Products

By Simon McBride

14th April 2007

Playing an iPod through your car stereo is fast becoming a must for drivers. There are several ways of getting those thousands of files blasting out of the in-car stereo, but none gets closer to the actual player than this latest head unit from Alpine.

Unlike most permanently wired systems, the IDA-X001 does not use the headphone socket, but the iPod’s multi-pin dock. In our test set-up, the lead came through the glovebox, and was long enough to place the player securely in a centre console cubby. It doesn’t really matter where it is, though, as once connected you don’t have to touch Apple’s baby again, because all the controls are replicated in the head unit. Music can still be selected via the iPod, but why bother when it is easier and safer through the new Alpine?

We had no problems during our test, and ignored the iPod while on the move, especially as you can view album artwork on the IDA-X001. You can also switch to radio mode, as the head unit holds 18 pre-set stations on FM, six on MW, plus six more on LW. And if you want to cover all bases, the unit can control a CD changer. A top piece of kit, but FM transmitters are a cheaper way of getting MP3 in the car.

Alpine IDA-X001, price: £259.99 Rating: 4/5, buy from: 01923 711113, www.alpinecaraudio.co.uk