Hope this isn't too basic of a question. My BOSE stereo has now failed for the 3rd time on the CD changer. 18,000 miles on a 2003 and the 3rd time it's failed the CD changer. So, I went to the local car audio store and they said they could install an aftermarket head unit and all would be fine. I was looking to do something like this since I wanted to get the iPod connection. I thought BOSE was all proprietary and you had to remove everything and replace with new stuff? This guy says I do not need to do this and a Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, etc...head unit would work fine. Is this true? They were recommending a Alpine CDA-105. What do folks think? Thanks.

 

Yes. The head unit will work if...

It can provide line level signals to the power amplifier.
It has a remote ON-OFF signal to power the amplifier ON and OFF.

 

Use crutchfield to find what parts will work for you. I'm pretty sure that you can use your bose speakers with an aftermarket HU:

http://www.crutchfield.com/cgi-bin/a...r%2fMyCar.aspx