Upgrade stereo ideas

[z168]

Ive always been a fan of factory looking stereos. And while i am happy with the factory headunit on my 00 XLT, i hate that i have to give up my center storage console to a CD changer, dvd and vhs. Plus being able to plug in an mp3 and my ipod is nice without using a tape

So my questions are:
1) any suggestions out there for a decent replacement? Oem or aftermarket?
2) since the 00 has like a 1.75DIN size instead of a standard 2DIN, will a standard 2DIN fit anyway without customizing the fillhole and the beauty trim?

 

[oblivion]

2 DIN will look way cleaner but that said, none will fit without modifications. Easiet way to replace everything your taking out and gain what you want is to find something that does Dual Zone Video. That way you can run a dvd from the deck to teh screen and still listen to the radio or ipod. All the deck that I know of that do dual zone will do the rest of what your looking for but be prepared for a higher price tag. more so if you get the double DIN. Its not hard to do at all.

 

[sxewhodey]

Pioneer Premier FH-P800BT

I installed one of these in my 2001 expy and absolutely love it. I am actually buying a second one to put in my wifes kia soon so I can drive it to work ( I drive much further to work and the expy is burning way to much gas money) The USB connection is the handiest thing ever and the bluetooth is pretty good over all. It has a stock look but does require a little dremeling to mod for a double-din set up.


This is a great guide for double-din modding

 

[DrMX]

Alpine single DIN

I installed an Alpine 126BT last month in my 98 Eddie Bauer. I removed the previous cassette player which had a 10 CD changer in the central console. By removing the changer I have now the console free. THe unit came with an ipod cable that the guys who fitted it in managed to pass to the console. Now i have my ipod there, controlling it from the headunit. It also has bluetooth with an external mic, an usb port to connect memory sticks and an aux-in. SO basically I can play most formats with usb and ipod, as well as answering phones (music fades out when receiving a call).

http://www.amazon.com/Alpine-CDE-126BT-digital-Full-DIN-dash/dp/B004FQ14DW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1304361364&sr=1-1

I do recommend the Alpine systems, great sound quality and decent prices with lots of features.

 

[Remo]

Since you like the look of the OEM radio, want to add an aux input and want to gain space in your center console...I would recommend removing the CD changer and connecting an adapter to its wiring to use it as an aux input. Check out companies like Pacific Accessory Corporation or Precision Interface Electronics. This would be a cheap and effective solution to your question. Whatever you decide, post some pics of the installation or a review. Hope that helps.