I have two Image Dynamics 12" IDMAX subwoofers powered by a 1000/1 JL audio V2 amp for each of them. I have JL Audio VR600-CSi for my four speakers and I'm going to get another aftermarket speaker for my center one I just haven't decided yet. What do you guys think about getting a Pioneer AVIC-N4 for my in dash head-unit? I wanted a head-unit that could provide the convenience of using seperate tv screens in the car if I wanted to put them in, which hopefully I get to do. I plan on getting a JL 450X4 amp for my speakers. Just dont know what else I need to power my head-unit and center speaker. I'm not really experienced with car audio enough, so I hope you guys have some good advice for me! Thanks a lot for your help.

 

I would suggest a double DIN unit like the Pioneer AVIC-F900BT for 100$ more and free camera (from Crutchfield).

IMO, that single DIN with retractable screen would be cumbersome in the small space we have and the screen, when extended, might be in the way the AC screen/display.

my 2 cents on the head unit

 

If i could bring myself to spend that much money on equipment i would definetly go the same route. Great stuff you got there especially the ID MAX's. The only problem is,,, all that stuff is so heavy u better invest some money on better shocks in the back. And yea go with the pioneer that was mentioned in the thread before...

 

Thanks a lot. That head-unit looks really nice, and I didn't know about that one. What are the best caps for a system like the one I want? Does JL make a good amp for the center speaker in your opinion?

 

I read reviews on the AVIC-F900BT and surprisingly it has pretty low reviews. I'm surprised because usually pioneer comes out with more than decent stuff. Have you guys heard any good things about it?

 

Damn, I didn't read the reviews on 900BT.. sounds like a problem waiting to happen! I suggested it because you was going with Pioneer.

I have the Kenwood DNX8120. It has a rating of 4 stars. It's more expensive but is a great unit. It comes with BlueTooth capability (mic included), is 7 channel which means it can out to both your subs independantly.

There is also the Eclipse AVN6620 that is cheaper, has good reviews but will need to buy the blue tooth adapters seperately.

Like I said, I love my Kenwood. It fully controls my iPod, has another USB port for thumb drives or hard drives. You will need to order an iPod adapter cable, a special AM/FM antenna cable adapter (for any head unit you get).. there are others depending on what other peripherals you want such as Sirius.

As for JL amps, I can't recommend any. I don't have them. I also see no reason to stick with JL for the amp side because you are paying more for the name. There are many other mfgs of amps you could go with that is cheaper and/or has more soultions. I just picked up a cheap Blaupunkt for my center channel amp, my main amp is an Eclipse XA5000, 5 channel amp.

Good luck on your amp and head unit search

 

Can your Kenwood provide video output for multiple tvs in the car?

 

As in front and rear? Yes, It has multiple zone capability

 

I was looking at the Pioneer AVIC-Z3 vs. the AVIC-N4 but I dont get why the Z3 is more expensive. It seems like it has more options other then fitting only the standard size dash. Would a 7" screen even be able to replace the factory navigation screen?