Hey guys I have a 2003 coupe with the factory bose head unit. I also currently have an aftermarket amp and subs. Unfortunately the other day my HU fell victim to the circuit board problem that plagues our cars. After doing my research I have decided to just upgrade to an aftermarket double din kit. I plan on purchasing the metra trim kit since Im a college student and am trying to do this on a bit of a budget and from what I can tell the color match is very good. I'm also planning on purchasing either the Eclipse AVN6620 HU or the Clarion max675vd HU. I have two questions I would like answered before I feel comfortable making my purchases.

Question #1:
Has anyone had any experience with either of these units?

Question # 2

Is there any additional parts that I need to purchase to install either HU to make them compatible with my factory door speaker and aftermarket amp and subs. I would like to keep the use of my steering wheel controls if possible.

I know to many of you the answers of these questions are going to sound like common sense, but I am a major car audio noob (I'm doing my best to learn). I really appreciate any help you guys can give and please give me all your suggestions.

Thanks,
Casey

 

I'm going to assume since these are both really old units that you're getting them used?

If it's down to those two, I'd go with the Eclipse, but that's assuming you're getting a great deal.

What's the budget and what features are important to you?

Other questions - did you have a Bose system?
Have you checked my shopping/resource list?

 

Definately check the shopping list as mentioned above. It tells you everything you are going to need.

You will lose the steering wheel controls, unless the HU you buy can control them, then you just have to buy the module and program it.

 

You are correct in assuming that both of the systems are used. I did have a Bose system and your shopping list is a great resource. I did know if my two HU where capable of controlling from the steering wheel with the module you mentioned. My budget is between 600 to 700 dollars, but the less I spend the better. The only features that I am looking for are a touch screen unit, Ipod playback capabilities with easy controls, and a good layout of option/ menus. Navigation is a plus, but I can easily like without it since I have a great standalone GPS unit. The eclipse unit is for sale for 250 and the clarion is 200 which seems pretty cheap, but I could be wrong. Thanks for all of your help guys.

 

You should check out the Pioneer 4200DVD if you want something new in the sub-500 range:

But, picking up that eclipse unit for $250 and using the other $300 for a good 6-channel amp (like )to replace the Bose POS would be a better plan.

 

love the 4200

 

I was also thinking of getting the 4200. It looks like a great unit.

 

I almost chose it over the Z110BT, but the voice control of iPod and navigation won me over. I'm a sucker for the geek factor.

 

hey wrathernaut, let me ask... for example on my G i don't have factor nav.. on the desk above would i need anything else for the nav to work. Also, does this deck tell the drivers gas mileage and etc..

 

The Pioneer's ipod interface look really easy to use and well designed, but your point about upgrading the HU and amp make perfect sense to me. Do you guy happen to know if the eclipse HU is able to be paired with the steering controls through use of the module mentioned in wrathernauts shopping guide.

Thanks everyone for all the great info.

 

The Z110BT does do mileage, but since it's not connected to the fuel meter, you have to manually program in how many gallons you put in each time you fill up.

4200DVD can be upgraded to have navigation, but the added cost of the add-on nav is expensive enough you should have just bought the X920BT or Z120BT in the first place.

 

The link for eclipse that was included in my shopping guide reposted here for your convenience: (supported models listed on PAC audio site here)
Yes.

 

Sorry man I should have looked little closer at you shopping list. But thanks for the link

 

That's almost sig-worthy

 

Man i really hope that isnt someones youtube video on here. What a playlist.