My OEM AP1 head unit sucks. I want to upgrade to something with iPod integration but I really want it to work with the dash mounted controls. What is the most common head unit you guys are purchasing that works well with the OEM controls and wont break the bank? I almost dont even care if it plays CD's on not, I just want a way to plug in my MP3's.

Also, the "mode" button on the dash doesnt work, and the volume down doesnt work, is this a common issue related to the OEM head unit or buttons themselves?

Thanks ahead of time.

 

The best place to search and post these type of questions would be in the Electronics Forum:
https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showforum=26

You have a lot of options based on your requirements

Also, the mode and volume should work with the OEM head unit, you will need to do some troubleshooting with a voltmeter to see where the problem resides

 

Most head units will work with the dash controls, HOWEVER you must use the Modifry DCI to interface with them. I would recommend Alpine personally... very nice head units with a ton of features, high sound quality, and some cool designs, among other benefits. I'd recommend an Alpine X303 for your needs. The 9886, 9887, and 117 would also be good choices. They are a bit more expensive than other head units, but worth it. JVC, Pioneer, and Clarion are other good brands. I'd stay away from Sony, their head units are mediocre.

 

Thanks for the info, I'll forward this info to my wife for christmas

 

I consider myself an audiophile, and I'd like to suggest that you check out the Kenwood KDCHD545U.

-HD Radio built in
-Full spectrum of playback including AAC and MP3
-USB and AUX connectivity, both on the faceplate for easy operation.
- Excellent power (wont need an amp for nice sound), frequency response rate, and sensitivity.
-Can be had for under $150


Good luck!

EDIT: I forgot to mention, since you looking for a cost effective upgrade, I'm sure you'll be forgoing the speaker amplifier. If this is the case, look into a more powerful head unit. However do not concern yourself with the peak power rating. What you are interested in is the full spectrum power delivery.

For the above mentioned headunit, the peak power delivery is 50Wx4 channels. It's RMS, or full spectrum power delivery is 22Wx4 channels. This is a good number. Alpine units (though I like them), may require an external amp. They tend to run at 17W RMS.

Top down music listening can be tough without enough drive!

Cheers!

 

Good deal?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Kenwood-KDC-HD545U-In-...=item3a60035dac


Also, is the module to make the OEM controls work specific to brands or are head unit inputs universal?

 

I have this Kenwood unit and am very happy with it. The USB input is very cool. I have an 8GB thumbdrive plugged into it right now - good for about 1500 songs.

 

Answered my own question... for future reference.

http://www.modifry.com/products/dci/faq.htm
http://www.modifry.com/products/dci/buy.htm

 

The kenwood unit advertises:

"Steering Wheel Control Compatible : Yes "

Does this mean you can use the wired modify unit vs the infrared unit?

 

It has a provision on the back. You can check Crutchfield.com for the unit. It's essentially just a converter box that plugs in between the controls and the HU. You can always buy it later if you decide, "yeah i need those controls."

129 shipped is not a bad deal. I like crutchfield because they are Phenomenal about customer service.

I believe their price will be similar if you use one of the $20 off coupons here:
Retailmenot



They will throw in the proper wiring harness at no charge. It is the cheapest option.

Crutchfield link to Kenwood HU