Kenwood eXcelon Reference DAX800XR 8" HD Direct-Fit Multimedia Receiver

Kenwood eXcelon Reference DAX800XR is an 8" high-definition flush-mount multimedia receiver built as a direct-replacement solution using iDatalink Maestro APX integration. It pairs an 8" HD capacitive touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, High-Resolution Audio, and four camera inputs to modernize factory dashboards without losing OEM-style fit and finish.

Key Features

• 8" HD capacitive touchscreen with flush-mount installation mechanism
• Direct replacement design using iDatalink Maestro APX parts to retain factory controls and features
• Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration
• High-Resolution Audio and LDAC wireless support for high-fidelity playback
• Built-in HD Radio, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and SiriusXM-ready tuner
• Three sets of 5V preamp outputs plus digital optical output for advanced system expansion
• Four camera inputs with support for HD front and rear cameras
• 13-band graphic EQ, parametric EQ, and digital time alignment for precise sound tuning
• Separated display and chassis architecture for flexible mounting in tight OEM spaces
• requires iDatalink Maestro APX kits (see compatibility chart below)
• requires the iDatalink Maestro ADS-MRR or ADS-MRR2 interface module
• requires direct plug-in wiring harness (receiver includes no wiring for power, ground, and signal)

Performance

The DAX800XR is designed for builds where you want a large, sharp screen that sits cleanly in the dash with factory-like lines. Its 8" HD panel offers wide viewing angles and crisp graphics, while the modular chassis and Maestro integration make it easier to preserve steering wheel controls and factory features.

With strong onboard processing, 5V preouts, and digital optical output, the DAX800XR can comfortably serve as the front-end for amplifiers and DSP in serious sound-quality systems. Wireless smartphone connectivity and multi-camera support round out a package that feels modern every day you drive.

Technical Highlights

Ideal Applications

• Dash upgrades where an 8" flush display is preferred over a floating panel design
• OEM integration builds that need Maestro-based control retention and clean cosmetics
• Systems using multiple cameras and full aftermarket amplification or DSP

What’s Included

• Kenwood eXcelon Reference DAX800XR multimedia receiver
• 8" HD flush-mount display and modular chassis
• Vehicle-specific installation parts are sold separately: confirm the required Maestro APX kit, compatible Maestro interface, application wiring, and any additional accessories before ordering.
• Owner’s manual and documentation

Why Buy From MCOR Automotive

• Authorized Kenwood eXcelon Reference dealer
• 22+ years of OEM integration and multimedia installation experience
• System design help for Maestro, amplifiers, DSP, and multi-camera setups
• Trusted partner for modernizing factory dashboards without losing function

DAX800XR: Vehicle-Specific APX Installation Paths

This is the application table for DAX800XR, not a combined list for every Kenwood Direct Replacement radio. Matching the year and model alone is not enough: check the original screen, factory navigation/audio system, APX kit and current Maestro firmware. The 8-inch flush-mount receiver uses an APX-S8 kit; APX-FL floating-screen applications are not interchangeable.

Select your exact vehicle and factory equipment in the MCOR Fit Guide.

• Sold separately: the exact APX kit and compatible Maestro interface. Use ADS-MRR2 for the documented APX-S8-GM2 / GM6-RR2-DS path. Other supported paths use ADS-MRR or ADS-MRR2 as specified by the vehicle firmware.
• Head-unit connection: add ACC-HU-KEN1 for the plug-in connection, or follow the APX manual's professional hardwiring instructions.
• Extension cable: KCA-A150EX is required for the applications identified below.
• Amplified vehicles: GM APX-S8-GM1/GM2/GM3/GM4 paths do not retain the factory amplifier; a bypass/replacement-amplifier plan is required. Certain later Ford/Lincoln applications also require bypass. Do not assume Bose, Sony, B&O, THX or Revel is retained simply because the radio fits.
• Programming and retained features: use the current vehicle-specific Maestro firmware and radio firmware. Review camera, USB, microphone, climate-control and factory-feature retention in the exact APX installation manual before purchase.

Cross-checked October 13, 2026 against the official Kenwood Direct Replacement guide, current Maestro APX application coverage and APX installation instructions. The booklet contains broad platform ranges; exact body generation and factory-equipment restrictions take precedence.

Vehicle Fitment & Installation Notes

• Most vehicles require additional installation parts when replacing the factory radio. Depending on the vehicle, you may need a dash kit, wiring harness, antenna adapter, steering wheel control interface, factory amplifier integration module, or other vehicle-specific parts.
• Vehicle-specific installation parts are sold separately unless included in the bundle.
• Use the MCOR Automotive Vehicle Fit Guide to help identify required parts for your vehicle, or contact MCOR Automotive through the chat button for help building the correct vehicle-specific install package.
• Do not assume universal fitment. Radio fitment and retained factory features depend on the vehicle, trim, factory audio system, and required installation interfaces.

Authorized Kenwood Retailer

MCOR Automotive is an authorized Kenwood retailer for online and in-store sales. Products sold by MCOR Automotive are genuine and eligible for applicable manufacturer warranty coverage.