Looking for a double-din full LCD screen head unit. I just need the basic features such as playing DVD, playing mp3s off a usb drive, and bluetooth capabilities (don't need navigation). Are there any recommendations for a reasonably priced one? ($500 or less)

Also, what else would I need to purchase in order to install a double din unit? From what I've found I'll need the metra kit and wiring harness. How much do those go for anyway?

Thanks in advance,
Yorick

 

i just ordered a pioneer avh-4100, 7 inch touch screen will usb port and sd card reader. they go for 420 on amazon.

 

i recently just picked up a AVIC-x910bt from amazon for 541. However greatest part about it was that they are having a 100 dollar rebate for it so i actually got it for 441 shipped. The prices flucuate often on amazon so check back often... the next day after i ordered it went to 559... then it went to 899. Btw the 910bt comes with bluetooth, navigation, DVD, and its IPhone/IPOD compatiable, SD card slot.... the works.

 

I just ordered the new Pioneer 4200DVD...

 

Absolutely I can recommend a DD head unit!

Anything OTHER than Kenwood!

I have one of their DD DVD units and it is Kenwood Krap. The volume stops working randomly. The USB works occasionally.

Seriously, I would stick with a reputable company. I've always had good luck with Alpine.

I read a bunch of reviews and bought on that alone. Boy am I sorry. Now I've made a $500 mistake and need to get something that works.

Hope this helps.

 

Not to hijack, but what 7" lcd navigation would you guys recommend for the upper cubby slot? Not looking to replace the factory radio, just add navigation up top.

 

Since no one else has the problems you mention...

I wonder if you have a faulty installation.

--Spike

 

Good question. The best solutions come from Alpine, Garmin, and Kenwood.

Alpine


Alpine NVE-M300 Navigation Drive


Alpine TME-S370 Mobile LCD Screen

The Good: Alpine’s LCD screens are great… bright, sharp, and viewable under direct sunlight.

The Bad: The screen is 6.5” (smaller than competing 7” screens), and GPS function does not match Garmin’s features.
___________________________________

Garmin


Garmin GVN 53 Black Box Navigation


Just about any LCD monitor (NTSC, PAL, or RGB) you want to use. The example here is the Farenheit LCD (same as Power Acoustik PT-700MHR LCD and NESA Vision NSM-7005 7" LCD).

The Good: Garmin is the best GPS navigation system money can buy. The Garmin GVN 53 works with any LCD screen.

The Bad: No touch screen support with the Garmin GVN 52. You must use a handheld remote control to operate the GVN 53.
___________________________________

Kenwood


Kenwood KNA-G510 Navigation Black Box


Kenwood LZ-702W 6.95” LCD Monitor

The Good: Garmin is the OEM supplier of navigation for Kenwood. Garmin is best GPS navigation system money can buy.

The Bad: Nothing that I can think of.
___________________________________

Any of these is a good solution.

• If superior GPS function is most important, go with Garmin or Kenwood. (and Kenwood if you want touch screen function).
  
• If you want the best screen and are willing to sacrifice the best GPS features, go with Alpine.

Hope this is helpful,


--Spike

 

dude, kenwood blows. look at them in this order...


Alpine
Pioneer
Clarion


Any model from those brands will be ok, I hvae the pioneer 3100dvd and love it! But have had extensive experience with all the listed brands

 

I am either ordering the Pioneer 3200DVD or 4200DVD. Can't decided between the two... I have never had any problems with Pioneer or Alpine so thats what I will continue to purchase.

 

For sure…If you don’t need navigation, Alpine’s latest offering of full screen DD devices are excellent, and the pricing is amazing for what you get. I do not know the OEM supplier for Alpine’s LCD screens, but Alpine’s touch screen LCD’s are absolutely great (bright and razor-sharp, and the touch screen function is exceptional). The application software is great making operation easy and intuitive.

If you want navigation, go with Kenwood (OEM navigation is Garmin).

I’m not a fan of Pioneer for several reasons.

--Spike

 

Just curious about the criteria you use when rating the order of manufacturers in your message.

It is helpful if you describe the specific reasons you rate the products from 1 to 3 (Alpine, Pioneer, and Clarion).

--Spike

 

sup josh