I have 2 HUs in mind...

1. Panasonic MXE CQ-DRX901U



or

2. Alpine CDA-7894


I like the look of Panasonic, but soundwise, Apline's definitely better. Which one would you guys get?

Any help is appreciated!

 

def the alpine. looks and sounds better than the panasonic IMO

 

I'm looking for a new HU too, and I don't know about the Panasonic, but I read reports that the Alpine is hard to see in sunlight, especially if you have a 96-up Civic. I wish it wasn't so, or else I would've bought it already!

 

you'll find with almost any deck, you're gonna have trouble reading it in direct sunlight...

Ive found that Sony tends to be the worst to read in the sun.

Definatly go with the alpine, you'll be very pleased with that decision.

 

thanks guys for your inputs.

I think I'm gonna go w/the Alpine 7894. Will post pics tomorrow...

 

I'm also thinking about the alpine 7894... how's the readio reception?

And what gauge wire does one need from the battery to the unit?
I've been hesitant about getting the head unit because of how to run wire from the battery to the HU. I can install it no problem just the wiring issues scare me.

Any one have step by step details of what to take apart to get to the firewall hole? thanks guys

 

the 7893 and 7894 do have a large power and ground wire, both of which need to be adressed... The power wire can be run to the driverside kickpanel fuse box (in most hondas) there is a tap there for constant power, which can be used to power the deck. Using a test light, test the open terminals just above the fuses to see exactly which one is not switched (always on).
For the ground wire, just find some good solid metal behind the dash where other accessories are already grounded, or drill a hole of your own and screw it in.

It is important not to use the stock wirring for these decks, as the deck draws signifigantly more than the stock wirring will handle. Both hampering the decks performance and probably constantly blowing fuses. Make sure these decks are wired properly.


The radio reception is very good, I live in a "fringe" area (up in the mountains) and I still get clear reception with a small antenna. Tuners specs will list the "strength" of the tuner, it will be a dbf number (ie: 13dbf) the lower the number, the better the reception... I believe the Alpine is 8 or 9dbf.