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As mentioned above, to properly replace just the head unit leaving the rest of the system in place you will need an adapter (not just a harness) to provide the required interface. This is due to the way the factory system was designed.
Replacing the head unit should be just plug-and-play by using either one. Both have setup adjustments to customize sound/levels. After tweaking them to your liking, they shouldn't require any further touching.
A double DIN is very nice, but if budget doesn't allow it and you want to consider a single DIN, then you would need an adapter plate to secure the new unit in place and provide a nice finish.
Here is an adapter plate that matches the interior very well. It has the word "Corvette" engraved in it that can be set up with backlighting (or you can customize the lettering).
looking for some advice from the experts here that have been there done that. I recently bought a 98 coupe, Bose audio, single CD, and I want either a bluetooth or apple / usb head unit. I've check Crutchfield and I see some nice units but I'm afraid I'll lose that Bose sound, and advice for a decent head unit?
Thanks
Head unit options are really endless. Some great info on here for swapping out to a single DIN. Going to a double din will open a ton more opportunities, but comes with extra cost and work. Do a search for double din installs. There are a ton on this site.
I went with the Kenwood Excelon 9903x and the JL C2-650, C2-525 and 8w3 sub all powered with a JL RD900/5. Pretty pleased. But there was a bit of work (modifying the tower) and additional cost (double din bezel) involved.
I'm starting to see all the different options, my most trusted resource has been Crutchfield, and I think if I was going to do any major modification I'd go with a DVD/Apple Play unit, but I'm not comfortable doing the work myself. I'm still waiting to pick the car up, last update was while doing the recall work at the dealer the sales guy was informed he needed to replace the BCM due to changing the seat module, so all match...
What double din piece is this? Do you use the adapter if you change the speakers?
It's an Alpine ilx-207; all smartphone-driven. There is no mechanical player in this unit.
I used the adapter harness for easy wiring to the car. I don't use rear speakers, fronts only.
I also use a gmrap peripheral to keep the accessory power on for ten minutes after you pull the key like factory. This is something you lose when you put in an aftermarket unit.
I'm starting to see all the different options, my most trusted resource has been Crutchfield, and I think if I was going to do any major modification I'd go with a DVD/Apple Play unit, but I'm not comfortable doing the work myself. I'm still waiting to pick the car up, last update was while doing the recall work at the dealer the sales guy was informed he needed to replace the BCM due to changing the seat module, so all match...
What double din piece is this? Do you use the adapter if you change the speakers?
Like him, I use apple carplay. I have a kenwood ddx series in mine. From my experience get the axxess unit and stay away from the pac. I had nothing but trouble from the pac, threw it in the trash & got a used axxess kit on fleabay for $12. Wired it up in a few minutes and no problems since! AND I still have the rap function for after i turn off the car
Last edited by Stephen Meredith; Nov 1, 2017 at 02:21 PM.
