Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Audio Asking for advice...

I'm looking to spend about $200 for a new head unit...as the damn stock unit doesn't play CD-R's very well.

I like these...

Kennwood KDC-516S but I don't know why the 515S is listed as higher?

and

Sony CDX - L550x (see no reason to spend an extra 20 for the 1 unit up...all it seems to have is a multi color display)

I prefer the Kenwood, but my Explorer has a Sony 10 disc, that would fit nice in the Xplode (if I were to get rid of the winter ride).

So...what are the recommedations. I am open to any other units for the 200.00 mark as well.

I firmly believe that almost all 200.00 HU will perform similarly. I have always had great luck with Sony, Blaupunkt and Clarion. But those are the only brands I have really used. I would say that in the 200-300 price range, you buy for the features you want and the aesthetics of the HU because they will all sound similar and will have similar quality.

I agree with Dave. THey will all mostly perform the same. Get the one that you like the look/controls of better.

I take it that all these head units are better than the stock unit...and will I be okay if I hold off on the speakers for a few months?

I'd rather replace the head unit first.

The head unit is the weakest link in the stock system. And, bypass the factory amp to get some decent tunes through the stock speakers.

Cool...I figured on the bypass thing. Does Crutchfield offer a cable to bypass it.

That's where most people have been getting the correct bypass harness. It's not listed on their web site, but one quick phone call and you're set. Also, if you order your HU through them, I believe they send you all the harnesses for free, but make sure you get the amp bypass one for your model year.

Great...thanks for the help.

I'm going with the KDC-516S.