By James Chevrette
At KnowledgeFest in Las Vegas today, KENWOOD and JVC reveal new radios that work with all new iDatalink Maestro technology for deeper integration into millions of vehicles without the need for extra dash kits.
With the new KENWOOD and JVC Direct Replacement radios, installers remove the factory screen and replace it with a new Direct Replacement screen that comes in either 8 or 10 inches. With new Maestro kits, the screen then automatically shows the car’s original factory features and retains items such as a volume knob.
The brain of the KENWOOD and JVC radios directly replace the brain of the factory radios. Eleven Maestro kits cover 50 million vehicles. The dealer need no longer stock many expensive integration kits, said KENWOOD.
The Direct Replacement screen can fully display climate controls or heated seat controls in compatible cars. Sometimes, the customer will lose some features or the interior dashboard may be altered from the OEM styling.
John Lucas, Vice President of Sales for KENWOOD USA said, “The Direct Replacement line shifts the focus from modifying vehicles to seamlessly integrating our products, giving dealers and customers a superior solution without compromise.”
Many consumers do not want to lose their infotainment knob. With traditional aftermarket radios the user typically loses this feature, said Josh Bowen of KENWOOD. Now when changing the radio, the factory knob for the infotainment system, steering wheel controls, climate controls and the motorized pocket are all maintained.
Using the example of a C7 Corvette or Chevrolet Tahoe, the factory radio motorizes up revealing a pocket behind the radio. Traditionally you would lose this feature with an aftermarket radio. With this new Direct Replacement designs, the screen fits into the factory housing.
The new KENWOOD models include the DAX8000S and eXcelon Reference models include DAX800XR and DAX1050XR.
JVC models include the KW-Z800AW and KW-Z1000AW.
Highlights of the eXcelon Reference Line:
- Fiber Optic Output: A highly anticipated feature, available exclusively in the eXcelon Reference models, providing cutting-edge audio signal transmission for unmatched sound quality.
- Audiophile-Grade Components: Delivering the ultimate in-car audio performance, true to the eXcelon Reference family legacy.
Shared Key Features For KENWOOD and JVC Direct Replacement Lines:
- OEM Fit and Finish: Designed to utilize factory dash bezels and mounting points, ensuring a clean and professional appearance.
- Broad Compatibility: Compatible with over 50 million vehicles at launch, with even more to come in future phases.
- Advanced Technology: Hi-Res Audio certification, split-screen Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, modular chassis design, and customizable widgets.
- Enhanced Visuals: Vibrant HD displays available in 8-inch and 10-inch sizes, offering superior clarity and an elevated user experience.
- Dealer-Friendly Installation: The ADS harnesses minimize installation time, making it easier for dealers to deliver exceptional results.
There are a few differences between KENWOOD and JVC design philosophies. KENWOOD, under the Excelon banner, has a digital output with a focus on sound quality. This is important for today’s OEM integration of DSP and considered a flagship feature. JVC still maintains its Dynamic GUI and Gesture Touch Control aimed at a younger demographic. More features will be revealed at KnowledgeFest in Las Vegas January 31- February 2.
KENWOOD said, with many consumers saying ‘stock is good enough with features like Apple Car Play or Android Auto and factory subwoofers,’ we can now demonstrate something else to add to their vehicle.
Will it fit 2011 Lincoln MKZ
Hopefully these are available for 22 through 24 Ford Mavericks.
Oh my!!!! I finally get to replace the OEM junk in my 2018 Nissan Armada with some CarPlay!?!?
This. Is. Awesome!!!
Will they work for the 22 mustang with the 4” screen?
Hello, this product only debuted this weekend, we will pass on any information as it is available.
Check out the video on 5starcarstereo on YouTube I think they specifically talk about that application
That’s what I’ve been dreaming and hoping to get!!! Finally they did it!!! Hopefully they fix the wireless CarPlay disconnected when going through specific places and restarting 😌
When will it be available for purchase?
So the DAX800XR and DAX1050XR both have optical outputs, but will the new DMX1058XR also have it? The article is a little vague
Only on the Excelon models.
In the new 2025 Kenwood Excelon radio lineup how many different models will have TOSLINK out. Will any of the new models have a CD/DVD player or are they only going to be a modular and/or floating screen?
Thanks.