Various ?s about Pioneer, Eclipse, Alpine, etc nav units

[A/V1]

Hey guys. I recently installed an OEM nav system in my 4runner but I'm leaning towards selling it and installing an aftermarket unit, so I'm weighing out the options. I've always been a fan of Alpine, and had an IVA-D900 + DVD nav unit in my last car. However it doesn't have touchscreen (a really love the touch screen!), and I also don't really want a separate nav unit so the IVA-W200 is out of the question too. So much for Alpine!

I also really like the Pioneer AVIC-Z1, but a friend of mine has an AVIC-N2 (single DIN), and has many problems with it when it is hot out (which happens here quite regularly). The problem is that when it is hot the unit won't even power up and displays that it is in a thermal protection mode. Pioneer says it is normal to do that! I think it sucks. Why get a freakin expensive unit like that if it won't even operate all of the time? So If you have any input on the subject let me know please.

I like the Eclipse units, but it seems like they are rather limited as to what can be added to them, unlike the Alpines & Pioneers (I like to be able to add anything from Bluetooth, to IPod, to changers, & aux inputs). I also like to be able to tie the head unit in to the rear video unit or headrest screens. So multizone function is a must as well.

Anyone want to share their comments about the setup you have in your 4runner or other rides? Please... I'd like to hear all the pros & cons.


Thanks!!!!

 

[Onebeachbum05]

Most of the nav systems are pretty good and the Pioneer avic z1 is loded with options. Because of the the nav program being installed on the hard drive inside the unit, I think it's slightly faster compared to some of the others that might have to access a disc before showing data.

I ended up selecting the Alpine because of my Ipod. The Pioneer interface for the Ipod is decient but painfully slow as it accesses 4 artests at a time and the takes a moment to access the next 4. The Alpine interface blows the Pioneer away...but, If you store music on the Pioneer hard drive the search speed is excellent.
I have read good things about the Eclipse but have not seen it yet.

 

[A/V1]

Hey BeachBum, thanks for the input. Which Alpi did you go with (W200?)? Did you also get the 872 nav system? Do you have the 100bt bluetooth adapter too by chance? Just wondering how that works for you. I have the 100bt but my D900 didn't like it.

 

[TX4runnerguy]

I have the Pioneer AVIC-D1 in my F-150. The navigation (which is same as in D2 and Z1) is awesome... I really like it. Graphics look good, screen and colors are excellent. However, the Pioneer IPOD interface ROYALLY SUCKS! The pioneer is also expandable with a host of options via their IP-Bus.

I just installed the Alpine W200 in my 4 runner this weekend, so I'm still messing with it. The nav unit is still on the way. My first impression is that the graphics and screen on the Pioneer are clearer and better, but I haven't been able to iPersonalize mine yet because I can't get the damn Foot Brake wire hooked up right. I'm waiting for the PAC TR7 I ordered to come in and solve my problems. The IPOD interface on this is much, much better.

I messed with the Eclipse unit at my local electronics store and wasn't impressed.

Pioneer is well priced, nav is included, and the screen looks good. Alpine W200 head unit is cheaper, but will end up costing you more once you add the nav. But, an Alpine is an Alpine, what more needs to be said? They're known for quality an innovation.

Either way, it's a tough choice... they're both good. I did tons of research before I made the decision on the Alpine. But, I also have the Pioneer in my F-150, so now I have the best of both worlds.

Good luck in your decision.

 

[Onebeachbum05]

I am just setting up for the install of the Alpne W200 with the blackbird nav. This setup is much less and works well for my needs.
I have not decided if I will use the bluetooth so I have not checked it out.

For now...still putting in the Dynomat and speakers and should be to the HU by the weekend if not sooner. Once installed I can share the details of the HU.

 

[tarheeltp17]

The pioneer ipod interface sucks? Wow. That is a first. I've never had a customer complain about pioneers ipod interface. In fact they are one of the few ones that I've found to be basically flawless. Make sure you have the CD-IB100II not just the CD-IB100 . All ipod original interfaces sucked...the Ib100II is their newest for pioneer and its pretty slick.

 

[Onebeachbum05]

I would not say the Pioneer completly sucks but compared to the Alpine (who has and agreement with Apple) it's speed is reallllllllly slow. If you check it out you will see that it takes a while to get from start to Metallica.

 

[tarheeltp17]

Alpine Ipod is pretty much leading right now... but as you said with their contract with apple it is going to be hard to compete. Their interface is by far the easiest to hook up as well, but all around headunits, dvd, and nav I'm Pioneer 100%.

But speaking of Nav, Kenwood teamed up with Garmin I believe so their nav should give others a run for their money pretty soon. And you update their nav with an SD card so that's pretty slick as well.

 

[TX4runnerguy]

Okay, tarheel... I admit that I have the IB100 hooked to my pioneer, which, as I said, completely sucks as far as interface is concerned. I have not checked out the new IB100II.

On the other hand, the one good thing about the IB100 in all it's suckness is a loophole. If you're iPod still has v1.1 software, you can turn off your iPod, turn on your HU to one of the sources, then plug in your iPod and hit Menu a few times. This will allow you to maintain manual control with the iPod, which I definately prefer over the iPod navigation on the unit. I know this works with my D1 and the IB100, but not sure about the N2,D2,Z1, etc.