Hey!
In Feb. I bought a 2004 Nissan 350Z (my dream car) and I've been doing slight modifications to it since I've owned it. But now I think I'm ready to install a Double Din stereo. However I'm getting stuck on which one is the best sounding! Any recommendations?

 

Welcome, but keep in mind the headunit is only a portion of the sound system in your Z. Speakers are probably a bigger component to the overall sound. Having said that, I've installed a Kenwood DPX593BT in my Z to replace the OEM unit. Having adequate power from a USX-2100 amp to power my MB Quart 216 speakers make clear and amazing sound. Playing digital high-def music available through a USB port on the Kenwood only adds to a higher dimension to the quality of the music.

 

Pretty open ended question.... what is your music preference (rock, jazz, classical, etc)? That's not a big deal as most of the good units will play them all fine. But more importantly, what's the source? You talking radio, CD, digital (like USB or other storage), HD audio of some sort?

This. ^^ head unit is almost secondary to good speakers, amplification, quality of install, proper insulation, and so on.

This begs the question.... How much are you willing to spend for YOUR idea of "best sound".

Another key question is whether you have the OE non-Bose system or the Bose? This makes a big impact on what you're going to have to buy. You buy just any head unit and try to plug into a Bose system, you'll feel bad because it sounds like crap, if it sounds at all. Mismatched impedance throughout the system (from head to amp to speakers) and trying to piece together a Bose-compatible system with non-matching components is just a no-go unless you know what you're doing.. That's to say that there ARE ways around it but no sense talking about it if not appending a Bose system.

In the Z that I actually did an upgrade on - simple JVC 2DIN HU with low out to a 200w 10"-powered sub and a four channel Pioneer amp. All that out to Focal 6.5 rear and 5.25" front two-ways. Not a budget nor high end set up. Somewhere in the middle and I was entirely happy with my $1k system. You want "best" you say, move on up to - as an example only - a set of Focal KEs. About $800/pr. So again, comes down to what you want to spend.

 

Thank you for all the advice! I realized I should have worded the question differently after I posted it!
I am planning on switching out the OE sound with a more clean and powerful replacement. I usually listen to music in spanish, rap, typically music with bass, so opting out for something on the low end probably wont accomplish what I am looking for. However the set up your describing sounds like something I would be interested in replicating in my Z. I guess it's all trial and error until I accomplish the sound I'm looking for. THANK YOU

 

You're welcome and you should also consider the other features that an aftermarket headunit might offer. For example, my Kenwood unit was not that expensive, but offered Bluetooth and a host of other music sources. I don't use all of them, but if it's the ability to play HD music via a USB port, it was well worth it. Just remember that if you buy high-quality speakers or a subwoofer, you'll need to supply them with clean power from an amp matched for power.

 

How did I know (c)rap would be listed

 

what did you decide to go with ?