Quote:
Originally posted by CDDiG:
I've been trying to learn about the differences between the Kenwood 8017 and 7015, and I ain't found much. Here's what I surmise from their literature:

[b]USER INTERFACE
The 8017 is going to have a better graphical user interface which they've thoughtfully decided to call "GUI" as opposed to the 7015, which uses something called "OSD," which I am not sure what it means. The literature seems to be excited by the fact you can control DVD by touching the screen.

SOUND
The 8017 has both SRS Auto (sound?) and DSP, which we all know will make it sound supersweet, but that much more super sweet than the 7015? Who knows? It also has gold-tipped inputs/outputs/or something. Whee....

WHEN?
Crazy Bob of CRazy Bob\'s is saying July. Which is in a couple of weeks.

Outside of the initial impression that the 8017 makes, I am not sure if it's worth the wait (plus the couple hundred dollars more it's bound to be). My guess is it will cost the original price of the 7015 ($1499?). I do wonder if the GUI will extend to the iPod interface. But I do thank you guys for the double-din recommendations, it is influencing my thinking. I've also read double-dins are harder to steal, which is excellent news on the mean streets of Cambridh\ge/Boston.[/b]
GUI - Graphical User Interface
OSD - On Screen Display

They are making hype about being able to touch the actual menu items on a DVD menu instead of having to use arrow keys to navigate to the menu item. This is handy when queing up a DVD. If your passengers are going to watch a LOT of movies in your vehicle, then this could be a good thing to have, but not necessary.

SRS is a simulated surround sound which makes you feel as if the music is in surround sound without the actual decoding of a Dolby Digital or DTS signal.

DSP - Digital Signal Processor. This is the "hall", "stadium", "live", etc. I find these completely useless. I have never actually used these settings to enjoy my music. I don't think I know anybody who has either.

Gold plated inputs and outputs. I guess it's nice to be able to say you have them, even if you can't hear a difference.