Kenwood DPX302 review

In addition to these advanced audio settings, the Kenwood DPX302 features six preset EQ configurations (including Rock, Pop, Jazz, and Top 40) plus an option for users to customize their own output levels. The system also has dedicated settings for bass, mid, and treble, and a subwoofer level control if your audio system is equipped with a standalone sub. All outputs play via the system's built-in Mosfet amplifier, producing 22 watts RMS multiplied by four channels.

To optimize all this output tweaking for individual cars, the system enables drivers to calibrate the output based on speaker size, with settings for 6x9-inch speakers, 5- or 4-inch speakers, and OEM speakers--a feature we particularly like. A standalone attenuator button is another nice touch, as it gives drivers the option to turn the system's volume down quickly when needed.

We like the option to tailor the audio output to match specific speaker sizes.

Performance
Navigating disc-based digital-audio libraries using the right-hand jog wheel is a time-consuming process. Tracks can be skipped and selected by moving the joystick to the left and right, but the display shows only the track number when browsing, and the driver has to listen to at least five seconds of a track before the (truncated) ID3 tag information shows up. Similarly, searching between folders (by pushing the control knob up and down) requires users both to change the track currently playing to browse the library and to search for folders by number only. Alternatively, the user can wait for five seconds after each selection for the folder name to appear on the display.

Fortunately, playing digital audio from portable media players via the DPX302's auxiliary-input jack does not require use of the faceplate controls. Having enabled AUX as a source from the main menu, users make all audio selections using controls on their iPod or other MP3 player. In addition to the front-mounted auxiliary input, the Kenwood DPX302 has presets for five other auxiliary sources including DVD, Video, Game, and Portable. The system can also be connected to a number of external sources such as satellite radio, HD radio, video, and CD changers. Inputs from these sources can be assigned and controlled using the DPX302's controls.

In contrast to the labor-intensive process of navigating and selecting digital-audio files, the means of tweaking audio output levels is straightforward, with most settings being activated via the volume knob (press it in quickly for standard EQ controls, hold it in longer for advanced customization).

In sum
Audiophiles may tolerate the Kenwood DPX302's unwieldy programming controls and small screen in order to get a budget stereo with decent customization features. However, there are other stereos in the same segment that are much easier to use.