Sony Launches 1st-Ever Splash-Proof Head Unit

For the music lover spending time outdoors on a boat, jet ski or off-road vehicle, Sony has launched its first-ever splash-proof head unit.

The IPx5-compliant CDX-HS70MW marine stereo is both sun, water and salt-resistant, while its large buttons and display make it easy to use. IPx5 is a splash-proof standard by which the level of water-resistance is measured. The marine stereo's water-resistant technology is a perfect fit for the exterior of a hot tub.

Delivering high-power sound, the marine head unit is satellite-ready so you can listen to XM or Sirius satellite radio on the water or on the road. Compatible with the marine-commander remote control, you can also manage the music from a secondary station, the company says.

"Just because you're at the beach or the lake, doesn't mean that you have to go without your tunes," says Brennan Mullin, general manager for mobile electronics at Sony Electronics. "We're excited to offer a device that delivers powerful sound and a wide range of compatibility features, as well as a cool design."

Additional features include a rear RCA auxiliary input for expanding marine entertainment options, a nine and ten-volt switchable AM tuner, front and rear sub switchable preouts to add external amplification, and 52W by 4 maximum power output for high-sound quality.

Mullin adds that the unit is resistant to interference from vibrations due to Sony's DRIVE-S Chassis technology, which also offers sound separation from the stereo.

Sony is also unveiling a silver-finished amplifier and subwoofer. The XM-604M amplifier is the company's first dedicated marine amplifier, suitable to drive full-range speakers and subwoofers. It features 60 watts into four channels at Consumer Electronics Association-rated power. Meanwhile, the 10-inch subwoofer has been designed to handle a marine environment with 800W peak and 200W-rated power.