Kenwood DNX5120. Got it? Happy? Or should I go 7120?

[leobug]

I am about to pull the trigger on the Kenwood 5120. I have read some bad reviews on Crutchfield regarding boot times. This is the only thing that is making me think twice about ordering it. The 5120 is $636 at AMAZON. Seems like a good deal to me. The 7120 is a significant jump in price and I am not sure if it is worth it.

If you have a 5120 would you recommend it? Do you like it? Easy to install?

[shane4x4]

Can't say anything about the 5120, but we went with the 7120 because of the bigger screen mainly. The software is very similar, so if screen size doesn't matter to you.

[leobug]

shane4x4 previously said:

Can't say anything about the 5120, but we went with the 7120 because of the bigger screen mainly. The software is very similar, so if screen size doesn't matter to you.

How is the boot time on the 7120? I am wondering if it's the same as the 5120.

[23V]

leobug previously said:

regarding boot times [snip]

If you have a 5120 would you recommend it? Do you like it? Easy to install?

I installed my DNX5120 this past summer and really like it. I upgraded from a Pioneer AVIC-D3 that I sort of liked, but hated the nav display and interface.

The Garmin nav on the Kenwood is outstanding. It's easy to view, search for addresses or POIs and follow turn-by-turn directions. Basically, it's good in all of the areas that Pioneer's nav was lacking.

The considered the other Kenwood receivers including the 7120, but for me, having an actual volume knob -- as opposed to small buttons -- sealed the deal for the 5120. No regrets.

The boot time for the 5120 is really short. I have complete control of the system within a few seconds (less than 10 secs max). That includes audio, video from my backup cam and/or the main screen to select inputs or channels.

My 5120 is hooked up to a Sirius tuner, iPhone, backup camera, external amp, speakers and subwoofer. It makes a good hub for all of that. Switching between sources (iPhone/iPod, satellite radio, broadcast radio, DVD/CD, nav) is as simple as pressing a button and is instantaneous.

The main downside on the 5120 (and probably the other Kenwood systems) is that the non-nav interface can be cumbersome at times (i.e., audio settings are scattered among several different screens). The shadow font used for the display is also odd ... usable but not particularly refined-looking.

Overall, though, I'm very happy with the system and would buy it again.

[amaesing]

5120 For Me, No Issues Booting Up, Pretty Fast...

[titaniumsilver]

get 5120 screen is big enough and imo will last longer then 7120 model (fewer things that can break)

[JPR]

I have it and I am pretty Happy!!!!!!. I like the fact that it has a volume knob and also the fact that you can color match the buttons light with the dash. (orange) Another big plus is the fact that it has the CD slot it outsode and you do not have to worry about screen mechanisms broking!!!!!

Boot time is quick. at most 15 seconds. Rear view camera for example: turn on the rig, put the seat belt on and as soon as I put reverse the screen is ready to automatically change.

I only have one complaint. you cannot seach for POI's by phone number.

[BigEd78]

This is a great thread. I have wandered the same thing. I like the price of the 5120 but was not sure what the difference was between the 5120, 7120 , and the 8120. Keep it coming.

[JPR]

Unless you are a hardcore music lover that needs a 7"screen and 8V RCA pre-outs the 5120 is very much worth it for the money

[leobug]

For the record - The bad reviews I read regarding the "slow boot" were for the Pioneer unit I was looking at, not the 5120. I confused myself with all this research. Sorry!

Anyways, I think I am going to do the 5120. It's such a good price at AMAZON.

Anyone know of a better place to purchase?

Also, anyone know of a place to get the harness and trim/adapter plate?