If there was anything that I could change about my WDP TL-S it would be that I wish it had navigation. I took care of that problem today by getting a portable system. I got a great deal on a Cobra 3000. I love it. They have a new unit out called the 4500 but it was almost twice the money. I did not think that I would like it mounted on my windsheild but it really is not that bad. I would highly recommend anybody looking for one to look into the Cobra products. It does everything the Honda one does and has all 50 states and most of Canada preloaded. There is no disc changing and it's a plug and go type system. The unit had over 2 million points of intrest loaded as well as address books that show phone numbers. The unit can also be updated with your home computer and a USB cable. Now I will be able to find some of these Acura events this summer alot easier. Well worth the investment.

 

Sounds like a great buy. I wish I would've gotten navigation as well. It looks like the portables are coming up to speed and the prices are coming down. Does it have voice commands? How big is the screen? The deal that you got was it a private sale or internet?

 

I did not want voice command or touch screen (to much to go wrong) but it has everything else. The screen is 5.2 inches and very bright. I got it from www.hondapartstogo.com . The system is super simple to use and it comes off the base mount with a touch of a button for quick and easy storage. The unit does not have voice commands but it does speak directions to you turn by turn. This thing is really slick.

 

I had the pioneer AVIC-N1. Loved it and I highly recommend it. I think now it is the N3.

 

Cool unit. I as well would love to have a built in navigation system, but I like the factory audio unit. The factory radio is great for me and my trunk is freed up for what is important to me, my golf clubs. The portable was really my only option. As far as the portable units go the Cobra's are awesome. We have them in all our parts trucks and the drivers love them.

 

I'm thinking about the Nuvi. From what I hear people really like it. pricey at 800 bucks though.

 

I'm telling you before you purchase something else look into the Cobra units. They are super easy to use and the fuction buttons are big and well built. I think you might like it if you see it.

 

Garmin makes some great products, Tom Tom is another to consider, but they don't have much of a variety like Garmin does.

 

I got the Garmin I5 a couple of months ago. Great little unit, I would highly recommend. It's about the size of a baseball.

 

Before I installed the Nav in my car I went out and bought the Magellan Roadmate 700...they have a newer model out now, but I loved it. I just didn't like it bouncing around on my dash and having that huge suction cup stuck to my windshield. That's when I decided to get the OEM Nav and install it. I like that much better.

 

Yea, the 4500 is like $1200. Alpine has aone called the Blackbird which was introduced in Feb. Cost is $750 and more info can be found here.

 

Check out the new Garmin Nuvi unit. Does everything and more than
the built in Navi does. In partucular the 3D view is very nice. Another
option is the Garmin Ique 3600. A Palm pda and Navi all in one. I have
one for travel and it works fairly well.

One thing to be careful about with these portalbe units is the time
it takes for satellite access. The Ique 3600 sometimes takes a long
time to get a satellite fix and this can be annoying.

The built in units are lightning fast by comparison.

/Steve

 

The Cobra unit picks up its signal instantly. The unit is extremly fast and accurate. I now carry all the Cobra units and the Tom Tom in my inventory and the Cobra is selling 3 to 1 over the Tom Tom. I have not used a easier unit then this Cobra and the new 4500 is even better then the 3000. I expect to seel alot of these these at our dealership this summer.

 

There Also new company comming out in June/July called "Initial"
We are pretest then right now at my friend shop. It's only $800 and it portable.
After playing with it I can say Alpine,Cobra an Tom Tom this unit going give them company run for money.

Initial is portable Navigation/DVD an Video connect/7" touch screen/ Voice active unit. Power by your cigar light plug and come with vacuum power suck-en cup. Main thing that makes this unit better, My opinion is that Upgrade you only need computer connect an it's free (what sale guy told us)

 

The Cobra units are upgradable as well via CD and USB cable. The updates come out every year and a half and cost about $30.00.

 

Mamamia that Alpine unit is looking really good and compatible in size...travel size thing
I wonder if it is good product.

 

Does anyone know the improvements gained by adding a external antennae to the portable unit. Is it just faster response in locating your position? Does it enhance the preciceness of the unit?

 

I know im bring back a old thread, but just out of curriousity, do you have any pics of your unit in your car? night and day shots?

 

i have the megellan roadmate 800.... works really well, i can take it anywhere, really helpful when i'm on vacation, b/c i can pack it, and use it in the rental car....

 

I have the Tomtom GO510. I love its great. It has all the features I need. Bluetooth hands-free calling (with phonebook transfer), iPod connectivity (controlled through touchscreen), and great navigation options and features. I have it mounted on my dash and its hard wired. I have it hooked up to my factory stereo so it plays through the car speakers. I paid $450 for its new on ebay and spent another $40 get wires and such to hard wire and mount it...didn't like it mounted on the windshield. Its defintely a good buy.