Sony has been steadily increasing its share of the head unit market with the introduction of feature-packed solutions that continue to give consumers the connectivity and source options they want. The latest addition to Sony’s source unit offerings is the XAV-AX5000, a 6.95-inch multimedia receiver with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth. The XAV-AX5000 is the first large-screen source unit from Sony that includes Apple and Android smartphone integration technologies and, given its feature set, it should be another huge hit.

Large 6.95-inch Display

Sony calls the display on the AX5000 bezel-less. The trim panel around the display is only a few millimeters thick and gives the unit a very clean and tidy look once installed. The display has a resolution of 800 by 480 pixels and uses a capacitive touch panel. Unlike resistive touch panels that have a plastic texture, a capacitive display is the same as what we are used to on our smartphones — crystal-clear images with a very responsive touchscreen interface.

At the bottom of the screen is a row of buttons for volume, track selection, Home and Option functions. The Home button serves double duty as a system mute function when held for one second, and the Options button initiates the voice-recognition feature of CarPlay or Android Auto when pressed when a corresponding phone is plugged in.

The chassis of the XAV-AX5000 is a single-DIN, shallow-mount receiver on top, with nothing on the bottom. This chassis design makes installation much easier for your installer than conventional full-size, double-DIN source units. The XAV-AX500 design allows it to be installed into newer vehicles that have less room behind the factory radio, or require integration harnesses to be tucked behind it.

Smartphone Integration Technologies

As mentioned, the XAV-AX5000 includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration software. If you haven’t experienced these interfaces, they make it very easy to make phone calls, listen to and send replies to text messages, choose the music you want or get navigation directions to almost any address in North America. The interface uses Siri or Google Assistant voice recognition software to perform the majority of functions, so you can keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.

Entertainment Options

The XAV-AX5000 includes two USB ports on the rear of the chassis. USB 1 is compatible with iPhone and Android smartphone devices for CarPlay and Android Auto. USB 2 takes care of connecting a USB memory stick to to play MP3, WMA and FLAC digital media files. USB 1 supports WAV, ACC, MPEG-4, WMV, MKV and Xvid files as well. Audio files can have a maximum sampling frequency of 96kHz and video files can have a maximum resolution of 1280×720 pixels.

The unit includes a Bluetooth 3.0 transceiver for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The Bluetooth A2DP Profile 1.3 and AVRCP 1.3 make it easy to select tracks from compatible Bluetooth devices. You can upgrade the system with an SXV300 SiriusXM tuner module for satellite radio. The system doesn’t play CDs or DVDs, and there is no auxiliary input connection.

Audio and Signal Processing Features

The unit includes an internal four-channel amplifier rated at 20 watts continuous and 55 watts maximum output. Front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs rated at 2 volts make it easy for your installer to add high-power amps to the source unit to expand the performance of your entertainment system even further.

Sony has included its EQ10 10-band equalizer to allow for system fine-tuning. The Dynamic Stage Organizer (DSO) provides signal processing presets to make it sound as though you are at a live performance with the musicians out in front of you, rather than hearing music coming from each speaker. Electronic high- and low-pass crossovers and a feature called Extra Bass are also part of the tuning options.

Vehicle Integration Features

The XAV-AX5000 includes a dedicated backup camera input with trigger wire to allow you to see objects or people behind your vehicle when parking or maneuvering. The system also includes an external Bluetooth microphone for excellent voice recognition and Bluetooth call quality. Finally, the system is compatible with the majority of factory-installed steering wheel mounted audio controls using a third-party interface, or by using the Custom Steering Wheel Control set-up on the radio itself.

Premium Multimedia Solution

The final feature worth discussing is the new system processor. This upgraded microcontroller makes the XAV-AX5000 as much as 250 percent faster to respond to commands and gestures as compared to previous models. Imagine an iPhone 8 compared to an iPhone 5 or a Galaxy S9 compared to an S5. Access to features and voice-control commands are lightning-fast.

If you are considering upgrading the infotainment technology in your vehicle, drop by your local authorized Sony retailer and ask for a demonstration of the XAV-AX5000.
This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Sony introduced their new XS-GS1631C 3-way component speaker system at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The system includes a pair of 6.5-inch woofers, a set of 3.5-inch midrange drivers, a pair of 1-inch soft-dome tweeters and a set of passive crossover networks. This system is designed as a premium upgrade for vehicles with door and dash speaker locations. The system offers a 3-year warranty for long-term peace of mind. Let’s take a close look at what Sony has come up with.

Benefits of the Sony XS-GS1631C

A trait common to all speakers is directivity. Based on the cone diameter alone, the sound coming from a speaker becomes more directional as frequencies increase. One of the key benefits of a 3-way front speaker set is that each driver is operated below the frequencies where they become directional. As a result, the speakers provide evenly distributed sound throughout the vehicle. When the midrange and tweeters are mounted high in the doors or dash, the soundstage will typically be higher compared to a conventional 2-way speaker configuration.

6.5-inch Woofer Features

The woofers from the set are based on a stamped steel basket. Mounting holes and tabs are provided for 6.5 and 6.75-inch bolt circles. The cones of the woofers are made from Sony’s proprietary MRC (Mica Reinforced Cellular) polypropylene. In this application they are reinforced with aramid fibers. The result is a low-mass design with rigidity more than ten times higher than competitor polypropylene cones, but just a fraction of the mass. Rubber surrounds and poly dust caps round out the moving component features. Sony includes trim rings and a set of grilles with the woofers.

3.5-inch Midrange Design

The midrange drivers in the XS-GS1631C set also feature stamped steel baskets. Two mounting tabs are provided and serve as a direct fit for Toyota, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram as well as many GM and Ford vehicles without the need for modification. In some cases, the midrange drivers use the factory mounting bolts. Each midrange speaker uses a compact neodymium magnet that helps keep the overall mounting depth to a diminutive 1-7/16 inches.

The cones of the midrange drivers use the same aramid fiber reinforced MRC poly cone material as the woofers. They also feature a rubber surround. Rubber surrounds last longer than foam. They help to ensure these speakers will continue to sound great for years.

1-inch Tweeter Technologies

The tweeters in the set include provisions for flush, surface and angled installations. Unlike the midrange, the tweeter design includes a grille that is optimized for installations where the unit will be visible. The tweeter has a 1-inch synthetic fiber design for smooth and detailed sound.

Passive Crossover Networks

As mentioned, the set includes a pair of passive crossover networks. The networks filter the speakers at 500 and 5000 Hz. A switch inside the crossover allows the installer to set the tweeter level at -2, 0 or +4dB to compensate for different installation configurations and listener preferences. The crossover can be wired in a bi-amplified configuration to provide independent control over the woofer level. Alternatively, you can jumper the inputs and drive the entire speaker set from a single amplifier channel.

Sony uses a combination of air and iron-core inductors, electrolytic capacitors and a premium mylar capacitor for the tweeters. Sony took the time to mount each inductor to the circuit board securely to prevent any reliability issues.

Specifications

Sony rates the speaker set as being capable of handling 120 watts of power using the CTA-2031 standard. Efficiency is specified at 87dB (+/- 2dB) and frequency response at an impressive 30 to 30,000 Hz range.

Sony XM-GS6DSP Compatible

For a truly amazing listening experience, combine the XS-GS1631C with Sony’s new six-channel XM-GS6DSP amplifier. The GS6DSP amp can be used to power the system speaker in a fully-active 3-way configuration or in combination with the passive crossovers and a dedicated subwoofer, to create an amazing four-way system. In either case, the signal delay and equalization capabilities of the GS6DSP will allow your installer to create an impressively accurate soundstage across the dash of your vehicle. A good tech can further tune the system for a smooth and natural frequency response.

Premium Speaker Upgrade Solution

The new XS-GS1631C three-way speaker set is a bold step forward for a Japanese company like Sony. As is evident from their other recent product introductions, Sony is focused on developing cost-effective, high-performance solutions to make car stereo systems that sound great! If you are in the market for speaker upgrade for your vehicle, and it has room for a three-way speaker set, drop by your local Sony dealer and audition the XS-GS1631C system today.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

The power ratings on car audio source units have been over-rated for years. Claims of 40, 50 and even 55 watts per channel are emblazoned across the front of radios in an effort to one-up competing products for the title of “most powerful” source unit. Sony recognized the need for a true high-power solution to provide music enthusiasts with the listening levels they want. The answer to this need was to debut two source units at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show that redefined how much power a source unit could produce. Let’s take a close look at the Sony Hi-Power source units.

True Hi-Power Amplification

The MEX-XB100BT and MEX-M100BT radios are rated to produce 40 watts per channel. Independent test labs measured the actual output at a respective 43 and 43.7 watts per channel using the CEA-2006 process. With most conventional source units providing between 18 and 20 watts of real-world power, the Sony solutions represent a significant, clearly audible upgrade.

The second generation of hi-power Sony source units includes the MEX-GS820BT and the WX-GS920BH receivers. Using what Sony calls the Dynamic Reality Amp 2, this latest generation of source unit provides a very impressive 45 watts per channel of clean power to drive your speakers. This yields an impressive 180 watts total RMS power.

Why is Power Important?

It takes power to reproduce sound. For every 3dB increase in output from your speakers, your amplifier needs to provide twice as much power. It’s easy to imagine how quickly you can use up the 18 watts in a typical source unit. Especially when you are trying to overcome road, wind and tire noise in your vehicle or attempting to rock out to your favorite music.

Sony wanted to provide its customers with a cost-effective solution to get the power they want without the (relatively) significant expense of adding an amplifier to their system. Combining their engineering knowledge with the latest Class-D amplifier technology, Sony put together a series of hi-power solutions that fit into a standard radio chassis. Functioning the same way as a stand-alone amplifier, Sony Hi-Power source units feature a dedicated switching power supply to increase the voltage available to feed the onboard amplifier, and subsequently, your speakers.

The Benefits of a True Hi-Power Source Unit

The popularity of Sony’s Hi-Power receivers has been impressive. With both marine and automotive solutions available, adding the performance of a hi-power source unit to motorcycles, UTVs and pickup trucks that have limited space is easy. There’s no need for RCA Interconnects or large-gauge power wire. Moreover, you save on the additional installation time required to install those components and an amp.

Sony didn’t skimp out on the amplifier either. You can drive 2-ohm speaker loads on all channels to increase output even more. Using the Subwoofer Direct mode, you can power a sub with more than 90 watts of real-world usable power. If you are building a system one step at a time, this is the perfect starting point.

Additional Source Unit Features

All Hi-Power receivers are equipped with front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs rated to produce up to 5.0 Vrms to drive external amplifiers for even more fun. Sony’s Advanced Sound Engine processing includes digital signal processing to let your installer time-align the output to create an amazing soundstage. A 10-band equalizer is also provided to assist with creating smooth and realistic frequency response. Mega Bass (found on the original hi-power source units) and Extra Bass on the current models let you boost low-frequency output at lower volume. As you increase the volume, the boost diminishes to prevent damage to your speakers.

You can enjoy all the detail and realism of high-quality FLAC and WAV audio files from a USB stick. Or pair your phone and stream your favorite tunes over a streaming connection with Sony’s high-end Bluetooth technology. Speaking of connections, the SONY | Music Center system allows you to hide your source unit in the glove box, under a seat or in the trunk and still be able to control the radio using your iPhone or Android-based smartphone. If you are looking for the perfect source unit for a custom car or hot rod, Sony makes it.

Sony also includes a steering wheel interface to ensure your new radio is easy to use. All of these source units feature an external Bluetooth microphone for exceptional outgoing phone call sound quality.

Step Up Your Game with Sony Hi-Power Source Units

If you are in the market for a new radio for your vehicle, drop by your local mobile enhancement retailer and check out the hi-power receiver solutions from Sony. We know you’ll be impressed with their features and blown away by how great and loud they sound!

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Early in 2017, Sony launched its XAV-AX100 multimedia receiver with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to rave reviews from retailers and consumers alike. Sony is taking its smartphone connectivity solutions to the next level with the introduction of the new XAV-AX200SXM. This unit builds on the performance and reliability of the XAV-AX100 and adds new features to appeal to even more consumers.

Smartphone Integration Technologies

The XAV-AX200SXM includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These smartphone integration solutions are designed to allow you to listen to and dictate responses to text messages, make phone calls and choose the music you want to enjoy by simply talking to your radio. Streaming music, turn-by-turn navigation with real-time traffic information and instant access to the music on your phone is as easy as asking for it. The CarPlay and Android Auto features bring your phone’s approved apps and content to your dashboard for quick and easy use while driving.

Audio Source Options

The XAV-AX200SXM includes a CD/DVD mechanism to let you enjoy your favorite artist or watch a movie or TV show when you are parked. The USB port on the rear of the chassis will let you play MP3, WMA, AAC and FLAC audio files as well as MPEG-4, H.264, WMV, FLV, MKV and XviD video files from a memory stick. Sony has graciously included a SiriusXM satellite radio SXV300V1 tuner with the unit. You also receive 90 days of free SiriusXM service so you can enjoy your favorite programming from coast to coast right out of the box. The built-in AM/FM tuner includes RDS information display, and you can stream music from your smartphone using the Bluetooth connection, and control Pandora and Spotify as well.

System Connectivity Options

One of the coolest features of the XAV-AX200SXM is its triple camera input. Your retailer can add a dedicated backup camera, a blind spot monitoring camera on the side of the vehicle, a parking camera in the front grille, rear seat monitoring for small children or a hitch camera for trailering. Tap the Camera button in the menu and choose the view you want. The backup camera image appears automatically when you put the transmission in reverse.

A built-in four-channel amplifier provides 20 watts per channel of CTA-2006 certified power with up to 55 watts per channel of dynamic power delivery to bring your music to life. Three pair of 4 Volt preamp outputs with Subwoofer Level Control makes it easy to upgrade your sound system further.

Built-in high- and low-pass crossovers work on the internal amplifier as well as the preamp outputs to optimize the signal for your chosen speakers. A popular example of the benefit of built-in crossovers would be the addition of a subwoofer and an amplifier. The built-in crossovers will let your installer filter out the low-frequency information being sent to the internal amplifier to improve the clarity, detail and output from the smaller speakers in the system.

Sony has included a 10-band graphic equalizer to let you fine-tune the performance of your system. The EQ includes preset curves, or you can make adjustments on your own. The Dynamic Soundstage Organizer helps to improve front soundstage imaging in the vehicle. DSO offers three presets that include signal delay adjustments to put the driver front and center of the performance.

The Sony XA-NV400 add-on GPS navigation module can be added to provide integrated route planning. Text-to-Speech functionality provides audible guidance while the TomTom software helps you get where you want to go. Mapping includes the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Onboard navigation is a popular solution for people who travel to other states or countries and want to avoid cellular roaming charges and possible dead zones in cellular coverage.

Elegant Interface

A 6.4-inch TFT touchscreen with a resolution of 800×480 pixels is flanked by easy-to-use volume, tracking and source selection controls. The backlighting on the controls is adjustable and you can upload your own wallpaper or choose from several built-in color schemes. The on-screen menus are programmed to provide quick and intuitive access to all sources. Factory steering wheel controls can be integrated into the system using a third-party adapter for additional safety, and some vehicles’ controls can be custom programmed via Sony’s custom programming feature.

Experience the XAV-AX200SXM at Your Local Authorized Sony Retailer

With the addition of the CD/DVD mechanism, the included SiriusXM tuner with 90 days of service, triple camera inputs, a more powerful internal amplifier, and 4 Volt preamp outputs, the XAV-AX200SXM is the perfect evolution of the incredibly popular XAV-AX100. If you are in the market for a receiver with CarPlay and Android Auto that won’t break the bank, visit your local authorized Sony retailer and test drive the new XAV-AX200SXM.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.