Source, Signal, CD Player, Radio, Etc

The source is a Sony CDX-M730 CD player. When new it was one of the hot things going, very flashy display and a lot of functionality to boot. I have previously had mixed luck with Sony items, but this unit has been solid. The mounting kit is chintzy though, the plastic trim bezel that goes around the opening in the dash has never fit well. My Pontiac's dashboard really is not great for a DIN sized radio (the size of most aftermarket head units) although it will fit with a kit. The radio protrudes about two inches past the dashboard and with the face flipped down, you cannot see the climate controls or use the front cupholder very easily. If that sounds petulant, you should understand that the ideal (for me) is to not screw up any existing functionality the vehicle provides when installing a custom audio system. I like what is known as a "stealth" installation, one that blends with the stock interior but can be revealed as well.

The CD player has a motorized face that flips down.  You can listen to it in either position (open or closed).  When it's closed, there is a very active display that could cause accidents on the road because it's fun to watch.  Included was a wireless remote so you don't need to open it except to change CDs. Why a remote? If this were installed in a van, for example...or at an audio contest, the remote would be very handy indeed. Otherwise the remote control succeeds mainly in getting strange looks from my passengers as they contemplate how lazy I could possibly be.

You can insert a CD and leave the controls exposed, which is what I usually do.  Open, it's equally cool to look at.  When you turn off the ignition, the faceplate closes and the panel is completely black.  It's removable and yes, I take it with me when I leave the vehicle. For those who like control, there are seven mostly useful equalizer presets and one you can do from scratch (Custom). The unit forgets all custom settings upon battery loss though, so don't spend too much time with - you guessed it - fluff. The source also has built in electronic crossovers and can drive a mono sub amp with the in-dash controls.

XM Radio: Update

In September 2004, I attempted to connect an XM tuner pack manufactured by Terk that was supposed to interface with my Sony radio and provide XM radio. Sadly, it did not work and Terk advised me that older Sony in-dash units do not work with the XMDSON100 adapter, there is apparently a software problem because 'Sony has changed their interface in the newer models.' Whether that's true or not I cannot say, but Terk did take my name, model of Sony unit, and phone number and promised to call when there was a fixed version shipping. In the meantime I had to return the once-backordered item to Crutchfield. If I get XM working, I will add information here about my experiences.

This is where the simple part of the stereo installation ends. The head unit drives two trunk mounted amplifiers, which in turn drive a pair of component 5.25" speakers in the front and a 10" monster subwoofer in the trunk.

Mobile Audio, Continued: Fixing the Weakest Link