Pros:

• Finding POI’s was nice and simple
• Setting and customization of personal preferences
• Ability to make changes to settings via steering wheel mounted buttons

Cons:

• Lag while system processes voice command
• 8-inch touch screen not very touch sensitive
• Entering navigation destinations by voice or touch … ugh!

What do an 8” LCD touch screen on the center stack, two customizable LCD screens, media integration and connectivity (USB, RCA video), and the ability to turn the vehicle into a local area network for your passengers using a wireless USB modem all have in common? They are all components of MyLincoln Touch technology.

Based upon the new MyFord Touch technology unveiled last year, MyLincoln Touch is now available on the 2011 Lincoln MKX and will become standard equipment across the Lincoln lineup. We recently received an MKX for testing and I decided to put the MyLincoln Touch technology to the test to see if it really did enhance my driving experience. Integrated voice control of music, phone, climate, and navigation in a luxury SUV — it doesn’t get much better than this, or does it?

User Experience

Navigation functionality with the MyLincoln Touch system was a love/hate experience. I tried following the voice prompts to enter a new destination, and it couldn’t understand the street name despite several tries (and this was while the car was not running so ambient noise was minimal). I even had my neighbor say some street names, and the system found streets that were close (in spelling), but incorrect. Sometimes, I was able to successfully enter the city and street address without issue, but it was far less than the failed attempts.

Finding points of interest (POI) like Target, Starbucks or Peet’s Coffee was far easier to accomplish, enabling me to search, find, and start navigation to my destination. The processing time after speaking a command was on the long side; it’s typically a second or two, but sometimes longer (i.e., when searching for a POI). One neat feature was having abbreviated navigational instructions replicated on the right cluster screen in the instrument panel.

The entertainment, climate and phone functionality provided a much better experience than navigation. After downloading my phone book to the MKX, I could easily dial by name: “Call John Smith”. If I had several numbers for a particular contact, the system prompted me for which one (like cell or work) I wanted to dial. Changing the temperature or fan speed was very easy using a voice command (or the steering wheel mounted buttons); there’s also a touch sensitive bar on the center stack that you can slide your finger across to adjust fan speed (a similar bar exists for volume). Once in the Radio voice menu, you can say “AM 810” or “FM 101.3” to change to a specific radio station, and the same ease of selection applied to satellite radio.

The two cluster screens in the instrument panel proved to be very helpful. The right cluster screen displayed entertainment, navigation/compass, or climate info/settings, while the left cluster displayed trip information, fuel economy, vehicle settings, vehicle information, and system check info/settings. Each was controlled by a direction toggle switch with center OK button.

The benefit of this setup is that I could see the information that I wanted, or make changes to settings, without removing my hands from the steering wheel or looking at the larger 8-inch LCD on the center stack. Making inputs on the 8-inch screen unfortunately requires a firm touch. I wish it was a bit more sensitive because I often had to take my eyes off the road to make sure I was pressing the correct location (which I was), before pressing again more firmly.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Minutes before the much anticipated debut of the Chevy Camaro Z28, it was all over Twitter that the car revealed would actually be a ZL1. A high performance Camaro, the aluminum hood is raised with a vented insert, rear diffusers and spoiler, and 20 inch forged aluminum wheels. Under the hood is the LSA 6.2L V8 engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. The ZL1′s power comes from a supercharged aluminum-block 6.2-liter V8 producing an estimated 550 hp.

The interior is given as much attention as the exterior design with microfiber suede inserts on heated leather seats. Unique to the ZL1 is a leather wrapped shifter and steering wheel, redesigned with the bottom of the wheel squared off and ZL1 badges. The ZL1 is still in development, though, and is projected to be available in early 2012. The ZL1 name is taken from the 1969 Camaro ZL1, which had an aluminum block 440-hp 427-cubic inch V8.

In the meantime, for all things Camaro, there is still talk of a Z28 down the line and 500 replicas of the SS Convertible Indy 500 Pace Car which will be built this spring. Also, the limited edition Camaro Synergy model will return this spring. The model is aimed at V6 buyers who want performance equipment at a lower price.

Hyundai Veloster Rallycross

To compete with the Ford Fiesta and Subaru WRX STI, Hyundai teamed with Rhys Millen Racing to create the 500-horsepower four-wheel drive Veloster Rally Car. It was stripped, welded, braced, with a safety cage and firewall added. Body panels were then recreated in carbon/Kevlar for an even lighter curb weight of 2,656 pounds. The third door was taken up by side air scoops. The Veloster Rallycross Team will race in the X Games.

Acura TL

After the much-maligned redesign of the TL sedan, many were curious how Acura would respond with the 2012 model. A refined and less bulky nose was immediately apparent, and a “beautifully proportioned” TL was much easier on the eyes. The trunk still comes to a point, but that has been toned down as well, tail lights updated and the size of the reflectors reduced.

Fuel economy has been improved to 20 mpg/city and 29 mpg/highway. Two versions will be offered – the TL with a 280 horsepower V-6 engine and the TL SH-AWD™ with a 305 horsepower V-6 along with Acura’s Super Handing All-Wheel Drive. Upgrades are available regardless of trim level; a Technology Package that includes navigation, weather and premium audio systems and a new Advance Package with blind spot information, ventilated front seats, and split five-spoke aluminum wheels. (7-spoke aluminum wheels come standard on the TL, and 5-spoke on the TL SH-AWD™.) The 2012 TL should be available later this year.

Audi TT RS

Audi introduced the TT RS sports coupe to the American market in a unique way – with a party for their Facebook supporters instead of a tradition press launch. The decision to bring the TT RS stateside was sealed with a vote on the Audi Facebook page. It is still early enough in development that much has not been decided, such as the color palette (although one Facebook fan that was present pleaded the case for orange). The interior will be offered in two choices – black and “silvery.” However, there will be no options for the inlays and bucket seats, available in the European version, but not be available in the U.S.

A rear spoiler will come standard but will be deletable if preferred. The aluminum wheels are more matte to identify this car as a TT RS. Audi is trying for a 360 horsepower engine, but, again, that is still up in the air. The price has not yet been set either, but they are looking to keep it in the low $60k range. The Audi TT RS will be a limited edition with well under 1,000 to be made available.

VW/Fender Audio

Volkswagen teamed with Fender and Panasonic for three years to offer the Fender Premium Audio System in the Jetta GLI. I spent a few minutes in a Jetta listening to Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the 400 watt system is impressive. Fender worked with VW to strategically position two tweeters and speakers in the front, another pair of each in the back and rounded out with a sub woofer in the trunk to offer a clean sound experience. No matter the volume, it is soft on the ears, never getting tinny, and maintaining a detailed midrange, and rich but not overwhelming bass. I was told that the Jetta GLI will be offered at $23,500, and with the Fender Premium Audio package, $26,500.

The Chicago Auto Show runs from February 11-20, 2011 at McCormick Place.

Johnson Controls make all parts of the car vibrate, thus producing sound and acting as speakers. The Bongiovi DPS with the digital signal processing of each car’s unique acoustic environment and vibrations, provides a recording studio quality audio experience without the size and cost of other premium audio upgrades and extra hardware. For example, instead of having a subwoofer, the system uses the sheet metal beneath the seats, and having no speakers also provides more space and options on the doors.

The Bongiovi Acoustics Digital Power Station will be available fall 2011 starting at $280 for most current Toyota models.

Experience DPS technology with a free plug-in optimized for iTunes and Mac users at www.dpsplugin.com. A Windows version will be available shortly.

New York – Oxygen Audio, the innovative French brand from ADMEA specializing in car audio electronics, will showcase the new O’Car and O’Dock during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 6 – 9, 2011.

The O’Car, which is the first car radio specifically designed for the iPhone and the O’Dock, the world’s first iPhone docking system which fully integrates your iPhone in the car, will be available for demo at meeting room 25457 in the lower level, South Hall and booth 1335C, North Hall.

Oxygen Audio executives will also remain available to discuss the groundbreaking products during CES Unveiled, January, 4, 2011 in the Venetian Ballroom at The Venetian.

“We are excited to showcase our cutting edge technology including including the O’Car and O’Dock at this year’s CES,” begins Gregory Borchardt, Managing Partner of Oxygen Audio North America. “As a recognized manufacturer of automotive hi-fi, we remain committed to providing industry leading advances in car audio electronics.”

To book an interview with an Oxygen Audio executive, please contact the press department above.

Event : Oxygen Audio to unveil new O’Car and O’Dock at CES 2011 and CES Unveiled

Time/Place : CES Unveiled January 4, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., The Venetian Ballroom, The Venetian
CES January 6 – 9, 2011, meeting room 25457, lower level, South Hall and booth 1335C, North
Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center

About Oxygen Audio :

Oxygen Audio is a recognized French electronics manufacturing company dedicated to providing the latest innovations in car audio technology. The brand, which has been in operation for 15 years, developes high quality products designed to complement the latest new media supports. With engineers passionate about automotive hi-fi, the comany remains at the forefront of innovative technology to design efficient and ground breaking systems. For more information, please visit www.oxygenaudio.com

About ADMEA :

Created in 1994, the ADMEA group is a leading French distribution company focused on electronics and entertainment products. ADMEA designs, distributes and manufactures its signature products including recognized brands such as Oxygen Audio, Navirad, Schaub Lorenz, and King of Home. ADMEA holds significant market shares in each of its segments with a 2009 recorded revenue of 120 million euros.

Source:
Tanya Otis
Open2America

The all-new 2011 Audi A8 incorporates more technological advances and wizardry than a Boeing 787. Highlights include an aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) that is 40% lighter and 25% stiffer than a comparable chassis made of steel and Audi’s pre-sense safety system for avoiding accidents and for minimizing their consequences. One technological highlight that is immediately appreciated by anyone seated in the redesigned A8 flagship is Audi’s fifth generation Multi-Media Interface (MMI) with a touchpad and navigation system, using the same embedded Google Earth application used in the iPhone and Droid, only adapted into an automotive application. This is the first time ever Google Maps has been incorporated into a car.

Not surprising, Audi and Google have teamed up to have Google Earth pre-installed into the 2011 A8. Previewed at this year’s CES, the completed system won the award for Best Embedded Telematics Navigation Product at the 2010 Telematics conference in Detroit.

Since Google Earth’s bird’s-eye views of our planet require a connection to the Interweb, the A8 includes a 3G high-speed cellular data connection to download the images. The Internet connection also allows drivers to turn the luxury sedan into a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot. Passengers can simultaneously access the Internet through the car’s integrated WLAN module and via UMTS, using up to eight terminal devices such as laptops, Apple iPads or netbooks. You either drop your SIM card into the car’s on-board system or pair your phone with it via Bluetooth, and then share wireless Internet access with up to eight Wi-Fi-enabled devices at speeds up to 7.2 mbps. Taking advantage of the NVIDIA graphics processor in the A8′s navigation system, along with the car’s 3G data connection, drivers can see their destinations and surroundings in rich topographical clarity.

The A8’s MMI Plus system incorporates Google Maps and Local Search, plus the ability to link it all with your desktop computer. To save time, you can simply search for an address on your computer and send it to the car; when you start driving, the car will know where to go.

The Google Earth feature goes beyond downloading Google Maps destinations to your car. Snuggled right into the 8 inch high resolution LCD screen in the car, the Google Earth application lets lucky owners look at 3D satellite imagery, terrain information, and even additional info layers such as Wikipedia articles or Panoramio images related to a certain location. Live traffic data is downloaded from Sirius satellites.

Audi has also introduced fuzzy search for finding points of interest, something long missing from navigation systems. Instead of typing a specific name for a business, the A8 uses Google Local Search to find businesses and other locations based on general search terms. Google says because information is continually updated online, information on points of interest, such as hotels and restaurants, should be more accurate.

Don’t expect Google Street view to be available anytime soon. Storage requirements are too demanding even for the system’s 60 GB internal hard disk drive. According to Audi 30 GB is dedicated to the Google Maps navigation application while the the remaining disk space is allocated for music storage (20 GB) and Google Earth content (10 GB).

The 2011 Audi A8 goes on sale in the U.S. by the end of the year, but the Google Earth navigation system won’t be available until early 2011.

Audi Google Earth GPS Demo
Audi and NVIDIA demonstrate the capabilities and features of Audi’s latest generation MMI Plus system with touchpad input and voice-recognition.

Click here to view the embedded video.

It is great that phones now have navigation, but they will not kill-off personal navigation devices. While smartphones are increasing in popularity among the tech-savvy crowd, don’t expect PNDs to become as irrelevant as an 8-track player. PNDs have a number of advantages that no iPhone app can overcome.

One of the biggest advantages smartphones have over PNDs is cost. Using a smartphone as a GPS costs a tremendous amount of money. Google may give the GPS software away gratis, but using it is far from free. Both the Motorola Droid and iPhone 3GS are $199.99 with a two-year contract which is double the price of an entry level PND.

Verizon and AT&T also require a 30 dollar-a-month data package. The data package alone is $720 by the time the contract ends. Over a two-year period of time that is a lot of money. On the iPhone the cost of entry is even higher because you need to purchase navigation software. TomTom’s iPhone app is $99. You sure have to pay a lot of money to use that “free” GPS.

Another added cost is the mounting hardware for smartphones so they can be used in cars. Almost every PND on the market comes with such a mount for free. Motorola charges $40 for its car mount kit. This is a ridiculous price for a piece of plastic and a car charger. That is more than 40 percent of the cost for an entry level dedicated GPS unit. At that price you might as well pay the extra 40-50 dollars and get a PND.

Even if data plans prices drop and car mounting kits are free, there is one thing cell phones can never change and that is their form factor. The screen size on cell phones is too small compared to the average GPS unit. The largest of the Android phones with GPS navigation is 3.7 inches. While this is adequate for cell phone use, for navigation it’s very small.

Even the cheapest GPS units on the market today feature 4.3-inch screens. Middle-of-the-road models feature seven-inch screens. Cell phone screen sizes are not going to get much larger because they still need to fit into your pocket. For people with less than great eyesight, a dedicated GPS unit with a large screen is the way to go. Trying to read a tiny screen on a sunny day is not such a great idea at 65 miles per hour.

Cellphone’s are also not nearly as durable as some dedicated GPS units. Yes you can map out a jogging trip with the iPhone, but the first time you drop it you better hope the glass screen didn’t crack. Don’t worry it will only cost $499 to replace that phone out of contract. Let’s face it, the iPhone is just not as rugged as a GPS built for outdoor use. For activities like hiking, boating and motorcycle riding, a PND is the way to go.

When Google announced they would include free GPS, Garmin and TomTom’s stock both plummeted, but both companies are recovering. Both Garmin and TomTom are adapting to the changing market. Both have realized they need to offer more to survive in a market where phones can have GPS for free. TomTom is now offering free lifetime map updates on some of their newer models for example.

Cellphones with integrated GPS are not going to kill-off dedicated GPS units anytime soon. Phones with GPS are the proverbial jack of all trades, but master of none. Smartphones are useful in a pinch to find your way when you are lost, but a dedicated PND is still better. For the time being, PNDs are easier to use in the car and are far more cost effective.

]]> http://reviews.carreview.com/pnds-rule-over-smartphones-with-gps-apps/feed 0 http://reviews.carreview.com/choosing-the-best-gps-system-for-your-car http://reviews.carreview.com/choosing-the-best-gps-system-for-your-car#comments Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:44:54 +0000 gps portable navigation device garmin nuvi tomtom navigon gps portable navigation device garmin nuvi tomtom navigon gps portable navigation device garmin nuvi tomtom navigon http://reviews.carreview.com/?p=13095

Automobile GPS navigation systems provide drivers with dynamic street and highway maps, driving directions, and directories of restaurants, hospitals, car services, and other points of interest (POI). Voice prompts and alerts let the driver keep his attention on the road.

The newest and best GPS systems have full-color 3-D street maps, traffic alerts and rerouting, integrated hands-free cell-phone use, and easy touch-screen controls. Some of the best GPS models, such as the Garmin Nuvi 1690 and 1490, have wide-screens, FM transmitters so that you can hear your voice prompts and alerts through your car stereo system, Bluetooth wireless connection to your cell phone, theft prevention features, long-life battery operation, and more.

People who use such systems for the first time are usually amazed at the devices’ incredible accuracy and almost-magic capabilities. They often wonder why they didn’t get one sooner and how they could possibly do without one in the future.

There are three ways to acquire a car GPS system.

One is to buy a new vehicle with the navigation system already installed. The second method is to buy an aftermarket in-dash unit (e.g., Pioneer) that replaces your standard radio or stereo system. And the third method is to buy a separate portable unit, such as those by Garmin and TomTom, that can be easily mounted to your vehicle’s dash or windshield.

There are advantages and disadvantages for each of these methods.

New-car built-in GPS navigation systems offered as standard equipment or as options on new vehicles are more expensive than add-on units, often much more expensive. However, the LCD screens are usually larger, allowing for better visibility, especially while driving. The navigation system’s LCD display is usually shared with other systems in the car, such as radio, climate control, and hands-free cell phone. Also, with built-in units, the antenna and power attachment are already part of the vehicle.

A disadvantage is that built-in sytems are usually a step behind in new features and map updates. Map updates are usually offered annually and must be purchased at a dealer. The updates cannot be downloaded by computer. Most new-car makers now offer built-in GPS navigation systems in at least some of their models.

Add-on In-dash GPS navigation systems replace a vehicle’s normal radio or radio/CD player and typically include a large LCD display, navigation system, AM/FM stereo, and CD player. Some even include a DVD player to watch movies on the LCD screen (not while driving, of course). The LCD folds into the unit when not being used.

This type of system is ideal for RVs. These systems are moderately expensive, should be installed by professionals, and usually require installation of an outside antenna. These are not good for leased vehicles since vehicle modifications are not allowed. These systems cost less than new-car built-in units but cost more than portable units (discussed delow). The Pioneer AVIC-U310BT is an example of an in-dash add-on GPS unit.

Portable GPS navigation systems , such as those from Garmin, Magellan, Navigon, and TomTom, have more flexibility in where and how you use it, the ability to swap the unit from one car to another, can have more features, and are less expensive than a factory-installed built-in or add-on units. If you frequently rent cars, drive business or leased vehicles, or trade cars often, a portable unit is a great solution.

Portable GPS units come with a wide variety of features and screen sizes – and a broad price range, depending on your needs. Some are wide-screen, some standard screen. Many have features such as Bluetooth connection with your cell phone while driving. Others have music players and photo displays. A few offer real-time traffic display, usually for a monthly subscription fee.

Most portable GPS systems easily mount to a vehicle’s dash or window, allowing quick removal when not being used. Most new devices have powerful satellite receivers and built-in GPS antennas, eliminating the need for an external antenna. Some work from batteries while others require the use of a power plug.

It’s easy to update portable GPS devices with new maps and updated software by attaching it to your PC and downloading from the manufacturer’s web site.

Tracking Devices

Another growing use for GPS systems is for tracking vehicles. Car tracking devices are often used by parents to track teenage drivers, by companies to track delivery vehicle routes, and by sales people to record vehicle use for tax purposes. These small unobtrusive devices use GPS to periodically record vehicle location, speed, stops, routes, and times. Depending on the system, the data can be viewed in real-time on a PC, or downloaded from the device later.

Summary

When buying a auto GPS navigation system, look for ease of use, voice directions, updatable maps, and a bright screen. A touch screen helps if you have to interact with the unit when driving. Some all-in-one (AIO) portable GPS units such as the Garmin Nuvi 765T, now offer travel-related features such as language translators, MP3 music players, audio book players, and more. If you don’t need all the extra features, buy a lower priced unit such as the Garmin 255. To mount your GPS in a vehicle, look for a unit that provides a mounting method that will work in your particular vehicle.

Source:
Reprinted with permission from LeaseGuide.com

Choosing the Best GPS System for the Car

Several few years ago, satellite-based navigation systems were available only as expensive, built-in options on new vehicles. Nowadays, portable GPS devices that can be hooked up and fully operable in minutes have become accessible and affordable to every driver, not just those with cash to spare. I was amazed at how quickly the portable GPS technology has progressed.

I have a factory installed GPS in my Infiniti that I rely on more everyday to tell me where to go. I used to have problems finding places. I would get lost all the time and it ended up being a real issue. Getting directions from people is time-consuming and MapQuest isn’t always 100% accurate, so having a reliable GPS has undoubtedly saved me tons of time and gas money.

There are a few things to seriously consider prior to purchasing a portable GPS. Hopefully we can assist you in locating the portable GPS that’s ideal for your particular needs and specifications. For most folks, price is the first thing to consider. Portable GPS navigation devices (PND) range from as little as $129 to more than $2,000. Fortunately, there are a lot good portables available for less than $500. The second question is what you want your GPS to do. If you want all the bells and whistles, you’re obviously going to pay more. The more pricey models feature things like Bluetooth handsfee technology, live updates, turn-by-turn directions, and more. But, if all you want from your GPS is for it to get where you’re going, accuracy and ease-of-use are obviously the top priorities.

Most of the lower-priced models feature smaller screens, and require that users load their choice of maps onto a memory card that is then inserted into the unit. The higher-priced alternatives have bigger screens with better graphics and don’t require memory cards. In the $299-and-up category, most GPSs are pre-loaded with maps.

Screen sizes range from 2.1 inches to 7 inches. I found the 2.1-inch screen to be just too small. If you have to lean over and squint to read it, you’re risking getting into a wreck or getting lost because you can’t see the thing without binoculars. On the other hand, the 7-inch screen (featured on some of the Garmin models) is too large, in my opinion. Hey, I just want to reach my destination. I have a big screen in my living room, thanks very much.

A GPS with a high-quality user interface should have menu systems that are easy to understand. Those systems that require the skills and knowledge of a computer programmer didn’t make my list. I’m not a tech whiz, so if it’s hard to operate, I won’t use it. Which means I’m back to asking the locals for directions.

If you’re searching for hotels, gas stations, and restaurants, you shouldn’t have to jump through a bunch of hoops. A good system should make this information available with no more than two steps using the navigation screen. The fewer the screen taps the better. Several of the top-tier systems complement the touch-screen user interface with dedicated hardware buttons that let you jump to frequently used functions with ease.

Portability is another important issue to consider. Some units operate directly from a car’s battery, while a handful have built-in rechargeable batteries that will power the unit from 4 to 15 hours. Almost all portable GPS devices are accompanied by a suction-cup mounting bracket that will adhere conveniently to your windshield. With a high-quality bracket, taking the GPS in and out of its holder should be a snap.

Text-to-speech is a technology that enables a GPS to pronounce any street name. Most GPSs will announce an upcoming turn with a phrase like, “In .5 miles, turn left.” Those with text-to-speech capability can announce a turn like this: “In 300 feet turn right on Main Street.” Since the name of the street is announced, you don’t have to take your eyes off the road to glance at the screen.

If your GPS can’t recognize voice commands properly, it can be a real pain. The other day I was trying to get to Eddy Street in San Francisco. The built-in GPS in my car couldn’t understand the word “Eddy”. It gave me “Annie”, “Ernie” and “Army” and I finally had to pull the vehicle over and type the street name into the system manually, which was a real headache. So, test any portable GPS system before you buy it. Try a few less common street names and see how it responds.

The PND now feature access to live traffic data that is fed directly into your navigation system to tell you about things such as construction delays and accidents. TomTom Live and Garmin nuLink services are examples of how navigation systems can benefit from live data updates.

Even though GPS-enabled smartphones are becoming more popular, portable navigation device does offer advantages over their smartphone counterparts. PNDs have larger screens which are easier to read and can display more information. Wireless technology provides real-time information such as traffic updates, weather, and gas prices. Maps are also built into the machines and won’t suddenly disappear when the wireless network goes hazy.

When asked to review the best portable GPS systems on the market today, I decided to go to several retail stores and sift through the contenders and the pretenders. I also looked to see which ones were getting the most favorable reviews online.

(Continued on page 2 – Top 5 List)

2002 Acura RSX Type S

Two years ago I upgraded all the stereo components behind the factory head unit/in dash 6-disc changer. For those who think Bose represents high quality, don’t let the name fool you. The Bose stereo installed by the Acura fcatory is crap. We’re talking paper cone speakers, two tiny underpowered amps and a subwoofer that will make you laugh because it burps more than it thumps.

Check out the differences between the Bose 5.25″ subwoofer and the Focal sub that took its place. One, the Focal speaker cone material is stiffer than a 6th grader finding his dad’s porn collection. Two, the surrounding material and the overall basket construction is a lot stronger and higher quality over the Bose.

Factory Bose subwoofer compared with Focal subwoofer

Focal subwoofer magnet is significantly larger and heavier than Bose subwoofer

Stage 1 of the upgrade included installing Accumat in the door panels and rear quarter panels, using new wires/cables everywhere, Alpine amps, a/d/s component speakers for the front stage, Pioneer 6.5″ speakers for rear fill, power and ground distribution blocks, and a hi-lo converter. Sound quality was a HUGE improvement over the Bose stereo components.

I finally got around to upgrading the head-unit because I wanted integrated iPod control. The FM transmitters and cassette tape adapters on the market today just weren’t up to par. I’ve seen my friends use them and I didn’t like the drawbacks: 1) finding an unused FM frequency to broadcast the iPod tunes, 2) moderate sound quality because FM transmitters and other iPod adapters compress the signal within the limits of their media, 3) an external adapter to power/charge the iPod must be used, 4) and accessing your iPod music and playlists have to be done with your iPod in hand (a dangerous distraction when driving).

So, I went from this:

Factory Acura Bose Stereo - bleah!

To this:

Pioneer DEH-5900 with double-DIN faceplate

In stage 1, I had to use hi-low converters along the signal path because the factory head unit was still in place. Moving forward with stage 2, I dumped the hi-low converters because they were no longer necessary and cleaned up the signal path. Noticeable improvement in sound quality was probably more psychological, but once less piece of hardware is usually a good thing.

Below are some pics of the install.

Alpine V-series amps, a/d/s crossovers and Scosche power distribution blocks. The green box is the hi-low converter which was trashed immediately after I installed the Pioneer head unit.

Passenger seat removed reveals crossovers and power distribution block

Focal subwoofer in Bose enclosure

Accumat sound dampening material applied to doors and rear quarter panels significantly reduces road noise in the cabin.

Upgraded parts list:
Pioneer DEH-5900IB
Alpine MRP-F250 (4 x 40 Watts)
a/d/s 246IX (6.5″ component speakers for front stage)
Pioneer TS-G1641 (6.5″ speakers for rear fill)
Scosche power distribution blocks
Scosche dash kit
Metra wiring harness
Phoenix Gold wire and interconnects
Accumat sound dampening material in door and rear quarter panels