Car A/V Options Please... Affordable Goodies

[Mike1234 0]

I've been out of car audio for a long time and I need some help choosing new components. I already have speakers, subs and amps so this is just for source components and processors.

I'm looking for affordable but nice-sounding products. The one thing I absolutely don't want is harsh-sounding electronics.

I want a H/U with CD, DVD, FM, HD radio, and digital output. The only thing that must be built into the face is CD. For the sake of economy, the H/U doesn't need a built-in screen but, if it does, I want a touch screen with nice controls. The DVD is actually a future upgrade (maybe) and will have a larger separate screen. I prefer that the H/U not have built-in amps but this isn't that important. I only have room for a single DIN but my trunk has plenty of space. Built-in navigation is not a must but would be a valuable addition. I don't care about i-Pod.

Also, is BlueTooth an important addition? Does it save on having to run wiring? If so, how does this affect sound quality?

The car is a 2005 Hyundai Elantra.

Here is one possible solution: Pioneer DVH-P5000MP, DEQ-P8000, and the add-ons. Of course, this one doesn't have built-in nav. AND... these are sort of pricey.

Edited September 9, 2007 by Mike1234

[dogstar 0]

Alpine IVA-D310 with a PXA-H701 for crossovers/eq/time correction.

Get their Blackbird2 and cradle for nav.

Should be around $1500 for everything, although I don't recall if it does HD radio. It does however, do optical out to the H701.

[Mike1234 0]

Thanks dogster. I'll look into the Alpine gear.

[///M5 2,833]

If you want processing and a screen the Alpine solution is pretty much the only one unless you go carpc. Everything else is a toy or has an interface problem in comparison.

[Mike1234 0]

Car PC is a possibility though I've heard that the Mini Mac is an easier/cheaper way to go.

I don't necessarily need a screen built into the head unit. A 7" screen is too small for viewing movies, IMO. For navigation and control, it's fine though... actually preferable if it doesn't drive the total cost too high. I could mount a 10" touch screen and use it to control a changer in lieu of installing a head unit.

The only reason I even mentioned DVD is so I can upgrade later if I decide to... I'm just leaving my options open. This way, all I would need to do is add a screen... probably 10" or so and only for passengers. Of course, that's if I don't opt for an on-dash 10" touch screen for control, which would double as the movie screen.

I do want digital out to a dedicated processor with digital parametric EQ and time alignment... automated is a plus. Howver, I don't care about surround sound in the car and I don't like synthetic sound effects... nothing wrong with it but it's just not my cup of tea.

If you want processing and a screen the Alpine solution is pretty much the only one unless you go carpc. Everything else is a toy or has an interface problem in comparison.

[///M5 2,833]

There are no other processors that can be controlled from a screen unit. The H701 is a great processor for its crossover/time alignment/ and eq options as well. It comes off on Alpine's site as a 5 channel processor for movies and such but the reality is that in nearly all of its installations it is there exclusively to be used as a method of running speakers actively instead of with passive crossovers. Almost all of the tuning features that you need are included with it as well.

All other processor options will have to have a separate control and none interface with a screen very well. The solution above is extremely well integrated and if you just want a bigger screen I would imagine you could add another (note, I am not a screen guy so I just assume 310 has an extra vid output)

The Pioneer P9 will do about the same thing without the screen, but with the screen changing settings is all that much easier.

As for your comment on the Mac mini integration, I personally feel the opposite and will be using a PC in my next install. The Mini just doesn't have the availability of the whole pro audio world to give you a good sound card or software that works well with it. I can deal with the crashing for functionality.

[ANeonRider 3]

The D310/D105 have secondary video outputs.

I LOVE my Alpine combo, although, like Sean above, I will be going with a DIY CarPC in my other car.

The Alpine screens have basic time alignment/eq by themselves, but the H701 is a huge step up with respect to adjustment capabilities. The Alpine option is also a better out-of-the-box integrated solution compared to a CarPC, unless you have some time on your hands.

[Mike1234 0]

Thanks guys!! I'll research the Alpine products. Does anyone know who has the best prices and service for Alpine stuff?

[ANeonRider 3]

Alpine dealers, if you are looking online, Crutchfield. Fortunately one of my best friends is the car audio manager at a local dealer, so I get everything for nearly cost.

Even at cost, my combo cost me $1500CDN.

[Mike1234 0]

I've been looking on the Crutchfield website and I'm up to US$2200 with just the head unit, processor and navigation with none of the other add-ons. It looks like the Alpine setup will cost closer to US$3000

Edited September 9, 2007 by Mike1234