I have an '06 GP that I'm thinking about replacing the headunit on. I'm tired of fooling with the AUX input not working and I'd like to add a headunit that will charge my ipod. I'd like to know what units you guys recommend that don't tend to look out of place in the MINI. I'm open to suggestions and not really concerned about a price point.

TIA!

Andy

 

I'm really happy with my Kenwood KDC-X997. Front and rear usb ports, as well as built in bluetooth. The display colours are changeable and match the dash lights well. I used the SWI-RC steering wheel control interface and like the result.

 

I replaced mine with a pioneer AVIC-5000 NEX with back up camera, gps, dvd (which I'll never use), Bluetooth, ECT.


I am totally happy with it and haven't had any issues, however I have been told by my personal mechanic, as well as the mini dealer that I need to have the original radio installed as well (but hidden in a corner) in order to allow the cooper to receive updates.

Do you have yours installed somewhere quicksilver2003?

 

No, I removed it completely. If I need an update, it's only 30 minutes or so to throw the factory HU back in. I didn't cut any wires.

 

Quicksilver2003, how is the display on the Kenwood in the Mini? I've read that they were hard to see in daylight, but none were Mini owners.

 

I think the display is plenty bright. I actually have the dimmer turned down a bit from the brightest. That being said, I haven't had a chance to try it out on a sunny day with the sunroof open.

 

Thanks for info. Was on the fence between this and the Pioneer and Alpine offerings. Kenwood was my first choice.

 

Honestly from my experience I would go Pioneer over Kenwood. Unless they have changed recently Kenwood's user interface was always pretty poor. Plus I have seen quality issues on Kenwood. Pioneer's offer great features for the price too.

 

I've had both Pioneer and Kenwood. I am more than impressed with the sound quality of the last few Kenwoods I have had. The Excelon is definately the way to go. The interface is good. I bought mine of Ebay with no user manual, and have had no trouble figuring out how it works. I got my phone paired, clock, date and sound settings figured out, as well as the speed dial numbers programmed! I used to be a big fan of Pioneer, but I haven't had one in a while so I don't know how their sound quality is anymore to compare. I know the Mosfet used to be great. The quality of sound with the stock R53 speakers is excellent with the Kenwood I have. If you get the chance to compare a Pioneer and the Kenwood side by side have a listen.

 

Late post I know, But I bought a Sony, I love it. 10 band EQ, sony's recommended settings sound awesome, and I have a setting where my rears run as subs, very very little come out as vocals. Sounds way better than stock, but If it was even made my money (which would not exist in this case) would be if bose made a unit. Also I don't know if you have a car toys above me but would not recommend going there... they are mostly idiots and greedy.