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See more detailsKenwood KDC-BT555U
CD receiver (New Stock)
Item # 113BT555U | MFR # KDC-BT555U
This item is no longer available.
Newer model available
Kenwood KDC-BT568U
12 Reviews
$129.99
Our take on the Kenwood KDC-BT555U by Crutchfield's Ken Nail
More choices and control of streaming media
Kenwood's KDC-BT555U CD receiver gives you more choices in streaming music. Once you plug your iPhone® into the front USB input or connect your Android™ or Blackberry via Bluetooth®, you'll enjoy easy access to the musical resources of Pandora® Internet radio and iHeart Radio. You'll also be able to tap into Aha Radio, with its personalized on-demand stations that run the gamut from news to talk to music.
The KDC-BT555U works with your iPhone or Android for Internet radio access.
The advantage of Bluetooth
This Kenwood's built-in Bluetooth also frees up your hands and attention when you take a call — and pairing your phone is easier and faster than ever, thanks to Simple Secure Pairing. Connect an iPhone equipped with Siri to the receiver, and you can use voice commands to look up and dial numbers without lifting a finger. Plus, you can stream audio from any smartphone source to the receiver without the clutter of wires.
Command your digital music libraries
If you're replacing your factory radio, you'll notice a big improvement in sound quality, courtesy of this Kenwood's 24-bit digital-to-analog converter and its robust built-in amplifier. You'll also be impressed by the user-friendly controls — plug your iPod® into the receiver's front-panel USB input, and you'll be flicking through your albums, artists, and playlists in a few seconds. If you've got lots of music on your iPod, you'll love the dedicated "Search" and "Return" keys that simplify your search when you want to hear a particular song or album.
Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?
In most vehicles, you can use an adapter (not included) to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this 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.
And then the radio is so loud it scares me half to death! My family got this for me to listen to podcasts, presentations, books, etc. during commute but I struggle with the volume level from any of my devices.
wendy, Kansas
Featured Video:
What's in the Box:
- CD receiver (with 10-amp fuse inserted into the chassis)
- Face (attached)
- Trim ring (attached)
- Sleeve (installed)
- Wiring harness
- Wireless remote control (RC-406)
- CR2025 3V lithium-battery (installed in remote)
- Microphone with integrated bracket (attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle male 3.5mm connector)
- 2 Removal tools
- 4 Panhead ISO-mount screws
- 4 Flathead ISO-mount screws
- Face-fixing screw
- Instruction Manual (En/Fr/Sp)
- Warranty Card
Product Highlights:
General features:
- CD player with built-in MOSFET amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
- built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Pandora Internet radio control with iPhone, Android, and Blackberry
- plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RW discs, including discs loaded with MP3, WMA, and AAC files
- detachable face with with 11-character display
- remote control
Audio features:
- 3-band equalizer with 7 preset EQ curves
- Supreme Setting function restores high frequencies in music files
- high- and low-pass filters
- subwoofer level control
Expandability:
- iPod direct control via USB input — no adapter necessary, but adding Kenwood's optional connecting cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
- compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
- inputs: front auxiliary and USB inputs
- outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs ( 2.5-volt front, rear, and sub)
Other features and specs:
- compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
- warranty: 1 year
- Our 60-day money-back guarantee
Kenwood KDC-BT555U Reviews
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Features and Specs
| Expandability | ||
|---|---|---|
| AUX Input | Front | |
| Audio/video Input | --- | |
| USB Input | Front | |
| CarPlay | No | |
| Android Auto | No | |
| Siri Control | Bluetooth | |
| Android Control | Yes | |
| Memory Card Slot | USB memory | |
| Bluetooth Compatible | Built-in | |
| Satellite Radio Ready | SiriusXM | |
| HD Radio | No | |
| Navigation | --- | |
| iPod Compatibility | ||
| Full size | Classic/5Gen | |
| Nano | 7/6/5/4/3/2/1 | |
| Touch | 5/4/3/2/1 | |
| iPhone | 5S/5C/5/4S/4/3GS/3G/2G | |
| General | ||
| CEA-2006 Compliant | No | |
| RMS Power Output | 22 watts | |
| Peak Output | 50 watts | |
| RMS Power Bandwidth | 20-20KHz | |
| Preamp Outputs | 6-channel | |
| Sub Preamp Outputs | Yes | |
| Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs | No | |
| Video Screen | No | |
| Preamp Voltage | 2.5 volts | |
| Display Color | Bluish white | |
| Key Button Color | Variable | |
| EQ Bands | 3 | |
| Wireless Remote | Yes | |
| Steering Wheel Control Compatible | Adapter required | |
| Parts Warranty | 1 Year | |
| Labor Warranty | 1 Year | |
| Tuner | ||
| FM Sensitivity | 11.2 dBf | |
| European Tuning | Yes | |
| Seek/Scan | Seek | |
| Radio Data System | Yes | |
Product Research
Built-in Bluetooth
iPod/Android/AUX Integration
AM/FM+Pandora+SiriusXM Radio
Disc & USB Playback
Audio Section
Display Features
Remote Control
Built-in Bluetooth
Bluetooth Technology: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U is equipped with built-in Bluetooth (ver. 2.1 + EDR) 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. 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 1.5 (Hands Free Profile), OPP 1.1 (Object Push Profile), PBAB 1.0 (Phone Book Access Profile).
- Audio Streaming: A2DP 1.2 (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP 1.3 (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).
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-BT555U. Visit Kenwood's Support Site for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled phones.
SPP (Secure Simple Pairing): With Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the Kenwood KDC-BT555U without having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. When a registered Bluetooth device is in close proximity to the receiver, the auto connection function automatically pairs the two units. You can register up to five Bluetooth-enabled devices with the Kenwood head unit. A maximum of two Bluetooth-enabled phones can be connected at one time, but only one can be used at a time.
Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication: The head unit supports Bluetooth hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The controls of the KDC-BT555U can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call, or end a call. The unit also includes an 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-BT555U 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-BT555U, 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-BT555U. 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 History: The Call History 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.
External Microphone: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U 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. You can adjust the volume level and noise cancellation of the microphone without affecting the other sources. 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 1.505" (depth).
Note: This unit does not offer an integrated front-panel microphone.
SMS: If your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone is compatible with SMS (Short Message Service), the Kenwood head unit will notify you when a message has been received. You must then use your phone to check the message. You cannot read, edit, or send a message through this unit.
Wireless Audio Streaming (w/ Metadata Display): The Kenwood KDC-BT555U also supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of a Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone. The KDC-BT555U will be able to control basic playback functions of your Bluetooth device's stored music; such as Play/Pause, Skip Next/Previous, 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-BT555U also supports audio streaming of music apps downloaded on your smartphone with metadata display and limited control. Advanced music control of your music apps will still need be done via your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone. When an incoming call or outgoing call is in progress from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone, audio streaming will be paused so you can take your call. Once the call is finished, your streaming music will resume.
Siri Digital Assistant Control: When paired and connected with an iPhone 4S or 5/5C/5S via Bluetooth (not USB), the Kenwood KDC-BT55U has the ability to access Siri through its front-panel controls and external microphone. Simply press-and-hold down on the head unit's Answer Button to engage Siri and use the included microphone to communicate with Siri. Siri's voice will heard through your vehicle's speakers. All Siri functions including hands-free calling, music search, setting reminders, text-messaging, audible navigation, and more can be done through the KDC-BT555U and its microphone. The head unit's display will only indicate hands-free calling and Bluetooth audio information (all other functions of Siri are only audible through the Kenwood KDC-BT555U; visual data will still need to be viewed from your iPhone device).
Note: You can ask Siri to get directions to a destination and the turn-by-turn instructions will heard through your vehicle's speakers, while the on-screen map still displays on your iPhone 4S/5/5C/5S. The head unit's audio is attenuated while Siri provides audible directions.
Bluetooth Detailed Settings: The KDC-BT555U 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.
- Echo Level: You adjust the echo cancellation delay time until the least echo is being heard during a phone conversation.
- Mic Gain: Adjusts the volume of the external microphone.
iPod/Android/AUX Integration
iPod Direct Connection w/ DAC Bypass: The KDC-BT555U's front-panel USB port 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 5/5C/5S; use the Lightning-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-BT555U.
- DAC Bypass: This 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.
- Music 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 also 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. 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.
- Information Display: The KDC-BT555U 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-BT555U will not display your iPod/iPhone's music information (the head unit will instead display "APP/iPod").
- Battery 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. If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it.
iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 9/19/2013):
| Apple Device | Generation | Tested Version | Media Type | Control Type | Specific Apps | Display Type | Bluetooth | Charge | |||||
| Audio | Video | Head Unit | iPod/App | Pandora app | Artist/Song Text | Track Info | Phone | Audio | Siri | ||||
| iPhone | 2G | 3.1.3 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y |
| 3G | 4.2.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | |
| 3GS | 5.1.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | |
| 4 | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | |
| 4S | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
| 5 | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
| 5C | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
| 5S | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
| touch | 1st | 2.2.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| 2nd | 4.2.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | N | Y | |
| 3rd | 5.1.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | N | Y | |
| 4th | 6.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | N | Y | |
| 5th | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | N | Y | |
| nano | 1st | 1.3.1 | Y | N | Y | N | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| 2nd | 1.1.3 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 3rd | 1.1.3 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 4th | 1.0.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 5th | 1.0.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 6th | 1.2 PC | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 7th | 1.02 PC | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | N | Y | |
| classic | 80GB | 1.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| 120GB | 2.0.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 160GB | 2.0.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| video | 5th | 1.3 | Y | N | Y | N | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| iPad | 1 | 5.1.1 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | N | N |
| 2 | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | N | N | |
| 3 | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | N | N | |
| 4 | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | |
| mini | 7.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
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 Google Play App Store. 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 | 8-/16-bit | n/a |
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 KDC-BT555U allows you to select the source type displayed when using the auxiliary input. You can choose from AUX, DVD, Portable, Game, Video, or TV. 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.
AM/FM+Pandora+SiriusXM Radio
RDS AM/FM Tuner: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U features a built-in RDS AM/FM tuner. The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast information such as artist & track information when listening to compatible AM/FM stations. You can choose one of four tuning methods: Auto 1 (seek tuning), Auto 2 (cycles through and tunes the selected band's preset stations only with each button press), Manual Tune, or Direct Access (via remote). The KDC-BT555U's tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank for storing presets. The Kenwood KDC-BT555U 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.
Note: 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.
Pandora Internet Radio: Pandora is the leading Internet Radio music service in the United States, giving people music they love anytime, anywhere, through personalized radio stations. The Kenwood KDC-BT555U 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 device. Your iPhone, Android, or Blackberry smartphone 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.
- Connection Type: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U provides Pandora App
access via a USB-connected iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled Android/Blackberry
smartphone.
- Pandora App for iPhone: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U provides complete access to your Pandora account using your iPhone, via the head unit's front-panel USB port. To access Pandora you must have an Apple iPhone (iOS 5.0 or later) with the latest version of the Pandora App from Apple's iTunes App Store.
- Pandora App for Android/Blackberry: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U lets you playback and control Pandora Internet Radio streamed from your Android or Blackberry smartphone, via Bluetooth (no hard-wired connection required). To access Pandora from the Kenwood head unit, your Bluetooth-enabled Android or Blackberry smartphone must have the latest version of the Pandora App from the Google Play App Store or BlackBerry App World. Your Android or Blackberry smartphone must support A2DP, AVRCP, and SPP Bluetooth profiles.
- Station Control: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U will provide control over
the Pandora music service streamed to your USB-connected iPhone or
Bluetooth-enabled Android/Blackberry smartphone.
- Station List: You can select Pandora stations from your Station List by date or alphabetically (A-Z).
- Create New Station: New stations can be created based on the current songs or artists playing on Pandora.
- Presets: You can save 3 Pandora stations as presets.
- Skip Songs: You can skip song tracks within a station. You cannot skip back to a previous song. Pandora limits the number of skips allowed.
- Thumbs Up/Down: You can give songs a thumbs up or thumbs down to help Pandora personalize stations to suit your preferences.
- Bookmarking: The song or artist currently being played can be bookmarked & stored in your Pandora account.
- Information Display: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U will display Artist, Album, & Song information provided by the Pandora app on your iPhone or Android/Blackberry smartphone.
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 Android/Blackberry smartphone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.
SiriusXM Ready: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U comes ready for SiriusXM programming with access to XM and 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 and 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
- Supports the SiriusXM Instant Replay function, so you can pause, rewind, and replay up to 30 minutes of live content
- Channels containing unsuitable content for children can be blocked
Note: A separate SiriusXM Satellite Radio subscription is required (operates on the XM Network). However, you can easily add this SiriusXM tuner to an existing Sirius or XM account for a Multi-Radio Discount Plan.
Disc & USB 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. The unit also supports playback of MP3/WMA/AAC music files loaded onto CD-R/RW discs.
Front-Panel USB Port: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U features a front panel USB (type-A) port that is hidden behind a flip-up cover. The USB port enables connection of a portable USB mass-storage class (MSC) device; such as select Android smartphones (Froyo/Gingerbread OS only), portable digital audio players, or USB thumbdrives. The USB port supports audio playback and control of MP3, WMA, & WAV audio files stored on these portable USB mass-storage class devices. USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port (max. 1A), and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On. You cannot connect a USB device via a USB hub or Multi-Card Reader to this unit.
MP3/WMA/AAC Playback: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U supports the following types of MP3, WMA, AAC files recorded onto CD-R/RW disc or loaded onto a USB mass storage class device.
| Media Type | CD-R/RW | USB Storage Device |
| File System | ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo, Long file name | FAT 16/32 |
| Playable File Types |
MP3:
bit rate of 8-320 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05,
24, 32, 44.1, 48 kHz AAC: bit rate of 8-320 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8, 11.025, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48 kHz WMA: bit rate of 32-192 kbps w/ sampling rate of 32, 44.1, 48 kHz |
|
| Maximum # of Folders/Files | 50 folders/512 files (255 files per folder) | 255 folders/65,025 (255 files per folder) |
| Tags | ID3 tags (ver.1.0/1.1/2.2/2.3/2.4), WMA tags, AAC tags | |
Text Scroll: The KDC-BT555U 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-406) allows you to search for music directly by entering the track number.
Playback Modes: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U 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.
Music Editor Compatible: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U 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/AAC music files to your USB (MSC) device 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. 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
Audio Section
24 Bit D/A Converter: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior sound quality.
MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U 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-BT555U 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
6ch/2.5V Preamp Outputs: The KDC-BT555U 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.
Front & Rear High-Pass Filter: The KDC-BT555U features a 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.
Subwoofer Controls: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U offers the following subwoofer controls, when you are using unit's subwoofer preamp output.
- 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.
Speaker Settings: The Speaker Setting function tailors the head unit's audio 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.
Note: You can store bass, middle and treble tone settings for each source (CD, AM/FM, Aux, USB, iPod, Bluetooth, and Pandora).
Sound Enhancements: The head unit provides further sound enhancements for your car audio system.
- Bass Boost: The Kenwood CD receiver features a Bass Boost control that can be set to the following levels (BB1, BB2, BB3, 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).
- 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.
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).
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-BT555U features a single front loading CD face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. There is no protective face case included. An optional soft face case (142DFC1X, sold separately) can be purchased for this unit. A face-fixing screw is supplied for making the face non-detachable, if desired.
Fluorescent Display: The Kenwood head unit features a single-line, 11-character, bluish-white backlit fluorescent display.
Variable Color Button Illumination: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U features variable color button illumination. 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.
Illumination Dimmer: You can manually dim the LCD and button illumination to better suit the time of day. The Kenwood logo and eject button do not dim.
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-BT555U comes with an IR remote control (RC-406) for wireless operation of the head unit. The remote will control Audio, CD, USB, 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.
- 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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Customer Q&A
5 questions already asked
Both receivers appear to be SiriusXM Ready. SiriusXM Ready: The Kenwood KDC-BT555U comes ready for SiriusXM programming with access to XM and 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 and channel guide. For help in choosing a receiver I would recommend contacting and Advisor by phone or online chat. [ Jeff Dec 19, 2013 ] Staff
Yes it will . My son has a HTC shift and I have an iPhone and they both work in it. I think you can link up to 5 phones [ JOHN M Dec 17, 2013 ]
It should!!! I running my head unit via my iPhone 5s and it works seamlessly. The critical part is ensuring that your bluetooth can find the head unit so make sure your phone is fully charged and your bluetooth is turned on! The install was really easy and the total install time took about 1-hour. It could have gone faster but I solder my connections to ensure nothing comes loose caused by vibration. [ ALLEN Dec 17, 2013 ]
To expand on my previous answer, I have an Android phone and have no problems connecting via Bluetooth. Some apps are mre integrated with the bluetooth and you will have mpre features. At a minimum, when using bluetooth on for this device, the sound from the Android is transmitted over bluetooth. Think of bluetooth as an invisible AUX cable, with more features for app that support more bluetooth features (track advance, displaying information on the display, making and ansering phone calls, etc...). I love this unit and it works very well with my Android. [ KEN Dec 17, 2013 ]
Yes [ SAMUEL Dec 17, 2013 ]
It will link to it via Bluetooth as long as your Android is Bluetooth capable. [ KEN Dec 17, 2013 ]
Unfortunately I do not know. We linked an iPhone 5. [ CHARLES E Dec 17, 2013 ]
Yes you can. Once I figure that out, it was very easy to do. [ TRAVIS Dec 08, 2013 ]
Yep, it works the same as if you are using the controls on your device. This receiver is very easy to setup and use. [ JAMES Dec 07, 2013 ]
im sorry i dont use it this way, i use bluetooth only for my phone, but i seem to think it can skip the bluetooth songs if i remember. It definitely can control my ipod wired. try looking at the manual? see link go to this address manual.kenwood(dot)com/files/GET0858-001A.pdf [ DAVID Dec 07, 2013 ]
never tried , don t know. bluetooth works great though. we use pandora [ MICHAEL Dec 07, 2013 ]
You have basic controls such as skip, etc over Bluetooth. Via USB you have more control such as thumbs up or down in pandora, etc. also should note that subwoofer channel does not seem to be active over Bluetooth, only when plugged in via cable. [ JUSTIN Dec 07, 2013 ]
Sorry but I don't have controls on my steering wheel. [ STACY L Dec 08, 2013 ]
yes it should they explain it in the instructions but not sure you may have to have an adaptor. but i do know it can [ JIM Dec 07, 2013 ]
No. Not out of the box. [ DAVID Dec 05, 2013 ]
Yes. You will need to purchase the appropriate PAC unit for your vehicle. Crutchfield advisers are a great help if you have problems finding the correct unit. [ JEFFREY D Dec 05, 2013 ]
Not sure it works with my iphone and s3 [ KENNETH Dec 02, 2013 ]
I don't know it works great with the iPhone 4S and just upgraded to the 5s and it works great my wife loves it sorry I could not be of better help [ EDWARD Dec 02, 2013 ]
Yes, as long as you phone has Bluetooth, it will hook up. Bluetooth doesn't get outdated like some other stuff and require a newer version. They may get better quality input and output but really not even enough to know the difference. [ RYAN Dec 02, 2013 ]
Hi, I'm thinking it should with the Bluetooth, I have no problems with mine thus far... hope this helps :) [ NICOLE Dec 02, 2013 ]
I would think any BT would work. I can say the MIC is not that sensitive I would suggest a placement near the visor. I dont know if the V3i can play music but the one note I would say to that is I havent been able to get my sub to work when streaming though a BT connection. [ PIERRE Dec 02, 2013 ]
Unfortunately, I can't say for certain if it will or not. It has worked with my iPhone 5 w/o any issues. I would think that it should work fine. Sorry I can't be anymore help. [ CHRISTINA Dec 02, 2013 ]