A4darkness

Just installed a new Alpine CDA-9559. Got it from Crutchfield with the removal tools, adapters, and dash kit.

Goals were to have full iPod control from the HU, match the red interior lighting, retain stock wiring and get some decent sound out of the non-Bose Symphony system [till I upgrade the rest of course].

Turns out I got all that and then some. The sound is spectacular compared to the stock system. Install was fairly painless.

Getting the unit out was pretty easy [just try to pull from the tape deck as much as possible].

Right after snapping this pic, I noticed my hand was all bloody. Turns out cheap removal tools are thin and about as sharp as a letter opener.

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5596.jpg">

Wiring everything wasn't too difficult with the adapters... far easier than rewiring the whole car back in the day.

However, when I had everything hooked up and reconnected the battery to test things... nothing worked. Called Crutchfield and they said I had to run the switched power directly to the fuse #36. [Thanks guys.] So, with the help of trusty coat hanger, I was up and running.

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5599.jpg">

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5597.jpg">

Actually getting the Alpine unit installed required some trickery. Had to remove the HU from the new plastic face and install that first, then pop the HU in. Gotta say, I love having the little pocket below the HU now. And, it pops in and out really easily in case I need to adjust any of the wiring . And there's tons of room back there [even more so going from a double to single din] so it was really easy to place all the adapters.

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5601.jpg">

Now for the color match. And I gotta say, it's about as close as you can get.

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5603.jpg">

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5605.jpg">

No lights

<img src="http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee273/noti88/A4%20Stereo%20Install/IMG_5608.jpg">


Wish I would have taken more pics of the internals but I'm sure you guys get the idea.

Sound with the stock system is really good. The wiring is as follows... Crutchfield sent two adapters to match the Symphony system. The HU powers the front speakers and the stock amp still powers the rears and sub.

iPod integration with the 9885 is flawless and I loved the ease of use and the giant screen.

For what I'm looking for in terms of sound, it's well on it's way. Next, I'd really like to swap out the stock rear-deck sub with something aftermarket but I've been unable to confirm the size and ohm [STFA, found 7.5" but that's unconfirmed]. I'd rather not add another sub and amp cause I use my trunk a lot. Any suggestions?

Bottom line, very happy with the new setup.

Tgr_Clw

I likes.

Merkin

make a stealth box

A4darkness

and I have an old amp so that might be the answer. Had a feeling I'd need to go this route.

heateris

that's nice, i like the extra little storage shelf.

A4darkness

Yah, it's pretty coo. I might route the iPod cable in there, but haven't decided yet.

A4darkness

Forgot 2 mention, the removal tools, harnesses, and dash kit are free when you spend like, $200.

AvantMnkyA4

Nice install. I'm trying to find a double DIN radio, that matches our lights besides OEM Nav

seencats

does the radio readout still work above the on-board computer?

diagnosticator1

More power is key to clean sound.