Blaupunkt Malibu C50 Cassette Receiver

Price Paid:  $140.00 from Kromer Radio, Toront

Year / Model Reviewed:
 1997 Suzuki Swift

Summary:
I have this installed with the Thummer remote control and the IDC-A09 in-dash 5-disc CD changer. There's a feature where you can set the default volume when you power up the unit (like when you start the car), so you don't get your ears blasted. Sometimes this feature doesn't work, and sometimes it does (it works most of the time). The end of tape blank skip doesn't work properly. Sometimes it will also fast forward partway through the first song on the other side of the tape. I prefer to switch off this feature. If you are listening to the radio, there is no way to lock-in a clock display. For cassette and CD listening, you can have the clock locked-in if you want to. Overall I like it. The above points were nit-picking. When combined with the steering wheel remote and the in-dash CD changer, it's a super-duper system with excellent ergonomics.

Strengths:
By itself, the Malibu C50 doesn't really stand out. But combined with the IDC-A09 in-dash changer and the Thummer steering wheel mounted remote control, it's a cleverly designed system with excellent ergonomics.

Weaknesses:
Default volume powerup sometimes doesn't work. Tape blank skip ain't great. No way to lock in the clock display when you're listening to cassette tapes.