Pioneer AVHX2600BT Digital Receiver Review

Pioneer AVH-X2600BT Digital Receiver Review

This feature-packed car stereo receiver offers cutting-edge innovation, like full support for Pandora streaming music, iPod, iPhone, and Android support, as well as a full-color LCD screen so you can easily adjust settings and view artist and track information. It includes support for custom mixer presets as well as bright visualizations that pulse in time to your music. Pioneer doesn’t just stop at DVDs, with this receiver you can stream video from your phone, integrate it with your existing navigation system, and even monitor an aftermarket or stock backup camera. The Pioneer AVH-X2600BT is an excellent aftermarket accessory for any car or truck.

Features:

• 6.1” brightly lit TFT LCD touchscreen
• Supports Siri Eyes Free which is included with the iPhone 5 and 4s
• 3x RCS pre-outs, which makes this receiver perfect for even complex speaker setups
• Navigation ready and compatible with all major GPS brands
• MIXTRAX programmable mixer with support for multiple audio profiles
• Compatible with, and controllable through, both iOS and Android devices
• Touchscreen means no moving parts which can break or collect dust
• Excellent range, with clear treble and low, rumbling bass

Dimensions:

• Receiver measures 11” wide by 6” tall and 10” thick
• Weighs 6lbs with mounting hardware

Accessories

While not included in the base package, the Pioneer AVH-X2600BT offers full support and integration with the next-generation MirrorLink technology. By purchasing an added component, the Pioneer CD-ML100, you can seamlessly connect your smartphone with your car’s infotainment system in order to run a wide array of apps which are controlled by your vehicle’s in-dash and steering wheel mounted buttons.

Pros

The ability to control this unit, as well as stream music, through either a cable or Bluetooth is an excellent feature. Using a cable, your smartphone will stay charged while you blast music or stream videos to the screen. Bluetooth is more convenient, especially for short trips, and allows you to leave your phone in your pocket and select streams using the receiver’s touchscreen.

With 3 RCA pre-outs, you’ll be able to drive a huge array of speakers and complicated external amplifier setups all from this one receiver. If you want to really tune in your car’s audio system, this is a feature that you’ll absolutely use. Not only does the use of pre-outs reduce strain on your receiver, but you’re less likely to blow speakers if you use amps that are closely paired with speaker limits. In order to have a professional quality 3.1 surround sound system this is a must.

The Pioneer AVH-X2600BT’s support for both Android and iOS is a really nice plus, with many sound systems forcing you to choose one or the other. One of the main selling points of this receiver is its flexibility, and that’s not just limited to the amount of inputs and outputs, but the software that you use to control it as well.

Finally, the Pioneer AVH-X2600BT thoughtfully includes support for not just navigation, but also aftermarket backup cameras. You’ll be able to switch between inputs with just a touch of the screen so you can see where you’re going, whether you’re on the freeway or backing into your driveway. This is a feature that you’d expect to find on more expensive systems, and it really adds a lot of value to the Pioneer AVH-2600BT.

Cons

One big disappointment is the lack of necessary cables in the base package. Simple things, like an audio interface cable and iPhone charging cable need to be purchased separately. Unfortunately this adds a bit of cost to the receiver for most people, but it still doesn’t elevate the price to the levels of its closest competitor. Still, you’ll want to plan ahead and ensure that you have all of the necessary cables before you begin installation.

Another shortcoming, although not nearly as surprising as the missing cables, is the fact that this unit only replaces double-DIN stock stereo systems. You’ll need to check carefully to ensure that your car contains a double-DIN stereo connection, because there are currently no aftermarket packages made by Pioneer that allow the AVH-X2600BT to interface with single-DIN equipped vehicles.

While you’re researching whether your car has an older single-DIN or more modern double-DIN connection, it might be a good idea to check and see if you’ll need an optional mounting kit. Some trucks, especially older F150s, will need a bit of extra help when it comes to fitting this 6.1” display into the dash. It all depends on your make and model, but look carefully so you can order everything you need in one go.

Consumer Ratings

5/5 Stars
“This radio really rocks, and is just a huge upgrade from the stock factory. I got it as a gift and couldn't have asked for more. Except maybe to get the Pioneer back-up camera to go with it!”

5/5 Stars
“Good quality sound, plenty of inputs, CD/DVD/MP3, camera support, good resolution, good color matching, very good price. Significantly improved the sound from my stock speakers.”

5/5 Stars
“Amazing sound system!!! I got it for my fiancée’s 06 mustang. Fits perfect and sounds even better! Even nicer than shown and shipped and arrived quick!”

5/5 Stars
“Like that fact it links up automatically with my Samsung Galaxy S2. Great sound, and I like the remote. Price was perfect. They said it didn’t fit my 2002 F 150, but with the adapter kit and some cutting it looks like it came from the factory!”

Price

At just over $250, the Pioneer AVH-X2600BT provides an excellent array of options at a budget price. While other systems can do what the AVH-X2600BT does, none of them can touch this system in terms of cost and features. Its closest competitor, the Clarion VX401, crucially lacks touchscreen support and has buggy Bluetooth. More expensive models, like JVC’s KW-V40BT, add support for a touchscreen and improved Bluetooth but at over $100 extra. At the end of the day, it really all comes down to value, and the Pioneer AVH-X2600BT gives you the most for your dollar.

Conclusion

If you want to take your vehicle’s sound and video systems to the next level, the Pioneer AVH-X2600BT is an excellent way to do it. Easy to install, intuitive to use, and flexible enough to drive either booming speakers or a DVD display for the kids, this receiver is a great investment for your car. With a huge array of features, high quality audio, and cutting-edge support for the latest technological innovations, you won’t want to get out of your car after you install a Pioneer AVH-X2600BT receiver.