Add a RF Modulator = CH-X250RF
Written: Dec 30 '01
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Pros: Inexpensive, high quality 12 disk cd changer. Flexible installation.
Cons: Use with RF modulator degrades quality of output sound.
The Bottom Line: A full featured, inexpensive cd changer. Ample disk magazine and ability to hook into RF modulator is a definite plus. Recommended
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| kleung21's Full Review: JVC CHX-200 12-Disc CD Changer |
Introduction
This is a review for the JVC CH-X250RF. Before you start flaming, let me explain that this is a combination / package that JVC puts out that combines the CH-X200 12 Disk CD changer with their Wired remote/RF modulator unit.
In fact, the same can be said of the JVC CH-PK200 package which consists of the CH-X200 changer with a JVC Head unit.
SO... For those of you that wish to keep your existing factory head (radio tuner unit). OR, if you cannot get the appropriate adapters or just want to put in the unit easily, this is the review for you.
GREAT Features
First off, the cd changer market has matured. What used to be expensive, rare items are now commodity items that cost $100-150 usd for a fair unit. You almost CANNOT go wrong choosing any conventional CD changer by most car audio manufacturers!
Having said that, JVC has produced a unit with multiple, impressive features.
Specifically...
- 12 disk cd magazine. Usually, in this price range you can only get a 6 cd magazine/changer.
- shock suppression
- multiple angle/flexible mounting. However, due to the increased size of supporting 12 cd's (read - THICKER unit, you will probably have to put this in the trunk of a compact car (although it may still fit under the seat of an SUV)
- 6 sec. fast disk changes and 1 bit audio DAC, 3 beam laser.
Basically, I am trying to emphasize that this is a mature CD changer with many great features. No bells or whistles but GREAT audio playback, stability and fidelity.
Adding the RF Modulator
Seeing as how I wished to add this to my current car without replacing the factory tape deck/tuner radio ("head unit"), I chose the package that includes the RF Modulator with wired remote.
For those that don't know, a RF Modulator hooks into the CD changer and broadcasts the signal over the FM band. In this case, this is user selectable over a frequency range of 88.1-88.9 FM.
This means that to use the cd player, you tune your radio to FM 88.1 (adjustable) and then use the wired remote control to select the cd you wish to play back.
The remote offers disk/track selection, intro scan and repeat functions.
Disadvantage of RF Modulation
A RF modulated CD changer is great if you don't wish the hassle of having to change tuners/factory radios. However, because your signal is being broadcast over the "air", the sound quality is DEFINITELY slightly degrades. In traffic / with the car on, this is not noticeable. However, for the audiophiles out there - you could probably make out a slight difference in sound quality due the transmission.
Please note, this unit does not transmit from the trunk. Instead, as part of the installation, you mount the RF modulator unit in your dash/passenger compartment and run a wire up to the antenna for the "best" broadcast quality you could theoretically achieve.
Summary
All in all, I am extremely pleased with the unit. I paid for the installation as I'm all thumbs with electronics installation (and you have to run wires up and down the car). The sound quality and features are great for a cd changer and 12 disk capacity means you can get about 16 hours of continuous NON repeating playtime.
The only theoretical disadvantage with the use of a RF modulator is slight loss in sound fidelity. However, in real world situations, this is not noticeable while driving / in traffic.
A definite recommendation goes out for this unit.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 125
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Epinions.com ID:
kleung21
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Location: Toronto, Ont., Canada
Reviews written: 32
Trusted by: 1 member
About Me:
Computerphile based in Canada. Various tech interests
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