Clarion Debuts iPod-Ready Models

By Amy Gilroy On Dec 20 2004 - 8:00am

Clarion announced it will deliver in February a new in-dash DVD receiver designed to work with an iPod, becoming one of many suppliers expected to show iPod solutions at CES next month.

Clarion's VRX755VD is an in-dash DVD/monitor/receiver that has a dedicated data port in the back of the unit, which can connect via cable to an iPod. It then allows full iPod control through the VRX755VD's 7-inch, fully motorized touch screen. iPod song, artist and playlist information will also appear on the screen. The VRX755VD also features MP3 capability. The price of the unit and the adapter cable will be announced at CES.

Clarion will also offer iPod capability on most of its CD receivers as of mid-2005 through a black box adapter to its CeNET head units. The iPod can plug into the black box, allowing it to be controlled via the radio's controls and enabling song information to be displayed on the radio's screen. The black box will be backwards compatible with Clarion CeNET products back to 2001, said the company.