JVC KD-NX5000
MSRP
$999.95
What We Like
expandability feature set, easy-to-use remote, fm tuner
What We Don't Like
small screen with reflective high-gloss finish, access limitations when recording to music server
Nav Features
40gig hdd, 13 million pois, rds-tmc traffic information tuner (subscription required), 2-D/3-D map views
Audio Features
24gig hdd music server, 7-band eq with 3-user settings and 9 presets, highpass/lowpass crossovers, subwoofer level/phase controls , (built-in) amplifier defeat, cea rated 20 watts x 4
Extras
remote control, plays most audio media (excluding sacd/dvd-audio), wav/jpeg/mpeg compatible, built-in dolby digital/dts decoders, 5.1 optical (digital) output, video input and output
What To Connect To It
bluetooth adapter, xm or sirius satrad receiver, ipod interface, backup camera, steering wheel remote adapter
In a market crowded with flip-out monitors and double-DIN based platforms, the JVC KD-NX5000 navigation source unit makes for an interesting review. Rather than conforming to a conventional, large-format screen, JVC stuffed a 3.5-inch widescreen TFT monitor into its removable faceplate. This seems a rather bold move in a competitive arena where ergonomics and visibility are key.
The KD-NX5000 uses two multi-position buttons to control adjustments for everything from volume and track to menu and navigation selections, with additional direct command buttons surrounding. Accessing the overabundant menus through these buttons is as easy as one could manage without resorting to a touchscreen. Commonly used menu choices are generally accessible with a single touch of the "MENU" button on the faceplate, while pressing this same button two or three times will get you to supplemental choices.
Input selection for both audio and navigation takes place entirely through the multi-position button to the right of the screen or the similarly styled button on the remote. The menu system is among the most intuitive I've encountered and is very direct in its approach. For example, selecting from the POI menu required choosing the vicinity search, typing in a city and selecting from the submenus. If you know your destination, you have the option of typing in the name of your interest instead.
The KD-NX5000 is the first unit I've encountered that includes options for hearing turn-by-turn navigation instructions. Audio interrupt is selectable between the left or right channel, and a combination of the two, also allowing any coexisting media to be fully muted, attenuated, or played normally by the rear channels. Voice prompts are clear and easy to understand with a rather lifelike tone. Commands come well in advance and quickly, allowing the next turn to be rattled off with ample time for driver reaction. I only wish that JVC provide street names prompts so that the user is not required to view this information via the small monitor. Intentionally miss your turn and the voice prompts quickly become an irritation. The nav quickly commands a U-turn, even when a more direct solution could be straight ahead. This can occur several times before the system calculates its new route.
I found the RDS-TMC traffic tuner (subscription required), an option worth exploring. It works almost too well (read: It takes drastic measures) in guiding you around congestion, and more than once I turned off the guidance re-route and used it as a simple traffic information source (viewable in text form).
Viewing the monitor can be trying. While fine at night, during the light of day much is compromised by the highly reflective faceplate. To that effect, the screen size does nothing to make viewing it any less aggravating. Quick glances at the unit for navigation info required squinting like a naked mole rat gazing into the sunny sky.
Aside from the access limitations when recording tracks from a music CD to the 24GB music server (you can't use any other source concurrently, including nav), the audio/video section proved very worthy. Users are privy to a 7-band EQ, crossovers, complete subwoofer control and a host of other features making it a nominee for content champion. And to sweeten the deal, JVC allows connectivity for a surprising amount of goodies such as Bluetooth and iPod interface, to name a couple.
I like the unit for its complete feature content, connectivity and unique approach to otherwise standardized functions. Unfortunately, I was a bit put off by its small screen and navigation routing. If your needs weigh more heavily on the former, place this unit on your "check out" list. - Casey Thorson
Grade: C+