Kenwood KDC-X997 vs Alpine CDE-HD148BT

[fb111a1 10+ year member]

Looking for a new head unit for my 2003 Maxima. I've owned both Alpine and Kenwood in the past and have been satisfied with both. I plan on only using the front door speakers (6.5" Polk momo). Maybe a small sub eventually. I need Ipod controls (USB) and want really wanted time alignment and HD radio.

What do you think?

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[fb111a1 10+ year member]

I'm leaning towards the Alpine. If I remember correctly it had the least amount of lag when controlling an Ipod. Does that sound about right?

 

[fb111a1 10+ year member]

another question; is HD radio a worthwhile feature?

 

[Jes 42 10+ year member]

another question; is HD radio a worthwhile feature?

I like my hd radio on my Kenwood.

 

[dumple 5,000+ posts]

I've got a cda9887 that fits those requirements plus Bluetooth

 

[PocketRocket]

Go with the Kenwood. The new series has very little lag and the Bluetooth is awesome. It might just be me but I've seen to many problems with the alpines lately and the "true specs" I believe are in question. The built in amp and/or pre outs sound better on the Kenwood as well.

Hd is hit or miss on if your area has a lot of hd channels. It is cool that normal FM turns into "CD" quality and most stations have 2-3 sub channels