The Bottom Line: $199 head unit $29 ipod cable $19 wireless remote (optional) highly recommended if you're on a tight budget but would like to get the sound quality your ipod deserves.

If you already own a 9856 and getting really frustrated like me, just because you can't change between playlist. and the tech support at crutchfield kept telling you that the ipod you have is not compatible with the 9856, then read this:

If you want to change between playlist, you have to turn the MIX ALBUM or MIX SONGS mode off. for some reason if the MIX option is turned on, the Alpine HU will not respond to the playlist button.

if you're thinking of getting one - it's the best deal for ipod integration right now (march '06)

The alpine 9856 is the best or should i say cheapest iPod solution on the market right now. if you're in the 70% percentile of US population that owns an ipod, the Alpine 9856 would be your best bet to integrate your ipod into your car audio system. it's time to get rid of all the FM transmitter and cassette connection.

Pros:

it cost $199 at crutchfield (step-by-step installation guide for your car, harness and wiring kit are all included - good for beginners)

Removeable face plate

Nice blue lighting - pictures on most websites shows green tint, it's actually blue. (this may actually be a con for some individuals)

ipod full speed connection cable cost only $30, and you get fully integrated ipod connection to the head unit. stow your ipod in your glove compartment, and all controls can be done through the alpine 9856 head unit. it even charges your ipod.

changing between playlist, browse by artist, or songs, all can be done through the headunit - without the need of taking your ipod out of the glove compartment.

sounds wayyyyyy better than my factory stereo. fell the difference in bass. or maybe i have a real piece of factory stereo crap (nissan xterra '01) LOL

MP3 playable. create folders in mp3 disc and they are accessible through the headunit as playlist.

HD Tuner and XM available (additional hardwares are required)

display could be improved. but there is a 9857 model for $150 more. heck, suck it up and use the $150 to get some speakers.

controls are somewhat hard to navigate - after 2 days of playing around, you'll realise that only 2 buttons are needed when changing between playlist.

wireless remote not included, $20 xtra.

faceplate is not motorized. but, it doesn't bother me that much.

changing between playlist can only be done if MIX MODE is turned off.

I love this HU and would recommend it to anyone that wants to integrate their ipod. for $230 it is a bargain right now, compared to the other ipod solution such as the $100 pioneer or kenwood option. or the $200 harmann kardon (which btw, looks sooo cool that those punks that live around my block will break into my car for it).

I have a $20 cruchfield coupon - i bought the apline 9856 from crutchfield, so they're giving my friends $20 off their $200 or more purchase, so if you'd like a $20 off coupon,here's the code:

Your Crutchfield Referral Code: p4ywc-2pf3q-20jkc)
Your friends enter your referral code at Checkout, and you can each earn a $20 credit.

feel free to email me if you have further questions, i'll be more than happy to answer any questions.