USB MP3 Performance: Best brand?

[DrSlinky]

Hey guys.

In the wake of Sandy, I'm looking at a decent insurance payout, and getting a new car. Going from a 2002 Trans Am WS6 convertible to a 2001 Lincoln LS. Yeah, ouch. Trans Am was under 5 feet of water, totaled, and took the stereo with it. So my Alpine CDA-9831 isn't just outdated, it's dead.

One of the big features I've been missing out on has been USB/Flash storage for my MP3s. I asked a few friends, who are far from experts, but they all had varying degrees of experiences with flash drives. As I have 500+ CDs ripped onto my flash drive, this isn't just a required feature, but one in which performance is critical.

Is there a consensus on any brand and/or models that handle large flash drives better than others? Ideally, I'd like a head unit that can handle the current directory setup of "Artist/Album/Songs" and not require some strange piece of software to set up and maintain my MP3 collection.

Anybody have any advice, knowledge, experiences, that would help me make my decision easier?

[wanton789]

My Kenwood BT952 navigates nicely via USB (Artist/Album/Songs). The response time after pressing buttons is fast enough too... something I make sure of.
This is their top of of the line for BT/USB receivers though. Maybe go down the line until you find one you like but doesn't necessarily have all the features.

Something like this one: Kenwood Excelon KDC-X395 CD receiver at Crutchfield.com

My advice:
-Go to your local Car Toys or equivalent and play around. Hopefully someone there can hook up their USB for you

-Also go on Crutchfield.com
*Insane customer support (some person will literally chat with you for however long you want)
*HU will be thoroughly described
*The website will tell you what is compatible with your vehicle
*They have adapter kits for most HU (double DIN to single)
*Free instructions with purchase for most vehicles how to take apart everything

Your question is very general so do your research and come back with specific questions