| UCLAMDX |
Has anybody out there experienced decreased radio sensitivity after replacing the factory head unit? I have a 2001 Premium Model MDX, with the non-Bose unit. The factory head unit was switched out with an aftermarket replacement (Alpine 7995, CD/MP3/Tuner/XM radio controller, nonamplified).
The CD playback is noticeably better, however, I am noticing that the AM reception is much worse. Out of the 6 or so AM stations that I usually use to listen for traffic reports, only one comes in even marginally. As to the FM stations, the reception is decent, but not significantly better than on the stock factory unit. I am wondering now whether the shop did not hook up the antenna wires properly, did I obtain a defective unit, or is this weak reception a design flaw in the 7995? The unit supposedly has a strong tuner section, so my guess is the design is probably fine.
Any insight would be appreciated.:( |
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| frostyra |
| There is an antenna amplifier built into the base of the antenna, and its power comes from a yellow wire with a white stripe which is connected to pin 1 of the audio unit; I assume that it supplies 12V, but am not sure. If that wire isn't connected in your new setup, both AM and FM reception would probably be weak. FM is fair in mine, AM sucks. |
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| UCLAMDX |
frostyra,
Thanks for the reply, and I will ask this of the installers when I take the vehicle back this week. Were you experiencing poor AM reception with your stock head unit, or after you replaced with aftermarket? |
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| pacpal1 |
UCLA MDX:
Please post the results of your antenna investigation...I also suffer from poorer radio reception (I'm using an Alpine 9813). I completed the install myself a few months ago and will investigate the white/yellow wire issue tonight when I get home. |
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| UCLAMDX |
Pacpal1,
I will be taking the vehicle in on Wednesday, and will let you know the outcome. In talking to the installer, he also thinks that the power wire was not hooked up correctly (if at all).
BTW, I would be interested in finding out how you addressed the issue of the trim piece for the aftermarket headset. I know that some of the installers are charging $100 - $250 to custom manufacture this trim for the MDX. |
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| slackass |
| UCLAMDX....They now make a stereo kit for the MDX. Costs around $20. Alot of people like it and some do not. I have an Alpine IVA-C800 and I love the kit. At least check it out before you pay big bucks for a custom trim plate. |
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| pacpal1 |
| I used the kit manufactured by Metra...it cost me around $30 on special order through Al & Ed's on Wilshire in West L.A. You'll find that you can't order products directly from Metra...you must go through one of their retailers. I've posted photos of my dash install on another thread...note that I modified the Metra unit to accomodate a 1/2 DIN in dash equalizer in addition to the DIN head unit. I also painted the Navigation screen frame AND the Metra adapter kit with the same spray paint to reduce color contrast. I'm VERY satisfied with the result, if you're interested in doing it yourself, let me know...I'll provide you with more details. |
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| R Stevens |
| I have the Alpine CDA-7998 headunit and noticed significantly improved AM and FM reception over the factory bose hu -- although I rarely listen to them because XM Radio is so much better. |
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| frostyra |
quote:
Originally posted by UCLAMDX
frostyra,
Thanks for the reply, and I will ask this of the installers when I take the vehicle back this week. Were you experiencing poor AM reception with your stock head unit, or after you replaced with aftermarket?
Stock unit -- I've never replaced it. |
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