there is a huge price delta on these, but I don't see much of a difference... go item by item!! help me out. what am I missing. Why shouldn't I just get the cheap one??

http://www.alpine-usa.com/US-en/products/c...?c=Alpine&model[]=iDA-X001&model[]=iDA-X100&model[]=iDA-X200&model[]=iDA-X300&source=/US-en/products/series-c.php&category=IPOD

 

I can't get the link to work, but it looks like you're comparing the Alpine iDA-X001, X100, X200, and X300.

The X001 is last year's model, which explains why you may be finding it really cheap now. The X100, X200, and X300 were just released recently. In this case, the X100 is the "top of the line" going down to the X300. Differences in the X100 include more power, preamp connections, and a full color TFT display. The X200 and X300 have slightly less power output, two line displays, etc.

None of these models have a CD player. They are meant for use with an iPod or USB device or an iPod with a full speed cable. You can also add a satellite receiver or an HD radio receiver.

Here's another link about the X100/X200/X300:
https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=568144

 

alright here we gooooo
300 is the cheapest -
Single color display , single action rotory knob, basic display, less power

200 is next
dual color display , DUAL action rotory knob , more power , the ability to search your ipod alphabet wise raither than scrolling through 12k in songs, also comes with an ipod cable already

300 is next
TFT display , more power, album art, alphabet search , dual action knob that works exactly like and ipod and comes with an ipod cable.