Too impatient and too afraid to try the Corksport dash replacement, I opted for the SpeedLine dash replacement. There was no messing with the AC and the existing stereo. It sits on the top of the dash and looks built-in. I chose the Alpine 9857 which has a full speed iPod interface, displaying two lines of info, for example artist and song. With Focal speakers, the whole system is AWESOME! The Bose, even the premium model, is no comparison. The big cosmetic advantage is that it matches the finish of the existing dash and I didn't lose the piano black finish of the existing stereo/AC panel. The only disadvantage is that dash replacement isn't a perfect fit. It looks very good, but there is a very small gap in the back that might bother a perfectionist.



I had it professionally installed (Boomer of Nashua for those in southern NH or northern MA), which took all day, but boy and I am glad they did it instead of me. The car was taken completely apart (reminded me of French Connection), but they did a great job. The rear speakers and amp fit like a glove.

As you can tell, I'm pretty happy, but I if the Corksport works well, I might be a bit jealous. Right now, I'm relieved that I won't have to worry about losing heat or defroster.

Phredd

 

how much and whats the website.. i want one of these!

 

I got it on eBay from Speedline International. It's $209 plus shipping. Here's the listing:

Dash Kit

 

Pink Floyd

The panel looks good. Can you make a photo of the small gap you mentioned?

 

Nice setup dude.

 

Dark Side of the Moon has a lot of elements that make it a good test CD, like the heartbeat that I can really feel, the crazy laugh that sounds like it's in the center of the car (I think the center channel may be a detriment) and all the effects that sound so real. Not to mention the music, which is just crystal clear -- absolutely beautiful. (Hate the Bose)

I'll try to take shot of the gap later.

Phredd

 

looking at the pictures of the peice there doesn't appear to be anything inside to hold the HU in place.. do you know what the installer did to secure it? can anyone speculate how much of a pain in the rear it would be to secure it?

 

Definitely an interesting solution!

 

Damn, now I'm really tempted to ditch my 7" Lilliput with the dash tray and get this with a motorized screen. I'll sit on it for a day or two but I have a feeling this and a new screen are in my very near future....

 

how much was the install?? =x

 

If it doesn't have any kind of bracing, you can probably secure it to the housing pretty easily by making some small brackets and using fiberglass, JB Weld, etc. I haven't been under that panel yet, so I'm not sure about securing it to the actual dash.

 

I'll have to ask how they braced the head unit. They charged $75 just to install the head unit. Separate charges to install the speakers, amp and sub.

Phredd

 

im really liking this. can u use both stereos though? one at a time?

 

I don't know how practical it would be. The stereo operates just fine and it displays the stations, but the speakers are connected to the new head unit.

Phredd

 

do you have any side views of the dash kit? That looks a little bulky?

 

Hey Phredd...
how long did it take to get it?

 

i just ordered the kit....
anxiously awaiting its arrival....

 

Pat, are you sure you know what you are getting into?

 

It took about 3 weeks and that was with expedited shipping.

 

Can you take some very high resolution pictures from various angles. How does it attach to the dash and how is the stereo mounted in the kit.

 

Ok for a music lover, but doesn't match interior of car.

I bet you loose $2,000 in resale value with that.

 

Ray
Im not doing it myself....just gonna have a DVD put in....

I think it looks pretty darn good myself

 

Not a penny. I saved the old dash and if I sell my car, it goes right back on, along with the old Bose system.

Phredd

 

^^ Ditto Phredd

I dont understand why you would reduce the value of your car....that kit looks really noice....

PS...im not takin out my bose....i gotta nice sub hooked up already...so sound is good for me..

PS....those guys told me 4 days....i think they are confused..

 

I kept my old dash piece too. If i ever get rid of the car the stock speakers are going right back in and my avic n2 is coming with me.