Help me pick a deck...
 

Looking for a deck that has a good/fast iPod interface, plays CD's, and is less than $350-$400.

I'm leaning towards the Alpine CDA-9885, but I don't really know what else is out there. The 9885 reviews seem pretty good, but I'm not stuck on Alpine.

Any recommendations?

(its going in a '97 Jetta if that matters)

Thanks!

i like alpine, but there is a lot more you should be looking for in a deck.
You need to consider time alignment, eq, crossovers, outputs, inputs, sub control, changer control, etc., etc.

I prefer Eclipse myself...

I've only had ipod experience with a Clarion dvd touch deck. It basically took the ipod controlls and put them on the screen and it took over the ipod.

Is the iPod control on the Eclipse decks any good?

As for other features, I'm really just interested in the Ipod control. Just stock speakers, no amp....

The IPOD interface on the Eclipse is great, the CD4000 + IPC106 is the match for you. It will leave the others in the dust as far as control and capabilies over the balance of the system at the same time.

I am partial to Pioneer for decks. Even their low end decks are quite nice. I have my ipod hooked up to my 8600MP, and I don't notice a difference in going from the CD to the rip I have on my ipod. Changing songs could be a bit faster (supposedly improved in the latest revision of the adapter), but no compaints here!

I don't use an iPod but someone else has commented.

Good luck with your purchase. Keep us posted.

Where to demo?
 

Thanks for all the advice.

There's so many differing opinions out there....

I'd like to see these decks in action. Does anyone know of a place in the GTA that could demo these units (Pioneer, Alpine, Eclipse)?
I'd like to bring my iPod with me and see which interface suits my needs.

thanks again.

We carry Eclipse and Kenwood if you would like to demo.