JVC KD-DB42 > Reviews (1)

The JVC KD-DB42 DAB car radio unit is very neat.
Design : 8/10
Finished in Satin black, with muti colour illumination allowing the user to match the colour of their dashboard lights. or even pick a random colour.
The volume knob is quite large and feels very smooth to touch.

Functions : 9/10
The volume knob turns t the left and right freely and doubles up as a push in button to access other features. Press and hold this button in to access the menu.
Audio, Balance, fader, Demo on/off, Clock, Settings. Once within this menu theres a back button located to the left of the volume knob.
The front of the Radio unit is clear and display characters can be seen easily.
The front of the radio is very modern looking and clean, JVC have removed the preset buttons meaning a trip into the menu settings is required.
Once radio stations are stored you can access them via the square button on the left of the unit. By pressing up and down. Or manually search left or right. This button also controls the CD and DAB features.
I must admit tuning the radio stations in was a little tricky. But after a bit of use was ok. DAB control is quite easy. There’s a dedicated DAB button.
To cycle through available sources you simply press SRC. This cycles from AUX, USB, CD, MW radio and FM radio.

Add on’s: 9/10
There’s a USB slot and a 3.5mm jack slot on the front. Meaning expansion is easy. Just plug in your Iphone, Ipod, USB stick and more.
There’s another 3.5mm jack slot on the rear of the unit. This can be used as an audio input source. Or to plug in the KS BTA100 Bluetooth adapter.
This is a neat trick for any radio unit. With the Bluetooth adapter plugged in, not only will it now offer handsfree use, but also music streaming, with a play, pause, forward and back button. I’ve reviewed this item and will be online soon.
One the back of the Radio unit is also one set of RCA connections, meaning the unit can have an amplifier fitted on a rear or subwoofer channel. This is switchable.
The radio unit also supports stalk adaptors. Meaning it will connect to a cars steering wheel radio buttons. (there is other parts required and not all cars support this feature).
The power connects are a typical Euro ISO connector. Again offering a huge choice of vehicles it can be fitted into.

Sound : 8/10
The JVC KD-DB42 offers a very flat tone from the box. But this is cured by accessing the menu and either turning on a the DSP (digital sound prosessor) or activating the LOUD function. This gives the sound a much deeper and fuller experience.

Fitting : 8/10
With exception to the screen mount aerial for the DAB receiver, which can be a fiddle removing trim as its designed to go on the left or right side of the front window, it’s a very straight forward install, The JVC KD DB42 is a single din size. So an instant fit into most cars, vans, lorry’s, boats, caravans etc.
The power loom is pre wired with the JVC dedicated plug on end and a EURO ISO connector the other. For newer cars a quad lock connector is available (sold separately).

Its always a good idea to call a mobile radio fitter if you have any doubts of fitting yourself. A fitting cage comes in the box and this has many small tags to bend over to lock into place. Radio removal keys come in the box too. There’s also a plastic case to put the front panel in if you choose to remove it for security.

More Detail :

Bluetooth ready, this dual aux-in DAB receiver allows connection of analogue
devices and the unique JVC KS-BTA100 Bluetooth adaptor for streaming music and receiving hands-free calls while the front panel mounted USB port allows connection to many digital music storage devices. A 24-bit DAC and 3-Band parametric Equaliser ensures that the sound is musical and clear even in the car environment.

4 X 50 Watt MOS-FET Power Amplifier
Bluetooth ready (requires add on unit sold separately)
24-bit DAC
3-Band Parametric iEQ
Front USB Port (MP3/WMA/AAC*2)
MP3/WMA/AAC*2 Compatible with ID3/WMA Tag (CD/USB)
Dual Auxiliary inputs
Radio Data System Tuner
Loudness Control
2.5V Line and Subwoofer Pre-Out Level
RCA Pre-Out Terminals (Rear/Subwoofer Switchable)
Subwoofer Control
High-Pass Filter
Steering Wheel Remote Ready

Overall :
I score the JVC KD-DB42 an impressive 8/10. It will connect to so many devices, comes with DAB, and looks very nice. The lack of radio preset buttons is a shame but can be figured out with a little use. This radio unit retails around £149 - £189. which is a great price for all these features. Would I buy one, Without a doubt yes…