Time to Replace The 8-Track...

ddustan · 11-12-2001, 05:03 AM

I'm thinking it is time to replace my old Motorola AM/FM/8-Track radio. I am looking at a cassette or CD at this point... but I do want to be able to add XMRadio satellite in the near future (one of the reasons for needing a newer system).

Anyone have recent systems in place? How about suggestions on repacement radios?

Thanks!!

toman · toman's Garage

I don't really know much about satellite radio, but as far as which decks to look at, I'd reccomend just getting something inexpensive that's easy to use, and has preamp outs so that you can also use an amp. Blaupunkt is nice stuff, and good quality. In a noisy car like a 914, you're going to need plenty of power to be able to hear anything, and there aren't any decks out there that offer that much. I personally like Nakamichi decks, they sound great and look awesome in older cars like porsches, but they're kinda expensive and don't come with any kind of satellite radio stuff.

ddustan · 11-13-2001, 04:53 AM

I hadn't thought of he amp! The radio I have now is pretty lame .. especially when the engine is above 2500 or 3000 RPMs. The amp would most likely take care of that!

The satellite radio can hook to the back of the AM/FM radio but has it's own faceplate. Sony has a little unit that can hook up in your car then undock and be taken in the house to plug into a stereo. You can read more at http://www.xmradio.com

Thanks for the note!

David

AaronM · 11-13-2001, 02:07 PM

Stupid question, but what are you going to do with that old Motorola 8-Track player?

Aaron

DSPTurtle · 11-13-2001, 02:13 PM

I have the 8-track also. Mine plays two tracks at one time though. Anyone know how to fix this or is there someone who specializes in these radios for rebuild? I would love to keep it as I think it definitely gives the car character. (As if it did not have enough already!!!)

toman · toman's Garage

here's a small list of places that rebuild old radios. http://www.imperialclub.com/TipsAndResources/ComponentParts/Accessories/AudioSystem/Resources.html
Most any electronics repair shop should be able to fix it, though, just to get it working. Some little independant TV repair shop would be a likely bet.

ddustan · 11-13-2001, 07:13 PM

I haven't thought much about what I will do with the Motorola. If I decide to get rid of it I'll contact you Aaron!

While I like character, I find very little storage for 8-track tapes!

David

cliff · 11-14-2001, 11:40 AM

I have a Pioneer DEH-2300 in my 914. It is satellite radio ready, I just have not got the service. The Pioneer has in In dash CD and 200 W total. If you run just two speakers in the kick panel, you can bridge the channels and have plenty or power without an amp.(depending on how noisy you motor is ...mine has carbs and still can be heard clearly.) As for speakers I suggest 4 X 6 Infinity plate speakers from Crutchfield, $89 for a pair on special good buy.

toman · toman's Garage

Quote:

The Pioneer has in In dash CD and 200 W total. If you run just two speakers in the kick panel, you can bridge the channels and have plenty or power without an amp

The 200 watts listed is the peak power of all four channels combined; the deck actually puts out about 20 watts per channel RMS. Bridging the channels of a head unit is not a good idea, because it decreases the impedence that the internal amplifier "sees", and most head units are not stable to below four ohms. So, it might work, but it might also destroy your deck.

cliff · 11-14-2001, 02:36 PM

It seems to work fine, but you are probably right. One way to get around that would be to use 8 ohm speakers in parallel. I have seen an 8 ohm set out there I just cannot remember where. That way the internal amp should see 4 ohm load.