Jon S's 2001 Honda Civic

Jon and his Civic
Items installed:
Jon's Story
Jon, a Crutchfield multimedia producer, is up to speed with all the latest technology, but also appreciates the sound and formats of the past. He installed the Clarion CZ500 CD receiver in his car so he could take advantage of the USB input.
"I've got a USB-equipped turntable and I really enjoy turning my classic vinyl albums into digital files I can enjoy in the car." Jon loads his albums onto a thumb drive and plugs it into the USB cable connected to the rear of the Clarion receiver. "I even get to hear the hiss and pops of the original record while I'm driving — I like that."
Q&A Section
Why did you decide to go with this receiver?
The USB input and Bluetooth, along with a slick, clean look
What's the first thing you show people about your installation?
I show my passengers how I can crank my vinyl collection via digital copies saved to a USB drive.
Why did you choose these products?
I know that Clarion has a reputation for incorporating customer feedback into their designs and that they build a product that can last.
What was the most difficult part of the installation?
We had a bit of trouble prying off my dash, but after we had the right tool in hand, it was a breeze.
What plans, if any, do you have for future upgrades?
Next up: new 6x9s in the rear
Thumb drives plug right into the USB cable
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by Crutchfield's
Meet Ken Nail
My name is Ken. I seek the Holy Grail of car audio excellence. My favorite color is blue.
I came to Crutchfield in 1999. During my six years as a Crutchfield Advisor, I learned a lot about the technology behind great car and home audio. I learned even more about what people wanted in their car stereo systems.
I've been a writer for car audio and fitness tech at Crutchfield since 2005. Over the last few years, I've also carved out a niche producing demo videos for our in-dash car stereos. The hands-on experience I get with car stereos while doing video production is an invaluable aid to me in learning about their exciting features. This helps me convey that information to our customers when I write about the stereo on our website.
Before coming to Crutchfield, I spent 10 years teaching music in Charlottesville area schools. I keep my musical interests satisfied by volunteering as a classical music DJ at a local community radio station, and I stay up to date with the latest in outdoor tech by cycling, running, and backpacking.
Fun facts: I've completed an Ironman triathlon, run the Boston Marathon, hiked 1150 miles of the Appalachian Trail, and lost on Jeopardy!
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