[Dredd]

I'm sure you could ask that 5 times and get 5 different opinions.

I'm not using a marine one because I got a really good deal on a head unit that had all the features on it that I wanted (MP3, iPod, USB, Aux). If it doesn't last long I'm not out much money and replacing it isn't that difficult, in my boat. Also, mine has a cover over it like the ones posted above.

[DGR-Z246-98]

Hi Depman,

I'm just replacing mine at the moment, our's wasn't on the dash but on a separate switch panel just near the throttle. Have rebuilt that panel without the stereo hole, poss going to flush mount the VHF there instead.

For the head unit I went for the new Clarion CMS1 -> link

Plan to mount the main box behind the dash and have the separate display and controls sitting up on top. Also adding a wired remote on the transom for when we're chilling out while anchored.

Sounds like your best option is to replace the current one, but if you do want to change the location the CMS1 might be worth a look.

Good luck.

Steve.

[depman160]

Thanks for the option Steve.
I have found a decent stereo and speaker combo that comes with the waterproof cover like the one mentioned earlier in this thread.

I think I can do the whole project with minor issues. But, since the boat is tucked away for winter, i will have to wait for spring.

I will keep everyone posted on the project when its done and try to get photos of the process for anyone else who might try it.

Patrick

[RVSwisher]

Steve,

I am looking at the CMS1 for replacing the radio in my 1990 2000XL. Any problems with the install? Also, were and how did you install the head unit?

Thanks

Vance

[DGR-Z246-98]

Hi Vance,

No problems on the install, just had to extend the wiring harness a bit as chose to mount the black box a bit further back towards the cuddy rather than where the old stereo was next to the throttle.

I've gone for the optional Gimbal Mount BKU001 (by the way no one mentions that this is optional, from all the pictures it looks like it's included until it arrives!!!) have mounted it on the very top of the dashboard just below the windshield. I have my Garmin 276C up there to and the mounts are very similar so thought it was a good match looks wise and also easy to see/use when moving (always had to look down into the boat with the old stereo which isn't the safest thing!).

I'll take some pictures next time i'm down on the boat. Good option for me as I wanted to be able to control the iPod directly and have a display where I could see it, I could have just gone for a traditional unit with a wired remote on the dash but the ones with LCD screens are pretty small and hard to read when underway.

Hope that helps, Good Luck!

Steve.

[depman160]

Just a quick update....
I've chosen to go with the following stereo package....

Overton's® > Pyle Hydra Series Marine CD Receiver Package - Electronics > Marine Stereos > Stereo Package Deals : Marine Stereos, Boat Stereo Speakers, Packages, Accessories, Antennas

Seems to have all the components and is a reasonable price!

[Weezer]

I have a 1993 Barchetta. Iit is not a "Z" model. I heard that all Maria boats are pre-wired as if it were a "Z". I replaced the stereo recently (successfully). However, the boat only has 2 speakers. I would like to install 2 more speakers. Does any one know where the holes should be? Is it really pre-wired for more than 2 speakers? I need some adult supervision before I start carving holes in my boat. I am open to any help.

[Paul F]

On my 1995 there were extra wires already wired in the rear of the boat and also the bow area. All I had to do is add speakers.

Also, the side panels were designed to be lifted and removed which exposed the screws to remove the fiberglass interior.

[depman160]

Thanks for the tip Paul.
Hopefully the project will be taking place sometime in the next month as I hope to have the boat ready for the water by May 1st.

I will keep everyone posted on the install and hopefully get some helpful pics!

[Paul F]

Now that I think about it, all I had to do was lift off the side panels and the speaker wire was tied to the other wiring.

Very easy to get to!