The car is a 2005 model (if that makes any difference with oem speakers for that year) and wanted to see what potential there is for sound improvement. Mainly looking for a head unit and was recommended by friends to look at the pioneer premier series (looking at the P400-P700's)From looking at the specs, it seems as though the main differences are aeshetics and functions so I was thinking of just the lower version Pioneers. Are there any head units that prevent closing of the radio door?

Background info: I don't connect my i-pod to my radio, I don't listen to XM/sirius radio, almost 100% either radio or CD's, music genre is mainly everything other than country. Looking for a good bang for the buck setup without having to go to subs, don't need upgraded speakers if it's not worth the money, hassle of installation, etc.
Thanks in advance!

 

The only real difference with the Premier is they have an internal amp shut-off function. The warranty is a bit better too.

 

thanks for the insight sound quality is same, then?

 

you will probably need to upgrade the speakers in the s2k

 

Should be.

Upgrade the HU and see how you like it. The stock speakers aren't half-bad given that it's a non-premium simple system. If you still don't like the sound after a new HU, replace the speakers. Beyond that, you can add a dedicated amp...but that's starting to get complicated and expensive.

 

I'd love to recommend the Kenwood BT-838U. It is fully loaded though.

 

just got this from crutchfield. was cheapest from what I've searched.

Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X492 CD Receiver

I love the fact that it has USB port in front so I can just connect my 2GB usb drive and play.

 

strictly speaking, if you can shut off internal amplifier of the head unit, there is less interference and you'll get cleaner output on the RCAs

but if youre simply replacing the HU, no external amp, then its a moot point.

stock speakers are a huge bottle neck in the system. i dont think you'll perceive a difference between any different HU

therefore, to me, the 2 criteria for choosing HU would be:
1. controls/intuitiveness/ease of use
2. "readability". i used to use CDRs and certain brands and models couldnt read most discs for jack...whereas Alpines tend to read even teh most scratched up discs