Alpine CTA-1502 Commander Receiver

Price Paid:  $160.00

Summary:
Deck absolutely kicks some major you know what. For a Measley $160 which includes install, you get a Receiver which not only offers 2 sets of 4v preouts, it also has the AiNet controller function, a nice full display with a spectral analyzer, a slew of decent useful features such as BBE, remote, etc... Overall pretend its a upper line deck without a CD tuner. With the new Alpine decks aside from the high line that doesn't even offer FULL 4volt preouts aside from their 'sub' out, its a nice alternative for those of you using amps to power them speakers.

Strengths:
4V preouts, remote, nice display, AFFORDABLE, AiNet feature.

Weaknesses:
3rd set of preouts would've been nice, but hey thats what the CTA1505 is for. Also the screen is a little bit hard to see in direct sunlight, but not too bad.

Similar Products Used:
Not many stand alone receivers to compare too

Price Paid:  $200.00

Year / Model Reviewed:
 alpine 1502R, 1999 model

Summary:
Just another reliable alpine product. It is not as good as 1505 but still worth those $200 paid. Sound is a bit specific and if you listen to classical music or jazz it may not be the best choice. If consider buying a second hand product please make sure that a manual is attached as without it you could easily spend 3 days trying to understand how to use all functions. Definitely one of the strongest contenders for the "Best Commander/Receiver" award back in 1999 but equaly good or better competitors may have arrived by now.

Strengths:
Clear sound, nearly all possible functions, descent graphics, BBE, convenient rotary knob

Weaknesses:
Detachment of the faceplate is not the easiest task (it could be an isolated problem relating to my unit only).
No separate subwoofer control.

Similar Products Used:
Different league compared to sonys, kenwoods, pioneers, jvcs, etc.

Price Paid:  $200.00

Summary:
I bought it brand new from Good Guys at their clearance sale for $99.90 With installation and parts, the total cost comes to almost $200. However, since I received a $60 merchandise card therefore the price I paid for it's totally worth it. This receiver delievered exactly what an alpine's is reputed for: Clear clean sound with excellent bass. The remote control is so useful and it's just make my driving really pleasant nowadays. But if you can get the CTA-1505, go ahead and get it. The manual is for both models and you will get the regretting feelings about your 1502 as it does not have as many features as compared to 1505. But once again, with the price I paid: ITS TOTALLY WORTH IT!! I LOVE IT!!

Strengths:
Easy to use, 4volts preamp output, BBE, Remote Control

Weaknesses:
Have to be installed by authorized dealer, no cassette or CD

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $600.00

Summary:
I paid $1000(AUS) which included the 6 stacker Cd. It sounded fantastic in my 1974 Chrysler lancer with 2 Sony 6X9's and 2 Pioneer 6". It was easy to control most of the features and the graphic display made it stand out from the regular decks available. The sound quality was great especially with the BBE function and the memory function allowed you to see which cd and radio station was on. Unfortunately I smashed my car and sold the stereo for $600(AUS). I wish I hadnt sold it cause it will be a long time till I get a stereo system as good as this. And how I miss my car...what a tradgedy. Anyone with a decent car and a decent set of speakers should buy this product.

Strengths:
Looked good
Sounded good
Easy controls

Weaknesses:
Sucked heaps of battery juice
Couldnt turn off graphic display which caused the above when the engine was not on.

Similar Products Used:
Pioneer in deck cd player