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Pioneer DEH-X8500BH CD receiver

Item # 130X8500BH

Whatever you look for in a CD receiver, you'll probably find it in Pioneer's DEH-X8500BH.

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Whatever you look for in a CD receiver, you'll probably find it in Pioneer's DEH-X8500BH.

5 questions - 25 answers

Item # 130X8500BH

Shop all Pioneer Car Stereos

About the Pioneer DEH-X8500BH

Ken Nail

Loaded

Whatever you look for in a CD receiver, you'll probably find it in Pioneer's DEH-X8500BH. It's got plenty of media options, sharp styling, a great-looking display, plus plenty of power and expansion options. And Pioneer built two very attractive features into this receiver, both ready for you to enjoy:

Loaded

Pioneer DEH-X8500BH

Whatever you look for in a CD receiver, you'll probably find it in Pioneer's DEH-X8500BH. It's got plenty of media options, sharp styling, a great-looking display, plus plenty of power and expansion options. And Pioneer built two very attractive features into this receiver, both ready for you to enjoy:

  • Bluetooth®: If you're still driving with one hand with your phone in the other, you'll be amazed how much easier (and safer) Bluetooth makes your drive time. When your phone rings, you'll see the phone number displayed clearly on the big screen – no more squinting down at the tiny screen on your phone. If you want to take the call, just touch a button on the Pioneer and talk with both hands on the wheel. You can also stream music wirelessly from almost any Bluetooth device through the receiver.
  • HD Radio:  The DEH-X8500BH's built-in HD Radio tuner puts the best-sounding radio around on tap in your dash. You tune into free HD Radio broadcasts just like you do with old-school analog radio, but you'll enjoy much better sound quality. And many stations broadcasting digital HD Radio signals offer secondary or tertiary channels, so you can tune into alternate programmng without having to change stations.

Take the party on the road with MIXTRAX

Pioneer's offers a whole new audio and visual experience in your car. MIXTRAX works with the playlists and music files of your connected iPhone®, iPod®, or Android™, adding DJ-inspired transitions between songs, while pulsing the variable color display of the receiver in time to the music. And it's easy to use — just press the "MIX" button on the receiver's face when you want to take the show up a notch. You'll still appreciate the looks of this Pioneer when you're not using MIXTRAX — you can easily choose from preset or custom colors for the display and controls, for a perfect match with your dash illumination. And Pioneer's Organic Electro-Luminescent display offers a variety of animated backgrounds too.

Make your music sparkle

When you get right down to it, most people buy a new car receiver because they want better sound, and Pioneer has hit that mark. Pioneer's rock-solid amplifier provides plenty of power, and you'll find an impressive set of sound controls on hand, including a 5-band equalizer to adjust your tone and Pioneer's Advanced Sound Retriever to liven up your compressed music. Whether you're sliding in a CD or plugging in your mobile device, you'll enjoy sound that'll make drive time one of your favorite times of day.

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 Pioneer stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the Pioneer, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. Check the "Accessories" tab for compatible adapters.

Note: Bluetooth compatibility of this device may vary, depending on your phone and service provider.

Note: If you're going to use your iPod with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for specific iPod model compatibility with this receiver or its optional iPod adapter.

READ LESS

Product highlights:

    General features:
    • CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
    • built-in MOSFET amplifier (14 watts RMS CEA-2006/50 peak x 4 channels)
    • built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
    • built-in HD Radio tuner
    • MIXTRAX for a DJ-inspired audio/visual experience with compatible devices
    • plays CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs, including discs loaded with MP3, WMA, and AAC files
    • Pandora control through iPhone
    • variable color illumination with separate control of display and buttons
    • remote control
    Audio features:
    • Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR) for improved sound quality from compressed music files
    • 5-band equalizer with seven preset tone settings
    • 3-level loudness
    • low-pass and high-pass filters
    • subwoofer level control
    Expandability:
    • built in iPod control — no adapter necessary, but adding Pioneer's optional connecting cable lets you leave your iPod cable at home
    • access to music files on Android devices through USB input
    • inputs: front panel auxiliary input; rear USB port
    • outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear/subwoofer)
    Other info:
    • compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
    • CEA-2006 compliant
    • warranty: 1 year
    • MFR # DEH-X8500BH

    What's in the box:

    • CD receiver (with 10-amp ATM mini fuse inserted into chassis)
    • Face (attached)
    • Sleeve (installed)
    • Trim ring (installed)
    • Wiring harness
    • 59" USB extension cable (w/ a male USB type-A connector on one end and a female USB type-A connector on other end)
    • Wireless remote control (QXE1044)
    • CR2025 Lithium battery (installed)
    • Microphone (w/ attached 13' cable termianted by a right-angle 2.5mm connector)
    • Visor-bracket
    • Two-sided tape
    • 2 Extraction keys
    • 4 Pan head ISO-mount screws (M5 x 8mm)
    • 4 Flat-head ISO-mount screws (M5 x 9mm)
    • Owner's Manual (En/Fr/Sp)
    • Limited Warranty Information (USA/Canada)

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    More details on the Pioneer DEH-X8500BH

    Stacey B.

    Features & specs

    Expandability
    AUX Input Front
    Audio/video Input ---
    USB Input Rear
    USB Port Power ---
    Backup Camera Input No
    Second Camera Input No
    CarPlay No
    Android Auto No
    Siri Control No
    Alexa Voice Control
    Android Control Yes
    Memory Card Slot USB memory
    Bluetooth Compatible Built-in
    Satellite Radio Ready No
    HD Radio Built-in
    Navigation ---
    iPod Compatibility
    Full size Classic/5Gen
    Nano 7/6/5/4/3/2/1/
    Touch 5/4/3/2/1/
    iPhone 5/4S/4/3GS/3GS/2G
    General
    RMS Power (CTA-2006) 14 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 No
    Navigation App Compatible (iOS)
    Navigation App Compatible (Android)
    Preamp Voltage 4 volts
    Screen Size ---
    Screen Type ---
    Display Color Variable
    Key Button Color Variable
    EQ Bands 5
    Wireless Remote Yes
    Steering Wheel Control Compatible Adapter required
    Parts Warranty 1 Year
    Labor Warranty 1 Year
    Tuner
    FM Sensitivity 9 dBf
    European Tuning No
    Seek/Scan Seek
    Radio Data System Yes
    File Playback
    Music File Playback MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV
    High-res Playback
    The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH replaces these items:

    Product Research

    Built-in Bluetooth
    USB/iPod/Aux Integration
    Pandora App Control
    HD Radio
    Disc Playback
    Audio Section
    Display Features
    Remote Control

    Built-in Bluetooth

    Bluetooth Technology: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH is equipped with built-in Bluetooth (version 3.0), 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 (Hands Free Profile), HSP (Head Set Profile), OPP (Object Push Profile), PBAB (Phone Book Access Profile).
    • Audio Streaming: A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).

    SPP (Secure Simple Pairing): With Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the DEH-X8500BH without having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. When a registered Bluetooth device is in close proximity to the receiver, the auto connection function automatically pairs the two units. Up to 3 Bluetooth-compatible devices can be registered to this head unit. Only one device can be used at a time. Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the Pioneer DEH-X8500BH.

    Hands-Free Communication: The DEH-X8500BH supports wireless hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The head unit will display the caller's information and an audible ring tone will be heard through your vehicle's speaker during an incoming call. You can manually answer an incoming call or have the unit automatically answer the call. The DEH-X8500BH allows you to carry on a phone conversation from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone using the head unit's external microphone and your car audio speakers. During a conversation you can adjust the volume, as well as switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your cell phone) and the Hands Free Mode. Using the DEH-X8500BH, you can dial a phone number in one of the following ways:

    • Phone Book: The phone book in your Bluetooth enabled cellular phone will be transferred automatically when the phone is paired to this unit. After finding the number you want to call in the phone book from the head unit, you can select the entry and make the call. If a lot of numbers are registered in the phone book, you can search for a phone number by the contact person's name alphabetically (A-Z).
    • Call Log: The most recent calls dialed, received, and missed are stored in memory. You can browse them and call numbers from these lists.

    External Microphone: During your wireless phone call, you can talk into the head unit's included external microphone, and listen to the other party through the vehicle's speaker system. The external microphone provides better performance in noisy environments than the integrated microphone found on the front-panel of many aftermarket or factory radios. The microphone features a 13' cord that plugs into the back of the radio, and comes with a visor-mount clip. The microphone measures 0.475" (diameter) x 1.445" (depth).

    Wireless Audio Streaming (with Meta Data Display): The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP) of a Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone. The DEH-X8500BH will be able to control your stored music's basic playback functions; such as Play/Pause, Previous/Next Track, Fast-Forward/Reverse, and Repeat/Random. The head unit will also display your stored music's song information; such as Artist name, Song title, and Album label. The DEH-X8500BH also supports audio streaming of music apps (metadata display and control will depend on music app). When an incoming call or outgoing call is in progress from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone, audio streaming will be paused so you can take your call. Once the call is finished, your streaming music will resume.

    Voice Recognition: The head unit's voice recognition feature can be used to control basic phone and music functions of your Bluetooth-enabled iPod or iPhone (which is also equipped with voice recognition). Press and hold the head unit's front-panel 3-way rotary knob and speak into the included external microphone.

    USB/iPod/Aux Integration

    Rear-Panel USB Input: The unit's rear-panel USB (type-A) port and 59" USB extension cable allows you to connect a USB Mass Storage Class (MSC) compliant device; such as select Android smartphones (Froyo/Gingerbread OS only), portable digital audio players, or USB thumbdrives. The USB port enables audio playback & control of AAC, MP3, WMA, and WAV audio files stored on portable USB mass-storage class devices. Basic playback functions include; Play/Pause, Fast Forward/Rewind, Previous/Next Track, Random (Folder), and Repeat (File/Folder/All). Advance playback functions include; Music Browsing which lets you browse your USB memory device's music library by Artist, Album, Song, or Genre from the head unit in alphabetical order; and Link Play which allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. Link Play lets the head unit create an album list of the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, or an album list of the currently playing genre. In addition, the unit is compatible with ID3/WMA Tags and will display song/artist information. USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port (1A) and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

    File Format File Type File Extension Bit Rate Sampling Frequency Tags # of Files/folders
    FAT 12/16/32 AAC .m4a 16-320 kbps 11.025-48 kHz iTunes tag 1,500 folders
    15,000 files
    MP3 .mp3 8-320 kbps 32, 44.1, 48 kHz ID3 tag (version 1.0/1.1/2.2/2.3/2.4)
    WMA .wma 48-320 kbps (48-384 kbps VBR) 32, 44.1, 48 kHz WMA tag
    WAV .wav 8 or 16-bit 16-48kHz or 22.05-44.1kHz N/A
    Note: You cannot connect a USB device via a USB hub or Multi-Card Reader to this unit.

    iPod Direct Connection w/ DAC Bypass: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH's rear-panel USB port and 59" USB extension cable can be used to connect your iPod/iPhone to the head unit, via Pioneer's dock connector-to-USB cable (130CDIU51, sold separately) or the dock connector-to-USB cable which comes with your iPod/iPhone. If you have an iPod nano (7th gen), iPod touch (5th gen), or iPhone 5; use the Lighting-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to connect to the head unit. Using either cable, DEH-X8500BH supports audio playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of your compatible iPod/iPhone. The USB connection allows your iPod/iPhone's stored music to be loaded instantly to the head unit and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 24-bit D/A converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 94dB. The Pioneer head unit supports audio playback of music, podcasts, audiobooks, and music apps stored on your iPod or iPhone. The head unit will display your iPod/iPhone's stored music file information, including - Track number, Folder number, Elapsed playing time, Song title, Artist name, and Album title. 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). You can choose to operate your iPod/iPhone through the head unit's front-panel controls, from its clickwheel/touchscreen, or via a streamed app from your iPhone.

    • Head Unit: From the head unit, you can browse your iPod/iPhone's music library by Artist, Album, Song, Genre, Playlist, Composer, Podcast, or Audiobook (your iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen will be locked). Once you have selected a category, you can search each category alphabetically. In addition, the head unit offers Link Search, which allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. Link Search lets the head unit create an album list of the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, or an album list of the currently playing genre. You can also select Random & Repeat functions for a certain song or specific folder.
    • iPod: In iPod mode, you can navigate the stored music on your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or touchscreen, while still being able to view song/artist information on the head unit's LCD.
    • App Mode: App mode lets you listen to your favorite music apps, such as iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, Rhapsody, & Slacker from your iPhone (iOS 3.0+) through the Pioneer head unit and your vehicle's speakers. Not all apps will be compatible with App Mode and App Mode will provide only limited (basic), if any, control over the app. Available controls may include; Play/Pause & Skip Previous/Next. There is no music information displayed when this unit is set to 'App Mode'. Instead, all music information will be displayed on your iPod/iPhone's LCD screen. The head unit's LCD will only display the text - 'App Mode'.

    iPod Compatibility Chart: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model functions (as of 12/4/2012):

    iPod Model Generation Tested Version Media Type Control Type Display Type Pandora app iTunes Tagging Bluetooth Charge
    Audio Video Head Unit iPod App mode Artist/Song Text Track Info Phone Audio
    iPhone 2G 3.1.3 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
    3G 4.2.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    3GS 5.1.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    4 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    4S 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    5 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
    touch 1st 2.2.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    2nd 4.2.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y Y
    3rd 5.1.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y Y
    4th 6.0.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y Y
    5th 6.0.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y Y
    nano 1st 1.3.1 Y N Y N N Y Y N N N N Y
    2nd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y N N N N Y
    3rd 1.1.3 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    4th 1.0.4 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    5th 1.0.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    6th 1.1 PC Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    7th 1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y Y
    classic 80GB 1.1.2 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    120GB 2.0.1 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    160GB 2.0.4 Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N Y
    video 5th 1.3 Y N Y N N Y Y N N N N Y
    iPad 1 5.1.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N
    2 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N
    3 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N
    4 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N
    mini 6.0.1 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N
    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.

    MIXTRAX: Drawing from Pioneer's rich DJ heritage and passion for music, MIXTRAX delivers a unique DJ infused listening experience to listeners in the car. MIXTRAX is an innovative Pioneer technology that creates a non-stop mix of your music library complete with a range of DJ-inspired effects. MIXTRAX takes your typical music listening experience and creates a non-stop mix of your music with 9 random DJ effects and transitions, by removing the breaks and pauses normally introduced between tracks and replacing them with various beats. MIXTRAX is compatible with USB-connected iPhone, iPod, USB MSC device, and select Android devices. There is also a Short Playback option which limits the amount of time each track plays; select from 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 minutes.

    Note: The MIXTRAX function does not work in App mode or with the Pandora App for iPod/iPhone/iPad.

    Auxiliary Input: The DEH-X8500BH is equipped with a front-panel 3.5mm stereo minijack auxiliary input for connecting external components, such as a portable MP3 player.

    Pandora App Control

    Pandora Internet Radio: Pandora is the leading Internet Radio music service in the United States, giving people music they love anytime, anywhere, through personalized radio stations. The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH CD receiver lets you playback and control the Pandora Internet Radio music service that is being streamed to your Apple iPhone or Android smartphone. Your iPhone or Androidsmartphone will need an active Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. In addition, you will need an active Pandora music service account.

    • Pandora App for iPhone: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH provides complete access to your Pandora account using your iPhone, via the head unit's front-panel USB port. To access Pandora you must have an Apple iPhone (iOS3 or later) with the latest version of the Pandora App from Apple's iTunes App Store.
    • Pandora via Android: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH lets you playback and control Pandora Internet Radio streamed from your Android smartphone, via Bluetooth (no hard-wired connection required). To access Pandora from the Pioneer head unit, your Bluetooth-enabled Android smartphone must have the latest version of the Pandora App from the Google Play App Store. Your Android smartphone must support A2DP, AVRCP, and SPP Bluetooth profiles.

    Note: Access to the Pandora service will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your iPhone or smartphone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in Canada and only available in the United States.

    Pandora Control: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH will provide control over the Pandora music service streamed to your USB-connected iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled or Android smartphone.

    • Station List: You can select Pandora stations from your Station List by date or alphabetically (A-Z).
    • QuickMix: QuickMix allows you to listen to songs played on one or more Pandora stations in your Station List randomly. You will need to edit your QuickMix station selections on the phone before connection.
    • 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.

    Information Display: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH will display Artist, Album, & Song information provided by the Pandora app on your iPhone or Android smartphone.

    HD Radio

    HD Radio: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH's built-in HD Radio tuner lets you listen to the radio with the same fidelity as your digital music. HD Radio is the system for digital AM and FM broadcasting in the U.S. More than 2,000 radio stations are broadcasting their primary signals in digital HD Radio technology, as a free service. HD Radio features high quality audio, FM multicasting, and data services. With HD Radio, your FM stations offer near CD-quality sound, AM stations provide FM-like sound, and there is crystal-clear reception with no audio distortion. Best of all, HD Radio is 100% subscription free. The unit's tuner also supports analog AM/FM broadcasts. Go to HDRadio.com to check for HD Radio stations in your area.

    Multicasting: In addition to conventional broadcasts, with HD Radio broadcasting it is possible to choose from up to 3 multicast programs (HD1 to HD3, and analog). There are also data programs for each program.

    RDS: The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast information such as artist, title, and album when listening to compatible analog or HD AM/FM stations.

    iTunes Tagging: It is possible to save the song's information (tag) from a HD Radio or RDS FM broadcasting station to your USB-direct connected iPod/iPhone. The songs will show up in a playlist called "Tagged" in iTunes the next time you sync your iPod/iPhone. Then you can directly buy the songs you want from the iTunes Music Store.

    Supertuner IIID: The Supertuner IIID features Feed Forward Control, which avoids multi-path interference. This pre-detection of interference enables quick filter control and results in less distortion. In addition, the Supertuner IIID creates enhanced stereo during multi-path interference, unlike conventional tuners that collapse to mono. Digital processing reduces distortion, and improves Signal-to-Noise Ratio and stereo separation. Advanced analog technology improves signal processing sensitivity.

    Reception Blending: If a digital broadcast reception condition gets poor, this unit automatically switches to the analog broadcast of the same frequency level. If this function is set to "On", the tuner switches between digital broadcast and analog broadcast automatically. If this function is 'Off', reception will be conducted within an analog broadcast.

    BSM (Best Stations Memory): The BSM (Best Stations Memory) function lets you automatically store the six strongest analog or HD stations under presets 1-6 of the currently tuned band. The tuner has 3 FM banks and 1 AM bank. You can store 6 presets for each bank giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM presets.

    Local Tuning: Local seek tuning lets you tune in only those radio stations with sufficiently strong signals for good reception. There are 4 level of sensitivity for FM and two levels for AM. The higher settings allow reception of only the strongest stations, while lower settings let you receive progressively weaker stations.

    Disc Playback

    Compatible Discs: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH supports playback of CD-Audio, CD-R, and CD-RW discs.

    MP3/WMA Playback: This unit can play MP3 and WMA files recorded on CD-R and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2, Joliet, and Romeo formats. MP3 files with a bit rate from 8-320 kbps, WMA files with a constant bit rate from 48-320 kbps, and WMA files with a variable bit rate from 48-384 kbps are supported. The unit is compatible with ID3 Tags and will display artist, folder, file, and album name. Up to 8 directories, 99 folders and 999 files per disc are recognized by this unit.

    AAC Decoding: This unit will playback AAC files with a bit rate of 16-320 kbps (encoded by iTunes) recorded onto CD-R and CD-RW discs. The AAC file (.m4a) must originate from iTunes. The AAC file must also not contain DRM protection. Not compatible with Apple Lossless.

    WAV File Playback: The DEH-X8500BH offers playback of audio WAV files recorded onto CD-R and CD-RW discs. The head unit supports 8-bit and 16-bit LPCM (Linear PCM) WAV files with a sampling frequency between 16 to 48 kHz.

    File/Track Name List: The Name List feature displays a list of MP3/WMA folders and tracks on a loaded CD or connected USB device, so you can easily access your music.

    Off Insert/Eject: A CD disc can be inserted or ejected with the power off. When a disc is inserted with the power off, the unit will automatically power up and begin playback.

    Auto Off Eject: When you eject a disc, the unit will automatically power off (unless you switch sources before ejecting the disc).

    Installation Angle: Optimum CD playback performance is obtained when the unit is installed at an angle of less than 60-degrees.

    Audio Section

    24 Bit D/A Converter: The Pioneer in-dash head unit utilizes a 24-bit digital to analog converter for superior sound quality.

    MOSFET Amplifier: The DEH-X8500BH 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 specifications for the DEH-X8500BH 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.

    • CEA2006 Specs: 14 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 1% THD-N)
    • Continuous Power Output: 22 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 50Hz-15kHz, 5% THD)
    • Maximum Power Output: 50 watts x 4 channels

    Advanced Sound Retriever: The Advanced Sound Retriever automatically enhances compressed audio and restores the original richness of the recording. Hear the detail, warmth, and clarity, the way the artist intended it, from all of your highly compressed MP3 and WMA files stored on your USB device, iPod/iPhone, and portable media players. By restoring data (especially higher frequencies) that tends to get lost in the digital compression process, Pioneer's Advanced Sound Retriever technology enhances audio reproduction nearly all the way up to 20 kHz frequencies

    Equalizer: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH features a Preset & Custom EQ. The built-in equalizer offers 7 preset sound modes (Powerful, Dynamic, Vocal, Natural, Custom 1, Custom 2, and Flat) suitable for the music genre of your choice. The two Custom modes allow you to manually adjust the head unit's 5-band EQ (100Hz, 315Hz, 1,25kHz, 3.15kHz, 8kHz) from +/-6dB. Custom 1 can be set separately for each source (except for USB/iPod/Pandora); while Custom 2 and the other 5 presets are shared settings used for all sources.

    Bass Boost The DEH-X8500BH features a bass boost function which can be used to enhance low-frequency bass sound. The bass boost function can be set between 0-6.

    Loudness: The Loudness feature compensates for deficiencies in the low and high sound ranges at low volume. You can set the Loudness feature to Low, Mid, High, or Off.

    Source Level Adjustment (SLA): This function lets you adjust the volume level of each source to prevent radical changes in volume when switching between sources. Settings are based on the volume level of the FM tuner, which remains unchanged. Each source can be independently adjusted from -4dB to +4dB.

    4V/6CH Preamp Outputs: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH features three pair of 4.0-volt preamp outputs (Front/Rear/Subwoofer). The unit's front and rear preamp output can be faded (front/rear), while the subwoofer preamp output is non-fading.

    Crossovers: The DEH-X8500BH employs high pass and low pass crossovers to tailor the head unit to your connected speakers.

    • HPF: The head unit's 12dB/octave high pass filter only allows frequencies higher than those in the selected range (50, 63, 80, 100, 125Hz) to your front and rear speakers through the unit's speaker-level or line-level outputs.
    • LPF: The subwoofer preamp output features an18dB/octave low pass filter so only frequencies lower than those in the selected range (50, 63, 80, 100, 125Hz) are output to your connected subwoofer.

    Subwoofer Controls: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH lets you adjust the subwoofer preamp output's phase (normal/reverse) and volume (+6 to -24).

    Switchable Rear Channel/Subwoofer Speaker Output: The rear speaker outputs can be set to provide full range output with full fading capability, or they can be set to provide non-fading subwoofer (low-pass) output. When the rear speaker outputs are set to subwoofer mode, the rear preamp outputs also switch from full range to subwoofer outputs. When set for subwoofer operation, you can connect the rear speaker leads directly to two small 4-ohm passive subwoofers or a dual voice coil sub with 4-ohm voice coils. If you prefer to use a single 2-ohm subwoofer, you can connect the woofer to one set of speaker leads, leaving the other set of rear leads disconnected. The maximum output provided when a 2-ohm load is connected to one set of leads is 70 watts.

    Display Features

    Detachable Face Security: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH in-dash CD receiver features Detachable Face Security. If the front-panel is not detached from the head unit within five seconds of turning off the ignition, a warning tone will sound. The warning tone can be turned off in the menu, if desired. No face case is included with this unit. An optional soft face case (142DFC1X, sold separately) can be purchased for this unit.

    Large Full-Dot LCD: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH features a 3-line, full-dot LCD which makes it easier to see what is playing in most lighting conditions. You can easily view file/folder lists from your MP3, WMA, AAC, and CD Text-encoded discs, Radio presets, or data from your connected iPod/iPhone. The contrast of the display can be set between 0 and 15.

    Color Customization: Color Customization lets the user match their receiver illumination to their vehicle's interior lighting. Over 210,000 colors are available to match the illumination of almost any car. The button illumination and display illumination colors can be customized separately for an endless number of color combinations. You can select from 27 preset colors (White to Rose), customize an illumination color (by adjusting Red, Blue, and Green brightness levels), or scan through various color settings (All/Warm/Ambient/Calm/Custom).

    MIXTRAX Illumination: MIXTRAX features a club-style illumination that enhances the mood with a dynamic dance club-like lighting effect. As MIXTRAX begins, lights start pulsing to the beat of the music, adding an extra level of entertainment. You can choose among twelve patterns of lighting variations from sound pressure level or low-pass synchronization modes. The lighting effects work like a spectrum analyzer, reaching peak colors based on the intensity of the music. You can also choose which area's of the head unit's face illuminates; select Display, Keys, Both or Off.

    Multi-Language Display: For your convenience, this unit is equipped with a multiple language display. You can select the language which is best suited to your first language - English, French, or Spanish.

    Ever Scroll: When the Ever Scroll feature is set to On, recorded text information scrolls continuously on the display. It will auto-scroll up to 64 characters. Set this feature to Off if you prefer the information to scroll only once.

    Entertainment Displays: You can enjoy entertainment displays while listening to each sound source. You can choose from the following; Background Visual, Genre, Background Picture (1/2/3/4), Simple Display, Movie Screen, or Calendar.

    Calendar/Clock Display: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BH provides time, date, month, and year display. You can choose to have the head unit display the calendar and clock even when the unit is powered off (your vehicle must be running or in the accessory position.

    Automatic Dimmer: To prevent the display from being too bright at night, the display is automatically dimmed when the car's headlights are turned on. You can turn the auto dimmer feature on or off. The automatic dimmer function only works when the orange/white illumination wire in the wiring harness is connected to the vehicle's headlight circuit.

    Display Illumination/Clock Display: When the Clock Display has been turned on, pressing and holding the "SRC" button turns off audio output, but the clock display and button illumination remains on (you can press the "Clock" button to turn off). When the Clock Display has been turned off, pressing and holding the "SRC" button turns the unit off completely. Even if you have turned the radio completely off you can view the clock display by pressing the "Clock" button. The clock will then remain On until you turn it back Off. When the unit is On, both clock and source information can be displayed at the same time; or you can set the unit to display only source info or only clock/calendar.

    Engine Time Alert: This setting allows you to measure the length of time that elapses from when the head unit is turned on and display the amount of elapsed time per set period (15 min., 30 min., or Off). There will also be an audible alarm. This function is handy if you are listening to the radio with the vehicle' ignition is in the accessory position, and the engine off.

    Demo Mode: This unit features a Demo mode which can be turned On/Off within the menu.

    Remote Control

    Wireless Remote Control: The DEH-X8500BH comes with an IR wireless remote control. The remote allows you to control the volume, switch between sources, pause the CD, change the display, and adjust the audio. You can also mute the volume (function that cannot be performed from the front panel). In addition, you can answer and end a phone call from your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone.

    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). Please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to see if your vehicle is compatible.

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    Customer Q&A

    5 questions already asked

    Q
    Is there a memory card slot?
    ray  Jun 02, 2014
    2 answers
    A
    No, there is no memory card slot, but it does have a USB port that you can connect to a smartphone or MP3 player.
    camilo  Jun 02, 2014
    A
    No, not that i' know of. You could possibly use a usb adaptor for a memory card?
    josh  Jun 02, 2014
    Q
    So I had my deck hooked up to an amp or rather an amp to the deck but I fried my amp when I sank my jeep in a river. ( yes it was fun) but I am Un able to purchase another amp so I decided to hook up rear speakers through the decks wire harness. Now I have a really bad static that retry much enables me to turn up the volume very loud. I've tried everything I know to try and fix it and I am savvy when it comes to the installation procedures. Could you lease help me figure this out. I have a 1991 jeep Cherokee and a pioneer DE X8500BH?
    anthony  May 13, 2014
    2 answers
    A
    The only thing I can tell you is to check the ground wires since a lot of it got wet and you may have corrosion and more power used when you turn it up may be effected by the ground or interference. you may also check to see the that the wires on the rear speaker are not crossed. That is all I can suggest . I am just taking for granted the actual radio did not get wet.
    tim  May 15, 2014
    A
    If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.
    greg  May 13, 2014 (Staff)
    Q
    Has anyone tried to pair with an iPhone 5s?
    alexis  Apr 07, 2014
    7 answers
    A
    Worked fine with mine. Hope this helps. Great unit!
    jason  Apr 08, 2014
    A
    Pairs fine with my iphone5. I have some communication issues with controlling the Pandora app. features. Other wise everything works fine.
    arthur  Apr 08, 2014
    A
    Yes, it pairs and functions fully with the iPhone 5S. I have had no issues.
    zachary  Apr 08, 2014
    A
    I have not tried to pair the 5s but it works fine with my 5.
    tim  Apr 08, 2014
    A
    No, just an iPhone 5, but the Bluetooth is the same between the two. No problems at all!! AWESOME stereo!!!
    christopher k  Apr 08, 2014
    A
    Yes. Works great with mine.
    andrew e  Apr 08, 2014
    A
    I can't speak to an iOS device, but every other Bluetooth device has functioned perfectly.
    douglas  Apr 08, 2014
    Q
    Is the face detachable and does it come with a carrying case?
    jaime  Dec 21, 2013
    13 answers
    A
    The face is detachable but it didn't come with a carrying case
    jonathon  Dec 23, 2013
    A
    Unfortunatley not.
    joseph d  Dec 22, 2013
    A
    The face is detachable, no carrying case though.
    zachary  Dec 22, 2013
    A
    Detachable yes, carrying case no.
    collin  Dec 22, 2013
    A
    Hi. The face is detachable. Mine did not come with a carrying case. I put it in a small pocket in my bag if I take it with me. Mostly I leave it in a hidden spot in the vehicle.
    robert a  Dec 22, 2013
    A
    Detachable yes... Carrying case... No.... It's a good stereo. There's a learning curve, but good sound quality and reception.
    douglas  Dec 22, 2013
    A
    Yes, it's detachable in theory... with the kit that came for my Subaru, the fit is a little too snug for the face to move laterally enough to come off. I don't think it came with a carrying case, might want to check with the service people on that one.
    colin  Dec 22, 2013
    A
    Yes, the face is detachable. Very bottom right corner us the button to remove face plate. Mine did not come with a carrying case but they can be picked up inexpensively on the web.
    donovan  Dec 21, 2013
    A
    Yes, the face is easily detachable. It does not come with a carrying case. The plastic face got scratched the first 2 weeks in my jacket pocket or messenger bag or handbag. I ordered a Scosche DFC1X SoundKase Soft Case for Detachable Single-DIN Faceplates online for a reasonable price. This case is a little large, but it works. I only wish I'd gotten the case sooner.
    linda  Dec 21, 2013
    A
    Yes, the face is detachable. No, it does not come with a carrying case. That said, I love this stereo. Lots of great features. Navigating has a bit of a learning curve, but once you've got it, it's pretty easy.
    john  Dec 21, 2013
    A
    Face is detachable but no case for it.
    andrew e  Dec 21, 2013
    A
    It does not come with a case.
    chris  Dec 21, 2013
    A
    Yes its detachable but I don't remember it coming with a case
    aaron  Dec 21, 2013
    Q
    I have a Hyundai Accent 2008 GS hatchback. I already know this fits, but im just having a problem with the wire harness connecting the pioneer to the stock harness.. Can you help me find the right wire harness?
    ralph jakeson  Dec 07, 2013
    1 answer
    A
    Hi Ralph. Please reach out to an Advisor for quick call or online chat. They'll be able to pull up your vehicle and let you know the exact model number of the harness you will need.
    jeff  Dec 07, 2013 (Staff)
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