Well I got tired of using an F.M modulator for my ipod(the sound sucked) and purchased the Alpine CDA9857 head unit and KCE-422i full speed ipod connection cable.....
I will say it is tons better than using the f.m module and it is very fast at getting songs no lag at all.

attached are some pics of the install.

P.S I also have a place for my wallet now.

 

What stereo did you have before? The base or Shaker 500 or 1000?

 

I had the base system. I knew one day I would upgrade so I didn't opt for the Shaker.

 

I went for the Shaker 500 (dealer took off $300) for the extra speakers. I was looking at the price of an AUX input device like Peripheral. Sells for $200.00 CDN. For a decent aftermarket stereo with decent options, its about the same or a little more.

 

Where did you buy it? Did it come with the casing that now holds your wallet? Did you install it yourself? If so, was it hard? I am seriously thinking of getting exactly what you have.

 

The trim panel came all in 1 piece with the pocket for the wallet. I can't remember what brand it was, I will have to look. It was easy there are very good instructions in the forums for removing the center panel and stereo.

 

I bought my Alpine through Crutchfield.com and they included the pocket kit, factory wire harness, and detailed install instructions with pictures. 9856 ($200) has all the same features, but the display isn't as nice.

 

Did you notice an improvement in sound quality over the shaker? (assuming you used stock speakers)

 

I can't speak to the improvement with stock speakers because I went all aftermarket with external amps, but the fully integrated Ipod control is really nice (extra $30 cable). Most the other setups I've seen still require you to control everything from the IPOD or an additional module.

 

So where did you guys run the Ipod cable? I don't see it in the pictures.

 

I ran mine from the back of the deck to the glove box. You could also easily reach the armrest storage bin with the cable running under the center counsel.