9000 Clarion (1993 – 1998)

The simplest audio modernization while keeping the beautiful 9000 dashboard. From the new v9 version of the BT Changer, you can also use the classic Clarion head units* in Bluetooth mode. You can listen to music, podcasts from the device, or online, or the voice instructions of the phone navigation can help in driving.

*Supported Clarion head units (tested)

• PU-9587AZ + PU-2047A – 900 – 9000 head unit + EQ/CD player
• PU-9903A – 9000 RDS head unit (4518924)
• PU-9904A – 9000 head unit without RDS (4518932)
• PU-9715A – NG 900 head unit (4232765)
• ARX4670R – universal head unit
• CRX73 – universal head unit
• CRX700C – universal head unit

How does it work?

In the early 90s, Clarion-made head units (PU-9903A and PU-9904A) were installed in the Saab 9000 models. The BT Changer must be connected to the CD input of these head units, which communicates with the head unit through Clarion’s special C-bus system and pretends to be a CD player. Thus, the BT Changer works as if it were a CD player. Of course, if you connect the BT Changer to the head unit, then the original CD player function ceases. Either one or the other is possible. Unfortunately, this system is much more primitive than what Saab used later, so displaying subtitles/metadata is not possible, and hands-free mode is also not available.

Usage

For Clarion devices, the BT Changer does not require any settings. With the cable connected to the BT Changer, the system recognizes it, and it is immediately operational after connection.
By pressing the SOURCE button – as if you were switching to a CD player – you switch to Bluetooth mode. If the mobile device is paired, it is immediately ready for use.
With a single press of the REW Track and FF Track buttons you can step between tracks. By holding down the same buttons, you can switch to fast forward or fast rewind mode.

Functions

For Clarion head units, three modes are possible:
Bluetooth mode – Default state. For example, you can return from Wi-Fi mode.
Pairing – Pairing the mobile device to the BT Changer via Bluetooth connection.
Wi-Fi mode – In this case, the settings of the BT Changer can be performed in the usual way via Wi-Fi AP connection. This means that no internet connection is needed for the connection; the mobile device and the BT Changer module communicate with each other via Wi-Fi protocol.
After switching to this mode, on the mobile device in Wi-Fi settings, you must select the “BT Changer” connection from your own network and connect. (Password: 12345678)

On Apple (iOS) and general Android devices, a webpage with the settings opens automatically. On Android devices, if it does not open by itself or offer a link, you must type into the browser: http://b.hu (note: http:// not https://).

Through the Wi-Fi administration interface, for Clarion vintage head units you can only change the Bluetooth network name, adjust the volume compensation, and – if needed – update the device’s base software.

The Settings/Pairing procedure

The function selection works a bit differently on PU-9903A and PU-9904A.

How to install it?

Installation is extremely simple and does not require expertise. From the round 13-pin DIN connector located at the back of the head unit, the factory CD player cable (if there is one) must be removed, and the BT Changer’s cable harness must be plugged in.