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Pioneer AVIC-7200NEX

Review: Pioneer AVIC-7200NEX

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AVIC-7200NEX In-Dash Navigation AV Receiver
MSRP: $900

[UPDATE] Pioneer has released the AVIC-7201NEX, the features are the same but it now includes a free backup camera and is $100 cheaper.

Pros: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatible, a 7-inch WVGA touchscreen, GPS navigation unit included, built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio steaming, iDatalink Maestro RR Compatible and front and rear camera inputs.

Cons: While the larger 7-inch WVGA screen is a nice feature, this unit uses a resistive touchscreen, which isn’t as responsive as what is found in the capacitive touchscreen of the AVIC-8200NEX.

First Impression: This head unit comes with almost all of the same features as the top of the line AVIC-8200NEX but at a price that is $200 cheaper. Coming with three 4-volt RCA preouts, if you plan on adding amps into your setup this will give you a great sounding system. The main difference between the two head units is that the AVIC-7200NEX uses a 7-inch resistive touchscreen, which can require you to press down harder with your finger for your touch controls.

Features
Featuring the latest in car infotainment technology the AVIC-7200NEX is a double DIN in-dash multimedia and navigation unit that comes fully equipped with a DVD/CD player, USB connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in Bluetooth, built-in HD radio, Pandora ready, Siri Eyes Free, FLAC, AppRadio Mode, dual zone entertainment and Sirius ready. Once connected, the AVIC-7200NEX receiver displays large icons for functions such as Maps, Phone, Messages, Music, Now Playing, and Podcasts. Several streaming apps — including Pandora work within the Apple CarPlay interface as well. Drivers can access these functions by touch or through Siri Eyes Free functionality with a simple touch of the NEX touchscreen to activate Siri voice control. This convenient feature provides distraction-free usage while driving. Android and iPhone users both get Pioneer’s AppRadio Mode for in-dash command of several important apps thanks to the HDMI input, while Android owners can employ MirrorLink technology to navigate a car-friendly version of their phone’s display right on the receiver’s screen using an optional interface cables required for smartphone connections.

Voice Control
Bringing the latest in voice recognition the AVIC-7200NEX comes with advanced Hands-Free Profile (HFP 1.6) with Wideband Speech capability and built-in Bluetooth technology which enables both audio streaming and hands-free calling using the included external microphone. Pairing your phone also enables smartphone voice commands via Siri Eyes Free or Google to perform any number of tasks such as making phone calls, hearing and composing texts, getting directions, choosing songs and playlists, and adding reminders with simple voice commands.

Camera Inputs
Adding even more functionality the AVIC-7200NEX comes equipped with two camera inputs to install to either the front or rear of your vehicle, or both. This feature pays dividends when maneuvering out of tight parking spaces by simply touching an app located on the units source screen to activate the rear camera within seconds.

Navigation
The AVIC-7200NEX provides built-in navigation so you don’t have to rely solely on the sometimes-spotty coverage your cell phone may have when using CarPlay or Android Auto. With over 7.9 million points of interest and 3D mapping that allows realistic views of terrain, buildings, and landmarks in select areas; the built in navigation gives you a great alternative to anything you can use on through your phone. Pioneer designed the AVIC-7200NEX with a larger 7-inch WVGA resistive touchscreen for easy to navigate and read user interface. Both units feature innovative new graphical user interface with its large, vivid diagonal icons. The customizable GUI (graphic user interface) touchscreen controls also allow freedom to custom tailoring your screens visual appearance to fit your style.