[GatorGreg]

Some pics of MDX Jr.'s Alpine "mobile multimedia station." Total system power = 430 watts: 45w x 4 Alpine headunit (model CVA-1003), 250w x 1 Xtant sub amp (model m121 under passenger seat). Total speakers = 7 (2 OEM tweeters in dash, 2 OEM 6.5s in front doors, 2 6.5" Boston coaxials in rear doors, 12" Xtant sub in cargo area). Total discs = 6 (Alpine DVD/Video CD/CD changer (model DHA-S680 under driver seat). The system also came with a wireless remote

 

[GatorGreg]

Here's the view from the back seat.

 

[GatorGreg]

Here's the view from the driver's seat. The head unit has a seperate control for adjusting the subwoofer output which I now wonder how on earth I managed to live without for so long. The bass is fantastic and the overall system sounds great even with the OEM speakers in front. I also had them install a secret switch on the dash for tricking the system into thinking the e-brake is on

 

[GatorGreg]

In case anyone is interested, here are some links to alpine's specs for both the dvd changer and multimedia head unit.

Head Unit:

http://ecominet2.alpine-usa.com:777...ategory=100&p_subcategory=&p_main=30&p_more=y

Disk changer:

http://ecominet2.alpine-usa.com:777...tegory=21&p_subcategory=75&p_main=30&p_more=y

 

[-=Ice-T=-]

Nice job How much did everything cost total, including installation (unless you did it yourself). Also, did you place the subwoofer in the subwoofer cavity or in a separate box in the cargo area?

 

[GatorGreg]

Nice job How much did everything cost total, including installation (unless you did it yourself). Also, did you place the subwoofer in the subwoofer cavity or in a separate box in the cargo area?

Hey Ice-T, there's no subwoofer cavity in the CR-V like the MDX, unless you're talking about the plastic fish tub under the picnic table I didn't take any fresh pics of the sub, but it's the same setup I had in my old 'X pictured below, except I had the amp put under the passenger seat. Honda offers an accessory subwoofer for the 2nd gen 'V that is installed under the passenger seat, but the Xtant system I already had really rocks so I'm willing to sacrifice some cargo space. Also, I had them add a connecctor to the sub box so I can easily unplug it and take it out if I ever need to utilize the entire cargo area.

I paid $2,150 for the head unit and dvd changer, and this price included installation of both pieces as well as installation of my old amp, sub, and Bostons in the rear doors. Not cheap, but I am VERY pleased with the end result. The advertised price for the DVD system where I got it (Sound Advice) was $2,199 not including installation, so I figure I didn't get ripped off too badly (I hope ).

 

[mdxpecting]

DVD System

I'm not sure I see the practicality or even legality of a entertainment screen that is visible to the driver? Does anyone have any compelling thoughts on this issue?

 

[DaleB]

I don't see a problem unless the vehicle is in motion. When the gearshift pops out of Park it should be disabled. That's one way to do it, or tie it to the parking brake release. It has no reason to be on while driving, although the Nav could also be a distraction.

 

[rvehock]

That is why I opted not to get the Nav, it would be more distracting than a cell phone!!!

 

[DaleB]

That is why I opted not to get the Nav, it would be more distracting than a cell phone!!!

There are degrees of distraction though.

First of all the Nav is below eye level.
Secondly, it has a 'voice' to guide you so you don't have to look at the screen.
And lastly, you don't have dynmic visual and audio changes going on as you would with a typical video presentation, just a boring map and a montone voice giving you short messages.

And compared with a 'wired' cell phone, you don't have to talk back or dial numbers. Of course trying to program the Nav while driving could be detrimental to your health.

 

[GatorGreg]

I'm not sure I see the practicality or even legality of a entertainment screen that is visible to the driver? Does anyone have any compelling thoughts on this issue?

Well with everything in life you have to exercise some judgment.

Do I drive around while watching the Matrix? No.

Do I play children's DVDs for GG Jr.? Yes, but you'll have to believe me when I say I am NOT watching them

Do I like to play music DVDs such as concerts and music video compilations? Yes, but it's usually when I'm commuting by myself on the same road I've driven thousands of times before that I could drive blindfolded, and I generally don't look at the screen except when I'm at a stop cuz I'm really more interested in the audio anyway. I do glance at it occasionally but the way it is positioned, it's practically a heads up display and is actually less of a distraction IMO than the MDX's trip computer or navi which is positioned below eye level such that you have to glance down from the road to see it. With the way my screen is positioned, it is in my peripheral vision such that I never have to look away from the road.

Do I like to watch T2 while chowing down at the Steak 'N Shake drive through? Yes.

Would I play The Road Warrior for my passengers while on a long highway drive? Yes.

Is it illegal? Probably yes, but so is speeding and not coming to a complete stop at stop signs

Would I want the teenager driving behind me in his Dad's Excursion to be playing Metallica on a set up like mine? No, it should be illegal!