Kenwood DPX505BT Double DIN CD Receiver with Bluetooth

The Kenwood DPX505BT is a double-DIN in-dash CD receiver for drivers who want modern phone connectivity while retaining a conventional physical-control radio and disc player. It combines AM/FM reception, Bluetooth calling and music streaming, front USB and AUX inputs, and a single-disc CD mechanism in one chassis. This makes it a practical replacement for an older factory radio without requiring a touchscreen interface.

It is suited to vehicles with a double-DIN radio opening and owners who use a mix of broadcast radio, CDs, USB music, and smartphone audio. Bluetooth supports hands-free calling as well as wireless playback, while the receiver can pair with multiple devices and switch between two connected phones. A front-panel Bluetooth access button helps keep common phone functions within reach.

The built-in amplifier is rated at 22 watts RMS per channel across four channels at less than 1% THD, with 50 watts maximum output per channel. A 13-band equalizer, digital time alignment, speaker-size settings, and adjustable crossover controls provide useful tuning tools for factory-speaker upgrades or more detailed aftermarket systems. Drive EQ is also available to compensate for road and tire noise.

For voice-enabled use, the DPX505BT works with the Amazon Alexa mobile app through a compatible Bluetooth-connected phone. Alexa can be activated with the receiver control or the wake word when connected and configured. The receiver also works with the KENWOOD Remote application for basic smartphone-based control.

The receiver provides three 2.5-volt RCA preouts for front, rear, and subwoofer channels, allowing it to serve as the control center for an expanded amplifier and powered-subwoofer system. Its front USB port supports compatible iPhone, iPod, flash-drive, and mass-storage connections, while Bluetooth supports iPhone and Android audio playback. SiriusXM capability is available when an optional compatible SiriusXM vehicle tuner is added.

Key Features

• Bluetooth 4.2: Supports hands-free calling, phonebook access, and wireless audio streaming.
• Amazon Alexa Ready: Enables Alexa voice functions through a configured smartphone connection.
• 13-Band EQ and DTA: Provides detailed sound tuning and speaker time-alignment adjustment.
• CD and USB Playback: Plays audio CDs and supported digital music files.
• Three 2.5V Preouts: Connects front, rear, and subwoofer amplifier channels.
• 3-Zone Color Illumination: Lets the display and key zones match dashboard lighting.

Design & Installation

The DPX505BT uses a conventional double-DIN chassis and a physical-control faceplate with a 420-segment, 3-line text display. Kenwood does not publish faceplate material details, but the layout includes dedicated source, Bluetooth, and Alexa controls along with variable illumination for the LCD display and two key zones. Display text can be set to English, Spanish, or French.

Installation requires a double-DIN-compatible dashboard opening, vehicle-specific mounting hardware as needed, and proper power, speaker, ground, and antenna connections. The included wiring harness and supplied mounting screws support installation, while a vehicle-specific aftermarket harness is recommended to avoid cutting factory wiring. Use the front USB and AUX inputs for accessible portable-device connections, and use the RCA preouts when adding external amplification or a subwoofer.