Car Audio Geek's blog

Clarion’s Amplifiers And Speakers For 2012

Clarion introduces their all-new product line-up of amplifiers and speakers in 2012. Clarion’s new line offers sophisticated raw power, cutting edge styling and technologically advanced features from entry level to high end.

Clarion’s new amplifiers offer two product series, the XC high performance full range Class D digital amplifiers with compact size for automotive or marine use, and their XR series Class AB entry level amplifiers feature black piano lacquer finish aluminum heat sinks. Don’t let their lavish cosmetics fool you they have the technology and power to back up those good looks.

Clarion’s amplifier line includes Class D, AB and G/H including their XH series introduced in 2011. Clarion offers two mono amplifiers, three 2-channel and three 4-channel amplifiers. Clarion’s broad selection of amplifiers makes it easy to design a system at any price point…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/clarion/clarion-amplifiers-speakers-2012.htm

JVC Launches New High-Speed In-Dash Navigation Units For 2012

JVC Mobile Entertainment, the premier developer and manufacturer of sophisticated mobile, audio, and video products, is proud to introduce two high-speed 6.1” and two 7” WVGA display A/V navigation systems for 2012.

JVC’s 2012 Navigation series introduces state-of-the-art clear and realistic sound with an offering of over ten professional sound setting adjustments as well as a graphic thirteen band equalizer and time alignment. Screens offer beautiful picture for both map display and video playback with upgraded super-fine WVGA LCD Monitors.

Various map display features as well as quick response and operation are enabled with a two times faster high-speed data processing LSI, 8GB Solid State Drive with over 8 Million Points of Interest, and an S3 format data compression system for quick data storage and recall which allows faster menu and route calculations. Start-up time takes only 8 seconds from key-on to full navigation usability.

Two out of four models feature connectivity to the HD Radio™ network including a free lifetime subscription to Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic HD+/Total Traffic Connect : a service providing on-screen real-time traffic, news, sports, and weather updates. The HD Radio™ package also includes a bookmark function to store favorite song information from music heard on HD Radio™ stations…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/jvc/jvc-launches-new-highspeed-indash-navigation.htm

Alpine Video And Rear-Seat Entertainment Solutions For 2012

Alpine offers passengers a variety of entertainment options with video and rear-seat offerings. These products can handle various entertainment sources, such as DVDs, game consoles or video from an iPod® or iPad®. Options include an individual 6 1/2-inch monitor, flip-down or headrest-mount monitor packages for use by rear seat passengers and headphones for system expansion…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/alpine/alpine-video-rearseat-entertainment-solutions2.htm

JVC Announces 2012 Digital Media Receiver Lineup

JVC Mobile Entertainment is proud to introduce its stylish 2012 lineup of Digital Media receivers. The lineup showcases expanded compatibility, the latest Bluetooth® features, USB Connectivity, iPod®/iPhone® capabilities, gorgeous illumination and magnificently enhanced LCD size.

The KD-X40 Digital Media Receiver has a 1A current capable USB Port for smartphone connections, is made for iPod®/iPhone®, features Pandora internet radio application control for iPhone® and external mode control for iPhone®, is Bluetooth® adapter ready, features 2-way control for iPod®/iPhone®, front and rear aux input, HS-IVi Tuner, MP3/WMA compatibility, 3-Band Parametric iEQ, 50W x 4 max. (20W RMS x 4), over 30,000 separated variable-color combinations, and is steering wheel remote control ready. This receiver is shipping now with an MSRP of $109.95…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/jvc/jvc-announces-2012-digital-media-receiver.htm

JVC Mobile Entertainment Updates DRVN Lineup With New Amplifiers And Speaker Offerings For 2012

JVC Mobile Entertainment
unveils the next phase of its acclaimed DRVN Series “pronounced /’drivən/” with the new “DRVN XX” series of step-up amplifiers and subwoofers.

This cohesive line of audio reproduction products celebrates its second year with more powerful, captivating high-quality sound across a wide range.

JVC’s lineup of DRVN XX amplifiers, designed for ease of use, now feature easier installation, upgrade and control with the brand’s patented dynamic audio delivery circuitry. All terminals are mounted a single side of the chassis with covers so mounting holes are covered with a clean look. Parallel drive MOS-FET Power Supplies increase efficiency allowing the new amplifiers to carry up to an extra 20% of current from single MOS-FET designs.

The KS-AX5101D (300 watt x 1 RMS) 1000W Peak Class-D Circuit amplifier will carry an MSRP of $219.95 and is available in February.

The KS-AX5102 (300 watt x 1 RMS) 600W Peak Class-AB Circuit amplifier will carry an MSRP of $ 169.95 and is available in February.

The KS-AX5104 (200 watt x 2 RMS) 1000W Peak Class AB amplifier will carry an MSRP of $219.95 and is available in February…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/jvc/jvc-mobile-entertainment-updates-drvn-lineup.htm

Clarion Announces NX702, NX602 And NZ502 Multimedia Stations With Built-in Navigation

Clarion announces the introduction of three all-new built-in navigation in-dash source units that boast full-featured capabilities such as SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility, built-in Parrot Bluetooth®, Pandora internet radio compatibility, iPod® and iPhone® integration and HD Radio compatibility.

Clarion’s flagship model, the NX702 all-in-one 2DIN audio video navigation unit offers an expansive high resolution WVGA seven inch sloping touch-screen with an innovative, animated GUI and voice control of the features you use most. The built-in navigation unit offers several innovative features to make your commute more efficient and enjoyable, from real-time traffic, digital media connectivity and built-in Parrot Bluetooth to voice control of navigation and phone features, all to keep consumers in tune with their drive.

All three models with built-in navigation are SiriusXM-Ready and compatible with the new SXV200 SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner (sold separately, SiriusXM subscription required) as well as the SXV100 model which launched in 2011. The compact SiriusXM vehicle tuners have one simple connection, providing integration of SiriusXM satellite radio in an inexpensive and easy to install package…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/clarion/clarion-announces-nx702-nx602-nz502-multimedia.htm

Alpine's 2012 Speaker Lineup

Alpine offers a vast assortment of speakers. Sixteen speakers plus two tweeter sets make up the 2012 line-up. From the high performance Type-X Pro model to the budget friendly Type-E series, there is a speaker for every system need and budget level.

The top-of-the-line Type-X Pro speakers provide a dynamic, precise sound experience for true audiophiles. They come with an advanced crossover network, which allows users to fully customize their listening experience.

The Type-R series consists of two component speakers and four coaxial speakers. They use a small neodymium magnet and strong yet light HD polymer frame, making them compact and lighter for streamlined installation. Type-R speakers are efficient and perform well with built-in head unit power or aftermarket outboard amplifiers. They use the High-Amplitude Multi-Roll (H.A.M.R.) technology (patent pending) adapted from Alpine's popular Type-R subwoofers, for clean, high-impact bass performance. The ring tweeter with EQ ring and copper cap enhances both detail and output, while the swivel mount allows sound to be focused in the desired location.

The Type-S lineup consists of one component speaker and five coaxial…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/alpine/alpine-2012-speaker-lineup.htm

Alpine To Introduce Redesigned X-Power Amplifiers

Alpine will debut its redesigned X-Power vehicle amplifiers at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), taking place Jan. 10-13 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. With the addition of a new PDX model, Alpine’s complete amplifier lineup totals 13 models plus an add-on power pack.

The new X-Power amplifiers have over 10 percent higher rated power than their 2011 predecessors. They also have more gain, since they are 6dB more sensitive than the previous X-Power amplifiers. In addition, their low pass filter slope was increased to -24dB, to better match the expectations of customers who buy mid-zone amplifiers. The cosmetic appearance of the X-Power amplifiers has also been updated with a new black hairline finish and diamond-cut center plate.

“Our X-Power amplifiers run efficiently and provide reliable power,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager, Alpine “They deliver clearer highs, tighter bass and an improved sound experience.”

X-Power amplifiers use digital technology trickled-down from Alpine’s proven PDX amplifier architecture and are offered at a lower price point. The X-Power models have ultra clean sound output, with the highest damping factor, lowest distortion, highest bandwidth and best signal-to-noise in their class…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/alpine/alpine-introduce-redesigned-xpower-amplifiers.htm

New Pioneer Advanced Navigation Systems Keep Consumers Connected, Aware And Entertained

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today unveiled the new AVIC-Z140BH and AVIC-X940BT navigation systems that offer drivers detailed route guidance to their destinations while simultaneously providing entertainment, information and connectivity with features like the HD Radio Artist Experience™ and map data software now provided by NAVTEQ®.

Smartphone integration, a hallmark of Pioneer’s previous in-dash navigation models, has been enhanced with the addition of Pioneer’s Advanced App Mode, and for the first time, wireless app control via Bluetooth® for specific Android™ devices.

“Pioneer is making an unwavering commitment to bring today’s consumers the best in-car integration for practically all of their personal devices,” said Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the car electronics division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “Consumers expect the products they use on a daily basis to keep them entertained, informed and up-to-date at all times; our goal is to deliver upon those expectations while ensuring our products are specifically designed to be easy and safe to use in the vehicle.”

Pioneer’s newest in-dash navigation models now support wireless app control via the Bluetooth Serial Port Profile (SPP) for select Android™ devices, enabling audio playback with app display and control through the AVIC touchscreen displays…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/pioneer/new-pioneer-advanced-navigation-systems-keep.htm

Pioneer Rolls Out Its 2012 Single CD Receiver Lineup

Pioneer today introduced seven new single CD receivers for 2012 that combine Pioneer’s renown sound quality with advanced features and device connectivity. With a suite of features that include Pioneer’s proprietary MIXTRAX™ EZ, App Mode, built-in Bluetooth® connectivity, HD Radio Technology, USB connectivity, full dot LCD display, and more, the 2012 Pioneer lineup offers several solutions for updating practically any vehicle with the latest technology and high performance audio.

“Today’s newest cars feature more technology and more music options than ever before,” said Ted Cardenas, Director of Marketing for the Car Electronics Division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “We are excited to offer aftermarket products that provide a way for consumers to add the latest music, communications and portable device connectivity safely and easily to the car they already own.”

To easily and quickly enjoy a mix of the consumer’s music library in a style similar to a live DJ, Pioneer has created a technology called MIXTRAX EZ. Built in to the DEH-P8400BH and DEH-P7400HD, MIXTRAX EZ provides three types of DJ-style transitions (Flanger, Echo and Crossfade) and six sound effects (Backspin 1 and 2, Echo, Trans, Roll and Scratch) that are automatically added between songs for a nonstop, continuous listening experience…

Continue reading: http://www.caraudiogeek.com/news/pioneer/pioneer-rolls-out-2012-single-receiver.htm