LAS VEGAS(CES Booth #14200), Jan. 6, 2008 – As consumers crave options to connect digital music players and satellite radio, HD Radio™ and Bluetooth®-enabled devices, Sony today unveiled six Xplod® in-dash CD receivers that provide the ultimate range of in-car connectivity.

             “Whatever your music source, we have an audio solution that provides an easy way to enjoy music on the road,” said Mike Kahn, director of marketing in the Digital Audio and Imaging Division at Sony Electronics. 

Get Hooked Up

            Four new car stereos in the GT series support MP3, non-DRM AAC, and non-DRM WMA playback. They feature an auxiliary input (aux-in) on the faceplate, making it easy to connect portable music players.  With 52 watts X 4 high-power output and a wireless card remote, these head units provide powerful sound and convenient music control.

             The new CDX-GT820IP receiver, the most advanced model of the GT series, is for iPod® player enthusiasts who want all the options in a powerful, in-car listening environment.  This head unit includes a resident 30-pin connector with a 4.9-foot cable. With Sony’s Quick BrowZer technology, consumers can enjoy a fast and easy interface with their iPod unit’s playlist.  The experience allows consumers seamless integration through a unique head unit user interface.  The multi-line fluorescent display allows for full and intuitive control of the device’s functionality.  When put on “jump mode,” the receiver can skip through songs or artists quickly for easy music selection.

             This high-quality receiver has front panel aux-in, and 4-volt front, rear and sub preamp outputs.  The flip-down detachable faceplate also includes switchable blue, green and red key illumination.  Bundled with a wireless card remote, the CDX-GT820IP receiver is satellite- and HD Radio-ready (model XT-100HD), making it the perfect deck for tricking out your ride.

             With the same feel as the high-end unit, the new CDX-GT720 car stereo is designed for drivers who like to play a mix of music formats.  The CD/MP3/WMA/AAC receiver has a motorized fold-out detachable faceplate and switchable blue, green and red key illumination on a large full-motion florescent display.  

             With front aux-in and three 4-volt preouts, the CDX-GT720 model offers MP3, non-DRM AAC and non-DRM WMA playback.  For drivers who want additional choices, the head unit is satellite- and HD Radio-ready (model XT-100HD) and supports the addition of an adapter made for iPod (model XA-120IP).

             The new CDX-GT620IP receiver is yet another great choice for drivers who own iPod devices.  With its built-in 30-pin connector attached to a 1.5-meter cable (4.9-foot), drivers can simply plug their iPod device directly into the head unit and control their library from the flip-down detachable faceplate or included wireless card remote.  The receiver supports Quick BrowZer functionality. It also charges the device and comes with front aux-in and two preouts, as well as black LED display and switchable blue and red key illumination.

             The CDX-GT420U receiver is the most affordable head unit in the new line. It features a USB port for connecting and controlling digital music players like the Sony Walkman® video MP3 player.  This receiver also has front aux-in and red illumination.

Wireless Freedom

            Two new Sony car stereos offer Bluetooth technology, as well as options for connecting to multiple music formats.  The MEX-BT5100 head unit features Bluetooth hands-free functionality and excellent audio streaming and sound quality.  The receiver can stream music from a mobile phone or digital music player. Its integrated hands-free microphone plus noise and echo reduction signal processing enhances phone call clarity.

             With three preouts and rear AUX lite, this receiver is satellite- and HD Radio-ready (model XT-100HD). It can be used with the XA-120IP adapter for the widest range of music options.  A flip-down detachable faceplate and full-motion florescent display allows for full control of functionality on added devices.  Plus, you can import phone numbers into the head unit so you can make calls without even accessing your cell phone.

             The Sony MEX-BT2600 AM/FM/CD receiver with wireless Bluetooth technology provides hands-free solutions and improved audio streaming functionality at an affordable price.  Easily paired with compatible Bluetooth-enabled cell phones, the integrated microphone behind the faceplate eliminates the need for additional wiring, so the installation process is as quick and easy as an ordinary car stereo.  With one preout, this receiver is satellite- and HD Radio-ready.

             For drivers who carry their music libraries on Bluetooth-enabled digital music players, the MEX-BT2600 head unit can be used with the Bluetooth-enabled adapter made for iPod (model TMR-BT8iP) and works with an iPod player to play music back wirelessly. Using Bluetooth technology, it is easy to play, pause, skip, fast-forward or back-up songs directly from the receiver.  Album, artist and track information appears on the display through the wireless connection.   

Pricing and Availability

             The CDX-GT420U, CDX-GT620IP, CDX-GT720 and CDX-GT820IP receivers cost about $130, $160, $200 and $230, respectively.  The MEX-BT2600 and MEX-BT5100 receivers run about $170 and $330, respectively.  All six new receivers will be available January 2008 online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized retailers nationwide.