| vip9 |
Just when I thought I finally made up my mind about a "mobile theater" solution for my MDX, a friend threw a monkey wrench in my plans by suggesting Audiovox "Video-in-a-bag" system.
Costco and a few other retailers now carry new 5" vbp2000 system and even newer vbp3000 2 x 5" screens system with tv tuner and a possibility to watch 2 different sources on those 2 screens. (video, tv, or video game/dvd through A/V inputs)
Quite attractively priced as well. ($270/$500 I believe)
I never owned/dealt with Audiovox before. So, any insights and suggestions will be appreciated. |
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| KBD431 |
Vip9 -
I have not used the "bag" version but we just had the Audiovox 6.8" overhead unit installed. It's connected to an audiovox CD player mounted under the drivers seat. Both work very well and much to my surprise the screen has a very wide "side viewing" range. |
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| 'X MOM |
| We have had a very good experience with the audiovox system. The resolution on the screen is much better than I expected. Rewinding is much faster than I expected. The portability is great for us, because we alternate cars frequently. Keep in mind, though, that you have to fine-tune the strap adjustment for different cars, and it isn't much of a hassel - you just have to make the adjustment and it takes a little extra time. The only gripe my son ever has is that the glare sometimes (not often)hinders his ability to see the screen well. However, this is almost always in our car with non-tinted windows. Also, a window shade and modest positioning adjustments help as well. You can get these systems at Toys R Us for 269.00 (I think) now. Well worth the money for reduction in the whine-factor, which was, but is no more, a persistent factor with road trips of any duration. Hope this helps! Good luck!:) |
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| vip9 |
XMom, thanks a lot!!!
Do you have a 4" or a 5" (VBP1000 or VBP2000)?
According to Audiovox, you can connect a Video Game Console or other similar external sources - have you tried? |
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| 'X MOM |
Hi vip9!
We have the VBP1000 with 4" monitor. I didn't even know they had a 5" monitor:( ! Oh, well, the 4" is (suprisingly) not too small at all, and the resolution/picture quality is great! I have not tried to hook up any video games...yet. My baby(?) will be 5 in a few months and will be getting a Game Boy Advance for his birthday....(sigh - growing up too fast). Since you asked, though, I got my book out and looked for the info. There are three input jacks (video and 2 audio) right on the front of the unit (right beside the tape slot). They are very accessible and should accept all necessary connections with minimal trouble. You can also input from a camcorder! There are also 2 headphone jacks (although we cannot get the youngun' to use them:rolleyes: ). I would hope for good game resolution - especially with the quality of the tv picture - I was truly shocked!
I was in Toys R Us again this weekend, and our local store is selling them for 269.99 with two free videos. We got our son's for him for 'xmas and got it for 289.99 with two videos. The tapes are supposed to be under something like 12.00, but they let me pay the difference for more expensive tapes.
By the way, it also has AC/DC adapter as well as car adapter - great for hotel rooms!
Let me know if you need any more info! Good luck!:D |
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| A2MDXer |
| Any other users out there with this system. If so, please provide your opinions. I intend to get the Audiovox VBP2000 VCP with 5" screen. The system comes with two headphone jacks and apparently will accept one audio/video source. They are currently going for $299 at Circuit City. Not an advanced solution but hey, I only take a few long trips each year. I may purchase the protection plan (usually I don't like these plans) b/c of the portability of the system. I will report back in a month or so and let people know how it worked. |
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| vip9 |
I did not buy this product yet, although it is # 1 on my list of things to get. The reason for it - I want to SEE it with my own eyes, not just on the picture.
So far, Costco has the lowest price on vbp2000 - I think $269.
BTW, check www.audiovox.com, they have a few other models as well. The one I am actually considering is vbp-3000 it has two 5" screens, has a tv tuner and each screen can show a separate A/V source. It goes for $499 in Costco. Screens can be unit-mounted, head-rest mounted or hand-held. They also came out with vbp-4000 - 5.6" cd-player. (not sure about price) Unfortunately, my local Costco does not have any. No other store in the area has them either.
I WANT TO SEE THE DAMN THING! Vbp-1000 is so "scary-looking" that I would not buy it. But newer models are supposed to be more aesthetically pleasant.
A2MDXer, please keep us posted. |
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| A2MDXer |
Vip9,
Thanks for the input. I did check out the Audiovox website and saw the other models as well. I personally viewed the vbp1000 at Circuit City (currently on sale for $229). It was hooked up to a DVD that also was being shown on a headrest LCD and a Flip-down pod LCD. Actually the 4" screen was not that bad which makes me think that the 5" (newer) will be even better. Picture quality was not quite as good as the Audiovox flip down but was reasonable. The unit itself looked like it was fairly well made and it about the size of those old rental VCRs at your local video store. I think it will sit up at about eye level if you place the unit on the top/rear of the center console. Not sure if this will impede vision from the rearview mirror but I am sure it can be adjusted.
I also located the vbp2000 at Target and pulled it out of the box (obviously it wasn't on). Basically, the same size and the screen looked pretty solid. I am not a Costco member and Circuit City said they would give me the vbp2000 for $284 (on sale this week I guess). They also offer a 3 year protection package for $45 (by then it will probably be obsolete anyway) for some peace of mind. If I want DVD, I can always run to the video input. I figure this will hold me over for a few years. Then I can do a more advanced setup. Let me know what you think. |
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| A2MDXer |
I did briefly consider the portable DVD but all of our kid videos are on tape, the vbp was a bit cheaper (although definitely larger) and I wasn't sure if the DVD might skip on some roads.
I purchased the vbp2000 last night. I has not been installed yet but I did pop in a video and try it out. Overall, I am pretty happy with it right now. The unit is much lighter (lighter than my notebook computer) and smaller than I expected. They give you a carry bag with a shouler strap. The screen quality is pretty good, almost as good as the 5 or 6" headrest models I have seen. I am posting some screen shots below from the Matrix (I think a different movie might have showed more colors) from last night - the lighting was not good so the shots could be better. When I get the bag adjusted and "installed" in the MDX I will take a few more pics. |
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| A2MDXer |
| Here's another - again, the screen is better to the eyes than the camera. |
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| A2MDXer |
| Here is one of the player (without bag) closed. |
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| A2MDXer |
| Last one. Same as above but the screen is flipped open. The screen can be opened to almost any angle (it swings probably 300 degrees if that makes sense). |
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| MARFONG |
A2MDXer,
I'm also planning to buy the same Audiovox system. I already got a DVD player from Best Buy to hook up to it. Planning to place the DVD player under the driver's seat, but not sure how this would work, since this DVD player is meant for home use, will velcro it down. Also, planning to hook my son's Game Cube system to it also.
Are you going to place the unit on your console? Probably can use bungi cords to stablize it. Or does this unit come with straps?
Looking forward to your pics...
Marfong |
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| A2MDXer |
Marfong,
The silver unit goes inside a bag that has several straps (I think one from each corner). The two top straps go around the headrest anchors. I have not looked closely at the bottow straps. The unit gets mounted vertically with the "face" approximately pointing to the second-row dome light. Given its size, I think it will sit nicely right on top of the rear part of the console, just above the heat vents (but I have not tried it yet).
If you did not purchase the DVD already, I know Audiovox makes an identical unit except DVD instead of VCR for just a bit more. I think you will need to alternate between DVD and cube plug-ins b/c only one video input is available. Note: it's a player only, not a recorder. |
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| MARFONG |
Does anyone have any info. on the DVD video in a bag system from Audiovox. It's new, the model #: VBP 4000.
Checked with local retailers and those suggested by Audiovox, but none have knowledge of this product. |
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| vip9 |
Marfong, based on my experience with Audiovox, new products hit the shelf usually 2-3 months after they appear on audiovox.com (as was with vbp-2000 and 3000) Audiovox website will usually put a pdf User Manual on a product detail page.
I believe I found 1 reference to vbp-4000 using Google.com search engine (try vbp4000 or vbp-4000 - do not remember which was successful) I think the price for 4000 was between 2000 and 3000, which is probably $400.
IMO, go for a portable DVD player - for $100 or $200 more you can have top of the line 7"-8" "take-me-anywhere" unit as opposed to a bulky strap-on. :) |
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| A2MDXer |
I agree with vip9,
If I was buying a portable unit just for DVDs, I would get the Audiovox or Panasonic (although I am not sure if those units will accept input from a GameCube - you would have to check). I think you can find one of those units for around $450-500 and they are much smaller. I wanted an even cheaper alternative and wanted to use my existing VCR videos primarily so I went with the vbp2000 ($285). I have not used it in the MDX but have played it several times in the house and am pretty happy with it.
Here is a link to the VBP2000 at Target so you can get product info and dimensions.
If you still want the "DVD in a bag" concept you can find a similar model at Target for $399 (I don't think it's Audiovox though).
Here is the link to the DVD in a bag |
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| vip9 |
quote:
Originally posted by A2MDXer
...
(although I am not sure if those units will accept input from a GameCube - you would have to check). ...
Most portable dvd-players will accept A/V input. Obviously, verify this for a specific model you may consider.
There were discussions about this in other threads. Search for "Mobile Theater" or similar phrases.
Not sure about GameCube but both PS2 and Xbox are pretty much DVD-players already. So, I am sticking with my original plan of getting a video player. Going to Costco this weekend. Hopefully they will have it. There was a $100 diff between Costco and Circuit City for vbp-3000 last time I checked. |
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| MARFONG |
I've looked into getting a portable DVD player, actually I prefer to get one because of the smaller size, but the only drawback was it's lack of hook-up for a gaming system like the Game Cube. A notebook computer with DVD would also work and it would give you a 14-15" screen for viewing, but again no hook-up capability with gaming systems.
I wonder if these portable DVD player makers will be incorporating A/V inputs into their units in the future. |
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| 'X MOM |
| The more you guys research these portable possibilities, the more depressed I get! In just 6 months time the 5" screen Audiovox is less than what I paid for the 4" (VBP1000). Oh well....(sigh) at least the youngun' isn't aware of the difference.....yet!:rolleyes: ;) |
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| tjwid |
| The price of LCD screen is dropping fast. So, I'll wait until I need it. I am concered adding a roof mount LCD screen and is more interested in portable. So, I have more flexibility to wait until I need it. |
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| MARFONG |
Just bought from Fry's a mobile/portable DVD player and 6.4" tft/lcd monitor that can be mounted overhead or on a console for $299. The DVD player has 2 A/V inputs on the front, which will allow a gaming system like Game Cube to be hooked up. The player and monitor is made by Qwestar.
Has anyone had any experience with this brand? |
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| tjwid |
| MAFONG, I saw that deal@Frys. But, they don't have it on display the Frys I visited. Let us know how do you like that DVD/LCD set and your installation experience. Thanks. |
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| MARFONG |
tjwid,
I really like this combo. It's seems to be a good buy at $299. It also works with my son's Game Cube, altho the graphics aren't as good as that on a TV because it's a LCD screen. I had to exchange the mobile DVD player because some of the buttons on the unit weren't working properly.
In the X, I bungee corded the DVD player and screen to the top cover of the console unit, ie. after opening the top of the console and flipping it back. It was very stable and kept my kids quiet watching a dvd movie. I had the kids use headphones so I could listen to the radio without hearing the sound from the dvd.
I tried to fit the dvd player under the driver's seat but it wouldn't fit. It's too big. I guess I'll need to keep it attached to the console unit.
On drawback to using bungee cord for attaching: it left lines of indentation on the top of the console unit. Didn't notice this until I removed the player/screen and closed the console cover. I'm planning to use industrial velcro to attach the units to the console in the future (first velcroing the screen to the player).
Overall, I'm happy with the quality of the picture on the screen. Fry's had 3 different units on sale this past weekend for $299. But the Qwestar brand offered the largest screen (6.4") and the screen can also be used as a drop down unit from the roof if so desired. It's portable, so you can move it from vehicle to vehicle or use it in the home or hotel rooms when traveling. It has 2 a/v ports in the front of the dvd player, therefore you can hook up a gaming system and vcr to offer other entertainment venues. |
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| MDXtrous |
MARFONG,
Have you tried putting the DVD player under the driver's seat facing forward? Based on my measurements, the seat should hold anything shorter than 9 inches, and narrower than 12. |
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| MDXtrous |
| Sorry I meant "shorter than 12 inches". I think it's approximately a 12 x 12 square underneath there. I know because I'm thinking of putting in a DVD changer that's 9 x 14, and without cutting down the plastic towards the back of the driver's seat it's short by approximately 2 inches |
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| vip9 |
Took a plunge - ordered vbp-3000. S/b in in a couple of days.
Will post pics/reviews for anyone interested.
Also, got an Xbox (will be a part of MDX video/dvd/game - entertainment system) It rocks! Got Rallisport game - too bad they do not have MDX there. :D
P.S. MDXtrous - wonderful job on your 'X!!! |
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| MDXtrous |
| Thanks vip9:p Don't forget to look at Fuzion Frenzy for the kid;) |
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| vip9 |
MDXtrous, thanx for your advice - I got it in the other thread as well.
Let us master the Ralli first! :D He loved it. Too bad controller is huge for his hands. Controller-S should arrive any day (hopefully today) I told him that once he succeeds in the game, I'd let him drive the real car. He has a real incentive now :D
I read reviews that say Fuzion is heavy on communist ideas :D
Did not realize XBox was as big and bulky as it is until I unpacked it. Now I need to find a good place for it in the 'X. Those 2 screens on Audiovox should also come handy. :D Looking forward to the upgrade and a "quiet" ride to the summer vacation home :):):) Should take care of both wife and the kid. :D |
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| MDXtrous |
Yup, my brother has the XBox and I the PS2. The XBox is sure big and heavy with that hardrive in there. It's almost like a PC.
I was also contemplating where to put the PS2, since it's alright under the driver or passenger seat in the back, but it still sticks out a bit more than I like. Additionally, those cables could get pretty annoying for second row passengers.
I am considering buying another vertical stand and mounting it vertically using some velcro on the little storage bin for the third row seats. I'm not sure if you can mount the XBox vertically, but this way, a second row passenger could still reach behind and swap out the game DVDs, but stays out of the way at the same time.
But you're right about the passengers being happy. I took a little road trip this weekend to Woodbury Commons, and on the way there, I put in Shrek for 4 passengers, (including my wife in the front:2: ). When they wanted a break from Shrek, they played NBA Street on the PS2. On the way back, I put in some Friends, and later the 4 of them played Unreal Tournament on the PS2 with a 4-way split screen. Pretty awesome!! |
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| vip9 |
Will post a few pics later.
A nice surprise - those 5 " screens actually look quite 'large' |
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| A2MDXer |
| Just returned back from my trip out East. I took along the VBP2000 for its first long trip. I am quite happy with the system, especially since it cost <$300. Never had a problem, the system is relatively easy to remove and reinstall once you have done it a few times and the sound from the built in speakers was better than I expected. I am posting 3 pics to show installation. Obviously the system is not as "sleek" as a permanent install and is bigger than a portable DVD but the player and bag never got in may way. |
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| A2MDXer |
| In the pic above, note that the player rests on the console but only on the rear and still allows access to CDs and cell phone. The pic below shows a backseat shot. My install this time was a bit sloppy (I did not tuck in the strap). Normally the cord and the strap are out of the way. The directions call for the cord to face the other way but I installed the bag this way because I think it provided a more secure feel. |
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| A2MDXer |
| One last shot with the player on - picture quality is very good. The screen flips down when not in use. |
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| vip9 |
Great, A2MDXer!
I am planning to test mine this weekend.
Already unpacked and test-ran it at home. Both TV, video replay and XBOX game worked "as advertised"
Only 1 sour grape - one of those 2 five-inch screens (which actually are quite "large" and clear!) has a dead pixel. 1 red dot almost in the middle. So, I called Audiovox, but they said that since it is fresh out of the box, they "STRONGLY RECOMMEND" (read: get lost) that I exchange the unit in the store. Highly unusual - most manufecturers prefer fixing/replacing themselves, rather than returning it back.
If the general purpose of this unit did not require a viewer to be so close to the screen, that dead pixel might never have been noticed. As it is, I placed a new order with Costco.com, who have been EXTREMELY helpful and accomodating, unlike Audiovox customer service line. A new one should be here within a week. Meanwhile, I'll use this one.
Will post comments/impressions/pics later |
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| rwx |
vip9:
The vbp3000 you ordered has a 2nd LCD screen, I wonder if it will fit nicely if straped to the headrest.
Thanks. |
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| aktars |
Vip9:
Can you send pic's (if possible) of the vbp3000, and the setup you are using in the MDX. Also, how many power cords are you having to use (i.e. x-box, vbp3000)? Sounds like a great system... |
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| vip9 |
quote:
Originally posted by rwx
vip9:
The vbp3000 you ordered has a 2nd LCD screen, I wonder if it will fit nicely if straped to the headrest.
Thanks.
Hi.
Each screen comes with a pouch which has straps. The screen is wider than the headrest, so it is actually a little clumsy to attach it to the headrest , but possible. I will try to do this over the upcoming weekend and will post pics. I tried to attach it to the "metal rods" that hold the headrests. Then, by lowering headrest, it held it firmly.
Unit itself fits perfectly between seats resting just behind the lid of the center console. Thus, one can easily have access to the storage compartment.
Actually, for everyone interested, although it comes with 2 screens, vbp3000 can accomodate up to 3 screens - 1 attached to the unit and 2 detached. So, if you have kids of different age and/or interests, this is perfect!
Also, a screen can be powered by itself without the unit, making it a great add-on to Xbox or PS2 |
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| vip9 |
quote:
Originally posted by aktars
Vip9:
Can you send pic's (if possible) of the vbp3000, and the setup you are using in the MDX. Also, how many power cords are you having to use (i.e. x-box, vbp3000)? Sounds like a great system...
So far, I used it on 1 2-hour trip only. Worked great and the trip went relatively "quiet". I used only the screen attached to the unit. No Xbox usage yet, although it is planned.
I'll take pics over the upcoming weekend.
I bought a power inverter, which I will plug into the rear 12 V outlet. Will plug Xbox into it - just have to figure out the best way to secure it - the sucker is too big to fit any of my laptop bags - need to get something new :(
If you want to see the pics and specs of the unit itself, visit audiovox site:
http://www.audiovox.com/cgi-bin/nco...duct.d2w/report |
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| MDXtrous |
vip9,
I went to Toys R Us yesterday and they sell bags specifically for the XBox. You can take a look... |
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| vip9 |
| At home - video and XBox inputs (also, can show TV, has a cable-ready TV tuner) |
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| vip9 |
| A stand-alone (powered-alone) screen as an add-on to XBox |
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| vip9 |
| Played 1 race just to check it out - not bad!!! Of course, my 36" Wega XBR is SOMEWHAT better :D |
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| vip9 |
Behind driver's seat - a screen is a bit wider that the headrest, plus the belt would interfere with my head resting :)
So, I attached it just below the headrest, and by lowering it I secured the screen. |
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| vip9 |
| 2nd AND 3rd row can enjoy... |
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| vip9 |
BTW, don't let the quality of images fool you - I considered the quality of picture very adequate - it was bright sunshine outside and I had a pocket digital camera :( - forgot my OTHER one home....
Anyway, the last pic just to show that the bag does not obstruct the middle console from being open. |
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| vip9 |
1 more screen can be purchased separately, or, the screen shown attached to the unit can be detached and used in the same manner as the other screen shown.
8' cable provided is more than enough to put a screen anywhere in the MDX, or at home, for that matter.
All in all I am quite satisfied with both the product and the result of its use :D
If you buy this or a similar unit, make sure a store has a liberal return/exchange policy as I had to replace the unit due to a "dead pixel" (Costco even refunded shipping costs!!!)
And NO, I am NOT affiliated. nor even a stockholder of Audiovox. :D |
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