Clarion VRX785BT Review (VRX-785BT)

Clarion released a single-DIN multimedia receiver with a retractable 7" LCD touchscreen monitor that is also navigation ready. This top-tier product showcases one of the most attractive front-panel design with reliability and performance that is virtually second to none.The Clarion VRX785BT features a high-contrast LCD display that is perfectly beyond just "suitable" for watching movies, in fact, it's superb. The screen is capable of displaying your favorite DVDs and DivX file formats. It will also display other media information that is currently playing such as AAC, MP3, and WMA tags that contains artist, title, and album information. The unit will process all digital media files with its built-in 24-Bit D/A converter that could be classified as premium quality digital to analog processor, ensuring near loss-less audio and video quality.In addition, the Clarion VRX785BT has excellent audio adjustment controls featuring bass and subwoofer level adjustments along with a 3-band equalizer. It also has high pass filters and dual zone outputs allowing rear seat passengers to listen to something else that is playing in the front seat listening area. You could also expand the unit through its front, rear, and subwoofer channels RCA preamp outputs.

The VRX785BT does have built-in Bluetooth capabilities, eliminating the need for additional accessories and modules to conduct hands-free cellular phone operation. If you have XM Radio subscription, the VRX785BT could receive XM Radio signal with additional accessories. Control and operation of Satellite Radio is done from the VRX785BT's LCD screen. In addition, the Clarion VRX785BT features a USB port that is capable of receiving direct connection of any current dockable iPod models, effectively supporting playback and controls of the iPod. The additional rear RCA audio and video inputs are also capable of receiving additional source units such as remote mounted DVD players or even video game systems.To top it all off, the already incredible Clarion VRX785BT is fully compatible with Clarion's add-on navigation module. Upon installation of the NAX980HD, the VRX785BT becomes a single DIN in-dash GPS navigation unit. It will then feature over 10 million points of interest available as well as a built-in gyro sensor, turn-by-turn voice command in three languages, a 12-channel GPS receiver, and an additional front USB port for map or firmware updates. Moreover, the navigation unit adds to the VRX785BT an excellent graphical user interface menus with multiple navigation viewing angle.It is to no surprise that the Clarion VRX785BT could be considered one of the best single DIN receiver available. It has plenty of features for users to be satisfied with for years to come and has the ability for it to be converted into a navigation device. Clarion stands for great quality, and with that great quality, they've packaged great features into the very excellent Clarion VRX785BT.

Clarion MAX385VD Review (MAX 385VD)

The Clarion MAX385VD is a double DIN receiver capable of diverse multimedia playback as well as a variety of expandability options available for the unit. The Clarion MAX385VD features a 6.5" LCD touchscreen that is capable of displaying DVD movies and of course any media information being played.
The 6.5" screen is a nice fit for this unit, placed right at the center of the unit instead of off-center application made by other companies like Kenwood and Pioneer. However, the CD/DVD slot-in is located just behind the screen itself; forcing users to always flip open the screen before inserting the disc. The front panel design is relatively simple, yet still possesses plenty of high-tech feel to it. The buttons are made of silver-painted plastic pieces with a metallic/chrome finish rotary dial.
This double DIN head unit is also capable of receiving your downloaded MP3 and WMA files through CD or DVD mediums. It will display currently playing artists, songs, and albums on the screen and users could easily browse through media folders. Users will also notice a much better sound quality in the MAX385VD than most other in dash receivers, primarily due to its high 24-Bit D/A converter, which converts digital media signals to signals that could be produced by your speakers. The higher the bit-rate, the more likely users will experience a higher sound quality (though it could still depend on the quality of your downloaded digital music.)

The Clarion MAX385VD features a Sirius Satellite Radio add-on option, allowing consumers to enjoy high quality, specialized programming satellite radio anywhere they travel. Clarion also realized that many consumers out there are likely to own an iPod. To this thought, Clarion has developed its own iPod adapter, allowing for iPod playback and controls from the in-dash controls. If you have more components and want to display them on the screen, there are even additional RCA audio/video inputs for external devices such as cameras, video game consoles, and any other portable audio video sources you may have.

Priced at a competitive low cost, the double DIN Clarion MAX 385VD receiver will be attracting a lot of attention sitting on only a $430 price tag. If you’re looking basic multimedia playback with Satellite Radio and iPod expandability options, then the Clarion MAX385VD is an excellent choice that combines both versatility and dependability.