The Pioneer AVIC-X920BT emerged in 2010 as a near-flagship contender in the all-in-one receiver market, positioned just below Pioneer’s top-tier AVIC-Z110BT. This model retained many of the admired features of its high-end sibling while introducing innovative functionalities like PandoraLink, enhancing control over the Pandora iPhone app directly from the receiver’s touch screen. This review delves into the Pioneer AVIC-X920BT, exploring its features, benefits, and drawbacks for the discerning consumer seeking a comprehensive in-car entertainment and navigation solution.
Key Features of the Pioneer AVIC-X920BT
The Pioneer AVIC-X920BT is packed with features designed to enhance the in-car experience, blending navigation, multimedia, and communication into a single, user-friendly unit.
Intuitive Touchscreen Interface
At the heart of the AVIC-X920BT is a vibrant 6.1-inch WXGA color touchscreen. This display serves as the primary interface for navigation, phone calls, and multimedia controls. Complementing the touchscreen, a set of physical buttons are positioned to the left, offering quick access to essential functions. These include a volume rocker, Home button, Mode button, track skip control, and a voice command activation button, ensuring ease of use and minimizing driver distraction.
Pressing the Home button reveals the main menu, organizing access to destination entry, hands-free calling, and AV source selection. A secondary press on the Home button leads to a customizable home screen, capable of hosting up to 15 shortcuts for frequently used features like navigation to gas stations or favorite restaurants. The Mode button allows for seamless switching between navigation and audiovisual playback monitoring.
Multimedia Player Capabilities
Despite its “Made for iPod” and “Works with iPhone” branding, the Pioneer AVIC-X920BT requires an optional adapter cable for iPod and iPhone audio playback. Once connected with the appropriate cable, the system mirrors the functionality of high-end models like the AVIC-Z110BT. It scans and indexes the connected device’s media library, enabling voice command access to artists, albums, songs, or genres. Touchscreen browsing remains a convenient alternative for media navigation.
A standout feature is PandoraLink, designed for iPhone users. By installing the Pioneer Pandora Link app, users gain full control of the Pandora Internet radio app on their iPhone through the AVIC-X920BT touchscreen. This integration allows for station selection, track skipping, song rating, and even bookmarking songs or artists for later discovery and purchase on Pandora’s website.
MusicSphere Technology
Further enhancing the iPod and iPhone experience, the AVIC-X920BT incorporates Pioneer’s MusicSphere technology. This iTunes plug-in analyzes your iTunes library and generates 40 custom playlists based on BPM, mood, rhythm, and release year. These playlists can be synced to an iPod or iPhone and accessed via the AVIC-X920BT’s MusicSphere interface, a 3D spherical graphic navigable by touch. MusicSphere can also create a 100-song mix with transition effects, though the software was initially PC-only, with a Mac version anticipated.
Versatile Audio Source Options
Beyond iPod and iPhone integration, the AVIC-X920BT offers a wide array of audio source options. A USB pigtail accommodates flash memory devices and media players supporting USB mass storage. A 1/8-inch auxiliary analog audio input pigtail is also included. Bluetooth connectivity supports A2DP audio streaming from compatible devices, expanding audio source versatility.
The unit features a DVD slot above the touchscreen, capable of playing DVDs, DivX video discs, and audio CDs. It supports Dolby Digital audio decoding, powered by a four-channel amplifier rated at 50W max per channel (14W RMS). Expandability is available through add-on modules for HD Radio and Sirius XM satellite radio.
Advanced Navigation System
The Pioneer AVIC-X920BT’s navigation system includes an external GPS antenna and optional speed pulse sensor connection for enhanced accuracy. A three-way electronic gyroscope and a learning algorithm further refine navigation by adapting to vehicle behavior. Maps feature 3D landmarks for major cities, though terrain data is not mentioned. Touchscreen controls for zoom and POI overlays are initially small but expand upon selection. Map navigation is touch-and-drag, but pinch-to-zoom is not supported due to the resistive touchscreen.
Preloaded POI databases are searchable by name or category, and voice command address entry is available. The system provides clear turn-by-turn directions with text-to-speech street names, lane guidance, and detailed turn information.
Bluetooth Connectivity and Hands-Free Calling
Powered by Parrot Bluetooth technology, the AVIC-X920BT offers robust Bluetooth connectivity. Beyond audio streaming, it supports hands-free calling. A microphone, installed near the driver, ensures call clarity. When paired with a phone supporting Bluetooth Phone Book Access Profile, the system can import and index contacts, enabling voice-controlled calls.
Pros and Cons of the Pioneer AVIC-X920BT
The Good
The Pioneer AVIC-X920BT excels in several key areas:
- Comprehensive Feature Set: It combines navigation, multimedia playback, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration into one unit.
- PandoraLink Integration: Provides seamless control over Pandora radio for iPhone users.
- Voice Command System: Offers effective voice control for navigation, calling, and music selection.
- Expandability: Supports add-on modules for HD Radio and satellite radio, enhancing audio options.
- User-Friendly Interface: The touchscreen and physical buttons offer intuitive control.
The Bad
Despite its strengths, the AVIC-X920BT has drawbacks:
- Optional iPod/iPhone Cable: Requires an additional purchase for full iPod and iPhone functionality.
- MSN Direct Obsolescence: Includes MSN Direct features despite the service being discontinued shortly after its release.
- Resistive Touchscreen: Lacks pinch-to-zoom and may not be as responsive as capacitive screens.
Conclusion: Is the Pioneer AVIC-X920BT Right for You?
The Pioneer AVIC-X920BT stands as a feature-rich in-car navigation and entertainment system that effectively addresses the core needs of most drivers. Its expandable software and hardware options, particularly PandoraLink and MusicSphere, provide added value. The robust voice command system ties these features together seamlessly, creating a cohesive and user-friendly experience.
While the need for an optional iPod/iPhone cable and the outdated MSN Direct feature are minor drawbacks, the Pioneer AVIC-X920BT remains a compelling option for those seeking to significantly upgrade their vehicle’s technology. Its comprehensive capabilities and user-focused design make it a worthwhile investment for enhanced navigation, entertainment, and connectivity on the road. Just remember to factor in the cost of the iPod connection cable to fully utilize its multimedia potential.
