head unit suggestions

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Audio
Forum Discription: Car Stereos, Amplifiers, Crossovers, Processors, Speakers, Subwoofers, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=15854
Printed Date: July 16, 2025 at 6:49 AM

Topic: head unit suggestions

Posted By: Bellmerser
Subject: head unit suggestions
Date Posted: July 03, 2003 at 10:41 PM

I need a new head unit since my old one broke, so i've been looking at two or three different units. The alpine https://www.mmxpress.com/alpine/alpine_cda-7998.htm, the jvc https://www.mmxpress.com/jvc/kd-sh55.htm and finally the eclipse cd8053 or the 8443. https://www.eclipse-web.com/products/cdtuner/top.html

my main concern is music reproduction, followed by mp3 capability, then crossover type and performance, followed by looks. money does play a small factor, other wise i would just go by an alpine f#1 =)

Replies:

Posted By: DYohn
Date Posted: July 04, 2003 at 8:06 AM

Alpine or Eclipse are both fine choices. I have never liked JVC head units, though. Just my 2 cents....

Posted By: bberman1
Date Posted: July 04, 2003 at 8:32 AM

I would suggest either the cd8053 or the 8443. The eclipse will give you some awesome sq and the sound is very dynamic. However the only draw back is if you want to be able to play MP3's you need the optimal Eclipse Commander https://www.eclipse-web.com/products/e-com/index.html

Posted By: Tfire5
Date Posted: July 04, 2003 at 3:46 PM

eclipse and alpine are both great choices but if you are into sq more than looks check out nakamichi as well.but between alpine and eclipse i personally would run eclipse they sound better and most have higher voltage pre outs and they are supposed to have a more powerfull antenna so that regular stations have less tendancy to fuzz out when your jammin.