KENWOOD is set to ship two new smartphone-compatible multimedia receivers this month. The Excelon DDX6902S (MSRP $850.00) and DDX6702S (MSRP $800.00) expand the family of units equipped with Apple® CarPlay®, the Apple-produced in-vehicle interface for iPhone®.
While the pair’s predecessors—the Excelon DDX9902S and DDX9702S—are equipped with both Android™ Auto (a smartphone interface made by Google to work with late-model Android-powered smartphones) and Apple CarPlay, the two new units focus solely on the iPhone. Siri®, Apple’s voice-activated and voice-responsive intelligent assistant, is the user’s primary interface to select entertainment options, open apps, reply to text messages and get turn-by-turn directions.
Each multimedia receiver features a high-sensitivity, 6.2-inch screen bordered on the left by a physical knob and menu buttons. In addition to controlling the multimedia unit, the screen connects to an optional back-up camera to automatically show the view behind the vehicle while in reverse gear.
Onboard entertainment options include a full suite of content including digital channels via HD Radio®, CD and DVD, and terrestrial AM and FM. Both units are also SiriusXM-Ready™ and can connect to the optional SXV300 tuner (sold separately) to access hundreds of audio channels (subscription required). With a connected smartphone, the entertainment options increase with built-in control of Pandora® Internet Radio and iHeartRadio®.
Built-in amplifiers enable each unit to power directly connected speakers, making them ideal drop-in replacements for factory radios. For custom applications, the Excelon DDX6902S includes three 5-volt pre-amp outputs and a 7-band equalizer. The Kenwood DDX6702S includes three 4-volt pre-amp outputs and a 5-band EQ.
