Need help choosing a head unit

[MikeC]

I'm looking to change my current head unit, the JVC KD-AVX33. I've had it a while and its time for a change. However, i've been out the head unit market for a while and don't really know anymore whats good and whats to avoid.

However, if possible, I want something that isn't a face-off. I had an Alpine a while back that kind of folded back within itself so it looked like a face-off, as I do sometimes forget to take the face with me!

I'm looking at around the £400 mark, need to have the usual bluetooth, mp3, usb maybe, not too bothered about having a dvd screen, just want real top quality stuff.

Thanks!

 

[Rasclart]

Are you running standard speakers? If so I would spend less on the H.U and upgrade the speakers fella. Will give a much better sound.

I have always rated Alpine units! As for the folding in thing. Gimmick. I thief will spot that a mile off mate!

 

[MikeC]

Got quality set of componenets (audiobahn) and a Genesis amp, so it sounds good but I dunno, bored I guess!

I like gimmicks I guess i've always had trouble in the past with contacts from the face off suffering from wear and tear....

 

[Rasclart]

Ahh thats cool then. Not sure which headunit tbh. Never had much of a problem myself? Stop being a gheyer. Find a specific car audio forum!

 

[Rasclart]

http://www.caraudiocentre.co.uk/product_m-alpine-ida-x305_p-23698.htm

 

[MikeC]

I was looking at that.....!

 

[Rasclart]

Great units. Couple friends used to own a Car Audio store. Now out of business but had a fiddle with the 2008 version and it was great!

Bear in mind it has no CD slot. But that wouldnt bother me as it integrates so well with the iphone/ipod!

 

[Mike_182]

X305 is good. I just splashed on a Kenwood 524 DVD thing, plus the bluetooth/iPod video thing. Turns up tomorrow. Close to £600 though so a load more, but I think it's possibly one of the best value units you can get.

I had an Alpine 9861Ri for ages. Best HU I ever owned. Did everything very well, but you'd have to go for a separate bluetooth handsfree. Plus side is it has one of the best sound qualities for a sub £1000 head unit you'll find.

 

[EllD90]

I've had the previous model to this for a year:

http://www.caraudiodirect.co.uk/pioneer-deh-p7100bt.html

great bit of kit

EDIT: just read your requirements...ignore me.

 

[Mike_182]

http://www.caraudiodirect.co.uk/alpine-dva-9861ri-ipod-full-speed.html

As I said up... I <3 this unit. Gave it away with my S2. Regret it. Deeply.

 

[Rasclart]

X305 is good. I just splashed on a Kenwood 524 DVD thing, plus the bluetooth/iPod video thing. Turns up tomorrow. Close to £600 though so a load more, but I think it's possibly one of the best value units you can get.

I had an Alpine 9861Ri for ages. Best HU I ever owned. Did everything very well, but you'd have to go for a separate bluetooth handsfree. Plus side is it has one of the best sound qualities for a sub £1000 head unit you'll find.

Knows about the Alpines. They always championed Alpine and were a dealer. So I got good deals. I still have a 9835R!