We’ve all become so attached to our iPods that we want to take it everywhere we go. And since we spend so much time in our cars,the need for seamless integration between car and iPod can be appreciated. The integration means you can enjoy your favorite tunes,podcasts or audio books on the road. With all the commuting that is done today it makes sense to do all you can to enjoy the journey right?
Well,this article takes a look at twoiPod ready Panasonic CD decks that were created specifically with the iPod user in mind.
Panasonic CQ-C5303U
This stylish in-car CD player costs around $110 depending on where you shop. It has many sought
after features,but the most import one is that it enables you to play your iPod on this CD deck.
Another good feature is the detachable faceplate which can be removed for security reasons. What would make this Panasonic CD deck even better is if you could change your faceplate to compliment your vehicles’ interior or just to suit your mood.
Here’s a quick look at the Panasonic CQ-C5303U features.
- Allows WMA Playback
- It is Satellite Radio Ready
- RMS Power Output: 18 Watts
- Preamp Voltage: 2.5 volts
- Subwoofer Preamp Outputs: Yes
- MP3 playback allowed
- Maximum Power is 50 Watts
- Changer Control is available
- Displays CD Text
- Aux input
- Come with Built-in EQ
- Is CD-R/CD-RW Compatible
- Has a Remote Control
- Comes with a Detachable Face
One shortcoming of this device is that it does not support the use of Bluetooth technology.
Panasonic CQ-C8803U
ThePanasonic CQ-C8803U is one of the best iPod Ready Panasonic CD Decks on the market, and at an average price of $269 is quite a nice buy. The main improvement of this model is that it allows the use of Bluetooth technology.
Having read several reviews on this product, most users found the following:
- Excellent sound quality
- You can customize the EQ to suit your sound preference
- iPod sounds great with this device
- It is a high quality product
Here are the technical bits:
- Comes with 9 EQ bands
- Comes with a detachable face for extra security
- CD Frequency Response 20-20kHz
- CD Signal-to-Noise 106 dB
- Allows CD-RW and CD-R Playback
- Allows WMA and MP3 Playback
- 18 FM Presets
- 6 AM Presets
- Has a 4 x 70 watts built in amplifier
One thing that I observed is that there is,apparently,no anti-shock memory on both models. If you are driving on a bumpy road your system may or may not skip songs.
Another annoying fact is the difficulty in selecting your favorite tunes while using your iPod. The Panasonic 8803U will search your playlist alphabetically by artist or album only, displaying three selections at a time. This device does not allow fast scrolling so you have to ensure you select your tunes before you get on the road.
Imagine the hassle if you have a large number of songs on your iPod, or if you do not know exactly where to find the song you want.
This iPod ready Panasonic CD deck is not considered one of the easiest to install or use, but when it comes to sound quality it is highly recommended.
So there they are,the two most popular iPod ready Panasonic CD Decks. Don’t let the minor drawbacks put you off,most of them you could live with.
Both models are quite similar in features but the latter has excellent sound quality that would get you noticed and give you a great in car audio experience.
Why not check out both iPod ready Panasonic CD decks and decide which one is best for you and your vehicle.
