For 2012, JVC introduced five new in-dash AV Multimedia car receivers, loaded with new technologies and enhanced connectivity with the new SiriusXM SXV200 Connect Vehicle Tuner (sold separately, XM subscription required). The SXV200 is a compact solution that can be mounted behind the dashboard and connects directly to the receiver using one simple cable. It is also plug and play — there are no translators or tuner programming required.
The 2012 models also feature expanded compatibility and linking with the iPhone and iPod with 2-way song selection control. Four new models add a new App Link Mode feature which enhances the user experience of certain iPhone apps with live on-screen graphic display and music playback through the vehicle’s speakers. App link mode supports functionality from iPhone apps such as MotionX-GPS Drive, MOG Internet Radio, WebReader, Cobra iRadar, INRIX Traffic, TuneIn Radio, DriveMate Rec, DriveMate SafetyCam, DriveMate Rec mini, DriveMate OnboardCam, DriveMate TimeTrial and SonicMax Pro for JVC (an HD-quality music player powered by BBE Sound). Support for additional apps will be added in the future. Some applications such as MotionX-GPS Drive and MOG Internet Radio integrate further by allowing key functions to be controlled from the receiver’s screen without having to touch the iPhone. Also, key functions of Pandora internet radio such as thumb up/down, skip, and station selection can be controlled via the head unit while artist, song, and album artwork appears on the display. Additionally, 2012 models include a new digital music option of music playback with Blackberry via USB connection from either the phone’s internal or external memory.
The KW-AV70BT ($579.95, available February 2012) in-dash receiver is the top line model for the series featuring a 7-inch WVGA motorized widescreen touch panel display with proximity sensor and detachable face. The unit includes built-in Bluetooth wireless technology including phonebook transfer, hands-free, audio streaming, voice recognition dialing and alphabetical search for phonebook. Also featured is a USB 2.0 port for 2-way iPod/iPhone control and a new 1A current capable USB power supply with drive-change mode for smartphones. App Link Mode is available for audio playback and display from supported iPod/iPhone apps, and the receiver comes Satellite Radio and HD Radio ready. The KW-AV70BT is WAV/MP3/WMA compatible, and features a 3-band parametric iEQ, MOS-FET 50 watts x 4, three sets of 4V pre-outs, line input terminals, and is steering wheel remote control ready. This premium model also features a front SDHC/SD slot, as well as dual zone and dual play features.
The Arsenal KW-ADV64BT ($489.95) DVD/CD/USB receiver features a fully detachable 6.1-inch WVGA display, Built-in Bluetooth Wireless Technology, a rear USB port with 2-way iPod control and the App Link Mode feature. The KW-ADV64BT is both Satellite Radio and HD Radio ready, and is WAV/MP3/WMA compatible. The unit also features MOS-FET 50 watts x 4, 3 sets of 5V pre-outs, Dolby Digital, wireless remote, and standard 2-year warranty.
JVC Mobile’s Regular Line KW-AV60BT ($479.95) Double-DIN AV Multimedia Receiver includes these features but carries a one-year warranty and 3 sets of 4V Line Outputs.
The KW-AV60 ($429.95) DVD/CD/USB receiver features a fully detachable 6.1-inch WVGA display, with optional Bluetooth Adapter, and a 1A power supply USB port including drive change mode. App link mode is also supported on this model. The KW-AV60 is both Satellite and HD Radio ready, and is WAV/MP3/WMA compatible. The unit also features MOS-FET 50 watts x 4, 3 pre-output terminals, is Bluetooth ready with optional adapter and includes a wireless remote control.
The entry level, KW-AV50 ($379.95) receiver features a detachable 6.1-inch QVGA touch panel monitor. The unit includes a new 1A USB Power Supply, 4.0V line and subwoofer pre-output level, and is SiriusXM radio ready. It also offers the basic external mode connection for the iPod and iPhone allowing audio from apps to be streamed through a USB connection. The KW-AV50 is WAV/MP3/WMA compatible, and features a 3-band parametric iEQ, MOS-FET 50 watts x 4, 3 pre-out terminals, and is Bluetooth and steering wheel remote control ready. Additionally, like the more advanced models, it offers enhanced Variable-Color Illumination with over 30,000 variations.
All models are compatible with JVC’s existing KS-U30 ($49.95) add on video playback adapter for iPod/iPhone which allows iPod Video content to be displayed on screen. The KS-U30 also displays content on-screen from some other iPhone applications such as YouTube and Netflix. This cable is required to utilize the new 2012 App link mode function.
