CAR audio has come a long way from the days of push-button radios when even the slightest interference caused the signal to fade. Computer technology means today's car stereos are as good as anything in the home and make a perfect gift for those who spend a lot of time in their car.
Kenwood has produced supposedly the world's first television/VCD player for cars. The VZ907 combines a touch-panel LCD wide-screen TV monitor and video CD player which fits in-dash like a normal radio deck.
The unit, which costs $18,000, plays both VCDs and CDs and includes AM/FM radio.
CD changers have become an essential component of audio systems and Alpine Electronics has introduced the MDA-W890E which combines a three-disc changer with a tuner, a 40-watt by four amplifier, sound processor/equaliser and a mini-disc player.
The unit costs $8,000 and is also available with a cassette player (model 3DA-W882E - about $6,000), substituting the mini-disc player.
Blaupunkt is taking a hands-off approach with its Amsterdam TCM127 RadioPhone. The unit combines a car radio/CD player with a cellular phone that enables drivers to answer calls hands-free.
This unit costs $11,000 and is sure to enjoy a boost in sales if the Government cracks down on the use of mobile phones in private vehicles.