headunit or ipod?

[JOS3]

im trying to decide whether i should get an ipod or just upgrade the HU. from what i understand, getting a HU will mean i lose the steering wheel controls but it will have better sound quality and be easier to install than integrating an ipod.
either way, it will probably cost about the same. i just want to know what would be the easiest, most cost-effective route to take without sacrificing sound quality. what do you guys think?

 

[Moeed]

Ipod, you can take it anywhere.

 

[hellcat]

I believe there are headunits out there that are compatable with steering wheel controls. I don't have any models or makes for you, but when I was buying my stuff the sales guy asked me if I needed steering wheels control compatability. I do know that the Ipod in my car on the stock system sounded much better SQ wise than the stock stuff. Ipods rock. Good luck, I'm looking forward to see which decision you make and how you like it.

 

[JOS3]

i can go either route, i just want to make sure i wont second guess myself once i choose what i want to do. i was all about the ipod, but now im leaning towards a new HU (dunno)

edit: i should have added that the stock HU is the only stock part of the audio system i have left

 

[ZoomVT]

both?
i think you can connect the steering wheel controls to any aftermarket HU. it is a component that you can buy.
myself i would go with neither though. i rather have carputer.

 

[hellcat]

I have a head unit now that will controll my ipod (when I buy the adaptor) from the headunit controlls. I really don't mind using the ipod to change the music though. Could just hook it up through auxillary. Just a few more things for you to think about.

 

[krazykarni]

i bought an alpine head unit about 6 months ago. then a few weeks ago i bought an ipod photo. it is awesome to have both great quality sound and my entire arsenal of music to bring along. if you care about the way the ipod is hooked up to your HU, you may end up spending a bunch of money. i went with the less aesthetically pleasing option: an adapter that allows the cd changer input to be used as rca input (with a stereo to rca splitter from the ipod), a cigarette lighter charger, and a holster that clips to the air vent. i dont mind that i lost steering wheel controls though. i would suggest buying your head unit yourself and asking for an ipod for xmas...it is def. worth it. ill post pics tomorrow or something.

 

[mazdaholic]

you can try this.

http://www.sylfex.com/products/AuxMod/FAQ.shtml

 

[chuyler1]

I would upgrade the headunit. Most alpine units can be integrated with the factory steering wheel controls. Since you already have an aftermarket system an aftermarket head unit will give you the best SQ. If you decide later on that you still want an Ipod you can always integrate it with the upgraded head unit.

 

[JOS3]

after doing a little more research and actually going to the store (tweeter) to check out my options, im almost definitely leaning towards the HU.

 

[Mr. Win]

ipod video

 

[JOS3]

the ipod video is awesomje, but i really have no other use for an ipod and a HU would look much cleaner.

 

[bacon]

they do sell an adapter that will allow you to use your steering wheel controls i know best buy can order it for you and you can get it for sure at car toys i got my HU installed last nite its pretty cool