2ndof2

I have an older model Alpine that I punched (yes punched) b/c I was hearing static from one speaker. The unit had been flickering periodically and the power had been cutting out. I just figured a good pop would either fix it or make me feel better. Now the unit is slightly pushed inward......I'll let the installers of my new unit deal with that POS.

I'm running a nice big phat Nakamichi amplifier so a passive h/u would be fine if anyone makes them that way anymore. I've been out of the auto stereo scene for a while.

Would like something with a removable faceplate that I can hook up an iPhone 3GS or shuffle, can play MP3discs, and is compatible with an Alpine disc changer (not mandatory) that won't break the bank.

Thanks!

michaelh993

Installed Kenwood 994 at the recommendation of Rod Birch, Car Audio Innovations. Excellent unit at a good price, all the right features and not silly-flashy. http://www.kenwoodusa.com/Car_Entert...nment/KDC-X994

regards, Michael

certz

I installed a Kenwood X794 (same as above expcept bluetooth is optional instead of built-in and it has a white display instead of variable color). The Kenwoods are excellent units, my only complaint and it is minor is that the faceplate is shiny instead of matte.

Stealth 993

Search eBay, & get a NIB Nakamichi head unit.

Quadcammer

same here.

the glare is ridiculous on this thing though.

TheBen

How about a new Alpine unit. Also the illumination can be set to better match the instrumentation (Amber) on some of them, and may be compatible with your changer as well.

ggg1ggg

I have the new Pioneer MVH-P8200BT. Same complaints as the Kenwood owners about glare and the fact that the finish is glossy (have considered painting it satin black, but it'd probably look like crap with my workmanship).

Similar modern features as the Kenwood (BT, iPod, can add on HD or Satellite radio), with the addition of an SD slot. No CD support (never use 'em), and since I have a 16GB SD card with tons of music in there I don't need an MP3 CD.

The joystick is bit of a pain to use. Perhaps the Kenwood is any better for the user interface.

csertich

Nakamichi head unit/cd (mine's a cd400). Great sound, good electronics and the looks fit the interiors of our cars.
chuck

Warpig

Love my Alpine CDA-9886 for everything but the horrible glare on sunny days. On sunny days I cannot read the display on it from the drivers seat at all. Love everything else about the CDA-9886.

Nick

Coleman

Punched it... hahahaha I thought you got the aggression out in the rink, not the cabin..

I have this, http://www.alpine-usa.com/product/view/ida-x305s , Well, last years version.. and it's nice on the ipod/iphone.. seamless.. you can detune the disco lights..

Coleman

Plus.. I'm working on a new idea.. NO head or stereo.. I use the earphones on my iPhone so often, that I rarely use my stereo.. its just dead weight..

Warpig

You may want to check your state laws. Some states have laws against listening to headphones while driving. If an officer sees wires hanging from your ears and you are in a state with this law you me be stopped and hassled at a minimum if not ticketed.

Nick

Coleman

I hear ya... but..

In california you are required to use a headset or earphones for your cell phone.. so I guess I'll get off on a technicality there-

ggg1ggg

How do you hear the pleasant sounds of your car, then?

CaptainGSR

I finally installed an Alpine CDA-117 last month. Sounds great (24 bits), plenty of sound tuning options(including time adjustment), and has a great "black out" mode which turns off all lights after 5 seconds. This way your dashboard does not look like a Christmas tree all the time. (No Ricer blue theme!)
It also works great with Ipods/Iphones.
I paid around $300 shipped on Ebay.