LISTENING
As the source in my reference system, the JVC KW-NT3HD did a fine job. Whether the source was HD Radio, CD, DVD, or my iPod, the sound was very good. The unit has a natural, open sound to it with no trace of harshness or “digitizing”. I watched a couple of music videos and I found the screen to be very clear and sharp, and also very easy to adjust to my particular preference. There is also a setting that improves the off axis viewing of the built-in screen for your passengers. One thing that others could take notice of is the excellent rotary encoder used for the volume control. This knob can be spun very quickly and will react properly if spun fast, whereas so many others “get lost” and make no difference at all when turned to rapidly.
The tone and crossover adjustments work perfectly, and there is no digital “zipper” noise when making adjustments. From a sonic perspective, my listening proved the KW-NT3HD to be an excellent source for all of your music.
ON THE BENCH
As always, these evaluations end with a thorough bench testing and the meticulous measurement of all the important specifications. I found the measured performance of this sample to be pretty much as advertised. The only tiny discrepancy I noted was a power rating of 19.3 watts instead of the rated 20 watts. Certainly nothing audible or to cause concern. Preamp output voltage was 2.5V as advertised, and the frequency response was pretty much ruler flat from 20Hz to 20kHz. Measured output impedance was a bit higher than I’d like to see it at almost 500 ohms, but JVC spec it at 1000 ohms, so you could look at it as if it’s twice as good as advertised.
MEASURED SPECIFICATIONS
AMPLIFIER
CEA-2006A Power per channel (all channels driven,@ 4 ohms)…19.3watts/ch x 4
A Wtd S/N Ratio (ref to 2V/1W @ 4 ohms) Amplified output……… -77.8dBA (CD)
THD+N @ 2V/1W @ 4 ohms 1kHz ………………………………….....0.15%
Frequency Response (-3.0dB) …………………………………………20Hz – 20kHz
PREAMP SECTION
Max Usable Output Voltage ……………………………………………...2.5Vrms
A Wtd S/N Ratio ref to full output voltage………………………………...-88.7dBA
Output Impedance …………………………………………………………493ohms
Frequency Response (-3.0dB) …………………………………………..20Hz – 20kHz
CONCLUSION
For around $1200.00(CDN) for the KW-NT3HD and $1200.00(USD) for the JVC KW-NT3HDT with Traffic function, this is a very high tech, exceedingly fully featured head unit. It’s well made, sounds great, and is easy to use. Capable of integrating virtually every function and convenience feature you could want, and maybe a few you hadn’t even known were possible.
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