So... I've been lurking here for a while looking for ideas on what to do about the radio in my 2003. I'm no audiophile, but I know what sounds decent to me and the stock system was a little lacking

 

I have this same unit on the way. Wasn't sure if I needed the DCI and wanted to see the instructions first before ordering one. Guess I'll go ahead do this tomorrow and try to have everything together before starting the replacement.

 

I can't say enough about the DCI unit. Get the one pre-wired for your Alpine - truely plug it in and turn it on.

So, having now having had a few more hours to play with it... it's a great head-unit and the ipod interface is very cool.

Mike

 

How is the sound quality on this unit, compared to lets say, the Alpine 9885 in terms of clarity/bass?

Edit: Damn, I posted this question in the wrong topic, but thanks for the answer anyways!

 

The specs are exactly the same as the 9885. The 9885 has an improved display which seems to me to be overpriced. A $30-40 dollar premium may have been reasonable not $100.
Preamp voltage is doubled in the 9885 also which may be a little better if this HU is going to be used without an amp which could be justification for spending the extra dough.
With factory speakers, I'd expect sound quality to be the same with either unit.

 

9883 owners, what do you have your HUs tuned to?

mine hurts my ears with the high freq. when cranked up, its ridiculous - I could crank the OEM HU all I wanted with no discomfort.

WTF!!!!????

 

Ok, I have a question regarding both/either of the 9883 or the 9885. I am looking at getting one of these HUs for my S2K, but I keep reading that you cannot fully close the stereo door. Is this true? What experience have you run into? Also, I have read a few places that the 9883's illumination is switchable, like the 9885. Any truth to this? Thanks guys...

 

You're probably rolling off the loudness contour, or don't have it turned on. I assume you don't have an external amp and are using upgraded speakers?