Kenwood Car Stereo Riverside CA — The Complete 2025 Buyer’s Guide

Looking for a Kenwood car stereo in Riverside CA? You are in the right place. At Advanced Car Stereo Riverside we install Kenwood every single week. This guide covers every Kenwood model available in 2025 — Single DIN, Double DIN, Apple CarPlay, navigation, amplifiers, speakers, and subwoofers — with real prices, full technical specs, and honest recommendations from our certified technicians.

Kenwood has been engineering car audio equipment since 1946. Their 2025 lineup runs from a simple $119 Bluetooth receiver all the way to a $749 wireless CarPlay touchscreen with HD display and built-in DSP. Whatever your vehicle, budget, or sound goal — there is a Kenwood model for you.

📍 10555 Magnolia Ave, Riverside CA 92505  |  📞 (951) 358-0516  |  Open 7 Days 9AM–6PM

Why Choose Kenwood? What Makes It the #1 Brand We Install

When customers ask us what the best bang-for-the-buck car audio brand is, we say Kenwood every time. Here is why our technicians trust it:

13-Band EQ with Digital Time Alignment — On Every Model

Even Kenwood’s entry-level $119 unit includes a 13-band graphic equalizer and Digital Time Alignment. This lets you tune the soundstage so music sounds like it is coming from all around you instead of blasting from one side. Most competing brands charge extra for this.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on Every Touchscreen

Every Kenwood double DIN touchscreen receiver supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher-tier models support the wireless versions — no cable, no plugging in, your phone connects automatically every time you get in the car.

eXcelon Series — Premium Sound at Mid-Range Price

Kenwood’s eXcelon sub-brand uses upgraded internal DAC components, 5V high-voltage preamp outputs, Hi-Res Audio at 24-bit/192kHz, and a 2-year warranty. It competes directly with Alpine and Pioneer flagship units at a significantly lower price point.

iDatalink Maestro Compatible

Kenwood supports iDatalink Maestro and PAC Audio integration on most models. This means you keep your factory steering wheel controls, backup camera, and in some vehicles even the HVAC display — all working perfectly with the new unit.

Kenwood Single DIN Head Units — Riverside CA Pricing and Specs

Single DIN receivers measure 2 inches tall by 7 inches wide. Most vehicles 2005 and older use a single DIN slot. Trucks, classic cars, and motorcycles typically also use single DIN. Not sure which your vehicle takes? Call us at (951) 358-0516 and we will look it up in 30 seconds.

Kenwood KMM-BT232U — Best Entry-Level Single DIN in Riverside

Price: $119 + installation

The best-selling entry-level Kenwood at our Riverside shop. No disc player — designed for the streaming generation. Pair your phone over Bluetooth, tap play, and you are done. The short chassis design fits vehicles with limited mounting depth including many older trucks and SUVs.

Key Specs:

• Form Factor: Single DIN
• Display: 205-Segment LCD Text
• Bluetooth: Yes — connects up to 5 devices simultaneously
• USB Input: Front USB + AUX
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Output: 1 x 2.5V
• EQ: 13-Band Graphic + Digital Time Alignment
• Illumination: Blue/White Variable Color
• Chassis Depth: Short — 3.2 inches
• CD Player: No

Kenwood KDC-BT382U — Single DIN with CD Player

Price: $179 + installation

Everything the BT232U has plus a full CD player for MP3 CDs and audio CDs. Great for drivers with a large CD collection or commercial vehicles. The 420-segment 3-line display is easier to read than the entry model and variable color illumination lets you match your exact dash color.

Key Specs:

• Form Factor: Single DIN
• Display: 420-Segment 3-Line LCD
• Bluetooth: Yes — Hands-Free + Audio Streaming
• CD Player: Yes — CD/MP3/WMA/AAC
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Output: 2 x 2V
• EQ: 13-Band + Digital Time Alignment
• Audio Formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLAC
• Illumination: Variable Color

Kenwood eXcelon KMM-X705 — Best Single DIN for Audiophiles in Riverside

Price: $199 + installation

The audiophile’s single DIN. The KMM-X705 is part of Kenwood’s premium eXcelon line with an upgraded DAC, 5V high-voltage preamp outputs (more than double the standard 2V), and a built-in crossover network that rivals standalone processors. If you are running external amplifiers and want the cleanest signal possible — this is the one.

Key Specs:

• Form Factor: Single DIN
• Dimensions: 7.17 x 2.09 x 3.94 inches
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Output: 3 x 5V (Front/Rear/Subwoofer)
• EQ: 13-Band + Digital Time Alignment
• Bluetooth: Yes — Dual Phone Connection
• Hi-Res Audio: 24-bit/192kHz via USB
• Audio Formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLAC
• iDatalink Maestro: Compatible
• Series: eXcelon Premium

Kenwood Double DIN Touchscreen Receivers — Riverside CA Pricing and Specs

Double DIN receivers measure 4 inches tall by 7 inches wide — exactly twice the height of single DIN. Most vehicles built after 2000 have a double DIN opening. These units give you a full touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, backup camera input, and a completely transformed dashboard experience.

Kenwood DMX47S — Entry-Level Double DIN with Apple CarPlay in Riverside

Price: $249 + installation

Kenwood’s most affordable touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built in. A 6.8-inch WVGA display with responsive touch controls. Real smartphone integration — Google Maps, Spotify, phone calls — all controlled from your dashboard or through your phone’s voice assistant. For customers who have never had CarPlay before this unit is a revelation.

Key Specs:

• Screen Size: 6.8-inch WVGA Touchscreen
• Resolution: 800 x 480
• Apple CarPlay: Yes — Wired
• Android Auto: Yes — Wired
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Output: 3 x 2V
• Camera Input: Rear Camera
• EQ: 13-Band Graphic
• CD Player: No

Kenwood DDX57S — Double DIN with DVD Player

Price: $299 + installation

Same 6.8-inch touchscreen with CarPlay and Android Auto plus a built-in DVD and CD player. Perfect for families, drivers who still use CDs, and vehicles with rear-seat entertainment systems. The capacitive touchscreen is vibrant and fast. One of our top sellers for trucks and family SUVs at our Riverside location.

Key Specs:

• Screen Size: 6.8-inch Capacitive Touchscreen
• Resolution: 800 x 480 WVGA
• DVD/CD Player: Yes
• Apple CarPlay: Yes — Wired
• Android Auto: Yes — Wired
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Camera Input: Front + Rear
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Outputs: 4 x 2V
• Audio Formats: DVD, CD, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC

Kenwood DMX709S — Wireless Apple CarPlay in Riverside CA

Price: $399 + installation

This is where things get exciting. The DMX709S delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto — you get in your car, your phone connects automatically, and CarPlay launches without ever touching a cable. Also supports True Mirroring for Android. The 4V preamp outputs make this an outstanding source unit if you are planning to add external amplifiers.

Key Specs:

• Screen Size: 6.8-inch High-Resolution Touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay: WIRELESS — no cable required
• Android Auto: WIRELESS — no cable required
• Bluetooth: Yes — Dual Device
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Outputs: 3 x 4V (Front/Rear/Sub)
• EQ: 13-Band + DTA + HPF/LPF Crossover
• Camera Inputs: Front + Rear
• USB: 2 x USB-A
• iDatalink Maestro: Compatible

Kenwood eXcelon DMX908S — Best Double DIN Car Stereo in Riverside 2025

Price: $749 + installation

The flagship Kenwood double DIN available at our Riverside store. A massive 9-inch HD capacitive touchscreen, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, 5V high-voltage preamp outputs, built-in DSP, and 2-way digital time alignment. This is what we install when a customer wants the absolute best. The 1280×720 HD screen is sharper and larger than anything else in the double DIN category.

Key Specs:

• Screen Size: 9-inch HD Capacitive Touchscreen
• Resolution: 1280 x 720 HD
• Apple CarPlay: WIRELESS
• Android Auto: WIRELESS
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Outputs: 4 x 5V High Voltage
• EQ: 13-Band + 2-Way Time Alignment
• DSP: Built-in Digital Signal Processor
• Camera Inputs: Front + Rear + 360-Degree View Ready
• USB: 2 x USB-A + USB-C
• Hi-Res Audio: 24-bit/192kHz
• Series: eXcelon Premium

Kenwood eXcelon vs Standard — Which Should You Buy?

Here is a quick side-by-side so you know exactly what the extra money gets you:

• Preamp Output Voltage: Standard 2V–4V vs. eXcelon 4V–5V (higher voltage = cleaner signal to your amp)
• Internal DAC: Standard vs. eXcelon upgraded AKM DAC chip
• Hi-Res Audio: Standard some models vs. eXcelon all models at 24-bit/192kHz
• Warranty: Standard 1 year vs. eXcelon 2 years
• iDatalink Maestro: Standard some models vs. eXcelon all models
• Build: Standard plastic faceplate vs. eXcelon premium metal faceplate
• Price difference: Approximately $50–$100 more for eXcelon

Our recommendation: If you are adding an external amplifier now or in the future always go eXcelon. The 5V preamp output alone is worth the price difference. If you are running factory speakers only and just want CarPlay, standard Kenwood is excellent.

Kenwood Navigation Receivers — Built-In GPS in Riverside CA

Kenwood DNR476S — Built-In GPS Navigation

Price: $699 + installation

Built-in Here Maps GPS navigation with real-time traffic. Works through your phone’s data connection to keep maps updated but does not require your phone to be active. Perfect for service vehicles, commercial fleets, rideshare drivers, and anyone who regularly drives areas with poor cell coverage.

Key Specs:

• Screen Size: 6.8-inch Capacitive Touchscreen
• Navigation: Built-in Here Maps with Real-Time Traffic
• GPS: Internal GPS Antenna Included
• Apple CarPlay: Wireless
• Android Auto: Wireless
• Power Output: 22W RMS / 50W Peak x4
• Preamp Outputs: 3 x 4V
• Camera Input: Front + Rear
• iDatalink Maestro: Compatible

Kenwood Amplifiers — Riverside CA Pricing and Specs

Your head unit’s built-in amplifier outputs around 22W RMS per channel — enough for stock speakers but not enough to make them shine. A dedicated external amplifier delivers clean sustained power, lower distortion, and a louder more dynamic sound at every volume level.

Important: Always compare RMS watts not peak. A 100W RMS amp is real continuous power. A “500W peak” amp may only sustain 80W RMS. Kenwood publishes honest RMS specs which is one reason our Riverside technicians trust the brand.

Kenwood KAC-M1804 — Compact 4-Channel Amplifier

Price: $149 + installation

A tiny waterproof-coated 4-channel amp small enough to mount under a seat. Marine rated so it handles SoCal heat and dust. Great for Jeeps, motorcycles, compact cars, and any vehicle where space is tight.

Key Specs:

• Channels: 4-Channel
• RMS at 4 Ohm: 45W x4
• RMS at 2 Ohm: 70W x4
• Bridged at 4 Ohm: 140W x2
• Frequency Response: 10Hz – 40kHz
• S/N Ratio: 95dB
• Crossover: Built-in HPF/LPF variable 40–400Hz
• Marine Rated: Yes
• Dimensions: 8.9 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches

Kenwood KAC-5207 — 2-Channel Amplifier

Price: $179 + installation

Run stereo to power a component speaker pair or bridge to mono for a single subwoofer. The variable 0–12dB bass boost at 50Hz makes it a natural fit for subwoofer applications. Our most popular amp for simple builds at our Riverside shop.

Key Specs:

• Channels: 2-Channel
• RMS at 4 Ohm: 100W x2
• RMS at 2 Ohm: 150W x2
• Bridged Mono at 4 Ohm: 300W x1
• Frequency Response: 10Hz – 50kHz
• Bass Boost: Variable 0–12dB at 50Hz
• Crossover: Variable HPF + LPF
• Input Sensitivity: 200mV – 4V

Kenwood KAC-D5101 — Class D Mono Subwoofer Amplifier

Price: $249 + installation

Kenwood’s dedicated sub amp and our top pick for Kenwood subwoofer systems. Class D runs cool — critical in hot Riverside summers. Power-matched for the KFC-W2541 and KFC-W3041 subwoofers. Includes a wired remote level controller for the driver’s seat.

Key Specs:

• Class: Class D High Efficiency
• RMS at 4 Ohm: 500W x1
• RMS at 2 Ohm: 750W x1
• Frequency Response: 10Hz – 250Hz
• Low-Pass Filter: Variable 40–250Hz at 24dB/octave
• Bass Boost: 0–18dB at 40Hz
• Remote Level Control: Included
• Subsonic Filter: Variable 15–55Hz
• Dimensions: 13.6 x 2.0 x 9.3 inches

Kenwood Car Speakers — Riverside CA Pricing and Specs

Factory speakers are cheap paper cone units with low power handling. Even a $69 pair of Kenwood coaxials delivers a dramatic improvement in clarity, volume, and bass response over stock.

Coaxial vs. Component: Coaxial speakers have the tweeter built into the woofer — easy to install and great everyday sound. Component speakers use separate woofers, tweeters, and crossover networks for a wider soundstage and better detail. For serious sound quality go component. For a clean plug-and-play upgrade go coaxial.

Kenwood KFC-1696PS — 6.5-Inch 2-Way Coaxial Speakers

Price: $69 per pair + installation

Our go-to speaker swap recommendation. Drops into most factory 6.5-inch door locations. Polypropylene cone handles Riverside heat without the degradation you see in cheap paper cones.

Key Specs:

• Size: 6.5-inch (165mm)
• Configuration: 2-Way Coaxial
• Peak Power: 400W
• RMS Power: 50W
• Frequency Response: 55Hz – 22kHz
• Sensitivity: 91dB/W/m
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Cone Material: Polypropylene

Kenwood KFC-6998RS — 6×9-Inch 5-Way RS Series Speakers

Price: $149 per pair + installation

Kenwood’s high-performance coaxial line. Five drivers in a 6×9 shell including a woofer, midrange, two tweeters, and a super-tweeter. The Diamond Array Pattern cone reduces resonance for cleaner highs at high volume. A favorite for trucks and SUVs in rear deck installations.

Key Specs:

• Size: 6×9-inch Oval
• Configuration: 5-Way Coaxial
• Peak Power: 720W
• RMS Power: 150W
• Frequency Response: 40Hz – 35kHz
• Sensitivity: 92dB/W/m
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Special Feature: Acoustic Sound Harmonizer

Kenwood KFC-X174 eXcelon — 6.5-Inch Component Speaker System

Price: $199 per pair + installation

What we install when a customer wants a serious upgrade. Separate 6.5-inch woofers, 1-inch silk dome tweeters, and a 2-way passive crossover for each side. The soundstage opens up — you start hearing instruments and details you never noticed before. The speaker equivalent of upgrading to a premium head unit.

Key Specs:

• Woofer Size: 6.5-inch (165mm)
• Tweeter: 1-inch Silk Dome with Surface Mount Brackets
• Crossover: 2-Way Passive Crossover Included
• Peak Power: 600W
• RMS Power: 120W
• Frequency Response: 50Hz – 35kHz
• Sensitivity: 90dB/W/m
• Series: eXcelon

Kenwood Subwoofers — Deep Bass in Riverside CA

Factory speakers cut off below about 80Hz. A subwoofer handles everything below that — the thump of a kick drum, the rumble of bass lines, the pressure in your chest. Kenwood makes subwoofers for every vehicle type and every build level.

Kenwood KFC-W2541 — 10-Inch Subwoofer

Price: $129 (requires separate enclosure and amplifier)

The sweet spot for most builds. Tight punchy bass without requiring a huge box. PP X-Motif cone with diamond array pattern reduces resonance at high excursion. Power-matched with the KAC-D5101 amplifier for a complete Kenwood system.

Key Specs:

• Size: 10-inch (250mm)
• Peak Power: 1,300W
• RMS Power: 300W
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Frequency Response: 30Hz – 300Hz
• Sensitivity: 86dB/W/m
• Mounting Depth: 4.75 inches
• Sealed Box: 0.5–0.75 cubic feet
• Ported Box: 0.75–1.0 cubic feet

Kenwood KFC-W3041 — 12-Inch Subwoofer

Price: $149 (requires separate enclosure and amplifier)

The most popular subwoofer we sell in Riverside. The 12-inch moves more air for deeper extension down to 28Hz and more output than the 10-inch at equal power. Best for trucks, sedans with trunk space, and full-size SUVs. If you have the room always choose the 12.

Key Specs:

• Size: 12-inch (300mm)
• Peak Power: 2,000W
• RMS Power: 300W
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Frequency Response: 28Hz – 300Hz
• Sensitivity: 87dB/W/m
• Mounting Depth: 5.5 inches
• Sealed Box: 1.0–1.25 cubic feet
• Ported Box: 1.5–2.0 cubic feet

Kenwood KFC-W3016PS — 12-Inch High-Power Subwoofer

Price: $189 (requires separate enclosure and amplifier)

Step-up 12-inch rated at 400W RMS with bass extension to 27Hz. Reinforced spider for more linear excursion — handles sudden deep bass notes without bottoming out. Choose this one when pairing with a 500W or larger amplifier.

Key Specs:

• Size: 12-inch (300mm)
• Peak Power: 2,000W
• RMS Power: 400W
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Frequency Response: 27Hz – 300Hz
• Mounting Depth: 5.19 inches

Kenwood Powered and Compact Subwoofer Systems

Kenwood KSC-PSW8 — 8-Inch Powered Subwoofer

Price: $249 + installation

Everything in one unit — 8-inch sub with built-in Class D amplifier. No separate amp needed, no box to build. Fits under most front or rear seats. Connect to any head unit with RCA outputs, run power and ground, done. Wired remote level control included.

Key Specs:

• Woofer: 8-inch
• Max Power: 250W
• RMS Power: 150W
• Built-in Amplifier: Class D
• Remote Level Controller: Included
• Input: RCA + Speaker Level
• Frequency Response: 30Hz – 120Hz
• Dimensions: 11 x 2.75 x 7.875 inches

Kenwood P-W804B — 8-Inch Pre-Loaded Ported Subwoofer Box

Price: $199 + installation

Complete pre-loaded ported enclosure — sub and box tuned together at the factory. No guesswork on box size or port tuning. Just mount it, wire it to your amp, and play. Great starting point for first-time system builders.

Key Specs:

• Woofer: 8-inch Oversized
• Peak Power: 900W
• RMS Power: 300W
• Enclosure: Factory-Ported
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Dimensions: 17.7 x 5.9 x 11.8 inches

Kenwood Car Stereo Installation Pricing — Riverside CA

We stock Kenwood and install everything the same day at our Riverside location. No ordering online and waiting a week. No guessing whether parts will fit. Walk in or call ahead.

• Single DIN Head Unit Install — Starting at $65  |  45 min to 1 hour
• Double DIN Head Unit Install — Starting at $85  |  1 to 1.5 hours
• Coaxial Speaker Pair — Starting at $60 per pair  |  45 minutes
• Component Speaker System — Starting at $100 per pair  |  1.5 to 2 hours
• Subwoofer + Amplifier System — Starting at $149  |  2 to 3 hours
• Full System (Head Unit + Amp + Sub + Speakers) — Starting at $249  |  4 to 6 hours
• Backup Camera Integration — Starting at $75  |  1 hour
• Steering Wheel Control Retention — Starting at $45  |  30 minutes add-on

We are an authorized Kenwood dealer. All equipment purchased and installed at Advanced Car Stereo Riverside includes full manufacturer warranty support. We handle warranty claims on your behalf — you never have to ship anything back yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions — Kenwood Car Stereo Riverside CA

What is the difference between single DIN and double DIN?

Single DIN measures 2 inches tall by 7 inches wide. Double DIN measures 4 inches tall — twice the height — and fits larger touchscreens. Most vehicles 2005 and older use single DIN. Most vehicles 2006 and newer have a double DIN opening. Call us at (951) 358-0516 with your year make and model and we will confirm your fit in 30 seconds.

Does Kenwood work with Apple CarPlay in Riverside CA?

Yes. Every Kenwood double DIN touchscreen from the DMX47S and up supports Apple CarPlay. The DMX709S, DNR476S, and DMX908S eXcelon support wireless CarPlay — no cable needed, your phone connects automatically every time.

What is the Kenwood eXcelon series?

eXcelon is Kenwood’s premium sub-brand. It delivers 4V–5V preamp outputs (versus 2V standard), an upgraded AKM DAC, Hi-Res Audio at 24-bit/192kHz, a 2-year warranty, and iDatalink Maestro on every model. If you are adding external amplifiers always choose eXcelon — the preamp voltage difference alone justifies the $50–$100 premium.

Can I keep my factory steering wheel controls with a new Kenwood?

Yes in most vehicles. We use iDatalink Maestro or PAC Audio adapters to retain your steering wheel controls. The adapter runs $45–$65 plus installation. Call us with your vehicle info and we will confirm compatibility before you come in.

What size subwoofer should I get?

Sedans and smaller crossovers: 10-inch in a sealed box — tight accurate bass that fits in your trunk. Trucks, full-size SUVs, and larger vehicles: 12-inch in a ported box for more volume and deeper extension. Limited space under a seat or in a cargo area: the KSC-PSW8 powered sub — no box required.

How long does Kenwood installation take at your Riverside shop?

A single head unit swap takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. A complete system with head unit, amp, sub, and speakers takes 4 to 6 hours. We do same-day installs. Call (951) 358-0516 to book a time slot.

Do you install Kenwood in all vehicle types?

Yes — cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, ATVs, and boats. All makes and models including Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevy, Dodge, Jeep, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, and more. If it has a dashboard we can work with it.

Visit Advanced Car Stereo Riverside — Your Kenwood Dealer in the Inland Empire

We serve Riverside and all surrounding Inland Empire communities. If you searched for any of the following you have found the right shop:

📍 Address: 10555 Magnolia Ave, Riverside CA 92505
📞 Phone: (951) 358-0516
🌐 Website: advancedcarstereo.com
📧 Email: ad************@***il.com
🕐 Hours: Open 7 Days a Week — 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Kenwood® is a registered trademark of JVC Kenwood Corporation. All prices and specifications are subject to change. Contact us for current availability and pricing.