iPod Favorite iPod-Ready car stereo?

[godslabrat]

Hi all-

I'm probably going to need to do some work on my car in the next few months, and one thing I'll address is getting a new car stereo. I was looking around in Best Buy the other day and found that most of them were "iPod-Ready", which meant that they could accept the iPod/USB cable and play my songs directly off my iPod. As I currently think my new Classic is indispensable, I LOVE this idea!

Problem is, I don't know much about car stereos. I could talk to you all day about computers and TVs, but when it comes to car audio, I'm lost. Of the stereos that have the iPod feature, are some better than others in terms of sound quality and ease-of-use? Ideally, I'd like something that would make switching songs/podcasts easy, even by the LED screen on the stereo. Most of the ones I looked at were also under $200, which is the right price point for me. (Yes, I'll go higher, but I'd need a VERY compelling reason)

Any personal insights would be appreciated.

 

[marykay9507]

I would recommend going to Crutchfield.com-- they have a huge selection -- they give you all your install parts (ie:adapters, wires, etc) for free

 

[protozoa]

I'm real happy with the JBL Synthesis that came stock in my Toyota mini-van (I'm sure all the stock systems in Toyotas have the AUX jack and sound good).

Not bad for a freakin mini-van!

 

[themanfromvlad]

I have a Pioneer avic-d3 and I love it. True iPod integration, you control the iPod through the touch screen. The 6.5 inch screen is great for the built in gps navigation system. Its a double-din deck. Bluetooth, satellite and camera options are also available.

 

[Michael CM1]

My 2007 Toyota Camry came from the factory with an auxiliary audio jack and power adapter under the stereo hidden in a little compartment. That nearly sold the car itself!

I would suggest any unit with an input jack like that. This allows you to also use the unit for stuff like satellite radio.

That being said, I wish stereos could control the iPod. The click-wheel was NOT made to use while driving (nor was the non-iPhone/Touch interface).

 

[themanfromvlad]

Aux in jacks are jokes. It's being sold as iPod connectivity, but it's not. If you're going to have to fiddle around with an iPod while driving to control your music, you might as well just plug in some headphones!

It's a shame more cars don't come with iPod docks.