Sony announces new in-car amplifiers to go with its latest AV receiver

Sony has unleashed more new options for those who would rather build their own automotive infotainment system with the XAV-9000ES. It builds on all the main advantages of its predecessors - up to 192 kHz/24-bit playback over LDAC for its Bluetooth connectivity included - yet ensures it stays up-to-date with features such as 3-camera switching.

This input will show up on the XAV-9000ES' "flush surface" 6.75-inch HD capacitive display (above its "simple" physical buttons), and can be set to turn on in response to applicable controls such as turn signals. Otherwise, the screen is rated to show Sony's clean Mobile ES UI in enhanced contrast and brightness.

The XAV-9000ES is also backed to connect seamlessly to an owner's mobile devices, although its rear ports are USB type-C. The receiver also integrates an ESS DAC chip for "high-end home audio"-grade sound, and even has its own "premium" 4-channel class A/B amplifier.

However, for those who want more of the same, there are also the new XM-8ES and XM-6ES. As the names suggest, they are 100Wx8 and 100Wx6 dedicated class D power amps respectively. They have a resonance- and interference-resistant build, "premium" internals for "pitch-perfect sound reproduction" and a "logical" new control panel layout "for hassle-free setup".

The XM-6ES and XM-8ES are to be released in July 2023 at MSRPs of US$899.99 and US$999.99 respectively, while the XAV-9000ES will be released in September 2023 at an estimated $899.99 starting price.

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