Pioneer DEH-p8400mp vs. DEH-p8500mp

I currently have a DEH-p8200 Head unit.  I love the unit, but I am looking to upgrade to one that is XM ready and the MP3 capability is a nice bonus too.  I have found all the features that I want in the DEH-p8400mp.  My question is:  What is the difference between the 8400 and the 8500?  Looking at the specs I only see different screensavers. (8400 is last year's model 8500 is this year's) Is there any reason I should spring the extra dough for a 8500 or will a 8400 work just as well?  Any input is appreciated.

Hmm...I will have to check into that on the 3 or 2 outputs.  I need  to have 3 pairs.  My 8200r has 3 pairs you would think the 8400mp would too.  Crutchfield's catalog says the 8500mp has Automatic Sound Levelizer.  Does your 850mp have that.  If so, how does it pick-up road noise? Does it use the VSS like the stock GM radios or  a microphone?

Thanks

Both the 8400 and the 8500 have 3 pairs of outputs that are 4.0 volts. As far as the change in the model #'s I'm not sure what changes there are if any. The 84 is the 02 model and the 85 is the 03 model.

Cool, that is exactly what I needed to know.  Everything I have been reading has been suggesting that too.  I downloaded the manuals from Pioneer and they are practically identical.  How about the Premier 850 and 840?  are they the same as the 8500 and 8400 except for the name and 2 year warranty?

Thanks

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  How about the Premier 850 and 840?  are they the same as the 8500 and 8400 except for the name and 2 year warranty?

Thanks

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You got it rite! You’re basically paying for an extended warrantee