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So what is next?

Next up is a complete audio upgrade. I've added the head unit myself but I am still waiting to get the rest in.

I couldn't bear to see the packaging sitting any longer so I finally gave in, sadly, and installed the head unit myself.
The head unit is a JVC KD-NX5000. This head unit is full of features like 40GB hard drive, GPS that is on the hard drive (eliminating the need to use a CD based GPS), ability to watch many different types of video including DVD, DiVX and so on. Allows many different types of music to be played. Supports iPod using the JVC iPod add on part. Allows Bluetooth connectivity to your telephone, dial, speak and more.
Ability to add on a backup camera and other video in.

Just an update on my feelings on this head unit after a few months with it.

Short and sweet? I wouldn't recommend this head unit because it's really buggy and some of the features just don't do what it should.

1. GPS; I have many complaints about this GPS system.
-You cannot use this system to find a POI if you are moving above 15MPH. I'm sure I could ground it out in a fancy way but if it doesn't detect the VSS signal it gets all messed up and requires a recalibration after it's detected the VSS signal again.
-Even though it's been updated less than a year ago it is missing a heck of a lot of POI's. It's rare that I ever find anything. It uses the NAVTEQ (I think that's the name).
-It has a traffic subscription service that isn't mandatory... HOWEVER, it will tell you that the trial has expired every time you go to the map screen and there is no way to get rid of the screen until you activate it (60 bucks a year).
-There are more issues with the GPS but why bother, the above problems are bad enough.

2. HDD; I have a couple of complaints with this puppy.
-You can only copy your music to the HDD via of the interface and a music CD/DVD. It takes an hour to copy a regular cd to the HDD and you can't do anything with it while it's copying.
-It's a pain in the rear to try to get a file structure when copying files to it.
-If a file has a long name, odd char or maybe it's just a bug but if you set HDD to random playback the headunit will "reboot". Random appears to work after about 30 minutes of playing. Until that time, leave random OFF. If you cycle it's power it will take another 30 minutes to index the music and allow random to work again.

3. Bluetooth;
I haven't been able to have a successful conversation with anyone using this. I have to rethink mic placement maybe.

4. iPod;
-I don't know if this is the case with ALL iPod interfaces for head units but it will play everything from my iPod. This includes podcasts, movies and audiobooks. That's a pain in the rear.
- EQ settings seem to be output to the headunit causing me to adjust my EQ settings on my head unit to compensate.

5. Sound;
-Lord knows what it sounds like it. I have all the items for my head unit but I haven't gotten it installed. Installer bailed so I'm stuck with either a 600 dollar install cost or $800 worth of audio crap.

6. Size;
- I could live with the size of it if I could figure out what to do with the extra space under it but... dunno.

7. Enjoyability;
Without the Monsoon speakers working to full potential with this head unit and piles of audio equipment going to waste I'd have to say that I do not enjoy this head unit at all. As a matter of fact, I've been very down when I drive around with my tunes blasting. If you have known me all my life you would know that listening to good music very loud anywhere I am is what I am all about. Without good sounding music... well, that just sucks.
I'm hoping that if I ever get the rest of my stuff installed the head unit might be better. For now, it's just an ugly reminder of a bad decision.

Bottom line;

GAH!!

The following is the parts list:
JVC KD-NX5000
Eclipse XA5000
Sony XPLOD XS-L82P5 8" 900 WATT SVC Subwoofer
JL Audio TR350-CXI 3.5" Speakers
JL AUDIO VR650-CSI 6.5" Speakers
Metra GMOS-LAN-04
JVC KS-PD100 - iPod cable for head unit
JVC KS-BTA200 - Bluetooth phone adapter for head unit
PESWIAKJC - Adapter for steering wheel controls
Positive Battery Hookup
20' of 4 gauge cable

Showing the GPS, iPod, Bluetooth, DVD, Tuner and HDD functions of the head unit.

A strange sales like video.

I will be getting into much more detail as it happens. I am still working on install. It's been a long tough road, I fear electricity so it may take a while.

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