I am looking at getting a new HU, preferably with MP3 capability. I was wondering if signal-noise ratio & sensitivity ratings are really that different. For example, comparing 2 HUs, one with S-N of 98 dB and the other with 100 dB... is the difference noticeable? Same goes for sensitivity... one with 9 dBf and one with 11 dBf? I'm a stereo "newbie" just trying to learn more. Thanks!

 

You might find some info about MP3 car radios here: www.highwaymp3.com You can find some radios with FM sensitivity as good as 7 dbf. Should be able to tell the difference between that and one with 11 dbf.

 

You will not notice any difference. Get which ever H/U has the features you want and fits your price range.

 

Thanks for the info! Does anyone have experience with the Blaupunkt HUs, specifically the San Jose? Moparman's link above showed that the San Jose had problems with "chirping" and not starting playback in the same spot after being shut off. However, the information seems a little old (~2 years old). Does anyone have new or updated experience with this model?

 

I don't think the San Jose is still in production. The chirp was fixed. Check around E-bay and you might find one for a good price. Some places have some old stock they are selling off. See if Ike Sound has any left.

 

Thanks again for your help!

 

www.ikesound.com has new San Jose for $140, and refurb for $99.