SeaRefractor
Member
- Joined
- Jan 23, 2018
- Posts
- 30
- Reaction score
- 17
- Location
- Normandy Park, WA
- Ram Year
- 2016
- Engine
- Hemi 5.7
This forum is like other Ram and FCA forums in that there is a lot more information about upgrade options with "newer" OEM equipment than with traditional aftermarket equipment or "android-based" equipment. That's not a criticism its just an observation from a new late model Ram owner trying to decide what he wants to do.
Some of the "mysteries" I'm trying to sort out include...
For traditional aftermarket solutions (JVC, Kenwood, Sony, Pioneer, Alpine, etc)
- what exactly is required for complete SWC retention, and which adapter solution is best (PAC, Axxess, Crum, iDataLink, etc.?)
- if I want a 9+ display unit, can I buy a unit with a single din chassis and not have to take a saw to the frame inside the bezel and replace the bezel?
For android-based solutions (Daisaita, Joying, etc)
- have we gotten to the point where the higher end units with DSP, etc. where the higher resolution and Android 10 features plus lower cost is a good decision?
- the idea of returns to China is frightening...will the market be "stuck" with $500 versus $200, $700 versus $350 and $1000 versus $500 forever?
- you would think that someone would enter the market offering local android-based solutions (cost, features, warranty).
The youtube videos on this topic are usually either an installer rationalizing why traditional is the better option or android fanboys promising that the features and cost of the android-based solution justify the risk of buying from Yangtzee Province. Nobody is really addressing the "gap" between these two solutions.
Part of the reason you don't see a lot of the aftermarket in this thread is that the details of what you need are answered by Crutchfield. I've used them on three different car/truck installations. Just did a Kenwood DDX9707S in my 2016 RAM 1500. Best part, even if you don't purchase from them, you can see what is required for the radio. Just walk through "find what fits my vehicle" and answer as much as you can. Next select filter on the features you are looking for. If you want the factory vehicle settings make sure to select "idatalink port" under "General Features" as a feature you need. Then select the radio that meets your price range. Now click on the "modified fit in your ram" to see the selections, there will be the full kit of parts that includes the steering wheel controls and features and the cheaper option just to get it installed. Clicking on each part will provide you the details.
However, in all of my searching, I find that Crutchfield does a great job on price (steep discount on the extra parts you need) and I've had great warranty support. One radio I returned as it just didn't meet my wife's needs and I just paid the difference for the model that did. I sent the other back as RMA once the new one was installed. Totally no hassle.
Again, the details will help you determine the parts for local BestBuy or other audio retailer of your choice.
Crutchfield also provides a guide on the installation process and clear details on the wiring harness crimps to perform.