Pros & Cons:
The addition HD radio is a nice touch. This is the main difference from the prior model and it comes with a higher price point.
The AVH X5600BHS is the 2014 flagship model of Pioneer's in-dash receivers. Very similar to the X4600BT, it differ's primarily in the fact that it comes with HD radio ready to go. You'll get the crisp stereo surround sound, a 7" touch screen display, Blue-tooth, mirror link for your iPod/Android apps, Pandora and SiriusXM capability, and so much more. The price point is obviously a little higher with this model, but still considered to be competitve considering the top quality and what other's charge (Sony's comparable unit retails for $700).
As stated before, AVH X5600BHS comes with all the features of it's predecessor plus a few goodies. There is a wireless remote, 7" touchscreen color display, and it is steering wheel control compatible. It's Bluetooth capable right out of the box. An optional Blue-tooth mic comes with it to allow for clear communication. It includes a USB port to allow for easy connection with your phone, iPod, or memory stick. The addition this year, of course, is the HD radio piece. Listen to FM stations like never before with CD like quality, and your AM will tune in as clear as FM.
Both Pandora Radio and SiriusXM come pre-installed and ready to use. The AVH X5600BHS allows you to modify the tilt screen so you can adjust the angle of viewing and it works great when dealing with sun glare! Mirror link allows you to instantly navigate and use your iPod/Android compatible apps directly from the touch screen. The equalizer is an 8 band EQ that allows you plenty of customization for you audiophiles out there. There is also an Auto-EQ feature that can automatically adjust for the interior of your car if you have the optional mic connected.
If your not familiar with Mixtrax, it's basically a DJ type app for your music. It smoothly fades from one song to the next, carefully matching the beat and genre. It has many other options, such as the ability to listen only to the middle portion of songs and visualization effects. The USB port is located in the back of the unit, but a USB extension is included so you can feed this out to where it's useful. The interface has a very intuitive feel and is very quick to react.
If you've been looking around for a new in-dash receiver, you really can't go wrong when choosing a Pioneer product. The quality is top notch, especially considering the price point. At the time I'm writing this, you can pick one of these up for $365. You get the crisp sound quality, a great 7" touchscreen for viewing, rear view camera capability, Bluetooth, tilt-screen, remote control, Pandora Radio, Mixtrax, HD Radio, and so much more. The lower end models have similar functionality, but if your looking for the best then this is the unit for you.
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Pioneer AVH X5600BHS Review,
