Ok, I've probably sourced a two channel amp and I'm considering upgrading my head unit to gain USB input functionality. However, I've been trawling through the Alpine website and I seem to need to spend an arm & a leg to buy an Alpine head unit which supports time correction (a feature I really appreciate on my current head unit) and even then it looks like I need to buy the Imprint external processor to use the functionality. Simon's 9887R has most of it built in but doesn't have the USB input of lesser models.

Am I misreading the Alpine manuals? Can you manually adjust time correction without the Imprint unit?

 

I have a mate who owns an alpine stereo avec USB think he paid in the region of

 

Do you really need the time correction.
My XDA works well with out it!

 

Time correction has indeed been removed from the vast majority of the newer HUs, requiring the purchase of the imprint unit (PXA-H100) and the software, which'll cost you another

 

It really improves the stereo effect, IMO Mike. I may have to look for Simon's head unit then (or an earlier model on ebay). I am not a fan of Apple products either and wanted to use a 30GB hard drive I already have, but that involves buying an accessory for the 9887, I believe.

Hmmm, looking at X303 as well:

 

FWIW the Imprint system is miles better than my own measurements and EQ. It really is extremely good.

I should add that if you do go for the 9887 you are more than welcome to pay me a visit for an Imprint setup.

Try the talkaudio forum classifieds, always lots of nice stuff there.

 

Thanks Simon, I've been reading talk audio posts but I've not checked the classifieds.

I've spotted that the top of the line Blaupunkt is feature packed and includes time correction. Any views on Blaupunkt kit?

http://www.blaupunkt.com/uk/7648013310_main.asp

Supposedly available for

 

It looks a good all in one package and comes with a calibration microphone/equivalent of Imprint. Bluetooth too if you're a self important type who "needs" to phone whilst driving.

I think Shiskine has a Blaupunkt and is happy with it - he uses the Countdown DCI.

 

I think I was reading Shisky's little Countdown thread whilst you were typing your post, Simon

OK, I'm typing this post to rationalise my own thoughts as what I thought would be cost-free (as a result of selling the wlaurent sub, CD/MP3 changer, Alpine 5 channel amp and Alpine HU) is looking like an expense now.

OPTION 1: Alpine 9887r

Cost: [URL=http://www.caraudiodirect.co.uk/alpine-cda9887r-p-5959.html]

 

Try Sextons direct, the 9887 is