Pioneer rounds out its new in-car CD receiver range with two advanced models that are at the forefront of car audio technology.
The new DEH-X9600BT and DEH-X8600BT provide numerous media options, crystal clear sound, plenty of power and expansion options, plus sharp styling and an attractive display. In addition to CD playback, both receivers are ready to handle digital media. They include a set of convenience and entertainment features such as built-in Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free voice recognition compatibility (for iPhone 4S and later), USB connectivity, an SD card slot and Pioneer’s MIXTRAX EZ virtual DJ technology.
Girish Janday, product executive at Pioneer, said: “These head units exemplify the best car stereos that Pioneer has to offer. They provide consumers with access to all their favourite music and media on the road and make it easier than ever to integrate smartphones into the car, all without compromising on sound quality.”
BLUETOOTH
The DEH-X9600BT and DEH-X8600BT feature integrated Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for hands-free calling as well as music streaming from compatible Bluetooth enabled devices1. Both CD receivers come equipped with an external microphone and support voice control via Bluetooth when paired with a compatible iPhone (3GS or later). The user can call a contact or select a playlist, song, artist, or album directly from the receiver using the iPhone’s native voice control feature.
iPhone users will also benefit from easy iPhone Bluetooth pairing via USB where the iPhone is connected to the Pioneer receiver with the appropriate USB cable. The user will then be prompted to pair with the receiver on the iPhone. This feature is great when there are multiple devices active.
The new Pioneer CD receivers have also added a “Guest Mode” which allows a user to add and replace a mobile device instantly to the receiver. Guest Mode is a great feature for a family vehicle with multiple drivers or a driver with multiple devices because it allows users to pair and delete devices easily without a lengthy registration or deletion process.
SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY
Both new CD receivers are ready for iPod, iPhone or Android smartphones. USB connectivity2 enables consumers to connect their music-filled flash drive, external hard drive and/or smartphones. The DEH X9600BT features dual USB ports for connection of two compatible USB devices or media players. Both models provide up to one Ampere of current for faster charging of battery powered USB devices.
With iPod and iPhone Direct Control3, the user can connect his device straight to the units’ USB terminal to enjoy superior sound. Users of an iPhone 4S and iPhone 5/5S/5C device can now take advantage of Siri Eyes Free4 functionality. When activated, Siri voice prompts play through the vehicle’s speakers and the user’s questions and commands are received and transmitted using the external microphone. Siri Eyes Free provides access to many iPhone functions, such as music selection, listening to and composing text messages, Maps, calendar information, reminders, and more.
Media stored on selected Android smartphones5 can be controlled via Bluetooth or accessed via USB. Both new DEH receivers are able to browse music stored on a USB-connected Android phone running operating system 4.0 or later without the need for an app. The process is made possible using Media Transfer Protocol (MTP), which allows the Pioneer receiver to recognise the Android smartphone as a music storage device. Once connected, the receivers will be able to browse and play back digital audio files stored locally.
What’s more, the new App Source feature allows consumers to listen to content on select compatible music apps directly on the receiver’s display from a connected iPhone or iPod touch. Limited controls such as track forward or reverse can be executed from the receiver. Android smartphone owners can use their music apps via Bluetooth connection.
MIXTRAX EZ
Pioneer’s MIXTRAX EZ virtual DJ technology transforms the listener’s music library into a non-stop playlist that delivers a unique DJ-infused listening experience. The MIXTRAX virtual DJ inserts transitions and effects to music played from a compatible iPhone, iPod or USB storage device. For advanced customisation, users have the ability to pick the types of effects and transitions added between songs, as well as the length a song plays before transitioning to the next song. The DEH X9600BT and DEH-X8600BT feature a new fun “crush” effect, a sound effect that changes audio to mimic the sound of objects being crushed or smashed.
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Pioneer’s new CD receiver models are designed with a straightforward menu structure and a full dot 3 line VA LCD display with wide viewing angle for intuitive operation and improved readability. To ensure intuitive music selection, a Music Browser automatically lists music files alphabetically and is able to sort the files by Artist, Album, Song or Genre. With the dual zone illumination feature, users will be able to personalise their CD receiver. Up to 210.000 colour preferences allow him to match the unit to his interior dashboard, favourite colour or mood. The illumination can be customised in two separate zones for countless colour combinations and fades in or fades out upon certain actions, like when the ACC power is turned on or off. The motorised flap-face faceplate of the DEH X9600BT gives access to the CD slot underneath it and can be removed to deter theft.
SUPERIOR SOUND
Pioneer has fitted its new car CD tuners with the celebrated MOSFET 50W x 4 amplifier set-up, a 5 Band Graphic Equaliser and Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR) technology which restores any musical detail lost in the creation of compressed music files, even in case of wireless transmission through Bluetooth audio. The flagship DEH-X9600BT integrates top-grade audio parts that are carefully selected to achieve Pioneer’s highest standards for the ultimate in sound quality. To increase system flexibility, both new models feature three sets of high-volt (4V) RCA pre-outs for connection to aftermarket or OEM external amplifiers.
Availability
The DEH-X9600BT and DEH-X8600BT will be available as from November 2013 at Pioneer car audio dealerships. For further information on pricing and availability, please contact your local Pioneer distributor.
