I'm a new member so I imagine that this question has been asked before - what is a good head unit to pursue if you'd like to maintain the use of the dash radio/CD controls.

Any input that could be provided would be greatly appreciated.

 

Any with a wireless remote (IF). I'd suggest a decent MP3 head unit so you can sans the CD changer.

Pinky can set you up with a package that keeps your dash controls with your new head unit at a fair price. He's an expert at stereo installation. Check with him.

 

S2k,

As Lucid said, any will do, but what he probaly meant to mention as well is you need some sort connection betwqeen the dash controls and the ned head. You can't just go out and buy a new head and expect the dash controls to work. The most common solution is the PAC SWI-3 IR repeater which will work with any head that has an IR remote.

You have two main choices, and the one you choose depends upon your desire to tinker:
1) If you don't feel comfortable installing a stereo, you can send your wiring harness to Pinky and he will install an SWI-3 and a relay into it for $150.
2) If you like to tinker and feel comfortable splicing a few wires together, check out my webpage for a few places you can get the SWI-3 from (Circuit City and other such places generally have them as well, but for a higher price) and schematics on how to hook it up yourself for about $50.

I think S2kMan finished his hardwire connection for Sony heads, so that may be an option to look at.