Mark gilbert thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice. Because of generations of brave men and women like you allows all of us to enjoy the freedoms that we all yake for granted. THANK YOU!
I believe you reside in the USA and I’m from Canada but thank you very much for your service, and thank you for helping keep your friends to the north safe as well!
Thanks for the review you just made my day complete. More power to you Dean and Fernando You guys are the best installers period.😀 Got the same unit pair with GS Series Sony Amplifiers and Speakers. It's One of the Best Sound Equipment I ever own. I appreciate what you guys do Simply the best in what you guys do? Thanks.
Great review. That price is super inflated though. The pioneer 80prs is much better bang for your buck. They should update to USB C instead of micro b. That connection is so fragile, it will get loose in a month.
This brings back memories can’t remember what the brand was I had one that was copper and had its own 12 V unit for power. It was a high Fidelity unit. It was amazing when I was doing sound competitions. Should’ve kept it never got rid of it.
Probably thinking of an Eclipse copper chassis dead head. Head Unit without an onboard amp, so it was designed to be used with external amps. I believe Alpine had similar headunits.
@@esigman1 I’m spoiled by my alpine 7965 cd tuner… I’m surprised no one currently compares actual audio quality- just feature sets…? I don’t want to give up sq for features if possible. What’s the best single/double din currently available these days? Thanks for any advice on this! Can’t believe aiff isn’t supported in digital files…
I think for someone to really appreciate this deck, it needs to be paired with absolutely remarkable speakers. Something like a dynaudio esotar2. Audison thesis amp or maybe a restored Mcintosh. This is without a doubt the single best sounding head unit I have ever heard. Unfortunately I don't think it's going to appeal to all that many people
So Sony back in 1989 to the mid 90’s were the best in my opinion. I had the pull out top of the line cassette deck then moved up to the cd deck with the tape drawer and mk-xe8 EQ with series 7 hifonics amps. Clean clear nut busting sound quality with headroom for days. Now I’m stuck on Alpine. Just got the f309 halo and I’ve been using the tune it app for quite a while when I got my 149bt. How does the high end Alpine compare to Sony? I think Sony has set the benchmark with this unit, thoughts?
The GS9 has been out forever and a day now. Is Sony, or anyone else, planning to raise the bar any time soon or is that thing literally the best we have the technology to construct right now?
Alpine has F1 in North America now. And it’s half as good as the original. The race to zero killed that brand. AI net and any type of cross control between devices is long gone just asinine the alpine dvd has to be controlled via wireless remote like a $99 DEI dvd from 2004. Also doesn’t allow K40 radar and other advanced Maestro interface functions that Kenwood/JVC does. Yes sadly Kenwood JVC is top dog with interfacing and 3rd party interface. Alpine shoulda never lost its way. 99-05 was peak 12v.
Thanks for this review, you are the only one that showed it has FM.... a couple local stores I called today said it doesnt have fm. I was really wanting to buy this. Since my old $1000 Eclipse double din is obsolete and wont hook up to my phone.
Thank you for taking your valuable time to go over the features,& operation of this (dare I say ) head unit. If I was ever to purchase this unit, & because you took your time to explain features, & operation, I probably won’t need to read the owners manual. I get what Sony is trying to do here,.. & that is be king of the mountain.( for now) By the way,... how many of the units have you sold since you posted the video?
Cool video 5✨🔊 This unit is now NLA… I’m looking for a replacement for my Alpine CDA 7965 which is really clean sounding with a great FM tuner preamp stage. I’d like to not go backwards on SQ! What is available now that would be great preferably in a double din or single din minus an oversized screen? This is a great video on an audiophile head unit- there is a market for SQ. It would be great to include SQ ratings of units you test so viewers have a better understanding of what they are getting. Thanks again for this video of a high end SQ head unit!
Awesome detailed and informational video. Thank you for it, it just helped me to chose the right audio solution for my car, so I am buying one 👍. I have one question though, when I connect my iPhone through USB-DAC, what will be the highest bit rate / frequency I can get from my ALAC files through the Apple Music app? I am aware that I can play it through the VOX app, just curious as I am used to the iPhone's Music app a lot and I have most of my library converted to ALAC files. Thank you.
Yeah i have ax-1000 in my car I hate it tbh i only bought it because it was 249 and it had carplay it doesn't cut it and idk if this is with all touchscreen radios but on a sunny day when the light hits the screen I can barely see anything
If the unit is so advanced and does all the magical things we like, why would you connect it to a DSP? Considering the enormous price, Wouldn’t you just run RCA’s to Amps and call it a day?
@@uptobatentertainment like what? Time alignment, eq, crossovers, special sound modes? Cuzz pretty any decent radio has a good dsp. Only reason to get an external dsp is if you running a 3 way or crazy multispeaker system such as Steve Meade's Tahoe.
Which media player do you think can play source material better: a 50 dollar sandisk mp3/flac player jerry rigged with a 1/8" to rca adapter to an amp, or a thousand dollar stereo with high end components that's designed for a car audio system. It's like comparing an iPod to a McIntosh stack. One serves one purpose, the other serves another purpose
@shedboyz21 I've owned and tested the Sony RSX-GS9. It's DSP capabilities pale in comparison to a stand-alone DSP such as the Helix DSPs and most others. The Sony just does not have the features or functionality of a stand-alone, dedicated DSP. The Sony is extremely limited in this regard. As a SOURCE unit for high-quality playback of your music files, it is excellent and one of the absolute best. But in terms of DSP functionality it is severely lacking. If you check all of the SQ Competitors that are currently using the GS9, they are combining it with a separate, dedicated, high-quality DSP unit. There is a reason why.
yeo yeooo... think you could use one of those sub outputs as a center instead? or do both of those need to be Y connected into a sub amp to sound proper? thanks for the video man, this is dope
How's the menu diving for USB thumb drive operation I'm thinking about getting it but I normally play my music off of the thumb drive connected to the stereo will I be able to see a little bit like the names or track that I'm on through the small screen there and is there a button to change folders or dive into music folders for that matter or is this a DAC that is heavily pushed to use the iPad or mobile device like you shown
@IGA Famille Benoit High End Head Unit Shootout including the Clarion DRZ-9255 with downloadable comparison files... www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
Obviously a great radio. Concerned about Micro USB - mechanically/physically unreliable. I would consider getting a 90° Micro USB adapter cable which ends in USB-C and then plugging your files into that for long-term reliability. That way you’re not plugging in and unplugging from that Micro USB on the face. The problem with Micro USB connectors is that they are simply soldered onto a circuit board, and the solder joints fail from the stress of having stuff shoved into it over and over again.
@David Gold FYI, Sony provided a firmware update for the GS9 which gives the standard rear USB-A input the same functionality as the front micro-USB input. You can run a USB extension and panel-mount it in your vehicle for a USB thumbdrive or SSD, etc. It's still not my favorite head unit and I sold my GS9 and went with the Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR 9-series head units. They play Hi-Res as well and IMO are MUCH easier to use and have lots more features for the money. SQ is excellent as well. I also really did NOT like Sony's mediocre music/control app for the GS9, or having to use a Smartphone or Tablet for music selection.
@Bradimus1 @entityofme Yes, the P99RS is excellent. I have (and would still use) a separate, more powerful DSP combined with the P99 though. Its built-in DSP has some limitations that I don't care for. But as a pure SQ source unit, the DEX-P99RS is excellent. It ranked in the Top 3 in a Blind "High-End Head Unit Shootout" of 8 top head units conducted by some SQ Competition members over on the DIYMA forums. You can download the sound sample files from each head unit and compare them yourself... www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
@Juan Romero Jr. They come up for sale often used but in perfect condition for $800 or less on the DIYMA Classifieds from respectable sellers... www.diymobileaudio.com/forums/ Personally, I think that the Kenwood eXcelon Reference "XR" DDX & DNX 9-series Double-DIN head units sound just as good and are WAY easier to use, plus they have many more features (I've owned and tested both and i kept the Kenwood XR). I still use Sony's previous flagship single-DIN Mobile ES CDX-C90 CD head units in a few of my vehicles and they sound just as incredible even though they don't play "Hi-Res". The Kenwood XR units have a built-in Hi-Res Capacitive Touchscreen, so there's no need to purchase and mount a separate iPad in your vehicle ($$$)! That also helps if you want to keep the functionality of your existing backup cameras or want to add one. The Kenwood XR units also play Hi-Res Files without having to use a Smartphone or Tablet and Sony's mediocre music App. Sony designed a head unit that needs to be almost exclusively controlled via a Smartphone or Tablet...and their mediocre app. That is just silly and dangerous, especially when using Smartphones & Tablets while driving is against the law in nearly all geographic locations. :/ I don't know what they were thinking? I'd be WAY more interested if Sony incorporated the RSX-GS9's high quality and circuitry into a Mobile ES Double-DIN head unit with a Hi-Res capacitive Touchscreen that doesn't need a separate Smartphone or Tablet and app to operate!
@@bbfoto7248 Thanks for all of the info. I already have the iPad running digitally through a DAC to my DSP. That will do for now. This is not for my daily driver. I generally shuffle my music once it is on and use a Bluetooth remote control. Volume controls via my RF DSP. I am mainly looking to get the high-quality DAC with Toslink output, add hands-free calling, and ditch this dongle. A back-up camera would be cool, to add now that you mention it. ... I will check out the Kenwood XR and draw a comparison. I'll keep an open mind. Thanks for the information Boss!
im suprised he did not compare this radio to that pioneer unit, or other high end units made for sq. personally i i had the prs 80 for 1 day then returned it, i like the sound of kenwood
A direct compare of that or the DEX p99-RS would have been very interesting. Pioneer also uses high end components, the Dex is also heavy, and well constructed. anyway, it would be interesting. looks like a great HU in any case.
@Martin Lohstroh They come up for sale often used but in perfect condition for $800 or less on the DIYMA Classifieds from respectable sellers... www.diymobileaudio.com/forums/ Personally, I think that the Kenwood eXcelon Reference "XR" DDX & DNX 9-series Double-DIN head units sound just as good and are WAY easier to use, plus they have many more features (I've owned and tested both and i kept the Kenwood XR). I still use Sony's previous flagship single-DIN Mobile ES CDX-C90 CD head units in a few of my vehicles and they sound just as incredible even though they don't play "Hi-Res". The Kenwood XR units have a built-in Hi-Res Capacitive Touchscreen, so there's no need to purchase and mount a separate iPad in your vehicle ($$$)! That also helps if you want to keep the functionality of your existing backup cameras or want to add one. The Kenwood XR units also play Hi-Res Files without having to use a Smartphone or Tablet and Sony's mediocre music App. Sony designed a head unit that needs to be almost exclusively controlled via a Smartphone or Tablet...and their mediocre app. That is just silly and dangerous, especially when using Smartphones & Tablets while driving is against the law in nearly all geographic locations. :/ I don't know what they were thinking? I'd be WAY more interested if Sony incorporated the RSX-GS9's high quality and circuitry into a Mobile ES Double-DIN head unit with a Hi-Res capacitive Touchscreen that doesn't need a separate Smartphone or Tablet and app to operate!
Is there a Pioneer or something else that has motion screens and actually looks like a regular head unit that is comparable to this? I’d like to watch videos sometimes but I do like Chrystal clarity in my music.
They missed an opportunity to place a nice looking VU meter on the right side of this head unit. That would’ve made the price tag a bit easier to swallow. Just my opinion but I know lots of audiophiles are suckers for VU meters. : )
Where did get the RED USB C to micro USB cable from ? Then I could use my USB C output on my LG V30 to plug into the Sony head unit and Stream TIDAL through my Android phone. Do you sell this Red usb cable ?
Ok brother. Its 2024. This was 3 years ago and you said this was "The best of the best" (I think there were a couple other super niche headunits which were more over the top for SQ at that time but for the average guy wanting "The best" SQ deck, you're right. This was the best.) but tech has been accelerating pretty quickly in the last 3 years. What would you say is "The best of the best" today?
If this unit was $699 then everyone would have one and still probably run the DSP. Anyone spending retail on this unit is definitely running a DSP and to limit digital to analog and analog to digital conversions most run optical out so most don’t use the ESS Sabre. Plus the Sabre chip is great but like 5+ years old tech now, not that it takes away from the performance just the cost of the Sony doesn’t reflect the potential. If I was spending the money for this unit I would expect better performance and more functionality than a DSP. A helix DSP.3 plus director is around $890 & the helix DSP walks circles around this u it with better converter chips... Yes I know there is more to a unit than the a to d or d to a chip..
@@MrViper7121 well, considering ID just be bypassing, my pioneer head unit, before sending my signal to my audio control dm-608 dsp, then to my audio control 6.1200 amp, which sends 125 Watts by 6 channels at 4 ohms for my front stage& off to my morel tweeters& mids( which I run active at 2500 hz,12db/octave, out of phase, then my morel mids are bandpass,80hz-2500 db/octave, then my rear fill 5.25 at 80 hz high pass, then my 2 p3 10" subs( woofers), off a 1200 monoblock amp, so, yeah your right, what was I thinking? Hmmmm, I guess I'll go buy the Sony gs9, in dash head unit( stereo), that has a built in dac( for sound quality), at a much higher rate of only $1590!!! WHAT WAS I THINKING????!😳😜😵😏
I like this stereo but very disappointing that it does not play cds. Currently a proud owner of a pioneer 80prs. I upgraded from older p7000bt from 2008. Downside to 80prs is bluetooth control the 7000 worked flawlessly but 80prs does not. But the sound is awesome
It appears so. The Sony is over 4 years old now so it would be nice to see an undated model that may take advantage of more modern features... especially for $1500.
Only thing I dont like about the sony is the front mounted ipod hook up. I wish it had it on the back for those who have a mounted ipod and want everything clean, no wires. But that's my only complaint. It is definitely a step up from my go to pioneer 99prs
@Trece Daves The P99RS is still no slouch in terms of SQ... download the files and listen for yourself... www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
@Ronaldo Maynard For the money, if you wanted to upgrade from the 80PRS, I would honestly get the Pioneer DEX-P99RS instead of the Sony GS9, even if it doesn't play Hi-Res. The P99RS has much better DSP features and SQ is amazing. But it's still not as good as having a high-quality, separate DSP.
@Carmelo Reyes I'm copying my own reply from a different comment, but: The source or playback unit will always be important. The GS9 is EXCELLENT as a Music Playback SOURCE unit, but not as a DSP. A good DSP will help you achieve much better sound quality overall compared to just having the GS9. I would definitely get a good DSP first, such as one of the newer Helix DSPs with the "ACO" features or the miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 v2 DL (Dirac Live). Then you can combine it with a new or used Kenwood eXcelon Reference DDX-9905S which are relatively inexpensive now for the level of SQ and features they offer. The Kenwood XR head units also play Hi-Res files and sound AMAZING. Combined with a food DSP, the Kenwood XR 9-series head unit would be a 100% SQ Competition-worthy setup. I sold my Sony GS9 and got Kenwood's top 9-series eXcelon Reference (XR) head units. I am much happier! And I use them with the DSP units mentioned above in different vehicles. Both are "5 Star" SQ setups and you can't go wrong with either one. Some people love the GS9. The SQ is excellent, but using the smartphone or tablet and the Sony app just wasn't my cup o' tea. YMMV
@@bbfoto7248 Hey I've read all your replies here. You keep mentioning the Sony app. Does it mean I couldn't play youtube videos over bluetooth/usb to this head unit? Thanks.
I wouldnt even bother comparing this to any other headunit, the Sony RSX is in a league of its own as it is much more than a DSP and much more than a simple headunit, it upscales lower quality files in real time. Most dedicated DSPs cannot do this, it's less complicated than a dedicated DSP (well for me it is) and can be cheaper than purchasing a headunit + independent DSP individually. No distortion means longer speaker + amplifier life, if installed dillegently less cables are needed. The benifits are unforseen.
@Welly Cat The GS9 is excellent. But its built-in DSP capabilities are severely lacking. If you check out the SQ Competitors that are currently using the GS9, they are ALL combining it with a separate, high-quality DSP unit. There is a reason why. As a pure music file playback SOURCE, the GS9 is excellent. Overall, I much prefer the functionality and usability of the newer Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR Double-DIN head units. SQ is amazing, they also play Hi-Res, and it's much easier to use IMO. I've owned and tested both. YMMV
I hope they fixed their built in amplifiers. I've had almost no luck with Sony head units and I install them all the time. They tend to shut off at higher volumes and turn back on.
@Jeremy Thomasson I agree in general. Older models didn't have this problem. But in regards to this Sony RSX-GS9, it doesn't have a built-in amplifier anyway, so it is a moot point.
@Dirty Bay Adventures I tested the GS9 for a while in my SQ install. It was a PITA to use for everyday driving & listening and I lost my use of the backup camera. Sony's app kind of sucks, too. Ultimately, I went with the top end Kenwood eXcelon XR 9-series Double-DIN head units and am MUCH happier! SQ is EXCELLENT and it plays Hi-Res as well and has A LOT more features.
@@dirtybayadventures9563 FYI, if you run digital optical out from the Sony GS9 you are COMPLETELY BYPASSING it's best features that make it cost so much, which are its internal DAC and High-End analog preamp output stage. You would be better off just buying a portable FiiO, iBasso, Hiby, Cayin or other DAP and using the digital output from it as your playback source. If you check, nearly all of the SQ Competitors that are currently using the Sony GS9 are using its ANALOG RCA Preamp Outputs and NOT the Toslink digital output for this very reason. ;) Also, you cannot play native DSD files via digital Optical Toslink output. The DSD files must first be converted to more traditional PCM digital audio for them to play over Toslink optical, which defeats any advantages of DSD.
Sonny Black I have to agree, I’ve tried others but it always ends up with the 7909 getting installed for a while at least. ( Bluetooth and dsp are hard to get by without these days ). The two 3545’s have been used in all the vehicles though
with that usb2. does this device reconize play tunes from a ssd hd? i have 1 in a external case if so it would be very useful for us that have long drives and travel alot for our jobs
@Scott Edick Yes it does. You can connect a USB SSD or Thumbdrive. HOWEVER, you must control the playback/song selection through Sony's mediocre app on your smartphone or tablet. This drove me crazy. I installed a Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR Double-DIN 9-series head unit and am MUCH happier. SQ is EXCELLENT, it also plays Hi-Res, and has A LOT MORE features and is easier to use IMO. YMMV
That's great tech, but it's too bad it couldn't be mounted remotely and have the apps needed to control it display on your existing infotainment screen. This is going to put everyone back looking at their phones while driving... pretty cool though.
So what do you recommend if you have a android phone or tablet, v/s a I pad for having that iPad cable, don't they have a android video cable if you wanted to use a tablet or phone android ? If you get what iam saying ?
@Chrisnas1 You can use a microUSB or USB-C to micro-USB "OTG" cable from your Android Smartphone or Tablet into the RSX-GS9. The "OTG" (On The Go) cable is basically the equivalent of Apple's Camera Connection Kit 3 adapter.
@@bbfoto7248 any anything extra info you can give to a newbie to owning the rsx gs90 ? With the usb pro app and tidal.. cause I watched dean and Fernando video on the rsx , I will buy the ssd harddrive that he has...
I want to thank you for your videos, I'm a disabled vet , I just admire your work
Mark gilbert thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice. Because of generations of brave men and women like you allows all of us to enjoy the freedoms that we all yake for granted. THANK YOU!
I believe you reside in the USA and I’m from Canada but thank you very much for your service, and thank you for helping keep your friends to the north safe as well!
Thanks for the review you just made my day complete. More power to you Dean and Fernando You guys are the best installers period.😀 Got the same unit pair with GS Series Sony Amplifiers and Speakers. It's One of the Best Sound Equipment I ever own. I appreciate what you guys do Simply the best in what you guys do? Thanks.
I have one. Love it. Used it in my truck for 2 years. Now im going to make a Killer Boom Box with it. Lol
man i wish i knew a couple guys that wanted to use my car to display a system upgrade and donate the parts out of sheer kindness
Great review. That price is super inflated though. The pioneer 80prs is much better bang for your buck. They should update to USB C instead of micro b. That connection is so fragile, it will get loose in a month.
I would have preferred to have all the USB ports placed in the back only.
The Pioneer has 5 volt pre outs too.
Yea forcing us to use the micro USB is an odd decision.
@@repairdrive
This is 5 volt too. This should be better then the pioneer
@@repairdrive to be debated. They advertise 5v however independent test have shown different reaults
This brings back memories can’t remember what the brand was I had one that was copper and had its own 12 V unit for power. It was a high Fidelity unit. It was amazing when I was doing sound competitions. Should’ve kept it never got rid of it.
Probably Alpine CDA-7949. One of the greatest
Probably thinking of an Eclipse copper chassis dead head. Head Unit without an onboard amp, so it was designed to be used with external amps. I believe Alpine had similar headunits.
@David frymoyer
It may have been the Clarion DRZ-9255? It had some built-in DSP functionality as well. Nice unit for back in the day.
@@esigman1 I’m spoiled by my alpine 7965 cd tuner…
I’m surprised no one currently compares actual audio quality- just feature sets…?
I don’t want to give up sq for features if possible.
What’s the best single/double din currently available these days?
Thanks for any advice on this!
Can’t believe aiff isn’t supported in digital files…
I think for someone to really appreciate this deck, it needs to be paired with absolutely remarkable speakers. Something like a dynaudio esotar2. Audison thesis amp or maybe a restored Mcintosh. This is without a doubt the single best sounding head unit I have ever heard. Unfortunately I don't think it's going to appeal to all that many people
So Sony back in 1989 to the mid 90’s were the best in my opinion. I had the pull out top of the line cassette deck then moved up to the cd deck with the tape drawer and mk-xe8 EQ with series 7 hifonics amps. Clean clear nut busting sound quality with headroom for days. Now I’m stuck on Alpine. Just got the f309 halo and I’ve been using the tune it app for quite a while when I got my 149bt. How does the high end Alpine compare to Sony? I think Sony has set the benchmark with this unit, thoughts?
personally i dont like alpine, my favourite right now is pioneer. but this sony looks amazing
The GS9 has been out forever and a day now. Is Sony, or anyone else, planning to raise the bar any time soon or is that thing literally the best we have the technology to construct right now?
Maxwelhse: In Japan they get all the really cool stuff, including fiber optics.
They keep hinting that Alpine is working on something new. (not counting the HDS-7909)
In Asia they get the new Alpine F1 status line.
No idea why not in the rest of the world yet.
Sony xav-9500es
Alpine has F1 in North America now. And it’s half as good as the original. The race to zero killed that brand. AI net and any type of cross control between devices is long gone just asinine the alpine dvd has to be controlled via wireless remote like a $99 DEI dvd from 2004. Also doesn’t allow K40 radar and other advanced Maestro interface functions that Kenwood/JVC does. Yes sadly Kenwood JVC is top dog with interfacing and 3rd party interface. Alpine shoulda never lost its way. 99-05 was peak 12v.
Thanks for this review, you are the only one that showed it has FM.... a couple local stores I called today said it doesnt have fm.
I was really wanting to buy this. Since my old $1000 Eclipse double din is obsolete and wont hook up to my phone.
I wish eclipse was still around , they had some of the best head units .
If your going to use the optical out on this then you can just use a DAP and it will do the same thing only a lot less money.
Thank you for taking your valuable time to go over the features,& operation of this (dare I say ) head unit. If I was ever to purchase this unit, & because you took your time to explain features, & operation, I probably won’t need to read the owners manual. I get what Sony is trying to do here,.. & that is be king of the mountain.( for now) By the way,... how many of the units have you sold since you posted the video?
Cool video 5✨🔊
This unit is now NLA…
I’m looking for a replacement for my Alpine CDA 7965 which is really clean sounding with a great FM tuner preamp stage.
I’d like to not go backwards on SQ!
What is available now that would be great preferably in a double din or single din minus an oversized screen?
This is a great video on an audiophile head unit- there is a market for SQ.
It would be great to include SQ ratings of units you test so viewers have a better understanding of what they are getting.
Thanks again for this video of a high end SQ head unit!
I miss Sony Mobile ES products. This radio just seems like one of those products meant for show and sound, but not practical for everyday use.
I have a nice es c-90 combo on fleabay. It needs a new owner.
Awesome detailed and informational video. Thank you for it, it just helped me to chose the right audio solution for my car, so I am buying one 👍. I have one question though, when I connect my iPhone through USB-DAC, what will be the highest bit rate / frequency I can get from my ALAC files through the Apple Music app? I am aware that I can play it through the VOX app, just curious as I am used to the iPhone's Music app a lot and I have most of my library converted to ALAC files. Thank you.
Great product review. How do you think this holds up against the Pioneer P99RS? Besides the fact that this has modern tech inbuilt..
It's amazing how much thought and detail Sony put into this design but the rest of their products are just terrible.
Yeah i have ax-1000 in my car I hate it tbh i only bought it because it was 249 and it had carplay it doesn't cut it and idk if this is with all touchscreen radios but on a sunny day when the light hits the screen I can barely see anything
SMH
Nice looking Block of Metal filled to it's top with lots of Snakeoil...
Keep up your good work!
The entire car audio world is basically filled with snake oil lol 😆🤦♀️
If the unit is so advanced and does all the magical things we like, why would you connect it to a DSP? Considering the enormous price, Wouldn’t you just run RCA’s to Amps and call it a day?
shedboyz21 time alignment is most likely the reason
Cuz it can’t do half of what a decent DSP can when the Sony is twice the cost
@@uptobatentertainment like what? Time alignment, eq, crossovers, special sound modes? Cuzz pretty any decent radio has a good dsp. Only reason to get an external dsp is if you running a 3 way or crazy multispeaker system such as Steve Meade's Tahoe.
Which media player do you think can play source material better: a 50 dollar sandisk mp3/flac player jerry rigged with a 1/8" to rca adapter to an amp, or a thousand dollar stereo with high end components that's designed for a car audio system. It's like comparing an iPod to a McIntosh stack. One serves one purpose, the other serves another purpose
@shedboyz21
I've owned and tested the Sony RSX-GS9. It's DSP capabilities pale in comparison to a stand-alone DSP such as the Helix DSPs and most others.
The Sony just does not have the features or functionality of a stand-alone, dedicated DSP. The Sony is extremely limited in this regard.
As a SOURCE unit for high-quality playback of your music files, it is excellent and one of the absolute best. But in terms of DSP functionality it is severely lacking.
If you check all of the SQ Competitors that are currently using the GS9, they are combining it with a separate, dedicated, high-quality DSP unit. There is a reason why.
yeo yeooo... think you could use one of those sub outputs as a center instead? or do both of those need to be Y connected into a sub amp to sound proper? thanks for the video man, this is dope
How's the menu diving for USB thumb drive operation I'm thinking about getting it but I normally play my music off of the thumb drive connected to the stereo will I be able to see a little bit like the names or track that I'm on through the small screen there and is there a button to change folders or dive into music folders for that matter or is this a DAC that is heavily pushed to use the iPad or mobile device like you shown
For the LDAC Bluetooth codec you need an Android phone with LDAC support, which are most of the new Android devices and especially Sony Smartphones.
Way to go Sony :) With a great DAC - you get what you pay for.
Nothing can be better than my old drz 9255
@IGA Famille Benoit
High End Head Unit Shootout including the Clarion DRZ-9255 with downloadable comparison files...
www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
Stone in Love is one of my favorite Journey songs
Nice. Product Review. Dean do these more often. Do one for the Kicker QUAD.
I just don't see the average car audio enthusiast using this. SQ competitors for sure.
There arnt many people out there that know this headunit exists and even more that do not know just how good the quality of the music it produces
ES9018 can be found in many affordable DACs. For the $1500 price tag they’re outta their mind.
Obviously a great radio. Concerned about Micro USB - mechanically/physically unreliable. I would consider getting a 90° Micro USB adapter cable which ends in USB-C and then plugging your files into that for long-term reliability. That way you’re not plugging in and unplugging from that Micro USB on the face. The problem with Micro USB connectors is that they are simply soldered onto a circuit board, and the solder joints fail from the stress of having stuff shoved into it over and over again.
@David Gold
FYI, Sony provided a firmware update for the GS9 which gives the standard rear USB-A input the same functionality as the front micro-USB input. You can run a USB extension and panel-mount it in your vehicle for a USB thumbdrive or SSD, etc.
It's still not my favorite head unit and I sold my GS9 and went with the Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR 9-series head units.
They play Hi-Res as well and IMO are MUCH easier to use and have lots more features for the money. SQ is excellent as well.
I also really did NOT like Sony's mediocre music/control app for the GS9, or having to use a Smartphone or Tablet for music selection.
Sony would sell more of these if it was a double din with touch screen. This should have full dsp functionality making an external one unnecessary.
Remember when there use to be more innovation? Kenwood mask, Sony or pioneer with a Hdd you could store millions of mp3s on, flip out screens etc
There used to be dozens of good car stereo models out there. Now there are like 4.
I would say that the Pioneer DEX-P99RS was the best SQ head unit ever made, personally.
Your crazy but ok try the sony you'll love it
@Bradimus1
@entityofme
Yes, the P99RS is excellent. I have (and would still use) a separate, more powerful DSP combined with the P99 though. Its built-in DSP has some limitations that I don't care for.
But as a pure SQ source unit, the DEX-P99RS is excellent. It ranked in the Top 3 in a Blind "High-End Head Unit Shootout" of 8 top head units conducted by some SQ Competition members over on the DIYMA forums. You can download the sound sample files from each head unit and compare them yourself...
www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
This is my end-goal head unit. Saving up now. Sony may release another version by the time I save up for that one.
@Juan Romero Jr.
They come up for sale often used but in perfect condition for $800 or less on the DIYMA Classifieds from respectable sellers...
www.diymobileaudio.com/forums/
Personally, I think that the Kenwood eXcelon Reference "XR" DDX & DNX 9-series Double-DIN head units sound just as good and are WAY easier to use, plus they have many more features (I've owned and tested both and i kept the Kenwood XR).
I still use Sony's previous flagship single-DIN Mobile ES CDX-C90 CD head units in a few of my vehicles and they sound just as incredible even though they don't play "Hi-Res".
The Kenwood XR units have a built-in Hi-Res Capacitive Touchscreen, so there's no need to purchase and mount a separate iPad in your vehicle ($$$)! That also helps if you want to keep the functionality of your existing backup cameras or want to add one.
The Kenwood XR units also play Hi-Res Files without having to use a Smartphone or Tablet and Sony's mediocre music App.
Sony designed a head unit that needs to be almost exclusively controlled via a Smartphone or Tablet...and their mediocre app. That is just silly and dangerous, especially when using Smartphones & Tablets while driving is against the law in nearly all geographic locations. :/ I don't know what they were thinking?
I'd be WAY more interested if Sony incorporated the RSX-GS9's high quality and circuitry into a Mobile ES Double-DIN head unit with a Hi-Res capacitive Touchscreen that doesn't need a separate Smartphone or Tablet and app to operate!
@@bbfoto7248 Thanks for all of the info. I already have the iPad running digitally through a DAC to my DSP. That will do for now. This is not for my daily driver. I generally shuffle my music once it is on and use a Bluetooth remote control. Volume controls via my RF DSP. I am mainly looking to get the high-quality DAC with Toslink output, add hands-free calling, and ditch this dongle. A back-up camera would be cool, to add now that you mention it. ... I will check out the Kenwood XR and draw a comparison. I'll keep an open mind. Thanks for the information Boss!
Set up of that Sony is so complicated i think i will just stick with the pioneer 80prs. Thanks for the video though.
im suprised he did not compare this radio to that pioneer unit, or other high end units made for sq. personally i i had the prs 80 for 1 day then returned it, i like the sound of kenwood
A direct compare of that or the DEX p99-RS would have been very interesting. Pioneer also uses high end components, the Dex is also heavy, and well constructed. anyway, it would be interesting. looks like a great HU in any case.
U can get a lot of car audio for $1500 lol
@@drm9979 the P99 also does 4 way output
@@expertautodetail1833 What the highest Excelon DD or Single Din that goes up with the 80PRS and this Sony?
Thanks for the review, maybe I'm just silly, but I still prefer a deck that displays track title and settings 😅
Wicked review there Boyz xx
I believe it’s a very similar setup to what Doug from sound man has in his f-150
Michael Gonzalez ruclips.net/video/gYweG-FtkTc/видео.html
He’s had one for 2 years now behind the iPad dash mod
Ordering one tomorrow
$ 1498.00 US you welcome
@Martin Lohstroh
They come up for sale often used but in perfect condition for $800 or less on the DIYMA Classifieds from respectable sellers...
www.diymobileaudio.com/forums/
Personally, I think that the Kenwood eXcelon Reference "XR" DDX & DNX 9-series Double-DIN head units sound just as good and are WAY easier to use, plus they have many more features (I've owned and tested both and i kept the Kenwood XR).
I still use Sony's previous flagship single-DIN Mobile ES CDX-C90 CD head units in a few of my vehicles and they sound just as incredible even though they don't play "Hi-Res".
The Kenwood XR units have a built-in Hi-Res Capacitive Touchscreen, so there's no need to purchase and mount a separate iPad in your vehicle ($$$)! That also helps if you want to keep the functionality of your existing backup cameras or want to add one.
The Kenwood XR units also play Hi-Res Files without having to use a Smartphone or Tablet and Sony's mediocre music App.
Sony designed a head unit that needs to be almost exclusively controlled via a Smartphone or Tablet...and their mediocre app. That is just silly and dangerous, especially when using Smartphones & Tablets while driving is against the law in nearly all geographic locations. :/ I don't know what they were thinking?
I'd be WAY more interested if Sony incorporated the RSX-GS9's high quality and circuitry into a Mobile ES Double-DIN head unit with a Hi-Res capacitive Touchscreen that doesn't need a separate Smartphone or Tablet and app to operate!
Is there anything in opinion that is better than the gsx9?
Dammit.... I had a bad experience with Sony about 15 years ago. Been with pioneer ever since.... You have my gears turning Now....
Hi.. thanks for ur review.. anyway, can i plug the optical out to my dsp optical in?
Is there a Pioneer or something else that has motion screens and actually looks like a regular head unit that is comparable to this? I’d like to watch videos sometimes but I do like Chrystal clarity in my music.
Another awesome video my friends. They are a sexy unit
is this the ancient radio sony came out with like in 2015ish?
Its 3 28 am here in CA had to stay up for the video, i ordered a gs9 for myself cant wait to get it
What a unit, this is really for ICE aficionados. In UK it is about £1000.
They missed an opportunity to place a nice looking VU meter on the right side of this head unit. That would’ve made the price tag a bit easier to swallow. Just my opinion but I know lots of audiophiles are suckers for VU meters. : )
I really want to know if the Sony App is able to force LDAC through bluetooth. Otherwise, guess what guys, it's just regular old AAC Bluetooth.
Where did get the RED USB C to micro USB cable from ? Then I could use my USB C output on my LG V30 to plug into the Sony head unit and Stream TIDAL through my Android phone. Do you sell this Red usb cable ?
I was going to purchase this but for the price I went with the pioneer 80 PRS and JL Audio TwK 88 running active crossovers.
Ok brother. Its 2024. This was 3 years ago and you said this was "The best of the best" (I think there were a couple other super niche headunits which were more over the top for SQ at that time but for the average guy wanting "The best" SQ deck, you're right. This was the best.) but tech has been accelerating pretty quickly in the last 3 years. What would you say is "The best of the best" today?
Five Star Car Stereo What kind of hi-res speakers does Fernando have in his car?
Awesome video. Wonder if Pioneer will ever send you a DEH-P01
@duo315
They have one of the Pioneer Premier DEX-P99RS head units @ 5 Star Car Stereo.
You mentioned it could be used it conjunction with another headunit. How would that work and what might that look like?
Can you Dyno this radio with the DD-1 please I would be interested in how it stacks up against the 80 prs .
What is the best tablet or phone for the RSXGS9? If it’s being hooked up over fibre can I still utilize the sabre dac through the micro USB??
Thanks
If this unit was $699 then everyone would have one and still probably run the DSP. Anyone spending retail on this unit is definitely running a DSP and to limit digital to analog and analog to digital conversions most run optical out so most don’t use the ESS Sabre.
Plus the Sabre chip is great but like 5+ years old tech now, not that it takes away from the performance just the cost of the Sony doesn’t reflect the potential. If I was spending the money for this unit I would expect better performance and more functionality than a DSP. A helix DSP.3 plus director is around $890 & the helix DSP walks circles around this u it with better converter chips... Yes I know there is more to a unit than the a to d or d to a chip..
So this futuristic head unit uses an outdated micro USB port for the high res input. 🤦🏻♂️ Should have USB C
Well that stereo came out like 7 years ago...
This would work so well with my new LGV60nsmartphone that comes with four quad DAC Hi-Fi on the 3.5 output:)
I was thinking the same thing i got a v30
You would be using your phone's DAC and processing instead of the radios. Using headphones jack on this stereo makes no sense
@@MrViper7121 well, considering ID just be bypassing, my pioneer head unit, before sending my signal to my audio control dm-608 dsp, then to my audio control 6.1200 amp, which sends 125 Watts by 6 channels at 4 ohms for my front stage& off to my morel tweeters& mids( which I run active at 2500 hz,12db/octave, out of phase, then my morel mids are bandpass,80hz-2500 db/octave, then my rear fill 5.25 at 80 hz high pass, then my 2 p3 10" subs( woofers), off a 1200 monoblock amp, so, yeah your right, what was I thinking? Hmmmm, I guess I'll go buy the Sony gs9, in dash head unit( stereo), that has a built in dac( for sound quality), at a much higher rate of only $1590!!! WHAT WAS I THINKING????!😳😜😵😏
I like this stereo but very disappointing that it does not play cds. Currently a proud owner of a pioneer 80prs. I upgraded from older p7000bt from 2008. Downside to 80prs is bluetooth control the 7000 worked flawlessly but 80prs does not. But the sound is awesome
I really wish Sony would make a new version of this radio.
They are calling it the 9500 es touch screen.
Best sound quality radio ever made? According to who or what?
According to to the script and check they received🤣
Is this meant for someone who still uses an ipod and has all their music on local files? I think tidal is the only high res audio streaming service.
It appears so. The Sony is over 4 years old now so it would be nice to see an undated model that may take advantage of more modern features... especially for $1500.
...and Qobuz, Amazon Music HD
I would like you to compare this sony with the pioneer dex-p99rs.
me too.
The Sony is specifically built for Hi res audio, it can also convert/improve the output of lower quality files such as MP3.
Does it have a double FM RDS tuner? (one tuner for playing music, and the other for scanning alternative frequencies)
if only Sony used some of that R&D on all their other head units.
They are putting tons of their money into mirrorless cameras.
Only thing I dont like about the sony is the front mounted ipod hook up. I wish it had it on the back for those who have a mounted ipod and want everything clean, no wires. But that's my only complaint. It is definitely a step up from my go to pioneer 99prs
@Trece Daves
The P99RS is still no slouch in terms of SQ... download the files and listen for yourself...
www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
Its half a mortgage payment, but that beautiful knob is worth it.
My house is paid off, but this price is 10% of what I paid for my house😂
Oh Lord, I just bought a pioneer 80 PRS a few months ago 😫
That is all you need
@@mikeboncheck5555 why is that
@Ronaldo Maynard
For the money, if you wanted to upgrade from the 80PRS, I would honestly get the Pioneer DEX-P99RS instead of the Sony GS9, even if it doesn't play Hi-Res.
The P99RS has much better DSP features and SQ is amazing. But it's still not as good as having a high-quality, separate DSP.
I just got a quick question ,and thank you for the video ,it was very helpful. ¿will this radio sounds better or about the same as a DSP unit.
@Carmelo Reyes
I'm copying my own reply from a different comment, but:
The source or playback unit will always be important. The GS9 is EXCELLENT as a Music Playback SOURCE unit, but not as a DSP. A good DSP will help you achieve much better sound quality overall compared to just having the GS9.
I would definitely get a good DSP first, such as one of the newer Helix DSPs with the "ACO" features or the miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 v2 DL (Dirac Live).
Then you can combine it with a new or used Kenwood eXcelon Reference DDX-9905S which are relatively inexpensive now for the level of SQ and features they offer. The Kenwood XR head units also play Hi-Res files and sound AMAZING. Combined with a food DSP, the Kenwood XR 9-series head unit would be a 100% SQ Competition-worthy setup.
I sold my Sony GS9 and got Kenwood's top 9-series eXcelon Reference (XR) head units. I am much happier! And I use them with the DSP units mentioned above in different vehicles. Both are "5 Star" SQ setups and you can't go wrong with either one.
Some people love the GS9. The SQ is excellent, but using the smartphone or tablet and the Sony app just wasn't my cup o' tea. YMMV
@@bbfoto7248 Hey I've read all your replies here. You keep mentioning the Sony app. Does it mean I couldn't play youtube videos over bluetooth/usb to this head unit? Thanks.
I wouldnt even bother comparing this to any other headunit, the Sony RSX is in a league of its own as it is much more than a DSP and much more than a simple headunit, it upscales lower quality files in real time. Most dedicated DSPs cannot do this, it's less complicated than a dedicated DSP (well for me it is) and can be cheaper than purchasing a headunit + independent DSP individually. No distortion means longer speaker + amplifier life, if installed dillegently less cables are needed. The benifits are unforseen.
@Welly Cat
The GS9 is excellent. But its built-in DSP capabilities are severely lacking.
If you check out the SQ Competitors that are currently using the GS9, they are ALL combining it with a separate, high-quality DSP unit. There is a reason why.
As a pure music file playback SOURCE, the GS9 is excellent.
Overall, I much prefer the functionality and usability of the newer Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR Double-DIN head units. SQ is amazing, they also play Hi-Res, and it's much easier to use IMO.
I've owned and tested both. YMMV
@Welly Cat
www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706
I hope they fixed their built in amplifiers. I've had almost no luck with Sony head units and I install them all the time. They tend to shut off at higher volumes and turn back on.
@Jeremy Thomasson
I agree in general. Older models didn't have this problem. But in regards to this Sony RSX-GS9, it doesn't have a built-in amplifier anyway, so it is a moot point.
Love the unit other than the display.
Its definitely a Rockstar. Would 💘 to get one and run a tablet in conjunction.
@Dirty Bay Adventures
I tested the GS9 for a while in my SQ install. It was a PITA to use for everyday driving & listening and I lost my use of the backup camera. Sony's app kind of sucks, too.
Ultimately, I went with the top end Kenwood eXcelon XR 9-series Double-DIN head units and am MUCH happier! SQ is EXCELLENT and it plays Hi-Res as well and has A LOT more features.
@@bbfoto7248 no doubt. However I run optically.
@@dirtybayadventures9563
FYI, if you run digital optical out from the Sony GS9 you are COMPLETELY BYPASSING it's best features that make it cost so much, which are its internal DAC and High-End analog preamp output stage.
You would be better off just buying a portable FiiO, iBasso, Hiby, Cayin or other DAP and using the digital output from it as your playback source.
If you check, nearly all of the SQ Competitors that are currently using the Sony GS9 are using its ANALOG RCA Preamp Outputs and NOT the Toslink digital output for this very reason. ;)
Also, you cannot play native DSD files via digital Optical Toslink output. The DSD files must first be converted to more traditional PCM digital audio for them to play over Toslink optical, which defeats any advantages of DSD.
Can I not connect that optical out to my Alpine H-701 processor.. optical in ???
Do you think this headunit requires a DSP or no?
What is the best source around 1200$ to play with this head unit?
Some guy said me to check about the ibasso dx300
How does the old school Clarion DRZ 9255 compare to this Sony ?
Something when and if purchased, Would have you guys to install it properly...
im waiting for a ES version !
So does this mean I have to retire my Alpine 7909 now 😂😂😂
Nothing will ever come close to the 7909.
Sonny Black I have to agree, I’ve tried others but it always ends up with the 7909 getting installed for a while at least. ( Bluetooth and dsp are hard to get by without these days ). The two 3545’s have been used in all the vehicles though
Yeah man... I have to step away from my $1200 Eclipse double din dvd nav unit because I can not connect it to my phone.
Doug has one of these in his billion dollar Ford F-150
Meade has one in his Tahoe too.
@@TheBrokenLife you're right. I forgot the Tahoe.
Does Sony make a double DIN touch screen with the exact same components
How does this compare to the pioneer 80prs and pioneer p99rs and
Lol I asked the same question
Hard to beat an 80prs in network mode
Interms of sound quality, Nothing beats the sony RSX.
But what happens when your phone screen crack or you screen gone. How will you be able to control it without your phone ?
Hello guys ! Does this unit have crossover network mode ? Like pioneer 80prs? How you compare it with Pioneer p99 on sound quality ?
Sony is Hi Res audio
12:58 lol thats the nippon chemi con logo
So when I hook up the rsx gs90 where can I find a video that best helps me hook the radio for best results ?
Can I use the same wiring harness used on Pioneer AVH 4200NEX on the new W4500NEX?
I don't know why I'm watching this, I can't afford this radio
I gat Volvo c70 2002 want Android DVD & Navigation with woofer in it how much will it cost me please
with that usb2. does this device reconize play tunes from a ssd hd? i have 1 in a external case if so it would be very useful for us that have long drives and travel alot for our jobs
@Scott Edick
Yes it does. You can connect a USB SSD or Thumbdrive. HOWEVER, you must control the playback/song selection through Sony's mediocre app on your smartphone or tablet. This drove me crazy.
I installed a Kenwood eXcelon Reference XR Double-DIN 9-series head unit and am MUCH happier. SQ is EXCELLENT, it also plays Hi-Res, and has A LOT MORE features and is easier to use IMO. YMMV
Can u do a review on the Sony xbmex120bt?
That's great tech, but it's too bad it couldn't be mounted remotely and have the apps needed to control it display on your existing infotainment screen. This is going to put everyone back looking at their phones while driving... pretty cool though.
I expected a copper chassis something like the eclipse mk7200
Jessie Vazquez I’m still using the Eclipse 7200MKII since 2008.
So what do you recommend if you have a android phone or tablet, v/s a I pad for having that iPad cable, don't they have a android video cable if you wanted to use a tablet or phone android ? If you get what iam saying ?
@Chrisnas1
You can use a microUSB or USB-C to micro-USB "OTG" cable from your Android Smartphone or Tablet into the RSX-GS9.
The "OTG" (On The Go) cable is basically the equivalent of Apple's Camera Connection Kit 3 adapter.
@@bbfoto7248 thanks a bunch...
@@bbfoto7248 where do I buy otg on the go?
@@bbfoto7248 any anything extra info you can give to a newbie to owning the rsx gs90 ? With the usb pro app and tidal.. cause I watched dean and Fernando video on the rsx , I will buy the ssd harddrive that he has...
How conected remote steering for toyota using 3,5mm jack on back unit
ok now I want to hear it...
@desegundo
www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/the-high-end-head-unit-shootout.322714/#post-4456706