In association with our sister publication Car Audio magazine, we bring you the top 20 products from the '06 Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas. The editors at Car Audio have broken it down into the top 15 car stereo products released at the show and five of the coolest gadgets you can look forward to. For a more in-depth look at what was available at CES, take a look at the May issue of Car Audio and their list of over 100 of the best products.
Pioneer DEH-P980BTWith a full-color OEL display and built-in Bluetooth wireless connection, the DEH-P980BT caught our attention. The driver can wirelessly connect as many as five Bluetooth mobile phones for hands-free use. A microphone is supplied and the unit can store a phone book for voice-activated calls and caller ID. Additional features include customizable vehicle dynamics gauges, iPod control capability, XM and Sirius satellite radio connectivity, plus built-in auxiliary inputs.
JBL Fix8Perhaps the smartest digital signal processor available, the Fix8 connects to almost any OEM system and does almost anything. It'll serve as a preamp, drive speakers and provide a realistic soundstage throughout the vehicle due to its Logic 7 Matrix Surround with center channel output. Additional features include an automatic EQ, eight input channels and auxiliary inputs.
Alpine Vehicle Hub ProThe VPA-B222 serves as a hub for all the in-car essentials you'd like to add to a system, such as iPod, XM or Sirius satellite radio, HD radio, USB-based MP3 players, Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones, video, etc. With the various sources connected, this two-part product (a brain and controller), lets you hook up all your sources and control them.
Alpine BlackbirdSimple and easy to use, Alpine's entry into portable navigation, the PMD-B100, features an attractive dock and built-in RDS traffic receiver. Once docked, the Blackbird's controls can be easily accessed through one of Alpine's touchscreen head units - so no need to stick the unit on the dash. In addition, docking it to an AV head unit delivers twice the processing power of competing all-in-one nav units.
Eclipse AVN7000Offering full navigation without requiring a hide-away brain or double-DIN dash aperture, the AVN7000 boasts a 7" wide TFT display and a DVD/MS multi-source receiver. Despite its compact size, the hard disk boasts 20GB for navigation information. Highlights include three routing recommendations to a single destination and multi-mode searching. An add-on unit adds Dolby Digital and DTS processing to the AVN7000's list of features.
Rockford Fosgate 3sixtyFor unprecedented control of aftermarket and factory sound systems, Rockford's latest interactive signal processor has 153 bands of EQ and signal manipulation. While maintaining factory features, it automatically corrects and even sums inadequacies of the existing sound system, resulting in flat frequency response. It also has an additional auxiliary input for more devices.
Pioneer AVIC-Z1Improving on previous models in the AVIC line, the AVIC-Z1 hard drive navigation system strives to keep drivers' eyes on the road with greater convenience and safety features, such as learning capability, smart routing algorithm, lane and traffic information, plus Bluetooth capability. Audio entertainment (as well as video for passengers) can be enhanced with satellite radio, iPod, TV tuner and much more.
Alpine LAT SubwooferThe PLV-7 powered subwoofer is one of two in this line of revolutionary subs based on Tymphany Corporation's Linear Array Transducer (LAT) technology and Whise Automotive's Ultra Reflex enclosure design technology. Powerful yet compact, the enclosed woofer system consists of a linear array of seven diaphragms (connected to two opposing motor structures by balanced sets of piston rods) that work in a push-push operation that cancels both distortion and mechanical vibration.
Clarion DB365USBThe DB365USB head unit features a USB terminal on its face. To listen to MP3s or WMAs, the driver only has to connect a flash drive or MP3 player to the terminal. The four-channel RCA output unit also offers 200 watts of power, a high-contrast LCD panel and sound enhancement features, such as Z-Enhancer, Magna Bass EX and two-band PEQ
Clarion PFW SubwooferOnly requiring 3" of mounting depth, the PFW series subs are perfect for shallow locations. The 10" single voicecoil model features 600 watts of max music power, 300 watts RMS and small enclosure requirements. They also have all the features of the new PXW series, such as polypropylene electrolyctic spun-aluminum-coated dust caps and co-polymer composite high-excursion surrounds.
Clarion DPX2250 AmpClarion's new DPX amplifiers boast incredible efficiency and multiple power levels by featuring Class G and H characteristics. The DPX2250 has a Class G focus, with full-range performance and low current draw - perfect for cars with limited electrical systems. The other two amps in the line, the DPX11500 and DPX1800, are Class G/H. Featuring auto impedance matching, no switches or settings are required - everything is automatically detected.
Audiovox XMDRDS100The XM Smart Digital Adapter allows a driver to access all the satellite radio functions using a full-feature remote control. The unit connects an in-dash radio to a hideaway XM Direct tuner box, offering a solution for vehicles that don't have factory-installed XM radios. This solution leaves your OEM head unit and dash intact.
Harman Kardon Drive + PlayAn intuitive solution to the problem of incorporating an iPod into your audio system, Drive + Play consists of an easy-to-view screen that can be mounted to the dash, an iPod-friendly five-button controller that can be put in easy reach of the driver and a hideaway brain, which has the connecting port. You can then connect the brain directly to your head unit's auxiliary input or utilize the wireless FM modulator.
Visteon Dockable Entertainment System With GBAVisteon's dockable systems make sense - enjoy DVDs both in the car and out of it by removing the unit. Adding Nintendo's Game Boy Advance to the package makes the all-in-one even more appealing. With the built-in Game Boy Advance, users can enjoy more than 750 titles or watch DVDs. For multi-player options, the system has a game link cable to connect an additional GBA.
Alpine PDX AmpsCompact, powerful, efficient and stackable, Alpine's PDX amplifiers pack more watts per cubic inch than any other on the market. They measure only 10.5x7.5x2.5" and offer great sound clarity and speaker control thanks to a damping factor that's 350% higher than Class A/B amps. As a result of their efficiency these amps don't need internal fans or bulky heatsinks, yet don't risk sudden shutdowns.
Axion AXN-6072 Perfect for watching movies on the go, this 7" DVD player is water resistant, meaning you don't have to freak out about splashes and damp environs. It features a built-in anti-shock DVD player, stereo speakers, A/V in and out, headphone jack and remote control. It also has a detachable Li-Ion battery.
Acoustic Research Wi-Q RemoteWi-Fi has spread everywhere, even universal remotes. The Wi-Q will switch on your jumble of home electronics and mediate between the TV, satellite tuner, DVD and stereo receiver, but it can also give you news, sport and weather updates on its built-in screen. The screen can also give you Electronic Program Guides through its internet link. Say goodbye to TV Guide.
The Best Gadgets
Kodak Easyshare Wi-Fi CameraThrow your device cable away. This Wi-Fi camera lets you email your digital photos directly from the camera. You can also connect to the Kodak EasyShare gallery from hotspots and store up to 1,500 pictures online.
Portable Power Solar Messenger BagIf you're tired of running out of juice for your portables, try the Fusion Solar Messenger Bag from Innovus designs. It provides solar power to trickle charge the batteries of a variety of personal electronics using an existing 12v cigarette lighter adapter. The durable nylon bag isn't bad for protecting and carrying your stuff, too.
JVC Everio CamcorderThis year's super portable hard-drive-based Everio camcorder is completely tape-free. Compact and designed for ease of use, JVC has boosted the camera's user friendliness with an optional docking station that can even burn DVDs for you - meaning no more attaching it to a computer.