LONG BEACH, CALIF., October 12th, 2020JVC Mobile Entertainment was greatly saddened to learn of the recent passing of one of their independent sales representatives, Karl Kawachi- Pro Line Hawaii. 

Karl- a long-time rep and pioneer of the Hawaiian 12-volt industry was a cultural icon and true music aficionado.  He was born and raised in Hawaii and loved music early on, eventually playing bass guitar in his high school band. He was an early supporter of IASCA and DB Drag in the Hawaiian competition scene.  He started Pro Line Hawaii in 1989 in Aiea, Hawaii on the island of Oahu. Prior to that Karl worked as a rep for Now Marketing, beginning in 1983.  Among the many lines that Karl represented were JVC, Cerwin Vega, Eclipse, Electra Media, and Rockford Fosgate.

Karl valiantly battled cancer since 2017 until his passing on October 5th, 2020. He is survived by his wife Phyllis and daughters Sarah and Kelly.

“A friend to all and with a smile for everyone, Karl was a wonderful man and a true 12-volt pioneer in the islands,” said Ron Trout, JVC Director of Sales. 

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of car entertainment products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-252-5722 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.us.jvc.com/car

Google Also Working With Smartphone Makers to Bring Wireless Capability to 8.0 Devices

LONG BEACH, CALIF., May 17, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE)– In our press release dated May 9, 2018, we indicated that future smartphones would require Android 9.0 OS to be compatible with KENWOOD multimedia receivers that feature Wireless Android Auto™. Google has informed us that, in addition to 9.0 devices, the company is working with several smartphone manufacturers to bring wireless compatibility to devices with Android 8.0 OS. According to Google, this compatibility will be available on select non-Google smartphones soon.

You can read our original press release here.

All KENWOOD multimedia receivers that support wireless Android Auto offer full compatibility and smartphone charging through a wired connection. For detailed information on the specific features of each receiver, please view their product pages at kenwood.com/usa/car.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.

LONG BEACH, CALIF., March 16th, 2020KENWOOD USA announced it has hired The Progressive Group to represent its products to retailers in the Michigan market. The previous representation for Michigan came from Tim Hill of Pinnacle Sales, of whom was recently hired by KENWOOD as their Midwest Region Sales Manager.

“We are honored with the opportunity to work with The Progressive Group in the Michigan market,” Hill said. “Their proven success of market leadership and support to their customers is highly valued and recognized, and we know that this will only be further enhanced by their new presence.”

The Progressive Group brings a wealth of industry experience, providing representation for brands across 28 states by their 42 employees. They will now task seven of their field sales reps with servicing and supporting their newly appointed Michigan dealer base for KENWOOD. The company also carries an impressive presence throughout the nation, touting six warehouses and being under the umbrella of their 2.3 Billion Dollar parent company, Patrick Industries.

“We have been selling KENWOOD via our R&D Distribution company for the past 5 years, so becoming the reps will be a natural transition for our team as well as our customers,” said David Russell, Director of The Progressive Group. “We share KENWOOD’s vison of creating experiences that exceed expectations and look forward to further developing our relationships with dealers in the Michigan market.”

“We needed to ensure our dealers received uninterrupted service in the territory with the same level of support that they are accustomed to,” said Mike Roberts, KENWOOD VP of Sales & Marketing. The Progressive Group was the perfect choice.”

For more information on KENWOOD products, visit https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of car entertainment products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call KENWOOD USA at 1-800-536-9663 or visit us at http://www.us.jvckenwood.com/, https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/and https://www.us.jvc.com/car.

LONG BEACH, CALIF. – April 4, 2016 (MEDIAWIRE) – JVC Mobile Entertainment introduced more than 20 new products during CES in January, including two new outdoor-specific in-dash receivers. With the newest marine speakers shipping this month, the producer of value-minded, high-performance audio products gives retailers a solid upgrade package for owners of boats and off-road vehicles.

The CS-DR6200M / CS-DR6201MW speakers (MSRP $119.95) comprise an oversized two-way coaxial framework with a one-inch balanced dome tweeter atop the 6.5-inch waterproof polypropylene cone woofer. The rubber surround complements a power handling capacity of 50 watts RMS / 150 watts peak. UV-resistant grilles feature an aggressive design in black or white, secured by stainless steel hardware to deter rust.

The speakers pair well with JVC’s two element-defying receivers, the KD-R97MBS and KD-X33MBS. The KD-X33MBS (MSRP $129.95) is designed for over-the-air sources and connected smartphones, while the KD-R97MBS (MSRP $149.95) adds CD playback and variable illumination. Both DIN-sized receivers are ready for smartphone connectivity with playback and control of a USB-connected iPhone (via the receiver or Siri® Eyes Free) or Android™-powered phone while providing 1.5-amp charging.

Built-in control for Pandora® and iHeartRadio® amplify a user’s unique music selections through the audio system. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calls and wireless audio playback, and both receivers can connect to two phones simultaneously, enabling driver and passenger to select the phone to make and answer calls from the receiver menu. The duo is also SiriusXM-Ready™ and connect to the latest SiriusXM SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner (sold separately, subscription required).

Both receivers can power the speakers with 50 watts per channel or connect to amplifiers with three sets of 4-volt outputs. Built-in K2 technology expands the bit rate and frequency range to restore frequencies from compressed music, and a 13-band equalizer lets the listener tailor music to his or her personal tastes.

“Consumers want to take their music wherever they go, and these days, that includes off-road or on the water,” said Hazim Jainoor, brand marketing manager. “We’ve put together what we think is the perfect system—in terms of quality, versatility and price point—to enable outdoor enthusiasts to experience multiple entertainment choices and share them with friends.”

Josh Bowen and Marcus Vasconcellos are Welcomed as Mobile Electronics Product Specialists

LONG BEACH, Calif., December 3, 2019 – JVCKENWOOD USA announced it has hired Josh Bowen and Marcus Vasconcellos as Mobile Electronics Product Specialists for the company’s car electronics division. These new positions will provide enhanced support to JVC and KENWOOD retailers, reps, and distributors through training, advanced technical assistance, and event support.

Josh Bowen brings 10 years of retail mobile electronics experience, serving in various aspects of sales, installation, and management, most recently serving as sales/installation manager for Sommer Sound Systems in Panama City, FL. Josh’s drive for the industry shines clearly, boasting a Top 50 Installer of the Year position in the 2019 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.  

Marcus Vasconcellos is a 17-year industry veteran who also comes directly from the retail circuit. He has served in various capacities including sales, installation, and marketing in the lower Midwest for stores including Audio Tech in Lawton, OK and Big Daddy’s Stereo in Longview, TX. Marcus’s passion for 12 Volt doesn’t stop with his custom fabrication and design skills, but also becomes evident with his love for music.

“Bowen and Vasconcellos are the perfect additions to the team, being able to relate and communicate seamlessly with dealers through their direct and recent 12 Volt retail sales and installation experience,” said Scott Caswell, Senior Marketing Manager for JVCKENWOOD USA. “As we develop new and innovative ways to reach and support our dealers in a rapidly changing industry, we will be able to leverage their skill sets accordingly.”

These new positions will be largely split East and West of the Mississippi, with Bowen focusing on JVC and KENWOOD dealers and events to the East, and Vasconcellos to the West. They will report directly to Seth Halstead, National Training and Content Development Manager, of whom will be able to further focus on and work with them to create training materials, including on-line materials and video content.

Bowen commented, “I couldn’t be happier to be a part of such an amazing organization that is focused on providing solutions that meet the needs of sales, installers, and consumers.” Vasconcellos added “This is an incredible time to be a part of a growing company that is committed to the future of the 12 Volt industry!”

Bowen can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and Vasconcellos can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of car entertainment products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-252-5722 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.us.jvc.com/car.

Pictured from Left to Right: Ron Trout, Steve Cote, Jim Warren, Dave Hoag, John Lucas, and Josh Eatherly

Denver, Colo. – June 19th, 2023 – The Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) was delighted to award JVCKENWOOD the prestigious honor of Vendor of the Year. The award was presented at the EDA’s annual meeting, which was held at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Denver.

The Elite Distributor Alliance is a prominent association comprising top-tier distributors and manufacturers in the consumer electronics industry. This annual award recognizes the manufacturer that demonstrates outstanding performance, exceptional product quality, and a strong dedication to supporting distributor success.

Jim Warren, Executive Vice President of the Elite Distributor Alliance, said, “JVCKENWOOD is a deserving recipient of the Vendor of the Year award. They have consistently demonstrated their commitment to providing their distributors with the support they need to be successful.

JVCKENWOOD’s commitment to excellence and continuous innovation has propelled the company to the forefront of the industry. With a diverse portfolio of cutting-edge audio, convenience, and safety solutions, JVCKENWOOD has consistently exceeded customer expectations and delivered exceptional value to its distribution partners.

“We are truly honored to receive this award, especially considering the excellence exhibited by all the EDA vendor partners that work tirelessly to build momentum within the group,” said Dave Hoag, Executive VP of JVCKENWOOD USA. “This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and exceptional customer experiences. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Elite Distributor Alliance for their trust and recognition, and especially to our dedicated team and distribution partners for their continuous support.”

JVCKENWOOD remains dedicated to pushing boundaries, delivering superior products, and strengthening its partnerships with distributors. This Vendor of the Year award serves as a testament to JVCKENWOOD’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in the consumer electronics industry.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of car entertainment products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, visit JVCKENWOOD at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa, www.jvc.com/usa/car-entertainment.

The Elite Distributor Alliance is a group of independent 12-volt distributors. The alliance was formed in 2016 to provide its members with the resources they need to be successful in the competitive electronics industry. The alliance offers its members training, marketing support, and access to a wide range of products and services.

Short-chassis receivers save on space but don’t skimp on features

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- January 8, 2019 (MEDIAWIRE) – KENWOOD USA announced it has launched its first receiver models featuring a shortened chassis in a double-DIN size. The KENWOOD eXcelon DMX706S (MSRP $649.95) and KENWOOD DMX7706S ($599.95 MSRP) are multimedia receivers without a CD/DVD transport, which allows for a mounting depth of less than three inches. These new designs let the receivers fit a variety of applications, especially as more factory-installed electronics are positioned in and behind the dash.

"At KENWOOD, we are part of a community with our retailers, brand advocates and end users,” said Scott Caswell, senior marketing manager. “Our community told us they wanted a shallow-mount receiver that didn’t sacrifice screen space, smartphone compatibility or entertainment options. We’ve responded this year with what we think are two of the most feature-rich options on the market.”

As with several of the new class of KENWOOD multimedia receivers, the DMX706S and DMX7706S are equipped with Apple® CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. These proprietary interfaces allow drivers to connect their iPhone® or Android™-powered smartphone to the receiver’s 1.5-amp, rapid-charge USB port, and view and control its content, communication and navigation on the receiver’s 6.95-inch, clear resistive touch panel.

In addition, the receivers feature on-board interfaces for enjoying Pandora Radio and Spotify through a connected smartphone, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio when the optional SiriusXM SXV300 tuner is connected. Dual Zone Audio/Video allows an add-on source to connect and play exclusively through rear speakers and optional rear-seat video monitors.

Built-in Bluetooth enables both safe communication and entertainment options, with audio streaming as well as simultaneous pairing of two smartphones to receive calls from either phone without manual switching. The passenger-friendly KENWOOD Music Mix technology lets up to five phones connect to the receiver simultaneously to easily switch between streaming content from each phone. Driver safety is further enhanced with two camera inputs (front and rear) and a rear-view parking guideline overlay to aid in maneuvering.

Both receivers include three sets of four-volt, low-level outputs for connection to amplifiers, and internal amplification of 22x4 watts RMS for direct connection to speakers. They also feature Hi-Res Audio compatibility for content up to 192kHz/24Bit in FLAC and WAV formats, and a 13-band equalizer with Digital Time Alignment. The eXcelon DMX706S adds tuned audiophile-grade components and an adjustable 3-way crossover.

Compatibility with the optional iDataLink Maestro module lets users replace the factory screen-based radio and retain important functions and displays when using the DMX706S or DMX770S. Maestro interfaces between the receiver and factory installed options like satellite radio, auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth and climate controls to enable seamless functionality. Maestro also works with installed radar / laser detection systems from ESCORT and K40 Electronics, allowing users to receive data and manage settings of the device through the KENWOOD receiver display.

The KENWOOD eXcelon DMX706S and KENWOOD DMX7706S are expected to be available in April. For more information on select models and features, visit http://www.kenwood.com/usa/car.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.

Service provider of 40+ years to work with retailers in New Jersey, New York metro.

LONG BEACH, CALIF., June 8, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE)– KENWOOD announced it has hired Big Daddy Marketing, a veteran independent rep firm based in New York, to represent its brands to retailers in New Jersey and the New York metro area. The appointment of principal Morris Hartman and account representative Joe Santaniello will solidify KENWOOD's sales and service efforts in the highly competitive East Coast marketplace.

"We are very lucky to bring on a highly regarded industry veteran in Morris Hartman," said Kelly McDaniel, eastern regional manager for KENWOOD. "He and his team impressed us with their enthusiasm, market knowledge and vast experience, and their boots-on-the-ground approach means our retailers and technicians will get a higher level of service and support. We're happy to extend a warm KENWOOD family welcome."

Hartman brings more than 40 years of 12-volt experience to the KENWOOD sales rep group, having developed longstanding relationships with the most proactive retailers and distributors in the area. Big Daddy Marketing's strong rapport comes from a reputation for in-person visits for sales and support, an attribute that will positively impact KENWOOD and KENWOOD eXcelon retailers and technicians.

"We look forward to working with KENWOOD to help the company service and expand its retailer base in our territory," Hartman said. "As we have always done, we will work closely with retailers to support their events and help them grow their business. KENWOOD's consistent product innovations, reputation and technical support will help us to overcome the challenges in this ever-evolving marketplace."

For information on KENWOOD products, visit www.kenwood.com/usa.car.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.

More smartphones to become compatible with Android OS 9.0 release.

LONG BEACH, CALIF., May 8, 2018 (MEDIAWIRE)– In April, KENWOOD USA announced the wireless Android Auto™ feature built into its 2018 flagship multimedia receivers was active and compatible with select Android-based smartphones. The KENWOOD eXcelon Reference Series DNX995S and DDX9905S, as well as the KENWOOD eXcelon DMX905S and KENWOOD DNX875S and DDX9705S, allow the driver to leave the phone in a pocket or bag and still get the benefit of its powerful and useful feature set. Today, the company acknowledged the current smartphone compatibility list is small but growing.

Android Auto is the popular innovation from Google that lets drivers access certain apps and features on their smartphones—navigation, messaging, Google Assistant and more—from the ease and safety of the car radio's multimedia touch screen. Until now, the function required a cable connection between the radio and smartphone. With the implementation of the wireless feature, the smartphone no longer requires a cable for Android Auto to function.

"From our standpoint, wireless Android Auto is fully functional," said Rick Noetzli, general manager for KENWOOD product research and development, car electronics sector. "Our radios can communicate with any smartphone that has the right protocols. It's just that, as of now, there are only a handful of phones that do, and these are currently all Google devices. But we fully expect more smartphone makers to enable the functionality in their devices, and when they do, our receivers will be ready."

The only devices that currently support wireless Android Auto are four versions of the Google Pixel—the first-generation Pixel and Pixel XL and the second-generation Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL—and the legacy Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P. They must be upgraded to Android OS 8.0 or higher (via an over-the-air upgrade). For other device manufacturers, wireless Android Auto will be implemented with the adoption of Android OS 9.0 or higher.

Most smartphone manufacturers will announce when software updates are available and when newer devices ship with the upgraded software. In addition, Google will maintain a compatibility list on its support page at https://support.google.com/androidauto. Under “Get started with Android Auto,” the current list of compatible smartphones is displayed under “Android Auto on your car (wireless).” (The location of this information is subject to change.)

All KENWOOD multimedia receivers that support wireless Android Auto offer full compatibility and smartphone charging through a wired connection. For detailed information on the specific features of each receiver, please view their product pages at kenwood.com/usa/car.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.

June 6, 2018 -- JVCKENWOOD Canada’s Automotive Division is pleased to announce the launch of twelve new Kenwood and two new JVC Multimedia products available in June.

All products include the “New WebLink App” which is a one wire connection for Android or iOS devices. The WebLink app allows you to Navigate via Waze, receive weather information, select top local businesses such as restaurants or hair stylists with Yelp and play YouTube Videos or any Music or Videos (while parked) stored on your phone through the WebLink media player.

The top Kenwood eXcelon models, the DNX995S and DDX9905S include:

• An Industry first High Definition Capacitive Touch Screen that displays 2.7 million pixels instead of the typical 1.5 million.
• The 6.8” screens also have a luminance rating of 600 compared to the typical 400.
• They show 16.7 million colors versus the usual 262,000 colors.
• The screens also feature Anti-Smudge, Anti-Shatter and Anti-Glare Technology so they don’t wash out when viewed from side angles and remain visible even in the brightest sunlight conditions.

The Kenwood DNX995S, DNX875S, DDX9905S, DDX9705S and DMX905S feature a new Graphic User Interface with updated Icons and Information Widgets. The JVC KW-M845BW and KW-V940BW feature Live Wallpaper that synchronizes the visual display and color background to the music. All models listed include WiFi for Wireless Android Auto connectivity with select Android phones.

In total there are five new Kenwood Navigation units, six new DVD units and three new Mechless units from both JVC & Kenwood.

All 14 new units include:

• Android Auto with Google Assistant
• Apple CarPlay
• Dual zone for both audio and video
• Bluetooth with dual phone connectivity
• Hi-Res Audio 192Khz/24bit Playback
• Music Mix for Kenwood and Streaming DJ for JVC
• Remote app
• Digital Viewing Angle
• SiriusXM
• Spotify
• Maestro RR Integration with Advanced Features
• 13 Band EQ
• Individual Crossovers
• Time Correction
• DRV-N520 Dash Cam Compatible for all Kenwood models (Except DDX6905S, DDX6705S and DMX7705S)
• Dual Camera Input for all Kenwood models

For more information, please contact your Local Authorized Canadian Dealer or Contact us at:

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Call: 1-905-670-7211

Noise elimination, system flexibility provide premium options for any system configuration

LAS VEGAS, Nev -- January 8, 2019 (MEDIAWIRE) – KENWOOD USA added three new amplifiers to its KENWOOD eXcelon line for 2019, each optimized to connect to factory installed radios for audio system enhancement. Two multi-channel designs—the X302-4 (MSRP $349.95), X802-5 (MSRP $529.95)—as well as the X502-1 (MSRP $349.95) monoblock design, let users maintain familiar factory installed controls and features while dramatically improving audio system headroom and sound quality.

All new KENWOOD eXcelon X series amplifiers are stable to two ohms and provide ample power in any applicable configuration. The X302-4 produces 75 watts RMS from each of its four channels at two ohms and doubles this amount when bridged to two channels with a four-ohm load. The highly flexible X802-5 mirrors these specs and adds a fifth channel that outputs up to 500 watts RMS with a two-ohm load. And the single-channel X502-1 will also deliver 500 watts RMS at two ohms, or 300 watts RMS at four ohms.

“Whenever you interact with a factory installed radio or amplifier, the most critical step is the elimination or avoidance of noise in audio playback,” said Scott Caswell, senior marketing manager for KENWOOD. “These new amplifiers have been enhanced with internal mechanics to accomplish this, as well as connectivity features to make interfacing a more streamlined process.”

In addition to traditional RCA inputs that connect to aftermarket receivers, the new amplifiers feature dedicated inputs to connect to speaker-level outputs from factory radios and amplifiers, eliminating the possibility of noise from poor splicing connections. All connections are on one side of the amplifier to minimize issues with wire routing, and aluminum has been introduced into the mounting structure to reduce vibration.

Internal improvements include electronic component enhancements to reduce THD (total harmonic distortion). A subsonic filter improves efficiency by eliminating playback of frequencies outside the audible range, and a new circuit board layout and components provide a marked decrease of radiated noise.

Another new addition to these amplifiers is a remote controller input, enabling users to control the bass channel input sensitivity from the optional KCA-RC01A remote control. The KCA-RC01A features both surface- and flush-mounting options for optimum positioning.

The new KENWOOD eXcelon X series amplifiers are expected to be available in February. For more information on select models and features, visit http://www.kenwood.com/usa/car.

JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of imaging, home and car entertainment, and navigation products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call JVCKENWOOD USA at 1-800-950-5005 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa and www.jvc.com.