Sony intros first iPod-ready marine head units

Sony on Monday introduced its first marine CD receivers that are able to connect directly to compatible iPod, iPhone and other music players through a USB cable. The CDX-H910UI and CDX-M60UI head units also come with Sony’s MemoryBackup and ZAPPIN features, with the former saving radio station presets when the boat is in storage and the latter offering a short preview of a song to allow users to navigate large music collections. At the same time, the company rolled out the Remote Commander RM-X60M remote control, which is compatible with the head units. All three new products were unveiled at the International Boatbuilders' Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) show.

Each head unit includes a near 5-foot long USB cable that will connect to portable audio players with a USB connection. Users can then control the content via the head unit itself thanks to Sony’s Quick-BrowZer feature or lets passengers make the call via the connected device itself.

Both head units share DM+ technology that enhances the sound quality of compressed audio files such as supported MP3 and non-DRM WMA and AAC formats. Either has three RCA preouts for adding other gear such as amplifiers and subwoofers, or provide 52W x 4 on their own. Each has a bright LCD display that is viewable in direct sunlight, and can, with additional equipment, play HD and Sirius XM satellite radio signals. The CDX-H910UI is IPx5-compliant, being able to withstand low-pressure water jets, and has a rear RCA auxiliary input for connecting other source units. The CDX-M60UI has a front 1/8-inch stereo input and is water resistant rather than waterproof.

The wired remote control, the RM-X60M, can be hooked up to the receivers to allow users to control their operation from another location on the boat. It will be priced at $130 when it ships, with the CDX-H910UI marine receiver priced at about $350, while the CDX-M60UI will cost nearly $200. All three products will be available in stores this January.

Filed under: iPod, iPhone, gadgets, audio
Other story tags: sony, Sirius XM