Okay, so I am not a "pro" audio installer it is just a hobby that allows me to putter around, play with solder and copper wire, and hurt my ears. With that said, I am on a pretty tight budget so even the "cheap" components put a dent in my wallet, forcing me to make my purchases over time. I am going to post this review under each of the components listed below, so here is what I have built for my old SUV as of 3/1/16:
Head Unit: http://www.amazon.com/BOSS-625UAB-Single-DIN-MECH-LESS-Detachable/dp/B00B65J5B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457824650&sr=8-1&keywords=boss+625uab
This little unit was received as a gift, but purchased on Amazon. I selected it based on bluetooth connectivity and DIN size. Radio reception is pretty typical. Playback from USB and SD is clunky but acceptable. Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls has a thin, tinny sound at the other end, but of course it sounds really good in the passenger cabin when it comes through all of the speakers. I actually have a philosophical objection to phone calls in a vehicle, so I don’t use it. It shines for me as a bluetooth receiver for my media player; no noise or distortion, instant connection once paired, and reliable while connected. I haven’t had a bluetooth battle royale to see if a passenger’s device will disconnect mine, but maybe someday in the future I will find out for certain. The EQ presets are pretty darned limited, but if you do what I did and pair it with an external equalizer, then everything will be fine for you. It is a very acceptable substitute for the stock Ford radio, so buy with confidence.
Equalizer: http://www.amazon.com/Power-Acoustik-PWM-16-Pre-Amp-Equalizer/dp/B000KHYQGM/ref=sr_1_1?…