In-car HD Radio options
Kevin Massy,
Associate Editor
December 10, 2007
HD Radio is one of the headline in-car entertainment stories this year. The free-to-air digital broadcast delivers high-quality audio, which is bundled with standard AM and FM signals. In addition to the CD-quality sound, HD Radio listeners are able to access extra channels--known as "HD2"--for no additional cost. Those wanting to listen to HD Radio in the car are faced with an increasing number of HD-enabled aftermarket stereos and tuners. Sony's CDX-GT520 and Alpine's CDA-9885 both require external modules to pick the HD signal, whereas JVC's KD-HDR1 and Dual's XHD6425 both come with integrated HD Radio tuners, making them more compact options. For those who want HD Radio without switching our their current stereo, the JVC KT-HDP1 is a straightforward plug-and-play device. You can check them all out on our reviews and product pages below.
- More Resources
- All in-car audio reviews,
- The Car Tech blog,
- CNET Car Tech home page
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| Price | $89.95 | $39.95 to $131.99 | $106.37 to $159.99 | Check Prices | $74.58 to $109.99 |
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| Review date | October 18, 2007 | November 21, 2007 | June 22, 2007 | November 29, 2007 | |
| The Bottom Line | The Sony CDX-GT520 is a decent option for those wanting a reasonably priced stereo to play disc-based audio. While it does support HD Radio, it requires the connection of a clunky add-on module, which is almost more trouble than it's worth. | If you're looking for a cost-effective means of bringing HD Radio into your car, the JVC KT-HDP1 is an attractive option. | The JVC KD HDR1 in-car stereo delivers HD Radio and most other digital-audio playback options for a very competitive price. | The Alpine CDA-9885 combines attractive styling and an easy-to-use music search interface with a host of expandability options, including HD Radio capability. However, those upgrading to HD Radio will have to deal with a clunky module and a hefty price tag. | |
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| Features | |||||
| Max Output Power / Channel Qty | 52 Watts x 4 | Info unavailable | 50 Watts x 4 | 50 Watts x 4 | 50 Watts x 4 |
| Sound Output Mode | Stereo | Info unavailable | Stereo | Stereo | Stereo |
| CD System | CD / MP3 player - 10 - 20000 Hz | Info unavailable | CD / MP3 player | CD / MP3 player - 5 - 20000 Hz | CD player - In-dash unit - 10 - 20000 Hz |
| Radio | Radio tuner - AM/FM - 30 preset stations | Info unavailable | Radio / HD radio tuner - AM/FM | Radio tuner - AM/FM - 18 preset stations | Radio / HD radio tuner - AM/FM - 30 preset stations |
| Form Factor | Full-DIN - In-dash unit | Info unavailable | Full-DIN - In-dash unit | Full-DIN - In-dash unit | Full-DIN - In-dash unit |
| Product Description | Sony CDX GT520 - Radio / CD / MP3 player | Info unavailable | JVC KD HDR1 - Radio / HD radio / CD / MP3 player | Alpine CDA 9885 - Radio / CD / MP3 player | Dual XHD-6425 - Radio / HD radio / CD / MP3 player |
| Product Type | Radio / CD / MP3 player - Xplod | Info unavailable | Radio / HD radio / CD / MP3 player | Radio / CD / MP3 player | Radio / HD radio / CD / MP3 player |
| Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications |
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