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Strengths: 7" Display; Multi-format support (ipod, SD, USB, Auxiliary x2); Bluetooth builtin; Rear camera and Nav compatible; Price; 5.1 output; DivX
Weaknesses: 4Gb SD-supported however didn't work.
1000 Song limit; Washed out display on bright sunlight; Lack DTS output; Lack HD Radio
Summary: 2007-10-16 00:29:13 After spending several weeks deciding on which head unit to upgrade my current stock radio, I came across this little gem. Initially, I was leery of the Jensen name, but comparing the Kenwood, Alpine, and Pioneer the VM9512 has nearly everything you can ask for at more than 1/2 off comparable units. Each company charges about $50-200+ for each additional feature (Bluetooth; Ipod; USB; Auxiliary input). At a suggested MSRP of $799, I was fortunate to pick this up for less than $500 shipped.
After having this installed I was amazed at the simplicity and ease of use from the interface. I was able to sync my phone (Samsung A900) with the built-in bluetooth. Now I can get rid of the silly bluetooth earpieces. As one of the few that have yet to jump into the ipod craze, I was hoping the USB adapter can be used for other non-ipod mp3 players. Sadly, the USB port didn't accept my mp3 player, but the memory stick worked fine. My music sounded like a karaoke machine when connected via headphone jack. I'm not sure if it is the way the mp3 was encoded or a defect in the system. The stated 4GB supported SD format does not support the current SDHC. Unfortunately, most 4GB or higher SD cards are SDHC. Hopefully, Jensen can offer a firmware to fix these minor nuisances. If you do not like the foldup screen, Jensen also offers the VM9022 with similar stats. With this years lineup, Jensen has decided to not include the tv tuner that was prevalent in prior year.
Overall, I am more than impress with this stereo and would not hesitate to purchase this again. I have only used this for 3 weeks and will have to see if the system holds up to long term use.
Here's a little tip to get into a secret menu to change region coding and enable the parking brake override:
- Hit Setup On Remote.
- Select Language.
- Get Remote And Hit 5,4,3,2,1,0.
- Listen For Beeps. Touch Hammer/Screwdriver Logo.
- Select Brake Override
- Switch To Brake Override
- Now Hit Setup On Remote.

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