head unit or no head unit... that is the question

**FusionFanatic** · 06-11-2007, 02:24 PM

Hi guys,

there are people on both sides that say their way is best, but I searched and searched and found no answer. I found a couple posts which stated that there should be a poll on this subject, but i couldn't find any polls related to this simple, yet endlessly debated question; so I decided to make one

I realize they both have pros and cons. personally, for many reasons I believe that it is better to have a head unit in addition to the carputer. I don't the carputer on for anything during my 15 minute commute or a trip to the grocery store, for those times I jsut want my good old head unit and Pioneer Inno XM receiver. when using my carputer for GPS, etc I want to be able to dedicate the carputer to that one fuction. I don't want to be switching screens or losing already valuable screen real estate to giant front end radio/volume buttons. I'm not saying these are good reasons for everybody, I'm just explaining why I choose to keep a head unit.

so vote now and lets settle this debate once and for all!

**RedGTiVR6** · 06-11-2007, 02:41 PM

I firmy believe that if you know what you're doing and you set-up your car correctly, a carpc only install can sound just as good if not better than a head unit install.

for the 3 minute drive to the grocery store, I'll still use the carpc and don't regret it one bit.

**TruckinMP3** · 06-11-2007, 02:51 PM

The issue is what fits "your" need.... not an absolute answer that is correct for all.

One of my install choices is to be able to return the vehicle to stock in order to sell it. (or give it to the insurance company)

For me keeping the HU is a design choice for that reason and not having the patience or touch for custom molded dash pieces (they are cool when done well)

Also I am not an audiophile and am willing to accept the stock sound set up.

**FusionFanatic** · 06-13-2007, 09:38 PM

ooh! pro-HU is winning (6 to 4)

sound quality isn't really relavant because you can have excellent sound quality through both methods. the poll is based on personal preference / convenience. for me I want to be able to listen to music without turning the carputer on, that's my main reason for wanting both. (also, what if a component such as the HDD fails, if you have a HU you can still have full audio function while you fix your carputer

)

**MatrixPC** · 06-14-2007, 05:24 PM

If there is option, I go for both. All my installed had HU with it.
Pro HU.
- Something to listen to on short trip to liquor/groccery stores.
- At least there is AM to listen to for traffic report.
- No need for extra amplifiers if you aren't an audiophile type person (save some load of the alternator => save gas, better for environment ... ok go argue on that

)
Cons HU
- space, space, space.

**Nomader** · 06-14-2007, 05:58 PM

Originally Posted by RedGTiVR6

I firmy believe that if you know what you're doing and you set-up your car correctly, a carpc only install can sound just as good if not better than a head unit install.

for the 3 minute drive to the grocery store, I'll still use the carpc and don't regret it one bit.

I agree with Red on that one..if you set it up right, no need for a HU at all.

**koolaidkitten** · 06-18-2007, 05:24 PM

I have 0 reason for a headunit
Anything a headunit on the market can do *that I need* my PC can do.
Hell...my PC can do far more than any headunit.
Show me an Alpine that plays Quake III

**TruckinMP3** · 06-18-2007, 07:20 PM

Originally Posted by koolaidkitten

I have 0 reason for a headunit
Anything a headunit on the market can do *that I need* my PC can do.
Hell...my PC can do far more than any headunit.
Show me an Alpine that plays Quake III

The interesting thing that I see related to anyone else about your set up is:
It does what you want it to. (good)

That does not mean it meets someone else's needs. Meaning, not cookie cutter answer for anyone.