New 2004 Sony Car Audio Range Takes to the Road

Sony introduces a new range of in-car CD Tuners for 2004, which deliver enhanced sound quality and higher power output than equivalent 2003 models. The latest Sony in-car CD Tuners include advanced new features including DRIVE-S, BBE-MP and SUB SWITCH. These latest Sony in-car CD Tuners offer a dramatically improved specification and innovative new design concepts.

Sony introduces a new range of in-car CD Tuners for 2004, which deliver enhanced sound quality and higher power output than equivalent 2003 models. The latest Sony in-car CD Tuners include advanced new features including DRIVE-S, BBE-MP and SUB SWITCH. These latest Sony in-car CD Tuners offer a dramatically improved specification and innovative new design concepts.

“Our new 2004 range of CD Tuners demonstrates our clear commitment to develop leading-edge products that raise performance standards,” says Wolfdieter Griess, Vice President eVehicle Europe. “We’ll be launching five new in-car CD Tuners, with 70% of our models offering MP3 compatibility.”

Outstanding sound quality on all new Sony in-car CD Tuners with DRIVE-S

All new 2004 Sony in-car CD Tuners will feature DRIVE-S including the entry Sony CDX-S2000 (CDXS2000) model. This new Sony concept includes the new Sony Xplod Power IC (S-MOSFET) for a high quality sound, a thinner and quieter CD mechanism for improved durability, plus an enhanced audio circuit with new and larger audio fine tuned electrolytic capacitors. Together with high power output of up to 4x52W, owners can enjoy levels of sound quality that previously would only have been available on much more expensive models. In addition, all new Sony in-car CD Tuners (even the entry models) have an impressive S/N (signal to noise) ratio of 100dB+ for CD.

New Motion Blade Models Include Subwoofer Control

Motion Blade, a new design concept consisting of a real aluminium plate covering the CD slot, offers owners a cool and unique mechanism for accessing the CD tuner and ejecting discs. Motion Blade demonstrates a commitment by Sony to invest in real design at lower prices.

New Sony CDX-R3000 & CDX-R3300 feature SUB SWITCH for added subwoofer control

For 2004, the stylish Sony CDX-R3000 (CDXR3000) and Sony CDX-R3300 (CDXR3300) in-car CD tuners will feature a new technology called SUB SWITCH that allows owners to have the option of a dedicated subwoofer pre-out. With this feature, owners will be able to control the Subwoofer Channel gain and the low-pass filter frequencies. The CDX-R3300 will also feature MP3 playback.

New Sony In-car Flip Down Models Look Better Than Ever

The new Sony CDX-F5500 (CDXF5500) and Sony CDX-F5700 (CDXF5700) CD tuners feature a redesigned fascia that perfectly combines trendy styling with a touch of class. The CDX-F5700 will also be the first Sony In-car CD Tuner to include the new and exclusive BBE-MP technology which significantly enhances sound quality. The Sony CDX-F5700 In-car CD Tuner has an advanced titanium finish and seven colour changeable display.

Experience the Thrill of High Definition FL Displays

With all-aluminium front panels, the high focus Sony CDX-F7500 (CDXF7500) and Sony CDX-F7700 (CDXF7700) Advanced FD models exude class and quality. Turn them on and you can enjoy moving images, interesting wallpapers and clearer information on the high definition FL display. Fully equipped with a range of great features including rotary encoder and built-in Xplod 100dB+ power IC (S-MOSFET), these latest Sony In-car CD tuners provide a combination of classy design, durability, superb sound and an easy MMI (Man Machine Interface).

Ultimate Graphics and Style with Active Black Panel

An important and popular feature in Sony’s car audio range, ABP offers one of the most sophisticated in-car CD tuner displays and mechanisms currently available. The new Sony CDX-M8800 (CDXM8800) includes advanced motorization to help owners access the various ABP panels and a top quality FL display for superior graphics, fast moving images and complex wallpapers. Excellent sound quality is achieved through features such as the 4Volt Pre-Out and the EQ7 7 Band Equalizer for ultimate sound control. With a redesigned operating panel, this model is also a serious style statement and even sports the latest high-end blue illumination.

Incorporating new features, enhanced design and an upgraded specification, Sony’s new In-car CD tuner range has been designed to give enhanced sound quality and ease of use. All models are equipped with the highly efficient EQ3 or EQ7 internal equalizer, with the 7-band version available from the CDX-F5700 and upwards.

The CDX-S2000, CDX-R3000, CDX-R3300, CDX-F5500, CDX-F5700, and CDX–M8800 will be launched between January and March 2004 in the UK and across Europe.

Glossary of New Features

• BBE-MP - An MP3 feature that improves the sound quality of recorded MP3 tracks by restoring and enhancing the higher harmonics lost during compression processing. Manufactured under the license from BBE Sound, Inc.
• DRIVE-S -A new Sony concept chassis for CD head units, which generates higher sound quality and higher durability. DRIVE-S provides an exceptional Signal to Noise ratio of 100dB+ and consists of three key elements:
  • Xplod New S-MOSFET Power IC providing a higher sound quality
  • New CD mechanism that is thinner, quieter and safer for CDs. The mechanism also has a much longer life cycle and improved dynamic behaviour for better shock protection.
  • Improved Audio Circuit resulting from the thinner CD mechanism. With more space available inside the head unit, better audio components have been used which dramatically improve sound quality.
• SUB-SWITCH - This feature allows consumers to transform (by menu operation) pre-out into a sub-out, enabling the control of the gain of the subwoofer pre-channel and the adjustment of the low-pass filter frequencies. So far this kind of Subwoofer control was only available on mid-high end models. With the Sub Switch feature, Sony will now make it available almost from the entry model.

‘Sony’ ‘Xplod’, ‘Motion Blade’ and ‘DRIVE-S’ are trademarks of Sony.