Need recommendation on headunit

[eRiCdWoNg]

OK I need some advice, Ive been out of the car stereo loop for a real long time, so I need to know what models would suit me best. Im shopping for a higher end unit, not necessarily video capable.


What I'd really like:
preamp ONLY. I NEVER use the onboard amps on a headunit.

what I'd like-
external input
flip down face
high voltage output
unit thats easy to use, but very flexible option wise

stuff optional:
motorized face- im ok with a manual face
extra large opening for GM car.
xm/siruis capability
balanced output
sub out (i run an external x-over/EQ)

what I dont want:
any of that BBE or spatial renditioning crap
dont need any parametric EQs or 'bass management'
dont need any flashy displays

If anybody has specific models, I am all ears. Thanks.

[S.C]

For about $300 Kenwood KDC-X579 will be good, 3 pre out, with Burrbrown 24-bit DAC ! but 2.2 v out only..... RMS: 22 watt, Peak out: 50watt

Panasonic MXE CQ-C5410U will be a more power out choice that it's out have 2.5V RMS 25 watts, and Peak out 50 watts.

Be a little bit more specific about the requirments that you want, like do you need it to play mp3, how many pre out you want, and how much you are willing to pay....etc

I suggested these two unit not because I am an expert, but I was looking for an head unit which plays mp3, with pre out that can control volume (to drive a sub), price under $200, dark surface with some red color related illustraion, EQ since yesterday. I was comparing these two with others yesterday. If $300 is available for me, I will buy the kenwood one for sure, cuz the dac.

I am going to buy the Kenwood KDC-MP425 / MPV5205 for price under $200. Anyone can give me some comments for these unit, and any suggestion about some better choices (color will not be a problem)?

[sma]

High End HU gear:
1.nakamichi TP-1200 and cd700
2.denon dct-1 or dct-Z1.

i try many models from many brands and only like this 2 brand.models is classic like some home hi end product.but the sound is wonderful audiophile

if you interest on hi end gear.i still have nakamichi cdc-100 and MB100 cd changer.anti vibration aluminium body,20 bit DAC.hi end cd changer but must connected to good preamp like TP1200,TA25 or CD700,you can see at nakamichi.com

[eRiCdWoNg]

What about the Denon DCT-A1? It was brought over here in the states by Rockford Fosgate and Sounddomain has them for $299. I looked at it, however I would have to find a way for it to fit in my euro-DIN GM car, where this one is only made for ISO DINs. That shouldnt be too much of a problem though.

http://www.sounddomain.com/sku/ROCRFX8250

However it has alot of what I'm looking for. But too bad it doesnt have XM or mp3. However with aux input I suppose that would not be a problem. Anybody have an extra $2000 laying around? I got a ton of car stereo stuff I'd like to buy

[S.C]

Dude that is one nice audiophile reciever. It has a Coaxial digital input for $299 , What else do you want ? Man, I can even hook up the digital out form my toshiba 5205-S505 ! Anyway, I ordered the Kenwood KDC-MP425..... for $155 shipped. Guess, I gonna reach that level when I have a job.

[Boaz]

I'd go with Alpine 9833.
The best sound, very flexible and reach of future system upgrades.

[HooRide]

Sony C90's, although not current models, are very good. Also, try looking into the McIntosh MX406.