other cable at home.
Kenwood KCA-iP500 iPod® Control Interface
Control your iPod with your Kenwood receiver

Also available in:
Open Box: $66.49
$69.99
In Stock
 
 
Auxiliary Input Cables
Plug your favorite portable device directly to your receiver's aux input.
Peripheral Stereo Miniplug Cable
3-foot cable: male miniplug to male miniplug (Model iSVE913)
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Monster MusicConnect™
Stereo mini-to-RCA adapter cable
$19.95
In Stock
 
 
Arista Stereo Mini-to-RCA Adapter
6-foot cable with mini and dual RCA plugs

Also available in:
Open Box: $2.99
$4.99
In Stock
 
 
Satellite Radio Tuners
Add the variety of satellite radio programming to your receiver Subscription required.
SIRIUS Kenwood Package
Get SIRIUS radio reception on your Kenwood car stereo
$69.98
In Stock
 
 
SIRIUS Dock-and-Play Package for Kenwood
Control your dock-and-play SIRIUS radio from your Kenwood car stereo
$79.98
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
 
Installation Tools
Save money by doing the installation yourself. The right tools will help.
Multi Wedge Trim Panel Tools
Set of six (flexible and rigid) tools — helps remove trim and door panels
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Skewdriver Pro SPK4042
Ratcheting straight and offset screwdriver set with 40 bits (Skewdriver Pro with ratchet handle, pictured)
$49.99
In Stock
 
 
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
Out of Stock
 
 
Metra Crimp Tool Set
Package contains light-duty crimp tool and 20 crimp caps
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool
Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge stranded wire
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool
Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge wire
$29.99
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
 
Show more items

Extras

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
 
CD Care
Get rid of the skipping on your favorite discs with a CD cleaning kit.
Maxell CD-335
CD scratch repair kit
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
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
 
 
Autosound 2000 Disc Five
System Demonstration — Test CD
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
Autosound 2000 Disc Two
Image/Placement Test CD
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Autosound 2000 Disc Four
Amplifier Optimizer Test CD
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
Autosound 2000 Disc One
Low Frequency Test CD (Disc One)
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Autosound 2000 Disc Three
System/Environmental Test CD
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Show more items
CD Cases
Keep your CDs off the floor and free from smudges with one of these handy cases.
Visor Storage 12-disc CD Holder
Keep your favorite discs within reach
$14.99
In Stock
 
 
Satellite Radio Tuners and Adapters
You can have satellite radio display on the face of this stereo by using one of these packages. Subscription required.
Kenwood KCA-SR50
SiriusConnect™ to Kenwood interface

Also available in:
Open Box: $39.99
$49.99
In Stock
 
 
SIRIUS SC-VDOC1 Car Kit
SiriusConnect™ car dock for dock-and-play radios

Also available in:
Open Box: $49.99
$59.99
In Stock
 
 
SiriusConnect™ Car-only Tuner
Add SIRIUS satellite radio to your car stereo (Model SC-C1)
 

Also available in:
Open Box: $44.00
$29.99
In Stock
 
 
 
Add selected to cart
 

For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/ISEO-rccbcspd/p_113KDCX889/Kenwood-Excelon-KDC-X889.html ).

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889