i don't need tapes, i don't need satellite radio, i don't need mp3s, i don't need a changer, i don't need GPS, i don't need a TV.

i want a nice, straightforward cd deck that won't skip when i hit bumps (i had a bad experience with a sony cd deck a few years ago) and sounds reasonably good without stretching me beyond a couple of bills. preamp outputs a must, for future expansion.

2-way kenwood 5.25s (i forget the model #, i've had them for a while) in the front.
3-way infinity kappa 6.35i 6.5s in the back.
somewhere down the road i'll add an amp and box.

so what's the best bang for my buck here? i'm not an audiophile but i'm not buying a $100 aiwa either. thanks for the help guys.


[Modified by xcathodex, 3:37 PM 2/5/2003]

 

Look at the lower Alpines and Pioneers. Both make really good decks and can be had for under $200 when buying online.

I bought my sister a lower Alpine model and haven't heard of any problems.

www.onlinecarstereo.com has good prices, but double check to make sure they have it in stock. They have a habit of listing models they can't sell you.

 

now is the time of year to catch a good deal since it is the end of the model year and all the new stuff is comming out. you can get a good deal on the decks that are on display, sometimes as low as cost at most stores.

 

pioneer DEH-3500 $189.00