Users have the option of listening to either CD or AM/FM channels while the navigation is in progress and make any audio adjustments necessary. However, if movies are your thing, DVDs can be viewed only when the navigation is not in use or by passengers using a secondary video system while the vehicle is in motion.
Eclipse did a wonderful job incorporating everything into one unit. While it may be lacking some of the special features of the N1, AVN makes waves with its ease of use and smooth integration. More information on the AVN2454 can be had at www.eclipse-web.com.
Alpine NAV-200 MSRP: $1,800Not everyone wants to upgrade their car stereo just to incorporate a navigation system, and Alpine knows this. The NAV-200 stand-alone navigation package incorporates Alpine's NVE-N852A DVD-based PowerNav system with a high-resolution 5.8-inch widescreen monitor, the TME-M850. Also included is the new Smart Map Pro Version 2.0 DVD-ROM software delivering full map coverage of the continental United States and parts of Canada. It has over 11 million points of interest, such as ATMs, restaurants, shopping malls and even hardware stores and garden nurseries.
The NAV-200 is the only unit in our review that does not include touch-panel controls. Instead, Alpine includes a wireless audio/navigation remote control. While not as easy to use as a touchscreen, it is fairly intuitive and gets the job done. We should note the NAV-200 does not connect with your audio system, so you need an external speaker for voice prompts. However, there is an audio interrupt circuit that mutes your radio while voice prompts are played. But, as written in the manual, this option may require additional parts and labor.
Destinations on this system are chosen by: address, major intersection, recent destination, address book, selecting location from map display, origin of route, today's planner and POI. Within the POI, additional selections are made using place name or type, phone number, and latitude and longitude. Additional POI such as gas stations and restaurants can appear as icons on the map. Alpine offers several route options including alternative route/detour settings, maximize/minimize freeway usage, toll roads, and a simple quickest route. If for some reason there is a problem with the connections, the GPS Status option confirms the navigation unit is installed correctly-we like self-troubleshooting electronics!
Alpine includes two viewing displays when mapping your route. The Map View is the standard screen with zoom in and out features of the area surrounding your location. Split Screen display shows the Map View on half of the screen and a close-up view on the other. If desired, turn-by-turn instructions are viewed using the Street list in the Route Options menu.
The NAV-200 performs exceptionally, but could be upgraded to keep up with full-featured touchscreen units now available. But, if our intuition is correct, we should see something along those lines soon from our friends at Alpine. For more detailed information regarding the NAV-200, check out www.Alpine-usa.com.