Pioneer DEH-X3800UI Car Stereo

The Pioneer DEH-X3800UI car stereo is a 1-DIN CD and USB receiver for in-car audio systems. Music can be played from compact discs, USB storage devices or a source connected to the front AUX input. Its detachable faceplate, multicolour illumination and sound adjustment tools make the unit easy to adapt for everyday use.

Choice of music sources

The CD player reads CD, CD-R and CD-RW discs and plays MP3 and WMA files recorded on them. The illuminated front USB port supports MP3, WAV and WMA recordings stored on a USB device.

The front AUX input can be used to connect a portable player or another analogue audio source. Wireless Bluetooth connectivity is not a feature of this model, so buyers who need wireless music streaming should choose a different car stereo.

Direct control of compatible iPod and iPhone devices was provided, including list browsing, music playback and charging. App Mode and Pioneer ARC operation with the iPhone 5 or later are features from an earlier product era. Android App Mode was specified for Android 4.1 or later. Compatibility with current apps and operating systems is not guaranteed.

Controls and display customisation

Dual-zone RGB illumination allows the button colours to be adjusted separately. A choice of 210,000 colours makes it easier to coordinate the car stereo illumination with the vehicle dashboard.

The wide-viewing-angle VA LCD has a 1.5-line, 13-character display. Ten-step brightness adjustment helps reduce distraction in the dark. The unit also provides illumination effects, a light line, an illumination timer and support for displaying Cyrillic characters.

The music browser helps you locate recordings on a USB storage device. MIXTRAX EZ is designed to present different tracks in a more continuous sequence. Power Save Mode reduces unnecessary operation when the unit’s functions are not being used.

Audio system adjustment

The stated maximum output of the MOSFET amplifier is 4 × 50 W. This is a maximum power figure rather than a continuous power measurement. It is suitable for comparing products only when the same measurement conditions are used.

A five-band graphic equaliser lets you adjust individual frequency ranges. Source Level Adjustment helps balance the volume when switching between the radio, a disc and a USB device. Advanced Sound Retriever is intended to improve the sound presentation of compressed music files.

The high-pass filter limits low frequencies sent to the main speakers. The low-pass filter helps with subwoofer adjustment. Two RCA outputs provide front and rear signals. The rear output can be switched to subwoofer use, which means it is not a third independent output.

Radio and installation

The FM and AM tuner provides 24 station presets. RDS displays information transmitted by radio stations. Traffic announcements, PTY search and automatic alternative-frequency selection are supported.

Best Stations Memory automatically stores the stations with the strongest reception. Frequencies can be tuned automatically or manually. Manual tuning is useful when you want to save a particular local station.

The unit fits a standard 1-DIN dashboard opening. Its USB and AUX connections are on the front, allowing music sources to be connected without routing a cable behind the stereo. The entire faceplate is removable, and a protective faceplate case is included.

A wired steering-wheel control input allows the stereo to work with a compatible vehicle control interface. The correct interface must be selected separately for the specific vehicle.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Who is this car stereo intended for?

It is intended for a vehicle with a 1-DIN installation opening. The model suits listeners who use CDs, USB storage devices, AUX sources or FM and AM radio.

Which connection should I use to play music?

Choose USB for MP3, WAV or WMA files stored on a USB device. AUX is suitable for equipment with an analogue audio output, while the CD player is intended for discs.

How should I begin adjusting the sound?

Start with the equaliser in a neutral position and balance the volume levels of the different sources. You can then adjust the five frequency bands to suit the vehicle’s acoustics.

How do I connect an additional amplifier or subwoofer?

Use the RCA outputs for an additional amplifier. The rear output can be configured to carry a subwoofer signal and adjusted with the low-pass filter.

Can I retain the vehicle’s steering-wheel button controls?

The car stereo has a wired steering-wheel control input. It requires a control interface designed for the specific vehicle.

What should I know about phone apps?

App Mode, Pioneer ARC and Android 4.1 support are capabilities from an earlier product era. Operation with current phones and apps may vary.