I guess the only major downside is that I'll have to use the IR DCI which is subject to interference if the radio door is open and the top is down.

John, I'm not necessarliy 'hung up" on this, but I'm sure i don't need bio light unless it's the only way to change the "big signature Alpnie buttons" from blue to amber. Did you notice if this was possible on the 9856? I'll try to go back to Alpine's site to see why I "need" bio light.....

 

The biolite display is awesome. It is liquid, looks better than any display I have seen (in a single din). I had the alpine 9835 a while ago in my scion and loved it. BUT in that car the head unit was on display at all times. If you drive with the radio door closed, then there really is no point in paying extra for the biolite. I paid an extra 100 for the 9855 vs 9853 for my s2000. Looking back, I am not sure that I would have done it again...

 

[QUOTE=Colin,Feb 13 2006, 09:25 AM]I guess the only major downside is that I'll have to use the IR DCI which is subject to interference if the radio door is open and the top is down.

 

mkbruce, thanks for the comments! What is your experience with the speed of the DCI interface for changing tracks etc? As good as stock?

 

I don't detect a noticible delay with the DCI.

However, one difference is that some of the 'commands' (e.g. skip tracks) rely on a combination of buttons. This causes them to trigger on the release of the buttons as opposed to the depression of the button. The button combinations are give access to function otherwise not possible given the number of buttons available.

My favorite function of the DCI is the speed sensitive volume function. My BMW had this and I didn't think much of it there, but that was a much quieter car. In the S2000, it is truly needed and works very well. I'm no longer constantly adjusting the volume based on car noise at different speeds.

Magnus

 

If you don't mind me asking where did you purchase it?

Thanks,

 

local auto stereo shop here in Austin called Custom Sounds

 

Crutchfield has them for $199 as well.

Magnus

 

Just a heads up for anyone wanting the CDA-9857. I emailed crutchfield about this stereo a while back and you can preorder it. Just view your shopping cart, then where it says add items from your catalog, enter the following 500CDA9857. It says estimated arrival date is 3/10/2006. Price is $349.99.

 

Thanks.