I already have an alpine HU. How much trouble would it be to add a NAV unit plus a 7" screen to that setup? I'm thinking of getting the Alpine NAV unit plus a 7" screen. Just not sure how difficult the install would be.
Would a touch screen work with the Alpine NVE-N852A? I'm only interested in NAV. I'm not looking for any fancy multi purpose unit. Any inputs are welcomed. Thanks in advance

 

Honestly, I think the 852A is way too expensive ($1,300 or so) for what it offers. You can easily install it in the available slot of your OEM 2-DIN opening (I am assuming your current HU is 1-DIN) but of course you will need a monitor in the dash cubby. That will send you back another $400 or thereabout, brining the total to about $1,700. For that much, you can have a double-DIN Eclipse 5435 CD/DVD/NAVI with built-in monitor. I know you only want navi, but at that cost, it isn't worth it, IMO. With a 5435, you could sell your current HU if you wanted to and end up way better off. Just a thought.

P.S: The 5435 will be a much simpler install than adding a 7" monitor in the dash cubby as very few fit without any cutting.

 

if you go with an alpine touch screen and their nav you should be able to run the sound in through the ai-net on your deck. (if it has one) for that matter you can do any standalone touchscreen nav combo from various companys and still feed the sound in through the ai-net, you'll just need the kca420i.

 

In my case that's not feasible. I also have an XM direct kit hooked up to my Alpine 9833. If I get an all-in-one unit, there goes my XM. I know you can probably hook up Sirius to the Eclipse, but I'm an XM guy. For that reason only, I'm forced to go the screen in the cubby and NAV unit route. The NAV unit does not necessarily have to be Alpine. **** I'll take any good suggestions.