Pioneer AVIC-Z1 Navigation System with CD-IB100II iPod Adapter Review
Apr 19, 2006 gps navigation
The new Pioneer AVIC-Z1 ($2250) is a top-of-line car navigation system, sold as an aftermarket modification for cars with double-DIN-sized spaces in their dashboards. Z1 features a 7-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio color touchscreen with 1440×234 resolution, and an incredible array of GPS and AV features. Unlike the majority of in-car navigation systems, AVIC-Z1 uses a 30GB hard disk to store all of its maps, and permits users to rip their own CDs to a free 10GB partition of the drive. A full Gracenote CD database automatically identifies the track, album and artist info for inserted CDs. Additionally, Pioneer’s optional CD-IB100II iPod Adapter ($99) provides access to all of the audio content of an attached iPod, using a Dock Connector cable to provide pristine sound quality.
AVIC-Z1’s GPS functionality is only a few steps shy of spectacular by comparison with other navigation systems we’ve tested. Multiple 2D and 3D navigation modes are available to the driver, as are split-screen modes that permit 2D and 3D displays to appear simultaneously in 1/3 or 2/3-sized windows. The system not only has one of the very best simulated voices we’ve ever heard, but also does impressively accurate speech synthesis, properly pronouncing the names of even Spanish-language local streets. This enables the Z1 to provide more detailed audio cues for the driver, and reduces the need to use the screen for directions. A microphone enables you to issue voice commands to the system, including menu selections, map destinations, and more. The system also enables you to connect to numerous optional modules, including a rear backup and towing camera, a Bluetooth phone module, satellite radio receivers for both Sirius and XM, a 6-Disc CD changer, and even a TV tuner…
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