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Clarion VZ309 3.5-Inch Single-DIN Multimedia Station with USB Port

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 41 ratings

Currently unavailable.
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
Brand Clarion
Connectivity Technology USB
Item dimensions L x W x H 6.54 x 7.01 x 1.97 inches
Compatible Devices Smartphone, Speaker
Item Weight 2.2 Kilograms

About this item

  • AM/FM radio, DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD, CD-R/RW, MP3/WMA, USB receiver
  • 4 x 50 Watts maximum power with six channels of preamp output
  • 3.5-inch LCD display with 320 x 234 resolution
  • Includes USB port, front AV input; easily add iPod direct control, SAT/HD radio ready, rear-view camera input
  • One year warranty

Additional Details

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Product information

Technical Details

Additional Information

Warranty & Support

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Clarion VZ309 3.5-Inch Single-DIN Multimedia Station with USB Port


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Product details

  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
  • Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.54 x 7.01 x 1.97 inches; 4.85 Pounds
  • Item model number ‏ : ‎ VZ309
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ September 1, 2003
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Clarion Mobile Electronics
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B001OQ6O86
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 41 ratings

Product Description

Amazon.com

Clarion's VZ309 is a true multimedia station with a DVD/ CD receiver; USB connector that supports playback of MP3, WMA and JPEG files; front AUX inputs for portable audio players; and optional iPod audio and video playback (CCUIPOD2). The brilliant 3.5 inch display lets you control it all. All this in a small one-DIN package.

caption Click to enlarge.

Add the optional CCUIPOD1 to control your iPod from the source unit.

6 channels of preamp output to grow your system.

Includes full-featured remote.

Enjoy a Wide Variety of Media
The built-in optical disc drive is compatible with DVD-Video, DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, CD-DA, HDCD, CD-R and CD-RW, so you're assured access to a wide variety of visual and musical entertainment.

You can also play back MP3/WMA files from disc, complete with ID3-Tag display of artist/track info on the screen.

3.5-inch LCD Screen
The 3.5-inch LCD displays operational status of your iPod, CD and DVD playback, radio functions and more. It offers maximum usability within minimum dimensions.

iPod Playback
Just connect your iPod to the VZ309 using the optional CCUIPOD1 to control your iPod from the source unit. Please see the Clarion website for iPod models that can beconnected.

Front USB Input
Grab a USB drive with some of your favorite MP3/WMA tracks and enjoy them right from the front of the unit.

HD/SAT Radio Ready
You can connect optional tuners and enjoy the benefits of high-definition and XM satellite radio.

AM/FM Radio
Catch up on the news or listen to your favorite stations. Get quick access to your favorites with 18 FM and 6 AM station presets.

Auxiliary Input
Use the front 3.5mm auxiliary input to connect external audio devices like MP3 players, etc.

Rear AV Output
A rear AV output allows you to send your signal to a second monitor in the back seat.

Dedicated Rear vision Camera RCA Input
Add a rear vision camera to see the area behind your vehicle, for added safety and convenience.

Room to Grow
With 50 Watts through four channels, and a 24-bit D/A converter, the VZ309 gives you great sound to start. But it also includes 6 channels of preamp output and a subwoofer volume control, so you can easily add external amplifiers and build a monster system.

Remote Included
A full-featured remote control is included.

What's in the Box
VZ309 Source unit, Mounting bracket, Removable face plate case, Trim plate, Remote control unit, Battery (CR2025), Owner's manual, Installation manual, Installation hardware

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Customer reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
41 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers appreciate the integrated stereo system for its good looks, nice sound quality, and value for money. They find it easy to install and use, with a great picture when watching videos from iPods. Some customers like the functionality and features, while others dislike the response time.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

11 customers mention "Sound quality"9 positive2 negative

Customers appreciate the good sound quality of the integrated stereo system. They like the clear audio without annoying commercials and discussions. The surround sound is also appreciated.

"...HD radio is cool but not many stations i really wanna listen to, just listen to the regular ones I always listened too...." Read more

"...The reception and sound quality are excellent, but just setting volume levels by input would have solved this without potential ear or amplifier..." Read more

"...I had to eject or stop the dvd to start over. I love the sound of the HD radion and the sound from the Ipod cable but not being able to..." Read more

"...The sound quality blows the old sony away. It's clear. not to tinny, not to bass or deep it sounds real nice with awesome surround output...." Read more

9 customers mention "Look"9 positive0 negative

Customers like the look of the product. They mention it looks good, has a great picture when watching a DVD, and is easy to install. Some say it's the best multimedia station with a screen under 200 bucks. They also love the HDFM radio.

"...While the face is gorgeous to look at, it's a pain in the sphinctral region to use while driving - there is practically no tactile dimension to..." Read more

"...What I like best about it is the DVD feature (which shows a very nice picture and is also easy to use)..." Read more

"this is probably the best multimedia station with a screen u can get for under 200 bucks. it works without any problem to my back tv...." Read more

"...I really love the HDFM, I have very little problem hanging onto broadcast signal and multicast channels come in fine...." Read more

8 customers mention "Quality"8 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the quality of the stereo system. They say it's a good upgrade from the factory stereo that came with their Corolla. The iPod controller is the best for playing your iPod through the radio.

"Just installed this DVD player. Works fine. Ipod controller is the best for playing your ipod through the radio...." Read more

"...This is an ok unit for an ok price for ok features. I think for the majority of the people out there like my wife will be just fine...." Read more

"...You get a whole lot more than what you paid and it's good quality right out of the box...." Read more

"...Pretty good if you got it on the sale. Good upgrade from factory stereo that came with my Corolla...." Read more

8 customers mention "Value for money"8 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the value for money of the stereo system. They say it's a great player with many features and a free HD tuner.

"...All in all a very good player for the money which is feature packed and free HD tuner." Read more

"Installation was pretty straight forward. I got the unit for a decent price but please, by all means, don't think you are getting super bargain 2000..." Read more

"...and a very versatile radio tumer for the price...." Read more

"...other then that its a great media player for the price.." Read more

5 customers mention "Ease of installation"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the product easy to install and use. They appreciate the great picture quality.

"Installation was pretty straight forward...." Read more

"...It is very user friendly (I figured out how to use it without having to read the instructions) and a very versatile radio tumer for the price...." Read more

"...Installation was simple...." Read more

"Installation was easy on my 1999 Civic. I like the look and light color. Sound is good too...." Read more

4 customers mention "Functionality"4 positive0 negative

Customers like the functionality of the product. They say the DVD player works fine, but you can't see it unless the emergency brake is on.

"...The DVD player works fine but you cant see it unless the emergency brake is on. There is a bypass you can by on ebay but I wouldn't waste my money...." Read more

"...and performs quite nicely within limits, I wouldn't bother spending more than $200 on this, as..." Read more

"...it works without any problem to my back tv. however it does take a little long to load my dvd...." Read more

"Works, but not what I expected..." Read more

3 customers mention "Features"3 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the product's features. They say it has a lot of options for the price, including a free HD tuner.

"...All in all a very good player for the money which is feature packed and free HD tuner." Read more

"...expected - a rebadged Jensen unit that isn't terribly fast but has a pile of features...." Read more

"...This is an ok unit for an ok price for ok features. I think for the majority of the people out there like my wife will be just fine...." Read more

4 customers mention "Response time"0 positive4 negative

Customers are unhappy with the product's response time. They mention it takes longer than usual to load DVDs and play MP3s.

"...Combine #2 with the slow interface and iPod navigation can quickly become a chore - the unit only loads TWO ITEMS at a time...." Read more

"...however it does take a little long to load my dvd. other then that its a great media player for the price.." Read more

"...The only 2 downsides to the player is the response time is slower than usual and when you play an MP3 and reach the last track it doesn't..." Read more

"...are true - the USB menu needs to be easier to use; it is slow to start every time the car is turned on or off; you should be able to personalize the..." Read more

Most bang for your buck!
4 out of 5 stars
Most bang for your buck!
Screen/customization: Bright, vivid, and sharp but Clarion decided to keep customization to a complete minimum. For instance, when in aux mode you are stuck with a gray screen with the time and "AVin" displayed in the corner. I just turn off the screen completely to avoid it. Such a waste of a big beautiful screen.DVD player: Quick start up, strong motor, good quality, and plays where you left off. Sometimes it will run in a chapter loop after turning the car off and then on again. This happens periodically (1 out of 10 times) where there will be a chapter loop causing you to stop the movie and start it again. Edit: I have heard from others that it happens every time you turn the car on and off but this hasn't exactly been the case for me, definitely has problems though.HD radio: Locks into signals quickly and stays there, sounds fantastic. Info is scrolled on the bottom, again, waste of screen space.Sound Quality: Excellent sound through deck power and 2V outputs. I have power hungry component speakers so I use an external amplifier but the deck's power will work fine for most setups. I used to run a pioneer deck with 4V preamp outputs so I was a little concerned about how the Clarion's 2V outs (4v for subs) would compare but I was pleasantly surprised at the strength and quality of the signal. Just as loud and clean as ever, if not more so. Sound is mostly flat with a slight emphasis on bass (remedied easily.)Remote Control: Works well but don't lose it! You'll be crippled without it if you ever watch DVDs since most functions are controlled through the remote only.USB: Sucks, simple as that, they shouldn't have even included it if they couldn't do it right (only shows one list of songs, difficult navigation.) Edit: Someone has brought it to my attention that you can in fact switch folders using the remote. I stand by my opinion that it's still poorly implemented and will never be used by me.Rear Camera: Never tested, I'll definitely update this review once installed.Overall: This is a fantastic unit at Amazon's rock bottom prices. I cannot think of any other deck that even comes close to this feature set and quality for less than $200. At $129 with free HD radio, it's a no-brainer. It's simply the best deck that you can get for that price and feature-set. I thought the DVD player would just be a toy for me but I actually find myself using it quite often when waiting around (parked of course) and the screen and sound quality are a pleasure. My major complaint has to do with the lack of customization. You really can't control what plays on the screen at all, no backgrounds, no color changes, nothing. For less than $200 I really can't complain much but at Clarion's retail price of $400 before tax you would think they'd allow for a little more adjust ability. Another thing is the lack of a rear A/V input. Pretty lame when you have that screen just begging to be used!Pros:- Price (IF you get in on amazons $129.99 deal w/hd tuner)- Sound Quality- Picture Quality- (Good) DVD player- Price- Feature set- HD radioCons:- A bit slow when switching sources (roughly 3-5 seconds.)- Lack of screen customization.- Lack of A/V input in the rear (there's video but no audio, very lame)- Cost of accessories (XM is pretty pricey) and rear camera is not included. People really shouldn't expect a rear camera to be included but I'm sure someone out there is going to be shocked when they find it "missing"...One more thing worth mentioning is that although the DVD function has a lockout so that you can only view media while the parking brake is up (lead from unit connecting to parking brake wire) it is ridiculously easy to bypass. Anyone can google it and figure it out for themselves, not the safest thing for "invincible" teenagers trying to watch The Fast and the Furious while driving...
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2010
    Just installed this DVD player. Works fine. Ipod controller is the best for playing your ipod through the radio. I control my ipod(older 30gb photo) without ever touching it (music only) You have to buy the adapter separate but its only $24(on ebay) and its recommended ,Make sure you by the right one for your Ipod. The remote that comes with it also controls the IPOD through the radio. It has a separate bass sub controller which is cool for getting your perfect bass without a added eq. HD radio is cool but not many stations i really wanna listen to, just listen to the regular ones I always listened too. The DVD player works fine but you cant see it unless the emergency brake is on. There is a bypass you can by on ebay but I wouldn't waste my money. All in all a very good player for the money which is feature packed and free HD tuner.
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 22, 2010
    DISCLAIMER: the four-star rating is entirely dependent on buying it at the sale price of $129 plus a free HD Tuner.

    I read all the reviews for this radio before I bought it, so I had some idea of what I was getting myself into, and for the most part, it was what I expected - a rebadged Jensen unit that isn't terribly fast but has a pile of features. It replaces an aging Aiwa that apparently had forgotten how to filter out engine noise properly.

    While I knew what to expect, a few issues have appeared over the past few weeks of use:

    1.) The HD Radio is LOUD. This wouldn't be a problem if the iPod and AUX inputs weren't so QUIET in comparison - I have to crank the volume to listen to my iPod, but if I forget to turn it down before switching back, the radio is so loud it trips the overload circuit. The reception and sound quality are excellent, but just setting volume levels by input would have solved this without potential ear or amplifier damage.

    2.) While the face is gorgeous to look at, it's a pain in the sphinctral region to use while driving - there is practically no tactile dimension to the face - everything is so flat you have to guess and hope that you are pressing the right button without looking away from the road. I've put it on shuffle several times and didn't know it until songs came up out of order.

    3.) Combine #2 with the slow interface and iPod navigation can quickly become a chore - the unit only loads TWO ITEMS at a time. If you try to select the third or fourth item quickly, the selection simply switches between the first and second lines unless you wait for it to load the next two items. I have five thousand songs on my iPod, in dozens of categories and hundreds of folders, and that's a long ways from what the newest models can hold. Also, after stopping and restarting the car (and maybe after just playing music for a while), pressing the 'back' button doesn't merely back you up one level as it does on the iPod, it returns you to the TOP MENU. Which means you have to slog through the mud to get BACK to where you were if you just wanted to listen to another album in the same category, or by the same artist. I may have to go back to using the AUX in cable and a charger, since I can navigate to any song directly in a small fraction of the time the Clarion can do the same. USB files have the same problem.

    While the VZ309 is certainly worth the $129 sale price (more so when Amazon throws in the free HD Radio tuner), and performs quite nicely within limits, I wouldn't bother spending more than $200 on this, as the equivalent Jensen that shares the VZ309's hardware and software is available from Amazon for less than that. For $265, there is better to be had here and elsewhere.
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2010
    I ordered thinking i was getting a deal when I actually got ripped off. The unit worked for less than two months nad now it will not read any optical media. In order to get it fixed, I must uninstall, ship to NY and wait.

    I only watched one movie on it and now it just says disc loading and then goes back to previous source. I called Clarion and finally got a number to dealer support who told me that the laser must be out of line. I told them that that it was less than three months old and they said that I would have to send it in.

    Even when it worked there were a lot of glitches in the software/programming which caused a lot of frustration. The biggest is that when I turned the car off when playing a DVD, when I turned the car back on it would repeat the same chapter over and over. I had to eject or stop the dvd to start over.

    I love the sound of the HD radion and the sound from the Ipod cable but not being able to play any optical media with less than three months of ownership makes this a big piece of junk.
  • Reviewed in the United States on April 18, 2011
    Screen started showing colorful lines in it after 3 months. Sent to Clarion to get repaired and they fixed it only they sent back Face Plate with long scratch on it. I hope my display doesn't go out again. Not sure if this is normal but occasionally I will loose only one of my HD stations. It will play for 3 seconds then fade out. I've seen and owned better radios and this one lacks. I'll be trying another brand if I have to replace this one.
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 21, 2015
    Installation was pretty straight forward. I got the unit for a decent price but please, by all means, don't think you are getting super bargain 2000 platinum plus deal extraordinaire! This is an ok unit for an ok price for ok features. I think for the majority of the people out there like my wife will be just fine. For audiofiles or geeks that like to play with all the options and a bit out of the norm, we'd probably be disappointed.
  • Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2009
    I bought this radio for my teenage son and have been most pleased with my purchase. It is very user friendly (I figured out how to use it without having to read the instructions) and a very versatile radio tumer for the price. What I like best about it is the DVD feature (which shows a very nice picture and is also easy to use) does not show on the screen unless the parking brake is engaged. Don't have to worry about my teenage son driving and trying to watch a movie. A definite plus for the teenage driver in your family!
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  • Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2010
    this is probably the best multimedia station with a screen u can get for under 200 bucks. it works without any problem to my back tv. however it does take a little long to load my dvd. other then that its a great media player for the price..