JVC Arsenal KD-ABT22

I've had this head unit for over a year now. I really like the USB input. I have a 16GB flash drive and have also used a iPod Nano with no problems. This stereo has been working great since day one and never had any issues. I am running external amplifiers, so it's nice to be able to turn off the internal amplifier of the deck, use high-pass filters for running my front components, built in EQ, selectable low-pass filters and volume for the subwoofers.. So many features!

I recently discovered that I can use Pandora on my Blackberry and transmit via Bluetooth to this stereo! Freaking AWESOME! This deck is not so good with making phone calls, since the built in mic sucks, but i can use my regular bluetooth headset while still streaming music to the headunit via bluetooth, so i'm good to go. I am very happy with this purchase.

First up, I am a JVC head unit fan, after years of realizing that they have a unique balance of features, aesthetics, quality and bang-for-buck.

The interface has a little learning curve, not too steep for someone who is familiar with head unit customization (and JVC). The EQ absolutely floored me. 5 parametric bands! Sound quality: Amazing. Display contrast was great, color options by source and time of day are a nice touch. Only downside to colors was the blue OLED buttons could not be changed, and get a little over-bearing at night, even with the dimmer on (El Kameleon effects anyone?).

The internal crossover, while not as advanced as other competitors (Pioneer, Kenwood, etc), gets the job done well. This makes the radio very versatile and a solid foundation on which to build a quality system.

USB and bluetooth worked flawlessly (more on that later). Internally mounted microphone was brilliant, as phone calls were crisp and recipients never reported echo or low volume. Calls were handled smoothly and reliably. Bluetooth streaming of audio worked on a variety of phones (Blackberry Storm, Bold 9700, Nokia N900, etc). Simple one-button press to switch from hands free to handset mode (as expected of modern Bluetooth).

USB and MP3 folder layout not my favorite among JVC products. You have to choose between folder and file view, a sore deficiency in my view.

iPod connectivity was great as expected from Victor, but lack of "dual mode" control is inexcusable in the 21st century.

Internal amplifier worked excellently even powering OEM speakers in a 2001 Accord (6 speaker layout).

After spending less than $200 on it, I was head-over-heels for this radio until... Catastrophe. One day, after about a month of use, my unit, at the Bluetooth menu just displayed: "Please Reset". I did so, as per the manual's directions. No luck, same problem. Then, after 3 resets, USB WOULD NOT WORK. I tried iPods, iPhones, different USB flash drives, nothing. They would all get power and charge, but no playback, not even a hint from the radio that they were connected. CDs and the radio tuner still worked fine, but no Bluetooth or USB (obviously, the two features are a part of the same circuitry/chipset). Contacted Sonicelectronix, who is my de facto for quality customer service. RMA denied because it has a manufacturers warranty. JVC's warranty is 2 years. Now my head unit is at a local authorized repairer, who apparently cannot find what is wrong.

If and when it comes back, my faith in JVC and this radio has been tarnished. I mean, I have had Pioneers, Kenwoods, Alpines and Clarions go on me, but never my beloved JVC. Been my radio of choice since the late 90s. I have defended their lack of internal crossovers (among other shortcomings) until recently, being blindly faithful in their products.

Maybe I shouldn't make one bad apple spoil the bunch, but this one surely did it for me.

I love this deck. I still own the first vehicle I have ever bought - a 93 GMC Sierra short box - only driven on weekends and the odd holiday. Over the years have had a number of aftermarket decks in it. Decided I wanted something a little newer. Musts were bluetooth for phone, USB port for thumb drive music. Looked at a lot of decks and couldn't be happier with my decision on this one. It can do everything. Blue tooth phone is clear and works great (through deck mic), Ran USB cord from back of deck through to ashtray, and have a 3 gig thumb drive filled with songs. I can easily change the thumb drive for more songs or even hook up Ipod. and with aux line in the wife can even plug in her Ipod when I'm not looking!! Brings a bit of modern convenience to an older truck and now I don't have a bunch of old scratched CD's floating around the cab.

This unit has a lot going for it. Bluetooth phone/audio, iPod/aux connectivity, as well as reasonably good power and s/q from a headunit. Above average 2 yr waranty.

A few nitpicks... the display contrast is not great, even at the highest level, and can become washed out in sunlight. Also, only the LED panel has customized color. The dial and button backlight colors cannot be changed. The buttons are a bit too small, and there are no tactile indications of which button you are pressing, such as a small nub to indicate presets 2 and 5 is one common convention. Durability is unknown as I've only had it for 2 weeks - so I'm giving it a 3.

Aside from the nitpicks, this is a very nice unit from JVC and definitely worth the price IMO.

I just finished installing this deck in my accord...and might I say...AWESOME!!! great deck for the price...and just like the other guy, at first it didn't sound as good as my stock radio..but after adjusting the EQ and settings....it's amazing!!! I definitely recommend anyone to get this head unit!!! I promise you'll love it!!!

Plug and Play Charging Adapter for iPhone 3G • Charging Adapter For Select iPod Nano, iPod Touch, and iPhone 3G • Specifically Designed to Fix the Charging Error