When browsing/comparing decks, I look at:
1) specifications [ie. DAC specs, S/N ratio, pre-amp output voltage, FM sensitivity, output power (RMS), etc... ]
2) my personally desired features of a deck [like sound shaping, etc...]
This should help... a little. Crutchfield has pretty good primer info for consumers like you, smakdown.
Originally posted by 94uhkord
Knowing your needs is a must when deck shopping.
I agree... as well as budget.