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Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
Navigation receiver (New Stock)
Item #: 113DNX890H
80 Reviews | 9 questions - 28 answers
This item is no longer available.
Original Price: $849.99
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Quick guidance from Kenwood's flagship navigation receiver
Not only do you want a navigation receiver that won't slow you down with time-wasting search results for your favorite destinations, but you also want one that gives you the most possibilities for entertainment on the go. That's where the Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD receiver fits the bill — it's got a 6.95" touchscreen display that puts control of your music, video, and phone options right at your fingertips.And the latest Garmin navigation functionality with Insta-Search and Insta-Route helps you find points of interest and routes five times faster than with previous models.
This Kenwood uses predictive text so you'll even save time typing in the name of your destination. You can also take advantage of smartphone connectivity that'll put most of your phone's favorite features conveniently right on the receiver's screen.
Take advantage of your phone's conveniences
The DNX890HD connects you to many of your phone's favorite features on the road, but it works in different ways for different devices:
iPhone®: With a separate cable, you'll get control of your Pandora® Internet radio, Aha Radio, and iHeartRadio apps through the receiver's touchscreen when connected. App Mode also gives you limited control over other select apps on your phone. The DNX890HD also offers compatibility with your iPhone's Siri® feature for select email, Bluetooth® calling, and iPod® commands.
Android™: You'll get control of your smartphone's Pandora, Aha Radio, and iHeartRadio apps through Bluetooth, so no cable needed. The Kenwood Music Control app also gives you easy search and playback functions of your Android phone's music through the receiver.
BlackBerry®: You'll get Pandora Internet radio app control through Bluetooth, so no cable needed.
Free built-in NAVTEQ traffic reports
NAVTEQ traffic information for major metropolitan areas comes with the DNX890HD, at no cost to you. You'll be able to see congestion along your route and find a way around it from the driver's seat.
Bluetooth for hands-free convenience
Built-in Bluetooth lets you make and take calls through the receiver via your compatible phone. When your iPhone's connected with a cable, the receiver will automatically send a pairing request to your phone — all you have to do is accept or deny the request. The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD also supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of any Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone.
HD Radio™ tuner
The DNX890HD also features an HD Radio tuner. You'll enjoy much-improved AM/FM sound quality when you're tuned into a local participating station, and there's no subscription required — just tune it in like a regular radio station.
Better connections, brighter sound, and bigger video
This receiver will play all your CDs and DVDs, including discs loaded with music files, while two rear A/V inputs offer connections for more audio/video sources. The DNX890HD offers a pair of USB inputs so you can easily complement your iPod with a thumb drive or other digital music source. The 13-band equalizer, digital time alignment, and other tools really let you tweak the sound settings to get your system sounding right in your vehicle.
The high-resolution 6.95" WVGA screen gives you the big picture for viewing video from DVDs or other sources when you're parked. You can tap into video content on your iPod or iPhone with the help of an iPod cable (not included). When you're on the road, you can play movies through a rear-seat monitor for your passengers. It's a great way to keep things interesting on long road trips.
Expand your system
You can hook up a satellite radio tuner (not included) to the receiver and discover how great it is to drive with your favorite stations everywhere you go. You can also connect a rear-view camera, so you can see what's behind you as you back out of a tight parking space. If you're looking to add amps and subs, you can take advantage of three sets of high-voltage preamp outputs available, including a dedicated subwoofer output with low-pass filter and level control.
iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your SYNC features
If your Ford vehicle comes with factory SYNC features, you don't have to worry about losing your favorite conveniences to get navigation and better sound — the DNX890HD offers compatibility you won't find in many other aftermarket radios, courtesy of iDatalink's Maestro module. For SYNC systems, you'll be able to retain voice-controlled features, steering wheel audio controls, and factory audio functions, plus enjoy expanded functionality including gauges, climate controls, a distance sensor, and tire pressure monitor. The DNX890HD will also be compatible with GM OnStar and Chrysler uConnect systems, with adapters from iDatalink coming soon.
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 the Kenwood, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls.
Note: Bluetooth compatibility of this device may vary, depending on your phone and service provider.
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.
Product Highlights:
General features:
- DVD/CD player with 6.95" touchscreen and AM/FM tuner
- fits double-DIN (4" tall) dash openings
- built-in amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
- built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Pandora control for iPhone (cable required), Android, and BlackBerry
- built-in HD Radio tuner
- built-in iPod control: Kenwood cable required for full access to audio/video content
- remote control
Navigation features:
- built-in Garmin navigation system with Insta-Route and Insta-Search
- maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, plus 6 million points of interest
- free lifetime NAVTEQ traffic service
Audio/video features:
- plays CDs, DVDs, and USB memory devices (see Details for full capabilities)
- 13-band parametric EQ with digital time alignment
- high- and low-pass filters
- works with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
- inputs: two rear USB inputs, two rear A/V inputs, rear-view camera input
- outputs: A/V output; 6-channel preamp outputs (5-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
Other information:
- compatible with iDatalink Maestro to retain factory SYNC functionality
- compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
- warranty: 2 years
- Our 60-day money-back guarantee
Why install a car stereo with built-in GPS?
Imagine taking a trip as your car's receiver gives you directions, finds the best restaurant for dinner, and plays movies for your back seat denizens. Navigation receivers cover all the bases, with GPS guidance, DVD playback, and a host of other useful features. You can search through millions of points of interest to locate gas stations, restaurants, museums, and other interesting spots, wherever you are. Most receivers offer Bluetooth capability for hands-free calling, along with the ability to search through your iPod playlists with touchscreen controls.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD Reviews
Average Customer Review:
dont buy refurbished from Kenwood
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
not happy with this product. I bought it because i like Garmin but setting up the phones to bluetooth was difficult. receiver required updates and the nav just stopped working after 6 months and come to find out refurbished only offers a 90 day warranty. Ridiculous for something at this price point. Kenwood please stand behind your products
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Nice head unit with lots of great features
Pros: responsive touch screen, good blue tooth, navigation woks well tons of extra feature when using I Data Link interface system
Cons: Sometimes phone pairing for my IPhone 5s gets lost and I have to re pair my phone
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
I bought this unit to integrate with my older ipod, the navigation feature, cd & dvd playback and the 5v pre-out for my Orion old school amp. The extra voltage made a noticeable difference in terms of my stereo getting louder with less effort. The sound quality pretty much remained the same compared to my Pioneer App Radio II it replaced.
Yes it is a little complicated to use at first but after about 1 hour of tweaking, it's not so bad.
I'm really glad I bought this unit. I'd highly recommend for the advanced user that appreciates some of the features.
Pros: Advanced features 5 volt pre-out Good sound quality Navigation Good menu CD DVD
Cons: A little pricey.
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
User unfriendly, too many menus, too distracting to use while driving. Terrible sound, first unit that sounded worse that a stock CD player. Like the other guy I'm glad it was broken, says a lot about quality control.
Pros: Nice navigation.
Cons: Too many to list
Happy so far.
2009 Ford Mustang
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I got a refurbished unit and so far I have not had any problems. Installation went smooth with the install kit and wiring harness. No issues with software update, navigation update, or Bluetooth. It would be nice if it dimmed with the OEM dimming switch.
Pros: It made the Shaker 500 system in my car already really come to life. I enjoy having stereo, phone, navigation, and backup camera all in one unit.
Cons: Some features take outside searching to access. I had to research on the internet how to dim the display, for some reason they don't include this with the manual. I also discovered that the SMS message feature does not work with my iPhone 4, kind of disappointing.
DNX890HD Refurbished-Do Not Buy
2011 Nissan Xterra
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Worked mostly like it was supposed to but would not accept firmware updates. Too much money for only a 30 day warranty. Glad I found out mine still had problems in first week. Crutchfield was great with the return.
Pros: Great features
Cons: Unreliable
Horrible radio
I bought 2 of these: 1 for my car and 1 for my wife. They have been horrible. Waste of money. Bluetooth telephone is horrible and it at times will not recognize the garmin maps. had to reset the device, upgrade the software, no luck. have to send to kenwood to service it. This is the first and ONLY time I will ever buy a Kenwood. I will stay with Pioneer in the future.
Pros: NOTHING
Cons: EVERYTHING
Great Buy
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I bought online from Crutchfield and did the install myself. Had to call a couple times with questions just to make sure I was staying on-track but the technical support team was great answering all my questions. I also ordered Axxess steering wheel control module and Sirius satellite radio tuner both of which were easy to install. I am not sure if the negative reviews on here are just pure audiophiles who have a higher standard than an everyday guy like myself but I cannot find a single thing that was on my list of "must haves" that has fallen short. Granted, it takes a few seconds for the unit to get started; but once it does everything is top-notch and I'm willing to spare the few extra seconds it takes to get there. All-in-all, I would recommend this unit to anyone. I drive a 2007 FJ Cruiser and the unit looks like it was custom made to fit in the dash. Great buy and great service.
Pros: Great user interface; all extras work great.
Cons: None.
Don't do it!
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I'm normally a Kenwood Excelon Fan but, the DNX890HD is the worst HU I've ever owned, although the one I received was dysfunctional, it was sluggish, touch-screen was inaccurate, either you had to press twice, or accidentally hit the wrong icon, the Garmin Nav was slow, the backup camera took forever to connect (i was already backed up and going forward by the time it went on), sound wasn't good, overall not good, replaced with a Alpine!
Pros: Kenwood. Crutchfield very supportive and replaced (with a higher cost unit, Alpine)
Cons: Everything about it!
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Easy to install. Lots of features, and sounds great!
Kenwood excelon dnx890hd
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
This head unit is pricy but it is top shelf with a lot of extras that help wit the price great picture on the dvd and camera this unit is great i love kenwood.
Best Head Unit i have EVER owned!
I see a lot of negative and positive reviews and none of the ones I have read mentioned whether or not they updated their firmware and maps. I did not buy my unit from Crutchfield (which is unusual for me) but the first thing I did before playing around with the various menus and settings was to download the latest firmware, and map updates. I don't know if the unit had any issues before the updates, but it certainly did not after. Out of the 30-50 head units I have owned and installed from the age of 15 to 40 this is by far the best and obviously the most advanced, and I have zero complaints. My install is in a 2004 Ford F150, I love the screen, have no issues with daylight washout, or with nighttime dimming, I wonder if the dimmer wire was hooked up to the correct location for the reviews that say its too bright at night, and screen angle plus antiglare screen protector takes care of the sunlight. I went with everything except satellite radio, back up camera, parking sensor bypass, 2 amps, add on USB/A/V input, Kenwood iPod cable, I even installed a relay for the ext. sw. and programmed my ext. sw. to turn on my LED interior lighting from the unit screen, and uploaded custom backgrounds. That is about it, update everything, you will need a 2 GB SD card for maps, and a couple GB thumb drive works fine for the firmware. Most if not all GPS units have a 28-30 second boot time, and while some are a bit faster than others, that is not a fair con.
Pros: Garmin, speech to text, video, inputs, audio adjustments, sound quality, ease of updates, Android WIFI, Bluetooth
Cons: Price, though it has come down since I bought mine so its not really as much of an issue
2007 Mustang GT & Excelon DNX890HD
2007 Ford Mustang
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Very pleased from start to finish. Spoke with Rhonda to make sure we had all the necessary parts for a 2007 Mustang GT Premium. The stock shaker 500 CD Changer crapped out so over 2 months of comparing and pricing and looking at features I may add for later on, I was drawn to this unit. Placed an order on a Monday night and had the product in hand Thursday evening, a day before the quoted day. Took 4 hours to install, 1 hour to fit adjust with just the factory components to hook up. The wiring harness instructions were a bit vague at first but combined with Kenwood install instructions and Crutchfield install guides I ended up with a factory looking harness. Had to fit and refit a couple times to get proper edge to edge clearances on the face plate and console. System has been running for a week with no problems, lockups, or issues with syncing my phone (HCT one-max) and apps. I am hoping Kenwood expands on its app compatibility but for now it has everything I need and room to expand for a playstation, camera's, and more. Hands free works fine but why can't it read the names from my phone book for inbound calls. May be just a setting, don't know yet. The microphone does echo even with all the anti-echo adjustments. Video is great and plays every format I tried, some not advertised, but if you need a codex to play it, forget it. This is my first NAV unit and I am mostly satisfied. It makes you realize how bad the factory speakers are. let the shopping begin.
Pros: Great sound and even without the extended base and loudness turned on. Bluetooth hookup is simple and hasn't missed yet. Clean design that looks good in the factory mounting location. Large enough screen that reading the navigation instructions doesn't fully distract from driving and you can turn off the turn by turn announcements.
Cons: Gets 4 starts because: If your going to offer a Ford adaption harnes the least you could do is offer a pre-wired harness that doesn't require you to spend 2 hours soldering. That would cut the install time in half. Text entry for locations and searches are circa 2000 and can be annoying so its a good thing the speach to text actually works well. Has built in gauge app, but no link to the OBD-II system, if I cant figure out how to link that without an I phone I won't get that awsome option
Very Nice
I will say 4-1/2 stars. The system is very nice. I use this with the IDaltaLink Maestro RR and the MU1 faceplate for a 11 Mustang Shelby. The sound is great, and the radio responds well. I would recommend everyone to download the 1.7 update and use it. It helps the system out greatly. Boot up times are not nearly as long as I have read on in some reviews. My boot times are pretty fast.
Using the My Mustang, all of the sync features work flawlessly. I have also used the Pandora features, and again, the interface is great. ANother great feature I have is the vehicle info, and gauges setup. Nice and accurate, and it even allows reset of car codes on the fly ! The A/F is one of the reasons I wanted this, as my Shelby is fully modded. With this system, I do not need to buy any extra gauges as this will tell me all I need to know.
As for Nav. I have not had a chance to put it through its paces, but I do like how the interface is setup. In closing, I would say for any Mustang owner with the base shaker, this unit is well worth it. Fit is great, and the extra features is worth it.
Only con I have is that the Ipod features need a Kenwood cable to work with the KENWOOD intyerface, but the sync one works fine.
Pros: Great sound great interface well worth it.
Cons: Stupid Kenwood Ipod cable needed for the Kenwood interface
Great Buy!
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
This stereo from crutchfield is such a great buy! I ordered this online along with the Axxess steering wheel control module and Sirius satellite radio tuner three days ago and it arrived yesterday for my 2014 Subaru Wrx STI. I am not sure if the negative reviews on here are just flukes or they didnt know what they were doing during the install, but the mounting kit and wire harness made this thing a cinch to install. It took some extra time to run the satellite radio and navigation antennas correctly but overall it was easy and this thing works like a charm. The operating system flips between modes without hesitation, the hd and satellite radio tuners on this deck also work quite well. The display is nice and it does dim correctly if you use the orange illumination wire on the harness and go into your dislpay settings and set the dimmer to sync mode. The 890hd bluetooth paired up to my Iphone 5 automatically with no problems at all. I would recommend this head unit to anyone looking to upgrade, and if you dont know what you're doing with installation, have a pro audio shop do the install. Great buy!
Pros: Easy install, snappy user interface, syncs well with iphone 5
Cons: none
Great Head Unit With Expandability
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I replaced my factory unit in my 04 Forrester with a set of Polk speakers. It sounds great. There is so much flexibility in the customization of the sound. I purchased this unit for the Garmin navigation and the integrated Bluetooth. The Bluetooth works perfect. My HTC integrates with the Kenwood and the phonebook downloaded automatically. The txt message reader doesn't work though I knew that as I checked the Kenwood site before I purchased the unit. I also don't want to be distracted by txt message anyway. I use the Pandora and I Heart Radio integration regularly. As well as My HTC one that is Bluetooth connected my old iPhone 4s is connected to the USB and added Kenwood added adapter. My iPhone is used as an iPod touch by my choice. Both phones play nice with the Kenwood. Too bad the Garmin connect app for my phone does not connect unless I disable both the Pandora and I Heart Radio. Not a deal breaker the most useful items in the app had to pay for with subscription to Garmin. All in all this a great Unit and I would definitely would buy again for my other vehicle.
Pros: So much customization, with dual zone head rest can be added for video for the kids. Serious/XM can be easily added. Dual USB ports. Great equalizer and other custom menus to tune your speaker for the best sound.
Cons: Garmin connect can be an issue. Check with Kenwood.com to make sure your phone is on the compatibility list.
really nice unit
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Just installed it today and all functions are performing as advertized.
Pros: Many
Cons: None so far
Glitchy, but good sound and GPS
Absolutely it is glitchy. I updated the firmware and it improved but still every once in a while the sound won't play until the station is changed and then changed back. The Bluetooth doesn't always connect to my phone. Irritating. GUI has some less than logical changes. Return to last page on some interfaces, not others, and not in same place every screen.
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I bought this radio to replace my stock radio. So far I haven't had and issues with it. I think the unit is a little pricey for all that it is. It looks great and sounds great but really is only a $400 or $500 unit.
This receiver is amazing!
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
This thing is full of features (DVD, Nav, CD, Rear Camera Monitor, Vehicle System Info, Touchscreen)! I installed this along with the Maestro in my 2012 F150. I was able to retain all of my factory features. My favorite part is the gauges screen and tire pressure info. Cruthfield's customer service is second to none! They swapped me out receivers after the first one I ordered wouldn't do everything I wanted. They also helped me out with the XM/Sirius tuner. I had a little trouble with the Maestro after I installed, 2 calls to Crutchfield Tech Support and I was up and running! I ordered the refurb DNX890 and it looks and performs like a brand new one. I would not hesitate on buying another refurb Kenwood stereo.
Pros: * Display is amazing! * Gauages & tire pressure screen are very useful * Able to retain all of your factory features * Price (I was able to pick this up for less than half of what a new one costs)
Cons: The only con would be the amount of the install time. I spent about 5 hrs total (including soldering the Maestro harness to the Kenwood harness)
My truck finally has a decent sound system
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I bought this unit in late October as a replacement for the factory head unit which came with my 2011 Toyota Tundra. I've had it installed for 2 months now and I couldn't be happier. The Garmin GPS system is accurate and easy to use. I also installed the Kenwood CMOS 210 backup camera system as well, which I would also recommend if you are thinking about getting a camera. The sound quality on this unit is very good. The 22 watts per channel combined with the other audio options (equalizer, loudness and extra bass) allow you to customize the sound to your liking or you can use some of the sound presets. As far as the installation goes, it wasn't much worse than any of the other car stereo installs I've done on my other vehicles, but be advised--this install is not a plug-to-plug install. You are going to have to splice into other wires in the vehicle's electrical system. In my case, I had to splice into the reverse and parking brake wires. It's not daunting, but if you are unsure about making these types of modifications, you might want to allow someone with more experience to do the install or help you. These wires are not hard to locate. The Crutchfield tech staff is pretty helpful, plus if you Google your vehicle's wiring system, there are probably good wiring diagrams available online to use as an additional reference. All things considered, I'm very pleased with this purchase and wish I had done it sooner.
Pros: GUI is easy to use. The 13 band equalizer sure beats having just separate bass and treble controls. The picture on the backup camera is very clear--much better than I expected. Power output is very adequate--no amp was necessary. Boot time was also faster than I expected. Note: this is second Excelon receiver I've purchased in the last 10 years from Crutchfield and I hope I have as much luck with this one as I did the last one.
Cons: None. I've had no operational issues at all, like freezing.
Awesome unit
Purchased the refurb model unit with the most current updates. Had it professionally installed with the steering wheel controls on my 2013 Toyota Tundra. I've had for about 2 weeks now and everything works as described. Unit does have a slight delay during start up, but it doesn't bother me at all since I warm my truck up. GPS, Bluetooth, video, USB works great. I had a backup cam installed today and switches over as soon as I put it into reverse. Some say there's a delay, but that wasn't the case for me. I love this unit! Definitely recommend this NAVI unit.
Pros: Everything!!!
Cons: NONE!!!
ok so I was torn between giving this unit 2 or 3 stars. Lets start with the fact that my Pioneer avhp4400bh had been stolen from my truck. I decided to upgrade the unit to the kenwood 890hd and I can tell you every negative thing you've read about this unit is true. Yes the gui looks great but it becomes extremely glitchey really within hours of install. The unit freezes and you find yourself constantly messing with it while driving. It is very dangerous in this nature bc you end up focusing on it too long while on the road. I can not believe Kenwood would allow their "high end" products to go into production like this. The GPS is great but it doesn't make up for the lack of smooth function. Not once did my pioneer glitch! It always worked perfect thus the stellar reviews! Beware of this product. you will become frustrated at times will on the road and have to mess with the unit just to change an album from your ipod or some other basic request. It comes with a master reset and a memory option. The manual says to store your custom settings in the memory so that if your vehicle ever loses power or you change that battery your setting wont reset. What they actually mean is... This system is notorious for freezing up and needing resting so to save you the extra headache save your custom settings. With that being said the sound is much more powerful.
Pros: GUI looks great, Garmin GPS is best on the market, will impress people on looks alone, lots of cool extras you can add, gives a much deeper richer sound to your system than pioneer products
Cons: system freezes up at odd times! too much attention spent on troubleshooting while driving (dangerous) Apps are glitchy expensive for the amount of negative issues
Great GPS
2002 Jaguar X-Type
Great navigation, I installed it in my Jaguar X-Type to replace the factory stereo. It sounds amazing the picture for the videos is great. I do like the dual zone view, if I ever decide to put TVs in the head rests I can patch the Movies there for the people in the back. I love the navigation a lot of POIs and it stops you right in front of the address. The start up time is great less than 30 sec from start to the playing of the videos on my USB Drive. Overall I will definitely recommend this. It was very easy to install, No fuss no Mess.
Pros: Everything
Cons: none
Awesome unit
2012 Ford Flex
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
It's a great head unit lots of features/ options
Pros: Clean look, sound quality, very expandable.
Cons: The only issue more ways to show Clock with bigger Fonts.
Excellent Unit - Great Vehicle Update
2007 Audi A4
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Excellent Unit. I bought this unit along with a CMOS-310 Backup Camera and the SXV200V1 Satellite Tuner as an upgrade for my 2007 Audi A4 Cabrio. This added all the features that I was missing with backup camera, satellite radio, HD radio, bluetooth phone connection, and iPod control. I also bought the Steering wheel interface and the Audi replacement radio interface - these are a must. Install took about 8 hours, but it is amazing. Looks factory. Everything works. Response time is great once it booted up. Had a slight issue with getting sound out of my iPod, but a quick call to Crutchfield resolved that. My only complaint is that the bluetooth phone interface doesn't allow you to use the onscreen keypad to dial unless the parking break is up. LOL I found this funny since it is a safety feature but you have to touch all over the screen while driving to select a source, change a channel, etc. Whatever, it's minor since all of the voice recognition and phone book access work all the time. Navigation is a little choppy sometimes, but so was my Garmin, so it's good to, especially since you get HD Traffic updates. For anyone looking to update your car, I highly recommend this setup.
Pros: Everything!!! Feature rich, easy to use (once you learn the interface) and connected easily to my car with the PAC interfaces. A bit pro is Crutchfield and PAC-Audio support (PAC answered a question for me during install).
Cons: None, really, other than the safety feature that disables not only the DVD from playing when the car is not in park but also disables the telephone on-screen keypad.
Good unit, no problems
2012 Ford Mustang
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I have used this unit for a couple of weeks and had zero problems with it. The unit has not frozen on me once. This unit came with the newest software already installed.
GPS navigation has worked better than expected. I have had no reception or system issues. It calculates the route relatively fast. It's nice to have control of the GPS via Garmin's Android app. I love that it shows the actual interchanges on the interstate. This allows you to find the appropriate lane in unfamiliar places.
Hands free calling has worked well with my Android phone and integrated well into steering wheel buttons.
USB music is a bit slow to load and transition between songs. It isn't slow enough to be a deal breaker, but it it noticeable.
This unit does dim at night, but you have to configure your screen settings correctly first using the hidden menu. Press and hold the on screen menu button to find the hidden dimming options.
Being able to access my Mustang's ODBII data using Measrto RR is a great feature. Any data the car looks at can be displayed as a gauge on the screen. Also, having the climate controls on screen allows for a more clean install in the dash.
Pros: Allows Ford ODBII data to be displayed as gauges Integrates climate controls Great navigation features Menu structure is easy to navigate
Cons: USB is a bit slow to load Unit boot times take a bit also Unit will dim, but the options are hidden
Good unit but it has problems. Bad problems.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I've had this unit for about a month and a half now. Initially I was pretty pleased with it. Tremendous audio control with the EQ, the Bluetooth hands-free audio for the phone is superb, and the Garmin navigation is pretty much tops. But there are some problems that likely will have me returning it. Bad problems.
First, as others have said the display really cannot be dimmed enough for nighttime viewing. Your best bet is to drop the dimness all the way to -10 and then drop the "black" setting to -10 also. That helps. Unfortunately the display is also almost worthless in bright sunlight. I will never understand how Chrysler, Ford and others can obtain a nav unit with a screen that works great at night AND great in the daylight, but the big 12-volt audio companies can't seem to pull it off.
Second, in the past week I have had the unit start freezing up. Frequently. Chronically. The only fix is to either power off the unit by powering off the vehicle, or hit the RESET button and then have to restore all of your settings from the handy integrated "settings backup/restore" feature they provide. It's extremely annoying to suddenly have the unit stop responding to any hardware or software button controls while you're driving.
We've also experienced just today the nav system went into a coma and kept saying it was trying to locate GPS satellites. Yet another "freeze" of the onboard software. Rebooting fixed it.
The freezing issue alone is why I'm returning it.
Pros: Lots of features, superb Bluetooth handsfree audio.
Cons: Seems to be lacking CPU power -- screens are very laggy at times. Recently have had troubles with the system freezing up entirely, requiring power-cycling or resetting. These issues might could be fixed by a firmware revision by Kenwood, but they seem really slow to release new versions. Also, the dedicated iPhone input doesn't work with the iPhone 5 no matter what Kenwood says. Not with the current firmware at least. Doesn't matter what cables or adapters you try to use.
DNX 890 Hd
iPhone 5 users stay away from this unit it really is a bad unit for iphone 5 users none of the features work no less u have a iPhone 4 or 4s for them it's fine the navigation sucks the unit freezes constantly. It just looks good that's all can't change display screen also I have the maestro this is just a bad unit. And good luck with kenwood support no help at all. So take my advice if you have a iPhone 5 stay away and save your money.
Pros: Looks good
Cons: No iPhone 5 video freezes up navigation is slow not good for iPhone 5 users bad unit
2006 Subaru Forester
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I picked this up to replace the head unit in my Subie Fozzy. The sound quality is definitely better than the stock unit it replaces however I feel it falls short for the price. The initial boot on start-up is slow but not unbearable. The main screen is not customizable to allow you to remove icons that you don't use, which leads to needless scrolling. There also seems to be a serious lag on some menu functions that is long enough for you to question whether the icon you touched registered or not, causing frequent miss-selections. Hopefully these issues will be resolved in a software update. The Navigation works great, the integrated traffic is nice, and the fit and finish blend right in especially with the ability to change background colors to any shade you choose.
Pros: Looks good Navigation Bluetooth integration good sound quality
Cons: Laggy Slow
Had to get a replacement
2011 Ford Escape
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I had to get a replacement DNX890HD as the GPS function of the first unit did not work - it was stuck on "Searching for Satellites". I talked to Crutchfield Tech Support & after trying several things (resetting the unit, disconnecting & reconnecting the GPS Antenna, etc), Tech Support decided that they would send me a second unit. Once I received the replacement unit, I first plugged in the GPS antenna from the replacement unit into my old unit, as it would be easier to replace just the GPS Antenna instead of the entire unit. That did not work, so I replaced the entire unit, and have had no issues since then.
Not ready for prime time
This has been a waste of time and money. DO NOT BUY.
I design products similar to this for a living, and while on the surface it looks good, there are so many issues with it that I am truly sorry I purchased it.
The biggest problem? The screen intermittently locks up after a few seconds of operation. In looking over recent forum posts, this seems to be a common problem with Kenwood products. I updated the OS (I think 6 updates are now required to get it to 6.0) and the problem remains. Kenwood wants me to send it in for "evaluation" but from the posts I have seen, most of the time they just send it back without finding the problem. Factory reset does not work consistently, and when it does, it only helps for about 1 week.
Oh, I did find an undocumented feature to dim the display! Hold the MENU mutton down on any screen for about 5 seconds, and you get a menu to dim the display. This is undocumented BTW, and their tech support staff were of no help at all.
I've asked them to just send a replacement unit, but they refuse. I HAVE to send it in!
With customer service being such a competitive differentiator these days, you'd think they would bend over backwards to help clean up their image...
If someone made a nice double DIN mount for an iPad, I'd rip this puppy out and replace it in a heart beat.
VERY disappointed.
So, guess what, I've got a useless brick in my dash that "sometimes" works
Pros: Nice looking on the surface
Cons: Engineers responsible for this abomination need to be "reassigned" where they can do no further harm to Kenwood's "reputation"...
So this is supposed to be high end????
"Coolness Factor"
Build Quality
Ease of Use
Sound Quality
I first got the Sony 601BT. I liked it, but I wanted a little more sound tweaking and an easier way to drill into USB drive. I saw this for refurb and thought man, I bet it does everything! And I can get it for a great price! There's only 3 things that are good about this thing. 1. Sound control is great. Good crossover control, EQ, Time alignment (once you use this you can't go back), and some other useful dsp features. (Some are garbage. Space enhancer and elevation...) 2. Nav seems good. I didn't use it a lot, but it was easy to use and accurate. (Never got traffic updates working) 3. If you own a ford, the maestro seems cool. (Haven't tested this)
Everything else was an utter disappointment and I can't believe the full retail cost of this unit. USB playback is awful. There are strict folder and file restrictions and it won't read your music if it doesn't conform. I've used mp3 players for years, since the old rio players, and I've never seen anything as bad as this. I removed all folder structures and placed music on an external HD (I put a 120gb SSD in it) and while it seemed to read most of it, it took several minutes to think about it. Flash drives are faster, but you can't have too many folders.Never seen this with any other device.The Sony makes quick work of the external HD and plays it all
Pros: If you really really use GPS, this is good for that. Or if you don't have much digital music. But whatever you do, DON'T spend full price on this. The refurb was very nice. You can get extra warranty and still come out much cheaper. Even so, if the top 3 reasons don't apply heavily to you (and you don't have tons of mp3's) don't get this. Alpine is good, look at them. (I can't speak for the GPS on these, but I've used their current dvd headunits). Also, this kenwood played flac files. Which is good
Cons: Even when you do use a USB flash drive, moving between music is really slow. The interface and menus are rather ugly and those are slow too. You can set your own back ground, but it only comes with 1 background that looks like a splash screen from and old 8 bit nintendo game. It changes colors... wow. Other than the top 3 pros, it doesn't really have any other capability than other units. If the sony had a little more sound adjustment and GPS, it would rub this kenwoods face in the dirt.
Worth ever penny.
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I put this in a 05 Ford Excursion and love it. It was very easy to install. Had to do a little extra wiring work to keep the factory rear entertainment system but it wasn't to much extra work.
Great choice for F-150!
2011 Ford F-150 Raptor
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Very happy with my choice on the DNX890HD. Combined with the iDatalink Maestro model and T-harness, it is a great solution for the Ford F-150. All Sync and steering wheel controls work perfectly. You also get the added bonus of OBDII inputs which lets you see individual tire pressures (stock system just gives you warnings) along with check engine codes & diagnosis. The screen is very bright (and easily dimable despite what you might have read online - hint, read the manual.) Also very touch responsive and fast. Absolutely no lag entering an address in the NAVI which by the way is outstanding as you would expect from Garmin.
Love, love LOVE the built in Pandora app. Only issue I had was getting bluetooth from my Galaxy S4 to play nice between the Kenwood unit (for Pandora) and Sync (for audio calls). I attribute this to the S4 software not Kenwood. In the initial F150 setup screen make sure you uncheck the use OEM bluetooth or some such setting. I don't know why but that works.
Nice Head
2011 Ford F-250
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Nice head albeit a little slow to boot up. I have a 32G flash drive in the USB output and it takes even longer before music is playing. Its almost like the unit is cataloging all of the tracks beforehand. Great sound quality and nice EQ. More icons than I'll ever use but I just ignore the extras. GPS works well.
Pros: Customizable, great SQ, lots of tenability, easy to install
Cons: Slow to boot, especially with a large flash drive.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
This is a great overall unit. The only thing that I have noticed in the past month of having this in my 07 Classic Silverado 2500 is that sometimes it is slow when skipping to the next song, and will occasionally freeze for no reason and need to be reset. Like what was said in the other reviews, I hope that future firmware updates will free it of doing these things. Other than that, great product and very happy with my purchase.
Pros: Sound Quality, Overall look, Features
Cons: Sometimes lags, has locked up a few times
worth the money
2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I have had this head unit for a couple weeks now and have nothing but positive things to say about it. The software is excellent (make sure you update it, screen froze twice and unit was slower to respond before updating, excellent after). Within a day or two I fully understood all the functions and could use all the features with ease. Blutooth with s3 works perfectly. Two family members have factory navi in their suv's and imo this unit blows them away. They are clunky to use with confusing menus and reroute slowly, also require you to pull over to enter addresses which is very inconvient when you have a passanger and your driving on the expessway out of state! I have read reviews which said the unit is too bright at night, it's easily adjusted by turning on headlights and holding the menu button for 1-2 seconds to get to the screen brightness setting.
Pros: All the features I was looking for with well thought out software. All frequently used features are 2-3 clicks away
Cons: None
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Awesome product Mostly intuitive interaction but dimmer function has to be taught the first time
Pros: ease of use, integration with oem systems and speakers , garmin nav system with re-routing when traffic congestion is detected
Cons: none so far
GREAT UNIT ! I am totally satisfied.
I read the low rated reviews to hear the worst-case accounts. I saw complaints about speed, the screen being too bright, and functions not working. Most were found to be related to self-install efforts. I had the DNX890HD professionally by a certified dealer ( into my 2013 KIA Sportage ). The Navigation panel is great! Garmin is the way to go. The radio is awesome. YES - you DO have to read the manual AND get used to the control panel functions. Once you do, you will be completely satisfied. I want to say to others, do not be scared away from this unit like I almost was. The brightness can be dimmed. The unit is fine with the version 1.6 firmware update. You can turn off the HD radio function (which I like). If you want so many bells & whistles, you cannot expect "one-button does everything" functionality. This is one man's opinion, but I would recommend this unit to others and would readily buy the same unit again.
Pros: Large screen, great Garmin navigation, nice sound, and the ability to still use my steering wheel controls, bluetooth phone option, and the back-up camera with such a large screen!
Cons: It does take a little time to read the manual and get used to the control panel options. But this is a multi-function device which does require some learning to reap the benefits of all the features.
A Few Problems...
A lot of things I like about this unit,but I get the occasional freezing screen,slow moving screen.Right now,just minor quirks that i hope a future firmware update will fix,but I worry if not addressed a future problem that might get worse.When it works as advertised,a nice unit.
impressive, if it worked
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
This unit was professionally installed, with a backup camera. the hd radio will not hold a station and spontaniously drops what the station you are listening to. (a known Kenwood issue) in addition I get spontanious restarts in usb mode. Navigator seems to function well, so far. perhaps Kenwood will correct the problems with new software
Pros: great concept
Cons: Does not workCrutchfield response on July 24, 2013 We forwarded this review to our Technical Support team for follow-up. Lifetime tech support comes with every Crutchfield purchase.
2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Just installed this unit in 03 Chevy 2500HD Crew Cab Long Box. Unit looks great, sounds great, and has many settings. Features for multiple inputs are amazing. Mot much this can't do. Installed backup camera which was primary reason for whole package. Love it! Haven't tried blue tooth phone yet which was secondary reason for purchase. All these other extras make me spoiled. Will review again after I have used for a while.
4 Stars is due to complexity without self explanatory buttons or help. It will take reading the manual to understand all the buttons.
Cons: Very bright at night with no dimmer.
Works most of the time
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I've had it installed for a couple weeks now and it works OK most of the time. It's only been a couple weeks but I have ran into issues where it doesn't always pick up when someone calls and it started beeping for no reason the other day (turning it off and on seemed to fix that). The whole unit seems a little slow but it is especially noticeable on the GPS. I have a 5 yr old Garmin GPS that is more responsive that this. There even seems to be a slight lag in the GPS position. It catches up when I stop. If these bugs become more frequent, I guess it will be an issue but for now it is OK. I'm still glad that I bought it because I enjoy the added functionality over my previous OEM unit. But I can't comment on if it is better than other ones on the market.
Pros: The fact that the face plate tilts up and down. I was told that this is the only model on the market that tilts down. This was a lifesaver for my installation. I would not have been happy with the angle if the face didn't tilt down. Most things work fine most of the time (I guess that's a pro)
Cons: Unit seems a little buggy in that everything doesn't work right every time. The USB connection won't randomly play between folders so you have to put all of the songs you want to cycle through in 1 folder. I was expecting to be able to use the iPod USB to run a 2nd flash drive but that doesn't seem to work. The steering wheel controls cycle through all channels instead of just the favorites (maybe it's a setting but I didn't see anything.)
nice system
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
This is my 2nd Excelon, & it sounds fantastic! There are many settings to customize for your perfect sound. The garmin gps is loaded with features too. Everyone I show it to has been impressed. Works well with my Galaxy S4 phone. Can play movies off my ipod. I also have the CMOS-210 backup camera & it works well.
Pros: great sound, many settings, ipod & bluetooth connectivity works well. Crutchfield customer service is fantastic, especially with the installation questions
Cons: Garmin's Smartlink app does not work when Pandora and/or Aha are enabled. I have been told by Kenwood there is a fix in the works. I am using firmware 1.6
Nice unit....So far so very good.....
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I have owed this unit for about three weeks now and I must say it is living up to my expectations. Superior HD radio reception be it AM, FM or HD Radio. The Garmin navigation is pretty fluid and very responsive. I would like to follow up in a few months and let you know if my feelings are still as solid. If all holds as is you won't be disappointed with this purchase!
Pros: Great radio reception with high quality sound, easy to use interface and the navigation is spot on.
Cons: None at the present time.....
2009 Saturn Outlook
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
We bought this unit because the stock stereo in my wife's 2009 Saturn Outlook wasn't very good. The speakers had already been upgraded to Polk (full range and tweeters) and the sound was still bad. In addition, the rear visibility in this SUV is horrendous so we needed to add a back-up cam, and she kept 'borrowing' my Garmin so I wanted her to have her own Navigation system. This stereo does have a lot of features to it which are very nice. The new back-up cam is a incredible, and the Nav system is great. (It takes a bit of getting used to compared to portable Garmin units). There are a couple of key challenges. The audio reproduction is far better than the stock head unit, but a far, far distance from top quality. It is lacking especially in higher pitched female voices. (My Lincoln with a stock head unit, Crutchfield upgraded JL Audio speakers and tweeters, subs, and amp for the subs - costing a total of about $900 - puts off far, far, far better sound than this unit). But again, ultimately, the sound is much better than the stock unit that came with the vehicle. This unit is also a bit annoying because it does not automatically switch between bluetooth devices. If I take my wife's car (Saturn) with my phone, I have to manually switch it to hear my bluetooth music. To finish with a positive, though this unit does take a some time to boot up all the way, that is not true for the back-up cam. The back-up cam comes on instantly, exactly when needed.
Pros: It is very nice to have everything integrated into one unit. Navigation is great. Works better than any other integrated navigation system I have used in a car previously. Back-up cam integration is excellent. (I am not using a Kenwood Back-up Cam)
Cons: Sound quality Blue-tooth integration.
Solid Choice
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
One of the best options for a full featured head unit. See pros/cons below...
Pros: Garmin navigation, road exclusion (great if you have a commercial vehicle or tow and certain roads don't allow trailers), 13 band eq, two USB inputs (iPod/iPhone AND thumb drive), adjustable tilt faceplate to allow easier viewing/interaction, dual camera input, hard buttons for quick access to common features, ability to disable safe mode so you or your passenger can use the GPS while driving (other units disable most functions after 3-5mph), works fine with my GM (2005 suburban)and Bose system.
Cons: Slow interface. Yes, it lags...but about the same as a Garmin handheld unit. I had the top JVC nav unit prior to this and it was very responsive. I returned the JVC because it didn't have road exclusion, GPS interaction was disabled while driving, and the route calculation software didn't seem as good as my Garmin when used side by side. The Kenwood isn't so slow that I would want to return it, but it does stand out as the obvious area for improvement in an otherwise fantastic product.
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I couldn't be happier with this stereo. It sounds great, bluetooth was easy to install and use and, the GPS is the best I've ever used!
Pros: Easy to use
Cons: none
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I purchased the DNX890HD after months of research online and in car audio shops. Everywhere I read and people I spoke to had nothing but good things to say about Kenwood products. So I was really excited about this unit and all the wonderful features. Boy what a letdown. From the beginning I've had problems with this unit. When I first powered it up, I thought that the software was a bit slow. But I figured it was just a factor of so many features. 2 weeks into it, I began to notice that the software would lock on the screen. Even though the music continued to play, none of the touchscreen or manual functions worked with the exception of the power button. Cycling the power would help the situation for a few days, but it would continue to occur. I contacted Crutchfield for help but they referred me to Kenwood. Well, what a waste of time. Long story short is I've had this unit for 5 months, have been thru 3 firmware updates and still have the same problem. Kenwood acknowledges that this is a known issue but obviously can't figure out how to fix it. So they're wanting me to ship it in to be repaired. I'm ready to cut my losses and purchase something else...non-Kenwood. Horrible quality...horrible customer service. Buyer beware!
Pros: Pretty case. Garmin Navigation works great. Just wish it didn't switch to navigation automatically without touching anything.
Cons: Too many to list.
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
The Kenwood DNX890HD system is by far the best car stereo I've ever owned. I have friends who own Alpine and Pioneer systems and they too absolutely love my new Kenwood system, it makes the dash of my 2002 cadillac deville look newer. The funcionality of this system is so user friendly, my 83 year old dad can navigate through the screens. This is definately an excellent buy very attractive looking and classy system to own. Thanks Hogan!! Oh Hogan is the Crutchfield rep. that explained every detail of this system to me, and I'm glad he recommended this system to me. Everything he said about this system is true. In my opinion the Kenwood DNX890HD will be the #1 selling car Navi stereo system this year. Anyone thinking about purchasing this system DON'T HESITATE DON'T THINK...... JUST DO IT......? Kenwood
Pros: Fast boot up reads cd's and dvd's very fast (almost instantly) bluetooth phone works good voice command works good great sound and easy to operate easy to understand very user friendly
Cons: can't use the text feature for some reason, I can't imagine this feature being there for nothing. Sooner or later I will figure it out but other than that this system rocks!
Potential For Greatness!
Bluetooth, Bluetooth, Bluetooth!!! At first there was a problem with it staying connected. It has since been corrected with a firmware update from Kenwood but now the issue is with audio quality. If you listen to hip hop or techno you may not care but the best way I can describe it is if you were to listen to your iTunes music at a sampling rate of less than 125kbs. The vocals and instruments like piano and violins are horrendous. I've used the same smartphone with the pioneer AVH-X5500BHS it's a night and day difference. I've had this problem before with a Clarion and the one thing they have in common is Parrot. They maybe well known for Bluetooth but they apparently fell asleep at the wheel when it comes to streaming music! Other than that this unit is Awesome. Audio quality on all the other sources are pristine. The Kenwood gives the user a plethora of fine tuning options including asking you on your type of car and the size of your speakers. My favorite feature is the timing control for both highs and sub so stereo sound imaging is possible. Other than the Bluetooth this unit is great. May add more to this later.
Kenwood DNX890HD ROCKS!
2007 Chevrolet Corvette
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
the Kenwood DNX890HD is easy to use,packed with features, has full control of the listening environment, and works superbly with the multi-angle CMOS 310 camera. HD radio is super clear. Ipod controls are easy and quick. The Garmin navigation screens are a wonderful bonus. The tilt screen comes with a handful of settings. There is nothing not to like about this stereo. I've always been a pioneer guy, but this stereo has definately won me over.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Excellent product
Pros: Installation relatively easy. Onscreen setup and user functions very good
Cons: When unit is off, no clock
Kenwood DNX890HD Good to Go
2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Bought the Kenwood DNX890HD to replace my Eclipse AVN726E. Installation was straight forward, instructions were good, though I did use the excellent Crutchfield tech support to answer one question. I already had a GMOS-04 unit from the Eclipse to interface to the existing Bose system. From reviewing kenwoodforums.com I saw that some people has some issues with the 890HD due to the outputs being at 5v and the GMOS expecting 2V. Even with the GMOS level turned all the way down I was getting sound through the rear speakers only. After ordering and installing a Scoche line adapter from Crutchfield and installing it (easy install), I now have better control over the sound levels and all of the speakers including the subwoofer are working. The Garmin GPS works great, accurate and lots of features. The headrest monitors I installed are great, did have to replace one, Crutchfield got me the replacement in one business day. Interface to iPhone via bluetooth and cable was flawless, DVD movies, no problems, Pandora works great too. Make sure you get the latest firmware update from the kenwood website. My HU was at version 1.3 and installed version 1.4 via SD card. So far very impressed with the system. Startup takes about 20 seconds, but I can handle that for a system that works reliably for me.
Pros: Great GPS and all of the input options I needed. Rearview camera from a previous install was wired in and works, this HU gives you lots of options, reliability, and flexibility. What more do you need?
Cons: Not all of the 'features' that Kenwood advertises are working, but will be working after Kenwood updates the programming via firmware updates. Think that Kenwood should get everything working before shipping or not advertise features that aren't complete yet. Missing feature is Garmin Smartlink, which barely impacts operation of the unit if at all. I would have still bought the 890HD if Smartlink weren't included. Be nice to be able to select 2V or 5V output.
Can't Beat It!
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Bluetooth works excellent for music and phone calls. That's with the iPhone 5 too. Chose this over any other products because it is easy to navigate and Garmin. The option to plug and play is great and to play DVD's is awesome.
Pros: Everything
Cons: None
Big Fan
2004 Ford Expedition
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I am loving this unit, first time using a kenwood and I haven't had it long enough to find any issues
Pros: Many functions and options to set up audio
Cons: Audio set up to detail, smart phone does not connect unless I accept request, but I believe it is a blackberry thing
Good, but not great...
When one spends this much on a unit, there are high expectations. It replaced a mid end Pioneer, in a car that I beautifully upkeep, and currently is just rolling over 200 K Miles. I plan on keeping the unit a long time.
The bluetooth works marvelously with my old Blackberry (9930) and now the new (Q10). Hence, I kind of find the "bluetooth does not work" problems amusing. Pandora worked with my 9930, but the Q10 does not have it out yet.
Sound quality is good, microphone for voice is good.
BUT, the one feature that is missing for me is that the power antenna is always up, no matter what the input source. I had a manager in Tech Support at Kenwood explain that this was due to the traffic status on the Garmin, and was intentional. Then why not advertise it? Of course, in the process of getting to this manager, I had one tech tell me that it was possible, and another just be rude.
Overall, just average. Unfortunate coupled with its price and the Kenwood reputation.
Pros: Relatively fast Good firmware updates Good Bluetooth Good Audio
Cons: Tech support can be challenging Antenna is not powered ONLY for AM and FM.
Better than the rest but not without issues
2007 Scion tC
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I have had 4 Kenwood excelon touchscreen nav units and 2 pioneers and this by far is the best one yet. Though it has some flaws it is a beautiful head unit andso far i have seen no issues that make me regret buying it.. For the technically challenged individual who rates the unit really low because he blames kenwood for not being able to figure out how to install it... you do not need to do ANY of what he said... no grounding to chassis, no wire alteration. Clearly he is a rookie or has a hack job of a wiring harness because in 13 head units i have never had to do any of that and this one installed beautifully and easily. Despite the issue i have listed below the unit sounds great, has amazing nav, a TON of on screen options and despite flaws is still the best nav unit i have ever seen.. and i have checked out all of them thoroughly.
Pros: -Beautiful -GARMIN nav! -Outstanding if not confusing sound contouring options -Fast in most areas -TONS of input options
Cons: -Sound contouring options are named so as to provide no insight as to what they actually do. -Dissapointingly slow text entry that suddenly catches up to you -VOLUME GOES DOWN SOOOOO FREAKING SLOWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -Music playlist navigation very bad, this is the one area where Pioneer destroys kenwood. The Playlist navigation is counter intuitive, requires far too many clicks, the buttons are not in a logical order and the scrolling lacks screen buttons making you slide the menu.
DNX890HD with Maestro RR
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I had many Kenwood units in the past and this my third Kenwood Navigation unit. I had a DNX5120 a few years ago, then a DNX570HD which I returned to get the DNX890HD because I really wanted the Lane Assist and Junction View functions. I also ordered the Maestro RR because I wanted to keep Sync working in my 2012 Ford F150.
Installation was pretty much straight forward because Crutchfield supplied all the odds and ends as well as good instructions. The dash kit was free and fits well. There are a lot of wires/connectors to hook up.....study and follow the schematics and it isn't to bad.
The Maestro RR kept my Sync and steering wheel controls working, and as a bonus, gave me dual functions for my steering wheel controls. Buy the T-harness, it makes things easier!
Now to the DNX890HD. This is by far the best headunit I ever had, the display is crisp, clear, and very responsive. You can change the display angle to avoid any glare during direct sunlight, very intuitive! Some complain about the display being to bright at night; easy fix.....just hold the SOFT menu button for a few seconds which will bring you to a screen where you can finetune the brightness for night driving. There isn't much to say about the navigation software other then its Garmin, meaning it is spot on and very accurate; the Junction View and Lane Assist are great features and work well. Both, the Garmin software and the Kenwood interfaces are very customizable and the unit sounds great.
Pros: Very responsive touch screen and bright display. Lot of options to customize everything to your liking. designed to work with iDatalink and the Maestro RR. Flawless Sync integration. Improved the sound in my truck, even with the OEM speakers. Great Crutchfield customer service.....they are there for you when you need them!
Cons: Really none! If there was anything to improve it would be the boot up time; maybe a future fimware will allow to play the last audio source a little quicker while the navigation software boots.
unimpressive- maestro a waste
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Unit has locked up three times. Must turn ignition off to recover. Tuner is weak and doesn't pull in stations as well as oem junk did. Tuner sounds like it has a buffer problem in that the signal literally skips even if getting good reception. The hands free part of the phone is useless as no one can hear you even if you stick the mic right up to your mouth and maestro DOES NOT let you keep OEM Bluetooth or OEM mic. In fact, Im not sure what the maestro did let me keep other than the steering wheel controls. I am thinking about uninstalling it and throwing it away. Ipod touch will not connect via the maestro cable. Doesn't recognize it. When I hook up Iphone 5 via the maestro usb connection it will not play through the radio. Bluetooth only for iphone 5. Nav works fine but is loud as heck. I can't seem to find the way to turn the ladies voice down! With a 6+inch screen, I do not understand why they abbreviate and use acronyms when they have plenty of space to spell things out and/or give direction/understanding on such a large screen?? user manual disc is of very limited use and does not explain much at all. Never have gotten the remote control to work whatsoever. Won't even turn down the volume. And you will definitely have to amp this thing to get any volume out of it. I could go on but for the price.....this thing is a massive disappointment.
Pros: Nav. That's it. The rest is highly unintuitive and/or simply doesn't work well enough to use.
Cons: Too many to listCrutchfield response on June 5, 2013 We forwarded this review to our Technical Support team for follow-up. Lifetime tech support comes with every Crutchfield purchase.
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
This is my third Kenwood stereo but first navigation unit. Honestly was skeptical about spending this much but it has surpassed my expectations. Display is clean and easily read even in direct sunlight. When first installed I was using an HTC Evo 4G for bt and Pandora but it was slow and would disconnect. Installed the update from kenwoodUSA.com and have upgraded my phone to a Samsung Galaxy S4 and everything works without any lag. All phone, bt, Pandora and aha work great. Don't own an iPod so I am unable to comment on that feature. Garmin navigation is wonderful. Lots of features and route options. GPS antenna is mounted on the dash in the corner and works flawlessly. Music is muted to hear nav voice which needs a mute option itself. HD radio is clear and sounds much better than standard. In Los Angeles area and have many stations including KLOS and KROQ which sound great. Bring able to scroll through the screens like a smartphone is really nice. The two usb cable inputs are a nice feature and charge phones and my GoPro cameras. Then I can even watch my riding footage afterwards, while parked of course. Video can lag a little depending on sd card in camera. Overall an awesome feature. Phone calls are clear and have no problems being heard or hearing who I am taking to. This stereo has definitely impressed me and would do it again without hesitation. And of course Crutchfield customer service is without question the best and are very friendly.
Pros: Pandora through Android on my Galaxy S4 and all Bluetooth functions are great. Garmin navigation is the best. Screen is bright and very clear. HD radio + . Everything works great.
Cons: Screen can be a bright at night but can be dimmed.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD w/installation
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Outstanding receiver,nav sys. was installed very eaisly and the Crutchfield rep was VERY knowlegable about the product, the items requiraed for a factory look and function installation. Would purchase again andI have in fact recommended the same system to a friend in Kerrville, Texas who has now purchased one for his truck
Pros: The whole system is outstanding and I would not hesitate to purchase the same on again.
Cons: NONE
It's junk.
This unit is terrible. The third unit I've tried through Crutchfield and each time I've been told that "This unit has a super-fast processer! It's ____'s BEST model!" Garmin GPS used to be industry leader- the GPS in this unit is no better than my Nuvi that's now eight years old. Slow, so slow. Has locked up (the entire unit, not just the GPS) three times and I've had it installed for a week. Have to pull over and turn the vehicle off because there is no power button (at least not that I've found). The Bluetooth is mediocre. Drops off often. It automatically tries to reconnect, which is good, unless you turn your Pandora off because you don't want to listen to it anymore, so the unit keeps turning Pandora back on. Hands free calling doesn't work. It functions, but the sound quality to the caller on the other end is so poor, you get in stereo "WHAT?! I CAN'T HEAR/UNDERSTAND YOU!" I sent a complaint to "Bill Listens" a month ago. Had good response (not from Bill - lol) for about a day. I was told they would do some research and get back to me. Never happened. I'm really tired of writing bad reviews. Don't waste your money. Seriously. I'm the kind of guy that thinks, "It's $1,200.00! it HAS to be AWESOME!!" It's not. The $400 Kenwood is equally as good- just doesn't have as high resolution screen. Don't waste your money- or if you do, buy the cheap one first so you know you're not getting anything more for the additional $800. Seriously, you've been warned
Pros: This unit made my JL 12W7 come alive! I thought it sounded good with the other units I tried, nope. This one showed me that I was only getting a small portion of what Alpine could produce. I didn't even know a head unit would make any difference, but it does.
Cons: everything else. This thing is trash.
Very happy, but not everything they claimed is there
2010 Ford Escape
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Overall this is a great HU. The install using the Maestro unit to keep my synch was daunting, but after reading through the instructions a few times, and a call to Crutchfield, it was not as bad as it first looked. I placed 3 calls total to Crutchfield and one to Maestro all of them were handled very well.
The unit sounds great and has lots of bells and whistles. I don't see the issue everyone is complaining about with the brightness of the screen. I think its fine at night.
I would recommend this unit to others, it needs some polishing but it can't be beat for the price. Also there have been two updates since I got the radio. They are very easy to install.
Pros: Has everything you could want in a radio, Intuitive interface makes navigating the screens a breeze. Also I love the backup camera and the fact that it comes on instantly no matter what state of starting the radio is in.
Cons: There were a few things mostly with the Nav that just are not there. On the box they show this amazing splie screen with a rendering of the exit. I have yet to see that come up. Also the Nav link live update that connects the nav to your smart phone doesn't work. Also I notice the touch screen can sometimes take a long time to respond. Today you would think that they could make their touch screens as responsive as smart phones and tablets.
Love it
So for a love this head unit. No issues as others have stated. I have the lastest firmware installed 1.4 and no issues with bluetooth. GPS is great!. Radio works, Love the USB option. For those having issues check your firmware and make sure its the lastest as there were fixes for bluetooth in the last.
Not Ready Yet. All other positive reviews are most likely fake.
2011 Ford Escape
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
First off, I must note the title. This unit has SO much potential. The functionality, the beauty, it will get there.. in time.
This unit came out just three months ago, so my current recommendation is WAIT.
You can read every other review and they give you the features, blah blah. This is what I use and my recommendation of it:
OEM Gauges: Work fantastic! Soldered into car OBDII ports and I get gauges and all that fun stuff! OEM Media: OEM bluetooth integration is a straight pass. Although it works well, any Kenwood Bluetooth features (Garmin, Pandora, AHA) do not work if you're using OEM Bluetooth, you have to switch. Inconvenient. Navigation: Superb! It's garmin, what else can i say. Radio: Really hard to go wrong with radio. HD radio in my area (Southern California) Is not bad, so no complaints. --I turned off OEM Bluetooth to only have to use kenwood bluetooth-- Kenwood Bluetooth (A2DP, Pandora, AHA with AT&T Galaxy SIII running Android 4.2 (AOKP)) : A2DP: Slow to connect, decent connectability. Sometimes it quits and I have to reconnect. Also sometimes beeps loudly when songs change and stuff. Did NOT do this with OEM Bluetooth Pandora: Hit or miss, usually miss. If it works, it's great! But most of the time, it completely disconnects bluetooth and doesn't work. AHA: Same for pandora, I take it as poor app integration on the Kenwood side. Garmin Integration: currently unavailable.
Pros: iDataLink. Backup camera Support. Audio customization. OEM integration. Navigation
Cons: Bluetooth, and ANY phone integration (iphone and android)
Super Buggy
2012 Ford F-150 FX2
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Great head unit but have constant issues everyday. It constantly freezes and I have to reset it. It's irritating. I lose everything all the time. Bluetooth works most of the time. Does not always connect my phone calls. I have a station that I love to listen to and it constantly goes in and out. It has a 5 second delay recorder that I was told by the advisor and that it records so that way when the signal isn't great you don't get interrupted but it doesn't work. If signal is bad it jumps back about 3 seconds in the song, if the signal comes back then it jumps ahead 3 seconds. The station I listen to is maybe 5 miles from my location, there is absolutely no reason for the signal to be bad. My stock head unit picked up the station with absolutely no problem. For such a high price tag, you would think all the bugs would be worked out.
Pros: Navigation system, idatalink connectivity, gauges.
Cons: Freezes, bluetooth not constant, radio buffer
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
I love my new system...I'm still getting used to it but the sound quality of the HD radio is fantastic, only once for a split second did I lose my station; the Navigation system is great, easy to use, offers a lot.
Pros: Using the routing, the 'lady's' voice is smooth, not tinny sounding and she doesn't go on and on. She tells you where you're to turn, etc. doesn't say it again until in close proximity and then reminds. On highway, she says 'continue' None of that nagging shrilly voice.
Cons: Haven't found any so far
Pretty Good
I really wanted to give this 3.5 stars, but that isn't an option. This has the potential to be a very good head unit, but it has some bugs. 1) The mute doesn't work for the navigation so you have no choice but to listen to the voice interrupt your music 2) When you use the split screen feature with the navigation, the music side shows nothing for ipod or HD radio (haven't tried Pandora) 3) Screen is a little laggy which proves difficult when navigating through the source/setup choices since you can't eliminate the sources you don't use 4) HD radio for AM sounds awful. Not sure if this is the receiver as this is my first experience with HD radio.
The rest of the unit is awesome. Lots of flexibility. Multiple inputs and outputs. DSP processing is very good.
Pros: Only Nav unit with Voice Dial. Sound is great. Integration with Android is better than some.
Cons: Boot up is slow. Laggy screen. Nav mute.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
A little laggy but not that bad. The Garmin map GPS works great and it makes my stock speakers sound better than anything I've ever heard
Pros: Apps, sound quality, features
Cons: Lag when typing GPS coordinates and switching apps
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Disappointed hard time linking to ipone 5
Pros: Looks great
Cons: Didnot work well with ipone 5
Awesome Unit!
2013 Subaru Impreza
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I decided to purchase this unit to replace the crappy OEM stereo in my new Subaru. I have never spent this much on a head unit, so I was taking a shot on this unit and boy does it deliver! I had it installed at a local car audio shop. The Nav, Bluetooth, and other functions work seamless. Very happy with the purchase!
I didn't find the bright screen an issue at night. You can upload any picture you want thru USB to use as your background (something dark works good.) This head unit is great for Android users. Pandora and AHA work smoothly and the Bluetooth audio is very clear. I had them run an adapter to retain my factory steering wheel controls.
The best part of this head unit is the fact that it's an Excelon. It produces amazing sound quality even thru factory speakers. The EQ setting allow you to customize your music to you ear's liking.
Pros: Nav, Blueooth, Pandora all work flawlessly. DVD produces good quality video. Terrific sounding unit.
Cons: Garmin Smartphone link doesn't work, although I think this is Garmin's issue not Kenwood's.
Great "Does Everything" Unit - DNX890HD
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
I carefully researched all the available products before choosing the DNX890HD to replace the factory radio in my 2006 Mustang GT Convertible. The Stang has the factory Shaker 500 system installed with door mounted woofers and two factory amps. I wanted a system that would integrate easily with and take full advantage of the factory equipment while giving me all of the features available in newer vehicles.
Along with the 890 I installed a Sound Ordnance Powered Subwoofer (B8PT), the Sirius Tuner (V200), the CMOS-210 rear view camera, The I-Pod cable (IP202), a dash mounted USB port, and a dash mounted stereo mini-plug jack. The 890 provides more than enough inputs and outputs to support my add-on equipment with some left over.
The Crutchfield install kit made installation a piece of cake and it looks awesome. The mechanical installation of the head unit itself was simple. Soldering the factory wiring harness adapter to the radio adapter took about an hour. Running all the supporting wires around the car took about 8 hours.
One of the best things about this unit, and a big factor in my selecting it, is the Garmin navigation system. I had been trying out portable Garmin GPS units and this unit has all the latest Garmin features.
Pay no attention to others complaints about the dimming feature. If you hook it up correctly it works perfectly. Be sure to select SYNC on the Screen configuration page.
I've tried every possible AV mode and they all work exceptionally well
Pros: - Awesome NAV system - Superb Bluetooth integration. The external microphone and speaker audio makes for crystal clear hand free calling. - Plenty of inputs and outputs with plenty of configuration options in the software - Instant backup camera picture. This is a big plus for this unit and disqualified other products.
Cons: - No lifetime map subscription. You have to pay to update the navigation database. - Camera prices. I can get a simple (but good quality) camera, the CMOS-210. To gain full functionality of this unit, and use all the camera features, you have to buy the CMOS-310 camera. It cost $150 more. Really Kenwood? - Boot time. It takes about 25 seconds. You get the backup camera during the boot though.
It's a Kenwood!
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Acting upon the suggestion of well informed product specialists I ordered this fine Kenwood head unit. It arrived with all necessary components for installing it. Excellent diagrams was provided, and questions answered without haste. Quite a painless experience over all.
Pros: Garmin cartography. Connections for two camera's. Bluetooth. Pandora/Aha enabled. iPod and iPhone ready. Touch screen. Pre-amp. Speaker cross-over. Unit adjustments/features. Remote.
Cons: Waiting for installation complete to turn unit on. Paying for equipment.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
The best head unit so far that I have used. Clean sound and navigation has been improved. If you love different sources of music this one is to get.
Pros: Navigation and source integration.
Pros: WHOM EVER CAME UP WITH THIS DESIGN NEEDS TO BE PROMOTED TO CEO FOR LIFE OF THE COMPANY...
Cons: IF YOU FIND ONE LET ME KNOW, CAUSE I'D SAY YOU'RE A ROOKIE THAT HASN'T EXPERIENCED PAST KENWOOD HIGH END NAVIGATION HU.
Perfect Radio
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
Tried out the DNX9990HD for a couple weeks, and this puts that unit to shame.
First of all, everything works! The pandora and aha radio functions are amazing! There are an amazing amount of ways to customize the audio. You can tune what type of speaker your car have, where sound should circulate, the type of car you have, how much space is in the car, and sports a 13 band equalizer. It is fairly simple to tune, just takes a little time.
The Garmin navigation is totally redone and has the latest greatest. The car icon seems a little smaller than previous models. The map is more detailed and can have points of interest pop up while driving. The dual "real view" screen that pops up when merging or turning off on major highways is amazing.
The start-up time is not that bad. I think it is around 30 seconds. However, music starts playing after 8-10 seconds and the rear camera works instantly. So if you back out of a driveway and have a rear camera, by the time you are out the navigation is working. GPS signal is instantly found when it pops up.
All in all, this unit is amazing. I had the DNX9990HD for about 2 weeks and there were lots of little things that drove me crazy. Kenwood fixed everything and this is as close to a perfect unit possible. I spend lots of time in my car and I am still trying to find more places to go so I can play with the radio. This is what it is supposed to feel like after spending this much money on something.
Bright screen is no prob
Pros: Screen size and resolution (movies look awesome), Audio tuning ability, Newest and Best Garmin software, Streaming music, Pandora and Aha Radio functions on head unit work seamlessly, Instant rear camera, Makes my music sound amazing on stock speakers. Totally customizable music.
Cons: None for me. Start up time could be an issue if you don't have a rear camera. But I don't find it a problem. Screen brightness is not a problem for me. It has night colors for the map and the other screens have dark or black backgrounds. Last con is that it makes all other radios inferior. It does everything imaginable so you will constantly be underwhelmed by anyone else's radio.
Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD
Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
To bright at night, even when fully dimmed, there is no screen off button on the north american version, this feature is on the central and south america version. ..... wish it was here!!
Cons: No screen off feature....
Excellent Radio
this is an excellent unit for the price i paid. Cant be more happier. Its very easy to install. The unit is very hi-tech, like having a computer in your car instead of a radio. I love the joint view screen that makes navigating very easy to follow.
Pros: Everything is top notch
Cons: thus far, no cons
Hands-on research
What's in the box?
- Double-DIN navigation receiver with built-in 6.95" monitor (10A fuse installed in chassis)
- Sleeve (attached)
- 2 Trim rings
- Wiring harness
- Reverse/Brake harness
- AV/Camera input harness
- GPS antenna (with attached 11.5' cable terminated by a proprietary connector)
- Self-adhesive base
- Microphone with integrated bracket (attached 10' cable terminated by a 3.5mm connector)
- IR wireless remote control (KNA-RCDV331)
- 2 "AAA" batteries
- 2 Radio removal tools
- 6 Pan-head ISO-mount screws
- 6 Flat-head ISO-mount screws
- Instruction Manual on CD-ROM
- Quick Start Guide (En/Fr/Sp)
- Warranty card
- "Attention" note
Features and Specs
|CEA-2006 Compliant
|RMS Power Output
|22 watts
|Peak Output
|50 watts
|RMS Power Bandwidth
|Preamp Outputs
|Sub Preamp Outputs
|Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs
|Video Screen
|Preamp Voltage
|5 volts
|Display Color
|Key Button Color
|EQ Bands
|Wireless Remote
|Steering Wheel Control Compatible
|Adapter required
|Parts Warranty
|2 Years
|Labor Warranty
|2 Years
|AUX Input
|3.5mm AV (rear)
|Audio/video Input
|USB Input
|Rear (2)
|Memory Card Slot
|USB memory
|Bluetooth Compatible
|Satellite Radio Ready
|HD Radio
|iPod Compatibility
|Full size
|FM Sensitivity
|7.2 dBf
|European Tuning
|Radio Data System
Product Research
Audio Section
Touchscreen Display
Onboard Navigation
Built-in Bluetooth
Disc & USB Playback
iPod/iPhone Integration
HD Radio+Pandora/Aha+SiriusXM
AV Connections
OEM/Remote Control
Audio Section
Excelon Series: The DNX890HD navigation receiver is part of Kenwood's Excelon series line-up. It incorporates the latest technologies and delivers the highest sonic performance. From advanced audio tuning capabilities, crossover and equalizer system, high-voltage preouts (5V) and a 2 year warrant, - Kenwood Excelon represents exceptional audio quality with long-lasting dependability.
24 Bit D/A Converter: The Kenwood DNX890HD utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior sound quality.
MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood DNX890HD 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 DNX890HD 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/5V Preamp Outputs: The DNX890HD features front, rear and subwoofer 5.0-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.
Sound Excellence DSP (Digital Signal Processing): In order to optimize the sound quality, you can use the unit's Sound Excellence DSP to set the type of vehicle, speaker sizes, distances and x-over points. The DSP settings include the following:
- Car Type: Select your car type to automatically set the Delay Time of each speaker for timing adjustment of sound output of each channel to have the highest surround effect. Choose from Compact, Full Size Car, Wagon, Mini Van, Mini Van Long, SUV, or Off
- Listening Position: For a better sound-stage you can select your optimal listening position. You can choose from All, Front Left, Front Right or Front. You can also select to manually fine tune the sound stage by selecting the distance for each individual speaker in the vehicle compared to your listening position.
- Digital Time Alignment (DTA): Choose from 0.00 to 20' (0.07' steps) 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.
- Speaker Location: You can set the location of your
vehicle's Front and Rear speakers.
- Front: Door, On Dash, or Under Dash
- Rear: Door, Rear Deck, 2nd Row, or 3rd Row
- Speaker Size: You can select the speaker size for your
Front and Rear speakers, as well as your subwoofer.
- Front: OEM, 3.5", 4", 4.75", 5", 6.5", 6.75", 7", 4x6", 5x7", 6x8", 6x9", or 7x10"
- Tweeter: None, Small, Middle, or Large
- Rear: None, OEM, 3.5", 4", 4.75", 5", 6.5", 6.75", 7", 4x6", 5x7", 6x8", 6x9", or 7x10"
- Subwoofer: None, 6.5", 8", 10", 12", or 15"+
- X'Over: The head unit features independent Front and
Rear high-pass crossovers, as well as a subwoofer low-pass crossover.
- Front High Pass Filter: 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, 180, 220, or 250 Hz; slope of -6, -12, -18, or -24 dB per octave (or select Full-Range)
- Rear High Pass Filter: 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, 180, 220, or 250 Hz; slope of -6, -12, -18, or -24 dB per octave (or select Full-Range)
- Subwoofer Low Pass Filter: 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, 180, 220, or 250 Hz; slope of -6, -12, -18, or -24 dB per octave (or Select Full-Range)
- Subwoofer Control: You can adjust the subwoofer
output's Phase and Level.
- Phase: Choose either Normal (0°) or Reverse (180°)
- Subwoofer Level: You can adjust the level of the unit's subwoofer preamp output from -50to +10dB.
Note: You can also choose to bypass the head unit's DSP feature.
Equalizer Control: Equalizer Control allows you to use one of the EQ presets, or set your own custom settings for the front and back speakers using the 13-band Equalizer. The EQ adjustments are as follows:
- EQ Presets: You can select from Flat, Natural, Rock, Pops, Easy, Top 40, Jazz, Powerful, iPod (you can select from 22 EQ curve types within your iPod), or User (customized 13-band EQ).
- 13-Band EQ: 13-Band frequency adjustment (-9 to +9 dB) for Front & Rear speakers using the following center frequencies; 62.5Hz, 100Hz, 160Hz, 250Hz, 400Hz, 630Hz, 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 6.3khz, 10kHz, 16kHz.
Note: You can store EQ and tone settings for each source (Disc, Tuner, AV, USB, iPod, Bluetooth, and Pandora).
Bass Enhancements: The DNX890HD offers Bass Boost, Bass DC Extension, and Loudness.
- Bass Boost: The DNX890HD features a four-step Bass Boost (Off/1/2/3) to enhance your music's lower frequencies.
- Bass DC Extension: When turned on, frequencies lower than 6.25 Hz are set the same gain level as the unit's 7-Band EQ 62.5 Hz gain setting.
- Loudness: This function enhances low and high frequencies to make the sound clearer lower volumes.
Sound Effects: The DNX890HD provides unique sound effect adjustments.
- Space Enhancer: You can set the Space Enhancer to Small, Large, or Off. Each setting value indicates the soundscape level.
- Elevation: You can virtually raise the sound position heard from your speakers. The Elevation Level can be set to High, Low, or Off.
- Highway Sound: You can boost a certain range of sound that becomes hard to hear due to road noise. The Highway Sound level can be set to High, Low, or Off.
Music Enhancers: You can restore the sound lost due to audio compression to a realistic sound.
- Realizer: When MP3, WMA, or AAC files encoded at a low bit rate (less than 96 kbps, 44.1k, 48kHz) are played, the Realizer feature boosts low frequencies which can be lost during compression. Set to Level 1, Level 1, Level 3, or Off.
- Supreme: When MP3, WMA, or AAC 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 Control: 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 -15 to 0.
Dynamic Range Control: The dynamic range can be adjusted by selecting either Normal, Wide or Dialog. Dialog makes the total sound volume become larger as compared with Wide and Normal, allowing you to listen to the movie's dialogue more clearly. This is effective only on Dolby Digital software.
Key Beep: The in-dash navigation-multimedia head unit provides an audible beep to confirm button operation. This function can be turned On or Off.
Touchscreen Display
Motorized Touchscreen Display (w/ Flick Scrolling): The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD features a motorized 6.95" wide, 16:9 touchscreen display with a TFT active matrix system and LED backlighting. The screen has a resolution of 800 (H) x 480 (V) x RGB with 1,152,000 total pixels. This unit has touchscreen controls with interactive video graphics, making menu navigation easy. You can scroll screen lists by simply flicking the screen up/down, or scroll screen pages by simply flicking the screen right/left. The monitor electronically slides down for loading or ejecting a disc. The motorized touchscreen display not only allows the bottom of the monitor to be tilted upward at five different positions, but also enables the top of the monitor to be tilted outward to eliminate reflected glare (you can save any one of these positions to the head unit's memory).
- Aspect Ratio: You can change the aspect ratio for video playback. You can select from Full (16:9), Just (4:3 LB), or Normal (4:3), or Auto (automatically selects to match incoming video signal)
- Picture Adjustment: You can adjust the unit's display brightness, contrast, color, tint, sharpness, and black level to suit your viewing needs during video playback.
- Custom Background Images: You can download a still image (800 x 600) for use as the unit's background from a connected USB thumbdrive.
- Custom Top Menu: The Top Menu screen (main menu) features two rows of source & settings icons. The top row has 3 large icons which can be accessed directly, while the bottom row has 12 smaller icons which have to be scrolled through. You can customize the Top Menu by selecting your three favorite source/settings icons as the top 3 icons.
Start Up Time: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD has a start up time of approximately 29.5 seconds from Off to the "Warning" screen. Once the "Warning" screen appears, you can tap the "Agree" button on the head unit's touchscreen to go instantly to the Navigation screen or press the "Menu" hard-key to access the Source menu.
Multi-Language Display: For your convenience, this unit is equipped with a multiple language display. You can select the language which is best suited to your first language; English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese.
Split Screen AV Control: The DNX890HD's screen views can be easily toggled from one to another simply be touching the screen or appropriate button. The Split Screen AV Control mode divides the screen into two screens, with navigation on the left and a control window on the right. With this Picture-in-Picture type function, the head unit can now display the navigation map screen and basic playback controls for the source screens (or rear-view camera) simultaneously.
Parking Brake Detection: To prevent the display of video while the vehicle is in motion, the light green wire (within 4-pin harness) must be connected to the vehicle's parking brake detection circuit. You cannot view video unless your vehicle's parking brake is engaged. If you attempt to view video without the parking brake engaged, the unit's LCD touchscreen will simply display a blue screen and "Parking Off". While your vehicle is in motion (parking brake off), you can still view all of the head unit's menu screens/settings, source information, metadata, album artwork, and the navigation on-screen map.
Front-Panel Controls w/ Variable Color Illumination: In addition to the touchscreen controls, the unit includes frequently used buttons along the bottom edge of the screen. You can adjust the head unit's button illumination from the following preset colors - Blue, Purple, Sky Blue, Aqua, Yellow, Green, Amber, Red, Pink, White or Scan (Scans through all preset colors). You can also select a custom "User" color that is adjusted between Red, Green, and Blue (values range: 0-31). You can save up to 3 custom color presets. The Eject and Kenwood logo remain red, regardless of variable color illumination setting.
Dimmer: The dimmer function will dim this unit's display and button illumination automatically when the vehicle light switch is turned On when you connect orange/white Illumination wire of this player's harness. You can also manually dim the unit's display and button illumination.
Security Indicator: The Security Indicator feature helps to protect the Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD against theft. Turning this function "On" allows the security indicator light (red) on the front-panel of the head unit to flash when your vehicle's ignition is off.
2-DIN Chassis: The DNX890HD has a 2-DIN chassis (also known as Double DIN or size DD), and will fit in many vehicles with a large dash opening. The unit can be ISO-mounted using factory brackets, or Euro-mounted using the supplied mounting sleeve. As always, please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to verify fit with your vehicle.
Onboard Navigation
Garmin/NAVTEQ Navigation: With built-in Garmin navigation software and NAVTEQ map data (CN North America NT 2013), the Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD features on-screen maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The built-in maps include over 6-million Points of Interest (POIs) such as hotels, restaurants, gas stations, attractions, parking, airports, ATMs, and more. The built-in navigation software provides you with calculated on-screen routes and audible directions to follow in order to reach your destination safely.
Note: Car navigation maps are frequently updated. While this database was judged to be as accurate as possible at the time of its release, a map database can never be 100% accurate. Road information that is maintained in the map databases, such as turn restrictions or road names may change over time.
Software/Map Data Updates:When the preloaded maps are considered out of date, the DNX890HD will provide periodic notification at startup. Garmin software and map updates can be downloaded as required, via microSD memory card. To find a software or map update, please go to www.garmin.com/kenwood.
Note: The unit's SD-card slot is located behind the motorized touchscreen monitor. The microSD-card slot is only used for software and map updates. It cannot be used for playback of media files from an microSD memory card.
GPS Receiver & Antenna: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD employs a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that is forgiving of less than optimal antenna placement, giving you additional placement options. The included GPS antenna that features a self-adhesive base and an attached 11.5' cable terminated by a proprietary plug which connects to GPS-input on the back of the head unit. The GPS antenna is designed to be mounted inside the vehicle on the dash. The GPS antenna measures 1.3125" (w) x 0.625" (h) x 1.4375" (d). The self-adhesive pad measures 2.5625" x 2.5625".
- Update Rate: 1/second, continuous
- Position Accuracy: <6 meters, typical
Note: The first time you turn on this unit, you must wait while the system acquires satellite signals for the first time. This process could take up to several minutes. Make sure your vehicle is outdoors in an open area away from tall building and trees for fastest acquisition. After the system acquires satellites for the first time, it will acquire satellites quickly each time thereafter.
NAVTEQ Traffic: NAVTEQ Traffic receives traffic information that is broadcast over the FM Radio Data System. The free FM TMC subscription activates automatically after the navigation system acquires satellite signals while receiving traffic signals from the service provider. NAVTEQ Traffic provides real-time traffic data for over 90 major cities in North America, including the United States and Canada. If traffic is congested up ahead or there is a road closure, the navigation system will automatically re-navigate the route to show you how to get to your destination, quickly and easily. Alternatively, in manual mode, the system will add delay time to your trip so you can decide to avoid or continue on your current route. When the unit is receiving traffic information, a traffic icon appears in the upper-left corner of the Map page. The traffic icon changes color to indicate the severity of traffic conditions on your route or on the road you are currently traveling.
|Low severity
|Traffic is flowing normally
|Medium severity
|Traffic slightly congested
|High Severity
|Traffic is heavily congested or stopped
|No data
|Traffic data has not updated
Note: NAVTEQ includes a lifetime service subscription. Because NAVTEQ traffic is subsidized by unobtrusive pop-up advertising there is no subscription fees.
On-Screen Map: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD displays a real-time moving map illustrating your current position and intended route. It will show map scale and geographic details such as lakes, rivers, highways and towns. Your route is marked with a magenta line. A checkered flag marks your destination. As you travel the DNX890HD guides to your destination with arrows on the map and directions at the top of the screen. The upper-left corner of the screen indicates the distance to your next maneuver. During your calculated route, your arrival time is displayed in the lower left corner, your current speed is shown in the lower right corner. The posted speed limit for most major roads is displayed near the lower right corner as well. The unit allows you to zoom, pan, and point using the touchscreen during navigation. If you depart from the original route, the navigation system recalculates the route and provides new directions.
- Map Detail: You can adjust the amount of detail shown on the map screen. More detail may cause the map to be slower.
- 2D/3D Map View: You can changes the perspective of the map from 2D North-Up (displays the map in 2 dimensions with North at the top), 2D Track-Up (displays the map in 2 dimensions with your direction of travel at the top of the screen), 3D Track-Up (displays the map in 3 dimensions with your direction of travel at the top of screen).
- Vehicle Type: You can change the icon (arrow, station wagon, sports car, compact car, SUV, jeep, RV, or sled) used to display your position on the map.
- Color Mode: Select between Day (for a bright background), Night (for a black background) or Auto (to automatically switch between the two) for the on-screen map.
Text-To-Speech Voice Prompts: The unit's text-to-speech voices "read and speak" the same words that are displayed on the unit's screens. The voices have an extensive vocabulary and they pronounce the street names as you approach turns. Voice prompts can heard from both of your front speakers, only the left front speaker, or only the right front speaker. You can independently adjust the volume (0-35) of the voice prompts without affecting the main volume. The unit only offers English voice prompts in a male or female voice.
Note: You can continue to listen to your music source while navigating. The DNX890HD will mute the music source, when there is a text-to-speech voice prompt. Once the voice prompt has ended, your music volume will automatically raise to previous setting.
Turn/Lane Assistant+Junction View: While navigating a route, a preview of the next turn, lane change, or other maneuver appears in the upper-left corner of the map. The preview includes the distance to the turn or maneuver and the lane in which you should be traveling, if available. Junction View displays a realistic view of upcoming road details facilitating a safer navigation experience (for major highways only).
Exit Services: While navigation a route, you can find gas, food, lodging, and restrooms near upcoming exits. Services are listed under the following categories - Gas, Food, Lodging, and Restrooms. You must be on a major highway or road to use this feature.
Speed Limit Icon: A speed limit icon may appear as you travel on major roadways. This icon displays the current speed limit of the roadway. The unit's speed limit icon feature is for information only and does not replace the driver's responsibility to abide by all posed speed limit signs and to use safe driving judgment at all times.
Where Am I?: The "Where Am I?" feature gives you instant access to important information in case of an emergency. When you select "Where Am I?" from the menu, you get the coordinates (including elevation) of your current position, plus the nearest address and intersections. There are also menus to help you locate the nearest hospitals, police stations, gas stations, and roadside assistance. You can also save the location for future reference.
Where To? Screen: The Where To? screen provides several different categories for you to use when searching for addresses, cities, and other locations. The detailed map loaded in the navigation system also contains millions of points of interest to choose from.
|Destination Search
|Browse Map
|Allows you to search for a destination by touching and dragging the map.
|Go Home
|You can store one home location to allow you to calculate a route home from any current location.
|Input your destination address by house number, street, city, and zip-code.
|Allows you to search by city's name.
|Allows you to search where to streets intersect.
The detailed maps loaded in this navigation system contain locations, such as restaurants, hotels, auto services, and other POIs (points-of-interest). You can use these categories to browse for nearby businesses and attractions.
|You can save all of your favorite places in the navigation system, so you can quickly navigate to them later.
|Choose from one of your most recent destinations or waypoints.
|Allows you to search your destination by longitude and latitude values.
|Search Bar
|You can use the Search Bar to search for locations by entering a category, brand name, address, or city name.
|You can add up to 36 shortcuts to the Where to? menu. A shortcut can point to a location, a category, or a search tool.
Note: The navigation system automatically searches for places near your current location. You can also choose to have the DNX890HD search for places in a different city, a recent destination, a favorite destination, projected destination, or along your current route.
Route Preferences/Avoidances: When calculating a route, you can select the following preferences; faster time, shorter distance, less fuel, or off road. You can also program the unit to avoid certain things that may be undesirable on your route; such as U-Turns, Highways, Toll Roads, Carpool Lanes, Unpaved Roads, and Ferries.
Auto Reroute/Detour: If you happen to depart from your original route, the internal navigation system recalculates the route and provides new route instructions. You can also select a specific area to detour around. The navigation system will attempt to get you back on your original route as quickly as possible, after calculating a detour. If the route you are currently taking is the only reasonable option, the DNX890HD might not calculate a detour.
Trip Planner (Multiple Destination Routing): You can create and save a trip with multiple destinations (up to 500 via points) using the Trip Planner. Once you have entered your destinations, you can manually set them in the order of your preference, or allow the device to calculate the most efficient route. Trip itineraries can be saved in memory for future use.
Where I've Been/Trip Log: The Where I've Been application allows you to view your previous routes and places you have stopped on the map. In addition, the device keeps a Trip Log, which is a record of the path you have traveled. The Travel History setting must be enabled in order for the Where I've Been and Trip Log features to function.
Trip Computer: The trip information page displays your current speed and direction, and provides helpful statistics about your trip. Dual trip odometers keep up with your total mileage. The page also indicates the distance and driving time to your next maneuver, as well as the distance and driving time to your destination. Your maximum speed and moving average speed are also displayed. The information can be reset in advance of your next trip.
Trends: The DNX890HD has the ability to recall frequent destinations and historic traffic information to help calculate your route faster.
- myTrends: The myTrends feature senses when you are driving to a common destination and displays the destination and estimated time of travel in the navigation bar on the map. myTrends does not work when you first begin using your navigation system. To effectively use the myTrends feature, your frequent destinations must be marked as favorites, and a regular pattern of driving habits must be established with three days of regular driving usage.
- trafficTrends: When the trafficTrends feature is enabled, the navigation system uses historic traffic information to calculate more efficient routes. Different routes may be calculated based on traffic trends for the day of the week or based on the time of day.
ecoRoute: The ecoRoute feature calculates your vehicle's fuel economy, carbon footprint, the fuel price of navigating to your destination, and offers tools for improving fuel efficiency. The first time you access the ecoRoute features, you will be asked to enter fuel and mileage information (Fuel Type, City Fuel MPG, HWY Fuel MPG, Fuel Price) about your vehicle.
- Fuel Economy: If you have entered your vehicle profiles and the current fuel price, the DNX890HD calculates fuel used, the average fuel economy for your vehicle, your carbon footprint, and the cost of the fuel consumed.
- At The Pump: At your next fill-up, you can enter in fuel price, amount of fuel used, and the distance you traveled to calculate your vehicle's miles-per-gallon (MPG).
- ecoChallenge Tool: The ecoChallenge tool helps you
maximize your fuel economy by scoring your driving habits. The higher your
overall score for a driving challenge, the more fuel you could save. You
overall score is the average of these 3 scores:
- Speed: gain points for driving at the best speed for conserving fuel, which is 45-60mph for most vehicles.
- Acceleration: gain points for gradual acceleration; lose points for rapid acceleration
- Braking: gain points for gradual braking; lose points for hard braking
- Mileage Report: Mileage reports provide the distance, the time, the average fuel economy, and the fuel cost of navigation to a destination. A mileage report (up to 20) is created for every route that you drive. If you stop a route on your navigation system, a mileage report is created for the distance you traveled.
Note: The data provide by the ecoRoute feature is only an estimate. The data is not actually read from your vehicle.Future Update for Smartphone Link w/ Garmin Live Services: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD will require a future software update (not yet available) to support Garmin's Smartphone Link App and Live Services. The free Smartphone Link can be downloaded from the Google Play store. The download includes several Garmin Live Services, as well as premium subscription services. Smartphone Link creates a seamless navigation experience between the Kenwood navigation receiver and your Android smartphone (2.1+). It allows the two devices to share information; such as saved and recently found locations, where you parked, and your current destination. It also links the Kenwood navigation receiver to Garmin Live Services; such as traffic, weather, and fuel prices using your smartphone's current mobile data plan. Garmin Live Services provide the most up-to-date "live" information to the Kenwood navigation receiver using your Android's mobile data plan. There's no need for an additional data connection. Some services are included free when you connect to Smartphone Link; others are available through subscriptions that offer premium content and enhanced features.
- Live Traffic: Garmin Live Traffic provides the best-in-class real-time information to help you navigate in and around congestion. Live Traffic is updated every 2 minutes and receives more than 1,000 messages every update cycle.
- photoLive Traffic Cameras: Provides drivers the ability to look up real-time photos from traffic cameras to get a glance at traffic and weather conditions.
- Real-time Safety Cameras: Alerts you to fixed and mobile safety camera data to help you arrive safely at your destination.
- Fuel Prices: Helps you find the best prices for any grade of fuel in your area or on your route. Just tap the screen and go to your chosen station.
- Dynamic Parking: Helps you locate parking areas close to your destination. It also will provide you with the number of spots available and the current cost of the parking spot.
- Garmin Tracker: Allows you to track the location of your Kenwood navigation receiver and vehicle via myGarmin. You also can send a link via Facebook, Twitter, or email for others to track you as you travel.
- Local Weather (free): Current localized weather, temperature, and forecasts.
- Advanced Weather: In addition to what the free weather service provides, Advanced Weather also allows users to receive severe weather alerts and view animated radar images. Colors distinguish types of precipitation, such as rain, snow and ice, to help you avoid bad driving conditions.
Note: An unlimited data plan is recommended when using Garmin Live Services. Some services may not be available in all areas. Some services may require a paid subscription.
Tools: The DNX890HD offers tools you can use as you travel.
- World Clock: The world clock allows you to display the current time for four locations throughout the world. You can also display a map of the world showing which portions are in daylight and which are in darkness.
- Unit Converter: You can convert distance, speed, area, currency, temperature, volume, and weight.
- Calculator: The calculator allows you to perform simple arithmetic.
Safe Mode: Safe Mode disables all navigation system functions when the vehicle's parking brake is disengaged, that require significant operator attention and could become a distraction while driving. You will need to engage the parking brake to enter addresses or other advance navigation functions when you have the unit set to Safe Mode.
Built-in Bluetooth
Bluetooth Technology: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD is equipped with built-in Bluetooth (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 (Hands Free Profile), OPP (Object Push Profile), PBAB (Phone Book Access Profile).
- Audio Streaming: A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (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 Excelon DNX890HD. 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 Excelon DNX890HD 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 (only one paired phone 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 touchscreen controls of the DNX890HD 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 (All or Front only). 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 touchscreen, or setup the head unit to automatically answer the incoming call immediately (within 0-99 seconds).
- Dialing a Number: Using the DNX890HD, 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 touchscreen (your vehicle's parking brake must be engaged).
- 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 touchscreen.
- Phone Book: You can dial by using the downloaded phone book. You can download phone book data from your cell phone to the DNX890HD. 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. You can search 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 (up to 50 each).
- 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 Excelon DNX890HD 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: You can wirelessly download a SMS text-message arrived at your cell-phone so that it can be read on the Bluetooth-connected Kenwood head unit. You can reply to a SMS test-message by using the head unit's touchscreen to enter alphanumeric text. There is a limited amount of text that can be downloaded or entered. You can also select a quick reply from the head unit's template list; such as "I'm driving right now" or "I will call you later", etc.. Your cell-phone must support SMS via Bluetooth for this feature to function. Do not read incoming messages or reply while driving.
Wireless Audio Streaming (w/ Metadata Display): The Kenwood DNX890HD also supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of a Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone. The DNX890HD 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 DNX890HD 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 Excelon DNX890HD has the ability to access Siri through its front-panel controls and external microphone. Simply press-and-hold down on the head unit's "VOICE/TEL" 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 DNX890HD and its microphone. The head unit's LCD touchscreen will only display hands-free calling and Bluetooth audio information (all other functions of Siri are only audible through the Kenwood DNX890HD; 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 DNX890HD offers the following Bluetooth Detailed Settings, so you can configure the unit to suit your needs.
- Speaker Output: You can select whether the call beep/caller's voice is heard through only the front speakers or all speakers.
- Mic Level: Adjusts the volume of the external microphone.
- NR Level: Reduces the noises generated by the surrounding environment without changing the mic volume.
- EC Level: Adjusts the level of echo cancellation.
Disc & USB Playback
Compatible Discs: The touchscreen monitor electronically slides down for loading and ejecting discs. The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD supports playback of DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD-Audio, CD-Text, CD-R/RW, DTS-CD, and VCD discs. The unit supports MPEG-1/MPEG-2 video & JPEG files recorded on to CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW and DVD+R/RW discs. It also supports playback of MP3, WMA, AAC, and WAV music files loaded onto a CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, or DVD+R/RW disc.
Dual USB Ports: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD features two rear-panel Full-Speed 2.0 USB type-A ports (attached to the unit's rear-chassis by a 38" cable) for connection and control of portable USB mass-storage class (MSC) devices; such as select Android smartphones (Froyo/Gingerbread OS only), portable digital audio players, or USB thumbdrives. The USB ports enable playback of MP3, WMA, AAC, and WAV audio files; as well as JPEG still-picture files stored on compatible USB memory devices. The DNX890HD also supports video playback of MPEG1/MPEG2 video files from connected portable USB MSC devices. USB portable audio devices that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the navigation receiver's USB port (5V/1A), and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.
File Compatibility: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD supports the following types of audio, video, and photo files recorded onto a disc or loaded onto a USB mass storage class device.
|Media Type
|Disc (CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW)
|File System
|ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo, Long File Name
|Playable File Types
|MP3: bit rate of 8-320kbps w/
sampling rates of 8-48kHz
WMA: bit rate of 5-320kbps w/ sampling rates of 8-48kHz
AAC: bit rate of 16-320kbps w/ sampling rates of 32-48kHz
WAV: bit rate of 16-bit w/ sampling rate of 44.1kHz
|MPEG-1: 352x240
to 720x480 or 352x280 to720x576 (4.0Mbps)
MPEG-2: 352x240 to 720x480 or 352x280 to 720x576 (4.0Mbps)
|JPEG: 32x32 to 8192x7680 pixels
|Maximum # of Folders/Files
|250 folders/5,000 files (999 files per folder)
|MP3 ID3-tags (ver. 1.0/1.1/2.2/2.3/2.4), WMA-tags, AAC-tags, and WAV-tags
Dolby Digital/DTS: The DNX890HD supports playback of Dolby Digital and DTS 2.0 DVD discs and will convert multi-channel Dolby Digital sources to 2-channel.
Folder/Track List: The Folder/Track List allows you to search folders and audio/video/picture files stored on a disc or USB device.
Highlight Control (DVD Playback): During DVD playback, you can control certain operations simply by touching an area of the screen. The touchscreen has 4 functions areas. You can touch the left of the screen to start the current chapter over, or the right of the screen to skip to the next chapter. Pressing the top center of the screen activates the DVD disc menu control buttons, while pressing the bottom center activates the source control screen.
Search Functions (USB only): The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD offers unique search functions for USB playback.
- Category Search: You can navigate music stored on your USB memory device by Playlist, Artist, Song, or Album. Once a category is selected, you can search the contents alphabetically.
- Link Search: Link Search allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. The head unit can create an album list of the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, a artist list of the currently playing genre, or a album list of currently playing composer.
- Picture Search: The unit will display up to eight thumbnails of still-images to choose from. The selected thumbnail will become a full screen image.
Zoom: The DNX890HD features a 3 level zoom when playing back video and still images.
Parental Control (DVD only): Parental Control allows you to restrict DVD playback according to a predetermined level. You can select a parental control rating from 0-8, which is protected by a 4-digit password.
Firmware Updates (via USB): The unit's operating system is updateable via free downloadable software from Kenwood's support site. Firmware downloads assist in maintaining system performance when using external devices and emerging technologies. Firmware/software updates can be downloaded onto a USB thumbdrive from your computer and then inserted into the head unit's USB port and uploaded. The tested unit contained firmware version 30100663 (V1.0.0). Go to Kenwood's Support Site for the latest firmware/software updates.
iPod/iPhone Integration
iPod/iPhone Connectivity: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD supports audio/video playback from select Apple iPods and iPhones.
- Audio/Video Playback: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD's rear-panel USB port (labeled iPod/iPhone) and rear-panel 3.5mm A/V AUX input (AV-IN 2) allow you to connect select Apple iPod/iPhones using the Kenwood KCA-IP202 iPod cable (113IP202, sold separately). The unit's USB port handles the control, metadata display, and charging of your iPod/iPhone. You can navigate through your music and video files using the head unit's touchscreen controls and view song and movie info on its display, while your iPod/iPhone charges. The 3.5mm AV input handles audio and video transfer from your iPod/iPhone to the Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD. By using the Auxiliary input, the music travels to the receiver as an analog signal, so you can even play the Digital-Rights-Protected files you've stored on your iPod/iPhone. The unit's rear-panel AV input must be set to "iPod" in order to playback audio/video from your connected iPod/iPhone. Video can only be displayed while the vehicle is in park.
- Audio Only Playback: If you only want to playback audio from your iPod or iPhone, you can simply connect it to either of the DNX890HD's USB ports using the USB/iPod dock cable that came with your iPod/iPhone or Kenwood's iPod Direct Connect Cable (113KCIP102, sold separately). This 1-wire USB connection bypasses the iPod/iPhone's DAC and sound quality is maximized through the head unit's 24-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal-to-Noise ratio up to 100dB. The unit's rear-panel AV input must be set to "AV-IN2" in order to use the 1-wire USB connection. You will not be able to play Digital-Rights-Protected files.
Note: If you have an iPod nano (7th gen), iPod touch (5th gen), or iPhone 5/5C/5S; use the Lighting-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect to the head unit. These Apple devices only support audio playback (no video output).
iPod Control: You can choose to control your connected iPod/iPhone from the head unit, from the iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen, or from select apps streamed to your iPhone.
- Head Unit Control Mode: The Kenwood head unit allows you to navigate your iPod's music library by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, Composer, Song, Podcast, or Audiobook. Your iPod's video library can be searched by Video Playlist, Movie, Music Video, TV Show, Video Podcast, Rented Movie, or iTunesU. You can then search each of these categories alphabetically (A-Z) using the head unit's touchscreen slider function. You can even search your iPod's music library by Album Art and create a Favorite List, which contains an original playlist of your favorite 10 albums. In addition, the head unit offers Link Search, which allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. Link Search lets the head unit create an album list of the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, a artist list of the currently playing genre, or a album list of currently playing composer. You can also select Random & Repeat functions for a certain song or specific folder.
- iPod/App Control Mode: The iPod/App control mode allows you to control stored audio/video content from your connected iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen. This is very useful for the person riding in your passenger seat. The iPod/App mode also lets you listen to your favorite music apps, such as iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Last.fm, Rhapsody, & Slacker streamed to your iPhone (iOS 3.0+) through the Kenwood head unit and your vehicle's speakers. You can even watch video on the Kenwood navigation receiver's touchscreen from streaming movie apps, such as Netflix & YouTube, downloaded on your iPhone 4/4S (iOS 4.0+), via the Kenwood KCA-IP202 iPod cable (sold separately).The App Mode's video functions can only be accessed when the vehicle is in park and the hand-brake is fully engaged. Not all apps will be compatible with App Mode and App Mode will provide only limited (basic), if any, control over the app. Available controls may include - Play/Pause & Skip Previous/Next.
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.
iPod/iPhone Display: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD will display your iPod/iPhone's music file information when you are controlling your iPod or iPhone from the Kenwood multimedia head unit. The head unit will display Track number, Elapsed playing time, Artist name, Song title, and Album label. The unit will also display Album Art. If you choose to operate your connected iPod/iPhone in iPod/App Control Mode, the DNX890HD will not display your iPod/iPhone's music information (the head unit will instead display 'iPhone App/iPod Control Mode + Parking Off').
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. If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it.
iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 9/24/2013):
|Apple Device
|Tested Version
|Media Type
|Control Type
|Specific Apps
|Display Type
|iTunes Tagging
|Head Unit
|Aha Radio
|Song/Artist Text
|Track Info
|Album Art
- *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. These Apple devices only support audio playback (no video output).
- 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.
HD Radio+Pandora/Aha+SiriusXM Ready
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.
- Tuning: The DNX890HD navigation receiver offers a
variety of tuning options; including Seek, Tuner, and Direct Access.
- 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. You can also setup the DNX890HD to search only HD Radio stations.
- Tuner Presets: The DNX890HD's tuner features 3 FM banks (1, 2, 3) and 1 AM bank for storing presets. 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). Not only does the DVD 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.
- Direct Access Tuning: You can directly access an AM/FM station by entering in the frequency number using the unit's LCD touchscreen.
- Multicasting: In addition to conventional broadcasts, with HD Radio broadcasting it is possible to choose from up to 8 multicast programs (HD1 to HD8).
- Station Text + Album Art: AM/FM digital stations can offer text and data such as artist names and song titles. The DNX890HD also supports Album Art from select HD Radio stations.
- 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 (7.4 or later) the next time you sync your iPod/iPhone. Then you can directly buy the songs you want from the iTunes Music Store. Your iPod/iPhone must have at least 50MB of free space to "tag" and transfer songs. You can "tag" up to 50 songs.
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.
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 Excelon DNX890HD navigation 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 Excelon DNX890HD provides
Pandora App access via a USB-connected iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled
Android/Blackberry smartphone.
- Pandora App for iPhone: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD provides complete access to your Pandora account using your iPhone, via the head unit's rear-panel USB port. To access Pandora you must have an Apple iPhone (iOS5 or later) with the latest version of the Pandora App from Apple's iTunes App Store.
- Pandora App for Android/Blackberry: The Kenwood DNX890HD 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 Excelon DNX890HD will provide
control over the Pandora music service streamed to your USB-connected iPhone
or Bluetooth-enabled Android/Blackberry smartphone.
- Station/Genre List: You can select Pandora stations from your Station List by date or alphabetically (A-Z). You can also select from Pandora's Genre Stations.
- Create New Station: New stations can be created based on the current songs or artists playing on Pandora.
- Shuffle: Randomly selects artists/songs from your Pandora Station List for playback.
- 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.
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.
Aha Radio App: The Kenwood navigation receiver offers compatibility with the free Aha Radio app for iPhone and Android smartphone. Aha Radio provides you with up to the minute content made available from the convenience of Kenwood's touchscreen interface. Listen to the latest Facebook updates or Tweets from your friends. Listen to thousands of stations that include internet radio, podcasts, and audiobooks. Receive traffic information, restaurants and coffee locations personalized to you instantly, safely, and easily.
- Aha Radio for iPhone: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD provides complete access to your Aha Radio account using your iPhone, via the head unit's USB port. To access Pandora you must have an Apple iPhone (iOS 4.3 or later) with the latest version of the free Aha Radio app from Apple's iTunes App Store.
- Aha Radio for Android: The DNX890HD also lets you playback and control Aha Radio streamed from your Android smartphone, via Bluetooth (no hard-wired connection required). To access Aha Radio from the Kenwood head unit, your Bluetooth-enabled Android smartphone must have the latest version of the free Aha Radio App from the Google Play store. Your Android smartphone (2.2+) must support A2DP, AVRCP, and SPP Bluetooth profiles.
Note: Your iPhone or Android smartphone will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. You will also need an Aha Radio account. Access to the Aha Radio will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone to connect to the Internet.
SiriusXM Ready: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD 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, Channel Logo, Artist Name, & Song Title can be viewed on the head unit's LCD
Up to 24 SiriusXM Satellite Radio station presets
Supports the SiriusXM Instant Replay function, so you can pause, rewind, and replay up to 60 minutes of live content
GameAlert will display an on-screen message if your favorite teams' games are being broadcast
Song/Artist Alert notifies when your favorite songs or artists are being broadcast on any SiriusXM station
iTunes Tagging lets you 'tag' songs you hear on SiriusXM and stores the info on your USB-connected iPod/iPhone, so the next time you connect your iPod/iPhone to iTunes you will be able to preview your selections, purchase songs, and download them directly from iTunes
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.
AV Connection
Dual A/V Inputs: The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD navigation receiver is fitted with two audio/video inputs. The unit features a rear-panel 3.5mm audio/video input (AV-IN 2)for connecting an external game console or portable MP3 player. This input also serves as the A/V input for your USB-connected iPod (using proprietary Kenwood cable). The head unit also features a composite video/stereo audio RCA input (AV-IN 1) on the rear-panel for connecting an external A/V source, such as a Blu-ray player or mobile ATSC tuner.
A/V Output (with Dual Zone): The unit features a composite video jack and 3.5mm audio jack to output A/V signals to an optional monitor and headphone system. The unit's A/V output can be set to Disc, Video, iPod, or Off. You can adjust the volume of the 2nd Zone independently from 0 to 35. You can select between a 16:9, 4:3 LB, or 4:3 PS Aspect Ratio for the unit's video output to match your connected monitor.
Note: You cannot select iPod as the A/V Output source when you select Pandora as a main source in dual zone function.
Camera Input: The unit features a composite video input for connecting an optional rear view camera, such as the Kenwood CMOS-210 (113CMOS210, sold separately). The video from this connection can be set to display when switched to this input, or display the rear view camera video automatically when the vehicle is shifted into Reverse gear. The purple/white wire (attached to the rear chassis) must be connected to the vehicle's reverse lamp circuit for automatic video switching. Automatic video switching takes approximately 1.2 seconds. Audio from your music source will continue playing, while the back-up camera is displayed.
Optional Multi-View Camera: By connecting the Kenwood CMOS-310 Universal Multi-View Camera ( 113CMOS310, sold separately) to the DNX890HD, you gain the capability of turning parking guidelines on/off, as well as cycle through five different multi-views right from the touchscreen. You can also toggle between front & rear cameras when using two CMOS-310 simultaneously (second camera must be connected to the head unit's rear-panel AV1 input.
OEM/Remote Control
Remote Control: The included IR remote control (KNA-RCDV331) is designed for wireless operation of this Kenwood navigation receiver. The wireless remote controller operates off of two supplied "AAA" batteries. The remote operates off of IR transmission, so the KNA-RCDV331 must be pointed at the front-panel of the Kenwood head unit within direct line of sight. The remote operates Audio, Video, Navigation, and Bluetooth functions.
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.
OEM Integration: This Kenwood multimedia head unit is compatible with the iDatalink Maestro RR (794ADSMRR, sold separately); a web programmable module that will permit the aftermarket Kenwood head unit to work with select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles that feature the factory SYNC system; as well as select GM vehicles with factory OnStar. The iDatalink Maestro RR lets Ford or GM owners swap out their factory radio for this aftermarket Kenwood multimedia head unit; while retaining the Ford Sync system, GM OnStar, steering wheel controls, hands-free Bluetooth, USB interface (Ford only), Satellite Radio, and 911 assist. You also get to keep the hands-free mic that comes with the car (which is specially tuned to that particular vehicle). In addition, the Kenwood multimedia head unit can be configured to operate interior climate controls, distance and proximity sensors, tire pressure sensors, and vehicle gauges such as engine temperature, RPM, and other performance indicators (if factory equipped).
- Ford Installation: The iDatalink Maestro RR module must first be connected to your Windows PC via USB and "flashed" with the SR-FOR01-DS2 firmware from iDatalink's Weblink site, prior to installation. The iDatalink Maestro RR (MRR) requires the use of the iDatalink Maestro ADS-HRN(SR)-FOR01 installation harness (794HRNSRF1, sold separately) when installed in your compatible Ford, Lincoln, Mercury vehicle.
- GM Installation: The iDatalink Maestro RR module requires the use of the iDatalink Maestro ADS-HRN(SR)-GMS05 installation harness (794HRNGMS5, sold separately). The module must also be connected to your Windows PC and flashed with the SR-GMS05-DS firmware update.
Note: The Kenwood head unit features an OEM Setup menu that must be configured with your Ford SYNC or GM OnStar factory system before initial operation.
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 verify what's in the box, 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.
Customer Q&A
9 questions already asked
8 answers My Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD blue tooth worked great with my Samsung Galaxy 3 for about a month. Then suddenly I cannot connect to it via phone any longer. That option is now grayed out any only lets me connect the phone via Pandora, music etc, but not the phone. Anyone else experience this or knows of a fix? Much appreciated in advance [ DARRELL Jan 23, 2014 ]
Sorry but I connect with my iPhone and everything is working great! [ JOSEPH Feb 19, 2014 ]
Thanks everyone. I got it to work. I un-paired all of the blu tooth connections. Reset the unit, repaired the phone with the stereo and now its working again! [ DARRELL Jan 29, 2014 ]
HTC one has the very same problems. [ CHRIS Jan 23, 2014 ]
The bluetooth connection is buggy but it usually works. Kenwood put out a firmware upgrade in November of 2013. I haven't had a chance to install this firmware yet but it does list "Improved Bluetooth function" as one of the fixes. I was going to put in a link to the firmware but it looks like I can't do that. Just google DNX890HD firmware and it should be the first link. (I've updated my firmware once since I got it but it looks like they came out with a newer version. The last firmware updated helped quite a bit but there are still a few issues.) [ CHRISTOPHER L Jan 23, 2014 ]
I had a similar problem with the Galaxy S4. What I did was completely removed the phone under setup and removed the pairing from the phone its self. Then reconnected everything like it was a new phone. This resolved the problem for me. [ GREGORY S Jan 23, 2014 ]
3 things to try in order: 1) if possible, return this unit. it will only cause you more grief. not kidding. same phone, same issues. constantly. this is a worthless unit which will only get worse. just wait when the navigation fails (a widely know, non-fixable issue) 2) Remove the phone from the bluetooth device section of the unit, and remove the unit from your phone. repair the unit with the phone. make sure the phone has BOTH bluetooth options enabled (Phone Control and Media Control) 3) Reset the unit by pressing the red triangle in the bottom left corner while the unit is powered on. [ EVAN Jan 23, 2014 ]
Hey Darrell, I have an Iphone 4s and even from the beginning I had problems getting my phone to sync via bluetooth. In the end I had to basically reset the entire system, remove the bluetooth connection with my phone and then re-pair it to the Kenwood - a little bit of trial and error. You can also contact Kenwood directly as they seem to be helpful. My Kenwood receiver was actually faulty after 3 months and I had to send it back for repairs. They seem to stand by their products, I would give them a call if all else fails. Kenwood USA Tech support - One Eight Hundred - Five Three Six - Nine Six Six Three. Good Luck! [ JAMES Jan 23, 2014 ]
If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/. [ Jeff Jan 23, 2014 ] Staff
7 answers Can I remove icons from the main screen for items I don't use? Like ipod [ tyler Jan 20, 2014 ]
I have not seen any way to be able to "remove" the icons from the screen. On the main screen there are three large Icons at the top and a set of 7 smaller icons along the bottom. The top three can be set to any icon that you use the most, like HD radio, phone, DVD, IPOD, etc. These can be easily changed. The bottom row you swipe and it moves back and forth to reveal other icons that you cant readily view. I really like this receiver and definitely recommend it as a purchase. It has great music sound customization, easily hooks to a rear view camera, the navigation is top notch and all works great! [ DARRELL Jan 23, 2014 ]
according to kenwood all you can do is move the three you use the most to the top of the screen [ MARK L Jan 23, 2014 ]
You can move the icons around, but I can't find any way to delete one. Sorry [ JOE A Jan 21, 2014 ]
Wish I could help but I don't know. [ MARK Jan 21, 2014 ]
I don't know. My suggestion is to write Kenwood Customer Service. [ JOHN Jan 21, 2014 ]
Sorry Tyler but you cannot remove icons from the main screen on the 890HD. I have found that there aren't that many and they scroll across quickly and it hasn't been an issue for me so far. [ ROBERT Jan 21, 2014 ]
Tyler, I will play around with it and see. I have not tried yet and would like to move the icons also [ CRAIG J Jan 21, 2014 ]
No, because the unit will freeze every time you get in your vehicle. [ ROBERT Jan 20, 2014 ]
I dont know. Kenwood has a great tec service help line, give them a call.Randy S [ RANDALL Jan 20, 2014 ]
2 answers will i need to purchase a seperate tuner for sirius radio tp work with this product? my 2011 mustang came equiped with shaker 500 system and satellite radio. [ richard Jan 11, 2014 ]
You will want to contact an Advisor by phone or online chat to discuss compatibility with your factory system. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and see if this will integrate. If it does not, then they will also be able to discuss other options with you. [ Jeff Jan 11, 2014 ] Staff
For details on fit or installation please contact an Advisor by phone or online chat. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and give you the details on if this will fit and what you will need for an installation in your vehicle. [ Krissy Jan 11, 2014 ] Staff
The details tab covers information on iPhone compatibility. You will have access to many features if you utilize Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, you could connect to the rear USB ports. If you have an iPhone 5/5C/5S; use the Lighting-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect to the head unit. These Apple devices only support audio playback (no video output). [ Jeff Dec 09, 2013 ] Staff
No you can not. Unit will not play when car is in gear. Safety feature video only works when car is in park. Rear view camera will work in revers of course. But thats all. [ PAUL W Dec 08, 2013 ]
Yes, it has two zone output. [ WILL Dec 07, 2013 ]
Absolutely. I am running 7 monitors and it works superb. [ CHARLES Dec 07, 2013 ]
Oh yes!!! It does, and very good... [ Gustavo May 15, 2015 ]
do not know. wks with the iphone 5 and the Samsung s4. [ DEANE D May 14, 2015 ]
You have to define "work." Pandora works, and bluetooth For audio and voice. But I haven't been able to get much else to work with my 6+. Haven't tried much though... [ Luis May 14, 2015 ]
1 answer Will this unit work with my factory back up camera and steering wheel controls? [ Al Dec 28, 2013 ]
The ability to retain steering wheel controls (and back up camera) with aftermarket receivers will be determined by the receiver you are using and the vehicle you have. For full information on this type of integration (including the parts you will need) please contact an Advisor by phone or online chat. [ Jeff Dec 28, 2013 ] Staff
The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD features on-screen maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For information on possibly using this receiver in Europe I would recommend contacting an Advisor by phone or online chat. If this receiver is not compatible with European maps they will be able to provide other options. [ Jeff Dec 17, 2013 ] Staff