I have long considered Clarion's FB275BT. I hesitated buying what was clearly a closeout item. The bluetooth was crippled -mono only- and I knew the consumer electronics shows was right around the corner.
Introducing the Clarion's new Digital Audio Receivers:
FZ409 and FZ709:
I think this is going to look *great* in my Blaze Red, Limited Crossfire. It doesn't look like a space ship and it doesn't look like it's
trying to be cool.
I've inquired with Crutchfield, to see when they'll stock the item. I received the following response:
Hello Brian,
Thanks for your e-mail.
Regarding the Clarion FZ409 and FZ709 digital media receivers, we will be carrying both of these new models, but I'm afraid that we have not received an estimated delivery date from Clarion for either model. However, we can place you on the list to receive one as soon as they arrive. Of course, we won't bill your credit card until your order ships out to you, and you can cancel at any time if you find it somewhere else.
You can find the FZ409 ($179.99) on our site here:
http://www.crutchfield.com/cgi-bin/P...asp?i=020FZ409
And the FZ709 ($279.99) here:
http://www.crutchfield.com/cgi-bin/P...asp?i=020FZ709
That's a cool $50 off suggested retail. I'm looking at the FZ409... but I'm torn between this undeniably good looking receiver and Clarion's new, traditional car receiver:
The CZ209:
This player is essentially the same unit, with the added benefits of a CD player and front auxilliary ports. Oh, and it's $50 cheaper than the FZ409.
Crutchfield:
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_020CZ20...9.html?tp=5684
This is a real tough call... I'm going to have to think about it for another day.