I've got the bose system in my 96z. All and all it sounds decent. I do want to upgrade at least the HU to a mp3 player. I may keep the rest of the system stock... no, I'll probably upgrade it in the future to boston 2ways up front and a sub in the back (no rear fill). But for the time being I'll just be upgrading the HU. So..

I can't decide if I could get better sound quality from a cheaper but proven HU like JVC's units kd sh99 for example with a eq. Will that even fit in a 1.5 din?

OR

I could go all out and buy alpine's CDA 7897 that has built in eq and time correction - I'm told that really makes a diff in sq. Anyone have any experience or opinions on the quality of this unit?

Since I plan on laying down some serious cash - not more than $500 though - I would like to do this right the first time.

Thanks so much for your valued opinions

 

You CAN fit a single din CD player and a 1/2 din EQ in our cars. Metra makes a kit for it.... but I can't remember the kit number. However, I would easily go with the 7897. Time correction is a priceless feature. And the 7897 has 6-channel time correction... I believe. Another one you might look at is the Pioneer Premier 940MP (not 9400MP). Almost exactly the same as the 7897 (even the price), except it has 6V RCAs and a cool display. Your choice.

 

Actually, I would say look at the Pioneer 9400mp. Not the premeir, no need to pay the little extra just for 6V outs unless you are building a serious stereo. But there is really no difference and I wouldn't mind having either one. I plan on getting this HU someday. $500 at ikesound.com.

 

You can get the Premier for nearly the same price! Around $500 brand new off Ebay. But like I said... you're choice.

 

I should have the 7897 Alpine in tommorow. I have the bose system also. I will take a pic and email it to you along with what I think. Definitly go Alpine.