When it comes to marine stereos, two popular options on the market are the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo and the Kenwood KMR-D375BT. Both of these stereos are designed to provide high-quality audio entertainment for boaters, but they have distinct features, advantages, and disadvantages.
Design and Build
The Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo has a sleek and modern design with a compact footprint, making it perfect for installation in smaller boats or yachts. Its IPX7-rated waterproofing ensures that it can withstand exposure to water and dust, making it an excellent choice for marine environments. The stereo's front panel is made of durable materials and features a large 2.7-inch color display.
In contrast, the Kenwood KMR-D375BT has a more traditional design with a larger footprint. While it may not be as compact as the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo, it still boasts an IPX6-rated waterproofing, which provides reliable protection against water and dust. The stereo's front panel features a 1.5-line LCD display and a range of buttons for easy navigation.
Audio Performance
Both marine stereos deliver excellent audio performance, but the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo has a slight edge in terms of sound quality. It features a built-in Class-D amplifier that produces 200 watts of power, which is more than enough to drive four speakers or two subwoofers. The stereo also supports a range of audio formats, including MP3, WMA, and FLAC.
The Kenwood KMR-D375BT, on the other hand, has a built-in amplifier that produces 180 watts of power, which is still sufficient for most marine applications. It also supports a range of audio formats, including MP3, WMA, and AAC. While its sound quality is excellent, it may not be quite as detailed or nuanced as the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo.
Features
Both marine stereos have a range of features that make them suitable for use on boats. The Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo has built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to stream music from their smartphones or tablets. It also has a USB port for playing music from external devices and supports Apple iOS and Android devices.
The Kenwood KMR-D375BT also has built-in Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a range of other features such as SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility and a front-panel auxiliary input. It also supports Pandora and iHeartRadio internet radio services, making it easy to access a wide range of music and entertainment content.
Installation and Compatibility
In terms of installation, the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo is generally easier to install due to its compact size and simple wiring harness. It's also compatible with a range of Fusion's proprietary accessories, including amplifiers and speakers.
The Kenwood KMR-D375BT, on the other hand, may require more complex installation due to its larger size and more extensive wiring requirements. However, it's still compatible with a wide range of marine accessories and can be easily integrated into existing systems.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo and the Kenwood KMR-D375BT will depend on your specific needs and preferences when it comes to marine stereos. If you're looking for a compact, high-performance stereo with excellent sound quality and built-in Bluetooth connectivity, the Fusion MS-RA770 Apollo may be the better choice.
On the other hand, if you prioritize features such as SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility and Pandora internet radio support, the Kenwood KMR-D375BT may be a better fit. Regardless of which stereo you choose, both options are high-quality marine stereos that will provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment on the water.
