Pioneer Entertains and Connects with In-Vehicle Multi-Media Receivers

By Dena Cassella January 6, 2010

The automotive industry is becoming more connected by the second. Pioneer Electronics Inc. announced five new in-dash multi-media receivers today at CES. The company’s new in-vehicle “AVH series” multi-media receivers consist of three double DIN units, the AVH-P3200DVD, AVH-P3200BT and AVH-P4200DVD, and two single DIN models, AVH-P5200DVD and AVH-P5200BT. Pioneer says these models all boast large touch screen displays from 5.8 to 7 inches and include a variety of features such as the enhanced touch slide user interface, Apple iPod/iPhone control, USB connectivity, SD card playback, Bluetooth, and navigation upgradeability.

“Pioneer is transforming the automobile into a hub for entertainment, convenience, and communication,” said Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the mobile business group of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “The new AVH series multi-media receivers correspond to today’s on-the-go lifestyle, with technology that enables consumers to seamlessly integrate many of the most popular portable devices with their in-vehicle Pioneer system. This integration enhances the capabilities of the Pioneer unit while allowing the portable device to be controlled with the Pioneer user interface, which is specifically designed for in-vehicle use.”

Each AVH series unit features built-in connectivity to USB storage devices, Secure Digital (SD) memory cards, and devices with mini-jack A/V outputs for diverse media playback capabilities. All five AVH series receivers are Bluetooth hands-free communication capable (fully built-in on the AVH-P3200BT and AVH-P5200BT, and available on the AVH-P3200DVD, AVH-P4200DVD and AVH-P5200DVD with the addition of an optional Pioneer Bluetooth receiver). Pioneer says optional tuners are available to add HD Radio reception and XM or SIRIUS satellite radio services.

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