I am replacing my stock radio with one of these units. Anyone try either of these?

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I've got the AVIC-N1 and I absolutely love it The AVIC-N2 is the updated version...though the features are the same. But, from what I hear, it wont let you play a DVD while the car is in motion [:@]

I've been a car audio fanatic for the past 6 years and the AVIC-N1 is honestly one of the nicest units I have seen...especially for the price. I also like the Eclipse double dins, but the main problem I have seen with those is glare! With the fold-out screen you are able to adjust the angle to eliminate those annoying reflections.

Regardless of which one you go with, just promise me you won't buy an "off-brand"....like all the crap being sold on eBay. The components, buttons, casing, and everything else is cheap. I would only expect about 6 months to a year of use with one of those discount versions.

 

Of course I wouldn't want a knockoff!! I was in HiFi Buys and only saw the Pioneer. I am currently looking for a place that has them both so I can compare them side by side.

 

I think Alpine and Pioneere both mke good stuff. It just comes down to which one you like better and which one you can get the better deal on.

 

I would recommend the Pioneer, but that's just my personal preference. As you say, it would be best to have a look at them side-by-side and see for yourself which you prefer. Also, as mentioned, price plays a big part in any purchase I make. Perhaps I notice the Alpine unit to be just slightly more pixelated, but then it goes on sale for 1/2 price or something... I am sure I could swallow my brand loyalty to Pioneer and get the Alpine.

 

I am kind of leaning more towards Pioneer. However, the price is only about $300 difference anyway.

 

Bought the N1 last summer mainly for the navigation. It is an all around great unit. The downside to the N1/2 as it is for every "multi-purpose" device, it does many things well but doesn't excel in any one feature.

If your particular about your music, go with the Alpine, it has superior sound reproduction when compared to the Pioneer. Other than that, they are extremely similar.

 

Yes, I am particular about my music, as I am a professional composer and pianist.