The mind-blowing 304-ounce magnet structure is triple stacked, and the huge 4" voice coils were born to handle big power. The aluminum parabolic cone with its high-excursion rubber surround hits quickly and accurately. Spider venting keeps the woofer cool even when you run it long and hard.

The T215D2 15" subwoofer works best in a vented enclosure. The dual 2-ohm design lets you wire for high output or a multiple woofer setup.

Note: If you are wiring this DVC sub for lower impedance, make sure that your amp is compatible. Most car amplifiers are stable down to 2 ohms in standard mode, or 4 ohms in bridged operation.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ec795z0K8IE

Details:

• 15" subwoofer with dual 2-ohm voice coils
• aluminum parabolic woofer cone with rubber surround
• cast aluminum basket
• power range: 150-1,000 watts RMS (500 watts per voice coil)
• peak power handling: 2,000 watts
• frequency response: 24-250 Hz
• sensitivity: 87 dB
• mounting depth: 10"
• ported box volume: 2.25-3.25 cubic feet
• Recommended Q-Logic Box Type: 2

Discount Finder:

T215D2 or T215D4 Ported Sub Enclosures Box MDF 1x15    US $117.00

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How to get the most out of KEYWORDS Help DVD eBook    US $25.00

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With that much content available, the only thing I don't like about it has nothing to do with the content. It's the fact that you can't switch back and forth from the multicast stations and get immediate reception. Once you leave one of the secondary stations you need to go back to the home station, wait for the HD signal and then you can access the multicast channel. Not a huge criticism on my part. But it does slow me down when I'm trying to avoid those commercials. "Wink".

For those of you not familiar with HD Radio, we should clarify that HD doesn't stand for "high definition". In fact a few years ago I interviewed the head of the HD Radio Alliance and he made it clear that the letters don't actually stand for anything. That being said, HD broadcasters are sending a digital signal for their HD channels, but that is compressed and transmitted with the analog radio signal. You may hear a quality difference between analog FM and digital HD but it's not an obvious one, especially when you're driving and dealing with road noise.

The JVC KD-HDR60 is a rather inexpensive but very appealing CD receiver, in large part due to the fact it has a built-in HD Radio tuner. The unit covers all the key functions in addition. It has a front USB input and Aux-in, built in MOSFET 50Wx4 power and a 7-band EQ that does allow for some decent tweaking. The other key feature, related to HD Radio, is the iTunes Tagging. If you haven't tried it then you're doing yourself a disservice, because I'm sure that you, like the rest of us, have been in the car, listening to a song and then wanted to know the title so you can buy the CD. Miss the DJ musical roll call and, well, good luck. So you have to ask your friends and try to sing the melody. Lame. So iTunes Tagging solves that by letting you mark a song and save its information for transfer to your iPod/iPhone. The way it works is ultra simple. Hit the "Tag" button on the KD-HDR60 and then the song's data can be stored on your music player or phone. Then the next time you sync them to your computer and launch iTunes you'll see a list of the tracks you tagged. Go to the store and buy what you heard.

All of that worked fine on the JVC deck. Of course, during the time I was evaluating the product I didn't hear a single song I wanted to tag for myself to actually buy. But I guarantee that as soon as I remove the receiver and return it to the manufacturer and replace with my other radio (with no iTunes Tagging), I'll hear three tracks in a row that I need to tag. Asi es la vida, as they say.

As for the iPod/iPhone connectivity: I like the front USB option. I am a little biased, I admit. Swapping a lot of radios, as I do, you start to appreciate the convenience of not having to run a cable for your iPhone through the back of the dash and into the glove compartment. Aesthetically it's not the greatest, but then again a consumer in the market for a new radio at this price point probably more concerned with functionality, along with some features, and not designing a high-end looking car audio system. Looks aside, though, there is a bit of a safety issue with "dangling", unsecured iPhones in the car. In the case of an accident it would probably be better to have your device enclosed in the glove compartment.

The KD-HDR60 is easy to use in terms of connecting your iPod but is slightly lacking on iPod navigation. Because it is a single-DIN deck with limited space and controls, it's not the most intuitive—after I install a new radio I like to try to use it without the benefit of the manual. This is simply to see how easy it might be. Admittedly, this isn't quantum physics, and eventually I was able to access my music files. But the system is a bit on the slow side. You can scroll through the usual categories of music but there's a slight delay when you get to each folder level. For example, once you get to Artists you can turn the knob to go through the list. If you want to see the artists' names as you scroll then you'll have to go very slowly. Turn too fast and then you'll only see the numbers that represent the artists. Definitely I wouldn't advise you to look for a specific song while you're driving. Better to plug in and leave it on shuffle then risk an accident trying to find your favorite tune. Or find it before you take off.

The receiver does offer some options to EQ the sound. You have the presets, like Flat, Natural, Dynamic, Vocal Boost, etc. Never being a fan of the presets I opted for the User setting. You can adjust the High frequency, Ultra High, Mid, Bass, Sub-bass. You can keep things simpler and use the three-band, and adjust only the High, Mid and Bass. For a receiver priced at $189 you can't expect too much, especially given the other features. Or put another way, for that price the KD-HDR60 is a relatively well-equipped product. Speaking of which, an extra feature is the variable color illumination on the face and text window. It's not too loud and does add a nice cosmetic touch.

While an HD Radio tuner is built-in, the deck does not have built-in Bluetooth or satellite radio. You will need to buy the separate adapters. I think the KS-BTA200 (for Bluetooth) is essential, so I would definitely add that if I were to buy the receiver. Then you would have a fairly complete, relatively inexpensive radio that offers a lot of free content and connectivity. As far as deals go, this is a pretty decent one.

See the the list of HD Radio broadcasters and channels..

JVC KD-HDR60 Features:

• MOS-FET 50W x 4 (20W RMS x 4)
• Advanced Multi-bit DAC
• 7-Band iEQ
• Ready for Bluetooth(R) Wireless Technology*
• USB Audio for iPod/iPhone etc.
• Advanced Multi-bit DAC
• 2-Way Control for iPod/iPhone** (Headunit/iPod or iPhone)
• iTunes Tagging
• Front USB Port (MP3/WMA/iPod & iPhone Audio)
• Remote included
• MP3/WMA Compatible with ID3/WMA Tag (CD/USB)
• Built-in HD Radio Tuner
• SAT Radio Ready
• DiAS II Tuner
• 2.5V Line and Subwoofer Output Level
• 2 Pre-Output Terminals (Front + Subwoofer)
• Subwoofer Control
• Front AUX-IN
• Separated Variable-Color
• * KS-BTA200 required. Available functions depend on cell phone.
• ** Compatibility with 2-way control for iPod/iPhone differs by model.

Deal Finder:

JVC KD HDR60 CD MP3 USB PLAYERHD RADIOITUNES TAGGING    US $139.95

New JVC KD HDR60 50W x 4 CD Receiver KDHDR60    US $137.99

BRAND NEW JVC KD HDR60 CAR RADIO HD CD MP3 SAT USB iPOD    US $149.90

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You might be wondering exactly what this has to do with auto sound systems but those are just another of the many great iPod accessories that can be found in the market place of today. Seriously! Even some car manufacturers are having upgrades that include iPod adapters that allow drivers to play music from their iPods through the tuning device on their auto sound systems. It almost seems too good to be true when you consider that you will not have to risk life and limb by fiddling with your iPod device when looking for that one obscure song somewhere on your list. There are other car stereo makers that have devices and adapters that read and play music from the iPod but you must use the actual iPod to make your selections and any changes. At any rate, when carmakers and stereo manufacturers such as Pioneer and Alpine are creating stereos that have the iPod in mind you can rest assured that it is a cultural phenomenon and not some fluke to be taken lightly.

In addition to auto sound systems you will find iDogs, iPets, iPod covers, iPod players (speakers and docking stations that you plug your iPod into in order to play without the headphones), iPod alarm clocks, and my personal favorite iBaby (this is a stroller made by Kolcraft that has an iPod, speakers, and adapter built in so that baby can hear his or her favorite tunes while being strolled about the town), or the iCrib (another nifty iPod device designed to keep baby pacified-hopefully this nifty gadgets are drool proof). Needless to say there are times in life when it's all about the accessories and I have yet seen another maker of MP3 type devices hold a torch to iPod when it comes to offering options for buyers to personalize their music makers.

If you are in the market for an auto sound system, chances are that you either already have an iPod or are seriously not opposed to the idea of owning one. If you either or both are in your near future I highly recommend you consider purchasing an auto sound system that will be completely compatible with your iPod system or any other MP3 type player you choose to use. I do believe however, that you will find better options designed with the iPod in mind as none of the other brands (thus far) have nearly the buyer base and purchasing power of iPod owners. No matter how you feel about it, all indications are that iPods are here to stay and you may as well jump on board when it comes to your auto sound system as well.

Music affects almost every aspect of our lives. Most of us do not realize the impact that music has on our day-to-day lives and it is quite difficult because our world seems to be filled with it. It is much easier however, to explain the difference a good sound system makes. It's funny, I find myself in a hurry to get out of stores that have lousy sound systems and speakers that dribble out little more than static while I can shop for hours in a store that has tasteful music playing in the background over a good sound system. I prefer the volume lower and the music playing in the background rather than being the center of my attention.

Most of us find that soft music playing in the background is rather unobtrusive and allows us to get along with our thoughts and the mission at hand while loud music blaring over antiquated speakers does a great deal to disrupt our thought processes which will only serve to send us along to the next errand on our list. If you'll notice it seems that clerks in the stores where the loud music blares along are often not as even tempered as those in stores that play music at respectful volumes and have very well kept sound systems. I think I would be cranky too after listening to music in a manner that music wasn't meant to be heard.

I'm not a music snob by any means; I simply enjoy listening to music for the sake of actually hearing the music. Loud music is good sometimes but not when I have other things on my mind. I prefer that music remain in the background when I'm running about taking care of errands, even in the car. The hallmark of a good auto sound system is that it sounds good even at low volumes. This means you can enjoy music in the background, hum along, or simply ignore the music in favor of the action taking place on the road.

The point I'm trying to make is that even though you may not realize the impact that a good auto sound system has on music immediately, you will definitely feel the difference it makes over time. The better the sound system, the better the sound and music is after all, sound.

If you are a true lover of music and spend a great deal of your week or even any given day in your vehicle, doesn't it make sense to invest heavily in your auto sound system? I know for me that particular decision is a no brainer. I love music and it is an important part of not only my life but also the lives of my children. As a result we spend a lot of time listening to the radio in our SUV and singing along. Even when we aren't listening to music, I enjoy listening talk radio and the news on NPR. These things are an important part of my day and I really enjoy all that each and every one adds to my life. Because of that, I find my investment in a good auto sound system to be a requirement rather than a luxury.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2BTZ9PGA-o

"Looking at the Garmin 550t (t standing for topographical maps), you would be forgiven for thinking someone had handed you the previous version. It's so alike, that at first we thought that Garmin had just sent us the wrong unit.

Why? Well it comes in virtually the same rugged casing, features the same 3-inch screen, and allows you to find geocaches with ease. It's powered by the same two AA batteries, features the same user interface and, well, is virtually the same in everyway possible.

It's not until you start to look closely that you can spot the differences. The first and most major of which are around the back of the device.

Rather than have to worry about carrying a digital camera with you to nab proof of your finds, Garmin has now added a 3.2-megapixel camera complete with digital zoom.

Accessed at the touch of a button, you can grab pictures of your geocache, or anything else for that matter, and store it to upload later. Images are geotagged as you would expect and rather like Navman's slow to take off NavPix service, you can choose to navigate to the picture directly via the included software on the unit. In real terms though, it means that the GPS location is saved to the EXIF information of the image, which in turn means that when you share images with services like Flickr or Panoramio you can find them on a map.

In use and the addition of a camera makes perfect sense: it's easy to use, and while the 4x digital zoom isn't that helpful (remember digital zooms only zoom in on the image, not the object you are taking a picture of) the fact that the camera is there is good enough.

As for the quality? It's what you would expect from a 3.2-megapixel camera and while most geocachers have mobile phones with cameras built-in, it saves that frustrating upload when you are back at your computer or downloading an image from your camera/phone to go with the "I've completed this cache" log.

But it's not just the camera that has been added to try and convince you to part with your cash. The screen, something that we complained about with the 400t, has also been improved. It's now brighter, which in turn means you can actually see it when out and about in the field.

When we say brighter, it's not mobile phone bright, but it's still an improvement and certainly makes a difference. Direct sunlight will still beat you (Garmin needs to talk to Olympus on making non-reflective screens) but you don't need to hide in your coat as much.

Other new features are even harder to notice, Waypoints get doubled from 1000 to 2000 and routes are increased from 50 to 200.

So that's the differences, but if you haven't played with the 400t, what's the 550t actually like?

Robust is probably the best way to describe the design. It's certainly good enough to be dropped (we know, we tried) with a hard, but rubberised casing protecting all the gubbins inside. Indented on the front is a 3-inch touchscreen display while the on/off button, USB socket and battery release catch are the only other elements that mark the flush design.

Lifting the battery release catch reveals two AA batteries. The inclusion of AA batteries rather than a purpose built lithium-ion offering is welcomed as it means you don't need to find a power supply - ideal for when you're far from home or civilization.

When it comes to controlling the Oregon 550t it's all via the touchscreen, not great if it’s cold as you'll have to loose the gloves, however the screen is responsive. Features are either listed six to a screen with the ability to scroll through them very much like the iPhone, or in a list format top to bottom.

Scrolling through the menu system is very easy thanks to the up/down buttons at the bottom of the screen.

Core to the product of course is the mapping system that allows you multiple views of your location down to 20ft. If the top down approach isn't for you, the 550t also offers a 3D view as well as other features like Elevation Plot, the ability to find nearby Points Of Interest, and set waypoints to name but a few.

Mapping is 3D worldwide, but you can also buy add-ons as microSD cards for street mapping (£79.99), marine mapping and topographic maps.

For those who like geocaching, there is a geocaching.com app included so you can send geocache locations straight to your handset. You'll need to download a plug-in from Garmin (listed in the manual) but once that's done all that is left for you to do is connect the 550t to the computer.

Yes the download is Mac, PC and Linux compatible and once installed the app then allows you to manage your caches. It's incredibly easy, incredibly lazy, but best of all ditches the need to carry around scraps of paper, or learning how to type in a lat/long coordinate into the thing (you can do that as well). Those looking to go old school also get a digital compass as well.

Besides the GPS functionalities of the handset the Oregon 550t also offers an image viewer, (randomly) a calendar, calculator, sun and moon times, alarm clock, stopwatch and best times to fish and hunt on any given day - love it.

Verdict

Recommending that you upgrade from your previous 400t would be a hard thing for us to do. Yes you get the camera and a better screen, but the core functionality here is the same and both units are fairly expensive.

If, however, you've been put off from signing up because of worries of the screen on the 400t then this is a good time to jump in.

The addition of the camera is a logical one rather than a must have and the new improved waypoint and route counts are likely to only appeal to a hardcore set (you know who you are).

The only gripe we would have is the cost. Like the 400t, the 550t is expensive, £468 ($600) expensive, meaning this is one for the regular geocacher rather than someone who would do it on a "I'm bored this weekend", kind of moment. That said, for the price you do reduce your hassle and need to understand technology to a minimum.

In our 400t review we winged that the screen was too dull. Garmin have fixed that so it only seem far for us to up the score from an 8 to a 9 for this model."

Deal Finder:

Garmin Oregon 400t GPS Touchscreen Handheld Preloaded    US $299.99

GARMIN OREGON 450 HANDHELD GPS TOUCH SCREEN NAVIGATOR    US $344.49

New Garmin Oregon 450 Handheld GPS with World Wide Map    US $349.00

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www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHdE6CE-Bx0

"Closer Look
The Supertuner IIID+ Enhanced Performance Tuner’s enhanced design improves the cancellation of FM multi-path noise and AM noise. You can store up to 18 FM or 6 AM stations or let the DEH-P7700MP pick the stations with the BSM feature. The Pioneer DEH-P7700MP is rated to deliver a maximum power of 50 watts per channel (22 watts, continuous) on the front and rear speaker outputs. The DEH-P7700MP also has front, rear, and subwoofer RCA outputs rated to deliver 2.2 Vrms to power external amplifiers. To control that power, the DEH-P7700MP has a built in high-pass and low-pass subwoofer crossover that work on both the RCA and speaker outputs. Nice feature. To finish the unit off, Pioneer includes a full-function, 23-button remote that allows you to control all of the basic functions of the DEH-P7700MP.

Want more? The Pioneer DEH-P7700MP is XM Satellite Radio-ready and can have either Sirius Satellite Radio or an iPod added to the unit. Being this flexible is great. Using a CB-IB100 (a $140 dollar option), you can connect an iPod to the DEH-P7700MP, or you can connect an auxiliary input to the unit if you have a different MP3 player or source unit. For maximizing the sound quality of compressed files, the DEH-P7700MP uses BMX (BitMedia eXpander) digital enhancement. When MP3 or WMA files are compressed, the sound can be thin, dull, or can even lack depth in the soundstage. The BMX technology takes the audio file and recreates the sound, restoring depth and width to a soundstage as well as increasing the lively ness of the program material.

Ease Of Use
I found the Pioneer DEH-P7700MP extremely easy to use. The 7-way rotary commander control knob works like a combination joystick and dial and can access nearly all of the functions of the DEH-P7700MP. With it, I was able to access track selection, audio functions, display functions, and Track navigation when using a disc of MP3-encoded files. By incorporating so many functions via the rotary commander knob, the rest of the unit was very clean and uncluttered, a must for good ergonomics. With a little practice, you can control the functions without looking at the unit. Great job!

Installation
The installation of the Pioneer DEH-P7700MP went well. Installation is typical from what you would expect from a source unit. There were no external boxes required to install for the unit to function. The RCA jacks are located on an external pigtail on the back of the unit. Hidden by the power connector is a 10-amp fuse. With all head units, proper installation will yield maximum performance. For the best results, it’s recommended to have an authorized Pioneer dealer perform the installation.

Manuals/Web Support
There are two manuals for the Pioneer DEH-P7700MP. The installation manual covers all of the basic information needed to install and wire the unit. It’s simple and easy-to-read. The operation manual covers the functionality of the unit. It covers all of the basic functions of the DEH-P7700MP as well as the not so common. It’s necessary to read the manual to learn how to control the non-common functions of the Pioneer unit.

The company’s Web site, www.pioneerelectronics.com, is well laid out and easy to navigate. I was able to quickly find information on the DEH-P7700MP — I found basic information, specifications, and accessories for the unit. I was also able to download a PDF of the installation manual and the operation manual. Well done.

Sound Q & Performance
The performance of the Pioneer DEH-P7700MP is good. With the tone controls set flat, the RCA produced a maximum unclipped output of 1.89 Vrms at 61 on the volume control. At the maximum volume setting of 62, the DEH-P7700MP delivered a slightly clipped 2.32 Vrms.

On the speaker outputs, results were similar. At 49 on the volume, the DEH-P7700MP produced a clean 18.5 watts into 4 ohms. Raising the volume to 50, the output increased to 21.6 near 1% THD + Noise. Setting the volume to maximum produced a square wave output generating 39.9 watts per channel.

The sound quality was above average. The sound was open and detailed. Noise floor specs on the unit match my test: undetectable. On my test speakers, the speaker outputs were a little bright. However, a quick adjustment of the tone controls fixed that. In fact, the adjustability of the tone controls allowed me to really fine tune my system, yielding awesome sound — a very useful feature.

Summary
The Pioneer DEH-P7700MP is a very good head unit for mid- or entry-level systems. The DEH-P7700MP is extremely capable, allowing the control of nearly all types of media, including iPod encoding. With the extremely flexible controls, cool display, and ease of use, the Pioneer DEH-P7700MP would make a fine addition to your system. "

Deal Finder:

Pioneer DEH P7700MP same deh p770mp face plate only    US $80.00

Pioneer DEH P7700MP same deh p770mp without face plate    US $75.00

Pioneer DEH P770MP DEH P7700MP Faceplate Guaranteed    US $98.98

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www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVb2A0F-R2A

"This deck is awesome and by far the best for iPod integration. The navigation is very smooth, and easy to control. If you use your iPod exclusively then this is the deck for you. It also accepts USB sticks to play songs off of which is a nice feature.

The radio controls, especially for presets are pretty bad. You have to press the preset button, then scroll through the 6 presets and hit enter. This means you may have to press up to 8 buttons to get to your preset.

I also bought the HD Radio receiver. The deck's controls for multicasting are pretty bad. You need to select the channel. then press search, and scroll through the multicast channels, then press enter. You can't use the seek button to get to the different channels. You also can't save multicast channels as presets. It will default to the -1 station which is a huge pain. The same is true when you shut off the car, it will go back to the -1.

That is my only complaint, normally i wouldn't care, but we get some good multicast stations in my city, and I just wish it were easy to get to these stations. I have not used another HD Radio so this may be the norm. I bought this for the iPod integration, so I still give this 4 stars, and am very happy with my purchase."

ALPINE IDA X001 IN DASH RADIO DIGITAL UNIT EXCELLENT    US $200.00

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www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHPnWhnSX2k

Review By: Kevin Massy

The Eclipse AVN2210p is a novel addition to the aftermarket in-car navigation scene. It is the first system we have seen that combines the functionality of an in-dash GPS navigation device and media player with that of a standalone portable navigation device. It does this by using a TomTom Duo portable GPS device in combination with a unique docking mechanism, enabling drivers to insert and remove the touch screen navigation module at will. In its in-dash mode, the system can be used to play a variety of digital audio formats, including MP3 and WMA discs, and input from portable digital audio players via a front-mounted USB port. It can also be used right out of the box as a very useful Bluetooth hands-free calling interface with some advanced options, including instant phonebook transfer and text message playback.

Design
Apart from the hard button used to switch between map and audio view, all of the navigation functions on the Eclipse AVN2210p are controlled using the TomTom Duo's touch screen. Due to its dual functionality, the navigation screen on the Eclipse AVN2210p is far smaller than those on other double-DIN-size in-dash units. However, this size restriction does not impede functionality as much as it might, and maps and menus remain legible thanks to the TomTom's bright and colorful graphics. For digital audio playback, the Eclipse AVN2210p makes use of the same rotary volume knob/four-way push-button selector as that in the Eclipse CD3100. Curiously, disc-based audio cannot be controlled via the LCD touch screen, but media played via the USB port can.

Navigation
Whether the TomTom Duo device is docked or undocked in the AVN2210p cradle, all navigation functions are performed using its touch screen. Programming in a destination is straightforward, thanks to the colorful icons that populate each menu level. Destinations can be entered by address, ZIP code, city center, or cross street. Punching in an address on the system's touch screen keypad is easy and very quick, thanks to the impressive refresh rate of the menu level screens, and route calculation is equally swift. After selecting a route that meets their specifications (fastest, shortest, avoiding freeways, designated arrival time, etc.), drivers are given a whole host of features to preview their journeys before setting out. Specific route-preview options include: browse as text (gives a list of turn-by-turn directions); browse as images (shows each turn on the map); browse route on map; show route demo (runs through a virtual tour of the route, complete with turn-by-turn voice directions); and a route summary. When satisfied with the proposed route, the system gives turn-by-turn directions to a destination, either via the car's speakers (with the nav system docked) or via the TomTom Duo's built-in speaker. During route guidance, the screen displays roads in bright colors, with suggested turns illustrated with big, green arrows.

The AVN2210p gives drivers a host of options for previewing their routes.

The TomTom Duo does not include text-to-speech functionality to enable the system to call out individual road names, but a useful bar on the bottom of the screen displays the name of the upcoming street, which is the next best thing. With the TomTom device docked, the GPS signal is stronger, as it is connected to an external antenna that can be mounted on the car's dashboard. In standalone mode, the signal is weaker, and we found that the system lost its bearings a couple of times when driving between tall buildings in downtown San Francisco, taking up to a minute to regain a GPS fix at times. Generally, the GPS system was quick to reroute when we purposely defied it by missing turns or going the wrong way.

One observation that is worth making, however, is that the system makes no distinction between driving directions (for when the TomTom unit is docked) and pedestrian directions (for when the TomTom unit is detached), meaning that all suggested routes are given with respect to road restrictions, such as one-way streets. We would like to have seen a pedestrian mode in the vein of other standalone portable GPS devices. Another niggle we have with the standalone GPS device is that its spoken directions are barely audible on a busy street, even with the volume turned up to maximum. And to round out our criticism of the standalone TomTom Duo, its battery life registered at less than two hours--far beneath the five-hour mark that most standalone GPS devices manage.

We like the turn-by-turn route guidance, but with the TomTom Duo in standalone mode, spoken directions are difficult to hear on busy streets.


The AVN2210p features some advanced capabilities that are accessible only with the TomTom Duo unit docked and connected to the car's electrical system. While the undocked TomTom GPS device can show speed limits for current roads (a very nice feature), the system can go one better with the system docked, by showing the car's current speed relative to the current road's speed limit. With the TomTom unit docked, maps will also dim to night-view mode when the car's headlights are turned on. A real-time traffic service is available for the Eclipse AVN2210p via the TomTom Plus service, which requires users to connect their GPRS-enabled phones with the system via a Bluetooth connection.

Bluetooth
With the TomTom Duo docked, the AVN2210p can also be used to make hands-free calls from Bluetooth-enabled cell phones, thanks to its built-in Bluetooth interface and microphone. Pairing a phone with the system is straightforward and we managed to connect our Samsung SGH-T619 in less than a minute. With a phone paired, the system can then be programmed to copy over the phone's entire contact book in less than a minute.

Dialing out from the system is straightforward using the onscreen keypad or by calling up a contact list and selecting a contact by name. While we like the convenience of the Eclipse AVN2210p's built-in microphone, it doesn't work as well as many other external mics we've seen, and the call quality from the other end of the line is shrill and buzzy. One of our favorite phone-related features of the Eclipse AVN2210p is its text message functionality. Not only will the system allow you to read incoming text messages, it lets users respond via its Write Message function, which makes use of the touch screen keypad and is a far easier texting interface than the cell phone itself.

Digital audio
The usefulness of the AVN2210p to play music depends on the format of your audio files. For regular CDs, the system plays tracks from start to finish, giving details of track number and not much else. We can live with that, as there are not usually more than 20 or so songs on a Red Book disc. For compressed audio-format discs (such as MP3 and WMA), however, it is a different story. While the AVN2210p does display ID3 tag information (in full on the TomTom screen, and in scrolled format on the dot-matrix display above the main control interface), there appears to be absolutely no way to navigate disc-based libraries using the touch screen. Holding down the Mode button on the hard button control interface does give users the chance to preview track information, but it is hardly worth the trouble as the track title information is shown only in the form of five letters on the dot-matrix display. It would be far more useful if this information were displayed in full on the color touch screen. Even with this limited search functionality, there does not appear to be any way to skip between different folders or tracks.

Navigating digital audio libraries on USB-connected players is far easier than those on MP3-encoded discs.

The situation for digital audio discs is all the more puzzling when considering the very informative and easy to use nature of playback for devices connected via the system's USB port. With a digital audio player connected (iPod users can use their standard USB cable), all music on the player is indexed and listed on the color touch screen. Using a selection of onscreen icons (accessed via the Source button), users can program music effortlessly, first by selecting a category (playlist, artist, album, song, genre), and then via a well-structured series of folders and files.

In sum
The Eclipse AVN2210p generally succeeds in its ambitious attempt to combine portable and in-dash navigation functionality in one device. As an in-car system, it has an impressive number of standard entertainment and communications features. While its purpose-built TomTom Duo is more limited in its features than many other standalone portable GPS devices (including a measly battery life), the AVN2210p's price makes it a compelling option for those looking for an all-in-one in-car system with the flexibility of a portable nav system thrown in.

ECLIPSE NAVIGATION CD MP3 TOMTOM BLUETOOTH AVN2210P    US $129.00

Eclipse AVN2210p CD player GPS brand new in a box    US $110.00

ECLIPSE NAVIGATION CD MP3 TOMTOM BLUETOOTH AVN2210P    US $129.00

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"Kicker ZX300.1 is the perfect car stereo amplifier for those who are fond of bass. This amplifier is designed with high-end amplification to set standards for a powerful sound and a unique look would make your amplifier stand apart from the various other amplifiers. The Kicker ZX300.1 mono subwoofer would control your subs with nearly 300 watts of power. This unit does not have a peak power rating and you can ensure that the amplifiers CEA-2006 compliant rating would mirror a true measure of its capabilities. Similar to all the kicker amplifiers the Kicker ZX300.1 is also designed with a high quality internal component to offer you a reliable performance. The Kicker ZX300.1 features an in built low pass filter that helps in removing high frequency that is generated by the amplifiers output, so that you get the most from your subwoofers. Apart from this, there is a subsonic filter that eliminates the intense low bass that usually hampers the system efficiency. You can use the bass increase control to make a little more low-end bump or you can also turn it on and off with the additional wired remote control.

Features:
The Kicker ZX300.1 features a CEA 2006 complaint where the power ratings are calculated according to the firm standards dictated by the Consumer Electronic Association (CEA). The unit also features a speaker level input or a high level input connection that allows you to use it with a source that does not have RCA preamp level output. Along with this, the unit also features a remote bass level control that allows you to adjust the output levels of the amplifier from anywhere in your vehicle. When you attach the remote bass level control to the mounting bracket it will have the dimension of W=2.204″, H=1.171″, D=2.253″ that includes the knob. There is also the KickEQ bass enhance circuit that offers a 12 dB signal increase at 40Hz."

KICKER 08 ZX3001 R CLASS D AUDIO AMP MONO AMPLIFIER    US $114.95

KICKER ZX3001 350W MONO BLOCK AMPLIFIER FACTORY REFURB    US $118.74

KICKER ZX3001 CAR STEREO MONO BLOCK SUB AMP AMPLIFIER    US $151.19

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"The design is fairly clean overall. Connections are made by removing the fascia shield via the 2 allen head screws allowing access to the terminal strips for connections. The first thing I noticed is the weight. This amp is light. Meaning, there can't be that much inside for a clean performer. Sure enough, this is a plane jane stripped down amp, with limited MOSFETS.

Here's the specs:
Class D Mono Power Amplifier
K-STAT technology
Dual sigma drive
Dual power supply with two transformers
Maximum Output Power: 1200 Watts
RMS Power 4-Ohm: 300 Watts x 1 (20-200Hz, 0.5%THD)
RMS Power 2-Ohm: 600 Watts x 1 (100Hz, 0.5%THD)
RMS Power 1-Ohm: Over 600 Watts x 1
Signal To Noise Ratio: 80dBA (Ref:1 Watt into 4Ohm)
Infrasonic Filter: 15Hz, 25Hz, -24dB/oct
Bass Bosost ready (Wire remote): 40Hz-100Hz, 0dB-+18dB
Low Pass Filter: 40-200Hz (Variable), -24dB/oct

OK... Now for the truth. CEA 2006 rating is 1% THD. Meaning it's a Loose noise monster. Secondly...Where's the second power transformer... There sure isn't one on the board. Lastly, do the math. 40A fuse X 13.8V = ~552W peak load before the fuse pops. Generally, this formula works for class AB the best. Digital amps are more efficient. Based on the number of Mosfets...there's no way this amp is getting near 800 or 1200 watts.

This looks like a revised layout from the older KAC series amplifiers, with near identical componentry. There is so much sparce space on this amplifier board, there's no reason to have the heat sink this large. The other thing I observed... is the solder joints on the MOSFETS on the amplifier side of the board looked relatively poor and high in flux.
Under high load, I would expect a failure condition.

If your looking for just cheap sound reinforcement and not worried about quality, then pick this one up. If your looking for Better Regulated, true digital class D, and better overall circuitry...look on to either Xtant (before their MTX aquisition), JL, or Directed."

NICE KENWOOD KAC X10D MONO AMP AMPLIFIER EXCELLENT    US $135.00

NEW KENWOOD MONO AMPLIFIER 1200 WATTS NEW KAC X10D    US $199.00

KENWOOD KAC X10D MONO SUBWOOFER AMP 600W RMS NEW    US $189.95

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