Crutchfield - North America's electronics authority since 1974

1.888.955.6000
 
 
Free Shipping on Everything.  60-Day Money-Back Guarantee  |  Lifetime Tech Support
 

Kenwood KDC-BT742U

CD receiver

Zoom Kenwood KDC-BT742U
Front
Video loading and will display in just a moment.
Photos
Kenwood KDC-BT742U Kenwood KDC-BT742U Kenwood KDC-BT742U
 
Videos
 

Item# 113BT742U offer details

Item# 113BT742U

Review Sumary

 
DISCONTINUED
 
This item is no longer available to purchase.
 
Contact us for other options
 
Call   Email   Chat
 
In-stock Alternative
 
 
 
 
 
Kenwood

Our take on the Kenwood KDC-BT742U

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bluetooth note: Bluetooth compatibility of this device may vary, depending on your phone and service provider.

Get more info on this product

Highlights:

  • General features:
  • CD player with built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
  • built-in Parrot Bluetooth technology
  • one wire iPod hookup — search files alphabetically or by jumping
  • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RW discs including discs loaded with MP3 and WMA music files
  • detachable face
  • remote control
  • Audio features:
  • System Q Sound Control (6 EQ curves and a 3-band equalizer)
  • digital signal processor with compression, time alignment, iPod EQ, Supreme+ feature (restores highs in digital music files)
  • high- and low-pass filters for speaker and preamp outputs
  • subwoofer level controls
  • Expandability:
  • built-in Bluetooth and iPod controls — no iPod adapter necessary, but adding Kenwood's optional connecting cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
  • compatible with Kenwood satellite radio, HD Radio tuner, CD changer
  • inputs: front USB input, front auxiliary input
  • outputs: 6-channel 2.5-volt preamp outputs (front, rear, subwoofer)
  • Other features and specs:
  • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
  • warranty: 1 year
  • Our 60-day money-back guarantee
 

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

Features and Specs

Features and Specs
General
Chassis Size Code
Loading...
IEJ
CEA-2006 Compliant
Loading...
No
RMS Power Output
Loading...
22 watts
Peak Output
Loading...
50 watts
RMS Power Bandwidth
Loading...
20-20kHz
Preamp Outputs
Loading...
6-channel
Sub Preamp Outputs
Loading...
Yes
Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs
Loading...
No
Preamp Voltage
Loading...
2.5 volts
Display Color
Loading...
Blue
Key Button Color
Loading...
Blue
EQ Bands
Loading...
3
Wireless Remote
Loading...
Yes
Steering Wheel Control Compatible
Loading...
Yes
Parts Warranty
Loading...
1 Year
Labor Warranty
Loading...
1 Year
Expandability
AUX Input
Loading...
Front and Optional Rear
USB Input
Loading...
Front
Memory Card Slot
Loading...
USB Memory
Bluetooth Compatible
Loading...
Built-in
Satellite Radio Ready
Loading...
Both
HD Radio
Loading...
Optional
Navigation
Loading...
No
Changer Control
Loading...
Yes
iPod Compatibility
Full size
Loading...
Classic/5Gen
Nano
Loading...
Nano5/Nano4/Nano3/Nano2/Nano1
Touch
Loading...
Touch3/Touch2/Touch1
Mini
Loading...
No
iPhone
Loading...
Phone/Phone3G/Phone3GS
Tuner
FM Sensitivity
Loading...
9.3 dBf
European Tuning
Loading...
No
Seek/Scan
Loading...
Seek
Radio Data System
Loading...
No

Product Research

Product Research
What's in the box?

Download owner's manual

  • AM/FM/CD receiver with 10-amp fuse inserted into the chassis
  • Sleeve
  • Face
  • Trim ring
  • Wiring harness
  • RC-547 Wireless remote
  • 2 "AA" batteries
  • Soft fabric face case
  • 2 Removal tools
  • 4 Panhead ISO-mount screws
  • 4 Flathead ISO-mount screws
  • Back support screw
  • Instruction Manual (Eng/Spa/Fre)
  • Warranty Card
  • "Attention" sheet (taped to unit)

Our Product Research Team

At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team — they open the box, verify contents, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices.

Overview: The Kenwood KDC-BT742U AM/FM CD receiver features a detachable face, front auxiliary and USB input, three pairs of 2.5-volt preamp outputs, CD changer and Satellite Radio ready controls and built-in iPod operation, as well as MP3/WMA playback. The unit also features built-in Bluetooth operation with an integrated microphone. In addition, the CD player comes with an IR wireless remote control. The unit's amplifier is rated at 22 watts x 4 channel RMS and 50 watts x 4 channel peak.

Display Features
Audio Section
AM/FM Tuner
CD Playback
External Device Connection
Remote Control

Features

Detachable Face: The unit features a single front loading CD face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. The CD player comes supplied with a soft black fabric, draw string face case to protect the detachable face when you have it off the chassis.

Security Code: You can enter a 4-digit security code which must be used when the unit is removed from the vehicle, or the constant power source is disconnected from the unit. When constant power is restored to the unit, the security code must be entered before the unit becomes operational.

Text/Title Scroll: The KDC-BT742U will display CD text, Audio file text and Satellite radio text. You can turn the scrolling feature on to scroll longer titles across the screen.

Display Illumination/Clock Display: When the unit is in Standby mode, the face/button illumination is "keyed." In addition, while the unit is in Standby mode, you can turn the clock display on or off. When the Clock Display is turned on and the unit is in Standby mode, the Clock Display is also "keyed." Pressing and holding the source button turns the unit off completely.

Dimmer: The dimmer function will dim this unit's display automatically when the vehicle light switch is turned On when you connect orange/white Illumination wire of this player.

Audio Section

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

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

3-Sets of Preamp Outputs: The KDC-BT742U features front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs. The front and rear speaker preamp outputs are balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading. The front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs are all fixed to the rear chassis of the headunit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Cabin Selection: You can compensate the delay of the sound arrival time by selecting your environment from the following vehicle types - Off (not compensating), Compact (compact car), F-Size (Full-size car), Wagon (Station wagon), Minivan (minivan), SUV (Sport-utility vehicle), and MV-Long (Long minivan).
  • Speaker Setting: You can set the which speakers are being connected and their size and installation position.
    • Front: You can set the Front speakers' location to either Door, On Dash, or Under Dash; and the size of the Front speakers to either Small, Medium, or Large. You can also indicate whether the front speaker features a separate tweeter.
    • Rear: You can set the Rear speakers' location to either Door, Rear Deck, 2nd Row, or 3rd Row; and the size of the Rear speakers to None, Small, Medium, or Large.
    • Subwoofer: You can set the size of the subwoofer connected to the unit's subwoofer preamp output to either None, Small, or Large.
  • Preset Position Setting: According to the listening position, you can select the position from the following settings so that the normal position of the sound environment can be compensated in accordance with the selected position. You can select from the following - All (Not compensating), F-L (Front-Left seat), F-R (Front-Right seat), and F-All (Front seat).
  • DTA (Digital Time Alignment Setting): Choose from 0.00 to 14.44 feet for the Front pair of speakers, Rear pair of speakers and Subwoofer distances in reference to the distance between your listening positioning and the locations of the particular speakers.

Equalizer Control: Equalizer Control allows you to use one of the System Q presets, or set your own custom settings for the front and back speakers independently, using the 3-band (Bass/Mid/Treble) Equalizer. The EQ adjustments are as follows:

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

Source Tone Memory: This feature allows you to store System Q bass, middle and treble tone settings for each source (CD, Tuner, Aux, and USB).

Volume Offset: The level of each source may be independently adjusted to prevent radical leaps in output volume when switching from one source to another. The available settings range from -8 to 0.

Tel Mute: The KDC-BT742U features a cell-phone mute wire (brown) in its harness that when hooked up to your car's phone system mute wire will automatically mute the receiver's audio signal when a call comes in.

AM/FM Tuner

CR-2 Advanced Tuner: This unit uses Kenwood's CR-2 Advanced tuner for clear radio reception. You can choose one of three tuning modes: Auto 1 (seek tuning), Auto 2 (cycles through and tunes the selected band's preset stations only with each button press), or Manual.

Auto Memory Tuning: Not only does the CD receiver's tuner allow you manually enter your desired presets you can choose to have the unit automatically put stations with good reception in the memory banks automatically; this is a handy feature when traveling. The tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank. You can store 6 presets for each AM/FM bank giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM presets.

Clean Reception System Circuit (CRSC): This circuit controls multi-path distortion by reducing stereo separation. As stereo separation is reduced, multi-path has less effect on the radio signal, improving reception in areas with tall buildings and mountains. The CRSC circuit can be turned on or off.

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

CD Playback

MP3/WMA Playback: The KDC-BT742U can play MP3 and WMA files recorded on CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo, and Long file name formats. Each disc should have a maximum of 8 directory levels, 50 folders, and 255 files per folder with a maximum of 512 files and folders. During MP3/WMA playback, the unit displays any recorded ID3 Tag (Ver.1) information. The headunit will display up to 30 characters.

CD Force: When there is a problem with playing a CD with a special format, this setting plays the CD by force. Some CDs still may not play in the CD Force mode.

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

Last Position Memory: If the unit is shut off or switched to the tuner mode while a CD is playing, the next time CD is selected as the source, playback will resume from the point where it left off.

Off Eject: The KDC-BT742U allows you to eject your disc for 10 minutes after switching off the vehicles engine.

External Device Connection

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

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

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

USB Port: The Kenwood KDC-BT742U features a front panel 2.0 USB type-A port that is hidden behind a sliding cover. The USB port enables connection and control of a portable USB mass-storage class device with MP3 (8-320 kbps) and WMA (48-192 kbps) music files. The USB port is compatible with all USB mass storage class devices that support the FAT16 or FAT32 file system. Your USB device should only have a maximum of 8 directory levels, 255 folders, and 255 files per folder with a maximum of 65,025 files and folders. When your USB device is connected to this unit, it can be charged up provided that the KDC-BT742U is powered on.

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

iPod Direct: The KDC-BT742U's front-panel USB port also acts as an iPod high-speed direct connection when used with the optional Kenwood USB Direct Connection Cable (113iP101, sold separately) or the USB/iPod cable that comes with your iPod. Using either cable allows you to connect, control, and charge select iPod models with the KDC-BT742U. The USB connection allows your iPod's large music libraries to be loaded instantly to the headunit and sound quality to be maximized through the headunit's 24-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to105dB.When your iPod is connected to the KDC-BT742U, you can choose to operate your iPod via the Kenwood headunit's controls or your iPod's click-wheel/touch-screen.  If you select to control your iPod from the KDC-BT742U, the Kenwood headunit will allow you to navigate your iPod's music by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, Composer, Song, or Podcast (your iPod's click-wheel/touch-screen will be locked in this mode). You can search these categories alphabetically or using a percentage search (0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%). You can also choose to listen to all songs stored on your iPod at random. The KDC-BT742U will also display your iPod's music file information when in this mode. If you choose to operate your connected iPod via its click-wheel/touch-screen controls, the KDC-BT742U will not display your iPod's music information (the headunit will instead display "iPod MODE") and the Kenwood headunit's controls will no longer operate your iPod. The Kenwood KDC-BT742U is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of Jan. 2010):

iPod/iPhone Model Generation Media Type  Control Display Charge
Audio Video Unit iPod Song/Artist Track
dock-connector 3rd N N N N N N N
click-wheel/color-display 4th N N N N N N N
mini 1st N N N N N N N
2nd N N N N N N N
 video 5th Y N Y N Y Y Y
 classic 80GB Y N Y Y Y Y Y
120GB Y N Y Y Y Y Y
160GB Y N Y Y Y Y Y
 nano 1st Y N Y N Y Y Y
2nd Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3rd Y N Y Y Y Y Y
4th Y N Y Y Y Y Y
5th Y N Y Y Y Y Y
touch 1st Y N Y Y Y Y Y
2nd Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3rd Y N Y Y Y Y Y
iPhone 2G Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3G Y N Y Y Y Y Y
3GS Y N Y Y Y Y Y

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

Satellite Radio Ready: There are several options for connecting an optional XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio receiver to this receiver:

  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio: To receive SIRIUS Satellite Radio, you can connect the optional SIRIUS Universal Vehicle Tuner (607SCC1) and the optional Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Interface (113KCASR50); package item number 700SIRKENW, or you can connect the optional KCA-SR50 Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Interface and the SiriusConnect vehicle docking kit (607SCVDOC1); package item number 700SIRPKEN, along with your compatible SIRIUS Dock & Play receiver.
  • XM Satellite Radio: To receive XM Satellite Radio connect the optional CNP2000UCA XM Tuner and the CNP-KEN1 Kenwood adapter cable (package item number 700XMKEN2).

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

HD Radio Ready: With an optional Kenwood HD Radio tuner (113KTCHR20 or 113HR300, sold separately), you will be able to receive digital AM/FM broadcasts from local stations where available. This new technology will significantly improve audio quality and reception, as well as include information such as artist name and song titles or traffic news, viewable on the receiver's display.

Changer Controls: This unit is directly compatible with Kenwood changers manufactured in 1998 or later. If the changer has an O-N switch, the switch will need to be set to the "N" position. In addition to basic disc navigation features, this unit has the following changer controls: direct disc access (using the remote), direct track access (using the remote), track intro scan, track repeat, disc repeat, disc random, and magazine disc random. When connected to a CD Text capable CD changer, this unit can display disc and track titles for discs encoded with disc and track title information. The text information can be scrolled manually or automatically.

AUX Input: The KDC-BT742U is equipped with a front panel 3.5mm mini-jack auxiliary input for connecting external portable audio devices such as an MP3 player. The KDC-BT742U allows you to select the source type displayed when using the auxiliary input. You can choose from AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video or TV.

Rear Auxiliary Input "Ready": The unit already features a front panel auxiliary input, but if you need a second auxiliary input, one can be added to the rear of the unit. When used with an optional adapter, this unit can accept a rear input from an auxiliary source. When the CA-C1AUX adapter (113CAC1AX, sold separately) is used, you cannot connect a CD changer to the head unit because the adapter plugs into the DIN changer control connection on the head unit. When the KCA-S220A 2-changer switch (113KCAS220, sold separately) is used, you can connect a CD changer and an auxiliary audio source at the same time. When an auxiliary audio source is connected, you can choose from one of six names for the source: AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video or TV.

Remote Control

IR Remote Control: The KDC-BT742U comes with the RC-547 IR wireless remote control with a full numeric keypad. The remote will control Audio, CD, Tuner, Satellite Radio, Dual Zone, and Bluetooth functions. The remote control allows direct access of your music tracks and direct access to discs loaded in a connected CD-changer (sold separately). It is powered by 2 "AA" batteries (supplied). The dimensions of the remote are: L = 5.362", W = 1.962", D = 1.115".

Attenuator: The CD receiver features an Attenuator button on the supplied remote control that turns the volume down very quickly with one touch of the button.

Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The KDC-BT742U has a "steering remote control" lead on the back panel. When used with the optional SWI-JACK interface (127SWIJACK, sold separately), you can retain the use of your steering wheel and/or rear seat radio controls when replacing the factory head unit in select vehicles. The SWI-JACK is compatible with over 95% of the vehicles made from 1986 to the present. Compatible vehicles include many Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Suzuki, Toyota, and Volkswagen vehicles and Harley Davidson motorcycles. Please consult the Crutchfield Vehicle Selector to see if your vehicle is compatible.

 

Product reviews from the Crutchfield Labs

Product reviews from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?)
Video: Kenwood KDC-BT742U CD Receiver

Video: Kenwood KDC-BT742U CD Receiver

Ralph Graves, Ken Nail
3/13/2009
based on 1 rating
 

Crutchfield experts discuss the Kenwood KDC-BT742U CD receiver. This stereo features built-in Bluetooth connectivity and direct control of your iPod via the stereo's handy USB connection.

 

Product Reviews

Review this product

Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences about this product. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product itself. Read our Review Guidelines for more information.

Review title
* Email
Your email won't be visible
Display name
(e.g., JohnD) Your review will be signed using the display name and location
* Your location
(e.g., Charlottesville, VA)
* Your rating
Click on a star to rate the overall product on a scale of 1-5
Rate the following specific attributes
 Value
 Sound Quality
 Ease of Use
 "Coolness Factor"
 Build Quality
1500 characters left * Your review
Attach a YouTube Review
Crutchfield Video Review Guidelines
  • Only submit videos that you made or are authorized to use.
  • Do not submit videos that contain music, video or visuals that are copyrighted and belong to someone else.
  • Please see our Review Guidelines for more information.
Submit the URL of your YouTube™ video review or product demonstration. e.g., http://www.youtube.com/v/o79TWHh598U
500 characters left Pros
500 characters left Cons
* Agree to Terms
By checking this box you agree your review becomes the property of Crutchfield, that you are over 18 years of age, that you own or have owned this product, and that you are located within the United States or its territories. Please see our Review Guidelines for more information. We reserve the right (but are not obligated to) review all submissions and edit or remove any review in any manner which we deem necessary. Your review should be posted within seven days.
Share this product

1-10 of 48 items >> Sort Results By: Date Reviewed | Rating | Helpfulness
 
1 out of 5

I tried to like it.

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

Definitely NOT HandsFree

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

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

know something about this before you buy it!

Written By j, detroit, michigan on Thursday, August 19, 2010
 
you must know something about the kenwood menu before you go toying with this radio. the manual that came with it tells you nothing. you need to find someone that knows where your speakers need to be set, hz and all that jazzy stuff. after you have all your settings set to your liking this stereo is worry free. change your battery or your battery dies and most of your settings remain. throw the manual away. everything you need to adjust while driving is on the remote. the bluetooth might work a little better if you adjust the settings on that also. people stop whining and learn your stereo.
1 out of 2 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
1 out of 5

Don't waste your time or money...

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

Is this somebody's idea of a joke?

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

Almost Great

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

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

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

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

In Crutchfield's defense, they are shipping me a different unit, and only charging me the difference in the price of the head units. I will definitely shop with Crutchfield again.
1 out of 1 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
3 out of 5

Good except for Bluetooth

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

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

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

Sound quality and everything else was real nice. Just those two gripes. I'm going with an Alpine that has a remote Bluetooth Microphone, and it's $20 cheaper (if you compare the prices on here).
2 out of 2 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
1 out of 5

Horrible, user unfriendly, hands free terrible

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

Bluetooth is terrible

Written By rlbccb, Atlanta, GA on Sunday, October 11, 2009
 
I purchased this product solely to get the bluetooth option. The receiving portion works OK but the microphone does not work. After trying every setting and getting tired of screaming just to hear the person on the other end complain about not hearing me, I have given up. This produce is worthless for bluetooth.
6 out of 6 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
1-10 of 48 items >>

Learn more about Car Receivers

Learn more about Car Receivers

CD Receivers Shopping Guide

CD Receivers Shopping Guide

Robert Ferency-Viars
12/10/2011
based on 567 ratings (22 comments)
 

With so many in-dash CD receivers to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Answering these questions below will help you narrow down your choices to get the right CD player for you.

 
What's 'Appening?

What's 'Appening?

Matt Freeman
3/18/2011
based on 77 ratings (10 comments)
 

In just a few short years, iPod control has become a prominent feature of car stereos. Car A/V companies have acted just as quickly to develop stereos that let you take advantage of the iPhone's...

 
Video: Four Important Car Stereo Accessories

Video: Four Important Car Stereo Accessories

Joshua Crane
10/1/2009
based on 149 ratings (3 comments)
 

In this short video, we present four of the most common accessories you should consider when purchasing a new car stereo. Everyone who installs a new stereo is likely to need at least one of these...

 
Video: What are Digital Media Receivers?

Video: What are Digital Media Receivers?

Zak Billmeier, Ken Nail
8/14/2008
based on 7 ratings (3 comments)
 

Crutchfield car audio experts discuss a new trend in car stereos: the digital media receiver.

 
DVD Receivers — they're not just for movies

DVD Receivers — they're not just for movies

Zak Billmeier
12/6/2011
based on 77 ratings (3 comments)
 

DVD receivers are great for playing movies, but they offer much more than that for your car stereo setup. Large touchscreens, loads of built-in features, and easy viewability are just some of the...

 

Accessories

Accessories we recommend

iPod Adapters
Keep one of these in your car, so you can leave your other cable at home.
P.I.E. iPod® Connection Cable
USB to iPod cable
$27.99
In Stock
 
 
Satellite Radio Tuners
Add the variety of satellite radio programming to your receiver Subscription required.
SIRIUS Kenwood Package
Get SIRIUS radio reception on your Kenwood car stereo
$69.98
In Stock
 
 
XM Direct 2 Kenwood Car Kit
Add XM Satellite Radio to your Kenwood receiver
$89.98
In Stock
 
 
SIRIUS Dock-and-Play Package for Kenwood
Control your dock-and-play SIRIUS radio from your Kenwood car stereo
$79.98
In Stock
 
 
HD Radio Tuners
Receive FM stations with CD-quality sound and AM stations that sound as good as today's analog FM stations.
Kenwood KTC-HR300
Add-on HD Radio™ tuner for select Kenwood receivers

Also available in:
Open Box: $89.99
$129.99
In Stock
 
 
Auxiliary Input Adapters
These adapters will give you an auxiliary input. Make sure you get one that keeps the CD-changer jack if you think you might use it.
Kenwood CA-C1AUX
Auxiliary input adapter with female RCA connectors
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Professional Installation
Get more info about having your new receiver put in by a qualified professional in your area.
InstallCard: In-dash Stereo
Prepaid professional in-dash receiver installation
 
Steering Wheel Audio Control Adapters
You can operate your new radio with your factory-installed steering wheel controls by adding an adapter.
PAC SWI-JACK
Steering wheel control interface for Alpine, Clarion, JVC, and Kenwood
$69.99
In Stock
 
 
CD Changers
You'll never want for tunes with a CD changer in your vehicle.
Kenwood KDC-C719
10-disc CD changer
$149.99
In Stock
 
After $30.00 Price Break
 

Extras

Installation Tools
Save money by doing the installation yourself. The right tools will help.
Scosche TK12V Car Stereo Tool Kit
The tools you need for a clean and professional car stereo installation
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
Posi-Products™ Car Stereo Connectors
16 connectors for installing a new car stereo
$6.49
In Stock
 
 
Metra Crimp Tool and Connectors
Package contains crimp tool and over 150 pieces
$19.99
Out of Stock
 
 
Metra Crimp Tool Set
Package contains light-duty crimp tool and 20 crimp caps
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
Rockford Fosgate Receiver Installation Kit
Crimp caps, connectors, and assorted hardware (Model IEC HUK)
$0.99
In Stock
 
After $5.00 Price Break
 
S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool
Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge wire
$29.99
In Stock
 
 
S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool
Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge stranded wire
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
S&G Tool Aid 87650
Door Trim and Panel Removal Tool
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
Pro.Fit Wire Worm
Installation tool helps route wiring through tight spaces
$12.99
In Stock
 
 
Pro.Fit Hook Tool Set
Installation tools — pair
$4.99
In Stock
 
 
Pro.Fit Trim Panel Tool
Remove your vehicle's trim panels without damage
$4.50
In Stock
 
 
Bojo Trim Panel Tools
Set of 6 plastic tools — helps remove interior and exterior trim and door panels
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
Multi Wedge Trim Panel Tools
Set of six (flexible and rigid) tools — helps remove trim and door panels
$19.99
In Stock
 
 
DEI Heat Shrink Tubing
Black 4-foot length (Assortment)
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
Skewdriver Pro SPK4042
Ratcheting straight and offset screwdriver set with 40 bits (Skewdriver Pro with ratchet handle, pictured)
$49.99
In Stock
 
 
Show more items
Test Discs
Whether it's for sound quality or for maximum boom, there's no way to perfect your system like a professional test disc.
Autosound 2000 CD Set
$69.95
In Stock
 
 
CD Care
Get rid of the skipping on your favorite discs with a CD cleaning kit.
Maxell CD-335
CD scratch repair kit
$9.99
In Stock
 
 
 
Add selected to cart
 

For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Kenwood KDC-BT742U, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/ISEO-rccbcspd/p_113BT742U/Kenwood-KDC-BT742U.html ).

close X
Can we help you find something
or answer a question?
Chat with a Crutchfield advisor or call 1-800-320-6609. Chat
Kenwood KDC-BT742U