Power Output: 200W Max. (50W X 4),20X 4 (RMS)

Built-In HD Radio Tuner with Multi-Cast Capability

 Ready For I-pod *

Sat Radio Ready

MP3/WMA Compatible with ID3/WMA Tag

CD/CD-R/CD-RW Compatible

DiAS Digital Tuner

Digital 7-Band iEQ

Gold-Plated Front and Rear Line Output Terminals

Gold Plated Subwoofer Output Terminals with Level/Frequency

Control Rotary Encoder Multi-Control

2.5 V output level for front and rear; 2.0 V for subwoofer

Unfortunately, this is $160 unit vs. over $800 Eclipse for a reason:

1. Subwoofer control range is limited (8 steps vs. 20 of Eclipse),

2. Illumination colors are not selectable (as in newest Eclipse designs and some of Kenwood's),

3. No treble/bass controls at main knob (this is the same problem with very high end Kenwood units) - one has to use EQ to change those frequencies (4 step operation - not doable while driving),

4. 2.5 V output level, vs. 5 V of Eclipse, makes this unit more susceptible to an alternator noise,

5. Key problem:  HD radio is great ONLY when unit locks on to HD signal - which is hardly ever.  The technology as is - is not capable of maintaining HD signal within the FM signal range (HD signal is superimposed on FM waves and decoded by HD tuner).  Refer to this blog for latest on this troubled design.

 

Conclusions: 

1. HD idea is great, but it does not work reliably.  HD unit has 20-20,000 Hz frequency response and is superior to 40-15,000 Hz range of conventional FM broadcast.  When unit locks on HD signal, I can hear clear and significant frequency range expansion on both ends.  Base becomes deeper and there is no static noise. 

2. Multicasting stations are great.  On the same FM setting, one can select two or more alternate broadcasts!  Again,  depending on station transmitter proximity, 20 - 30 seconds after tuning in, for stations located 20 miles away in clear no obstruction path, ,those secondary broadcasts will typically drop off completely - silence.  Only on primary broadcasts, units reverts to FM when HD signal is lost.

3. In present state of technology it is only reliable in a very limited range as supported by referenced above blog and my experience. 

4. Only when transmission/tuner design changes will be made, HD would have proven to be a superior way to listen to a free car radio, however to be fully appreciated it must be listened to high end sound system.

5. If HD is not your thing,  then Kenwood (4V) or Alpine (4 V) should be great choices.  If one needs 5V outputs, only Pioneer and Sony can offer such head units. 

6. If you want no mechanical rotating parts for greater reliability - then Kenwood KIV series unit is for you!

7. If You want a subscription service and do not mind drilling hole in the roof for external antenna - than clearly Satellite Radio is for you.  I want to have clean looking roof, that is why I am reluctant to get it. Also, paying extra $10/moths does not appeal to me too much.

• My current 2-DIN Receiver with 5V output signal level: Kenwood Excelon DNX995S with NAV and Bluetooth:

  • To make it fit the the trim panel around stick shift was shortened and clock was eliminated.

  • The factory receiver bezel was used for now - with future custom frame to be made to make smooth transition to the center console trim.

• Phase Linear Aliante 12" subwoofer (3" mounting depth!!!):

• Audio Control 24XS electronic cross-over for separation between subwoofer and rear woofers (discontinued: this is current cross over)
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  • With DNX995S internal High-pass crossover, this unit is not kept in for aesthetical reasons, whereas the Kenwood unit provides required separation between rear woofers and subwoofer.
    

• Yellow Top D34/78 Optima battery is one of the best for car audio systems.  Which is better - there are split opinions.  I should be able to tell after 4 years and few complete discharges.  Positive cable clumps under the car had to be loosened to reach batter "+" post.  Battery box covered had to be insulated from battery posts since battery height leaves no clearance between posts and the box cover.  I have used back adhesive rubber sheet from McMaster to accomplish that.