Mazda 1st With Factory MP3

LAS VEGAS--Mazda is debuting the world’s first factory- installed in-dash MP3-capable audio system at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show here. The system capitalizes on the rapid growth of MP3 music files for personal use and makes it possible for consumers to play up to 10 hours of MP3 recordings on a single disc.

“The market has demanded CD players and now every Mazda vehicle is equipped with an AM/FM/CD audio system,” said Steve Odell, Mazda vice president of marketing and sales. “MP3 is the fastest-growing music format and our younger, tech-savvy consumers are demanding state-of-the-art audio systems and we are meeting that demand as well.”

The system, a joint effort between Mazda and Kenwood, includes a powered sub-woofer, premium speakers and Kenwood’s new eXcelon Z919 MP3/CD/AM/FM in- dash receiver/player. Kenwood becomes the first mobile electronics manufacturer to have an in-dash MP3 player installed as an original equipment audio system.

The Kenwood Z919 plays conventional music CDs as well CD-R discs with MP3 music files. MP3 compression allows music to be downloaded quickly over the Internet and stored in small, manageable files. This allows up to 10 hours of music to be recorded onto a CD-R disc that would only contain about an hour of music recorded in a standard CD format.

In addition to the Kenwood Z919, the Protege MPS will include two 6x9 three-way speakers (KFCX-696) for the car’s rear deck, a 5x7 two-way speaker (KFCX-576C) for each of the front doors, and a 100-watt, trunk-mounted 10-inch powered subwoofer (KSC-WA100).

The introduction of the Mazda Protege at SEMA is also unique, according to the company. The MPS is a youthful, performance-oriented package targeted at the growing sport compact sedan market in North America, with possible applications for the European and Japanese markets. Mazda R&D developed the Protege MPS concept vehicle in concert with young, opinion-leading target buyers in the sport compact market, driving enthusiasts and aftermarket manufactures.

“Mazda’s objective in building the Protege MPS was to quickly deliver more excitement and performance to the brand while targeting a group of buyers who want image and performance at an affordable price,” said Odell. “This relationship with Kenwood will have high value among customers, especially young car buyers.”