Kenwood DNX7100MSRP: $1600What we like: All-in-one, easy use, remote control What we don't like: Lackluster graphicsNav features: Garmin nav, map of US and Canada, POIs, TMV or XMM traffic optionsAudio features: 50x4W max, 3x preouts with 2.0v pre-out Extras: USB 2.0, remote control, DIVX, MP3, WMA, AAC, zone control, SD slot
This is the least expensive all-in-one unit with HDD navigation. It covers the same file formats as other products and contains 2GB of map data.
Perhaps the area in which Kenwood skimped on money was the graphics. The menu icons seem mystifying, but still serve decently enough. Kenwood designed the unit to be fully-featured, yet uncomplicated.
The nav windows function instinctively. In split-screen mode, you have the map and a bar on the right with the street name. Hit the touchscreen bar, and you get the text for directions. Touch the map and you can go full screen. If you want to access audio controls, hit the function button on the front panel.
The DNX7100 performed like the genetic twin of Garmin's StreetPilot (which we've used before). Adding destinations, changing routes and canceling them were as simple to do as the Clarion system.
Its only shortcoming appears in audio tweaking. You have the preset EQ and the ability to adjust tone. For some this will do fine, but audiophiles may want even greater fine-tuning.
In the end, the DNX7100 is great value. It may not be the best looking, but given its ease of use, features and price, it shouldn't be overlooked. Grade: A-
Panasonic CN-NVD905UMSRP: $1799.95What we like: nav speed, intuitive interfaceWhat we don't like: limited Bluetooth capability and system featuresNav features: 30GB HDD, Sirius traffic-data ready, 12 million POIs, multilingual voice guidance; coverage area includes: Hawaii, Canada and Puerto RicoAudio features: 18W RMS/50Wx4 peak, 3x 2v RCA outputs, seven-band EQ, speaker level and time correction, SRS CS auto processing, MP3/WMA Extras: DVD playback, a/v input, video output
To an inexperienced consumer, all navigation products may look the same. But accuracy, speed and ease of use differentiate the products. The CN-NVD905U is one serious nav player.
It impressed us with its quick wake up time. The design of the interface and ease of use are among its strong points, along with a responsive touchscreen. Vehicle position accuracy and route calculation times were up to par, thanks to its 30GB internal drive.
One feature we appreciated was the ability to input additional destinations. So if you decide to stop at Starbucks along the way, you can search for the closest one and add it to the route without canceling the original destination.
The natural-sounding voice prompts are as proficient as any system on the market. But the timing and detail were above average, providing pauses with ample time to safely make maneuvers. We also liked the capability to store problematic areas, so guidance can be given to avoid programmed traffic hurdles. The addition of Sirius real-time traffic data should make the navigation even more detailed.
As for audio, the CN-NVD905U has a number of features. When connecting an iPod to the optional adapter, control and speed were still maintained. Another cool feature is the Traffic button that allows access to a XM or Sirius traffic station. The lack of a mute button and remote control was disappointing though. Also, the Bluetooth cellphone interface was poor, lacking on-screen controls. Despite these shortcomings, the CN-NVD905U is still a solid performer. Grade: B+
Pioneer AVIC-D3MSRP: $999What we like: price, POIsWhat we don't like: single DVD drive, quirky routingNav features: touchscreen, 12 million POIs, NavTraffic readyAudio features: 50x4W max, EEQ settings, 3x RCA preouts, front aux inputExtras: DVD, CD, DIVX, AAC, MP3 and WMA capability, vehicle dynamics display,emergency mode
The D3 has impressive quick routing and easy-to-find POIs. It is a receptive system, with soft keys on an accurate touchscreen. Pioneer's accomplished craftmanship on map detail and menus are easy to understand. You can choose five different view settings and customize keys for regular features.
Although we reached our destination, the routes offered weren't the most efficient. For instance, when we chose the preference for "fastest" the D3 would take us on a slower path. With a quicker detour, it would finally reroute.
On the upside, we love the POIs. The search software can search by either city or vicinity. For example, if you type in "library" you'll find all available entries with that word. This up-to-date database contains many beneficial categories. Another plus is that most entries also display a contact phone number.
Re-routing can be slow, but this isn't due to its processing power. Rather, the problem stems from the GPS receiver, which lacks pinpoint accuracy; it can place you 100ft from where you are.
The D3 has multimedia features, but most are add-ons, which increase the cost. In addition to AM/FM radio, your primary audio source will be the DVD/CD. But since this unit relies solely on DVD-ROM navigation, you'll be left without a disc drive while navigating. Once you start driving to your destination, you can remove the DVD and play a CD, but will need to replace it to steer somewhere else.
If you primarily listen to either the radio or MP3s through the mini aux-input, the AVIC-D3 is a satisfactory solution.Grade: B