car audio
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Roadmaster's VR3 VRCD400SDU does digital
We're always happy to welcome another computer-interface-ridden hybrid car stereo / multimedia device to the fold, like Roadmaster's VR3 VRCD400SDU car stereo. Not only does it do aux i (so you can use just about any portable audio player imaginable), but Roadmaster were also thoughtful enough to include an SD slot, USB port, and remote control for playing back MP3 and WMA tracks, with ID3 info showing up on-screen. The single din head won't ding that pocketbook too hard, neither, coming in at a lightweight $140 US, which is even reasonable for other players which might only match its CD player and AM / FM radio.
Dual's PlaysForSure-friendly XDRM7710 head unit
If you're one of the select few who've decided to say "iDon't," then A/V electronics manufacturer Dual has a new car stereo that might be right up your alley, as it allows you to hook up your PlaysForSure-compatible DAP and control it from the head unit or included remote. Well, it actually costs an extra $100 for the USB adapter that enables this functionality, but that still only puts you out a total of $350, and then you're able to play your digital tracks off of CDs or almost any non-iPod player, but unfortunately not SD cards as well -- hey, you can't have it all. The XDRM7710, as this model is known, also features a motorized faceplate and XM receiver jack -- but certainly not the most stylish design we've ever seen -- and is scheduled to ship in July.
Sirius announces sleek new Sportster4 radio
To prove that there is still life in the world of consumer electronics outside of videogames and laptops, Sirius broke up today's monotony by announcing an updated version of their Sportster series of Plug and Play satellite radios with 44-minute buffers. The Sportster4, which is small enough to easily transport between home and car, maintains the same recording capacity and features as its predecessors, but adds a new vehicle dock that includes an auxiliary input for your MP3 player. Additional niceties include 30 presets, bundled remote, favorite artist alerts, and game reminders to keep you updated on score changes. Look for the Sportster4 later this month for around $170, with accessories like boombox docks soon to follow.
