JVC KD-LH3150

Price Paid:  $245.00 from EBay

Year / Model Reviewed:
2003 JVC KD-LH3150

Summary:
I've only had this unit in my car for about a week, but so far I love it. I had a Pioneer MP3 player before, but I like this one better. I like the 7 band EQ with 3 user memory slots- it has like 7 preset EQ curves, but I like having the 3 user ones for my personal preferences. The # of colors it displays is cool. You can set one for day, night, each source, or just let it cycle through all the colors. The trim ring also lights up if you want it too, which is cool. But the main reason I got this unit is because of the MP3 player and MP3 cd changer controls it has. It loads up the MP3's much more quickly than the Pioneer did (7300, I think), and the coolest feature is that you can display all the folders on the disc and pick the one you want to listen to. This way you don't have to go folder by folder to find the one you want to hear. It's a huge time saver, and very easy to use. You can also attach an external component with the rca inputs. I don't have a use for that, but it is note worthy. I'm currently using the internal amp to run the same door speakers my Alpine HU was powering, but I actually think that the JVC sounds better. It won't play quite as loud, but w/the 7 band EQ (vs. the bass & treble only of the Alpine) I can custom tailor the sound to my liking. My only real complaint is that this unit doesn't feel like it's build with as much quality as the Alpine. The way the face attaches to the unit is kinda chintsy, and it doesn't have a motorized face like the Alpine. But I'd rather be able to play MP3's than have a motorized face. Also, the carrying case is kinda thick, so it doesn't fit in my pocket w/my wallet very well. I also haven't been able to hook up the CD changer yet, but the JVC 12-disc changer plays MP3's as well, and you can shuffle play one disc or all the discs. Other than that, I'm very happy with it. I researched for about 2 weeks before finally buying, and I think this unit can't be beat for the money. I'm not a Sony, Panasonic nor Clarion fan, so I can't compare it to them. The Pioneer specs aren't as good, Kenwoods are not user friendly and the buttons are tiny, Alpine doesn't offer the EQ, and Blaupunkt doesn't come close to the features per $.

Strengths:
Sound adjustment, display graphics and colors, MP3's load quickly and search easily, 3 sets of 4V pre-outs.

Weaknesses:
Attaching the faceplate feels a bit chintsy, case for faceplate is too big, volume knob can be hard to turn.

Similar Products Used:
Alpine, Pioneer, Kenwood