I'm trying to decide what head unit to put into my 07 tC, and I've been looking at lot at the Apline CDA985x series. The 56 is a little over $100 dollars cheaper, and from what I can see, has almost nothing special. It has an easier to use iPod interface, a digital screen, and a remote, none of which I need. I don't nor will I ever own an iPod and a remote for a car stereo deck is a little ridiculous. The digital display looks a lot better on the 57, but $100 for that? There's got to be more.

So, to everyone out there who owns one, what can you tell me about it? Does it fit? How does it sound with stock speakers? Is it worth getting the 9857 or just stick with the 9856? Or is there something better than both that's less than $280? It has to have at least XM radio capabilities (with or without additional tuner, since I already have a subscription), and I would prefer at least 4 RCA preamp outputs. (The Alpine has six...the four internals and two subwoofer channels.)

Thanks!

 

I have the 9857 and its great, it fits very nice and it looks pretty good too. Sorry but i cant help on how it sounds though as my system is far from stock . The only problem with the 9857 is its FM/AM reception which sucks big time. But i never listen to FM/AM anymore because XM>all .

 

I just ordered the 9857 from Crutchfield. I will be doing a complete install soon and will let you know how I like it.

 

the 9857 is great with stock speaker...I think spending 100 bucks more is worth it. I would but then...i got my unit for 120 brand new...

 

how are your crossover settings?

 

how are your crossover settings? and whats the low mid and highs set at?

 

Well, I got my deck, mounting kit, wiring kit, woofers, SX-SLII, 500.1 amp and I am waiting on my 360.4. However, I just found out via a post here that my eDi 6000s v.2 Systems wont be shipping until the second week in January. I am definitely NOT taking my doors and rear panels apart twice!