Alpine MDA-5048 Mini Disc

Summary:
I adore this unit, Alpine's best kept secret... aparently they are still manufacturing it, but a new one is due out soon. Hope it's not as tacky as the rest of the new alpine stuff. I had one paired up to a CDA-7846E and they were the best ever! My 7846 got stolen and insurance replaced it with a CDA-7852R. YUCK. If you are into MD's (or even if you're not and just want a good DSP) get this! Highly recommended.

Strengths:
Excellent unit - nice and clean display, visually appealing spectrum analyser. (and useful too!) Flip down face, adjustable contrast.

Weaknesses:
Some awful surround effects. Listening Position is handy sometimes. Most people will probably leave the EQ Flat. (esp at high volumes)

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $400.00

Summary:
If you have the chance to find one of these, pick it up. Although the Alpine web site says that it only will work with the CVA-1000 and the CDA-7949, this is not true. It WILL work with any Ai-Net head unit. I have the CDA-7940 and all of the features can be accessed. As for performance, this unit is remarkable. With its various sound processing modes, it can be customized to please any listener. I especially like the listening position selector to center the sound in the driver's seat. Minidisc quality is on par with most high end units. These have been discontinued and are rare to come across, but if you do, by all means get it, you wont be sorry you did.

Strengths:
3 Preouts
Display dimming
BBE, Listening Positions Selection

Weaknesses:
Wish the preouts were 4 volts

Similar Products Used:
None