I too have been looking into a new radio unit for my 87 syncro.  I sold my
Pioneer deck with the remote with my 85 sunroof, had thoughts about pulling
it out but they are not too expensive and I knew then I wanted digital input
and ability to play mp3.

Quite a few of the new decks have the digital input so you can run any type
of device. perhaps you want to watch a dvd in the back and use the vans
sound system.

The remote sure is nice when you are in the back of the van or up top.

Doug

----- Original Message -----
From: "Preston Grimes" <87westy@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, June 10, 2005 2:29 PM
Subject: Re: iPod solution?

> Jeff,
>
> Last Dec. I bought from Crutchfield.com one of the Alpine head units
> and the iPod controller device (which is approximately the size of a
> deck of playing cards) for my daily driver 1998 Volvo wagon. I
> installed it myself using the relatively simple instructions from
> Crutchfield. The iPod controller device hides behind the head unit and
> the iPod connection cable (included) is pulled forward. Pretty
> straightforward.
>
> The head unit interface to control the iPod works ok, but the it could
> be a bit more intuitive. Each time I use the head unit to search and
> otherwise control the iPod, I have to remind myself of its unique
> logic. I mainly only use it for longer trips. It's great to have a
> huge "jukebox" on the head unit. It's even better if your co-pilot
> controls the iPod, in which case, a simple headphone jack interface on
> the head unit would suffice.
>
> Also, know that it won't work with the iPod Shuffle device (my camping
> partner has one) your laptop, or any other portable audio device. I
> would suggest to everyone contemplating a new stereo head unit to seek
> out one with a mini headphone jack interface. IMHO that's the most
> flexible for the age of digital sound.
>
> In summary, it's pretty cool, but very far from the best purchase of my
life.
>
> PG