Car audio brand Pioneer have unveiled a new car audio receiver with a retro design.
The new SXT-C10PS model is a single-DIN car stereo which will feature FM and DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, a front USB port and aux input. While the design looks as if there is a slot for a cassette tape, the flap actually covers the USB and auxiliary inputs.
While the design is retro the new device will have a 13-Band Graphic Equaliser and 3 x RCA Pre-Outs, as well as being controllable with the Pioneer Smart Sync App. The front fascia panel will be removable for added security.
Pioneer says the device has been designed with the European market in mind.
Enthusiasts who own ‘modern classic’ vehicles built in the 1980’s and 1990’s often want to upgrade their car stereo to a model with Bluetooth, DAB+ digital radio and playback from USB storage. But many of the designs of current car radios with those features don’t blend into the older dashboards. Owners have taken to fitting models from Continental which feature a more understated design, or a model from Blaupunkt which is intended to reflect an older Blaupunkt design.
RGB multi-colour illumination will make it possible to change the colour used on the front panel of the radio. This feature is often useful for owners who want the colour of the radio illumination to match an original manufacturer fitted radio, or to blend in with the illuminated dials and switches in the dashboard. Owners of a Mercedes-Benz 190E might opt for radio with orange illumination, for example.
“The classic car market continues to grow, driven by nostalgia and investment opportunities. With an annual growth rate of approximately 7.5% annually, the number of historic vehicles has reached new heights. In Germany alone, around 1.5 million classic old timer and young timer vehicles are registered. As restoration trends rise and original OEM parts become harder to source, vehicle owners turn to familiar brands for solutions“ said Girish Janday, Marketing Manager at Pioneer Europe NV.
“Our studies show that owners prefer to maintain the original appearance of their vehicle dashboards, avoiding modern screens that disrupt the original look. Pioneer’s solution is the new SXT-C10PS, combining 1980s retro aesthetics with twist, by including modern features like Bluetooth® and DAB+ Digital Radio. By way of design, it also includes a front-facing USB hidden under a front panel resembling a cassette deck, allowing for USB music playback and smartphone charging. The compatible Pioneer Smart Sync App enables users to set up the Advanced Audio Features directly from the driver’s seat, optimising the sound from the older, often poorly positioned speakers.”
Pioneer says the new car stereo will be available from October.