Sony Intros iPod-Friendly Car Stereos

Sep 25th, 2007 | By | Category: iPod Accessories, iPods & Portable Media Players

xplod ipod car stereo

Sony has announced four new iPod-friendly Xplod in-dash stereo “head units”.

For about $140, the top-of-the-line CD receiver (model CDX-GT520) provides the most options for connectivity in the car. The receiver supports MP3 and non-DRM WMA and AAC codecs. It is also iPod, satellite radio and HD Radio ready. Plus, it features front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs; has a flip-down detachable faceplate; and a 13-segment, LCD with blue LED display; and blue key illumination.

The CDX-GT420IP CD receiver costs about $130, and comes with an iPod control interface. The included 4.9-foot cable has a 30-pin connector made for most iPod players and provides full menu control. The unit’s selectable front and rear/sub preamp outputs can be used to control the frequency and output level of an external amplifier. Other features include MP3 and non-DRM WMA playback, red key illumination and blue LED screen.

The CDX-GT320 unit provides versatility, with iPod, HD Radio and satellite radio compatibility. It offers MP3 and non-DRM WMA playback support and two preouts. At about $80, the CDX-GT120 CD receiver has one preout and a detachable faceplate with a blue 13-segment LED screen.

Each new unit features an auxiliary input on the faceplate, facilitating the use of portable music players in a vehicle with a standard 1/8-inch mini jack cord (not supplied). They also feature 52 watts X 4 high-power output.

The CDX-GT520, CDX-GT420IP and CDX-GT320 head units come with the supplied wireless card remote (model RM-X151), so you can control the music from the front or back seat. The remote is also sold separately ($30) and can be added to the CDX-GT120 model. The models CDX-GT320 at about $100 and the CDX-GT520 at around $140 require additional equipment for satellite radio, HD Radio and iPod compatibility. They work with an iPod adapter (model XA-120IP for about $50) that charges the device and controls it from the head unit. Satellite radio requires a subscription.

All four of the new head units are now available.

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