Ok so I know this has been discussed some over the years but I couldn't find any definitive answers.
What exactly is the difference between Metra DD kits and JDM kits?
Are there fitment differences,color differences....what exactly makes the price so drastically different?

 

for starters, the ac controls on the jdm kits are much nicer. some people have had fitment issues with the metra kits, too.

 

There's your answer....^....we all like nicer!
Gary

 

Yea, the metra kits were so poor we don't even carry them anymore, see our website for pix, etc,thx! www.grubbsperformance.com, or call us anytime (866)789-0207,thx!

 

metra = rubberish

jdm = real ish!

there u go

color also looks slightly off.
and if u buy metra, ull end up switching anyways.

 

Just got my jdm kit from riverside infiniti can't wait to install my new stereo.

 

I bought the metra first and was never happy with it. Main complaint was how crappy the buttons felt. Eventually got the jdm one and like it much better. Don't waste your money on the metra one.

 

^ looks like i hit the hammer right on the nail

 

Just to make sure all the answers are here and as complete as can be:

Fitment Differences: The Metra kit is a "proper" double-din. Most DD units fit very well inside it without and additional trim ring. The JDM kit is slightly bigger than a double-din. While this is easily remedied by purchasing a ~$15 scosche trim ring with the JDM, it's a difference worth mentioning.

Color Differences: The actual color difference is minimal, with the exception of the buttons. Materials however, are completely different. The 05-06 (+ 07 Coupe) Metra kit is plastic which has been painted to match the stock brushed aluminum trim. The JDM kit is brushed aluminum, just like the stock piece. In photos the paint or aluminum looks almost identical, but in person, the lack of texture and difference in material is very apparent. The A/C controls in the Metra is also a major complaint since instead of the hard, black plastic buttons and a **** for temperature they are squishy rubber buttons.

Price Difference: The major price difference comes from the climate controls. You can get the face-only (not that it'd do you much good) for under $100. Nissan sets the price of the JDM A/C controls, so you're kind of at their mercy there. Metra prices to undercut that price by enough that the lesser quality is more acceptable because of the lower price.

If Metra would put $5 more into materials make a kit with black plastic buttons and real brushed aluminum they could charge an extra $50, (still undercut JDM by almost $100) and they'd pretty much shut down the G35 JDM DD market. But they don't, so the only good DD is the JDM DD.