I'm having great difficulty finding a replacement unit for my Pioneer 6-disc CD changer. I've found several units that will fit, but the stereo unit door poses a problem. I was wondering if anybody knew of a stereo system that will fit comfortably with the door closed? I don't want to purchase another Pioneer, so I'm looking at other manufacturers.

 

Best bang for your buck... Alpine CDA-9883 (54 people gave it 4.5 stars so it's got to be good.)

I have an older model of this unit in my 'o5 and it's great!
Plus, you get all kinds of free gear for under $200. (Link is where I purchased mine.)

You should have no problem with the radio cover. I installed mine in about an hour and everything was a-ok.

 

That's good news. What model did you get anyway?

 

^^9856. iPod integration could be better, but I use 'Playlists'. That helps out a lot. I'm actually thinking of purchasing the one I mentioned above for my gf. (Xmas present.) Her stock 6-Disc HU in her Matrix just recently stopped playing CDs. (The radio still works and she has Sirius also.) It comes with a lot (iPod Cable, Master Guides, etc.) so it's a really good deal IMHO.

 

I put an Alpine 9883 in my tC about a month ago and I totally agree. This head unit is amazing for it's cost. I had originally planned to change out my stock speakers, but the 9883 made them sound so good i see no point in changing them. I think the iPod feature is great. Also if you like a cd changer, you could control an Alpine changer thru Ai-net. I purchased my deck from crutchfield, and I give their service and shipping an A+. I put an Alpine MRP-M450 and an Alpine Type-R 10" sub in today and I couldn't be happier. I just cant say enough about Alpine's products.

 

So the door has no problem closing, even with the ****? The local car stereo shop here has a deal on the 9885 model. It's a little more expensive, but does anybody know if it's worth it?

By the way, thank you for all the help!

 

My 9856 **** can be put into a 'recessed' position like so;

Even when it's raised, the **** doesn't strike the radio cover. I'm not too sure if the 9883 is the same way.

Go with Crutchfield and do the install yourself. It's not hard at all to do. I should know because I did the install myself. (And I am by no means an electrical guru.) They give you the iPod cable for free and all it does is plug into the back of the HU. The Master Guides show you how to disassemble your waterfall. You don't have to drill or cut anything. I'm sure you and a buddy can do it in 45 mins or less.

 

Hyghgynx, thanks for the help! I'm going with Crutchfield, and I'll let you know how the install went!