CES 2009: Kenwood Adds Voice Activation

By Amy Gilroy -- TWICE, January 8, 2009

LAS VEGAS — Kenwood is adding one of the most extensive voice-activation systems in car audio, with commands over more devices than the Ford Sync, it claimed.

The flagship DNX9140 all-in-one A/V navigation receiver will offer voice control over navigation, iPod music, USB music, and Bluetooth hands-free calling.

Without voice training, users can command the DNX9140 to navigate to a certain address or play a song or playlist from an iPod or call a name in one's phonebook, Kenwood said.

The double-DIN DNX9140 has a 7-inch screen. It is also Kenwood's first unit to offer iTunes tagging so that users can press a button to bookmark a favorite song on HD Radio for purchase later on iTunes, and it offers MSN Direct as an option.

The unit can play video from an iPod or iPhone and offers USB control of an iPod and iPhone. It is also Bluetooth audio compatible, HD Radio- and satellite radio-capable. It is expected to ship in April at a tentative suggested retail of $1,699.

Kenwood is also unveiling its first integrated HD Radio receiver, the KDC-HD942U. It is a single-DIN CD/radio and is also iPod capable with USB control. It has Bluetooth hands-free calling plus audio streaming when used with an optional module. It is satellite radio ready and is set for March at a suggested retail of $279.

Under the Car Portal line, Kenwood is launching the KOS-A300 at $280.