KENWOOD USA is about to ship its 7-inch all-wireless CarPlay/Android Auto radios, originally delayed by the bankruptcy of a major LCD panel supplier out of Taiwan.
Five of the 7 new models are among the first from Kenwood to include both Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless.
The products were announced in January and scheduled for March release. However, the bankruptcy of LCD maker Chunghwa Picture Tubes, CPT, forced Kenwood to delay its radios with 7 inch panels until June. The company said it is happy to be shipping slightly ahead of schedule in time for the summer selling season.
“We are extremely pleased to ship these multimedia receivers ahead of schedule,” said Scott Caswell, senior marketing manager for KENWOOD USA. “…We are eager to get them on the shelves of our retailers so they can meet the heavy summer autosound demand.”
All seven models allow screen viewing angle adjustment, onboard control of Spotify and Pandora, and the ability to connect up to two smartphones via Bluetooth. They work with Maestro interfaces and are SiriusXM ready.
Two of the models are mechless (without CD or DVD)—the KENWOOD DMX7706S (MSRP$ 599.95) and eXcelon DMX706S ($649.95). They also have a new shorter chassis to fit more vehicles.
The other three new models in the KENWOOD line are all wireless with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connectivity and control over the KENWOOD DashCam, 3 camera inputs, the ability to “mirror” the screen of an Android-powered smartphone on the receiver’s screen, customizable screen widgets, and a second USB port.
The DDX8706S ($899.95) includes a CD / DVD player and the DMX9706 ($799.95) adds HD Radio and gold-plated 5.0-volt pre-outs. The DNR876S ($1399.95) also includes HD Radio and Garmin navigation.
The two full-size KENWOOD eXcelon multimedia receivers have enhanced screen quality with a capacitive touch panel, as well as providing all the features from the other models, excluding navigation. The eXcelon DMX906S ($849.95) is mechless but the eXcelon DDX8906S ($949.95) includes CD and DVD playback.
KENWOOD USA reps will provide exact dates as the models ship.
For more information visit www.kenwood.com/usa/car
These new Kenwood SKUs are amazing. When we recieved three of the DNX996XR they came and left less than two days @ $1,399.00. We are excited about this years Excelon lineup. Stack high and let them fly! srcartunes.com