Panasonic CQ-DFX700U

Price & Contact: $399.99; 201-348-7000; www.panasonic.com/caraudio
Max output level: 4.9 volts @ 3.7% THD+N
Max undistorted output: 3.9 volts @ 0.1% THD+N
Sub Output : 4.4 volts @ 0.3% THD+N
Relative loudness: –5.9 dBu
Usable dynamic range: –97 dB
THD+N @ full output: 3.7%
Output impedance: 67 ohms
L-R channel error: 0.03 dB
Frequency response: +0 dB, –0.8 dB

Max Output: 39 watts x 4 @ 39% THD+N
Max Undistorted Output: 14 watts x 4 @ 0.03% THD+N
Signal to Noise: –85 dB
Channel Error: 0.13 dB
Frequency Response: +0 dB, –0.8 dB

		Panasonic CQ-DFX700U www.panasonic/caraudio.com
		Panasonic’s latest head unit offers an attractive face with power to boot.		CQ-DFX700U Specs Price & Contact: $399.99; 201-348-7000; www.panasonic.com/caraudio Max output level: 4.9 volts @ 3.7% THD+N Max undistorted output: 3.9 volts @ 0.1% THD+N Sub Output : 4.4 volts @ 0.3% THD+N Relative loudness: –5.9 dBu Usable dynamic range: –97 dB THD+N @ full output: 3.7% Output impedance: 67 ohms L-R channel error: 0.03 dB Frequency response: +0 dB, –0.8 dB Internal Amps Max Output: 39 watts x 4 @ 39% THD+N Max Undistorted Output: 14 watts x 4 @ 0.03% THD+N Signal to Noise: –85 dB Channel Error: 0.13 dB Frequency Response: +0 dB, –0.8 dB
		by Brian Smith

		The CQ-DFX700U is a single-DIN head unit with AM/FM tuner, CD player, and CD changer control. Features include a large multicolor display with 8-band spectrum analyzer, an IR remote, and 3-DSB (3-D Surround & Super Bass) processor. For the ultimate in style, the panel of the head unit flips down to reveal the disc slot. In addition, the front panel is also removable, and a flashing red LED underneath has been included to help deter potential thieves. The CQ-DFX700U boasts the latest version of Panasonic’s “Metal Day & Night” display. While offering a number of very cool appearances depending on the lightning of day or night, the buttons and surrounding panel feature a slick metallic appearance, while the display itself features a half-mirror effect. The CQ-DFX700U provides four preamp outputs, a preamp subwoofer out, internal amps rated at 45 watts x 4 with a MOSFET output stage, and auxiliary RCA inputs. Performance The CQ-DFX700U’s preamp section provides nearly 4 volts of undistorted output with a minimal output impedance of 67 ohms. Maximum output measured nearly 5 volts at a relatively low 3.7% THD+N, and usable dynamic range measured -97 dB with both the zero bit and gate cheater tracks. Of course the power ratings for the internal amps are a bit of a stretch, but, otherwise, they seem to function quite well. Maximum undistorted output at 1 kHz measured about 14 watts x 4 @ 0.03% THD+N, and frequency response is virtually identical to the preamp section. Maximum output measured 39 watts x 4 and may be the new A2000 record holder in that category. However, to say that the signal is clipped at this level would be an understatement. User Evaluation The CQ-DFX700U’s user interface provides a lot of flash, but it can be a little frustrating. All of the unit’s functions are controlled by rocker switches and/or buttons. Controls for the most frequently used functions are grouped in a semi-elliptical protrusion on the left side of the faceplate. While this puts things within easy reach of the driver, the proximity of the Source and Band buttons to the Track/Tune rocker switch may cause problems for those with thick fingers or for those of the fairer sex with long fingernails. One of the features that I really like in this unit is the anti-volume-blast circuit. If the deck’s volume control is left above the midway point when you leave your car, this circuit will gradually turn the volume up to the pre-existing level the next time you jump in. This allows you time to reach for the volume control, thereby avoiding a sudden assault on your ears. This unexpected blast of volume has been a problem since the beginning of automotive audio. Considering the fact that the aftermarket systems can really do the blasting, this has always puzzled us. You have to love a simple fix to a very old problem, every head unit should have one of these circuits.