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Sony XAV-AX5000 Apple Carplay & Android Auto Double DIN Head Unit $449 (Was $749) @ Supercheap Auto

1200

Pretty good deal IMO. I think it directly competes with the Pioneer DMH-Z5350BT and Kenwood DMX5020S. I think all 3 of the head units have capacitive displays with the Pioneer being LED. However the Sony does have 10w more sound output compared with the others and also physical buttons.

Would like to hear anyone's thoughts between the Pioneer, kenwood and Sony.

EDIT:
Some users have complained that they've had Android Auto connectivity issues with the Sony. For $50 more the Pioneer DMH-Z5350BT seems to be a better buy IMO.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS!

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        • I thought the ACV40 series was 5.5V? At least thats what the multimeter showed.

          • +1

            @willister: All Denso (Fujitsu) Ten cameras in Toyotas are 6v.

          • @willister: Don’t they all deviate a little?

            • @nurbsenvi: Probably, not sure..when I was measuring mine it was 5.5v, could be the multimeter…? No expert, was looking to get a step down converter at the time to retain the OEM camera but just decided it was easier just to get one that can take a 12v supply instead.

      • +1

        How does the Ax3000 go for you?

        • Bought it as the stock stereo was crapping out and wanted android auto. Does the job fine, drives the stock speakers without a hitch.

          Glare can be an issue for the screen, hard to see in direct sunlight.

          The touchscreen is a let down, not registering presses every now and then. Had I realized it was a resistive screen I would have likely bought the ax5000 instead (can't believe they are still manufactured tbh). Not really keen on having to divert my eyes from the road to look at the screen to see if it registered a press or not. However steering controls and voice control via android auto eliminates the need to interact with it directly for the most part.

          Overall I'm happy with it. I did debate swapping to the ax5000 when this deal was posted (I payed $400 for the 3000). Still debating it actually.

  • Is it just me or that I find MOST cars bar a few of the newer models have the head unit in an awkward position? Having used AA in a 2011 Camry before you need to look down on the middle console to see where the maps are at??

    Even cars like Mazda, newer Toyotas having the head unit elevated at the centre console is marginally better angle wise??

    • -2

      No it's just you.

  • Does it fit Toyota Kluger?

    • Would like to know this too…

    • Year and variant please.

      • Hi, would you know if this fits a RAV4 2012?

        • +1

          Yes. You'll need 10mm trim ears, ISOs or pins and a SWC adapter interface.

          • @PinzVidz: Thanks for the reply. Not sure what those items are but I'm sure supercheap will. Cheers

      • 2016 2WD

      • 2018 GXL

        • +1

          Yes to both OzHan and AliKay, you have 50 series Klugers. You'll need fascia, ISOs, antenna adapter, SWC interface and reverse camera/USB retention kits.

          • @PinzVidz: Tha k you. Does this mean its too complex to install or SCA would be able to do it relatively easily ?

            • +1

              @AliKay: Depends on how confident you are with pulling things in cars apart. Most of it is plug and play, there is probably one or 2 wires that require soldering/insulating.

  • Will this fit into a Mazda 2 2015?

    • If it's the current gen Mazda 2 DJ, with the MZD system, then no - but you can get an official OEM upgrade for AA/CP anyway so no point in this.

  • I've got the pioneer unit mentioned in the OP and it's fantastic. Just curious why the Sony seems much more popular?

    • Agreed, looking at the Pioneer unit for $50 more seems like a better deal!? Newer model, wireless and the reviews are looking to be more consistent.

      • I don't think the Pioneer unit is wireless android auto?

  • anyone know if sony fixed the android auto crashing issues in the most recent firmware update???

    https://us.community.sony.com/s/question/0D50B00004Ros7CSAR/…

    https://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/android-auto-g…

    • +2

      I don't think so. I just returned mine for full refund after 2 years. The Australian distributor did not have a fix.

    • I checked the Sony website for any updates and found this

      Under previous benefits and improvements it says :

      "Fixes an issue where the display shows a black screen after starting the car while using the Android Auto function"

      This update was rolled out on 05/11/2020

  • Mixed review on Sony's website. Now I'm second-guessing myself.

    • Same. Lots of poor comments on the software. Not sure now.

    • Piece of junk with android auto. Pity cause otherwise nice unit

  • God damn it just bought it for $523 a few days ago… But its a really awesome headunit, just had it installed today! Really nice screen and I love that it has physical buttons

    • If you’re in Sydney, any recommendations on installer?

      • +1

        In WA sorry!

  • Will it fit bmw 1 series (e87)?

    • It should do (but do your research first to be certain), but you'll need a replacement facia to move the HVAC controls and the final position will be very low ( down by gearstick) so not easy to view maps etc if you need that.

      • thanks for replying. I saw some videos on youtube and yeah you are right it fits at the bottom near the gearstick. Probably not worth replacing.

  • Will it fit Prius-V 2012 base model? Came standard with reverse camera and steering wheel controls. Also has built-in buttons surrounding the current head unit's screen.

  • +1

    Any good deal or model anyone can suggest for wireless CarPlay?

  • Does supercheap have demos instore?

  • I put one of these head units in a 2005 Hilux. It's a great idea, highly recommend. Also had them install a reversing camera.

  • I went JVC they are solid as a rock, my installer said some Sonys can get a bit flakey over time - it cost me $429 from REpco.
    Totally worth it in my car - Nissan 2016 Altima and I did speakers at the same time as the stock ones were muffled as the sound system was thrased (ex lease car)

    Sharp price on this one, def worth it - there are plenty of harnesses you can buy to make installs easier or pay someone to do it. I wanted a reverse camera too for some reason my car didn't have one.

  • That is an excellent deal for the 5000 series. I have it and it is It is much better than the 3000 series.

  • I have a ford falcon 2007 wagon. How can I work out if it would be compatible with my vehicle?

    • https://aerpro.com/headunit/xav-ax5000

      Click on the "Find your car". It will also provide you with additional wires and/or fascia you may require to fit it.

    • No. You have an "ICC" which integrates audio and A/C controls. There are kits available to fit a single DIN unit where the factory tissue box holder goes and there's also some mob called Kayhan that does a direct ICC replacement. Personally I wouldn't touch the latter.

  • I've had this for a couple of years now - bought it for a bit more at the time, added so much functionality to my ageing, not very smart car! Great investment, especially for a P-Plater who can't attach and use their phone for navigation.

    Really upgraded the amplification for audio as well, which was nice.

  • I'm trying to figure out what I need for Camry with sony
    I'm really confused by the number of harnesses onaerpro
    1. Sony ax
    2. facia FPA8180
    3. ISO harness with patch lead APP9SP4
    4. CHTO15C and CHTO3C? which do I need?
    5. Universal ISO connectors & SWC adaptors APUNISW2 and APUNISW5 (More steering wheel control?)
    6. Primary Harnesses - ISO APP0141(looks the same as APP9SP4?)
    7. Aftermarket Headunit Antenna Adapter APA75
    8. T-Harnesses CT10TY01
    9. OEM Speaker Adapters APS43

    That's a lot of stuff, do I need all these? where can I buy them all at once?

    • In my view I think you need the facia kit, CHTO15C and CHTO3C. But best to ring an audio installation shop and ask them. Or someone will help you here.

      So you need 1, 2 and 4.

      I think 4 includes some of the other things you have listed there.

      But hoping some one more experienced can shed a better light.

    • You'll need;

      2 along with STB2 trims to suit
      3
      4 use CHTO15C if you have a factory reverse camera, otherwise use CHTO3C
      6
      7

  • Doesn't appear to have digital radio. No Deal!

  • If I've got a rear camera already with my factory unit, will it be usable in this?

    • +1

      Year, make, model, variant please.

      • Sorry, 2010 Toyota Aurion Presara

        • +1

          Yes it will work. You'll need a fascia (and 10mm trim ears if the fascia has a 200mm width space), ISOs, SWC interface and reverse camera retention kit.

          • @PinzVidz: This is where I get confused - does the Kenwood have the SWC interface already included? Whereas the others I need to now buy a $100 Aerpro interface?
            Car I'd be doing it in is a Toyota Aurion 2007 (no factory camera)

            ie https://www.ryda.com.au/aerpro-chto2c-toyota-steering-wheel-…

            • @placard: No SWC interface required if fitting a Kenwood that has OEM SWC capability. 3 wires solder/insulate into the 3 corresponding wires in the 20 pin plug in the Aurion, using the chart on Kenwood's site.

  • I wonder how much the extra bits cost to integrate with factory steering wheel controls, rear camera, and digital amp? (Gen II Prius)

    And then the installation and programming.

    • +1

      Parts listings here and here.

      • Thanks man, are you an installer?

        • +1

          I used to have a business that specialised in Toyota audio installs.

  • Thanks OP, now to figure out how to get the thing in the car?!
    I assume people who have these installed just got it done at super cheap/car installer?

  • I just returned my sony ax5000 after 2 years of android auto disconnects. The Australian distributor told me to return to retailer for full refund as they did not have a fix for it. Ended up getting the kenwood and sound is actually slightly better with factory speakers.

    • Which kenwood model out of interest?

      • The 5020s

        • have you had any issue with android auto and the kenwood 5020s?? im thinking of getting the Pioneer DMH-Z5350BT

          • +1

            @CRS34: Works great. Zero disconnects on my first 4 hour trip where the sony would have done it 20 times. I got turned off the pioneer or maybe was alpine because of call sound issues. Can't recall but kenwood seemed safest.

    • I checked the Sony website for any updates and found this

      Under previous benefits and improvements it says :

      "Fixes an issue where the display shows a black screen after starting the car while using the Android Auto function"

      This update was rolled out on 05/11/2020

      • That wasn't my issue. It randomly disconnected and sometimes rebooted or sometimes device not recognised. Major pain in the ass.

  • Will this work on a vw polo? I don’t have steering wheel controls. Is there anything else I’d need to buy for it?

    • You'll still need the wiring harness controls - VW to ISO then ISO to headunit brand (ie Sony).

      May need an antenna adaptor depending on what factory uses.

  • I'm looking to replace a 10 year old double din unit retrofitted into my old Tarago.
    It is by POLARIS and already is already connected up with GPS and rear view camera. It is 7" across.
    Since much of the wiring is already in place, how much should installation be?

  • I wish manufacturers would allow more space for long album and track names. I have a Kenwood '18 model and they only allow around 4" of real estate on a 7-8" screen. Not interested in album art, you can't even disable it.

  • +4

    This will be a great upgrade for anybody with an older stock head-unit - they tend to top out at 5-7 watts RMS per channel (RMS basically means continuous power). This unit will be able to put out 18-22W RMS per channel, you'll find it will make even stock speakers sound heaps better.

    Ignore the 55W nonsense, MOSFETS that can output that power continuously and fit in a car head-unit without overheating don't exist yet. The 55W rating refers to a momentary peak power output, and the thing about that is there's no accepted standard to measure peak power output i.e how long does it have to put out 55W? 1 second? 1 millisecond? 1 microsecond? Out of how many channels? 1 channel? 4 channels? How much Total Harmonic Distortion? 1%? 10%?. So yeah, its no more powerful than any other quality head-unit out there, but Sony is generally a pretty good brand, I've had good experiences with them.

  • Does anyone recommend a Ford Ranger 2015 kit for this head unit?

  • They also have a JVC
    is this one any good ?
    https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/jvc-jvc-kw-m745dbt-apple…

    • JVC (audio head units) are owned by the same company that make Kenwood, usually pretty good. That model has a capacitive screen, which is a bonus at that price point and is far better than resistive.

      • Thks I did noticed it has capacitive screen.

    • No physical buttons is a deal breaker for me

  • Could you guys please help with mine?

    2009, Subaru Impreza (Sedan)

    I've done my research but I just wanted to get a second opinion. I would also like to install a reverse camera as well but not sure what is needed. Any help would be appreciated.

  • Whats the best quality eBay reverse cam you can get? CMOS or CCD?

  • Is this going to work for Mercedes W205 C class 2016 model ? My LCD panel cannot integrate to Apple car play :(

  • I’ve bought for Subaru Forester 2010
    Anything else I need other than Aerpro Sony AV to ISO harness 18pin and iso harness to Subaru?
    Do I need a fascia kit?

    Thanks OzB community

    • +1

      Will most likely need a facia kit as well. See Aerpros website below for your model Forester.
      https://aerpro.com/vehicles/subaru/subaru-forester-2008-2012…

      • Thanks, looked at aerpro.com first but hasn't got Sony XAV-AX5000 listed.
        Probably right, looks like needs a fascia kit.

        • +1

          Yeah for some reason it won't show up if you search for XAV-AX5000. Search for AX5000 and you can select the XAV-AX5000 though

  • Kia Sorento 2014 with Pioneer DMH-Z5350BT
    https://aerpro.com/vehicles/kia/kia-sorento-2013-2014-xm#-

    SWC and rear camera is important to me so I’m thinking to go for the Pioneer.

    Aerpro say the facia kit is “Facia to suit Kia - Does not suit Nav models”, what does it mean?

    And for SWC, there are 3 products, not sure which one to choose.

    Finally, it seems like I can’t buy directly from them. Where do I buy it?

  • Ended up returning the xav-ax1000 which I bought last week. The resistive display is far better in terms of response, you don't want to have to be double pressing while driving. A couple of notes;

    • NSW now has mobile detection cameras, a fine is $400 so pretty much pays for the headunit. Carplay and AA is pretty much the only way to interact with your phone legally other than using siri or google assistant (lets face it still sucks).

    • These are dead easy to drop into older Japanese cars with a space for a doubledin unit. I dropped it into my 20 year old van with no additional mounting kit required, took literally 4 mins to install with an aerpro harness. Make sure you buy the correct sony aerpro harness, there are 2 different ones. (this is the correct one https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/aerpro-aerpro-harness-is…)

    • If you have an older car it's worth buying some aftermarket speakers, even the $50 jaycar ones make a huge improvement from the stock speakers. Most modern cars have somewhat better speakers so probably not worth it if you have a late model car.

  • can anyone recommend speakers that have a good price at the moment?

    I purchased the xav-ax8000 with the fp9016, app8sp4, app0141 and apusbto2

    It is for a 1999 Landcruiser 105 Series

  • Manual says bluetooth version 3.0, is that correct?

  • Not sure if this question be answered or not but just putting it out there,
    Can I still have to 360 reverse camera view of my current system?

    Thanks in advance.

    • it depends on how your 360 reverse camera system is setup, typically they "hijack" the reverse camera spot and perform the function through one RCA input but it definitely depends

      so if your current 360 camera uses just reverse camera input, the reverse signal would go into the 360 system and it would work the same, with the 360 system triggering the "reverse" input on your headunit when it wishes to display 360 OR reverse

      if your current system requires input of 360system and reverse separately then this unit won't work for it as it only has inputs for a single camera system

  • No DAB in a high end unit kills it for me, I've chosen to go with Alpine iLX-702 for $650 and installed it myself.

  • After a fair bit of research, my Toyota needs a $60 trim kit and a $230 digital amp interface at the very minimum.

    That's nearly $300, plus $290 for steering control and $50 for reverse camera adapter. $600+ just in parts, costs more than the player itself.

    Then $200 to install, or my time if DIY.

    This upgrade would cost over $1,200.

    • Cost me $301 without a reverse camera from Elite-electronics.

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