Need Advice On Hu Replacement Options

[Larry Horne]

I know this subject has been done over and over and opinions are like "AH's", everyone has one but I want to see if any of you have experience with the following HU's.

I spent some time (actually allot of time) with the Crutchfield rep the other evening and this is the result. I told him I am replacing a OEM business unit in my 328i. I want to stay with mostly black on the HU with the ability to play MP3, WMA, CDR-RW, XM sat. He went directly to the KENWOOD line. (we later discussed Alpine). Included I may want to install a Sub later. I asked him why Kenwood and his response was that he just liked their numbers/specifications.

His recommendation was: Kenwood Excelon KDC-X889. Awesome specs and Kenwood is the only aftermarket brand that I can find that offers RDS (Radio Data System). We looked at the FM sensitivity, SNR, and CD Frequency response. It also has one of the highest pre amp outputs at 5 amp. The buttons can be programmed to red. 2 year warranty. ($449)

Next recommendation: Kenwood EZ-700SR. No RDS (which I think I want and may be the diciding factor since I cannot get it on others) ($379)

Next recommendation: Alpine CDA-9853. No RDS but good numbers and prodomently black face. He indicated that the majority of Alpines were silver/grey.

I can get the Kenwood KDC-MP828 locally for $379 at Best Buy. It has RDS but the face is mostly silver/grey. Cruchfield does not offer it so I cannot check the specs.

I have read most of the threads on the forum and looked at your photos. I don't want to spend tons, but I am somewhat of a gadget freak and only want to do this once.

Any good advice will be apreciated and I know you can spend as much $ at this problem as you have in the old account. I'm trying to do it smartly.

Larry
1997 328i