I decided I'm going to install a new headunit in my 2009 Scion xB. I'm not looking for anything such as GPS / DVD players, but I would prefer it to be able to read music files off of a USB. Needs to have 4-channel preamp outputs since I have a 4-channel amp. Are there ones out there that will work with the steering wheel's volume / track switches?


Any suggestions would be appreciated =)



DJ

 

when you say "budget" please give us a dollar amount =P

where i live when people say budget they mean $99 radio... but to some people it's $200-$400 lol

 

pioneer

 

Oh..right =)



I'd like something in the $100-$200 range.



DJ

 

i got my pioneer for 220... and i love it

 

What's the model number?


DJ

 

You won't find plug / play stereos that work with factory controls. Some have convertor boxes but the cost alone makes them not worth it.

I really like Alpine for head units, never had one break in 10 years. Why is the USB-readable a requirement? Do you have a portable music player? Most stereos have auxiliary input jacks that you can just plug the music player into unless you want to control through the head unit. Also, most are iPod ready that do let you control an iPod through the head unit.

The basic Alpine is CDE-9874, comes with an iPod connectoion, two pre-amp outputs (4-channel) and has a front auxiliary input. it's listed for $180 but can probably be found cheaper online.

http://www.alpine-usa.com/US-en/prod...model=CDE-9874

To get USB and steering wheel ready controls, you'd need the CDA-9886 if you stick with Alpine, which jumps to $300 MSRP. It also adds a third set of pre-amps. There is also a little plug on teh back for a "Steering Remote Control Interface Connector" but I can't find anything else about it, or a vehicle compatibility list.

http://www.alpine-usa.com/US-en/prod...&lang=en&tab=F

 

When I say USB connection, I mean a unit that can read a USB stick and play MP3/WMA/OGG music files off of it. I don't have a portable music player because I refuse to get an iPod (don't ask ) and wouldn't want to use my overuse my cell phone battery if I can avoid it.

Originally I wouldn't have bothered getting a new headunit since I think the factory one sounds fine, but someone told me that it would sound much better with a new one; then when I figured out that I'll need a 4-channel LOC, I figured a new HU wouldn't be a bad idea to simplify the install; now, if I can get a 16 GB stick full of songs, I think it'll be a sound purchase if the price is reasonable.

Here's something I'm considering:

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_020D285...B.html?tp=5684

And outfit it with a:

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_127SWIJ...K.html?tp=3405

It basically has all the features I need. Any concerns with this HU?


DJ

 

Forget Clarion, they're not that great. Get that PAC converter, with one of these...
I was originally gonna get the Excelon 792, but it was expensive, so I went with the 692, only difference is the color screen on the 792.
The 792 is now cheaper then what I paid for the 692...

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X792 - 179.99
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+KDC-X792.html

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X692 - $149.99
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+KDC-X692.html

Along with the PAC SWI-JACK - $59.99
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+SWI-JACK.html

And the mounting bracket kit... - $19.99
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+SCN2057.html#

And the wiring harness - $9.99 (Free with purchase of a reciever!)
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...2B+-+TA02.html

Solder that harness up, and you'll have a solid headunit setup. I really like my 692!