New Jensen touch-screen multimedia system

The VM9423 touch-screen multimedia system is the first of six new Jensen models that will launch during the first half of 2009. This top-of-the-line system has a built-in HD Radio tuner, integrated iPod connectivity, and iTunes tagging. The VM9423 is GPS navigation, backup camera, Bluetooth, and Sirius/XM satellite radio ready--all of which require additional modules to add their respective functions. We cringe thinking about the mess of cables and modules that would have to be tucked behind the dash for the full-blown, all-bells-and-whistles install, but we think this modular approach will let users add the features they can afford when they can afford them. Flexibility is always appreciated.

The device features a 6.5-inch touch screen with an interface that, while easy to read and understand at a glace, is a bit dated in its aesthetic. USB and SD inputs give the driver options to use digital storage devices with up to 8GB of capacity. MediaLink4, an under-dash interface adapter for connecting external devices, and jLink3 Cable, which terminates with a 30-pin iPod dock connector on one end and a proprietary Jensen connection on the other, are included. CD/DVD optical formats and MP3, WMA and DivX digital format playback are also supported. The VM9423 is expected to cost $549.99.