I would agree with shareef - for the technically challenged (like me) I would (a) go for the factory DVD first, and if not, (b) go to a reputable installer/dealer, vs. trying to order from the web.
(a) wasn't an option for me, because I couldn't get an ELX-RES without an inordinate wait (when I bought the van in late Dec)...opted for an ELX instead at which overall was a good buying experience, for a vehicle discounted only 600 below sticker. (Dealer even loaned me a new accord v6 for two weeks while I waited...but that's another thread).
(b) was the proven path, listed in another discussion forum, and I got the Panasonic 6.8" display unit with the in dash Pana 700 DVD player. All in all, wound up paying 1350 when said and done with tax *, which was about 200 bucks more than I anticipated, and nearly the same as getting the RES in the first place! (1500 option). The good thing was I was able to get the unit installed at a reputable (but pricey) car stereo dealer, to avoid the hassle of defective equipment, etc.
Pana units are being discontinued, but from a price/performance perspective much better than the Audiovox equivanent -which would cost over 1400 at Circuit City/Best Buy.
Pros of this option:
- Install is very clean, DVD fits right in the dash under the Honda head unit.
- Picture quality excellent.
- Any problems, bring them back to the stereo shop.
Cons:
- Display unit clearance - blocks 1/2 of the rear view mirror when in the down position. Removing the center headrest from the rear seat helps a bit.
- Pana DVD unit does NOT play DVD-Rom or CD Rom media.
- Display unit is 4:3 ratio.
- Remote from the DVD cannot turn the display unit on/off or adjust the volume.
Overall, I'm reasonably satisfied, but if I had to do this again I would have gone with the factory RES.
I plan to upgrade the speakers later, but I think that may be a bit easier.
* Dealer didn't break out material and labor, so I paid tax on the whole thing. (including tax on the installation labor!) Was surprised bout this, so I inquired and found this is standard practice in ohio (unless you buy from a chain store like circuit city)
[This message has been edited by Minivandad (edited 02-24-2002).]