Pioneer MVH-2400NEX Digital Multimedia Receiver
MRSP: $400
Pros: One of the most affordable Android Auto and Apple CarPlay units available, Waze via AppRadio Mode. iDatalink Maestro compatibility that lets you keep your factory steering wheel controls and a back-up camera input.
Cons: This unit does not have a CD player so to listen to music you will need to use your phone or a USB drive.
First Impression: If you’re looking to upgrade to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay on a budget, with a MSRP of only $400 this is the head unit for you. It comes with all the standard features like Bluetooth, three 4V RCA preouts and a 50W x 4 built-in amplifier. The main thing you don’t get with this stereo compared to the rest of the Pioneer NEX lineup is a CD player. If you tend to stream music, not having a CD player won’t be something you’ll miss out on though.
Featuring a 7” WVGA clear resistive touchscreen the display had good response and vibrant colors. Glare from the sun was never an issue in our Toyota 4Runner test vehicle. Using the iDatalink Maestro we were able to retain all of our factory steering wheel controls as well as use the OEM backup camera.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is accessed by plugging into the USB port, which for us is what we use the majority of the time for music and navigation. For those prefer using built-in GPS navigation there is an optional Pioneer AVIC-U280 you can purchase separately.
The Verdict: Overall for the price the MVH-2400NEX comes with all the features you need to get plug-in Android Auto or Apple CarPlay in your vehicle. If you’re looking to go wireless Android Auto or CarPlay take a look at the Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX.
