When Alpine announced that they were coming out with a new HU that just required a cable for the IPOD, I said "I'm in"...I decided that the 9857 would be just the right model for me, but alas it's not supposed to be out until March. D'oh !

Fast forward to today, when it's well past the expected availability date for the 9857. Crutchfield says that they will have one mid-April, and I can't seem to find any other place that has one. ARGH !

Anyone else wanting this HU ? Or am I just a freak ?

I might look at getting something other than an Alpine. I myself have had very negative experiences with alpine in the past and I doubt they, as a co., have changed any. I hope it ends up working out if that is what you want though.

To each his own, ethos.

This is sort of typical for a lot of companies, Alpine included. They'll miss introductory dates on new products by a month, often more.

To each his own, ethos.

This is sort of typical for a lot of companies, Alpine included. They'll miss introductory dates on new products by a month, often more.

or not even produce a product like Clarion with the MAX675! :cry:

To each his own, ethos.

This is sort of typical for a lot of companies, Alpine included. They'll miss introductory dates on new products by a month, often more.

Outpost, it seems as though you're in the know about car stereo, and if I remember correctly you own a shop ??? IYO, what's a good reliable alternative to the 9857 (any brand) that doesn't have to have a separate "IPOD" unit ?

TIA !

The Alpine CDA-9856, which is generally available.

If you want great iPod control, it looks like Alpine is the best, especially in this price range. I've seen nothing to touch them. They are on their third generation of iPod adapters. They are ahead of the curve.

Really, medium-rare, is it that hard to wait one more month? Your requests are a contradition in terms. You ask for the latest and best technology, the most cutting edge stuff, and you aren't willing to wait for it to be produced.

EDIT: I just checked my email. Alpine announced a promotion on the CDA-9857. Through June 30th, they are offering the $30 iPod hook-up cable with the deck for free. With this deal, that probably means when the CDA-9857 does become generally available this month, they will be in good supply.

I don't really have to have the latest in technology, the 9856 would do just fine, except that it doesn't have a removeable face. And it seems in my city, it's a necessity.

You know how it is when you're waiting for something, then it gets delayed or postponed. It just makes ya crazy ! I just now checked crutchfield's website and they say that they're in stock and like you said are shipping with a free IPOD cable. Woo Hoo ! Apparently they're also giving free harnesses and stuff too....seems like a pretty good deal to me.

Thanks for your input !