Archive for January, 2011
Kenwood’s KDC-MP342U delivers playback of your CDs and CD-Rs, MP3/WMA/AAC files from disc or via the unit’s front USB port, AM/FM radio, and two versatile pre-amp outputs for system expansion. Add additional Kenwood devices for Bluetooth or satellite/HD radio.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U Detachable Faceplate
Deter theft with the detachable faceplate, which features a 14 segment FL display and lets you turn Scrolling on or off. The rotary encoder provides easy, intuitive operation and the blue key illumination with dimmer function looks great in any vehicle.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U CD and WMA/MP3/AAC Playback
Play your favorite CDs and CD-Rs, or enjoy your favorite WMA/MP3/AAC digital files burned to CD or on a USB device plugged into the KDC-MP342U’s front USB slot. Enjoy hours of music and ID-3 tag display for artist and title info.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U iPod 1-wire Connection
If you own an iPod, simply connect it to a Kenwood CD receiver via the USB cable that comes with the iPod. Better yet, use the optional KCA-iP100 1-wire iPod Interface Cable for crystal clear digital audio playback. You’ll supply power to your iPod as well as charge it while you enjoy your music.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U FM/AM Tuner
When you feel like letting someone else control the programming, switch to the radio. Features 18 FM and six AM presets for your convenience.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U Room to Grow
The KDC-MP342U features two 2V pre-amp outputs for system expansion. These are switchable between front/rear/sub settings, with a subwoofer level and adjustable low pass filter, so you have a few options for setting up your system.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U Remote Control
Let your passengers control the music from the back seat with the included remote.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U user review
This is my 2nd MP3 player by kenwood. My first one was a much older model and after what seems like easily 6 or 7 years of faithful service I decided to upgrade.
The usb port on the front is what makes it worth the upgrade. I can put thousands of songs onto a dirt cheap thumbdrive and not have to worry about MP3 cd’s all over my car.
The headunit also breathed new life into my 11 year old factory volvo speakers. I had no idea they could sound as good as they do. I’ve still got plans to put a recently acquired set of boston acoustic 6.5″ speakers in the front doors but I’m re-thinking my decision to also upgrade the rear door and rear deck speakers.
As far as the things about the unit that I don’t like, they’re very minor. For one, the 1~6 buttons control playback options and what not. The numbers of the buttons are very easy to read as they’re lit up but the functions is in a gray colored text that makes it hard to read. Before actually reading it in the manual, I didn’t know how to pause playback. The number 6 button does that but you wouldn’t know by looking at the unit because the little play/pause label is nearly impossible to read.
Also, when adjusting the bass, mids and treble, like my older unit, these only go to 8. Why 8??? Why not 10? Kenwood, this makes no sense. Stop it. Also, I’m a little disappointed to see the attenuation button absent from the unit. I used that pretty frequently on my older one but I guess they have to save something for the units that cost more than $110. 
Anyways, minor complaints and that’s about it. The unit sounds great, and aside from initially figuring out what the small buttons do, I really like it. The music is easier to hear on the interstate as well. That was an unexpected surprise.
Kenwood KDC-MP342U video review
