Sony Automobile

Sony MDX-F5800

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Sony MDX-F5800In-dash AM/FM/UKW/MW/LW/MDLP player
Intro: 01/2004
Street: 300€
Availability:
In: 3.5mm mini, for remote control, Out: preamp (2xRCA) (max 2V output). No aux input.178mmw, 50mmh, 181mmd

Features:

  • Supports MDLP
  • European band radio (AM/FM/UKW/MW/LW)
  • Wide bit stream
  • Repeat, shuffle functions
  • Changer control for external CD/MD changer with ID3 tag and CD-Text display.
  • Tuner Type: SSIR-EXA. Tuner features Automatic Bandwidth Control (?), Best Tuning Memory and RDS EON.
  • Amp: Dynamic Soundstage Organizer (DSOII), 3-Band equalizer, separate bass/treble controls.
  • Subwoofer switch, switches between rear and sub outputs.
  • 2 color display
  • IR sensor for remote control
  • Integrated 24hour clock
  • Removable front panel
  • Mute on incoming phone call
  • ISO connection
  • Operating angles 0-45 degrees
  • Optional Remotes: Infrared: RM-X114, Safety Commander (wired remote): RM-X45

Links:

Specs: Freq resp: 10-20kHz, SNR: 90dB. Amp: 4x27w DIN into 4 ohms.

Reviews:

Sony WX-5900MD

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Sony WX-5900MDin-dash CD/MDLP receiver
Intro: 02/2003
¥54,000
Availability:
In: line. Out: speakers, linex2 ("pre-amp out"), headphones. Sony control bus in and out.178 x 100 x 201mm (2-DIN), 2.3Kg

Features:

  • CD, CD-RW, and MDLP compatible
  • W.B.S. (Wide Bit Stream)
  • 7-band equalizer
  • Motion display
  • CD-Text and MD titles display in kanji, kana, Roman alphabets
  • SSM (source sound memory) -- can be set to remember DSP, EQ, subwoofer and volume settings separately for each source (CD, MD, radio).
  • Can be mounted at up to a 30° angle from horizontal
  • Wireless remote included

Links:

Specs: Amp: 50Wx4 (max), SNR: > 90dB(MD), 95dB(CD), 72dB(FM mono), FM tuner: 76.0-90.0MHz, Power consumption: 12V@10A,

Reviews:

Sony MDX-CA790X

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Sony MDX-CA790Xin-dash MDLP player
Intro: 2/2003
Street: € 270
Availability:
Line x 21-DIN

Features:

  • Group mode support
  • CD/MD changer control
  • SSIR-EXA Tuner with ABC
  • Tuner with 40 presets
  • BTM (Best Tuning Memory)
  • RDS EON
  • 10 Sec. Shock Resistant Memory
  • Wide Bit Stream
  • 8fs-Digitalfilter
  • 1-Bit D/A-Converter
  • CD Custom File Control
  • ID3-Tag display
  • CD-Text display
  • List-Function: CD/MD
  • Title Scroll: CD-Text/ MD
  • Repeat / Shuffle
  • DSO II
  • EQ3 (3 Band Equalizer
  • Repeat/Shuffle
  • MBP (My Best Sound Position)
  • Bass/treble control
  • Dynamic Bass
  • 2 Pre-Out
  • Segmentmatrix/Multi-Color-Display
  • Key Illumination: red
  • Sensor for IR Commander
  • Removable Front Panel
  • Telephone Attenuator
  • ISO Connector

Links:

Specs: Max. amp power: 50W x 4 (1khz, 4 ohms)

Reviews:

User Manuals: Installation, MDX-CA790X

Sony WX-7700MDX

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Sony WX-7700MDXin-dash AM/FM/MDLP/CD player
Intro: 5/2002
¥85,000
Availability:
In: line (aux), uni-link. Out: line, sub-woofer (line-level), speakers x 4. DC IN: 12VDC@10A (max)178w x 100h x 194d mm (2-DIN), 3kg

Features:

  • CD/MDLP double-DIN player w/CD-R & CD-RW compatability.
  • Front panel illumination color is user selectable with separate RGB controls.

Links:

Included Accessories: Connecting cord, "Hi-band" wireless remote

Specs:

  • Amp: 52W x 4
  • Tuner: FM: 76.0-90.0MHz, SNR: > 74dB
  • CD: SNR: > 95dB

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-66XLP

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MDX-66XLP
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MDX-66XLPRF
Sony MDX-66XLPMDLP car changer
Intro: 3/2002
MDX-66XLP: US$450, MDX-66XLPRF: ¥64,000
Availability:
OUT: analog (line level) and digital (optical)7-1/4"W x 3-5/16"H x 5-7/8"D (est.), 66XLPRF version: 176 x 83.5 x 142mm, 1.1Kg

Features:

  • 6 disc MDLP changer (providing up to 32 hours of MDLP audio playback).
  • Disc change occurs seemlessly (no disc change delay [or only a small delay] in audio output).
  • Direct loading -- no magazine.
  • 10-second Shock Resistant Memory.
  • Change 5 MDs while the 6th is playing.
  • Wide Bit Stream processing.
  • See discs and titles through clear acrylic door.
  • Couples to Sony head units with Unilink control.
  • Similar to Sony's prior 6 MD changers, and as such could be used with Sony's RM-X69RF RF based controller.
  • Can be mounted up to 90° off horizontal.

Variants: MDX-66XLPRF version is a standalone unit that couples to vehicle's existing FM reciever via the antenna lead. Unit includes small, remote-mountable backlit display and wireless remote. FM "broadcast" frequency can be set to one of: 88.3, 88.5, 88.7, 88.9, 89.1, 89.3, 89.5, 89.7, 89.9MHz

Notes: Despite the info listed on Sony's own page for the unit the US version does not include a digital output. It has only analog RCA jacks. As an official Sony Xplod dealer, Crutchfield more accurately makes no mention of a digital output. -Haemish Edgerton

Links:

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-66XLP J, MDX-66XLPRF J, MDX-66XLPRF mounting J, Mounting EN/FR, MDX-66XLP

Sony MDX-M690

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Sony MDX-M690in-dash car MD unit
Intro: 5/2001

Availability:

Availability:
178W x 50H x 182D mm (1DIN)

Features: SSIR-EXA ABC tuner, Can adjust the tuner bandwidth, depending on current environmental conditions. Improved sound quality and adjacent station interference result. DAB control, FM-18/MW-6/LW-6 Presets - using BTM (Best Tuning Memory), RDS/EON. Multi language, Dot matrix display, Multi colour display, Contrast Adjustment, Display dimmer, Key Illumination: red, Safety Commander interface: 3.5 mm, Sensor for IR commander (Hi-Band), Infra red (Hi-Band), Removeable front panel, Clock, Telephone Attenuator, ISO connector. MiniDisc: MDLP, Shock Resistant memory: 4 Mbit, 10 sec, Wide Bit Stream, Data Compression: ATRAC, ATRAC3, Digital filter: 8 fs, D/A conversion: 1 bit Frequency response: 10-20000 Hz, Signal to noise ratio : 90 dB, Repeat, Shuffle. CD Changer Control: CD Text, Custom file, CD/MD List function, CD Title/Scroll, Repeat, Shuffle. Amplifier: DSO (Dynamic Soundstage Organiser), EQ-7 (7-band Equalizer), separate Bass, Treble control, Loudness, Pre-amp output: Front and Rear (HPF - swicthable Highpass), Mono sub-output and swicthable Low Pass filter, Sub volume control.

Specs: 4 x 27 W output power, 4 x 52 W maximum.

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-M690

Service Manual: MDX-M690

Sony MDX-CA580

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Sony MDX-CA580in-dash car MD unit
Intro: 5/2001

Availability:

Availability:
178W x 50H x 183D mm

Features:

  • Segment display
  • Multi colour display
  • Key Illumination: Green
  • Safety Commander interface: 3.5 mm
  • Sensor for IR commander
  • Removeable front panel
  • Clock
  • Telephone Attenuator
  • ISO connector

    MD player:

  • not MDLP (ATRAC Chip CXD2652AR)
  • Shock Resistant memory:
  • 4 Mbit 10 sec
  • Wide Bit Stream
  • Data Compression: ATRAC
  • Digital filter: 8 fs
  • D/A conversion: 1 bit
  • Frequency response: 10-20000 Hz
  • Signal to noise ratio : 90 dB
  • Repeat, Shuffle

    Tuner:

  • SSIR-EXA ABC tuner
  • FM-18/MW-6/LW-6 Presets - using BTM (Best Tuning Memory)
  • RDS/EON

    CD Changer control:

  • CD Text
  • Custom file
  • CD/MD List function
  • CD Title/Scroll
  • Repeat, Shuffle

    Amplifier:

  • Separate Bass

    Treble control

    Dynamic Bass

    Pre-amp output: Front and Rear.

Links: Sony Norway page for the unit.

Specs: 4 x 26 W output power, 4 x 50 W maximum.

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-CA580

Service Manual: MDX-CA580

Sony MDX-CA680X

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Sony MDX-CA680Xin-dash MD receiver
Intro: 4/2001

Availability:
IN: ??
OUT: pre-out (x2)
1 DIN (178x50x177mm), 1.2kg

Features: MDLP compatible. New Sony Xplod series design. 30 radio station presets, 10 second anti-shock protection, volume synching with telephone system, multi-color display, bass/tweeter adjustment,CD-TEXT support, detachable faceplate.

Links:

Manufacturer's Specs:

  • 18 FM, 12 AM Preset Stations
  • 10 Second Shock Resistant Memory
  • 1-Bit Converter
  • 3-Color Negative LC Display
  • Telephone Attenuate
  • Wireless & Rotary Remotes Optional
  • Flip-Down Detachable Faceplate
  • SSIR-EXA Tuner -- Sony's proprietary SSIR-EX tuner technology which can actually adjust the tuner's bandwidth, depending on current environmental conditions. Improved sound quality and adjacent station interference result.
  • MBP (My Best Position) -- Optimizes system for listener's position; one push; easy operation.
  • D-Bass -- (Dynamic Bass) Sony's unique low frequency enhancement system which provides up to 18dB of gain to frequencies below 75Hz, without midrange coloration or interference.
  • Preamp Output -- Typically found on headunits, a preamp output provides low level, high quality audio signal for use with external amplifiers. Provides an ideal expansion point for high quality audio systems.
  • MD/CD/TV Control w/Custom File -- The ability of a component to operate a CD or MD disc changer and a TV tuner.
  • Custom File -- A feature package that provides intuitive and safe source management for an audio and A/V system. Examples include Disc Memo , Station Memo and Memo List.
  • CD Text -- A compact disc and player feature utilizing disc, track and artist information encoded directly on the CD media. Both playback and media components must have CD Text compatibility.
  • Station Memo -- A Custom File feature that allows the user to assign an eight character name to a tuner frequency.
  • Shock Resistant Memory -- An electronic circuit that stores the audio data stream from a CD or MD in a memory buffer. If the laser pick-up mistracks, audio still flows from the buffer preventing an interruption.
  • Wide Bit Stream Processing -- This technology maintains 20-bit precision through the recording process for clearer reproduction of delicate, low-level music.
  • 8x Oversampling -- A digital filter which calculates 7 additional samples between those taken from the disc which provides a closer representation of the original analog signal and therefore better sound quality.
  • Negative LC Display -- A liquid crystal display employing a dark backfield with its elements. This results in a primarily dark display, which improves cosmetic integration with a dark colored headunit.
  • Flip-Down Detachable Faceplate -- A DIN headunit who's faceplate hinges at the bottom to reveal a media loading slot. Provides a larger area on the face for the display and controls.

Specs: 50W x 4 speaker output.

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-CA680X, MDX-CA680

Service Manual: MDX-CA680X

Sony WX-5500MDX

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Sony WX-5500MDXdouble-DIN MDLP/CD car unit
Intro: 3/2001
¥54,000
Availability:
IN:
OUT:
2 DIN (178 x 100 x 186mm), 2.1kg

Features: CD/MD slots both in face of unit. MDLP compatible. HX-DSP StageIII technology manipulates the audio to sound as if user was in a larger space. Equalizer has seven different presets, CD player is compatible with both CD-R and CD-RW recordings.

Links: Sony's Japanese press release announcing the WX-5500MDX. T's MiniDisc Comparison Tables list specs on the WX-5500MDX.

Specs: 50W x 4 output.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-G55MK2

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Sony MDX-G55MK2AM/FM/MDLP in-dash receiver
Intro: 10/2000
MSRP ¥70,000
Availability:
IN:
OUT:
1 DIN, 178x50x179mm, 1.1kg

Features: First MDLP car unit. ATRAC with Type-R DSP for non MDLP tracks. Dynamic Soundstage Organizer (DSO) (allows apparent sound field position to be adjusted with respect to listener). Hi res FL (fluoroluminescent) dot front panel. Independent high and low pass filters for front, rear and sub-woofer. Couples to G44MK2 CD player with digital connection. Includes rotary controller and wireless remote.

Links: Sony's Japanese announcement of the unit.

Specs: Operates in Japanese FM band only (76-90MHz), AM band: 522-1629KHz, SNR: >95dB, Amp: 45W x 4, Power consumption: 10 amps.

Reviews:

Sony WX-5000MDX

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Sony WX-5000MDXCD/MD/TV Receiver
Intro: 6/2000
MSRP ¥53.000
Availability:
178w x 100h x 186d mm (2-DIN), 2.1kg

Description:

  • 50 W power IC.
  • Unique "Virtual 3D" function.
  • 7-band/5-mode digital equalizer.
  • "Time alignment" listening position selector.
  • Independent high and low pass filters for speakers and subwoofer.
  • Plays CD-R discs, but not CD-RW or non-finalized CD-R discs.
  • non-MDLP.

Links:

Specs: Amp: 50w x 4

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, Mounting guide J

Sony MDX-C7400X

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Sony MDX-C7400Xcar MD player
Intro: 4/2000
¥53,000
Availability:
1DIN

Features: Wireless remote, preprogrammed 7-style graphic equalizer, EXA tuner (to prevent frequency modulation),.

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: 50Wx4, Japanese FM band only (76-90MHz).

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-C5400X

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Sony MDX-C5400Xcar MD player
Intro: 4/2000
¥41,000
Availability:
1DIN, 1.2kg

Features: Three level bass boost, EXA tuner (prevents frequency modulation), station memo feature,

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: 50Wx4, Japanese radio band only (76-90MHz).

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-C8500X

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Sony MDX-C8500Xcar MD reciever
Intro: 4
$450 (street)
Availability:
4-volt preout (x3)DIN

Features: 10-second anti-shock memory, HX DSP - digital EQ with presets and 7-band equaliser, wireless remote control, flip-down detachable face with multicolor display, CD/MD changer/TV controls, Custom File Memory, MD titles and CD Text, multi-language display (English/Spanish/French).

European model (C8500R) is visually different, has DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) Control, RDS/EON tuner, a 4x40W max amplifier and does not have the wireless remote control.

Links: Sony UK page. Crutchfield's page selling the unit. Ed Porras makes a handsome review of the Sony MDX-C8500X.

Specs: Maximum output 50W x 4 (19W x 4 RMS), FM sensitivity 8 dBf, FM 18/MW 6/LW 10 station presets

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-C8500R, MDX-C8500X

Service Manual: MDX-C8500X

Sony WX-6000MD

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Sony WX-6000MDMD/CD multi-control car unit
Intro: 4/2000
¥74,000
Availability:
2DIN

Features: 1 MD capacity. MD record feature, DSO function (?), listening position selector, pre-programmed equalizer, 40 second electronic shock protection, equipped with seamless disc change function.

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: 45W x 4.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony WX-7000MD

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Sony WX-7000MDMD/CD multi-control car unit
Intro: 4/2000
¥84,000
Availability:
2DIN

Features: 3 MD capacity. MD record feature, DSO function (?), listening position selector, pre-programmed equalizer, 40 second electronic shock protection, equipped with seamless disc change function.

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: 45W x 4.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony WX-REC8000

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Sony WX-REC8000MD/CD multi-control car unit
Intro: 4/2000
¥100,000
Availability:
2DIN

Features: MD record feature, 10 second time machine recording, CD synch record, 40 second electronic shock protection.

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: 45W x 4 output.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-C800REC

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XA-D110 TOSlink to digital input adapter (available separately)
Sony MDX-C800RECIn Dash AM/FM Reciever and MD Recorder
Intro: 3/2000
Street ~US$700
Availability:
IN: analog and digital (non-optical)
OUT: Speakers, pre-out X 2
Single DIN

Features: First in-dash single DIN MiniDisc recorder. Records from radio, or connected CD or MD changer. Timer recording can continue recording even after faceplate is removed. SSIR-EXA Adaptive Reception tuner, fold-down detachable faceplate, 4-color dot matrix display, D Bass adjustable bass boost. Wired and wireless remote control options. 40-second shock resistant memory, CD/MD changer controls, TV controls for Sony mobile video equipment, 18 FM/12 AM presets, wide bit stream processing, CD Text (with CD text discs and a text-compatible Sony CD changer), D-Bass processing w/ auto level adjust, timer recording (up to 80 minutes after you park), Time Machine recording captures 10 seconds of music prior to recording, MD edit, digital input for CD changer, Rotary Encoder w/ cross key pad, telephone attenuator, multi-language display

Notes: Digital input is not optical, separately available XA-D110 adapter is needed to allow input via TOSlink. (Sony's uninformative page for the adapter).

Reviews:

Links:

Specs: 18 watts RMS/45 peak x 4 channels, MD frequency response 10-20,000 Hz, MD signal-to-noise ratio 92 dB, FM sensitivity 8 dBf

Comments: At last, a way to remove unwanted tracks while on the road! -eaw

User Manual: MDX-C800REC

Service Manuals: MDX-C800REC, MDX-C800REC-a

Sony MDX-G55

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Sony MDX-G55in-dash MD player
Intro: 11/1999
¥68,000
Availability:
1DIN

Features: Combinable in function with the CSX-G44 in-dash CD player. DSO function, variegated sound scene effects.

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: 45W x 4.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-G77REC

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Sony MDX-G77RECRecording Indash AM/FM/MD Receiver
Intro: 11/1999
MSRP ¥99,800
Availability:
178x50x179mm (Single DIN), 1.9kg

Features: Single DIN size in-dash AM/FM/MD receiver with recording capability. Recording source can be AM, FM or attached MD/CD changer(s) (digital recording from CDs is possible). 10 second time-machine recording. ``Jog-roller'' control for volume, editing, track selection, etc. Full editing capabilities (titling/erase/move/divide/combine) available only when car is stopped with parking brake set. Features "Dynamic Sound Stage Organizer" (DSO) DSP function to adjust sound stage so that driver feels to be at apparent center of listening field. Flip out (down?) type front panel has 6 electrically settable display angles, with built-in setting memory.

Links: Sony's photo and Japanese announcement for the unit.

Specs: SNR: > 94dB, Freq. resp: 5-20kHz, FM band: 76-90MHz, AM band: 522-1629kHz, Amplifier: 40w X 4, Power consumption: 10 amps

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony WX-C88REC

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Sony WX-C88RECCD/MD car MD recorder/player
Intro: 6/1999
¥116,000
Availability:
100 x 178 x 194 mm (double-DIN)

Features: Can record to MD from CD/AM/FM sources, time machine REC function (10 sec), full MD editing features, Spectrum analyzer of 296 patterns, Chinese/Katakana character support, CD-TEXT support, FM teletext reception function (VICS level couple respondent). Includes Rotary commander and cordless remote control. Radio is for Japanese FM bands only

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: Maximum output 40W x 4. FM tuner range 76-90MHz. AM tuner range 522-1,629kHz.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony WX-C100REC

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Sony WX-C100RECin-dash CD/MD recorder/player
Intro: 6/1999
¥138,000
Availability:
100 x 178 x 194 mm (double-DIN)

Features: Sony's first MD recording-capable car unit. Can record to MD from CD/AM/FM sources, time machine REC function (10 sec), full MD editing features, Spectrum analyzer of 296 patterns, Chinese/Katakana character support, CD-TEXT support, FM teletext reception function (VICS level couple respondent). Includes Rotary commander and cordless remote control. Radio is for Japanese FM bands only

Links: Sony's Japanese page for this unit. Sony's Japanese page for this unit.

Specs: Maximum output 40W x 4. FM tuner range 76-90MHz. AM tuner range 522-1,629kHz.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-65

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RM-X69RF remote control
Sony MDX-65MD car changer
Intro: 4/1999
¥67,000
Street US$450
Availability:
OUT: analog (line level) and digital (optical)7-1/4"W x 3-5/16"H x 5-7/8"D

Features: 6 MD changer. Disc change occurs seemlessly (no disc change delay in audio output), Direct loading -- no magazine, 10-second Shock Resistant Memory, Change 5 MDs while the 6th is playing, Wide Bit Stream processing. Not MDLP

Variants: MDX-65RF Model: (intro: 4/2000) Standalone version that connects to existing car stereo through FM attenna jack. Includes liquid crystal display for title/track info and control information and cordless remote control with basic play functions.

Optional accessories: The Sony RM-X69RF allows wireless remote control of Sony Unilink MD/CD changers and includes an FM modulator; perfect for connecting the Sony MDX-65 to an existing non-Sony car stereo. This item is available from Planet MiniDisc.

Links:

Specs: Frequency response 10-20,000 Hz, Signal-to-noise ratio 95 dB, 0- to 90-degree mounting.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, MDX-65RF J, MDX-65RF mounting J, MDX-65

Service Manual: MDX-65

Sony MDX-C7970

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Sony MDX-C7970car MD player
Intro: 3/1999

Availability:
F+R Preout
Availability:

Features: Replacement for MDX-C7900 model; improvements include a flip-down detachable faceplate and an IR sensor for an optional Sony mobile wireless remote. 10 second shock memory, dot-matric LCD scrolls Disc/Track Titles, 3-Step D-Bass w/Auto Level Adjust, Rotary Encoder Control.

Links: Audio Warehouse Express page for this unit.

Specs: Amp: 40Wx4

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-C7970

Service Manual: MDX-C7970

Sony MDX-C5970

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Sony MDX-C5970car MD player
Intro: 3/1999
MSRP $400 USD
Availability:
F+R Preout

Features: Nearly identical to older MDX-C7900 model. SSIR-EX Tuner, Station MemoTM, 20FM+10AM Presets (BTM), 8X Oversampling, 1-Bit D/A, Wide Bit-stream Processing, 10 Second Shock Resist Memory, CD/MD Control, CD Text, Custom FileTM, Dot LCD Scrolls Disc/Track Titles, 3-Step D-Bass w/Auto Level Adjust, Full Detachable Face w/Case, Rotary Encoder Control.

Links: Sony's page for this unit.

Specs: Amp: 35Wx4

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-C5970

Service Manuals: MDX-C5970, MDX-C5970

Sony MDX-C8900

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Sony MDX-C8900Car MD receiver
Intro: 7/1998
MSRP $600
Availability:

Features: 10 second shock resistant memory. Wide Bit Stream processing. SSIR-EX Adaptive Reception tuner. Voice Confirmation of control input. Fold down detachable front panel. Program play mode. Optional wireless remote (RM-X47)

Links: Cameron Croft's page for the Sony MDX-C8900.

Specs: MD section: Signal-to-noise ratio: 90db, Frequency response: 10-20,000 Hz Tuner: Usable sensitivity 8dBf Selectivity 75 dB at 400kHz Signal-to-noise 65dB (stereo) 68dB(mono) Separation 35dB at 1kHz Frequency Response 30-15,000 Hz

Amplifier: 45x4 at 4 ohms 19Watts continuous average power, no more than 1% THD.

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-C8900, MDX-C8900R

Sony MDX-62

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Sony MDX-626 Disc in car MD changer
Intro: 4/1998
MSRP $550
Availability:
176 x 84 x 128mm

Features: 10 second shock resistant memory. 8x oversampling, 1-bit D/A. Ex-Change function. Digital bass boost. MD titles easily viewed through clear door. Similar in mechanics and appearance to Sony MDX-61 and MDX-60.

Variants: MDX-6@RF Model: (Intro: 4/1998) Standalone version that connects to existing car stereo through FM attenna jack. Includes liquid crystal display for title/track info and control information and cordless remote control with basic play functions.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, MDX-62RF J, MDX-62RF mounting J, MDX-62

Sony MDX-C7900

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Sony MDX-C7900Car MD receiver
Intro: 2/1998
MSRP $590
Availability:
out: speakers, 2 phono1 DIN

Features: ATRAC 4 (Chip: 2652AR). 10 second shock resistant memory. 8x oversampling, 1-bit memory. SSIR-EX AM/FM stereo tuner rotary encoder level control. Detachable front panel, remote supplied. Provides MD & CD changer control. CD Text support when used with CD Text equipped CD changer. D-Bass including Digital D-Bass for MDs. Radio station naming. List function, allows scrolling through radio presets or disc names without interupting current station or disc. Auto-Scroll for MD titles. Adjustable display contrast. Auto-dimmer.

Links: A user's review of the unit. Another, in depth review. Sony's page for the unit.

Specs: MD signal-to-noise ratio: 90dB. Amp: 40W x 4 (peak) 17W x 4 continuous in 4 ohms.

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-C7900R, MDX-C7900

Service Manual: MDX-C7900

Sony MDX-C8000

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Sony MDX-C8000In-dash MD/AM/FM stereo
Intro: 11/1996
MSRP ¥63,000
Availability:
178x50x170mm 1.5kg

Features: Wide Bit Stream. Katakana/Alphanumeric display, MD/CD/TV/DSP control functions. Equipped with a "rotary commander" for safe operation while driving.

Specs: Amp: 35W X 4. FM: 76.0-90.0 MHz, TV: Ch 1-3 (Japanese), AM: 522kHz-1629kHz.

Links: Sony page for this unit.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony WX-C900MD

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Sony WX-C900MDIn-dash MD/CD/FM stereo
Intro: 4/1996
MSRP ¥128,000
Availability:
Optical digital in178x100x171mm 2.5kg

Features: First double DIN size MD*CD+DSP+Equilizer audio master unit. DSP/7 Band graphic equalizer. Custom file for tone settings, input with rotary encoder. While looking at the display you can sequence through the control menu. Equipped with a "rotary commander" for safe operation while driving.

Specs: 5hz-20Khz S/N 104dB. Amp: 35W X 4. THD (CD) 0.007%. FM: 76.0-90.0 MHz, AM: 522kHz-1629kHz

Links: Sony page for this unit.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-700EQ

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Sony MDX-700EQIn-dash MD deck w/eq.
Intro: 4/1996
MSRP ¥52,500
Availability:
178x50x165mm 1.4kg

Features: 7 Band graphic equalizer. 5hz-20Khz S/N 105dB.

Links: Sony page for this unit.

Reviews:

User Manuals: J, mounting J

Sony MDX-C150

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Sony MDX-C150In-dash MD/FM stereo
Intro: 12/1995
MSRP $600
Availability:

Features: ATRAC 2. Wired remote.
Weird negatives (compared to the original MDX-U1 unit):

  • Can't lable radio stations
  • Only 10 character display
  • Only 1 pre-amp output
  • Track info doesn't scroll by default
Positives (compared to the original MDX-U1 unit)
  • Better display
  • LOUDness option
  • Better look
  • Larger preset buttons
  • ATRAC 3
Contains ATRAC 2 chipset: CXD2531BR, CXD2525R, CXD2526AR, and CXA1082BQ. The exact same chipset found inside my MDX-400. -Shawn Lin

Links: Sony Page info. Crutchfield sells this unit.

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-C150

Sony MDX-100

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Sony MDX-100In-dash MD/FM stereo
Intro: 12/1995
MSRP $1000
Availability:
7 1/8 x 2 x 6 1/4 " (WHD)

Features: ATRAC 2. AM/FM tuner. 10-second shock resistant memory. Staggered 1 bit pulse D/A converters. 12 character display for MD disc/track titles. X-tal lock tuner with SSIR EX front end. 20 Fm + 10 AM presets, best tuning memory. UniLink CD/MD/DSP/TV control with custom file memory. Station memo tuning stores 8 character station names. Disc memo function and program bank control. Loudness button, mute button, intro/repeat/shuffle play modes. 2 preamp outputs with preamp fader. 20 watts x 4 high power internal amplifier. 4 channel amplifier input for processor. 2 color selectable illumination, quartz clock. Full face detachable security with carrying case. Frequency response 20Hz - 20KHz.

Links: Sony Page info.

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-100

Sony MDX-U1

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Sony MDX-U1In-dash MD/FM deck
Intro: 12/1992
MSRP $800
Availability:

Features: ATRAC 1. First in-dash MD unit. Wireless Remote (No Amplifier).

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-U1

Sony MDX-400

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Sony MDX-400In-dash 4 MD changer/FM deck
Intro: 1
MSRP $1300
Availability:
8-pin ISO DIN (unilink), stereo RCAbehind dash unit: 2.4x19.7x14cm

Features: ATRAC 2. Wireless remote. (No Amplifier).

Links: Sony Page info. Comments from an owner. Crutchfield sells this unit and has further info on it. MiniDiscussion has collected user reviews for this unit.

User comments: The MDX-400 is really nice. It has two parts - the in dash 4MD changer, and a separate tuner/preamp unit. This makes it much easier to install, since all of the connections are made on the preamp unit, which doesn't have to be crammed into the dash where the stereo goes. There are connections for power, Sub, Front, Rear, Unilink, 2 antennas, wired remote, and MD changer. There's also a wired remote included, which is necessary because the display is so big that they couldn't fit all of the buttons onto the front panel.

The MD changer function works great - there's a cartridge which holds 4 MDs, and it changes between discs in a few seconds. The 2-line display shows the disc or track name on the top line, and the elapsed time on the bottom. The LCD is backlit in a blue-green color, and the buttons can be switched between green and red illumination.

It has a diversity antenna system, which constantly samples two antennas to determine which has the best signal. This gives improved radio reception in areas with weak signals.

It controls an optional TV in the car, and you can see the disc name and track names on the TV. It also controls an optional DSP module which lets you set your seat position and then it digitally delays the signals from each spkr by different amounts so that they all reach the specified position at the same time. The DSP has 10 DSP modes which you can link to your CDs, so that you can have your classical CD play in the concert hall DSP mode, and the disco CD play in disco DSP mode automatically.

The only mis-features that the MDX-400 has are:

  • It does not have the "source tone memory" function (independent bass/treble settings for FM, AM, MD, and CD) that most sony ES car receivers have. This is instead implemented with as the "Last Sound Memory" function of the optional DSP. So, you have to have the DSP if you want this feature.
  • The "Loudness" function is disabled if you have the DSP connected. Without the DSP, the loudness function works fine.

-Matt Cervi ([email protected])

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-400

Sony MDX-40

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Sony MDX-40Auto 4 MD changer option
Intro: 1
MSRP $1000
Availability:

Features: Uses 4 MD magazine.

Links: Sony Page info.

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-40, ChangerMagazinesupplement

Sony MDX-C8970

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Sony MDX-C8970MD car unit
Intro: 1
MSRP US$700
Availability:

Features: Voice-activated using speech recognition for station names. Voice-memo feature allows 6 voice messages of up to 15 seconds each to be recorded to unit (not to MD). DSP function allows user to adjust virtual sound stage for better placement.

Links: Sony UK page. A TWICE article describes this unit. Crutchfield.com has good information for this unit.

Specs: Amplifier power: 45-watt x 4

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-C8970, MDX-C8970R

Service Manuals: MDX-C8970R, MDX-C8970

Sony MDX-61

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Sony MDX-61
Intro: 1

Availability:

Availability:

Availability:

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-61

Service Manual: MDX-61

Sony MDX-C6500X

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R
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RV
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R (1000x467)
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RV (1000x433)
Sony MDX-C6500Xcar MD receiver
Intro: 2
$400 (list), $350 (street)
Availability:
RCA pre-out (x2)DIN

Features: 10-second (4Mbit) shock-resistant memory, SSIR-EXA tuner, MD titles and CD-Text, CD/MD changer/TV tuner controls, Custom File CD, Wide Bit Stream Processing, Station Memo, D-Bass, flip-down (removeable) face, cellphone mute, optional wired and wireless remotes.

European model (C6500R) has RDS/EON tuner (displays station name) in place of Station Memo, and is visually different. A blue-display version (C6500RV) is available to match VW and Vauxhall cars.

Links: Sony USA's page for the unit. Sony UK page. Sony UK page. Crutchfield's page selling the unit, Edworthys (UK) sales page. The North American market MDX-C6500 styling is really in-your-faceplate compared to the more muted European edition. (However Francisco J. Montilla reports that the Spanish edition faceplate looks just like the N. American one).

Specs: Maximum output 50W x 4 (19W x 4 RMS), FM sensitivity 8 dBf, FM 18/MW 6/LW 6 station presets

Reviews:

User Manuals: MDX-C6500X, MDX-C6500R, MDX-C6500RV, MDX-C6500RX, MDX-C6500R

Service Manuals: MDX-C6400R, MDX-C6500RV, MDX-6500X

Sony MDX-60

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Sony MDX-60In-dash 6 MD changer option
Intro: 1
MSRP $720
Availability:
176 x 84 x 125mm, 1.1Kg

Features: ATRAC 3. One disc can remain in play while others are changed.

Links: Sony Page info (translated), Sony Japan Page info. Kenwood (Japanese) Page info. Kenwood Italy's page. Crutchfield carrys this unit and has more info on it.

User comments: (regarding the MDX-61 follow on unit) I have to say that the MDX-61 MD changer is the most wonderful car stereo component I've ever owned! I love the shuffle play - it doesn't repeat (unlike my CDX-81 CD changer that I exchanged for the MDX-61) and there is almost never a delay between songs, even when changing discs (thanks, 10 second memory!). It is such a joy to load it up with 6 discs, press shuffle play, and get over 7 hours of non-repeating music. It's like listening to a radio station that only plays songs you like! I wish there was a home MD changer...
-Fred Hamilton ([email protected])

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-60

Sony MDX-C5960

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Sony MDX-C5960
Intro: 1

Availability:

Availability:

Availability:

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-C5960R

Sony MDX-C670RDS

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Sony MDX-C670RDSIn-dash MD/AM/FM stereo
Intro: 1
MSRP DM849
street DM630
Availability:
out: Speakers, pre-amp

Features: RDS (Radio Data System -- automatically acquires alternate signal for station (if available) when current signal is weak. Also tracks highway information and pauses music when information broadcasts are made) 40 presets (20FM, 10AM, 10LW). Equipped with a "rotary commander" for safe operation while driving. Rotary jog-dial on the unit itself used to adjust the volume. CD Disc Memo (requires CD changer with custom file function). MD/CD changer control. Cellular telephone auto mute. Bass/treble - balance/fader control - loudness. 10 character display for MD titles, which auto scrolls. Only 6 sec. shock resistant meory. Multi color display, similar form as the XR-C900 (white characters on black background, multi selector), although no flip-down front. "CD-custom file" and "CD-text". No remote sensor. Detachable face. Wired remote. 2 sets of preamp outputs.

Availability in North America:

  • Crutchfield, Speed and Sound Electronics in NY 1-800-647-6863 or 718 531-1300, price: $404.95
  • Auto Sound Design in Ontario (416) 226-5775, price: CN$557.
  • Audio Worx. From USA call (888) 843 9679, from other places (905) 898-6715, price: Cn$480. Email: [email protected].

Links: A user's review of this unit (including some comments on installation).

Specs: Amp: 13W RMS/35W peak X 4, MD SNR 90dB, FM sens. 8dBf

Reviews:

User Manual: MDX-C670

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