JVC KW-X850BTS Double DIN Digital Media Receiver

The JVC KW-X850BTS is a Double DIN digital media receiver for drivers who want modern phone connectivity, AM/FM radio, and flexible sound adjustment without a CD mechanism. Its compact 100 mm-deep chassis can be useful where behind-dash space is limited. A front USB port, front auxiliary input, and Bluetooth provide several ways to bring music into the system.

This receiver suits shoppers upgrading an older factory radio with hands-free calling and wireless music streaming. Bluetooth supports two phones connected full-time, while JVC Streaming DJ allows up to five Bluetooth audio devices to be connected for shared music control. iPhone music playback is supported by USB or Bluetooth, while Android music playback is supported through Bluetooth.

Its internal MOSFET amplifier is rated at 22 watts RMS per channel across four channels at less than 1% THD, with 50 watts peak per channel. A 13-band graphic equalizer, digital time alignment, high-pass and low-pass filters, and independent front, rear, and subwoofer preouts give an installer useful tuning control. K2 Technology, Sound Response, Sound Lift, Space Enhancement, and Volume Link EQ provide additional sound-shaping options.

The KW-X850BTS uses a 2-line VA LCD display with white LCD illumination and variable-color key illumination. Its two-zone illumination can be adjusted independently to better match a vehicle interior, and the receiver includes auto dimming and brightness control. The front-panel layout keeps common connections accessible while the display presents radio, source, and track information.

For a larger audio system, three pairs of 2.5-volt preouts support separate front, rear, and subwoofer amplification. The receiver is SiriusXM-ready when used with a compatible optional SiriusXM vehicle tuner, and it is ready for compatible factory steering-wheel controls when paired with a third-party adapter. It is a digital media receiver and does not play CDs.

Key Features

• Bluetooth 4.2: Supports hands-free calls, music streaming, and compatible phonebook access.
• JVC Streaming DJ: Lets up to five Bluetooth audio devices share streaming control.
• 13-Band Graphic EQ: Provides detailed adjustment across 13 selectable frequency bands.
• 2.5V Three-Pair Preouts: Connects front, rear, and subwoofer amplifiers in expanded systems.
• Front USB Charging: Plays compatible USB media and supplies up to 1.5 amps.
• Amazon Alexa Compatibility: Enables Alexa functions through a compatible connected smartphone setup.

Design & Installation

The KW-X850BTS has a short-chassis layout, a front USB connection, a front auxiliary input, and a 2-line VA LCD display. JVC does not publish a faceplate-material specification, but the receiver uses a purpose-built in-dash design with variable-color key illumination, auto dimming, and brightness adjustment. Its compact 7 by 3-15/16 by 3-15/16 inch installation size is intended for Double DIN dash openings.

Confirm vehicle-specific fitment before purchase, including the required dash kit, wiring interface, and antenna adapter for the vehicle. The supplied wired microphone should be positioned for clear calling, while installers adding external amplifiers can use the front, rear, and subwoofer preouts plus the blue/white remote-output lead. Retaining factory steering-wheel controls requires a compatible third-party adapter, and SiriusXM reception requires an optional SiriusXM vehicle tuner.