iPad/iPhone audio system

[terrydmorgan]

Ok, it's time to start planning my audio system. I want a system that lets me use a center console-mounted iPad mini to play iTunes or other streaming audio apps, as well as use the iPad as a GPS. I'd also like an AM/Fm radio. CDs would be nice, but aren't a necessity. I would like the ability to add satellite radio too.

Here are 3 very affordable head units that would fit in the dash and allow me to connect via Bluetooth or USB with the iPad and iPhone.



Sony MEXN5000BT
http://t.store.sony.com/products/27-MEXN5000BT



Pioneer MVH-X370BT
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PU...ers/MVH-X370BT


Kenwood KDC-X597
http://www.kenwoodusa.com/Car_Entert...ivers/KDC-X597


i have 9 locations for speakers but don't know which ones to use. 2 on rear shelf, 2 in door panels, 2 sets of 2-piece speakers in kick panel, and a subwoofer in the trunk. I'd appreciate any thoughts or experiences in this type of approach.

[sam 74]

i have a JVC head unit with blue tooth, i have 2 10s in the trunk, 6x9s in the rear side panels as i have a roll cage going through the speaker holes on the rear deck, and i have 4 inch speakers in the center of the driver and pass seats, i'll be adding 3.5s in the factory dash location when time permits. it sounds good to me but it does add a bit of weight.

[Spork82]

I went with the Pioneer MVH-560 it has tripple pre-outs for amps. And it's not much more than the 360

[terrydmorgan]

How's the Bluetooth operation on phone and music?

I went with the Pioneer MVH-560 it has tripple pre-outs for amps. And it's not much more than the 360

[terrydmorgan]

The JVC KD-X31MBS looks like a good option too.

i have a JVC head unit with blue tooth, i have 2 10s in the trunk, 6x9s in the rear side panels as i have a roll cage going through the speaker holes on the rear deck, and i have 4 inch speakers in the center of the driver and pass seats, i'll be adding 3.5s in the factory dash location when time permits. it sounds good to me but it does add a bit of weight.

[Spork82]

How's the Bluetooth operation on phone and music?

I went with the Pioneer MVH-560 it has tripple pre-outs for amps. And it's not much more than the 360

Works great, I have an iPod that stays in the glove box and my phone is an android and both work great. I've used Pioneer in all my vehicles and never had an issue. I have their double din nav unit in my truck and it intergrated into the Ford sync system with no problems.

[alocker]

Before you make a decision you should go to your local electronics store and play with the units. Actually download the apps for each unit and sync them with your phone. I ended up going with the JVC because the Sony, Pioneer, and Kenwood apps were not as functional. Also be aware that some phones wont support all the apps. You have to confirm that first.

[terrydmorgan]

Good idea.. Thanks for the tips.

Before you make a decision you should go to your local electronics store and play with the units. Actually download the apps for each unit and sync them with your phone. I ended up going with the JVC because the Sony, Pioneer, and Kenwood apps were not as functional. Also be aware that some phones wont support all the apps. You have to confirm that first.

[slowcpe]

I've never been a huge Sony car audio fan. I've had 1-2 of their head-units and sold them retail about 14 years ago. Don't care much for their sound and they always seem to have issues.

Pioneer has always seemed to make a good head-unit for the money. Personally their sound isn't my sound.

Kenwood has usually been my go-to head-unit. However their single-din can be a bit complicated to operate. I have one in my boat that is about 4 years old and its been good. I've probably had 10+ Kenwood head units over the years.

While its been almost 20-years since I've had a JVC, I've heard some very good things about their head-units. I keep saying I'm going to give them a try on my next system. Just have had the chance yet.

[andrewb70]

I didn't want a head unit at all. So I have a system where the iPhone hooks to a HR Technologies iStreamer, which then goes to a JL Aidio CL-RLC then feeds directly into my amp. The iStreamer delivers excellent sound because it is a high quality DA converter and the CL-RLC acts as the pre-amp.

Obviously there is no iteration with apps and whatnot, but the sound is great.

Andrew

[scott_fx]

Pioneer has always seemed to make a good head-unit for the money. Personally their sound isn't my sound.
t.

pioneer prs-80 can not be touched in sq or functionality for anything less then 3x it's price...

[scott_fx]

i have 9 locations for speakers but don't know which ones to use. 2 on rear shelf, 2 in door panels, 2 sets of 2-piece speakers in kick panel, and a subwoofer in the trunk. I'd appreciate any thoughts or experiences in this type of approach.

k.i.s.s. do a nice set of 6.5" in the kicks and a sub. you'll be very happy with the sound