22 october 2013. – Pioneer launches its first lineup of embedded AV receivers – 2014 with the announcement of three models. Enabling the driver to stay connected while driving, all models support the MirrorLink standard1, iOS mobile devices and compatible Android smartphones. In addition, new models have additional features: search and playback of various files from Android-smartphones connected via USB via data transfer protocol MTP , as well as AppRadio mode for work with mobile applications from car dashboard. The new range includes the AVH-X1600DVD, AVH-X4600DVD and AVH-X2600BT the latter with Bluetooth smartphone connectivity2 for hands-free calling and streaming audio .
“In addition to a large 2xDIN WVGA touchscreen display and a wide range of music listening options including direct iPhone iPod control mode, Pioneer’s proprietary MIXTRAX EZ technology , our new car AV receivers are equipped with additional options for integration with smartphones,” says Tom Van Biervliet, Pioneer Europe automotive product planning manager. – Thanks to the MirrorLink compatibility the new models can work with a wider range of smartphones and operating systems”.
- MirrorLink support with optional CD-ML100 unit – MirrorLink, a standard for connecting in-car electronic devices developed by the Car Connections Consortium CCC , allows users to link compatible smartphones to new AV receivers via USB cable and access music files and road maps – for more convenience and safety on the road. Similar to AppRadio mode, MirrorLink allows you to create an interface to connect Mirrorlink certified mobile devices from manufacturers such as Samsung, Nokia, etc.
- Search and play audio files from Android devices – All three models of the new line of Pioneer AV receivers allow you to play audio files stored on a USB-connected Android smartphone using the MTP protocol, which uses the Android operating system from version 4.0 unit to transfer any files. Once connected, the car receiver will be able to search and play music stored on your smartphone.
- AppRadio mode – Using the free AppRadio app and the large touchscreen display on the multimedia receiver, users can work with compatible mobile apps installed on their iPhone3.vCurrently, more than two dozen smartphone apps are optimized for use in the car, and Pioneer intends to expand this list for a complete list of apps, see. at //pioneer.eu/page/products/appradio-mode.html .
- MIXTRAX EZ – Pioneer’s proprietary MIXTRAX EZ technology is available in all three new models and allows you to listen to music in a continuous DJ set with a variety of audio and visual effects. With MIXTRAX EZ audio files from iPhone, iPod touch, USB drive and compatible Android smartphones are turned into a single music array – the pauses between them are filled with transitions and effects just like a real DJ does.
Announced models will be available from November 2013. at recommended retail prices:
- AVH-X4600DVD – 16 990 Dollars.
- AVH-X2600BT – 15 990 Dollars.
- AVH-X1600DVD – 13,990 Dollars.
1MirrorLink requires the CD-ML100.
2Bluetooth only works with a compatible Bluetooth-enabled cell phone. Some Bluetooth features may not be supported by all Bluetooth-compatible devices and/or their functionality may be limited for some devices or media.
3iPhone 4/4S compatible when using the Pioneer CD-IU201S proprietary cable. iPhone 5/5S/5C compatible with Pioneer brand cable CD-IV203.
4AN-DAB1 optional antenna required.
What are the key features and benefits of Pioneer’s AVH series car AV receivers? How does the new smartphone connectivity enhance the overall user experience? Will the AVH-X1600DVD, AVH-X4600DVD, and AVH X2600BT offer seamless integration with both Android and iOS devices? Are there any notable differences among these models that potential buyers should be aware of?