With the new AIWA CDC-MA01, consumers can transfer MP3 and Windows Media Audio files from their computer onto CD-R or CD-RW discs and play them back in their car on the CDC-MA01. The small size of the compressed digital audio files combined with the large storage capacity of a CD means that a single disc can store many hours of music. In fact, with Windows Media Audio, which offers CD-quality sound at half the file size of MP3, a single standard disc can store more than 20 hours of music.

"A large number of car stereo customers are also heavy users of digital music," said Eileen Toomey, general manager, Marketing for AIWA AMERICA, INC. "That's why AIWA was among the first to offer an MP3-capable car stereo receiver one year ago and why we're now offering a receiver that will play Windows Media Audio files, which provide the same audio quality at half the size of MP3 files and so allow even more music to be stored on a CD."

"Devices like the AIWA CDC-MA01 unlock the full potential of digital music by making it easy to take your favorite tunes with you, wherever you go," said Dave Fester, general manager of the Windows Digital Media Division at Microsoft Corp. "Now with its support for Windows Media Audio, the new AIWA receiver can keep the beat going all the way from New York to New Orleans - with just one disc!"

The CDC-MA01 offers another innovative AIWA feature that further expands playback options - a front panel input jack that allows virtually any portable audio device, such as a cassette, portable CD or MP3 player, to be listened to through the car audio system. Every AIWA car stereo unit offers this feature.

The new AIWA CDC-MA01 is a top-end, fully-featured unit with a built-in four-channel amplifier rated at 50 watts per channel. It features AIWA's Magic Flap, a motorized front panel that automatically flips down and tucks away out of sight to expose the CD slot. When the ignition is turned off, the control panel retracts and a plain black panel covers the unit.

Other CDC-MA01 features include CD changer control, source level adjuster to easily match output levels among different sources, Advanced H-Bass for fine-tuning bass performance, and Advanced Driver's Sound Stage Adjustment (DSSA) that at the push of a button adjusts front/rear fade and left/right balance for ideal stereo imaging at the driver's seat. The unit also offers dual RCA pre-outs, contrast control, a multicolored LCD and dot matrix information display, and a wireless steering wheel remote control.

The AIWA CDC-MA01 will be available in November and carry a suggested list price of $349.95.

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