Eclipse CD5030
www.eclipse-web.com
The single-DIN Eclipse CD5030 has 5-volt preamp outputs, built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and easy iPod connectivity. And you can add an HD Radio tuner for yet another music option. If you listen to an HD Radio station with your iPod attached, you can "tag" the songs so you can purchase them easily from iTunes later. The CD5030 is also satellite radio ready.
MSRP: $300
StreetWires re-Q5
www.streetwires.com
The re-Q and re-Q5 solve the problem created by factory head units that limit low frequency output at higher volume levels. Add the re-Q5 and aftermarket audio gear and interface with your factory source with no limits. Plus, the re-Q5 offers an auxiliary input that can send any audio signal from the 3.5mm jack to the amplifiers. This allows the use of iPods, MP3 Players, DVD players, and even external Bluetooth adapters for playing stored music from a cell phone through the stereo system.
MSRP: Inquire
Alpine DPR-RDS1
www.alpine-usa.com
If you're into sound and great source unit features, then you have to get an aftermarket radio. But if you really don't want to mess with your factory system and still want to get iPod playback in your car, take a look at the new DPR-RDS1 from Alpine. It charges and plays audio from your music player and displays song, album and artist information on radios that can display FM station information.
MSRP: $120
Orion Cobalt Loaded Enclosures
www.orioncaraudio.com
Integrating your subwoofer into the car is always cool but some of us don't have the time or desire to make that happen. An inexpensive and easy way to implement a subwoofer solution for your vehicle is now available from Orion. Their Cobalt series subwoofer enclosures are a great entry-level products.
MSRP: Single 10" from just $179; $399 for the dual 12" (shown)
JVC Mobile El Kameleon KD-AVX77
http://mobile.jvc.com
If you want to spend a little more for a source unit, take a look at the El Kameleon. The single-din receiver's 5.4" ultra wide monitor is constructed with a high-resolution 192,000 pixel TFT panel that can display multimedia video and AV input content at the same time in split screen mode. A great new feature is full touchscreen capability, which allows the entire TFT panel to dual-task as the receiver's control panel. The KD-AVX77 receiver also offers Dual Zone and Dolby Digital 5.1-Channel surround decoder.
MSRP: $649.95
Alpine MRP-M2000
www.alpine-usa.com
The Class-D MRP-M2000 V-Power Mono Amplifier features a digital processor with intelligent temperature monitoring for non-stop output and stable, reliable performance. Speaker-level inputs allow for a direct connection to a factory radio. High-level speaker inputs and flush mount controls make for easy integration with a wide variety of subwoofer configurations. It's expensive, but the amp offers great dollar-per-watt value and you can power multiple subwoofers with it.
MSRP: $750
Otterbox Defender
www.otterbox.com
If your whole life is in your iPhone, like it is for a lot of people, you need serious coverage. The OtterBox Defender is a tank with three layers that guard against mishap. It almost completely encases your phone while still providing easy access to all your functions. The outer layers comprised of a polycarbonate shell and silicone skin to provide the bulk of the protection.
MSRP: $49