Zenec ZE-NC2010 impressions.

[Issac Hunt]

Not new but was only 6 months old. From a certain auction site.

[spoonies]

I installed one in my '06 passat 2 weeks ago.
Installation was very simple. The only missing connection was to the second aerial connection (diversity) on the Passat which degrades radio signal in some areas on FM and gets no AM signal. This wont be a problem with the Golf and I've had no response from Zenec about diversity adaptors!
I chose this as an upgrade from a Pioneer HD3-BT which was an excellent unit, but didn't look very well integrated with the dash.
I immediately carried out the software upgrade and was impressed with how accurate the instructions are from the website. I have also installed the scameras data from Naviextras and the TMC lifetime subscription.
TMC works as well as it did on my pioneer unit and is useful for those of us that spend the day on the road.
The camera data is generally quite accurate and includes a clever function with averaging cameras keeping a track of your average speed between them giving both a visual and audible warning when you start to exceed the average.
The unit also has a very good speed limit warning system that allows you to set the threshold for both built up and open areas so that you don't get too fed up listening to it telling you you're over the limit on the motorway.
It allows you to set the alarm levels at various percentages of the speed limit, ie 100% in 30 limits, perhaps 110 to 120% in other areas.
The maps seem to be up to date. Mine are dated Qtr2 2009 and include changes that have been made on the roads I know up to approximately the end of 2008. They are much more up to date than the late 2008 set I bought for my Pioneer unit.
I've only tested the waypoints function a couple of times with up to 10 different addresses, but it seems to work well and includes an optimisation button. There is a small bug with the visuals on that screen, but it works OK.
The audio side of things is better than the factory fit units, but falls well short of the exceptional quality of output on the Pioneer, lacking the effects I was used to for things like , studio, sitting room, stage etc. However, if you've not had these things before, I am sure they won't be missed and the sound quality is perfectly adequate for a car unit.
The Parrot bluetooth has been the biggest disappointment. The software upgrade included updates for this, but the sound quality I am getting through the external mic is apalling and I have had to switch back to the internal mic which is adequate, but not good.
It is possible there is a fault with the external mic on my unit and I will get it checked out.
Connectivity via Bluetooth to my Blackberry curve is fine with the address book transfering correctly. The unit also successfully controls the MP3 function on my phone correctly streaming the audio through the head unit very well.
Connectivity to SD cards and USB sticks works fine, as does input from other audio sources via the input port which fits nicely to the side of the centre console.
Overall, this seems to be a high quality unit that looks good and performs well. The most important feature for me is the navigation and it is significantly better than the Pioneer (and my TomTom). I look forward to the few remaining software glitches being sorted.

Colin

[CMcK]

Was that the 06/11/09 update you are referring to? I've noticed a big improvement with radio reception with the update. And the radio software is due another update soon as well.

The Parrot module has been fine sound quality wise since I bought the unit. The module did have a flaky one day with my iPhone and calls but has never acted up since then.

I've yet to try the Naviextras stuff but I don't use Windows so it's going to be impossible for me to do so without using someone elses computer.

I would like to see alternative skins, themes and wallpaper for the system though. It would be nice to have a big VW logo at boot time instead.

[spoonies]

Was that the 06/11/09 update you are referring to? I've noticed a big improvement with radio reception with the update. And the radio software is due another update soon as well.

The Parrot module has been fine sound quality wise since I bought the unit. The module did have a flaky one day with my iPhone and calls but has never acted up since then.

I've yet to try the Naviextras stuff but I don't use Windows so it's going to be impossible for me to do so without using someone elses computer.

I would like to see alternative skins, themes and wallpaper for the system though. It would be nice to have a big VW logo at boot time instead.

Hi
Yes it was that update. Can't comment on reception before, but is that a Golf you've installed it in with one aerial Fakra lead?
I noticed they're threatening an update to the RDS software, this may well help!
I agree, some "skins" options would be nice, especially for the night screens which are not easy and perhaps the ability to load in your own start up screen would be good and would allow us to add to the OEM feel of the device.

[CMcK]

I thought that the Golf Estate had the diversity aerial? So what's the difference with the Fakra model?

On the wish list topic I would also like two other features the ancient PCM system in my other car has. Namely a map screen and SMS support.

[Brianmgnns]

Really enjoyed reading your post. I have a 2009 Golf Mk6 and have the predecessor of your unit, the Zenec MC-2000. This does not have Sat Nav as I already had a widescreen Sony unit and is made specifically for the Mk5 series having the blue and red background and buttons rather than white.
I found it difficult to use at the start but I persevered and upgraded the firmware through the SD card slot. I can now play DVDs and songs from my iPod, use it for my phone and it works from the steering wheel buttons. It is far superior to VW units in my opinion.

My problem now is that I want a unit with white lights to match the Mk 6 dials and also to work properly with my new iPhone 3Gs as the old unit wont show last number dialled etc. and have decided to sell my Sony Sat Nav and upgrade to the NC-2010, so thanks for the detail on it.

[mo88]

Looking to buy one myself and wondered where you go this unit from?
Did you consider fitting it youself?
Regards

[Brianmgnns]

I live in N.I. and bought the Zenec unit as part of a trade-in deal. It cost me £500. The unit was purchased from and fitted by Audio Advice in Portadown Co Armagh; check out their website for details.
The fitting was straightforward enough, you remove the cover panel on the heater controls with a special pry bar tool (dont risk it with a screwdriver!)and then remove the cowling on the original VW unit and then remove the fours hex headed screws which hold the unit in place. Fitting is a reversal of removal. The microphone for the bluetooth is threaded up the side of the "A" pillar and clipped on the top of the rubber on the inside of the windscreen.
The beauty of the Zenec system is that unlike the VW units you do not need any extra attachments for your phone or if you have an amplified system. For example the uprated VW units need a bluetooth kit around £300 and RCA adapter s for amplifiers around £300. I also like the fact that the Zenec plays DVDs from your iPod or direct from DVD and SD card.
I was going to change mine to the later Zenec 2010 model with sat nav but I am considering just keeping a separate sat nav as I use hire cars when I am in England.

[mihaimihai]

Hi guys, I just ordered one of these and I was wondering if Park Assist functions (parking sensors visual display and Park Assist commands) will be displayed on the screen as this equipment is connected to the car CAN. My car is a 2008 Highline Passat B6. Any additional information is welcome, thanks in advance!
Kind regards,
Mihai

[turkkan79]

Hi i have ZENEC NC2010 on my Tiguan. When i reached 70 km per hour, image on dvd player goes off and sound continues. Do you have any idea how can i cancel this restriction?