Any of you guys(or gals) have a computer in your truck? I gave up on finding a CD changer (besides Sony) that plays MP3s so I thought I'd look into a PC. It would do everything I want and then some.

Post pics and ideas if you've got 'em!

 

http://www.kenwoodusa.com/product/pr...productId=2387

There is a kenwood cd/mp3 changer. I have heard of people hooking up lap top into there vehicle, though it's extra trouble to hook up a DC to AC converter. I would just go with the kenwood cd changer. Unless you want to hook up a lap top to be different as well as play mp3s, I have to admit it would be cool.

 

Alpine makes a cd/mp3 changer. CHA-S634 msrp $330.

 

Kenwood also makes a 10-disc model that will play MP3 discs that does not require the FM modulator that the model linked to earlier does, it is the KDC-CX89. Of course, you will need a Kenwood head unit or a kenwood-to-ford protocol converter to use it with a stock head.

 

I really like my Panasonic HU and have been looking for a Panasonic changer or an aftermarket one that will use my aux input. None of the Panasonic models will play burned CDs of any kind and definately not MP3s. I want to stay away from FM modulators if possible.

I thought the 'puter would be cool and multi-functional if I can get past the problems of power and be able to keep noise out of my system when making the audio connections. The 'puter would serve as an MP3/CD player, game console, surfing the net by cellular or wireless LAN, video server, and almost anything else you could think of.

Anyone else have any more ideas?

 

You said you have an aux input for your head unit? Why not just get a portable mp3 player. Smaller than a laptop and easier to hide/or take with you in between office and home. Obviously it won't let you surf the net, play games, ect. Of course by the time you find a decent player with enough memory to hold your music, you might as well get a new head unit.

another reason to look into kenwood is that they offer the music keg accessory... basically an hard drive that works like a CD changer, plug and play compatability with all kenwood's receivers that have cd changer controls. you avoid the FM modulator, and can leave all your CD's at home.

just some suggestions to consider.

added later: considering the laptop route.. make sure your laptop has stereo outputs, or else you might run the risk of running mono into the headunit which would diminish the sound quality overall.

 

I changed over to Apple a couple of years ago. Long story ... but I will not purchase a windows machine again. (The funny thing is I make a living supporting Windows base financial systems). I purchase an iBook for my sons to watch DVD's movies and playing computer games on long trips. Went through the trouble of purchasing a mount for it and what works best is to strap it to the back of the center consol and put a computer bag to hold it up. Had no troubles with it working. We never turn off the iBook by using the sleep function and the heat of a parked car did not bother it. The only complaint is controlling the mouse with S'crew in motion. The reason why I did the following:

I purchased a Blaupunkt Tokyo and in-dash CD changer. Took the changer out and added an EQ and iPod (Apple's MP3 Player). I leave it in the S'crew for months at a time. I have over 900 songs (5 gigs) on the model I have and they came out with a new one that is 10 gigs. Most Blaupunkt models have Aux. In capabilities. The iPod sits in a phone stand mounted to the floor and ends up right next to my knee. Easy to control and no reaching. Plus I have the remote control for the Radio on the steering wheel.

 

Pioneer DEH-P7400MP is an MP3 player, plus it plays burned discs.

 

JVC, Alpine, and Kenwood make the best mp3 players, they have the shortest pause in between tracks, pioneer and others are natorious for taking for...ev...er.

 

Hey screwfun, Are you powering the Apple with an inverter? If so, do you have any problems with induced noise or any kind of whine on your aux. input? Any other problems worth mentioning?

I found an excellent PC and am trying to scrounge up the change to get it. It has built in video out, 56K modem, 10/100 ethernet, on board 16-bit stereo sound, DVD ROM drive, and can use upwards of 1 GHz Pentium processor, 256M RAM, and 30 gig hard drive. All of this in a package a tad bigger than a portable CD player. Less than $700!

Check it out here.
http://www.blueclickpr.com/news/News6.htm

 

Yes it is hooked up to an inverter and there is no noice from the alt. It works great.

 

I have an Dell Inspiron 4100 that I velcro to the console and the kids watch DVD's on long trips - it works great !!!