MEX-BT5700U
4
5
13
13
Almost got it right.
Installed this into my 2006 Harley FLHX to replace the stock HK radio. The BT feature works great with my phone and the iPod charges with the song info on the radio. Downs: The blue display clashes with the orange gauges. USB and aux inputs should be at the rear of the radio for a cleaner install.
December 26, 2010
Great system
This stereo is a great addition to my car audio system and has all the features and quality of a much more expensive unit. It allows for handsfree control or passenger control of iPods & iPhones, and has a full-featured Bluetooth system. The control knob can act as a 1-button dialing feature on most phones (tested it on an old Moto KRZR), which will activate the phone's voice control feature. Control buttons are laid out well, and I find it easy to switch songs and navigate my iPod without lifting my hand from the gearshift (manual transmission) or taking my eyes off the road.
Wiring the unit in to my existing sound system was also a snap, with easy interfacing with my subs and Phoenix Gold amplifier. The GM-provided data bus interface also helped.
The only drawbacks of this unit is the LCD when in direct sunlight, it is virtually unreadable. This is often the case with such screens (my $3000 Canon SLR camera included), and should not be a deciding factor in the purchase of the unit. The other drawback, though this may be due to the way GM has their newer cars set up (always supplying +12V to accessories), is the fact that the unit has to be manually turned off after shutting the engine down. This is a non-issue for me, as it would be suicidal to leave the deck's faceplate attached when leaving the car anyways.
May 28, 2010
Good Overall Stereo
This is a replacement for the factory unit in my Acura RSX. I'm very happy with it. The Bluetooth works great, streaming and phone with the iPhone is just what I wanted. Good job of making the menus accessible since this device, like everything else these days, must perform so many functions and offer nearly infinite options. But, Sony, what's with the glaring bright LED ring around that knob? (maybe I said that already!)
April 8, 2010
I just had this installed today and I'm loving it! Just wanted to add a few notes that people have mentioned. First of, the bluetooth issue (disconnecting). When I first paired my Blackberry with it and walked away from the car, upon returning I had to manually connect the two. However, I found out that by going into the device properties from the phone with the stereo connection, I enabled the device as trusted. After that, it would connect to my phone automatically.
Secondly, the LED issue. I have sensitive eyes, and the LED light doesn't bother me at all. I'm not sure if it's just the positioning in my car (92 525i BMW), but frankly I can't don't even notice the brightness difference from my old Kenwood stereo (just got back from a 2 hour drive at night). Furthermore, during the day the stereo light is still very much visible to me even under the full sun.
Overall, I have found only one issue that I'm hoping a firmware upgrade will resolve: Be able to change the LED light color to orange (as advertised it's supposed to let you choose from 3 different colors). With all the features that it offers, I'm very pleased with the product and value!
DC
December 1, 2009
