T R E

ES P O

T R T

CLARION

XC6410

AMPLIFIER REVIEW

W O R D S A N D M E A S U R E M E N T S B Y G A R R Y S P R I N G G A Y

 

The XC6410 scores

very high in all measurements with exceptional frequency response, signal- to-noise and stereo separation performance

hen most enthusiasts W think about historical car audio companies, our thoughts tend to gravitate

towards the iconic American brands. So, it may come as

a surprise to some that one of the oldest car audio companies on the planet began in Japan in 1940. Long before even I was born, the Hakusan Wireless Electric Company began manufacturing battery-operated household radios. Known since 1970 as the Clarion company, the brand boasts a long list of technological achievements and industry firsts.

Continuing that tradition, the good folks at Clarion Canada have sent me one of its latest four-channel amplifiers

the XC6410 – to put through its paces.

FEATURES

The Clarion XC6410 is a class D full range, four-channel amplifier designed around a very compact, classy looking two-tone brushed aluminum chassis. And, when I say compact, I’m not kidding. Measuring only 8.75 x 6.8 x 2.2 inches, it’s hard to believe the amplifier is rated at 85 W x 4 at four ohms, and a whopping 125 W x 4 at two ohms. But, thanks to the effi- ciency of a well-executed class D topology, the heat dissipation of the amp is easily managed and the power is very real.

Of course, the amplifier can be used in bridged mode where you can create four, three or two channels, depending on the architecture of your system. Special signal steering switches configure the amp for four- channel stereo, three-channel stereo/mono or true two-channel stereo output.

There are quite a few handy and welcome features you won’t find on many competitive products. For example, the ability to turn on the amplifier with high level input signal when a remote wire doesn’t exist; or, being able to have bass boost applied to all four channels or only two. Convenience features like these make the XC6410 easy to install in a wide variety of applications and can really come in

handy. Speaking of a variety of applications, the XC6410 is also fully treated with confor- mal coating and nickel-plated hardware for complete compatibility in marine applications. Connections and controls are all found on the front edge of the amplifier and accessible by removing two small screws holding an alu- minum trim panel in place (it normally hides and protects the connections and controls).

In addition to the aforementioned stereo/ bridged/mono switches, there are more switches for using one or two pairs of RCA in- puts, the “auto sense” feature and, of course, the usual crossover-type and range switches. On the XC6410, channels one and two can be set to full range, high pass or low pass with a frequency range of 50 to 500 Hz. Channels three and four are the same, but add a 10 times (x10) range switch for a frequency span of 50 to 5kHz.

Terminals are basic terminal blocks with nickel-plated Phillips screws. The RCA input connectors are also nickel-plated. A special high level-to-RCA adapter is included to drop the input voltage down before it enters the amp to allow connection directly to speaker level signals.

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Clarion XC6410 manual Clarion, ›Features

XC6410 specifications

The Clarion XC6410 is a powerful and versatile head unit designed for car audio aficionados seeking both superior sound quality and advanced features. At the core of its design is a blend of cutting-edge technologies and user-friendly functionality, making it an ideal choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.

One of the standout features of the XC6410 is its high-resolution display. The unit boasts a vibrant 6.8-inch touchscreen interface that provides intuitive navigation and easy access to all your media options. The display is designed to minimize glare and enhance visibility under various lighting conditions, ensuring that users can operate the unit safely while driving.

In terms of audio quality, the Clarion XC6410 is equipped with a built-in 4x50W amplifier that delivers robust power and clarity to your music. The unit supports various audio formats, including MP3, WMA, and FLAC, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of digital music sources. Moreover, the XC6410 features a 13-band graphic equalizer, allowing users to tailor their sound preferences and achieve the perfect audio balance in their vehicles.

Connectivity is another significant aspect of the XC6410. The unit includes Bluetooth technology for hands-free calling and audio streaming, enabling users to easily connect their smartphones and access their music libraries without fumbling with cables. Additionally, the XC6410 offers USB and AUX inputs, providing further options for connecting external devices.

For those who appreciate the integration of modern technology, the Clarion XC6410 offers smartphone compatibility, allowing users to seamlessly interact with their devices while on the road. Whether you are using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, accessing navigation apps, music streaming services, or other smartphone functions becomes a breeze.

Safety features are not overlooked in the XC6410 design. The unit comes with a rear-view camera input that enhances visibility when reversing, adding an extra layer of safety for drivers. Furthermore, the intuitive user interface reduces distractions, allowing drivers to focus on the road while still enjoying their favorite tunes.

In conclusion, the Clarion XC6410 stands out as a feature-rich car audio system that combines aesthetic appeal with advanced technology. From its high-resolution touchscreen to its superior audio capabilities and robust connectivity options, the XC6410 is a stellar choice for anyone looking to upgrade their in-car entertainment experience.