For many years, the marine market has traditionally been served by car audio products, which most closely fitted the needs of marine users – but which could suffer from reliability issues due to exposure to the harsh marine environment. In recent years, car audio manufacturers have begun to tackle this issue by developing new products aimed specifically at the marine market.
Initially, marine speakers became available, but this is now increasingly being followed by marine amplifiers and marine head units.
Up to now, marine head units have stuck to the traditional in-car DIN size. With the introduction of the CDX-HR70MW, Sony have broken out of the conventional car unit mould, instead offering a unit ergonomically styled to better suit the marine market.
With large round matching controls and display, the unit certanly looks the part. The front panel includes a bright display, designed to be viewable in bright sunlight. The front panel is also splashproof to IPx5 standard and all of the unit’s components are designed to be UV and moisture resistant throughout, which should help to ensure many years of reliable service in the tough marine environment.