Aug. 9, 2019
Sony Electronics Inc. announced a new line-up of automotive media head units Friday, Aug 9 featuring a powerful new flagship touchscreen unit. Sony’s newest receivers offer the modern convenience and safety features of the newest cars, in one and two DIN chassis for legacy drivers.
“As auto manufacturers increasingly incorporate larger screens into their new models, legacy car owners don’t have to miss out on the latest technology” said Mike Fasulo, president and chief operating officer, Sony Electronics North America.
“Sony’s newest audio receivers feature big, vibrant displays, powerful sound and cutting-edge functionality that dramatically elevate the in-car entertainment experience, whether users are driving around town or setting off on a long road trip.”
All four new products from Sony will be on the market before the end of 2019.
The highlight of the line-up is the new XAV-AX8000. This touchscreen-enabled head unit gives single DIN fitment a nearly 9” screen. The adjustable screen allows excellent viewing angles for safe driving. Anti-glare technology promises to provide drivers a clear, easy view no matter what the light conditions.
The massive screen is elevated above the unit for clear and easy viewing. Configuring the AX8000 to work with factory controls is easy. Sony’s Dynamic Stage Organizer (DO) and the 10-band equalizer gives drivers superior control and flexibility.
The AX8000 is Android Auto® and Apple Car Play® ready for a seamless infotainment experience. It even features Weblink® Cast and is factory back-up camera ready. The head unit features a powerful internally amplified 55Wx4 (20Wx4 RMS) coupled with Sony’s EXTRA BASS™ system reproduces clear bass with heavy punch at any volume. Audiophiles wanting to add even more power have a high-voltage 3-preout.
An aluminum key terminal allows distraction-minimizing selection of several features, including activating voice-control.
Sony anticipates the XAV-AX8000 to hit stores in December at about $599.99.
Three new head units in the DSX line were also revealed. The GS900 is the double DIN version of the GS80. Both feature Sony-exclusive 4x100W (4x45W RMS) power and a built-in amplifier. The GS head units power multi-speaker per channel technology.
Both the 80 and 900 models can be controlled using smartphone apps or the on-unit controls while streaming from a smartphone or tablet. Sony I Music Center provides apps for the GS-series of media units, ensuring that users can wirelessly connect to their favorite music streaming apps.
The GS900 will retail around $249.99 and the GS80 around $229.99 when Sony releases them in December 2019.
Sony also introduced a brand new budget-conscious media unit that packs a punch in it’s own right. The DSX-B700 is a double DIN Bluetooth-compatible media unit that pumps out 4x55W (4x20W RMS) and is Sony I Music Center-enabled. Easily run Pandora on a smartphone with ready-to-rock integrated technology. The B700 can be configured to operate on built-in steering wheel controls and is SiriusXM Radio-ready.
The B700 will hit shelves in September 2019 with a price of $129.99.
