Clarion VX409 6.5-Inch Double-DIN Multimedia Station with Touch-Panel Control Station Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I installed this unit in my 2009 Subaru WRX. I removed it and returned it after 3 days.
The good:
-It has a good amount of power. I ran this to my stock speakers and they sounded much, much better than they did with the factory receiver.
-Good build quality. The physical unit feels well made. Mechanical flip face works smoothly, buttons and volume dial feel solid.
-It's cheap.
The bad:
-iPod integration is terrible. There is no way to easily scroll through artists/albums etc. You have to click an arrow to flip through each individual entry. This is OK if you have a couple albums on a nano, but not OK if you plan to connect an iPod with a large library. Finding an artist beginning with 'N' took close to 100 clicks with my full 120GB iPod classic. And if you want to go from Nelly to Nirvana, you have to start all over from 'A' again.
-Poor screen resolution. Font edges are jagged.
-No dimmer. It has a dimmer connection wire, but it did not work on my unit. The screen was at full brightness at all times, and the manual dimmer control did not work either. At night it was like having a spotlight in my dash.
-Restarts between sources. Every time you change sources, the entire unit restarts. Screen shuts off then on and everything. It doesn't take too long, 3-4 seconds maybe, but it is rather odd and obnoxious. I took the whole thing out to check for a loose connection when it first happened. Called Clarion about it and they said it is normal operation.
-Navigation. The specs list this unit as being compatible with an optional navigation unit. However, the only input for the navigation unit is a component video connection. So if you were to connect navigation, the VX409 would only serve as a monitor, and you would not have touch screen control of anything.
Overall, the actual physical unit could be quite nice. However the software feels like going back to using Windows 95.

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Clarion's VX409 packs plenty of features into a two-DIN DVD unit. The VX409 boasts a high-resolution 6.5-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 VX409 gives you great value to start, and lets you choose where to add on as you go.

High-Resolution QVGA Display The 6.5-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.
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 VX409, 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 VX409 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 VX409 is also OEM steering remote ready, if you'd prefer control right at the helm.
What's in the Box VX409 Main Unit, Power Supply Cord, Remote Control Unit, Battery, Installation Hardware, Finishers, Owner's Manual, Installation Manual

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DICE MBR-1000-BMW MediaBridge for BMW (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Used it in my 06 M3 w/Navi; works great, easy & clean quality install. I called DICE tech support because I guess I didn't read one step thoroughly :smack in head: and they were polite & helpful, solved it on the spot. Highly recommend this instead of the $600+ OEM unit.

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Audiovox CE1000SR Sirius Satellite Radio Home Tuner Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I debated between this one and the kenwood. I read some reviews about the software on the kenwood having problems so I bought the audiovox. This thing does everything it's supposed to. The sound is cd quality and it comes with everything you need. Including the antenna with 20 feet of cord. The read out is very easy to read. My husband and I absolutely love it and recommend the audiovox to everyone.

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Get ready for serious audio entertainment with the Audiovox CE1000SR Sirius Satellite Radio Home Tuner. This unit delivers more than 120 channels of crystal-clear Sirius satellite radio programming at home. Just hook the CE1000SR to a receiver, amplifier, shelf system, or a pair of powered speakers, and you'll be ready to surf Sirius' wide array of music, news, talk, and sports programming. With a standard 15-inch width, this tuner is easily compatible with most home stereo systems, plus it is stylishly designed to accent your home decor.
The CE1000SR features a large, front-panel LCD screen with six lines of text that displays channel information, song name, and artist's name. The tuner includes 30 programmable preset stations for quick, one-touch access to your favorite channels. You can also surf the Sirius network from your couch with the included remote control.
The Sirius satellite radio network is all about variety, and this tuner helps you navigate the network with ease. Search by category, channel, artist, or song title to find just what you're looking for, whenever you want it. The tuner also doubles as clock with an alarm and a sleep timer. For more information about Sirius digital-quality sound, coast-to-coast coverage, and more than 120 channels of satellite radio entertainment, visit the Sirius web site.
What's in the Box CE1000SR receiver, wireless remote control, two AAA batteries, antenna, AC power adapter, audio cable, user's manual, and product registration card.

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Pioneer Inno XM Radio XM2GO + Home Dock and Car Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a great product, unfortunately it is no longer manufactured - I purchased it used to replace my old one that I dropped from a pretty good height --- you can record up to 50 hours of XM programing either at the moment you are listening or with a timer
If you can find one with a car and home kit that is the one I would buy

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Lowrance LWX-1 Sirius Weather Module Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I installed the antenna and brought the service up very quickly. Lowrance support was vey helpful instructing me on how to turn the service on my HDS-7.

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Audiovox SIRCMB2 Sirius Satellite Radio JamPack Combo (SIRPNP2 Tuner and SIRCK1 Car Cradle) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)You can connect this radio thru the 'Line Out' to a tape adapter and lose the FM radio transmitter - MUCH BETTER SOUND QUALITY. Also, you can do the same if your stereo accepts external connections (like for an MP3 player) or has an AUX input. The FM transmitter is ok, but direct connect sounds so much better.
I am a picky person when it comes to sound. This unit did not disappoint. Using the tape adapter (or direct connect) you truly get CD quality sound - awesome. I also think the bigger display is better than the smaller ones I have seen on other units. Easier to see while driving. My daugther can read the artist and title from the back seat of our van!
I have had this radio for over a year now - it is the best gift I have ever received. It is used every day. I tried XM in rental cars, wife got me Sirius for Christmas - very glad she did because the channel and programming are better. This thing has been a lifesaver travelling with kids - KidStuff and Disney Radio channels saved our sanity! I listen to Fox News during the commute to work. I loved this thing so much I bought the stock at $3/share - WOOHOO!!!
Buy it, you will not be disappointed.


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Here's everything you need to begin enjoying Sirius satellite radio in your car: the SIRPNP2 radio tuner and the SIRCK1 docking cradle with built-in FM transmitter, plus a wireless remote control.
The SIRPNP2 features an LCD screen that displays radio stream information, artist, song title, and category title. The Memory Capture feature saves up to 20 artist and song titles for later recall, while the S-Seek feature constantly searches all radio streams for the saved songs/artists. The Look Ahead feature allows you to stay on and listen to the current radio stream while browsing other streams to see what's playing.
The SIRCK1 docking cradle connects to your in-dash car stereo with the included RCA audio cable. If your car stereo doesn't have an audio connection, the FM transmitter can send the Sirius radio signal to one of four FM frequencies (88.1 MHz, 88.3 MHz, 88.5 MHz, or 88.7 MHz). The base has a swivel ball for adjustment of the dock, and it can be mounted to your dash using the included adhesive strip or included screws. The antenna has a magnetic base that enables you to mount it on your car's roof or trunk; it connects to the docking cradle with a 20-foot antenna cable.
Sirius satellite radio is a subscription service that provides up to 100 channels of programming, from digital-quality music to news, talk, and sports.
What's in the Box SIRPNP2 Sirius radio tuner, remote control, 2 AA batteries, and SIRCK1 docking cradle package (cradle, base with adhesive pad, audio cable, vehicle antenna, DC cigarette lighter power adapter, screws and washers).

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Complete Sirius Radio System for Satellite Ready Toyota PLUS AUX INPUT (iPod etc) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am in the process of installing the system, but when I opened the package there was no installation DVD as I had been led to believe. I have figured out the antenna and running the wire was much simpler than I had anticipated. Now to actually access the panels and plug it in. This was a much better price than was given by the dealership.

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Delphi SA10221 XM Portable Satellite Radio Boombox Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got this today and I am blown away... great sound and great reception... had an attena inside the box that can be extended to a window or outside... or just left inside the box. Just leaving it inside the unit worked great. It has super sound. I couldn't be more happy with this purchase. I use it with an INNO and the adapter sold separatly. The Bass is great... really fills my loft where I listen to it. Really makes my Inno a home unit as well as a portable. Now I don't need to go in the car to hear XM. Also the unit can be battery powered or plugged into the wall. It has a handle to take anywhere. Horay... this is a real winner. BTW he name on the box is Delphi Premium Sound System... I don't know what the diff is for the table model but this one is all I could want for a home system.

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SIRIUS Stiletto SL100 Portable Satellite Radio Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been a satellite radio customer for four years. I started with XM and moved to Sirius about a year ago (no, Howard Stern had nothing to do with my move). I mention this so that you will understand that I am familiar with satellite radio and its occasional downsides.
There is no doubt that the Stiletto is a really cool satellite receiver. Its interface, while not as intuitive as the iPod, is about as close as you can get. Some serious (pun intended) thought went into the hardware and software design on this unit and the graphics are top-notch.
Using the Stiletto in a car or home (with the home or car kits) is a dream. The sound is great and it works just like a satellite radio should.
It also works well over an 802.11b WiFi network, even connecting to a WEP-protected wireless router. On the downside, Sirius really should have included 802.11g so that the Stiletto doesn't bring down the speed of the rest of the network (in case you don't know, if you have a 802.11g network and put a 802.11b device onto it, everything else on the network slows down to 802.11b speeds). Some people have complained that you have to spend more ($1.99 per month) for higher quality internet audio. What bothered me the most is the fact that only some of the channels are available via internet radio.
Where the Stiletto really falls flat on its face is as a portable radio. I'm a cyclist and so I purchased it to use on my daily training rides. I took it yesterday on a short 25-mile ride and was extremely disappointed with its performance. I was able to receive a consistent signal for about 1/4 of the ride, a choppy signal for about 1/4 of the ride, and no signal for 1/2 the ride. I live in the Los Angeles area where there should be plenty of terrestrial repeaters and I was riding in areas where there were no buildings or where the majority of the buildings were single-story homes. Curiously, I had the best reception on some tree-lined streets, but I suspect that's just because I was closer to the repeaters.
Of course, for the best portable reception Sirius will tell you to use the included antenna headphones. Who are they kidding? Not only do these things
look like something from a bad sci-fi movie, they are also the least comfortable headphones I have ever tried. No wait, let me rephrase that . . . these things must have been designed by Torquemada as some sort of torture device. They will make your head and ears hurt after about 5 seconds.
Oh, and by the way, Sirius must not think that Mac users would want this radio since it only comes with Windows software. Duh!
Bottom line: While I really like the design, features, software and graphics of the Stiletto, I will be heading back to Best Buy to return it and the car kit. Since I can't really use it as a portable radio, I might as well spend WAY less on a StarMate 4. If, however, you don't care about consistent portable reception, you want the best satellite receiver I've seen, AND you want to spend 3-4 times more for it than other devices that can capably be used in your home or car, then this might just be the radio for you.

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Ultra-portable, the Sirius Stiletto SL100 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. Best of all, this receiver offers up to 100 hours of storage capacity and can handle MP3 and WMA files, enabling you to mix Sirius content with your own personal music collection. It provides up to 800 MB of storage for personal digital audio files, and it provides compatibility for most internet music subscription services and music stores (Windows Media 10 or later).
For added convenience, the SL100 has Wi-Fi capabilities (802.11b), so you can stream Sirius content from your Internet connection when within a Wi-Fi hotspot. It offers support for WEP and WPA password protected Wi-Fi networks and remembers previously accessed Wi-Fi networks for quick access. And 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 (dock required).
The sleek and stylish SL100 has a removable battery and built-in antenna, and it comes with a headset with an integrated antenna for improved signal reception. The 2.2-inch TFT screen is brightly colorful and offers a QVGA resolution. The Aurora graphic user interface and a six-way navigation control provide easy one handed access to all features and content. Other features include:
30 channel presets
Sirius Replay allows you to pause, rewind and replay 60 minutes of live radio
Game Alert prompts you when favorite games are being broadcast and alerts when scores change
Game Zone lists all of your favorite teams in one virtual category
Color screen displays channel logos, song title, and artist information
Save up to 10 hours of individual songs from live Sirius programming broadcasts by a single press of the "Love" button
Schedule recordings up to 6 hours in length
Parental controls and channel lockout

This package includes Yahoo! Music Jukebox software, which enables you to bookmark songs you hear on the radio. The song is then moved to a favorites list on the Stiletto 100, which can be accessed by a PC application when the unit is connected to your computer. The application allows you to look up and purchase songs, full albums, or explore artists' other offerings through the Yahoo! Music Jukebox software or other compatible online music download or subscription services. Once the song is purchased or rented, it can be transferred onto the Stiletto 100.
You can easily switch between the two included batteries when circumstances change. The standard battery provides power for 4 hours of satellite radio, 12 hours of Internet radio, 24 hours of playback from your MP3 and WMA files, and 24 hours of radio replays. The more lightweight slim battery is great when you're out and about, and it provides 2 hours of satellite radio play, 6 hours of Internet radio, and 12 hours for your digital library (either MP3/WMA or radio replays).
What's in the Box SL100 radio, earbuds, antenna headphone for expanded live signal reception, standard and slim batteries, PC cable (USB compatible), AC adapter, and My Sirius Studio software with Yahoo! Music Engine.

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Sony XNV-660BT 6.1-Inch WVGA In-Dash A/V Receiver with Bluetooth, USB, Satellite/HD radio ready, and Integrated Navigation from TomTom Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pros: Start-up is under 5 seconds, Nav, DVD player, IPOD integration is great for the most part, Blue tooth, radio tuner has many presets and even has ability to search regular FM for genre specific stations (great for traveling). Buttons are large and it feels very user friendly and there aren't a lot of layers to get through when trying to switch through your sources.
Cons: Sirius Satellite radio integration is not good! It only displays 1 line and 8 characters and scrolls. In order to get all the information typically provided by satellite radio you need to hit the Display button 4 times (while waiting for scrolling time) to get the radio station name, song name, artist, and channel number. This is just not acceptable at this price level. Sony's website states "seamless" satellite radio integration, I don't quite understand that.
Second con is with the IPOD, but when your listening to a song and you want to go back through the layers to the album then artist etc, it doesn't let you. It will make you start at the beginning of your library and have to dive back into the artist then album to get back to where an ipod would normally go with one click. Kind of difficult when you just want to change albums by the same artist or even when you want to skip from track 2 to 10 without pressing seek 8 times.
Last con I care to discuss, SENSE ME software is only written for windows, and I don't have a windows computer, leaving this function of the radio completely useless for me.
This radio is going back this week, as I have called Sony and they have no answers for any updates in the future. Check my video review out as it was too big for amazons site:
[...]

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The Sony XNV-660BT A/V Receiver with Navigation delivers incredible audio and video picture quality and integrates navigation from TomTom. With the most accurate maps and over 1 million more miles of road in the US than others, plus features like USB 1-Wire connections and Bluetooth technology, you're ready for the road trip of a lifetime--not to mention your daily commute.

Incredible Audio/Video Picture Quality
6.1-Inch Touchscreen Display High-resolution TFT (WVGA) 6.1-inch touch screen display that will inform and entertain you, making everything easier to control with gesture command and on-screen touch buttons. Separate audio and video power supply circuits provide added clarity.

USB 1-Wire Connectivity Connect, charge, and control your iPod, iPhone, Walkman player or other compatible USB devices via the USB 1-Wire on the rear of the unit. You can also view metadata like song title and artist on the front display.

Integrated Bluetooth Technology Taking calls and enjoying streaming audio has never been easier with the XNV-660BT A/V Receiver with Navigation featuring Bluetooth technology. Connect compatible devices and easily choose between Hands Free and Phone Book Access or Audio Streaming.

Plays DVDs/CDs and Digital Files The XNV-660BT A/V Receiver with Navigation accepts just about every digital format you'd want on the road. The XNV-660BT can playback CD or DVD and MP3/WMA/AAC/JPEG/MP4 (Simple Profile) CODEC files.

Satellite Radio/HD Radio Ready The XNV-660BT integrates seamlessly with Satellite Radio and HD Radio using Sony Bus adaptors so you can receive digital satellite radio or HD Radio broadcasts.

Advanced Sound Engine With EQ7 The Advanced Sound Engine uses EQ7 equalizer, adjustable LPF/HPF crossovers, Listener Position calibration, DM+ advanced sound restoration, Rear Bass Enhancer, and Center Stage Optimizer to create an ideal in-car listening environment.

Integrated Navigation From TomTom The Sony XNV-660BT A/V Receiver with Navigation features TomTom navigation and delivers incredible audio and video picture quality. TomTom is the only company to incorporate real world, real-time feedback, providing the most accurate maps available. Preloaded Maps of US and Canada TomTom navigation provides the most accurate maps with over 1 million more miles of road in the US than other GPS brands.One Year Free Map Updates Ensuring that the digital map content remains completely up-to-date. Included in the box provides 4 verified US and Canada map updates for the first year.TomTom Home Software TomTom Home makes it easy to get new software, download new maps, access free content and more. Simply bring the exclusively designed TomTom Navigation Module from your car and connect to your computer via USB.IQ RoutesTomTom IQ Routes Technology puts the driving experience of millions of TomTom users into your maps to shave time off even the shortest trips. Calculates the fastest route possible based on time of day. With TomTom IQ Routes you'll always drive the smartest, most efficient route. IQ Routes saves you time, fuel and money.
Traffic isn't the same during Monday morning rush hour as it is on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Heavy traffic, rotaries, traffic lights, and even pedestrians can slow you down. The route you need changes depending on the day and time, so the shortest route isn't necessarily going to be the fastest. With TomTom IQ Routes you'll always drive the fastest route.

Advanced Lane Guidance* TomTom Advanced Lane Guidance gives you extra clarity when navigating difficult junctions by showing you which lane to take, so you won't miss your turn or have to make sudden, dangerous lane crossings. Photorealistic images and a pulsing green arrow indicate exactly which lane to use, so you can go confidently.

Spoken Street Names When driving to your destination, the XNV-770BT will announce turn-by-turn directions, including street and place names.

6 Million Points of Interest Preloaded with the locations of millions of gas stations, restaurants, hotels, hospitals and more.

QuickGPSfix GPS data that predicts satellite positions and enables quicker GPS pick-up. Faster satellite pick-up means quicker start to the journey.

Help Me! Emergency Resources Menu Comprehensive Help Me! menu to assist in any emergency. Quickly obtain address information to the nearest help location (hospital, police station, etc.). First aid guide also provides info on what to do if an accident occurs.

*Feature only available in the US and Canada

What's in the Box
Sony XNV-660BT A/V Receiver with Navigation, RM-X170 Wireless Remote, CD-ROM (Application Disc), Installation Hardware, Microphone, Navigation Module, User's Manual, Installation Manual

About TomTom Founded in Amsterdam in 1991, TomTom has established itself as a global leader in navigation by being an innovative company with a strong brand, clear customer focus, and high quality products and services.
TomTom is the world's leading navigation solutions provider with navigation products sold in 30 countries and in over 20 languages. To further our commitment to car navigation, TomTom acquired Tele Atlas maps in 2008 so we can continually provide the most up-to-date maps and intelligent routing.

We have our own mapping company! Did you know that every year roads change by up to 40% in high-growth areas? Tele Atlas manages this by using the world's most comprehensive systems to identify and incorporate these changes into our maps with unprecedented levels of speed and accuracy. All TomTom devices benefit from the Tele Atlas advantage--more coverage, more points of interest, and more freshness and accuracy.

Why TomTom? At TomTom, we believe that personal navigation should be as easy and safe as possible. We develop smart technology that gives you straightforward solutions, innovations to make life easy.

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