In-Car Electronics Awards 2011-2012

This device summarizes a decade of Alpine achievements in the field of digital sound processing. The PXA-H800 combines a powerful set of sound processing tools for high precision equalization and time correction with high quality multichannel sound decoders. On top of this there is ‘Euphony’ technology which synthesizes multichannel sound from a stereo source and unique tools for automated sound setup and adjustment: ‘ImprintEQ’ and ‘RoadEQ’. Eight-channel configuration makes the PXA-H800 suitable for any sound system architecture, while multiple inputs, excellent and full external controller RUX-C800 with versatile user interface, help in performing the most sophisticated sound tuning. No matter how complex the sound processing, the PXA-H800 performs all operations with ultimate respect to sound quality thanks to the use of top quality components.

More than just an amplifier! The Audison Voce AV 5.1k represents a new philosophy in amplifier design thanks to a choice of two different, interchangeable modules, which provide either analogue or high-resolution digital inputs. By choosing the optional AV bit IN module, you can explore the future of Car Audio: Full DA 96/24 bit. In this “full digital mode”, high-resolution music is able to flow from head unit directly to the power stage of the amplifier. The alternative analogue input module offers high and low level inputs, and a comprehensive set of filters for each channel. In both cases, you get a complete, versatile 5-channel amplifier from world-renowned Italian quality and famous Audison sound.

The latest generation of Focal car speakers is more “demand pulled” than “technology pushed”. The new “Performance” series is aimed at the music lover wanting to combine outstanding manufacturing quality and exquisite sound with ease of installation and affordable price. To achieve this, Focal combines the technologies that made this brand famous: Polyglass cone, inverted metal dome tweeter with wave-guide system, precision diecast chassis, and a carefully engineered versatile crossover. The way all parts are designed and engineered clearly shows that besides impressive engineering expertise the developers have lots of practical skills, which facilitates installation into a car. Here we have a perfect example of the affordable dream.

Ground Zero’s GZPW 10SPL demonstrates the best of both worlds: SPL (sound pressure level) and sound quality. Just 10” in diameter, it combines the size of a sound quality woofer and the output of a SPL type. Its very rigid cone in combination with the huge and extremely powerful motor guarantees clear and accurate bass under all conditions. If you want it really loud, connect the GZPW 10SPL to the most powerful amp you can find and you’ll earn one of the highest outputs anyone can achieve with a 10” - whilst keeping excellent sound quality, of course.

The Helix PP50 DSP is the easiest way to enhance the sound in your factory fitted car sound system. Adding extra power and a fully featured digital sound processor is made very easy with just one plug’n'play connector and the device is small enough to be hidden anywhere. Best of all is its usability: it can be set-up by simply inserting a microSD card resulting in perfect alignment for your particular car model. Alternatively, every function of the DSP can be set manually via the provided PC software and if you don’t need a sound processor you can use the Helix by setting basic crossovers switches. Thanks to its 56 bit processor and latest amplifier technology the result will always be an improvement of sound that is hard to believe and all within a minute.

JBL engineers offer a simple answer to the million-dollar question: “What button should I press to make my factory fitted car radio sound like a professionally installed system?” The JBL MS-2 is a compact, truly unique portable device designed to enhance the sound of any portable audio source before it is fed into the auxiliary input of your car stereo. A built-in microphone and sophisticated digital circuitry analyze and correct the sound of your car stereo within 10 seconds. Suitable for use with any portable device, you simply have to press the “magic button” to dramatically improve the way your car sounds.

“Boarding complete”. This Kenwood unit perfectly integrates as many systems and functions as the most demanding driver could imagine offering an easy to use and exciting in car infotainment experience. The Garmin navigation section is quick and smart offering excellent guidance and up to the minute traffic information. The double DIN chassis accommodates a large 7” screen. Besides a CD/DVD mechanism, Kenwood’s twin USB ports can be used to playback audio and video files from external devices while internal DTS and Dolby Digital decoders take care of multi-channel A/V requirements. An iPod/iPhone interface allows control from the large touch screen and built-in Bluetooth provides phone and streaming capability.