I just started having problems with my headunit not wanting to play CD's anymore. It's a Pioneer DEH-P4000. Sometimes when I insert a CDR it'll just make some strange noises and not play or give me an "ERROR-12" or "ERROR-30" on the display. If I put in a regular CD it'll make the same noise for a while, but start playing anyway for a minute, then stop playing again. The extended warranty I had just expired last month. I'm considering getting another Pioneer headunit because I also have a Pioneer CD changer (which is also having problems, ironically) but I don't want to be buying a new headunit every two years. Any suggestions? Other more reliable brands?

 

In the past I've had poor luck with pioneer, Sony and Kenwood. I have had all 3 and had problems. I prefer the Clarion units for price, build quality, and sound quality. Mines over 3 years old, and plays great. Still had to make skip. Hell even the remote still works lke new!

 

I have had my premier deh-p600 for three years now. It survived 2 totaled cars, and is currently in my third. The player has no problem playing CD's CD-R's and CR-RW's. Maybee you got unlucky and got a bad one. If you are thinking about a new head, I suggest you give the Premier line a try.

 

I like kenwood, that is what I am using but I want the pioneer TV DVD player. It looks fat.

 

Eclipse! 3year factory warranty...1st year over the counter exchange and a 1 year theft protection guarantee. No other cd player sounds as good as an Eclipse.

Maximadave

 

Gotta back up Dave here. I own an Eclipse and do not regret buying it one whit! Even with the stock Non-Bose System, it sounds good.

Pioneers have a very spotty reliability record.

 

I have heard this from many different people, and have a friend with one who after a years of use looks like crap.. They're just not built to last, and don't even sound good. The only thing they're made for is to look good. Those ones with the organic displays are supposed to be the worst. Like, the screens burn out a lot and stop working.

I also love my Clarion HU,
PJ

 

i've had my pioneer deh8200r(discontinued) for about 2-1/2 years now ,no problems at all, ive always used external amps and x-overs though...

 

i have a pioneer p-400, and i had that problem only once, and
it was the cd that was ****ed up, ive never had any problems with
pioneer and i plan on buying the pioneer tv/dvd unit next