What is the best head unit that will work with the dash controls on the S2K? Is there such thng? Maybe one with MP3 compatability?

How will the S2K stereo sound with just replacing the head unit??

Thanks

 

Firstly, the real weak link is not the head unit but the speakers. Change them for some nice two ways or splits and you'll hear improvement.

Second, if you're not satisfied with the above, an amp is the next step.

If you really want a new head unit be aware that none will work with the dash controls as standard. Some Alpine models will work with an Alpine adaptor (only available on European market) and any head unit with an IR remote will work with the PAC SWI-3 (or Pinky's Audio Control). Also, S2kman has the first batch of a custom designed programmable dash controls interface for some Sony head units under production.

I have Sony splits, amp and head unit with Pinky's Audio Control (S2kman's DCU on order), and Neo 35 MP3 player. See my link below for details.

 

You would probably like the JVC SH-99. Drop me a line if your interested in it and the dash controls mod.

 

Tugz,

You have quite a few options, but none that will be as easy as I'm sure you had hoped. No radios that I'm aware of will work directly with the S2000 dash controls, but a retrofit isn't xtremely hard, either. A number of options have opened up in the last year:

1) Pinky's pre-made harness using the PAC SWI-3 is great for timid individuals or those who just don't want the hassle of cutting wires. Cost: $150.
2) If you are a do-it-yourselfer, see my webpage for instruction on how to order and install your own PAC SWI-3 (now replaced by the SWI-X) from a Pacific Audio Corp rep. Cost: around $40.
3) With some starter help from a couple of us here on the board, S2kMan has put together a nice package that does a similar job to the PAC unit, but with a few extra features. Cost: I'm not sure offhand, but it's most likely comparable to option 2.
4) If you decide to go with the stock unit and add in some rear speakers, look for some of the great harnesses by Lucid.

I think I'm missing an option, but that should get you started...

 

An Alpine headunit with a 3.5mm jack on the back (I have the CDA-7876RB), and the Alpine KCE-865B dash controls convertor. Plugs in to the OEM loom, and provides you with stock functionality of the dash controls.

Might also add that the KCE-865B is only available through Alpine Europe.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by MacGyver
[B]Tugz,


3) With some starter help from a couple of us here on the board, S2kMan has put together a nice package that does a similar job to the PAC unit, but with a few extra features.

 

bb,

Good outline of the functionality differences, thanks. I did forget the main point about S2kMan's setup only working with Sony...oops.

 

I have the Alpine 7878 (cd/mp3) with the PAC SWI-X and all of my dash controls work fine.

 

Who did the installation?

How much does that 7878 go for?

 

I'm somewhat in the same boat....can't decide on a headunit. Just replaced the speakers with some BA 6.5 separates and have an amp waiting for a new HU.

I got in on the first GB from s2kman and have a DCU on the way...my problem: I can't find a compatible sony unit that I like. Looked at the mp3-450x last weekend...seemed flimsy and cheap compared to some of my older Alpine units. Also looked at the 610 with the motorized front face...boy this could be a pain with the front HU cover. I would prefer an MP3 unit...yet read about ID3 tag issues with the sony and I am not real hot on the XPUKE style.

Anyone have experience with the 450x or the 610m unit? likes/dislikes...other suggestions?...here is a partial list:

CDX-CA650X
CDX-CA660X
CDX-CA750X
CDX-CA760X
CDX-L550X
CDX-MP450X
CDX-M600
CDX-M610
CDX-M750
XR-CA600X
ES XR-CA610X
ES XR-M550