The internal CD player supports playback of MP3, WMA and standard CD audio files on CD, CD-R, and CD-RW discs. You can even play multi-session discs that have both data files and music files. Even with the compressed formats (MP3 & WMA), fast forward and reverse are audible and the track time indicator works, unlike many less sophisticated decks. ID3 tags are supported, and you can choose the scroll speed of the text. A single press on the touchscreen steps through display of the folder, file, album, artist, or track title. There is another audio processing feature that was developed specifically to overcome the shortcomings of compressed formats, called ADF (Anti Distortion Filter). It is something like a loudness control, in that it increases the apparent volume of the low and high frequencies. But it does this by using frequency-dependent dynamic expansion instead of a simple equalizer filter. The result is MP3/WMA playback that rivals the quality of standard CD audio.
AM/FM radio duties are handled by Clarion's MAGI-TUNE+ circuitry, with three bands of 6 FM stations and one band of 6 AM stations. You can memorize your own favorite stations, or use the auto-store function to find the local stations for you. The handy ISR button pulls up your favorite station no matter what source you are listening to, and a second press sends you back to the previous source.
Many optional accessories can be connected via the proprietary CeNET bus that connects to the rear of the deck. CD and DVD changers, TV tuners, a Sirius satellite tuner, and an optional external decoder for Dolby Digital and DTS tracks are all available with control support already built-in to the deck. There is a 2-zone capability, allowing you to enjoy separate sources in the same vehicle.
Besides the CeNET interface, there are analog inputs and outputs galore. Line level stereo RCA connectors give you front and rear plus subwoofer outs, or you can reconfigure the jacks into a 5.1 surround system. When using standard front/rear configuration, there are highpass and lowpass filters that you can use as a crossover. Another pair of RCA jacks is dedicated for the two-zone output, and finally there is a pair for auxiliary input. Four powered outputs can be connected directly to speakers, or you can disable the power amps if you don't need them to reduce noise and heat.
This is a fully-loaded unit with extremely good specifications and great sound quality. With the ability to choose the level of complexity, it will satisfy both the hardcore gear freaks and the people who prefer to listen rather than spend all day tweaking. I recommend spending some time with this deck if you get the chance.
Clarion dxz945mp Pros & Cons+Pros·DSP (digital signal processing) - control of amplitude, time, and frequency·Powerful internal audio adjustments·Plays MP3 & WMA files, with audible FF & REV·Touchscreen interface with easy menu structure·Supports many optional devices
-Cons·DSP limits overall bandwidth to 20kHz·Multi-tiered menus could be difficult for some·Deep recess can obscure display at extreme viewing angles·Some operations on touchscreen require too much finger sliding·No control of tuner auto-scan start frequency
Clarion DXZ945MPLine Outputs:Frequency Response: +0/-0.62dB 20Hz-20kHzOutput Level: 4.2Vrms (< 0.01% THD+N)Distortion (THD+N, 1kHz): < 0.01% Signal to Noise ratio: > 104DbStereo Separation: > 91dB
Power Amps:Maximum Continuous Power: 21W x 4 (4 ohms, 3% THD+N)Distortion (THD+N, 1kHz, A-Weighted): 0.1% (4 Ohms, 14W)