I was and I'm so impressed with what I bought that I'd like to share it with you guys. A little backstory... I'm an Ipod nut and I'm also an integration nut meaning that I like things that are designed to work together rather than forcing things to work together. I want a device that looks stock and performs all the functions I need. I don't want a GPS mounted in one place, a monitor mounted in another, cell phone holder, etc. That type of stuff drives me nuts.

So I started radio shopping. I was pretty much dead set on the AVIC-D3 from Pioneer for $850.00 on eBay. Unfortunately I found out that it didn't have Bluetooth support (which I eventually wanted), would recognize my Ipod, but as an unknown device, and wouldn't play DVDs. Not a big deal and it did have navigation which I wanted. I sold my in-dash Eclipse and had just about bought the Pioneer when I came across a company called Valor Electronics.

Valor boasted a Dual DIN head unit that included (no add-on units necessary) a TV Tuner, DVD Player, 5.1 Surround Sound, Bluetooth communication, Navigation, and best of all: full Ipod integration with the ability to play video off the Ipod. To top it off, the price tag was ~$1100.

Ever the skeptic I looked for some reviews but couldn't find much. Having worked at a pawn shop in the past I'm aware of how crappy off-shore produced head units can be but the company showed plenty of pictures on their website and it all looked good. I bit the bullet and purchased it.

I'm glad I did. I got this installed a little over two weeks ago and it's great. What I forgot to mention was that the head unit includes two remotes, one for the front and one for the rear. The rear remote controls the rear "zone" and will allow those in back to listen to what they want or watch what they want (if you get extra monitors).

So then, what about the other stuff? Ipod integration is great. I select the song through the touchscreen and it comes up quickly. DVD play is much better than my Eclipse, TV reception is pretty cool (I can watch Cubs games now!), and my new favorite addition, the Bluetooth setup, is a lifesaver.

I'm a big fan of giving proper credit where it's due and I'd suggest that if you're looking for a head unit for your truck you give these guys a look. I'm happy I took the chance.

Here's the unit installed in my Excursion:

 

Looks nice. Which model did you get?