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Display Features
Audio Section
Disc Playback
Radio Functions
Aux/USB/iPod Connectivity
Wireless Communication
Display Features
Detachable Face: The unit features a single front loading
CD face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. The CD player comes
supplied with a soft black fabric, draw string face case to protect the
detachable face when you have it off the chassis.
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.
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.
Dimmer: The dimmer function can dim this unit's display
automatically based on the amount of ambient light.
Audio Section
Rotary Volume Control: The CD receiver uses a 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.
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: Seven 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 (10kHz). You can choose from the following preset EQ curves - Rock,
Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Natural, and Game.
Bass/Treble/Mid Control: The
KDC-MP342U also features a User System Q Sound mode which allows independent
Bass, Treble and Midrange control. You can adjust
each one from -8 to +8db. The bass frequency is adjusted at 100 Hz, the treble
frequency is adjusted at 10 kHz and the midrange frequency is adjusted at 1 kHz.
Bass Boost: The Kenwood CD receiver also features a Bass
Boost control that can be set to the following levels - BB1, BB2 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).
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.
Tel Mute: The KDC-MP342U 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.
Selectable Preamp Output: The KDC-MP342U features front and
rear preamp outputs. The rear preamp output allows you to adjust from a
full-range rear speaker preamp output to a low-pass non-fading subwoofer preamp
output.
Low Pass Filter: The receiver features a built-in Low Pass
Filter control for the preamp-output when the output is set to Sub. You can
select from 80, 120, 160 or off.
Subwoofer Level: Once you have switched the preamp output to
"subwoofer" you can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level from
the CD receiver. You select levels between -15 to +15.
Disc Playback
MP3/WMA Playback: The KDC-MP342U can play MP3 and WMA 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 any recorded ID3
Tag (Ver.1) information. The headunit will display up to 30 characters.
Supreme Setting: When MP3 or 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.
Text/Title Scroll: The
KDC-MP342U will display CD text, Audio file text and Satellite radio
text. You can turn the
scrolling feature "on" 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 headunit's rotary knob.
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.
Off Eject: The KDC-MP342U allows
you to eject your disc for 10 minutes after switching off the vehicles engine.
CD Force: When there is a
problem with playing a CD with a special format, this setting plays the CD by
force. Some CDs still may not play in the CD Force mode.
Changer Controls: 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. 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 magazine disc random.
When connected to a CD Text capable CD 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.
Radio Functions
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.
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. The
tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank. You can store 6 presets for
each AM/FM bank giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM presets.
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.
Satellite Radio Ready: There are several options for connecting
an optional XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio tuner to this receiver:
- XM Satellite Radio: To receive XM Satellite Radio
connect the optional CNP2000UCA XM Tuner and the Kenwood CNPKEN1 adapter
cable (package item number
700XMKEN2, sold separately).
- SIRIUS: To receive SIRIUS Satellite
Radio, you can connect the optional SC-C1 SiriusConnect
vehicle tuner and the Kenwood KCA-SR50 adapter (package
item number
700SIRKENW).
- Dock: Select dock-and-play and portable
SIRIUS radios can be controlled using the Kenwood KCA-SR50
adapter and the SC-VDOC1 dock (package item number
700SIRPKEN).
- Auxiliary Input: A portable satellite
radio receiver, such as the Delphi SkyFi3 or SIRIUS Sportster,
can be connected to the front panel auxiliary input.
Note: A subscription is also required
to receive satellite radio programming from SIRIUS or XM.
HD Radio Ready: 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.
Note: You cannot connect both a Satellite Radio
Interface and HD Radio tuner to the headunit.
Aux/USB/iPod Connectivity
USB Port: The Kenwood KDC-MP342U features a front panel 2.0
USB 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 (48-192 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. When your USB device is connected to this unit, it can be
charged up provided that the KDC-MP342U is powered on.
Note: You cannot
connect a USB device via a USB hub or Multi-Card Reader to this unit.
iPod High-Speed Connection: The KDC-MP342U's front-panel
USB port also acts as an iPod high-speed
direct connection when used with the optional Kenwood USB Direct Connection
Cable (113iP101, sold separately) or the USB/iPod cable that comes with
your iPod. Using either cable allows you to connect, control, and charge select
iPod models with the KDC-MP342U. The USB connection allows your iPod's large music libraries to be
loaded instantly to the headunit and sound quality to be maximized through
the headunit's 24-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up
to105dB.When your iPod is connected to the
KDC-MP342U, you can choose to operate your iPod via the Kenwood headunit's
controls or your iPod's click-wheel/touch-screen. If you select to control your iPod from
the KDC-MP342U, the Kenwood headunit will allow you to navigate your iPod's
music by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, Composer, Song, or Podcast (your
iPod's click-wheel/touch-screen will be locked in this mode). You can search
these categories alphabetically or using a percentage search (0.5%, 1%, 5%,
10%). You can also choose to listen to all songs stored on your iPod at
random. The KDC-MP342 will also display your iPod's music file information
when in this mode. If you choose to operate your connected iPod
via its click-wheel/touch-screen controls, the KDC-MP342U will not display
your iPod's music information (the headunit will instead display "iPodMODE")
and the Kenwood headunit's controls will no longer operate your iPod. The
Kenwood KDC-MP342 is "Made for iPod" compatible and supports the following iPod
model features (as of Nov. 2009):
| iPod/iPhone Model |
Generation |
Media Type |
Control |
Display |
Charge |
| Audio |
Video |
Unit |
iPod |
Song/Artist |
Track |
|
dock-connector |
3rd |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
|
click-wheel/color-display |
4th |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
| mini |
1st |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
| 2nd |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
| video
|
5th |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
classic |
80GB |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 120GB |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 160GB |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| nano
|
1st |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 2nd |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 3rd |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 4th |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 5th |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 6th |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
touch |
1st |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
2nd |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
3rd |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
4th |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
iPhone |
2G |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
3G |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
| 3GS |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
4 |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change
functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may
need to reset the headunit 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 an newer software update is available. Not
compatible with iOS 4.0 for iPhone (3G/3GS) or iPod touch (2nd/3rd gen).
AUX Input: The KDC-MP342U is equipped with a front
panel 3.5mm mini-jack auxiliary input for connecting external portable audio
devices such as an MP3 player. The
KDC-MP342U allows you to select the source type displayed when using the
auxiliary input. You can choose from AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video or TV.
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 a CD changer to the head unit
because the adapter plugs into the DIN changer control connection on the head
unit. When the KCA-S220A 2-changer switch (113KCAS220,
sold separately) is used, you can
connect a CD changer and an auxiliary audio source at the same time. When an
auxiliary audio source is connected, you can choose from one of six names for
the source: AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video or TV.
Wireless Communication
IR Remote Control: The KDC-MP342U comes with the RC-557 IR
wireless remote control with a full numeric keypad. The remote will control
Audio, CD, Tuner and Satellite radio functions. The remote control allows direct
access of your music tracks and direct access to discs loaded in a connected
CD-changer (sold separately). It is powered by 2 "AA" batteries (supplied). T
Bluetooth Ready: The unit is also Bluetooth compatible using
the optional Kenwood KCA-BT300 Bluetooth adapter (113BT300,
sold separately). Using this adapter you can make and answer phone calls from
the Kenwood head unit. You can even download your Phonebook information from
your compatible mobile phone into the head unit. 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.
