Top CD Receivers Add Memory, Video And More

By Amy Gilroy On Jan 8 2004 - 8:00am

CD/receivers may not be as sexy as in-dash DVD/monitors, but they are taking on a number of high-tech features, including larger TFT displays for viewing DVDs.

New CD receivers from Sony and Dual can play back full motion video on a screen built directly into the face of the head unit. Also, hard-drive based (HDD) CD receivers are becoming more streamlined, simpler to use and are debuting here at lower prices.

Sony's new in-dash CD/receiver has a 32,000 color TFT. The single-DIN unit, called the CDX-M9900, can hook up to a DVD or video game console to display video on its 1-inch-by-4-inch screen. The 9900 can also capture up to 100 images from any signal going through the unit, including a movie or video game. The still photo can then be stored as a background image. The CDXM9900, with anti-glare screen, is expected to sell at a target price of $649.95.

Dual's unit has a 2.5-inch built-in TFT. Called the XDV8125, it also has a TV tuner with 20 station presets. It comes with a motorized face, 4x55-watt power, two pairs of pre-amp outputs and three pairs of RCA outputs and remote. It is expected to ship in the first quarter at a suggested retail price of $699.

Some of the new CD receivers for 2004 include flash or removable memory for storing music at prices in the $500 range.

Clarion's new DXZ845MC has a "Music Catcher" feature —a memory chip stored inside the CD receiver that lets you record tracks from your favorite CDs (as they play in the unit). Users can rip up to 7 CDs worth of music. The Pro Audio AM/FM/CD receiver is WMA compatible with built in 4x52-watt amplifier. It is expected to sell in the $500 range.

From Eclipse is a new CD tuner with Magic Gate memory stick. Users can play back Atrac 3 music recorded on the Memory Stick. Or they can download soundfield information from their PC onto the memory stick to set soundfield parameters specifically for their car. The model CD8454 has a motorized face and is Sirius-capable. It comes with a three-year warranty and one-year guarantee against theft at $549.99.