Would appreciate your guidance...

[Joeprunc]

Its time to upgrade my boat head unit. I already have two amps (one for the subs and one for the speakers) so its going to just be a head unit upgrade.

The reason I am upgrading my old Alpine is for three reasons...

1. I want a wired remote so I can control the stereo from the wheel.
2. I want it to play CDs with MP3s.
3. I want built in iPod controls or at least a USB connection.

Again I'm on a budget I would like to get a head unit and wired remote for around $200-250.

Is it worth having a remote with a screen? Can you see the info from the iPod on the screen? I found some of these on Epray for cheap (Sony RM-X55M). Anyone have input on Sony stuff? Does anyone highly recommend something else? It seem like everyone has Clarion stuff here is that because its the OE installed?


So to pair it up with a receiver what do you guys recommend? I don't think I need a Marine Grade receiver as it is tucked away in the glove box, and shouldn't see weather. Or am I wrong in that notion, should I go marine? I really don't need anything fancy as I usually don't 'rock out with my socks out', just something to get the job done.

Maybe the Sony Xplod CDX-GT430IP


Or the Sony CDX-GT630UI


Although I don't know if I want a fold down face for my boat.

What do you all think? Is Sony stuff quality? Are there any other economical setups that you highly recommend? Or brands that I should stray from?

Thanks in advance...

[chpthril]

I believe you need the marine H/U in order to interface with the remote, let me double check.

*EDIT*

Ok, on Sony's website, under "Features" it states: "Wired Remote Control for all Sony® head units wit Sony Bus changer control & wired remote capability" but under "Compatibility" it only shows the marine head units.

The CDXM60UI is a nice H/U. Has most of the basic features plus rear USB.

For the remote, you want the new RMX60M, it will give you more control of the Ipod, where the x55 wont.

If you dont want your Ipod/USB cable strung around the boat laying all over the place, pick up one of these USB bulk-head adapters. (pic below) It's Clarion's CCAUSB, but it's just a USB extention cable with a bulk-head pass-thru on it. What head unit do you have now, the Sony requires a 7-1/4 x 2-1/8 opening.

[Joeprunc]

Thanks Mike...I've got an old school Alpine (at least 5 years old). I'll check out the model number today.

I like how clean that cable adapter would be. However doesn't the CDXM6UI have the 30 pin connection, I would have to find one with a USB connection. Having a remote that controls an iPod would be a huge plus too. It looks like the RMX60M will go with the CDXM60UI or CDXH910UI.

Mike, I'm assuming you've had a lot of experience with Clarion and Sony...which do you prefer as far as quality and customer support?

[chpthril]

The Sony has a std USB socket in the back that will accept your MP3's USB data cable. The Clarion CCAUSB just brings that USB socket out to the dash or glove box instead of having a cable laying in the floor if the driver's helm or pass storage area and run through the door.

I like the Sony head units. I'm a little cold on thier amps and speakers, but not cause thier junk or anything, I just like what other's have to offer, but thier head units have come a ways in the past few years. At this point, Clarion does not offer a USB, except with the 2-3 new hi-end source units that rolled out this year like the M309 (MSRP $349). So, for MP3 players, you are stuck using either Clarion's CCA-Ipod (Ipod only) or for non-Ipod MP3's, you're left using the 3.5mm headphone plug into either the AUX RCA's or the 3.5mm socket on the front that some have. This sound quality is ok, but nearly as good as via data cable.

Clarion has some awesome chit, especially their new CMV1 video head unit, but their customer support doesnt exist. I get all my questions answered by the marine distributor.

Bottom line, I would not hesitate recommending either brand.

[philwsailz]

I have Sony in my boats.

[Fast1911]

I have Sony in my boats.

ALL of your boats?

[philwsailz]

ALL of your boats?

The old wood boats do not get stereos....

[Joeprunc]

Sounds good to me...Thanks for all the help. Now to select the right head unit to go with the remote (seems kind of bass ackwards).

My current Alpine is a CDA-9825 CD, so I think its a standard size din.

[Fit to be Tige]

Hey Joe,

Let us know what you discover. I have thought about replacing my original unit, but haven't had the time to do the searching for the best unit for the money.

[chpthril]

Sounds good to me...Thanks for all the help. Now to select the right head unit to go with the remote (seems kind of bass ackwards).

My current Alpine is a CDA-9825 CD, so I think its a standard size din.

Both the Sony X55 and X60 remotes will work with all of last yrs and current model Sony MARINE head units, that i'm sure of.

[philwsailz]

EDIT!!!!!!!

X55 and X60 will drive ALL Sony Marine and some car products. I am using an X55 to drive a Sony MEX1GP in both my sailboat and my powerboat.

I am getting a list from my guys which ones will and won't work....

[chpthril]

X55 and X60 will drive ALL Sony Marine and car products. I am using an X55 to drive a Sony MEX1GP in both my sailboat and my powerboat.

No worries, chose your radio at will; the X55 and X60 will drive the 430 and 630 you mentioned above no problem.

Thanks for the clarification, the Sony website is not clear on this.

[philwsailz]

Thanks for the clarification, the Sony website is not clear on this.

I am double-checking, see edit above

[philwsailz]

Okay, a clarification....

The RMX-60M will work with the following:

Marine: All marine radios EXCEPT the CDX-M10 will work.

Car: All radios above AND INCLUDING the CDX-GT630UI will work

Hopefully that helps you understand better what you can do.

[Joeprunc]

Heck yeah!!! Thank you for clarifying all that up. I think I'm going to throw in a car stereo, but not 100% sure I want to spend the extra $$ on an X60 (that would blow my budget for sure).