Just wanted to leave everyone know that I'm thrilled about my new audio upgrade. The head was replaced with a "Pioneer avic x930bt", the dash adapter plate, the "GMOS01 wiring harness adapter", a "Boyo backup camera", and an additional set of "Bose speakers" to handle the bass push and the power boost with the roof down. It sounds super, and it's really easy to use, it has a great navi, and I have iPod, MP3 or USB, as well as SiriusXM options all available and controlled from the steering wheel or touch-screen (besides AM, FM, CD and DVD !). I also had "Simple Engineering's, Blinking 3rd Brake Light" added and HID conversion front light upgrades. Tip of the hat to "WB Exotics" and Brent Bortz (Reading, PA) for doing all the work - since the combination of electrical wiring and me, together, usually equals FIRE !
Now my wife will be happy because she'll have both Elvis and her Christmas Carols to listen to while we are out doing our Christmas shopping !
Ah nice that is EXACTLY the head unit I am looking to put in mine. Are there any other parts you had to get for the install? Have any pictures of it installed? How much did the installer charge you? I am debating if I want to tackle it myself or not.
Ah nice that is EXACTLY the head unit I am looking to put in mine. Are there any other parts you had to get for the install? Have any pictures of it installed? How much did the installer charge you? I am debating if I want to tackle it myself or not.
It cost me $1,200.00 - complete! But I'll have to get the bill and "itemize" everything for you.... I know that because of the "Bose Premium Sound" already installed, that it was a real pain in the butt ! Brent is very good at what he does, and he wasn't a real, happy camper with the wiring - but then, he's kind of a perfectionist and really doesn't like to "splice" things, if you know what I mean. And as far as pictures, the only difference you are going to see, is the head itself... everything else is "hidden", just as it should be.... If I can figure out how to do it, I'll post pictures over the weekend - as well as the pricing. I know that there are guys (and gals!) out there that will think that I paid too much to have someone else do the install, but I wanted it done right the first time, and not have to pay him double to fix the mess I would have made - absolutely no confidence when it comes to auto electronics - mechanics, fine... but wiring - just call "911" now !
P.S.: Remember that I also had the lights done while he had it - so they are all included in that price.... He also buffed out the headlights, and completely "detailed" the vehicle, before I got it back.
It cost me $1,200.00 - complete! But I'll have to get the bill and "itemize" everything for you.... I know that because of the "Bose Premium Sound" already installed, that it was a real pain in the butt ! Brent is very good at what he does, and he wasn't a real, happy camper with the wiring - but then, he's kind of a perfectionist and really doesn't like to "splice" things, if you know what I mean. And as far as pictures, the only difference you are going to see, is the head itself... everything else is "hidden", just as it should be.... If I can figure out how to do it, I'll post pictures over the weekend - as well as the pricing. I know that there are guys (and gals!) out there that will think that I paid too much to have someone else do the install, but I wanted it done right the first time, and not have to pay him double to fix the mess I would have made - absolutely no confidence when it comes to auto electronics - mechanics, fine... but wiring - just call "911" now !
P.S.: Remember that I also had the lights done while he had it - so they are all included in that price.... He also buffed out the headlights, and completely "detailed" the vehicle, before I got it back.
Ok cool, yea if you are able to get me a list of part numbers he used that would be awesome if it isn't a huge PIA. I can get just the head unit for somewhere around 600 bucks but then all those additional parts add up too. Look forward to the pics!!
You mean you're not going to rip your dash apart to snap some pictures for us?
I LOVE THIS ! ! ! !
You're SICK but in a good way !
Actually, I was just talking with Brent this morning, and I may have bigger problems then that.... It seems that "Pioneer" has it's "Authorized Dealers" do "installation videos" for their own people, and/or for their own use on their "Help" web-site. If you have an installation that's, "a little bit different" (such as custom work, odd placement or a "different vehicle") and you submit it to them, and if they elect to allow you to do it, they will "authorize" you to do it "for them"... and, in return for you doing a video documentation of the install, they will bill you out at half-price for all components used... which they recommend you pass on to the consumer.
HOWEVER... here's the problem, it becomes their property ! The install and the documentation thereof is proprietary, and no part of it can be blah-blah-blah... you know how it goes, you've heard it enough from every televised football, baseball, basketball and hockey game ! So I'm not so sure what I'll actually be able to post from all of this.... Brent is going to find out for me, and then we'll go from there.... Again, I plan to post the "in-dash photo" and attempt to get under-dash photos and whatnot... but I don't need a great job at a great price turning into an expensive law suit, if you know what I mean.... The additional speakers are hidden up under that dash also... and I have absolutely no idea how he got them to where they are.... I will do what I can, but "NO !" I'm not going to rip the dash apart to snap some pictures ! LOL !
OK... here we go....
First, leave me apologize right now for the lack of "computer skills"... and, "YES", I do tech support for a software company. With that being said, I apparently don't know squat about taking pictures with a digital camera and then transferring them to my computer.
Second, as I've previously stated, I have been somewhat hampered by what I will term as "legal, contractual obligations" that I just can't violate - my bank account won't allow it.
Third, I have tried to be as thorough as I possibly can, but I can't even imagine what-all I will miss here, so if there are any questions, I will do my very best to answer whatever I can - if you only ask them....
Fourth, again with the pics - I took about ten (10) but this is all could find that transferred into my computer... and, as an addendum to this - in reference to "xoxoxo Bruce", my wife (who originally actually hated this vehicle) informed me that, "...if I even attempted to start taking things apart, I'd better put a sleeping bag in the back, because that's where I'll be sleeping !" And since you know that the temperature in our area has recently become "average", that has absolutely no appeal to me !
Here we go:
I list absolutely no prices, and take absolutely no responsibility for typos and/or any additional materials or supplies that might be needed for a complete install - nor am I positive that this list is "all-inclusive", and/or will be accommodating FOR ALL SSRs. This list will give you a general idea of what will work; but, depending on any modifications that may have already been made, you should do your own homework to make sure that no "wire-splicing" has already been made....
Also, please remember that any "upgrades", such as "remote-start", and upgraded or modified alarm system, and/or simply the difference between the "factory-installed standard" audio system and the "factory-installed Bose Premium" audio system makes a world of difference for wiring and controls....
Pioneer AVIC x930bc Head
Dash Adapter Plate (2005 Chevy SSR compatible)
GMOS 01 Adapter Wiring Harness
Boyo Back-up Cam and wiring set
CD-IU51V iPod/USB Interface Cable
ND-TMC10 Traffic Tuner
TS-A878 Speakers (pair)
Add-on Speaker wiring kit (generic)
Again, make sure, at all times, to specify if you do, or do not have, the "Bose Premium" system already installed; and, if you do, or do not, want your steering wheel controls to function (in some instances, an additional adapter may be required)
If you can afford it - I would highly recommend replacing the "Boyo Back-up Cam" with the "Pioneer ND-BC20PA" Camera/Park Assist package (I can foresee me replacing the Boyo with this, in the Spring - the Boyo is great, and mounts above the license plate,, while this unit mounts differently, but it's just that this package is "top-of-the-line", with park-assist.
As far as the Sirius (SiriusXM) radio head, that's completely up to you... but remember that once it's correctly and completely installed, you won't have to see it, it will be controlled off the "Pioneer Screen" - the bigger problem will be the antenna placement - so decide where you intend to
place the antenna BEFORE you make your purchase, because there are a variety of antennas, and you placement may be a determining factor.
And, again remember, once installed properly, EVERYTHING should be controlled off the steering wheel controls and/or the touch-screen of your "radio" head... which means the you can hide everything else, such as your iPod/USB/whatever.
Generally speaking, the glove box is a great place to "hide" your peripherals; but depending on what you have, the "coin tray" is a great place for some iPods (the "Touch" and the "Phone" won't fit)... you can replace the dash cup-holder with an additional "coin tray", and for those who don't smoke, and see the "ash-tray" drop-down as a complete wast of space, with a little bit of modification, it can be used as a great area for almost anything, and contains a "power-source".
I hope this helps, but please remember that I DID NOT DO THE INSTALL ! I HAD A PROFESSIONAL DO IT ! If I cut myself, I could stitch myself up (and already have); but I wouldn't even consider doing it to/for my Wife and/or kids... this is my Baby... and I'm sure that there a lot of you out there that know exactly what I mean ! Now, if I could just convince my Wife to leave me buy another one !
P.S.: If I can figure out what the heck I did (or didn't do !) with the photos - or if I can get my Wife to do it - I'll try to get more photos posted... but I must tell you that what you see is what I've got - an extremely professional installation.... The only things you don't see are my "SiriusXM radio head" and my iPod (Nano) that are in my glove box (along with my wife's cigarettes and sunglasses !
My SSR: Maybellene 2006 SSR Auto #23699 SMOKIN'ASPHALT/RICOCHET SILVER Build Date: 03/02/2006
Thanks Bill,
the information you supplied will go a long way in determining future upgrades.
__________________ Mike - mikebike in Surrey BC Canada Licence plate MY SSR
2006 SSR Auto SMOKIN'ASPHALT/RICOCHET SILVER
Build Date: 03/02/2006 My SSR Photos
Great! Thanks for taking the time to lay this all out for us!
No thanks required or necessary ! You have no idea just how much time I spent here just before, and for weeks, after I purchased my baby, a few months ago. And if it wasn't for what I read here from all you guys (and gals) before me, I would have never bought it !
And as a side-note, there is actually an even more expensive Pioneer head that is, pretty-much, all-inclusive.... If you do a search for this head, and go to the "Pioneer" web-site, it will list the more expensive head, as well as all the options I listed.
No thanks required or necessary ! You have no idea just how much time I spent here just before, and for weeks, after I purchased my baby, a few months ago. And if it wasn't for what I read here from all you guys (and gals) before me, I would have never bought it !
And as a side-note, there is actually an even more expensive Pioneer head that is, pretty-much, all-inclusive.... If you do a search for this head, and go to the "Pioneer" web-site, it will list the more expensive head, as well as all the options I listed.
Hmm I wonder what other features it could have in addition to what the 930 has??
OK, so... this is one of those times to say, "...I wish I knew what I know now, before...!"
No, there's nothing wrong with the audio... but I gotta' tell ya', this thing is really freakin' me out ! If it's installed properly, the things this unit can do are pretty impressive !
My advice, to anyone who may care, or is considering this unit, to go on-line and to read (yes - I used that 4-letter word !) the "Operation Manual". I'm sure you will be shocked at what-all this thing can do !
I'm also sure that there are other units out there that can do the same things... and maybe even more - so I am in no way "endorsing" this unit.... However, what I am recommending is that, whatever unit you may be interested in; if you are going to make this kind of investment, and then take the time to do the install yourself - or have someone else do it for you - that it would be very beneficial to know what you are getting yourself into, before you do it ! I thought I did, but apparently I didn't do enough !
If you are into "geeky-stuff", this unit is sweet, and the navi does a whole host of "cosmic" stuff. And you even have the ability to use "voice-control" for everything ! All you have to do is, set it up, and then, just tell it what you want it to do... tell it a song (what album, what group, what artist, whatever) you want it to play off your iPod, or what song on your CD, or what station you want to hear, who you want to call, where you want to go - and it works off your voice commands. I will admit that I'm curious to see what problems I run into with the "voice-control" with the roof down, but, hey, I'll live with it....
Again, I couldn't be happier.
For those into DVDs = it has a great viewing screen/picture !
For those that want a great sound = completely customizable !
For those who want to use their iPod, USB, memory card, SiriusXM = you won't be disappointed !
For those into security = removable face-plate controls ! (and other stuff)
For those into the Navi System = live update is "the bomb" !
...and for those who may just be looking to replace the radio and/or the CD player - it is a single CD player (not a 6-disk player), but it will certainly get the job done for you = it's super.
One thing I will be changing is the back-up cam... the unit I got is nice, works great and does what it's supposed to - and more... however, the unit the "Pioneer" web-site recommends (under "accessories" tab) is incredable... and there is an even better unit out there with different back-up sensors and a Hi Def cam... because we all have our toys ! LOL !
It's easy to get carried away with capability. Most of the electronic modern marvels I own, will do a lot of neat tricks to brag to my friends about. But in reality, I never use most of the features.
I figure anything I put in the truck, should be to free me up from things that divert my attention from driving. For instance, replacing the map with a tomtom, lets me pay more attention to the split second changes around me.
If your traveling partner is less than enthusiastic about taking the long way home on a warm evening, these devices can help amuse them while you carve the canyons. But the thought that the guy in the oncoming lane, doing 70 mph, might be playing a Debbie Does Dallas DVD on his dashboard, is beyond scary.
It's a personal choice, and I wouldn't begrudge anyone that wants lots of bells and whistles. But thinking about what you need, will really use, might save you some money. For example, I needed a brake controller for my pickup. The controller everyone raved about, and had been a top choice for years, was replaced by a new model with added features that looked like sales gimmicks to me. Suddenly that model that was so well liked could be had for half price, about a third of the shiny new model, and does what I need just as well.
__________________
SSR Fanatics.....Knowledgeable friends, just a click away.
No truer words were ever spoken ! I agree with you, 100% And if my earlier diatribe led you to believe otherwise, please forgive me.
The gist of what I was trying to say was that I should have done a lot more research then I actually did. Because, truth be told, you are right in the statement about never using the "bells and whistles" !
I wanted a good-sounding unit, that fit (professionally), was easy to operate, and I could use my iPod with... and the back-up camera was specifically for my driveway and when I park, at home, because of the neighborhood kids playing, and leaving things lay around.
I seriously doubt that I will even attempt to use the other stuff... I just wanted to leave people know that it was available on this unit. And - again - to remind everyone to "do your homework" before you buy.... This unit is expensive - and I really didn't "need" all this stuff....
And as for the guy coming the other way - scares the hell outta' me... and with the roads in our area - and you know exactly what I mean - it happens so quickly ! Thanks !
OK, so... this is one of those times to say, "...I wish I knew what I know now, before...!"
No, there's nothing wrong with the audio... but I gotta' tell ya', this thing is really freakin' me out ! If it's installed properly, the things this unit can do are pretty impressive !
My advice, to anyone who may care, or is considering this unit, to go on-line and to read (yes - I used that 4-letter word !) the "Operation Manual". I'm sure you will be shocked at what-all this thing can do !
I'm also sure that there are other units out there that can do the same things... and maybe even more - so I am in no way "endorsing" this unit.... However, what I am recommending is that, whatever unit you may be interested in; if you are going to make this kind of investment, and then take the time to do the install yourself - or have someone else do it for you - that it would be very beneficial to know what you are getting yourself into, before you do it ! I thought I did, but apparently I didn't do enough !
If you are into "geeky-stuff", this unit is sweet, and the navi does a whole host of "cosmic" stuff. And you even have the ability to use "voice-control" for everything ! All you have to do is, set it up, and then, just tell it what you want it to do... tell it a song (what album, what group, what artist, whatever) you want it to play off your iPod, or what song on your CD, or what station you want to hear, who you want to call, where you want to go - and it works off your voice commands. I will admit that I'm curious to see what problems I run into with the "voice-control" with the roof down, but, hey, I'll live with it....
Again, I couldn't be happier.
For those into DVDs = it has a great viewing screen/picture !
For those that want a great sound = completely customizable !
For those who want to use their iPod, USB, memory card, SiriusXM = you won't be disappointed !
For those into security = removable face-plate controls ! (and other stuff)
For those into the Navi System = live update is "the bomb" !
...and for those who may just be looking to replace the radio and/or the CD player - it is a single CD player (not a 6-disk player), but it will certainly get the job done for you = it's super.
One thing I will be changing is the back-up cam... the unit I got is nice, works great and does what it's supposed to - and more... however, the unit the "Pioneer" web-site recommends (under "accessories" tab) is incredable... and there is an even better unit out there with different back-up sensors and a Hi Def cam... because we all have our toys ! LOL !
Anyone considering this head unit needs to verify instead of trust. DO NOT read the Pioneer Operating Manual to get info on the 930bt model (it isn't accurate). The info above is also inaccurate (as an example, the 910 does but the 930bt model does not have voice control, at least the one I installed doesn't). Read reviews from reputable sites and ask questions in their forums, that is the best way to determine what a head unit will do, what it won't do, and if it will do what you want it to do. Assuming the 930bt head unit will have features the lesser Pioneer models have is a mistake. Trusting Pioneer's specs is also a mistake. The 930bt does have some impressive features, also some impressive drawbacks. If I did this install again it would be with a different head unit.
And if my earlier diatribe led you to believe otherwise, please forgive me.
Not at all, sharing information is what this family is all about. As ZoomAddict pointed out, we can't always trust the suppliers... or is that suppliars.
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SSR Fanatics.....Knowledgeable friends, just a click away.
My posts have been done in an effort to help... and if that has not been the case, then I apologize !
I, again repeat, that I did not do the install myself - I had a professional do it.... He ordered all the components and he did all the work.... And I will even go as far as to say - to some degree - that this "install" was actually "supplemented" by "Pioneer" (please refer to post# 07)... but not directly, and certainly not as to procure my endorsement !
I will also agree that, in reading the "online manual" for this particular unit, that it actually does indicate some "features" that apparently "shouldn't exist" on this particular model. The information given with the purchase was that it was the, "All-new 2011 upgraded model", with several additional features included, and having the "bugs" worked out of the previous version(s)".
I, however, would again like to point out - that I had a "professional" do the installation - a person who does this type of work for a living - and, according to his customers, (and me), "he's very good at it !" That, actually, was the biggest part of my "install problem" (the length of time it took to get it "right")... for him to get everything (and more) to work the way that "Pioneer" suggests that it does.
I have also indicated - maybe not stressing it enough, but indicated that there wee several additional components needed to complete the install the way he wanted it to be - and what he wanted was exactly what he promised me it would/could do....
You will get absolutely no argument from me, since we are actually recommending the exact same thing to all that read this - to DO YOUR HOMEWORK FIRST ! If you say it's junk - I would disagree... but the way I take what you are saying; you have actually done one (or more) installations, working with this particular product - and you are telling all to do more research then to just believe the "propaganda" spewed forth by the manufacturer - and to further warn people that the manual (online or otherwise) for this particular product is, at the very least, misleading - and more likely, misrepresenting... or outright wrong !
Again, I would agree with this assessment; except to make note that, because of my installer, mine does do what he told me it would do... and does exactly what I wanted it to do.
I would be interested in the shortcomings Zoom is referring to? The x930BT seems to have solid reviews everywhere I look? I was considering one of the Kenwood units and it was just the opposite, negative reviews everywhere.
I too invested in the 930 unit and have been very pleased with the features I use. I mainly bought it for the Pandora feature it contains. I subscribe to Pandora and use it with my iphone. I had a connection wired into the back of the ashtray and my phone fits nicely in there and able to close the ashtray if I want to hide the phone. You are able to see all the artist/song info and the thumb up/down options are on screen. Had to also buy the steering wheel control cord so still have use of audio buttons from it. The one drawback is that you have to start the Pandora function on your phone each time you start the car. Haven't used the Nav much yet, but liked it when I did. Sorry to lose the 6 CD function of the stock unit, but gained more than I lost.
It cost me $1,200.00 - complete! But I'll have to get the bill and "itemize" everything for you.... I know that because of the "Bose Premium Sound" already installed, that it was a real pain in the butt ! Brent is very good at what he does, and he wasn't a real, happy camper with the wiring - but then, he's kind of a perfectionist and really doesn't like to "splice" things, if you know what I mean. And as far as pictures, the only difference you are going to see, is the head itself... everything else is "hidden", just as it should be.... If I can figure out how to do it, I'll post pictures over the weekend - as well as the pricing. I know that there are guys (and gals!) out there that will think that I paid too much to have someone else do the install, but I wanted it done right the first time, and not have to pay him double to fix the mess I would have made - absolutely no confidence when it comes to auto electronics - mechanics, fine... but wiring - just call "911" now !
P.S.: Remember that I also had the lights done while he had it - so they are all included in that price.... He also buffed out the headlights, and completely "detailed" the vehicle, before I got it back.
I went to one of my local car audio installers (he did work for me on our Camry Hybrid years ago) I was not very pleased when he quoted me $1550 for that radio installed with a back up camera and making the steering wheel controls work.
I can do it myself for way less. It just appealed to me to have a professional installer handle it to ensure it is done as well as possible.
EDIT: One note, my quote was with the high end Pioneer back up camera with park assist. Evidently they cost considerably more than the Boyo, it looks like $300-$350 so that would explain some of the price discrepency.
I would be interested in the shortcomings Zoom is referring to? The x930BT seems to have solid reviews everywhere I look? I was considering one of the Kenwood units and it was just the opposite, negative reviews everywhere.
Just noticed this. The 930bt does get more positive reviews than negative reviews, but that isn't saying much. Amazon probably has as many reviews as anywhere for the unit (from people who do actually use most of the features) and it is noteworthy that the positive reviews there are full of cons that would be deal killers for many users. Most of these examples came from other user reviews having problems I've also experienced, a few (like the first one) are problems with this unit that I have not seen mentioned elsewhere:
The 930bt absolutely does not perform to spec regarding capacity for SD card or USB drive. So if you have more than three or four gigs of music on either it will screw with you in interesting ways. Will not display what should be available (ie 2GB or more will simply be missing), or it will display all files only by song name/artist/etc (but not by folder, as it is designed to do), etc. Makes it useless to have an organized music collection on SD or USB card/drive as there is no effective way to display/search/sort/organize with this head unit. Pioneer acknowledges this glaring glitch but can give no info on when or even if they will ever be addressed with firmware updates. And as many those so-called positive reviews mention, Pioneer customer service for these units is quite lacking so I do not expect most issues will ever be resolved.
If you are using music from a Mac computer and getting duplicate song files in the head unit display PM me. There is a solution.
Even if this head unit did perform to spec the quantity of folder limitation is worthy of ridicule given it's large file capacity. Listening to a large collection of music via touch screen from MicroSD or USB cards/drives was the main reason I purchased a high-end head unit. Can't do that with this one. And I did the research before purchase, was both misled and outright lied to by Pioneer regarding what the 930bt would do (both in print and on the phone). Things like this are why I said this head unit may or may not work well for you, depends on which features you use and how you use them. Some things it does well, some it was designed to do that it simply won't do at all.
GPS: Won't go into details here except to say my iPhone with free map software does a better job. And my iphone with paid mapping software does a MUCH better job. Most portable GPS units do a better job of getting you there, have more accurate maps, and are easier to use than the GPS built into the 930bt.
One of the reasons for this is the 930bt does not support voice commands. Earlier Pioneer models did, best model available when I installed last year and the 930bt does not. This would not be so bad if the address input for the GPS was not so cumbersome (it works but is like a user interface from ten years ago).
FM "Superturner" reception is lacking. The stock head unit pulled in more analog stations/had much better reception. There are solutions to this, I have not pursued them as I do not listen to analog radio much anymore. The HD Radio also has reception issues but does work in metro areas. Pioneer could have integrated HD Radio (as they have with head units since) but for the 930bt decided instead to charge $100 and make you install a separate box (also need separate boxes for traffic info, etc). It is a Mickey Mouse way to treat customers buying your supposedly "best" equipment.
Speaking of cheesy, Pioneer could but does not allow you to use your existing iPod cable to play music through USB, you have to purchase a "special" iPod cable for $50 (
). Using a standard cable the album artwork and song info show up, but no audio, since Pioneer includes a 3.5 mm pin for the audio alone. Other high end head units don't have this nonsense, only one reason this one would.
Some of the user interface on the 930bt is well thought out, some of the UI makes no sense at all. The mute level can be customized so it can be reduced by 10db or 20db or full mute. You get to choose this for Tel only or both Navi Guidance and Tel, but not separately. How you mute/pause the sound is tricky, to the point where I just grab the volume knob and twist to zero instead (but the volume knob is disabled once you answer a phone call, which is idiotic). These are just small examples of the UI issues, of which there are many. The UI is well thought out and designed to perfection in some respects, in others it is a joke.
These are just a few shortcomings of the 930bt to consider. If you are buying a high end head unit you need to read reviews from reputable sites and ask questions in the relevant forums. That is the best way to determine what this or other head units will do, what they won't do, and if they will do what you want them to do.
I appreciate the time you took to lay out your issues. Some of them concern me some don't. I am not a huge mp3 guy so I wouldn't be slapping an SD card in the unit ever.
The criticism of the GPS and UI is a concern however, plus the obvious price gouging that goes on with the nickel and dime issues. (charging you extra for stuff that should be included at that price)
The installer I talked to said if I buy the head unit on the internet and pay less than $799 for it Pioneer may not honor the warranty which is ridiculous.
So I am curious since you are so down on the 930, if you had to do it again what would you buy? I saw all sorts of bad reviews on the Kenwood line.
I appreciate the time you took to lay out your issues. Some of them concern me some don't. I am not a huge mp3 guy so I wouldn't be slapping an SD card in the unit ever.
The criticism of the GPS and UI is a concern however, plus the obvious price gouging that goes on with the nickel and dime issues. (charging you extra for stuff that should be included at that price)
The installer I talked to said if I buy the head unit on the internet and pay less than $799 for it Pioneer may not honor the warranty which is ridiculous.
So I am curious since you are so down on the 930, if you had to do it again what would you buy? I saw all sorts of bad reviews on the Kenwood line.
I'd check your installer's facts. It is my understanding that if you buy from an authorized Pioneer dealer (like Crutchfield) the warranty is good regardless the price:
Which head unit would I buy with a do-over? No idea Duf, haven't researched the others, but it wouldn't be Pioneer. Pioneer used to put out good stuff, but some of the features/specs they tout for the 930at are nothing more than veiled puffery.
I'd check your installer's facts. It is my understanding that if you buy from an authorized Pioneer dealer (like Crutchfield) the warranty is good regardless the price:
Which head unit would I buy with a do-over? No idea Duf, haven't researched the others, but it wouldn't be Pioneer. Pioneer used to put out good stuff, but some of the features/specs they tout for the 930at are nothing more than veiled puffery.
Zoom did you do the install yourself or have a place do it for you?
Zoom did you do the install yourself or have a place do it for you?
I did the install but next time will probably find a pro installer that has done at least one SSR install before. Replaced the head unit/all speakers/wiring and installed required fodder to get keep chimes/steering wheel controls/add the HD Radio module/iphone & flash drive connections in glove box/mods to get map input to work while moving and a few other things.
Isn't as simple as it used to be & took more time than I thought it would Duf, worth having a pro do it unless you enjoy such things if that is why you are asking.
I did the install but next time will probably find a pro installer that has done at least one SSR install before. Replaced the head unit/all speakers/wiring and installed required fodder to get keep chimes/steering wheel controls/add the HD Radio module/iphone & flash drive connections in glove box/mods to get map input to work while moving and a few other things.
Isn't as simple as it used to be & took more time than I thought it would Duf, worth having a pro do it unless you enjoy such things if that is why you are asking.
Ok thanks for the feedback. Yea I am weighing if I want to go through the hassle of doing it myself and winding up with a less than ideal installation or pay a pro.
I did the install but next time will probably find a pro installer that has done at least one SSR install before. Replaced the head unit/all speakers/wiring and installed required fodder to get keep chimes/steering wheel controls/add the HD Radio module/iphone & flash drive connections in glove box/mods to get map input to work while moving and a few other things.
Isn't as simple as it used to be & took more time than I thought it would Duf, worth having a pro do it unless you enjoy such things if that is why you are asking.
You didn't happen to document any of the install with pictures did you? The more I have been thinking about it the more it is burning my ass to pay $1500 to get the whole deal installed.
You didn't happen to document any of the install with pictures did you? The more I have been thinking about it the more it is burning my ass to pay $1500 to get the whole deal installed.
No. I am more the "get'er apart & see what works" type. Did want someone to call if things went awry, since I had not installed a head unit in decades, so it was ordered from Crutchfield. Called them to determine which equipment would fit & what all would be needed for it to do all I wanted it to do. Ordered everything & took my time to install (couple of days, five or so hours a day, was in garage disassembled for the weekend).
Ended up calling Crutchfield twice during install. After the first call decided it would be best to run new wire to all the speakers. All speakers were upgraded, and if I remember right the OEM Bose system caused issues (think they used odd voltage or wiring or something so I just replaced it entirely). Second call was to determine best placement of a couple of things (if I had read the install/operating manuals placement of things was probably in there, just didn't take the time).
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The head was replaced with a "Pioneer avic x930bt", the dash adapter plate, the "GMOS01 wiring harness adapter", a "Boyo backup camera", and an additional set of "Bose speakers" to handle the bass push and the power boost with the roof down. 
It sounds super, and it's really easy to use, it has a great navi, and I have iPod, MP3 or USB, as well as SiriusXM options all available and controlled from the steering wheel or touch-screen (besides AM, FM, CD and DVD !). 
I also had "Simple Engineering's, Blinking 3rd Brake Light" added and HID conversion front light upgrades. 
Tip of the hat to "WB Exotics" and Brent Bortz 
(Reading, PA) for doing all the work - since the combination of electrical wiring and me, together, usually equals FIRE ! 
and her Christmas Carols 
to listen to while we are out doing our Christmas shopping ! 
but in a good way ! 
It seems that "Pioneer" has it's "Authorized Dealers" do "installation videos" for their own people, and/or for their own use on their "Help" web-site. If you have an installation that's, "a little bit different" (such as custom work, odd placement or a "different vehicle") and you submit it to them, and if they elect to allow you to do it, they will "authorize" you to do it "for them"... and, in return for you doing a video documentation of the install, they will bill you out at half-price for all components used... which they recommend you pass on to the consumer. 
So I'm not so sure what I'll actually be able to post from all of this.... Brent is going to find out for me, and then we'll go from there.... Again, I plan to post the "in-dash photo" and attempt to get under-dash photos and whatnot... but I don't need a great job at a great price turning into an expensive law suit, if you know what I mean.... The additional speakers are hidden up under that dash also... and I have absolutely no idea how he got them to where they are.... I will do what I can, but "NO !" 
I'm not going to rip the dash apart to snap some pictures ! 
Mike - mikebike in Surrey BC Canada Licence plate MY SSR 
Excellent Rebuttal - Excellent Points !
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