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JVC KW-R500

CD receiver

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Item# 105KWR500 offer details

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JVC

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 JVC KW-R500

by Zak Billmeier
JVC KW-R500

Fits your dash and looks fantastic
Make a statement in your dash with this bold JVC CD receiver — it'll look right at home in your large dash opening and it'll give you the great sound and features you want. JVC's Separated Variable Color display lets you change the illumination to perfectly complement your dash lighting.

Great for iPod®, plus control Pandora®
Once you plug your iPod or iPhone® into the convenient front-panel USB input, you can use the KW-R500's oversized knob and buttons to navigate your music library. And with your iPhone connected, you can play your Pandora® Internet Radio stations from your dash, and even skip and rate songs like you do online. Plus JVC puts one auxiliary input on the front panel and another on the rear, so you're all set for adding more audio sources.

Higher-power USB connection
JVC upped the power in their USB port, which lets you keep your smartphone charged, even when it's doing several tasks at once. And with your smartphone connected, you can listen to its internal memory as one source and access the little microSD card as another.

Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?
In most vehicles, you can use an adapter (not included) to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this JVC stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the JVC, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls.

Highlights:

    General features:
    • CD receiver with built-in MOSFET amplifier (20 watts RMS CEA-2006/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs, including discs loaded with MP3 and WMA files
    • adjustable illumination (you can select different colors for the display and controls)
    • fits double-DIN (4"-tall) dash openings
    • remote control
    Audio features:
    • built-in iPod and iPhone controls
    • iEQ 3-band parametric equalizer
    • 24-bit digital-to-analog converter
    • subwoofer level control
    Expandability:
    • works with JVC Bluetooth adapter
    • inputs: front-panel USB input, front and rear auxiliary inputs
    • outputs: 4-channel preamp outputs (2.5-volt front, rear/sub)
    Other info:
    Shop all JVC 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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      Yes
      RMS Power Output
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      20 watts
      Peak Output
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      50 watts
      RMS Power Bandwidth
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      20-20kHz
      Preamp Outputs
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      4-channel
      Sub Preamp Outputs
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      No
      Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs
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      Yes
      Preamp Voltage
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      2.5 volts
      Display Color
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      Variable
      Key Button Color
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      Variable
      EQ Bands
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      3
      Wireless Remote
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      Yes
      Steering Wheel Control Compatible
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      Adapter required
      Parts Warranty
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      1 Year
      Labor Warranty
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      1 Year
      Expandability
      AUX Input
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      Front/Rear
      USB Input
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      Front
      Memory Card Slot
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      USB memory
      Bluetooth Compatible
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      Optional
      Satellite Radio Ready
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      No
      HD Radio
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      No
      Navigation
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      No
      iPod Compatibility
      Full size
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      Classic/5Gen
      Nano
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      Nano7/Nano6/Nano5/Nano4/Nano3/
      Touch
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      Touch5/Touch4/Touch3/Touch2/To
      Mini
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      No
      iPhone
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      Phone5/Phone4S/Phone4/Phone3GS
      Tuner
      FM Sensitivity
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      9.3 dBf
      European Tuning
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      Yes
      Seek/Scan
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      Seek
      Radio Data System
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      No

      Product Research

      Product Research
      What's in the box?

      Download owner's manual

      • Double-DIN AM/FM CD receiver (with 10-amp ATC fuse inserted into chassis)
      • Sleeve (installed with 4 screws)
      • Trim ring (installed)
      • Wiring harness
      • Wireless remote control (RM-RK52)
      • CR2025 3V Lithium battery (installed)
      • 8 Pan head ISO-mount machine screws (M5 x 8mm)
      • 4 Flat head ISO-mount machine screws (M5 x 6mm)
      • 2 Radio removal tools
      • Instructions (Eng/Fre/Spa)
      • Installation/Connection Manual (Eng/Fre/Spa)
      • US Warranty Sheet
      • Canadian Warranty Card
      • Product Registration Card/Questionnaire
      • "Caution!" note (attached to wiring harness)

      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.

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

      Disc Playback

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

      MP3/WMA Playback: The KW-R500 can play MP3 (8-320 kbps)/WMA files (32-192 kbps) that have been recorded on CD-R and CD-RW discs. The disc must be recorded in one of the following formats: ISO 9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo or Windows long file. Each disc can have a maximum of 8 folder hierarchies, 255 folders, and no more than a total of 512 files and/or folders on each disc. The unit also supports IDTag3 (version 1.0, 1.1, 2.2, 2.3 or 2.4) for album and artist information from MP3 or WMA files.

      Track/Folder List: The Track/Folder List displays a list of MP3/WMA folders and tracks on a loaded CD, so you can easily access your music. The Track/Folder List will also display the list of track titles on a CD Text disc.

      Random/Repeat Modes: The JVC KW-R500 offers the following Repeat and Random playback modes for your audio CDs.

      • Repeat: Track Repeat (plays the current track repeatedly), Folder Repeat (plays all tracks of the current folder repeatedly), Off (cancels repeat function)
      • Random: Folder Random (plays all tracks of the current folder, then the tracks of the next folder in random), All Random (plays all tracks of the current disc at random), Off (cancels random function)

      Disc Resume: If you change the source, playback also stops (without ejecting the disc). Next time you select CD for the playback source, the disc will start from where it has been stopped previously.

      Off Insert/Eject: A CD disc can be inserted or ejected with the power off. When a disc is inserted with the power off, the unit will automatically power up and begin playback.

      Disc Protection: If the ejected disc is not removed within 15 seconds, the disc is automatically inserted again into the loading slot to protect it from dust. The source will change to CD, and the disc will begin playback, even if you have another source selected at the time.

      Mounting: For proper disc playback you must install the unit within 30-degrees of horizontal.

      USB/iPod/Aux Connectivity

      USB Port: The JVC KW-R500 features a front panel USB 2.0 type-A port behind a sliding cover for connection of a USB mass-storage class device. The USB port enables audio playback and control of MP3(8-320 kbps)/WMA (32-192 kbps) audio files stored on a portable USB mass-storage class device formatted in FAT 12/16/32. The KW-R500 can recognize up to 255 folders (255 files per folder) and 65,025 total files. The unit also supports IDTag3 (version 1.0, 1.1, 2.2, 2.3 or 2.4) for album and artist information from MP3/WMA files (up to 60 characters). The unit will also supports charging of USB mass-storage class devices through its front-panel USB port (max. 1A).

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

      iPod/iPhone Direct: The JVC KW-R500's front-panel USB port also acts as an iPod/iPhone high-speed direct connection when used with the USB/iPod cable that came with your iPod/iPhone. An additional iPod cable is available (469USBPOD, sold separately) so you can leave one at home and one in the car. If you have an iPod nano (7th gen), iPod touch (5th gen), or iPhone 5; use the Lighting-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect to the head unit. Using either cable allows audio playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of select iPod/iPhone models from the JVC in-dash head unit.

      iPod DAC Bypass: The USB connection allows your iPod/iPhone's stored music to be loaded instantly to the head unit and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 24-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 98dB. The JVC head unit supports audio playback of music, podcasts, audiobooks, and music apps stored on your iPod or iPhone.

      iPod/iPhone Control: You can choose to operate your iPod/iPhone through the JVC head unit's front-panel controls, from its clickwheel/touchscreen, or via a streamed app from your iPhone.

      • Head Unit: From the head unit's front-panel controls you can search for music by Playlist, Artist, Album, Song, Podcast, Genre, and Composer. Once a Playlist or Category is selected, the content is listed in alphabetical order. The KW-R500 also supports Repeat (file/all) and Random (album/all) playback functions of your iPod/iPhone.
      • iPod: You can choose to navigate your iPod or iPhone's stored music from its clickwheel or touchscreen, like you are accustomed to during normal usage.
      • External (App Mode): External Mode lets you enjoy audio content from your downloaded music Apps (such as iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Last.fm, Rhapsody, & Slacker) and driver assistant Apps (such as Trapster) streamed to your Apple iPhone, through the JVC KW-R500. You will continue to use your iPhone's touchscreen to navigate and view your apps; the head unit will only display the clock and "EXT Mode".  
      Note: Access to your iPhone's downloaded application will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone to connect to the Internet.

      Pandora App: The Pandora App (free) lets you play music from the Pandora music service through the JVC KW-R500 using your connected Apple iPhone, via the USB/iPod connector cable (included with your iPhone). The JVC KW-R500 provides control over the Pandora music service and displays Artist, Album, and Song information. You can select Pandora stations from your station list; you can sort the station list by date or A-Z. You can also skip song tracks within a station. In addition, you can also give songs a thumbs up/down and bookmark songs/artists. To access Pandora you must have an Apple iPhone (iOS3 or later) with the latest version of the Pandora application from Apple's iTunes App Store. Your iPhone will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. You will also need a Pandora music service account.

      Note: Access to the Pandora service will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.

      iPod Display: The KW-R500 will display your iPod/iPhone's music file information, when in Head Unit and iPod mode (not in External mode), or listening to Pandora Internet Radio. The head unit can display Track number, Elapsed playing time, Artist name, Song title, and Album label.

      iPod Charging: The head unit's USB connection provides 1A of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone when your vehicle's ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position.  If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it.

      iPod Compatibility Chart: The JVC Arsenal KW-R500 is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 9/25/2012):

      iPod Model Generation Tested Version Media Type Control Type Display Type Pandora App Charge
      Audio Video Head Unit iPod App mode Artist/Song Text Track Info
      dock connector 3rd N/A N N N N N N N N N
      clickwheel
      color
      4th N/A N N N N N N N N N
      mini 1st N/A N N N N N N N N N
      2nd N/A N N N N N N N N N
      video 5th 1.3 Y N Y N N Y Y N Y
      classic 80GB 1.1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      120GB 2.0.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      160GB 2.0.4 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      nano 1st 1.3.1 Y N Y N N Y Y N Y
      2nd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      3rd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      4th 1.0.4 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      5th 1.0.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      6th 1.1 PC Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      7th 1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      touch 1st 2.2.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      2nd 4.2.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      3rd 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      4th 6.0 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      5th 6.0 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y
      iPhone 2G 3.1.3 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      3G 4.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      3GS 5.1.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      4 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      4S 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      5 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      iPad 1 5.1.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N
      2 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N
      3 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y N
      Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.

      Dual Auxiliary Inputs: A front-panel & rear-panel stereo minijack are provided to allow the connection of portable audio sources. Simply connect your portable digital music player to either the unit's front or rear auxiliary input, and you can listen to the audio from the portable player through the speakers in your mobile audio system.

      Radio Functions

      AM/FM Tuner: The JVC KW-R500 features a built-in AM/FM tuner with manual, seek, and preset tuning.

      Preset Tuning: You can store a total of 18 FM stations presets and 6 AM station presets. The radio allows you to set your AM/FM stations manually or automatically.

      Radio Timer: You can tune into a preset station at a specific time regardless of the head unit's current source. You can activate the Radio Timer once, daily, or turn it completely off.

      IF Filter: You can also switch the tuner's IF filter to Wide or Auto to increase/decrease the sensitivity.

      Mono: If an analog FM stereo broadcast is hard to receive, you can manually switch the tuner to Mono operation.

      US/European Tuning: You can set the built-in AM/FM tuner between US standard and European tuning spacing.

      Audio Section

      24 Bit D/A Converter: The JVC KW-R500 utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior CD sound quality.

      MOSFET Amplifier: The KW-R500 is equipped with a MOSFET amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET amplification circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased power with less distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More power means louder and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not pushing the limits of the amplification circuit.

      CEA2006 Compliant: The power specifications for the KW-R500 are compliant with the CEA2006 Mobile Amplifier Power Testing and Measurement standards from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). These standards were developed as a way to equitably compare power specs from model to model and between manufacturers. The power output specs for the KW-R500 are as follows:

      • CEA2006 Specs: 20 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 1% THD-N)
      • Maximum Power Output: 50 watts x 4 channels (200 total watts)

      Amplifier Gain Control: When you are using the KW-R500 with factory speakers (or those rated to less than 50 watts peak), the Amplifier Gain Control can limit the amount of power being sent to those speakers. When the Amp Gain Control is set to "low," the volume control ranges from 0 (minimum) to 30 (maximum). When using speakers rated higher than 50 watts peak, you can set the Amp Gain Control to "high," and the volume control will range from 0 to 50.

      Volume Adjust: The input level of each source (other than FM) is adjustable relative to the FM radio volume, so there isn't a significant volume difference when changing sources. Each source is individually adjustable from -5 to +5.

      Pro EQ: The KW-R500 is equipped with JVC's Pro EQ. The integrated equalizer offers 7 preset sound modes (Flat, Natural, Dynamic, Vocal Boost, Bass Boost, User) suitable for the music genre of your choice. The User mode allows you to manually adjust the head unit's 3-band parametric EQ (Frequency, Level, and Q-Factor).

      Pro EQ
      Frequency Level Q
      Bass 60, 80, 100, 200 Hz +/- 12 dB (-6 to +6) 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 2.0
      Midrange 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.5 kHz +/- 12 dB (-6 to +6) 0.75, 1.0, 1.25
      Treble 10.0, 12.5, 15.0, 17.5 khz +/- 12 dB (-6 to +6) Fixed

      Source Link EQ: This feature allows you to store Pro EQ bass, middle and treble tone settings for each source (CD, AM/FM, Aux, USB, iPod, and Pandora).

      Loud (Loudness): This feature boosts low and high frequencies to produce a well-balanced sound at a low volume level. You can turn this feature on or off.

      2.5V/4CH Preamp Output: The KW-R500 is equipped with two pair of 2.5V preamp outputs (Front, Rear/SW). You can set the Rear/SW preamp outputs for connecting a pair of full-range rear speakers (through an external amplifier) or for connecting a subwoofer (through an external amplifier). When set for rear speakers, the rear outputs operate with the unit's fader control. When set for subwoofer, the outputs are non-fading.

      Subwoofer Controls: When the unit's Rear/SW preamp output is set to Subwoofer, you can adjust the head unit's subwoofer level between 0 and 8 (separate from the main volume level). You can also adjust the low-pass filter and activate a high-pass filter.

      • Low-Pass Filter: When the unit's Rear/SW preamp output is set to Subwoofer, you can set the cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter at 55Hz, 85Hz, or 120Hz.
      • High-Pass Filter: When the unit's Rear/SW preamp output is set to Subwoofer, you can also activate a high-pass filter (fixed at low-pass filter frequency) for the unit's front & rear channels (speaker- or preamp-level), so low frequency signals are cut off from your system's front & rear speakers.

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

      Display Features

      Variable Color LCD & Key Illumination: The JVC KW-R500 features 29 color presets for the LCD and button illumination. You can choose one of these color presets or select the ColorFlow mode which scrolls through all 29 color presets. Additionally, there is a User preset, allowing you to individually adjust the intensity of Red, Green, and Blue from 0 to 31; resulting in approximately 30,000 custom color options. The chosen color preset or custom color can be applied to the display panel and the backlighting for all the buttons except the eject and display buttons (they remains red). You can choose to use the same color for the LCD display and button illumination, or use a separate color for each one. You can also select a different color for daytime and nighttime in regards to the unit's LCD and button illumination.

      Brightness: The unit offers an adjustable display and button illumination brightness level (0-31) for day and nighttime driving.

      Display/Button Illumination Dimmer: The display/button illumination dimmer can be set to Off (normal brightness at all times), On (display/button illumination is always dimmed), or Auto (display dims when 12-volts is applied to the orange/white illumination lead).

      2-DIN Chassis: The JVC KW-R500 has a 2-DIN chassis (also known as Double DIN), and will fit in many vehicles with a large dash opening. The unit can be ISO-mounted using factory brackets, or Euro-mounted using the supplied mounting sleeve. As always, please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to verify fit with your vehicle.

      Bluetooth/Remote Control

      Optional Bluetooth: The unit's rear-panel auxiliary input can also be used to connect JVC's KS-BTA100 Bluetooth Adapter (105KSBTA10, sold separately). The KS-BTA100 must be plugged into the rear-panel auxiliary input, and not the front-panel auxiliary input. The front-panel auxiliary input does not support Bluetooth. The KS-BTA100 gives you hands-free communication from your compatible Bluetooth mobile phone and wireless streaming audio from a Bluetooth enabled digital audio player. The optional JVC Bluetooth Adapter includes a super-sensitive microphone, an Answer/End button, and playback controls. The KW-R500 can be set to automatically mute any music audio to your vehicle's speakers so you can listen to your telephone call using your car speakers.

      Note: Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the JVC KW-R500. Visit the JVC Mobile Entertainment Bluetooth Support Page for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled devices.

      Wireless Remote Control: The KW-R500 comes supplied with a wireless remote control (RM-RK52). The remote contains Attenuator, Sound, Source, Tracking, and Volume functions. The remote operates off of a single CR2025 3V Lithium-cell battery (included).

      Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The head unit features an OEM steering wheel remote control input wire (blue/yellow) within the included wiring harness that lets you keep your vehicle's factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with an optional steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately). Please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to see if your vehicle is compatible.

       

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      Reviews for the JVC KW-R500

      Average Customer Review:

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      5 out of 5

      Flawless

      Written By dreaves, Tulsa OK on Thursday, December 06, 2012
      Installed in a 2004 Subaru Outback
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I received this unit yesterday, and had it installed within an hour or so of its arrival (it arrived a day earlier than expected, thanks UPS and Crutchfield.) The unit itself is great, it has pandora/iphone support, and they're pretty easy to use (plug the iphone into usb port, click pandora. listen to music.) The installation instructions provided by Crutchfield made the install tremendously easier than I'm use to in the past. The pictures and steps made it very easy to follow, even if you're not mechanically inclined.

      Fit my 04 Subaru Outback like a glove, with factory mounting hardware (used none that came with new unit)
      Pros:
      Pandora/iPhone support is a very nice feature. I have a "MiFi" 4G hotspot, so it works great with my old iPhone that doesn't have service any longer, as long as there is 4G around anyway... pretty good alternative to satellite radio, since I already own the technology it takes to make it happen, and don't pay any extra. Back to this radio though, I like it, it's very easy to operate. I never bothered looking at the instructions, and I could even figure out how to set the time. wow...
      Cons:
      None yet,
      2 out of 3 people found this helpful
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      3 out of 5

      Just ok

      Written By Kk, Texas on Saturday, November 24, 2012
       
      The aux sounds terrible on this unit, I have had issues with it reading the Ipod usb. Installation was some what easy. Visually it is nice. using the menu isn't as easy as you would think takes a bit to get used to how you adjust it. Setting the clock is easy. I don't use the remote too small and can get lost easy.
      Pros:
      sounds good via stereo and pandora
      Cons:
      takes long sometimes to read ipod connection. Aux sound isn't the greatest
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      So worth it!

      Written By Barry Withaby, Winchester, VA on Monday, November 19, 2012
      Installed in a 2006 Nissan Frontier
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Originally I was going to stay under $100 for a CD Receiver, but I'm so glad I sprung the extra $50+ - well worth it! I ugraded the factory speakers in my Frontier a couple years ago, which made the factory head unit sound much better [lower bass and very crisp highs] however, this JVC has more power than the factory radio, and coupled with a kicker 200 watt rms amp and 12" sub, I can lower the bass on my other speakers, allowing me to drive them at a level even higher than I listen to normally, without distortion. The JVC fit in my dash, looks great, and sounds great -- don't be afraid to get it.
      Pros:
      Two RCA outs & two 3.5mm inputs; upgraded clean power with keeping factory wiring to speakers; adjustable cool display; many adjustment features; easy to install; wiring harness wires matched colors.
      Cons:
      Some of the settings are beneath layers of menus.
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Nice upgrade from factory

      Written By Ascendent Instruments, Potomac Ill on Thursday, November 15, 2012
      Installed in a 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Got this to replace a worn out basic stock Pontiac Grand Prix unit. It sounds fantastic even with the stock speakers. Perfectly simple features & a great price.
      Pros:
      Multi color display, Eq tweekability, & great soundstage.
      Cons:
      None
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By Jackalop3, Woodbridge, VA on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
      Installed in a 2006 Nissan Xterra
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Great car stereo, I am pleasantly surprised and very happy with the purchase. This raido fits perfectly in my 06 Xterra. It sounds great and looks great.
      Pros:
      Easy to install, sounds great
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      4 out of 5

      Great Upgrade

      Written By James D., Riverside, CA on Tuesday, October 30, 2012
      Installed in a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This a great upgrade for my 2004 Silverado OEM stereo. It fits without any modification and cutting to the truck. the sound quality is great, even through my old speakers. It hasd brought new life to them. The main reason I bought it was for the USB input, which I love. The menus can be a little complicad to get through. My only dissapointmetn is the I thought I'd be able to access genre, artist, and playlist menus on the USB. I guess that only available with an Ipod.
      Pros:
      great sound, ease of installation
      Cons:
      Can only use the certain menus with the Ipod.
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
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      5 out of 5

      Pleasantly Surprised

      Written By Rob, Mason, Ohio on Sunday, October 28, 2012
      Installed in a 2002 Honda CRV EX
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      The factory stereo in my 2002 CR-V EX was nice, but I wanted to enjoy music from my iPod. My original plan was use a $50 adapter to allow me to hook up my iPod headphone jack, but soon learned the current setup would not work. After talking with Crutchfield's experts, I learned I could replace the entire unit that had all the features and more for only a small amount of money. This unit wasn't difficult to install thanks to the wiring harness and mastersheets shipped with the product. When I turned it on, I was immediately impressed by how well it sounded. My only regret is I didn't do this about 3-4 years ago!
      Pros:
      Great sound, nice USB/Ipod/AUX inputs.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
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      4 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By RonaldR, Fayetteville, GA on Sunday, October 28, 2012
      Installed in a 2005 GMC Canyon
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      excellent quality, sound and value.
      Pros:
      lots of adjustments and features, great sound.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
      Value
       
      5 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By SAM, Ashland, MA on Friday, October 26, 2012
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I bought this for my son who is 17 for a used car I bought him. He loves the stereo. It is a little over whelmimg at first trying to find settings and it is diificult unless your at a red light.
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
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      5 out of 5

      Good Stuff

      Written By diowand, Hyannis, MA on Monday, October 22, 2012
      Installed in a 2004 Volkswagen Golf
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Proud owner of a JVC KWR500
      Pros:
      It's really cool
      Cons:
      It does not turn your car into an airplane
      4 out of 5 people found this helpful
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
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      4 out of 5

      Nice little unit but . . .

      Written By KW-R500, Q on Monday, October 22, 2012
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I got this unit to fill a double din space in my Subaru. I mostly wanted a front Aux input, but knew I would also get a stronger/cleaner amp section. The install was easy using the instructions and just looking things over. It took a bit for me to figure out that I needed to remove all the brackets from the new unit and then the factory bracket would fit. The wiring harness was not plug and play but all the wires were color-to-color.

      This unit definitely woke my factory speakers up a bit but nothing life changing. Just a little more dynamics, a little more treble extension.

      All and all I'm happy with the unit for the price.
      Pros:
      Easy to use controls Strong EQ features
      Cons:
      Display does not dim far enough Some functions buried a few menu layers down and not easy to get to while driving No clock display when unit is turned off.
      2 out of 3 people found this helpful
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
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      5 out of 5

      Very nice CD Player for the money

      Written By NIck A, Canton, OH on Sunday, October 21, 2012
       
      I have been ordering things from Crutchfield for the past 20-years. They have always provided me with very good customer service and their packaging is always gorilla proof. For 150 bucks this cd player does more than what I need it to do. The buttons are large squared style buttons are as close as a match to my Tiburons factory buttons as you can get. Once you get all your settings set it's very easy to use. The sound quality has greatly improved...even with the factory speakers. The free wiring harness Crutchfield supplied made wiring a piece of cake.
      Pros:
      Factory like buttons. Ability to change colors to match your dash. Great sound quality and ease of use.
      Cons:
      This has nothing to do with Crutchfield nor the cd player itself but the Metra installation kit is the cheapest most flimsy kit I`ve ever seen. I had to modify the paper thin brackets supplied by the Metra kit to make the cd player fit in my Tiburon's dash.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
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      5 out of 5

      Value and SOund

      Written By Rome, Baltimore on Wednesday, October 17, 2012
       
      Good value picked up for a deal from open box. Great sound improved my factory speakers. I am going to add a 12" sub can't wait
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
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      3 out of 5

      Great for price but not tuner not so good

      Written By Manny, Northern New Jersey on Wednesday, October 17, 2012
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      It's great value and has great features. It's also easy to use. I would've given it a 5-star if not for the FM tuner. In the beginning, I thought my speakers were bad. But after replacing those cheapo speakers with Kenwoods, it sounds the same. Then I realized it only sounds bad when listening to FM radio. When I listen to MP3s on a USB memory stick, it sounds great. My car's dash color is RED (not sure why). So when I matched it, it was quite annoying. Because it has this BIG SQUARE source button that turns RED too. Simply, it's annoying because it's red.
      Pros:
      Price, Looks, Features, Changeable Colors, USB and AUX ports in front.
      Cons:
      FM Tuner, RED color
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
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      4 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By John G, Gilbert, AZ on Wednesday, October 17, 2012
      Installed in a 2004 GMC Yukon
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Very nice unit.
      Pros:
      Looks great. Perfect fit in 2005 Yukon. USB input
      Cons:
      Not very clear wiring connection diagrams. Had to guess on a couple of wires that luckily was a good guess. While ordering was informed I needed an additional device to maintain Onstar which I bought which added to the wiring complication. Was not told i needed an additional device to keep the steering wheel controls. If I had been told at the time It would have saved me money as opposed to buying it after the fact.
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
      Value
       
      4 out of 5

      KW-R500

      Written By JohnK, Denver ,Co on Monday, October 15, 2012
       
      Nice looking stereo , color change feature is nice to match to the factory gauges .
      Pros:
      Low price Looks good in dash color change feature can add a flash drive
      Cons:
      sound quality only average , my factory ford shaker sounded way better .
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
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      5 out of 5

      nice.

      Written By dwayne, williamsport pa on Monday, October 08, 2012
      Installed in a 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      nic e i bought this for my wife vw jetta ...and she loves it
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
      Value
       
      4 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By Anonymous, Elizabeth City, NC on Sunday, September 30, 2012
      Installed in a 2002 Toyota 4Runner
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Easy to install. Sounds good. I bought it to play iPod and Pandora. Still having a little trouble toggling between music files and Pandora, otherwise no complaints.
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
      Value
       
      5 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By George, Kaneohe Hawaii on Sunday, September 30, 2012
      Installed in a 2000 Toyota Avalon
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Enjoying it very much
      Pros:
      Ease of use
      Cons:
      Only holds one CD
      Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
      Value
       
      5 out of 5

      JVC KW-R500

      Written By Pete, Sterling Heights, MI on Thursday, September 27, 2012
      Installed in a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Excellant quality for the price
      Pros:
      Good design and great update for external operating devices ie: USB and remote ports.
      Cons:
      Clock only displays when radio is turned on.
      2 out of 2 people found this helpful
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      "Coolness Factor"
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      41-60 of 139 << >>

      Accessories

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      iSimple uLinx iPod® Connection Cable Heavy-duty USB-to-iPod cable (Model iS9413)
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      Smart people protect with SquareTrade- The best warranty at the best price

      SquareTrade Warranty
      SquareTrade Warranty 3 Year Warranty
      Your Price: $19.99
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      In business since 1999, SquareTrade is the largest independent warranty provider in the U.S.

      100% parts and labor - no deductibles

      All mechanical and electrical failures covered, includes normal wear and tear.

      Your item's repaired or the full item price returned withing 5 days

      Runs concurrent with manufacturer's warranty

      Rated 5-stars by consumers

      For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the JVC KW-R500, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/S-h22XIX3IIZu/p_105KWR500/JVC-KW-R500.html ).

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