Well, after researching this forum and others and asking around and shopping different places I finally walked into Custom Sounds here in Austin, Texas and had them install an Eclipse 3413. They had previously installed keyless entry and did a great job then too.

The Eclipse had a muted look and all the features I wanted. They did not bypass the fader or have to rewire speakers, amps etc.

Fader works better than ever, speakers sound better. Previously the speakers crackled and the fader crackled when moved. I hardly ever listened to the sounds system. And I gave the sales rep, Sam all the ammunition if he wanted to upsell me. I told him I thought the speakers were bad and that I had heard he would probably have to by pass the fader. He then said probably just need to blow out the dirt that collects with the dust on the fader and it would work fine.

So I was pleasantly surprised to find all was just as he said. No extra charges, no surprises...except a great sound system for a great car.

Thanks everyone who has posted about audio systems before. I used your advice and experience to guide the way.

Tony

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1989 300SE 155k
1998 HD Road King/Iron Butt Member)
2006 Nike Air Max Moto

Hm.. I was going to run some electronics cleaner down through mine. I just replaced my dash speakers and I found that gong from the 6 Ohm to 4 Ohm speakers just made the fooked up fader controls issues that much more audible.

Hm.. I'll yank it back out and blow it out with air. Why didn't I think to try that ( slapping forhead ) I'm glad you posted your comments.

How do you like the radio. I've not seen Eclipse untis for a long time (80's) but they seemed pretty decent back then, I did not hear complaints at least..

thx!

I love the Eclipse. I am not an expert or audiophile(sp?) but I really like the sound. I am still getting use to the controls but that is to be expected with a new system. I read a lot about them before buying and was trying to decide between the Sony, Pioneer or the Eclipse. The look and good reviews I read about the Eclipse is what finally sold me. The 3413 has MP3 capability and CD Changer capability if I want to add that later. It does not come with remote (that is optional) but then I never understood why anyone would want a remote in a car except for the steering wheel controls.

I like the sound, the security features, and the looks.

__________________
1989 300SE 155k
1998 HD Road King/Iron Butt Member)
2006 Nike Air Max Moto

I just had this HU installed by GoodGuys.

I am very satisfied with this HU.
Looks nicer than the Alpine.
Denis

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1979 300D 220 K miles
1995 C280 109 K miles
1992 Cadillac Eldorado Touring Coupe 57K miles SOLD
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1979 240D 140Kmiles (bought for parents) *SOLD.
SAN FRANCISCO/(*San Diego)
1989 300SE 148 K miles *SOLD