Alpine UTE-72BT vs Pioneer? (With better EQ?)

[eBrooker]

Hey everyone, first post here

I have just bought a Lupo and want to upgrade the ICE. Currently has a double din but I want to rip this out as I don't like the idea of leaving a stereo on display :/

Anyway I have already bought a pair of Alpine component speakers (Alpine SXE-1750S) and there's also a cheapo 12" Edge subwoofer in the boot - so I was looking at the Alpine 72BT (http://www.halfords.com/sat-nav-audio/car-audio/dab-radios-car-stereos/alpine-ute-72bt-drive-less-head-unit-with-bluetooth-and-ipod) or, because the Alpine only has a 3 band EQ, a Pioneer - which seem to come with 5 band EQs.

I used to have ICE years ago, and had a separate EQ which I thought helped get a lot more out of the system (I love low, sub-bass!) - is the same still true today?

Alternatively, I am looking at an Alpine with a 9 band EQ (the 183BT at £119).

Here's a list of the 2014 Alpine head units - any other suggestions? http://www.alpine.co.uk/fileadmin/images/MainNavigation/Products/Charts/2014/productpic_2014_Head_Unit_Lineup_15_HUs_EN.jpg

Ideally, I want good sound above all other features - not bothered by CD playback or 'Facebook' connectivity.

So to summarise:

• Alpine UTE-72BT or a 5 band Pioneer? (If so which model?)
• or
• Get a better Alpine, either the 183BT or another similarly priced model (if so, which one?)

Cheers!

[eBrooker]

Hmmmm looks like the 2015 Pioneer range are just coming out, and I do like the look of the 8700BT http://www.pioneer.eu/eur/products/25/121/61/DEH-X8700BT/page.html (top of the range - but the model without DAB. EDIT - my bad, it's top of their 'new' HUs not the entire range).

Really like the uncluttered display, and the fact that its top of the range selling for £139 on Amazon..

Edited January 7, 2015 by eBrooker