Sony Electronics announced three new car audio receivers, including a new entry level model at $299 plus two new models with HDMI inputs.
The new head units include the XAV-AX8100, XAV-AX5600 and and XAV-AX150.
The first two units are sister models to the current XAV-AX8000 and XAV-AX5500 but add HDMI. The single-DIN XAV-AX8100 has an 8.95-inch antiglare touchscreen with a 3-way adjustable display. The XAV-AX5600 offers a 6.95-inch bezel-less flush surface display.
Both offer CarPlay, Android Auto and WebLink Cast for smartphone mirroring. They have dual USB ports and are SiriusXM ready. They include Bluetooth and 5 Volt pre-outs as well as Sony’s EXTRA BASS and Sound Optimization technology.
The new single DIN XAV-AX150 joins the Sony XAV-AX1000 at the entry level. At $299.99, it offers a 6.95-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s built-in 4-channel amplifier delivers 55 watts x 4 / 20 watts x 4 power, and it offers FLAC audio, EXTRA BASS and Sony’s Dynamic Stage Organizer (DSO) plus 3 preouts. It is rear view camera-ready with parking guidelines.
Pricing and Availability:
The XAV-AX8100 will be available in July for a suggested retail price of $649.99. For more information visit: https://www.sony.com/electronics/in-car-receivers-players/xav-ax8100
The XAV-AX5600 will be available in July for a suggested retail price of $499.99. For more information visit: https://www.sony.com/electronics/in-car-receivers-players/xav-ax5600
The XAV-AX150 will be available in May for a suggested retail price of $299.99. For more information visit: https://www.sony.com/electronics/in-car-receivers-players/xav-ax150
Photo: XAV-AX8100
Don’t get me wrong, SONY makes fantastic head units, but three new models and none of them have Maestro support? Also, no Wireless CarPlay or Wireless Android Auto in any of the models, these models will sell well, but they could have sold HUGE with these features added (at the very least Maestro support on at least one model). SONY, what gives?