RE: New Head Unit
A couple of people have asked off list which Pioneer unit I ordered.  It's
the first one, at the top of this page:
<
http://www.crutchfield.com/g_300/Car-Receivers.html?tp=5684#&nvpair=FFBrand|Pioneer
>
Two things to add.  First, I may exchange the one I ordered for one that is
about $20 more but has a USB input on the from for my MP3 player.  What I
have now is Aux input only and that doesn't keep the MP3 player charged like
the USB connection would.
Second, and I can't emphasize this enough, the best way to get the biggest
improvement in the sound system in your Vanagon is to replace/upgrade the
speakers!!  Newer head units that play CDs or will take input from an MP3
player (or smart phone, etc.) are a convenience but the speakers are the key
to better sound.