Cheap Car Stereos

JL AUDIO 12W6v2 - Car subwoofer driver - 12" Review

2012-03-01T16:08:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is an interesting subwoofer. When I first recieved it, I thought to myself, why are low end frequencies so weak?! At the time the sub was enclosed in a sealed 1.25 cu ft box. I later had to take the sub out of the car after an accident (luckily it wasnt damaged), and had it laying around at home. I later got my hands on a great sub-box modeling software (winISD) and started playing around with settings. Made a custom 6cu ft box with the vented port tuned at 25hz, and man is it different. This sub has become a complete beast. At 30hz I went from from 106db all the way to 120db. 40hz is now 118db compared to 110db. I am convinced JL audio now has one the best subs around. BTW this is being power by a Samson studio amp outputing 600rms (peaks at 650ish) at 2ohms. So if you already have the sub, get a bigger box guys, HUGE diffence. Sorry about the long review, just wanted to share my experience with everyone. If I had to do it all over again, I think I wouldve done the 13w7 instead, sometimes I really wanna crank it up and start dropping pictures off the wall but the sub isnt powerful enough for that :P

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Product Description:
Top Of The Line! Ship only The Latest Production from [GiGaFurniture & GiGaInternational] 12" W6 version 2 Dual 4-ohm subwoofer. Nominal Diameter: 12 inches (300 mm) Continuous Power Handling: 400 Watts RMS. Voice Coil: 2.75" diameter, 4-layer, Kapton former. Xmax (one-way, linear): 0.65" (16.5 mm). NeckVent? Technology. VRC? Technology, W-Cone? Technology, Elevated Frame Technology, Floating Cone Attach Technology

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RCA BRC3108 10-Inch Portable Blu-ray Player, Black Review

2012-03-01T05:05:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchases this for my daughter, and she loves it. The quality is good, and picture looks great.The seat holder does not work to good, I am in the process researching and buying one to replace the one it comes with.

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Product Description:
Imagine watching your favorite high def movies as you're lying comfortably in bed, as you're sun bathing by the pool, or during long road trips. Now you can turn your movie-watching dreams into a reality with the RCA BRC3109 portable Bluray player. The crisp playback on the widescreen ten-inch LCD display coupled with the smooth refresh rates provides the ultimate viewing experience - on the go. The player features built-in stereo speakers and a headphone jack so you won't have to worry about packing any "extras" to enjoy movie entertainment abroad. The portable player is compatible with Blu-ray discs, DVD's, CD's will even display JPG files. Use the portable player at home by hooking it up to your TV via the HDMI 1080p output or AV output jacks. The BRC3108 comes with all the extras you need to use it at home or abroad including an AC adapter, car adapter, carrying bag with headrest attachments, and remote control. Your movie-watching venues will be endless.

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Pioneer DEQ-P8000 5.1 Channel Digital Audio Processor Review

2012-03-01T02:37:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)got here before due date new and in excellent condition everthing was there works great

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Product Description:
Bring the world of surround sound audio into your vehicle with this exceptional 5.1 Channel Digital Audio Processor, featuring Dolby® Digital, DTS? and Dolby® Pro-Logic® II surround sound. Automatically adjust for great sound using the built-in multi-channel AUTO-EQ and AUTO-Time Alignment feature. 5 Channel MOSFET50 High-Power is provided to power your speakers, or use the 6-Channel Hi-Volt preamp outputs to run outboard amplifiers.

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Fusion MS-IP500G iPod/AM/FM/ Sirrus Ready IP65 Rated 4 Zones Stereo Receiver (Grey) Review

2012-02-29T08:33:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This stereo is awesome and the seller shipped it quickly.Note though that this is a refurbished model priced at ~$180, not new.

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Product Description:
Fusion Marine MS-IP500G, IPOD Dock, Sirius Ready, AM/FM RDS 4 Zone, Built in power for zones 1 and 2 IP65 Rated, Grey

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Boston Acoustics ProSeries 60SE - Car speaker - 125 Watt - 2-way - component Review

2012-02-29T06:23:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been upgrading the factory "premium" stereo system in my 1993 Toyota MR2 Turbo, and available space is quite limited.These speakers did the trick - and I got them from Amazon for about HALF the price of a well-known, way overpriced car stereo equipment retailer.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Boston Acoustics ProSeries 60SE - Car speaker - 125 Watt - 2-way - component

Product Description:
6.5" COPOLYMER WOOFER1" TYPE M1 TWEETERADAPTOR RINGS INCLUDEDTWEETER INSTALLTION KIT INCLUDEDCAST ALUMINUM FRAME TOP OF LINE BOSTON SYSTEM

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Dual XDVD8182 In-Dash DVD Receiver with 7-Inch Touchscreen and Full iPod Interface Review

2012-02-28T14:48:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)fast service from discount jungle. easy to output to additional monitor. my kids love it. search web to add code to disable safety feature to watch while driving. Went to crutchfield to get the installation accessories. It works well with ipod video, although i need to encode at a higher definition.For the price, great value and product. Planning to buy another one for my other vehicle.

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Product Description:
200W 7" Flip LCD Monitor, AM/FM/DVD, i-Pod Control, i-Plug, 5.1

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Planet Audio P9755B 7-Inch Single-Din In-Dash Receiver with Motorized Flip-Out Widescreen Touchscreen Monitor Review

2012-02-28T09:41:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is my second multimedia head unit and it is far better than my first.I bought this a month ago in an attempt to bypass the big brands high prices.I have had no major problems out of it so far. To get started, I love that it has front sd, aux, and usb inputs.I would have made more since to combine usb and sd into one to avoid having to use an adapter cable especially since you access sd through usb in the head unit.All of the features such as bluetooth work perfectly.With everything packed into the face of a single din there is no room for next/previous buttons so you either have to use the remote or touchscreen.The remote sensor is located above the volume button so it has to be held up at that level.The unit is slow switching between modes and cuts the the volume down before cuting it off and vice versa.Lastly, when the unit is switched off the repeat setting is lost.To me all of these problems are negligible.For less than $300 this is one of the best values out there for a multimedia player with everything accept Nav.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Planet Audio P9755B 7 Inch Single-Din In-Dash Receiver with Motorized Flip-Out Widescreen Touchscreen Monitor

Product Description:
7" Single-Din In-Dash Motorized Flip-Out Widescreen Touchscreen TFT Monitor DVD/MP3/CD AM/FM Reciever, USB/SD Card Slot & Front AUX Input, Bluetooth 85w x 4

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Power Acoustik PTID-7350NRBT 6.95-Inch In-Dash Widescreen TFT/LCD Monitor with DVD Review

2012-02-28T03:05:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pros: Large, motorized screen, has all the features you find in higher end units.

Cons: Screens and displays are very blocky and unattractive. Large blocks of text get in the way of what you're trying to see. Nothing is intuitive except setting stations. Sends you to subscreens for everything, even simple tasks like changing tracks.Summary: The Power Acoustik gives you a lot of features for the money. However the buyer should be aware that you're getting what you pay for here. It definitely does everything it says (if you're lucky. I had problems with 2 units). It's how it does it that bother me. Yes you get a big screen, but it's one of the ugliest displays I've seen. Yes, it's touch screen, but you have to touch it a LOT to do the simplest thing. For example if you're listening to a cd and simply want to go to the next track, you'll have to touch the screen, which in turn brings up a series of boxes with text. Aside from the fact that these boxes are huge and ugly and block most of what you're trying to see in the first place, it's very clunky and distracting when in most higher end unit you can just touch the track you want on the screen.
When listening to a dvr cdr full of music, the unit gets Kudos for even being able to play it. But it takes about 30 seconds for it to load before you hear any music at all. And you'll have to do that every single time you turn the key off, even for a second. Imagine a day of running errands. While you're waiting on the cd to load, all other functions are inoperable, so you can't even switch to the radio while you wait.

When you have a cd full of mp3 files loaded you'll get a split screen with the album title on the left and the track listings on the right. Nice. But again, instead of simply touching the track or title listing you want, when you touch the screen you get those big blocky text things. Then you must touch the "Left" or "right" button. Once you get to the side of the screen you want you must painstakingly toggle up and down to the title you want by repeatedly touching huge blocks printed with the words "up" and "down". Once you finally have what you want highlighted you still have to touch the big huge "enter" block to make it play, then "exit" to get all that crap off the screen.
Keep in mind that all this stuff appears over the top of the listings your trying to see.

When you compare that to say, a Pioneer unit where you simply touch your finger on the screen and drag it down to move the list of songs up and down, then touch the one you want....you start to understand why they cost more. And you wonder if it's worth the extra money.In my case, absolutely. This unit has all of the features of the Pioneer I was looking at, a bigger screen than the one I was looking at and even an sd drive that the pioneer unit didn't have. But in hindsight I would gladly pay $100-$200 more for a double din that just works more intuitively and looks better doing it (the sd drive in the one I have, a replacement unit, doesn't work by the way).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Power Acoustik PTID-7350NRBT 6.95 Inch In-Dash Widescreen TFT/LCD Monitor with DVD

Product Description:
6.95-inch In-Dash Widescreen TFT/LCD Monitor with DVD

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Alpine CD-R/-RW/MP3/AAC/WMA Receiver, CDA-9886 Review

2012-02-27T03:38:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just installed a CDA-9886 in my car. I have always used Alpine products and loved them and this one is the best I have had so far. It plays everything, MP3, WMA, ZUNE, IPOD, AUX and best of all USB. I connected my 3rd Gen Ipod nano and it worked just fine. I have heard people have switched back to 9885 because 9886 does not turn off the ipod when you switch the car off. It may be fixed in the future but this is no issue for me. 9885 does not have USB capability and this is important as far as I am concerned. USB flash drives have nopower concerns, lots of storage for cheap and so convenient. Why would you want to leave your ipod connected to the deck anyways? Thieves would break into your car for less than that. Anyways, if you need a nice looking HU that plays all types of media and offers some of the best features available today( bluetooth, voice dial..) I really recommend this unit.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alpine CD-R/-RW/MP3/AAC/WMA Receiver, CDA-9886

Product Description:
This is an audiophile's ideal CD player solution for their car - premium quality sound Alpine delivers with modern convenience and control. Enjoy a cool blue illuminated, BioLite high definition display to view all your song information. The CDA-9886 is a robust Ai-NET head unit, so you can connect to a wide array of digital media sources and formats, including HD Radio, XM or SIRIS satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity for hands free calling, USB mass storage devices and CD changers, for a truly integrated in-car digital experience. (Separate adapters and/or subscriptions required) Whatever your choice the CDA-9886 will make all your sources sound great using it's high quality 24-Bit DSP to make sure you get every musical detail from all your favorite digital media. This unit also comes with an included remote control, for extra convenience.

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Kicker 08ZX8502 2X425-Watt Stereo Amplifier Review

2012-02-27T02:33:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)i have to say that i am very happy with these amps i do have two of them in my truck and they do push some power.I have slimm to no distortion out of them no matter how much i crank the system.I have this amp pushing two 12 inch polk mm's and another kicker pushing all my components.So damn loud and clean sounding

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Product Description:
ZX dominance means severe stereo or mono amplifier power surging into corresponding KICKER subwoofers and speakers. ZX dominance also means the utmost reliability from the biggest name in trouble-free amplification and loud, clear sound.

Trouble-free amplification and loud, clear sound. Click to enlarge.
All ZX Amps are now outfitted with differential RCA inputs. Click to enlarge.
Includes remote bass control.
ZX-Series Amplifiers return for 2008 as reliable as ever--21 no-fault options to run a complete car audio system. Two-channel, four-channel, three- and five-channel hybrids, and absurd single-channel subwoofer amps round out a hard-working, noise-free lineup known for supplying the force until the listener shuts the music down. And now all ZX Amps are outfitted with differential RCA inputs, completely eliminating unwanted whines and audio trash and making for the most enjoyable listening experience possible. Differential inputs and new automatic turn-on modes make ZX Amps some of the most complete power producers on the market.
ZX Stereo Amplifiers
Eight ZX.2 Stereo Amplifiers, from a space-saving, 50-watt model up to a 425-watt thumpin' one, offer a bundle of features that designate them unbeatable. Each amp includes a built-in 12dB/octave high-, low-, or all-pass electronic crossover variable from 50 to 200 hertz, and a KICKEQ Boost that offers up to 18 decibels of bass centered at 40 hertz.
For added convenience, balanced differential inputs make KICKER ZX Amplifiers compatible with any factory radios, and they eliminate unwanted noise in a system. Boost, gain, and crossover frequencies are top-mounted for easy access, and a handy protection indicator featuring a new flashing yellow low-voltage light enhances the end panel. "Soft-start" circuitry lessens initial shock load when powering up, and a muting circuit cancels audio noise that surges down the line. One of three different automatic turn-on modes (remote, DC offset, signal sense) can be selected on the end panel to best suit the system setup. A mountable remote bass control directing sub output comes standard with the larger four stereo amps.
ZX850.2 Features

What's in the Box
ZX850.2 amplifier, Remote bass control, Mounting hardware, User's manual

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Dual XDMR6850 CD/MP3 Receiver with MP control Review

2012-02-26T15:54:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Powerfull sound with lots of bass.Attractive, but the neon blue lights are alittle too agressive and bright for my taste.Easy to navigate.Separate bass, treble, fader, balance, loud controls, but cannot modify the band widths.Has 5 different equalizer modes.Recommended!

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Product Description:
Enjoy your CD collection while on the road with the Dual XDMR6850 CD player/receiver, which features compatibility with your mixes burned CD-R/RW discs as well as discs filled with MP3 and WMA files (with ID3 tag display). It offers 200 watts of total peak power (50 watts x 4 channels), US/European radio frequency spacing, 30 station presets (18 FM, 12 AM), a 1-bit D/A converter and anti-shock mechanism for flawless CD playback, and an electronic detachable faceplate for added security from theft.
It also comes with the Dual EAUSB20 Media Player controller, which connects this receiver to your PlaysForSure MP3 player, enabling you to play your MP3 and secure/non-secure WMA collection. You'll also be able to access playlists, fast forward, rewind, and view track and album information -- all from the stereo's faceplate. It requires a digital audio player that's PlaysForSure-rated (not compatible with iPods).
Other features include:

What's in the Box In-dash CD player/receiver, faceplate carrying case, EAUSB20 media controller, printed operating instructions
Note: Professional installation is recommended for this product.

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JVC KW-NX7000 Double Din Navigation with 7" Wide Touch Panel Monitor w/ DVD/CD/USB/SD Media Card & 2.0 Direct Receiver Review

2012-02-26T08:11:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently installed a KW-NX7000 in my Honda Civic.Overall it is a pretty good system but it does not really break any new ground either.This is not my 1st GPS, I have installed a Kenwood DNX5120 in my other vehicle and a factory VW Navi in another.I also have various portables from Garmin, Magellan, TomTom, Dash, etc.I will primarlily make comparisons to the Kenwood, the VW system is not worth discussing!

Interface.One big plus I will give to the KW-NX7000 is the interface.It looks good, is intuitive, and is easy to use. Kenwood has good Navi menus (all Garmin) but the rest of the interface is a mess and often requires you to refer back to the manual. With the JVC the manual is really not needed, the whole system is very intuitive.

The navigation itself works very well.It locks signal quickly and presents routes that usually make sense.The database of POI's seems reasonably complete.You do have options for fastest time / shortest distance in both preferences and on a per trip basis.

I am not especially impressed with how the KW-NX7000 displays maps.They are easy to read but kind of dull, often times you are just seeing lines on a white background.Unfortunately, there is no option to show more or less detail.Thus, unless you are zoomed way in to about 600 feet, you do not even see road names, town names, etc., just lines.The 3D view was even more dissapointing as it shows even less detail unless you are in one of the few major metropolitan areas where 3d renditions are presented.I have yet to see it present anything nearly as interesting as the photo on the box!My 10 year old says that my other units maps look more "modern".Although I tend to think Garmins maps look a bit cartoonish, I still prefer them to the blandness of JVC's.I will give JVC the edge in how they present things like speed limits, lane guidance, and other details when you are doing a routed trip.If you are only displaying the map all you get is the map and the time.

The JVC has a feature that menus appear and buttons light up when you hand gets near the screen.This is a nice feature and sensitivity can be adjusted.You can change the screen colors but not the button light colors as you can on the Kenwood or Pioneer units.No big deal but if every other button on your car is red, these will be blue.

Boo-hiss to JVC for not including RDS on FM.This means that the unit does not display the song, artist, or station information.Kenwood does provide this feature.JVC has it for HD Radio only.

I installed the JVC bluetooth module and this works great with my blackberry.Given the price differential between the Kenwood and the JVC, I do think Bluetooth should be built in as it is on the Pioneers.

I have not yet installed the HD radio module as this requires an antenna splitter (KS-U21) to continue getting traffic. Unfortunately, part KS-U21 is virtually unobtainable at this time.I am also waiting on my ipod interface so will have to provide an update on that later.

Physically the unit looks good. As installed in the Civic it looks very close to a factory install.The removable, flip down, screen is a great feature unique to the JVC.The screen is nice and large, defintely bigger than the DNX 5120.However, keep in mind that in some vehicles, the screen will stick out a bit more form the dash than some other units and may thus look more "aftermarket" than some others.I was originally going to install this in a 2nd Gen MR2 and it just stuck out to far for my tastes.In the Honda it sits in a "pod" so this is not an issue.

Install was no harder or easier than any other 2-Din head unit.It does work with the PAC Steering Wheel interface controller.

I do feel that for the price of this unit it should include some additional "standard" features.If it included either Bluetooth or HD built-in, this could make it stand out from the pack and not require another box to hide under the dash.Heck, if they just included an iPod cable or an AV cable it would be nice.Do lifetime traffic instead of 3 months.Just provide something that makes this more than another "me too" GPS.This unit costs a good bit more than the DNX5120 but it does not feel like I got a lot more.

So, is this a good head unit?Absoultely.I think it does everything well.I guess the rub is that it does no one thing great, it just has not raised the bar in any features other than the removable faceplate.Some of this could be revised in software, but the same can be said for every other manufacturer.

If this unit were the same price as the DNX5120 I would call it a toss up.You would be trading some features for others so it is a matter of what is more important to you.Currently it is a fair bit more expensive.If I were to get another GPS today, and it were between these two, I would likely go with the Kenwood.

Click Here to see more reviews about: JVC KW-NX7000 Double Din Navigation with 7 Wide Touch Panel Monitor w/ DVD/CD/USB/SD Media Card and 2.0 Direct Receiver

Product Description:
This double-DIN all-in-one navigation system gives precise navigation with built-in RDS-TMC tuner, high sensitivity WAAS GPS, and 7-inch wide touch panel. The unit features map coverage of the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, Voice Guidance in 16 languages, Text-to-Speech, 12 million P.O.I, Lane Guide, and Speed Limit Display. Enjoy audio and video (KS-U20 cable required for iPod video playback) from your iPod, USB devices, and SD cards. Experience a new style of operation with the Proximity Sensor--control keys will appear as your hand approaches. The unit is compatible with Bluetooth Wireless Technology, HD Radio, and SAT Radio with optional devices.
A double-DIN all-in-one navigation and entertainment system. Click to enlarge.
Millions of Points of Interest and map graphics are Pre-installed for Coverage in the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and Puerto Rico. Click to enlarge.
POI Information can be searched by Address, POI Name, Vicinity, Telephone Number, Map Location or Zip Code. Click to enlarge.
Ambiguity Search compensates for spelling mistakes and eliminates the need to type in entire City or POI information Click to enlarge.
Easily add Bluetooth (above), HD radio, and SAT radio with JVC adapters. Click to enlarge.
Proximity detects as your hand approaches, and displays appropriate buttons/etc.

Superior Navigation Technology

POI & Search Options

Convenience Features

TTS (Text-to-Speech)
Street names etc. read out in 3 languages: English, Spanish and French.
Customized Message
A voice message greets you in the Text-to-Speech language when you power on/off.
Detachable Faceplate
Faceplate with monitor is fully detachable for anti-theft security and convenience.
Lane Guide
Displays the correct lane to move into in preparation for approaching turns, highway entrances or exits, or U-turns.
Speed Limit Display & Speed Alert Function
Displays speed limit information on screen for the current road location. Selectable Speed Alert Function audibly alerts when the vehicle is traveling faster than the posted speed limit for the current road.
POI Touch-Screen Dialing
Utilizes the internal POI database as a business phone book. Bluetooth wireless technology allows one-touch phone number dialing to a selected business or Point of Interest.
Brand Icons Display
Familiar brand logos are listed on-screen for easy recognition of POI contents.
Direct Zoom Keys
Allows one-touch access to specific aerial zoom level lengths or one-by-one zoom level adjustments

Multimedia Connectivity

Easy Connection for Digital Devices
Front USB & AV-IN (mini)

USB 2.0 for iPod, iPod Video, iPhone

CDs, DVDs and More
Enjoy your favorite CDs or watch some video on DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW or VCDs.
You can also enjoy your favorite WMA/MP3/WAV/AAC audio files, or take in MPEG1/2 videos or JPEG images, from disc, USB device or SD Card.
Grow Your System
With three gold-plated preamp outputs you can add plenty more to the KW-NX7000's 50W x 4 MOSFET amplifier. You can also send the composite video output to a rear video screen, and use the gold-plated AV input to connect gaming systems or other devices.

Easy Operation

Easy operation with 7 inches wide touch panel display and detachable faceplate security.

Proximity Sensor

Unique Proximity Sensor Function and Touch screen allow for easy operation.

Real-Time Traffic Tuner

Provides Real-Time Traffic Update Conditions on-screen:

Allows the option to reroute around congested areas automatically or continue on current route. Works directly through the vehicle's existing antenna so there is no need to purchase additional equipment Includes a 90 day free trial subscription to the RDS-TMC Traffic Service Network (Real-Time Traffic Subscription Service = $60 per year).

POI Downloads

Street Director Assistant

What's in the Box

JVC KW-NX7000 Receiver, trim ring, sleeve, face case, remote control, GPS antenna, wiring harness, installation hardware, installation manual, instructions

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JBL MS-8 MS Series Digital Processor Review

2012-02-26T04:24:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been in high end audio for a long time (both stage, vehicle and studio config).
the MS-8 replaced my Rockford 3sixty.2, which replaced dual Rockford Symmetry EPXs (28band eq's), which replaced AudioControl DQX (30bandeq).
i've also had for the longest time an indash eq (audiocontrol four.1, which replaced rockford pa3).

I have around $10k of tuning equipment, have been taught how to use it, and have considerable experience using it. (please dont think im talking myself up - just want to say that i have professional experience, and been taught by a number of experience and well respected people in this field. its my passion).

the ms-8 achieves what absolute fine-tuning would take me 2-3 months. generally a very good tune using existing methods would take 4 hours, but to get that best extra bit out of a system is a process of driving and refining for about 2-3 months. when you do this you really need to switch back and forth between presets quickly as the ears quickly fatigue.. and you really want to hear if you made it better or actually worse.

the sound quality is just amazing, and all tuned in only 2-3 minutes. incredible.
i would say that anyone who is as critical as i am will be amazed with the product, but, still find very minor issues with the auto-tune. i also found that retuning at different levels and different distances (forward/backward) made slight differences. but still it is a significant improvement on anything in the market.

that being said, the remote control feels like a toy. pressing the buttons is a bit hit and miss, and a bit slow..
i planned on using the remote to control system volume, but it doesn't respond reliably enough to be a volume control. so i set it to a decent level and use the headunit for level control - im actually happier with this solution.

the interface is good, but its a shame the designers didnt design everything that would want to be changed on a single screen. or for example, a button on the remote that cycled between the user saved favourites, or, even the seat settings.

that being said the unit is incredible and has brought a new level to my system

front: focal utopia 3 way (running single channel per side using focal supplied xovers)
center: none.
sub: focal utopia 13"
rears: stock.
amps: 2x alpine 1507
headunit: pioneer dex-p88r (old school SQ)

i plan to separate the midbass from the mid+high in the fronts, mainly because the mid+high are in the kick panels and mid bass in the doors. it sounds fine with all 3 combined from a single channel, but, i can hear some time alignment issues with the mid-bass/sub, therefore i plan/suggest running a separate channel for each speaker location. just the 1507 amp is a monster (in size) and it feels not right to have it running a single pair of 6.5" midbass speakers.the overall staging is excellent. i did find a few hiccups when auto-tuning at different volume levels (stage pulled slightly in one direction). i found it best to tune at the level you listen to the most. as the stage is spot on at that level.

for the longest time i've had headunit Loudness control disabled. but found that (especially when having passengers) that the loudness control helped smooth out the levels when down low. (so auto-tuned at mostly loud level, as thats where i like to listen to it, but on those occasions where it needs to be softer the loudness control fixes that up).. note the loudness control flattens out as the headunit raises in volume. excellent.

i tried using the supplied CD (which supposedly contains an audio track used for calibrating oem headunits). i could find no audio track on the disc when testing in 4-5 players, and, also when trying to rip. (and no.. i'm not a noob).
i contacted jbl at this via the website (where they claim to respond in 24hrs).. 3 weeks later, no response.
-it should be noted that this CD is not required when using an aftermarket headunit.

the manual doesnt make a bunch of things clear. such as:
1. when tuning for more than one passenger, should i actually have a second person? i understand tuning for driver is basically a single person scenario, but front tuning? should that require two people so it takes into account both people? or not?in any case i dont know how i ever lived without this product.

switching between user-saved presets is fairly quick, and, im happy that it can apply the 30band differences very quickly (almost instantaneously). so testing how different EQ settings sound is great. unlike the Rockford 3Sixty.2 which requires about 40 seconds to upload the different settings. what im trying to say here is there is no delay in switching between presets, you can compare presets easily.

one important note is this: it will auto tune and set things up, but once it has done so you can ONLY change a single 30band eq which is applied to all speakers. (ie you cannot adjust a particular frequency for a single speaker, eg, front left).
you also MUST provide the speaker specifications of each speaker (or collection of speakers if you passively crossovered them) before it will autotune. that is, you must give a crossover slope, low pass and high pass setting etc.

the system also doesn't allow you to double up on the frequencies between front and sub. (eg set high pass of fronts to 45hz, and, low pass of sub to 80hz, ie 45~80hz being played by both speakers). which is a bit annoying. (that being said you can change the slope of the crossover point between them, but, there is only ONE, not individual for each). hope that makes sense?
what im trying to say here is it's not easy to have the fronts and sub both playing the same frequency range, its one or the other. :-( but fiddling with the crossover slopes can resolve it.. just takes time.

another point is anytime you want to make a crossover setting change, you have to completely recalibrate the entire system (it takes 3-5 minutes). example, say i want to shift the xover point between sub and fronts from 60hz to 70hz. I actually need to:
1. erase all settings (you dont get a choice)
2. tell the unit individually about _ALL_ your speakers (that's wherever they exist: what their LPF/HPF/Xover/slope are)
3. tell the unit which of the outputs matchup to your actual outputs (eg output 1 = front left)
its a bit annoying.

one other point that is annoying is that you will get NO SOUND from the unit until you have gone through the above steps at least once.
but, you really should have your levels fairly balanced (before using the ms-8). (note: you can go through it once, and the disable processing... set levels and do again.. but still... a bit strange/counter-intuitive)

my feeling on the product is this:

1. its an awesome product

2. feels like all the attention went to the audio processing side of things (which is great) but

3. the user interface side of things is lacking, also there is no way to turn the displays backlight off.

4. the remote is a bit terrible, and without looking at it you cant work out which way is up (all the buttons are symmetrically placed, so you cant determine orientation by "feel").

5. in terms of amplification setup. my take on it is "whether there is a speaker located" amp it separately. if there are a couple of speakers very close (such as mid and tweeter in kick boards, ie 1inch apart) - then these are fine to be passively crossovered and run off 1 of the ms8's outputs (instead of soaking up two)

6. the rear processing is quite good, i still find it puts a little bit too much vocals behind me, and i adjust accordingly... though i keep resetting it back to default here... so it is pretty good out of the box. i did notice that the front stage raised with the addition of the rear speakers (as is with tuning normally), and i was happy to hear this.

7. the ms-8 did a very good job of matching the tonality of my rears vs fronts (ie theyre different speakers). but they have now lost their individual characteristics and sound similar (well in the ranges the cheaper ones can play anyway).

8. its designed as a best-fits device. it does everything, but, it hides the nitty gritty away from those who would like to play with it. so if you actually need to make some modification (eg increase 3khz by 2db for the left speaker only) you cant. (im not saying you would need to, just that you cant..) however, you get balance/fade/sub level/rear level/ side level controls individually.its an awesome product. i totally recommend it to anyone who is even considering changing their system.
i would put this device as higher priority in the list of what-to-do first, especially given that it has an 8 channel amplifier included (its enough to give most standard speakers what they want).

i tossed and turned about upgrading from the 3Sixty.2 and i am very very glad i did.

more and more i drive now, i fiddle less and just enjoy... to anyone who knows me they would know thats something incredible in itself (for me not to fiddle).
cheers.

i totally recommend reading the first persons comment (and tracking down that forum post) as thats what tipped me over the edge into ordering it.

last point, it took nearly 5-6 weeks for amazon to post it to me. :-( even though it said 10days.

Click Here to see more reviews about: JBL MS-8 MS Series Digital Processor

Product Description:
JBL System Integration Digital

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JVC KD-AVX44 El Kameleon Vehicle Multimedia Receiver w/ 3.5" Monitor Review

2012-02-25T16:24:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I was searching around trying to find something that I could use as my central "media" center without having to install a mac mini in my Pt Cruiser.

My needs were/are: Ipod integration (including video playback), Dvd Playback, CDs, Bluetooth and of course am/fm.After a long hard search of single-din units I choose this model.

[...]

What I liked about this unit is you have a video out. You can hook up your headrest monitors and if you have a game system (Xbox, PS, Wii...what have you) you can hook it up to the video in that it has to offer as well (with full playback to your headrests). This just allows you to have direct connection to your cars speakers.

Dvd Playback. It is very good. Turn the car off,it'll start right back up where it left off.

Bluetooth. My boyfriend has a Pioneer DEH-P9800BT which I installed as well (A great unit if you don't require Dvd play back). Unlike the pioneer unit there is no mic to install anywhere and the quality still sounds pretty good on both ends. Doesn't matter what source you are using Bluetooth will alert you when someone is calling by pausing your music/video and showing the caller Id. You can accept or decline.

AM/FM. I was a bit disappointed that the unit didn't have RDS. I have been using a factory unit that had it and kind of miss that feature. Seemed like a feature they could have added.

Ipod. Heres where I am on the fence. I had been using a fm transmitter for my ipod and finally wanted direct connect because I could not take the quality anymore. I purchased an Apple Composite AV Cable (THIS WORKS JUST AS GOOD AS A JVC KSU20 CABLE)Of course, The quality was 300% better than before.However, The Interface is a bit slow. I really hope that JVC comes out with a firmware upgrade that speeds it up a bit. When I go to play "The Killers" it takes me approx. 1 minute to get to the letter "K". But for the most part I keep it on shuffle. The unit charges the Ipod as well.

Ipod Video. This is a cool feature. With either the JVC KSU20 or the Ipod Composite AV cable. You can watch any video off your ipod and direct the signal to the headrest monitors as well.

Pros: Great Bluetooth, DVD, Ipod Video integration with a sleek (no button look). Love the 4 setting tilt screen (great for stereo units closer to the ground)And Love the Proximity motion light as well.

Cons: For a single din unit JVC did a decent job, Ipod interface is really my only complaint.I had looked at the JVC KD NX5000. But didn't like the look of the unit or felt the need for crappy navagation. The menu interface feels like it should be more user friendly (getting to the ipod artists list has to be done by hitting about 5 buttons)

I have not used satellite or the back-up camera (which I plan to install soon).

[...]

Good luck and have fun with this great little unit.*UPDATE*

A few new things.

Satellite Radio - Bought the Sirius Adapter through ebay. Though it's not as fast as a stand-alone unit, It sounds great and it's nice to have it integrated into the radio.

Iphone Compatibility - I was a little disappointed to see that, unfortunately, the Iphone does not seem to be compatible with the unit. Maybe with either an update from Apple or JVC this will change in the future. For now, I use my usable Ipod touch just as a music jukebox in the car and Iphone for everything else (gym, work, etc...). It's actually not a bad setup.

HD Radio - Buying the HD Adapter fixed my RDS problem. Any stations that send out artist info is now displayed. Without excellent reception, those extra HD stations are hit or miss. It's a nice feature to have. Quality can be exceptional at times.

I will keep those interested up-to-date if I come across any new info on the unit.

Have Fun,
Mary

Click Here to see more reviews about: JVC KD-AVX44 El Kameleon Vehicle Multimedia Receiver w/ 3.5 Monitor

Product Description:

CES INNOVATIONS 2008 AWARD WINNER

Both innovative and stylish, exclusive El Kameleon technology provides the ultimate antitheft security advantage. The KD-AVX44s faceplate converts to a stealthy black appearance when the power is turned off appearing unnoticeable to potential car stereo thieves. Once powered on, El Kameleon comes to life as a full function Multimedia player complete with a unique electro-static touch panel operation interface and 3-D graphical menu system.

The powerful built-in amplifier and high-quality digital-to-analog converter make the most of your music, and the 7-band equalizer lets you adjust a range of selectable frequencies to create the perfect sound for your car's interior. If you're building a complete system, use the three sets of preamp outputs to add amplifiers and subwoofers.

Built-in iPod controls keep your favorite playlists on tap, and you can even stream your iPod videos by adding an adapter. If you have a Bluetooth enabled phone, the receiver's built-in Bluetooth capabilities let you take your phone calls through the receiver while you keep both hands on the wheel.

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Clarion NZ409 7-Inch Portable GPS Navigator Review

2012-02-25T06:50:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pro: the price was right with the nav and it is well integrated. The sound is right up there with the Alpine I had before. It does run my iPod Nano as advertised. When I played a DVD, it played the music but not the video (because the parking brake was not on)...that was cool.
Con: I tried as hard as I possibly could to find a DVD player that would let me search through the iPod titles...this unit is down near the bottom of that capability about the best you can do with the iPod is put it on shuffle or make some good playlists. It may be that the next generation of gear will do this, but for now, you're almost better off getting a unit with a aux jack on the front and using the ipod itself.
The Nav is good but is very different than the Garmin Nuvi I have. It gets a fix very quickly, but got totally confused yesterday when I tried to go to a nearby town using backroads. I had to turn the nav off after I made one turn it didn't like. The Garmin seems to recover better and recalculate your trip when something is wrong (like the road it wants to use is closed for construction).
The voice sounds like one of those answering phone synthetic voices that reads your credit card number back to you, not near as nice as the Garmin.
Once I get over how cool it is having it all-in-one, I will starting thinking about how much I spent to have a stereo that sounds about as good as the one I had before, plays an ipod almost the same as the one I had before, and has a nav almost as good as the one I had suction-cupped to my windshield that I could put in any car I drove.....it is cool having a touch screen and I guess that is the feature I really paid for.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Clarion NZ409 7 Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Product Description:
Get there fast, and get there entertained with Clarion's NZ409. Featuring built-in GPS navigation, a 7-inch motorized touchscreen, iPod direct control, and plenty more, it's the perfect hub for your mobile entertainment needs.

Get there fast, and get there entertained. Click to enlarge.
The NZ409 features a 12-digit blue LCD sub-display for maximum visibility within a space-saving profile.
Intuitive touchscreen interface.
2D/3D split-screen GPS navigation.
QVGA Color LCD Monitor
The 7-inch touchscreen QVGA monitor is fully motorized, and offers a great picture whether you're using the GPS navigation or stopping to enjoy some video.
Enjoy Your Favorite Media
Take in your favorite music and movies from DVD, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, CD, CD-DA, HDCD, or CD-R/RW. You can also enjoy MP3 and WMA digital audio files from a data disc or USB thumb drive, for hours of music and ID3-TAG display of track information.
Easy-view Sub Display
In addition to its main LCD screen, while "closed," the NZ409 shows you its informative 12-digit blue LCD display for maximum visibility within a space-saving profile.
iPod Direct Control via USB
Just connect the USB cable that's included with your iPod to the source unit's USB input to control your iPod. Using an optional CCA723 cable will even let you watch iPod Video on the screen. The same USB terminal can also be used to connect a USB memory device with digital music files stored on it.
24-bit D/A Converter for Superb Sound Reproduction
Fully enjoy the sonic impact of DVD movie soundtracks or music videos. 24-bit technology actually oversamples the digital signal, providing excellent results that just weren't possible with older 16-bit systems.
Built-in Navigation System
Nothing to add--it's all there from the get go. Count on GPS accuracy, an efficient navigation engine, and intuitive 2D/3D map screens to guide you to your destination. Navigation data is pre-stored on the internal flash memory for quick access and response.

Sirius SSP Direct Connection Ready
Connect to a Sirius Satellite Radio receiver without any need for a interface box--and enjoy over 130 channels of music, news, talk shows, sports and traffic information with digital quality sound throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Rear Vision Camera RCA Input
This RCA input enables you to smoothly connect a rear camera to display the area behind your vehicle. The increased view encourages and facilitates safer driving.
6ch/2V RCA Output
The NZ409 boasts a 40W x 4 built-in amplifier, but with 3 sets of RCA outputs, you are free to add external power amplifiers to create a more powerful, sophisticated audio system.
Bluetooth Ready
Used with the optional BLT370 Bluetooth transceiver, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of hands-free calling as well as audio streaming of music you have stored on your mobile phone.
Remote Control Included
Control the action with the included wireless remote.
What's in the Box
Clarion NZ409, trim ring, wiring harness, remote control, installation hardware, owner's manual, installation guide.

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Boyo AVN700A 7-Inch Double DIN Multimedia with Navigation Review

2012-02-24T15:43:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently purchased the BOYO AVN-700A stereo system for my truck.
I absolutely love this system...the stereo sounds awesome..the navagation is great i can actually use my ipod touch in my truck now..and my favorite thing is the DVD player , now i can keep my wife and son entertained watching movies when we travil on vacation...installation was pretty simple because i purchased the wiring harness that matched my truck make and model.
If you are searching for a complete audio/video/navagation system then look no further the BOYO AVN-700A is the way to go!!!! its already completely loaded with all the maps of US and CANADA nothing else to buy...GREAT PRODUCT!!! thanks BOYO and thank you AMAZON for the great service and timly matter in which my product arrived to my door...I will be purchasing from you guys in the future!!!!
Tim H.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Boyo AVN700A 7 Inch Double DIN Multimedia with Navigation

Product Description:
7" Double DIN Multimedia with Navigation(DVD, Navigation, AM/FM, iPod, Bluetooth, Satellite)5 Step automatic motorized viewing anglesAny key Back Light (Blue Color)Touch Panel/ IR Remote ControllerDVD, VCD, SVCD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, JPEG, MPEG, DivxElectronic Anti-ShockBuilt-in Microphone and External MicrophoneBuilt-in AM/FM TunerPreloaded maps of USA and CanadaAuto memory frequency store/ preset scanNTSC / PAL Compatible Monitor50W x 4 High Power Audio OutputHigh Precision GPS Navigation SystemVoice and Visual Route InstructionsChoice of the quickest or the shortest journey2 A/V inputs (AV Input, AUX Input)2D and 3D screen views for NavigationSD Card: 4GB HCSDSatellite ReadyiPod Ready (cable included)Steering Wheel Control Feature Optional

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Rockford Fosgate Power T600-4 600 watt multi channel amplifier Review

2012-02-24T08:19:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Wait until this bad boy is in your hands. It is so heavy that you think you are holdomg an amp twice the size. Sound is clean and crisp. Worth every penny.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Rockford Fosgate Power T600-4 600 watt multi channel amplifier

Product Description:
The T600-4 amplifier offers the perfect balance of power output and compact design required for high performance audio systems. The 4-channel configuration allows fine tuning adjustments between front stage component systems and rear surround speakers. The built-in crossover also allows the rear channels to be configured for running one or two subwoofers.

Rockford Fosgate Power Series Amplifiers

Power > Size. These compact amps deliver the same gut wrenching power as its big brother, but their chassis designs are up to 40% smaller. DTM (Dynamic Thermal Management) allows efficient heat transfer that minimizes physical size and enables installs under seats and other compact areas when abundant power is required.

600 Watt 4-Channel Amplifier.
Click to enlarge.
Perfect for front/rear fading stereo systems or when dedicated amplification is required between front stage speakers and rear subwoofer(s).
Click to enlarge.
Small chassis designs with serious power.
Click to enlarge.

T600-4 Features

CEA-2006
Power ratings on Rockford Fosgate amplifiers conform to CEA-2006 industry standards. These guidelines mean your amplifier's output power ratings are REAL POWER numbers, not inflated marketing ratings.
Differential Inputs
Differential input circuitry measures the voltage of both the (+) and (-) input signal. The circuitry subtracts the voltage common to both conductors (noise) resulting in only the clean signal. This allows only clean signal to enter the amplifier.
DSM
DSM utilize 1% tight-tolerances improving efficiency of the circuit, decreases cross-talk from other discrete components and lowers operating temperature.
Dynamic Thermal Management
Heat is often inefficiently dissipated across a heatsink causing "hot spots". Rockford Fosgate engineers have developed an award winning cooling design called DTM. This patent pending design seamlessly manages the output of power supply temperatures, while evenly distributing the excess heat across the entire amplifier.
MEHSA³
MEHSA³ (Maximum Efficiency Heat Sink Application--gen. 3) reduces MOSFET temperatures, lowers distortion, increases durability and prolongs the output device life span.
NOMAD
NOMAD (Non Multiplying Advanced Decision) is a "real time" analog computer that protects your amplifier from shorting speaker wires and dangerously low speaker impedances.
Punch EQ2
In the early 70's, Jim Fosgate studied the acoustical properties of automobiles. Utilizing a real-time analyzer and pink noise, he would graph out the acoustical characteristics of each car he tested. Jim discovered three problems that were common to all cars: a midbass hump between 100-275Hz, a steep roll-off of high frequencies from 2kHz up to 20kHz, and reduced bass response below 50Hz.
The Punch EQ on-board equalization circuit helps correct for these acoustical deficiencies in the listening environment. When set to Low-Pass(LP) operation, it becomes a variable Bass Boost. When set to High-Pass (HP) operation, it acts as a variable Mid-Bass and Treble Boost. When set to All Pass (AP) operation, both Bass and Treble frequencies are boosted.
Rockford Fosgate Avatar
These Avatars are a personal signature from the Rockford Fosgate team member who designed and engineered this fanatic product. This statement illustrates Rockford's commitment to being Designed and Engineered in the U.S.A.
TO-247 MOSFETs
Rockford Fosgate amps use custom TO-247 MOSFETs. These have 60% more metal tab area for more power capacity, lower impedance and improved heat dissipation over traditional TO-220 MOSFETs found in competitor amps.
TRANS·ana
Trans·ana (TRANS conductance Active Nodal Amplifier) simplifies the signal path of the amplifier allowing the signal to travel through the amplifier at a lower voltage. The result is greater reliability and exceptional sound quality.

T600-4 Specifications

Number of Channels: 4 Rated Power: 100W x 4 @ 4-Ohms RMS
150W x 4 @ 2-Ohms RMS
300W x 2 @ 4-Ohms bridged RMS
2-Ohms x 2 bridged Stable Total Power: 600 Watts Dynamic Power: Front Channels
139 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohms 0 degrees Res
236 Watts x 2 @ 2-Ohms 0 degrees Res

Rear Channels
140 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohms 0 degrees Res
236 Watts x 2 @ 2-Ohms 0 degrees Res Bridgeable: Yes Efficiency (average): 70% @ 4-Ohm
64% @ 2-Ohm Crossover Controls: Front High-Pass (HP): 50-500Hz 24dB/octave Butterworth
Front Low-Pass (LP): 50-500Hz 24dB/octave Butterworth
Rear High-Pass (HP): 50-500Hz 24dB/octave Butterworth
Rear Low-Pass (LP): 50-500Hz 24dB/octave Butterworth Tone Controls: Front Channels - Punch EQ
Treble: 0dB to +12dB @ 12kHz
Bass: 0dB to +18dB @ 45Hz

Rear Channels - Punch EQ
Treble: 0dB to +12dB @ 12kHz
Bass: 0dB to +18dB @ 45Hz Signal Input: Front Low level: 1 RCA pair
Rear Low level: 1 RCA pair Signal Output: Low Level: 1 RCA pair Power Input Connector: Block Power Wire Gauge: 4 AWG Speaker Output Connector: Screw terminal barrier strip Speaker Wire Gauge: 8 AWG to 18 AWG Heat Sink Type: Cast aluminum Cooling: Convection Remote Controls: Optional Remote Punch EQ (overrides built-in Punch EQ) Visual Indicators: Power
Thermal
Protect Circuit Topology Class: Class A/B Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz +/- 1dB Shipping Weight: 12.00 Lbs. (5.44 Kg.) Dimensions (HxWxL): 2.14 x 8.14 x 14.91 (in)
5.42 x 20.68 x 37.86 (cm)

Thirty Years of Rockford Fosgate

Rockford Fosgate products have been designed and engineered in Tempe, Arizona since the beginning. Rockford's 30 year reputation is grounded in engineering and manufacturing some of the finest audio products in the world. The company's no-compromise approach has yielded patented iconic products such as the Punch EQ, Punch 45 amplifier and the 3Sixty integrated signal processor. Today, Rockford's new products push the performance envelope even further. Each new product is a step forward--they sound bigger, they play louder, and run longer. Rockford never settles for "good enough."
The 2010 product line represents the company's core philosophy. Rockfords new amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers have raised the bar on the competition.

What's in the Box

Rockford Fosgate Power T600-4 600-watt multi-channel amplifier, Mounting Hardware, User's Manual

On a Tighter Budget?

For those seeking a more affordable multi-channel amplification solution, Rockford offers the Punch Series P500-4 and the Prime Series R300-4.

Power Series Multi-Channel Amplifiers

Rockford Fosgate offers a 400-watt model in addition to this 600-watt model.
Rockford Fosgate Power T600-4 600 watt multi channel amplifier Rockford Fosgate Power T400-4 400 watt multi channel amplifier

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Dual XDVDN8290N AM/FM/DVD Receiver with 7-Inch Motorized, Touch, Full iPod, Full Bluetooth Interface (Black) Review

2012-02-24T05:17:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Just picked up one of these for my 4-runner. Looks great installed. It is packed with features. Would have given it 5 stars, but it was missing a couple of minor features I would have liked to have seen. Here are my pros and cons:

Pros: Packed with great features including Nav, Ipod connection w/ cable included, Plays DVD +/-RW, Decent bluetooth, built in microphone for use with bluetooth that I have been told sounds pretty good when making a call, easy to use touchscreen interface. All in all, great features considering the price.

Cons: These are nitpicky little things that I felt were missing. None of them should really be a dealbreaker, but thought I would list them for your edification. 1) Ipod playback doesnt browse to Artist>Album like it does on the ipod. WHen you select the Artist, it just lists all the songs by the artist, regardless of what album the songs are on. This makes it a little difficult to find a specifc album unless you use the Album search. If you are like me, that search could take a while. 2) No sat radio. 3) No way to store contacts for use with Bluetooth. You can use your phone to find the number and call, then use HU. 4) No voice command option.

That is what I noticed just after a couple of days of use. Despite these shortcomings, the Dual XDVDN8290 HU is a terrific value for the price. You get 90%+ of the features offered by the more expesive stereos and if you can live with the missing features I have mentioned, I see no reason not to get one if you are in the market.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Dual XDVDN8290N AM/FM/DVD Receiver with 7 Inch Motorized, Touch, Full iPod, Full Bluetooth Interface (Black)

Product Description:
AM/FM/DVD Receiver with 7-Inch Motorized, Touch, Full iPod, Full Bluetooth interface MOSFET 5 X 60 watt, Multi-Zone, 2 IR Remotes, Full integrated Navigation, 11 mil POI, 300 Watts Peak (60x5) Motorized 6.5-Inch touch screen TFT LCD monitor Integrated Navigation 2-DIN Chassis Center channel output (60x1) Fully self-contained (no hide-away box) Multi-zone Import ISO/DIN mountable Internal cooling fan Electronic volume, bass, treble, balance, and fader MOSFET audio output 5.1 audio outputs (RCA) 1 Audio/video input (RCA) 1 Rear camera input (RCA) 1 Composite video output, Integrated SD card reader (up to 2GB) Integrated navigation (SD card) 24-Bit D/A Converter Multi-zone remote control Infrared remote control ( iPod Cable NOT included)

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Boss Audio Systems BV9055 In-Dash Double-DIN DVD/MP3/CD AM/FM Receiver with 6.2-inch Widescreen Touchscreen TFT Monitor with USB Port and Front Panel AUX Input Review

2012-02-23T13:36:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Not too bad. If you're in the market for a dvd player than this isn't a bad purchase for $300. Not as fancy as the others but it does the job. Has rca outputs for everything minus subwoofer. That isn't too important unless you plan on competing in audio. I have this wired up in my envoy and really like it as do my kids. Screen is bright enough. The usb input is awesome, allowing you to play music files recorded to things like mp3 players and flash drives. Overall a great dvd player if you don't need the name brand.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Boss Audio Systems BV9055 In-Dash Double-DIN DVD/MP3/CD AM/FM Receiver with 6.2-inch Widescreen Touchscreen TFT Monitor with USB Port and Front Panel AUX Input

Product Description:
Boss Audio's BV9055 is a great solution for those looking for a basic in-dash DVD player. With a 6.2-inch touchscreen, USB port, front auxiliary input and other convenient features, it's got plenty of bang for your buck. Ready to grow with two RCA outputs and video inputs for a rear view camera or GPS device, it's a perfect way to get your mobile mediaplex started.

A perfect way to get your mobile mediaplex started. Click to enlarge.
Front panel auxiliary input and USB port. Click to enlarge.
Includes full-featured remote. Click to enlarge.
6.2-Inch Touchscreen
The BV9055 features a brilliant 6.2-inch touchscreen with a 1200 x 234 pixel resolution, perfect for quick navigation to the unit's features and for watching video.
Enjoy Your Favorite Media
Take in your favorite movies from DVDs, VCDs, SVCDs or even MP4 files. Or enjoy audio from CDs or data discs full of your favorite MP3/WMA files. You can also view your favorite JPG pictures and zoom in for a closer look.
Dial in your sound with separate bass and treble controls, along with balance/fader and a mute when needed.
Front Panel USB Port
Enjoy your digital audio (MP3/WMA) or video (MP4) files in a snap by putting them on a USB thumb drive. Enjoy hours of entertainment quickly and easily.
Front Auxiliary Input
Easily connect external devices like iPods or MP3 players via the 1/8" mini auxiliary input.
Rear View Camera and GPS Video Inputs
Add a rear view camera for safety and convenience, or send your GPS video to the BV9055's screen for navigation.
AM/FM tuner
This unit also features a PLL synthesized AM/FM tuner with 30 station presets and switchable USA/Europe radio frequencies.
It will also display Radio Data System messages for stations broadcasting them.
Plenty of Power
With 80 Watts through four channels, the BV9055 packs a punch. Dual (front and rear) RCA outputs let you expand your system.
Wireless Remote
A full-featured wireless remote is include for controlling all receiver functions.
What's in the Box
Boss Audio BV9055, remote control, mounting sleeve, trim frame, wiring harness, installation hardware, user's manual

Pioneer AVIC-F900BT In-Dash Navigation Audio/Video Receiver with DVD Playback and Advance Voice Controls Review

2012-02-23T11:07:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I originally had the F700BT for 2 weeks and though I liked it I sent it back due to the following issues.

1.I had all the same issues as described on avic411 forum but I was not sure I wanted to wait for a firmware update. These problems are mentioned in other reviews.
2.There was no quick way to reroute/detour if you seen traffic ahead
3.MSN Direct could not be added later

So I returned it and ordered this F900BT. It was backordered for a long time because Pioneer was working on fixing the multiple issues. Now I have had it installed with the firmware update for about a week and went on a 17hr road trip to test it out fully. Now I am glad to say this stereo is meeting my expectations from the previews months ago.

Sound:
Better than my factory of course with the usual Pioneer EQs such as Powerful, Super Bass etc..

Screen:
Preupdate, the screen only looked good in the shade and washed out a lot in sunlight but after the update I can see it a lot better along with greyed out icons. The splash/startup screen can be customized with a jpg by SD card or usb drive. The button lighting can also be adjusted to match your car interior. The responsiveness is ok after startup. But sometimes it can be picky.

Nav:
The Nav is nice. I'm coming from a Garmin Nuvi 200 and a Kenwood 5120. Since the 900 comes with Bluetoothyou can call the POIs in the device with a touch of a button. You can create a trip/route with stops/waypoints in it and manage them. You can preplan restroom and food breaks or site-see. There is a screen for progress and itinerary info. This screen can show you your progress along the trip whether its miles left or hours left or you can view the trip as turn by turn. Your map screen can show you a lot of info such as speed limit, your speed, next turn and second turn, time to destination/turn and estimated arrival. The only annoying them after the update is the green turn boxes stay on screen even if you have no route in. Another minor thing is the voice prompts happen to frequently, you'll notice this when entering/exiting a hwy or approaching a turn. There is also a button on the corner that shows what your currently listening to, that you can press and be sent to that screen. For instance, if its ipod, the current song will show on bottom along with album art. If you press the button it will take you to the main ipod screen with all the info. There are also tons of POIs in the unit, you can find them by: along route, near cursur, near destination, by current position. There is also a shortcut to POIs if you're just cruising around. Press the info button on right side of map, this will show you a zoomed out image of where you are. From here you can save your location or press "info" and it'll tell you all the POIs near you. You can also turn on speed warnings where it'll warn you when you're speeding. In the future Pioneer will introduce a POI creator. I'm not sure if this will enable proximity alerts such as Garmin's red light/speed cam warnings.

HD radio (add-on):
First, Pioneer does not tell you this but you need an antenna splitter or additional antenna for HD Radio Tuner to work. I got one off Ebay for $6 shipped. The antenna goes to HD and stereo, stereo needs it for MSN to work but if you're not using MSN then its fine. Pioneer told me this was aimed at the F700 since it doesn't have MSN, but anyway. Ok, I'm in Raleigh and we have about 12 HD channels and they sound GOOD. It was like night and day when I put my antenna back into stereo while waiting for the splitter. Plus with the $50 HD rebate this was a cheap upgrade. HD integrates into interface and takes control of FM/AM if no splitter is present. When you select the HD source you'll get 3 sets of FM presets and 1 set of AM presets. If you have a splitter this number is doubled because the FM source has its own 3 sets. Things work as expected but I have had two issues. One, when you press the next preset button (P. Ch> ) it tends to skip. For instance I'll be on P6 and it'll skip to P4 instead of P1. Two, preset info doesn't show up on the Preset list. You just have to remember whats there. In FM mode the presets are listed as 88.9, 97.5, 99.1 and so on but in HD mode its just blank. While in HD you can do HD Seek where it will find the next HD channel instead of static from standard FM. Yes you can still listen to standard FM while in HD source.At car startup music will begin in about 5 secs.

iPod:
iPod interface is great. I wouldn't say the manual searching is quick though but it has a huge shortcut, voice control. Just like Ford Sync, you can press a button and say "play artist..." and it will play that artist/album. You can tell it to show you artists, playlists and albums. It is really cool and is spot on. I was surprised by it getting Gnarls Barkley. Before the update the stereo had to catalogue the ipod at startup each time which was a pain but now you only need to do it once. Album art also shows up on the map as well. Videos look well also but I don't think videos work when you have a nav route on (dvds do though)(assuming you have the bypass connected, be safe and watch the road). Full startup time on mine is about 1:45 when ipod is left as default (left on when car turned off), but music begins after about 30 secs.

DVD:
DVDs look good to me not much to say here. You have a set of controls come up when the movie is playing such as pause and next, but you can also skip chapters by pressing the knob. On the main menu screen you get arrow controls and a enter button. When I put in my first dvd the unit became unresponsive to the controls and wouldn't eject but a reboot fixed that and it worked fine afterwards. If you're in route the voice prompts will mute the audio. You can either pause the movie or press `map' to see whats coming up and then return to movie. I only did this for my passengers so they wont annoy me.

MSN:
Depending on your area the info can be great. In Raleigh you get a lot of info but in Durham the signal is weak. Info comes through the FM antennahence the need for a splitter for HD. If in a strong area, info comes in about 2 min. Traffic info will overlay on your map and if in route you will be guided around it. You can route to movie theatres or gas stations as well. Movie showtimes show up for the entire day and Gas prices may or may not be current but it tells you like this, $3.79 (+2 days) or $1.48 (today) wishful thinking I know.

Bluetooth:
Ok lets get the obvious out of the way, Blackberries are hit and miss with this. But I have a Samsung A900 and its works ok. Sounds good on my end and haven't had complaints on callers end. My friends Treo 755 works really well. You can transfer your phonebook, store 5 phones, call contacts by name (Call Mike) or number (call 919-771-7771). It says you can receive/view incoming txts as well but I have not got any while in car to test this. Others report it works though.
Overall I have to same I am very very satisfied with the unit. Glad I waited for it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer AVIC-F900BT In-Dash Navigation Audio/Video Receiver with DVD Playback and Advance Voice Controls

Product Description:
You've been holding out for something that links all of your devices together into one seamless experience. You love the idea of a system that can be operated by the sound of your voice. It's time to stop wishing for the next great thing because it's here. This is your life made easier. Introducing the Pioneer AVIC-F900BT In-Dash Navigation AV Receiver with DVD Playback and Built-In Bluetooth.
Pioneer AVIC-F900BT In-Dash Navigation AV Receiver with DVD Playback and Built-In Bluetooth.
Click to enlarge.

A New Class of Navigation
No more hassling with map discs. Now you don't have to worry about discs being misplaced, damaged, lost, or stolen because we've done away with them for the F-Series navigation line. We've taken the entire TeleAtlas Database that was previously on the two-DVD set, compressed it down, and stored it internally on flash memory.

Freedom of Speech
The AVIC-F900BT offers a new generation of voice recognition capability for controlling iPod playback and making calls hands-free via connected Bluetooth-enabled cell phones. The technology accepts and recognizes conversational phrases and language, filters out superfluous sounds and phrases, and if the user doesn't give enough information in the command, the unit will ask additional questions to clarify the request.
With MSN Direct you can avoid construction delays, traffic, and expensive gas stations on the fly.

Back connections of the Pioneer AVIC-F900BT.

Approximately 12 million pre-programmed POIs make it easy to find gas stations, restaurants, ATMs, coffee and more.

Subscribe to a Better Solution
The AVIC-F900BT comes equipped with a built-in MSN Direct tuner. At a glance, see updated road conditions, search for movie times, find the best gas deals in your area, and get directions - all without leaving the car! See current conditions and the three-day forecast to better plan your day. The service is available through MSN Direct data subscription service.

Bluetooth Technology: In Touch, Hands-Free
The AVIC-F900BT comes with built-in Bluetooth. Now you never need to miss a call, even if your tunes are cranked up or your phone is buried in your bag.

Simplified Menus and 3D Landmarks
Simplified menus and intuitive icons shorten the learning curve, allowing you to quickly and efficiently start using the system. Quickly enter destinations, browse music libraries, or adjust settings. Enhances your map with 3D Landmarks. Our advanced iPod integration allows exclusive features like iPod album art overlaid on the navigation display.

Mobile Media
Pioneer has created a line of Navigation systems that make it easy to play various digital and audio formats like: DVD-R/RW and CD-R/RW discs, Portable Media Players like iPod, USB memory devices, and SD Cards. We can play a wide range of files types as well, such as MP3, WMA, iTunes AAC, and MPEG-4 video files.

Make It Personal
Personalize your drive. AVIC FEEDS freeware contains POI Creator, Driving Report, and Picture Editor Applications. You never know where the road will take you, but our POI Creator can help you get started on the right path.

Blending In
Like its predecessor, the AVIC-D3, the new AVIC-F900BT allows you to change the illumination color to match your car. Select from among 32,768 different colors to match car interior and dashboard lighting.

Seeing Is Believing
The old WQVGA displays that most Navigation units use are 480x234 pixels. However, our WVGA display is much higher quality at 800 x 480 pixels. Images become sharper and more defined, just like our maps and menus on these units. The display's enhanced GUI (Graphic User Interface) has also advanced, making system control and management effortless.

iPod Control Made Simple
With the new CD-IU230V cable, you can directly control your music and videos from your iPod. Fast and easy control through USB, the AVIC-F900BT also features iPod Album Art display, Alphabetical Speed Search, and much more. Click Here to see iPod compatibility chart.

Adding Another Set of Eyes
For safer parking, try using the ND-BC2 or ND-BC20PA backup cameras. The system automatically displays images shot from a connected camera as the vehicle shifts into reverse.

What's in the Box
Pioneer AVIC-F900BT, wiring harness, installation hardware, operation manual, installation guide, warranty sheet.

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Bose SL2 wireless surround link - Wireless audio delivery system for rear speakers Review

2012-02-22T11:07:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently moved to a new house, and didn't want to drill holes in the walls or floor to get the wires to the back of the room. I was somewhat skeptical about this product and concerned with sound quality. However, I'm happy to say there is absolutely no difference between using the SL2 and hard wiring the rear speakers!

a) The system is made up of two receivers. They are both very small, and are easily concealable.

b) The front receiver plugs into the base module with 2 wires (left & right speaker wires)

c) The rear speakers plug into the rear receiver.

d) Installation complete!

This is an excellent product and I highly recommend it to all.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bose SL2 wireless surround link - Wireless audio delivery system for rear speakers

Product Description:
Want to enjoy the thrill of surround sound without all the hassle of wiring to your rear speakers? Bose makes it easy. Introducing the Bose(R) SL2 wireless surround link. No more wiring to the back of your room. The transmitter and receiver eliminate the need to run wires to the back of your room. You`ll enjoy all of the surround sound performance. Without all the wiring. The slim, sleek style blends with your d

SIRIUS Stiletto 2 Portable Satellite Radio with MP3 Player Review

2012-02-22T08:49:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I thought about writing a review for some time now. I wanted to make sure I was out of the honeymoon phase before I wrote about this device.I have had it for over a couple of weeks now and feel like it's time.

I purchased the Stiletto 2 as a late Christmas present to myself.I had signed up originally for the 3-day trial and loved the radio selections.I live Montana and our radio stations are pretty decent, but we have a lot of commercials.So, being able to listen to music without commercials is fantastic.

I wasn't sure what device to purchase, so I started reading.I had read a number of reviews (particularly the poor ones) about the Stiletto 2, but I liked the portability aspect, so I purchased it.

I now understand their complaints.They want better reception from the device itself, better/more comfortable headphones, etc.I agree the reception on the device isn't the best when indoors, but I purchased the home kit and that significantly improved reception.

When I am away from my home dock, I connect through Internet radio and it works just fine.

I also bought the car kit, but haven't had a chance to install it yet.I was able to get reception in my car without it though, so I imagine the car kit will only improve upon that.

The user interface is quite easy to navigate and the controls on the device are fairly intuitive. I like to test devices without reading the manual first to see how easy it is to figure out and the Stiletto 2 was pretty straightforward.I had to refer to the manual to understand the recording options, but otherwise, it was simple.

The recording option is fantastic.I set up a number of recurring sessions in the middle night.In the morning, I can then listen to them when I am working out, running errands, etc.I think this is probably one of the best features of the device.I have 15+ hours of recorded content and have used only 35% of the internal memory.Replay is fantastic.You can skip through songs just like your MP3 player and for me, that's a great option.

The size of the device is just right.It fits in my pocket, but it's not so small that I am afraid it's going to get broken or lost.

The battery life has been more than adequate.It's rated at like 4+ hours for Satellite or Internet radio and 20+ for recorded or library selections.I can attest that I have listened to it for many hours without running out of power.I wouldn't mind having a spare battery, but it's probably overkill.

As for the additional SD card slot.It's too bad it's under the battery.When you install an SD card, it's like you are putting in RAM in your laptop.This is not simple or intuitive for a lot of people (thinking of my mom here).I am sure there was an architectural reason, but it's too bad it's not just inserted on the side like a number of cell phones.

I have owned a number of musical devices in my life, 5+ iPods, a Zune, Rio, CD players, Walkmans, etc, but I can say this device has really reminded me of how music can be such a wonderful part of your life.I listen to my radio non-stop, and I wouldn't have it any other way now.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SIRIUS Stiletto 2 Portable Satellite Radio with MP3 Player

Product Description:
With the release of the Stiletto 2, Sirius ushers in the next personal music player revolution. With a slim and sleek profile smaller than a video iPod, the ultra-portable Sirius Stiletto 2 satellite radio receiver features a built-in antenna that allows reception of the Sirius signal without the need for an external car or home docking station. This handheld receiver offers users up to 100 hours of internal storage of live satellite program and music feeds. It also can handle MP3 and WMA files, enabling you to mix Sirius content with your own personal music collection. When coupled with an optional vehicle or home docking kit, you can broadcast both Sirius radio and digital audio files over any FM stereo via the built-in transmitter (adapter required).

The sleek and stylish Stiletto 2 can play both Sirius broadcasts and MP3s. View larger.

With its compact design, the Stiletto 2 lets you experience Sirius internet radio on the go. The compact Stiletto 2 MP3 player is a 4.3-ounce portable radio that is capable of receiving live Sirius broadcasts via both satellite and Wi-Fi signals. Internal flash memory is used to store Sirius content as well as MP3/WMA files for non-live playback. Listeners can easily bookmark songs and tag favorite songs for later purchase using any Windows-based online music service. Additionally, the Stiletto 2 supports removable microSD flash memory cards to enable users to conveniently expand usable memory space. MP3 and WMA files also can be stored on the Stiletto 2 and managed with the included My Sirius Studio software. The Stiletto 2 is compatible with most music download and subscription services.
The enhanced Wi-Fi capability of the Stiletto 2 permits access to standard Sirius Internet Radio (SIR) or, for an additional subscription charge, SIR's premium audio quality offering. SIR gives subscribers access to more than 80 channels of Sirius Satellite Radio content on the Internet, including Howard Stern's two channels, Martha Stewart Living Radio, Sirius OutQ, and commercial-free music programming. Sirius also selected Altec Lansing to develop the new antenna headphones for the Stiletto 2. Featuring large 30-mm drivers for full-spectrum acoustics and an adjustable headband for increased user comfort, the new Altec Lansing antenna headphones can deliver hours of listening enjoyment in absolute comfort and crystal clear audio clarity.
Other features of the Stiletto 2 include a brilliant 2.2-inch color display, a handy media dial, and a six-way navigation control that provides easy one-handed access to all features and content. Thrown in for added convenience are Sirius Replay, which allows users to pause, rewind, and replay up to 60 minutes of live radio programming; Game Alert, which allows listeners to track favorite sports team and drive broadcasts and alerts when scores change; and Game Zone, which provides a listing of the user's favorite teams in one virtual category. Parents also have control over usable channels with the parental channel lockout feature. Measuring 1.9 x 4.3 x 0.6 inches, the Stiletto 2 weighs in at a scant 4.3 ounces.
About Sirius
Sirius Satellite Radio delivers more than 130 channels of music and programming via crystal clear direct satellite feed. In addition to 69 channels of commercial-free music listening, Sirius also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, and weather forecasts. Sirius--the official satellite radio partner of the NFL, NASCAR, and NBA--broadcasts live play-by-play games of the NFL and NBA, as well as live NASCAR races. All Sirius programming is available for a monthly subscription fee.
What's in the Box
Stiletto 2 receiver/MP3 player, battery, AC power adaptor, Altec Lansing headphones, ear buds, PC cable, and My Sirius Studio software.

Listen to more than 130 channels of music and programming on the go--in the car, at home, or in the office.

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Kenwood DNX7160 2-DIN Multimedia DVD Receiver Review

2012-02-22T06:25:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have the Aussie 7360 version, identical apart from locale settings.

First up, I had the reset issue that some owners have experienced with this model and also the DNX-9960 model. This has been fixed with an easy to load firmware update off the Kenwood website. If the FW on your unit is 1.0.0, then update as other slight improvements have been made to the iPod interface.

My main reason to choose the Kenwood was the Garmin navigation which I've used for several years and prefer over other SatNav systems. Could be just familiarity but I do like its no-nonsense interface. Access to readily available red-light and speed camera POIs and ability to upload all my existing favorites were also features for me.

As a radio/CD/DVD/iPod player, it's a very flexible unit. The comprehensive settings available across all audio/video sources mean any owner should be able to fine tune the unit to their listening preferences. You can configure just about every conceivable aspect whether it's EQ, position, balance or fader, spacial enhancement and so on. You can add a reversing camera which activates on selecting reverse gear. Plus you don't need to use a Kenwood camera. You can choose a CCD if you prefer over CMOS.

In my own case, I've retained the stock speakers at this stage and the improved sound over the standard Toyota head unit made by Fujitsu Ten, is wuite noticable, especially in the bass and treble ranges. As it is I don't see any reason to invest in an amp or replacement speakers.

The only reason I did not award a 5 star rating is that the interface which is easy to use, is a bit slow to respond and sometimes needs multiple touches to get a response at all. This is annoying as it distracts you while driving and as such it could shift your focus off the road. This is far from ideal. I tend now to ensure my sources are set up before driving. That is, try not to change CDs or change playlists on the iPod feature while driving. I have had my unit setup to play DVDs while driving but only use music DVDs. A nice touch is the ability to have a video window on the Nav screen. A quick touch hides this feature if the law is watching! I've fitted a PAC Audio SWI-JACK steerring wheel control unit interface to use the factory controls with the head unit. They work well but there is a slight delay in response. I guess this is because the controls must be translated in the box and this unfortunately is not instantaneous. You get used to it though.

You can also customise the boot screen which I have done to make it look more like a factory unit. All these features make the Kenwood a very desireable unit. While the Alpines look very nice too, the Garmin SatNav was the clincher for me and overall I am very happy. I'd probably rate it a 4.5 stars if I could but not quite a 5 as it does have some slight imperfections, but these are not enough to prevent me recommending the 7160/7360.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kenwood DNX7160 2-DIN Multimedia DVD Receiver

Product Description:
Kenwood Dnx-7160 6.95" Multimedia Navigation Receiver With Bluetooth

Get 45% OFF

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Clarion VZ309 3.5-Inch Single-DIN Multimedia Station with USB Port Review

2012-02-21T14:09:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)To put it politely, I have been disappointed by the performance and feature set of this receiver. In fact, I thought it was so bad that this couldn't have been a product developed by Clarion. I think this is a re-badged Clarion which was designed/engineered by a low-tier manufacturer. The fact that the HD Tuner that works with this receiver doesn't work with any other seems to point in that direction too. But this is a review, so I will be specific about it.

Usually, people write the positives and negatives when writing a review. I will do the same. So, here's what I like about it:

1. Looks: It is a handsome looking deck. I am not a fan of the flashing LEDs and rotating colors. This has very minimalistic and simplistic, OEM type design that complements the rest of the dash.

2. Build quality is great. Definitely does not look like a made in China item that you can buy at an auto parts store.

3. Nice, large screen - crisp and clear.

4. Sounds is good, although nothing earth-shattering for a 200W amp.

5. HD Tuner works well, get stations fast and clear.

Now, before I list the things I don't like about it, let me explain something. A lot of people will mention a LACK OF FEATURE as a negative. I kind of find it unfair. I mean, before you buy something, you should know what features it has or doesn't have. For example, this receiver doesn't have Bluetooth. Now, it will be unfair for me to say this is a bad receiver because of that.

On the other hand, things that are wrong with it, or designs that are inconvenient can be fairly mentioned in the list of CONS. So, I will start with it:

1. If you start your car before you attach the faceplate, the receiver will remain turned off. You have to press the power button to turn in on - every time. With most receivers, if you turned off your receiver before you remove your car keys, it will remain off until you turn in on manually. Same way, if you left your receiver turned ON, and turned the car off (remove keys), it will come on automatically next time you turn on ignition and put the faceplate. This doesn't do that. Very inconvenient.

2. The "power"/ON button is not lit when the unit is off. So, coupled with the issue #1, it is a major inconvenience at night. You come in, start the car, put the faceplate back on - and nothing. Now you will have to blindly look for the power button to turn it on.

3. If there is a CD/DVD in the drive, it will always start in the CD/DVD source, regardless of last source you were listening to when it was turned off.

4. USB slot is also not lit, so, inserting a USB drive at night takes a few tries.

5. Most of the buttons have more than one functions. One function is printed right on the button, the other function for the same button is printed right below it. However, ONLY the button is lit, not the print below it. For example, the power button also acts as the mute button. But when the receiver is on, only the power symbol is lit, not "MUTE" which is written right below it. It is true for all buttons with more than one functions.

6. The dreaded DVD-loop issue. If you switched to a different source or turned the unit off while playing a DVD, next time it will only loop in the chapter it was last playing. Definitely a bad programming issue.

7. If you "mute" the unit while playing a CD or songs from USB, the mute will be automatically canceled and sound will come back on after the next song comes on. Really annoying - specially if you are on the phone with someone and suddenly the music comes on. I know this is not meant to be or that it is not a feature because the mute symbol stays on the display, even though the sound is heard. Again, bad programming.

8. The faceplate anchor design is merit-less at best. It has two plastic anchors sticking out from the unit where the faceplate latches on. These are plastic anchors about 1" long and they are just sticking out. If one of the breaks, the whole unit is useless. I will post a pic to show what I mean.

9. Absolutely no display customization. What comes with is what you get - and what comes with it is nothing. You can't change the display color/wallpaper/font/size - nothing.

10. USB operation is ridiculous at best. It shows all the songs in one list and the only way to navigate through them without the remote is to go up and down, which is painfully slow. You can go folder to folder using the remote. With the "UP" and "DOWN" symbols being not lit, it's inconvenient at night.

EDIT: I discovered that you can press and hold the up or down button to navigate from folder to folder. No mention of this in the manual.

11. If your mp3 folders have a pic such as an album art, this unit will get stuck at that, and it will ask you to put the parking brake on to view it - instead of just not showing the pic and moving on to the next song. If you have a lot of albums, you will need to manually remove all the album arts from the USB drive.

12. In the USB mode, it "eats" about 1 sec from the beginning of a song when it moves starts the next track. It's not as noticeable with the songs that start slow, but clearly annoying when a song starts out loud or with a beat, for example, Michael Jackson's Billie Jean. Don't know if this applies to CD tracks too.

13. It will recognize only 512 songs total in your USB drive. Now-a-days people have their whole music collection on a single chip. 512 songs limitation sets you back to 1999.

14. A lot of the DVD operations can only be performed using the remote. There are buttons on the faceplate that are inactive during DVD play which they could have easily put some functions on.

15. It is not compatible with all USB drives. I don't know which ones are okay but I have a USB drive that works fine everywhere but this gives me an error saying "UBS Bad".

16. No dedicated button for "search", meaning fast forward or reverse. So, if you want to FF a song or DVD chapter, you will have to press and hold ">>|" for about 5 secs and then it will do it only at 2x speed. Do the same again (another 5 secs) to go 4x. If you let go before that, it will just skip to the next song or chapter - and you will have to do it again.

17. The internal clock loses time like crazy!! It would be half to a minute behind in just a week.

18. No permanent brightness setting for the screen. All you have is Normal -> Dim -> Off, using the Dim button. You can't set the brightness to your liking. To make matter worse, the setting using "Dim" button is temporary. Once the unit is re-started (turn off/turn on), it goes to full brightness.

19. Finally, THIS UNIT IS SLOW!!! Navigating through songs or tuning stations, skipping songs, switching sources - much slower than even the cheapest receivers out there.

Now, some of things that I would have love to see and I could expect in a $400 receiver:

1. This unit should have been AT LEAST bluetooth ready.

2. It has this huge, rotary volume knob which is also used for Bass/Treble settings by pushing it. I think this would have been more useful is this was programmed to be used as "Enter" button, and putting the "Bass/Treble" settings in the settings menu. Now, the "AS" button acts as enter which is not even lit.

3. When the ignition is on and the faceplate is not on, there is a little triangle blue LED that flashes to show where to enter CD/DVD. I wish this LED would blink all the time so it would act as a theft deterrent.

4. When you enter the "Settings" menu where you can change equalizer/loudness etc, the music stops. So, you have no way to instantly compare the effect of different EQ or loudness settings. Wish the music didn't stop.

5. The faceplate carry-case/box is CHEAP!!! They should have included a little better case.

Like the title says, the only thing that makes things even is the ultra-low pricing of Amazon, which sometimes even include a free HD tuner. Otherwise, for more price I would suggest getting something else.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Clarion VZ309 3.5 Inch Single-DIN Multimedia Station with USB Port

Product Description:
Clarion's VZ309 is a true multimedia station with a DVD/ CD receiver; USB connector that supports playback of MP3, WMA and JPEG files; front AUX inputs for portable audio players; and optional iPod audio and video playback (CCUIPOD2). The brilliant 3.5 inch display lets you control it all. All this in a small one-DIN package.

caption Click to enlarge.
Add the optional CCUIPOD1 to control your iPod from the source unit.
6 channels of preamp output to grow your system.
Includes full-featured remote.
Enjoy a Wide Variety of Media
The built-in optical disc drive is compatible with DVD-Video, DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, CD-DA, HDCD, CD-R and CD-RW, so you're assured access to a wide variety of visual and musical entertainment.
You can also play back MP3/WMA files from disc, complete with ID3-Tag display of artist/track info on the screen.
3.5-inch LCD Screen
The 3.5-inch LCD displays operational status of your iPod, CD and DVD playback, radio functions and more. It offers maximum usability within minimum dimensions.
iPod Playback
Just connect your iPod to the VZ309 using the optional CCUIPOD1 to control your iPod from the source unit. Please see the Clarion website for iPod models that can beconnected.
Front USB Input
Grab a USB drive with some of your favorite MP3/WMA tracks and enjoy them right from the front of the unit.
HD/SAT Radio Ready
You can connect optional tuners and enjoy the benefits of high-definition and XM satellite radio.
AM/FM Radio
Catch up on the news or listen to your favorite stations. Get quick access to your favorites with 18 FM and 6 AM station presets.
Auxiliary Input
Use the front 3.5mm auxiliary input to connect external audio devices like MP3 players, etc.
Rear AV Output
A rear AV output allows you to send your signal to a second monitor in the back seat.
Dedicated Rear vision Camera RCA Input
Add a rear vision camera to see the area behind your vehicle, for added safety and convenience.
Room to Grow
With 50 Watts through four channels, and a 24-bit D/A converter, the VZ309 gives you great sound to start. But it also includes 6 channels of preamp output and a subwoofer volume control, so you can easily add external amplifiers and build a monster system.
Remote Included
A full-featured remote control is included.
What's in the Box
VZ309 Source unit, Mounting bracket, Removable face plate case, Trim plate, Remote control unit, Battery (CR2025), Owner's manual, Installation manual, Installation hardware

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JVC Deck with Built-In HD Radio Tuner Review

2012-02-21T13:46:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I went shopping around and compared the JVC to the Kenwood and the Alpine radios with builtin hd tuners. The Kenwood radios biggest problem is you have to activate the satellite radio to use the radio. The Alpine radio was the cost. For the money the JVC KD-HDR1 provides all the features and versatility to make it the best radio for the price and for the capabilities it offers. Once you listen to High Definition radio you will not enjoy regular FM broadcasts again. Alot of stations are going to High Definition radio. I am very happy with this product and would recommend it to anyone who wants a good sounding radio without paying for satellite to get it. The surround sound it offers is even a better enticement and the EQ settings will make it worthwile even on a stock system without a amplifier.

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Product Description:
• JVC KDHDR1 CD/MP3/WMA/AM/FM Receiver w/HD Radio Tuner • HD Radio Tuner • AM/FM Radio Tuner • White/Blue LED Display • DIAS Digital Tuner • 7-Band cEQ • Direct Track Access • Rotary Encoder • Multi-Cast Capable • 24 Station Presets • 24 Bit DAC Resolution • (3) Preamp RCA Outputs (Front/Rear/Sub) • Subwoofer Level/Frequency Control • SRS Circle Surround Automotive • ID3 Tag • 200 Watts Max • Sat Radio Ready • MP3/WMA • CD Changer Controls • Wireless Remote • Standard Single DIN Size

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Valor SD-906W In-Dash 1 DIN AM/FM/CD/DVD Motorized 7-Inch Monitor Review

2012-02-20T10:11:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The good:

Easy installation.
Screen is large and bright.
Price on Amazon is great.
Love all the useful features in one unit...when they work.
User Manual and wiring is easy to understand.The bad:

Valor support is poor.Sent a help request 3 days ago to Valor about the touch screen not responding to my touch (after a week of ownership).Haven't heard back.I tried restarting stereo, and the remote control functioned but not TS.Recalibrating was not possible.After turning off car and waiting until the next day, problem went away.If it happens again, I will revise my review.

***REVISION*** The touch screen continuously stops working when the unit gets hot.This has happened dozens of times in the couple months I've owned the unit.It works again after the car is turned off for a while, but it lost another star because it is annoying, and Valor support never responded to my inquiry above.

Also, I have yet to find a brand of SD media card that the unit will read without getting "device not supported" (I've tried reformatting 2 brands of SD cards in FAT32 and NTFS and it still doesn't read them).

It also takes a good 30 seconds for the player to scan a DVD full of mp3's, or to scan USB media...not a deal breaker...but you would be surprised what this can do at 6AM when you forgot you attempted an awfully loud singalong and butchering of "Run to the Hills" the previous night.I nearly soiled my pants the morning my stereo resumed play at the same loud volume. Luckily you can set a resume volume, and I highly suggest going that route.

One more thing...the screen ejection mechanism seems fragile and likely to fail some time after the warranty expires.

The ugly:

Me singing "Run to the Hills"...and the fact that the blue LEDs do not match my orange dash lights, but real men do not care about that...or so I'm told.Conclusion:

Lost 2 stars because the verdict is still out on the the long-term durability, and Valor's support and website need serious improvement.I may have to send it back.For now, when all the features do work, it's lovely.

I recommend filling out and sending off the Valor warranty card to make sure you get your full one year manufacturer support.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Valor SD-906W In-Dash 1 DIN AM/FM/CD/DVD Motorized 7 Inch Monitor

Product Description:
Built-In navigation, Bluetooth, Dual Zone, SD Card Reader & USB Port, iPod Audio Ready, 4X40 Watts

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Pioneer Premier FH-P800BT - Radio / CD / MP3 player / USB flash player - Double-DIN - in-dash - 50 Watts x 4 Review

2012-02-20T07:28:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This head unit is a great option for someone who wants an in-dash iPod (particularly iPhone) solution, but doesn't want to buy a more expensive navigation unit. The simple looks won me over initially, and if you've ever shopped for head units, you know that most on the market look absolutely ridiculous, and are apparently intended to be as obnoxious and blinky as possible. Although one major knock on the appearance of the FH-800BT is that the blue illumination is extremely bright, even after you enable dimming. Bright blue LED's are the bane of modern electronics. Its saving grace, however, is that you can actually shut off the display completely while it is operating, which is brilliant for long-distance late-night drives.

If you have ever used a Pioneer head unit, you will be immediately familiar with most of the settings. EQ, subwoofer, cross-fade, etc. are all there. Some Pioneer units have an adjustable parametric EQ, however this unit has a more straight-forward 7-band EQ. Otherwise, it's typical Pioneer, down to the trademark beep.

The sound quality is excellent all-around. Radio, CD, iPod, and Bluetooth A2DP all sound fantastic. There was a touch of hiss on Bluetooth audio at high volumes, but I think this is unavoidable. The "Audio Retriever" function supposedly mathematically restores audio lost from MP3 compression. It definitely makes a noticeable difference in the high frequencies without much detectable distortion added, but I think it's more a matter of personal preference.

iPhone connectivity is superb. I was able to pair the unit to my iPhone 3GS without a hitch, download the phone book, and make and receive calls without any problems at all. The included microphone is a little on the large side if you are trying to hide your install discreetly. However it works very well, and I had no trouble being heard on the other end at highway speeds, even though my car is not particularly quiet. Goodbye bluetooth headset! One minor note is my iPhone occasionally declares that the cable is not intended to be used with an iPhone and asks to be put into airplane mode. I disregard this message, and all features appear to work flawlessly.

A few things are completely unforgivable on this unit:

For example, "Telephone" REALLY does not need to be accessible via cycling through the "Source" button when there is a dedicated Telephone button right next to it.

The feel of the center knob is a bit flimsy, and center-clicking generally requires two-fingers to avoid pushing the knob left/right/up/down unless you push it dead center.

I wish they just added a few more dedicated buttons instead of burying features in the center-knob. There is a lot of empty space on the face of the unit, which would be great to have things like radio preset buttons (or phone quick-dial buttons). And since there are no dedicated radio preset buttons, why do they bother having 3 sets of FM presets? Couldn't they just put 18 presets in one place instead of forcing me to cycle through? And why does Audio Retriever need a dedicated button? That's a set-and-forget feature.

The iPod control, while generally very good, has a few nags. The unit allows you to alternate between "Song Shuffle", "Album Shuffle", and "Off" (buried in the center-knob functions), however when you tap the dedicated Shuffle button it seems to always jump back to "Song Shuffle". Hitting the button again does not turn shuffle off (as expected), but instead just re-shuffles your entire iPod and starts playing again. This is really a shame because I prefer to listen to my iPod on Album Shuffle mode, but the unit insists on jumping back to Song Shuffle. So instead, I leave Shuffle off. It's easy enough to browse for the albums I want anyways.

All in all, this is a very good head unit that is marred by a few flaws. If you can put up with the usability issues, then I highly recommend it. Otherwise, if you don't mind spending the money, I would look into a more fully-featured unit with navigation.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer Premier FH-P800BT - Radio / CD / MP3 player / USB flash player - Double-DIN - in-dash - 50 Watts x 4

Product Description:
Your calls come in loud & clear with advanced echo cancellation. Setup is easy with simple phone pairing and automatic phonebook transfer.When you're not utilizing hands-free calling, the FH-P800BT can use Bluetooth Wireless Technology to feed your appetite for entertainment. Using "wireless audio" control and streaming (AVRCP, A2DP), you can control and listen to a compatible audio player or music phone on your headunit.Hear the detail, warmth and clarity, the way the artist intended it, from all of your highly compressed MP3, WMA and AAC files stored on USB memory device, iPod and portable digital players. By restoring data (especially higher frequencies) that tend to get lost in the digital compression process, Pioneer?s Advanced Sound Retriever technology enhances audio reproduction nearly all the way up to 20 kHz frequencies.Pioneer's FH-P800BT is ready to roll with capability for direct connection to your iPod. USB 2.0's speed and capability allow an elevated iPod experience in the car, and nearly limitless expandability for portable media players and USB memory devices.File search and access are extra-quick. The headunit keeps song, artist, time and album information displays very clear and user-friendly, and control is intuitive through the 7-Way Rotary Commander. The system's wired USB connection provides direct digital signal transfer from the iPod for clean, clear sound.The FH-P800BT is smartly designed to expand your system, customize your experience, provide superior sound quality and easy operation.

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PYLE PLDNV49 4.3-Inch TFT Touch Screen DVD/CD/MP3 Player/AM/FM/SD-USB Receiver with Built-IN GPS and USA Canada and Mexico Maps Review

2012-02-20T04:44:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased this unit for the DVD & GPS combo, and I would highly recommend it.

High Points:

The screen is bright and has good contrast, even in bright sunlight. It has several tilt positions to make reading it easier, and the touch interface is very responsive to both finger tips and finger nails.

The sound quality is excelent. 80x4 power is very solid with clean sound even at max volume.

GPS is very responsive with excelent preloaded maps for Canada, Mexico & the US. The turn-by-turn voice prompts are available 25+ languages with male or female options and are easy to understand.

DVD/CD playback is good, even with dirty or scratched disks. Have not experienced any skipping during driving, even when crossing bad rail road tracks.

Low points:

No dedicated subwoofer RCA connections.

Included manual leaves much to be desired.

When compared to other in-dash units with comperable features, the cost difference makes this unit a must buy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: PYLE PLDNV49 4.3 Inch TFT Touch Screen DVD/CD/MP3 Player/AM/FM/SD-USB Receiver with Built-IN GPS and USA Canada and Mexico Maps

Product Description:
4.3-Inch TFT LCD Monitor with Touch Screen Motorized Pull Out & Close In Dash DVD Player with Built-In GPS DVD, CDR. CDRW, MP3 Compatible On Screen User Friendly Setup Menu Dual Zone Function Full Function Remote Control Monitor with Last Position Memory AM/FM-MPX Tuner Radio System 320 Watts Total Output (4 X 80 Watts) AUX Input in Front Panel 24 Station Memory Preset EQ Din Mounting 1xAV Output 1xAV Input 1xAudio Output 2GB Pre Loaded SD Card with USA, Canada & Mexico Maps Dimensions: 7-InchL x 6.65-InchW x 1.96-InchH

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Bazooka TMS8A-HP-FJ Subwoofer-FJ Cruiser Review

2012-02-19T08:36:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The pre-fab'd plate that fits into the molding wasn't drilled right. I had to re-drill 2 of the main 4 attacment points.The rig rattles pretty bad, but its an easy fix.If you browse the fjcruiser forum for the subwoofer rattle fix you'll find a great write up on how to add some self adheisive rubber around the edges.I strongly suggest doing this during the install.
Other than that, the sound quality is pretty good.I wasn't looking for the best bump in town and I like how the unit performs.Nice have a pre-wired install and no additional amp to worry about.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bazooka TMS8A-HP-FJ Subwoofer-FJ Cruiser

Product Description:
This part is designed using the legendary performance of Bazooka's BTA8100, and uses some engineered brackets to make a seamless integration into your Toyota FJ Cruiser.Significantly outperforms factory subwoofer system in both performance and sound quality.

TMS8A-HP-FJ
Toyota FJ CRUISER Bass Tube

Crisp, clean bass and nothing more for your Toyota FJ Cruiser.
The corner of your car amplifies the concentrated bass output of the enclosure.
About BT Amplified Bass Tubes
The new amplified Bazooka subwoofers feature the legendary patented Bass Tubes enclosure design, but with a twist. These units are completely self-contained bass monsters. Available in 100-Watt BTL or 250-Watt Class D amplifier configurations, the new amplified Bazooka subwoofers are the true solution to the common automobile interior problem of "not enough space for bass."
A Bazooka subwoofer adds the bass, clarity, and realism that your system is missing with absolutely no modifications to your car, its warranty, or its original audio system. If you are leasing your car, there is no better way to upgrade your stereo system than by adding a Bazooka subwoofer.
TMS8A-HP-FJ Toyota FJ Cruiser Bass Tube
The TMS8A-HP-FJ is designed specifically for install in your Toyota FJ Cruiser. It features an eight-inch dual voice coil subwoofer to deliver the goods. Simply point it into the rear corner to take advantage of the Bass Tubes Enclosure, and you're rockin' in no time!
TMS8A-HP-FJ Features

Grill

Woofer

Edge Roll

Tube Enclosure

Port

Port Tube

Acoustic Damping Fiber

Integrated Amplifier

Corner Loading

Custom Install
OEM interface harnesses are included, specifically for installation in the FJ Cruiser. Cargo net cleats will remain accessible, and removal is quick and easy if you need even more cargo room.
The TMS8A-HP-FJ is also a breeze to install, taking about 20 minutes total.
What's in the Box
Bazooka TMS8A-HP-FJ Subwoofer, Wiring Harness, Installation Hardware, Instruction Manual

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Clarion VZ409 7-Inch Single-DIN Multimedia Station Review

2012-02-19T07:24:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This headunit is great. Everything runs and sounds great. There are only two problems I have with it: I installed it myself, and I had an extremely hard time connecting the brake cord to my trucks parking brake signal cord, and as of now, I have yet to get it connected. The other problem is the iPod interface. It loads very quickly, but the scrolling is not very intuitive and it takes a very long time to scroll through the song/artist/album lists. Other than that, though, this is an extremely easy to use unit that is well worth the cost.

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Product Description:
Clarion's VZ409 packs plenty of features into a one-DIN DVD unit. The VZ409 boasts a fully motorized, high-resolution 7-inch QVGA LCD display, DVD/CD/MP3/WMA playback, AM/FM radio, and more. And there's room to grow--connect to a Sirius satellite radio receiver directly by adding a tuner, get hands-free calling by adding Bluetooth, add iPod direct control with a simple cable, and expand the system with three preamp outputs. The VZ409 gives you great value to start, and lets you choose where to add on as you go.

Plenty of features in a one-DIN DVD unit, with room to grow.Click to enlarge.
iPod Direct for playback.
6ch Output for superior system expandability and versatility.
Full-featured remote control is included.
High-Resolution QVGA Display
The 7-inch QVGA color LCD features an intuitive graphical user interface for operation of your iPod, Sirius Satellite Radio, CD and DVD playback, including full access to DVD menus. The QVGA LCD screen offers high resolution viewing for DVDs as well as AUX connected sources. It's fully motorized, and folds safely into the unit when not in use.
24-Bit D/A Converter for Superb Sound Reproduction
Fully enjoy the sonic impact of DVD movie soundtracks or music videos. 24-bit technology actually oversamples the digital signal, providing excellent results that just weren't possible with older 16-bit systems.
Navigation RCA Video Input
With the VZ409, you can connect the NP509 hideaway navigation system to upgrade to a car navigation system at any time. Count on voice guidance messages and high-resolution map displays to get you safely to your destination. Optional SA509 required for installation.
Bluetooth Interface Ready
Add the optional BLT370 for hands-free calling in your vehicle.
Sirius SSP Direct Connection Ready
Connect to the Sirius Satellite Radio receiver without the need for a interface box. One sirius Tuner and one interface cable, and you are ready to receive over 130 channels of music, news, talk shows, sports and traffic information with CD quality sound throughout the USA.
Media Versatility
Play back your DVDs (including burnt DVD-R/RWs and DVD+R/RWs) and CDs (CD-DA and CD-R/RWs too).
You can also enjoy MP3/WMA files burnt to disc. ID3 tags such as artist and song info are displayed on the unit's screen.
AM/FM Radio
Catch up on the news or listen to your favorite stations. Get quick access to your favorites with 18 FM and 6 AM station presets.
iPod Direct Control
Add the optional CCUIPOD1 and enjoy full control of your iPod while it charges.
AV Input/Output
Use external devices (such as video game systems, etc.) using the rear AV input.
Or, add a second monitor in the back seat using the AV output.
Room to Grow
With 40 Watts through four channels, and a 24-bit D/A converter, the VZ409 gives you great sound to start. But it also includes 6 channels of preamp output and a subwoofer volume control, so you can easily add external amplifiers and build a monster system.
Remote Included
A full-featured remote control is included. The VZ409 is also OEM steering remote ready, if you'd prefer control right at the helm.
What's in the Box
VZ409 Main Unit, Power Supply Cord, Remote Control Unit, Battery, Installation Hardware, Finishers, Owner's Manual, Installation Manual

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Clarion NX409 6.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator Review

2012-02-18T15:21:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I debated buying this NX409 but couldn't resist the price/feature list.While it's loaded with about every feature you could want not all of them work or don't work the way they should.

Navigation:
The GPS doesn't update fast enough so that the vehicle position indicator is not correctly displayed on the map relative to the cross streets especially at speed. The turn by turn voice guidance sometimes says to turn right when you actually are turning left. Many of the POI's are not accurate both for location on the map and also that some don't exist. If you can get beyond the robotic tone and poor text to speech pronunciation...the voice guidance also truncates some road names. Two of the features listed in the GPS menu don't work at all (like the alert tone option when you are approaching your turn). This may be a software bug as they won't even stay selected.

Sirius Radio:
Mostly works well except way too often you'll power the unit up and all the presets you spent time getting just the way you want are gone. That gets old after about the 5th time.

Ipod:
I plugged in my Shuffle to the USB port and it says "unrecognized file format". So I thought I'd check that it's on the list of supported Ipods on the Clarion site. Click on Ipod compatability list and gee..."page not found". At least there's some synergy between their products and the web site.

Other:
The Bluetooth BLT 370 option is a waste of money. Way too often when you start the car it will lock up the radio with a "phone in use" displayed( even when there is no cell phone within a mile of the vehicle)...you then have to shut off the ignition and open the door to get it to power down then restart the car. It sync's up with the phone great but everyone says I sound like I'm calling from the Mariana trench.

The clock setting can only be set manually. When you select your correct time zone and DST to sync the time using the GPS it's off by two hours.

Last but not least Clarion's support both on the web site and by phone is a waste of time.

On a positive note the quality of the audio is very good as is the DVD display.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Clarion NX409 6.5 Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Product Description:
Get there fast, and get there entertained with Clarion's NX409. Featuring built-in GPS navigation, a 6.5-inch touchscreen control, iPod direct control, and plenty more, it's the perfect hub for your mobile entertainment needs.

Get there fast, and get there entertained. Click to enlarge.
Intuitive touchscreen interface.
2D/3D split-screen navigation.
Easily input addresses.
Enjoy your favorite DVDs.
QVGA Color LCD Monitor
The 6.5-inch touchscreen QVGA monitor is fully motorized, and offers a great picture whether you're using the GPS navigation or stopping to enjoy some video.
Enjoy Your Favorite Media
Take in your favorite music and movies from DVD, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, CD, CD-DA, HDCD, or CD-R/RW. You can also enjoy MP3 and WMA digital audio files from a data disc or USB thumb drive, for hours of music and ID3-TAG display of track information.
iPod Direct Control via USB
Just connect the USB cable that's included with your iPod to the source unit's USB input to control your iPod. Using an optional CCA723 cable will even let you watch iPod Video on the screen. The same USB terminal can also be used to connect a USB memory device with digital music files stored on it.
AM/FM Radio
Sometimes you just want to listen to the radio. Store your favorite radio stations on the 18 FM and six AM presets.
Front and Rear AV Input
NX409 is equipped with AV inputs on the front as well as the rear, making it twice as easy to plug-in a portable audio device or portable satellite radio for instantaneous enjoyment.
24-bit D/A Converter for Superb Sound Reproduction
Fully enjoy the sonic impact of DVD movie soundtracks or music videos. 24-bit technology actually oversamples the digital signal, providing excellent results that just weren't possible with older 16-bit systems.
Built-in Navigation System
Nothing to add--it's all there from the get go. Count on GPS accuracy, an efficient navigation engine, and intuitive 2D/3D map screens to guide you to your destination. Navigation data is pre-stored on the internal flash memory for quick access and response.

Sirius SSP Direct Connection Ready
Connect to a Sirius Satellite Radio receiver without any need for a interface box--and enjoy over 130 channels of music, news, talk shows, sports and traffic information with digital quality sound throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Rear Vision Camera RCA Input
This RCA input enables you to smoothly connect a rear camera to display the area behind your vehicle. The increased view encourages and facilitates safer driving.
Room to Grow
The NX409 starts you out with a 40W x 4 built-in amplifier, but with 3 sets of RCA outputs, you are free to add external power amplifiers to create a more powerful, sophisticated audio system.
You can also connect an OEM steering wheel remote, or add Sirius satellite radio.
Bluetooth Ready
Used with the optional BLT370 Bluetooth transceiver, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of hands-free calling as well as audio streaming of music you have stored on your mobile phone.
Remote Control Included
Control the action with the included wireless remote.
What's in the Box
Clarion NX409, trim ring, wiring harness, remote control, installation hardware, owner's manual, installation guide.

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Alpine IVA-W205 2-DIN DVD/CD/MP3/WMA Receiver/AV Head Unit (Black) Review

2012-02-18T05:06:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Picked up an IVA-W205 for my 2008 Saturn Vue Redline.Double DIN fits like a glove and the standard $29 bezel keeps it well appointed in the Redline's elegant interior (never thought I'd type the words "elegant" and "Saturn" in the same sentence)!;-P

Anyway, the IVA-W205 does not dissappoint: the screen quality is excellent, with a defined color palette that *pops* - especially in bright sunlight.The pulse-touch LCD makes it feel as though you are pushing a button when you touch the screen - a welcome feature.

DVD navigation is intuitive and works well.No, straight out of the box, you cannot view a DVD-video from the built-in screen while driving...unless your installer offers a toggle switch to get around that (mine did!).Audio sub-features (bass, treble, width, minor freq. adjustments, subwoofer, etc) are all there, and easier to traverse thanks to the visual GUI.

Installed the iPod cable connector for my 60GB iPod Photo; makes playlist and artist/song navigation a snap with the large touchscreen LCD.

Integrates with OnStar and steering-wheel controls if you purchase the standard add-ons to make it work, but look forward to dropping another $200-$300 for that.Don't bother with the Bluetooth add-on if you plan to use it with a Blackbird PMD-200, as the Blackbird PMD-200 has Bluetooth built-in and the IVA-W205 syncs with it (hence, your phone syncs with a PMD-200 and your PMD-200 syncs with your IVA-W205 while in the dock).

About the only complaint I have is Alpine's absolutely horrific choice of GUI graphics (no customizable wallpapers, jerky scrolling of song title/artist info, just plain old..."PLAIN"... user interface - it's 2007 Alpine - get with the times)!

Overall highly recommended!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alpine IVA-W205 2-DIN DVD/CD/MP3/WMA Receiver/AV Head Unit (Black)

Product Description:
A powerful, sleek double-DIN head unit solution. Designed to easily mount flush in your dash, the Alpine IVA-W205 boasts a brilliant 6.5-inch large display for a clean, slick feel. Stay connected to multiple sources with an abundance of convenient features that give you full control from one central screen. Your IVA-W205 is the perfect starting point to expand your system. Feel free to add on, as you like. Whether you want to connect to your iPod, get all the great features of your SIRIUS Plug-n-Play device or even enjoy hands-free conversations in your car, this is the unit that is ready for multiple sources. Now it's all up to you.

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Hifonics ZXi150.4 Zeus Series A/B Stereo 4 x 150 @ 4 OHMS, 4 x 300 @ 2 OHMS, 2 x 600 @ 4 OHMS Review

2012-02-18T02:27:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)It is a very attractive gun metal, stainless steel amp, feels solid although not overly so. I will be installing this tomorrow and update this soon...

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hifonics ZXi150.4 Zeus Series A/B Stereo 4 x 150 @ 4 OHMS, 4 x 300 @ 2 OHMS, 2 x 600 @ 4 OHMS

Product Description:
Hifonics Zeus Series A/B Stereo 4 x 150 @ 4 OHMS, 4 x 300 @ 2 OHMS, 2 x 600 @ 4 OHMS

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JVC KW-NX7000BT Double-DIN Navigation Receiver with 7-Inch Widescreen Detachable Touch-Panel Monitor, DVD/CD/USB/SD Card, iPod USB 2.0 with Bluetooth Adapter Review

2012-02-17T15:16:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Had this unit installed by someone who knew what they were doing.Added Sirius Radio & Bluetooth.Works fanstatically!Best feature is the removable head unit.Received no help in the actual setup, but it was a breeze, a little help from the book, and rest was very easy to figure out.It is joy to operate.The Bluetooth phone works perfect with the unit, paired first time.Sound is great both directions.Minimal steps (touch screen) to go from one source to the other.USB plays my MP3 player, and works great playing my 1800+ songs off of my SD card.The NAV is as good as Garmin's if not better.The street pronounciations are much more understanable, the female voice clear and pleasent. Split screen, etc, etc.It was a real joy to have everything work right out of the box. So many great features, it may take me 2 months to set them up...but 10 minutes to get working to use it...Love it. No, I don't work for JVC, I am a retired old Army Sergeant Major who's loving it!Best money I ever spent. Bought it at Amazon (Barney's) excellent service. Postscript...had this unit 7 months now..(1/16/2010) still totally pleased.Not a single problem.

Click Here to see more reviews about: JVC KW-NX7000BT Double-DIN Navigation Receiver with 7 Inch Widescreen Detachable Touch-Panel Monitor, DVD/CD/USB/SD Card, iPod USB 2.0 with Bluetooth Adapter

Product Description:
This double-DIN all-in-one navigation system gives precise navigation with built-in RDS-TMC tuner, high sensitivity WAAS GPS, and 7-inch wide touch panel. The unit features map coverage of the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, Voice Guidance in 16 languages, Text-to-Speech, 12 million P.O.I, Lane Guide, and Speed Limit Display. Enjoy audio and video from your iPod, USB devices, and SD cards. Experience a new style of operation with the Proximity Sensor--control keys will appear as your hand approaches. The unit includes the JVC KS-BTA200 Bluetooth adapter for fully functional Bluetooth Wireless Technology, HD Radio, and SAT Radio with optional devices.

A great double-DIN all-in-one navigation and entertainment system. Click to enlarge.

Widescreen With Proximity Sensor

The KW-NX7000BT features a 7-inch touchscreen monitor. It's motorized to get just the right angle, and its low-reflection surface means you'll see it in the brightest sunlight.
The unique Proximity Sensor function will detect as your hand approaches to operate, and the unit changes from navigation to operation mode, with Menu, Zoom and Function keys immediately displayed on-screen.

Precise Navigation

The KW-NX7000BT gives you full-featured GPS touchscreen navigation on its detachable 7-inch wide monitor, with pre-installed coverage of the U.S., Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 12 million points of interest.
The KW-NX7000BT includes a wealth of competitive GPS features:

Includes the KS-BTA200 Bluetooth Adapter for hands-free calling and more.
Includes full-featured remote.

Quality Entertainment

CD/DVD Playback
Play back your favorite CDs, CD-R/RWs, and MP3/WMA/WAV/AAC CDs to take advantage of the four channels of 50-Watt sound.
If you're taking a break from driving, enjoy some DVD video, along with all the standard DVD controls you'd expect. Use the composite video output to send video to an external monitor.
Enjoy DTS and Dolby Digital sound to accompany your movies, and a 7-band EQ to dial things in.
Bring Your Digital Media
Enjoy MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV audio files from CD, DVD, or USB devices. ID3 tag info such as artist/track is displayed on the monitor.
For movies, DVDs aren't the only option. View DivX and MPEG1/2 content as well. You can also check out JPEG images.
AM/FM Radio
Tune into the radio and store your favorite preset stations for quick access.
iPod/iPhone Ready
Add the KS-U29 cable or other JVC iPod adapters to enjoy the contents of your iPod or iPhone in your vehicle. Plug directly into the front of the stereo.
The KW-NX7000BT provides full charging and video display for iPod video and iPhone. Allows full audio category and song function operation with the stereo controls.
A/V Input
Check out content from an external device--camera, DVD player, video game device, etc.-- with the included A/V input.
SAT/HD Radio Ready
Purchase an add-on adapter and easily add SIRIUS/XM or HD radio to your entertainment options.

Bluetooth Technology

The KW-NX7000BT includes the KS-BTA200 Bluetooth Adapter for hands-free calling.
Transfer your phonebook via Bluetooth to the KW-NX7000BT (up to 100 numbers). Enter a number directly from the unit's screen, or dial by phonebook, dialed calls, received calls, or POI info.
Included is a high-sensitivity external wired microphone to get you set up right away.

Plenty of Power and Room to Grow

You'll get a wild ride out of the on-board MOS-FET amplifier, with 50 Watts peak through four channels (20W RMS x 4). But if you do want more, six gold-plated preamp outputs are included (front, rear, and subwoofer) for connecting to external amps.
On the video front, you'll get a composite output. Add a second monitor to the back seat and you're set.
You can also make things more safe and convenient with a rear-view camera.
What's in the Box
KW-NX7000BT Main Unit, Sleeve, Brackets, Monitor Panel and Soft Case, Trim Plate, Power Cord, AV I/O Cord, Crimp Connector, GPS Antenna, Remote Control and Batteries, KS-BTA200 Bluetooth Adapter, Installation Hardware, User's Manual, Installation Manual

Alpine IVA-W505 2-DIN Mobile Multimedia Station (Black) Review

2012-02-17T02:43:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)UPDATE:
Alpine's customer service did get in touch with me, and I was able to resolve my Navigation issues...therefore, I would move my rating from 4 to 5 stars - but it won't let me!

Original review:
First let me say that I thoroughly enjoy this Alpine head unit.It really does everything you can imagine from an entertainment / navigation unit.

BTW - I purchased a PMD-B200 portable navigation unit that 'docks' into the IVA-W505 head unit.In addition, I am using the optional USB cable to connect to my 80 GB iPod.

The head unit will play both video and audio from the iPod.Basically, it can play anything that your iPod can play (video, audio, books, TV shows, etc.).In addition the unit can sync to your phone via bluetooth (I happen to have an iPhone) and the phone book syncs every time I get into the car.The 'handsfree' works seamlessly - when someone calls me the audio mutes, and as soon as I am done with the call, the audio (music) comes back on at the level it was prior to the call - and song plays from where it was interrupted by the call.

On the navigation side of things, I like the 3D mode - you can watch points of interest go by on the map, etc etc.The 'sky' on the nav unit changes from day to night...simple, but cool feature.

Supposedly, there are over a million points of interest...to which many in my town seem to be in there...

One note - I haven't been able to figure out what the 'address book' is in the navigation unit - it didn't seem to sync from my phone - and I had to manually input the addresses I wanted in the address book - which is cool I guess, it limited the entries in the book itself.

In summary -

PROS -

-Access to navigation, phone, iPod, DVD/CD all in one unit - VERY COOL!!!

-Interfaces very well with iPod - all iPod functionality is available in head unit (previous head unit only partial iPod functionality, playlist only)

-Screen resolution is very good - which makes movies crystal clear, and helps in day time viewing.

-Many audio and video adjustments - from bass, treble, subwoofer, and high pass filter, to contrast, color, screen height/width etc., etc.

-Just good to have so much functionality in one head unit...CONS -

-Owners manual might as well not exist, I have a USB cable that doesn't seem to go to anything (it goes with the nav unit, but with no software updates, and no computer interface why include it??)

-Graphic User Interface (GUI) is REALLY funky - you have to learn how to use it - not intuitive at all (and I own 2 Macs, 1 PC, Xbox360) - there are actually two menus, one for the audio / video side and one for the navigation side - and each have their own 'setup' menus etc....

-NO support on the Navigation side of things - Alpine actually isn't releasing updates for the navigation maps, and NAVTEQ (the people who they purchased the maps from send you back to Alpine (NAVTEQ's customer service was quick to respond and outstanding)

Overall, I am EXTREMELY pleased with the performance of the unit, and would recommend it to anyone.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alpine IVA-W505 2-DIN Mobile Multimedia Station (Black)

Product Description:
The IVA-W505 is a versatile AV head unit that provides complete media center capabilities through effortless touch-screen control over all your in-vehicle digital media sources. It's the full-featured 2DIN solution you've been waiting for - with full USB support for iPod, including iPod Video playback and a built-in DVD/CD/MP3/AAC/WMA/DivX player. It features a new customizable graphical interface, as well as full Bluetooth connectivity for both hands-free and streaming audio. Don't forget about navigation either. This unit also offers an in-dash docking station for the Alpine PMD-B200, so you can simply put your Blackbird portable nav right inside of the IVA-W505 and enjoy the larger 7-inch screen for a true fixed nav experience. The IVA-W505 is ready for all your favorite media, so you can enjoy full control of your in-vehicle entertainment.

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Pioneer AVH-P4000DVD 2-Din DVD Multimedia AV Receiver Review

2012-02-16T16:40:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)this deck is most def worth buying... its pioneer quality so you know you're getting the best for your money.. the display is bright crisp for day time use.. and automatically dims at night so as not to be too bright.. has tons of features all listed on the pioneer site... it fits extremely well in my double DIN dash space in my 2000 honda accord.. it works flawlessly and touch screen is very responsive.. shows dvds extremely well along with just about every other video and audio file types

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer AVH-P4000DVD 2-Din DVD Multimedia AV Receiver

Product Description:
Get your media on the road with Pioneer's AVH-P4000DVD, an in-dash double-DIN DVD Multimedia AV Receiver with 6.1-inch widescreen display. With versatile music and video playback, modern features--like USB Direct Control or DivX support, a built-in MOSFET 50 W x 4 amplifier, and plenty of expansion options--it's the perfect way to turn your vehicle into a mobile entertainment center.6.1-Inch Touchscreen Display
The AVH-P4000DVD boasts a 6.1-inch TFT LCD touchscreen with QVGA (480x234x3) resolution. Navigate your media and system settings from the touchscreen, and make it your own with customizable display and key panel illumination.
Versatile Multimedia Playback
Enjoy your favorite DVDs while parked with the full-featured DVD player, or add a back-seat screen for your passengers to watch as you drive. The AVH-P4000DVD will play DVDs, DVD-Rs, video CDs, and even DivX files burned to CD or DVD (or from a USB device). You also can use the A/V input to attach external devices like video game systems.
As for music, you can enjoy your favorite CDs, or listen to MP3/WMA/AAC files from either CD/DVD data discs or a USB device.
USB Direct Control for Unparalleled Flexibility
Take control of your networked life with the ability to have two devices connected at same time--iPod and also USB memory device. USB 2.0's capability allows nearly limitless expandability for portable media players and USB memory devices.
iPod Direct Control (CD-I200 required)
Connect your iPod to the AVH-P4000DVD for direct control of iPod audio and video menus, functions and selections via on-screen touch panel. This makes song access and search extra-quick and easy. The headunit keeps song, artist, time, and album information displays very clear and user-friendly, and control is exceptionally easy with the touchscreen control.
In addition, Pioneer has developed the following new features to make using your iPod in the car extremely easy and convenient:

Link Search

Passenger Control Mode

AM/FM Radio
Always have your favorite stations at hand with 18 FM and six AM user presets.
Best Stations Memory
Setting your radio presets can be a real pain while you're driving--especially if you're in an unfamiliar area. So, let the tuner do the work for you by activating the Best Stations Memory (BSM) function. The tuner will seek out the six strongest stations in the area and set them into the tuner presets.
Dial in Your Sound
Use and customize EQ curves, adjust the 3-band parametric equalizer, or change loudness settings to get the perfect sound.
AUX-In Connection
Use the built-in AUX input for connecting any portable digital player or other external auxiliary devices. For extra-convenient access, the AVH-P4000DVD has this input on the front panel.
Full Featured and High Performance
The AVH-P4000DVD is smartly designed to expand your system, customize your experience, and provide superior sound quality and easy operation.

Available Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Use the available CD-BTB200 Bluetooth Adapter and Bluetooth-enabled cellular phones for easy, safe, and hands-free operation, including talking via the headunit's microphone and your vehicle's speaker system. The system automatically mutes any other audio during incoming or outgoing calls.
Rear-View Camera Capability
Keep an eye on your backside using the optional Rear-View Camera (ND-BC2 or ND-BC20PA): While you're in reverse the rear-view camera can be in full screen. A unit equipped with the optional rear-view camera adds a level of safety and assurance you can rely on. In addition to keeping you and your family safe, this feature also makes maneuvering in tight spaces easier.
Ready to Expand
The AVH-P4000DVD also is compatible with Pioneer's XM and Sirius satellite radio tuners, HD radio tuner, TV tuner, CD/DVD changers, and more.
What's in the Box
Pioneer AVH-P4000DVD, trim ring, wiring harness, USB cable, installation hardware, operation manual, installation guide, warranty sheet

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Dual XDVD8265 AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA Receiver 6.5" LCD Monitor Review

2012-02-16T09:41:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This product is just the best.The look the power and the ease of use.wow i couldnt make a better purchase.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Dual XDVD8265 AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA Receiver 6.5 LCD Monitor

Product Description:
Power your in-vehicle entertainment system with the Dual XDVD8265 in-dash media player/receiver, which offers a multi-format DVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner, and bright 6.5-inch TFT motorized touchscreen LCD--enabling you to keep the family entertained with movies and music as well as access GPS driving directions using the optional Dual XNAV9525 navigation module. The screen has a brightness rating of 500 cd/m2 (candela per square meter), a contrast ratio of 300:1, and a resolution of 400 x 234 pixels.
It features 240 watts of total peak power (60 watts x 4 channels) delivered by the MOSFET amplifier, which offers superior thermal stability, which provides the power supply a fast response, excellent linearity, and high efficiency. It also offers US/European radio frequency spacing, 24 station presets (18 FM, 6 AM), and an infrared remote control. In addition to standard DVD movie and CD audio discs, the DVD player can handle DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, and CD-R/RW discs, as well as CDs with MP3 and WMA files burned to them. This
It includes Dual's iPlug digital audio interface, which connects your digital audio player (such as an iPod) into the receiver via RCA cables. Just connect your player to the iPlug using dual 3.5mm plugs (connecting the player's headphone jack to the iPlug's 3.5mm input jack). The receiver will control volume, but your player will control playback.
Other features include:

What's in the Box In-dash CD player with motorized 6.5-inch LCD, remote control, iPlug, printed operating instructions
Note: Professional installation is recommended for this product.

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PYLE PLDNTC7 Direct Factory Replacement for Toyota Camry Touch Screen DVD/MPEG4/MP3/CD-RW/USB/SD/ System With 7" HD Monitor and Bluetooth Review

2012-02-16T05:29:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This DVD player has crappy sound even with the added hardware needed to install the product when you have premium sound which I DO! The DVD player has subtitles AUTOMATICALLY pop up with every DVD that is put it so you have to use the remote to turn them off every time which is just stupid. the remote is HUGE. The lights that are supposed to match my cars FACTORY lights DO NOT MATCH at all! Umm lets see what else.... THE SD card reader stopped working less than one week of use right before my vacation. my recommendation is do not buy a product from PYLE AUDIO and dont spend the money to get this product installed!

Click Here to see more reviews about: PYLE PLDNTC7 Direct Factory Replacement for Toyota Camry Touch Screen DVD/MPEG4/MP3/CD-RW/USB/SD/ System With 7 HD Monitor and Bluetooth

Product Description:
7 inch High Defenition Monitor For Toyota Toyota Camry 2007-2010 All keys supply red and green LED, match your original car perfectlyDVD/MPEG4/MP3/DIVX/CD/CD-RW CompatibleBuilt-in FM/AM tuner(RDS)Treble/Bass/Balance/Fader/Encoder Volume Control PLL Synthesizer Tuner Auto Store/Preset Scan AM/FM-MPX 2 Band Radio Switchable USA/Europe Radio frequency 30 Station Memories (18FM/12AM) Built In 7"(16:9) TFT Color Monitor Touch Screen Control Operation Resolution: 800(RGB) x 480 Pixels/ ightness: 400nits Display Title, Time, Chapter, Subtitle & Angle Dolby Digital Coaxial Outputs ESP Function Anti-Viation/Anti Shock Protection LO/DX & ST/MO Selector Repeat/Intro/Random Telephone Display Function Clock Function / Mute Control Built in Bluetooth for hands free calling w/Auto Muting FeatureFront Panel AUX Input RCA Line Out / Preset EQ SUBWOOFER OUTPUT Selectable View Angle A/V Input & A/V Output USB / SD / MMC Slot Direct Connection of Alternate Audio/Video Source through Line Input Jack (MP3/Ipod) Wireless Remote Control Rear Camera Output / Parking Video Input 320 Watts (4 X 80w) Last Position Memory Unit Dimensions: 7.09"W X 3.94"H X 6.02"D

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Kenwood KVT-512 7-Inch Wide Indash Monitor with USB/iPOD Direct Control/DVD Receiver Review

2012-02-15T10:45:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got the kvt-512 along with the kna-510 installed in my 06 TSX. So far, all is good and no real complaint. The unit is loaded with features and options so what you can do with it is limitless. I have this unit connect through my factory head unit but the sound is still pretty good. The dvd is nice and clear and the navi works great. The touch screen is very responsive as well. I really like the fact that it plays mp3s off of a dvd. It is also convenient that it comes with a usb port to play mp3s off of. You can buy a ipod adaptor but why when you can get a cheap usb drive to play your music out of.I have it connected to a 8 gig thumb drive(bought for like $15) that I perminantly keep on there since it is plenty to hold all of my music.
You have to touch the screen on a unmarked location to activate the menu control options which is something I need to get used to. So far...I am definitely enjoying my new toy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kenwood KVT-512 7 Inch Wide Indash Monitor with USB/iPOD Direct Control/DVD Receiver

Product Description:
Includes Kenwood KVT512 7 inch Touch Screen Flip Out DVD Receiver.

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"Factory Fit" VW-700 In-Dash Navigation & Multimedia System with 7? High Res TFT/LCD Touch Screen Display for Volkswagen Review

2012-02-15T07:44:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The unit is great except when you plug in Ipod you can not view a playlist or menu of the Ipod.The price is another thing, it is a little pricey. If the price is set under $700.00, I believe a lot of people will buyit-but don't get me wrong, I love it!!You have access to USB/AV in the front panel unlike many Multi/Nav system, you have to access the USB/AV at the rear of the unit.Touchscreen(LCD)of the system, responds well with the touch.All and all is beautiful Multi/Navigation system.
-Paul

Click Here to see more reviews about: Factory Fit VW-700 In-Dash Navigation and Multimedia System with 7 High Res TFT/LCD Touch Screen Display for Volkswagen

Product Description:
This Factory Fit In-Dash Multimedia/Navigation System has 7" High Resolution TFT/LCD Touch Screen Display (16:9 Ratio Widescreen); Built-in GPS Navigation with Navteq Maps of US & Canada on 2GB SD Card; Features TTS (Text to Speech) GPS with Turn-by-Turn Voice Guidance; Built-in Bluetooth cell phone Hands Free System with noise cancellation Microphone; iPod Interface (Cable Included); Built-in SD Card Reader & USB Port; Supports DVD/DVD+R/CD/VCD/CD-R/MP3/MP4; AM/FM Tuner with 24 Presets (18FM/6AM); Power Output:50W x 4; Digital Stereo Surround Sound Effects; Auto switching to Rearview Camera Input; High Definition, RGB color imaging output; Supports Steering Wheel Controls; Wireless Remote Control (included); Factory Interface Plug included for easy direct plug and play installation; Front & Rear Line Outputs plus 2 A/V Outputs & 1 Video-In for Back-up Camera;Multi-Mode Operation (MMO) feature allows GPS Navigation Voice Guidance to operate while listening to music or watching DVD; and when phone call is received Multi-Mode Operation (MMO) feature automatically switches to Bluetooth mode, once call is completed it will automatically switch back to mode you were previously listening to or watching. SYSTEM VEHICLE FIT GUIDEVOLKSWAGEN 07-09 Jetta 09-09 Tiguan07-09 Passatt 09-09 Toureg 209-09 CC07-09 GTI07-09 Rabbit 09-09 EOS

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Kenwood KVT-514 7-Inch Wide In-Dash Monitor with USB/iPod Direct Control/DVD Receiver Review

2012-02-14T10:45:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Kenwood KVT-514 is the new motorized DVD unit for 2009. This thing can do it all. It is the First of Kenwood's units that works with the iPhone, you will need the KCA-iP301V($25-$30)cable. I doin't have the Bluetooth adapter yet, so I can't vouch for that, But I do know that you can use the screen to dial your contacts, and then you nave the Navigation hooked up while are looking up a place of business(Restaurant) You can press on the phone number and it will dial the place. I have the iPhone & Kenwood KNA G510 - Navigation system bu Garmin. The Nav. is great!! Well it's a Garmin and they are the best in the Nav. business.
I was looking at the Kenwood Excelon DNX8120, It has everything...but..I wanted a good unit that didn't stand out in a parking lot, and a 7in screen in the dash just beggs to be stolen. The screen in the 514 has the new Z-Action(tm) mechanism gives you 12 different viewing angles for optimum visibility. Kenwood's flip out screen units have been very good and reliable. 1 word of CAUTION...KENWOOD ONLY HONORS THERE WARRANTY IF YOU BUY FROM THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALERS..(Crutchfield). This is a lot of money for a unit and adds up if you add all the stuff for it, so a warranty is always a good thing. This thing will do it all I am glad I chose this model. I do my homework and buy the best, You cant beat Kenwood and Garmin both have a very good track record...Enjoy..

Works with Kenwood iPod adapter, Bluetooth adapter, HD Radio tuner, satellite radio tuner, and navigation module.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kenwood KVT-514 7 Inch Wide In-Dash Monitor with USB/iPod Direct Control/DVD Receiver

Product Description:
7.0" Wide Indash Monitor with USB/iPOD Direct Control / DVD Receiver

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Garmin GPSMAP 62St 2.6-Inch Portable GPS Navigator Review

2012-02-14T08:23:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)UPDATE September 7 2010.The issues resolved below are solved by release 2.50 of the 62st firmware.I have no trouble recommending this unit at this point!

I purchased the 62st recently and took it out for a 9 mile geocaching adventure.While I like the unit very much in general, it has one major problem.Like any hiking GPS, the 62st will record your track as you hike, letting you upload it to your computer when you return home.This is very useful for keeping track of your adventures.The accuracy of the 62st's GPS, combined with its barometric altimeter, lets you accurately record your track for later use.

Sadly what I discovered is that on the 62st simply pressing buttons on the GPS interferes with the barometric altimeter.Pressing even a single button on the GPS can result in spikes in the recorded data of 30 feet or more!On my first test hike, my 62st GPS said that I had climbed more than 8000 vertical feet, while the other GPSes carried by my friends on the same hike recorded only 2000.

I did apples-to-apples comparison experiments of the Garmin 62st, Garmin 60csx and Delorme PN-40, and only the 62st exhibits this bug.Pressing buttons on the other GPSes does not interfere with the recorded track data.

I have been in contact with Garmin Support about this issue, but as of today there is no fix.

Until this issue is resolved sadly I cannot recommend the Garmin 62s or 62st.I hope for a fix soon!

UPDATE as of 8/12/2010:Today Garmin released a new set of beta firmware for the 62 series GPSes.In preliminary experiments, the new firmware seems to have significantly improved things with respect to the altimeter.I will do more testing this weekend, but the situation seems to be improving!I'll report back early next week.

UPDATE as of 8/22/2010.The beta firmware has fixed the altitude issue.Some users have reported problems in updating to the beta, so I'd still suggest holding off on a purchase until Garmin releases a new "official" firmware release.I've taken the GPS out on several hikes totalling over 20 miles, and am quite impressed with it.I upgraded my review to three stars today, and will give it another star once a new firmware release is available.

UPDATE as of 9/7/2010.Garmin has now released firmware 2.50 for the 62st.If you update your unit to the new firmware level, I have no problem recommending it.My earlier problems are fixed.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin GPSMAP 62St 2.6 Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Product Description:

The newly designed GPSMAP 62st handheld navigator features a 3-axis tilt-compensated compass, a barometric altimeter, preloaded 100K topo maps and supports Custom Maps, BirdsEye Satellite imagery (subscription required) and photo navigation. Rugged and waterproof, GPSMAP 62st employs a quad helix antenna for unparalleled reception, has a high-speed USB connection, a sleek new design and connects wirelessly to compatible Garmin handhelds.

Rugged and waterproof, the GPSMAP 62St boastsa 3-axis tilt-compensated compass, a barometric altimeter, and plenty more.
Worldwide basemap with shaded relief.
Built-in 100k topographic data for the continental U.S.
Barometric altimeter tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude.

Keep Heading in the Right Direction

Explore the Terrain
GPSMAP 62st comes with built-in U.S. 100k topographic data for the continental U.S. and a worldwide basemap with shaded relief--all the tools for serious climbing or hiking. Map detail includes national, state and local parks and forests, along with terrain contours, elevation information, trails, rivers, lakes and points of interest.Get Your Bearings
GPSMAP 62st has a built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, which shows your heading even when you're standing still, without holding it level. Its barometric altimeter tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude, and you can even use it to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions.Share Wirelessly
With GPSMAP 62st you can share your waypoints, tracks, routes and geocaches wirelessly with other compatible Garmin device users. So now your friends can also enjoy your favorite hike or cache--simply press "send" to transfer your information to similar units, and let the games begin.Keep Your Fix
With its quad helix antenna and high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver and HotFix satellite prediction, GPSMAP 62st locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. The advantage is clear--whether you're in deep woods or just near tall buildings and trees, you can count on GPSMAP 62st to help you find your way when you need it the most.Add Maps
Adding more maps is easy with Garmin's wide array of detailed topographic, marine and road maps. With its onboard memory, GPSMAP 62st lets you conveniently download 24K maps and hit the trail, plug in BlueChart g2 preloaded cards for a great day on the water or City Navigator NT map data for turn-by-turn routing on roads (see maps tab for compatible maps). GPSMAP 62st also supports BirdsEye Satellite Imagery (subscription required), that lets you download satellite images to your device and integrate them with your maps. In addition, the 62st is compatible with Custom Maps, free software that transforms paper and electronic maps into downloadable maps for your device.Get Connected
You've been busy exploring and now you want to store and analyze your activities. With a simple connection to your computer and to the Internet, you can get a detailed analysis of your activities and send tracks to your outdoor device using Garmin Connect. This one-stop site offers an activity table and allows you to view your activities on a map using Google Earth. Explore other routes uploaded by millions of Garmin Connect users and share your experiences on Twitter and Facebook. Getting started is easy, so get out there, explore, and share.Find Fun
GPSMAP 62st supports geocaching GPX files for downloading geocaches and details straight to your unit. By going paperless, you're not only helping the environment but also improving efficiency. GPSMAP 62st stores and displays key information, including location, terrain, difficulty, hints and descriptions, which means no more manually entering coordinates and paper print outs! Simply upload the GPX file to your unit and start hunting for caches. Slim and lightweight, 62st is the perfect companion for all your outdoor pursuits.

What's in the Box

Garmin GPSMAP 62st, Carabiner Clip, USB Cable, Quick Start Manual

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JVC KD-AVX11 DVD/CD Receiver with 2.7-Inch Monitor and iPod/Bluetooth/Satellite Ready Receiver Review

2012-02-14T06:28:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have had this JVC KD-AVX11 for about 1-1/2 years.It rocks.I picked up the backup camera accessory kit.Let me start by saying, the screen is short from being too small, it is large enough to see all the details in movies and music videos.The bluetooth phone works great and its microphone is very good.The backup camera is cystal clear.I had one of those wireless ones before, this one blows them away.Even at night it is bright and clear.The Ipod connector is okay.The only problem with it is that you can't see more than one song at a time on the dispay.But what is amazing is the usb port.Connect a 20 gig usb drive with as many songs as you want and it will show up on the display in groups of 6-8 songs.Easly to scroll and pick songs.The only disadavantage is that if you have too much songs (more than 10 gigs)then it will take about 20 seconds to read the drive.Also, videos can be watched from your usb drive too.You will have to have a separate usb drive for video (cant read multiple media - music is dominant media).Hope this review help you.

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Product Description:
JVC's KD-AVX11 is a great way to get mobile video in a one-DIN space, along with a host of other cutting edge features. Take your CDs/DVDs, MP3/WMA/WAV files, DivX movies, and JPEGs on the road. Easily add support for Bluetooth wireless, SAT radio, steering wheel remotes, and direct control of your iPod. The KD-AVX11 starts out big, and lets you go bigger.

Mobile video and cutting edge features in a one-DIN space. Click to enlarge.
2.7-inch LCD with 16:9 aspect ratio.
JVC add-ons available for direct iPod connection (above), Bluetooth, SAT radio and more.
Wireless remote included. Click to enlarge.
Detachable Control Panel
At the heart of the KD-AVX11 is its motorized, detachable control panel. It's where you'll find the built-in 2.7-Inch LCD. With 560 x 220 resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio, it's a great way to enjoy video and images, and you can select from several different wallpapers to get the look you like.
CD and DVD Playback
Enjoy your favorite CDs or watch some video on DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW or VCDs. Use the gold-plated video output terminals to send video to a passenger screen.
AM/FM Radio
The KD-AVX11 features an AM/FM radio with standards like automatic presetting. You can also add SAT radio with additional accessories.
GIGA MP3 MULTI--Play MP3, WMA, and WAV Files Burned on DVD
The KD-AVX11 features GIGA MP3 MULTI, which plays MP3, WMA, or WAV files burned on DVD. With MP3 and WMA files, the 4.7GB capacity of a DVD can store up to 2,500 songs on a single disc--equal to 250 pre-recorded CDs. If you want even more superior sound quality, WAV files can be burned onto a DVD. WAV is an uncompressed PC music file format that delivers CD-quality sound. A single DVD disc can store 100 WAV files--equal to 10 pre-recorded CDs. Now you can enjoy non-stop entertainment with CD-quality sound, without an additional CD changer.
Bluetooth Ready
Bluetooth Wireless Technology is available with an optional adapter (KS-BTA200) for the KD-AVX11. A maximum of five compatible mobile phones can be registered for hands-free calling. With voice-recognition mobile phones, you can dial by just saying the name in your phone book. The wireless functions work even if your mobile phone is tucked away in your bag or pocket. You can also stream music from a compatible digital audio player, for listening on your car stereo.
DivX Video Files
The KD-AVX11 system is a DivX Ultra Certified product, and can play PC-created DivX� video files on a DivX� can fit up to 10 movies onto 1 DVD, or 1 movie onto 1 CD, without sacrificing picture quality.
Ready for iPod
You can listen to iPod music with an optional KS-PD100 adapter. The iPod can be controlled from the head unit, and song information is displayed with the same categories and layers as an iPod.
MPEG 1/MPEG 2 Playback
Play MPEG 1 and MPEG 2 video files burned on DVD or CD, TV programs recorded from a PC, or personal footage from digital camcorders, without the hassles of authoring or decoding.
JPEG Pictures
JPEG digital still photos can be displayed on their own or as slideshows.
Setup/Control With the Multi-Functional Monitor
You can use the built-in monitor to set the system's parameters (EQ, balance, fader, etc.). Operation is easy with user-friendly interface and controls. Searching through music folders with GIGA MP3 MULTI is also a snap.
Expandability
With its 50W x 4 MOSFET amplifier, the KD-AVX11 packs a lot of punch. But if you need more, three sets of preamp outputs (front, rear, and sub) are included.
A/V Input
Connect external devices like video game systems with the A/V input.
What's in the Box
JVC KD-AVX11 DVD/CD Receiver, trim ring, sleeve, remote control, wiring harness, installation hardware, installation manual, instructions

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7" Tft Lcd Color Rear View Backup Camera System with Audio Review

2012-02-13T15:50:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)We purchased this system a couple of months ago for our motorhome. We just got home from a trip and loved it! Shipping was very fast. I broke a little piece off the monitor stand and they shipped a new one out the same day at no charge. Very nice people. Very easy to install. I installed the wiring under the motorhome while my husband installed the camera and hooked up the power supply. Our rearview mirror inside the motorhome is useless so we intalled the monitor above the mirror and leave the camera on the whole time we are travelling and use it as a rearview mirror. Now we can see our towed vehicle and all the traffic behind us. It eliminates all blind spots. It is just awesome! We feel much more confident now travelling with this camera/monitor system. It works great at night too. We highly recommend this system.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 7 Tft Lcd Color Rear View Backup Camera System with Audio

Product Description:
This system is complete with color 7" TFT LCD monitor with mirror image capability, a 3 channel multiplexer (can connect a dvd player or other cameras) with automatic system switch, 130

Onkyo A-9555 Integrated Digital Stereo Amplifier (Black) Review

2012-02-13T06:54:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I ordered this amp on a whim as a companion for an Onkyo DX-7555 (single disc "audiophile" CD player) since they share a sophistocated remote system.I owned, and still own, a somewhat esoteric AudioLab 8000S which I consider to be sonically flawless and offering great flexibility even though it's almost 15 years old and really didn't expect the Onkyo to be much other than a typical import amp with a lot of bells and whistles but not outstanding performance.....big surprise.This amp is easily the sonic equal of my "British hand crafted" AudioLab, is robustly built and very, very musical.A great bargain at less than $500.

Particularly rewarding is a better than decent MM phono section allowing me to retire a separate head amp for those rare occasions when only vinyl will do.Additionally, while the unit includes bass/treble/and a subtle "loudness contour", the additional circuitry can be bypassed for a "direct" mode which essentially provides a straight wire of gain to your speakers...very clean and powerful.With the companion CD player it's a knockout combination and I recommend it highly.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Onkyo A-9555 Integrated Digital Stereo Amplifier (Black)

Product Description:
Onkyo Digital 85 Watt Stereo Receiver

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Garmin nuvi 500 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator Review

2012-02-12T12:41:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Let me start by saying that I currently own and use several different GPS units: Garmins Nuvi 750, Colorado 400t, Rino 130 (a pair), Magellan 1470 and a Dash Express (I've also owned Garmins 2720, 2820, Nuvi 350, and a 60CSx in the recent past).I have so many of them because I use them for different purposes:

* Automobile navigation: I travel all over the country and always take a GPS with me for use in my rental cars.
* Walking in urban areas: I love to stroll around great cities and a good GPS not only keeps me from getting lost, it helps me to find areas of interest.
* Hiking in rural areas: As a birdwatcher I find a hand-held GPS receiver essential.Getting lost in the desert or the woods is no fun at all.
* Bicycling: I love to just bike and then try to figure out how to get home later.A GPS makes it easy to find my way back.
* Geocaching:A wonderful hobby that involves finding things that others have hidden using coordinates posted on the web.A GPS is an absolute necessity if you want to do this.

So, why did I buy yet another Garmin, the Nuvi 500? It is a part of my eternal search for one GPS receiver that is appropriate for all of these endeavors.It is important to understand that no GPS is perfect, nor is any one model ideal for everything.However, some accomplish some tasks well but are useless for others.The Nuvi 500 (and it's brother the 550) are useful for all of my needs.

Instead of comparing it to other models that are more specialized, let me grade the Nuvi 500 in how well in works ,right out-of-the-box, for each task that I wanted it for:

* Automobile navigation: B-
There are much better units for this purpose if that is all you are going to use it for.Still, it gets you there.One major feature that I missed at first in the Nuvi 500 was Text-To-Speech (or TTS).This is where the unit pronounces the names of streets and roads.With it a GPS will say "Turn right on Broadway Street".Without TTS is will say "Turn right at the next street".However, in March of '09 Garmin released a firmware update that gives the nuvi 500 this feature!I have downloaded it to mine and it works just like my nuvi 750 (make sure that you download some TTS voices as well).I assume that new units will have this already installed. Still, the display is somewhat small for an automotive GPS, especially if the dash is deep and far from the driver.Although you can buy an optional FM traffic receiver, some units, like the Dash Express, have this feature built-in, plus it can connect via the internet and get real-time traffic info.My Garmin 2820 has built in satellite radio, however it is pretty big and needs to be plugged in.

* Walking in urban areas: A
Here is where the Nuvi 500 shines.First, it is small enough to fit in a pocket (although I do wish that it was thinner) yet it's big enough to see the display without squinting.However, my favorite feature is the user-switchable batteries.Most GPS receivers use built-in rechargeable batteries; nice but when they run down you either have to find a place to plug it in and recharge it or you are stuck without a usable GPS.The Garmin Nuvi 500's back opens up and the expended battery can be swapped out with a fresh one.This is a HUGE benefit for anyone using a GPS in any place other than a car.Another nice feature for the urban tourist is that you can download photos from a special web-site and not only see them on the Nuvi it will give directions to where the photo was taken.Cool.

* Hiking in rural areas: B
The Nuvi is not as ergonomic as those units designed to be hand held.It is a flat, rectangular device without a textured surface, still it is very usable outdoors.What I like about the 500 is that it comes loaded with both City Navigator and Garmin's Topo Map (the 550 does has more North American coverage but does not have topographical coverage).Both units feature "digital elevation model" (DEM) mapping which shows you shaded contours at higher zoom levels, however, the Topo maps will show much, much more.Details like elevations, streams, small bodies of water, trails, landmarks and many other features that can really be useful when you are out in the boonies.

* Bicycling: A
I had my Garmin Colorado mounted on my Trek 7300 bike and although it looked funny (I have photos of it on Amazon's Colorado 400t page) it worked O-K.Still, it did not come with the same type of street maps that the Nuvi does (I could have purchased it for about $100 and downloaded it onto the Colorado if I wanted to) and it was not as intuitive to use as the Nuvis are.Also, the Nuvi 500 really looks nice on my handlebars.Since it is waterproof (as is the Colorado) you don't have to worry about a rainstorm.

* Geocaching: B+
If you haven't geocached and don't ever plan on doing it then you might want to skip this part of my review.However, if you are on of the many thousands that enjoy this growing hobby (over 800,000 geocaches have been placed worldwide) this is a GPS that can take you from your driveway to the cache and back effortlessly.Like the Colorado (and similar models such as the Oregon) you can download cache information directly to the GPS.Other Garmins can download the coordinates but the Nuvi 500 (and the 550) will display the cache information, hints, logs and just about everything that you need to successfully find what you are looking for.You can also record the results of your search (found, did not find, needs repair, etc.) for later transfer to the geocaching website.I've used the Nuvi 500 to find caches and it took me right to it.I'll still use my Colorado but if I only want to take one GPS with me, it'll be the 500.

Additional things that I like:

The Nuvi 500 lets you change your mode of travel (car, bike or on-foot) from the main page.It will then customize you directions based on your mode of transport icon (for instance, you can navigate one-way streets much differently on bike or on foot vs. by car).Another nice touch is when you choose a destination a little tab slides out from the "Go!" icon on the screen which shows your Usage Mode (car, bike, etc.) the Distance and the Time based on your chosen mode of travel.My 750 does not have this feature.Another thing that I like is that you can easily program the Nuvi 500 for on-road or off-road use.If you are traveling on foot you are not restricted to directions that require you to stick to the streets.

Somethings that I am not crazy about:

The specs list the battery life as "up to" 8 hours. I set the backlight to 50% and got 5 hours of use.Still very usable and with a second battery (which I bought with the unit and highly recommend) you can get 10 hours of continuous use without needing to recharge it or turn off the backlight completely.I also wish that the housing had a textured finish on the outside edge, giving you something to help you to keep your grip.

One final gripe: I can understand why Garmin does not include the AC charger with other Nuvi models but this one should really come with one.After all, it's billed as a multifunctional GPS, not an automotive GPS.

I am very happy with my new Garmin.I will be recommending this unit to all of my geocaching, birdwatching and bicycling friends.If you're are looking for a GPS that does it all, so far this one is the best.

UPDATE 12/03/08:The price has dropped quite a bit since I purchased it only a month ago.Now the value is even better!Grab it while you can.TR

Click Here to see more reviews about: Garmin nuvi 500 3.5 Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Product Description:
Perfect for crossing over the threshold from city to backcountry, the Garmin nuvi 500 provides a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with turn-by-turn navigation in a ruggedized, waterproof exterior that you can use while hiking, biking, or boating. With its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver and HotFix satellite prediction, nuvi 500 locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons--whether in the city or out in the wilds. And it easily switches modes (driving, walking, biking and boating) to navigate through your active lifestyle depending on your activity. Other features include a 3.5-inch touchscreen, microSD memory expansion, geocaching GPX file capabilities for complete cache descriptions and hints, and Garmin Connect Photos--enabling you to associate your favorite images with saved locations.

The waterproof nuvi 500 guides you while you drive, hike, bike or boat. The nuvi 500 comes preloaded with the highly detailed City Navigator North America NT maps for the lower 48 states, which also includes topographic maps for a better perspective of your elevation. The map data, provided by NAVTEQ, features over six million points of interest, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs and attractions.

The DEM basemap (above) provides shaded contours, and the nuvi also includes a digital compass. Weighing 7.6 ounces and measuring less than an inch thin, the nuvi 500 fits easily in a purse, backpack, or jacket pocket. The 3.5-inch color touchscreen display (with 320 x 240-pixel resolution) is easy to read even in direct sunlight, and the nuvi's easy-to-use interface means you'll spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time searching for information. Simple controls and sub-screens make it easy to enter or search for destinations and get data about your trip. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nuvi takes you there with turn-by-turn voice directions, 2-D or 3-D maps and smooth map updates as you navigate. Its digital elevation model (DEM) mapping shows you shaded contours at higher zoom levels, giving you a big picture of the surrounding terrain. In addition, the nuvi accepts custom points of interest (POIs), such as school zones and safety cameras and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs.

Garmin's HotFix capability automatically calculates and stores satellite locations, greatly reducing satellite acquisition time so that you can turn the unit on and get going. With HotFix, your nuvi 500 remembers the position of all satellites it is tracking when you turn it off, and calculates their movements in order to predict where they should be the next time you turn it on. HotFix can predict satellite positions for up to 3 days after the device was last turned off.

Conveniently plug in optional preloaded microSD memory cards for all your outdoor activities on land or water. Just insert an optional Garmin MapSource card with detailed street maps (such as for locales outside the United States), and the nuvi 500 provides turn-by-turn directions to your destination. And with optional BlueChart g2 Vision maps, you'll get everything you need for a great day on the water including depth contours, navaids and harbors. Plus, a user-replaceable lithium-ion battery will give you up to eight hours of battery life (depending on use).
Specifications

Navigate by Photo with Garmin Connect Photos

Using Garmin's Connect Photos Web site, you can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google's Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nuvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide.

Play Wherigo Wherever You Go
This nuvi GPS device is compatible with Wherigo, the latest GPS-based activity from geocaching pioneers Groundspeak. Wherigo (pronounced "where I go") is a toolset for creating and playing location-based multimedia experiences in the real world. Using the Wherigo platform, Wherigo authors can build exciting adventure games, historical tours or other innovative activities.

3D Terrain Maps
Shaded relief terrain maps show you when to expect hills, mountains, forests and other natural features. Topographic terrain maps are viewable when using the 2D "birds-eye" view.

What's in the Box
Garmin nuvi 500, preloaded City Navigator North America NT Lower 48 U.S. states, Hawaii and Puerto Rico plus topographic maps, lithium-ion battery, vehicle suction cup mount, vehicle power cable, dashboard disc, quick start manual

Which nuvi is Best for You?

Note: All nuvis come with detailed NAVTEQ maps containing more than 6 million pre-loaded point of interest locations.
Device

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XO Vision XOD1840BTNAVI 7-Inch In-Dash Wide Touch Screen Fully Motorized Double Din DVD/CD/MP3 Receiver with Built-in Bluetooth and GPS Review

2012-02-12T07:17:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)December, 2008 There are a lot of features in this box and they all work well.

I have had this radio for about a day, and played with most of its features while wiring it up into the dashboard of a motorhome.This is simply the most bang for the buck available with all of the features that were desired... Navigation, Rear View Monitor, CD/DVD/VCD, AM/FM, Bluetooth and external Video input from another device.

The Radio interface is very basic.The radio is simply an AM/FM radio with no display of the INFO or data that is broadcast - and it is not an HD radio.But it has excellent quality audio played through the speakers on both the AM and FM bands.The display simply displays the 6 frequencies that have been programmed for that particular band.

The Bluetooth interface works well.If you play music on a streaming device, it will play through the radio's speakers.And you can make and receive calls through your Bluetooth phone.

GPS system works very well, as I had just plugged in the antenna, and as soon as I brought up the GPS, it showed exactly where I was on the map.I have not used it for navigation yet, but there are other reviews online that indicate the navigation software is adequate.

There are external jacks for displaying the DVD video and other screens on an external monitor and separate 4 channel audio outputs as well.The video and front R/L audio drive a larger monitor elsewhere in the RV.

The reverse video input works well.All you need to do it hook one of the wires in the supplied wiring harness up to the reverse light wire on your vehicle, and whenever you put your vehicle into reverse, the screen automatically switches to the rear video input, while continuing to play whatever audio source you were playing.If you have purchased and wired a reverse video camera on the back of your vehicle, you can always see what is behind you.

When playing DVDs, it is easy to step though the various sound tracks and other DVD features.

The secondary SD slot works with only older style SD cards with capacities up to 4GB.MP3s and videos can be on the SD cards or burned onto CDs or DVDs and played on this system.

It would be nice if there were some technical user type interface into the operating system of this box, but no information can be easily found on the internet.I would anticipate very little product support if you get into trouble with this box.It is better for the do-it-yourself types who want a lot of features and can support themselves.If you are that type, then you can save over $400 with this versus a comparable product with a name brand.There are some very similar products listed on EBay, directly from China.The screen shots are very similar to the XOVision with minute differences in each screen, but the button placement, SD card slots and the way the video screen folds down are all similar.

Click Here to see more reviews about: XO Vision XOD1840BTNAVI 7 Inch In-Dash Wide Touch Screen Fully Motorized Double Din DVD/CD/MP3 Receiver with Built-in Bluetooth and GPS

Product Description:
This multimedia receiver features built-in GPS Navigation with touch screen controls, voice prompts, millions of POI and Navteq maps of the US. The XOD1840BTNAVI boasts a widescreen 7-Inch motorized display with DVD, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, CD, MP3, WMA, AVI, and MP4 playback. Built-in Bluetooth means you can make/receive calls directly from the device or stream music from your portable Bluetooth devices. A front-panel USB port and SD Card slot let you listen to your songs right off of swappable media, and the ZpodLink cable lets you connect your iPod or other MP3 player. The versatile unit also boasts an AM/FM radio, JPEG image browser/viewer, full-featured remote and plenty more, all through a powerful 75W x 4 amplifier with room to grow.

A versatile DVD receiver with a widescreen 7-Inch motorized display, GPS navigation and built-in Bluetooth. Click to enlarge.
7" Motorized Wide Screen
The XOD1840BTNAVI features a 16:9 widescreen display to bring out the finest details. The Screen is Fully Motorized so you can move it up or down according to your taste.
Built-in GPS Navigation
The XOD1840BTNAVI includes a built-in navigation system, complete with touchscreen controls, voice prompts, and 2D/3D map viewing. A Navteq US map database is included on SD Card, with millions of points of interest (POIs) and more.
The system will display speed, distance, and many more helpful navigation info, and route preference options such as "fast driver" or "slow driver" tailor your route to your driving style.
Naturally, the GPS can be operated while listening to the radio or CD.
Bluetooth capabilities
he "BT" in XOD1840BTNAVI stands for Bluetooth. The unit boasts the latest in Bluetooth technology, allowing you to connect multiple handsets at the same time, dial a number directly from the screen or listen to music wirelessly right off your phone (A2DP).
Touch Operation
Allows user to operate almost all functions with the touch of a finger. Easy and convenient, it takes away the hassle of ever needing a remote. You can even navigate during DVD Play via Touch whether pausing a DVD or visiting the Main Menu.
Powerful Sound and Room to Grow
The Built-In High Powered amplifier delivers up to 300 Watts (4 x 75W) of power while not compromising on the integrity of the sound. Superb sound whether you're watching a movie or just listening to the radio.
4 Channel RCA preamp outputs (including a dedicated subwoofer output) leave room for sending to external amps, so there's plenty of room to grow your system.
Built-in navigation system, complete with touchscreen controls, voice prompts, and 2D/3D map viewing. Click to enlarge.
Make and receive phone calls directly from the device. Click to enlarge.
Multiple Video Formats
This unit supports DVD, MP4 (AVI/DIVX/3.X/5.X), MP3, VCD, JPG, SVCD, WMA, MWV, and CD formats, making it ideal for the tech-savvy among us. The backup camera input makes hooking up a camera both easy and convenient. The USB and SD Card inputs allow you to play MP3s right off your phone or flash drive, and add a Zpodlink cable for iPod and iPod Video playback directly through your vehicle sound system. You can even view your favorite JPEG images with slide show and zoom functionality, or insert karaoke DVDs to enjoy through your in-dash system.
New On Screen Display
The Interface of this unit has been completely revamped so now you can enjoy crisp new graphics with an easy to navigate menu. At any time during operation just press the Menu button or the top left corner of the Touch Screen to return to the original menu.
AM/FM Radio
There are those of us who still listen to the radio. The XOD1840BTNAVI features an AM/FM radio with 30 presets, auto scan, and other modern radio functions.
Remote Control
Control the XOD1840BTNAVI with the included wireless remote, giving you access to all unit features, or directly from the unit itself.
One-Year Warranty
The XOD1840BTNAVI is covered for a year after purchase.
What's in the Box
XO Vision XOD1840BTNAVI receiver, Remote control, Mounting sleeve, Wiring harness, Trim ring, Mounting hardware, User's manual

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Polk Audio Pa1100.5/Aa1100-A 5-Channel 1200 Watt Stereo Amplifier Review

2012-02-12T02:40:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had a feeling I would be pretty happy with this thing when I saw how big it was and heavy it is.This thing is a beast and it doesn't disappoint.Much like the longer reivew written above, I've never heard such crisp clear highs and solid bass in a car system until I put this in mine.I am running this with Focal 6 1/2 components up front, 6x9's in the rear and a 10" power coustic sub in a ported box.I have the gain (amp volume) on all the channels at just under half and it's already incredibly loud and clear.I would definitely recommend this amp, I acutally never write reviews but I'm so impressed with this that I just have to.GO BUY IT NOW< TRUST ME lol, you won't regret it.Just make sure to get speakers that can handle the juice this thing can pump out....and Enjoy!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polk Audio Pa1100.5/Aa1100-A 5-Channel 1200 Watt Stereo Amplifier

Product Description:
5-channel, 200 watt stereo amplifier with cast aluminum end caps for optimized heat dissipation.

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Boss Audio BV7970 In-Dash 3.6-Inch Widescreen Monitor with AM/FM DVD/MP3/CD Receiver Review

2012-02-11T15:45:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)DVD player went out in about 6 months, and it was rarely used. It also had trouble reading some DVDs. Radio and other functions still work. Would not buy again.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Boss Audio BV7970 In-Dash 3.6 Inch Widescreen Monitor with AM/FM DVD/MP3/CD Receiver

Product Description:
Our BV7970 is a full featured in-dash AM/FM/DVD player with a built-in 3.6 inch screen. MP3 compatible this unit connects to your iPod using the IPC60 (sold separately) interface cable. Plug it into the data port of your iPod and you can listen to your library through your car stereo system. Using a video iPod you can play your movies and music videos on the BV7970's screen. Other features include our Sound Engine audio processor and wireless remote control. This BOSS multimedia receiver has 360 watts (80 watts X four channels) of output power to create a theatre-like experience in your vehicle.

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Pioneer AVIC-X710BT 5.8-Inch In-Dash Navigation A/V Receiver with CD Player and Bluetooth Review

2012-02-11T03:42:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)- Great all-in-one package:Touch Screen, Hands free phone, Nav System, AM/FM Radio, CD Player, and external audio/video inputs.It even allows for a rear camera if optionally installed.
-Installation:I did have this professionally installed and found only AFTER they opened up my dashboard that the Honda Civic 2000 requires a special-order double-din mounting kit.Not too expensive, but I recommend you CHECK THIS THOROUGHLY BEFORE PURCHASING... This detail is not really made clear, even if you previously had a double-din radio in your car.With the mounting kit, the unit fits and looks great.
- Hands Free Phone: Took a little while to set up with my old bluetooth device, but once it found my phone, it connects automatically every time.Sound quality is good and it allows for voice activated calls. Voice activiation works pretty well, but can have trouble rocognizing some words.Sync'ing with my phone's address book has been problematic, but newer phones probably work better than my old Palm Treo.
- AM/FM Radio:Sound is fine.Provides 24 FM Presets and 8 AM Presets. Changing the station is a bit clunky and can require several menu selections just to change from an FM to an AM station ion the Nav System.
- Navigation System:Some nice advanced features like 3-D Maps & "Smart" zoom which automatically changes the zoom level based on where you are in your route.The Nav System in my Toyota Hilander is more refined and user friendly, but the AVIX is made by engineers to have some nice bells & whistles.

Overall, a great unit and it functions well. I think its extended the useful life of my old car for another 3-5 years. I do wish that changing the radio station did not take so many key presses - it would have been nice to have a one-press feature to change the station from preset to preset even from AM to FM to CD.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer AVIC-X710BT 5.8 Inch In-Dash Navigation A/V Receiver with CD Player and Bluetooth

Product Description:
Pioneer's AVIC-X710BT is an in-dash navigation receiver with CD Player and Bluetooth. Get fast, easy-to-use in-dash navigation, talk hands-free with built-in Bluetooth, and control your iPod or iPhone directly. With a built-in SD Card slot, larger monitor and several other features, it's the next step up from the AVIC-U310BT.

A no-nonsense in-dash navigation receiver with CD Player and Bluetooth.Click to enlarge.
Full-featured, expandable navigation.
Instant access to your contacts and hands-free calling.
Direct control of your iPod or iPhone.
Play back media from USB drives and SD cards.
Key reasons to upgrade from AVIC-U310BT:

Navigation Beyond Expectation

The AVIC-X series of receivers are ideal for those looking for a refined navigation experience with the latest in media and connectivity options. Out of the box, this system comes with 12 million points of interest and an extensive map database to help you find your next destination.
On the Map
The easy-to-operate Pioneer Navigation system has built-in maps that put the world at your fingertips. This includes major points of interest, such as restaurants, ATMs, gas stations, entertainment venues and more. The built-in Text-to-Speech engine clearly pronounces turn-by-turn direction and street names to ensure smooth travels. The AVIC-X710BT also offers high-resolution 2D and 3D maps with renderings of nearby landmarks and terrain to help navigate the world around you.
AVIC Feeds
The system's database is fully expandable with AVIC feeds, Pioneer's PC application, which lets you create custom trips and your own points of interest.
Voice Control
The Z-Series offers convenient voice-activated navigation, which allows you to simply say an address or find nearby points of interest.

AVIC FEEDS for iPhone now available

Unleash the power of your Pioneer navigation system with the AVIC FEEDS for iPhone application. Find a destination, then transfer it to your Pioneer navigation system for turn-by-turn routing.
Bridge the Gap
Start Planning your route before you even step into your car with the free AVIC FEEDS app. Now you can seamlessly use your iPhone with your Pioneer navigation receiver. Simply find your destination with the built-in Google Maps interface and transfer it via Bluetooth for easy, turn-by-turn directions.
Picture Yourself There
The AVIC FEEDS app also allows you to use the geo-tag data in your photos to be routed directly to places you've visited. The built-in GPS feature of iPhone 3G and 3GS has the ability to embed geo-tag information in the photos you take with its camera. AVIC FEEDS allows you to save destinations by reading these geo-tags. You can also use AVIC FEEDS to create destinations from geo-tagged photos that are sent to your iPhone.

Your iPod (and iPhone) Will Thank You

On top of being an exceptional navigator, the AVIC-X series delivers an iPod experience that blows away FM transmitters or cassette adaptors. Even at the first glance, you will fall in love with the easy-to-use touch screen controls for your music and brilliant 5.8-inch display for your videos. Album art is also beautifully displayed.
With the optional cable (CD-IU230V) connected to your iPod, you will notice how easily you can find songs, videos, artists, or playlists with a few simple taps of your finger. The AVIC-X710BT also features voice-activated control of your iPod. Simply say the name of an artist, album, playlist, or genre to bring up the next song.

Ditch the Headset with Built-in Bluetooth

Take incoming calls through the AVIC-X710BT, and be heard clearly without a headset courtesy of Bluetooth technology. Connecting your compatible phone is easy and gives you instant touch screen access to your contacts. You can also dial a contact with the sound of your voice by simply saying "Call Jack Smith."

The Freedom of Speech

Your iPod audio functions and hands-free Bluetooth dialing can all be controlled with the sound of your voice. Voice-activated control over your navigation system not only performs in-car tasks with greater speed, but helps you keep your eyes (and attention) on the road ahead.

Media Mogul

Built to navigate, but born to entertain, the AVIC-X710BT offers audio and video playback from the most popular formats. Whether you're listening to WAV audio files on CD, MP3 audio on SD card or iTunes AAC files on a compatible USB device, there are several playback options for your favorite media.
From Disc
Play back CDs and CD-RWs, and burn discs with all your digital media, since the AVIC-U310BT also plays back MP3, WMA, AAC, and WAV files from CD.
From USB Device
If you don't feel like burning CDs just throw the MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV files you want on a USB device and enjoy.

Sound Minded

Just because the AVIC-X710BT features a robust navigation platform, doesn't mean it holds back on sound quality. With 3 sets of RCA pre-outs, MOSFET50 power and a 3-band parametric equalizer, you can build a massive system with massive sound.

Expanded Listening

The AVIC-X710BT gives you plenty of room to expand your broadcast options. With optional tuners, experience the vast channel selection of XM Sirius Satellite Radio and HD Radio.
What's in the Box
AVIC-X710BT Main Unit, Power Cord, Extension Lead, RCA Connector, GPS Antenna, Microphone, User's Manual, Installation Manual

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Dual XDVD8183N DVD Receiver with 7-Inch Touch Screen LCD, Built-In Bluetooth, and iPod Control(iPod Cable NOT included) Review

2012-02-10T10:27:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Got this item last month and it rocks, can't beat value & reliability for price.I do have a few little gripes.

Good:
This is a decent head unit with very good interface, screen clarity and DVD playback.Sound quality was very good considering I have no amp and I liked that sound options could be configured.I read reviews on other sites before buying and as advertised most of the functions worked.I was able to play DVDs, MP3 CDs, and regular CDs.The bluetooth worked ok for audio transfer (with Nokia 6230 & Blackberry Pearl), and handsfree mic sounded ok on receiving end.I like the piano black with brushed chrome look and feel. I did not install the backup camera, and did not get the tv tuner unit in time for the install, but the aux-in port works fine.

Gripes:
I haven't gotten the ipod interface to work yet though - i currently have an Ipod nano (3rd gen).The Dual logo displays on the ipod, but the head unit keeps saying "connecting..."I think it may be a compatibility issue with the nano firmware version.Will check this out, but I can use the 3.5mm in jack as an alternative, and the nano does get charged using the ipod jack connection.I had to use a by-pass for the parkbrake - had a little trouble at first, but resolved this. Would have liked this unit to come with Divx and have more functionallity with the bluetooth - does not read call address book on blackberry pearl correctly. Tends to get warm quickly.

Overall:
This unit was professionally installed in a '04 "Corolla". Installation was quick and almost pain free (by-pass to parking brake took some time - I do not live in a state with video restrictions).I would recommend this unit to any one.Its a good sturdy unit with lots of features, and I could not find another unit at lower price vs reliability concerns.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Dual XDVD8183N DVD Receiver with 7 Inch Touch Screen LCD, Built-In Bluetooth, and iPod Control(iPod Cable NOT included)

Product Description:
Turn your vehicle into a mobile entertainment center with this affordable single-DIN DVD receiver from Dual Electronics. Make hands-free Bluetooth calls using the built-in microphone. Play back your favorite DVDs and CDs, burn MP3/WMA files to disc for hours of music, or just listen to the radio. Set up an in-car surround system with the 5.1 channel RCA outputs, and send video to rear monitors with a pair of video outs. Options abound, and your wallet will thank you as much as your passengers.

An affordable multimedia system for your vehicle.
Click to enlarge.
When motorized screen is tucked away, the secondary blue/white dot matrix screen takes over.
Easy to navigate touchscreen interface.
iPlug interface included for easy connection of MP3 players and other devices.
Seven-Inch Touchscreen Monitor
The XDVD8183N features a motorized, seven-inch touchscreen TFT LCD monitor with 480 x 234 pixel resolution, for great looking video and ease of navigation. When not in use, the screen folds back into the receiver seamlessly, with a smaller blue/white dot matrix secondary display to pick up the slack.
Bluetooth-Enabled
The XDVD8183N features built-in Bluetooth technology, which communicates with most Bluetooth-enabled phones. A built-in microphone for hands-free operation. Answer and place calls via the unit's touchscreen, along with one-touch dialing from the phone book, and on-screen caller ID.
Enjoy Your Media
Play back your favorite DVDs and CDs (including burnt DVD-R/RWs, DVD+R/RWs, CD-R/RWs) in the disc player, with full access to disc menus, subtitles, zoom mode, angles, etc.
You can also burn your favorite MP3/WMA music files to CD/DVD for hours of music on a single disc.
AM/FM Tuner
Tune into your favorite radio programming with the AM/FM radio, complete with 48 Station presets for instant access to your stations.
iPlug Interface Cable (Purchase Separately)
The iPlug cable uses a 3.5mm headphone jack to connect your digital music player to the receiver using RCA inputs. It's a breakout aux input, essentially, allowing you to connect your iPod, MP3 player, or other device for enjoyment in your vehicle.
Serious Sound
The built-in 50 x 4 MOSFET amplifier provides efficient performance and great fidelity. Dial in the audio further with standard bass/treble and balance/fader controls.
5.1-Channel Audio Outputs
With 50 x 4 Watts, the XDVD8183N delivers plenty of high-quality sound, but if you want to get a serious mobile entertainment center going, it offers full 5.1 channel RCA audio outputs: a pair of front outputs, a pair of rear, center channel, and subwoofer.
Audio/Video In/Out
Connect a game system, camera, or other source using the A/V input, and send the signal to additional monitors in your vehicle with two separate composite video outs.
Rear Camera Input
An RCA rear camera input is provided. Connect a compatible camera and enjoy the convenience and safety of backing up with added visual input.
Remote Included
A full-featured Infrared remote control is provided.
What's in the Box
Dual XDVD8183N Receiver, Remote Control, Trim Ring, Installation Hardware, Wiring Harness, User's Manual

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Pioneer Car DEHP7900BT In-Dash CD/MP3/WMA/WAV/iTunes AAC Receiver with Bluetooth Wireless Technology Review

2012-02-10T08:31:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This unit does work with blackberrys (I have been using it for calls all week with great results).I was worried about the unit because of other reviews, however I decided to bite the bullet and try it.I am glad I did, it works like a champ!When using a Blackberry, it will not store your phone book, or allow voice dialing, or transfer music, etc, however I knew that going in.I just needed a unit to allow high quality hands free operation and be xm ready.I have been very happy with it.

It took me about 2 hours to install it with xm radio adapter.I have a 2008 equinox and bought the harness and kit through Crutchfield.

So if you have a blackberry, don't get scared off of this one.

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Product Description:
Take Control of your in-car entertainment. The DEH-P7900BT gives you that power with Built-in Bluetooth Wireless Technology along with Direct Control for your iPod. This receiver also comes with a Pure Blue OEL display, SAT Ready and the capability of playing back formats such as AAC, MP3, WMA and WAV. So sit back, take control and enjoy one of Pioneers exciting entertaining receivers.

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Jensen VM9312HD Multimedia Receiver with 7-Inch Touch Screen and HD Radio Tuner (Black) Review

2012-02-10T06:28:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Well the Jenson has all you could want, an HD tuner (by itself outside msrp is 150$) so this is a cheap radio and tuner. Everything works great but i have to keep telling myself its not an ipod as the menu control sucks. its not really scrolling rather you see pages of music. you can not use folders on cds as they just combine it all. radio is spotty and it switches to analog more than i want and won't stay on digital only after i turn off the car (it resets to automatic ...). The biggest flaw is the cd player hissing and volume. the volume always resets when you turn on the system and it is really too loud though i set the master volume to 0. There is always hissing when the song is playing very soft. These things combine make me want to go with a better brand but heck i paid 100 bucks for installation of HD already and i do not think this tuner will work with other sets so it'll cost too much to take out and in. I might as well keep it...

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Product Description:
The Jensen VM9312HD multimedia head unit is a great way to break into mobile multimedia. This single DIN unit is iPod compatible, SAT ready (via SDA sold separately) and navigation ready (sold separately). It features a 7-inch touch screen and plenty of expansion options. Make those long drives more bearable for everyone.

A great way to break into mobile multimedia. Click to enlarge.
The mechanical LCD tucks away nicely when not in use. Click to enlarge.
Use the included jLinkDirect cable to attach your iPod for hours of music.
Example illustration of touch screen audio controls.
CD/DVD Player
Enjoy your favorite DVDs when parked, complete with wide and normal aspect ratios. You'll get a great picture in a small format with the 7-inch TFT active matrix LCD, complete with anti-glare coating for when the sun's still out.
The VM312HD plays DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD, CD-R/RW, SVCD, and VCD discs. In addition you can dig into your digitized collection, with support for MPEG1 and 2, XviD, AVI, MP3/WMA and JPEG files burnt onto a CD or DVD. With MP3/WMA files, you get full ID3 tag compatibility for displaying track info on-screen, directory search and more. Throw in a DVD with up to 1500 tunes and enjoy hours of listening.
Built in HD Radio Tuner
HD Radio technology allows CD-quality digital broadcasting of your local AM and FM radio stations. HD Radio broadcasts can include multiple channels on the same frequency, which is called multicasting. With multicasting, you can receive up to three additional multicast channels: HD2, HD3, HD4. With your VM8013 radio, you will receive HD Radio digital broadcasts automatically when tuned to a station that offers HD Radio technology.
Satellite Radio Ready
With a subscription to XM or Sirius satellite radio, you'll enjoy access to a ton of of music, news, talk shows, sports and traffic information with CD quality sound throughout the USA.
And of course there's always normal AM/FM radio. Tune into your favorite stations instantly with 18 FM and 6 AM presets.
MediaLink
It's all about connectivity. The VM312HD gives you an under-dash interface for connecting your many gadgets. A 3.5mm auxiliary input is provided for external audio devices like MP3 players. Two AV inputs (RCA) are provided for use with game consoles, navigation consoles, camcorders--you name it.
And what gadget would be complete without a little iPod love? Grab the included jLinkDirect cable to attach your iPod, and access an easy, intuitive interface for iPod navigation. Pull up your favorite artists, songs, playlists, etc., in an instant. Watch clips or photos on the LCD. Best of all, while your iPod's connected it'll be charged, so when you step out of the car you can keep the tunes coming.
Room for Growth
In addition to the aforementioned MediaLink inputs, the VM312HD has a number of options for expansion. A rear-view camera input will come in handy if you need a little help parallel parking. The two composite video outputs are ready to be sent to additional screens.
If you're after more power than the VM312HD's 13W x 4 channels, the front, rear, and subwoofer RCA line outputs allow you to send your signal to external amplifiers.
What's in the Box
Jensen VM9312HD, Cosmetic trim ring, Wiring harness power/speaker, Mounting hardware, Single DIN sleeve, HD Radio Module, HD Radio Module connecting DIN cable, Remote Control, Parking brake sensor extension wire, Media Link Module, Mounting hardware for HD Radio Module, Owners Manual, Quick Start Guide

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Alpine INA-W900 - Navigation system with DVD player, LCD monitor, digital player and radio Review

2012-02-09T13:34:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I would rate this unit an 8.8/10.I own a 2009 Honda Accord Ex-L w/o Nav because Honda charges a ridiculously high price for their navigation package and I knew I could do better for cheaper with aftermarket.This unit does an ok job with its navigation, but not as good as other units.The alpine has about 6 million points of interest compared to 12 million of other units so if you are searching for a location without its address, it could pose potential problems.As far as map updates, I doubt it.I have heard from Alpine owners of past and they still haven't released a map update for previous models.A feature I would have liked to seen is the ability to send an address to your headunit from googlemaps which would have negated the need for map updates in my opinion.The turn by turn navigation is nice, the voice is not annoying and it has an adjustable setting that controls how loud the voice comes in over your music.Another feature I like is being able to see your next turn even if you are on the audio screen.

Where this unit shines, in my opinion, is its ipod integration.

**Disclaimer: Be forewarned if you have an ipod touch you will have issues with it because it is not completely compatible with the ipod touches.There will be occasional disconnects and the only solution is to unplug and then plug back in your ipod, even on the latest firmware, 3.1 as of this message.I have confirmed this with Alpine support (which is sub par at best).This would have been a deal breaker for me, but luckily I have a classic also that works very well with it even though there are some minor quirks though (not a dealbreaker in my book), but that could be because of the ipod,it is rather old and has been run over.**

The way you access your ipod is pretty much mimicked through the Alpine.You have access to everything you would normally have when using your ipod (music, movies, podcasts, playlists...).The sound quality using the ipod to the headunit is nice!!!I am no audiophile but music sounds great from this headunit with the settings I currently have.I have heard from others that the IMPRINT module makes it sound even better if you don't know how to properly configure your settings by yourself (which I know I don't).Album artwork shows up nicely in the corner if you have artwork for the song or if you prefer, your next turn if using navigation.One thing I would have liked to have seen with the ipod integration is a search function so you don't have to scroll through all of your music.I have 4,000+ songs and even though you can scroll by alphabet, it would make things a lot faster in some cases if I could just use a search function that narrowed down all the available listings every time you clicked another letter to the song/artist/album name like you would do with your ipod.Speaking of the alphabet search function, it can be a little hairy at times.You would think that since one of the selling points of this head unit is its ipod integration, it would sort songs like iTunes does seeing as how iTunes is the only way to put songs on your ipod.For example, lets say I have the following list of songs:

Almost Easy
American Idiot
...And Justice for All
Arterial Black
Baba O'Riley

If I am currently on a screen that shows these 5 songs and I hit the Alphabet > button you would think it would put the 'B' listings at the top, but it doesnt.It sees the ... and puts that at the top of the screen since it is different from 'A'.So now we have ...And Justice for All at the top of the screen and if I were to hit the Alphabet > button again, Arterial Black would show at the top because 'A' is different from ....iTunes ignores these just like it does the word 'The' in song titles when sorting by alphabet but this headunit does not.Minor quirk, I know.

Video looks great on the 7 inch screen and the sound quality is great as well when using a DVD.If you use a converter to change a video to ipod format (instead of DVD format) from say .flv (YouTube's format) or .avi there is some sound/video quality loss but it is still convenient to be able to store all of your movies on your ipod and have them accessible at any time.

I also bought an Alpine backup camera to go along with the headunit and it is a dream to have.I am very surprised it came with toggable cones to help you measure distance.Along the same lines, this headunit is an awesome all in one system.There are connections for another AUX input so if you wanted to put in say a front camera or PS2, this system is accomodating. Be prepared to pony out the money for extras though (backup camera, Imprint, HD radio, SIRIUS, Bluetooth).These are all seperate modules that you must pay for.I was a little disheartened to see you had to pay out extra for Imprint and Bluetooth.Maybe not so much the Imprint, but definately the Bluetooth I felt should have been included.

The touchscreen user interface is responsive and user friendly, not to mention eye candy.Be prepared to hear people say "I want that" for any passengers you might have.Menus are easy to navigate and provide adequate system options.I cannot speak on audio options such as HPF or LPF, for people with aftermarket audio systems, as I don't have one and I have never dealt with options like that before.

All in all, this unit is a definate + in my book.I am very happy with my purchase and am glad I didn't buy a different head unit, I would just like to see some map updates and I will be a very happy man.

Summary:
+++Definate headturner
++Audio Sound Quality
+Touchscreen interface
+Ipod Integration...
-Assuming you don't have a iTouch
+Built to be an all in one device...
-If you shell out extra money for the modules
+- Navigation package has its moments.Map updates hold this unit back from being competitive with other units.
--Alpine Support

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Product Description:

The INA-W900 All-in-one Navigation/DVD/Receiver is equipped with a 7 WVGA, 1.15 million pixel touch-control screen. Alpines exclusive GuideView Window gives you a picture-in-picture nav window while the unit is in audio display/mode. Alpine's OnPoint Advanced GPS Positioning ensures accurate positioning on the map in areas where it's difficult to receive GPS reception. The INA-W900 uses the latest Burr-Brown 24 Bit DAC for ultimate sound quality with all your digital media sources. With "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" designations, the INA-W900 gives you fast access to all your iPod music and movies. 50W x 4, 3 - 2 volt RCA outputs, 1 A/V input, Rear Camera input, HD/Sat/Bluetooth ready. GuideView Window for picture-in-picture navi. directions
"Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" iPod/iPhone Control
7 WVGA, 1.15 Million Pixel Touch-Control Screen
6 million Points of Interest (POIs)
HD/Sat/Bluetooth Ready
6 Second Boot-Up Time

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Jensen Vm9312 7-Inch Motorized Touch Screen Multimedia Receiver Review

2012-02-09T05:12:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Some might consider this a lower end product, due to the fact that it's about half the price of it's nearest competition. Rest assured, the 'cheap' stigma is in price alone. It's an easy to use, easy to adjust, and fun to use deck that even the least tech-savvy of car owners can operate easily.

First off, I was surprised at how good the picture is. I never feel like I'm watching on a tiny screen, or squinting to make out details. The sound is also good, although at times during dvd playback, I thought it was a bit quiet. I haven't tried using a satellite radio or iPod yet, but for cd and mp3-cd playback it worked well, with great options for navigating through folders.

Few warnings for those thinking of buying this product;
-Player automatically reverts to full volume after being powered down. Can be a bit of a shocker if you're not ready for it.
-When going into the input menu or setup menu, there's a break in the audio for about 1-1.5 seconds. This isn't really a big deal, but is becoming more and more annoying the more it happens.
-It has some trouble recognizing the track title of most store bought discs, substituting song names with "Track 1, Track 2" etc... Not an issue with mp3 discs with ID3 tags.
-There's no option to fast-forward an mp3. I thought this would be a big deal, which prevented me from buying this deck for a while. Not really an issue.

Considering the price, it's a really decent deck. Intuitive controls, easy installation, and fun to show off. Other than a few minor (and probably easily remedied) issues, I'd definitely recommend this deck.

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Product Description:
Jensen Vm9312 7" Motorized Touch Screen Multimedia Receiver 7" Motorized Touch Screen;160w Max; Plays Dvd/Cd/Mp3/Wma/Ipod/Sat-Ready Receiver;Jlinkdirect-High-Speed Direct Connect Interface For Playlists, Artists, Albums, Songs, Photos & Videos; Controls All Ipod Functions (Except Ipod Shuffle) Via Touchscreen;High-Performance A Grade Tft Screen;336,960 Pixels; Mediaplex Single-Core Engine;Compatible With Dvd+R/Dvd+Rw/Cd-R/Cd-Rw/Cd-Da/Mp3/Wma/Svcd/Vcd/Mpeg1/Mpeg2 & Jpeg;2 A/V Inputs For External Media Connectivity To Vcr, Dvd Player & Game Console;2 Composite Video Output For Additional Screens;Plays Mp3/Wma Files Burned Onto Dvd+R/Dvd+Rw;Supports Up To 1,000 Songs On A Single Dvd;Compatible With Single & Dual Layer Dvd+R;3-Band Equalizerbass, Midrange & Treble; 8-Preset Eq Curves;Radio Broadcast Data Services;Station Call Letters, Song Information & Artist Information;Includes 3.5mm Rca Media Interface Cable To Connect Other Portable Devices; Sat-Ready Via Smart Digital Adapter; Compatible With Various Xm & Sirius Satellite Tuners; 7" Motorized Touch Screen Multimedia Receiver.

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Jensen VM9313 7-inch Touch Screen MultiMedia Receiver Review

2012-02-08T12:27:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Well, I researched it and got this one.For the price I really have no complaints.It may lack a few features like screen savers and all that, but it is actually a really good sounding unit.I love the music videos off of my ipod.(Yes the parking brake "bypass" from the vm9213 does work with this unit)Overall I would say I am extremely happy with my purchase.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jensen VM9313 7-inch Touch Screen MultiMedia Receiver

Product Description:
This 1-din multimedia system comes with a crisp and clear 7 inch touch screen, Had Radio Tuner, is Navigation, Bluetooth and XM ready, plus it provides out-of-the-box connectivity to iPod and other personal media devices via the jLink3 Cable and SD to USB adapter.

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Sony CDXH910UI Marine CD Receiver MP3/WMA/AAC Player with USB Wire for iPod and USB Devices (Black) Review

2012-02-08T06:29:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Well, it works.It resists splashes, but its faceplate is giant.You would like you would get a high-res display or some benefit to having such a big faceplate but nope.I bought this because it was pretty, I should have been looking at features like bluetooth audio for example.It works as expected and sounds great, the over sized faceplate and price and the lack of bluetooth are the only cons.Also don't buy this unless you can mount it somewhere very easily accessible because the display is hard to read at odd angles.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony CDXH910UI Marine CD Receiver MP3/WMA/AAC Player with USB Wire for iPod and USB Devices (Black)

Product Description:
Splash-proof : Rated to meet IPx5 standards, the CDX-H910UI is capable of resisting a 12.5 liter/minute spray of water from a distance of 2.5 meters for a period of three minutes-that's more than a splash! DRIVE-S Chassis : Sony DRIVE-S technology provides the ultimate audio platform, upon which to build a system that caters to demanding ears! 3x Preouts with HPF/LPF : The Sony CDX-H910UI includes three preouts so you can boost your boat's sound system with minimal effort and maximum flexibility.MP3/WMA Playback : Play CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs including discs loaded with MP3s and WMA files.

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Power Acoustik HDVD-9GRDK 8.8-Inch Pre-Loaded Universal Headrest Monitors with Twin DVD Combo and Headphones (Dark Gray) Review

2012-02-08T03:05:00.000-05:00

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Let me first start out saying that I have owned this product for over a month now and it has exceeded my expectations.I chose headrest monitors instead of the drop down roof mounted ones because I did not want to obstruct rear view vision and allow independent viewing / game play while on long road trip.These cd /dvd players mounted in the headrest eliminate the extra wiring to a dvd console.

My only hesitation from purchasing these earlier was from not knowing if there was any noise coming from the fan / dvd that would drive me bonkers,but I was very pleased to learn this was not the case.These units were quiet - the only thing I can hear from the rear were giggles from the Monty Python movie my son was watching while we were on a three hour trip.Simply Awesome.

I installed these myself since there was power under the seat (for power seats),but had to call support to find out which post carried the power and which were a/v.Tech guy was helpful - power cable is on DVD side(FYI). The size of the screen was perfect - it looks alot bigger than I imagined and I am glad I did not go for the bigger screen that would have been problematic. The brightness and quality of the picture was superb. comes with two remotes and good to use since touch screen is great if you don't have the remote handy,but you will have to put up with finger smudges.

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Product Description:
Here's a great way to keep the backseat entertained without breaking the bank or having to deal with custom installations. This twin-pack features two Power Acoustik HDVD-9 headrest DVD systems that easily attach to your vehicle's front-seat headrests to provide hours of multimedia entertainment to your passengers.

A pair of headrest DVD/multimedia systems with adjustable poles to fit most vehicles.
Includes two pairs of wireless headphones.
Available in four colors to match different interiors.
8.8-Inch Touchscreen
Control everything from the HDVD-9's 8.8-inch touchscreen. The unit's screen features a swivel adjustment for optimizing your viewing angle, and most features are accessed directly from the touch screen.
With its 1440 x 234 resolution and four screen modes--full, wide, cinema, zoom--the HDVD-9 delivers a striking image no matter the media.
Adjustable Poles
Fit most any vehicle thanks to pole width adjustment from 4 to 8.5 inches.
Wide Media Support
For video, you can play back your favorite DVDs and DVD-Rs, VCD, SVCD and even DivX files, in 16:9 widescreen for a cinematic experience in the backseat.
You can also listen to music on CDs or CD-R/RWs, and access your digital library with MP3 playback, from disc, SD card, or USB device.
Input/Output
Connect external devices using the 3.5 mini front panel Audio/Video input on both headrests. Easily connect video game systems, MP3 players, or other capable devices you brought along.
You can also select the DVD or A/V input from the other headrest, for sharing the entertainment.
Wireless Headphones
Each headrest unit boasts a built-in transmitter for use with wireless headphones.
Two pairs of headphones are included.
SD Card reader & USB Mini Input
If you don't feel like burning your MP3s or DivX files to DVD or CD, you can just throw them on a thumb drive or SD Card and you're all set.
Remote Controls Included
Two remotes give you full control over each headrest unit.
What's in the Box
Two Power Acoustik HDVD-9 Headrest Monitors, Two sets of wireless headphones, Two remote controls, User's Manual

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