Rep Power: 481

Pioneer Premier DEH-P860MP vs Alpine CDA-9835

For about the last month or so, I've been thinking about replacing my aging HU. Don't get me wrong, it's a *killer* HU (Pioneer Premier DEX-P1R), so it's going to be hard to let it go. Main reason I'm giving it up is because I can't see it during the day.

So, I've been looking at these two decks. I've been a fan of Pioneer HUs forever, and have recommended them to everybody buying a stereo. But, I also know that Alpine is the cream of the crop too.

I just recently installed the Pioneer into another member's car, and it's a great HU. Not as feature-rich as my current one, but it does everything that I need it to do. So, I'm kind of swaying that way, mainly because I like Pioneer, and I've already got a 12-disc changer in the trunk. But, I'm considering the Alpine, mainly for it's iPod control module. I got one for my birthday, and I'd like to be able to put it in the car.

[edit] Just found out that Pioneer is coming out with an iPod IP-Bus adaptor sometime in March 05, for about $140 or so. So, that kinda rules out the Alpine for that reason ...

Also, so there's a better understanding of my system, I have a 4ch amp that is pushing the front and rear speakers. I had to do this, as the HU I have doesn't have any amp. I'll probably just stick with what I've got now. No need to change what I've got, even though the preamp works great in the Pioneer HU.

So, I'm not real sure what I should do. Stick with Pioneer? Move onto Alpine? It's a really hard decision, espically considering that there's only $20 seperating the 2 HUs.

 
Rep Power: 344

sup taz...i got the pioneer 8600 i love that damn thing...it can connect a ipod under the HU face....and it does do a lot but i haven't played with the whole thing yet.... lemme know if u need details....GET THE PIONEER.....PIONEER is GREATNESS

 
Rep Power: 481

Trust me. I know all about Pioneer. This is my current HU. I love the damned thing. But, I can't hook up my iPod to it, nor can I see it during the day. It's a bitch. I just installed the Premier DEH-P860MP in Dawn01Civ's car this weekend. Sweet *** HU. I really like it. I'm kinda leaning towards the Pioneer, but if someone can kinda sway me towards the Alpine, I'll take a look at it.

 
Rep Power: 281

Frankly, I was debating myself as to which of the head units I should get and I got the Pioneer P8 mainly because it offers constant track information, faster mp3 load times, and a "LIST" feature that shows you a list of 5 folders at a time, making it easy to explore mp3 trees and find songs.

 
Rep Power: 471

I love it.. even though its going to take me a while to figure out..

 
Rep Power: 481

Just start tweaking and pushing buttons. That's the only real way to learn it. Just remember what you changed, so you can go back and undo it if you break something.

BTW - You owe me, *big*, after the wiring job and stuff I had to do for you.

 
Rep Power: 344

the only thing i dont like about mine is....the sun hitting it...it sux...besides that its great...the features are awesome....

 
Rep Power: 471

Yeah, I noticed today when I was out for lunch.. I had a little trouble seeing my HU in the sun..