Alpine IVA-W505 Installed

[[__--MUD--__]]

What made you choose this head unit?? Did you compare it to the pioneer or kenwood models?

I can't make up my mind.. i'm deadlocked between iva-w505 and the Kenwood Excelon DNX8120

[rck0025]

The IVA-W505 probably has the best sound processor in its class. I have the w-205 and absolutely love it. The blackbird navigation is great when it works. I've had a couple of problems with mine, but if you keep it charged, you shouldn't have any issues. I really like having Sirius, DVD, Back up monitor, navigation, and a quality I-pod interface in one central and easy to use unit. If you are using the factory speakers you can use the GM module you bought to turn up the factory amp as well I believe.

Side note: not sure what harness/ mount you used to take place of the factory enclosure, but I had to file mine down so that the motorized face wouldn't get caught on the plastic.

Congrats and post some pics!

[Marauder]

Is the adapter you used the same as the Matra gmos-04 adapter? Adapts the Onstar and Bose system to the new head unit.

I had the Alpine W200 in my other vehicle and loved it. I assume you will like your 505 as much or more.

I have the new Pioneer Premier F90BT ordered for the H2. Slightly smaller screen but the interface is awesome. I am still worried about using the adapter versus rewiring the truck and using aftermarket amp and speakers. But I will give the Bose system a chance to sound half good.

[brittcoulson]

Hey

Mud - I chose the W505 because I liked its DIVX capability, and I love Alpine headunits. I have owned a IVA-D300 and IVA-D310 and I loved both of them. I really like the touchscreen interface, and the sound processor is awsome. Like I said before, it sounds amazing.

RCL0025 - I used the Scosche install kit, which was absolute crap in my opinion. Theres no way when a dash kit fits everything from a 1990 Ford Econoline van to a 2007 H2 its going to be perfect. The opening in the front was way to small for the deck, and I ended up not even using it. I removed the 2 side pieces front the front square face, bolted them to the side of the deck, then bolted that into the H2 dash. Then I put the W505 trim ring on, then the large H2 dash trim piece and it looks awsome.

Marauder - I'm not sure about the Metra adapter, but the shop I bought it from said they have not had the best luck with the Metra adapters. I was going to just do the re-wire and not use the Bose amp, but then you cant have the onstar audio coming through the door speakers which was a concern for me, plus the Bose system sounds amazing with the new deck.

I will try to get some pictures posted tommorow when I get home.

Britt