Clarion Double Up

See double with Clarion's new DUZ388RMP double DIN CD-Receiver.

There was a time, some years back, when you wouldn't have found a double-DIN size head-unit in the UK for love nor money... unless it had been pinched out of some Jap import. But with many more cars now ready to take a double height unit, there's a fair choice out there. Clarion were making double-DIN units probably getting on for two decades ago, as they had a big slice of the factory-fitted stereo market back home in Japan. No surprise then that Clarion is now amongst the leading suppliers of double-DIN models in the UK and has just added another feature-rich, user-friendly model, the DUZ388RMP.

The 2-DIN CD-Receiver provides a front-loading CD slot, radio with 18 FM and 6 MW/LW station presets, and CeNet (Clarion's connectivity system) for optional integration of a 6-disc CD multi-changer.

Music file downloads have become the primary method of getting hold of the latest tracks for many consumers and the DUZ388 offers excellent support for playing back music files. There's a rear USB connector for easy hook-up of a portable USB memory stick loaded with music files. The player's built-in USB file reader is compatible with WMDRM (Windows Media Digital Rights Management) 10 format files - typically those purchased and downloaded over the internet.

The player also offers direct iPod control and playback of AAC files, the latest generation compression format (1.4 times faster than MP3) commonly used by Apple.  There is also a 3.5mm mini jack connector for additional connectivity of stand-alone portable audio players.

The CeNet system also allows you to connect the optional BLT583 bluetooth device, for transfering mobile phone content seamlessly to the head unit, whilst calls are safely relayed to hands-free mode.

The DUZ388RMP comes equipped with 4-channel line outputs and Clarion's Z-Enhancer Plus sound technology. This enables the user to select a preferred equalisation pattern from three types, B-BOOST, IMPACT, and EXCITE. Also, a 2-band parametric equaliser lets you flexibly set the gain, Q (steepness), and frequency within each of the equaliser patterns to perform fine tuning in each of the low, mid and high ranges.

There's a 728 variable colour display and illuminated keys, along with a high-visibility two-line display and screensavers, which include the ability to edit your own welcome message. Now there's a thought... programme it to say Happy Birthday to your loved one perhaps.

Clarion's DUZ388RMP is priced at RRP £199, and is available from appointed dealers across the UK.  For further information call Clarion (GB) Ltd on 01793 870400, or visit www.clarion.co.uk.