Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver

Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver — image 1
Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver — image 2
Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver — image 3
84%
88%
Audio Quality
91%
Connectivity (Bluetooth/USB)
94%
Durability (Water-Resistance & Build)
65%
Ease of Installation
86%
Customizability (EQ & Sound Control)
87%
Display Visibility (Sunlight)
92%
Overall Value for Money
90%
Compatibility (Car/Boat & Other Systems)
84%
Hands-Free Calling Functionality
82%
Subwoofer & Speaker Expansion
75%
Customer Support
72%
Installation Manual Clarity
More

Overview

The Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver is a versatile audio solution designed for both marine and car environments. This water-resistant stereo offers Bluetooth, USB, AM/FM radio, and SiriusXM connectivity, making it perfect for a wide range of users. Its single DIN size ensures compatibility with most vehicles, while the rugged build stands up to the challenges of harsh conditions. Whether you're cruising on the water or driving on the road, this unit delivers reliable performance in every situation.

Features & Benefits

The KMR-D382BT unit offers impressive features to enhance your listening experience. It includes hands-free calling via Bluetooth, allowing you to stay connected while keeping your hands on the wheel or wheel. A 13-band EQ and advanced sound control let you fine-tune your audio to suit your preferences. The unit also provides an RCA-out for adding external speakers or subwoofers for an upgraded sound system. Plus, its glare-resistant display ensures readability even under direct sunlight, a valuable feature for both car and marine use.

Best For

This Kenwood stereo receiver is ideal for a variety of users. Boat owners will appreciate its durable, all-weather design, which ensures consistent performance on the water. It's also perfect for car, ATV, and truck owners looking for a reliable stereo system with modern features like Bluetooth and SiriusXM connectivity. Those who enjoy a customizable audio experience will find the 13-band EQ particularly useful, while users seeking seamless integration of all their devices will benefit from its Bluetooth and dual phone connection capabilities.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the KMR-D382BT for its robust build quality, making it a solid choice for marine environments. Many highlight the sound clarity and customization options, which allow for a tailored audio experience. However, some users have noted challenges with installation, especially in non-standard dashboards. Despite this, the unit’s ease of use, along with its hands-free calling and reliable performance, have earned it positive feedback overall. The device seems to meet expectations for both car and marine applications, although its setup may require extra effort in some cases.

#Car Stereo Receivers
#Car Audio
#Car Electronics
#Car & Vehicle Electronics
#Electronics

Pros

  • The water-resistant design makes it perfect for use in marine environments.
  • Bluetooth and USB connectivity allow for easy pairing with various devices.
  • Hands-free calling with dual phone connection enhances convenience while driving or boating.
  • The glare-resistant display is highly readable even in direct sunlight.
  • The 13-band EQ provides extensive audio customization for a personalized listening experience.
  • Single DIN size ensures compatibility with most standard dash slots.
  • Users appreciate the solid build quality, making it a durable choice for rough conditions.
  • RCA-out option allows for easy expansion with additional speakers or subwoofers.

Cons

  • Some users struggle with installation, particularly in non-standard dashboard setups.
  • The power output (22 watts RMS) may not be sufficient for users seeking louder, more powerful sound.
  • Installation instructions could be clearer, causing confusion for those with limited technical knowledge.
  • The system may not provide optimal bass performance for users who prioritize deep bass in their audio setup.
  • While water-resistant, prolonged exposure to harsh elements could affect performance over time.
  • Some users have reported difficulties with Bluetooth connectivity, especially with older devices.
  • The unit lacks more advanced sound features that some high-end systems provide.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews of the Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver from a variety of sources and languages, we provide this aggregated feedback. Only authentic reviews, filtered for quality and relevance, were considered. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, highlighting the device's performance in real-world usage across diverse conditions. Here’s what users have to say about the receiver's key aspects.

Audio Quality
88%
Many users are impressed with the overall clarity and depth of sound provided by this device. The 13-band EQ and customizable audio settings allow for fine-tuning, ensuring that the sound quality can be adapted to different environments, whether on a boat or in a car.
However, some users report that the bass could be stronger, particularly when paired with smaller speakers. A few also mentioned that the higher frequencies can be too sharp at times, especially at higher volume levels.
Connectivity (Bluetooth/USB)
91%
Bluetooth pairing is seamless, and the device reliably connects with multiple devices. Users also appreciate the USB input, which provides an easy way to play music from flash drives. The dual phone connection feature is especially useful for those who need to stay connected while driving or boating.
Some users experienced occasional connection drops, particularly with Bluetooth when there were multiple devices paired. A few buyers also noted that it may take a bit longer to connect to USB devices than expected.
Durability (Water-Resistance & Build)
94%
This receiver’s water-resistant design is highly praised by boat owners and those who use it in rugged outdoor conditions. The solid build quality ensures that it can withstand harsh weather and exposure to the elements, making it a reliable choice for marine environments.
While it is built to last, a few users mentioned that the water-resistant features may not be as effective in extreme conditions like heavy rain or saltwater splashes. However, these cases seem to be rare and isolated.
Ease of Installation
65%
35%
Some users found the installation process relatively straightforward, especially for those with standard dashboards. The single DIN format fits most cars and boats, making it a good choice for users who need an upgrade without heavy modifications.
However, many users found the installation challenging, particularly in non-standard dashboards or vehicles with limited space. There are reports of unclear instructions, which led to longer installation times and frustration.
Customizability (EQ & Sound Control)
86%
The 13-band EQ gives users great flexibility in adjusting sound to their liking. Many appreciate the ability to fine-tune both bass and treble, which enhances the overall listening experience. This customization is especially appreciated by those who use the device in varying environments like boats and vehicles.
On the downside, a few users felt that the EQ settings can be difficult to adjust on the fly, particularly when driving or navigating bumpy conditions. The menu system can also be a bit cumbersome for those unfamiliar with advanced audio controls.
Display Visibility (Sunlight)
87%
The glare-resistant display is a standout feature, allowing clear visibility even under direct sunlight. Users who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially boat owners, have found it easy to read the screen regardless of weather conditions or time of day.
However, some users noted that the brightness could be higher in extremely bright conditions, particularly for those who need to adjust the settings on the fly while outdoors. While the glare resistance is good, it isn't perfect in every lighting scenario.
Overall Value for Money
92%
Overall, buyers feel they are getting a lot of value for their investment. The combination of Bluetooth, USB, SiriusXM, and water-resistant features makes it a versatile and reliable choice for various environments. The sound quality and connectivity options further contribute to its high value rating.
Some users felt that it could be priced lower for the features it offers. While it provides a lot of functionality, a few buyers believe that certain features could be improved, especially when considering the cost.
Compatibility (Car/Boat & Other Systems)
90%
This device is highly compatible with a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and boats. The single DIN size ensures that it fits most standard slots, and the wide range of connectivity options like Bluetooth and USB makes it versatile for different setups.
However, there are occasional compatibility issues with older or less common vehicle models. A few users mentioned that custom installations may require additional adapters or connectors, making it more challenging to integrate with certain systems.
Hands-Free Calling Functionality
84%
Hands-free calling works well with dual phone connection, allowing drivers and boaters to stay in touch without taking their hands off the wheel or controls. Users have found it easy to switch between calls, making it a useful feature for multi-tasking.
However, some users reported occasional issues with call clarity, especially when driving in noisy environments or at higher speeds. A few also found that the voice recognition could be more responsive.
Subwoofer & Speaker Expansion
82%
18%
The RCA-out feature allows users to connect additional speakers or subwoofers, enhancing the sound system’s overall power. Many users have used this feature to upgrade their audio experience, particularly on boats where sound coverage can be important.
A few buyers noted that the output power might not be strong enough to drive larger subwoofers effectively. Some users also felt that the audio quality when using external speakers didn’t live up to expectations.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Some customers have praised the helpfulness of the customer support team when resolving installation or technical issues. They were able to quickly address basic inquiries and provide useful guidance for setup.
However, others have reported long wait times and slow responses, particularly when dealing with more complex troubleshooting or warranty claims. This inconsistency in service has been a source of frustration for some users.
Installation Manual Clarity
72%
28%
The manual offers a decent level of detail for standard installations. Users who are familiar with car stereos or have done similar installations before found it to be helpful.
The instructions are often considered unclear or incomplete by those less familiar with stereo installations. A number of users found themselves looking for additional online resources or watching YouTube videos to make the process easier.

Suitable for:

The Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver is ideal for users who require a durable, high-quality audio system for environments where water-resistance and ruggedness are essential. Boat owners, for example, will appreciate its weatherproof design and sound clarity, even in harsh marine conditions. Additionally, car, truck, or ATV owners who value customizable audio settings and seamless connectivity via Bluetooth and USB will find this device suitable for enhancing their driving experience. The dual phone connection and hands-free calling features also make it a solid choice for those who need reliable communication while on the go, whether on the road or water.

Not suitable for:

While the Kenwood KMR-D382BT Marine/Car Stereo Receiver offers a variety of advanced features, it may not be the best fit for users who are not comfortable with more complex installations. Some buyers report difficulties with installation, particularly in non-standard dashboards, which could be a concern for those unfamiliar with stereo setups or lacking technical expertise. Additionally, users seeking more powerful bass performance or superior call clarity in noisy environments might find the audio output and hands-free functionality lacking. This product may not be suitable for those prioritizing ease of setup or expecting high-end audio performance for larger setups.

Specifications

  • Bluetooth: Supports wireless Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music and hands-free calling.
  • USB Port: Allows for direct connection of USB devices to play music and charge compatible devices.
  • AM/FM Radio: Equipped with AM and FM radio tuning capabilities for traditional radio broadcasts.
  • SiriusXM Ready: Ready to connect to SiriusXM satellite radio with additional tuner and subscription.
  • Water-Resistant: Designed with water resistance to handle exposure to moisture, salt, and harsh weather conditions.
  • Single DIN: A standard single DIN unit size, making it compatible with most car and boat dashboards.
  • 13-Band EQ: Features a 13-band equalizer for precise audio customization across various frequencies.
  • Hands-Free Calling: Supports hands-free calling via Bluetooth, allowing safe communication while driving or boating.
  • Dual Phone Connection: Can connect to two phones simultaneously, offering seamless switching between devices.
  • RCA-Out: Includes RCA-out ports for expanding the audio system with external speakers or a subwoofer.
  • Glare-Resistant Display: The display is glare-resistant, ensuring easy readability even in bright sunlight.
  • Power Output: Provides 22 watts RMS of power output for clear audio in various environments.
  • Voltage: Operates on a 12V DC system, suitable for use in most vehicles and marine setups.
  • Audio Control: Offers customizable audio settings, including bass, treble, and balance adjustments.
  • Dimensions: Measures 7 x 2 x 7 inches, fitting most standard single DIN slots.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.3 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to install in various vehicles and boats.
  • Display Type: Features an easy-to-read LCD display for intuitive control and navigation of settings.
  • Audio Inputs: Includes AUX input for additional external audio sources, such as portable music players.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most standard single DIN slots and can be used in cars, trucks, and boats.

FAQ

The Kenwood KMR-D382BT is designed with a water-resistant build, making it highly durable in harsh weather and marine conditions. This feature allows it to withstand exposure to moisture, salt, and the elements commonly found in boating and outdoor environments.

To connect your phone via Bluetooth, simply activate Bluetooth on your device and press the 'pairing' button on the stereo. Your phone should show up in the available devices list. Select it, and the stereo will connect automatically, allowing you to stream music or make hands-free calls.

Yes, the Kenwood KMR-D382BT is versatile and can be used in both boats and vehicles. Its water-resistant design is perfect for marine environments, while the single DIN size ensures compatibility with most standard car dashboards.

The 13-band EQ on this system allows you to fine-tune the audio to your liking by adjusting different frequency bands. Whether you want to enhance bass, midrange, or treble, the EQ offers precise control for a more personalized sound experience.

Yes, the Kenwood KMR-D382BT features an RCA-out port, which allows you to connect external speakers or a subwoofer, expanding your audio setup for a fuller sound experience, whether on a boat or in your car.

Yes, this stereo is SiriusXM Ready, meaning you can enjoy satellite radio broadcasts after adding the necessary tuner and subscription. It’s a great option for users who want more radio variety beyond AM/FM.

While the stereo is designed to fit in standard single DIN slots, some users have reported difficulty with installation, particularly in vehicles or boats that do not have standard dashboard configurations. It’s recommended to check compatibility with your vehicle or consult a professional installer if you’re unsure.

The Kenwood KMR-D382BT features a glare-resistant display that ensures clear visibility even under bright sunlight. Many users have praised this feature for making it easier to read the display while boating or driving in sunny conditions.

In addition to the 13-band EQ for custom audio adjustments, the system also offers volume, balance, and fader controls, allowing you to tailor the sound to your preferences. You can also adjust the bass and treble levels for a more personalized listening experience.

If you’re having trouble with Bluetooth connectivity, try turning off Bluetooth on your device and stereo, then turning them back on. Make sure there are no other devices currently paired, as this can interfere with the connection. Ensure your device is within the recommended Bluetooth range (usually about 30 feet).