About the Clarion FX503
Everything you need, no hands needed
Everything you need, no hands needed
Clarion's FX503 digital media receiver looks like your standard high-end multimedia receiver, but it's much, much more. Smart Access, Clarion's exclusive cloud-based platform, gives you hands-free entry to a wide variety of real-time services and dozens of apps through your iPhone or Android smartphone. And Clarion designed this powerhouse receiver for easy, intuitive use.
The FX503 will play all your digital media, whether it's on a phone, player, or flash drive. But that's not all. You can dictate Tweets, texts, and Facebook posts with natural speech recognition, and the FX503 will read your incoming texts while you drive. Plus, with built-in vehicle monitoring, the FX503 will even tell you if one of your tires is losing air.
This digital multimedia receiver will not play CDs or DVDs.
Cloud computing comes to your car
The coolest part of the FX503 isn't even in car with you – it's in the clouds. Or, more specifically, "the cloud," as in cloud computing. With Smart Access, you can download apps that have been optimized for in-car use. You'll be able to access navigation, weather, news, Internet radio, and social sites while keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. Smart Access is always on and constantly updated, so you'll have the latest, most relevant information available. More apps are being developed all the time, so you'll be able to customize your content for years to come. It's virtually future-proof.
Easily access all your entertainment
If your smartphone is also your main source of on-the-go entertainment, the FX503 is ready for your next road trip. Enjoy all stored content from your Android smartphone or iPhone® through the 6.2" touchscreen. It's SiriusXM-ready (all you need is a subscription and a tuner), so you'll be able to access the world of satellite radio with its music, news, sports, and more. If you're a Pandora® Internet radio fan, you can plug in your iPhone and change stations, rate songs, and see album art on the FX503's intuitive 6.2" touchscreen.
The touchscreen operates just like your smartphone screen, complete with flick operation, so it's very easy to use. All of the tapping, scrolling, and zooming you do every day on your phone works the same way on the FX503. Frequently-used functions like power, volume, and menu are controlled by blue illuminated buttons in the receiver's frame.
Bluetooth convenience
The FX503's built-in Bluetooth is compatible with a wide variety of mobile phones, so you can talk and drive without taking your hands off the wheel. The built-in microphone works great in most vehicles, or you can add a Clarion mic (sold separately) for especially noisy cars and trucks. And, of course, you can stream music stored on any Bluetooth device, whether it's a mobile phone or a portable audio player.
Classic Clarion quality and sound
Clarion didn't forget about sound when they were designing the FX503. What's the point in being able to play almost anything if it doesn't sound great? This receiver features a powerful built-in amp, high-and low-pass filters, and the host of sonic tools included in Clarion's Intelligent Tune sound technology, so you'll hear your music the way it was meant to be heard. If you want to hear even more of it, you can expand your system using the convenient front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs.
Want to keep your steering wheel controls?
In most vehicles, you can use an adapter (not included) to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Clarion stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the FX503. Check the "Accessories" tab to see a list of compatible adapters.
Bluetooth note: Use of this receiver's Bluetooth features will depend upon your phone's Bluetooth capabilities. Learn more in our article explaining Bluetooth profiles.
iPod note: If you're going to use your iPod with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for specific iPod model compatibility.
Cable note: You'll need an optional CCA750 cable to transfer video from an iPhone when you're parked. To transfer video from an Android smartphone, Clarion offers an optional HDMI cable or HDMI to micro-HDMI cable.
Product highlights:
General features:
- digital media receiver with AM/FM tuner (does not play CDs or DVDs)
- cloud-based Smart Access platform constantly updates apps and navigation
- internal MOSFET amp (18 watts RMS CEA-2006/50 watts peak x 4 channels)
- 6.2" touchscreen with "flick" capability
- MP3/WMA playback via microSD or USB
- Pandora control with iPhone
- fits double-DIN openings
- multi-language display capability (English, Spanish, French)
- built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Audio/visual features:
- 24-bit digital-to-analog converter
- iPod® audio/video control with optional CCA770 iPod interface cable
- Android phone connectivity control with optional HDMI cable
- Intelligent Tune sound technology (vocal image control/volume smoother/sound restorer/virtual bass/graphic EQ)
- high- and low-pass filters
Expandability:
- compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner
- inputs: front AUX input, front microSD/SDHC slot, rear USB input with iPod direct connect capability, rear-view camera input
- outputs: video output, 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
Other information:
- CEA-2006 compliant
- compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
- warranty: 1 year
- MFR # FX503
What's in the box:
- Multimedia receiver (w/ 6.2" touchscreen monitor)
- Trim-ring
- Wiring harness
- Preamp harness
- AV input/output harness
- USB extension cable
- 8 Counter-sunk ISO screws
- 8 Hex-head ISO screws
- 10 Rubber caps
- Wire-tie
- Owner's Manual on CD-ROM
- Quick Start Guide/Installation Manual
- Warranty Information
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Customer reviews for Clarion FX503
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More details on the Clarion FX503
Features & specs
Expandability | ||
---|---|---|
AUX Input | Mini (front), RCA (rear) | |
Audio/video Input | HDMI (rear), RCA (rear), Mini (front) | |
USB Input | Rear | |
USB Port Power | --- | |
Backup Camera Input | Optional | |
Second Camera Input | No | |
CarPlay | No | |
Android Auto | No | |
Siri Control | No | |
Alexa Voice Control | ||
Android Control | Yes | |
Memory Card Slot | USB, microSD/SDHC | |
Bluetooth Compatible | Built-in | |
Satellite Radio Ready | SiriusXM | |
HD Radio | No | |
Navigation | Optional | |
iPod Compatibility | ||
Full size | Classic | |
Nano | 7/6/5/4/3/2/1 | |
Touch | 5/4/3/2/1 | |
iPhone | 6+/6/5S/5C/5/4S/4/3GS/3G/2G | |
General | ||
RMS Power (CTA-2006) | 18 watts | |
RMS Power (Manufacturer) | --- | |
Peak Output | 50 watts | |
RMS Power Bandwidth | 20-20kHz | |
Preamp Outputs | 6-channel | |
Sub Preamp Outputs | Yes | |
Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs | No | |
Video Screen | Yes | |
Navigation App Compatible (iOS) | ||
Navigation App Compatible (Android) | ||
Preamp Voltage | 4 volts | |
Screen Size | 6.2 | |
Screen Type | Basic (Resistive) | |
Display Color | ||
Key Button Color | Blue | |
EQ Bands | 6 | |
Wireless Remote | Optional | |
Steering Wheel Control Compatible | Adapter required | |
Parts Warranty | 1 Year | |
Labor Warranty | 1 Year | |
Tuner | ||
FM Sensitivity | --- | |
European Tuning | No | |
Seek/Scan | Seek | |
Radio Data System | No | |
File Playback | ||
Music File Playback | MP3, WMA | |
High-res Playback | N |
Product Research
Touchscreen & Remote Control
iPhone/Android Integration
AM/FM+Pandora+SiriusXM Radio
Built-In Bluetooth
microSD + USB Playback
Audio Section
Audio/Video Connections
Touchscreen & Remote Control
6.2" Touchscreen TFT Display: The Clarion FX503 has an integrated 6.2" TFT widescreen display with touchscreen controls. The display provides a high-resolution video monitor for viewing song/artist information, navigation maps, and movies. The screen has a resolution of 800 x 480 (RGB) and 1,152,000 total pixels. The unit's touchscreen panel features interactive controls making menu navigation easy.
- Touchscreen GUI w/ Flick Control: The GUI (Graphical User Interface) shows large icons that are highly visible and easily recognizable at a glance. The FX503 touchscreen responds to your finger gestures just as your smartphone screen would. You are able to drag & drop icons into different positions to customize the screen. The touchscreen also supports flick operation, so you can quickly scroll to another menu page.
- Short Cut Menu: The unit has a main menu for using all functions and a shortcut menu that groups together frequently used functions. Use of the shortcut menu allows you to quickly access frequently used functions. Up to five frequently used functions can be registered to the shortcut menu.
- Dimmer & Brightness Control: The receiver's display automatically dims to a preset brightness when the vehicle's headlights are turned on. The wiring harness includes an orange/white lead that should be connected to the vehicle's parking light circuit in order for the dimmer feature to operate. You can also manually adjust the unit's Day & Night display brightness from 0-20.
Note: To prevent the displaying of video while the vehicle is in motion, the bright green wire in the supplied wiring harness must be connected to the vehicle's parking brake detection circuit. While the vehicle is in motion (parking brake off), you can still view all of the other displays and menus. Video can only displayed when the vehicle's parking brake is engaged. If you try to view video with the vehicle in motion, the head unit will simply display "CAUTION! Video is disabled for your safety".
SWC 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). Please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to see if your vehicle is compatible.
IR Remote: The FX503 also supports Clarion's RCB176 IR remote control (020RCB176, sold separately) for wireless control of basic playback functions.
Anti-Theft Code: You may program the unit with a 4 digit security code. Once the unit has been programmed with a security code, the code must be entered to use the unit after it has been disconnected from power.
2-DIN Chassis: The Clarion FX503 has a 2-DIN chassis (also known as "Double-DIN"), and will fit in many vehicles with a large dash opening. The unit can be ISO-mounted using your vehicle's factory radio brackets and the supplied hardware. There is also an optional custom double-DIN sleeve (0202DBKT, sold separately) available for this unit that will allow you to mount the FX503 in a custom 4" opening. As always, please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to verify fit with your vehicle.
iPhone/Android Integration
iPod/iPhone AV Playback: The Clarion FX503 supports direct connection of your 30-pin or Lightning-connector through its rear-panel USB port, rear-panel AV input, and rear-panel HDMI connector. The FX503 offers audio/video playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of select Apple devices. The Clarion FX503's USB or HDMI connection allows your iPod/iPhone's music library to be loaded instantly to the Clarion receiver and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 24-bit D/A converter (bypassing iPod/iPhone DAC).
- 30-Pin Dock Connector: If you own an older iPod/iPhone with the 30-pin dock connector, you can enjoy audio and video files on your Apple device through the Clarion FX503. Using Clarion's proprietary CCA-750 iPod/iPhone Video cable (020CCA750, sold separately), you can enjoy audio playback of your stored music on your iPod/iPhone and music apps on your iPhone; plus video playback of your stored movies on your iPod/iPhone and video apps on your iPhone through the Clarion FX503. If you only desire audio playback, you can simply use the dock connector-to-USB cable that comes with your Apple device to connect your iPod/iPhone to the FX503.
- Lightning Connector: If you have a newer iPod/iPhone with the Lightning-connector, you can use the Lightning-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect your iPod/iPhone to the Clarion FX503 for audio playback only. You'll be able to listen to stored music and music apps on your Lightning-connector Apple device through the Clarion multimedia receiver. Video playback is not supported.
iPod/iPhone Control: In addition to audio/video playback, the Clarion FX503 supports control, song/artist information display, and battery charging of your compatible Apple device.
- Content Browsing: The Clarion FX503 allows you to browse your iPod/iPhone's music library by Playlist, Artist, Song, Album, Genre, Composer, Audiobook, or Podcast from its touchscreen monitor. You can also browse your iPod/iPhone's video content by Movie, Music Video, TV Show, Video Podcast, or Rental. Content in each category is listed alphabetically. The head unit also supports Repeat/Random playback functions of your connected iPod/iPhone. In addition, you can control basic playback functions (such as Play/Pause, Previous/Next Track) of your favorite music apps streamed to your iPhone. Newer iPod/iPhones with iOS 6.0+ will still allow you to navigate stored music and movies from the Apple device's touchscreen, as well access music and video apps; older iPod/iPhone devices will be locked during connection.
- Music Information + Album Art: When in Head Unit Control mode, the multimedia receiver will display your iPod/iPhone's stored music file information; including Track number, Elapsed playing time, Song Title, Artist/Album Name, and Album Art. The FX503 will also display song/artist information and station identification from select music apps. The Simple Control mode does not offer song/artist information display.
- 1A 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. This unit does not charge the iPad. If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then this unit will not recognize it.
Smart Access via HDMI (for iPhone & Android): Download the newest version of Smart Access App (from Apple Store or Google Play Store) onto your HDMI-connected iPhone (iOS 6.0+) or Android (4.0+) smartphone in order to access a variety of online music, news, weather, navigation, and social media services in your vehicle through the Clarion FX503, your smartphone, and the Cloud; all from an easy-to-use touchscreen interface optimized for in-vehicle use. Your Apple iPhone's or Android smartphone's battery will also be charged during this type of connection. Bluetooth audio is turned off when Smart Access is activated.
- iPhone Connectivity: To connect your Apple iPhone (iOS 6.0+) with Lightning connector, you will need Apple's Lightning Digital AV adapter, Lightning-to-USB cable, and a a mobile-grade HDMI cable (all sold separately); plus your iPhone will need to be paired to the head unit via Bluetooth. To connect your Apple iPhone 4/4S with 30-pin connector, you'll need Clarion's proprietary CCA-750 iPod/iPhone Video cable (020CCA750, sold separately); no Bluetooth pairing required.
- Android Connectivity: To connect your Android (OS 4.0+) smartphone, you'll need a MHL-to-HDMI cable (sold separately); select Android smartphones like the Galaxy S3/S4/S5 & Note II/III will also require a 3rd party MHL microUSB 5-pin to 11-pin adapter (sold separately). Your Android smartphone will also need to be paired to the FX503 via Bluetooth. Check here for a list of compatible MHL-enabled Android phones. For Android smartphones that are not MHL compatible, like the Galaxy S6 & S6 Edge, you'll need a 3rd party MHL adapter (sold separately).
Smart Access Apps: The Smart Access App contains a variety of navigation, music, social media, and utility apps. When Smart Access is launched on your smartphone, a list of compatible apps will be displayed. Select the apps you want and they will be automatically downloaded from the appropriate app store onto your mobile phone. Once your compatible iPhone or Android smartphone is connected to the FX503, the Smart Access application allows the following apps to be accessible from the head unit's touchscreen.
- Navigation Apps: Smart Access provides a variety of
navigation applications to help you along on your commute
to work or vacation travel.
- Waze: Waze is a fun, community-based traffic & navigation app, 30 million strong. Join forces with other drivers nearby to outsmart traffic, save time & gas money, and improve everyone's daily commute. With community-generated real-time traffic, you'll always get the best route to your destination.
- MotionX-GPS Drive (iPhone only): The MotionX-GPS Drive App ($0.99) puts traffic, directions, and navigation options at your fingertips. MotionX-GPS Drive allows you to receive turn-by-turn directions using custom voice instructions. The app is easy to navigate and saves your favorite locations for easy access. This navigation app requires a $24.99 one time fee for the maps to display on-screen, and a one year $9.99 subscription for Voice Guidance feature.
- INRIX Traffic: INRIX Traffic helps you avoid traffic jams and reach your destination faster. Offers real-time alerts, traffic forecasting and information about accidents, police, etc. along with your route.
- Entertainment Apps: Smart Access offers a variety of
music applications for your listening pleasure.
- TuneIn Internet Radio: TuneIn has the world's largest collection of over 100,000 real radio stations playing live from around the world. Enjoy music, sports, news, talk, and live special events. Follow your favorite genres, podcasts, artists, sports teams and more.
- iHeart Radio: The iHeartRadio app lets you listen to more than 1,500 Live Stations from coast-to-coast or create your own artist- or track-based Custom Stations. Use popular features like iHeartRadio's Discovery Tuner and "Thumbs Up" and "Thumbs Down" functionality to fine-tune your Custom Station playlists.
- Shuttle Music Player (Android only): Shuttle Music Player is an intuitive music player offering powerful features like a built-in 6-band equalizer, gapless playback, lyrics support, and much more. The paid version Shuttle+ also offers ID3 tag editing and folder browsing,
- Facebook & Twitter: Easily and safely bring social networking into your car. When an smartphone is connected to FX503 in the vehicle, you can update your status, and respond to and interface with the social media sites easily via the 6.2" display. SMS texts and social media messages are read aloud to the you and can be paused and resumed depending on the driving conditions.
- DriveSuite4car Utility App: Clarion's Smart Access
smartphone link integrates DriveSuite4car, a utility application which
allows you to access helpful information in a vehicle. DriveSuite4car
enables the user to have more within their reach including News4car,
Weather4car, Calendar4car and Gallery4car. These apps offer more ways to
make the most efficient use of your time while on the go
- News: Keep up to date while cruising down the road. You can listen to news feeds from the news app on your iPhone 4/4S or Android smartphone. You can listen to the headlines only or to the full articles and you can personalize which news feeds to want to receive.
- Weather: Keep up with the weather as you go. Access the weather app on your iPhone or Android smartphone to check out local and regional weather conditions, satellite maps, weather forecasts and warnings, right at your dash.
- Calendar: Calendar is an app that allows easy checking of your schedule while in your car from the Clarion FX503 multimedia receiver. With Calendar, you can sync your Google Calendar from your iPhone or Android smartphone for a full understanding of your schedule.
- SlideShow: This is an application to let you enjoy a slide show of pictures taken with your smartphone right on your navigation display. You can enjoy slide shows of pictures taken on the trip in your car.
- DashCommand (iPhone only): The DashCommand app ($9.99) lets you receive real-time feedback on vehicle performance including fuel economy, horsepower and torque, g-force measurements, and even can be used as a scan tool to read and clear OBD-II trouble codes that trigger the "check engine" light (OBD-II hardware sold separately from Palmer Performance Engineering).
iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Clarion FX503 is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 9/24/2014):
Apple Device | Generation | Tested Version | Media Type | Control Type | Display Type | Bluetooth | Charge | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Audio | Video | Head Unit | iPod/iPhone | Smart Access*** | Pandora App | Album Art | Song/Artist Text | Track Info | Phone | Audio | ||||
iPhone | 2G | 3.1.3 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y |
3G | 4.2.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
3GS | 5.1.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
4/4S | 7.1.2 | Y | Y** | Y | Y | Y** | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
5/5C/5S | 7.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y* | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
6/6+ | 8.0 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y* | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
touch | 1st | 2.2.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y |
2nd | 4.2.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | |
3rd | 5.1.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | |
4th | 6.1.3 | Y | Y** | Y | Y | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | |
5th | 7.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | |
nano | ||||||||||||||
2nd | 1.1.3 | Y | N | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
3rd | 1.1.3 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
4th | 1.0.4 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
5th | 1.0.2 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
6th | 1.2 PC | Y | N | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
7th | 1.02 PC | Y | N | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | |
classic | 80GB | 1.1.2 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y |
120GB | 2.0.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
160GB | 2.0.4 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | N | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | |
iPad | 1 | 5.1.1 | Y | Y** | Y | N | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | N |
2/3 | 7.1.2 | Y | Y** | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | N | |
4/air | 7.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | N | |
mini | 7.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y |
Note:
- *Requires Apple's Lightning-to-Digital AV adapter, a Lightning-to-USB cable, and mobile-grade HDMI cable (all sold separately)
- **Requires Clarion's proprietary CCA-750 iPod/iPhone Video cable (020CCA750, sold separately).
- ***Make sure you download the latest version of the Clarion Smart Access App (2.1.0 or newer). Clarion's Smart Access app (2.0.0 and older) isn't compatible with Apple iOS 8.0. If used with iOS 8.0, the older versions of the Smart Access app will cause stability issues or shut down unexpectedly.
- 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.
AM/FM+Pandora+SiriusXM Radio
AM/FM Tuner: The Clarion FX503 is equipped with a built-in AM/FM tuner. The FX503 offers Seek, Manual, and Preset tuning. The NX404's built-in AM/FM tuner features 3 FM bands and 1 AM band. You can store up to 6 presets in each bands, allowing you to store 18 FM and 6 AM preset stations. You can manually store your favorite presets or have the FX503 automatically store the strongest stations for you.
Pandora App (for iPhone/Android): The free Pandora App (either from iTunes Apps or Google Play) lets you play music from the Pandora music service through the Clarion FX503 using your USB-connected or Bluetooth-paired Apple iPhone (iOS 5.0+); as well as your Bluetooth-paired Android smartphone. Your compatible mobile device 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. The FX503 provides control over the Pandora music service and displays Artist, Album, and Song information, as well as Album Art.
- Station List: You can select Pandora stations from your Station List by date or alphabetically (A-Z). You can also choose to randomly playback songs from all your registered stations.
- Create New Station: New stations can be created based on the current songs or artists playing on Pandora.
- Skip Songs: You can skip song tracks within a station. You cannot skip back to a previous song. Pandora limits the number of skips allowed.
- Thumbs Up/Down: You can give songs a thumbs up or thumbs down to help Pandora personalize stations to suit your preferences.
- Bookmarking: The song or artist currently being played can be bookmarked & stored in your Pandora account.
SiriusXM Ready: The Clarion FX503 comes ready for SiriusXM programming with access to XM & Sirius Satellite Radio stations. Thanks to its proprietary SiriusXM Connect port, you can add the optional SXV200V1 SiriusXM Connect tuner and receive more than 150 channels of exclusive programming directly from SiriusXM, via the "SiriusXM All Access" package (subscription required). Visit SiriusXM.com for a complete list of subscription options & channel guide. Additional features of the SXV200 SiriusXM Connect tuner include:
- Information such as Channel Name, Artist Name, & Song Title can be viewed on the head unit's display
- Category Search feature lets you search for channels within a certain genre or category
- Up to 30 SiriusXM Satellite Radio station presets
- Channels containing content unsuitable for children can be blocked
Built-In Bluetooth
Bluetooth Technology: The Clarion FX503 is equipped with built-in Bluetooth (ver. 2.1+EDR), allowing you to make and receive phone calls wirelessly through the receiver; as well as stream music wirelessly from your smartphone to the head unit. In order to use Bluetooth wireless technology, your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to interpret certain profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth Profiles:
- Hands-Free Communication: HFP 1.5 (Hands Free Profile), PBAB 1.0 (Phone Book Access Profile), HSP 1.0 (Headset Profile).
- Audio Streaming: A2DP 1.2 (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP 1.4 (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).
SPP (Secure Simple Pairing): With Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the Clarion FX503 without having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. Once a device is paired, the registered Bluetooth device will automatically connect to the receiver when it is in close proximity (up to 30') to the receiver. You can register up to five Bluetooth-enabled devices with the Clarion head unit (only one paired phone can be used at a time).
Hands-Free Communication (w/ integrated Mic): The FX503 supports Bluetooth hands-free communication from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone (such as your iPhone or Android smartphone). The FX503 can be set to automatically answer your incoming calls and mute any music audio to your vehicle's speakers so you can instantly carry on a phone conversation hands-free. The unit's integrated microphone carries on your side of the conversation while your car's speakers are used to hear the other person. You can make a call by entering the phone number, selecting a contact from your Phonebook list, or using the Call History Log of received/dialed/missed calls.
- Answering A Call: During an incoming call, the caller's phone number will be seen on the unit's LCD and a ring-tone will be heard through your car stereo speakers. You can then manually answer the incoming call from the head unit's front-panel controls. You can also set the unit to automatically answer an incoming call within 5 seconds.
- Making A Call: You can make a call using the Clarion in-dash head unit's front-panel controls. Outgoing calls can be made by entering telephone numbers directly via the head unit's touchscreen (when parking brake is engaged only). You can also search for contact names in your mobile phone's phonebook from the Clarion FX503 and then make your call; the head unit can store up to 1000 contact numbers. In addition, you can make a call by searching your mobile phone's call history (Received/Dialed/Missed) from the Clarion FX503.
Optional External Microphone: The Clarion RCB-204 (sold separately) is an external microphone which can be connected to the FX503's rear-panel mic input. The external microphone provides better performance in noisy environments than the integrated microphone found on the front-panel.
Wireless Audio Streaming (w/ Advanced Music Navigation): The Clarion FX503 can stream & control music from your Bluetooth A2DP/AVRCP mobile device (such as your iPhone or Android smartphone). You'll be able to stream stored music and music apps on your mobile device to the FX503 receiver. The unit offers basic playback functions (Play/Pause, FF/RW, Skip, & Random/Repeat) for stored music and music apps. In addition, the FX503 provides a Track List of the stored music on your smartphone (AVRCP 1.4 phones only) and even offers Playlist/Artist/Album/Song/Genre/etc. browsing for stored music on your iPod/iPhone (iOS 6.0+); as a result you can find your music much quicker. The head unit will also display your stored music and music app song information; such as Artist name and Song/Album title.
microSD + USB Playback
MicroSD Card Slot: The FX503 is fitted with a front-panel microSD card slot for playback of music files stored on a microSD/SDHC card. The unit is not compatible with microSDXC cards over 32 GB.
USB Port: The Clarion multimedia receiver features a rear-panel USB type-A port and comes with a 5' USB extension cable that allows you to connect a portable USB mass-storage class (MSC) device; such as select Android devices (Froyo/Gingerbread 2.2+ OS only), digital audio players, and thumbdrives. USB portable audio devices that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the multimedia receiver's USB port (5V/1A), and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.
Compatible Media Files: The Clarion FX503 supports the following types of music files loaded onto a USB mass storage class device or microSD/SDHC memory card.
Media Type | Flash (USB + microSD/SDHC) |
---|---|
File System | FAT 16/32 |
Audio Files | MP3: bit rate of 8-320kbps w/ sampling rates of 8-48kHz WMA: bit rate of 5-320kbps w/ sampling rates of 8-48kHz |
Maximum # of Folders/Files | 512 folders/8,000 files (255 files per folder) |
Tags | MP3 ID3-tags (ver. 1.0/1.1/2.2/2.3/2.4), WMA-tags |
Playback Operations: The Clarion FX503 offers a variety of playback & search functions for USB devices and microSD/SDHC memory card.
- Track List: This function allows you to select audio tracks from a displayed list of tracks within in a folder.
- Direct Search: You can select a specific MP3/WMA track from a USB device or microSD memory card.
- Skip Search: Tracks are skipped down or up from the current location, as many times as the key is pressed, and then playback starts.
- Fast Forward/Rewind : The FX503 offers a fast forward and rewind function to quickly move through the current track.
- Scan: The first 10 seconds of each music track on a USB device or microSD card is played.
- Repeat/Random: You can play back individual tracks repeatedly. You can also randomly playback audio tracks within a folder.
Parental Lock: You can set and change the level of parental lock. This function allows cutting scenes that are unfavorable for children or replacing them automatically with other scenes prepared in advance. There are 5 levels of parental lock that are protected by a custom user 4-digit password.
Mounting Angle: For proper playback, you must install the unit within 35° of horizontal.
Audio Section
MOSFET Amplifier: The Clarion FX503 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.
- CEA2006 Specs: 18 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 1% THD-N)
- Maximum Power Output: 50 watts x 4 channels (200 watts total)
6ch/4V RCA Output + Sub Level Control: The Clarion FX503 features 6ch/4V RCA line level outputs (Front/Rear/Sub). The non-fading subwoofer preamp output features an independent level control (+/-6).
Built-in Crossovers: The Clarion FX503 is equipped with built-in low-pass and high-pass crossovers.
- Low-Pass Subwoofer Filter: The Low-Pass Filter (LPF) for the subwoofer preamp output 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 50Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz, or Through (full-range).
- High-Pass Filter: The FX503 features a High-Pass Filter (HPF) for the unit's front & rear channels, via speaker-output or preamp-output. You can adjust the high-pass filter from 50Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz, or Through (full-range). The HPF prevents low bass notes from distorting your front & rear speakers. The high-pass filter setting effects both the front & rear channels of the head unit.
Intelligent Tune: Clarion's sound technology was developed to turn the car interior into an excellent listening environment. "Intelligent Tune" includes Vocal Image Control to move the vocal to a specific seat in the car, Sound Restorer for full quality sound reproduction of compressed audio data, Virtual Bass for powerful bass without subwoofer, and other exciting sound technologies.
- Graphic EQ: Choose one of six Preset EQ Modes (Bass.B, High.B, Acoustic, Impact, Smooth, or Flat) that best matches your style of music. Or, you can manually adjust the unit's 6-band graphic EQ (60Hz/250Hz/820Hz/1.6kHz/5kHz/16kHz) for a more custom sound. Save up to 3 customized user presets.
- Loudness: The Loudness feature compensates for deficiencies in the low and high sound ranges at low volume.
- Virtual Bass: Enhances bass output in car stereo system for richer bass sound.
- Vocal Image Control: The vocals can be adjusted front-to-rear and left-to-right in order to reproduce a more powerful vocal soundstage.
- Sound Restorer: Restores compressed audio media, such as MP3 or WMA, closely to the original soundtrack to enable a more enriched, detail sound quality.
- Volume Smoother: Volume Smoother automatically adjusts differences in volume level of all kinds of music sources and scenes and compensates the volume level. When Volume Smoother is on, the volume level is monitored and adjusted at all times, and differences in volume level are suppressed to a fixed range to enhance listening pleasure.
Beep Tone: The in-dash head unit provides an audible beep to confirm button operation. This function can be turned On or Off.
Audio/Video Connections
Dual AV Inputs: The Clarion FX503 is equipped with AV input terminals on the front and rear of the unit to enable enjoyment of content from an external connected source. The rear composite video/stereo RCA inputs are ideal for permanent installations, while the front AV mini-jack (3.5mm) input will come in handy for quick connection of a portable audio/visual source.
Video Output: The FX503 is equipped with a single composite video output for connecting a rear monitor (sold separately). The same source will be displayed on the rear monitor's screen as displayed on the head unit's touchscreen monitor. HDMI sources cannot be displayed through the head unit's video output.
Optional Camera Input: You can connect an optional rear-view camera (such as the 020CC510, sold separately) to the FX503 using Clarion's proprietary CCA-644 Rear Vision Camera input cable (020CCA644, sold separately). This proprietary rear-view camera input cable consists of a proprietary connector on one end which plugs into the proprietary camera port on the rear-panel of the FX503 and a composite video jack on the other end which plugs into your backup camera (sold separately).
- Auto Rear-View Switching: When an optional rear-view camera is connected to this unit, the rear view image is displayed on the head unit's screen when your vehicle is placed in reverse gear (purple/white wire of harness must be connected to reverse light wire of vehicle). Automatic video switching takes approximately 2.0 seconds.
- Guide & Marker Lines: In addition to the rear-view image, marker lines are displayed in order to assist you further while backing up.
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