Hi folks...

Here comes another newbie...*waits for everybody's eyes to roll*

Sorry...

At any rate, as you may all know, the 1999 TL's stereo is crap at playing blank CD's and so I've opted to get a CD changer...which will prevent me from having to replace the deck and run into problems trying to power the subwoofer in the back. I've been given a choice as to what to go with. The Alpine changer (I don't remember the model number), I was told, is cleaner because I can use my existing Bose stereo controls with it whereas the Pioneer has to have an FM mod. I'll have to pay about $650CDN (installed) for the Alpine and $550CDN (installed) for the Pioneer (e.g.Pioneer CDX-FM1277). Which one should I go with? I've always been a Pioneer fan though. I've been reading through the forums and from what I gather, sometimes, controlling a CD changer through the factory system is cumbersome at times. If so, I'd probably use the separate controller (FM Mod) on the Pioneer.

Also, I've been flipping through the new Pioneer brochure and I've just noticed the double-din stereos (e.g. Pioneer FS-P4000)....aren't these roughly the same size at the factory Bose system? Does size matter? Can I change my Bose system without running into problems with amplifying the subwoofer in the back or is it going to be the same?

I hope you guys can shed some light on this for me. Thank you. :toothless

 

the alpine (chM line) changer goes in *cleaner* and you have the option of adding the mp3 changer (cha-s634 with addtional alpine adapter) instead of the normal one...but this is up to you. just read the other thread about the mp3 changer. the required pioneer modulator/controller should give you more control than the factory steering wheel controls though...

a *din* radio face is roughly 7"x2" while a "double din" radio is twice as tall (or 7"x4"). as you should see from this definition and the many threads on headunit installs, two din units or one double din unit will fit...the only concern is the left over gaps from the uniquely designed stock radio face.

all you need is a headunit adapter if you wanna keep your stock speakers and amps (ie, just buying a new headunit). i think soundgate offers something.

 

I would go with the alpine. As far as changing the blose system, audio link has an adapter that will allow you to power up your sub with out a problem. the site is www.linkmeup.com

 

Thanks so much for the input...the FM mod on the Pioneer is the one I'm most likely going to go with because it's got more control like "StanMan" says.

I'm going to get the Pioneer CDX-FM1277...the 12 disc changer. But I WILL ask about the audio link adapter. Perhaps that will be cheaper.