JVC ElKameleon: Black is Back and Badder Than Ever!

In 1999 JVC introduced the first El Kameleon radio, it was an instant hit due to it's unique black-out face, bold LCD display and touch panel faceplate. JVC eventually changed design directions and ended the Kameleon's reign a few years later, but the design influenced future faceplate designs for years after.
Now, almost ten years after it's initial introduction, JVC has reintroduced the Kameleon, adding cues from the unique and popular single-DIN KD-NX navigation radios. My pics didn't turn out too great, but in all reality, a picture can't do this radio justice. You really have to check them out in person! Check out more pics and details from the official press release after the jump.

(Click the pics to enlarge)

JVC Mobile's El Kameleon Returns, Wins CEA Innovations Award
High Demand for Stealth Black-Out Faceplate Receiver
January 2008, Cypress, Calif. -- The El Kameleon Receiver from JVC Mobile
Entertainment has returned to the spotlight for 2008, creating a buzz with dealers,
consumers and industry moguls alike. First launched in 1999 by JVC Mobile, the new
2008 El Kameleon KD-AVX44 A/V Multimedia Receiver brings back its cool, trademark
black-out faceplate, and is loaded with new technology features to create the ultimate
consumer in-vehicle experience.
The El Kameleon KD-AVX44 has also captured the 2008 CEA Innovations Award for its
sophisticated multimedia features and sleek, stealth design.
The single-din DVD receiver's hallmark theft-deterrent faceplate allows the receiver to go
into stealth mode, appearing black when the vehicle is not in use. The unique touch panel
features electrostatic technology that allows control of the receiver by touch on its
modern, "no buttons" design. The El Kameleon faceplate is also detachable to offer
further anti-theft benefit. A proximity sensor in the faceplate illuminates the smart panel
when your hand approaches to give a new command.
Enhanced Connectivity
The El Kameleon receiver is loaded with the latest in-vehicle enhanced connectivity and
is equipped for readiness with HD radio, Satellite radio, CD changer, and rear-view
camera.
The multimedia receiver features a 3.5-inch-wide monitor with built-in Bluetooth
technology that allows for easy upgrading online. Consumers can visit the
mobile.jvc.com website to check for CD-ROM updates to maintain receiver/cell phone
compatibility, even if they frequently upgrade their phone.
Another hot new feature of the 2008 El Kameleon is USB for iPod audio and video
playback. The iPod audio connection is controlled by a plug-and-play USB 2.0 port for
high-speed control during menu surfing and between songs. The USB for iPod video
connection is made available via a KS-U20 cable for the fastest in-vehicle iPod control
possible. The cable also charges iPod audio and video, and displays the album jacket
artwork. The KD-AVX44 receiver offers intuitive control by animated 3D GUI,
headphone surround sound in Dolby 5.1, MOSFET 50W x 4, 7-Band iEQ, 5V line and
subwoofer preouts, gold-plated A/V input and output terminals, and multilingual display.
The EL Kameleon KD-AVX44 A/V Multimedia Receiver is available in March at an
MSRP of $549.95, while the KS-U20 iPod video adapter is also available in March at an
MSRP of $49.95.
El Kameleon KD-ADV49 for Arsenal
JVC Mobile Entertainment will also represent El Kameleon in its Arsenal line of
products marketed towards the independent specialist dealer as model KD-ADV49. As
part of the Arsenal Series, the blue illuminated El Kameleon KD-ADV49 will carry a 2-
year warranty to support the unique needs of the specialist retailer. The EL Kameleon
KD-ADV49 A/V Multimedia Receiver for Arsenal is available in March at an MSRP of
$579.95.
About JVC Mobile Entertainment:
JVC Mobile Entertainment products are marketed by JVC Mobile Company of America,
a division of JVC Americas Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Victor Company of
Japan, Limited. JVC is a leading developer and manufacturer of sophisticated mobile,
audio and video products that use superior technologies to deliver high quality sound and
images.

Comments

[Murph]

Looks nice but I hope the quality is better than the old ElKamelion decks.

[jeu enfant]

JVC is one of the world's leading developers and manufacturers of sophisticated audio, video and related software products. It also seems free Shipping and no Sales Tax. I think it's no surprise that JVC seems to be shilling extra hard lately. I want to wish congrats on the new Award!