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Clarion CZ500

Car Stereo CD/MP3/WMA Receiver with Built-in Bluetooth, USB Port and Aux-In (CZ-500)

4.5

(52 reviews)

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Specials with this product

  • Free Installation Accessories!details
  • Free Ground Shipping to the 48 statesdetails

Clarion Has Done It Again!

This in-dash CD/MP3 receiver offers a compelling amount of features at a fantastic price. The built-in iPod USB connection allows you to control your Apple device directly from the stereo controls. The blue button lighting illuminates the front panel so you can clearly see every control on the deck. Being CEA compliant, the Clarion CZ500 produces 19 watts RMS of power for all 4 channels, which is perfect for most low-powered speakers. 3 sets of 4v preamp RCA outputs enable you to add multiple amplifiers into your vehicle if you wish. Look no further, because this is one great stereo for a very awesome price.

 
 
 
 

General Features:

  • In-dash AM/FM, CD, MP3, WMA player with Remote
  • Built-in Bluetooth technology supports hands-free calling with a compatible Bluetooth phone
  • iPod USB direct connectivity via your standard iPod-to-USB connection cable allows you to charge, control, and playback your iPod through the receiver and stereo system
  • Flip-out, detachable face
  • Human-Machine Interface (H.M.I.) provides a convenient starburst design and intuitive operation
  • 2-Line LCD text display
  • Highly visible white LCD display offers great viewing during day and at night
  • Wireless remote control included
  • Blue button lighting
  • CEA-2006 compliant amplifier
  • Power Output:
    • Peak: 50 watts x 4 channels
    • RMS: 19 watts x 4 channels
  • CD Text Display
  • MP3 ID3 Tag Display (Title/Artist/Album)
  • 1-year Sonic Electronix warranty

Playback and Audio Features:

  • Playback of CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, and WMA
  • AM/FM tuner with 18FM/6AM presets
  • BeatEQ 3-band parametric equalizer with tone curves (3 Presets and 1 User)
  • Magna Bass EX bass boost for enhanced low frequencies
  • Low-pass filter offers greater tuning for subwoofers
  • On-board subwoofer level control

Expandability Options:

  • 3 Sets of 4V preamp outputs (front, rear and subwoofer)
  • XM Radio Ready: Audiovox CNP2000UC, Clarion CCUXM1, and subscription required for a direct connection to the XM Satellite Radio service
  • HD Radio Ready: Clarion THD300 required and sold separately for reception of digital HD Radio with iTunes tagging capabilities
  • Integrated Bluetooth: Enables phones, headsets, and portable devices to be paired for audio streaming and hands free calling with included voice microphone
  • iPod/iPhone Ready: USB-to-iPod cable required and sold separately for audio control, charging, and playback
  • Front-panel auxiliary input: 3.5mm (headphone jack) allows connection to portable media devices such as MP3 players, etc.
  • Steering wheel remote ready: PAC SWI-JACKv1 or the Axxess ASWC required and sold separately

Bluetooth Features:

  • Offers convenient hands-free talking with compatible cell phones
  • Compatible with HSP/HSP profiles for complete hands-free operation
  • Supports A2DP/AVRCP profiles for audio streaming
  • PBAP Profile allows phone book access from the receiver
  • Includes a wired microphone for crystal clear audio reception
Product History:
Clarion CZ501 thumbnail
(newest, current model)
Clarion CZ500 thumbnail
(previous model, replaced by Clarion CZ501)
Clarion CZ509 thumbnail
(previous model, replaced by Clarion CZ500)
In-Dash Receiver Specifications
Receiver SizeSingle DIN
Faceplate SecurityDetachable
Motorized FaceplateNo
Remote ControlYes
Peak Power Output50 watts x 4 channels
RMS Power Output19 watts x 4 channels
Preamp RCA Outputs3 Pairs (Front, Rear, and Subwoofer)
Sub Preamp RCA OutputYes
Preamp Voltage4 volts
Built-In EqualizerBeatEQ 3-band parametric equalizer with tone curves (3 Presets and 1 User)
Display TypeLCD Text Display
Display ColorWhite
Button ColorBlue
CD Signal-to-Noise80 dB
CEA-2006 CompliantYes
Playback Features
AM/FM TunerYes
FM Presets18
AM Presets6
CD-R/RW PlaybackYes
MP3 PlaybackYes
WMA PlaybackYes
DVD / Video PlaybackNo
DVD Region NumberN/A
Expandability Features
NavigationNo
Audio/Video InputsFront 3.5mm
Audio/Video OutputsNo
USB InputRear
iPod Audio ConnectionYes (via iPod USB Cable or Accessory Cable Below)
iPod Video ConnectionNo
Satellite RadioOptional - XM (Accessory required and sold separately)
HD RadioOptional (Accessory required and sold separately)
Bluetooth ConnectivityYes (Built-in/Included Bluetooth Controls, Adapter and Microphone Included)
Steering Wheel Control CompatibleYes (Accessory required and sold separately)
CD Changer ControlsNo
Rear View Camera InputNo
Memory Card ReaderNo
iPod Information
Compatible Apple Devices4G iPod (20 & 40GB)
4G iPod Color & Photo (20, 30, 40, & 60GB)
5G iPod Video (30, 60, & 80GB)
iPod Classic (120GB)
iPod Classic (80 &160GB)
iPod Nano 1st Generation (1, 2, & 4GB)
iPod Nano 2nd Generation (4 & 8GB)
iPod Nano 3rd Generation (4 & 8GB)
iPod Nano 4th Generation (8 & 16GB)
iPod Nano 5th Generation (8 & 16GB)
iPod Touch 1st Generation (8, 16 & 32GB)
iPod Touch 2nd Generation (8, 16 & 32GB)
iPod Touch 3nd Generation (8, 32 & 64GB)
iPhone
iPhone 3G
iPhone 3GS
iPod Charging Adapter RequiredNo
Warranty and Return Policy
Return Policy Standard Return Policy
Parts Warranty Duration1 year
Labor Warranty Duration1 year
Warranty ProviderSonic Electronix
Customer Review Summary for Clarion CZ500
Average Customer Rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars:
4.5
based on 52 Reviews
Share your thoughts with others:
Rating Distribution:
5 star:
.
.
65%
4 star:
.
.
27%
3 star:
.
.
4%
2 star:
.
0%
1 star:
.
.
4%
what's this?
Average Attributes Rating:
Durability
4.4
Value
4.9
Features
4.5
Design
4.4
Usability
4.4
what's this?
Quick Comparison:
Most Helpful Customer Reviews:
December 9, 2010 CZ500
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Review by
Jeremy from Allentown, PA
Overall
Durability
Value
Features
Design
Usability
The biggest reason I purchased this unit was for the bluetooth capabilities and that it came with an external mic. Sound quality is good, but not what I expected (and it is paired with 4 Boston Acoustic speakers). However, the bluetooth lacks big time, even with the external mic. The unit is fussy at times and will not connect to your mobile. Receiving a call is problematic at times too. You are supposed to hit a button on the unit to answer a call, but that rarely works too. And with the external mic, one would expect better communication capabilities. But its the old, "you sound like you're in a tunnel a million miles away" saying.
I would recommend the unit for the sole purpose of music entertainment. But if you are looking for the bluetooth capabilities, I would keep looking.
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December 1, 2010 Very Nice
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Review by
Andrew from Vineland, NJ
Overall
Durability
Value
Features
Design
Usability
This is a quality headunit and will not disappoint. Very fast shipping and harness+hardware were free. Bluetooth was easy to pair with my Droid X and mic cable was plenty long. I love the fact the usb isn't on the faceplate, makes it way more flexible. Speakers sound way better than on the Pioneer unit this replaced. This was my first order and will not be my last!
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October 6, 2010 Best Deal for the Money
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Review by
Jason from Renton, WA
Overall
Durability
Value
Features
Design
Usability
I tried to do a lot of research before I purchased this deck. If you are looking for a system that has built-in bluetooth and iPod or mp3 capabilities, this is the best value for your money. It sounds great with the exception of the radio seeming to get slightly poor reception, but I really don't listen to the radio since I use my iPod with it.

The best part is that you don't have to buy any extra cables like you would with many other head units. Although, I will say that the bluetooth auto-connect feature on this unit did not work straight out of the box, I had to go in and turn it off and then back on. After that, it has worked great. I have had a couple of glitches with my iPod connection, it usually works fine, but I have had to unplug it and plug it back in to have it work.

The one negative to using the unit to browse through songs on your iPod is that it always starts with the "A"s so going through the songs to get to the end of the alphabet takes some work. I mainly bought this for the bluetooth for my phone, since it is now illegal to talk on your cell while driving in Washington. The phone sound is fine, but make sure you place the mic closer to the drivers side if you want the other person to be able to hear you without you having to yell. Overall a great unit and I'm happy that I purchased it. There are better decks out there if you want to spend the money, but for the price, I definitely recommend this one.
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February 19, 2012 Kick ass Love the quality sound
Review by
luis from ruskin, FL
Overall
Durability
Value
Features
Design
Usability
This cd player is kick ass. I talked to the seller and he made some suggestions as to what speakers to go with and in 3 days I had my awesome Mp3/cd and iPod player. Hooked it all up on my 2002 jeep wrangler and it sounds nazty.
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February 14, 2012 Bang for the buck
Review by
adam from youngsville, LA
Overall
Durability
Value
Features
Design
Usability
After a little time figuring it out, this is a great unit. All the features I wanted. In a price range I could deal with. The best bang for the buck.
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View All 52 Reviews for Clarion CZ500
iPod Adapters and Cables
An iPod adapter/connection cable will allow you to listen to music through your car in-dash stereo from your iPod, charge the iPod, and usually control the playback and playlists through the in-dash head unit too.
 ProductPriceAdd?
Scosche IPUSB2Scosche IPUSB2
This iPod cable is made specifically for the audio playback of this in-dash receiver.
$10.99
Steering Wheel Interface Adapters
Operate your new radio using your factory steering wheel audio controls with a steering wheel adaptor.
 ProductPriceAdd?
Axxess ASWCAxxess ASWC
Universal steering wheel control interface with automatic programming
$52.99
PAC SWI-JACKv1PAC SWI-JACKv1
Use this steering wheel adapter to retain your vehicles steering wheel controls.
$54.99
Satellite Radio Tuners
Add an XM or SIRIUS satellite radio tuner to your new stereo with one of the following available accessories.
 ProductPriceAdd?
Audiovox CNP2000UCAudiovox CNP2000UC$94.99
Expandable Storage Accessories
Get more out of your new in-dash car stereo with these storage accessories.
 ProductPriceAdd?
Transcend TS4GJF500Transcend TS4GJF500
4 GB JetFlash 500 USB 2.0 Flash Thumb Drive
$19.99
Installation, Tools & Accessories
Get your car stereo receiver installed by an expert, or do it yourself with install tools and accessories found below.
 ProductPriceAdd?
Monster Cable MPC CLNKIT-SM CNMonster Cable MPC CLNKIT-SM CN
2 Bottles of LCD Screen Clean with Cleaning Cloth
$5.99
Scosche TK12 Car Stereo Installation KitScosche TK12 Car Stereo Installation Kit
Includes panel removal tool, wire cutter/stripper, test light, RCA cable runner, screwdriver, and more!
$14.99
18 Butt Connectors, 2 Ring Terminals, and Zip Ties18 Butt Connectors, 2 Ring Terminals, and Zip Ties
Great for connecting your car stereo wires to the harness.
$5.99
SoundKase DFC1XSoundKase DFC1X
Soft-Sided Nylon Receiver Faceplate Case
$5.99
System Optimization and Tuning
Use these accessories to test and tune the sound your new audio system!
 ProductPriceAdd?
AutoSound 2000 CD-103AutoSound 2000 CD-103
Audiophile reference series test disc for evaluation of all audio components.
$12.99
AutoSound 2000 CD-102AutoSound 2000 CD-102
High frequency test CD specifically designed for the set-up and evaluation of sound system imaging and placement.
$12.99
AutoSound 2000 CD-105AutoSound 2000 CD-105
Demonstrates different characteristics and specifications of an audio system.
$12.99
Sonic Electronix Stickers
Show off your Sonic Electronix pride with a decal for your car! Choose the size that is best you!
 ProductPriceAdd?
Sonic Electronix StickerSonic Electronix Sticker
4-1/2" Vinyl SonicElectronix.com Sticker (Blue)
$0.25
Medium Sonic Electronix StickerMedium Sonic Electronix Sticker
6-1/2" Vinyl SonicElectronix.com Sticker (Blue)
$0.50
Large Sonic Electronix StickerLarge Sonic Electronix Sticker
13" Vinyl SonicElectronix.com Sticker (Blue)
$0.99

Product Summary

Manufacturer: Clarion
Model number: CZ500
Product manual: Download the Clarion CZ500 Product Manual
UPC: 729218018392
Weight: 4.75 lbs
Internal SKU: cz500
Internal product ID: 23447
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Customer Testimonial

I have spoke to 3 people at your office in the last 24 hours. I just spoke to a young man named Brenden...

he is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

helpful, informative, experienced, friendly.

give him a raise!!!!!!!!!
or hire more like him...you'll do more biz!

Marc

- Marc from Pac Pal, ca

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