I like to keep a vehicle absolutely 'bone stock', so I am going to going to stay with the 500 shaker. To answer the original topic question: Yes, the Shaker is worth the money if you are comparing it to the bottom tier single CD unit. I do think the Shaker 1000 is overpriced and not worth the money for it.....

 

I spoke to a salesman at an Audio Express, which was highly recommended to me by several friends as a reputable aftermarket audio retailer and installer. The salesman explained how he had a 2001 Mustang in which he had installed over $2000 worth of stereo system, using his employee discount no less. A friend of his recently purchased an '05 Mustang with the Shaker 1000, and he said that the factory system just blew his $2000 one away! (Embarassing was the word he used.) He said the 1000 was "tuned" to the car perfectly, and that he really didn't think that he could sell me a better sound for that kind of money! When a salesman on commision talks me out of making a purchase, it gets my attention. He didn't realize the differences between the 500 and the 1000, however, until I told him. At that point, he said that he could get me two 10" woofers in a custom box, a 600W amp, wired and installed for $326, including tax. (A common add-on, he said.) He recommended staying with the 500, however, and stated that unless I am into rap or hip-hop, I would probably be satisfied with it just the way it came. Heresay, yes, but I had no reason not to believe him.

 

I love how my computer keeps doubling my posts. I'm not doing this on purpose...Really!