Hey dream, got a quick question for you since it looks like you know your stuff audio-wise at least. Does S/N (signal-to-noise) ratio on the headunit matter if you're running everything off of amps? Or is it just the S/N ratio on the amps that would matter since the headunit isn't "powering" anything (i.e. the speakers/subs)? Or would the S/n ratio on the headunit still matter because it's still sending a signal to the amps? THanks

 

The DDX7017 is not the old version it is a 05 model. The only way that unit will cost $649.99 if it is a B-stock unit or a used unit on E-bay. Dealer cost is much more than that. On the other note there will be a new DDX6019 6.95" monitor out is April for a $1000.00 retail price point. It will only have 2V preouts and you loose a video input, but will get Bluetooth capability. Ebay is not your friend everything Kenwood purchased from there does not have Kenwood warranty. If you read the listing the warranty is through the person selling the unit not Kenwood. Remember the old saying " IF IT IS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE"

 

this would be nice

 

Highside,

That is a very good question. High S/N ratios are needed for the best
audio fidelity. If you start with a noisy signal (e.g. FM at ~80db S/N)
then that's all you get at the speakers, no matter how good the amps are.
The HU's CD S/N are specified at preamp outs under optimal conditions.
They even use the rare nifty feature to turn off the HU's internal amp.
HU's have compromising <80dbA internal amps (never specified!).
That's why the stereo fidelity is much cleaner, not just louder,
running the HU's preamp outputs through good external amps.

 

Do you have any pictures of the new DDX6019??

 

As noisy as the Z is, do you honestly think you can tell the difference b/t 98db and 110db anyway? I mean, come on guys. I know we all like flaunting our audio snobbery, but this is just silly.

 

Do not have one of the DDX6019, but this is one of the new Double Din head units coming out. It will have a retail of $450.00. It has 5V preouts.

 

what exact model is this?

 

Decibels are log scaled so system noise deltas compound exponentially.
You have a valid point about Z's road/engine noise attenuating fidelity.
To achieve the best fidelity use sound matting, great front speakers,
and avoid straight pipes. I hear the audio clarity advantage of a
HIFI HU over an expensive VHU, but not near redline.

 

I am getting this unit installed today as I write this:

http://www.pioneerusa.com/pna/produc...157288,00.html

I wanted a "regular" head unit without the crazy flipout monitors and such; and one that is double DIN so it takes up the entire space. If I do a monitor (I would like to add GPS eventually) I want to put it in the cubby where the designers originally intended. I even get to keep my old cassette tapes! I guess I needed a volume ****.Anyway, this unit can be purchased for well under $500; probably closer to 3 if you shop around.

 

this model would be the kenwood ddx-7017

 

>but this is one of the new Double Din head units coming out. It will have a retail of $450.00. It has 5V preouts.

I found that DPX701 DDIN up on Kenwood's 2006 Excelon site.
http://www.kenwoodusa.com/products/FirstProd.aspx?k1=2

That well organized HIFI unit is blue tooth ready (cell hands free),
with USB to allow 1GB thumb drives for MP3s. Very Nice!

 

any idea on when they are going to release these?? and also the price list for them??

 

so does this screen fit flush in the 2006 model? is there any brackets or anything else needed to install?

 

i got an eclipse avx2404 for $900 installed
I bought it from an authorized eclipse dealer in houston texas brand new in box.

he probably has more pm me if you want me to check

 

spend the extra $400 and get the AVN, you will not regret it.