Sony CDX-GT820IP Car CD/ MP3 Player

I wanted a new head unit to replace my 1994 F-150’s factory AM/FM cassette player. While looking at several units, I decided on the Sony CDX-GT820ip. (ip for Ipod) Their very reliable and this particular player offered everything I needed and more. For example:

1. MP3 compatibility (with tag identification)
2. Ipod direct connect
3. Auxilary direct connect (front of unit)
4. Lots of power (17 watts RMS and 52 watts max)
5. 24 bit Digital Audio converter
6. Digital Spectrum display, plus a host of others.
7. Flip down faceplate
8. (3) color illumination (blue, green and red)
9. Remote control. (Range of about 2ft. from outside of vehicle)
10. 7 preset EQ settings
11. XM and HD ready.
12. 4 volt pre-amp output

I installed it myself, and it was a breeze. However, I did manage to damage the factory radio while attempting to remove with the metal din removal tool. A little advice to 92-96 F-150 owners: After inserting the din tools, move them in an outward direction while pulling the radio out. I learned the hard way.

At-any-rate, the Sony GT820ip, is a fabulous head unit. I love the MP3 compatibility! There’s no need to lug around 50 of your favorite cd’s. I have a single CD-RW, with 157 songs (MP3) on it. That’s all the music I’ll ever need. Plus the Ipod connect is awesome. Your Ipod or Iphone connects to a standard Apple connector, which is running from the rear of the Sony. The cord is about 2 ½ ft., so it’s more than enough to run it to the glove compartment. Once connected, it reads the Ipod or Iphone in about 1 second. From there you control the Ipod or Iphone with the Sony remote control or the head unit itself. That way, you can lock your Pod away, and still jam your tunes.

I’m still using the factory speakers, but man was I blown away. I actually removed one of the rear speakers, to make sure they weren’t aftermarket. I promise the Sony sounds that good. The highs and midrange were clear, and the bass even has a nice little thump.

I plan to install a pair of Boston Acoustic 5x7’s and 6.5’s at a later date. So far, no dislikes with this cd-player. I do recommend you buy it, if you’re in the market for a quality cd/mp3 player, with Ipod/Iphone connectivity. By-the-way, I purchased on Ebay for $120 bucks. This radio retails for about $200.

This product if very easy to use and has many useful features. What i like the most is when the ipod is connected, you can scan through the ipod options just as you would on the ipod itself on the stereo. Love this product and recommend it to anyone.

I have an older car and needed a good CD player. The power of this radio and the sound is great. Now I am having to look for the speakers to match!

I love the display and especially the easy ipod hook-up cable. I bought it specifically for that reason.

Is a great radio for the money, came with every thing I needed for a quick install. Sounds good and the ipod hook up is a bonus.