Alpine iDA-303 head unit

For drivers who leave their CDs at home and rely on an MP3 player for in-car sounds, this new Alpine makes a lot of sense. The iDA range has dumped a CD player and used the single dash slot space to give comprehensive control over your choice of MP3 player.

Installation of the X303 version was simple in our test car and it was good to see everything you need in the box. This includes a full control lead for an iPod/iPhone and a USB extension cable, giving plenty of scope for mounting the music player. An AM/FM radio is retained, with a decent range of station presets, although these could be easier to select.

But digital music files are where this player excels, allowing easy navigation whether they are stored on an iPod, MP3 player or memory stick. While the iDA concentrates on digital music, it is expandable and can be used to control a range of add-ons including a DAB tuner, CD multichanger or Bluetooth hands-free kit.

Verdict

 * Rating: 3/5

 * Problems? Some functions are a bit fiddly, and rival units offer more for the money.

 * So why buy? Seamless control of all types of digital music players, excellent sound reproduction.