The factory radio in my 10 y.o. "mint" Ford Ranger was due for an anniversery gift. Self installed; no problems. Truck was happily surprised.
The audio quality is MUCH better than factory. The HD Radio is amazing and sounds as good if not better than a CD !! The preset equalizer settings alone with the usual bass and treble are all you need find a sound that works best for your car. I haven't tried the USB input or AUX or CD's with MP3 files yet.
I expected the controls to be a bit tedious to figure out, but all of the functions were easy to learn and pretty usable despite the typical tiny buttons. I thought the remote control would be an unused novelty, but it's somewhat handy and easier than the buttons when channel surfing. (Hey, it's exhausting reaching forward 8-12 inches- mmmmm, comfy armrest.....) The install kit for the Ranger and other cars convert a DIN and 1/2 dash opening to a single DIN opening so shallow storage area is created below the radio. This is a perfect sized spot to store the remote. (Face down so it doesn't slide out)
At night it's very pretty to look at with the blue backlighting, BUT the display does get washed out in bright sunlight, due to lack of dimmer control usually found on the factory radio.
Finally, the BTM-60 Bluetooth adapter is a MUST. The HD Radio rebate offsets the price so you can consider it a freebee. Even better, it actually works very well. As is the case with factory Bluetooth units that usually require a $2000 navigation system, it interrupts the music during phone calls. The sound/mic quality is ok. It links automatically with my Motorola phone whenever I turn on the radio.
Now, I'll bet those factory speakers can be improved upon too....
Get more detail about Dual XHD6425 4X50 Watt Bluetooth-Ready HD Radio and MP3 Player.
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