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So what is everybody using that has an aftermarket stereo in their C3? I have recently purchased an 82 and would like to upgrade the stereo to something that I can plug my iphone into. I do not need a "Bass thumping" "Window Shaking" system. Just want something that sounds good so I can listen to my tunes while I am cruising. I will be changing out the stock speakers as well if that has any bearing on the answer.
I purchased a head unit off Fleabay for about $159 that has no CD or tape, but does have a MP3 in from the back. I also ordered a wiring harness that connects to the head unit that charges the iPod at the same time. It has two sets of RCAs for your amps if you choose, and the look it somewhat retro. The face does light up green when it is running. Pretty happy w/ it overall.
Older Alpine unit (4 years old). Newer ones come with BT. Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood, Jensen all make great units that fit the OP request for a unit that can power the speakers from its internal amp (I would get decent speakers while replacing the head unit).
The advantage of getting a decent "brand name unit" (as opposed to the Wal-Mart and Flea Market "entry level" head units) is most decent units have RCA outputs that allow the owner to upgrade to outboard amps in the future. Also, most decent radios have 50 Watt X 4 outputs where the cheaper units have 25-30 Watt X 4 output. Jensen, Pioneer and Kenwood have their USB ports and inputs on the front of their units. Alpine units are connected via a cable in the back of the unit. I have a USB cable in the console so I can connect USB Memory sticks or my iPod quickly and easily but it is something to consider when buying the head unit.
Last edited by American Raven; Sep 27, 2012 at 04:57 PM.
I purchased a head unit off Fleabay for about $159 that has no CD or tape, but does have a MP3 in from the back. I also ordered a wiring harness that connects to the head unit that charges the iPod at the same time. It has two sets of RCAs for your amps if you choose, and the look it somewhat retro. The face does light up green when it is running. Pretty happy w/ it overall.
Thank You all. Currently I have the one in the link above with cassette and I think i am going to order the one so I can plug in my iphone or ipod. That is all I need. I never listen to "regular radio" only Sirius and I can do that when I am in my truck or jeep. I really want to keep the classic look and not have to cut anything to fit a new radio. I have the original radio so if I ever decide to sell this car (which I don't think I would) at leats I would have it as it was.
Alright so after further review I think I am set in the radio department (at least for now).
When I put the radio fuse back in yestrday when I got home from work. (fuse was out due to interior lights staying on. Posted in another thread and have found the problem will fix today after work) I discovered that I had a Custom Autosound AM/FM Cassette stereo already installed. I dug through the folder of paperwork I received from the seller and the book for the radio was in there. The radio has a RCA jack on the back to hook up a MP3 player etc... I will have to pull the radio and hook up a wire so I can plug in my Iphone. Problem solved, I think...