On August 26, CNET launched a substantial redesign of its Web sites. As part of the changes, we've altered the rating system to include numerals (1 through 10 with decimals) and a five-star system, with half stars. Nothing changed regarding how we test products or calculate their ratings. (Read more about this process below.) You can send feedback by clicking on the link at the top of this page.
- Reviewed by:
- Bonnie Cha
- Reviewed on:
- 04/30/08
- Updated on:
- 04/30/08
- Click here to see CNET editors' review for Sony NV-U83T
- Design:
- 7.0
- Features:
- 7.0
- Performance:
- 5.0
- Overall score:
- 6.3
Editors' rating: Aftermarket in-car devices
We rate in-car audio, video, and GPS devices on a scale of 0 through 10 (see "What the numbers mean" below). The editors calculate the overall
rating from three subratings, on a scale of 1 to 10, that gauge key aspects of the device. On the product review page and elsewhere on the Web site, the overall rating is displayed as a series of stars,based on a five-star scale with half stars (see conversion details below).
The rating criteria, with weightings, are as follows:
Features
(30 percent of the total rating)
Here we take into account built-in connectivity and media playback options,
such as the number of sources the system can support, including the
potential for extra features such as Bluetooth hands-free calling or
satellite radio via add-on modules. We also look at the range of audio
output features (such as a connection for a separate subwoofer) and the
number of audio customization options the system offers. For advanced
multimedia devices, we evaluate video playback options, and for
GPS-enabled systems, we look at the number of programming options and the
availability of advanced features such as real-time traffic reports and
text-to-voice technology. When evaluating a system's features, we take into account its
price relative to those of competitors in the category.
Design
(30 percent of the total rating)
A major factor here is the physical usability of the system from a driver's
perspective. High marks are awarded for systems with intuitive interfaces,
while complicated control systems score poorly. As part of the design
evaluation, we look at the structure of file and folder navigation, the
size and brightness of the display, and the layout of buttons and touch screen
menus. For GPS-enabled systems, we look at the rendering and resolution of
maps and the ease of programming in destinations. Price has
no bearing on the evaluation of design; if a system works well, no matter
how simple, it achieves high marks. Conversely, even if a system has an
impressive feature set, it still has to be easy to use.
Performance
(40 percent of the total rating)
This rating deals with how well the head unit operates in real-life
situations. To judge a head unit's audio performance, we listen to the
receiver using standardized test speakers. In playing back different audio
sources, we look for surround-sound effects, low-frequency effects,
sound-field depth, and the effectiveness of preset and user-configured
equalizer settings. We also use this rating to evaluate the functionality of
Bluetooth hands-free calling, A2DP stereo Bluetooth audio streaming, and
other advanced features. For GPS-enabled systems, we test the system on
the road in a variety of situations, looking for factors such as accuracy,
refresh rate, and ease of programming and canceling route guidance. When
evaluating a system's performance, we take into account its price relative
to those of competitors in the category.
What the numbers mean
9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.
9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.
8.0 to 8.9 = 4 stars (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.
7.0 to 7.9 = 3.5 stars (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.
6.0 to 6.9 = 3 stars (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.
5.0 to 5.9 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.
4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.
3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.
2.0 to 2.9 = 1 star (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.
1.0 to 1.9 = 1/2 star (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.
0 - 0.9 = 0 stars
User reviews
- Average user rating: 3.0 stars out of 24 reviews
- My rating: 0 stars Write review
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Submit your review
Where to buy
Sony NV-U83T:
$299.99 - $449.95
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
|
$399.99 | Yes |
|
|
$399.99 | Yes |
|
|
$349.00 | Yes |
|
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$399.99 |
|
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$299.99 | Yes |
|
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