I'm planning out my new stereo unit for my 03WRX and would like some input on head units.

This is what I have decided on so far:
Front Speakers: KFC-XR61P
Rear Speakers: KFC-XR501

Still need to decide on head unit
Alpine CDM-9823
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-L8Lls1R...0&I=500CDM9823
Alpine CDA-9825
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-L8Lls1R...0&I=500CDA9825

I'm planning on also installing an amp and sub but haven't researched these items yet

So my question is how much difference will there be with the 9823 with 2V of preamp output vs the 9825 with 4V. I'm not afraid of spending a little bit more money for a better unit, but the site where I am buying my speakers only carries the 9823 and was trying to bundle it in with the shipping. Has anyone noticed engine whine with the lower powered head unit? Thanks.

 

if you plan on adding an amp and subwoofer, you will want the head unit with the higher preamp voltage. also, you shouldn't be hearing any engine noise on any head unit unless the power is inline with the speaker input, or a faulty ground.

 

A few more thoughts for you...

I've had the 9825 installed in my 95L for about a year or so. It's a great deck. I know not everyone likes the "MX" sound shaper, but personally i think it adds to the deck. The treble and bass shaping controls are good, and definatly let you personalize the sound of your system. I haven't used the radio feature a lot, but from what i messed with it seemed adaquate. I like being able to just click "Next" and not having to fuss with tuning a dial. I also like that the faceplate doesn't drop out to put the CD in (it has the slot on the top). The built in amp has been completely adaquate for the 4 in-cabin speakers.

There are two things however that i wish i had. When i chose this deck, i chose it based on the idea that "i'll save some money on things i don't need". Well, hate to admit it, but i wish i would have spent the extra $40 for the 9827. Why? Like i said, the 9825 is great as far as sound and control go, but it's missing 2 things i sorta wish i had now: MP3 support and a remote.

I know i know, fluff items? It seems like it, but i sorta wish i had them. It's just a little bit more. You've already chosen a great line of decks (yay alpine) just wanted to give some more thoughts for long term deck choosing.

PS. have fun installing & enjoying your new system.

 

why not just get the 9827.. i currently have the 9827? it also has 3 4v preouts and mp3 support

 

Ok so I've decided on the 9827 head unit for the extra preouts and mp3 support. I need some advice on my amp. My current systeem design is as follows:

Head Unit: Alpine CDA-9827
Front Speakers: KFC-XR61P
Rear Speakers: KFC-XR501
Sub: Image Dynamics ID10 v.3 Subwoofer ID v.3 Series 10-Inch Dual 4 Ohms

I want something quality in the 50W 4 channel category that can bridge to around 150W for the sub. I've received some suggestions on another board for the following brands "hifonics, soundstream, dei." I'm planning on powering the sub and front speakers with the amp and using the head unit to power the rears.

Does anyone have some suggestions on specific model lines that they've found to be of very good quality for a budget system. I'm trying to keep the amp price around $150 - 200.

 

NOOOOOOOOO, they dont play MP3's. I rather get a head unit that can play MP3's so you could fit a coupe hundred songs on a cd instead of the usual 10- 15. But thats just my 2 cents.