ok, what r some of the better headunits that have mps HD capabilities. i remember reading that some of the new HU's can store mp3s by simply ejecting the face and plugging it into ur pc via usb.
also, i also vaguely remember reading that some of the new HU's have the dash control bypass facilities built in, rather than getting the switches after.

 

I believe Sony makes the one with the detachable face that can be linked to a PC. Other than that....I believe sony also has one with a built in HD. I believe that certain Pioneers have SD memory slots...

I will look into it more and re-post my findings.

John

 

any HU you buy will require SOME sort of interface between the HU and the dash controls.

the newer Alpines (top line) have some options for Alpine produced DCI (Dash Control Interfaces), but the modifry option is superior to the Alpine imo, and offers a lot more flexibility.


regarding HD capabilities -- not many offer that now. most are instead moving to a IPOD/ outboard MP3 player / HU combination vs onboard HD only.

Sony at one time had the option w/ a built in HD (not sure if it's offered anymore), Kenwood had the Music Keg which was an outboard HD unit, and Alpine had an outboard HD unit as well (i know this isn't available anymore).

if you're looking for massive MP3 storage for your in car setup -- i'd recommend either a HU w/ MP3 CD abilities (and a few MP3 CD's), or a HU w/ inputs for MP3 players or an IPOD.


i'm currently very happy w/ my Creative Zen Touch 40 GB player and my Alpine HU w/ an auxillary input.

 

I went with the JVC Exad KD-LHX550. It has a very intuitive touchscreen display with all the James Bond options.

It will play both MP3s and WMAs off of either disk or SD. It also has a J-Link for easy, single cable to the trunk hookup of both Sirius AND a changer over that single cable. (The changer will only do MP3s, however.) It also has a generic Aux input via RCA jacks to hook up whatever else you want.

5 Volt Front and Rear RCA out as well as Sub RCA out.

 

I'd go alpine - they have an add on for their headunits which will not only allow you to attach your ipod but to control it from the HU. If you don't have an iPOD for your MP3z, Alpine still makes one of the best HUs around!

 

its also crazy expensive

 

What is crazy expensive? Alpine HUs? Look around on the web you'll find they are more reasonable than you might think. Crutchfield is ridiculously priced...

 

well, i had a look on an australian site, and they want something like $2200 for it. its pretty new and fancy