Hey guys, FINALLY back since the crash. Glad to be back in the mix.

I have the Shaker 500 in my '06 coupe. I'm finally sick of the Shaker and I'm looking to spend around $200(college student) on an aftermarket double DIN HU to upgrade my system. I've kinda narrowed it down to these three. Which one/other do you recommend?

I have an iPod and would like to be able to control it through the HU, but not a must-have.
I want something that won't be screaming after-market---something that blends with the OEM dash.
I have 2 10" subs with an 760W pioneer amp in the trunk and would like to integrate them into the new system.
I am an amateur at radio installation.


http://www.crutchfield.com/p_020DUZ3...w&rvm=ShowAllt

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KWGX...?tp=5684&avf=N

http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/...52921665801112

Also, does anyone have any suggestions on dash kits and harnesses that I will need to do the install?
With little to none electrical experience, would I be able to install the voltage regulator myself?

Thanks in advance everyone. Any input/advice/criticism is welcome!

 

Just my .02 worth but I like the first one for OEM looks. Going with Crutchfield they give you everything you need for install.

 

I just picked up this one from Crutchfield. I know it is a little more than what you want to spend but there are a few pluses. The thing that sold me on the unit was the built in iPod controller with cable and everything. Also, the unit has built in Bluetooth. For myself with a 100+ mile/day commute this was a must.

Because this unit is a "Signature" unit you get life time tech support. The Pioneer Premier units also include an upgraded 2 year warranty.

However if I were to pick from the units listed I think the Clarion is a no brainer. It is $50 less than the JVC, has a built in iPod controller and comes with a free remote. Another plus is all of the free install stuff Crutchfield includes.

Check out www.sonicelectronix.com too, I have heard some good stuff about them as well.

 

Thanks for the input. But Ive realized that the only 2 I can really afford right now are these:

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_020DUZ3...T.html?tp=5684

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...WX-GT77UI.html

Out of these 2, which do you guys think is the better deal/better quality, etc...I can't seem to decide between them. Both have free shipping, include the mounting and wiring accessories, ipod interface with usb cord. So which one? Thanks guys. I just need one more opinion to make a decision. Thanks

 

One more thing I forgot to ask you guys. Do you think these are even an upgrade to the shaker 500? I read a lot of the reviews and a recurring theme for the clarion was that the sound quality wasn't very good but settings could be adjusted to make it sound better. I read nothing but good things about the sony though. I just want to make sure that I won't be sacrificing quality and downgrading by going with one of these two head units.

Also, how difficult is it to install a voltage regulator? Is there a PDF or install guide for it

 

Did you carefully look into how they tie into the Shaker system? It is not clear with the Sony, but for the Clarion it requires a $129 adapter kit to tie into the existing amp system.

 

I thought that was only for the shaker 1000

 

Yeah, I think you only need the $130 adapter if you have the stinker 1000 like I do. You should be all set with the 500.

 

I stand corrected. Like Doug said you will need the adapter kit for either Shaker system. Both the 500 & the 1000 have amps that need to be controlled.

Either way I would be getting the Clarion unit. I just don't like Sony's and have had the two I owned die and had to replace them.

 

Well having to have an adapter pretty much defeats the purpose huh? Well does every HU integrated into the shaker systems need that $130 adapter? Or do some of the more pricey ones have everything I need?

 

I'm pretty sure every head unit you buy will need it. It is used to interface the factory amplified system with the line level outputs of the head unit.