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Kenwood KDC-BT742U

CD receiver (New Stock)

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Item# 113BT742U offer details

Item# 113BT742U

Review Summary

 
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Original price $199.99
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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-BT742U

by Loren Barstow

Kenwood built the KDC-BT742U CD receiver to keep you in touch with the outside world, without taking your attention away from driving. Bluetooth™ connectivity, designed for Kenwood by industry leader Parrot, gives you safe, hands-free calling with your compatible phone. The receiver mutes the music for an incoming call, then you speak through the built-in microphone while listening to your caller over your car speakers.

Keep it simple for your iPod®
The front panel tells the whole story — one large jog dial, simple controls, and two inputs, both illuminated so you can find them easily at night. Plug your iPod® into the USB input, and an advanced "dual search function" lets you skip through your song lists quickly, either alphabetically or by jumping through your files in 10% increments. You'll see artist and song info on the bright 13-character fluorescent display.

More entertainment sources
You can plug your MP3 player or any other audio source into the minijack auxiliary input. Discover out-of-this-world radio by hooking up a Kenwood satellite radio tuner, or connect an HD Radio™ tuner for enhanced reception and additional programming from participating AM and FM stations. CD fans can load up a multi-disc changer for long-playing road trips.

Sound quality is key
Whatever you listen to, the KDC-BT742U offers an extensive set of soundshaping features. A built-in digital processor includes EQ settings designed specifically for iPod, a compressor for highway driving, and digital time alignment, along with advanced equalization and frequency filter functions. Three sets of preamp outputs make it easy to connect and control outboard amps.

A wireless remote allows your passengers to pick the entertainment without bothering the driver. Kenwood's "Short-cut" function gets you to your favorite iPod selection, radio station, or phone number with one touch of a button — you can set up to six shortcuts.

iPod 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.

Bluetooth note: Use of this receiver's Bluetooth features will depend upon your phone's Bluetooth capabilities. Learn more in our article explaining Bluetooth profiles.

Highlights:

    General features:
    • CD player with built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • built-in Parrot Bluetooth technology
    • one wire iPod hookup — search files alphabetically or by jumping
    • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RW discs including discs loaded with MP3 and WMA music files
    • detachable face
    • remote control
    Audio features:
    • System Q Sound Control (6 EQ curves and a 3-band equalizer)
    • digital signal processor with compression, time alignment, iPod EQ, Supreme+ feature (restores highs in digital music files)
    • high- and low-pass filters for speaker and preamp outputs
    • subwoofer level controls
    Expandability:
    • built-in Bluetooth and iPod controls — no iPod adapter necessary, but adding Kenwood's optional connecting cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
    • compatible with Kenwood satellite radio, HD Radio tuner, CD changer
    • inputs: front USB input, front auxiliary input
    • outputs: 6-channel 2.5-volt preamp outputs (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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      2.5 volts
      Display Color
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      Blue
      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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      Front and Optional Rear
      USB Input
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      Front
      Memory Card Slot
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      USB Memory
      Bluetooth Compatible
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      Built-in
      Satellite Radio Ready
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      Both
      HD Radio
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      Optional
      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

      • 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
      • Back support screw
      • Instruction Manual (Eng/Spa/Fre)
      • Warranty Card
      • "Attention" sheet (taped to unit)

      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-BT742U AM/FM CD receiver features a detachable face, front auxiliary and USB input, three pairs of 2.5-volt preamp outputs, CD changer and Satellite Radio ready controls and built-in iPod operation, as well as MP3/WMA playback. The unit also features built-in Bluetooth operation with an integrated microphone. 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
      Audio Section
      AM/FM Tuner
      CD Playback
      External Device Connection
      Remote Control

      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.

      Text/Title Scroll: The KDC-BT742U 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.

      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 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.

      Audio Section

      Rotary Volume Control: The CD receiver uses a 7-way rotary volume control that increases and decreases the volume of the stereo from 0 to 35. The rotary knob also controls other audio settings such as Balance, Fader, Bass, Mid, Treble and preset EQ settings. In addition, the rotary knob allows you to scroll through and select your music tracks when the Music Search function is activated.

      Built-In Amp Setting: If you are using external amplifiers to power all of your vehicle's speakers you can turn the unit's built-in amplifier off to enhance the player's preamp output quality.

      3-Sets of Preamp Outputs: The KDC-BT742U features front, rear and subwoofer 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 all fixed to the rear chassis of the headunit.

      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

      High-Pass and Low-Pass Crossovers: You can set the high-pass crossover frequency for each set of front and rear speakers in your vehicle, as well as the low-pass crossover frequency for your connected subwoofer.

      • Front and Rear High-Pass Crossover: The Front and Rear speakers' high-pass crossover frequency can be independently set to "Through" (full-range), 40, 60, 70, 80, 100, 120, 150, 180, or 220 Hz.
      • Subwoofer Low-Pass Crossover: The unit's subwoofer preamp output low-pass crossover frequency can be set to "Through" (full-range), 40, 60, 70, 80, 100, 120, 150, 180, or 200 Hz.

      Subwoofer Level: Once you have switched the Subwoofer Output to "on" you can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level from the CD receiver. You select levels between -15 to +15.

      Subwoofer Phase: You can adjust the phase of the subwoofer output between 180-degrees (Reverse) or 0-degrees (Normal).

      (DSP) Audio Adjustments: The Kenwood KDC-BT742U offers the following customizable audio adjustments to optimize your music listening experience in your vehicle:

      • Cabin Selection: You can compensate the delay of the sound arrival time by selecting your environment from the following vehicle types - Off (not compensating), Compact (compact car), F-Size (Full-size car), Wagon (Station wagon), Minivan (minivan), SUV (Sport-utility vehicle), and MV-Long (Long minivan).
      • Speaker Setting: You can set the which speakers are being connected and their size and installation position.
        • Front: You can set the Front speakers' location to either Door, On Dash, or Under Dash; and the size of the Front speakers to either Small, Medium, or Large. You can also indicate whether the front speaker features a separate tweeter.
        • Rear: You can set the Rear speakers' location to either Door, Rear Deck, 2nd Row, or 3rd Row; and the size of the Rear speakers to None, Small, Medium, or Large.
        • Subwoofer: You can set the size of the subwoofer connected to the unit's subwoofer preamp output to either None, Small, or Large.
      • Preset Position Setting: According to the listening position, you can select the position from the following settings so that the normal position of the sound environment can be compensated in accordance with the selected position. You can select from the following - All (Not compensating), F-L (Front-Left seat), F-R (Front-Right seat), and F-All (Front seat).
      • DTA (Digital Time Alignment Setting): 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.

      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 (Bass/Mid/Treble) Equalizer. The EQ adjustments are as follows:

      • System Q Setting: You can select from Natural, Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Game, or User.
      • Equalizer Settings: In the User mode you can manually the headunit's 3-Band (Bass/Mid/Treble) Equalizer settings.
        • Center Frequency: Independent front and rear frequency settings from these 4 bands:
          • Band 1 (Bass): 60Hz, 100Hz, 160Hz, 250Hz, or 400Hz
          • Band 2 (Mid): 630Hz, 1kHz, 1.6kHz, or 2.5kHz
          • Band 3 (Treble): 4kHz, 6.3kHz, 10kHz, or 16kHz
        • Quality Setting: Independent front and rear Q setting of 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, or 2.00
        • Levels: Independent front and rear EQ level of -9dB to +9dB.

      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-BT742U 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.

      AM/FM Tuner

      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.

      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 AM/FM tuner or connected Satellite Radio or HD tuner (both sold separately), or a favorite telephone number from your mobile-phone using the unit's built-in Bluetooth technology. This allows you to have instant access your favorite Radio station, telephone number, or iPod playlist from one list on the headunit's display.

      CD Playback

      MP3/WMA Playback: The KDC-BT742U 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.

      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.

      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-BT742U allows you to eject your disc for 10 minutes after switching off the vehicles engine.

      External Device Connection

      Built-In Bluetooth: The Kenwood KDC-BT742U CD-Receiver features built-in 2.4GHz Bluetooth technology (version 2.0) with a range of 32.8 ft and supports the following profiles: HFP (Hands Free Profile), HSP (Headset Profile), OPP (Object Push Profile), PBAP (Phonebook Access Profile), SPP (Serial Port Profile), and SYNC (Synchronization Profile). The controls of the KDC-BT742U can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call or end a call. The KDC-BT742U can even be setup to automatically answer a call. The unit also features an integrated microphone with adjustable gain on its front panel so you can carry on your side of the conversation while listening to the caller through your car's front speakers. During a conversation, you can switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your cell phone) and the Hands Free Mode. Your cell phone must be paired with the KDC-BT742U before you make and receive calls. You can register up to five cell phones (only one paired phone can be used at a time). You can also wirelessly download the short message (SMS) arrived at your cell-phone so that is can be read on the headunit's display. Using the KDC-BT742U, you can dial a phone number in one of the following ways:

      • Entering a Phone Number: Allows you to directly dial a phone number up to 32 digits.
      • Speed Dialing: Allows you to register up to 6 phone numbers for quick dialing.
      • Phone Book: You can dial by using the downloaded phone book. You can download phone book data from your cell phone to the KDC-BT742U. Up to 1000 numbers can be stored for each registered cell phone. Each number can be up to 32 digits long and each name can be up to 50 characters long. You can search for a number by the initials, or you can search the phone book in alphabetical order.
      • Outgoing Call List: Allows you to dial by using the outgoing call list. Up to 10 phone numbers are stored in the outgoing call list.
      • Incoming Call List: Allows you to dial by using the incoming call list. Up to 10 phone numbers are stored in the incoming call list.
      • Missed Call List: Allows you to dial by using the missed call list. Up to 10 phone numbers are stored in the missed call list.
      • Voice Dialing: If your phone supports voice recognition, then you can dial out by voice command. You can register up to 35 voice tags.

      Note: Visit Kenwood's web site for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled phones.

      USB Port: The Kenwood KDC-BT742U 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-BT742U 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-BT742U'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-BT742U. 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-BT742U, 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-BT742U, 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-BT742U 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-BT742U 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-BT742U 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.
      • XM Satellite Radio: To receive XM Satellite Radio connect the optional CNP2000UCA XM Tuner and the CNP-KEN1 Kenwood adapter cable (package item number 700XMKEN2).

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

      HD Radio Ready: With an optional Kenwood HD Radio tuner (113KTCHR20 or 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.

      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-BT742U 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-BT742U 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-BT742U comes with the RC-547 IR wireless remote control with a full numeric keypad. The remote will control Audio, CD, Tuner, Satellite Radio, Dual Zone, and Bluetooth 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). The dimensions of the remote are: L = 5.362", W = 1.962", D = 1.115".

      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-BT742U 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.

       

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      1 out of 5

      I tried to like it.

      Written By Michael, Akron, OH on Thursday, April 14, 2011
       
      This is the unit that ended my relationship with anymore Kenwood products. I had another unit, a simple CD player that was cheap and great. This is a joke. Bought it in Jan. 2009, within a month the WIRING HARNESS WAS BAD! I called Kenwood, they said, "send the harness back and we'll see." REALLY? So luckily it was the same harness as my other Kenwood, Crutchfield was great and sent me another new one on THEIR dime, but taking the dashboard apart wasn't much fun. Then you have how complicated it is to work. Takes forever to learn it all, even then you can't adjust the EQ while playing at the level you like; as you adjust it, the sound is muted, then it blasts you out. NOW the main knob that has WAY TOO MANY FUNCTIONS is broke; the bass in my sub goes in and out! And if you flick it with your finger, it comes back in sometimes. The Bluetooth is useless. I never had one conversation that didn't end up going back to just using the phone. It just let you know someone was calling and you sounded like you were in a tin can. I'll never buy any built in Bluetooth mic on any unit. Not Crutchfield's fault.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      1 out of 5

      Definitely NOT HandsFree

      Written By BrendaC, Spring Branch, TX on Wednesday, August 25, 2010
       
      Far too complicated for car stereo. You can barely change stations without
      having an accident since the controls are so so difficult to use. Unless you
      are a set-it and forget-it type person, you'll drive yourself crazy - if not off
      into a ditch - trying to use this thing!!

      Hands free operation is non existent since the microphone is such poor quality
      that no one can hear you when you try to answer the phone using the bluetooth
      feature. You end up with a much greater distraction trying to override the
      Kenwood unit as the default audio source to answer your call. The auto mute of
      the stereo when a call comes in is actually the most useful aspect of the
      bluetooth connectivity.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      4 out of 5

      know something about this before you buy it!

      Written By j, detroit, michigan on Thursday, August 19, 2010
       
      you must know something about the kenwood menu before you go toying with this radio. the manual that came with it tells you nothing. you need to find someone that knows where your speakers need to be set, hz and all that jazzy stuff. after you have all your settings set to your liking this stereo is worry free. change your battery or your battery dies and most of your settings remain. throw the manual away. everything you need to adjust while driving is on the remote. the bluetooth might work a little better if you adjust the settings on that also. people stop whining and learn your stereo.
      1 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Don't waste your time or money...

      Written By Jerry, San Antonio, TX on Monday, August 02, 2010
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Really has no redeeming qualities, other than the fact it's cheap. The bluetooth sounds great while you're sitting still, but picks up a lot of noise when the car is in motion. Sort of renders it useless. On top of that, the audio controls are non-existent. You can adjust the fade, balance, and sub-woofer output, but that's it. No bass, no treble, nothing. All things considered, spend a little more and get a better stereo.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      1 out of 5

      Is this somebody's idea of a joke?

      Written By bill30189, Woodstock, GA on Saturday, March 13, 2010
       
      I'll take everyone else's word for the sound quality, I haven't figured out how to tweak it to my liking. What ever happened to bass and treble control? I've spent 2 hours over three sessions and still don't have any pre-set radio stations, except for the one I asked the installer to program. He commented on how complicated this unit was. I wanted the bluetooth feature but after reading the comments and trying to set it up myself (with no luck) I've decided to return this unit Monday morning and eat the $55.00 I paid for installation.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
       
      4 out of 5

      Almost Great

      Written By no, Baltimore, MD on Monday, January 25, 2010
       

      I have had the unit installed for about a week. I love the look and the clean sound. The amp in it is much better than the factory Explorer amp which I bypassed. I like the sound field and sound quality adjustability. This unit is good for us tweakers. EQ and crossover are welcome features. It has everything you would need and much more. The scrolling display shouldn't be a distraction to anybody. If so turn it off!
      The only problem is that it has so many options, and does so much, that accessing it is a pain. I recommend familiarizing yourself with it BEFORE you hit the road. learning on the fly with this unit is dangerous and frustrating. This is what kept it from being great and getting that fifth star. Keep the manual handy because it will be awhile before all the functions and how to navigate become second nature.
      I'm using an iPhone 3G with the bluetooth. Most people say they hear me clear. One said I sounded terrible. One said it sounded better than my Plantronics/Altec Lansing 903 Backbeat earphone headset. It all boils down to the noise level in your car. Quiet car good quality. The mic on the unit is good so it picks up the noise in a loud car especially in the rain. I haven't yet experimented with the mic gain level to see if it makes a difference.
      So all-in-all it's a very good unit. All works as it should. It has loads of useful features and looks and sounds great. In time the operation will be second nature and my only complaint will no longer be valid.
      3 out of 3 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Terrible device - don't buy if you own a 2000-current Chrysler

      Written By Craig, Parker, CO on Sunday, January 24, 2010
      Installed in a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I purchased this radio 3 weeks ago, and due to the OEM harness adapter being back ordered, just installed it this weekend. I will say everything worked, just not well. The bluetooth is scratchy just sitting in my driveway, with the person on the other end of the call barely being able to distinguish words. The sound quality was terrible, no amount of fussing with the very difficult menus could adjust the EQ to a level that did not sound totally tinny. The majority of the audio adjustments are available only on other models in this series - non BT*** models.

      In Crutchfield's defense, they are shipping me a different unit, and only charging me the difference in the price of the head units. I will definitely shop with Crutchfield again.
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      3 out of 5

      Good except for Bluetooth

      Written By wetpaperbag, St. Louis, MO on Sunday, December 13, 2009
       
      Everything except the Menu and Bluetooth was awesome about this radio. I had to take 2 stars away though because :

      1 - The menu is horrible and takes quite some time getting used to maneuvering.

      2 - The Bluetooth is AWFUL.. I installed it in a 2001 Dodge Ram truck and the callers on the other end said it sounded like I was in a tunnel underwater. It actually sounded better when I just answered from the phone and had the audio go through the stereo.
      (I'm using a Motorola Droid)

      Sound quality and everything else was real nice. Just those two gripes. I'm going with an Alpine that has a remote Bluetooth Microphone, and it's $20 cheaper (if you compare the prices on here).
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Horrible, user unfriendly, hands free terrible

      Written By mishmosh1970, Santa Cruz, CA on Saturday, November 07, 2009
      Installed in a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This unit is horribly complicated to use and the manual is also terrible. Even the simplest tasks such as changing channels are so unintuitive that this radio is actually a hazard to operate while driving. They need to learn a little something about human factors engineering. Forget trying to use the iPhone through the USB interface, it's totally buggy and will sometimes cause the iPhone to reboot for no apparent reason. It's better to use the iPhone with the aux interface, especially if you like to play music from anything other than iTunes. In addition, the unit has all sorts of distracting and dangerous flashing lights and patterns that can be hazardous while driving.
      4 out of 6 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Bluetooth is terrible

      Written By rlbccb, Atlanta, GA on Sunday, October 11, 2009
      Installed in a 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I purchased this product solely to get the bluetooth option. The receiving portion works OK but the microphone does not work. After trying every setting and getting tired of screaming just to hear the person on the other end complain about not hearing me, I have given up. This produce is worthless for bluetooth.
      6 out of 6 people found this helpful
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      2 out of 5

      Nice sound but there are issues!

      Written By Glenn, Layton, UT on Monday, September 21, 2009
       
      Bought this receiver to replace the factory stereo on a '00 Honda Odyssey,
      honestly if I knew would have chosen the Sony MEX-BT3700 or Pioneer
      DEH-P710BT instead for its superior display settings manipulation and
      manual. RMS power of 22watts X 4 channel of this HU and cheaper price
      sway me to buy it. Most of the electronics I bought over the years were
      easy to set up/operate with very minimal assistance from the manual. But
      this head unit blows me away, deciphering the display settings and manual
      was frustrating. First time set up I was scratching my head, clueless and
      flustered, whoever design the controls and wrote the manual must have
      been sleeping or drunk. I spent two days poring over the manual and
      tinkering with the HU, still only able to set it up/customized it half way.
      Bluetooth handsfree call and operation works good although I could not
      get to add my wife's cell phone a Samsung Exclaim and my Motorola Q9C
      phone book won't download to the unit. Overall the HU sounds good and
      unit aesthetics looks nice but failed miserably in executions, confusing
      manual, basic/complex basic operations and settings.
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      3 out of 5

      Hands free doesn't work well; complicated

      Written By Michael, Akron, OH on Thursday, September 17, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I usually give the benefit of doubt to the equipment, figuring it must've passed the test with someone. Like many, I too have been told I sound like I'm talking in a tin can and unless I'm sitting still with no engine noise, people can't hear me very well. I can usually understand them, but the bluetooth has a lot to be desired. It's also hard to use on the road, even after you figure out how to work everything. The volume/everything else knob, has way too many uses, making it difficult to adjust while on the road. The slightest bump and your on a different function, it takes way too long to get back to the main screen; you think your turning the volume down and find yourself adjusting the the EQ or something. Needs a back to home button or something. But again, the more you get used to it, the easier. The sound quality is fantastic; compared to a cheaper Kenwood unit I replaced. However, like many other aspects, it's very complicated to adjust. I have the HD radio unit and often find that it has the same reception as a non-HD unit. When it loses the signal, it goes quiet until it gets the signal again. When it does have a good signal, it sounds well, it may also be that my anntenna is cheap. Overall, I don't think I'd buy it again; I'd get a separate hands free device. However, I'll stick with it and hope for the best. Except for the hands free, it works well once you have it adjusted properly.
      4 out of 4 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Not for a oldtimer

      Written By Anonymous, Columbus,MS on Friday, September 04, 2009
      Installed in a 1998 Pontiac Sunfire
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Love the sound quality BUT!!! Watch out for the manual, it will have you flipping a lot of pages and scratching your head. Get a highlighter pen. Make sure you turn OFF the DEMO MODE. It is your 1st lesson in how to use this thing. Hint ! once you hit the SEARCH button , you choose your CONDITION (Tuner,HDR,SAT,iPOD,AF2,AF1,DISC,CH,SB- on/off,2ZONE,FM,AUX) which are the funny icons next to the page #,with the SRC button. At 1st , I thought it was missing a lot of the MENU, until I put it in the right CONDITION. Then I found them. This manual is not very user friendly, but with some patience and preserverence, and a lot of fooling around , you will eventually figure it out. Hint, get a notebook and take notes of your actions, for they are probably not listed in the manual, and if they are you will save yourself a lot page flipping.Thank goodness the display stays on when you are trying to program and flip through the book. GEE, I just learned how to do the Clock while writing this. I haven't even got near the Bluetooth yet, but hey Crutchfield does have a tech support team. But look at the bright side , the price is right and when you get through figuring out how to use it, you will be ready for the next generation. Wish it had a "UFO" mode, where you can push a button and turn into a UFO, that would be great during rush hour. Good Luck and Welcome to New Age Electronics and there Engineers.
      3 out of 4 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Awesome Sound Quality

      Written By Christopher, Philadelphia, PA on Sunday, August 23, 2009
      Installed in a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This is hands down the best sounding stereo I have ever owned. However, the other reviews on this stereo are correct. The manual is pretty confusing, and thats mostly because it covers the operations of two other Kenwood models. If it were a dedicated manual strictly for the KDC-BT742U it would not be that bad. As for the sound quality, it is amazing. Cd's, Ipod, Satellite radio, and HD radio all sound great. I havn't tried linking my cell phone yet, but I am confident I will have no problem in doing so. For the money this thing has a ton of features and as I mentioned before, great sound. It was pretty easy to instal(it took less than 45 minutes). My only suggestion is to leave the factory settings alone until you get the basic operations down, and then tackle the more advanced functions one at a time until you get the unit dialed in to your accoustical taste.
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      2 out of 5

      Wouldn't Buy Again

      Written By Jamey R, Eldridge, IA on Friday, July 10, 2009
      Installed in a 1992 Ford Thunderbird
       
      Installed in my sons '92 T-Bird with some Kicker 5X7's. The overall sound
      quality of the tuner, CD and IPOD is great but the controls are horrendous!
      Way too complicated for any kind of adjustments unless you're parked in
      the driveway with plenty of free time and have a degree in Electronics
      Engineering. The manual reads like a DOS program, "if you want do X, than
      go to Y". Whatever happened to volume, fade, balance, bass and treble?
      Also, although the Bluetooth quickly paired with my sons phone, the hands-
      free quality is poor at best. Next time, I'll go with Pioneer.
      9 out of 9 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Not worth it

      Written By KHutch, NJ on Tuesday, June 23, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Installation of this unit was not hard at all but when it came to actual use this is one the worse user experiences I have ever had. The menu paths are very illogical. Without the manual you can spend hours trying to find certain settings such as bluetooth settings. Even controling your ipod via headunit is cumbersome. When I connected via bluetooth with my iphone and made calls no one could even hear me. I eventually just stopped using it. Even worse after 2 months it would not connect via bluetooth. My phone showed that I was connected but the headunit would not connect. I assume I probably have to reset the headunit to fix this but I haven't had time to look at manual to find out how to do a reset. The sound quality is alright and connectivity via usb or aux for my iphone has worked fine, but with the experience of going through this menu daily to make simple changes its hard for me to even think about the sound quality.
      5 out of 5 people found this helpful
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      3 out of 5

      Sounds Good but Handsfree

      Written By Gary, Houston Texas on Sunday, June 21, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Bought it for the built in blue tooth and the USB controller. The stereo itself sounds great and the controls aren't as bad as some have stated. The bluetooth is a different story however. I can hear just fine those who call me but they cant understand me hardly at all. Sounds like we are in a tin can. I have tried all kinds of adjustments that are available and it it is stull pretty much useless. If I want to add bluetooth handsfree calling to my car, it is going to be obviously with a separate unit. If you don't catch it, there is NO external mic for the unit. The one in the front of the stereo does not function very well.

      Installed in a 2003 Acura MDX
      4 out of 4 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Kenwood Delivers!!!

      Written By Greg, Muskegon, MI on Sunday, June 21, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This stereo is my first Bluetooth head unit! The Bluetooth works flawlessly with an Altel Motorola Razr v3a. I have no external amps except the 10 + year old 100 watt Kenwood powered subwoofer. I chose this unit based on the 22 watt RMS, which is higer than most of the others. I have factory speakers in a Ford Taurus. This unit has created a sound stage that I've never heard from those speakers. I disconected the sub and it drives my speakers with authority! Awesome subwoofer adjustments also. I like the DTA function which corrects the distance difference between the speakers. I like all the speaker / EQ settings available, and feel that Kenwood units are far superior than the competition.

      The only thing I don't like is the owners manual, which seams to skip back and forth a lot. It had functions listed first and well after (maybe a page or five) how to access / set those functions. Frustrating!! I have been a fan of Kenwood for several years and this is my fourth Kenwood head unit, therefor I know how several sound settings work. This is the first with a poorly laid out manual. Maybe someone important (Bill Crutchfield!) could suggest Kenwood improve their manuals!! I feel that a new Kenwood owner would be lost for several days with the current manual.

      I would have gave a five star rating here, which is what this head unit is, however for the manual issue I am deducting a star! Overall, I do recomend this head unit, maybe they'll improve the manual!!
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-BT742U

      Written By ajteez, lake ozark, MO on Wednesday, June 10, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      killer eq options and great xover. lots of extras for all the nerds like me. no regrets.
      2 out of 3 people found this helpful
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      1 out of 5

      Forget it!

      Written By Sherm, Kamuela, HI on Tuesday, May 26, 2009
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Dreadful manual. Illogical, unintuitive interface. Selecting functions requires using a single knob - either pushing, turning, pushing up, down, left or right; doing this while driving and not inadvertently pushing it in the wrong direction is nearly impossible. Selecting a preset station requires 3 steps. Making a "speed dial" call takes 6 steps and requires concentrating on a hard to decipher display! It would be safer to use two handheld cellphones simultaneously than to try using the hands-free functions on this unit while driving. Bluetooth works OK, so receiving calls is easy. If you want to make calls, however, pull over and park or dial the number using the remote - use one hand held device to replace another hand held device.

      FM reception significantly worse than 4Runner factory unit. Tuner doesn't have a scan function (except to automatically enter the 6 strongest stations as presets), so you can't scan to find stations. Didn't a scan function became standard on car radios 25 years ago? Looking for the next station involves pushing the dial left or right once for each step on the dial. Even if you have memorized the manual, it's unlikely that you'll be able to talk a passenger through procedures which would be too dangerous for the driver to attempt.
      4 out of 4 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-BT742U, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/S-Fse8BwJbBdZ/p_113BT742U/Kenwood-KDC-BT742U.html ).

      Sorry, the Kenwood KDC-BT742U is no longer available for purchase.

      • Front

        Kenwood KDC-BT742U
      • Other

        Kenwood KDC-BT742U
      • Remote

        Kenwood KDC-BT742U