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Kenwood KDC-BT852HD

CD receiver (New Stock)

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Item# 113BT852HD offer details

Item# 113BT852HD

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-BT852HD

by Ken Nail

Covering all the bases
Kenwood's KDC-BT852HD comes equipped with just about everything you could want in a CD receiver. Not only will it play music from your CDs, iPod®, and more, but it also comes equipped with built-in Bluetooth® capability and an ear-pleasing HD Radio™ tuner.

Kenwood KDC-BT852HD

Wireless and hands-free
With Bluetooth on board, just pair your phone and you'll talk hands-free by touching the dedicated "phone" button when a call comes in. The receiver will even reply automatically to text messages when you're driving. Plus, Bluetooth audio streaming cuts the cord and connects this receiver to songs stored on your compatible music player — no tangled wires cluttering up your car.

HD Radio™ sounds better
With this receiver, you'll experience outstanding sound quality when you tune in a local station broadcasting an HD Radio signal. You'll hear FM that's close to CD quality and AM that comes through like old-school FM. And unlike satellite services, there's no subscription fee.

Stunning display
Your iPod and streaming music services offer a lot of information with your music — info like song titles, artists, and albums. You'll see it all on the KDC-BT852HD's multi-line display, and you'll get to choose the display and control illumination colors, too.

Ready for all your music
The KDC-BT852HD is ready for your iPod, iPhone®, and even your Android. Connect your iPod® or iPhone® into the receiver's front-panel USB input, and start searching through your albums, artists, and playlists for your favorite tunes with the easy-to-use controls. And if you've got your music on an Android device, just go to the Android market and download Kenwood's free Music Control app. You'll enjoy a variety of search and playback features when your phone is plugged in through the front-panel USB port.

Streaming radio from your phone
If you enjoy Pandora® Internet radio on your iPhone®, Android, or Blackberry, you'll appreciate the built-in Pandora® controls — you can scroll through your stations, bookmark songs, and give a thumbs-up or thumbs-down right from the receiver's face. For other sources, plug into the front-panel auxiliary input. And of course, you can play all kinds of CDs, even discs that you've loaded with MP3 and WMA files.

Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?
In most vehicles, you can use an adapter to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Kenwood stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and this Kenwood, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. Check the "Accessories" tab for compatible adapters.

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.

Note: If you're going to use your iPod or iPhone with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for specific iPod model compatibility with this receiver.

Highlights:

    General features:
    • CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
    • built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RW discs including discs loaded with MP3, WMA, and AAC music files
    • built-in HD Radio tuner
    • built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
    • detachable face with selectable 2- or 3-line display, plus variable display and control colors
    • remote control
    Audio features:
    • System Q Sound Control (8 preset EQ curves and 3-band equalizer)
    • speaker size settings
    • Supreme Setting improves the sound of files encoded at low bit rates
    • bass boost
    • low- and high-pass filters
    • subwoofer level control
    Expandability:
    • iPod/iPhone direct control via USB input — no adapter necessary, but adding Kenwood's optional connecting cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
    • Pandora control with iPhone, Android, and Blackberry
    • compatible with Kenwood's Music Control app for Android phones
    • compatible with SiriusXM tuner
    • inputs: front-panel auxiliary and USB input
    • outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (2.5-volt front, rear, and 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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      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
      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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      SiriusXM
      HD Radio
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      Built-in
      Navigation
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      No
      iPod Compatibility
      Full size
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      Classic/5Gen
      Nano
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      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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      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)
      • Face (attached)
      • Trim ring (attached)
      • Sleeve (installed)
      • Wiring harness
      • Microphone with integrated bracketed (attached 10' cable terminated by a 3.5mm connector)
      • Wireless remote control (RC-405)
      • CR2025 3V lithium-battery (installed in remote)
      • Cloth face pouch
      • 2 Removal tools
      • 4 Panhead ISO-mount screws
      • 4 Flathead ISO-mount screws
      • Face-fixing screw
      • Quick Start Guide (Eng/Fre/Spa)
      • Warranty Card

      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.

      Built-in Bluetooth
      HD Radio + SiriusXM Ready
      Disc Playback
      USB/Aux Inputs
      iPod/Android Control
      Audio Section
      Display Features
      Remote Control

      Built-in Bluetooth

      Bluetooth Technology: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD is equipped with built-in Bluetooth ver. 3.0 (powered by Parrot) allowing you to make and receive phone calls wirelessly through the receiver; as well as stream music wirelessly from your smartphone to the head unit. Bluetooth Technology is a short-range wireless radio connectivity technology that was developed as a cable replacement for mobile phones and other electronic devices. Bluetooth operates in 2.4 GHz frequency range and transmits voice and data at speeds up to 1 megabit per second.

      Bluetooth Profiles: In order to use Bluetooth wireless technology, your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to interpret certain profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth Profiles:

      • Hands-Free Communication: HFP (Hands Free Profile), HSP (Head Set Profile), OPP (Object Push Profile), PBAB (Phone Book Access Profile).
      • Audio Streaming: A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).

      Pairing: Your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone must be paired with the KDC-BT852HD before hands-free operation. You can register up to five Bluetooth enabled cell-phones with the Kenwood head unit (only one paired phone can be used at a time).

      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 Kenwood KDC-BT852HD. See Kenwood's Bluetooth Compatibility List for the latest mobile device compatibility.

      External Microphone: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD includes an external microphone to carry on your side of your phone conversation and voice command dialing. The external wired microphone offers improved audio quality versus an integrated microphone, so you can be heard easier over noisy traffic and road noise. The external microphone features an attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle 3.5mm connector which plugs into the mic input on the rear-panel of the head unit. The microphone offers an integrated mounting bracket which can be clipped to your vehicle's sun-visor or taped to your dash. The external microphone measures 0.525" (diameter) x 1.485" (depth).

      Note: This unit does not offer an integrated front-panel microphone.

      Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication: The head unit supports Bluetooth hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The controls of the KDC-BT852HD can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call, or end a call. The unit also includes and external microphone (featuring adjustable gain), so you can carry on your side of the conversation while listening to the caller through your vehicles speakers. During a conversation, you can switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your cell phone) and the Hands Free Mode. 

      • Answering a Call: When a call comes in, a ring-tone will be heard through your vehicle's speaker and the caller's name or phone number will be displayed. You can answer the call from the head unit's front-panel controls, or setup the head unit to automatically answer the incoming call immediately or after 1-99 seconds. The KDC-BT852HD also supports the Call Waiting function, so you can answer another incoming call while suspending the current call you are on. Your compatible cell-phone must also support this feature.
      • Dialing a Number: Using the KDC-BT852HD, 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 from the head unit's control knob or remote control.
        • Speed (Preset) Dialing: Allows you to register up to 6 phone numbers for quick dialing. The preset numbers can be accessed from the head unit's Control Knob.
        • Phone Book: You can dial by using the downloaded phone book. You can download phone book data from your cell phone to the KDC-BT852HD. Up to 600 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.  Stored phone numbers can be categorized by General, Home, Office, Mobile, or Other. You can search each category of the phone book in alphabetical order.
        • Call Log: The Call Log is a list of calls that have originated from and were received by this unit that you can dial. You can select Outgoing, Incoming, or Missed calls.
        • Voice Dialing: If your mobile phone supports voice recognition, then you can dial out by voice command. Simply speak into the included microphone. You can register up to 35 voice tags.

      SMS (Short Message Service): You can wirelessly download a SMS arrived at your cell-phone so that it can be read on the Bluetooth connected Kenwood head unit. Up to 149 already read and unread short messages can be downloaded. You can reply to a SMS by using the head unit's front-panel rotary knob or remote control to enter alphanumeric text. There is a limited amount of text that can be downloaded or entered. Your cell-phone must support SMS via Bluetooth for this feature to function.

      Note: Do not read incoming SMS or reply to SMS while driving.

      Wireless Audio Streaming: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD also supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of a Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone. The KDC-BT852HD will be able to control basic playback functions of your Bluetooth device's stored music; such as Play/Pause, Next/Previous Track, Fast Forward/Rewind, and Random/Repeat. The head unit will also display your stored music's song information; such as Artist name and Song/Album title. The KDC-BT852HD also supports audio streaming of music apps (such as iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Last.fm, Rhapsody, & Slacker), but without control or metadata. You will continue to use your Bluetooth enabled smartphone to view and control streaming music apps.

      Note: The iPhone 5 only offers Bluetooth audio streaming without control or metadata display.

      Bluetooth Detailed Settings: The KDC-BT852HD offers the following Bluetooth Detailed Settings, so you can configure the unit to suit your needs.

      • Call Beep: You can choose to output a beep from your vehicle's speaker's when a call comes in, or you can turn this function off.
      • Speaker Output: You can select whether the call beep/caller's voice and streaming audio is heard through only the front speakers or all speakers.
      • Mic Gain: Adjusts the volume of the external microphone from -3 to +3.
      • NR Level: Reduces the noises generated by the surrounding environment without changing the mic volume. The NR Level can be set to -2 or +2.
      • EC Level: Adjusts the level of echo cancellation from -2 to +2.

      HD Radio

      Built-In HD Tuner: With its built-in HD Radio tuner, you can receive digital AM/FM broadcasts from local stations where available. HD Radio significantly improves AM/FM audio quality and reception, as well as includes information such as artist name and song titles or traffic news, viewable on the receiver's display. HD Radio Technology will deliver high-quality digital sound. AM digital will have FM-like quality in stereo (70dB SN @ 40-15kHz), while FM digital will have CD-like quality (70 dB SN @ 20-20kHz) with static free and clear reception. The unit's built-in HD Radio tuner allows analog AM/FM tuning as well.

      Note: HD Radio is the system for digital AM and FM broadcasting in the U.S. More than 2,000 radio stations are broadcasting their primary signals in digital HD Radio technology, as a free service. Go to HDRadio.com to check for HD Radio stations in your area.

      Station Text: AM/FM digital stations can offer text and data such as artist names and song titles.

      Multicasting: In addition to conventional broadcasts, with HD Radio broadcasting it is possible to choose from up to 3 multicast programs (HD1 to HD3, and analog).

      iTunes Tagging: It is possible to save the song's information (tag) from and HD Radio broadcasting station to your USB-direct connected iPod/iPhone. The songs will show up in a playlist called "Tagged" in iTunes the next time you sync your iPod/iPhone. Then you can directly buy the songs you want from the iTunes Music Store. You can "tag" up to 50 songs.

      Tuner Presets: The KDC-BT852HD's tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank for storing presets. The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD offers two preset modes.

      • Normal: You can store 6 presets for each AM/FM bank giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM presets (total of 24).
      • Mix: A total of 6 preset stations can be assigned to the head unit's 6 preset buttons, regardless of AM/FM band. This lets you recall a preset station without switching between bands.

      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.

      Seek Modes: You can choose one of three seek modes: Auto 1 (seek tuning), Auto 2 (cycles through and tunes the selected band's preset stations only with each button press), or Manual.

      Note: You can also setup the KDC-BT852HD to search only HD Radio stations.

      Direct Access Tuning: You can directly access an AM/FM station by entering in the frequency number using the include wireless remote control.

      SiriusXM Ready: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD comes ready for SiriusXM programming with access to XM & Sirius Satellite Radio stations. Thanks to its proprietary SiriusXM Connect port, you can add the optional SXV200V1 SiriusXM Connect tuner and receive more than 150 channels of exclusive programming directly from SiriusXM, via the "SiriusXM All Access" package (subscription required). Visit SiriusXM.com for a complete list of subscription options & channel guide. Additional features of the SXV200 SiriusXM Connect tuner include:

      • Channel list displays a list of all available channels
      • Category Search searches for channels in a certain category
      • Displayed Information such as Channel Name, Artist Name, & Song Title can be viewed on the head unit's LCD
      • Up to 18 SiriusXM Satellite Radio station presets
      • Direct Tuning via included remote
      • Song/Artist Alert with visual notification of your favorite songs or artists
      • Supports the SiriusXM Instant Replay function, so you can pause, rewind, and replay up to 30 minutes of live content
      • iTunes Tagging for connected iPod/iPhone
      • Channels containing unsuitable content for children can be blocked

      Note: A separate SiriusXM Satellite Radio subscription is required (operates on the XM Network). If you already have a Sirius Satellite Radio subscription, this radio cannot be added as a discounted second unit. If you have an existing XM Satellite Radio subscription, you can add this unit as a discounted second unit.

      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/AAC Playback: The KDC-BT852HD can play MP3 (8-320 kbps), WMA (32-192 kbps), and AAC (8-320 kbps) files recorded on CD-R and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo, and Long file name formats. Each disc can have a maximum of 8 directory levels, 50 folders, and 255 files per folder (512 maximum number of files and folders). During MP3/WMA/AAC playback, the unit displays any recorded ID3 Tag (ver. 1.x/2.x) and WMA Tag information - up to 60 characters.

      Text Scroll: The KDC-BT852HD will display CD text or Audio file text. You can set the text scrolling feature to three different modes (Auto, Once, or Off) to scroll longer titles across the screen.

      Music Search: The Kenwood AM/FM CD receiver features a Music Search feature which allows you to scroll through and select your MP3/WMA/AAC music folders and files, as well as scroll through your audio CD's music tracks using the head unit's rotary knob.

      Direct Music Search: The supplied IR wireless remote control (RC-405) allows you to search for music directly by entering the track number.

      Playback Modes: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD features the following Repeat, Random, and Scan playback modes.

      • Repeat Play: Track, File, or Folder
      • Random Play: Disc or Folder
      • Scan Play: Track or File (plays the first 10-seconds of each music track on a disc or music file in a folder)

      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.

      CD Read: This function sets the method for reading a CD disc. You can choose between two modes.

      • CD1: Automatically distinguishes between audio file disc and music CD when playing a CD or CD-R/RW disc.
      • CD2: When unable to play a special formatted CD, set this function to CD2 to force playing. Some music CD  discs may be unplayable even when set to this mode.

      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.

      Auto Reload: 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.

      USB/Aux Inputs

      USB Port: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD features a front panel USB (type-A) port that is hidden behind a flip-up cover. The USB port enables connection and control of a portable USB mass-storage class (MSC) device with MP3 (8-320 kbps), WMA (32-192 kbps), and AAC (8-320 kbps) music files. The USB port is compatible with USB mass storage class devices that support the FAT16 or FAT32 file system. Your USB device should only have a maximum of 8 folder layers, 255 folders, and 255 files per folder - with a maximum of 65,025 files and folders. USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port, and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

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

      Music Editor Compatible: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD supports the PC application, Kenwood Music Editor Lite (ver.1.1.0). Kenwood Music Editor Lite is a Windows-based desktop software that helps organize, manage and transfer MP3/WMA music files to your USB (MSC) devices from your PC. When you playback audio files that have been stored on your USB (MSC) device using Kenwood Music Editor Lite through this unit, you can search a file by title, album, or artist name using the head unit's Music Search function.

      System Requirements: The Kenwood Music Editor Light (ver.1.1.0) Windows-based software can be downloaded for free from Kenwood.com to your PC. The Kenwood Music Editor Light is compatible with the following Windows Microsoft Operating Systems.

      • Windows XP Professional, Home Edition SP2 or later (32-bit)
      • Windows Vista (32/64-bit)
      • Windows 7 (32/64-bit)

      Note: Not compatible with Apple iPod/iPhone/iPad, Zune, or Android.

      Aux In: The unit is equipped with a front panel 3.5mm minijack auxiliary input that can be used to input audio from a portable audio source, such as a portable MP3 player. The Aux input must be turned on to function. The unit has 3 auxiliary input modes.

      • On1: Outputs the sound of the external unit connected to the Aux terminal when switched to the Aux source.
      • On2: Activates the attenuator function when turning on the power with the auxiliary source selected. This prevents the noise when no external unit is connected to the Aux terminal. Turn off the attenuator function when listening to output from an external unit.
      • Off: Disables the selection of the Aux source.

      Auxiliary Display: The KDC-BT852HD allows you to select the source type displayed when using the auxiliary input. You can choose from AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video, or TV.

      iPod/Android Control

      iPod Direct Connection: The KDC-BT852HD's front-panel USB port also acts as an iPod/iPhone high-speed direct connection when used with the optional Kenwood USB Direct Connection Cable (113KCIP102, sold separately) or the USB/iPod cable that comes with your iPod/iPhone. 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 KDC-BT852HD.

      iPod DAC Bypass: The USB connection allows your iPod/iPhone's large music libraries 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 105dB. The Kenwood head unit supports audio playback of music files and podcasts stored on your iPod or iPhone, as well as music apps streamed to your iPhone.

      iPod Control: You can choose to control the iPod/iPhone from the head unit or from your iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen.

      • Head Unit: The Kenwood head unit allows you to navigate your iPod's music by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, Composer, Song, or Podcast. You can search these categories alphabetically or using a percentage search (0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%). The head unit supports Repeat (file) & Random (folder) playback functions of your connected iPod/iPhone.
      • iPod/App Mode: In iPod/App mode, you can navigate the stored music on your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or touchscreen. You can also listen to your favorite music apps (such as iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Last.fm, Rhapsody, & Slacker) from your iPhone (iOS 3.0+) through the Kenwood head unit and your vehicle's speakers. You will continue to use your iPhone's touchscreen to navigate your apps. Not all apps will be compatible with App Mode.

      Note: Access to your iPhone's downloaded applications will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone to connect to the Internet.

      Pandora Internet Radio Control: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD CD receiver lets you playback and control the Pandora Internet Radio music service that is being streamed to your Apple iPhone, Android smartphone, or BlackBerry. While providing control over the Pandora music service, the KDC-BT852HD also displays Artist, Album, and Song information. You can select Pandora stations from your station list; you can sort the station list by date or alphabetically (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.

      • Pandora App for iPhone: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD lets you playback and control Pandora Internet Radio streamed to your connected Apple iPhone, via the Kenwood KCA-iP102 USB/iPod connector cable (sold separately) or the USB/Dock cable supplied with your iPhone. To access Pandora you must have an Apple iPhone (iOS3 or later) with the latest version of the Pandora App from the 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.
      • Pandora via Android or BlackBerry: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD also lets you playback and control Pandora Internet Radio streamed from your Android or BlackBerry smartphone, via Bluetooth (no hard-wired connection required). Your Android or BlackBerry smartphone must have the latest version of the Pandora App from the Android Market or the BlackBerry App World. Your Android or BlackBerry smartphone must also be Bluetooth A2DP/AVRCP/SPP certified and will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. In addition, you will need an active 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 or smartphone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.

      iPod/ Display: The KDC-BT852HD will display your iPod/iPhone's music file information when you are controlling your iPod or iPhone from the Kenwood head unit. The head unit will display Track number, Elapsed playing time, Artist name, Song title, and Album label. If you choose to operate your connected iPod/iPhone via its clickwheel or touchscreen controls, the KDC-BT852HD will not display your iPod/iPhone's music information (the head unit will instead display "APP/iPod").

      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. This unit does not charge the iPad.

      Note: If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it.

      iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD 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 iTunes Tagging 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 N
      clickwheel
      color
      4th N/A N N N N N N N N N N
      mini 1st N/A N N N N N N N N N N
      2nd N/A N N N N N N N N N N
      video 5th 1.3 Y N Y N N Y Y N N Y
      classic 80GB 1.1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      120GB 2.0.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      160GB 2.0.4 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      nano 1st 1.3.1 Y N Y N N Y Y N N Y
      2nd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y N N Y
      3rd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      4th 1.0.4 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      5th 1.0.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      6th 1.1 PC Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      7th 1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      touch 1st 2.2.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      2nd 4.2.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      3rd 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      4th 6.0 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      5th 6.0 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y
      iPhone 2G 3.1.3 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      3G 4.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      3GS 5.1.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      4 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      4S 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      5 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
      iPad 1 5.1.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N
      2 6.0 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N
      3 6.0 Y N Y 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.

      Music Control for Android Smartphone: The Kenwood Music Control app for Android organizes your Android smartphone's music, while providing quick and easy search capability from the Kenwood CD receiver. The free Kenwood Music Control App for Android can be downloaded onto your Android smartphone from the Android Market place. Your Android smartphone must be running Android OS 2.2 or later. Once the app is downloaded and has a chance to organize all the stored music on your Android smartphone, you can connect your Android smartphone to the Kenwood CD receiver via USB (your compatible Android smartphone must be recognized as a USB mass storage class device; not compatible with MTP protocol). The Kenwood Music Control app offers the following Android supported functions.

      • Song Management: Music stored in your Android smartphone can be navigated from the Kenwood CD receiver. Songs can be easily selected by searching for a Song title, Artist name, Album label, or Genre.
      • Song Information Display: Song information such as Artist name, Song title, and Album label are displayed on the connected Kenwood CD receiver.
      • Mood Playlist: Playlists can be created by classifying songs into categories by type of mood. Songs are analyzed and classified into the following categories of moods - High Energy (Active/Powerful/Core), Acoustic (Detailed/Simple/Smooth/Easy), Standard (Dynamic/Rockin/Vivid), Stylistic (Cool/Urban/Trance)
      • Intro Skip: This function allows you to choose and listen to only the hook-lines of songs stored in your Android smartphone.

      Note: When the Kenwood Music Control app is first downloaded it will require some time to populate all the music, so we suggest doing this overnight.

      Music Files Format Supported by Music Control app for Android:

      Codec Extension Bit Rate Sampling Frequency
      AAC .aac, m4a up to 160 kbps 8-48 kHz
      MP3 .mp3 8-320 kbps n/a
      PCM/WAV .wav n/a n/a

      Audio Section

      24 Bit D/A Converter: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior CD sound quality.

      MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD 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. The power output specs for the KDC-BT852HD are as follows:

      • Full Bandwidth Power: 22 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20-20kHz, 1% THD)
      • Maximum Output Power: 50 watts x 4 channels

      7-Way 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.

      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 (-8 to +8 for Aux source).

      Speaker Settings: The Speaker Setting function tailors the System Q Sound Control settings according to the type of speakers in your vehicle. You may select a Speaker Setting of 'SP-Off' (flat/off), 'SP-OEM' (for OEM factory speaker systems), 'SP-6x9/6' (for systems with 6" and 6"x9" speakers), or 'SP-5/4' (for systems with 4" and 5" speakers).

      Preset EQ: Eight EQ curves are preset into memory, allowing you to recall the best preset EQ curve for different types of music. Each preset has its own level settings for bass (100Hz), midrange (1kHz), and treble (12.5kHz). You can choose from the following preset EQ curves - Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Natural, Game, and User.

      Bass Boost: In addition, The Kenwood CD receiver features a Bass Boost control that can be set to the following levels (BB1, BB2 or Off).

      Loudness: This function enhances low and high frequencies to make the sound clearer lower volumes. There are 3 levels (LV1, LV2, or Off).

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

      Supreme Setting: When MP3 or WMA files encoded at a low bit rate (less than 96 kbps, 44.1k, 48kHz) are played, the Supreme Setting function restores their high frequencies so the sound quality is closer to files encoded at a high bit rate. The processing is optimized for the compression format and the bit rate used. When the Supreme Setting is Off, the unit plays the original sound stored in the audio file.

      6ch/2.5V Preamp Outputs: The KDC-BT852HD features front, rear and subwoofer 2.5-volt preamp outputs. The front and rear speaker preamp outputs are balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading. The front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs are fixed to the rear chassis of the head unit.

      Note: You can turn the KDC-BT852HD's built-in amplifier off to improve the quality of the sound from the head unit's preamp outputs.

      Front & Rear High-Pass Filter: The KDC-BT852HD features an independent High-Pass Crossover for the front & rear channels when your front & rear speakers are connected by the unit's speaker-outputs or preamp-outputs. You can adjust the high-pass crossover from "Through", 100, 120, or 150 Hz. The "Through" selection is a full-range setting. This feature is very helpful when you have smaller-type speakers in the front and larger-type speakers installed in the rear of the vehicle.

      Subwoofer Controls: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD offers the following subwoofer controls, when you have the unit's subwoofer preamp output activated.

      • Low Pass Filter: The receiver features a built-in Low Pass Filter control for the preamp-output, when the output is set to Subwoofer. You can select from 85 Hz, 120 Hz, 160 Hz, or off.
      • Subwoofer Phase: You can adjust the phase of the subwoofer output between 180-degrees (Reverse) or 0-degrees (Normal).
      • Subwoofer Level: Once the Subwoofer preamp output is activated, you can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level (-15 to +15) from the CD receiver.

      Tel Mute: The KDC-BT852HD features a cell-phone mute wire (tan) 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.

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

      Display Features

      Detachable Face: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD features a single front loading CD face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. The head unit includes a cloth pouch for storing the face-plate when detached. A face-fixing screw is supplied for making the face non-detachable, if desired.

      Note: An optional soft face case (142DFC1X, sold separately) can also be purchased for this unit.

      Multi-Line Text Display: The 3-line full dot LCD makes it easy to navigate through your disc's music, radio presets, iPod music library, USB content, Bluetooth audio, or phonebook contacts. The KDC-BT852HD offers five different display types:

      • Type A: Displays 3 lines of text.
      • Type B: Display 2 lines of text.
      • Type C: Displays only the clock/date.
      • Type D: Displays motion graphics.
      • Type E: Display & button illumination is turned off (after 5 seconds of operation).

      Note: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD offers English, French, and Spanish menu text.

      Variable Color Illumination: The Kenwood KDC-BT852HD features variable color display and button illumination. 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 choose from one of 24 preset colors, have the unit scan through all 24 preset colors continuously, or customize your own color (RGB; 0-9). The custom setting allows you to individually adjust the intensity of Red, Green, and Blue (from 0-9) to better match your vehicle's interior lights. The Kenwood logo and eject button remain red.

      Note: You can switch the in-dash head unit's display between a positive or negative effect. You can also adjust the display's contrast from 1-30.

      Illumination Effect: This function sets whether the head unit's key illumination color is changed in conjunction with the key-button operation.

      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. You can also choose to dim the display manually. The Kenwood logo and eject button remain the same brightness.

      Clock/Date Display: The in-dash CD receiver features a 12-hour clock and date (M/D/Y) display. You can even set times for two different cities (dual clock display).

      Display Illumination/Clock Display: When the unit is in Standby mode, the face and button illumination is "keyed." 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.

      Demo Mode: This unit features a Demo mode which can be turned On or Off within the menu.

      Remote Control

      Wireless Remote Control: The KDC-BT852HD comes with an IR remote control (RC-405) for wireless operation of the head unit. The remote will control Audio, CD, USB, Bluetooth, and Tuner functions. It is powered by a single CR2025 3V lithium-cell battery (supplied).

      • Numeric Keypad: The wireless remote control features a numeric keypad (0-9) which allows direct track access of your music tracks & files (from CD or USB), as well as AM/FM presets. You can also dial a phone number using the remote's numeric keypad.
      • 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 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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      5 out of 5

      Great Head Unit

      Written By jbyrum9, Yukon, OK on Sunday, April 21, 2013
      Installed in a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This is a great head unit. Installation was a beeeze. Everything works just like it should.
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      3 out of 5

      Nice features but set it before you start to drive.

      Written By Ampzilla, Tampa Fl on Sunday, April 14, 2013
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I have used Kenwood radios for years. This is my third of this style. The HD Radio is very good. The BT audio and iPHone operations are good. Sound is strong and very adjustable. Just make sure you are hooked up, alternates selected and sound is coming through before you start to drive. Otherwise, you will listed to the sound of the wind until you stop for a light. It would have more value if there were more single use buttons to control operations. All the "cool" colors but no White White wihich would make this easier to see in the bright Florida sun.
      Pros:
      It has all the features. BlueTooth Audio, iPhone -Pod adaptability, HD Radio, CD Player, Sirius Input, and remote make this radio a good buy. Sound quality is excellent. Microphone is very good.
      Cons:
      Most frustrating to set up for the drive. SRC is not intuitive. iPhone better be set up before you take off or be prepared to use the handset to talk and listen. Switching sources must be done from the steering wheel controls, not the faceplate or risk a scary moment or two. Must download the manual in PDF form and print to really understand how to set up this system.
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      5 out of 5

      Ipod integration is great.

      Written By Matt N U, Birch Run, MI on Saturday, April 13, 2013
      Installed in a 2001 GMC Sierra 2500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      The integration with the ipod is great, it makes controlling it so easy. The only I would say that I would have done different is get one of the models that has the rear USB. The ipod control works so well that I wish I didn't have the cord in the fron and could just put the ipod in the glove box.
      Pros:
      Works great with an ipod.
      Cons:
      I'll get one with a rear USB also next time.
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      4 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-BT852HD

      Written By Marcus, Nebraska on Wednesday, April 10, 2013
      Installed in a 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Overall I'm pleased with this purchase. I've had a couple of minor bumps after the install with the unit locking up and not wanting to turn on after putting the removable face plate back in. Pressing the reset button resolved this. It hasn't happened since and I did not attempt to do a firmware upgrade. Sound with OEM speakers was a vast improvement over the OEM receiver. So I look forward to the improvements that will come as I replace other components. This unit has a lot of features to allow you to fine tune your setup which is great. But I would have to agree with other reviews that working through the menus can be cumbersome and I miss the preset buttons more than I thought I would. Use of the remote is preferred in most cases than the dial button. In bright daylight the color choice of your display has a direct effect on how well you can see the display. Fortunately there are multiple choices to find what works best for you. Integration with XM radio add on was simple and works great, HD radio sounds great as well. One of the big hitters for me is the Bluetooth integration with my Android. Pairing was easy and I've had not issues with streaming audio from the phone to the radio and the remote works well with the basic audio controls on the phone. The phone feature so far has performed well in calls on the road. The extermal mic has done a good job of cancelling out the ambient "road" noise and the audio quality has been on par with other BT headsets.
      Pros:
      Customization options, Bluetooth audio streaming, XM compatable, Bluetooth phone, multiple input ports, remote.
      Cons:
      No preset buttons, in the box instructions does not do justice to the amount of features avaialble and what the individual settings represent
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      3 out of 5

      O.K. But...

      Written By DaveM, Lancaster, NY on Monday, April 08, 2013
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Great sound. Display next to impossible to see in daylight. Had it installed locally. Cannot get any type of volume from the back speakers. Crutchfield techs were more than helpful in "assisting" the local tech. Still hardly any volume from rear speakers. Front 5-speakers sound Great. Each time I call customer support, they tell me to try something else that's not in the installation instructions. Have had my Dodge truck back to the shop to try the corrections 3 times. He has given up & I honestly don't blame him. Latest "fix" from Crutchfield tech is to re-install the factory unit & set balance & fade to zero & set the volume to 75% & this will get the back speakers to work when I again re-install this unit. I'll try this last fix & then if it doesn't work, I'm going to see about a refund or exchange.
      Pros:
      Great sound. Good HD tuner. Pandora function is great.
      Cons:
      Steering wheel control to select preset stations will not work. You can only scroll thru the channels. Too many "oh, by the ways" not in the installation instructions. Colorful display almost impossible to see in daylight.
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      4 out of 5

      I miss my preset buttons

      Written By Bill, Fairfield, Ca on Sunday, April 07, 2013
      Installed in a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      The only thing this unit needs to be great is 5 preset buttons. Having to hit the preset button, then scroll down until you find your station is annoying. Especially if you like to browse different channels a lot.
      Pros:
      A lot of different features (HD,Sirius,Bluetooth,Pandora) for a reasonable price.
      Cons:
      No preset buttons. Main control knob is a bit touchy.
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      5 out of 5

      It Just Works!

      Written By Cedarstreet, Colorado Springs, CO on Friday, April 05, 2013
      Installed in a 2006 Ford Taurus SEL
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Bought this unit to replace a Kenwood that worked fine but didn't have the hands-free bluetooth feature. Wiring harnesses were identical so this was a true plug and play. Smooth. The unit itself is really great. No complaints and lots of kudos. Glad I went with the separate microphone, too. Call receivers usually can't even tell I'm in the car. Buy this product!
      Pros:
      Intuitive menus, great sound, good looks.
      Cons:
      None that I've noticed
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      5 out of 5

      Big morale boost

      Written By Zac, San Clemente, CA on Wednesday, April 03, 2013
      Installed in a 2003 Jeep Wrangler
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I switched out my factory radio for this K-wood. I'm now listening to Pandora, my own music, and internet radio from my iPhone 4. I can't tell you how much happier I am to not have to listen to local radio. Installation was a breeze with the usual Crutchfield superior support. I called with one question and was immediately on the line with someone to help -- no phone tree. The color choices and dimmer levels seem to be more than adequate. Previous reviewers mentioned this as a drawback.
      Pros:
      USB connection.
      Cons:
      Only plays through front two speakers when connected via B/T. I still need to research this though.
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      4 out of 5

      Kensood KDC-BT852HD

      Written By fjpsr, Leechburg, PA on Friday, March 29, 2013
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Easy to install. Sounds great.
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      4 out of 5

      Kenwood KDC-BT852HD

      Written By David, So. Md. on Sunday, March 24, 2013
      Installed in a 2002 Ford F-150
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I was replacing the factory radio on a 2002 Ford F150 so I could get XM. While the F150 has what looks like a full size radio from the front, the cavity will not accommodate a full size radio w/o mods. This limited choices to a Single DIN unit. I also wanted XM, HD Radio and USB port on the front. This narrowed it down to two Kenwood Units.

      The installation was pretty easy thanks to Crutchfield's directions and everything you need in the box freebies. I had a bad crimp on power connection which cost me an extra hour. Should have taken the time to solder and shrink wrap the connections vs. using crimp connectors.

      I placed the XM antenna behind the radio under the dash. I guess it is not far enough front, because I often lose reception. I really do not want to have to run a wire through the cab and out onto the roof. I'll try relocating the antenna under the dash first.

      The unit is pretty feature rich. It also has selectable light colors via setup. Out of the box, it is configured to cycle through the colors. This was the first thing I had to change.

      the Biggest negative is that there are no preset buttons. The stock radio had big beautiful buttons that made changing stations a cinch. This thing has a preset button which brings up a scrollable list of presets on the display, 3 lines at a time. Trying to change stations while driving is more dangerous than TEXTING. The display also has a glossy bevel and when the sun is shining in the vehicle, it is impossible to read.
      Pros:
      Has Sirrius/XM, HD Radio and USB/AudioIN on front panel.
      Cons:
      Trying to adjust channels or music source while driving is more dangerous than texting.
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      5 out of 5

      Excellent Stereo

      Written By Greg, Marion, Illinois on Saturday, March 23, 2013
       
      Just finished installing in my 2002 Grand Prix GTP along with the Axxess ASWC-1. Don't waste your money getting this installed by some shop who is going to charge you an arm and a leg. It was a easy install as long as you get information on the web. The stereo sounds great with the Bose speakers I have in the car and the menus are easy to learn as long as you look over the manual a little. I have no problems going through the menus on the stereo. The Blue tooth streaming works great with my iPhone 4 and I use the XM radio, Pandora, and iHeart radio AP for listening. The Blue tooth phone works great and I sound good when talking to my wife on the cell. I installed the microphone on the sun visor. This is my 3rd Kenwood car stereo I haven't had any problems with them. The steering wheel control, adaptor was a easy hook up since the Kenwood already has a wire designated for it. I have a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP Coup if this helps you decide. I highly recommend this stereo
      Pros:
      Bluetooth streaming with my iPhone 4 is excellent. I also downloaded a free app on the phone and I get turn by turn GPS. I definitely recommend the Metra 99-4000 Dash Kit. Has a pocket for the iPhone and remote
      Cons:
      No problems what so ever. Does everything I need
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Vast improvement

      Written By Mike, Tampa, Fl on Thursday, March 21, 2013
      Installed in a 2002 Toyota Tundra
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      This was my first car stereo install. I replaced the factory stereo in my 2002 Toyota Tundra with this Kenwood stereo. The installation was a piece of cake. My heart sank a bit when I turned the ignition on and the stereo would not power up. I removed the fuse from the back of the stereo to see if it was bad and when I plugged it back in unit powered on.

      The controls will take some getting used to, but the sound quality is vastly improved. I am installing new speakers this weekend and look forward to another giant leap in sound quality.

      The owners manual that comes with the unit is minimal. I found an extensive owners manual on Kenwood's website.
      Pros:
      Sound quality Great assortment of inputs.
      Cons:
      None yet. If I find any I will update.
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      5 out of 5

      Great features for the money!

      Written By JasonM, Las Vegas, NV on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
      Installed in a 1996 Chevrolet Blazer
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      It's been a few years since I've needed to replace a car stereo in my vehicles. There seems to be many more features included in some of these newer models for a significantly lower price than I remember paying for in the past! This item went into a '96 Blazer for my wife. She wanted bluetooth hands free calling and Pandora connection. This came with even more than I expected!
      Pros:
      Fairly simple to navigate through menus to do initial setup.
      Cons:
      none yet
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      5 out of 5

      Perfect!

      Written By Gary, New Jersey on Saturday, February 16, 2013
      Installed in a 2001 Volvo S60
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      First of, this things has miles and miles of customization options I won't get into. I'll just say they all seem to work. I got this receiver to add Bluetooth capability to my car, since I tend to get a lot of business calls while in transit. I also wanted to stream music from my phone (Galaxy S3). I chose Kenwood for their reputation for quality, the variable color display and the fact that they support Android, Blackberry and iPhone. I don't like the idea of buying a product that's tied to a particular brand. Why marry all your gear to a phone and limit your options in the future? This receiver delivers everything it promises without a hitch. The Bluetooth pairs easily and the connection is solid. When streaming it displays the mp3 tags (Artist, Song, etc.) The phone is very solid. My phonebook is downloaded to the receiver flawlessly and the external mic works so well that people on the other side say it doesn't sound like a speakerphone.
      Pros:
      Bluetooth streaming, Sound, Call quality, customization, variable color display
      Cons:
      none
      5 out of 5 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      KDC-BT852HD

      Written By insp5, indiana on Tuesday, February 12, 2013
      Installed in a 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      See stars above!
      2 out of 7 people found this helpful
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      5 out of 5

      Great Multifunction Receiver

      Written By Sprout, Walnut Grove, AL on Saturday, January 19, 2013
      Installed in a 2002 GMC Yukon XL
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Great receiver, all functions work well. Good sound quality even with factory speakers. The controls take some practice for setup.
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      4 out of 5

      Fine So Far But No iPhone 5 BT Compatibility Yet

      Written By WJB, Minneapolis, MN on Wednesday, January 09, 2013
      Installed in a 2005 BMW 3 Series
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I've just installed this, and so far it's fine. I was surprised to learn (after I bought it) that it's not Blue Tooth compatible with the iPhone 5. Kenwood says it's working on a firmware update to address the problem, but don't have a release date yet. Sound quality is very good, and it's pretty easy to use -- marginally improved in that regard other Kenwoods and JVCs of the last few years.
      4 out of 4 people found this helpful
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      2 out of 5

      After fighting this unit for 5 months, I've finally lowered my expecta

      Written By Doug L, Carmel, IN on Sunday, January 06, 2013
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      I knew I was going to purchase a new stereo from Crutchfield, and settled on this unit. While the sound isn't bad, a number of issues linger that are very frustrating. As stated by others, the iPhone display went away after the latest iOS upgrade. Kenwood says "we are aware of the issue and may provide a fix in the future." The display is very, very difficult to see in daylight and while there are many variations you can set for the a display, none of them work well in daylight. Perhaps the biggest disappointment is in Crutchfield itself, with whom I have never had a problem until this order. My stereo will simply "cut out" (as if the power were turned off) and result in things going dark, then returning to home state about 10 seconds later. This is a particular challenge when I am attempting to adjust audio, especially when two or three tiers into a menu. After a few calls to Crutchfield, I finally asked to return this unit for credit but it was after 60 days so my only option was to de-install it, live with the hole in the dash and have Crutchfield try to fix it. I finally traced the issue myself to a bad connection between the detachable face and the unit and, rather than return it, I'm living with the problem and putting up with the hassle. (A Crutchfield advisor once told me I was "doing it wrong" when I was adjusting audio causing the problem.) I would not purchase this unit again and would, if I could, return it to Crutchfield for credit for another.
      Pros:
      As usual, Crutchfield provided great documentation. (But left one wire unaccounted for which my service advisor said "you don't need it". I'm wondering, however, if this "unneeded" wire is why I can not control my subwoofer volume.)
      Cons:
      iPhone bluetooth capability is gone, display nearly impossible to see in daylight, subwoofer volume not adjustable, until will go dark when I am trying to adjust volume or otherwise perform a function required by pressing the multi-function button).
      6 out of 7 people found this helpful
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      "Coolness Factor"
      Build Quality
      Ease of Use
      Sound Quality
      Value
       
      3 out of 5

      iPhone user beware

      Written By James, NJ on Thursday, January 03, 2013
       
      I purchased this head unit last May and all was well. After learning the controls and setting it up, it was awesome! Bluetooth streamed my iTunes automatically with my iPhone still in my pocket! Then the new iOS update came along. I can no longer control the Bluetooth from the radio, I have to manually control it through the iPhone which can be dangerous while you're driving. The songs no longer display when I use Bluetooth either. I called Kenwood and they have no cure in sight. So now I have to use the ugly white cable attached to the front of the unit to attach to my iPhone in order to control the phone through the radio. Kenwood says they're working on a resolution, but who knows if they really are. So if you don't mind using the cable, this unit is awesome. But for the money they're charging, it should work the way it's suppose to work.
      Pros:
      Great sound, cool features
      Cons:
      Features don't work with new iOS update
      3 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

      Kenwood KDC-BT852HD

      Written By Mark F., Augusta, GA on Friday, December 28, 2012
      Installed in a 1996 Ford Bronco
      Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
       
      Absolutely great unit for the price. Very easy installation. Had one small issue, made a tech call, issue resolved in five minutes. Great sound. Am not fond of the button/joystick set-up. In a big vehicle you have to take your eyes off the road for too long to navigate the selections. Beautiful styling, with multiple display options.
      Pros:
      Beautiful unit with a lot of display options and lots of sound quality for a small price. The HD radio sound is better than discs.
      Cons:
      Joystick/button set-up
      1 out of 1 people found this helpful
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      "Coolness Factor"
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      Accessories

      Add accessories for the Kenwood KDC-BT852HD

      Keep one of these in your car, so you can leave your other cable at home. See all categories & accessories

      Kenwood KCA-iP102 iPod® cable Sends audio to select Kenwood receivers
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      Your Price: $19.99
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      PAC USB Extension Cable Connects to your car stereo's rear USB input — gives you a convenient spot to plug in your iPod® cable
      12 people say 
      Your Price: $19.99
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      iSimple uLinx iPod® Connection Cable Heavy-duty USB-to-iPod cable (Model iS9413)
      1 person says 
      Your Price: $29.99
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      Scosche flatOUT Mini Stereo Cable Flat cable with a male miniplug on each end (available in two lengths) (3 feet)
      5 people say 
      Your Price: $14.99
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      Scosche I335 Mini Stereo Cable 3-ft. cable with a male miniplug on each end
      21 people say 
      Your Price: $9.99
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      Peripheral Stereo Miniplug Cable 3-foot cable: male miniplug to male miniplug (Model iSVE913)
      2 people say 
      Your Price: $9.99
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      Precision Interface Electronics Mini-to-RCA Cable 6-foot cable — stereo miniplug to dual male RCA plugs
      2 people say 
      Your Price: $14.99
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      SoundKase DFC1X Soft face case for detachable faceplates (single-DIN)
      46 people say 
      Your Price: $9.99
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      SiriusXM SXV200V1 Tuner Enjoy SiriusXM satellite radio reception with your compatible in-dash receiver
      87 people say 
      Your Price: $69.99
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      InstallCard: In-dash Stereo Prepaid professional in-dash receiver installation
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      InstallCard: Bluetooth Stereo Prepaid professional installation of an in-dash receiver with Bluetooth®
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      Your Price: $99.99
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      Axxess ASWC-1 Steering wheel control interface — connects your car's steering wheel audio controls to an aftermarket stereo
      29 people say 
      Your Price: $79.99
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      PAC SWI-RC Steering wheel control interface — connects your car's steering wheel audio controls to an aftermarket stereo
      35 people say 
      Your Price: $69.99
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      iDatalink Maestro ADS-MSW Steering wheel control interface — connects your car's steering wheel audio controls to an aftermarket stereo
      28 people say 
      Your Price: $79.99
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      Maxell USB 360° USB flash memory drive (4GB)
      1 person says 
      Your Price: $6.99

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      Monster Digital USB 2.0 Flash Drive Convenient storage for photos, videos, and more (4GB)
       
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      Sony Micro Vault® Mach High-speed USB flash drive (32GB)
       
      Your Price: $123.99
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      Your Price: $69.95

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      Posi-Products™ Car Stereo Connectors 16 connectors for installing a new car stereo
      343 people say 
      Your Price: $6.99
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      Metra Crimp Tool and Connectors Package contains crimp tool and over 150 pieces
      6 people say 
      Your Price: $19.99
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      Metra Crimp Tool Set Package contains light-duty crimp tool and 20 crimp caps
      14 people say 
      Your Price: $9.99
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      Metra Crimp Caps Package contains 100 crimp caps — for 14- to 20-gauge wire
      12 people say 
      Your Price: $3.99
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      S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge wire
      5 people say 
      Your Price: $19.99
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      S&G Tool Aid 87650 Door Trim and Panel Removal Tool
      55 people say 
      Your Price: $9.99
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      Pro.Fit Hook Tool Set Installation tools — pair
      7 people say 
      Your Price: $6.49
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      Pro.Fit Trim Panel Tool Remove your vehicle's trim panels without damage
      38 people say 
      Your Price: $5.99
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      Pro.Fit Wire Worm Installation tool helps route wiring through tight spaces
      19 people say 
      Your Price: $12.99
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      Bojo Trim Panel Tools Set of 6 plastic tools — helps remove interior and exterior trim and door panels
      21 people say 
      Your Price: $24.99
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      DEI Heat Shrink Tubing Black 4-foot length (Assortment)
       
      Your Price: $24.99
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      Skewdriver Pro SPK4042 Ratcheting straight and offset screwdriver set with 40 bits (Skewdriver Pro with ratchet handle, pictured)
      6 people say 
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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: $29.99
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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 Kenwood KDC-BT852HD, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/S-zQCKG52SNdm/p_113BT852HD/Kenwood-KDC-BT852HD.html ).

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