Sound System Review
We test Blaupunkt’s San Marino
There’s little doubt that the aftermarket accessory business is dominated by audio systems. Technology is evolving so fast that within a few years, factory fitted systems go obsolete. The new Costa Messa system is touch enabled with features ranging from 6.75-inch touch screen, high end tuner, Android OS Version 6.0, navigation ready, PhoneLINK, built-in WiFi, to 1GB DDR 3 memory, 16GB flash storage, three rear USB slot, Bluetooth (hands free calling/music streaming, 4V preout, rear output AV, rear camera input, ten band equaliser and 4x50 W speakers.
We put it in a Honda Jazz 2009 and here’s what we thought. To start with, fitting the unit in most cars should be a breeze. However if you want to fit it in the Jazz, you will need to change the back panel which is available separately. As for the system, it has up to three USB inlets and also supports SD cards, so one can carry a full juke box along. The sound quality is excellent though the standard 50W speakers don’t do justice. The radio is easy to access thanks to the large icons on the display which are clear to read. Video quality is excellent especially for HD videos. The system display the beam from the reversing camera.
It is Android ready and features Google Play store too. All you need is a WiFi hotspot to get going. Once logged in you can download apps like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc. Apart from that the biggest advantage is that you can get Google maps. This means traffic conditions can be checked while onthe-move. There is a separate slot for a navigation card as well.