Can't stand the (OEM) cd changer behind the seat in my '02 Screw. Need to have an in dash head unit. Have researched too much, and need some opinions from others on what's hot and what's not. I'm not into elaborate component systems, crossovers, amps, subs and so forth. I'm looking for a basic head unit that will last and is fairly easy to use (don't need flying dolphins and motorized faceplates). Unit should be MP3/WMA capable and have good specs such as Alpine 9800 series, Pioneer DEH series, Clarion DXZ series, Sony CDX series, etc and should cost no more than ~$200. If you have experience with something that fits this list, please let me know what you think of it (pros/cons). I've also listened to 6x8 Pioneer 6800 series speakers and Alpine SPS570 series speakers (liked them both) but would like to hear other suggestions there as well. Thanks for any help/advice you can provide. BTW, I'm over 40 and listen to all types of music from jazz to rock, country to hip hop (kids don't you know) at moderate to loud levels. Thanks again.

 

seems to be the way to go. Go to their site and enter your vehicle make and model and it will give you a list of what fits your vehicle. Also, it lists reviews of most of the popular units listed. I don't think you will have any trouble finding the unit that fits your needs and it will come with the kit and connectors you need to make an easy install in your vehicle. As far as what is best, either of the manufacturers you spoke of, Alpine or Pioneer are going to be great quality units, so it is basically up to you and which one does what you want it to do. Hey, good luck and let me know which one you go with. I am looking at that option, too!

 

Actually, I've spent quite a bit of time at the Crutchfield site and a bit of time in Best Buy, but wanted to hear from other F150 owners since there are so many units in the 130-230 price range, most with very similar features. I found most of the units controls tiny and not very user friendly when I looked at Best Buy. Unfortunately, the Best Buy setup was so poor I couldn't really get any useful information about the sound quality of the units I tested. The search continues...

 

and I think Wally World is better than that for trying the sound options, that is, as long as they have the ones you want to listen to. As far as models, it looks like the Pioneer DEH-3800 and the Alpine 9845 or the 9847, I think. You can look through the posts in this section and see some info on those units.

 

Well I really like Pioneers because they are easier to use. Menus and options are more intuative, and graphic. I like the new 6800 for the $200 price point, it does everything you want, and also plays AAC. The 6800 speakers are mediocre IMHO... I had a entire set of them in my last ride, and that was the weak point. I didnt know it until I got my new Infinity 6.5" components and 6x8 2-ways in my truck. If your over 40, listen to different music, and dont plan to get "all crazy" with it, I would still reccommend components up front. Your going to hear much better treble (and Ill assume you lost at least some of your hearing over time) which makes a HUGE difference. I cant stress enough how important I believe it is to get some components up front, no matter what. The same Amps and Deck are in my truck as I had before and the mid and treble is just an amazing difference over the 4-Way pioneers.

I would be more then happy to help you further, I do sell this stuff a well, but it seems you can still get as good as a price as me through eBay anyhow... Good luck!

 

Okay, I'm "listening". How much trouble is it to install component speakers (at least in the front doors)? Would I need to modify the door panels? I read great reviews of the Infinity reference series speakers at Crutchfield (not components). Which Infinities are you talking about? I don't think I've lost too much of my hearing from younger days of listening to that evil "devil rock" music, and don't plan on getting too crazy with it (but no promises there). Some of the Pioneer decks I checked out at BB seemed a bit flimsy, and overloaded with gimmicks, but hard to tell in that environment (especially since there are so many great reviews of these decks on multiple sites). I'll admit, I was leaning towards the Alpines initially, but several others seem to offer at least as much for similar prices. I'm starting to think of spending less on the HU and more on the speakers. Thanks for the feedback. Any other advice?

 

LOL... Ok, well the reference ones are the ones I have. I really like them. If you like the Alpine deck get that they are really nice decks as well. Its not much harder to install components, just stick the crossover in the armrest. You just have to snap off the speaker grille, and then pry the armrest open and there ya go. The tweeter location will probably need to be drilled out; I used a holesaw and then just cleaned the edges. Like an extra 20 min or so and its worth it... Good luck!