Find tech advice for business hereAlpine iDA-X305
Manufacturer: Alpine Electronics, Inc. Part number: iDA-X305
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- For people who listen primarily to MP3/WMA/AAC audio, the Alpine iDA-X305 offers one of the easiest-to-use interfaces for in-car browsing of digital media.
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CNET editors' review
Alpine iDA-X305 price range: $219.95 - $299.00
- Reviewed by: Antuan Goodwin
- Reviewed on: 04/16/2009
The good: The Alpine iDA-X305's two-way encoder control scheme and QuickSearch function makes it possible to scrub through large libraries in seconds. Add-on modules allow the feature set to be extended.
The bad: The lack of a CD player may be a turn off for many people.
The bottom line: For people who listen primarily to MP3/WMA/AAC audio, the Alpine iDA-X305 offers one of the easiest-to-use interfaces for in-car browsing of digital media.
As the saying goes, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!" That seems to be the approach taken by Alpine Electronics when designing its new iDA-X305 digital media receiver.
Based on the already impressive iDA-X100 receiver, the X305 keeps the same single-DIN size, rotary encoder-based interface, and lightning quick browsing of digital media while adding iPhone support and a few more watts of power to boot.
On the surface, the X305 also receives a visual refresh with a new matte-finish faceplate that blends better with many vehicles' dash panels and a brushed metal control knob that adds a bit of bling. Compact disc aficionados need not apply as the iDA-X305 also continues the X100's formula of omitting a CD-slot and moving parts in favor of a purely USB-based input scheme.
Design
The most prominent aspect of the X305's interface is the control knob that sits just left of its center. Alpine calls this the Double-Action Encoder, for reasons we'll mention below. The knob can be twisted to perform such actions as adjusting the volume or scrubbing through menu options and media.
Selections are made by pressing the large Enter button in the center of the knob. Reversing through menus is accomplished by hitting the back button to the left of the knob.
Pressing in on the outer ring of the encoder and twisting activates the second action in the Double-Action namesake: QuickSearch. People can chose between either Percentage search (which jumps to a specific part of a list in 10 percent increments) or Alphabet search (which jumps through a list in order of initial letter). Search modes are easily chosen with a tap of the F button between the knob and the screen, and allow for quick navigation of large digital media libraries.
To the right of the control knob is the 2.2-inch, full-color TFT display. Here you'll find iPod album artwork and menu information. The entire faceplate is backlit in cool blue light, but can be changed to red if that better suits your ride's color scheme.
The left side of the faceplate is home to additional buttons for skipping tracks, pausing playback, and power/selecting audio source. A phone button answers incoming calls or activates voice-activated dialing when the iDA-X305 is paired with the Alpine KCE-400BT Bluetooth hands-free module. For security purposes, the iDA-X305 features a partially removable faceplate, so you can take everything except the 2.2-inch screen with you when you leave your car.
Features
The iDA-X305 is a mechanical-free device with no moving parts. That means no CD-slot and no tape player. With the exception of the AM/FM radio, the X305 subsists on a completely on a digital diet.
Using the included USB pigtail, listeners can plug in a portable USB drive or MP3 player for complete access to the file structure. Compatible file formats include DRM-free MP3, AAC, and WMA.
In a nice tip of the hat to iPod users, Alpine has included a short, black dock connector cable with the X305, which looks cleaner and keeps us from having to carry our stock white cable back and forth.
New in the X305 is full "Works with iPhone" compatibility, so no longer will you get a nag screen when connecting your iPhone 3G. Additionally, the X305 will also charge your iPhone while you listen, something that the X100 didn't do.
While the iDA-X305's feature set is essentially limited to radio and digital audio playback, it is capable of being extended and expanded with Alpine's line of add-on modules. We already mentioned the KCE-400BT, but the X305 is also compatible with Alpine's TUA-HD550 HD Radio tuner with iTunes tagging functionality.
Performance
The internal amplification receives a 5-watt per channel boost from the X100 to the X305. However, while power is now rated at a peak output of 50 watts by four-channels, average power output remains at 18 watts per channel.
The character of the audio can be tweaked with a two-band (bass/treble) equalizer with a loudness function. Those who need more control can add the IMPRINT audio processor for an additional charge to custom tune the audio to their particular vehicle.
Additional power can be had by way of the upcoming headunit power pack, which boosts average power to 50 watts per channel, with an unstated max, or by adding external amplifiers using any of the three 5-volt preamp outputs (including a dedicated subwoofer output, with its own gain control).
In sum
Everything that we liked about the X100 is back and better than ever in the iDA-X305, so our recommendation of this receiver for people with large digital audio collections is a no-brainer.
We also like the extendability of the X305 through Alpine's collection of add-on modules and the freedom it gives us to build our cabin tech experience one piece at a time.
However, while many users have successfully made the jump to a completely device-based approach to their music collections, many more still depend on physical media. If you can't break your addiction to CDs, perhaps this isn't the receiver for you.
User reviews
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iPhone support a joke...
by MJH1202 on June 29, 2009
Pros: Works well for a stereo with Blue tooth and HD Radio
Cons: Advertised as a fully compatible iPhone component. If you leave the iPhone connected for any time, it completely looses sync, and only solution is to hardboot both the phone and the stereo. Awful integration, and of course its Apples fault not Alpine
Summary: So if you have an ipod it should be fine, I had my old Edge iPhone i was going to use as my 8G stereo for the truck, and once ...
Summary: So if you have an ipod it should be fine, I had my old Edge iPhone i was going to use as my 8G stereo for the truck, and once connected, and in and out of the car a few times, (shopping/work/getting gas) the Alpine Error 03 on the iPhone and cannot get restarted until a hard boot is done on phone AND car stereo. Alpine has the worst feedback. Don't leave it connected. ??? No fix planned. Do not purchase if you are planning on using an iPhone as your iPod.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Really great little deck once you figure it out.
by richhsf on August 26, 2009
Pros: Picks up on iPod right where you left off. Connects quickly upon startiing car.
With the KCE400BT Bluethooth, you get streaming audio from iPhone 3G (3.0)
Add a KCA-121BT to the back for an auxiliary minijack (for portable CD) or iphone.Cons: Software all needs to be current on iPods and iPhones
MUST use their supplied iPod connector or iPhone charging WONT WORK!!!
First time connection requires some decent skill and patience; don't give up! Its great once you get it set up!Summary: Overall I am in love with this stereo for the price. I'm going to use the whole space here because I would have appreciated more info. I installed it ...
Summary: Overall I am in love with this stereo for the price. I'm going to use the whole space here because I would have appreciated more info. I installed it on my own and learned some hard lessons (attach the power antenna connector even though you don't have a power antenna; it is a "powered" antenna...attaching fixed my poor radio reception...duh).
I have it attached to a KCE400BT bluetooth module from Alpine that sits under my front seat (Acura RSX). That works amazingly well and enables you to do Bluetooth Audio from an iPhone 3G (v3.0). This is a separate purchase and you have to install it at the same time because it needs to hook up to power and it connects to the back of the deck. With the Bluetooth Audio, the deck will control the ipod portion of your iPhone just like it does for the iPod and even shows your album art.
I also have the deck's USB connected (almost always) to an 80G Video iPod (5G i think). I drilled a hole in a plastic drawer in the dash and ran the USB into it. The iPod just stays in the drawer...charging and playing as long as I want. I haven't noticed any excess heating at all and it always connects within seconds of starting the car and picks up right where I left off. The performance in that respect is nothing short of amazing. Album art comes through perfect and you can change the background color on the video display to red, blue or black (I use black...easier on the eyes). BTW, you can also configure the LED lighting on the whole deck to either red or blue. As I said, make sure that you use the Alpine connector to connect to the USB and ipod. You can't just use any old iPod/iPhone cord (needed Alpine support to tell me that one). Also make sure that you have updated your software on your iPod with iTunes or it may not work (I had to).
Finally, I also connected Alpines KCA-121B Versatile Link Connector (deck connection to RCA) and attached an RCA-Minijack cable. Voila, I have an auxiliary that I am able to use to plug into any output device (older iphone, MP3 player and an old battery powered CD player that I keep in the trunk just in case I get the manic urge to play a CD). The deck lets you choose your sources and Aux is one of them. So, in the end, I have an iPod on the USB, an aux capability on AUX, and bluetooth streaming audio on...a source actually called "Bluetooth Audio" on the deck. Sweeeet!
I have been using the deck for two months now and I actually (not kidding) drive slower because I love listening to the music. The bluetooth is working near flawlessly with my iPhone 3G. Once I did the first time connection with the deck, which was really, really easy, the deck remembers my phone. So...if I just leave my bluetooth on in the iPhone all the time (which I do anyways), I never even have to take it off my belt. I get in the car, turn on the key. The stereo connects and within about 30 seconds, the deck has automatically hooked up to my phone. A call comes in, the deck turns down the music and I answer the phone by pressing the phone button on the face plate. When the call ends, the stereo ramps the music back up. When hooked to bluetooth, you can navigate all of my iPhone contacts (one limit is that it only displays one number per contact...if you want a different alternate number, you have to find it on your iphone....however, when you do and click the number on the iphone...you still take the call over the deck...awesome). A couple of notes, though. While you can load up to 5 phones on the deck to connect, it does only connect one phone at a time. So, if you have multiple phones at a time, you may have to compete! Driver wins, right!!! You can't do bluetooth phone on one phone and stream bluetooth audio from another. Also, if you start your car, and try to plug in your ipod while your bluetooth is in the process of connecting, sometimes you can glitch the software and you won't get any sound from playing iPod. Simply disconnect the iPod, let the bluetooth finish and plug it back in. This rarely happens to me because the iPod is always plugged in.
For the navigation, the faceplate has a big wheel that can navigate slow, or if you push it in and turn, will do a rapid page. There is no search so this is really handy. Playlists work the absolute best if you want to keep focused on the road. There were comments that the screen doesn't do well in glare. This is true because the plastic is thick. However, this is probably to protect the LCD screen from sun damage. I imagine there has to be some tradeoff there. The face is detachable and very, very lightweight (yes its plastic and a bit vulnerable).
Power-wise...I have an Acura-RSX so the power in the deck is fine for that. However, if you have a bigger car, better speakers or want it just LOUD, you will probably need an additional power amplifier. I am usually between 50-75% of the volume.
So, there you have it. I am enjoying the heck out of this deck.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Alpine's X305 Doesn't work with my IPhone 3G
by tonybyorick58 on July 17, 2009
Pros: Sorry folks, there are no Pros here. This X305 unit was purchased for the sole purpose of accessing an iphone's music library while on the road. However, the unit just doesn't work with the IPhone. No audio output.
Cons: Alpine's marketing blurb says the X305 is designed to work with Apple's IPhone. Well, they didn't do a great job on the interface. X305 doesn't work with my IPhone which is a 3G running the latest version of the operating system.
Summary: According to Alpine's documentation, the X305 supports IPhone 3G Ver 2.0.2. However, with the IPhone connected, the X305 displays the current music track but no audio is ...
Summary: According to Alpine's documentation, the X305 supports IPhone 3G Ver 2.0.2. However, with the IPhone connected, the X305 displays the current music track but no audio is sent to the speakers. My IPhone 3G runs Ver 2.2.1 so this is not a version problem because I'm running a newer OS version than the minimum version supported by Alpine. The radio works okay; it delivers audio, and the iPhone appears to connect with the X305 and it displays IPhone music album covers, however, NO IPhone audio is sent to the speakers. zip. zero audio output. So, be careful if you have an IPhone and are considering the X305 to leverage your music library. I have to say, I feel like I've been ripped off.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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This h/u is awesome!
by iamtherizzle on October 22, 2009
Pros: It does just what is says. It cleans up the sound of compressed music files, it's just made my system sound even better! Browsing through the iPod is a breeze.
Cons: The placement of the screen in relation to the knob makes it a little difficult to see. However, this is, in part, due to the fact that I drive a truck and the h/u is a bit of a reach rather than right there, like in a car.
Summary: I would recommend this h/u for anyone who listens to music, mainly through an iPod. Especially if you have a nice system. It has made quite a difference. I ...
Summary: I would recommend this h/u for anyone who listens to music, mainly through an iPod. Especially if you have a nice system. It has made quite a difference. I can hear every detail in each song I listen to. I could sit in my truck for hours just to listen to music.
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Works great with my Iphone 3G!
by monkeymanmiles on August 17, 2009
Pros: Ipod interface is great. Quick searching for big playlists. Looks great. Screen is bright .
Cons: No cd player (obviously, but you should already know that before you buy).
No rear Aux for other input.Summary: Get this if you haven;t listened to anything but your ipod in your whip for over 6 months!
Summary: Get this if you haven;t listened to anything but your ipod in your whip for over 6 months!
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Works well with Ipod Nano but screen clare is awful
by Yokidog on July 31, 2009
Pros: Works well with my Ipod Nano. Navigation is easy to select what I want to listen to. When I turn off the stereo/vehicle, it automatically pauses whatever was playing and resumes where I left off. Integrates well with older Alpine CD changer unit.
Cons: I'm very disappointed in the glare on the display during the day. It is virtually unreadable. I am going to have to fabricate a shield for the display. Alpine should have at least made the display/faceplate so you could adjust its angle.
Summary: Not bad but the glare issue is major for me.
Summary: Not bad but the glare issue is major for me.
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Don't WORK WITH iphone or ipod !!!!
by sanjaystuart on July 17, 2009
Pros: Plays radio
Cons: FAKE Chrome dial made out of plastic! Don't work with iphone always cuts out and errors message...Album ART very blurry, why bother. Big talk on car audio forms aswell about this fake-ass unit... RIP OFF $699 AUD Dail also horrible control very slow
Summary: Simply don't work at all. Aloine are supposed to be the best this is a let down and a waist of my time and money!
Summary: Simply don't work at all. Aloine are supposed to be the best this is a let down and a waist of my time and money!
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If you have an ipod or any USB device, buy this!
by CheeseMine on July 16, 2009
Pros: Easy to install, keeps music organized, ipod Cover Art works flawlessly, screen is nice and bright, easy to set up and use.
Cons: Scrolling through the 20,000+ songs on my ipod took some getting used to. The blue or red backgrounds are annoying, all black would be nice. Scroll is a bit slow
Summary: Once you get familiar with the deck, it is a music lovers dream. Sorting music alphabetically and using the center dial to sort through songs makes it less tedious. I ...
Summary: Once you get familiar with the deck, it is a music lovers dream. Sorting music alphabetically and using the center dial to sort through songs makes it less tedious. I recommend this deck to anyone who is sick and tired of carrying around a book of CDS or is sick of the poor itrip music quality. Worth the $349 CDN hands down.
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Work GREAT with iPod
by dmbriggs on July 26, 2009
Pros: Pay no attention to the other reviews. I have 2 of these Alpine iDA-X305 units in my cars and they both work great with the iPod. I have 3 different iPod models in my family and have had no problem with any of them.
Cons: Lack of CD player is a small inconvenience, but all of my CD's end up on the iPod anyway
Summary: I have had Kenwood and Sony units in my cars in the past. I have not found a unit that works better with the iPod than the Alpine. The XM ...
Summary: I have had Kenwood and Sony units in my cars in the past. I have not found a unit that works better with the iPod than the Alpine. The XM module works flawlessly also.
0 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Alpine Electronics, Inc.
- Part number: iDA-X305
- Description: For the ultimate in-vehicle experience with your iPod or iPhone, the third generation of 1-DIN iPod digital media receivers are the answer. The iDA series of head units are dedicated receivers that provide seamless control of your iPod, iPhone and many other popular digital devices right from your dash. The iDA-X305 receiver offers enhanced features for a more robust iPod-listening experience that meets the specifications for "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" compatibility. The iDA-X305 is designed to work with iPhone, so you get the same great functionality right from the head unit in your dash as you get directly from your iPhone. Large music libraries are no problem with a faster connection speed and QuickSearch featuring alphabet search, you can easily to scroll through long lists of music by skipping through the letters of the alphabet. Once you have the letter you want, just scroll to the exact song! The iDA-X305 uses a USB connection for newer iPods that provides ultra-fast digital data transfer so songs are loaded instantly through the receiver. Sound quality is maximized by using USB along with the 24-bit Burrbrown D/A converter, allowing for an incredible signal to noise ratio of 105dB. Plus, the iDA-X305 quickly loads up full album art on screen.
General
- Product Type Radio / digital player
- Recommended Use Car
- Form Factor Full-DIN - In-dash unit
- Width 7 in
- Depth 6.1 in
- Height 2 in
- Weight 2.2 lbs
- Enclosure Color Black
- Faceplate Type Detachable
Audio System
- System Control Bus Ai-NET
- Sound output mode Stereo
- Remote control Optional
- Equalizer Yes
- Audio system controls Bass, Fader, Treble, Volume, Balance
- Amplifier max output power / channel qty 50 Watts x 4
- Amplifier continuous power / channel qty 18 Watts x 4
- Crossover type Active crossover
- Crossover high pass frequencies 80 Hz, 120 Hz, 160 Hz
- Audio system built-in display LCD
- Multicolor display Yes
- Audio system CD changer control Yes
- Clock Yes (digital)
- Additional features iPod ready, HD radio ready, Time alignment, Satellite radio tuner control
Equalizer
- Equalizer type Parametric, Digital graphic
Radio
- Type Radio tuner - AM/FM
- Tuning display LCD display
- Station preset qty 18
- AM station preset qty 6
- FM station preset qty 12
- Additional radio features DX/LO switch
Digital Player (Recorder)
- Digital player device type Digital player
- Digital player supported digital audio standards AAC, MP3, WMA
- Digital player ID3 tags support Yes
- Digital player response bandwidth 5 - 20000 Hz
- Digital player signal-to-noise ratio 105 dB
- Digital player additional features USB flash drive playback
Connections
- Connector Type 3 x Audio line-out ( RCA phono x 2 ), 1 x USB, 1 x System components control bus
Manufacturer info
- Alpine Electronics, Inc.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Alpine Electronics, Inc. products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.alpine1.com/
- Phone: 310.326.8000
