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Kenwood KDC-HD942U

CD receiver (New Stock)

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Item# 113HD942U offer details

Item# 113HD942U

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Original price $229.99
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Kenwood

Why replace your factory radio?

Two good reasons - sound quality and cool features. A new car stereo offers power that's superior to most factory radios, along with more sophisticated tone controls. And most car stereos offer built-in or optional features that add safety and fun to life in your car, including inputs for your iPod or MP3 player, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free cell phone calls, satellite radio or HD Radio reception, and connections for building an audio system in your car.

Our take on the Kenwood KDC-HD942U

by Zak Billmeier

Take advantage of free HD Radio™ broadcasts with Kenwood's KDC-HD942U CD receiver. Its built-in HD Radio tuner lets you enjoy the crystal-clear digital AM/FM broadcasts from participating stations — FM sounds almost like CD quality, and AM sounds like traditional FM. Plus, HD Radio stations can broadcast more than one channel on the same frequency, giving you more listening choices.

iPod® control and iTunes® tagging
Built-in iPod controls allow you to connect and control your iPod or iPhone™ from the receiver. No adapter's needed, but you should pick up Kenwood's optional iPod cable — it's designed for life in your car, so you can leave your original cable at home.

You can "tag" songs you hear on participating HD Radio broadcasts for purchasing later. With your iPod connected and an HD Radio station tuned in, you simply tag the song while it's playing, and a reminder is stored on your iPod. Then the next time you sync your iPod on your computer, a reminder pops up to buy your tagged songs from the iTunes store.

Plays all your music
Listen to your regular CDs, plus your MP3, WMA, and AAC files you've burned to disc or stored on a thumb drive. You'll see detailed song info on the 4-line display. A rear auxiliary input lets you add even more sources.

A premium digital-to-analog converter does all your tunes justice, and Kenwood's Supreme Setting feature enhances your digital files to make them sound more full-bodied, and closer to the sound quality of the original source. iPod EQ is a set of sound adjustments voiced specifically for iPods, separate from the 3-band parametric EQ used to tweak your overall sound. A digital crossover system and time alignment capability complete your sonic toolbox.

Build a system
Add a satellite radio tuner for entertainment and commercial-free music, or a Bluetooth adapter for making hands-free calls. Three sets of preamp outputs let you add amps and subs.

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 or its optional iPod adapter.

Highlights:

    General features:
    • CD player with 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, WMA, and AAC music files
    • 4-line display with detachable face
    • built-in HD Radio tuner
    • remote control
    Audio features:
    • System Q Sound Control (6 EQ curves and a 3-band parametric equalizer)
    • Supreme Setting function enhances music files
    • Digital E's crossover system and time alignment capability
    • subwoofer level controls
    Expandability:
    • built-in iPod controls — no iPod adapter necessary, but adding Kenwood's optional connecting cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
    • compatible with Kenwood Bluetooth adapter, satellite radio, CD changer
    • inputs: rear USB slot and auxiliary input
    • outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
    Other features and specs:
    Shop all Kenwood Car Receivers
       

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

      Features and Specs

      Features and Specs
      General
      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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      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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      Yes
      Parts Warranty
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      1 Year
      Labor Warranty
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      1 Year
      Expandability
      AUX Input
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      Rear and Optional Rear
      USB Input
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      Rear
      Memory Card Slot
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      USB memory
      Bluetooth Compatible
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      Optional
      Satellite Radio Ready
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      Sirius
      HD Radio
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      Built-in
      Navigation
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      No
      iPod Compatibility
      Full size
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      Classic/5Gen
      Nano
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      Nano5/Nano4/Nano3/Nano2/Nano1
      Touch
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      Touch3/Touch2/Touch1
      Mini
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      No
      iPhone
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      Phone/Phone3G/Phone3GS
      Tuner
      FM Sensitivity
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      9.3 dBf
      European Tuning
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      No
      Seek/Scan
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      Seek
      Radio Data System
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      No

      Product Research

      Product Research
      What's in the box?

      Download owner's manual

      • HD/AM/FM/CD receiver with 10-amp fuse inserted into the chassis
      • Sleeve
      • Face
      • Trim ring
      • Wiring harness
      • RC-547 Wireless remote
      • 2 "AA" batteries
      • Soft fabric face case
      • 2 Removal tools
      • 4 Panhead ISO-mount screws
      • 4 Flathead ISO-mount screws
      • 2 Face-fixing screws
      • Machine screw
      • Philips-head mounting screw
      • Kenwood Music Editor CD-ROM (ver.2.1.0)
      • Instruction Manual (English)
      • Instruction Manual (Spa/Fre)
      • Warranty Card
      • "Attention" sheet (taped to unit)
      • Music Editor note

      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.

      Overview: The Kenwood KDC-HD942U AM/FM CD receiver features a detachable fold-down face, rear-panel auxiliary and USB input, three pairs of 4-volt preamp outputs, built-in HD AM/FM radio and iPod operation, CD changer and Satellite radio controls, as well as AAC/MP3/WMA playback. The unit also supports Bluetooth via an optional adapter sold separately. In addition, the CD player comes with an IR wireless remote control. The unit's amplifier is rated at 22 watts x 4 channel RMS and 50 watts x 4 channel peak.

      Display Features
      HD Radio Tuner
      CD Playback
      Audio Section
      External Device Connection
      Remote Control
      Software

      Display Features

      Detachable Fold-Down Face: The unit features a fold-down, detachable face to deter theft. There is a red indicator light that will flash on the unit after the face has been removed to warn potential thieves. You can turn this flashing LED on or off. 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. You must manually fold the face down before inserting or ejecting a disc.

      FL Display: The KDC-HD942U features a full-dot, multi-line FL display with spectrum analyzer and adjustable contrast. The KDC-HD942U offers the following display and button illumination settings.

      • Type Select: Allows you to choose between four display types.
        • Type A displays 4 to 5 lines of text (you can choose from 3 different layouts)
        • Type B displays a line of text and motion display
        • Type C display a line of text and the spectrum analyzer (you can choose between two spectrum analyzer patterns)
        • Type D display the clock
      • Text Select: Select which text information displays on the headunit. You can choose up to 5 lines of text between 7 selections: Station Name, Frequency, Album Artist, Title, Genre, Date, or Blank.
      • Text/Title Scroll: The KDC-HD942U will display CD text, Audio file text and Satellite and HD radio text. You can turn the scrolling feature "on" to scroll longer titles across the screen.
      • Illumination Effect: Sets whether the headunit's button illumination brightness is changed in conjunction with the button operation.
      • Illumination Music Sync: Sets whether the headunit's button illumination brightness is changed in conjunction with the sound volume.
      • Dimmer: The dimmer function will dim this unit's display automatically when the vehicle light switch is turned On when you connect orange/white Illumination wire of this player.

      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.

      Dual Rotary Knobs: the KDC-HD942 features two rotary control dials (one 3-way and one 7-way) to make playback and adjustment of your music as simple as possible.

      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.

      HD Radio Tuner

       Built-In HD Tuner: With its built-in HD Radio tuner, you can receive digital AM/FM broadcasts from local stations where available. HD Radio significantly improves AM/FM audio quality and reception, as well as includes information such as artist name and song titles or traffic news, viewable on the receiver's display. HD Radio Technology will deliver high-quality digital sound. AM digital will have FM-like quality in stereo, while FM digital will have CD-like quality with static free and clear reception. In addition, AM/FM digital stations can offer text and data such as artist names and song titles. Many HD Radio stations also offer more than one channel of programming. This service is called multicasting. You can setup the KDC-HD942U to search only HD Radio stations.

      HD Radio Tagging: Using the headunit's iTunes Tagging enabled HD Radio, you can tag your HD music while listening to the radio with your iPod connected. When you hear a song you enjoy on your local HD Radio station, you only have to press the headunit's control knob and the song's information will be saved to your connected iPod. The saved songs will then show up in a playlist called "Tagged" in iTunes the very next time you sync your iPod to your PC. Then you just need to click, buy, and download the song you tagged directly from the Apple iTunes Music Store.

      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.

      CD Playback

      AAC/MP3/WMA Playback: The KDC-HD942U can play AAC (8-320 kbps), MP3 (8-320 kbps) and WMA (48-192 kbps) 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, WMA or AAC 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.

      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.

      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.

      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-HD942U allows you to eject your disc for 10 minutes after switching off the vehicles engine.

      Favorite Memory Control: The headunit's Favorite Control feature allows you to save six "Favorites" for easy access. You can select a "Favorite" playlist from your connected iPod, your favorite radio station from the unit's built-in HD AM/FM tuner or connected Satellite Radio tuner (both sold separately), or a favorite telephone number from your mobile-phone using the optional Bluetooth hands-free kit (sold separately). This allows you to have instant access your favorite Radio station, telephone number, or iPod playlist from one list on the headunit's display. You can also name each Favorite for even easier access.

      Audio Section

      24 Bit D/A Converter: The Kenwood KDC-HD942U utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior CD sound quality.

      Sound Management System (S.M.S.): In order to optimize the sound quality, you can use the Sound Management System to set the type of vehicle and speaker sizes, locations, distances and x-over points. The S.M.S. settings include the following:

      • Cabin Setting: Choose from Compact, Full Size Car, Station Wagon, Mini Van , SUV, Mini Van Long, or Off
      • Speaker Setting:
        • Front Location: Choose either Door, On Dash, or Under Dash
        • Front Size: Choose from Small, Medium, or Large
        • Tweeter Size: Select either None or Use
        • Rear Location: Choose between Door, Rear Deck, 2nd Row or 3rd Row
        • Rear Size: Choose from Small, Medium, Large, or None
        • Subwoofer Size: Select from Small, Large, or None
      • Digital Time Alignment (DTA): Choose from 0.00 to 14.44 feet for the Front pair of speakers, Rear pair of speakers and Subwoofer distances in reference to the distance between your listening positioning and the locations of the particular speakers.
      • X'Over:
        • Front High Pass Filter: Select between 40, 60, 70, 80,100, 120, 150, 180, or 220Hz at a slope of -12, -18, or -24 dB per octave; you can also select full-range
        • Rear High Pass Filter: Select between 40, 60, 70, 80, 100, 120, 150, 180, or 220Hz at a slope of -12, -18, or -24 dB per octave; you can also select full-range
        • Subwoofer Low Pass Filter: Select between 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, 180, 220, or 250 Hz at a slope of -12, -18, or -24 dB per octave; you can also select full-range
        • Subwoofer Phase: Choose either Normal or Reverse

      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 3-band Equalizer. The EQ adjustments are as follows:

      • Preset EQ: You can select from Natural, Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Game, iPod, or User.
      • 3-Band EQ: You can adjust the following 3-Band EQ settings.
        • Band 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, 100Hz, 160Hz, 250Hz, or 400Hz
          • Band 2: 630Hz, 1kHz, 1.6kHz, or 2.5kHz
          • Band 3: 4kHz, 6.3kHz, 10kHz, or 16kHz

      Position Control: For a better sound-stage you can select your optimal listening position. According to the listening position, select the position from the following settings (All, Front Left, Front Right or Front) so that the normal position of the sound environment can be compensated in accordance with the selected position.

      Bass Boost: The Kenwood KDC-HD942U features a two level Bass Boost to increase bass levels.

      Highway Sound: This features compensates the low volume or bass sound being lost by road noises to make vocals sound clearer. You can set the Highway Sound function to 1, 2, 3, or off.

      3-Sets of 4V Preamp Outputs: The KDC-HD942U features front, rear and subwoofer 4V 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 headunit.

      Subwoofer Level: You can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level from the CD receiver. You select levels between -15 to +15.

      Dual Zone: The Dual Zone mode allows you to output the Main source and the Auxiliary input separately for the front and rear channels. You can select whether the auxiliary input will play in the front or the rear.

      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.

      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).

      Tel Mute: The KDC-HD942U 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.

      External Device Connection

      USB Port: The Kenwood KDC-HD942U features a rear-panel 2.0 USB type-A port on a 38" pigtail. The USB port enables connection and control of a portable USB mass-storage class device with AAC (8-320 kbps), 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-HD942U is powered on.

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

      iPod Direct: The KDC-HD942U's rear-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-HD942U. 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-HD942U, 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-HD942U, 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-HD942U 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-HD942U will not display your iPod's music information (the headunit will instead display "iPod MODE") and the Kenwood headunit's controls will no longer operate your iPod. The Kenwood KDC-HD942U is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of Jan. 2010):

      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
      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
      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

      Note: Apple firmware updates may change functionality results. You may need to reset your iPod if you download a newer software version.

      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 (607SCC1) and the optional Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Interface (113KCASR50); package item number 700SIRKENW, or you can connect the optional KCA-SR50 Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Interface and the SiriusConnect vehicle docking kit (607SCVDOC1); package item number 700SIRPKEN, along with your compatible SIRIUS Dock & Play receiver.
      • Auxiliary Input: A portable satellite radio receiver, such as the XM Delphi SkyFi3 or SIRIUS Sportster, can also be connected to the head unit via the auxiliary input.

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

      Bluetooth Ready: The unit is also Bluetooth compatible using the optional Kenwood KCA-BT200 Bluetooth adapter (113BT200, sold separately). Using this adapter you can make and answer phone calls from the Kenwood headunit. You can even download your Phonebook information from your compatible mobile phone into the headunit. You are able to register up to five compatible Bluetooth cell phones when using the KCA-BT200 adapter. Visit Kenwood.com for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled phones.

      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.

      AUX Input: The KDC-HD942U is equipped with a rear-panel 3.5mm minijack auxiliary input for connecting external portable audio devices such as an MP3 player. The KDC-HD942U 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.

      Remote Control

      IR Remote Control: The KDC-HD942U comes with the RC-547 IR wireless remote control with a full numeric keypad. The remote will control Audio, CD, Tuner, Satellite Radio, and Dual Zone functions. The remote control allows direct access of your music tracks, direct access to discs loaded in a connected CD-changer (sold separately) and direct access to AM/FM radio stations. It is powered by 2 "AA" batteries (supplied).

      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 KDC-HD942U has a "steering remote control" lead on the back panel. When used with the optional SWI-JACK interface (127SWIJACK, sold separately), you can retain the use of your steering wheel and/or rear seat radio controls when replacing the factory head unit in select vehicles. The SWI-JACK is compatible with over 95% of the vehicles made from 1986 to the present. Compatible vehicles include many Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Suzuki, Toyota, and Volkswagen vehicles and Harley Davidson motorcycles. Please consult the Crutchfield Vehicle Selector to see if your vehicle is compatible.

      Software

      Supplied Software: The KDC-HD942U comes supplied with the Kenwood Music Editor Version 2.1.0 CD-ROM. Kenwood Music Editor is a desktop software that helps organize, manage and transfer AAC, MP3, and WMA music files to your USB devices from your PC.

      System Requirements:

      • Operating System:
        • Microsoft Windows XP Professional/Home Edition SP2 or later (32-bit version)
        • Microsoft Windows Vista (32-bit version)
      • Other Programs:
        • Microsoft .Net Framework 2.0
        • QuickTime 7 or later (when using AAC file)
        • Windows Media Player 10/11
      • Hardware:
        • Hard disk with at least 100MB free space
        • CD-ROM drive (CD-R/RW drive when writing to CD-R/RW)
        • USB interface (2.0/1.1)
       

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      1 out of 5

      Dont Buy!!

      Written By Derek, Hooper Ne on Saturday, June 11, 2011
       
      Do not buy this radio! It worked very well when i got it and about after a year it just quit working, the screen diapperaed and i had no sounds or power to it what so ever. I was very upset after i spent this much on it. Also, it hard to operate while driving and the visibility is very poor.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      1 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-HD942U

      Written By fangars, Phoenix AZ on Saturday, April 16, 2011
       
      Difficult to use while driving or sitting still.

      Sounds good, has a lot of functions, but just after the warranty was up the radio functions have stopped working. Its just locked up, does not work in any way.

      CD works, thumb drive works, radio does not.

      Stuck with this thing until I can afford to replace with a functional unit. Kenwood was of no help. They will not be getting my business again.
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      3 out of 5

      Good Radio, not perfect

      Written By Terry, Salem, Oregon on Monday, March 01, 2010
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      One of the best features on this unit that I discovered is that it plays MP3s from a USB thumb drive. One of my first impressions with this unit is that it does sound pretty good after you figure out how it works. On the other hand that was one of it's biggest drawbacks, trying to figure it out. The manual is not very clear. There is information all over the place on it and you have to do some detective work on how to find one particular thing. However, with Crutchfield's detailed instructions and extra parts I had no problem installing the unit. The screen is hard to see in sunlight though. Another downside of this radio is if you want your bluetooth phone to work with it you will have to get another phone kit added to get that working. It's the navigation that is really a downer on this radio. Too complicated to do something simple. Maybe because it's got too many options, controls too many things. I would've opted to get something cheaper with the same power, MP3 and bluetooth control and that's it. Don't need all of that speaker control and I see no need for an equalizer that you can barely see on the screen. I do like the seamless change from digital HD to analog reception on the radio. This unit is not perfect by any means but still sounds good. Maybe someday they'll come out with an easier to use radio. I miss those 6 preset buttons on yesteryear's radios. Don't we have enough complicated technology in our lives?
      2 out of 3 people found this helpful
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      2 out of 5

      not good

      Written By Greg, Wicihita on Sunday, February 28, 2010
      Installed in a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I installed this in my 05 Silverado.

      I can't see the display during the day, no matter how I adjust the contrast. The display is
      small and while it does have 5 lines of display, only 2 of them are useful that will display
      music information. Is has a graphic analyzer that is useless because it lags about a 1/2
      behind the music.

      The 2 knobs do too much. I have a hard time getting them to push rather than turn or
      pushing left instead of in. It is hard to control while driving. You try to turn up the volume
      while driving and you end up changing setting because the knob controls go in 5
      directions. When you do get them to turn up or down, you have to turn 3-4 times or turn
      slowly to get them to respond.


      The remote is as big as some home tv remotes, but yet the remote has to be in the right
      angle in front of the radio to even work. when you do get the remote to work, the sound
      jumps to very loud or very quiet. no gradual increase or decrease, all or nothing.

      It has menus inside of menus inside of menus and some work wile the unit is playing,
      other you have to be in standby mode.

      It does sound good and plays my 4 gig thumb drive good. But it is just overly
      complicated to use while driving.

      I have had this radio for about 4 months, thinking I would get used to it. I wish I could
      return it because I really hate it. I am buying somthing different.
      2 out of 4 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Great product

      Written By Randy, Northwood,OH on Monday, February 22, 2010
      Installed in a 2001 Dodge Dakota
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Bought this radio to replace factory stereo in 2001 Dodge Dakota. Was a pretty easy job to
      do this being my second install. The HD radio is great and the sound quality is so much
      better then regular FM. After installing and a quick read through the manual setup for the
      radio was pretty easy. The stereo is pretty easy to use and the only problem i have with it is
      that the right control knob. It has so many different ways to use it sometimes when driving i
      accidently move the button the wrong way. Other then that no others problems and i love it
      with my Ipod.
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Lovin It!

      Written By Sarah, Oklahoma City on Wednesday, February 17, 2010
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I installed this in a '04 Chevy Crew Cab. I purchased this stereo, the Alpine SPS
      600C's for the front doors and Alpine SPG-17C's for the rear doors. Installation was very
      easy. The stereo took almost no time, with the new chime I had to buy (you loose all
      your audible warnings when you replace a factory stereo) I was able to splice the chime
      harness into the new Kenwood harness outside the truck and just plug and play. It all
      sounds great together, The stereo really even sounded great on my factory speakers
      when I made sure I installed it right before moving on to the speakers. I loved the
      mounting kit crutchfield sent with the stereo, I took the equalizer faceplate and was able
      to flush mount an aux cable and the USB port on it so I have a nice clean install with no
      pigtails hanging out for inputs! Anyone out there with a little inginuity can probably make
      this happen, I just happen to be lucky enough to work sheetmetal and have a basic
      knowledge of wiring. I am still trying to get the whole thing tweeked 100% but have not
      had any trouble with navigating the menus after a little playing. The manual could
      definately be written better, but my advice is to just park somewhere and play with the
      system for an hour or so and you'll be getting it in no time. Thanks for the advice and
      recommendation crutchfield, I'm loving my new system!
      5 out of 5 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-HD942U

      Written By steve, Meriden, CT on Sunday, February 07, 2010
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      It's a nice unit and sounds great however the operating instructions are not that easy to
      follow. The translation needs to reflect more of english terminology. Also if the radio is
      recessed even a slight bit into the dash (using supplied install kit) it is impossible to get
      to the aux input jack. Over all it's a great deal.
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Love it!

      Written By palomino744, St. Charles, MO on Monday, February 01, 2010
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I recently purchased this unit to replace my 2001 Dodge Dakota stereo. I thoroughly
      researched several units (including this one), and even though some people had
      negative comments about it being hard to install or hard to figure out the controls, I had
      absolutely no issues with it. The unit was super easy to install with the supplied wiring
      harness and trim piece. As for the user controls, I don't understand why so many
      people are having trouble with this...I took 5 minutes to thumb through the manual,
      practiced another 5 minutes in the truck, and now I have everything figured out. It's not
      rocket science. Overall, the unit sounds excellent with the Infinity speakers I installed.
      The HD radio rocks, and the Ipod control works perfectly. A++++!
      4 out of 5 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Dazed and Confused

      Written By Harold, Lynnwood, WA on Monday, January 18, 2010
       
      I thought this unit would be hard to install. It was super easy especially with the wiring
      harness, face plates, etc that were included. It took longer to figure out how to save the
      first station preset than it did to remove my old unit and install this one. I agree with
      others that this is a very complicated, un-intuitive, and fuzzy to operate unit. I just
      installed it today and it sounds great, looks great, has great features (once you figure out
      where they are and how to get to them) so I'm very happy with it. I spent 25 years in
      information technology and have never seen a more poorly implemented user/machine
      interface. But already I would not trade it for another. USB, CD, HD - I'm keeping it.
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      2 out of 5

      Confusing and Cuts out

      Written By Michael, Tampa on Friday, January 01, 2010
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      The features on this radio seem to be great. The display is easy to see. But the controls and manual are very confusing. And the radio periodically decides to start skipping like a bad output amplifier. Occasionally the controls just dont work when it is cold out..
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      5 out of 5

      Great, not as bad as some of these reviews

      Written By Brian, Michigan on Monday, December 28, 2009
      Installed in a 1999 Chevrolet Blazer
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      It absolutely sounds great. I'd like to also note that the menus aren't THAT complicated. So what if the instructions are hard to read, play with the reciever and figure it out! Its not bad at all.

      One guy was complaining that you have to use a menu to switch presets. While i'll admit the presets arent flawless in this reciever, and actually one of its only downfalls, you can use the remote to control presets on the fly. ie buttons 0-9 on the remote, 1-6 control presets 1,2,3,4,5,and6.

      One thing that bothers me is that the right knob controls everything and that it makes more use of the directional flicking than it does of the rotating wheel. it gets kind of frustrating, its ok for me but my passengers are confused.

      all in all 5/5
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-HD942U

      Written By Rodney, Virginia on Saturday, December 26, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This model has great features for the price (built in HD Radio, iPod/USB, aux in, etc.) and sounds good. But I can't believe how un-intuitive the Kenwood user interface is. Really, I can't get anything working without first consulting the manual, which is equally hard to follow. I'm not a rocket scientist, but I am a well educated individual working in a technical field. This stuff should not be so hard.

      Perhaps I'll get used to the quirkiness, but why should I have to endure such poor usability (by design) in order to get a decent aftermarket upgrade? The stock system in my Miata was simple and intuitive, if only it had a few extra features and sounded somewhat decent. It appears I'm stuck with the unwanted complexity.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      3 out of 5

      Sounds Great, but need a Masters in Engineering to operate

      Written By David, Cedar Knolls New Jersey on Tuesday, December 08, 2009
       
      This is a wonderful sound system even in a F-350 Diesel Truck. But the owners
      manual is difficult to understand, and the controls are even worse. I would
      recommend you think about what you can handle in the way of confusing controls
      prior to purchase. But if you are up to the adventure this is your stereo!
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      4 out of 5

      Excellent Functionality and Performance, Fuzzy Ergonomics

      Written By Steve, Kirkland, WA on Monday, November 23, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Bought this unit to replace the stock setup in my wife's car so she could have
      iPod connectivity. I bought this one because it has the more classic "two knob"
      look and it also has HD radio.
      First of all, the unit works great. It sounds good, USB connection is good, HD
      radio reception is perfect. I also bought the Kenwood Bluetooth kit to go with
      it, and that works well too. I can listen and tag with my iPod 3GS, and also
      take calls - no problem.
      The menu system is a little confusing at first, but once you use it a bit (not
      while driving) it starts to make sense.
      Two issues:
      1) All of the menu selections and iPod interaction is done with the right knob,
      which is also a joystick and also a button. It is somewhat difficult to use this
      while driving.
      2) This unit comes with an "Illumination" wire to connect to your harness so
      that when you turn on the lights in your car, the unit will dim automatically
      with all of the other lights on your dash. So, when set to auto, this unit does
      dim, but only about one micro-lumen. It is very bright at night! There are some
      manual settings that you can make to permanently dim this thing, but if you're
      going to do any long distance travel at night, I would invest in some black
      cloth and tape.
      (Kudos to Crutchfield: the harness adapter that they sent did not come with an
      illumination wire - so they sent out another harness adapter for free so I could
      use a pin from that one to make the illumination connection).
      5 out of 5 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Great USB File Navigation and HD Radio

      Written By Paul, Boston, MA on Friday, November 20, 2009
       
      I purchased this radio because of Kenwood quality, the built in HD radio and the
      USB input with good navigation on screen.

      I'm currently using a 16 gb flash drive full of multiple folder levels. The
      folder menus are intuitive to navigate and there is very little lag when
      changing folders or scrolling through items in the folder. My main desire was
      to load about a hundred albums and several audio books onto a single USB drive
      and be able to navigate to then easily. This head unit allows me to do this
      easily, no quirks so far. As background, I have owned a DUAL brand head unit
      which is in my other car with built in HD radio and a USB port, but it does not
      allow file navigation. I basically just have to use the random function and
      take it off random when it gets to an album I like. It's okay I guess, but
      certainly not ideal. Also, before I purchased the HD942U, I went to a local
      store, put my 16gb drive into several pioneer, clarion, sony, etc. head units in
      the similar price range and liked the quick response and file navigation of this
      one the best.

      HD radio works well and gets clear reception without losing signal very often.

      The reason for 4 stars instead of 5. Navigation using scroll wheel in a moving
      vehicle is not ideal. I usually have to rest my fingers on the dash next to the
      radio, so my thumb is stable enough to push the knob strait in. This is a bit
      annoying, but I'll probably get more used to it and it will become second nature.
      4 out of 4 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Good Unit

      Written By Anonymous, Greenville, NC on Monday, November 09, 2009
      Installed in a 1998 Ford Ranger
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      The unit itself is great. I replaced a Pioneer DEH-2100IB and the sound on this just blows
      that one away. Now if only the remote controlled the Ipod functions like the much cheaper
      Pioneer unit remote did. I spend a lot of time on the road, and having to look over to go
      through all the button pushes and turns to change folders, playlists, artists, etc is kinda
      dangerous when traveling 70 mph down the highway. Kenwood should have invested a little
      more Ipod functionality in the remote to go with this head unit. All in all a good unit, but I wish
      I had bought a better Pioneer unit just for the remote functions.
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Just can't use in moving car. Beware!!!!!

      Written By James, Lexington, KY on Thursday, October 29, 2009
      Installed in a 2002 Mitsubishi Diamante
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I researched stereos for a while and settled on this unit b/c of its feature set. Once you start driving you'll notice that the main control knob is far away. I'm 6'1" and have to stretch to control this unit in a small car. The control knob takes a VERY stable push to access the menus and most times the knob will not recognize a push. That's when you take your eyes off the road, slowly extend your hand and push with the utmost care through several menus.

      Most of the normal operations require looking at the screen and selecting options. To select a source you have to hit the source button then scroll thru a list and very gingerly select the option you want. Want to switch HD radio stations? You can't simply select a preset, nor toggle the control knob to switch between your presets. You have to either hit a button or turn the knob to see your presets. This requires looking away from the road to scroll to your station and pushing the control knob again. Hope you weren't in heavy traffic!

      The unit has a remote control to help, but it is very large and bulky. You also can't turn the volume down quickly. The vol knob only allows slow turns as quick turns are ignored. Annoying if you need to go low quickly. If you switch between radio and other sources, the unit will raise/lower your antenna each time you switch. Not good if you don't want to wear out an expensive power antenna.

      Net-net....horrible radio with great features that you can't use!
      5 out of 13 people found this helpful
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      3 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-HD942U

      Written By John, Palmetto,FL on Saturday, October 24, 2009
      Installed in a 2006 Ford Ranger
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      There is no seek or scan or auto tune at all on this radio. If you want to hear a station you have to manually type in the station number ( like 106.5 or 102.51) on the remote. However if you stay local there are plenty of spots to put presets ~ assuming you know all the local station numbers!!?? This should be clearly stated in the specs on a radio like this ~ but they would not sell any if they did that. Because of that it only gets 3 stars. OK , The pros are that the sound is awesome, I mean AWESOME, the look is sleek and if you like using auxiliary devices its one of the best for that. If they could just figure out a scan,seek and auto tune feature for the tuner on this unit (like every other radio has had since the great depression) it would be 5 stars all the way.


      [Editor's Note: Our Technical Support staff contacted John and helped work him through the seek/scan issues.]
      4 out of 7 people found this helpful
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      5 out of 5

      Brought my Stock Bose Speakers to life!

      Written By Engin, Jacksonville, FL on Friday, October 23, 2009
      Installed in a 2007 Mazda Mazdaspeed3
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I chose this unit because it had 5 lines of display and still looked like a very standard
      deck and of course the built in HD tuner. I installed it my self thanks to Crutchfield tech
      support and illustrated instruction sheets I think I got the whole thing installed in about
      2hrs. I have a 07 MAZDASPEED 3 GT with Bose system in it. After putting this deck in My
      mirrors are shaking like they never have before. Needles to say this deck has
      awakened the BOSE in my car. Thank you Kenwood and Thank you Crutchfield.... I
      strongly recommend this deck.

      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      5 out of 5

      Awesome KDC-HD942U

      Written By Arnold, Seattle, Wa on Monday, September 21, 2009
      Installed in a 2001 Nissan Sentra
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This is got to be the best hd radio I have ever heard, can't believe the difference in the sound itself and in my area the reception is excellent! Along with the other feature the aux and the usb is a plus, I can play my thumb drive with no problems at all. Purchase in August 2009 and didn't install until
      9/16/09 played everything except the cd so far.
      3 out of 3 people found this helpful
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      1-20 of 48 >>

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      For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Kenwood KDC-HD942U, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/S-0ix4pHfT3nf/p_113HD942U/Kenwood-KDC-HD942U.html ).

      Sorry, the Kenwood KDC-HD942U is no longer available for purchase.

      • Front

        Kenwood KDC-HD942U
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        Kenwood KDC-HD942U
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        Kenwood KDC-HD942U
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        Kenwood KDC-HD942U