What's state of the art now? MTCE units? And what's next? - Android Head-Units

Boy, did I fall down the rabbit hole! I'm prepping my 2006 GMC Yukon XL to tow a travel trailer. I wanted a backup camera, so I started looking at Sony/Kenwood Android Auto units, then stumbled across a message Dasaito head units, so I Googled that and holy CRAP Toto we aren't in Kansas any more!
Okay, so MTCB/MTCC are the older boards, and the suppliers are cranking out MTCD boards now. Got it...
I'm seeing references to MTCE in version strings, but I can't find any discussion about them. What's the deal with these? Are they better? Are they image-compatible with MTCD?
Is there anything better than the current 32GB/4GB octa-core platforms? I see references to Intel-based platforms - are they better yet?
And are there any other families of Android-based head units besides the MTC* platforms?
I'm just a tech-nerd dad with two kids who wants to go camping, but suddenly finds himself in a strange and wonderful land... Thanks!

Buy a real head unit from a real hifi car producer, like jvc kenwood sony alpine etc...
Cinese unit will never be hifi headunit. Go for an android auto one, like JVC Kw-M870BT or similar. You get good audio quality, real warranty, good performance everywhere.

siggey said:
Buy a real head unit from a real hifi car producer, like jvc kenwood sony alpine etc...
Cinese unit will never be hifi headunit. Go for an android auto one, like JVC Kw-M870BT or similar. You get good audio quality, real warranty, good performance everywhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I'm wrestling with. The original plan was to purchase a Sony XAV-AX200 from Crutchfield. It supports Android Auto and has a physical volume knob (essential for road trips with kids). If I purchase from Crutchfield, I get the bezel surround for my truck, the PAC RP5-GM11 interface unit to mate up to the GM factory harnesses (including the Bose digital amplifer), the backup camera plugs right in, and so on. For a small fee, Crutchfield even pre-solders all the harnesses so you literally just plug the thing in.
Which leads me to a side question - do I use the same PAC unit to connect to these Android head units and mate to the steering wheel controls? I wonder if the Bose digital factory amp connects the same way... hrmm.

I should add that I have two additional motivations for using an Android head unit, both related to towing our 28' travel trailer:
I planned to purchase a standalone trailer TPMS system, but it would be great to have the head unit monitor the trailer's tires.
I use an Android app to level our trailer (put a phone on the floor of the trailer, and it sends the angular level to a second Android device), but I could run the receiving app directly on the head unit.

chrispitude said:
I should add that I have two additional motivations for using an Android head unit, both related to towing our 28' travel trailer:
I planned to purchase a standalone trailer TPMS system, but it would be great to have the head unit monitor the trailer's tires.
I use an Android app to level our trailer (put a phone on the floor of the trailer, and it sends the angular level to a second Android device), but I could run the receiving app directly on the head unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have my eye on the Joying JY-UO135N4PX5:
https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesal...id=SB_20180403143951&SearchText=JY-UO135N4PX5
At the time of this writing, the JY-UO135N4PX5 is not available on Ebay or Amazon. It is on AliExpress, but I'm not sure which of the sellers is the official Joying store, or all of them, or none of them...

chrispitude said:
I have my eye on the Joying JY-UO135N4PX5:
https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesal...id=SB_20180403143951&SearchText=JY-UO135N4PX5
At the time of this writing, the JY-UO135N4PX5 is not available on Ebay or Amazon. It is on AliExpress, but I'm not sure which of the sellers is the official Joying store, or all of them, or none of them...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI, Those Joying units are not MTCD/E. You will not have all the 3rd party support that the MTC units have.

carter.w.jason said:
FYI, Those Joying units are not MTCD/E. You will not have all the 3rd party support that the MTC units have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The mtcd/e units honestly are...a mess... MCU files and such. If you find the joying xxxP2 models....those are FYT SoM px5 units...gobwoth those...also means TWRP support and Xposed...and custom roms coming as well. The only downside is you can't install malaysk rom...but that seems to be bloated anyway. Take a look at the work done with the Intel joying...the P2 model is virtually identical to the intel save for the Px5 cpu...so lots of customoziation available

gtxaspec said:
The mtcd/e units honestly are...a mess... MCU files and such. If you find the joying xxxP2 models....those are FYT SoM px5 units...gobwoth those...also means TWRP support and Xposed...and custom roms coming as well. The only downside is you can't install malaysk rom...but that seems to be bloated anyway. Take a look at the work done with the Intel joying...the P2 model is virtually identical to the intel save for the Px5 cpu...so lots of customoziation available
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is TWRP all ready out for PX5? Never saw it. I've been reading up on all you guys work on the Intel side, made me jump ship and buy Intel. Or is all this still in the works for PX5? Will be nice to have as a backup, and once support matures a bit more.

carter.w.jason said:
FYI, Those Joying units are not MTCD/E. You will not have all the 3rd party support that the MTC units have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well crap, I didn't realize that.
Okay, so what do I really lose by that? I can still run a third-party launcher (FCC Car Launcher, etc.), right? I'm new to all this, so it's not a rhetorical question.

carter.w.jason said:
Is TWRP all ready out for PX5? Never saw it. I've been reading up on all you guys work on the Intel side, made me jump ship and buy Intel. Or is all this still in the works for PX5? Will be nice to have as a backup, and once support matures a bit more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once I get my hands on a P2 unit, yes, the bootloader is easier than the Intel to work with.

chrispitude said:
Well crap, I didn't realize that.
Okay, so what do I really lose by that? I can still run a third-party launcher (FCC Car Launcher, etc.), right? I'm new to all this, so it's not a rhetorical question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you can still run your own launchers. These Chinese units have a few bug here and there. For example the Joying PX5 sleep mode will kill background services that other apps depend on, giving you unwanted app crashes. You have to find work arounds for things like that. Short on time to go in depth tonight, but feel free to ask any other questions. Though the other devs here are better suited than me.

Link to the MCU version for this Joying unit:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frxm0uNSTtE&feature=youtu.be&t=1256
So guys, you've already lost me. So if I go with this JY-UO135N4PX5, basically I only get whatever updates Joying provides, and no other options - is that correct?

carter.w.jason said:
Yes, you can still run your own launchers. These Chinese units have a few bug here and there. For example the Joying PX5 sleep mode will kill background services that other apps depend on, giving you unwanted app crashes. You have to find work arounds for things like that. Short on time to go in depth tonight, but feel free to ask any other questions. Though the other devs here are better suited than me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm an engineer, so I regularly experience "analysis paralysis" while trying to make a decision. I get caught up on the details, which is especially difficult in areas like this where there are lots of details, but sparse and scattered over a wide area!
I want a 4GB RAM, 32GB ROM - pretty much because the numbers are higher, which makes me happy. I want a physical volume knob. I originally looked at the Eonon GA2170. The Joying unit caught my eye because it's got a SRC button, which would be handy for quickly switching between sources.
So given that I want a 4GB/32GB unit and a volume knob, what do you guys recommend that I look for?
Back in the day, I had one of the original Rio Car ("empeg") head units installed in my 1995 E36 M3. Man, that was a killer setup. I had my whole collection with me. I had a 60GB unit, which had to use two 30GB drives because drives were so small at the time.

chrispitude said:
Link to the MCU version for this Joying unit:
&feature=youtu.be&t=1256
So guys, you've already lost me. So if I go with this JY-UO135N4PX5, basically I only get whatever updates Joying provides, and no other options - is that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would skip the n4 px5, it's a different OEM that isn't easily modified. the P2 models are the best, although currently limited to 2gb/32gb

gtxaspec said:
I would skip the n4 px5, it's a different OEM that isn't easily modified. the P2 models are the best, although currently limited to 2gb/32gb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are the P2 units a board platform, similar to MTCD/E? Is Joying the only supplier for P2 units, or are there others? You mention that the P2 platform is currently the best - best in what way?
Here's a Joying P2 unit with the front panel I like (but limited to 2GB as you note):
https://www.joyingauto.com/joying-h...em-touch-screen-head-unit-with-bluetooth.html
I suppose I could wait until 4GB units start becoming the norm. Great information here, guys. Thanks a bunch. I'll make sure I give back to the community by documenting my install (and my on-the-road towing experiences!) once I get to that point.
- Chris

chrispitude said:
Are the P2 units a board platform, similar to MTCD/E? Is Joying the only supplier for P2 units, or are there others? You mention that the P2 platform is currently the best - best in what way?
Here's a Joying P2 unit with the front panel I like (but limited to 2GB as you note):
https://www.joyingauto.com/joying-h...em-touch-screen-head-unit-with-bluetooth.html
I suppose I could wait until 4GB units start becoming the norm. Great information here, guys. Thanks a bunch. I'll make sure I give back to the community by documenting my install (and my on-the-road towing experiences!) once I get to that point.
- Chris
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The OEM manufacturer is FYT (fyttek) they have a SoM module platform. The Intel Sofia by joying uses their 5009/6021 modules...they make a variety of modules for different resellers. Their latest SoM is the 6026 which is similar to the 6021, but with a px5 instead of the Intel. They are big in China, though a few resellers do use their platform to sell globally. They are not MTCD/E, they use their own MCU. I've had MTC units, as well as FYT based units, I like the FYT stuff better for the moment. Easier to work with.

I prefer my $299 Pumpkin 8.0 unit to my $1100 Alpine AA unit.

packetjunkie said:
I prefer my $299 Pumpkin 8.0 unit to my $1100 Alpine AA unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here, though I'm sure the audio quality on the Alpine is superior, functionality is night and day between them.

I wouldn't say the audio is hugely better. I have two setups I have done for my Jeep and F150 in the past 3 months.
Jeep: Alpine i207-WRA, JL HD905/4 Amplifier, JBL GTO609C Premium 6.5-Inch Component Speaker System - 2 sets, Rockford Fosgate Prime R1L-2X12 2x12" subwoofer box
F150: Pumpkin 8.0, Rockford Fosgate P1683 6x8" 260 Watt 3 Way Car Coaxial Speakers Audio - 2 sets, Rockford Fosgate P400-4 400 Watt 4-Channel Amplifier, JL 12" PowerWedge, JL Audio tweeters
The Jeep setup was over $3200, the F150 about half that (my goal was under $1000, but then added the PowerWedge subwoofer) - (prices include installation)
Using XM Radio in both the results are I have more lower end bass in the F150 due to the sub setup (and a Loudness setting that appears missing from the Alpine unit) and both have the same crisp sound. For streaming I feel the results are also the same at normal volumes.
Where the difference is, if you want to really crank it up the Jeep will go way and above the F150 with the dual 12" subs and better amp. But the reality for me these days is not cranking it, its just enjoying it without making my hearing any worse for wear than it already is after years of doing these kinds of systems.
I would gladly spend half what I spent on the Jeep.

I've spent too much time browsing AliExpress auctions, and I really like the button layout (with SRC button) of the Joying units. However, the only 4GB Joying unit with that button layout is the N4 (JY-UO135N4PX5) unit. The P2 version of this Joying unit comes in 2GB only.
Do you think the 4GB/32GB unit in the following AliExpress auction is a hardware clone of the Joying N4 unit?
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Fre...0dc0-4bcd-81df-8454ea163451&priceBeautifyAB=0

Related

190$ Head unit?

Hey guys,
I'm getting a new (used) car soon and am looking into the Android Auto scene. It seems overwhelming. Crutchfield only lists two head units available in varying, escalating prices (Pioneer and Kenwood), which I do not find attractive and don't really look to buy them.
I'm in the process of purchasing a 2014 Nissan Juke SL, which appears to be 10 inches deep, Double Din, Size Corporate. All the sizing aspects are a bit beyong my understanding at this point. I'm looking for some guidance. If anyone wants to chat some, that would be great. PM me .
I found this on Amazon, http://www.amazon.com/Android-navig...8&qid=1463593234&sr=1-3&keywords=android+auto
I don't even see a brand on it, so I'm afraid its something you'd see from Big Lots- cheap. Though I really like the minimalism of the buttons on the left.
for about 70 bucks more you can get a Joying one, that has 5.1:
https://www.carjoying.com/android-5...0-radio-stereo-audio-16gb-support-revers.html
Android auto needs to be certified. This headunit is a android head unit. the screen shot just has maybe automate installed or just a photoshoped picture of android auto(likely this)
This is a 1gb model, youll suffer from switching apps and not being able to multitask to many apps(music+navigation alone will use a good amount of memory)
Both 1gb and 2gb units cannot process automate or android auto smoothly.
Not only that most of these headunits will cause you headaches. I would call most of the android headunits DIY products since most support is non existent or extremely hard to understand translated English.
there are only a few android auto certified units. Most with prices closer or above $1,000. If all you are looking for is android auto, check out JBL Legend CP100. Otherwise Alpine, Pioneer, and Kenwood have them.
transitoyspace said:
Android auto needs to be certified. This headunit is a android head unit. the screen shot just has maybe automate installed or just a photoshoped picture of android auto(likely this)
This is a 1gb model, youll suffer from switching apps and not being able to multitask to many apps(music+navigation alone will use a good amount of memory)
Both 1gb and 2gb units cannot process automate or android auto smoothly.
Not only that most of these headunits will cause you headaches. I would call most of the android headunits DIY products since most support is non existent or extremely hard to understand translated English.
there are only a few android auto certified units. Most with prices closer or above $1,000. If all you are looking for is android auto, check out JBL Legend CP100. Otherwise Alpine, Pioneer, and Kenwood have them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the clarification!!
CadillacMike said:
for about 70 bucks more you can get a Joying one, that has 5.1:
https://www.carjoying.com/android-5...0-radio-stereo-audio-16gb-support-revers.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey thanks for the suggestion! I like the minimalism of the Joying
CadillacMike said:
for about 70 bucks more you can get a Joying one, that has 5.1:
https://www.carjoying.com/android-5...0-radio-stereo-audio-16gb-support-revers.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm unsure if this will work with all the input cabling? The Juke's camera doesn't seem to be a simple AUX in like the rear of the Joying shows. What would I do, a ton of adapters?
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NjMzWDYzMA==/z/-L8AAOSw34FVCV2~/$_1.JPG
thx

Brand name Quality Android head units for BMW E46

I hear a lot that chinese android head units are not as described and quiet bad in quality.
Usually if the unit is a no brand, its easier to get away with a badly made product.
Are there any good quality android head units?
There is only 1 unit atm that has some future (InDashNet Octacore). It also receives firmware updates (yes, really). But the most Android HU's from eBay and Aliexpress are not really good. And of course every seller says, High Quality... Lol
I to have a BMW E46, the indashnet is too deep to install it in a E46. I have an Ownice C200 and i am very satisfied about it and is made for the E46,but i am now waiting for the releases of the new C500 series this month. It's a octa core cpu, 2gb mem and supports 4G with android 6.0, i hope it will be a 64 bit cpu so the unit can be updated in the future to Android 7.0
GaMeR64, thanks for the tip but it seems the in dash is not a native looking design. Design is most important and it must look "original".
I'm leaning torwards ownice but i think i will wait for C500. The problem is waiting for products to release can take ages.
Flemischguy, can you use external microphone for the C200? How is the internal microphone? Does it work well?
GaMeR64 said:
There is only 1 unit atm that has some future (InDashNet Octacore). It also receives firmware updates (yes, really). But the most Android HU's from eBay and Aliexpress are not really good. And of course every seller says, High Quality... Lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In-Dash has way better specs than Joying, but Joying has released several updates for their units on their blog. Although I am very happy with my Joying, I am keeping my eye on the In-Dash thread, hoping they keep it up. Hoping those beefier specs will eliminate the lag issues
raptor18 said:
GaMeR64, thanks for the tip but it seems the in dash is not a native looking design. Design is most important and it must look "original".
I'm leaning torwards ownice but i think i will wait for C500. The problem is waiting for products to release can take ages.
Flemischguy, can you use external microphone for the C200? How is the internal microphone? Does it work well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use an external mic and my phone calls are very clear on both sides
Does in dash have their unit as a dynavid design? I can't find it online. And it seems too deep for e46?
Do they provide updates?
I think updates are important.

Best Android version + manufacturer??

So far, in all the searching I've done thus far before registering, I couldn't seem to find anything that really satisfied my wonders about these headunits.. The best versions seem to be the 4.4.x headunits, as it seems most people have problems with 5.1.x headunits (ie, lagging, crashing, etc) and there's now a few 6.0 headunits (Ownice C500 and Pumpkin I believe has one).
My problem with the 4.4.x headunits are that they all seem to carry 1GB of ram. 2GB seems to be the sweet spot, but is only found on a FEW of the 5.1.x headunits which inevitably seem to fail due to the seemingly awful roms. That being said, I'm highly interested in the Ownice C500 due to built in 4G (with sim slot), 2GB ram and a choice between 4core/8core (I'd be fine with the 4core, I plan on simply only listening to music and not running any apps except torque).
The problem with Ownice is that it changed name from Winlink directly to Ownice and dropped the old moniker, and I'm not too sure why. Pumpkin seems okay, but everything is 1GB ram I believe. Joying seems good, but it seems they have quite a few issues too. I know that none of these will be GREAT (price v quality issues, etc) but which do you guys feel are best? I'm super picky and don't make decisions until I know for certain that I'm getting exactly what will work for my needs.
Maybe I should create a poll?
Also, I'm quite attracted to the Newsmy Carpad but it seems they have some MCU issues and it doesn't seem to be the most premium headunit.
edit: I know that most of these units are mass produced by the same manufacturer, not sure whether to call these companies "manufacturers" or "distributors."
If you are so picky...then don't go to any of them.
All have more or less something wrong....but if you check for the price.... the mtcd type units (2gb ram) is under my opinion the best choice
Enviado desde mi D6603 mediante Tapatalk
ikerg said:
If you are so picky...then don't go to any of them.
All have more or less something wrong....but if you check for the price.... the mtcd type units (2gb ram) is under my opinion the best choice
Enviado desde mi D6603 mediante Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, in that case I might as well jump on a C200 and install a Malaysk rom or just pull the trigger on a C500 since I've got an extra LTE sim/line open and active.
fallrisk said:
Well, in that case I might as well jump on a C200 and install a Malaysk rom or just pull the trigger on a C500 since I've got an extra LTE sim/line open and active.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do Malaysk cook roms for c200?
AFAIK only cooked for MTCB and mtcd rk3188 chip.
C200 is not MTCD
Enviado desde mi D6603 mediante Tapatalk
I'm thinking the same things as you!
Mainly the issue with bluetooth, and handsfree mic is disturbing.
Apperantly JBL has a model on their way. CP100 which is a Carplay / Mirrorlink / Android Auto Head Unit. It has been delayed since 1Q 2016 so maybe it will hit the market soon?
It's 399$ though - but maybe the higher price is going to be shown in better stability and higher quality..
Mogelmose said:
I'm thinking the same things as you!
Mainly the issue with bluetooth, and handsfree mic is disturbing.
Apperantly JBL has a model on their way. CP100 which is a Carplay / Mirrorlink / Android Auto Head Unit. It has been delayed since 1Q 2016 so maybe it will hit the market soon?
It's 399$ though - but maybe the higher price is going to be shown in better stability and higher quality..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't forget the Sony XAV-AX100 is being released right about now.
A little more expensive but a good looking unit.
I'm trying to figure out my next move and it's hard at the moment.
I bought a cheap MTCD to replace my Newsmy that died earlier this year but there are a few things bugging me, like the Bluetooth that people can't hear me through and the broken h.264 decoding.
Still deciding if I try another unit like the Joying 2gb or Ownice C500 or do I just go with a Sony or Kenwood unit and know I'll get decent quality..
decisions, decisions...
Mogelmose said:
I'm thinking the same things as you!
Mainly the issue with bluetooth, and handsfree mic is disturbing.
Apperantly JBL has a model on their way. CP100 which is a Carplay / Mirrorlink / Android Auto Head Unit. It has been delayed since 1Q 2016 so maybe it will hit the market soon?
It's 399$ though - but maybe the higher price is going to be shown in better stability and higher quality..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll have to look that up, does it run Android on its own though? I'd really like to have Torque as I drive a Subaru and would like to make sure she's not gonna die on me (132k and tickin along).
leonkernan said:
Don't forget the Sony XAV-AX100 is being released right about now.
A little more expensive but a good looking unit.
I'm trying to figure out my next move and it's hard at the moment.
I bought a cheap MTCD to replace my Newsmy that died earlier this year but there are a few things bugging me, like the Bluetooth that people can't hear me through and the broken h.264 decoding.
Still deciding if I try another unit like the Joying 2gb or Ownice C500 or do I just go with a Sony or Kenwood unit and know I'll get decent quality..
decisions, decisions...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The AX100 looks promising but it doesn't run Android on its own sadly! The benefit of mirroring both Android and iOS is awesome though. Not too sure if I'd prefer having CarPlay to rely on or if I'd rather have a standalone unit that I can tether BT for calls.
ikerg said:
Do Malaysk cook roms for c200?
AFAIK only cooked for MTCB and mtcd rk3188 chip.
C200 is not MTCD
Enviado desde mi D6603 mediante Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm. I thought I had answered you but apparently not. I thought the C200 was an MTC headunit due to running an rk3188 AFAIK??
fallrisk said:
The AX100 looks promising but it doesn't run Android on its own sadly! The benefit of mirroring both Android and iOS is awesome though. Not too sure if I'd prefer having CarPlay to rely on or if I'd rather have a standalone unit that I can tether BT for calls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, the JBL and Sony don't run Android themselves.
Personally, I'm realizing that apart from being able to customize it a bit more, I don't care for most of my usage.
Android Auto or Carplay running on good hardware that gets the basics right is almost more important to me now.
fallrisk said:
Hmm. I thought I had answered you but apparently not. I thought the C200 was an MTC headunit due to running an rk3188 AFAIK??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. It is not MTCD unit.... completely different mcu.... even having same rockchip soc
Enviado desde mi D6603 mediante Tapatalk
If you want to run CarPlay or Android Auto, the sweet spot price/performance wise is the Pioneer AVH-4200NEX.
Costs twice the typical Chinese android head unit ($500), but it's rock solid reliable.
On the other hand , the MTCB or MTCD units are far more customizable. And cheaper.
tbd2k2 said:
If you want to run CarPlay or Android Auto, the sweet spot price/performance wise is the Pioneer AVH-4200NEX.
Costs twice the typical Chinese android head unit ($500), but it's rock solid reliable.
On the other hand , the MTCB or MTCD units are far more customizable. And cheaper.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah those NEX units are SWEET, but I'm a broke college student so I can JUST afford a Chinese unit. I definitely would've splurged on a NEX or the AX100 if I had the money (which I don't). :\
That's why I'm looking to figure out the general feelings about which manu.'s are best and what everyone feels is the best unit or MCU/Android Version combo.
leonkernan said:
No, the JBL and Sony don't run Android themselves.
Personally, I'm realizing that apart from being able to customize it a bit more, I don't care for most of my usage.
Android Auto or Carplay running on good hardware that gets the basics right is almost more important to me now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would love to customize but im startin to realize it's just the geek side of me that thinks that. After all i just want hassle free in car entertainment and Auto / Carplay delivers that.
tbd2k2 said:
If you want to run CarPlay or Android Auto, the sweet spot price/performance wise is the Pioneer AVH-4200NEX.
Costs twice the typical Chinese android head unit ($500), but it's rock solid reliable.
On the other hand , the MTCB or MTCD units are far more customizable. And cheaper.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Pioneer AVH-4200NEX is way too expensive compared to the JBL and Sony mentioned in this thread.
Mogelmose said:
I would love to customize but im startin to realize it's just the geek side of me that thinks that. After all i just want hassle free in car entertainment and Auto / Carplay delivers that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's my issue too. I've had a couple of units, thinking i'll write my own launcher and stuff and have a great time..
In the end, I spend so much time fighting with the basics to just listen to the radio or make a phone call.
Android Auto / Carplay is the changer for me with decent maps, phone and messages without the hassle.
I'll probably still play around with a tablet in the car or something, but the main unit will be a brand name one that handles all the day to day stuff.
Mogelmose said:
I would love to customize but im startin to realize it's just the geek side of me that thinks that. After all i just want hassle free in car entertainment and Auto / Carplay delivers that.
The Pioneer AVH-4200NEX is way too expensive compared to the JBL and Sony mentioned in this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several places sell these Pioneer NEX and the equivalent Kenwood units (factory rebfurb) for $50-100 less.
Pioneer also has a cheaper option, the Appradio, which deletes the DVD player and some other features, but still gives you good Bluetooth and CarPlay. They do not advertise Andoid auto, but it has good Android support.
Crutchfield has it on sale $499 after rebate.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_130SPDA120/Pioneer-SPH-DA120-AppRadio-4.html
JVC is coming out with a new DVD head unit that supports CarPlay, but they are not supporting Android Auto yet, apparently. JVC is actually owned by Kenwood, and most people are satisfied with their higher-end models.
That Sony looks interesting, have not heard much from the people who have gotten it though. It's brand new...the Pioneer and Kenwoods are in their third gen CarPlay/Andoid auto models and have worked though many little bugs it seems.
The JBL Android auto head unit seems to be infinitely delayed.
The JBL Android delay could be connected to the Harman (Who owns JBL) is about to be sold to Samsung.
Samsung wants Harman so they can compete in "connected technology" which in my terms also include Head Units.
I'm from Denmark, the Pioneer AVH-4200NEX is not sold here.
The frequencies used in some other countries, like Europe, are even (102.8).
The frequencies used here in the US are odd numbers (102.7) and can not be changed.
I guess that's why it's an US only Head Unit.
THe SPH-DA120 is sold here. It looks promising. It doesn't support Android Auto though.
So i'm thinking.. How bad can it be?
You need a HDMI cable, an HDMI adapter. Then you need to setup som funky Bluetooth settings. And after all that **** you can stream music and talk on the phone. No Navi-mirroring etc.
No way i'm going to buy an Iphone to get this to work. So the DA120 is still a no go.
Take a look at this youtube video to see what i mean https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvTU7fVnmRs
Can someone please tell me why it so hard to put in "Hassle free" and both Wireless Android Auto and Wireless Apple Carplay in to a Head Unit

Advice needed on first Android head unit

I have a 2007 GMC Yukon XL Denali with the premium BOSE system, factory NAV, XM, and rear flip down screen. What is most important to me is retaining BOSE, being able to use the factory backup cam, and being able to utilize the rear screen so my son can watch a DVD or video files I load on a USB/SD card. I believe with a couple of adapters, it can work if the unit supports it.
I have scoured the internet for weeks now trying to learn what I can about the cheap Chinese units. I understand there are just a few producers and 100's of resellers but all this stuff is still new and confusing . I am considering the Hizpo 7.1 unit(Android 7.1 Lollipop OS, CPU: Rockchip PX3 Cortex A9 Quad Core 1.6GHz, Nand Memory: 16GB, RAM: DDR3 2GB), amazon number B077SBX8CG. I believe these are MTCD_GS units. I want to be able to get the most out of this thing and am not afraid of using custom roms. What I don't want to do is get one that no one is modding. Is there much aftermarket support for this unit?
The hardest things to find out for me have been:
1. Can my son watch a video in the back while I have navigation running on the front screen? I think use of the RSE requires Metra GMRSAV adapter but not sure.
2. Can the unit feed my factory backup cam? I think it would require the Metra BackupCam adapter.
I would appreciate any thoughts you guys do have. I have no Android preference, just want something that runs smooth, and can be tweaked. Thanks
Anyone?
Anyone have any thoughts?
Krmnnghia said:
I have a 2007 GMC Yukon XL Denali with the premium BOSE system, factory NAV, XM, and rear flip down screen. What is most important to me is retaining BOSE, being able to use the factory backup cam, and being able to utilize the rear screen so my son can watch a DVD or video files I load on a USB/SD card. I believe with a couple of adapters, it can work if the unit supports it.
I have scoured the internet for weeks now trying to learn what I can about the cheap Chinese units. I understand there are just a few producers and 100's of resellers but all this stuff is still new and confusing . I am considering the Hizpo 7.1 unit(Android 7.1 Lollipop OS, CPU: Rockchip PX3 Cortex A9 Quad Core 1.6GHz, Nand Memory: 16GB, RAM: DDR3 2GB), amazon number B077SBX8CG. I believe these are MTCD_GS units. I want to be able to get the most out of this thing and am not afraid of using custom roms. What I don't want to do is get one that no one is modding. Is there much aftermarket support for this unit?
The hardest things to find out for me have been:
1. Can my son watch a video in the back while I have navigation running on the front screen? I think use of the RSE requires Metra GMRSAV adapter but not sure.
2. Can the unit feed my factory backup cam? I think it would require the Metra BackupCam adapter.
I would appreciate any thoughts you guys do have. I have no Android preference, just want something that runs smooth, and can be tweaked. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same SUV. My HU is my own from a business venture where I went to China, met ODMs, and had a nice plan that simply didn't work out. The problems I get frustrated with are:
(a) Bluetooth voice quality. There is no comparison to Parrot although Xtrons new 8.0 units use (company acquired by Motorola but I forget the name). So make sure you ask WHO makes the BT. (Note: external microphones never are an improvement from my testing)
(b) Boot time. More apps = more waiting.
(c) Brightness at night is something I constantly have to manually adjust...auto is not auto.
(d) External amps are a waste - will not be worth it. The DAC sucks in these chipsets. Internal amp sound will be sufficient.
(e) Rockchip is better than Allwinner - and the old Intel Sofia units have the most customization from what I can gather.
So if I were to buy another unit I'd look at Xtrons, Pumpkin, Eonon, Joying, Ownice, and maybe LinksWell when they come out with a compatible or generic HU (they are the only one on this list with a US office.)
Also, you will need to customize a dash install kit - easy to find but I had to Dremel mine down to fit nicely. These units are slightly larger than Japanese standard size.
esounds said:
I have the same SUV. My HU is my own from a business venture where I went to China, met ODMs, and had a nice plan that simply didn't work out. The problems I get frustrated with are:
(a) Bluetooth voice quality. There is no comparison to Parrot although Xtrons new 8.0 units use (company acquired by Motorola but I forget the name). So make sure you ask WHO makes the BT. (Note: external microphones never are an improvement from my testing)
(b) Boot time. More apps = more waiting.
(c) Brightness at night is something I constantly have to manually adjust...auto is not auto.
(d) External amps are a waste - will not be worth it. The DAC sucks in these chipsets. Internal amp sound will be sufficient.
(e) Rockchip is better than Allwinner - and the old Intel Sofia units have the most customization from what I can gather.
So if I were to buy another unit I'd look at Xtrons, Pumpkin, Eonon, Joying, Ownice, and maybe LinksWell when they come out with a compatible or generic HU (they are the only one on this list with a US office.)
Also, you will need to customize a dash install kit - easy to find but I had to Dremel mine down to fit nicely. These units are slightly larger than Japanese standard size.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the insight! I believe these are GS units so exactly the same as the Xtrons. Hard to get details on the web but will know everything when it arrives on Saturday. I bought with Amazon Prime so if anything is not to my liking, back it goes for a free return!
Lets hope its one that folks have modded before. Since I have yet to find a video of this unit in my vehicle addressing my specific camera and screen questions, I will try and do a solid review of the unit and post it here for folks.
Thanks
Krmnnghia said:
Thanks for the insight! I believe these are GS units so exactly the same as the Xtrons. Hard to get details on the web but will know everything when it arrives on Saturday. I bought with Amazon Prime so if anything is not to my liking, back it goes for a free return!
Lets hope its one that folks have modded before. Since I have yet to find a video of this unit in my vehicle addressing my specific camera and screen questions, I will try and do a solid review of the unit and post it here for folks.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That should have a Ralink BC8 for bluetooth 3.0 (maybe 4.0) in which case your handsfree should be fine. They have 1.5-3.0V output on RCAs which is terrible but I'll keep my fingers crossed for you as this is standard output power for any Chinese Android HU.
esounds said:
That should have a Ralink BC8 for bluetooth 3.0 (maybe 4.0) in which case your handsfree should be fine. They have 1.5-3.0V output on RCAs which is terrible but I'll keep my fingers crossed for you as this is standard output power for any Chinese Android HU.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know! I don’t plan on running any external amps. My loud music days are over so I guess not too concerned about the RCA’s ?
Looks like it is a PX3, 7.1.2, MTCE_XRC_V2.75_1
Hooked it up after a lot of guess work because you know...no instructions. I have a low level hiss which is annoying, each turn of the volume knob gives a audible "thump" even when there is no audio playing, the unit doesn't fit in my vehicle unless the wifi antenna is NOT plugged in, and I can't seem to get BT audio to play.
I didn't have a ton of time to play today but I will tomorrow. Not sure if I have some interference with the wires in the back or if this is just par for the course and I need to return it and re-order a different unit until I get one that works the way I want it to.

Which Unit??

hello all, new here although i have ready many posts.
I have posted in another forum about head units, i have a Ford Focus 08 model so have joined the ford owners club forum for advice but i think some of my issues would be best answered in a place like this.
I have recieved some good feedback but i think i may have exhausted them with particular units.
I seem to have found some answers to my original post but have now dwindled my choice down to 3 so i need more help if at all possible...
so my post today was about how i have come to the choice of these 3..
XTRONS TE103AP
or
EONON GA2168
or
EONON GA2168k
The XTRONS is the top spec i can find on a 10" screen which could be overkill for my focus but it looks great in some vids i have seen, its also the only 10" that has 4gb RAM and 32gb ROM with octacore and Android 8.0 which was reccomended above so it has pretty much got me. the screen is detachable although slightly more longwinded to take off than some pumpkin and eonon models of similar size that i found. Also being black friday/cyber monday weekend i could get it with a fair whack off the price (£240ish on their site). My only worry is it doesnt look like it comes with the CANBUS adapter, i also am not too familiar with what that even is, is it just for steering wheel controls (which i dont have) or is it for the stalk aswell?
As for the EONON GA2168, that screen is better detachable and is also octacore however it is only Android 7.1 (is that a major difference?) its also only 2gb RAM and not 4 (again not too sure about this, would a car stereo really benefit from more than 2gb? This also doesnt seem to come with the CANBUS adapter but does come with a free rear cam or dash cam and is £247
And finally the EONON GA2168K which is very simlar obviously but is only 16gb ROM and again 2gb RAM but this time with Android 8.1 but only quadcore processor without CANBUS and also comes with free cam of my choice and is cheaper at £217
Both XTRONS and EONON offer similar spec stereos that will fit right into my hole that are only 7" however but do for some reason come with CANBUS decoder/box (is that the same thing?)
So im swaying toward the XTRONS, better spec and all that but will i need to but this CANBUS thing? Any help would be greatly appreciated, sorry this was a bit longwinded but i have spent many hours now researching/spreadsheeting/doing my missus head in with all this now and want to purchase while these deals and offers are on. Hopefully some of you may have experience here.
Thanks in advance for any input :good:
understandably i cant post links to the actual units or my original thread on the owners club but hopefully some of you will know which units i am refering to. Thanks
I have the ga2168k from Eonon...
Had it only a short time now but so far I love it.
Now, I'm using it as a daily driver in a Ford f550 superduty.... not entering it into a show...going to car club gatherings or anything of the sort. I wanted it because I needed GPS, hands free calling and that 10.1 BIG display just fits a Ford F550 well as it is a lot of truck.
Perhaps the more memory one may be better for you if you are watching things on it... or doing some crazy things with it... for a simpleton like myself, it's perfect.
Which did you go for in the end?
Im pretty much in the same position as you, torn between which 10.1 to go with... Pushing slightly more towards the Eonon GA2168K
mdis89 said:
Which did you go for in the end?
Im pretty much in the same position as you, torn between which 10.1 to go with... Pushing slightly more towards the Eonon GA2168K
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just installed a GA2168K yesterday in my 2006 GTO.
One thing I noticed in the included harness adapter is they have constant battery power and accessory power swapped.
Installed it with their R0008 dash cam that came with it. No DVR app. Finally found the main config menu (hidden by password 8888) and enabled DVR.
It does not detect the camera. it was working fine with my GA2170. Went to their website and was looking to see if they had a different camera available, and that is the only one. However, on the R0008 camera product page it gives a list of HU's it isn't compatible with, and the GA2168K is one of those. Sent support an email, hopefully will have an answer Monday on that. The other frustration is that half the settings they show in the user manual and online, aren't showing up in the actual menu's. Hoping they can send me a newer Firmware/OS that enables those... And finally, there is no seperate control for subwoofer like there was in the GA2170 Looks like I need to buy the remote amp level control and run a new cable to the trunk
Another issue... It is advertised as having 18 FM presets and 12 AM. It only allows me to store 6 of each...
Dears,
anybody tried Eonon GA2178 - 10" Android 9 Head Unit?
I'm actually on Eonon GA2168K - 10" Android 8 Head Unit, it's a good device with minor problems.
Anytime developers fix a problem they introduce an other problem and there's no community support for MTK chipsets.
Because of this I'm evaluating the new Eonon GA2178, that is quite similar but based on Rockchip chipset.
Tks!

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