Kenwood Excelon KDC-X492 CD receiver
See it at Amazon.com for $89.95Average Customer Rating
(4.5 out of 5)
Amazon Customer Reviews
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(4 out of 5)Quality and versatility
I wanted a direct, plug in, replacement for an 8 year old Kenwood already installed so considering other brands wasn't an issue. For this installation, must haves were a USB input for my thumb drives and MPG/WMA capability for CDs, so my choices in this price range were between this or a KDC-MP438U. The X492 has a higher pre-out output and the price (caught it on sale) made this unit the winner over the MP438U. Sound is great but I gave it only four stars for a few good reasons: The blue lighting around the jog knob and external inputs is distractingly bright (with no way to turn it down or off) and the clock only displays on "standby" (otherwise known as "off" in an earlier day) after you punch a button a couple of times. Why it can't be visible all the time is beyond me. Additionally, the instruction booklet could be clearer on how all this good stuff works and, at this point, the GUI seems a little complex.
Kenwood has developed a "dual mode" feature for this unit (and other I suspect) which I think would be ideal for families with kids. Easily selectable, in dual mode different sources can be listened to through the front and back speakers. With the included remote control, the kids can play what they please (iPod, whatever) through the back speakers while the adults can do what they want in front. Good idea.
All in all this is a good sounding unit that has a nice quality feel. Great for the price and I'd do it again faced with the same circumstances.
(5 out of 5)Great for the price
The Excelon series is Kenwood's finest. This stereo gives you USB input, is bluetooth ready and has an aux in plug. It also comes with a remote and is easy to use. I highly recommend buying one if you're looking for a reliable USB car stereo for a great price.