Help me pick a new head unit

[tomstin]

The head union in my E30 came with the car and is showing signs of failure. No bluetooth, basic unit AM/FM and CD (not that I've ever used the CD). Got in the car yesterday and the unit was partially on, very dim radio station on the screen, couldn't turn if off (all this without the key in the ignition). Pulled the unit out and it was HOT! Unplugged it and plugged it back in and its seems fine...for now.

I don't need anything too fancy. Reasonable sounding radio, bluetooth hands free calling would be a plus.

I'm a durable goods purchaser. Don't mind spending a bit more to get something better that will last longer. Searching on line, I'm confused as heck! There are so many options out there. I like the look of the BLAUPUNKT units but they seem very expensive for what they are. But of course, I'm no audio expert.

I appreciate any insight!

[Vincenze]

Pioneer SXT-C10PS
But it also costs $500.

https://www.r3vlimited.com/board/forum/e30-technical-forums/car-audio-electronics/10139777-retro-style-pioneer-sxt-c10ps

[khiobrien2]

I love my continental one for the $200 it costs. Yes, there are ones that look more correct, but it’s not by much and they cost 2.5x more. The continental matches the interior pretty well, the light color is definitely off though, but it’s the right idea. Bluetooth works well and it sounds good too. My only functional complaint is that you have to click the sound dial to turn it on every time you turn on the car. At this point 2 years in it’s habit, but it’s annoying at first

PS - I coincidentally commented on a super old comment of yours a few days ago. Please let me know if you ever solved that low idle when cold high idle when hot issue. At this point i’ve tried everything and will have to just live with it until I motronic 1.3 swap it haha

[82eye]

I love my continental one for the $200 it costs. Yes, there are ones that look more correct, but it’s not by much and they cost 2.5x more. The continental matches the interior pretty well, the light color is definitely off though, but it’s the right idea. Bluetooth works well and it sounds good too. My only functional complaint is that you have to click the sound dial to turn it on every time you turn on the car. At this point 2 years in it’s habit, but it’s annoying at first

PS - I coincidentally commented on a super old comment of yours a few days ago. Please let me know if you ever solved that low idle when cold high idle when hot issue. At this point i’ve tried everything and will have to just live with it until I motronic 1.3 swap it haha

others have posted on the continental as a good looking unit. the display can be matched better if you add a color gel.

[tomstin]

I ended up going with function over form and installed a Kenwood KMM-X705 which has Digital Radio, Satellite Radio (with adapter), BlueTooth along with the typical AM/FM. I got caught up in analysis paralysis reading articles and looking at reviews. Finally, I had to just make a decision and Crutchfield was very helpful. I had replaced the speakers while involved with other projects. Recently recovered the rear window shelf (a project in itself) and installed new speakers. WOW! The sound is dramatically better. I knew the old head unit was OLD, but I didn't expect such an improved sound.