SatNav & Speaker Upgrade for 355

[Driver]

I'm thinking of getting a 355, and if I do I'd like to get a built-in satnav system.

Does anyone have any experience with the latest Alpine system (IVA-D300R & Alpine NVE-N099P)? See:
www.alpine-electronics.co.uk/alpine/english/p118.corporate-press_news_iva-d300r_iva-d300r.htm
www.alpine-electronics.co.uk/alpine/english/t80._car-navi-special_dvd-gps-navigationsystem.htm

I've heard this is the best and most reliable, although there's a Pioneer one (the AVIC X-1 see: www.pioneer.co.uk/uk/product_detail.jsp?product_id=8188&taxonomy_id=45-103) that looks simpler - and it has a lateral-G meter!

Are there any particular issues with fitting stuff like this in the 355, also where's the best place for the GPS sensor (and possibly TV antenna)?

It's very difficult to find any user feedback on these systems - I found this forum, but it's just for the Pioneer: www.avicx1forums.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=1

I'd probably want to get the speakers upgraded as well - what's the best way to do this without making the interior look noticeably non-standard?

Is there anywhere except the luggage compartment to fit amplifiers, black boxes etc? I'd prefer to keep it free for luggage...

Is it a good idea to get the dealer (probably official Ferrari) to do this sort of work before delivery? I'm worried that if I get an ICE specialist to do it and there are subsequently any electrical problems, Ferrari might refuse to cover them under the warranty.


>>> Edited by Driver on Tuesday 18th January 22:22

[F355spider]

in terms of a sub - i had one mounted behind the leather gear console - this was purpose made and covered in matching carpets - speakers in door were replaced and also fitted into front wheelarch area

[simonspider]

Yea i've just had the Alpine D300RB fitted in my Murcielago. Its excellent and looks superb.You must remember that the motorised screen is up all the time when the ignition is on, whether you use the satnav or dvd/cd. It locates hotels, motorway junctions etc in the whole of Europe. The screen tilt is adjustable to clear the open gate especially when the car is in first gear.Fab system overall, but also the most expensive. I had mine fitted by the supplier with no problems. If you have a cd changer already you will need to buy another 1 compatible with the Alpine.

[stuh]

Driver - Let me know how you get on. I've been looking at the same unit myself for the spider. I'm also hoping to get uprated speakers (focals), amps, and a hard drive based mp3 solution.........

Currently looking for a good fitter in Beds, Herts or Bucks.

[maserati3200gt]

Hi Driver.
For what its worth both Systems are Excellent.
I personally installed the Alpine Sat Nav but changed it to the Pioneer System as I felt the Pioneer edged it over performance and looks.
The Alpine Touch Screen is a Better Screen but the Pioneer Sat Nav Software is More User Friendly.
Plus the Apline for example has contrast control and the Pioneer does not.
Both pieces of software are excellent for the Apline and Pioneer but it came to to the fact I preferred the Black Surround Screen on the Pioneer and the excellent Female Voice for Road Directions combined with the Ease of Use for the Software.

Its all down to Personal Choice I Guess.

If you require more in depth technical support on these items feel free to email me for our company details as we specialise in custom installations on "High Value" Vehicles especially Ferrari, Maserati and Bentley.
I can pass your query on to my Business Partner who is more than happy to offer you some friendly free advice to a fellow Piston Header !

>> Edited by maserati3200gt on Wednesday 19th January 01:34

[stuh]

maserati3200gt said:

If you require more in depth technical support on these items feel free to email me for our company details as we specialise in custom installations on "High Value" Vehicles especially Ferrari, Maserati and Bentley. I can pass your query on to my Business Partner who is more than happy to offer you some friendly free advice to a fellow Piston Header !

maserai3200gt - Where are you huys based?

[maserati3200gt]

Hi Stuh,

We Are Based in West Sussex (Retail Division)
We also run a Specialist Mobile Division covering the whole of the M25.

[bebbesen]

Hi all,

Rob Nunn is the guy that does all audio installations for Maranello in Egham.

He does private installs as well and of course knows what can and can't be done on all Ferrari's.

He installed a custom made sub box on the parcel shelf of my 360, covered in identical carpet it looks 100% original. Also replaced door speakers and added 4 channel amp.
He did a great job and I'm very pleased with it.
His Mobile is 07768 765555. Feel free to call him for advice.

Brian

[driver]

Thanks for all the responses:

F355 - who did the work on yours? Does the subwoofer make a big difference (I'd assume it does)?

Simonspider - Where did they put the GPS receiver in your car? Can you flip the screen down quickly on the Alpine? (You can on the Pioneer). This would be useful as the screen will obscure the fuel gauge on a 355.

Maserati3200gt - I may get in touch with you later. The concensus on the Pioneer discussion group seems to be that the hardware is great but there are a lot of errors in the maps (esp one-way streets). How does this compare with the Alpine? Does either system allow you to avoid roads that are very narrow or that have speed bumps? Do you have to keep putting the disk back in the Pioneer on a long journey?

Bebbesssen - thanks for the advice.

Some more questions:

Does the Alpine actually need the separate TMC antenna stuck to the windscreen, or can this just be connected to the normal antenna? See the installation manual last page:
www.restricted.alpine-electronics.co.uk/support/ownersdatabase/NVE-N099P/IM_NVE-N099P_EN.pdf

One thing I'd like to be able to do is store Speed Camera positions. But I can't see any mention of customisable POIs in either software manual. Anyone know if that can be done on either unit?

Does anyone have experience wih these screens in a convertible? Can you see the screen in direct sunlight?

Has anyone had electrical problems after having ICE gear fitted in a Ferrari?

[simonspider]

Hav'nt got a clue where the GPS reciever is in the Murcie,did'nt know what 1 is anyway - the screen flips down at the touch of a button - in my case it has to to get at the A/C controls

[355f]

First problem is taht when the screen is displayed in covers all the gauges in the 355- not tyhe best idea!!

secondly, because the speakers are in an 'open ' environment they have no enclosure to work proerly with.

I upgraded my speakers to JL with a genesis power amp and alpine and to be honest having spent all that money the improement in sound is limited. Seems the only place ofr a sub in 355 is in the pass side footwell and that makes a difference. Knowing what I know now- save the money and put it to the next repair bill!