Pioneer DEH 445

Price Paid:  $249.00

Year / Model Reviewed:
 DEH 445

Summary:
It would be perfect I knew how to hook up the darn "door switch"!

Strengths:
Hey, this cd player is the best at reading cds. It doesn't matter what kind of shape it's in, it still plays. And sounds good! With four 12" Kicker comps in a single cab truck, it does it's job. Trust me!

Weaknesses:
Will someone please email me and tell me how to hook up the "door switch" in this puppy! PLEASE!!!!

Similar Products Used:
My JVC Kameleon is running a close race with the DEH 445 but pioneer still has it if you compare sound.

Summary:
A great head unit! After seeing several other friends choices in decks, i'm glad i went with Pioneer and will stick with their products. I paid around $200 and even though the remote stopped and the display isn't the easiest to read, i can't complain about a deck that never skips, sounds great, and has great options! My next Cd deck will still be a pioneer, but i'll go with a backlit screen and not leave the remote in my hot car! Pioneer is a great deck for the price!

Strengths:
Pioneer quality says it all! Skipped ONCE when i hit a pothole big enough to blow a tire, never again. Easy to find button layout with not a lot of unneccesary options, but enough to keep me satisfied. 2 sets of preamps, which is great for 2 amps, keeps options open

Weaknesses:
Display washes out too easily in the sunlight, new models with backlit displays and new tech. seem a lot better. Remote stopped working for no apparent reason.

Summary:
I have had the Pioneer DEH-445 for three years now in my F-150, and have had no problems with skipping - not even when I ran over Kenny. It sounds excellent, having a 94db S/N ratio that comes through in the clarity of the music - from Sarah Mclachlan to Snoop Doggy Dogg. I have changed from Sony 5 1/2" to Clarion 6 1/4" in the doors, and run a Pioneer GM-X702 to 8" woofers in Pioneer's 200W TRX-8000 boxes. I also run a HiFonics American Warrior Mercury 85W x 2 amp to the Clarions in the doors. The sound has punch, crystal clear highs and stunning low bass. Go PIONEER!