Trying to get a new HU, well aware of Alpine reputation but I have to admit I am very disappointed with their current offerings.

9850Ri - Budget offering, prefer BioLite displays
9855R - Glidetouch seems to have been universally panned, reliability problems. Older model
9857R - Supposedly the flagship (apart from F1) but has had so many features removed that it's like a budget unit. TA missing, Equaliser missing, only dual illumination, no remote.

Unless someone can convince me the 2 best HUs at the moment are the Pioneer DEH-P9800BT and DEH-P75BT (although they look a bit plasticky and I don't really want bluetooth)

 

Pioneer DEH-P9600MP - CD/MP3 PLAYER

http://thebassbin.co.uk/shop/product...ts_id/212.html

from £422.49
to £389.99

Bargin if you ask me, mates got one and I wish I got one!

Or you can buy my JVC DVD/CD player for £250?!

 

Found another option , if you're not worried about buying from the US you can get the DEH-P7800MP for about £180 including shipping. Same as the £450 9800 but with no bluetooth.

 

Who wants bluetooth on there stereo anyway!? ITs just for hands free mobile phone talking!

 

Also has no RDS, Lo's and other radio funtions. But it does come with loads of radio functions that you can't use.

 

It's a pity because it seems to be the perfect model.

 

IMHO, go for the Pioneer DEH-P8600MP - it's an awesome piece of kit, with all the functions of the 9600 but without the silly dual screen. Do make sure you buy a UK model and not a North American one! Look around and you can pick one up for under £300 delivered.

 

the radio from the states wont pick up uk fm stations. If you are looking for a great sound go for the 9855 alpine but it is not easy to use i still am finding new things on mine and i have had it for a year. But dont get me wrong the pioneers are good units i just think the alpines have a better sound.

 

Always been a huge fan of Alpine and have bought a mid to high range model for every car i've ever had.

Unfortunately my 9853R which I bought last year has been plagued with problems and I have sent it back twice. The Alpine build quality of old is no longer and I am shocked how flimsy their new models are.

Alpine may still have stunning sound quality, but for build quality and reliability I am not sure I would buy another.

 

I brought a Alpine headunit (cannot remember the model) 3 odd years ago, and to be honest, i've been very disapointed with it.

It randomly switches off and it's very difficult to use. I would not buy another. Shame really, as previous ones i've had over the years were great.