3rd Gen Stereo replacement

presets,

I put a Pioneer AM, FM, CD head unit in my boat. It's XM capable, but I haven't bought the XM module. I've had no trouble playing CD-Rs in it. I got it at Best Buy for $150. It puts out 50 watts x 4 (peak, I assume). It sounds great for my purposes and the FM tuner is pretty sensitive. The stereo was simple to install and it has lasted 4 years, so far, on a boat, so it must be durable.

Kenwood has a wide range of stuff to fit the Max (single DIN or double DIN) but IMO they are very complicated to operate, especially while driving. Almost too many features. All must be programmed in. Ex: no knobs for bass/treble instead several layers of button pushing to get to those settings. Plus several ways to identify what track you are playing, etc. None of which I need. My current Max came with a high end Kenwood flip face mask CD AM FM head and very expensive speakers, amp and sub. But the Kenwood AM and FM tuners are very unimpressive, and I listen to the radio alot. Plays CDs great with many options for settings etc. So far I have removed the sub and the trunk CD changer, and head unit is next. Other than stock, Kenwood is the only one I have experience with, so this is all I can tell you. I was thinking of getting a stock tri-mode unit (non-Bose), or something from another vehicle like Mazda, but the radio guys don't seem to think the latter is a good idea. I'd be interested in what you learn and eventually decide. Good luck. Bob

gaskets are

presets,

rock-era

Alpine 4x6

Oops, just noticed the rear spkrs are 6.5"dia rounds instead of 6x9. Bummer.

Bob, thanks for the info on Kenwood. I can appreciate simplicity in operating the controls. I don't need a to have a wreck trying to fiddle with da buttons. I'll keep looking.

Chris