Alpine digital audio setup. . maybe.

**Crazystick** · 11-01-2006, 01:18 PM

Hey guys,

Wanted to get your thoughts on a digital audio setup I had in mind.I want to keep a headunit, just in case the car pc goes down.

I wanted to go with an alpine Headunit, DSP, CPU (undecided), and lilliput manual "push" screen.
Here is my main layout.
Alpine DVA-9860 - ---->DVD/CD/MP3/WMA Receiver
OR .. OR
Alpine CDA-9856 -- -- ->CD/MP3/WMA Receiver

Alpine PXA-H701 Multimedia Manager
CAR PC - with digital audio, soundcard.. Setup at a later time
Lilliput 7" manual push

I dont necessarily have to with a head unit labeled DTS / Digital Audio right?
The processor handles that, correct. Because if thats the case. I can probably go a little cheaper and go with the Alpine CDA-9856
The only real difference between the two models , I think is the dvd playing ability, and I got confused on the DTS part, Does that mean it is sending out the DTS signal to the processor? and thats about it.
Only concern is that I am not sure if I need a side head unit for the DSP itself.

Here is a layout of what Im thinking of doing..

**Crazystick** · 11-01-2006, 03:18 PM

forgot to mention the Alpine DVA-9860 - ---->DVD/CD/MP3/WMA Receiver has an optical output and would connect that optically to the DSP,

But the Alpine CDA-9856 -- -- ->CD/MP3/WMA Receiver Does not, So I am not sure how to connect audio from the 9856 to the DSP if I wanted to go that way.
The only reason I am posting all this is to make sure this is more or less guaranteed setup for a carpc can just come and hook up.

**pancit175** · 11-01-2006, 10:44 PM

Only some models may be completly compatible with the PXA-H701. You should probably look into that a little be more to for sure. What it might come down to is that you may need to get the controller RUX-C701 to configure it if the deck is not compatible. But you pretty much have the general setup I have except for the controller instead of the deck.

**XC-C30** · 11-01-2006, 11:01 PM

why would you wanna go with a HU that plays dvd? I know, I know.... in case the carpc fails.... But how many chances are there it's going to? In my opinion, I wouldn't spend the money on it. The chances the HU fails on you is the same, so what are you gonna do than? buy a 3rd HU incase both carpc and HU fail on you?

**3onDubs** · 11-02-2006, 06:26 PM

Why not get a head unit that can do everything a carpc can and is designed to be in a car....like, say, the Alpine W200 that is fully compatible with the H701? You'll only be missing internet, but you can check your email when you get home.....

**XC-C30** · 11-02-2006, 06:37 PM

cost?

I bet a carpc will be cheaper, and most important: you can completely design/build it according your needs/likings

**Saca_Saca** · 11-04-2006, 09:47 PM

Hello,
This is very close to the same set-up I'm about to have installed.
I thought you needed the RUX-C701 controller for the 701 to use in alone mode which would enable you to pick the optical input of your choice.
I am not sure if you can choose optical inputs without it?

**Crazystick** · 11-06-2006, 12:58 PM

apparently You are correct. Which is not what I wanted to hear. The PXA-H701(digital processor) does require the controller RUX-C701 to control it. I just got off the phone with alpine tech rep. The only good thing is that the controller is the size of 1 DIN faceplate. It has no depth to it and could easily be mounted elsewhere. But Unfortunately fo this setup it seems that cost is not worth it.I will look into a different digital processor and possibly different setup.

**pancit175** · 11-06-2006, 07:46 PM

Yeah I went with the RUX-C701 and made a lil pod that mounted to the headliner of my car. It's under an inch thick.

I got those 2 pieces for just under $600 after shipping. I think you can probably swing something like that off of ebay, or froggle.

**crabbdaddy** · 11-25-2006, 10:45 PM

Originally Posted by pancit175

Yeah I went with the RUX-C701 and made a lil pod that mounted to the headliner of my car. It's under an inch thick.

I got those 2 pieces for just under $600 after shipping. I think you can probably swing something like that off of ebay, or froggle.

any pics of your RUX-C701 install? thinking of doing the same when my RUX-C701 arrives. im finding info on the unit but no install pics for ideas.
thx.