Hey guys...im thinking of getting the Alpine 9856 head unit for christmas. How good is this head unit? I can get it for around $180. Does an ipod hookup to it no problem? Any review? thanks a lot

 

Based off of what I've read (and I did A LOT of research over the past month), Alpine HU's are not what they used to be. Many people that are accusomtomed to their older HU's are now disappointed with them for the past few years... With that being said, I've also read/heard that the Alpine HU's have the best iPod interface & connectivity. They advertise it as iPod "Full Speed", whatever that means. And, you don't need a seperate adapter, just the cable (which several shops will include for free).

After much reading, I decided to go with an Eclipse CD5000. I also got the IPC106 iPod adapter. Although I'm sure it's possible, I couldn't image the Alpine being any faster than the Eclipse. It goes as fast as I want it to. It's not a matter of it keeping up with me, it's a matter of me keeeping up with it. The SQ is excellent.

In the price range of that Alpine, you'd probably be looking at the Eclipse CD3000 model. Just another option to consider.

 

From what students of mine have told me, the lower priced Alpines are not as good as other models within the same price range. SOme have said that the upper-level Alpines still have the "Alpine" quality, but the lower models just do not cut it. I would look at some other brands. The Eclipse mentioned before is an fine model to consider.

 

I own this exact model and I have to say I have no complaints. Yes it will hook up to an IPOD but you have to use a wire harness made by Alpine I believe. I also have a Sirius tuner hooked up to it and it works quite well at controlling that. The model above this one is $350+ and the only thing it has that this one doesn't is the two line display. It sounds good and looks good. I can't complain about this headunit at all. For the money it is one of the better headunits out there. But that is my opinion. Hope it all works out for you.

 

I certainly agree with you there. While there are a couple of additional differences (in addition to the BioLite display), they are VERY minor. Definately not worth the big price jump.

 

I have that head unit and I LOVE it! It's without a doubt the best one in that price range if you use your iPod a lot like I do. The cable to connect it is only $30 compared to other brands that require a seperate box. The scrolling speed and playback are lightning quick unlike many others out there. I love Alpine products and in my opinion this is the best stereo for the money.

 

i have been running all alpine for years and i will say that they are still awsome equipment imo.

 

Devin, I have that same radio in my shed after I installed the DDX 6109.I will gladly sell it for $150 and include the Ipod cable along with the dash kit and remote control.I will also give you 60 days if you are unhappy with it.