Jack of all trades, master of nothing

This is a review of Sony's new car stereo headunit with built-in Bluetooth functionality that incorporates Bluetooth audio devices and cellphones. The review is divided into several categories for convenience.

Look: The unit is a single DIN unit (which means it is the size of a standard rectangular car stereo). It has the Sony X-Plod design, with a giant brushed aluminum finish piece on the left side, X-shaped, with a toggle switch in the middle. A nice copper-shaped Source bar protrudes on the left to change inputs. On the right side of the unit is a graphics screen, The look is contemporary, but the graphics seem very 1980s.

The screen choices are very limited, unlike competing units from Pioneer. The unit also doesn't offer graphics downloads, so you are stuck with stock offers. That being said, the screen is clear, and it is easy to tell what mode you are in (Sat radio, tuner, etc.). The faceplate is detachable with a hidden single CD.


Functionality:
This is where this unit shines. It is sat. radio ready, XM or Sirius, but you will need a hidden adapter purchased separately. A single CD is offered, with inputs for a changer as well. The big news is the Bluetooth capability however.
Bluetooth enables you to stream Bleutooth-capable audio devices through the stereo without a hard connection, such as MP3 players.
More imporantly, it synchronizes with Bluetooth phones. This enables you to make phonecalls throught the headunit, which recognizes the Bluetooth phone once you have synched it initially with the unit (a simple 5 minute process). Audio is comes through clearly through the cars speakers, and input is through a mike built into the headunit itself (unlike most other models that require external mikes). Phonebooks can be transferred from the phone on some models as well, and calls are made through the headunit using the toggle switch and radio buttons.

Performance:
Unfortunately, this unit doesn't work as advertised. My unit is frought with quality problems, and requires constant resetting through a reset button behind the face. Sony audio was once known for quality, but not anymore.

Additonally, my phonebook didn't download, despite Sony's advertisement that it would (it is a Blackberry device, so it is a very common and popular phone). While incoming call quality is very good, outgoing quality is mediocre at best. It sounds as if you are on a speaker phone, and any cabin noise will make hearing difficult on the other end. So if your car is loud at speed, stay away from this unit.

Finally, sound quality is average. While Sony offers a myriad of settings, the unit sounds very metallic and "tinny" through any medium other than CDs. CDs sound spectacular, however.


Overall, this is an average unit. If you want a device that does everything, conveniently with little fuss, it is a fine choice. However, for the true audiophile or the perfectionist, I suggest looking elsewhere.