Guys,

Any opinions on these. I read a few reviews on the audio site, but just like to hear reviews from Z owner.

My concen is the 2 volts output. I am planning to use aftermarket amps.

I had alpine 9833 on my last coupe and thought it had awesome sound.

Thanks,
Tony

 

As copied from http://www.bcae1.com/preoutv.htm

"NOTE:A piece of equipment that has a higher maximum output voltage is not necessarily going to sound better than one which is only capable of 2 volts output. The higher output will allow you to reduce the gains on your amp (or any down line signal processor) which will lower the noise floor of your system. If you are not having trouble with noise (alternator, hiss...), you may not benefit from the extra output voltage. You also need to realize that the voltage may be more than your amplifiers can handle. The extra voltage will not damage the amplifier but if the lowest sensitivity (gain setting) on your amp is 2 volts, and you drive it with anything more than 2 volts, it will cause your amp to clip*.


*This assumes that the gain setting is the voltage that will drive the amp to max power. Some amps are underrated and may have slightly more headroom and therefore will clip at a little higher power. "

 

^^^ That said, I really like that head unit. I was looking at that one, but I am going to TRY to wait until April when the new iDA-X001 is supposed to be released.

BTW, Alpine lists the 9857 as having 3V outputs - HERE. I wouldn't worry as long as this falls within the range of your amplifier's gain control and you are careful with your install so as not to introduce noise into your RCA's.

 

I have that model and I love it.. I wanted a head unit that I could play my ipod with....In short its a good unit and you will be happy with it.

 

I bought the CDA 9857 to give me iPod capability. Wanted the IVA-W200 but the price was over $1000 at the time.

Overall... Alpine make excellent units

 

Thanks guys.

Tony

 

if you're going to use an ipod this is the headunit to get

 

Just ordered it.

Tony

 

Don't forget to order the iPod interface cable (KCE-422i) as well - should run you about $25-$30.

Also... if you have steering wheel audio controls, PAC make a nice interface which plugs directly into the Alpine HU -- Model is SWI-ALP.
You need to tap into the OEM wiring and add a couple of resistors which are provided with the unit.