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Sony CDXGS500R Single DIN Car Stereo — main product image
Sony CDXGS500R Single DIN Car Stereo
Sony CDXGS500R Single DIN Car Stereo
Sony CDXGS500R Single DIN Car Stereo
Sony CDXGS500R Single DIN Car Stereo
Sony

Sony CDXGS500R Single DIN Car Stereo

★★★★★3.2 (10 reviews)

A feature-packed single DIN car stereo with iPhone app control, CD playback, and powerful 5V preamp outputs.

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Overview

The Sony CDX-GS500R Single DIN Car Stereo is built for drivers who want reliable audio performance and the flexibility to expand their car sound system. At its core, it handles CD playback and digital formats including MP3, WMA, and AAC, so you can enjoy music from physical discs or USB-loaded files. The rear-mounted USB input connects to iPhones for Pandora streaming control, and the companion app remote feature lets you manage the stereo from your phone for added convenience while driving.

Where this unit truly stands out is in its audio output capabilities. The 5-volt front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs deliver a clean, strong signal to external amplifiers, making it an excellent foundation for a multi-channel car audio system. The single DIN form factor ensures broad compatibility with most vehicle dash openings. While it lacks Bluetooth and modern touchscreen features found on newer head units, the CDX-GS500R remains a solid choice for those focused on sound quality and analog signal integrity over flashy connectivity features.

Key Features

Full 35,000 color LCD display

App Remote feature lets you safely control select apps from your smartphone

2-way iPod control allows control from the iPod or the stereo

CEA-2006 compliant amplifier

Theft-deterrent, detachable face plate

MP3 ID3 Tag Display (Title/Artist/Album)

In-dash AM/FM, CD, MP3, WMA receiver with remote

Pandora Internet Radio control provides access to your playlists through your Bluetooth smartphone

Connect, control and charge your Walkman, Android, Blackberry, iPod or iPhone

Dynamic Color Illuminator with selectable Sound Synchronization

Power Output (Peak): 52 watts x 4 channels

Power Output (RMS): 17 watts x 4 channels

CD text information display

Specifications

Form Factor
Single DIN
Disc Playback
CD, MP3, WMA, AAC
USB Input
Rear-mounted 1-wire USB
App Control
iPhone App Remote
Streaming
Pandora (iPhone)
Preamp Outputs
5V Front, Rear, and Subwoofer

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • High 5-volt preamp outputs for front, rear, and subwoofer channels allow clean signal to external amplifiers
  • Supports CD playback along with MP3, WMA, and AAC formats for versatile media options
  • iPhone app remote control offers convenient hands-free operation
  • Single DIN form factor fits the widest range of vehicle dashboards
  • Rear-mounted USB input keeps the faceplate clean and reduces cable clutter

👎 Cons

  • No Bluetooth connectivity limits wireless audio streaming options from phones and tablets
  • Pandora control is iPhone-only, excluding Android users from app-based streaming features
  • Single DIN design means a smaller display with limited visual feedback compared to double DIN units
  • No built-in navigation or touchscreen capability
  • Lacks support for newer streaming services beyond Pandora

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the CDX-GS500R supports iPhone app remote control, letting you manage playback and settings directly from your phone.
It plays standard CDs as well as MP3, WMA, and AAC files from disc or USB input.
It has a built-in amplifier for basic use, plus 5-volt front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs for connecting external amplifiers when you want more power.
The USB input is a rear-mounted 1-wire connection, keeping the front panel clean and uncluttered.
The CDX-GS500R does not list Bluetooth as a feature. It connects to iPhones via USB and supports Pandora control through that connection.

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