Low dollar replacment stereo system

[Vinny]

I have a non monsoon factory system that needs replacing but I don't believe in spending a lot on a system. As a matter of fact I want to spend rock bottom on a decent sounding system with a CD player. I don't think Ill be going to any compititions any time soon. I am not afraid to buy from Wal-Mart or off the internet if that helps and I can install it myself as long as it isn't to technical. So what can y'll come up with?

Vinny

P.S. When I say rock bottom Dura brand and static o matic does't count.
Pioneer, Sony, etc.....

[Firehawk 526]

Well w/o an amp (I assume), you won't be breaking any sound barriers, but suggest at least a 60w x 4 Head unit, but all the entry level units are about the same IMO - $250- $300. Obviously, these units don't have the 3 and 4ch pre-outs or high output pre-outs, along w/other bells and whistles, such as MP3 capability, EQ settings, DSP (digital processing), etc.

It is difficult to provide direction, not knowing what you currently have to match! Kinda like asking a tech question, "I have this tapping sound in my engine, so what could it be?" --- If you know what I mean!

Do you want the LED's to match your interior lighting, or anything special?
Eclipse has RED, and several other units offer a variety, so really depends on what you want. If you want a low-tech system, then suggest the retail stores such as Circuit City, etc. - Some of these locations offer FREE install w/purchase.

How about coaxials/or components and a sub-woofer? I would stay away from ebay or any on-line purchasing, since I have heard horror stories about warranty issues, and turnaround time. I like the over-the-counter exchange and shop warranties myself. You'll really need a class D sub amp IMO for a sub-woofer.
A 10" sub and 200-300W amp would be just fine for the FULLNESS.

My personal recommendations, and everyone has differing opinions:

Eclipse, Pioneer Premier series, Alpine, Clarion, or possibly Kenwood Excelon series.
Panasonic HU's have had CD skipping issues
If Sony, don't get the Explode series, but next level

[Transamman25]

I run a decent priced head unit in my T/A but i went with a decent priced unit in My Bronco ..a Panasonic CQ-C1333U.. damn im impressed plenty of power and they are pushing JL door speakers and Kenwood 5x8's .. it provides great power clear sound and will do anything i ask of it short of take yer A$$ to the kitchen n make me a sandwich .. come up to memphis n i can get you a bada$$ deal at a buddies stereo shop

[Firehawk 526]

There ya go, and besides, many of those mass install companies are just short of being a "chop shop" IMO. I'll NEVER go back to our local Circuit City!

I am a true believer in supporting our local car audio shops, and they generally provide the best service, warranty, and exchange policies!

[Vinny]

Thanks guys!