Pioneer MVH-200EX Review – Apple Friendly Stereo?

UPDATE: The last time I’ve checked this head unit was out of stock. The best alternative would be the Pioneer MVH-300EX. If you want a stereo that has a fresher look, better sound quality and an awesome display this is the winner you’ve been looking for.

Pioneer MVH-300EX

 

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I wanted the luxuries of a newer car in an older one…

Let’s face it, everybody needs a Bluetooth connection in their car. No matter how old it is. I’ve heard that people have added modern-day stereos into a 1990 Mazda.

You can drive safely, knowing that you don’t have to look at the phone. Thanks to tech, you can keep your eyes on the road and still talk on the phone.

This is why I’ve created the Pioneer MVH-200EX review. It’s a good starter unit to have. By reading this review to the end, you will know if this head unit is the right choice.

In shorts, it’s an excellent starter unit for those who don’t care about navigation and fancy apps. It can only do a handful of things, but they are done perfectly. The delivered sound quality is excellent. It’s at least 40% better than stock stereos.

The built-in Bluetooth connection is fast. Many high-end models lag in this department. When you start the engine, your phone is connected.

Here’s the preview of the Pioneer head unit.  It has a big 6.2” wide screen size. It’s a resistive touchscreen display. The looks and feel can be personalized to your liking. It doesn’t have a CD player, but the USB port makes up for it. With the Bluetooth connection, you can do audio streaming and hands-free calling.

Let’s get this Pioneer MVH-200EX review started.

Here’s the bird’s eye view for this double DIN head unit.

Does it fit in my car? Click Here to Check
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Who is the Pioneer MVH-200EX for?

The Pioneer MVH-200EX is a starter stereo. It has a few features that it does well. This head unit is aimed for people who want basic Bluetooth connection and a few music sources for audio streaming.

In other words, it provides safety and entertainment in the same package.

If you have teenagers driving, you can make it safer for them getting an HU that has hands-free controls. We all know how they are constantly glued to the screen, even while driving.

Since we’re talking about safety, nothing beats a good backup camera.

What about entertainment?

If you’re on the budget, this car stereo is a great investment. With the basics, you can bring a lot out. All you need to have is a good enough phone.

What can the Pioneer MVH-200EX do for you?

What kind of entertainment options can the Pioneer MVH-200EX offer?

First of all, it comes with a standard FM/AM radio. You can tune in to your favorite stations. But wait, the radio receiver is more sensitive than the stock one. I’ve managed to pick up more stations than usual.

Thanks to the USB port, you can connect your iPod or pen drive. The USB port delivers 1.5A, so the phone gets charged by you arrive.

The biggest benefit comes from the built-in Bluetooth.  All you have to do is pair your phone, and it’s done. In case you’re wondering, the connection is fast. I have not experienced any lag what so ever.

From your phone, you can play any music that you like. Also, you can listen to YouTube, as well.

The mic is incredible. It’s so sensitive that it doesn’t have to be placed too close to the driver. Everybody could hear me clearly.

By getting this car stereo, you won’t have to get a secondary display for the backup camera. You can save space and time.

I’ve already mentioned that the sound quality is way better than stock, and the bass is amazing.

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Pioneer MVH-200EX shortcomings

It’s a good car stereo, and it has flaws. I would be dishonest if, in my reviews, I wouldn’t cover the drawbacks of stereos. So here are the negatives for the Pioneer MVH-200EX double DIN HU.

As you have read it above, there’s no CD/DVD player. It’s time to transfer all your music to a flash drive if you want this car stereo. By removing the media player, it gave the head unit a bigger feeling.

For some reason, this stereo can’t play FLAC files. Hopefully, this is an easy fix in the next firmware update.

The manual is extremely light. To get the advanced one, you will have to go online. Also, it took me some time to find the wiring diagram.

A minor issue with this digital receiver was that the album art is inexistent. Blooper?

There’s no way to stream videos through Bluetooth. You’re pretty much stuck with the USB port.

My last observation would be music sorting. I’ve plugged my pen drive in, and I couldn’t figure out how the stereo sorted the files. It’s not by name and not by the artist. It’s weird.

As you can see, this Pioneer stereo has a few issues. Are those deal-breakers for you?

How To Get The Most Out Of Pioneer MVH-200EX?

Before enjoying your car stereo, you have to get it installed. Since the CD/DVD is gone, the head unit is lighter and easier to install. Either way, I always vote for getting it done by a pro. I value my time and my sanity.

The next item on the list is keeping your steering wheel controls. You’ve seen how tiny those buttons are, so it’s not that easy to find them. This is why I always recommend devices like the iDatalink Maestro. These gadgets help you keep your steering wheel controls plus getting true hands-free controls, as well.

Installation and wires are boring. Let’s talk about something fun. Did you know you can personalize your Pioneer MVH-200EX?

You can change the lighting and background images. The more it matches the interior, the more professional it looks.

The last item on my list does get a backup camera. It will make parking easier, especially if you have a truck or a van.

Pioneer MVH-200EX Review Conclusion

I know that the market is flooded with stereos. They came in all shapes and sizes and priced all over. What’s the best about the Pioneer MVH-200EX is that it works and delivers. The Bluetooth connection is fast and strong. It gives you many entertainment options.

Plus, if you have a smartphone, the Bluetooth connection opens up a new world for you.

We have reached the end of the Pioneer MVH-200EX review. I hope you gained clarity and know if this is the right fit for you.

Do you know this car stereo? Do share your experience with us. Also, I’m doing reviews so send me your suggestions.

Catch you next time.

Does it fit in my car? Click Here to Check
Click Here to Check

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Does the mvh-200ex digital media receiver has audio video remote control profile?

Yes, the mvh-200ex digital media receiver has the audio video remote control profile feature. Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth you can remote control audio streaming and video playback. Also, you can play pause songs.

What kind of camera input does this Pioneer digital media receiver have?

This digital media receiver comes with one camera input. So you can mount a rear view camera. Since it’s a single camera input you can’t use a dash cam.

What is the advanced audio distribution profile?

The advanced audio distribution profile or A2DP for short determines what’s the maximum quality of audio that can be streamed through built-in Bluetooth devices. This works with compatible Android smartphones and iPod iPhone.

Does this Pioneer head unit have secure simple paring?

Yes, this Pioneer stereo comes with a secure simple pairing. Once that happens you can play pause the music.

What are the outputs?

Video output, 6-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, rear, sub)

How much power does the built-in amplifier deliver?

It delivers 50 watts.

Can I do audio streaming and hands-free calling with this stereo?

Yes after you have connected via Bluetooth you can do audio streaming and hands-free calling. Connect any Android smartphone and you are ready to go. Also it’s camera ready.

Does this unit have a composite video output?

Yes, it does.

Is the Pioneer MVH-1400NEX a good alternative for the MVH200ex?

It definitely is a good choice, for more details here is the Pioneer MVH-1400NEX review.

Can I do audio video playback from any phone?

Yes as long as you are connected through the USB port.

What kind of EQ does the Pioneer mvh-200ex digital multimedia video receiver have?

The Pioneer mvh-200ex digital multimedia video receiver comes with a 13-band graphic equalizer and presets.

Does this Pioneer double DIN unit have a WGA display?

Yes this Pioneer unit has a 6.2″ WGA touchscreen display and it’s camera ready.

Last Updated on November 2, 2023 by Brian Beasley