The convergence of the luxury automobile and high-end audio segments has proven to be a boon for the select group of manufacturers with the capabilities to make it happen. We took the Maserati Grecale Trofeo outfitted with a system from Sonus faber through the Italian countryside and it proved to be an exhilarating experience. As much fun as that was, very few people can afford a Maserati or Jeep Grand Wagoneer but still desire a high-end audio experience in their car.
If you check out our related reading list below, there is no shortage of options in 2023 and we think that’s exciting for car owners.
However, you don’t have to take out a home equity loan to get a great audio system for your car, Sony is offering some alternatives that can still satisfy your car music-listening desires with the newest additions to its Mobile ES lineup: The XAV-9000ES AV receiver, and XM-8ES and XM-6ES power amplifiers.
The XAV-9000ES ($899) is a premium quality media receiver that can fit a double DIN space, allowing for seamless, sleek, and flush-mount car installation. This AV Receiver is based on the Sony XAV-9500ES ($1,299) which was released in 2021.
The XM-8ES ($999) and XM-6ES ($899) power amplifiers are sister products of Sony’s previously released XM-5ES ($998) , XM-4ES ($598), XM-1ES ($598). These new amplifiers provide an increased number of inputs/outputs in a compact size which is practical for small-footprint needs.
XAV-9000ES
Design/Construction
- Display Screen: The XAV-9000ES features a new 6.75-inch (17.1 cm) capacitive touchscreen with 1280 x 720-pixel resolution. It offers crisp detail, higher brightness, and contrast for a superior in-car experience.
- HD Graphical User Interface: Enhanced for safety and ease of use, the user interface features a high-contrast Mobile ES color scheme while customizable wallpaper suits your vehicle and style.
- iDatalink® Maestro Compatible (separate purchase): This connects the 9000ES to the vehicle’s onboard computer, turning it into a customized display for factory-equipped functions and features. Users can interact with vehicle infotainment and information directly on the 6.75″ touchscreen.
- Coils and Capacitors: A dedicated choke coil features powerful bass while filtering unwanted frequencies, for controlled and dynamic audio reproduction. Audiophile-grade capacitors deliver power for clear and tight bass, while multi-layer polymer capacitors help ensure low overall harmonic distortion and natural sound character.
- Anti-Resonance Dual-Layer Chassis: The dual-layer design of the chassis separates analog and digital circuitry, preventing electromagnetic interference that helps to optimize sound quality.
Audio
- High-Resolution Audio Compatible: The 9000ES supports several hi-res audio codecs that include native 24-bit/192kHz WAV, FLAC, ALAC audio files, and DSD (22.4MHz) files via 192 kHz / 24-bit PCM conversion. LDAC enables Bluetooth streaming of all these codecs with exceptional sound quality
- ESS Digital-to-Analog Converter: The ESS DAC chip provides optimum quality from digital music files. High-performance 32-bit processing and the elimination of timing jitter, allow the D/A converter to deliver a wide dynamic range and low harmonic distortion.
- Premium 4-ch Class A/B Amplifier: The built-in amplifiers provide a dedicated power circuit designed for both the left and right channels, while an overall amplifier block includes updated circuit configurations, patterns, and choices of components, minimizing interference. In addition, the volume control circuit incorporates an audio IC with less distortion and noise. The above combination helps to deliver smooth highs, tight bass, wide dynamic range, and a more accurate soundstage.
- Sound Customization: The XAV-9000ES includes a 24-bit/192kHz DSP (Digital Sound Processor) that provides pristine sound processing and time alignment, as well as a 14-band graphic equalizer, and an 8-band parametric equalizer. Together with an updated 3-zone crossover that enables bi-amp front 2-way speaker drive settings, you can dial in the perfect combination of front, rear, and subwoofers.
Smart Features
- Wire-Free Smartphone Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and supplied GPS antenna allows users to leave their smartphone in their pocket and still access full device integration.
- Apple CarPlay: iPhone users are able to make phone calls, listen to music, send and receive messages, access their favorite apps, and get directions with real-time traffic conditions, including third-party navigation apps, directly from the dashboard.
- Android Auto: This provides a simpler way to use a smartphone with the car’s display. Drivers can talk to Google on Android Auto and stay connected, entertained, and informed while keeping their eyes on the road. Just say “Hey Google” or press the voice control button on the 9000ES to get started.
Control and Connectivity
- Quick Wake-Up: With the quick wake-up feature, customers are ready to go right after turning on the ignition.
- Simple Button Controls: The button design features large keys that fit with the screen display. Access volume, source, sound settings, and voice control, for safe and easy operation on the road.
- 3-Camera Trigger Inputs: Drivers can see the images of up to three connected cameras when shifting the vehicle’s transmission lever to reverse or tap dedicated icons on the home screen. By utilizing supplied trigger wires, each camera image can be switched on and off, or from one to another automatically by detecting the vehicle’s turn signals or sensing compatible signals for a connected front camera. An adjustable parking guide is also available for reverse gear.
- USB Type-C Compatible Rear Connection Terminals: This connection option is available for any compatible device, allowing high-current charge up to 3A.
- Enhanced 5V 3-pre Out Connectivity: For expandability, the 5V 3-pre out connectivity allows customers to build a full acoustic system, including a newly available stereo subwoofer connection, and a 4-channel stereo amplification for louder and more powerful sound reproduction.
XM-8ES & 6ES Power Amps
In addition to the XAV-9000ES In-Dash Media Receiver, Sony is also offering up to Class-D power amplifiers, the XM-8ES (100W x 8) and XM-6ES (100W x 6) rated at 1% THD running a 1kHz test tone. Both amps deliver lots of power while retaining a compact design.
Core Features
- Optimized Power Blocks: The power supply block is designed for low-noise, high-efficiency power transmission. The DC converter incorporates a toroidal core transformer which provides less electromagnetic interference. Each channel block and class D amplification are isolated with independent ground circuitry, minimizing signal interference.
- Select Components for Superior Sound: The upgraded inductors with OFC wires are selected for lower internal resistance and improved sound character, while the low-impedance electrolytic capacitors contribute to clear and precise sound reproduction.
- High-Quality Speaker/Power Terminal: The speaker and power terminal feature hex screws, providing a durable method of tightening the wire connections while accepting bare wire or wire ferrules for superior electrical performance and high-quality sound, and safe connection.
- Sturdily Built Structures: A rigid, 1.2 mm, cross-braced bottom plate reduces resonance by approximately 50% and shifts resonance peaks away from vehicle vibration frequency bands, upgrading damping performance dramatically.
- Enhanced Logical Control and Connection Placement: Controls and connections are placed for easy understanding and use. The layout ensures intuitive operation and simple installation.
- Clear Labels: The redesigned control panel is logically grouped, and clearly labeled for hassle-free setup.
Pricing and Availability
The XAV-9000ES has a suggested retail price of $899.99 USD/$1,399.99 CAD and will be available for purchase beginning in September 2023 through Sony or authorized dealers.
The XM-8ES will have a suggested retail price of $999.99 MSRP USD/$1,299.99 MSRP CAD and is available for purchase in July 2023 through Sony or authorized dealers.
The XM-6ES will have a suggested retail price of $899.99 MSRP USD/$1,199.99 MSRP CAD and is available for purchase in July 2023 through Sony or authorized dealers.
Related Reading
ORT
June 5, 2023 at 2:32 pm
Looks cool! I just checked and unfortunately for me it does not fit in a 2011 Mustang. I have had a nice unit in there for a few years now but was thinking it was time to upgrade and the nicest CD player I have ever owned was a Sony ES carousel model which I used so often I actually wore it out. It was so sweeeeeeeeet!!
I will continue to look but I wanted to say thanks for this article as it stimulated me to look further into the subject and even though it will not work for me at least I am going to look further. I have a nice Kenwood in there now and coupled with a Maestro Kit it works great with all the OEM buttons on the steering wheel. But I want (not need) some thing better and so long as I do not have to upgrade everything else (I have new amps and speakers front/rear, I will be happy to do so. I carry a portable CD player with USB and Blootoof but am thinking a new head unit with CD built in would be nicer as it would encourage me to bring along a few CDs more than the portable. I just bought the vinyl version of Coltrane & Hartman’s fantastic album but also have the CD!
Thank you again for stirring the embers of WANT(!), my friend. I hope to see everyone at T.H.E. this coming weekend!
ORT
Thao Tran
June 6, 2023 at 4:53 am
I have an extra rsx-gs9 laying around if you are interested. I prefer the single din over the double din and like the simple volume knob over a huge touch screen.