Rosen A7
ClearVue all-in-one CAR DVD system
With the recent craze
in the domain of in-car entertainment, we decided to test out the Rosen A7
ClearVue all-in-one system. This gadget makes for a great way to pass time
while on long trips as well a good addition for those willing to add depth
to their audio-only entertainment systems. Its major features include a 7
inch overhead-retractable LCD screen, DVD/CD/MP3 player, 2 wireless headphones,
as well as an FM modulator for transmitting to the car radio. A TV tuner and
video cassette player is optional.
| Features |
Info
|
- 2 IR Wireless
Headphones
- 7" LCD Screen
- MP3 Support
- Mounting system
easy to install
- Slim Remote Control
- FM Modulator
- Easy to use Control
Panel
|
|
The
system was tested in an Acura 1.6 el, which is a compact sedan. I performed
the installation with a friend of mine who happens to be a mechanic. The process
involves 6 major steps, the longest ones being cutting the headliner and mounting
the bracket as well as routing the necessary harnesses and wires.
The Rosen installation guide was easy to follow and the entire procedure was
completed in less than 90 minutes. Nevertheless, I would recommend getting
it done by someone with proper technical knowledge and expertise, as well
as tools.
Also, installation will certainly vary slightly from one car model to another.
That being said, it should be noted that the A7, like other overhead DVD players,
are designed to be viewed by rear passengers, and its placement covers that
of the dome light, which the unit also substitutes for.
In addition to the built
in DVD player, the Rosen A7 also includes inputs for an optional VCP, tuner
and an auxiliary source (a gaming console for instance, in our case, a PS2
was connected). After having the components hooked up, we were pleasantly
surprised by the result. First of all, the 7-inch display performed with remarkable
clarity, despite changing seating positions.
The screen showed very little glare, even by daylight. Secondly, a nice extra
is the adjustment knob, which can change the viewing position (tilt) of the
display instead of having the viewer tilt his or her head; a very nice touch.
Another nice touch is the slanted slot for disc input, which facilitates the
process of changing discs, especially for vehicles with higher roofs, or short
people.
The A7 supports
two methods of outputting audio, first by means of an fm transmitter, and
the other, by wireless headphones. The built in FM transmitter transmits outgoing
audio on the 88.3 frequency, which can be picked up by the car radio and played
through the car speakers. The headphones (2 are included with the package)
operate wire-free through IR, and each use two AAA batteries, which last quite
a few hours. For both audio outputs, Rosen uses its proprietary technology
to enhance sound quality. This is done through “RES Surround-Sound”,
“RES Sound Processing” (both for DVD audio) and finally “
RES Audio Overdrive”.
The “RES Surround Sound” is the automotive equivalent of “3-D
audio” using two channels in computers. It tweaks with the audio to
give it more ambiance. It is best when used with the headphones, and makes
the sound enjoyable and realistic, but obviously, nothing really compares
to true surround sound, such as that on the Zalman headphones. RES sound-processing
makes up for losses to audio due to road noise and creates better balance
between dialog and sound effects. Compared to the audio in other automotive
DVD set-ups, the RES sound-processing has a significant advantage in terms
of clearness. Finally, RES audio overdrive boosts audio output levels, thereby
improving sound clarity and reducing noise.
Browsing
through the unit’s features can be done in two ways as well. First are
the backlit buttons on the front panel, which controls major playback functions,
as well as screen settings (colour, contract, brightness, tint). Then there
is also the remote control which provides access to the more complex features,
such as zoom, subtitles, display mode, sound mode, as well as different settings
for viewing during day and night (default brightness levels are different
for night and day, to make for optimal video). The dome light can be controlled
by both the remote and through the front panel.
The on-screen menu is
highly customizable, and contains many features while being easy to navigate
at the same time. The main menus include General setup, Speaker setup, Audio
Setup and preference. Some notable features of the menu include the ability
to select different aspect ratios, as well as a screen saver. It allows access
to all the menu features found in consumer DVD players, with some features,
like digital output disabled (since both FM audio and IR headphones work through
analog audio).
Pros:
-All-in-one unit
-7 inch anti-glare
display
-Sound enhancement
for DVD movies
-The small touches
(tilt screen, slanted disc input etc)
Cons:
-Can’t be viewed
by front passenger.
-List price higher
than rivals.
Summation
Not only does the A7 boast notable performance and quality, but it was the
minor touches that impressed us. While installation wasn’t exactly a
snap, the instructions provided good guidance. Audio and video performance
was striking (audio was greatly improved by Rosen’s proprietary technologies)
and definitely worth the price. This model competes with the pioneer RSE-SYS700DVH
which lists for about 100$ less and uses only a 6.5 inch display, also most
of the competing models are not all-in-one systems as this, which makes for
relatively complicated installation and compatibility issues. With most entertainment
systems struggling between features and build quality, Rosen Entertainment
Systems delivers the best of both worlds at a reasonable price.
Amit
Rahman
04.01.29
