Head Units Offer More Ways to Connect to Digital Music Players and Satellite Radio
For drivers who want to transform their cars into ultimate music machines, Sony Electronics today unveiled four Xplod in-dash CD receivers that offer the flexibility to play digital music or satellite radio in the car.
“Our strategy is to offer full connectivity,” said Brennan Mullin, general manager of Sony Electronics’ mobile electronics division. “Whatever your music source, we provide an easy way to play your tunes on the road.”
Plug It In
Each new car stereo offers MP3, ATRAC3plus™, non-DRM AAC and non-DRM WMA playback support and features an auxiliary input (aux-in) on the faceplate, making it possible to use portable music players in a vehicle with a standard 1/8-inch mini jack cord (not supplied). Similarly, three of the new models have a USB input, so drivers can plug a digital music player or thumb drive into the car stereo via the port, which is conveniently located on the front panel. For drivers who want to add a Sirius or XM Satellite radio, the head units are satellite-ready via a CD changer control. Satellite radio subscriptions and antennas are sold separately. Each model is also compatible with Sony’s XA-110IP iPod adapter.
Get the 411
The most advanced of the GT series head units, the CDX-GT81UW model, is for digital music enthusiasts who want options for creating a powerful, in-car listening environment. Its full motion fluorescent display and motorized fold out faceplate make this the perfect deck for tricking out your ride.
This high-quality MP3 receiver, incorporating Sony’s Drive-S HX CD chassis, has front panel aux-in and a USB input. It is satellite and adapter ready, and offers 4-volt front, rear and sub preamp outputs. It also includes switchable blue and red key illumination.
With the same feel as the high-end unit, the new GT710 receiver is designed for drivers who like to play a mix of digital music and traditional CDs. The CD/MP3 receiver has a motorized fold-out detachable faceplate and a switchable blue and red key illumination. Plus, it features Sony’s latest Dynamic Soundstage Organizer and a 3-band parametric EQ for audio control.
Most of Sony’s head units are compatible with other manufacturers’ portable audio players, as well as its own. The CDX-GT610Ui CD/MP3 receiver will be appreciated by those drivers who own iPod devices. With its built-in 30-pin connector attached to a 1.2 meter cable, drivers can simply plug their device directly into the head unit and control their library from the faceplate or remote control. The receiver is satellite-ready, comes with front aux-in and USB input, and is finished in gloss black with blue key illumination.
The CDX-GT410U CD receiver is satellite and adapter-ready and features front aux-in and a front panel USB for connecting digital music players. It has a 13-segment LED display and switchable red and green key illumination.
Pricing and Availability
The four new head units range from about $150 to $250 and are available now online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized retailers nationwide.
