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Kenwood Excelon DNX696S Navigation receiver

Item # 113DNX696S

Driving used to be fun , you know? Top down, open road, tunes crankin'...

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Driving used to be fun , you know? Top down, open road, tunes crankin'...

Item # 113DNX696S

About the Kenwood Excelon DNX696S

Dominic DeVito

Need a hand getting around? Count on Kenwood

Driving used to be fun, you know? Top down, open road, tunes crankin'... those were the times. Now everyone's in a rush, stuck in traffic, and distracted beyond belief. Wouldn't it be nice to have a friend in the dash that could provide some assistance to making the daily commute a little less ordinary? The Kenwood Excelon DNX696S navigation receiver sports a beautiful 6.75" display, reliable Garmin guidance, and much more. Phone-friendliness comes via compatibility with both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. And Kenwood's Excelon rating means it sits atop their product line with a 2-year warranty, high-voltage preamp outputs, dual detachable rear USB inputs, and top-notch audio components for hard-hitting sound.

Need a hand getting around? Count on Kenwood

Driving used to be fun, you know? Top down, open road, tunes crankin'... those were the times. Now everyone's in a rush, stuck in traffic, and distracted beyond belief. Wouldn't it be nice to have a friend in the dash that could provide some assistance to making the daily commute a little less ordinary? The Kenwood Excelon DNX696S navigation receiver sports a beautiful 6.75" display, reliable Garmin guidance, and much more. Phone-friendliness comes via compatibility with both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. And Kenwood's Excelon rating means it sits atop their product line with a 2-year warranty, high-voltage preamp outputs, dual detachable rear USB inputs, and top-notch audio components for hard-hitting sound.

Kenwood Excelon DNX696S navigation receiver

Plays well with your smartphone

Kenwood designed the DNX696S to work seamlessly with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. No matter what phone you (or your passengers) prefer, you can access the apps you need without getting distracted from the matter at hand — driving your vehicle. The DNX696S gives you fingertip or voice control of your apps, and its gorgeous 6.75" resistive touchscreen display offers plenty of real estate to check out your sources and other important info — you can even customize the source button locations for easier access. And even if you're not into using Android Auto to access streaming services, you can still get control of select music apps (like Pandora and Spotify) through the receiver via a wireless Bluetooth connection.

Pair with two phones at once

If you're driving with a passenger, the DNX696S can pair with up to two phones at once. You'll be able to designate one phone as the priority but be able to switch between the two with ease, as well as have access to both phonebooks.

Drive stress-free with Garmin guidance

Leave worries about getting lost behind, as the DNX696S supplies Garmin maps of the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. You'll also get reliable routing with spoken street names at turns, lane assistance, and realistic views of complicated intersections. 3D terrain views give you the lay of the land for even more assurance. Kenwood's interface also provides more opportunities for split-screen control, so you can still follow the maps as the stereo shows you what's playing or who's calling.

2 years of free INRIX traffic reports

You'll get a free 2-year subscription to INRIX traffic service, which provides quick updates on congestion along your route. You'll need to have your smartphone with the app on it connected to the receiver to take advantage of these traffic updates. INRIX updates require an in-app purchase after the 2-year subscription ends.

Upgraded interface and Photo Frame Widget

Kenwood refreshed their user interface for 2019, so it's easier than ever to find and switch between your favourite sources and check out album artwork and map details. The new Photo Frame Widget feature lets you create a slideshow of up to 500 images from a thumb drive on the receiver's home screen.

HD Radio

HD Radio™ tuner for enhanced sound

The DNX696S also features an HD Radio tuner. You'll enjoy much-improved AM/FM sound quality when you're tuned into a local participating station, and there's no subscription required — just tune it in like a regular radio station.

Spin through your sources

High-res audio

This receiver will play all your CDs and DVDs, including discs loaded with music files, while an A/V input offers connection for more audio/video sources. Two rear USB inputs let you add audio from an iPod or flash drive, including high-resolution FLAC and WAV files. You also get a microSD card slot for playing digital music files and map updates.

Take satellite radio on the road with you

Why struggle with stations fading away as you travel? You can hook up a SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (not included) to this receiver and access the wide variety of entertainment, sports, news, and commercial-free music satellite radio provides — and your favourite stations are always there.

Sonic upgrades you'll appreciate

Kenwood equipped this Excelon receiver with custom-made or carefully curated sonic components— including three sets of gold-plated 5-volt preamp outputs — to deliver peak levels of audio performance. A 3-way crossover lets you adjust for separate highs, mids, and sub frequencies if you're rocking a component system. Kenwood's Drive EQ+ technology boosts certain frequencies that are easily masked by wind and tires rolling on asphalt. It also enhances your music's bottom end as your speed increases, so you can really feel those tunes as you drive. You can also craft the sound to your ears' content with a 13-band equalizer and other soundshaping tools at your disposal.

Add a camera or two or three for safety

The DNX696S is capable of connecting two different cameras, so you can see more when you're getting in and out of tight spots. If you've got a pair of rear-view cameras, you can reverse the image of the one up front to get a more precise picture. With select Kenwood cameras, you can have the display automatically switch to a momentary view from the front camera when you shift out of reverse. The receiver also features a dedicated input for Kenwood's DRV-N520 Drive Recorder dash so you can capture your travels in high definition.

iDatalink Maestro lets you keep your factory extras — and add some upgrades

The DNX696S offers compatibility you won't find in many other aftermarket radios, thanks to the iDatalink Maestro module (not included). In a wide selection of vehicles, this module lets you keep factory features that you'd otherwise lose when you install a new radio. You'll also be able to check out engine performance data and other vehicle info on the Kenwood's screen. It'll even integrate your stealth K40 RL200di radar detector into the stereo's display, so you can see and hear about incoming threats. Once you've identified your vehicle, you'll see the iDatalink module offered on the way to the Shopping Cart if it's compatible.

Bluetooth note: Use of this receiver's Bluetooth features will depend upon your phone's Bluetooth capabilities. Learn more in our articles about Bluetooth profiles.

iPod/smartphone note: If you're going to use your iPod or smartphone with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for compatibility information.

You'll need a wired connection to your parking brake to access settings and other features on this receiver. Your parking brake must be connected and set in order to view video on its screen.

READ LESS

Product highlights:

    General Features:
    • DVD/CD player with 6.75" resistive touchscreen
    • built-in Garmin navigation system
    • plays media loaded with MP3, WMA, AAC music files, plus high-res WAV and FLAC files
    • fits double-DIN (4" tall) dash openings
    • built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
    • built-in HD Radio tuner
    • AM/FM tuner
    Smartphone Features:
    • compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired connection)
    • music control and charging of Apple devices using the USB connections
    • Pandora and Spotify control with iPhone and Android
    • compatible with Kenwood Remote S smartphone app for wireless source selection through your phone
    Navigation Features:
    • Garmin maps of the United States, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, plus 6 million points of interest
    • optional traffic reports available through INRIX smartphone app — 2-year subscription included with purchase (smartphone required)
    • text-to-speech voice prompts announce actual road names at turns
    • 3D terrain view
    Audio/video Features:
    • plays CDs, DVDs, USB memory devices, and microSD cards (see Details for full capabilities)
    • Drive EQ boosts specific frequencies to overcome road noise
    • 13-band EQ
    • high- and low-pass filters and 3-way crossover
    • digital time alignment, space enhancer, sound realizer, sound elevation, bass boost, and loudness
    • dual-zone A/V output
    • supports rear-view camera adjustable parking lines (optional camera required)
    • audiophile-quality sonic circuitry including gold-plated preouts
    Expandability:
    • compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
    • inputs: two rear detachable USB inputs; microSD card slot; rear A/V input (mini); two camera inputs; input for Kenwood DRV-N520 Drive Recorder
    • outputs: video output (RCA) with audio output (mini-jack); 6-channel preamp outputs (5-volt front, rear, sub)
    Other Information:
    • wired connection to parking brake required to access settings and other features on this receiver (the brake must be connected and set for video display)
    • microSD card slot for map updates
    • built-in amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
    • compatible with iDatalink Maestro
      • retains factory features in a wide selection of vehicles
      • displays engine performance and other vehicle data on touchscreen
    • warranty: 2 years
    • MFR # DNX696S

    What's in the box:

    • Navigation receiver w/ fixed 6.75" touchscreen monitor (15A fuse)
    • Sleeve (attached)
    • Trim ring
    • Wiring harness
    • Two 39" USB extension cables
    • GPS antenna (attached 11.5' cable terminated by a proprietary connector)
    • Microphone w/ bracket (attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle mono 3.5mm connector)
    • 7" Male minijack to female RCA adapter cable
    • Self-adhesive pad
    • 2 Radio removal tools
    • 6 Pan-head ISO-mount screws
    • 6 Flat-head ISO-mount screws
    • Quick Start Guide
    • Warranty card

    Featured video:

    Customer reviews for Kenwood Excelon DNX696S

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    Average review:

    4.5 out of 5 stars
    58 reviews

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    More details on the Kenwood Excelon DNX696S

    Stacey B.

    Features & specs

    Expandability
    AUX Input Mini (rear)
    Audio/video Input Mini (rear)
    USB Input Rear (2)
    USB Port Power ---
    Backup Camera Input Yes
    Second Camera Input Yes
    CarPlay Yes
    Android Auto Yes
    Siri Control CarPlay only
    Alexa Voice Control N
    Android Control Yes
    Memory Card Slot USB, microSD
    Bluetooth Compatible Built-in
    Satellite Radio Ready SiriusXM 3.0
    HD Radio Built-in
    Navigation Yes
    iPod Compatibility
    Full size No
    Nano No
    Touch 6
    iPhone 11ProMax/11Pro/11/XSMax/XS/XR/
    General
    RMS Power (CTA-2006) N/A
    RMS Power (Manufacturer) 22 watts
    Peak Output 50 watts
    RMS Power Bandwidth 20-20kHz
    Preamp Outputs 6-channel
    Sub Preamp Outputs Yes
    Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs No
    Video Screen Yes
    Navigation App Compatible (iOS) Apple, Google, Waze
    Navigation App Compatible (Android) Google,Waze
    Preamp Voltage 5 volts
    Screen Size 6.75
    Screen Type Basic (Resistive)
    Display Color
    Key Button Color Variable
    EQ Bands 13
    Wireless Remote Optional
    Steering Wheel Control Compatible Adapter required
    Parts Warranty 2 Years
    Labor Warranty 2 Years
    Tuner
    FM Sensitivity 9.3 dBf
    European Tuning No
    Seek/Scan Seek
    Radio Data System Yes
    File Playback
    Music File Playback MP3,WMA,AAC,FLAC,WAV
    High-res Playback WAV/FLAC (24-bit/192kHz)
    The Kenwood Excelon DNX696S replaces these items:

    Product Research

    Onboard Navigation
    Android (Android Auto) & iPhone (CarPlay) Integration
    Built-in Bluetooth
    Internet+SiriusXM+HD Radio
    Disc/microSD/USB Playback
    Audio & DSP Section
    AV/Camera/OEM Connectivity
    Touchscreen & Remote Control
    Onboard Navigation

    Garmin Navigation: With built-in Garmin & HERE navigation software and map data, the Kenwood DNX696S features on-screen maps of the United States, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Canada, and Mexico. The built-in maps include over 6-million Points of Interest (POIs) such as hotels, restaurants, gas stations, attractions, parking, airports, ATMs, and more. The built-in navigation software provides you with calculated on-screen routes and audible directions to follow in order to reach your destination safely.

    Note: While the receiver's map database was judged to be as accurate as possible at the time of its release (2018), a map database can never be 100% accurate. Road information that is maintained in the map databases, such as turn restrictions or road names may change over time.

    Software/Map Data Updates: When the preloaded maps are considered out of date, the Kenwood receiver will provide periodic notification at startup. Garmin software and map updates can be purchased and downloaded as needed, via microSD card. To find a software or map update, please go to www.garmin.com/kenwood.

    Note: The microSD card must remain installed in the navigation receiver in order for the new map data to be accessible; it is not copied over to the receiver's internal memory. This means that if you want to update the maps, you effectively lose the use of the microSD card slot as a media playback option.

    GPS Receiver & Antenna: The Kenwood DNX696S employs a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that is forgiving of less than optimal antenna placement, giving you additional placement options. The included GPS antenna features a self-adhesive base and an attached 11.5' cable which plugs into the back of the head unit. The GPS antenna is designed to be mounted inside the vehicle on the dash. The GPS antenna measures 1.3125" (w) x 0.625" (h) x 1.4375" (d). The self-adhesive pad measures 2.625" square.

    • Acquisition Time: 29 seconds (cold)
    • Update Rate: 1/second, continuous
    • Accuracy: <2.5 meters continuous (Position), 0.1 meter/sec (Velocity)

    Note: The navigation receiver took approximately 12.7 seconds to calculate directions from Charlottesville, Virginia to Los Angeles, California. It only took 7.3 seconds to calculate directions from Charlottesville, Virginia to Baltimore, Maryland. These tests were done inside the Crutchfield Lab. Results will vary based on length of calculated route and your surrounding area.

    INRIX Traffic: You can receive INRIX traffic information and weather forecast through the Kenwood Excelon DNX696S by connecting your compatible iPhone or Android smartphone with "Kenwood's Traffic Powered By INRIX" application (for Apple iOS 8.0+ and Android OS 4.0.3+) installed. While the DNX696S is in navigation mode, it pulls real-time data from the INRIX Traffic app on your smartphone which provides you with up-to-the-minute traffic, weather, parking, traffic cameras, and travel advisory information on-screen. You get 2 years free access to INRIX traffic information (fees will apply after 2nd year). Your iPhone must be connected via USB, while your Android smartphone must be connected via Bluetooth to the Kenwood navigation receiver.

    • Traffic: By automatically learning a user's driving habits, INRIX Traffic personalizes routes to avoid the worst traffic, recommends trips and departure times, and provides automatic, intelligent alerts to keep users aware of changing road conditions. INRIX even provides real-time images from traffic cameras along major roadways to supplement the traffic information.
    • Weather: INRIX provides local area current temperatures, forecasted weather conditions, and severe weather alerts. It also gives you advance warning of dangerous weather-related road conditions ahead, keeping your safer along your route.
    • Parking: INRIX helps you to find detailed parking information, including parking availability in nearby garages and pricing information.
    • Fuel: INRIX also helps you find nearby fuel stations and compare fuel prices.

    On-Screen Map: The Kenwood DNX696S displays a real-time moving map illustrating your current position and intended route. It will show map scale and geographic details such as lakes, rivers, highways and towns. Your route is marked with a magenta line. A checkered flag marks your destination. As you travel the DNX696S guides to your destination with arrows on the map and directions at the top of the screen. The upper-left corner of the screen indicates the distance to your next maneuver. During your calculated route, your arrival time is displayed in the lower left corner, your current speed is shown in the lower right corner. The posted speed limit for most major roads is displayed near the lower right corner as well. The unit allows you to zoom, pan, and point using the touchscreen during navigation.

    • Map Detail: You can adjust the amount of detail shown on the map screen. More detail may cause the map to be slower.
    • 2D/3D Map View: You can changes the perspective of the map from 2D North-Up (displays the map in 2 dimensions with North at the top), 2D Track-Up (displays the map in 2 dimensions with your direction of travel at the top of the screen), 3D Track-Up (displays the map in 3 dimensions with your direction of travel at the top of screen).
    • Vehicle Type: You can change the icon (arrow, station wagon, sports car, compact car, SUV, jeep, RV, or sled) used to display your position on the map.
    • Color Mode: Select between Day (for a bright background), Night (for a black background) or Auto (to automatically switch between the two) for the on-screen map.
    Note: In Split-Screen mode, you can view song/artist information (including album art) of your audio source (including CarPlay & Android Auto) while you also viewing the navigation map. In addition, the backup camera can be displayed in Split-Screen mode along with the map screen. You can even watch video in Split-Screen mode along with the map when the vehicle's parking brake is engaged.

    Text-To-Speech Voice Prompts: The unit's text-to-speech voices "read and speak" the same words that are displayed on the unit's screens. The voices have an extensive vocabulary and they pronounce the street names as you approach turns. Voice prompts can heard from both of your front speakers, only the left front speaker, or only the right front speaker. You can independently adjust the volume (0-40) of the voice prompts without affecting the main volume. The unit offers English, French, and Spanish voice prompts.

    Note: You can continue to listen to your music source while navigating. The DNX696S will mute the music source, when there is a text-to-speech voice prompt. Once the voice prompt has ended, your music volume will automatically raise to previous setting.

    Driver Assistance: The DNX696S features Lane Assist, Photo-Real Junction View, Exit Services, and Speed Limit Icons to assist you along the calculated route to your destination.

    • Lane Assist: Lane Assist guides you to the correct lane for an approaching turn or exit, making unfamiliar intersections and exits easy to navigate. The Lane Assist feature can be found in the top left hand corner of the map screen.
    • Photo-Real Junction View: This feature of the navigation system realistically displays junctions and interchanges along your route, including the surrounding landscape.
    • Exit Services: The Exit Services function lets you search roadway exits for food, lodging, and rest areas so you are never left guessing what is around the bend. You must be on a major highway or road to use this feature.
    • Speed Limit Icon: A speed limit icon may appear as you travel on major roadways. This icon displays the current speed limit of the roadway. The unit's speed limit icon feature is for information only and does not replace the driver's responsibility to abide by all posted speed limit signs and to use safe driving judgment at all times.

    Destination & Location Screens: The DNX696S offers a variety of destination/location screens & functions to help you along your route.

    • Where Am I?: The "Where Am I?" feature gives you instant access to important information in case of an emergency. When you select "Where Am I?" from the menu, you get the coordinates (including elevation) of your current position, plus the nearest address and intersections. There are also menus to help you locate the nearest hospitals, police stations, gas stations, and roadside assistance. You can also save the location for future reference.
    • Where To? Screen: The "Where To?" screen provides several different ways to enter your destination. The navigation system automatically searches for places near your current location. You can also choose to have the DNX696S search for places in a different city, a recent destination, a favorite destination, projected destination, or along your current route.
      • Browse Map & Go Home: The receiver allows you to search for a destination by touching and dragging the map. You can also store one home location to allow you to calculate a route home from any current location.
      • Address/Cities/Intersections: Input your destination address by house number, street, city, and zip-code. You can also search for a city by name or search two intersecting streets.
      • POI Category + Quick Search: The detailed maps loaded in this navigation system contain locations, such as restaurants, hotels, parking, auto services, and other POIs (points-of-interest). You can use these categories to browse for nearby businesses and attractions. After you have performed a search for a point-of-interest, certain categories may display a Quick Search list that displays the last four destinations you selected.
      • Favorites & Recents: You can save all of your favorite places in the navigation system, so you can quickly navigate to them later. You can also choose from one of your most recent destinations (up to 50) or waypoints.
      • Search Bar & Shortcuts: You can use the Search Bar to search for locations by entering a category, brand name, address, or city name. In addition, you can add up to 36 shortcuts to the Where to? menu. A shortcut can point to a location, a category, or a search tool.
    • Where I've Been/Trip Log: The "Where I've Been" application allows you to view your previous routes and places you have stopped on the map. In addition, the device keeps a Trip Log, which is a record of the path you have traveled. The Travel History setting must be enabled in order for the Where I've Been and Trip Log features to function.

    Trends: The DNX696S has the ability to recall frequent destinations and historic traffic information to help calculate your route faster.

    • myTrends: The myTrends feature senses when you are driving to a common destination and displays the destination and estimated time of travel in the navigation bar on the map. myTrends does not work when you first begin using your navigation system. To effectively use the myTrends feature, your frequent destinations must be marked as favorites, and a regular pattern of driving habits must be established with three days of regular driving usage.
    • trafficTrends: When the trafficTrends feature is enabled, the navigation system uses historic traffic information to calculate more efficient routes. Different routes may be calculated based on traffic trends for the day of the week or based on the time of day.

    ecoRoute: The ecoRoute feature calculates your vehicle's fuel economy, carbon footprint, the fuel price of navigating to your destination, and offers tools for improving fuel efficiency. The first time you access the ecoRoute features, you will be asked to enter fuel and mileage information (Fuel Type, City Fuel MPG, HWY Fuel MPG, Fuel Price) about your vehicle.

    • Fuel Economy: If you have entered your vehicle profiles and the current fuel price, the DNX696S calculates fuel used, the average fuel economy for your vehicle, your carbon footprint, and the cost of the fuel consumed.
    • At The Pump: At your next fill-up, you can enter in fuel price, amount of fuel used, and the distance you traveled to calculate your vehicle's miles-per-gallon (MPG).
    • ecoChallenge Tool: The ecoChallenge tool helps you maximize your fuel economy by scoring your driving habits. The higher your overall score for a driving challenge, the more fuel you could save. You overall score is the average of these 3 scores -
      • Speed: gain points for driving at the best speed for conserving fuel, which is 45-60mph for most vehicles.
      • Acceleration: gain points for gradual acceleration; lose points for rapid acceleration
      • Braking: gain points for gradual braking; lose points for hard braking
    • Mileage Report: Mileage reports provide the distance, the time, the average fuel economy, and the fuel cost of navigation to a destination. A mileage report (up to 20) is created for every route that you drive. If you stop a route on your navigation system, a mileage report is created for the distance you traveled.
    Note: The data provide by the ecoRoute feature is only an estimate. The data is not actually read from your vehicle.

    Route Preferences/Avoidances: When calculating a route, you can select the following preferences; faster time, shorter distance, less fuel, or off road. You can also program the unit to avoid certain things that may be undesirable on your route; such as U-Turns, Highways, Toll Roads, Carpool Lanes, Unpaved Roads, and Ferries.

    Auto Reroute/Detour: If you happen to depart from your original route, the internal navigation system recalculates the route and provides new route instructions. You can also select a specific area to detour around. The navigation system will attempt to get you back on your original route as quickly as possible, after calculating a detour. If the route you are currently taking is the only reasonable option, the DNX696S might not calculate a detour.

    Trip Planner (Multiple Destination Routing): You can create and save a trip with multiple destinations (up to 500 via points) using the Trip Planner. Once you have entered your destinations, you can manually set them in the order of your preference, or allow the device to calculate the most efficient route. Trip itineraries can be saved in memory for future use. You can even add scheduling information to each location in your trip, including the desired arrival time and layover duration at each location.

    Trip Computer: The trip information page displays your current speed and direction, and provides helpful statistics about your trip. Dual trip odometers keep up with your total mileage. The page also indicates the distance and driving time to your next maneuver, as well as the distance and driving time to your destination. Your maximum speed and moving average speed are also displayed. The information can be reset in advance of your next trip.

    Safe Mode: Safe Mode disables all navigation system functions that require significant operator attention and could become a distraction while driving when the vehicle's parking brake is disengaged. You will need to engage the vehicle's parking brake to enter addresses or other advance navigation functions when you have the unit set to Safe Mode.

    GPS Simulator: You can turn the unit's GPS receiver off and simulate travel along a projected route.

    Android (Android Auto) & iPhone (CarPlay) Integration

    Android Auto: The Kenwood DNX696S navigation receiver supports the Android Auto app for Android smartphones running OS Lollipop (5.0 or newer). Your compatible Android smartphone must be connected to the Kenwood receiver's "grey" USB port (not "black") using the included USB extension cable and the USB cable that came with your smartphone, plus be paired via Bluetooth (your vehicle's parking brake needs to be engaged to initially setup Android Auto). Android Auto extends the Android platform into your car in a way that's purpose-built for driving and automatically brings you useful information and organizes it into a simple on-screen interface that is simple to use in the vehicle. It's designed to minimize distraction so you can stay focused on the road ahead. Features of Android Auto include -

    • Google Assistant: The Kenwood receiver enhances your Android Auto experience even more by incorporating Google Assistant using the head unit's external microphone and your car speakers for voice command and text-to-speech, which makes using Android Auto and all of its integrated applications fast, easy, and safe. You will need to press the "mic" button or say "OK Google" to activate the Google Assistant. Use the Google Assistant to make a call, send a message, reply to a message, get driving directions, listen to music, or even control select Google Assistant smarthome enabled devices.
    • Google & Waze Maps: Use Google Maps to get where you're going with on-screen maps, voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance, and more. Select your destination by using the head unit's touchscreen or just say where you want to go through the unit's external mic and Google Speech Technology. You can even listen to music from your Android Auto device or other connected source device while using Google Maps. If you prefer, you can switch over to a simpler version of the community-based Waze navigation app (version 4.27 or higher).
    • Phone & SMS: With Android Auto you get access to your contacts and messages through the Kenwood receiver while keeping your eyes on the road. Use the unit's external mic and Google Speech Technology to make a phone call, or have your text-messages read aloud to you while you concentrate on the road ahead; you can even reply to texts via voice command.
    • Music: Access your Android smartphone's music library through the Kenwood receiver via Google Play Music. You'll be able to browse music like you do on your smartphone with song/artist information display and album art. Use the receiver's touchscreen to select songs or just say what song you want to listen to through the head unit's external mic and Google Speech Technology. You also get access to online music and radio stations from Amazon Music, Tidal, Pandora, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Slacker Radio, Tune-In, and more; as well as news, sports and talk radio apps. Music apps include song and station browsing, plus song/artist information and album art or station logo. Click here for a list of all compatible app for Android Auto.

    Notes:

    • Only one Android device with Android Auto can be connected at a time. An Android Auto device and Apple CarPlay device cannot be connected at the same time.
    • Bluetooth hands-free phone and wireless music streaming cannot be used while Android Auto is being used with a connected Android smartphone.
    • Use a USB cable that is under 6' long and avoid using any extension cable other than the one supplied. If you need an additional USB extension cable, use Kenwood's CA-U1EX USB extension cable (113CAU1EX, sold separately); any other USB extension cable can cause Android Auto to malfunction.
    • The initial setup for Android Auto requires that your vehicle be stopped and the parking brake is engaged. You will need to connect the parking brake wire of the receiver's harness to your vehicle's parking brake circuit for the head unit to recognize that the vehicle's parking brake is engaged.
    • Click here to learn more About Android Auto and to see what phones are compatible.

    Apple CarPlay Compatible: Apple CarPlay is a smarter, safer in-vehicle interface to operate your iPhone (iOS 7.1+) with Lightning-connector. Your iPhone will need to be connected to the Kenwood receiver's "black" USB port (not "grey") via the included USB extension cable and the Lightning-cable that came with your Apple device or Kenwood's Lightning connector-to-USB cable (113KCIP103 sold separately). Apple CarPlay is specially designed for driving scenarios. You can control CarPlay from the Kenwood receiver's touchscreen controls or use Siri to control to control CarPlay with just your voice. You'll be able to use CarPlay to get directions, make phone calls, listen to voice mails, send/receive text messages, select music, and even control Apple HomeKit compatible devices in a way that keeps you focused on the road ahead.

    • Navigation Maps: The power and simplicity of Apple Maps comes to your dashboard; complete with turn-by-turn direction, traffic conditions, and estimated travel time. You can enter a new destination or choose a favorite or recent destination using the head unit's touchscreen or by simply asking Siri. CarPlay can also predict where you most likely want to go using addresses from your email, text messages, contacts, and calendars. If you have iOS 12.0 or newer on your iPhone with the latest version of Google Maps or Waze, you can choose to navigate via the Google Maps or Waze application instead of Apple Maps. Google Maps and Waze do not support Siri voice control, but will have their own proprietary voice control function which has to be accessed through a touchscreen icon on the receiver.
    • Phone & Messages: You'll be able to make calls, return missed calls, and listen to voicemails through the Kenwood receiver. Siri can also help you do all these things. In addition, Siri can send, read, and reply to your text messages for you; so you never have to look at your iPhone while driving.
    • Music Library: Access your artists, song, playlists, and iTunes Radio on your iPhone using the Kenwood receiver's touchscreen. Or, just tell Siri what you'd like to listen to. The head unit's touchscreen will display song/artist information, as well as album art in the background.
    • Apps: CarPlay also supports additional audio apps that you've downloaded to your iPhone for enjoying music, radio, sports, news, podcasts, & audiobooks (subscriptions and fees may apply). Control these apps from the head unit's touchscreen just like you would from your iPhone. Current supported apps include:
    • Apple HomeKit Compatible: CarPlay now supports control of Apple HomeKit enabled devices (sold separately) through Siri. Using CarPlay in your vehicle, you can ask Siri to close or open your garage door, turn on or off home lighting, increase or decrease the temperature of your thermostat, as well as control select functions of other Apple HomeKit enabled devices and appliances. Click here for a list of compatible Apple HomeKit products.

    Notes:

    • Only one Apple iPhone with CarPlay can be connected at a time. An Apple CarPlay and Android Auto device cannot be connected at the same time.
    • Bluetooth hands-free phone and wireless music streaming cannot be used while Apple CarPlay is being used with a connected iPhone.
    • If you need an additional USB extension cable, use Kenwood's CA-U1EX USB extension cable (113CAU1EX, sold separately). Any other USB extension cable can cause CarPlay to malfunction.

    iPod/iPhone Music Playback Only: If you don't desire Apple CarPlay, you can also connect your Lightning-connector Apple iPod/iPhone to the DNX696S for music playback & control only using Kenwood's Lightning connector-to-USB cable (113KCIP103 sold separately) or the Lightning-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device. Simply plug your compatible Apple device into either of the receiver's rear-panel USB ports. The Kenwood receiver supports playback of stored music and music apps, along music browsing and playback control, plus song/artist information and album art.

    • Head Unit Control: The Kenwood head unit allows you to navigation your iPod/iPhone's music library from its front-panel & touchscreen controls. The head unit offers unique search features like Category Search & Link Search, plus offers basic playback functions like Play/Pause, Fast Forward/Rewind, Previous/Next Track and Repeat/Random of your connected iPod/iPhone. You'll also still be able to control your connected iPod touch or iPhone from its own touchscreen so you can access other music applications.
      • Category Search: Category Search allows you to navigate your iPod/iPhone's music library by Playlist, Artists, Album, Song, Genre, Song, Podcast, Audiobook, or Radio. You can then search each of these categories using the head unit's touchscreen slider function (categories will be listed in alphabetical order).
      • Link Search: The head unit offers Link Search, which allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. Link Search lets the head unit create an album list of the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, an artist list of the currently playing genre, or an album list of currently playing composer.
    • Song/Artist Info & Album Art: The DNX696S will display your iPod/iPhone's stored music information including Track number, Elapsed playing time, Song/Album title, Artist name, and Album art. The unit will also display song/artist info and album art from select music apps.

    Note: Only one Apple Lightning-connector device can be connected at a time.

    Apple Device Compatibility Chart: The Kenwood DNX696S is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 5/12/2020) -

    Apple Device Generation Tested Version Media Type Control Type Specific Apps Display Type Bluetooth Charge
    Audio Video Head Unit iPod/iPhone CarPlay Pandora Spotify Album Art Song/Artist Track Info Phone Audio Siri
    iPhone
    5/5C 10.3.3 Y N Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    5S/6/6+ 12.4.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    SE/6S/6S+ 13.4.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    7/7+/8/8+ 13.4.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    XS-Max/XS/XR/X 13.4.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    11/11Pro/11ProMax 13.4.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    touch
    5th 9.3.5 N N N N N N N N N N N Y N Y
    6th 12.4.1 Y N Y Y N N N Y Y Y N Y N Y
    nano
    7th 1.02 PC N N N N N N N N N N N Y N Y
    Notes:
    • Not compatible with 30-pin Apple devices.
    • Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.

    Cellular & Data Plan Requirements: Access to CarPlay and Android Auto apps will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone or Android smartphone to connect to the Internet. Your compatible Apple or Android device will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, LTE (4G), or WiFi.

    GPS Antenna: In addition to supporting the built-in navigation, the included GPS antenna also enhances the performance of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay navigation maps. The GPS antenna comes with a self-stick pad which mounts it on top of your dash inside the vehicle.

    Smartphone Charging: The Kenwood DNX696S will also charge (5V/1.5A) your Android smartphone or Apple iPod/iPhone device while connected via USB with the vehicle's ignition switch set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position.

    Built-in Bluetooth

    Bluetooth 4.1: The Kenwood DNX696S is equipped with built-in Bluetooth 4.1 allowing you to make and receive phone calls wirelessly through the receiver; as well as stream music wirelessly from your smartphone to the head unit. In order to use Bluetooth wireless technology, your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to interpret certain profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth Profiles:

    • Hands-Free Communication: HFP 1.7 (Hands Free Profile), PBAB 1.0 (Phone Book Access Profile)
    • Audio Streaming: A2DP 1.3 (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP 1.6 (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).
    Note: Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the Kenwood DNX696S. Visit Kenwood's Support Site for a complete list of compatible Bluetooth enabled phones.

    SSP & Auto Pairing: With Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the Kenwood DNX696S without having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. You can even pair your Apple iPhone (iOS 5+) or by simply connecting it to the Kenwood head unit via USB and following a single prompt on the head unit's display. You can pair up to ten Bluetooth-enabled devices to the Kenwood head unit. When an already paired Bluetooth device is in close proximity to the receiver, the auto connection function automatically pairs the two units.

    • Dual Phone Connection: Thanks to the Dual Phone Connection feature, two Bluetooth-enabled phones can remain connected to the Kenwood receiver. This means you can an answer an incoming call from either phone from the head unit. Also, both of your phone's contact lists are downloaded to the receiver. To make a call from one of the phones using the Kenwood receiver, you simply have to select Phone 1 or Phone 2 on the head unit's touchscreen.
    • Music Mix: The new Music Mix feature allows five Bluetooth audio source devices to be connected to the Kenwood receiver at one time, so you can switch between Bluetooth playback sources a lot easier and quicker. While "BT Audio" source is selected on the head unit, you can simply press the music playback button on your connected Bluetooth source devices to switch between devices and begin music playback. However, you cannot stream audio from two different Bluetooth audio source devices at the same time or combine music libraries or playlists from two different connected devices.

    Hands-Free Communication: The head unit supports Bluetooth hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled smartphone. Thanks to the latest Hands-Free Profile (HFP 1.7) with wideband speech capability, the Kenwood DNX696S provides more natural sound quality and details during wireless calls. The touchscreen controls of the DNX696S can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call, or end a call. The unit also includes an external microphone (featuring adjustable gain), so you can carry on your side of the conversation while listening to the caller through your vehicles speakers (All or Front only). During a conversation, you can switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your phone) and the Hands Free Mode.

    • Answering a Call: When a call comes in, a ring-tone will be heard through your vehicle's speaker and the caller's name or phone number will be displayed. You can answer the call from the head unit's touchscreen, or setup the head unit to automatically answer the incoming call immediately (1-30 seconds).
    • Dialing a Number: Using the DNX696S, you can dial a phone number in one of the following ways:
      • Entering a Phone Number: Allows you to directly dial a phone number from the head unit's touchscreen keypad.
      • Preset Dialing: Allows you to register up to 5 phone numbers for quick dialing. The preset numbers can be accessed from the head unit's touchscreen.
      • Phonebook: You can download phonebook data (up to 1000 entries) from your phone to the DNX696S. You can then dial by using the downloaded phone book and search it alphabetically.
      • Call History: The Call History is a list of calls that have originated from and were received by this unit that you can dial. You can select Outgoing, Incoming, or Missed calls (up to 50 entries total).
      • Voice Dialing: If your smartphone supports voice recognition (including Siri and Google Voice), then you can dial out by voice command. Simply speak into the included microphone.
    Note: This unit allows you to answer a call or dial out using any option without engaging the vehicle's parking brake.

    Wireless Audio Streaming: The Kenwood DNX696S supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or audio player, plus song/artist information display and support for AAC lossless music streaming. You are able to stream your stored music library on your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, as well as music apps downloaded on your smartphone to the Kenwood DNX696S for playback.

    • SBC & AAC Codecs: In addition to support for the standard SBC Bluetooth audio codec, the DNX696S offers support of AAC codecs for higher quality audio streaming from select Apple devices. By supporting AAC, the DNX696S offers better audio performance of the music streamed from your Apple iPod, iPhone, or iPad.
    • Advanced Music Playback: In addition to basic playback functions (Play/Pause, FF/RW, Skip, Random/Repeat), the DNX696S lets you browse your stored music by Playlist, Artist, Album, Song, etc. (AVRCP 1.4-up phones only; which includes Android 4.0+ and iPhone 5.0+).
    • Song/Artist Information: The head unit will also display your stored music and music app's song information; such as Artist name and Song/Album title (no album art).
    Note: When an incoming call or outgoing call is in progress from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone, audio streaming will be paused so you can take your call. Once the call is finished, your streaming music will resume.

    External Microphone: The Kenwood DNX696S includes an external microphone to carry on your side of your phone conversation and voice command dialing. The external wired microphone offers improved audio quality versus an integrated microphone, so you can be heard easier over noisy traffic and road noise. You can adjust the volume level, echo cancellation, and noise reduction of the microphone without affecting the other sources. The external microphone features an attached 10' cable terminated by a right-angle 3.5mm connector which plugs into the mic input on the rear-panel of the head unit. The microphone offers an integrated mounting bracket which can be clipped to your vehicle's sun-visor or taped to your dash.

    Internet+SiriusXM+HD Radio

    Internet Radio Apps (for iPhone & Android): You can access Pandora & Spotify online music services on your USB or Bluetooth connected iPhone, or Bluetooth connected Android smartphone through the Kenwood DNX696S receiver. You can also access Apple Music Radio through your USB or Bluetooth connected iPhone. Your compatible mobile device will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, LTE (4G), or WiFi. Subscriptions and fees will apply.

    • Pandora: The free Pandora App (for Apple iOS 11.0+ or Android OS 4.0+) lets you play music from the Pandora music service through the DNX696S using your USB or Bluetooth connected Apple iPhone, or Bluetooth connected Android smartphone. The Kenwood DNX696S provides control over the Pandora music service and displays Artist, Album, and Song information. You can select Pandora stations from your station list and sort them by date or alphabetically, or shuffle playback stations in your list. New stations can be created based on the current songs or artists playing. You can also select stations from a Genre list. In addition, you can skip song tracks within a station. You can even give songs a thumbs up or thumbs down. An active Pandora account is required.
    • Spotify: The DNX696S has the ability to playback & control content from the Spotify music app (for Apple iOS 10.0+ or Android OS 4.0+) on your USB or Bluetooth connected iPhone, or Bluetooth connected Android smartphone. You can play, pause and skip tracks, browse playlists, albums and radio stations through the Kenwood receiver's touchscreen & front-panel controls. You can even create your stations by entering a track, artist, or playlist. You also get song/artist information on the unit's LCD touchscreen. If you are a Spotify Premium user (requires a monthly paid subscription), you can enjoy ad-free, high quality music even when there is no internet connection.
    • Apple Music Radio (iPhone Only): You can playback Apple Music Radio on your USB or Bluetooth connected Apple iOS 9.3.5+ device through the Kenwood DNX696S. With a WiFi or cellular connection on your iPhone, you can listen to Beats 1 and other live radio stations through the Kenwood receiver. Apple Music subscribers can also listen to on-demand stations for almost any genre or create their own stations. You can use the head unit's touchscreen to select between your Apple Music Radio stations. The touchscreen will also display song/artist/album information, along with Album art.
    Note: Access to these Internet Radio services will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone or Android smartphone to connect to the Internet. Not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.

    SiriusXM-Ready: The Kenwood DNX696S is SiriusXM 3.0 Ready and compatible with the SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner (220SXV300, sold separately). The SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner supports SiriusXM programming with access to 140+ SiriusXM channels via subscription; check out the most popular SiriusXM subscription packages here. Additional features of the SiriusXM Connect tuner include:

    • Channel List w/ Category Search: A channel list displays a list of all available channels. The Category Search function searches for channels in a certain category.
    • Song/Artist Info + Album Art: Displayed Information such as Channel Name, Channel Logo, Artist Name, Song Title, & Album Art can be viewed on the head unit's LCD
    • Smart Favorite Presets: Up to 20 SiriusXM Satellite Radio station presets can be saved. Up to 6 of your SiriusXM presets on the current band are recognized as Smart Favorites for advanced features such as TuneStart, TuneScan, & TuneMix.
      • TuneStart: TuneStart allows you to choose whether to start a song from the beginning or from its live point when tuning to a Smart Favorite channel.
      • TuneScan: TuneScan plays the first 6 seconds of each song that has not been listened to from each of the channels which you have saved as Smart Favorites.
      • TuneMix: TuneMix plays a unique blend of songs from your Smart Favorite preset music channels from the current SiriusXM preset band, allowing you to build a custom channel from as few as two to as many as six music channels.
    • Instant Replay: You can pause, rewind, and replay up to 60 minutes of current channel. You'll also be able to rewind and replay the last 30 minutes of content from your six Smart Favorite channels.
    • Alerts: Receive alerts of your favorite song or artist, favorite sports teams, plus traffic and weather.
      • Content Alerts: When a broadcast program related to the your favorite artist or song starts, a message appears to allow you to switch to that station.
      • Sports Flash: Sports Flash will notify you when a big play happens during a game with one your favorite sports teams. You can choose to tune to that station or continue to listening to the previous channel.
      • Traffic & Weather Now: Traffic & Weather Now allows you to access the latest report whenever you want to hear it by city.
    • Parental Control: Channels containing unsuitable content for children can be blocked.
    Note: A separate SiriusXM Satellite Radio subscription is required (operates on the XM Network). However, you can easily add this SiriusXM tuner to an existing Sirius or XM account for a Multi-Radio Discount Plan.

    HD Radio: With its built-in HD Radio tuner, you can receive digital AM/FM broadcasts from local stations where available. HD Radio significantly improves AM/FM audio quality and reception, as well as includes information such as artist name and song titles or traffic news, viewable on the receiver's display. HD Radio Technology will deliver high-quality digital sound. AM digital will have FM-like quality in stereo (80dB SNR @ 40-15kHz), while FM digital will have CD-like quality (80 dB SNR @ 20-20kHz) with static free and clear reception. The unit's built-in HD Radio tuner allows analog AM/FM tuning as well.

    • Seek Modes + Direct Access Tuning: You can choose one of three seek modes: Auto 1 (seek tuning), Auto 2 (cycles through and tunes the selected band's preset stations only with each button press), or Manual. You can also setup the DNX695S to search only HD Radio stations. In addition, you can directly access an AM/FM station by entering in the frequency number using the unit's LCD touchscreen.
    • Tuner Presets: You can store 15 FM presets and 5 AM presets (total of 20). Not only does the navigation receiver's tuner allow you manually enter your desired presets you can choose to have the unit automatically put stations with good reception in the memory banks automatically; this is a handy feature when traveling.
    • Station Info/Album Art AM/FM digital stations can offer text and data such as artist names and song titles; as well as Album Art.
    • Multicasting & Emergency Alerts: In addition to conventional broadcasts, with HD Radio broadcasting it is possible to choose from up to 8 multicast programs (HD1 to HD8). HD Radio also delivers critical and life-saving messages to the public during emergency situations.
    Note: HD Radio is the system for digital AM and FM broadcasting in the U.S. More than 2,000 radio stations are broadcasting their primary signals in digital HD Radio technology, as a free service. Go to HDRadio.com to check for HD Radio stations in your area.
    Disc/microSD/USB Playback

    Compatible Discs: The unit has a front-loading disc-slot to make loading your disc easier because there is no panel to slide or fold-down. The Kenwood DNX696S supports playback of DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD-Audio, and CD-R/RW discs. The unit supports a variety of audio & video files recorded onto a CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, or DVD+R/RW disc (see chart below).

    • Disc Auto Reload: The unit will automatically reinsert a disc if it's ejected, but not removed for 20 seconds or more.
    • Parental Control (DVD only): Parental Control allows you to restrict DVD playback according to a predetermined level. You can select a parental control rating from 0-8, which is protected by a 4-digit password.

    Note: There is no physical eject button on the receiver. In order to eject a disc, you must press the "Menu/ATT" button on the front-panel to access the "eject" icon on the touchscreen. You cannot insert or eject a disc with the unit powered off.

    microSD Card Slot: The navigation receiver is fitted with a microSD card slot on the front-panel. The microSD card slot supports both microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC memory cards. The unit supports playback of a variety of compressed and high-resolution music files, as well as standard and high-definition video files, plus JPEG still image stored on a compatible microSD/SDHC/SDXC memory card (see chart below).

    Note: The microSD card slot can also be used for map updates. Because a microSD card with map update must remain installed in the receiver, you will lose the media playback option for microSD.

    USB MSC Playback (Dual USB Ports): The Kenwood DNX696S features two rear-panel USB inputs (one is "black" and the other is "grey"). Each rear-panel USB input consists of a USB (type-A) port attached to the rear-chassis by a 7" pigtail and comes with a 39" USB extension cable. These USB ports can be used for connection and control of up to two portable USB mass-storage class (MSC) devices, such as a USB thumbdrive. The USB ports enable playback of a variety of audio (including Hi-Res), video, and photo files stored on a compatible USB memory device (see chart below). USB portable audio devices that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the navigation receiver's USB ports (5V/1.5A), and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

    • Category Search: You can navigate music stored on your USB memory device by Playlist, Artist, Song, or Album. The content within each category will be listed in alphabetical order.
    • Link Search: Link Search allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. The head unit can create an album list of the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, an artist list of the currently playing genre, or an album list of currently playing composer.
    Notes:
    • Two USB mass storage class devices or USB thumbdrives can be connected at the same time; you can switch back and forth between devices (it does not combine the libraries).
    • The USB ports do not support MTP (Media Transfer Protocol), AOA (Android Open Accessory), USB hubs, or card-readers.
    • You can connect an Android smartphone with Android Auto to the "grey" USB port and a USB thumbdrive to the "black" USB port at the same time.
    • You can connect an Apple iPod/iPhone to the "black" USB port and a USB thumbdrive to the "grey" USB port at the same time.

    File Compatibility: The Kenwood DNX696S supports the following types of audio (including Hi-Res), video, and photo files recorded onto a disc, microSD, or loaded onto a USB mass storage class device.

    Media Type Disc (CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW) USB (MSC) / microSD/SDHC/SDXC
    File System ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, Romeo, Long File Name FAT 16/32, exFAT, NTFS
    Playable File Types Audio MP3/WMA/AAC:bit rate of 8-320kbps; sampling frequency of 16-48kHz
    WAV/FLAC: bit depth of 16/24-bit; sampling frequency of 16-48kHz
    Vorbis:
    variable bit-rate; sampling frequency of 16-48kHz
    MP3/WMA/AAC:bit rate of 8-320kbps; sampling frequency of 16-48kHz
    WAV/FLAC (High-Res): bit depth of 16/24-bit; sampling frequency of 16-192kHz
    Vorbis:
    variable bit-rate; sampling frequency of 16-48kHz
    Video MPEG-1: max resolution of 352 x 240 or 352 x 288; max bit-rate of 1.5Mbps
    MPEG-2:
    max resolution of 720 x 480 or 720 x 576; max bit-rate of 8Mbps
    MPEG-4/H.264:
    max resolution of 1920 x 1080 (30fps); max bit-rate of 8Mbps
    WMV/MKV:
    max resolution of 1920 x 1080 (30fps); max bit-rate of 8Mbps
    Photo N/A JPEG: 5000 x 5000
    PNG/BMP: 1000 x 1000
    Maximum # of Folders/Files 5,000 folders/5,000 files (999 files per folder) Unlimited folders/9,999 files (999 files per folder)
    Tags MP3 ID3-tags, WMA/AAC/FLAC-tags, & Album Art

    High Resolution Audio Playback: The Kenwood navigation receiver supports playback of high-resolution FLAC & WAV music files (up to 24-bit/192kHz) via USB or microSD. High-Resolution Audio is high-quality sound that exceeds CD standard. High-resolution audio captures and beautifully expresses all the details of your favorite music.

    Folder/Track List: The Folder/Track List allows you to search folders and audio/video/picture files stored on a disc, microSD, or USB device.

    Song/Artist Info with Album Art: The Kenwood DNX696S will display song/artist information as well as album art for MP3, WMA, AAC, and FLAC music tracks (if encoded).

    Firmware Updates (via USB): The unit's operating system is updateable via free downloadable software from Kenwood's support site. Firmware downloads assist in maintaining system performance when using external devices and emerging technologies. Firmware/software updates can be downloaded onto a USB thumbdrive from your computer and then inserted into the head unit's USB port and uploaded. Go to Kenwood's Support Site for the latest firmware/software updates.

    Audio & DSP Section

    Excelon Series: The DNX696S navigation receiver is part of Kenwood's Excelon series line-up. It incorporates the latest technologies and delivers the highest sonic performance. From advanced audio tuning capabilities, crossover and equalizer system, high-voltage 5V preouts, plus a two-year warranty - Kenwood Excelon represents exceptional audio quality with long-lasting dependability.

    24-Bit/192kHz DAC: The Kenwood DNX696S utilizes a 24-bit/192kHz digital to analog converter (DAC) for superior sound quality with a signal to noise ratio up to 90.5dB.

    MOSFET Amplifier: The Kenwood DNX696S is equipped with a MOSFET amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET amplification circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased power with less distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More power means louder and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not pushing the limits of the amplification circuit. The power output specs for the DNX696S are as follows:

    • Full Bandwidth Power: 22 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20-20kHz, 1% THD)
    • Maximum Output Power: 50 watts x 4 channels

    Gold-Plated 6ch/5V Pre-Outs + Sub Control: The DNX696S features front, rear and subwoofer 5.0-volt pre-outs. The front and rear speaker pre-outs are balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading and offers independent level control (-50 to +10 dB). The pre-outs are gold-plated for superior signal transfer.

    Vehicle Setup: You can select your car type to automatically set the delay time of each speaker for timing adjustment of sound output of each channel to have the highest surround effect. Choose from Compact, Full Size Car, Wagon, Mini Van, SUV, or Off. For a better sound-stage you can select your optimal listening position & rear speaker location.

    • Listening Position + Digital Time Alignment: You can choose from All, Front Left, Front Right or Front. You can also select to manually fine tune the sound stage, using Digital Time Alignment (DTA) by selecting the distance (0-20') for each individual speaker in the vehicle compared to your listening position.
    • Rear Speaker Location: You can indicate the location of your vehicle's Rear speakers. Choose from Door, Rear Deck, 2nd Row, or 3rd Row.

    Crossover Network: The Kenwood Excelon DNX696S lets you choose between a 2-way or 3-way crossover network for your car audio application.

    • 2-Way Crossover: Allows you to set high-pass and low-pass crossovers for a standard Tweeter, Front, Rear, and Subwoofer speaker setup.
      • Speaker Size: select which size speakers are in your vehicle.
        • Tweeter: Small, Medium, Large, or None
        • Front & Rear: 3.5", 4", 4.75", 5", 6.5", 6.75", 7", 4x6", 5x7", 6x8", 6x9", 7x10" or None
        • Subwoofer: 6.5", 8", 10", 12", 15" or greater, None
      • X'Over: Select the high pass or low pass crossover settings for your speakers.
        • Tweeter: high pass filter (HPF)
          • Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Front & Rear: high pass filter (HPF)
          • Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, -24dB
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Sub: low pass filter (LPF)
          • Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, -24dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
    • 3-Way Crossover: Allows you to set high-pass and low-pass crossovers for a complex 3-way speaker system with Highs, Mids, and Sub.
      • Speaker Size: select which size speakers are in your vehicle.
        • Tweeter: Small, Medium, Large, or None
        • Midrange: 3.5", 4", 4.75", 5", 6.5", 6.75", 7", 4x6", 5x7", 6x8", or 6x9"
        • Woofer: 6.5", 8", 10", 12", 15" or greater, None
      • X'Over: Select the high pass or low pass crossover settings for your speakers.
        • Tweeter: high pass filter (HPF)
          • HPF Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Midrange: high pass filter (HPF) & low pass filter (LPF)
          • HPF Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • LPF Frequency: 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, 6.3kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB
        • Woofer: low pass filter (LPF)
          • LPF Frequency: 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 180Hz, 220Hz, 250Hz, Through (Full-Range)
          • Slope: -6dB, -12dB
          • Phase: Reverse (180°), Normal (0°)
          • Gain: -8 to 0 dB

    Equalizer: The Kenwood DNX696S offers 8 EQ Presets for easy adjustment, a 13-band EQ for customized tuning, and a Drive EQ mode to overcome road noise. Separate EQ settings and EQ presets can be stored for each source or you can apply one EQ preset or curve to all sources.

    • Preset EQ: The integrated equalizer offers 8 preset sound modes (Flat, Pops, Easy, Top40, Jazz, Powerful, Rock, or User 1-4) suitable for the music genre of your choice.
    • 13-Band EQ: The User modes (1-4) allows you to manually adjust the head unit's 13-band EQ (62.5Hz, 100Hz, 160Hz, 250Hz, 400Hz, 630Hz, 1kHz, 1.6kHz, 2.5kHz, 4kHz, 6.3kHz, 10kHz, & 16kHz). Each frequency's gain level can be adjusted from -9dB to +9 dB.
    • Drive EQ: The Drive EQ mode helps you hear your music over road noise. It boosts certain frequency ranges that become hard to hear due to road noise.

    Music Enhancements: You can restore the sound lost due to audio compression, as well as enhance the sound by virtually manipulating the soundscape.

    • Realizer: When MP3, WMA, or AAC files encoded at a low bit rate (less than 96 kbps, 44.1k, 48kHz) are played, the Realizer feature boosts low frequencies which can be lost during compression. Set to Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, or Off.
    • Supreme: When MP3, WMA, or AAC files encoded at a low bit rate (less than 96 kbps, 44.1k, 48kHz) are played, the Supreme Setting function restores their high frequencies so the sound quality is closer to files encoded at a high bit rate. The processing is optimized for the compression format and the bit rate used. When the Supreme Setting is Off, the unit plays the original sound stored in the audio file.
    • Space Enhancer & Stage EQ: You can set the Space Enhancer to Small, Large, or Off. Each setting value indicates the soundscape level. You can also virtually raise the sound position heard from your speakers; the Stage EQ can be set to High, Middle, Low, or Off.

    Volume Level & Bass Management: The navigation receiver offers several volume level adjustments to tailor the audio output of your sources. The DNX696S also provides bass management to get the most impact out of your system.

    • Volume Offset: The level of each source may be independently adjusted to prevent radical leaps in output volume when switching from one source to another. The available settings range from -8 to +6.
    • Dynamic Range: The dynamic range can be adjusted by selecting either Normal, Wide or Dialog. Dialog makes the total sound volume become larger as compared with Wide and Normal, allowing you to listen to the movie's dialogue more clearly. This is effective only on Dolby Digital software.
    • Bass Boost & DC Extension: The DNX696S features a four-step Bass Boost (Off/1/2/3) to enhance your music's lower frequencies. When "Bass DC Extension is turned on, frequencies lower than 62.5 Hz are set the same gain level as the unit's 13-Band EQ 62.5 Hz gain setting.
    • Loudness: This function enhances low and high frequencies to make the sound clearer at lower volumes.

    Source Beep: The in-dash receiver provides an audible beep to confirm source selection. This function can be turned On or Off.

    AV/Camera/OEM Connectivity

    AV Input: The Kenwood DNX696S navigation receiver is fitted with a rear-panel minijack (3.5mm) audio/video input to connect external AV sources, such as a game system, Blu-ray player, or TV tuner.

    AV Output (with Dual Zone): The unit features a composite video jack and 3.5mm audio jack to output AV signals to an optional monitor and headphone system. The unit's AV output can be set to Disc, AV-In, USB, microSD, or Off. Volume of the second zone can be controlled by the navigation receiver or your rear entertainment system.

    • If you select USB, microSD, iPod, Disc, Spotify, Pandora, or Bluetooth as the main source; you cannot select USB as the AV output source.
    • If you select CarPlay or Android Auto as the main source; you cannot select Disc, microSD, or USB as the AV output.
    Note: Built-in Navigation, CarPlay, and Android Auto cannot be displayed through the receiver's video output.

    Rear & Front Camera Inputs: The unit features a composite video input for connecting an optional rear view camera, such as the Kenwood CMOS-230 (113CMOS230, sold separately). By connecting a rear view camera, you can use the in-dash receiver's touchscreen LCD to see what's behind you when backing up. There is also a composite video input for connecting a front dash-cam (sold separately), so you can display what's ahead of you on the head unit's touchscreen LCD monitor. In addition, you can configure the unit's 3.5mm AV input with the help of the included minijack-to-composite video adapter cable to act as a camera input for adding a side-camera.

    • Parking Guide Lines: When a rear-view camera is connected to the dedicated rear view camera input and you are viewing a rear view image, parking guide lines appear on-screen making parking easy and safer. There are three color-coded horizontal guidelines and two vertical guidelines.
    • Rear-View Auto Switching: The video from the dedicated rear view camera connection can be set to display when switched to this input, or display the rear view camera video automatically when the vehicle is shifted into Reverse gear. The purple/white wire of the wiring harness must be connected to the vehicle's reverse lamp circuit for automatic video switching. Automatic video switching takes approximately 0.8 seconds.
    Note: The rear view camera feature is meant as a back-up aid only; never solely rely on the rear-view camera when backing-up. In addition to using the rear-view camera, always look behind you to make sure everything is clear when backing up your vehicle.

    Dash Cam Ready: In addition to the front camera input, the DNX696S is equipped with a proprietary "Dash Cam" control input for connecting Kenwood's DRV-N520 dashboard camera (113DRV520, sold separately). The DRV-N520 offers high resolution 1080p recording, plus motion detection technology. The dashboard camera's live and recorded video are displayed on the DNX696's touchscreen. You'll also control the DRV-N520's settings and parameters from the receiver's touchscreen.

    OEM Integration: This Kenwood navigation receiver is compatible with the iDatalink Maestro RR (794ADSMRR, sold separately); a web programmable module that will permit the aftermarket Kenwood receiver to work with select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles that feature the factory SYNC system; as well as select GM vehicles with factory OnStar; select Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep vehicles with U-Connect, plus select Honda/Acura, Toyota/Scion, Volkswagen & Subaru vehicles with factory digital amplifiers.

    • Retained Features: The iDatalink Maestro RR lets Ford/Lincoln/Mercury, GM, Dodge/Chrysler, and VW owners swap out their factory radio for this aftermarket Kenwood head unit; while retaining the Ford Sync system, GM OnStar system, Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep U-Connect system, steering wheel controls, Bluetooth, USB interface, Satellite Radio, and 911 assist. You also get to keep the hands-free mic that comes with the car (which is specially tuned to that particular vehicle). *Retained features will vary by vehicle.
    • Extra Features: In some installations, the iDatalink Maestro RR lets you configure the head unit to operate interior climate controls and provides extra visual data; such as User Selectable Gauges, Vehicle Info (Tire Pressure/Battery Voltage/Check Engine Codes/Door Ajar Warning), and Visual Park Assist. *Extra features will vary by vehicle.

    Note: The iDatalink Maestro RR is web programmable, which means you'll need to flash the iDatalink Maestro RR interface module with the correct firmware from iDatalink's website. In addition to flashing the iDatalink Maestro RR module, you'll also need a vehicle specific harness (sold separately). The Kenwood receiver's OEM Setup menu must also be configured with your compatible vehicle's factory system before initial operation.

    Touchscreen & Remote Control

    6.75" Clear Resistive Touchscreen: The Kenwood DNX696S features a 6.75" widescreen (16:9) clear resistive touchscreen LCD with LED backlighting. The clear resistive touchscreen LCD provides a high contrast ratio, crystal clear display, and vivid text. The LCD touchscreen has a resolution of 800 (H) x 480 (V) x RGB with 1,152,000 total pixels. Touchscreen operations include tap, touch & hold, flick left or right, and swipe up or down. Electronic angle settings adjust the display for best off axis viewing (actual screen does not move).

    • Custom Home Screen & Shortcuts: You can customize the head unit's Home Screen by rearranging the icons and moving the icons of the twelve most sources you use most to the first page of the Home Screen. Four programmable shortcut source keys offer a quick jump to your favorite sources from almost any screen.
    • Background Color & Wallpapers: You can choose between nine preset background colors - Blue, Purple, Sky Blue, Yellow, Green, Amber, Red, Pink, White. You can also choose to link the displays color with the unit's front-panel variable color illumination that you set. In addition, there are four preset background images (wallpapers) or you can download your own still image (800x600) for use as the unit's background from a connected USB thumbdrive.
    • Photo Frame Widget: You can even display a slideshow of images files (up to 500) stored on an inserted USB thumbdrive when on the Home Screen. Images must be JPEG (5000x5000), PNG (1000x1000), or BMP (1000x1000). Images remain on your USB device and are not downloaded to the head unit; the USB thumbdrive must be inserted for this feature to work.
    • Off Axis Viewing: Electronic angle settings adjust the display for best off axis viewing (actual screen does not move).

    Dual Core Processor: The Kenwood navigation receiver utilizes a Linux based system and dual core processor for faster operating speeds and enhanced stability. The unit has start-up time of approximately 23.1 seconds from OFF to the last source selected or navigation map screen.

    Split Screen AV Control: The Split Screen AV Control mode divides the head unit's touchscreen monitor into two screens, with navigation on the left and a source window on the right. With this Picture-in-Picture type function, the head unit can now display the navigation map screen, as well as song/artist information (including album art) and basic playback controls simultaneously - including CarPlay & Android Auto. You can also view the backup camera display along with the map screen. You can even display the navigation map screen and DVD or AV-IN video simultaneously with the vehicle's parking brake engaged.

    Front-Panel Controls w/ Variable Color Illumination: In addition to the touchscreen controls, the unit includes frequently used buttons along the left edge of the screen. You can adjust the head unit's button illumination, as well as display background color from the following preset colors - Blue, Purple, Sky Blue, Yellow, Green, Amber, Red, Pink, White or Scan (Scans through all preset colors). You can also select a custom "User" color that is adjusted between Red, Green, and Blue (values range: 0-31).

    Dimmer: The dimmer function will dim the head unit's display & front-panel illumination automatically when your vehicle's light switch is turned On, if you have the unit's orange/white "Illumination" wire connected to your vehicle's headlamp circuit. You can also choose to dim the display manually.

    Clock & Date: The navigation receiver offers a 12-hour clock & day/month/year display. The clock is visible from any source or menu screen. With your vehicle's key in the accessory or run position, the head unit will continue to display the LCD background image, clock, and button illumination during "Standby" mode. Pressing and holding the Power/Home button turns the unit off completely.

    Remote Control: The Kenwood DNX696S offers compatibility with factory steering wheel controls (adapter sold separately) and is compatible with Kenwood's IR wireless remote control (sold separately) for added convenience. Kenwood also offers a remote application which allows you to control the receiver from your smartphone device.

    • Steering Wheel Controls: The head unit features a factory steering wheel remote control input wire (blue/yellow) within the included wiring harness that lets you keep your vehicle's factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with an optional steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately).
    • Optional Remote Control: The optional Kenwood KNA-RCDV331 IR wireless remote control (113RCDV331, sold separately) unit is designed to operate this Kenwood receiver. The wireless remote controller operates off of two supplied "AAA" batteries. The remote operates off of IR transmission so the KNA-RCDV331 must be pointed at the front-panel of the Kenwood head unit within direct line of sight.
    • Remote S App: The Kenwood Remote S (for Apple iOS 9.0+ and Android OS 5.0+) is an application that will connect and control the in-dash receiver from your compatible Apple or Android device via Bluetooth, like a wireless remote control. You can select source input, as well as command basic playback controls such as Play/Pause or Previous/Next Track from the touchscreen of your compatible smartphone. This application can also display the receiver's source and song/artist information on the screen of your compatible Apple iOS or Android device.

    Parking Brake Interlock: To prevent the display of video while the vehicle is in motion, the light green wire (within harness) must be connected to the vehicle's parking brake detection circuit. You cannot view video unless your vehicle's parking brake is engaged. If you attempt to view video without the parking brake engaged, the unit's LCD touchscreen will simply display a blue screen and "Parking Off". While your vehicle is in motion (parking brake off), you can still view all of the head unit's menu screens/settings, source information, metadata, and album artwork; as well as the built-in Navigation, CarPlay, and Android Auto.

    Note: The parking brake wire must also be connected and the parking brake engaged for certain setup functions and menu options.

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    Customer Q&A

    22 questions already asked

    Q
    Is the maps preloaded or does it go off my phone only?
    john  Aug 03, 2020
    9 answers
    A
    Maps are on the Excelon ready to use, but you may also use you phone app as well
    hk  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    It's pre-loaded. Updates would be by flash disk.Enter an answer to this question.
    jason  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    Maps are in the unit ( no phone needed); but you can use Android Auto through your phone if you want.
    james  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    Maps are preloaded. You can also work off your iPhone with CarPlay.
    leonard  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    preloaded
    malcolm  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    Yes, it's preloaded but you will have to pay to update it down the road
    mark g  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    It is preloaded, a Garmin product installed by Kenwood. It works very well. It will need periodic updates sometime in the future due to road changes but it's not hard if you follow the instruction/owners manual.
    peter  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    Preloaded
    steven  Aug 03, 2020
    A
    Preloaded. Will need to update when needed which I believe there is a fee for.
    mitchell  Aug 03, 2020
    Q
    Do you do installation of the products?
    horace s.  Jun 19, 2020
    4 answers
    A
    NO
    hk  Jun 20, 2020
    A
    I used to have a shop in Queens New York but have been retired from the business for 10 years.
    leonard  Jun 19, 2020
    A
    It's easy. I put it in myself. They give you detailed instructions of how to install it. Also they have great tech support if you have any questions
    michael  Jun 19, 2020
    A
    No they don't. It's up to you
    mark g  Jun 19, 2020
    Q
    If my 2014 already has a backup camera do I need a new system to go with this radio system? Also, I have SirusXM on my current stereo system do I need the adaptor to continue enjoying SirusXM on this new unit?
    kathy  May 29, 2020
    3 answers
    A
    If you are saying your vehicle is a 2014, the audio equipment is probably newer than that. The backup cameras are all pretty much compatible and the XM radio modules are pretty much compatible. Can't say for sure but I would guess they would work with this unit.
    richard  May 30, 2020
    A
    The answer is no to both questions. The backup camera will plug into the unit using your existing wiring. The same is true for your SiriusXM. You will simply plug your existing SiriusXM receiver into the back of the unit.
    virginia  May 30, 2020
    A
    You don't need a new camera but you will need the kits to interface with it. Crutchfield sells that kit along with the kit to interface with steering wheel controls. The wiring was not too bad for all of this but it's a tight fit for sure. The unit has all apps native already on it so as long as you have a decent phone I have not had any apps or issues. I had the Fender audio system and kept all of it except the head unit and it all works perfectly like factory with a lot more choices and the Navigation is awesome
    thomas carey  May 30, 2020
    Q
    I have a 2016 Ford F-250 where the backup video is sent to the rear view mirror. Is there a way to route it to this unit?
    bob  May 17, 2020
    1 answer
    A
    This unit has a rca Jack for the rear view camera. If you can find the wire going to your mirror monitor, you can plug it into the unit
    bill  May 20, 2020
    Q
    Do I need an additional amp to add 2 6x8 subs to a 2012 Chevy Cruze eco? I see this says it has an amp
    jillian  May 03, 2020
    1 answer
    A
    Yes, you will. The amp in the unit is for maybe one small factory sub. Check the watt/amperage required for the subs you are wanting to install
    mark g  Jun 19, 2020
    Q
    Do I need an additional amp to add 2 6x8 subs to this in a Chevy Cruze? I see this has amp included
    jillian  May 03, 2020
    3 answers
    A
    Yes you do. The radio has so many options for configuring your setup but adding a sub you would need and amp to take advantage of the subwoofer contor section which is quite intuitive. You can't get a better receiver for the car than this. This receiver has enough to satisfy any audio engineer. Download the manual and read about the features. I have never seen anything like it.
    leonard  May 03, 2020
    A
    I would use a separate amp to power subs in any system. The unit will drive four speakers itself up to about 45W per channel. That's fine even for 6x9 at modest levels. But subs typically require a bit more headroom from the amp to deal with brief loud passages. I use mine to run four 6.5" coaxial speakers with no need for another amp. Good luck.
    jason  May 03, 2020
    A
    Most subs require their own amp as the amp in this unit is not powerful enough. Bottom line...depends on the subs you use
    mark g  May 03, 2020
    Q
    What are the physical dimentions of this unit?Kenwood Excelon DNX696S Navigation receiver
    greg  Apr 24, 2020
    1 answer
    A
    According to the Kenwood website the dimensions are: WxHxD178mm x 100mm x 155mm 7-3/16 x 4-7/16 x 6-2/16 inch (with Sleeve)182mm x 112mm x 153mm 7-3/16 x 4-7/16 x 6-7/16 inch Mine is already installed so I can not measure it.
    john  Apr 24, 2020
    Q
    What are the full dimensions of this unit?
    trey  Mar 30, 2020
    4 answers
    A
    The owner's manual lists dimensions as 7-3/16" x 4-7/16" x6". I can't verify this because I didn't measure it before I installed it. The Crutchfield site will tell you if it fits in your vehicle and specify what other parts you need for the installation. I installed the unit in my 2011 Toyota Highlander and it easily fit. I would recommend that you discuss this with a customer rep (mine was Hogan) and they will be very helpful. I shopped around before I bought my unit, but purchased from Crutchfield because because of the great selection and customer service. I have been very pleased with the unit and glad I didn't opt for a cheaper unit. Lou Sauer
    louis  Apr 14, 2020
    A
    Double din unit
    russell p  Apr 14, 2020
    A
    I do not know what the actual dimensions are sorry i can pull it out and find out for you i can do this tomorrow
    dawn  Apr 14, 2020
    A
    7 inches wide, 4.25 inches high and 4.5 inches deep.
    dannie  Apr 14, 2020
    Q
    Does Apple car play and android require a subscription on this unit?
    carl h  Mar 28, 2020
    3 answers
    A
    I use android auto with mine and it doesn't require a subscription
    byron  Mar 29, 2020
    A
    No
    chris  Mar 29, 2020
    A
    No it doesn't. To use it, you'll need the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay app downloaded onto your phone. Android requires a 5.0 version or higher. You will also have to connect your phone with a USB cable to make it work.
    david  Mar 28, 2020
    Q
    Does this have a Speed sensitive volume control?
    harry  Mar 27, 2020
    5 answers
    A
    Yes it does. It falls under the control "Drive Equilizer"
    leonard  Mar 28, 2020
    A
    Not that I am aware of
    steven  Mar 27, 2020
    A
    It does not.
    dean  Mar 27, 2020
    A
    It may, but my van doesn't have that feature so I haven't noticed it making an adjustment. Ford and Chevy offer it on their cars.
    jason  Mar 27, 2020
    A
    Yes but you are able to turn it off
    mark g  Mar 27, 2020
    Q
    Does the rear-view camera come on when placed in Reverse even if the system has not booted up yet?
    jackie  Feb 29, 2020
    6 answers
    A
    Yes it does if wired properly for the reverse signal. I have installed 3 of these units in 3 jeep wranglers and they bring up the camera immediately when shifted into reverse even if the head unit has not completeled booting up. This Kenwood is a great aftermarket replacement!
    sidney  Mar 02, 2020
    A
    Yes. If the car is put in reverse the camera takes priority. No real lag. The system also boots up quickly.
    lloyd  Mar 01, 2020
    A
    Yes it does.
    michael  Feb 29, 2020
    A
    No
    russell p  Feb 29, 2020
    A
    It takes a few seconds
    bill  Feb 29, 2020
    A
    Yes indeed it does..I was just backing up to the camper this evening and it was wonderful..rite to the hitch
    danny  Feb 29, 2020
    Q
    Does it work with the vehicle's steering wheel controls?
    mike  Feb 12, 2020
    5 answers
    A
    It does work with the steering wheel controls after programming the Maestro.
    steven  Feb 13, 2020
    A
    You must purchase the add-on accessory that plugs in, please ask your representative for that part number and price.
    hk  Feb 13, 2020
    A
    Yes better than factory controls using A maestro box. The reason why it's better is you can assign 2 tasks to each button a short press and a long press.
    leonard  Feb 12, 2020
    A
    Sorry I don't have steering wheel controls.
    steven  Feb 12, 2020
    A
    It will not, by itself. But if you add the proper Idatalink Maestro rr and adapter harness you can use your steering controls. Crutchfield and Idatalink have all the info you need.
    peter  Feb 12, 2020
    Q
    Will the rear camera come on automatically when in reverse? I saw a post that said it needed to be done manually from the receiver.
    mike  Dec 24, 2019
    20 answers
    A
    yes it is automatically
    james a  Jan 12, 2020
    A
    Yes, it comes on automatically. I used Crutchfield's ready harness on my Corvette. I use a switch on the radio to activate the front camera for parking.
    don  Jan 09, 2020
    A
    My rear camera comes on automatically once I put the truck in reverse! I can also put the rear camera on while I'm driving down the road. I put it in that mode while I'm towing.
    rodney  Jan 09, 2020
    A
    It comes on automatically, if wiring directions are followed correctly.
    hk  Jan 07, 2020
    A
    It definitely comes on automatically when you shift to reverse. Assuming you have wired it correctly. You CAN also turn the rear cam on manually if you wish.
    thomas  Jan 07, 2020
    A
    It comes on when you put the car in reverse but it takes the receiver about 30 seconds to boot up so unless you want to sit and wait you'll do like me back up without using it. John
    john  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Hi Mike! Thanks for your question. An attached backup camera will turn on when the vehicle is placed in reverse, as long as you have tapped into your vehicles reverse light wiring. If you're purchasing this from us, our tech support team will be happy to help you out with the install, and ensure that you access the proper wire, once you start your install.
    jessica  Jan 06, 2020 (Staff)
    A
    Probably depends on the vehicle; comes on automatically in my '16 Toyota 4Runner
    dominic  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Yes, if it is wired in correctly, it will come on automatically when you shift into reverse.
    doug  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Mine does, but I do not know if its triggered by the Yukon Denali computer, or the Maestro that connects the two.
    keith  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Yes it will.
    michel  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Should automatically shift to rear camera when the receiver senses the transmission is put in reverse. This assumes the receiver reverse sensing wire is connected to the proper location for your car.
    peter  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Mine comes automatically when I shift in reverse, camera kit should have the wiring info but the radio receiver supports this.
    malcolm  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Yes it does, just like OEM
    michael  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Yes the back up camera will come on automatically when the vehicle is in reverse
    ronald  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    It does it automatically when u put vehicle in reverse but you are able to do it manually at any time if you wish to do so GREAT UNIT very very hspoy
    richard  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Mine comes on when put in reverse. But you can set it up either way you want.
    aron  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Yes it does. Be sure to connect the parking brake wire if you want to adjust the guide lines.
    mark g  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Of course it comes on when you put car in reverse. You must tie if I remember correctly the violet wire into the reverse light circuit. One call to Crutchfield support gave me the color of the wire I had to tap in the drivers kick panel.
    leonard  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Yes, it will activate automatically if it is installed properly. It takes output from the reverse switch.
    john  Jan 06, 2020
    Q
    Does it have a backup camera? Or the option to add?
    len  Nov 18, 2019
    3 answers
    A
    Backup camera capable, which I purchased two. 1 front and 1 rear.
    steven  Feb 12, 2020
    A
    There are three camera inputs if memory serves me right, I know it has two because that was one of my criteria when I picked it. You need to purchase or use your own camera.
    michael  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    It does not have the actual camera, just inputs for you own, or the existing OEM camera.
    keith  Nov 18, 2019
    Q
    will a iphone 5s work this stereo?
    don  Oct 25, 2019
    2 answers
    A
    It should as long as your iPhone 5 has the current software updates. It works with my iPhone 7
    bill  Oct 25, 2019
    A
    Don't know I have and s7 Edge
    danny  Oct 25, 2019
    Q
    is the screen brightness adjustable? I bought a dnx575s and it is too damn bright at night
    byron  Oct 11, 2019
    10 answers
    A
    You can set separate brightness levels for day and night, set the brightness control to NAV SYNC to use the GPS reference for nighttime. After dark, manually adjust brightness to the level you want and then it will automatically shift brightness between day and night settings accordingly.
    peter  Jan 06, 2020
    A
    Not to bright at night but unsure if there is a bright or dim button. I have not needed it. It does have a tilt screen though
    mickey  Oct 26, 2019
    A
    No, it is also bright at night. I have installed an anti-glare screen to help with daylight readability (iPad cover). No adjustment on brightness at night as it will not dim with the interior reostat.
    don  Oct 25, 2019
    A
    I am sorry,I can not answer this question. My wife has not complained about the brightness therefore I have not tried to adjust it.
    steven  Oct 25, 2019
    A
    Yes it is but not by a lot . you need to into settings, display, and you can adjust the lite level up or down by 4 numbers -4 to +4 helps a little. I installed a screen protector, because of glare and that helped a little more, I'm not very happy with unit
    richard  Oct 25, 2019
    A
    yes when you turn on headlights it does adjust down, there is also a adjustment in settings
    lucille  Oct 25, 2019
    A
    Yes it is. Also if it's hooked up to dashboard illumination it will follow dashboard dimming
    leonard  Oct 24, 2019
    A
    Hi Byron, thank you for your question. You can choose to connect the Kenwood Excelon DNX696S' illumination wire to your vehicle's headlight circuit for the unit to automatically dim when your vehicle's ignition is switched on, or you can choose to dim the display manually as well. You can also adjust the brightness on the DNX575S, the same way. If you purchased that DNX575S from us, our tech support team will be happy to go over the settings menus in order to make those adjustments. You will find our tech supports contact info in your order confirmations. You can also view the full owners manual on our site for directions on display brightness.
    jessica  Oct 24, 2019 (Staff)
    A
    The Dnx696s is able to adjust the brightness of the screen. The quick reference manual that comes with the unit does not tell how so you have to download the complete manual off of the website to how to do it
    ronald  Oct 24, 2019
    A
    Yes it is adjustable. Check your instruction booklet, but on your unit, go into Settings, screen settings, adjust brightness using the plus or minus. Do it at night to get it just right. For automatic adjustment, go to Settings, display settings and select dimmer. There you will find On, Off, SYNC (dims when dash lights are on) and NAV SYNC (dims when Navigation system detects local sunset). With your dimmer set to one of the SYNC settings, you then set brightness at night by going to Settings and screen settings and adjust your brightness. The unit will remember this for nighttime.
    peter  Oct 24, 2019
    Q
    What is the boot time? Does it take a long time to start? I have a Kenwood 6904S and it is very slow to start.
    rashard  Jul 31, 2019
    6 answers
    A
    Mine takes 20 to 30 seconds to boot up.
    thomas  Jan 07, 2020
    A
    It takes at least 10 seconds, just for the distraction method and about another 3 to 5 seconds after thaat. Hope this is helpful.
    hk  Jul 31, 2019
    A
    Between 15 and 30 s seconds
    thomas randall  Jul 31, 2019
    A
    Haven't installed it yet
    calvin a  Jul 31, 2019
    A
    Power up takes about :15 seconds to be fully operational.
    don  Jul 31, 2019
    A
    I have it installed in a 2013 f250 not long at all to start very satisfied with unit
    richard  Jul 31, 2019
    Q
    What type of connector is need to take advantage of the AV-In?
    graham  Jul 02, 2019
    2 answers
    A
    Standard RCA video port
    leonard  Oct 24, 2019
    A
    All AV connectors are RCA style.
    steven  Jul 02, 2019
    Q
    Are map updates free for as long as you own the unit like they are with stand alone Garmin GPS units?
    john  May 15, 2019
    1 answer
    A
    Hi John! The Garmin maps and updates are not free with the Kenwood head units. When the preloaded maps are considered out of date, the Kenwood receiver will provide periodic notification at startup. Garmin software and map updates can be purchased and downloaded as needed, via microSD card. To find a software or map update, please go to www.garmin.com/kenwood. Hope this helps, if you need anything else, feel free to reach out to us by phone at (1-800-324-9695) or online chat.
    jessica  May 23, 2019 (Staff)
    Q
    Does the USB ports provide 12v charge for cell phones in addition to the audio connection?
    johnny  Apr 27, 2019
    3 answers
    A
    Yes it does.
    steven  Feb 12, 2020
    A
    The USB ports charge your phone as well and they are standard 5 volts
    leonard  Oct 24, 2019
    A
    Yes it does.
    george  May 03, 2019
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