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Clarion CZ205 CD receiver

Item # 020CZ205

Looking for a radio that offers several music options but won't break your bank? Clarion's CZ205 CD receiver saves...

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Looking for a radio that offers several music options but won't break your bank? Clarion's CZ205 CD receiver saves...

7 questions - 16 answers

Item # 020CZ205

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About the Clarion CZ205

Dave Delamere

Music options on a budget

Looking for a radio that offers several music options but won't break your bank? Clarion's CZ205 CD receiver saves you some money without imposing limits on how you enjoy your music. A front-panel USB port and aux input let you hook up almost any portable music player, while the receiver's user-friendly controls give you quick access over your music files, CDs, or favorite radio stations. Clarion even includes a wireless remote, just in case you want to let your passengers choose.

Music options on a budget

Looking for a radio that offers several music options but won't break your bank? Clarion's CZ205 CD receiver saves you some money without imposing limits on how you enjoy your music. A front-panel USB port and aux input let you hook up almost any portable music player, while the receiver's user-friendly controls give you quick access over your music files, CDs, or favorite radio stations. Clarion even includes a wireless remote, just in case you want to let your passengers choose.

Connect and play

Using the CZ205's USB port, you can connect your iPhone to control and play your stored music, or enjoy your favorite stations using its Pandora® Internet Radio app. And if you have a flash drive full of MP3 and WMA files, the CZ205 can handle those too. A front aux input lets you plug in just about any portable audio device.

Included extras

The 3-band parametric equalizer allows you to change the center frequency for adjusting the bass, midrange, and treble, so you get more control over the tone of your music. Two sets of preamp outputs ease the job of connecting an amp or powered subwoofer. An adjustable low-pass filter lets your subwoofer concentrate on the lower frequencies that deliver your music's impact.

Want to keep your steering wheel controls?

In most cars, you'll need an adapter to retain those controls with this car stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and radio, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls.You'll see the adapters that work with your vehicle when you add this receiver to your cart.

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Product highlights:

    General Features:
    • CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
    • built-in amplifier (21 watts RMS CEA-2006/45 peak x 4 channels)
    • detachable face with single-line display and blue illumination
    • built-in iPod, iPod Touch, and iPhone controls
    • Pandora control for iPhone
    • USB works with flash drives containing MP3 and WMA files
    • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs (including discs loaded with MP3 and WMA files)
    • wireless remote control
    Audio Features:
    • BeatEQ (three preset tone settings and 3-band parametric EQ)
    • low-pass filter for connected subwoofer
    Expandability:
    • inputs: front-panel auxiliary input, front-panel USB input
    • outputs: 4-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, rear/sub)
    Other Features and Specs:
    • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
    • CEA-2006 compliant
    • warranty: 1 year
    • MFR # CZ205

    What's in the box:

    • CD receiver
    • Face
    • Sleeve (installed)
    • Trim-ring
    • Wiring harness
    • Remote control (RCX001)
    • CR2025 3V battery
    • 4 ISO screws
    • Face-fixing screw
    • 2 Removal tools
    • Owners/Installation Manual
    • Warranty Card

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    Customer reviews for Clarion CZ205

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    Average review:

    4.5 out of 5 stars
    68 reviews

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    More details on the Clarion CZ205

    Stacey B.

    Features & specs

    Expandability
    AUX Input Front
    Audio/video Input ---
    USB Input Front
    USB Port Power ---
    Backup Camera Input No
    Second Camera Input No
    CarPlay No
    Android Auto No
    Siri Control No
    Alexa Voice Control
    Android Control No
    Memory Card Slot USB memory
    Bluetooth Compatible No
    Satellite Radio Ready No
    HD Radio No
    Navigation ---
    iPod Compatibility
    Full size No
    Nano 7/6
    Touch 5/4/3
    iPhone 6S+/6S/6+6/5S/5C/5/4S/4/3GS
    General
    RMS Power (CTA-2006) 21 watts
    RMS Power (Manufacturer) ---
    Peak Output 45 watts
    RMS Power Bandwidth 20-20kHz
    Preamp Outputs 4-channel
    Sub Preamp Outputs No
    Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs Yes
    Video Screen No
    Navigation App Compatible (iOS)
    Navigation App Compatible (Android)
    Preamp Voltage 2 volts
    Screen Size ---
    Screen Type ---
    Display Color White
    Key Button Color Blue
    EQ Bands 3
    Wireless Remote Yes
    Steering Wheel Control Compatible Adapter required
    Parts Warranty 1 Year
    Labor Warranty 1 Year
    Tuner
    FM Sensitivity 8 dBf
    European Tuning No
    Seek/Scan Seek
    Radio Data System No
    File Playback
    Music File Playback MP3, WMA
    High-res Playback N
    The Clarion CZ205 replaces these items:

    Product Research

    CD & USB Playback
    iPhone/Aux Integration
    AM/FM + Pandora Radio
    Audio Section
    Display Features
    Remote Control

    CD & USB Playback

    CD Compatibility: The Clarion CZ205 in-dash head unit features a single disc player that will playback CD-Audio discs, as well as finalized CD-R and CD-RW audio discs.

    • Disc-In-Play-Function: This feature allows you to turn the power to the unit "on" and start playing the disc automatically when the disc is inserted even if the unit is not powered up, as long as the ignition key is turned to the "on" or "acc" position.
    • Auto Reload: When a CD is ejected and left sticking out of the CD slot for 15 seconds, the unit automatically reloads the CD to protect if from damage.
    Note: For proper CD playback you must install the unit within 30° of horizontal.

    Front-Panel USB Port: The Clarion CZ205 features a front panel USB (type-A) port that is hidden behind a flip-up cover. The USB port enables connection and control of a portable USB mass-storage class (MSC) device; such as select portable digital audio players or USB thumbdrives. The unit supports playback of MP3 & WMA  music files stored on a compatible USB memory device. USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port (max. 1A), and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

    Note: This head unit's USB port does not support connection of Android OS devices.

    Compatible Music Files: The Clarion CZ205 supports the following types of MP3 & WMA files recorded onto CD-R/RW discs or loaded onto a USB thumbdrive or other USB mass storage class devices.

    Media Type CD-R/RW USB
    File System ISO9660 level 1/2, Joliet FAT 12/16/32
    Playable File Types MP3: bit rate of 8-320 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48kHz
    WMA: bit rate of 8-320 kbps w/ sampling rate of 8-48kHz
    Maximum # of Folders/Files 999 filers per folder/3,000 total files
    Tags ID3 tag, WMA tag

    Playback & Search Functions: The CZ205 provides a variety of playback & search functions that help find your music easier and allow you to enjoy your music even more.

    • Folder/File Select: This function allows you to select a folder containing MP3/WMA files and start playing from the first track in the folder.
    • Scan Play: This function allows you to locate and play the first 10 seconds of all the tracks recorded on a CD or the first 10 seconds of the first track of all the folders on an MP3/WMA disc.
    • Repeat Play: This function allows you to play the current track on a disc repeatedly or play a file currently being played in a MP3/WMA folder repeatedly.
    • Random Play: This function allows you to play all tracks recorded on a disc or in a folder in a random order.
    • Last Position Memory: If you turn off the unit while a disc or USB device is playing, it will resume playback at the stopping point when it is turned on again.
    iPhone/Aux Integration

    iPod/iPhone Direct Connection: The Clarion CZ205's front-panel USB port can be used to connect your Lightning-connector or 30-pin dock connector iPod/iPhone to the head unit. Simply use the cable that came with your iPod/iPhone device or a 3rd party Apple certified cable (sold separately). The CZ205 supports audio playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of your compatible Apple device.

    • Audio Playback w/ DAC Bypass: The USB connection allows your iPod/iPhone's stored music and music apps to be loaded instantly to the head unit and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 1-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 94dB. The Clarion head unit supports audio playback of stored music, music apps, and podcasts on your iPod or iPhone.
    • Music Control: You can choose to control your iPod/iPhone from the head unit or from your iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen.
      • Head Unit: The Clarion head unit allows you to navigate your iPod's music by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, Composer, Song, or Podcast. You can search these categories alphabetically (A through Z). The head unit also supports Repeat (file/all) playback functions of your connected iPod/iPhone.
      • Simple Control: In Simple Control mode, you can navigate the stored music on your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or touchscreen. You can also listen to your favorite music apps from your iPhone (iOS 5.0+) through the Clarion head unit and your vehicle's speakers. You will continue to use your iPhone's touchscreen to navigate your apps. Not all apps will be compatible with App Mode.
    • Song/Artist Info: The head unit will display your iPod/iPhone's stored music file information; including Track number, Elapsed playing time, Song title, and Artist/Artist name. The head unit will also display song/artist information from the Pandora App. It will not display metadata from other streamed apps or when in Simple Control mode.
    • Charging: The head unit's USB connection provides 1A of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone when your vehicle's ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position (if your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it).

    Apple Device Compatibility Chart: The Clarion CZ205 is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 11/3/2015):

    Apple Device Generation Tested Version Media Type Control Type Display Type Charge
    Audio Video Head Unit iPod/iPhone Pandora Artist/Song Text Track Info
    iPhone
    3GS 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y
    4 7.1.2 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y
    4S 9.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y
    5/5C/5S 9.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y
    6/6+/6S/6S+ 9.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y
    touch
    3rd 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y
    4th 6.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y
    5th 9.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y
    nano
    6th 1.2 PC Y N Y Y N Y Y Y
    7th 1.02PC Y N Y Y N Y Y Y
    Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.

    Front-Panel Aux Input: The CZ205 feature a front panel 3.5mm auxiliary input so you connect your external portable audio player or portable satellite radio receiver to this head unit. You can set the Auxiliary input sensitivity level to Low, Mid, or High to match the volume output of your connected external audio device.

    AM/FM + Pandora Radio

    AM/FM Tuner: The Clarion CZ205 is equipped with a built-in AM/FM tuner offering manual, seek, & preset tuning. 18 FM station presets and 6 AM station presets can stored; stations can be stored manually or automatically. Preset scan lets you quickly scan through all of your preset stations in a selected band. This function is useful when searching for a desired preset station. When Local seeking is turned "On", only those radio stations with strong radio signal can be received.

    Pandora App: The Pandora App (free) lets you play music from the Pandora music service through the Clarion CZ205 using your USB-connected Apple iPhone (iOS 7.0+), via the cable that came with your iPhone device or a 3rd party Apple certified cable (sold separately). Your iPhone will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. You will also need a Pandora music service account.

    • Music Control: The CZ205 provides control over the Pandora music service. You can select Pandora stations from your station list and sort them by date or alphabetically (A-Z). New stations can be created based on the current songs or artists playing. You can also skip song tracks within a station. You can even give songs a thumbs up or thumbs down or bookmark songs/artists that are currently playing.
    • Song/Artist Display: The CZ205 will also display your Pandora station's song/artist information such as artist name, song title, and album title.
    Note: Access to the Pandora  service will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.
    Audio Section

    MOSFET Amplifier: The Clarion CZ205 is equipped with a MOSFET amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET amplification circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased power with less distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More power means louder and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not pushing the limits of the amplification circuit. The power output specs for the CZ205 are as follows:

    • CEA2006 Specs: 21 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 1% THD-N)
    • Maximum Power Output: 45 watts x 4 channels (180 watts total)
    Note: The power specifications for the CZ205 are compliant with the CEA2006 Mobile Amplifier Power Testing and Measurement standards from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). These standards were developed as a way to equitably compare power specs from model to model and between manufacturers.

    2V/4Ch RCA Output: The Clarion CZ205 features 2V/4Ch RCA line-level outputs (Front, Rear/SW). The unit's Rear/SW RCA output can be configured as a dedicated non-fading RCA subwoofer output with a low-pass filter and level control (+/-6).

    Low-Pass Subwoofer Filter: The Low-Pass Filter (LPF) for the subwoofer preamp output (when activated) will send only the low frequency range through the preamp outputs to ensure superb performance with a connected subwoofer. The low-pass filter can be set to 80Hz, 120Hz, 160Hz, or Through (full-range).

    BeatEQ: BeatEQ lets you tune the sound to your liking, depending on the category of music, for a more fulfilling listening experience. The Clarion CD receiver provides 4 preset EQ curves (Bass Boost, Impact, Excite, Off) and 1 custom EQ curve. Bass Boost emphasizes the bass portion of your music; Impact emphasizes the bass & treble portions of your music; Excite emphasizes bass, midrange & treble portions of your music; while Flat sets the bass, midrange, & treble to 0. The Custom EQ lets you freely customize the frequency, Q-factor, and level of the bass, midrange, &  treble. BeatEQ settings are applied to all sources.

    BeatEQ (Custom Mode) Frequency Q-Factor Level
    Bass 60Hz, 80Hz, 100Hz, or 200Hz 1, 1.25, 1.5 or 2.0 -7 to + 7 dB
    Midrange 500Hz, 1.0kHz, 1.5kHz, or 2.5 kHz 0.5, 0.75. 1.0, or 1.25 -7 to + 7 dB
    Treble 10kHz, 12.5kHz, 15kHz, or 17.5kHz N/A -7 to + 7 dB
    Note: BeatEQ settings are applied to all sources.

    Magna Bass EX (Extend): The Magna Bass Extend feature does not adjust the low frequencies like the normal sound adjustment function, but emphasizes the deep bass frequencies to provide you with a dynamic sound. This circuit boosts bass at an ultra-low frequency of about 50Hz, creating a rich, deep, defined bass rather than the muddy, booming bass of a standard loudness control. What is more, boost levels are dependent on the system volume, resulting in balanced system response and dynamic bass reproduction.

    Beep: The in-dash head unit provides an audible beep to confirm button operation. This function can be turned On or Off.

    Display Features

    Detachable Face Security: This unit features detachable face security to deter theft. No face case is included with this unit. An optional soft face case (142DFC1X, sold separately) can be purchased for this unit. A face-fixing screw is supplied for making the face non-detachable, if desired.

    High Visibility LCD: The single-line, 10-digit, high visibility LCD (with black background and white characters) on the CZ205 allows numbers and characters to be displayed clearly in almost any lighting condition.

    Screen Saver: This unit is provided with a Screen Saver function which allows you to show various kinds of patterns and characters in the operation status indication area of the display in a random order. You can turn this function on or off. If the button operation is performed with the screen saver function "On", the operation display corresponding to the button operation is shown for about 30 seconds and then the display returns to the screen saver display.

    Remote Control

    Wireless Remote: The Clarion CZ205 comes supplied with an IR remote control for wireless operation of the in-dash CD receiver. The remote operates off of a single CR2025 Lithium cell 3-volt battery.

    Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The head unit features an OEM steering wheel remote control input on the rear of the unit that lets you keep your vehicle's factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with an optional steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately).

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    Customer Q&A

    7 questions already asked

    Q
    Will Iphone charge through the usb ?
    richard  Aug 15, 2017
    4 answers
    A
    Yes, it will charge while attached to the USB port
    phillip  Aug 15, 2017
    A
    Yes, have done this before
    aaron  Aug 15, 2017
    A
    Yes it works great playing music and charging the phone at the same time!
    zachary  Aug 15, 2017
    A
    Yes
    edward  Aug 15, 2017
    Q
    will this radio fit a chrysler concorde 2000 ?
    brandon  May 09, 2016
    1 answer
    A
    You can check to see if this will fit your vehicle by using our Outfit My Car tool: http://www.crutchfield.com/car/carselector.aspx For additional details on fit or installation please contact an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and give you the details on if this will fit and what you will need for an installation in your vehicle.
    kenneth  May 10, 2016 (Staff)
    Q
    It says you can play your IPhone through the unit and I was wondering if that also meant you can use a samsung Galaxy just like the Iphone?
    zachary  Apr 18, 2016
    1 answer
    A
    I have an Iphone but I use Pandora through it and the unit works great for my needs. I use a USB cable to keep the phone charging as well.
    carl  Apr 19, 2016
    Q
    Is there a way to set a default for the display? I would like to always have the title show when playing MP3 through a USB. At the moment, I have to press the display button for every song to get the title displayed. Also, can I stop the title scrolling? (I have turned "scrolling" and "screen saver"off but this only stops the demo mode showing and the track showing all the tags). Thirdly, can I remove the words "title" "track" "folder" etc from showing before the actual information?
    fiona  Dec 12, 2015
    1 answer
    A
    I found this info listed in the owner's manual "display panel: When SCOLL is ON, the LCD will scroll the ID3 TAG information across the display, e.g.: TRACK->FILE->FOLDER-> TITLE->ARTIST> ALBUM-> TRACK-> ...When SCROLL is OFF, the LCD will display one of the ID3 TAG information, the default is TRACK, but user can adjust it to other ID3 TAG information by pressing [DISP] button." It doesn't appear this unit gives you the option to set "default" display settings; you have the choice between scroll on or off.
    david  Dec 17, 2015 (Staff)
    Q
    Can it change colors like the Pioneer I saw in the store?
    katie  Jun 10, 2015
    6 answers
    A
    No it doesn't change colors but it's a great buy.
    timothy lee  Jun 11, 2015
    A
    The Clarion CZ205 does not have changing illumination color.It is however a great deck for a really good price I`ve been completely happy with my choice to get it.It has a really good tuner, CD,and plays USB just fine and I can charge my phone when needed.
    robert  Jun 11, 2015
    A
    No it doesn't
    servando  Jun 10, 2015
    A
    No, the display on this unit does not change colors. The only text color is white and the only button color is blue.
    michael  Jun 10, 2015
    A
    Hey Katie. This model doesn't not change colors but the blue is nice. You'll have to invest in a higher model than this to have different colors.
    ryan  Jun 10, 2015
    A
    No it doesn't but I'm a firm believer in Clarion. Never had an issue with any of the ones I've bought.
    ben  Jun 10, 2015
    Q
    Does the remote use line-of-sight, or can I locate the head unit in a hidden location (glove box)? I'm considering this for a classic truck, and I don't want to cut dash for DIN sized opening.
    david  Mar 28, 2015
    1 answer
    A
    I forwarded your question to an Advisor and they responded with the following: The remote that is included with the Clarion CZ205 receiver is an IR remote control which means it would have to have line of site to operate the receiver. If you would like to discuss further you can contact an Advisor directly by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat.
    kristina  Apr 02, 2015 (Staff)
    Q
    I have spotify Internet radio , can I run spotify thru the ax port ?
    christopher  Mar 25, 2015
    2 answers
    A
    ...also via bluetooth.
    peter c  Mar 27, 2015
    A
    You can play audio through the USB port and/or the AUX input jack on the front
    john  Mar 26, 2015
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