X

Sony expands Xplod line of in-dash receivers

Sony is expanding its mobile audio lineup with eight new Xplod in-dash CD receivers.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
Antuan Goodwin
2 min read

Sony CDX-GT930UI
Sony Electronics

Sony is expanding its mobile-audio lineup with eight new Xplod in-dash CD receivers. Of these new models, three offer built-in Bluetooth connectivity and seven feature USB ports--five of which are iPod compatible. Also among these new models is Sony Xplod's first double DIN receiver in years.

Starting with top-tier model being added to Sony's GT line of car stereos, with the high-end CDX-GT930UI features a rear USB connection for iPod, iPhone, Walkman, and other USB devices, as well as a rear aux-in. Out back, you'll also find four-volt front, rear and sub preamp outputs. On the business end, the unit features a motorized, detachable faceplate that is home to a wide area "Extended FL" four-line display with switchable blue, green, and red key illumination.

Next in line, the CDX-GT730UI model features a four-line, full-motion display similar to that of the high-end model. This CD/MP3/WMA/AAC receiver moves the USB connection and aux-inputs to the front panel. The new CDX-GT530UI model steps down to a simpler display and drops a preamp output, making it the most affordable head unit in the lineup with connectivity for iPod, while the CDX-GT430U unit's USB port loses the ability to control the iPod.

Photos: Sony expands Xplod lineup at CES 2009

See all photos

Three of Sony's new head units feature Bluetooth technology for simple hands-free phone calls and audio streaming (with a Bluetooth compatible phone).

The top-of-the-line MEX-BT5700U model features a front USB port for easy connection to all digital music players, including iPod and iPhone devices. New for 2009, this unit can automatically transfer all phone book contact information from a Bluetooth connected phone to the display. The unit also features A2DP Bluetooth audio streaming with metadata of a song, which means all album, artist, and track information appear on its large four-line display.

Stepping down to the MEX-BT3700U sacrifices the external microphone and "Extended FL" screen for a simpler display. The MEX-BT2700 drops the USB and iPod control altogether, as well as one of the three preamp outputs, in favor of a low price.

The CDX-GT77UI has an odd interface with a circular theme.

Finally, for the first time in years, Sony is adding a double DIN head unit to its lineup. Designed to be compatible with most new model cars, the larger sized CDX-GT77UI unit features a rear USB connection for iPod, iPhone, and other digital music players.

All models in the Xplod series feature 52 watts x 4 channels of max-power output and, where appropriate, each car stereo features ZAPPIN and Quick-BrowZer for quick navigation through music libraries, regardless of size. They are all HD Radio ready, and come with wireless card remotes.