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Review: Pioneer AVIC-8200NEX

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Pioneer AVIC-8200NEX In-Dash Navigation AV Receiver
MSRP: $1,100

[UPDATE] Pioneer has released the AVIC-8201NEX, the features are the same but it now includes a free backup camera and is $100 cheaper.

Pros: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatiable, detachable 7-inch capacitive WVGA touchscreen, GPS navigation unit included, HDMI input, dual camera inputs, 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer), dual-Zone Audio, iDatalink Maestro compatible.

Cons: Geared more for serious audiophiles, if you aren’t planning on installing a full sound system you’ll get more bang for your buck with a lower model.

First Impression: This head unit really does have it all by combining the latest technology like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as being able to setup a great sound system. The added cost for these features isn’t for everyone but for me I plan on building a full amp and sub setup where the 6-channel preamp outputs really are going to shine. This head unit is the top of the line and as such you pay a premium for that.

Features
Pioneer’s top of the line flagship in-dash Navigation AV receiver model, the AVIC-8200NEX, features a 7-inch capacitive WVGA touchscreen display that emits brighter, more vibrant colors than your traditional resistive screens and supports “flick” operation, just like your smartphone. The AVIC-8200NEX capacitive display increases touch sensitivity, making it more responsive than traditional resistive touch panels while allowing you to control the onscreen action with pinch-to-zoom and other simple finger movements, a convenient feature often found on smart phones. The display also showed a home button – similar to that on the iPhone – as well as Siri integration to allow voice activated commands such as reading or sending an SMS message to a contact, or even place a voice call without needing to take your eyes off the road.

The AVH-8200NEX also features an HDMI input for mirroring which is great because it allow you to view all types of content from apps or media on the screen, making this the perfect feature to use when stopped for that much needed break. MirrorLink compatibility for select Android devices requires an optional CD-MU200 adapter. The built-in Bluetooth will connect you wirelessly to allow listening to your favorite music. The latter provides you the ability to play, pause, select tracks, and display metadata information. In addition, you will be able to keep yourself safe (and ticket-free) by making calls hands-free!

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
The AVIC-8200NEX Siri Eyes Free can be activated with a simple touch of the NEX touchscreen to make calls and navigate your music files via voice command when your phone is paired through Bluetooth. When you interact with Siri using your voice like you normally would through your iPhone, you are able to say things like, “I’m hungry” and the AVIC-8200NEX will immediately find you a restaurant to eat at. Not only will you be able to search for your favorite destination by the sound of your voice, you will be able to set it as your destination with your voice as well. The AVIC-8200NEX is fully compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to allow a smarter, safer in-vehicle interface to make phone calls, listen to voice mail, send/ receive messages and select music in a way that keeps you focused on the road ahead. The AVIC-8200NEX provides built-in navigation with over 7.9 million points of interest and 3D mapping that allows realistic views of terrain, buildings, and landmarks in select areas.

Multimedia
Plug-and-play entertainment has never been more convenient, thanks in part to the dual rear USB inputs, SD card slot; 2 composite A/V inputs; dual camera inputs, making it easy to connect virtually any device with a simple plug. The AVIC-8200NEX also features lossless FLAC audio files playback capability (up to 192 kHz/24-bit) from your flash drive or SD memory card for superior sound clarity from your favorite tunes. Additional features include Sirius ready, Pioneer MIXTRAX technology, Pandora Internet radio ready, Aha Radio and built-in HD Radio. HD Radio offers digital sound quality on top of the additional content in the way of multicasting, iTunes tagging (to buy your favorite songs), and metadata to always keep you in the know of what you’re listening to. There’s definitely more than one way to enjoy listening to adrenaline pumping music from your AVIC-8200NEX while cruising the highways! The sound quality is enhanced though Pioneer’s 13-band graphic EQ with Easy EQ preset equalizer which allows users to customize the sound with preset equalizer patterns or created though custom adjustments. The unit also features built-in Auto EQ and Time Alignment (optional CD-MC20 mic required), allowing users to customize the sound with preset equalizer patterns or customize it depending on your type of music. The AVIC-8200NEX packs plenty of punch with a built-in high power amplifier that delivers 50 watts per channel continuous and features 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer); composite video output. The subwoofer output features a low-pass crossover for exceptional bass delivery while the high-pass crossover offers clarity for your mid/high-range speakers to personalize your listening experience.