JVC KW-AVX810 Review (KWAVX810)

The brand new 2008-released JVC KW-AVX810 features technology unique only to the unit itself. It's feature packed and capable of playing all of your favorite movies, music, and even capable of displaying your photographs.

Detachable screen??
The JVC KW-AVX810 showcases a widescreen 7" LCD touchscreen display that is complete in depth and full in color. You won't have a problem watching your movies or your latest hiking pictures on this double DIN receiver. What's completely unique only to the KW-AVX810 is its ability to have the front panel (which includes the screen) to complete detach. There are a few advantages to this. The first is obviously theft deterrent-- applying the principle of "out of sight, out of mind." The second is protection from extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. The LCD screen is probably one of the most sensitive electronic components. The key to its longevity is your extreme care of it especially in the summer heat!High Fidelity Audio/Video
The KW-AVX810 is capable of playing today's popular media file formats, including standard DVD, DivX, JPEG, MPEG1, MPEG2, AAC, MP3, and WMA. The crucial factor in the KW-AVX810 is its high-fidelity audio and video digital to analog converters. Whereas most other receivers feature a 1-Bit or an 8-Bit converter, the JVC KW-AVX810 features a 24-Bit audio D/A converter and a 12-Bit video D/A converter. Users taking advantage of these features will feature much better audio and video playback. You could also use the KW-AVX810 as a home theater component in your vehicle with its ability to put out Dolby Digital surround sound. Last but not least, the KW-AVX810 features a detailed 7-band parametric equalizer, allowing users to adjust seven different frequencies to their liking. For the more novice users, the unit pairs the equalizer with simple 8 presets.

Proximity Sensor
Similar to the KD-AVX44 and KD-ADV49, the KW-AVX810 features a proximity sensor that detects an approaching hand. Upon detection, the menu will conveniently display. Upon idle or undetected approach, the unit will hide the menu and the graphical user interface unless a video or other media is being played.Expansion Options
This versatile double DIN DVD receiver features 5-volt outputs through front, rear, subwoofer, and also a center gold-plated RCA preamp connectors. Looking for HD or Satellite Radio capabilities? Look no further! With additional accessories, the unit is capable of receiving SIRIUS, XM, and also HD Radio signals. The KW-AVX810 also could interface with iPod/iPod Video as well as Bluetooth-capable devices with ease and integration that is unmatched by any other product.

There are of course auxiliary RCA audio and video inputs, which typically comes standard with most receivers. However, the KW-AVX810 also has an SD Card reader and a USB port, allowing user access to portable media devices or storage containing their favorite media files.

Overall
Keep in mind that the JVC KW-AVX810 does not feature a built-in or expandable GPS navigation system. It is primarily designed for those of you who would like high-quality audio and video outputs with some neat features like a detachable front-panel and a proximity sensor. In addition it is also capable of operating most of today's expansion devices such as iPod and iPod Video, Bluetooth, Satellite, and HD Radios.

It comes with an above average price, within a range of $600-$700.

JVC KD-AV7100 Review

*** 06/02/2008 UPDATE: JVC HAS DECIDED AGAINST THE RELEASE OF THE KD-AV7100

TO BE RELEASED MAY 2008

Another great release expected in late first quarter of 2008 by JVC is the versatile KD-AV7100. It's a multimedia receiver with a retractable 7" wide touch-screen LCD display. The monitor slides nicely into the single DIN chassis and provides the screen with protection and an unseen security measure. It essentially utilize the idea of "out of sight, out of mind", avoiding notice from any scavenging thief on the streets.

This great single DIN receiver is also capable of playing a wide range of media formats from the rare VCD, DivX, and MPEG1/2, to the more popular MP3 and WMA. Of course, it is also capable of typical DVD, DVD±R/RW, CD-R/RW playback. In addition, the KD-AV7100 has 5.1 Dolby Digital and Pro Logic capable audio output, giving the unit a significant advantage over most other similar single DIN flip-out multimedia receiver. It could put out four channels surround plus center channel and a subwoofer sound, enabling users to enjoy a 5.1 surround sound home theater in the vehicle! What's even better is JVC's high-voltage gold-plated RCA inputs and outputs, which significantly reduces signal loss and maintains high-fidelity sound quality for better media enjoyment.

What makes this unit great is its capability to retrieve and play media from its front SD Card, USB, and 3.5mm auxiliary inputs. The inputs are even hidden behind a sliding plastic cover, giving it a very sleek look without gaping holes and slots littering the front panel. If you have an iPod, you could use its built-in iPod connection to play music and control your iPod from the receiver. Want Satellite Radio or HD Radio? Not a problem! The head unit is capable (with additional accessories) of receiving both Satellite (XM or Sirius) and HD Radio.

Overall, the unit has great potentials for any multimedia junkie. Even if you're not technologically savvy, you can be sure that this unit will not be outdated for quite a long time. Whereas most in-dash receivers would be outdated by its inability to receive Satellite or HD Radio, this unit will definitely be ready for the next generation of digital music coming through the air. In addition, its plentiful auxiliary inputs will ensure that it will be able to receive additional external sources.

If you're looking for an insurance plan, this is the unit for you. This multimedia receiver will be able to keep you entertained for years to come!

2008 JVC Arsenal Series Review

Introduction
In February of 2008, JVC released an entire line of brand new Arsenal Series in-dash head units. First available on the market February 9, 2008, these Arsenal Series receivers set the new standard of what is to be the new generation of mobile audio and video entertainment.

The market could no longer settle for a typical CD player with AM/FM capabilities because technology is advancing incredibly fast. To answer the demand for high tech integrations, JVC released their car stereo systems that are equipped to fit the needs of modern day consumers.

Note: This review is a general overview of the entire JVC Arsenal Series receivers, please check back soon to see detailed reviews of specific products.

Pros
JVC Arsenal head units are designed for specific needs. The great thing about the Arsenal series is the fact that JVC does not try to cram every feature into one unit. This is good for many reasons. First, it tends to reduce cost on a specific unit versus a unit that does everything. Second, you can be sure that product quality on Arsenal receivers are not compromised like a feature-crammed unit made by a no-name brand.

Let me give you an example. Perhaps you have already bought a GPS navigation that mounts on your dash or your windshield, great. Now you want a 7" in-dash monitor but you obviously do not need the extra navigation feature. For this reason exists the KW-ADV790, a double-DIN in-dash LCD monitor with built-in DVD player. It costs about 300 dollars less than a similar unit that has built-in navigation features in it. It also features a touchscreen and rear view camera input that makes this unit both versatile and simple to its purpose. Sit back, relax, and watch a movie by the beach with the entire KW-ADV790.

Arsenal single DIN receivers generally look the same but each are tailored for specific features. The KD-ABT22 features built-in Bluetooth connectivity that will allow users to wirelessly stream audio into the unit or receive phone calls. It also features a rear USB port that will allow users to play MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, iPod, and even WMA with DRM. Similarly, KD-APD89 features everything but the Bluetooth connection.

If you're looking for a simple HD Radio tuner, the KD-AHD39 is the solution for you. It is simply a CD player capable of receiving HD Radio signals. No other fancy features, no confusing buttons. It plays just like a regular AM/FM CD player and comes equipped with a front 3.5mm auxiliary input.

For all of you iPod lovers out there, the KD-APD58 and the KD-APD49 are two head units that could be your answer to iPod integration for your vehicle. It has built-in connection to any iPod equipped with docking port. You could control and view song titles on your in-dash receiver so you won't have to navigate and scroll through your songs on your iPod while driving. The only difference between the two is the additional preamp output and AAC playback capability of the KD-APD58.



Last but not least is the KD-ADV49, also known as "the Kameleon". It features a sleek knob-less design that is brandished in shiny black glassy finish. It also features a 3.5" LCD display and is capable of playing DVD, DivX, Mpeg 1/2, AAC, MP3, WMA, and WAV. It has three sets of preamp outputs, giving you the ability to wire this source unit into an additional amplifier. It also has a rear USB port and could control and operate your iPod. Let's not forget the new proximity sensor that JVC showcases on this model. It knows when you are approaching the front of the screen so that a menu is ready when you want it and hides when you are away. Did I mention that the entire front panel disappears when you turn it off? It's literally a chameleon, blending into your dash when it's idle or turned off.

Keep in mind that all 2008 JVC Arsenal head units are (if they are not already mentioned) Satellite Radio ready, HD Radio ready, iPod ready, and Bluetooth ready, as well as equipped with a 3.5mm front panel input. This gives you a wide option to choose from, should you choose to expand your system at a later time. Additionally, WAV, MP3, WMA, and DivX playback are also standardized to any capable receiver.

Cons
Other than the KD-ADV49 and the KW-ADV790, the Arsenal single DIN receivers does not look anything out of the ordinary cosmetically speaking. It seems that JVC needs to push ahead into the new age of mobile entertainment and start designing front panels like Kamaleon. And unfortunately, they all have dot-matrix type displays and has no significant edge over other brands when it comes to front panel displays.

Another thing to notch a negative point on is the remote design. It's rather bulky and also old-fashioned in design. Not exactly credit card size, but it could clip on to your key chain if you don't mind it being a little unwieldy.

Conclusion
If only one word could be said describing the Arsenal Series head units, it must be "integration". JVC has made great efforts for their product to supply the demand of new technology by integrating increasingly used technology such as HD Radio and Satellite Radio, as well as iPods into their units.

It is definitely a series characterized by advancing technology and giving consumers the ability to expand their system with just one source unit. It is a great buy if you don't mind the standard CD player front panel design on most of the single DIN head units. So enjoy your movies and your digital music. Relax and enjoy the Arsenal Series head-units.