Need help guys

[nytrojen]

Are you sure Alpine doesn't provide the iPod cable with their higher end units?

What are you basing this information on?

When I looked at some of the higher end ones (especially the double dins) they say on the website that a KCU something or other cable is required for full iPod connectivity. Depends on the actual unit, but it's been that way with Alpine for a while. The mid range head units tend to be the best equipped in terms of out-of-the-box features, while the higher end have better DAC, more sound tuning etc...

EDIT: it looks like they may include them on the higher end single din units now. Mileage may vary, but it's just something to look out for, in case you buy a headunit thinking it's gonna be all sweet and then find out after that you need to buy an extra cable.

My suggestions still stand though - IMO the 148EBT is the best balance of features/SQ and price

[Seephil]

I've been digging around, and making a few overseas phone calls to see where I can get hold of a fascia. Would anyone know of a supplier in Malaysia?

Bumped into this on eBay.
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/GENUINE-SUBA ... 6b3&_uhb=1

It does mention 'fitment' is required... Does this mean the metal bracket that would hold the head unit?

Hopefully I can get this project done before spring

[mihai]

Unless your car has the McIntosh system already, that fascia you linked will not work as you can't seperate your heater controls from your current headunit.

And yes, it does not include the metal brackets that hold the headunit and it doesnt have any way to mount the hazard button. You will need to fabricate a way to do both of these.

[Seephil]

I popped into a local audio and alarm specialist this arvo. With the intention of trying to source a fascia kit. Sad to say they weren't very helpful. Just asking me to use eBay.

Whilst I was there, I informed them of my issue and basically asked head unit vs. speakers? Which one to go first? The did mentioned speakers however I wasn't too convinced and they didn't even bother to check out my speakers.... will not be shopping there anytime soon...

Anyhow, this is spurring me on and looking forward to get this project over.

[mihai]

If you want expert advice and support on products etc you have a fair amount of quality places within Melbourne to go visit.

Number 1 on my list would be Phatt Audio Concepts in Braeside, Frankston Car Audio in Frankston or Freeway Car Audio in Dandenong or Malvern.

You can also chat to Marty @ FHRX Studios in Sydney, just send him an email with your questions and he is always more than happy to help as most of his work comes from inexperienced/subpar installs and would much rather prefer someone gets the right advice first time than having to do something multiple times to achieve a desired result.

First things first, work out exactly what you would like to do and what budget you have to do it.
Also figure out if you want to do it all at once or in stages. For example, I'll change headunit now and leave speakers, see how it sounds. Then I'll add an amp and sub for some extra bass and if need be change the speakers at a later date. OR I've got $xx to spend on fascia, headunit, speakers, amps, subs, wiring/accessories and install.

[nytrojen]

+1 for Phatt audio: they did my previous Liberty install