Kenwood 8120 vs. Eclipse AVN6620

[Baller23217 10+ year member]

I think I've narrowed it down to one of these two units. My main concern is ipod functionality. Navigation is also important. Bluetooth isn't as high up on the list, but both units have it so I'll be taking advantage of the feature. With that being said, can you guys please list some pros and cons of each unit?

I think I'd be able to get the Eclipse for about $150-200 less than the Kenwood (unless someone can point me in the direction of a good deal.) The unit would be going into an 08 350z. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcome.

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[Innovative:Cory 10+ year member]

Eclipse > kenwood......

just on the ESN feature alone....

someone jacks your unit anytime during the first year you own it, they replace if for free...

 

[southwest713 10+ year member]

i have the eclipse 6620 and live off the ipod.

only con i see is no pause button (?)

 

[Baller23217 10+ year member]

how does each unit respond when you set a route for navigation and are listening to music? does the music mute while directions are given?

What about sound quality? Any noticeable differences?

 

[bamaboy 5,000+ posts]

FYI i couldnt stand the eclipse nav units, we quit carrying them this year and pretty much only do the Kenwood units now, so much easier to use and lots better GUI, now i havnt used the newest Eclipse, but i dont see them going through a huge break through in technology

as far as sound control the new Kenwood has alot more controls and features than the eclipse's had, dont know about clean output but for everything else i would go with the DNX8120, great unit to use

 

[forbidden 10+ year member]

Kenwood will support Ipod video, it's Garmin based mapping system is easily updated (unlike Eclipse where you must buy the new nav disc if and when in comes out), the support for bluetooth also seems to be superior as well.

Eclipse offers stunning tonal response and the ESN system is so far undefeated if theft is a concern.

After that both are very good units. I sell both and use the Eclipse for now, but it's days are numbered as I become more familiar with the Driftwood.

 

[Baller23217 10+ year member]

I believe the Eclipse supports the ipod video as well and I don't plan on having either one stolen from my car, so the lack of a crazy security system isn't a deal breaker.

I just feel like if someone is gonna smash my window and go for my HU, they aren't gonna stop and say "wait, the Eclipse has ESN" and not try and rip it out.

 

[MrDave 10+ year member]

If nav is important, the Ken might be for you. Garmin nav is good. I haven't had any experience with the Eclipse nav. Some people dislike having to use the discs. A lot of it is a matter of preference. The Eclipse will be cheaper, at the end of the day. The Kenwood has more frills.

 

[Baller23217 10+ year member]

If nav is important, the Ken might be for you. Garmin nav is good. I haven't had any experience with the Eclipse nav. Some people dislike having to use the discs. A lot of it is a matter of preference. The Eclipse will be cheaper, at the end of the day. The Kenwood has more frills.

I don't mind using a disc for the nav because I'll just be using an ipod for music.

plus cheaper is always better.

 

[MrDave 10+ year member]

Well then why don't I connect you with my dealer. He uses one in his car, and he would definately be the one to speak about it's functionality.

I honesty went with the Kenwood for the Garmin Nav (not to say the Eclipse wont get you where you need to be) built in bluetooth, and some of the features.

Hands down, the Eclipse will have better SQ and as I've been told, menu function.

Either way you go, you will be satisfied. If money is an object, why not get the Eclipse with the better warranty?

 

[Baller23217 10+ year member]

seems like i'll be leanin towards eclipse due to money constraints...unless i can find a used kenwood

do both (or either) display album art when playing ipod?

 

[Baller23217 10+ year member]

basically, i just wanted to know if there were any strong arguments for me to NOT purchase one of these units.

 

[djeazie 10+ year member]

Kenwood dislays album art. Id go with the Kenwood better EQ and also has T/A. Overall I think the Kenwood is a better H/U. But I am bias.

 

[XTRProBoy 10+ year member]

basically, i just wanted to know if there were any strong arguments for me to NOT purchase one of these units.

Only thing I don't like about the Kenwood is they dropped changer control //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/frown.gif.a3531fa0534503350665a1e957861287.gif Other than that it has pretty much every other type of connectivity though, so it's a small price to pay I guess.

 

[djeazie 10+ year member]

with ipod and mp3 players who uses a cd changer anymore?