Bluetooth head unit or cheap carputer?

[eclipsh]

The wifey got a new (to us) Subaru Forester a few weeks ago. She needed a stereo in it so I pushed her to install something with bluetooth calling for the added safety. Now she insists that I need to put a bluetooth unit in my car too.

I've been looking at bluetooth (and iPod) capable units but can't pick one I want. I'm also toying with just building a cheap carputer and adding bluetooth to it (not sure if the calling thing works, I haven't looked much yet) plus GPS. The nice thing with the 'puter is that I'd also be able to use it for tuning and displaying extra gauges if I do it right.

I saw some people have put together some expensive carputer units but I don't want a $700+ glorified head unit in my car. Anyone got ideas?

If I don't do the 'puter I will be putting in a new head unit. I'm thinking $300 or less. Any thoughts on that? I never use CD's but use the iPod in car constantly.

 

[j_biggz]

You want the best head unit under $300 I got the one for you
Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X994 WMA/ACC PLAYER USB AUX BLUTOT | eBay
I have the step down from this and I absolutely love this thing. Its top of the line IMO and gives you supreme control over your audio system. Its at least worth looking at

 

[eclipsh]

Thanks for the input. How do calls sound on the other end? We tried one stereo where the mic was so bad people could barely hear us on the other end.

 

[gst96spyderman]

Sony Xplod makes a cheap iPod/bluetooth compatabile combo for like 150 @ wal-mart. Comes with front USB and AUX port with a remote and removable faceplate. I use one myself, and the mic on it works great even with the top down. I'd recommend against a carputer since laptops are just as good, plus you won't have to worry about having the unit stolen out of the car.

 

[j_biggz]

Can't say I tried calling anyone on it but if its anything like the rest of the product it would be great