Alpine i207-WRA (Any other head units I should consider?)

MallCrawl-JK

MallCrawl-JK

New Member
Joined
Feb 22, 2020
Messages
6
Location
Illinois
Hello.
I’m considering the i207 as an upgrade to my factory uConnect 430n.

Pros:
• i207-WRA looks to be plug n play for the JK
• CarPlay
• Optional accessory module to use touchscreen to control lights, winch, locker, etc.

cons:
• CarPlay isn’t wireless

Any other head units I should consider?
I really like the integrated switch control idea but if there are better head units let me know.
THANKS!!
 
Alpine is IMHO overpriced garbage.

Do what I did and get this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RF971JK/?tag=jkforum-20

Kenwood Excelon (far better than Alpine), wireless CarPlay, and a tremendously good head unit. Sure, it doesn't have the add-on module to control lights and other stuff, but I don't care about that.

I can't recommend that head unit enough, it truly is amazing!
 
Chris, do you have a picture of it installed? I assume you need to use a Metra or similar install kit to fill gaps in the dash opening? Also, are you using maestro to retain steering wheel controls? I was ready to pull the trigger on the Alpine for my wife's JKU because it seems complete and retains all of the controls. Also, she does have the factory Alpine system. I've been a huge fan of Kenwood over the years and would certainly consider that option.
 
MallCrawl-JK said:
Hello.
I’m considering the i207 as an upgrade to my factory uConnect 430n.

Pros:
• i207-WRA looks to be plug n play for the JK
• CarPlay
• Optional accessory module to use touchscreen to control lights, winch, locker, etc.

cons:
• CarPlay isn’t wireless

Any other head units I should consider?
I really like the integrated switch control idea but if there are better head units let me know.
THANKS!!
Click to expand...

Depends on your budget…but I would recommend choosing from Pioneer, Kenwood and Alpine.

I am interested in 2020 model of Kenwood and Pioneer below. These are a little bit pricy so there is another cheaper model is available from these manufactures.

Kenwood eXcelon Reference DMX957XR 6.8" Digital Multimedia CarPlay Receiver
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084BTBZTL/?tag=jkforum-20

Pioneer AVIC-W8500NEX 7-Inch AV Receiver with Navigation
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N1V56WZ/?tag=jkforum-20
 
Boosthead said:
Chris, do you have a picture of it installed? I assume you need to use a Metra or similar install kit to fill gaps in the dash opening? Also, are you using maestro to retain steering wheel controls? I was ready to pull the trigger on the Alpine for my wife's JKU because it seems complete and retains all of the controls. Also, she does have the factory Alpine system. I've been a huge fan of Kenwood over the years and would certainly consider that option.
Click to expand...

Hello, my
Boosthead said:
Chris, do you have a picture of it installed? I assume you need to use a Metra or similar install kit to fill gaps in the dash opening? Also, are you using maestro to retain steering wheel controls? I was ready to pull the trigger on the Alpine for my wife's JKU because it seems complete and retains all of the controls. Also, she does have the factory Alpine system. I've been a huge fan of Kenwood over the years and would certainly consider that option.
Click to expand...

My Jeep (15 JKU) has Alpine premium sound system and here is a list that I recommend to prepare if you want to replace to aftermarket radio. Please make sure these items are compatible with your Jeep before purchase.

Idatalink Maestro ADS-MRR2 Advanced Car Radio Replacement Interface
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083G2L9M2/?tag=jkforum-20

Maestro HRN-RR-CH1 Plug and Play T-Harness for CH1 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep Vehicles
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O27MR44/?tag=jkforum-20

Metra AX-USB-MINIB USB to MINI B Adaptor Cable
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I2ZIRVE/?tag=jkforum-20

Metra 95-6511 Chrysler/Jeep DDIN 2007 Dash Kit
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00133VQWE/?tag=jkforum-20

Stereo Antenna Harness Adapter for Installing a New Radio Into a Jeep, Wrangler, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016Z3584S/?tag=jkforum-20
 
Chris said:
Alpine is IMHO overpriced garbage.

Do what I did and get this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RF971JK/?tag=jkforum-20

Kenwood Excelon (far better than Alpine), wireless CarPlay, and a tremendously good head unit. Sure, it doesn't have the add-on module to control lights and other stuff, but I don't care about that.

I can't recommend that head unit enough, it truly is amazing!
Click to expand...
The unit you recommended is no longer available on Amazon. But they have other Kenwood Excelon units. Can you recommend a couple to me? Thanks, Rick.
 
jrchalkjr said:
The unit you recommended is no longer available on Amazon. But they have other Kenwood Excelon units. Can you recommend a couple to me? Thanks, Rick.
Click to expand...

It's been superseded by this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084C1M7TT/?tag=jkforum-20

These are amazing head units. Far better than anything Alpine makes (Kenwood Excelon is good stuff). I'd hurry and get one though (that's the last one for instance on Amazon) as the whole COVID-19 thing has dramatically affected head unit supply. My buddy who is in the audio business was saying that head units are almost all sold out and back ordered forever due to supply chain issues.

I'm actually shocked Amazon has one of those via Prime.
 
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I just went with the Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX. It was $100 less and has all the same features with the exception of the parking lines for my rear cam. I absolutely love it. I use Android Auto and it works flawlessly without wire. Don't waste money on the Sirius add on, I use my Sirius app and I know at least it works on Android Auto. Google Maps and Waze both work well. I use Waze. Since the unit comes with a GPS antenna, It always locates you so if you lose cell service your still on the map. For the install I used the Maestro ADS-MRR Universal Radio Replacement and Steering Wheel Interface along with the HRN-RR-CH1 IDATALINK MAESTRO CH1 / CHRYSLER, DODGE, JEEP HARNESS FOR ADS-MRR for easy wiring. Worked really well. If you have a factory amp and upgraded Alpine setup, the IDATALINK will keep that functioning. You will need an antenna adapter for the radio. I'm not sure if your going to use the USB in the center console or not but I could not easily find the uconnect module in my 2014, even though I had just helped a friend install a MVH-1400NEX in his Jeep a month earlier. They must have relocated it further in the dash. I used the BATIGE USB 3.0 & HDMI to HDMI + USB3.0 AUX Extension Dash Panel Waterproof Car Flush Mount Cable and mounted where the lighter would be on the dash, The other USB is in the glovebox. I never use Apple Carplay so I will just leave it there. Again the 4400 is exactly the same in every way. I couldn't justify the extra $100 for parking lines. I added the back up cam and there already there. I also added a front cam. I love it..
 
Chris said:
It's been superseded by this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084C1M7TT/?tag=jkforum-20

These are amazing head units. Far better than anything Alpine makes (Kenwood Excelon is good stuff). I'd hurry and get one though (that's the last one for instance on Amazon) as the whole COVID-19 thing has dramatically affected head unit supply. My buddy who is in the audio business was saying that head units are almost all sold out and back ordered forever due to supply chain issues.

I'm actually shocked Amazon has one of those via Prime.
Click to expand...
Chris, I'm amazed you were able to respond so quickly. I followed the link and purchased it. I couldn't find the answer to these questions: It's a
 
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jrchalkjr said:
Chris, I'm amazed you were able to respond so quickly. I followed the link and purchased it. I couldn't find the answer to these questions: It's a
Click to expand...
It's a 6.95", will that still fit in the '18 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited? And do you know if the rear camera will still work and if the steering wheel buttons are compatible. I couldn't find the answers to these questions. Thanks so much for you quick reply, I'm enjoying this forum.
 
jrchalkjr said:
Chris, I'm amazed you were able to respond so quickly. I followed the link and purchased it. I couldn't find the answer to these questions: It's a
Click to expand...
It's a 6.95", will that still fit in the '18 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited? And do you know if the rear camera will still work and if the steering wheel buttons are compatible. I couldn't find the answers to these questions. Thanks so much for you quick reply, I'm enjoying this forum.
 
I have a pioneer DMH-1500NEX and i love it. it has all the features i wanted. apple car play. android auto and may others.
 
jrchalkjr said:
It's a 6.95", will that still fit in the '18 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited? And do you know if the rear camera will still work and if the steering wheel buttons are compatible. I couldn't find the answers to these questions. Thanks so much for you quick reply, I'm enjoying this forum.
Click to expand...

Wait, is your 2018 a JK or a JL?
 
Chris said:
It's been superseded by this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084C1M7TT/?tag=jkforum-20

These are amazing head units. Far better than anything Alpine makes (Kenwood Excelon is good stuff). I'd hurry and get one though (that's the last one for instance on Amazon) as the whole COVID-19 thing has dramatically affected head unit supply. My buddy who is in the audio business was saying that head units are almost all sold out and back ordered forever due to supply chain issues.

I'm actually shocked Amazon has one of those via Prime.
Click to expand...
 
Will I still be able to use the hdmi port in the console and will I be able to use my iPod classic with this unit?
 
Chris said:
Alpine is IMHO overpriced garbage.

Do what I did and get this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RF971JK/?tag=jkforum-20

Kenwood Excelon (far better than Alpine), wireless CarPlay, and a tremendously good head unit. Sure, it doesn't have the add-on module to control lights and other stuff, but I don't care about that.

I can't recommend that head unit enough, it truly is amazing!
Click to expand...
Can I still use my steering wheel controls, charge my phone and connect my iPod to this unit?
 
Jeepsk8 said:
Can I still use my steering wheel controls, charge my phone and connect my iPod to this unit?
Click to expand...

Yes, as long as you buy the adapters with it that allow you to retain them.

Your iPod will connect just fine as it has Apple CarPlay.
 
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