I know this model has been out for more than a year but ,so far besides the Alpines DVA xxxx, there is nothing else under $600 with built in HD radio tuner capability. This model by JVC also has an AUX port and I saw somewhere that you can connect a USB drive to it just like an Ipod (but I dont own an Ipod so the USB drive would be optimal). Any reviews before I fork out $150 for this unit + DCI + USB cable?

Oh and BTW I will be purchasing either a Hifonics, Polk, or Alpine 2 channel amp in the future along with some Infinity components in the front and a sub+ amp in the trunk. Dont know if compatibility is an issue. Review appreciated and comments welcomed.

 

I looked at that unit at Circut city...

the displace was a little less than good 5-6 letter display when ipod is playing
HD tuner is good in city, but outside of that is switched back and forth

read 170 reviews on crutchfield.com

Im back shopping New Alpine 9887 / iDA-X001 and current 9885

 

And how about the display when the ipod is not playing?

 

I sure it show the radio station and time

best info....
"Admit it: when was the last time you actually listened to a CD in your car? Like most of us, you probably listen to either FM, satellite radio, or most likely, your portable MP3 player. A few manufacturers are taking note and producing an amazing concept: in-dash head units without a CD player. No CD. Zip. Nada. Zilch. Alpine's iDA-X001 is one such unit, with a built-in AM/FM tuner, and a very sexy iPod interface.

Unlike systems that use either FM modulation or connect with the headphone output, the iDA-X001 uses the USB interface for all fifth-generation video iPods (older iPods can still work with Alpine's optional iPod interface). The display module was designed with permission from Apple, so it shares the same look you know and love from your iPod. The iDA-X001 has a color screen that displays artist, song titles, and even album art from your iPod, and the navigation is the same.

Better yet: when connected via USB, the iDA-X001 will charge your iPod for as long as your car is running. As a head unit, the iDA-X001 is quite nice, with a small, removable section of the faceplate for security. It might be time to leave those CDs at home.

 

What about this
24-Bit DAC

Will it bring the ipod and music to the next level

I have a 4gen ipod photo - it say 5th gen high speed usb connection- I wonder with will be different?


wow no CD mechanism

USB/iPod Control Receiver (NO CD Mechanism)
Max Power Output: 50W x 4
FM/AM RDS Radio Receiver
3 x Preouts
High-Resolution 2.2" TFT colour display
MP3/WMA/AAC File Support
iPod USB adapter and USB cable included (for 5th Gen iPods)
Fast Music Access with USB Connection
24-Bit DAC and dynamic MediaXpander
iTunes

 

PicturePro I really appreciate the depth of your "reasearch" in your help. But the problem is, I have to buy an EXTRA unit for the alpine and I will be well north of $500 for both. I want something with both features mentioned before.

If I really didnt care about HD radio, I would go for the new Clarion unit with Bluetooth in it and SD card slot. It is also CD-Less.

 

That alpine unit is HOT.

I was seriously considering that JVC unit because it's dirt cheap and comes with HD radio. However, think about how much HD radio you'll listen to. For me, I just don't like a lot of the radio stations in Los Angeles so getting HD radio would be worthless. If IPOD integration is in your future, I hear that the alpine ipod link and interface is by far the best.

So..if you're dead set on HD Radio, I'd definitely get this unit. Like you said, anything else with HD Radio costs hundreds more.

Lastly, just because something has an AUX port doesn't mean it's going to be helpful. A true interface is always best, especially when it comes to safety. Last thin you want is to be controlling your ipod manually while driving your car.

 

sorry I got over jazzed on this Alpine, the more I read up, the more it meets my needs

check for HD stations in YOUR area

http://www.hdradio.com/

 

The good thing is all 10 stations I listen to are in HD.... And thats a good thing.