Kenwood Head Units Compared

Why Choosing the Right Kenwood Head Unit Actually Matters

If you’ve ever typed “Kenwood head unit” into Google and come out more confused than when you started, you’re not alone. Kenwood’s DMX range is genuinely brilliant — but when you’re staring at nine different models ranging from £269 to £999, all of which look almost identical in photos, the differences can feel invisible.

The reality is that each model in the Kenwood DMX lineup offers a specific level of performance and features. Buy too low, and you’ll miss out on wireless CarPlay or the camera inputs you need. Buy too high, and you’re paying for a 10-inch floating screen when a 7-inch flush unit would suit your car perfectly.

We sell and professionally install the full Kenwood DMX range here in the UK. This guide reflects what we’ve learned from fitting hundreds of units — and it’ll save you from making an expensive mistake.

Kenwood DMX Range at a Glance

Entry Level: DMX5023DABS & DMX6523DABS (£269–£319)

Who these are for

These two models are the gateway into the Kenwood DMX world. If you’re upgrading from a factory stereo with no CarPlay at all, or replacing an old aftermarket unit, either of these will feel like a massive step forward.

Both include the 6.75-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen, built-in DAB+ radio, Bluetooth streaming, and hands-free calling. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work via USB — the important thing to know here is that at this price point, the connection is wired, not wireless.

What’s the difference between the 5023 and 6523?

The DMX6523DABS steps up with a higher pre-out voltage (4V vs 2V on the 5023), which matters if you’re planning to run an external amplifier. It also adds a second USB port and additional camera inputs. If you have even a vague plan to upgrade your speakers or add a subwoofer later, the extra £50 for the 6523 is well spent.

The one limitation to know

Neither model supports wireless CarPlay. Every time you get in the car, you’ll need to plug your phone in. For most drivers, this is a perfectly acceptable trade-off at this price. If the idea irritates you, step straight up to the DMX7722DABS.

The Sweet Spot: DMX7722DABS & DMX7525DABS (£369–£389)

This is where most of our customers land — and for good reason. Both models unlock wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, meaning your phone connects the moment you get in the car via Bluetooth. No cables, no fumbling.

Kenwood DMX7722DABS — the wireless workhorse

The 7722DABS gives you everything most drivers actually need: wireless CarPlay, dual-band Wi-Fi for a solid connection, a 13-band EQ with smart curve adjustment, and three pre-out channels (front, rear, subwoofer). The chassis is also shorter and shallower than the 8021, making it easier to install in cars with tight dashboard depth — something that matters more than people realise until they try to fit a unit.

Kenwood DMX7525DABS — worth the extra £20?

The 7525DABS adds a higher 4V pre-out voltage (better for amplified systems), an additional rear camera input, and improved audio processing. At just £20 more than the 7722, it’s the better pick if you’re running separate speakers or plan to add an amp.

The Premium Flush Units: DMX-F920DS & DMX8021DABS (£469–£489)

These two sit at the top of Kenwood’s flush-fit range. If you want wireless CarPlay, the best screen, maximum camera inputs, and the highest audio output quality — without going to a floating screen — one of these is your answer.

Kenwood DMX8021DABS — the benchmark flush-fit unit

The DMX8021DABS is the unit professional installers tend to reach for when a customer wants the absolute best flush-fit experience. The 7-inch screen squeezes every millimetre out of a double-DIN aperture. Pre-outs run at 5V — the highest in the flush-fit range — giving your amplifier the cleanest, most powerful signal possible and minimising any chance of background noise.

It accepts four camera inputs (front, rear, and two sides), making it a popular choice for vans, motorhomes, and larger SUVs where parking cameras genuinely earn their keep. It also integrates directly with the Kenwood DRV-N520 dash cam, displaying footage on the dash cam’s screen without a separate monitor.

Kenwood DMX-F920DS — what does it offer?

The F920DS sits just below the 8021 in the range and offers a strong feature set, including wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, high-res audio support, and a clean, shallow-chassis design. It’s a great option if you want near-flagship performance without stretching to £489.

The Flagships: DMX9720XDS & DMX9724XDS (£999)

These are in a completely different category. Rather than sitting in a double-DIN aperture, both models feature a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen that mounts above the dashboard on an adjustable arm. The result is a genuinely enormous display — closer to a tablet than a traditional head unit — that can be positioned for perfect visibility without requiring any dashboard modification.

Who actually benefits from a floating screen?

Three types of drivers get the most out of a floating screen unit. First, those in older vehicles with a single-DIN dash who want a massive upgrade without expensive custom fabrication. Second, motorhome and van owners need the largest possible display for reversing cameras and navigation. Third, enthusiasts who want the most impressive head unit available.

DMX9720XDS vs DMX9724XDS — what changed?

The 9724XDS is the newer model. It improves on the 9720 with updated wireless connectivity, refined audio processing, and interface enhancements. Both share the same 10.1-inch screen and adjustable mounting system. If you’re buying new today, the 9724XDS is the one to go for.

How to Choose: A Simple Decision Guide

• You want wireless CarPlay without spending over £400 → DMX7722DABS (£369.99)
• You’re happy with wired CarPlay and want to keep costs down → DMX5023DABS (£269.99)
• You’re running or planning an amplified speaker system → DMX8021DABS (£489.99) for 5V pre-outs
• You need multiple parking cameras (van, SUV, motorhome) → DMX8021DABS (£489.99) — 4 camera inputs.
• You want the best possible flush-fit head unit → DMX8021DABS (£489.99)
• You want a massive screen without touching your dashboard → DMX9724XDS (£999.99)
• You have a single-DIN dash and want a major upgrade → DMX9724XDS (£999.99) with floating mount

A Note on Professional Installation

Every Kenwood head unit we sell comes with professional installation included across the UK. This matters more than many buyers realise.

A proper installation means choosing the correct fascia adapter for your specific vehicle, retaining your steering wheel controls with a CANBUS interface, correctly routing the aerial lead, and positioning the GPS antenna and DAB aerial for the best possible reception. An incorrectly installed head unit can produce electrical noise in the audio, cause steering wheel controls to stop working, or trigger dashboard warning lights.

Our engineers are based in Essex and carry out installations nationwide. If you’re unsure whether a particular model will fit your car cleanly, call us before you order — we’ll tell you exactly what’s needed.

Ready to Upgrade?

Browse our full range of Kenwood head units, with UK pricing and professional installation included. Not sure which model suits your car? Call us on 01245 921133, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

👉 Shop Kenwood Head Units at Safe and Sound Mobile

Safe and Sound Mobile | Chelmsford, Essex | 01245 921133 | safeandsoundmobile.co.uk