Eclipse Head Unit

[tacti]

I am going to get Eclipse cd5444 installed tomorrow.

i've heard that it is easy to install and much cheaper,
but since eclipse has ESN and the warranty wouldn't be available unless installed by dealer, I will go to the local shop.

i found this unit for $200, and i think it is a pretty good deal especially it used to cost $499 (even though it is a 04 model), and it is from dealer.

currently i have Alpine 5ch amp, Diamond Audio 2way component and memphis sub.
but after installed the amp, i start hearing a lot of static noise. they checked all the wiring and told me probably b/c of stock head unit.

i will post the picture and see how it's sound tomorrow afternoon.
i have read a lot in the sound domain forum, and will try to tweak a little once i get the unit.

[NitrousFlare]

[tacti]

Damn!
I knew something like this was comming..
just too excited, and couldn't help posting

this is the first time i get a after market head unit...
I'll put picture up as soon as i get back from store..

Tact

[DaTwUnKrAziEpInOy]

Probably need a better ground to your amp. Like attaching the ground wire to a better place. Hope this helps.

[tacti]

Okay, here is the pic.

The the static noise i had is gone, and the sound quality went much better.
i think it is more dynamic and wider range.

The only thing i am a little disappointed is the dash kit.
it looks okay, but seems that the head unit is mounted a little too deep.
does anyone knows if i can fix it (pull the unit out a little more)?

anyways, here are couple pictures.




Also i need to work on how i mount the ipod. I'm still using iPod2Car, and it does not show the song title on the display...

[jhenty]

nice unit, its the same one I have i think, I got a nice discount like you for it being the older model, payed about the same. So far I've been really happy with it, Im no sound system expert and its been very easy to use.

[tacti]

>jhenty
do you know if this unit has the steering wheel control input?
i know some of the new 2din models have, but how about this one?
do i need to get the Pac infrared adopter?

and.. also is your unit mounted without any gaps?
the dealer told me that they could not mount flash because of the unit's opening mechanism..
any idea?

thanks!

[tacti]

I end up sanding down the trip came with dash kit so that it will work with the eclipse unit.
needed to cut the edge a little, and sand all four sides so that the face could open smoothly.
now it does not have any gap around the unit and looks really good.



Also i noticed some engine whine from the speaker, so i added extra grounding cable to the head unit instead of using stock harness, and complete the Big 3 (found on Sound Domain).



It is basically adding 3 thicker cable from Battery Negative to chassis, Alternater Negative to Chassis, and Alternater Positive to Battery Positive.

I think it is mainly to prevent the Voltage Drop, but since I had some 4ga wire laying around from my previous car, so i just did it.

as a reasult, the engine whine has been gone, and there were slight voltage increase.
usually my car had around 14.9 V, and it's now around 15.3 V.

I also feel the engine got lighter (?), like the feeling right after you do the oil change. but probably just me..

Well, just wanted to share.

[DatSRBoi]

I love those units. 5volt preouts are rediculous!! Im waiting for the navigation to hit my store so I can get my 70% off retailer. WUAHAHAHA