JVC KD-BT11
* Get connected to MP3 and Bluetooth technology * We test and rate seven headunits * Find the best and worst value units for your car...
JVC KD-BT11
RRP: 149.99
Best of the web: 85.99 (jvccaraudio.co.uk)
Overall
The JVC is under half the price of the winner, and not half bad.
Performance
The sound isn't quite as crisp as some of the more expensive units and the small, circular track selector is very fiddly. The display is clearer than the Kenwood's, but the font doesn't make for easy reading. Making and receiving phone calls could be more straightforward, too.
Ease of installation/operation
The JVC is a doddle to fit, and just as easy to pair with your mobile phone using the Bluetooth function. Once setup, the controls are surprisingly more intuitive than units costing twice the price. However, changing between radio bands relies on a tiny button that isn't easy to find.
Buying
Not the best headunit here, but the cheapest by 25. Head to jvccaraudio.co.uk and you'll only pay 86 (plus 6 for postage and packing). We didn't test it, but there's also an optional adapter box (KD-PD100) for iPod users, which can be bought separately at caraudiogiant.co.uk for 29.99.
Quality
It looks a bit cheap, but feels surprisingly solid especially given its bargain-basement pricetag. Only the cheap and fiddly track selector button really lets down the JVC. Not as classy as the Becker or Alpine, but you pay your money you take your choice.
Special features
There's not much to shout about here, but you wouldn't expect it for the price. There's an auxiliary input for your MP3 player, and a case for the removable fascia. You can also stream music over the Bluetooth connection with certain mobile phones. An iPod or DAB adapter is available separately, but our test unit wasn't supplied with either.
