Best in dash MP3 receiver?

[Wing627]

What is the best car in dash receiver that can play MP3's?

I've looked at the AIWA CDC-MP3's but I've heard there's better ones out there. I couldn't really find any 'roundup' that compared all the avalible models, so I turn to this forum.

I want something thats got a good range of features and isn't too expensive (not over $350).

Does anyone have any experiances on what (or what not) to buy? I'm sure alot of you have tried these things out!

Also, where's the best place to buy them online? Retail prices are just too high... (do they have OEM car stereos?)

 

[Maverick]

go here for the best answers for your question:

Sound Domain Forum

Go to Head Unit Help and do a search for your question.

 

[glen]

Kenwood z828

 

[Carl Uman]

The Alpine CDA-7878 should be nice when it comes out but will most likely be closer to $500 than $350.

 

[SeTeS]

I bought the Aiwa when it first hit the stores and have been happy with it. Kinda disco-cheese looking, but functions well. Skips more on standard audio cd's than my stock cd player, but not much skipping at all when playing mp3 cds. Works as advertised.

Drawbacks:
-doesn't resume mp3 playing 'in song' (starts song over)
-doesnt have a randomize all function for cdr's w/ nested folders (only randomizes current folder/album)
-no direct buttons for functions (e.g. cd/fm/aux).. one function button cycles thru sources
-once again, cheesy lighting (IMHO)

Other that that, it's pretty cool.

I looked at the Kenwood that was available but the price was a bit extreme.

Currently, I'd seriously look at the new JVC. It looks nice (all aluminum) and has a bit cleaner looking display.

 

[XMan]

The JVC SHD-99 is supposed to be very good.

 

[lupohki]

Anyone know offhand if any MP3 HU's precache the directory listing? I have the cheaper kenwood (~$300) and it doesn't.

 

[SUOrangeman]

From TechDeals

Scroll down to "NOW you tell me.... 6/30/01"

Talks about the JVC unit with links to user reviews & comments.

-SUO