Are you looking for a new head unit that has it all? If you are then you might want to hear about the Pioneer AVH 210EX. This fantastic piece of equipment has just about everything you could want from a head unit… and more!
In this article, we will be looking at the Pioneer and discussing its specifications.
We will be including a useful list of pros and cons and discussing whether or not this head unit is worth the hype surrounding it!
OUR REVIEW
We have split our review into useful specification sections for you to browse.
Design and Cost
In terms of the design, the unit is fairly compact and sleek. The screen is seven inches and uses WVGA technology.
The touchscreen is sensitive and responsive. The screen has a clear and bright picture overall. The pioneer has a black surround which will match the majority of dashboards.
The cost of this unit is not the cheapest on the market, but it does provide you with everything you could need from a car stereo.
It has a high spec and some fantastic features that many of its competitors lack. It is clear to see why so many people love this product because it is one of the best on the market currently.
The installation process is fairly straightforward, but keep in mind that some of the wires will need to be rerouted if you want to use them.
There is an instruction manual that is detailed and will talk you through all of the features and installation process.
For safety, some of the screen options are not available when you are in drive mode and can only be accessed in parking mode.
Hands-Free
This unit has the option of hands-free calling and audio which is great when driving. It is easy to connect your device via Bluetooth and does not require any confusing settings.
In addition to this, you can connect wireless audio streaming. You can listen to songs or audiobooks from your phone with ease.
Customization
What is great about the pioneer is that you have the option to customize your screen. There are five different color options to choose from and the screen has 112 key colors.
Sound Quality
Overall the sound quality of the Pioneer is great. In regards to the phonecall quality, it has wideband speech capability. This means that the sound has a double bandwidth and has a clearer sound.
In terms of specifications, the Pioneer has subwoofer control, a built-in MOSFET 50W amplifier, and a customizable graphic equalizer.
CD And DVD Features
The Pioneer allows you to use CDs with this system which is great if you prefer a more old school way of listening to music.
In addition to this, you also have the option to watch DVD’s on this system too! If you have a family with young children, this is a great way to keep them occupied on long car journeys. In terms of the video quality, it is great and there is no lag at all.
The only downside to having a CD and DVD input is that this does take up a portion of the screen, so if these functions are not essential for you, a model without this feature may be a better option.
It is worth noting that you cannot watch MP4 files on this device, which may be an issue if the films are formatted in this way.
Apple and Android Compatability
The 210EX is compatible with both Apple and Android devices, which is great if you are a family that owns both of these brands. It is simple to connect the stereo to your device and does not require any installation.
You can connect Apple Carplay and Android Auto to your device. The connection speed is quick and there should be no issues with interference or lag. In addition to this, the Pioneer allows you to access everything that is on your phone on its screen.
This gives it tablet-like properties and allows you the freedom to access what you need without going on your phone. There is even the option of connecting your phone via wifi.
USB Connectivity
If you would prefer to plug your phone into this sound system there is a USB port that will enable you to do so. You can also listen to music that is stored on a USB drive.
The USB port is found at the back of the device so during installation it will need to be rerouted to the front of the dashboard if you want to use this feature.
Additional features
Although you have access to an FM/AM radio with the 210EX, there are additional features that you can add to make the device even more useful.
The Pioneer comes compatible with many additional features such as:
- Sirius XM radio connectivity (requires a Sirius XM subscription and tuner)
- Front-facing and rear view car cameras
You will need to purchase these separately.
Pros:
- Hands-free calling and audio
- Customizable screen
- Apple and Android compatible
- CD/DVD player
- Bluetooth
- Wifi connection option
- USB port
- High spec
- Great sound and picture quality
- Subwoofer control
- Sirius XM compatible
- Front and rear-facing camera compatible
Cons:
- CD/DVD player takes up a portion of the screen
- Not compatible with MP4 files
- USB cable needs to be rerouted
Summary
As you can see from our review, the Pioneer AVH 210EX certainly lives up to the hype that surrounds it. It is a fantastic, high tec unit that contains everything you could want in your car.
You have the option to listen to the radio, access your phone, listen to CDs and even watch DVDs. It’s a perfect way of keeping the children entertained on long car journeys.
The Bluetooth settings allow for handsfree, safe phone calls, and the Apple and Android connectivity functions are great. Overall, although this is not the cheapest unit on the market, it is certainly worth splurging on.