Amazon.com Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description With Built-in Bluetooth, MP3/WMA/AAC support, direct iPod control, a front USB input, and a wealth of sound-shaping features, Clarion’s CZ509 CD receiver is a powerful system to begin with. But with support for SAT radio, OEM steering wheel remotes, and three sets of preamp outputs, it’s a perfect bed for expansion. Get the basics and leave room to grow Click to enlarge. Functionality and style. … More >>
#1 by D. OBryan on July 2, 2010 - 8:41 pm
I recently got a used car and the radio was trashed so I had to replace it. (Approx cost $159 for decent unit)
I HATE the whole blue tooth headset thing because I always forget it or forget to charge it but I needed a new headset. (Approx Cost $60 for moderate unit or $129 for Jawbone)
I also wanted to be able to control my iPod from my stereo.
(Approx cost for iPod stereo module is $75)
The Clarion CZ509 seemed to be the logical choice as it would cost over $290 separately to accomplish what I wanted plus I would not have to worry about remembering to bring or charge that stupid headset!
Installation of the CZ509 cost me $40 plus another $50 for the dash kit, wire harness and antenna adapter bringing my total up to $269.
The blue tooth is GREAT, sound is good and the INCLUDED External Mic really makes it work better than those stereos that have it on the faceplate.
iPod control is good and it charges your iPod while it is connected so you NEVER have to worry about it having a dead battery.
Now the bad.
The manual is obviously translated from another language to English as some things don’t have the correct usage or tense.
Some of the features are difficult program like syncing your phonebook with the CZ509 and you almost need a 2nd pair of hands to accomplish these tasks.
For some reason, the AM band does not work well which really sucks if you are trying to listen to traffic radio.
I am pleased with the CZ509 and would recommend.
Rating: 4 / 5
#2 by N. Collum on July 2, 2010 - 9:09 pm
This is an excellent product. This is my second Clarion CD player. The feature to change the filters of the highs and lows is great. I have two amps that run from this unit. I don’t know how the built in amp is because i use an amp for my speakers and another for the subs. I bought this for the features to change the sound filters and subwoofer volume. The built in ipod control is great except when you want to scroll through the artist you have to press the down button too many times. If you know how to use all of the features, then this product is great. Don’t get this unless you need all of the features.
Rating: 5 / 5
#3 by Payerman54 on July 2, 2010 - 11:54 pm
Radio is a great value- lots of features and great sound. Caution to those with tight mounting situations- the front panel opens downward to allow CD in/out and the volume knob can be a problem depending on your dash shape.
Rating: 4 / 5
#4 by Chad Stamper on July 3, 2010 - 12:08 am
Absolutely love this deck. My system sounded so much better with this. The built in crossover keeps treble out of my subs and base out of my low grade mid range speakers. The fact it comes with bluetooth and a mic built in makes this one of the cheaper options if you want to connect your iphone to it. I use my iphone to play video and audio podcasts through here wirelessly. I can also connect my netbook to it if I like.
Chad
[...].
Rating: 5 / 5
#5 by D. J. Gilbert on July 3, 2010 - 2:32 am
I’ve been using this deck for a while now and the bluetooth on it is fantastic, I have it set up to route calls and music audio through it. I can play Pandora or whatever I like through my deck and it keeps the BT signal even 15-20 ft from the car. It’s good for the sound boards on android market too.
Rating: 5 / 5