Need a new stereo for my car

bakku · #1 03-07-2005, 11:11 PM

So my car was broken into the other day and my deck was stolen. Talked to the insurance company and they're giving me $250 to spend on a new deck at wholesale prices which is about $300-350 at retail prices depending on the brand.

What is/are the best brand(s)?
Any suggestions for specific models? (MP3 player is a must)

Keep the price limit in mind please, I'm not willing to go over what the insurance company is giving me.

edtost · #2 03-07-2005, 11:18 PM

alpine/eclipse for brands, but the head unit won't make too much of a difference in sound quality anyway. it's been a couple of years, so i don't have any model # info, sorry.

i have an alpine that plays cd's with mp3s on them, and the user interface is really good, but i usually take the source from my ipod now anyway.

fluxrad · #3 03-07-2005, 11:34 PM

Also don't forget Kenwood and Pioneer.

Leo99 · #4 03-07-2005, 11:51 PM

They just came out with HU's that can control iPods with an optional $100 adapter. I just ordered a Pioneer cause all the places, from CircuitCity to Crutchfield, recommended Pioneer. You can get JVC decks that will accept SD cards for about $300. Check our www.cardomain.com for good selection and low prices.

peachy · #5 03-08-2005, 12:12 AM

i always get pioneer

wacki · #6 03-08-2005, 12:55 AM

www.nakamichi.com/

http://www.eclipse-web.com/

Everything else is just a poor imitation.

sfer · #7 03-08-2005, 03:37 AM

A ghetto blaster for the backseat and a dozen rechargable Ds.

MarkL444 · #8 03-08-2005, 04:12 AM

[ QUOTE ]
but i usually take the source from my ipod now anyway.

[/ QUOTE ]

do you mean with a FM transmitter or do you have some kind of direct digital input? i tried using an itrip and it sucked, but id loved to get a direct connection if at all possible.

edtost · #9 03-08-2005, 11:33 AM

i used a headphone -> rca adapter and plugged it in to the aux input in the back of my head unit - ugly wire, but at least it sounds good. the fm transmitters blow.

edtost · #10 03-08-2005, 11:35 AM

mmm, forgot about nakamichi, though the one i had in my first car had a defect that made it skip all the time. i think macintosh was making a hu for a while too, but its most likely overpriced and really hard to find.