fukinay
Junior Member
I used to have a decent German car with a great Alpine deck and Diamond Audio speakers. I spent about $1,000 for everything. The sound was phenomenal. But, that was back in 2002. I used to make more money and have fewer responsibilities, so I could afford to splurge on a car stereo back then. Now, I bought a used (but mint condition and low mileage) year 2000 BMW 3 series with stock stereo. I want to first replace the head unit then maybe down the road upgrade the speakers to something like Bavsound Stage 1.
Anyway, because of my experience with Alpine and that I have a German car again, I have an emotional attachment to the brand, although I keep hearing "Alpine is not what it used to be. Others, especially Pioneer have surpassed it." I remember the sound system I had was a bit on the "bright" side - the opposite of warm. The older I get, I prefer a detailed yet still somewhat warm sound. I'm not sure if Alpine sounds bright in general or if it was the aluminum Diamond Audio tweeters. The "time alignment" feature was amazing. So, although I'm attached to Alpine (love the looks of them too), I'm open to other brands if I can be persuaded. Here is my criteria of things I most important and least important:
MUST HAVE:
- single DIN design
- under $250 (preferably under $200)
- excellent sound quality (this is perhaps my #1 criteria after price)
- easy to play and navigate iPod, iPhone, iPad, USB memory stick
- easy navigation
- beautiful minimalist design without flashing lights, animations, and changing colors
- a dimmer option (I hate bright stereo lights at night and dim one in the day)
- expandability so I can upgrade the speakers and possibly add a subwoofer in the future)
NICE TO HAVE:
- CD player (I still have a lot of CDs from long ago)
- good EQ (I leave settings flat 80% of the time), but sometimes make minor adjustments
- time alignment (although this feature might only be available on more expensive units)
- Bluetooth connectivity (but may rarely use this)
- blue lights / LED / LCD. I don't care for red or green or purple. I like blue.
DON'T NEED:
- satellite radio
- phone calling integration, built-in mic, etc.
- SIRI or voice services
- Pandora, Spotify services (maybe I'll change my mind, but I don't have an unlimited data plan)
I HATE:
- the ugly flashy designs of most newer car stereos
Lastly, please recommend me a unit I can find on either Amazon, Crutchfield or most conveniently on Best Buy as they have a free installation deal until this Saturday in my area. If you have a suggestion or recommendation, please tell me why and some details such as the exact model number as opposed to a "Go with Pioneer! You won't regret it!" type of response. Thanks in advance!
Anyway, because of my experience with Alpine and that I have a German car again, I have an emotional attachment to the brand, although I keep hearing "Alpine is not what it used to be. Others, especially Pioneer have surpassed it." I remember the sound system I had was a bit on the "bright" side - the opposite of warm. The older I get, I prefer a detailed yet still somewhat warm sound. I'm not sure if Alpine sounds bright in general or if it was the aluminum Diamond Audio tweeters. The "time alignment" feature was amazing. So, although I'm attached to Alpine (love the looks of them too), I'm open to other brands if I can be persuaded. Here is my criteria of things I most important and least important:
MUST HAVE:
- single DIN design
- under $250 (preferably under $200)
- excellent sound quality (this is perhaps my #1 criteria after price)
- easy to play and navigate iPod, iPhone, iPad, USB memory stick
- easy navigation
- beautiful minimalist design without flashing lights, animations, and changing colors
- a dimmer option (I hate bright stereo lights at night and dim one in the day)
- expandability so I can upgrade the speakers and possibly add a subwoofer in the future)
NICE TO HAVE:
- CD player (I still have a lot of CDs from long ago)
- good EQ (I leave settings flat 80% of the time), but sometimes make minor adjustments
- time alignment (although this feature might only be available on more expensive units)
- Bluetooth connectivity (but may rarely use this)
- blue lights / LED / LCD. I don't care for red or green or purple. I like blue.
DON'T NEED:
- satellite radio
- phone calling integration, built-in mic, etc.
- SIRI or voice services
- Pandora, Spotify services (maybe I'll change my mind, but I don't have an unlimited data plan)
I HATE:
- the ugly flashy designs of most newer car stereos
Lastly, please recommend me a unit I can find on either Amazon, Crutchfield or most conveniently on Best Buy as they have a free installation deal until this Saturday in my area. If you have a suggestion or recommendation, please tell me why and some details such as the exact model number as opposed to a "Go with Pioneer! You won't regret it!" type of response. Thanks in advance!
