Pioneer Z-Series Review: What can a S$4k car sound system really do?
Lionel Kong
19/08/2020
Our ‘golden eared’ guest-reviewer takes a top-of-the-line Pioneer sound system worth S$3.8k for a spin to see if it gives you more than just good vibrations
SINGAPORE
What does improving a car’s audio system really do for you?
Car audio can be horrendously confusing, given manufacturers tend to refer to their products by model number rather than names, and we’ve pointed you in the right direction with our guide to Better Car Audio For Any Budget story before.
But what can the best off-the-shelf system do for your ears, really? Pioneer installed a top-line system consisting of its latest head unit and Z-series speakers and invited us to hear the difference.
Since some of the CarBuyer staffers are half-deaf from exposure to loud noises (mostly Ju-Len’s burnouts) we though it best to hand over a review of Pioneer’s audiophile-grade in-car entertainment system to someone who knows what they’re really doing – which is where guest reviewer William Whey comes in.
A longtime motoring journalist himself, William has always had a keen taste for the aural. His real job is manager at Audiosound.biz, a company specialising in high-end audio streaming solutions for modern homes, and he’s also a certified car audio judge.
Audiosound builds super-high end systems for clients that can run well into five figures or more, in other words these are audio products for people who demand the best money can buy – which means Will’s ears are perfect for judging Pioneer’s top-of-the-line audio system in a real-world installation.
Part 2: William’s Take on the Pioneer system
About the Author
Lionel Kong
An old hand from the bad old days of crazy COEs, the straight-shooting, ex-CarBuyer editor is back in the four-wheeled world. Rumours that he went to another country to start a Judas Priest tribute band are unfounded.
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Hi Lionel,
I need your expert help.
I own a 20 years old Lexus SC430 which is fitted with Pioneer head unit , Mark Levinson ML amplifier n 9 ML speakers.
I am confused why my above original Pioneer set can be hooked up directly to the ML amplifier but not newer Pioneer set ? eg Z9250BT ?
My Pioneer CD player is acting up ( bufferings when CD is first turned on) & I prefer CD music to streamings. I was recommended Pioneer AVH-Z9250BT ; its 7inch fits nicely into my dashboard space. However, I was informed that the sound output will not be as good as my existing set. Reason : it bypasses my ML amplifier. To enjoy same or better sound, I need to buy a new compatible amplifier eg Audison AP8.9 bit.
How come ? Pioneer Z9250 is compatible with Audison but not Mark Levinson amp ?
Many thanks, sir