As First In-dash Models with iTunes Tagging for HD Radio™ Technology
Dual Electronics has announced it is shipping two automotive entertainment head units that offer the most advanced technology in today’s digital audio landscape, including extensive iPod control, and HD Radio technology with iTunes Tagging.
“The automotive music experience has really evolved,” says Robb Groner, Vice President of Product Development, Dual Electronics Corp. “Today’s listeners expect easy access to their favorite tunes and easy ways to discover new music. Our new head units are designed to satisfy expectations with what is bound to be one of the most in-demand features among iPod owners, with the high-quality Dual sound that they expect.”
The XHD7720 ($249.99) leads the new lineup, and along with the XHD7714 ($249.99) are two of the first in-dash head units on the market to feature iTunes Tagging for HD Radio content. With this feature, listeners can “tag” their favorite new songs on FM HD Radio stations by simply pressing a button on the head unit’s front panel or supplied remote control. The “tagged” track information is transferred to an iPod when connected and then appears in iTunes in an easily managed list, giving the option to find out more about the songs and artists, sample and purchase the songs if they wish, directly from the iTunes store.
The XHD7720 takes full advantage of the sound quality and convenience capabilities of both the iPod and state of the art HD Radio broadcasts. The HD Radio tuner supports HD2/HD3 FM Multicast channels with a dedicated HD Radio tuner. This HD Radio tuner also includes a dedicated HD Radio only seek function, giving listeners an easy way to scan new digital content as they drive. Both the XHD7720 and XHD7714 are compliant with popular digital disc and file formats (MP3 and WMA, including ID3 tags), making them ideal for both serious and casual music lovers.
In addition to the extensive music capabilities of both models, the new XHD7720 is Bluetooth-ready and compatible with Dual’s BTM60 ($79.99) Bluetooth module, while the XHD7714 features full built-in Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity. This allows hands-free cell phone operation with front-panel Caller ID display from both models, making entertainment and communications in the car safer and more convenient.
About Dual
Dual Electronics, a subsidiary of Namsung America, Inc., is based in Heathrow, FL. Managed by Jim Braun, President and CEO; Clyde Podraza, President, Dual Commerce Division; and Matt Vinson, Senior Vice President of Product Planning and Procurement, Dual offers a wide selection of mobile electronics, marine electronics, and home audio loudspeakers. For further information, visit the company’s web site, www.dualav.com, or contact Adam Sohmer, SOHMER ASSOCIATES, 718-499-9161 (voice/fax), 347-512-0066 (cell), adam@sohmerassoc.com.
About iBiquity
HD Radio technology provides consumers with exclusive access of the best in digital broadcasting from more than 1,750 AM and FM HD Radio stations nationwide with over 900 FM multicast channels. Reaching 84 percent of the U.S. Population, these exclusive subscription-free channels deliver new content and fresh formats, essential data services and crystal-clear sound quality. For more information and recent news, visit http://www.hdradio.com.
