Product Spotlight: Pioneer DMH-W3050NEX

Pioneer and car audio go together like coffee and cream or a hot dog with ketchup — classic pairings that make sense. On that note, we are going to take a look at one of their NEX-Series double-DIN multimedia receivers in this spotlight. Let’s check out the DMH-W3050NEX.

Pioneer DMH-W3050NEX Platform

For most of us, describing a multimedia receiver as a double-DIN solution would tell us all we need to know. The DMH-W3050NEX is somewhat unique in that the radio’s chassis is single-DIN, while only the front panel shares the standard 4-inch by 7-inch dimensions. This allows the radio to work with many dash kits that won’t accept a radio with a four-inch-tall chassis. Right out of the gate, you’ve got enhanced compatibility in terms of vehicles this works with.

The radio features a 6.8-inch (measured diagonally) capacitive touch front panel with a WVGA 800 x 480-pixel color display behind it. There are six capacitive-touch buttons on the left side of the screen, providing access to menus, voice recognition and volume control.

Communication and Entertainment Options

Every top-quality multimedia receiver, such as the DMH-W3050NEX, includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity. In this case, both platforms feature wireless connectivity, thanks to integrated Wi-Fi. There’s no better way to communicate with family, friends and co-workers; choose the entertainment you want, or get detailed turn-by-turn navigation instructions to almost any location in North America.

The radio includes an HD Radio receiver for FM radio. HD Radio not only improves audio quality on compatible stations, but provides access to additional programming on the digitally broadcast channels. For example, you might have a high-resolution music stream on 97.3, then a non-stop news broadcast on HD2 and sports on HD3, all transmitted on the single 97.3 carrier frequency. Best of all, HD Radio doesn’t require a subscription – it’s completely free. The FM tuner also includes RDS decoding.

The DMH-W3050NEX has a USB port on the rear of the chassis that will charge your phone with up to 1.5 amps of current. You can also connect a USB memory stick (or other Mass Storage Class device) to play WMA, MP3, WAV, AAC or FLAC audio files. When parked, you can also play AVI, DivX, MKV, H.264, H.265, MPG, and several other video file formats. Impressively, the deck supports full HD 1920×1080 resolution video files – something not all multimedia receivers can do.

The radio features a Bluetooth 5.3 transceiver, allowing you to stream audio from a portable media player and select tracks using the ACRVP profile. Speaking of connecting smart devices, the radio works with Pioneer’s Weblink app on your smartphone. You can stream video from a source like YouTube directly to the radio.

Your installer can upgrade the radio with a SiriusXM satellite radio receiver. With SiriusXM, you can enjoy genre-specific entertainment almost anywhere in North America.

Sound Quality and Signal Processing

The Pioneer DMH-W3050NEX is high-res audio certified, and it will decode digital audio files with sample rates up to 192 kHz. The deck includes a built-in amplifier rated to produce 14 watts of power in compliance with the ANSI/CTA-2006 standard. The front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs will deliver up to four volts.

In terms of audio processing, the DMH-W3050NEX comes equipped with a 13-band graphic equalizer, adjustable slope and frequency crossovers and signal delays. In standard mode, the radio provides front, rear and subwoofer outputs. In Network mode, the outputs are configured for low, midrange and high-frequency output signals.

The radio is compatible with the iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2 radio integration module. Depending on your vehicle, this interface allows the radio to communicate with the CAN network in your car, truck or SUV. You can see climate controls, dashboard gauges, tire pressure, battery voltage, and even vehicle diagnostic code information. If your vehicle isn’t compatible with the Maestro RR or RR2, your installer can likely connect to the steering wheel buttons using an interface like the Maestro SW.

The Heart of a Premium Sound System

If you’re shopping for a well-equipped, high-performance multimedia receiver to upgrade your vehicle, visit a local authorized Pioneer dealer and ask about the DMH-W3050NEX. You can find an authorized retailer near you by clicking the “Find a Store” link from anywhere on the Pioneer website.

For more information on Pioneer source units, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and dashcams, follow them on Facebook, Instagram and, of course, YouTube.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Alpine i407-WRA-JL

If you’ve been paying attention over the last few years, you’ll know that the folks at Alpine have been offering many different audio system upgrade solutions for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles. These offerings range from head unit replacement solutions to complete audio systems with amplifiers and subwoofers. In this Product Spotlight, we will look at the i407-WRA-JL radio upgrade kit. Let’s check it out!

What is the Alpine i407-WRA-JL Kit?

The i407-WRA-JL is a radio upgrade kit for 2018 and newer JL chassis Jeep Wranglers and 2020 and newer JT chassis Jeep Gladiators. The kit includes an Alpine iLX-407 source unit along with mounting brackets, a radio trim kit, a new auxiliary input jack, all the wiring harnesses, a camera interface module, and an iDatalink Maestro RR integration module. The concept was to provide retailers with a package with everything needed to upgrade the entertainment system and prevent surprises in the installation bay.

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kit Features

The included dash kit and brackets take care of ensuring the radio is mounted in place of the stock source unit and looks great. The dash kit is molded to fit the complex shape of the dash for a clean, factory-like appearance.

In terms of integration, the factory-installed backup camera on these Wranglers and Gladiators uses a communication protocol called Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS). This signal isn’t directly compatible with aftermarket radios. As such, the i407-WRA-JL kit includes an interface module that converts the LVDS signal into a composite signal so the camera will work with the included iLX-407.

The kit also includes an iDatalink Maestro RR interface. This data interface and harness allows the new radio to plug into the wiring connectors from the original radio and provides access to the Jeep’s data network. Information like vehicle speed, engine RPM and much more can be displayed on the radio. The climate control settings are also adjustable from the face of the new radio.

One item worth noting is that if your Jeep is equipped with the factory amplifier, an optional interface module called the KCX-F200INT is available to let the new radio connect properly.

Alpine iLX-407 Features

The double-DIN iLX-407 is the radio at the heart of the i407-WRA-JL kit. This radio features a 7-inch anti-glare touch screen with a resolution of 800×480 pixels. The hard controls are along the bottom edge of the front panel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, as is Bluetooth for hands-free streaming or phone calls. The tuner in the unit offers support for HD Radio, which dramatically improves the quality of FM radio. There’s an HDMI input on the rear of the chassis, so you can theoretically connect a gaming system or a laptop, if you want. There are two camera inputs and support for the SiriusXM SXV300 tuner module.

If you want the best sound quality from your music, playing digital audio files from a USB drive is the way to go. The iLX-407 supports MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and WAV audio formats with a maximum sampling rate of 48 kHz. The unit will also play AVI, MP4, MPG, MOV and WMV video files with H.264 or MPEG-4 video encoding. The maximum video file size is 4 gigabytes.

Audio Processing Features

The deck includes a four-channel amplifier rated at 16 watts per channel and in compliance with the ANSI/CTA-2006 standards for car audio amplifier power specifications. The triple preamp outputs are rated for up to four volts.

The iLX-407 is impressive in its audio processing features. It has a simple five-band graphic equalizer to let you fine-tune the system to your listening preferences. The more advanced crossovers offer adjustable slopes from six to 24 dB/Octave and filter frequencies from 20 to 200 Hz with high-pass filtering on the front and rear channels and a low-pass filter for the subwoofer output. There’s also a level control for each output, which many source units overlook. Oh, and the subwoofer level control can be adjusted from 0 to 15 with a polarity inversion option to potentially help the subwoofer’s output blend with the woofers in the dash and overhead sound bar.

The Time Correction setting screen allows your installer to dial in delays to each of the six outputs (which include the four built-in amplifier outputs) in 1 millisecond steps or set distances to the speakers in 3.4 centimeter steps. There are three presets available to store different Time Correction configurations. This is ideal if you want one alone in the vehicle or have a passenger, which requires different settings.

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kits

Alpine offers four Jeep-specific radio upgrade kits, including the i407-WRA-JL and a similar solution for older Wranglers called the i407-WRA-JK, covering 2007 through 2018 applications. If you want something fancier, the I509-WRA-JL and I509-WRA-JK kits include a 9-inch weather-resistant display, more advanced audio processing, and wireless smartphone connectivity.

If your Jeep is lacking in the audio department, visit a local authorized Alpine retailer and ask about the available Jeep-specific solutions. You can find an authorized retailer using the Store Locator tool on the Alpine website. For more information about the audio upgrade solutions available from Alpine, follow them on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: KICKER LX1200.5

If you’ve been paying attention, then you’ll know that DSP-equipped car audio amplifiers are pretty common these days. KICKER introduced a new series of amplifiers called LX. These beasts are not only packed with serious power production capabilities, but they include digital signal processing and a unique configuration solution that separates them from everything else on the market. We’ll focus on the five-channel LX1200.5 in this Product Spotlight.

What is the KICKER LX1200.5 Amplifier?

The KICKER LX1200.5 is a five-channel amp with an integrated digital signal processor. The amp is based on a cast aluminum chassis that measures 12.625 inches in length, 8.875 inches in width and stands 2.375 inches tall. All the connections are hidden under a removable panel along the long edge of the amp. The panel is held in place with magnets for a clean and tidy appearance. Wire connections are made via terminal blocks with heavy-duty set screws. Interestingly, there are only three controls on the amp, which are gains for the subwoofer, AMP1 and AMP2 channels.

Power-wise, KICKER rates the output of AMP1 and AMP2 at 125 watts per channel into four-ohm loads and 175 watts per channel when driving two-ohm loads. The channel pairs can be bridged to provide 350 watts into a single four-ohm load. The subwoofer channel produces 300 watts into a four-ohm load, 550 watts into two ohms and an impressive 700 watts when driving a one-ohm load. All specifications include the 14.4-volt, less than 1% THD+N qualifications, so you know they are comparable to other quality brands. The amplifier’s signal-to-noise ratio is greater than 75 dB, referencing one watt of output into a four-ohm load.

OEM Audio Integration

The KICKER team knows that many amplifier installations in modern vehicles use factory-installed source units. This means the amplifiers need to accept speaker-level signals. The LX1200.5, like other models in the LX Series includes fully differential speaker inputs that can take up to 40 volts of signal without needing an external interface. In low-level mode, the preamp inputs accept up to 5 volts.

The amplifier also has two turn-on modes. The amp can be activated with the typical 12-volt signal from an aftermarket source unit or switched to DC offset detection to monitor the speaker wires for a voltage from a factory radio. KICKER calls this their FIT+ technology.

Speaking of integration, the LX amplifiers have input gain matching LEDs that illuminate when you have reached the maximum output capabilities of the amplifier.

Integrated Digital Signal Processing

Unlike most DSP-equipped amplifiers on the market that require a laptop or tablet to set up, KICKER includes a controller with the amp called the LX Control Center. This compact controller features a two-line LCD screen, four rotary encoders and buttons to access different amp channels and functions.

In terms of signal processing, your installer can apply high-pass, low-pass or band-pass crossover to each of the three channels on the amp. The high-pass filters are adjustable from 20 Hz to 5 kHz and the low-pass from 40 Hz to 5 kHz. Slopes can be set to 12 or 24 dB Linkwitz-Riley alignments or 12, 18 or 24 dB/octave Butterworth. You’ll want to use the Linkwitz alignment so you can set the crossover points at the same frequencies. The subwoofer channel low-pass filter is adjustable from 20 to 160 hertz and there is an infrasonic filter that can be set from 10 to 80 Hz to control subwoofer cone excursion.

KICKER includes a signal delay for the left channels on both AMP1 and AMP2. Your installer can delay the output of the left channels, which correlate to the speakers closest to the listening position in 0.1 millisecond steps, up to a maximum of 10 milliseconds. When set properly, adding delays to the closer speakers can help improve imaging and staging.

The subwoofer channel has a parametric equalizer that can be set between 20 and 80 hertz with a Q factor between 1 and 5 and a maximum gain of 6 dB. If you want to add a little Kick, no pun intended, this is the perfect solution. The LX amps also include SHOCwave 2.0. This feature analyzes audio information and creates a harmonic one octave below the fundamental to restore audio information lost by many factory-installed amplifiers. If you want to rumble, SHOCwave 2.0 can do it!

Once your installer is done setting up the amp, the LXCC (LX Control Center) can be disconnected from the RJ45 port, and the included LX Remote Control (LXRC) can be plugged in. This multifunction remote controls the subwoofer level and SHOCwave 2.0 functionality and even shows battery voltage using the LEDs around the perimeter.

Full Amplifier Family

The new LX series from KICKER includes the LX1200.5 five-channel we’ve discussed, a seven-channel LX1300.7 and the monster LX3000.1 3000-watt monoblock in the same chassis size. The LX series includes a four-channel LX500.4 and LX850.1, LX1250.1 and LX1300.7 in a smaller 9.625-inch long chassis. The width and height of all the amps are the same, so mixing and matching models is easy.

Speaking of design flexibility, the little illuminated badge in the center of the amp can be rotated 180 degrees to align with however your installer configures the amps in your vehicle.

Upgrade Your Car Audio Experience with KICKER LX-Series Amplifiers

If you are shopping for an impressively featured, high-performance amplifier for your car audio system, drop by a local authorized KICKER retailer and ask about the new LX series models, like the LX1200.5. They can design a system around these products, integrate it into your vehicle and configure it to sound amazing.

You can find an authorized retailer using the locator tool on the KICKER website. Be sure to follow the KICKER on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Check out the KICKER Unmasked LIVE show for weekly updates on new products and their unique technologies.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Momento M8 Max

There are now hundreds of dash cameras on the market. If you are serious about protecting yourself from fraud and false accusations or simply want to capture those incredible once-in-a-lifetime moments, then you want a high-quality camera with excellent image quality. Momento’s latest flagship dash camera is called the M8 Max, and it’s the perfect choice for your car or truck. Let’s check it out!

Momento M8 Max Features

Let’s start by looking at the specifications of the new Momento M8 Max, which is also known as the MD-8400. This is the top-of-the-line in the three-model series. The M8 Max features a 4K Sony IMX image sensor for razor-sharp image capture at 30 frames per second. A secondary camera that can be pointed out the rear window features full HD (1920 x 1080 resolution) is also included in the kit. The system comes with a 64 GB memory card but can be upgraded to a 256 GB card for more storage. The M8 Max includes a GPS receiver to store vehicle location and speed.

The main power cable is also included in the box. This is a hard-wired cable, not a cigarette lighter plug. As such, your installer will need to find suitable constant 12-volt, switched accessory and ground connection points under the dash. A micro-SD to SD card adapter is also included.

Two- and Three-Camera Support Modes

Out of the box, the M8 Max is set up to handle dual-camera recording. However, if you want to add a third camera, like the IC6 interior camera, the M8 Max can be flashed with firmware to record from three sources simultaneously. The IC6 is ideal for taxis, limousines, buses, rideshare and company-owned vehicles. When flashed into three-camera mode, the system captures video from the front camera in 2K mode due to data storage bandwidth constraints.

ECO Parking Mode

An essential feature of the M8 Max is its ECO parking mode. Unlike conventional cameras that use the image sensor to monitor the area in front of the vehicle, the M8 Max uses a low-power radar transceiver. If someone walks in front of your car or truck while the camera is in parking mode, the system will wake up and capture a video of the activity. Once the object has passed, it goes back into ECO Mode. The benefit of radar-based monitoring is that the camera consumes about 90% less power than video monitoring units. This means less drain on your vehicle battery and days of monitoring instead of hours.

Voice Recognition

The M8 Max includes voice recognition features. You can say “Hi, Momento,” then wait for the chime and say “Save Video.” The system will start a manual recording that is saved to a dedicated folder on the micro-SD card. Other voice commands include Enable and Disable Mic, Enable and Disable Wi-Fi, Switch Wi-Fi (between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz modes), and Enable and Disable Privacy mode.

Compact, Flexible Design with Manual Controls

The Momento M8 Maxi-fi is one of the lowest-profile dash cameras on the market. It attaches to your windshield with the included 3M VHB tape behind the rearview mirror. Once in place, the camera tilts upwards or down to ensure perfect coverage in front of the vehicle. The viewing angle is 112 degrees on the horizontal plane and 96 degrees vertically.

There are two buttons on the face of the Momento M8 Max, making it very intuitive to use. Pressing the left Wi-Fi button toggles Wi-Fi on and off. Pressing the right REC (Record) button initiates a manual recording in the event you witness something. Holding the REC button for three seconds turns off the mic. Holding the Wi-Fi button for 10 seconds will format the memory card.

The Momento Smartphone App

All three Momento M8 dashcams are compatible with the free Momento App for Android and iOS devices. Once you have connected your smart device to the M8 Max using 2.4 or 5 GHz Wi-Fi, the app lets you view the live video feed from the camera. This is how your installer will initially set up the camera.

The app lets you view and download stored files from any of the five galleries: Driving, Driving Events, Parking, Parking Events and Manual. You can preview the video at 600p resolution or download the full-resolution version and save it with your files or images for sharing.

The app provides access to many configuration options. These options include sensitivity adjustments for the integrated accelerometer to determine when event videos will be recorded. You can also set the automatic low-battery cut-off voltage or allocate different storage space for driving and parking videos. You can also change vehicle speed units between MPH and KM/H, depending on whether or not the camera uses radar parking mode, camera exposure, and the optional Travelapse mode. In Travelapse, the camera records at one frame per second to compress a long trip into a short video. If the accelerometer detects an impact, the system will store a 30-frame-per-second video starting seven seconds before the event trigger. The app also allows you to initiate a firmware update if and when it is introduced.

The Ultimate Driving Protection Solution

If you want a premium dash camera with excellent image quality and class-leading features, visit a local authorized retailer and ask for a demonstration of the Momento M8 Max. They can complete the installation to ensure your camera will work reliably to capture everything that happens while you’re driving.

For more information on Momento safety products, visit their website. You should also follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Finally, their YouTube channel has videos about all of their products.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Sony XAV-AX3700 Multimedia Receiver

Car audio source unit manufacturers are constantly developing new products to fill the gaps between entry-level and flagship models. Sony recently released a new 2-DIN digital multimedia receiver called the XAV-AX3700, which slides into the mix just below the XAV-AX4000. This new radio features a 6.95-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay connectivity and iDatalink Maestro vehicle integration. Read on to learn about what else it offers.

Sony XAV-AX3700 Source Features

The XAV-AX3700 starts with extensive support for digital media files stored on a USB flash drive. The radio can decode MP3, WMA, WAV, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, DSF and DSDIFF audio files. It also has Bluetooth, which includes the A2DP and AVRCP profiles, which allow music to stream from a smartphone or digital media player. The radio supports LDAC for impressive wireless sound quality and SBC and AAC for maximum device compatibility.

Of course, the radio has a high-quality AM/FM receiver, which captures RDBS information so you can see album and song title information if the station provides it. The retailer installing the radio can upgrade it with a SiriusXM satellite radio receiver, allowing you to listen to genre-specific music or your choice of entertainment channels nonstop from coast to coast. Sony provides a rich SiriusXM interface, including the channel logo and the album art for the track being played if the station you’re tuned in to provides it.

Sony XAV-AX3700 — The XAV-AX3700 can be upgraded with a dedicated SiriusXM satellite radio receiver for uninterrupted entertainment.

Apple CarPlay Smartphone Connectivity

The XAV-AX3700 includes support for wired Apple CarPlay. Plug your phone cable in, and you’ll have access to all the music on your phone or your favorite streaming services. You can choose whatever you want using intuitive voice commands. Of course, you can make phone calls, send text messages or get detailed turn-by-turn directions to any address or business in North America using your favorite app.

Vehicle Interface Features

As mentioned, the XAV-AX3700 supports the iDatalink Maestro SR, RR and RR2 interfaces. These modules allow communication with the computers in your vehicle to provide access to climate controls, as well as factory-installed infotainment components like microphones, steering wheel controls and a rear-vision camera.

If your application does not have an RR or RR2 module, your installer can integrate steering wheel controls using other modules, like the Maestro SW. Talk to the Product Specialist you are working with for details about your vehicle’s specific make, model and trim level.

Intuitive Interface Simplifies Operation

Sony is the benchmark when it comes to human-machine interfaces. Not only does the XAV-AX3700 boot incredibly quickly, but the button layout on the screen and the menu functions are super-intuitive. The 6.95-inch touchscreen display is bordered by a row of six buttons along the bottom edge.

The main display menu includes five user-configurable options. You can set your favorite sources or commonly used functions, like the backup camera display, to be readily available. When an iPhone is connected, a dedicated icon for Apple CarPlay appears to the left of the clock.

You can also customize the wallpaper image behind the icons from several included options or upload your own image to personalize the radio. A new customizable clock layout feature gives you an option for either an analog or digital clock in the center of the screen, or a smaller digital clock in the top right corner.

Sony XAV-AX3700 Audio Features

This new Sony radio includes a full suite of audio integration features to maximize the sound system’s performance. A five-channel time alignment screen helps improve staging and imaging. A 14-band graphic equalizer can smooth out peaks and dips in the system frequency response. Built-in electronic crossovers with adjustable slopes maximize the performance of your speakers.

The radio includes a four-channel amplifier rated to produce 20 watts per channel, making driving the factory speakers easy. Thanks to dedicated front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs, you can easily upgrade the radio with an external amplifier. An integrated subwoofer level control makes fine-tuning your system to suit your music or mood easy.

Single-DIN Chassis Simplifies Installation

A feature that car audio installers will love is the single-DIN chassis behind the 2-DIN display. This 2-inch tall chassis design leaves room for wiring, integration modules and wire harness adapters. Notably, the space is available beneath the radio, where these parts typically rest. The depth of that chassis is shallow as well, allowing use in vehicles with a tight fit behind the radio screen.

Upgrade Your Driving Experience with Sony

Whether you’re looking to add Apple CarPlay or high-quality audio streaming to an older vehicle, or you have to replace a factory-installed radio that’s kicked the bucket with one that requires the use of a Maestro module that retains some factory features or settings, the new Sony XAV-AX3700 is an excellent choice. Drop by a local Sony car audio retailer today and ask for a demonstration. You can find a retailer using their online locator tool. Also, follow Sony on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with the latest new car audio products.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Pioneer DMH-W3050NEX

Pioneer DMH-W3050NEX Platform

Communication and Entertainment Options

Sound Quality and Signal Processing

The Heart of a Premium Sound System

Product Spotlight: Alpine i407-WRA-JL

What is the Alpine i407-WRA-JL Kit?

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kit Features

Alpine iLX-407 Features

Audio Processing Features

Jeep Radio Upgrade Kits

Product Spotlight: KICKER LX1200.5

What is the KICKER LX1200.5 Amplifier?

OEM Audio Integration

Integrated Digital Signal Processing

Full Amplifier Family

Upgrade Your Car Audio Experience with KICKER LX-Series Amplifiers

Product Spotlight: Momento M8 Max

Momento M8 Max Features

Two- and Three-Camera Support Modes

ECO Parking Mode

Voice Recognition

Compact, Flexible Design with Manual Controls

The Momento Smartphone App

The Ultimate Driving Protection Solution

Product Spotlight: Sony XAV-AX3700 Multimedia Receiver

Sony XAV-AX3700 Source Features

Apple CarPlay Smartphone Connectivity

Vehicle Interface Features

Intuitive Interface Simplifies Operation

Sony XAV-AX3700 Audio Features

Single-DIN Chassis Simplifies Installation

Upgrade Your Driving Experience with Sony

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