1.888.955.6000
 
 
1-888-955-6000
crutchfield.com
Crutchfield

Free Shipping on Everything

60-Day Money-Back Guarantee  |  Lifetime Tech Support

Alpine CDA-9855

CD receiver with MP3 / WMA playback

Zoom
  • Alpine CDA-9855

    Front

  • Alpine CDA-9855

    Front Left

  • Alpine CDA-9855

    Remote

Item# 500CDA9855 offer details

Item# 500CDA9855

Review Summary

 
DISCONTINUED
 
This item is no longer available to purchase.
 
Contact us for other options
 
Call   Email  
 
 
 
 

By buying this product you'll earn up to 400 Rewards points.

When you sign up for a Crutchfield account, you’ll be enrolled in Crutchfield Rewards. You’ll earn one point for every dollar you spend on gear from us. You can turn your points into Rewards Cards that you can use toward future purchases. You can sign up for an account now, or after you complete your purchase (you’ll get credit for the points either way).

 
Alpine

Why replace your factory radio?

Two good reasons - sound quality and cool features. A new car stereo offers power that's superior to most factory radios, along with more sophisticated tone controls. And most car stereos offer built-in or optional features that add safety and fun to life in your car, including inputs for your iPod or MP3 player, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free cell phone calls, satellite radio or HD Radio reception, and connections for building an audio system in your car.

Our take on the Alpine CDA-9855

by Matt Freeman

Alpine's CDA-9855 represents the next step in the evolution of the in-dash receiver.

Take a close look at CDA-9855's faceplate, and you might find yourself saying in surprise, "Hey — there are no preset buttons!" And you're right — instead, there's only a simple, white, silicon rubber strip. That's Alpine's incredibly innovative GlideTouch™ panel.

Just like the touch pad on a laptop computer, you simply slide your finger over the strip until you've found the function you want (a sound guide helps you out). When you press it, it feels like you're pressing a real button! GlideTouch offers total system control, while allowing you to keep your eyes on the road — possibly the most innovative system control on the market.

This incredible innovation is enhanced by the sharp, easy-to-read BioLite display, which offers up all system information — you'll be able to digest it all with just a glance. And your passengers won't fail to notice just how incredible it looks.

Of course, the CDA-9855 isn't just about its cutting-edge controls. It also comes with a robust internal amplifier (18 watts RMS x 4 channels) and Bass Engine® Pro sound controls for perfect-sounding music. MediaXpander has the power to restore depth and fullness to your music, especially your MP3s and WMAs, which tend to lose something in the compression process. With iPersonalize, you can even adjust your system settings online at Alpine's website, burn it onto CD-R, and use that disc to set up your system automatically.

And if you never go anywhere without your iPod, you're in luck. The CDA-9855 works with Alpine's KCA-420i iPod interface, which not only lets you play your iPod through your car stereo system, it'll let you control your iPod's functions! And if you crave even more power, add external amplifiers to the three sets of preamp outputs.

You can enjoy the satellite radio service of your choice: built-in controls let you connect a compatible XM or SIRIUS tuner (XM or SIRIUS subscription and antenna also required), and enjoy the most comprehensive entertainment packages around — over 120 channels of music, sports, news, talk, entertainment, and much more.

Highlights:

  • CD receiver with built-in amplifier (18 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
  • detachable, fold-down face with GlideTouch controls and BioLite display
  • plays audio CDs, CD-Rs and CD-RWs, plus discs burned with MP3 and WMA files
  • Bass Engine Pro sound controls with iPersonalize setup options
  • MediaXpander (restores clarity and detail to compressed or broadcast audio)
  • MaxTune SQ tuner
  • 12 FM/6 AM presets
  • satellite radio controls (SIRIUS or XM subscription, tuner, and antenna required to receive the satellite radio signal) — service is available only in the lower 48 states, not available in Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories
  • CD changer controls for Alpine Ai-NET changers only
  • compatible with Alpine's iPod interface adapter
  • 4-volt front, rear and subwoofer preamp outputs
  • Amplifier Link — can control up to 12 Alpine V12 external amps
  • clock
  • wireless remote
  • CEA-2006 compliant amplifier
  • CD frequency response: 5-20,000 Hz
  • CD signal-to-noise ratio: 105 dB
  • FM sensitivity: 9.3 dBf
  • warranty: 1 year
  • Our 60-day money-back guarantee
Shop all Alpine Car Receivers
     

    Hands-on research from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?)

    Features and Specs

    Features and Specs
    General
    CEA-2006 Compliant
    Loading...
    Yes
    RMS Power Output
    Loading...
    18 watts
    Peak Output
    Loading...
    50 watts
    RMS Power Bandwidth
    Loading...
    20-20kHz
    Preamp Outputs
    Loading...
    6-channel
    Sub Preamp Outputs
    Loading...
    Yes
    Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs
    Loading...
    No
    Preamp Voltage
    Loading...
    4 volts
    Display Color
    Loading...
    BioLite (B&W)
    Key Button Color
    Loading...
    Variable
    EQ Bands
    Loading...
    5
    Wireless Remote
    Loading...
    Yes
    Steering Wheel Control Compatible
    Loading...
    ---
    Parts Warranty
    Loading...
    1 Year
    Labor Warranty
    Loading...
    1 Year
    Expandability
    AUX Input
    Loading...
    Optional
    USB Input
    Loading...
    ---
    Memory Card Slot
    Loading...
    No
    Bluetooth Compatible
    Loading...
    ---
    Satellite Radio Ready
    Loading...
    Both
    HD Radio
    Loading...
    ---
    Navigation
    Loading...
    No
    iPod Compatibility
    Full size
    Loading...
    ---
    Nano
    Loading...
    ---
    Touch
    Loading...
    ---
    Mini
    Loading...
    ---
    iPhone
    Loading...
    ---
    Tuner
    FM Sensitivity
    Loading...
    9.3 dBf
    European Tuning
    Loading...
    Yes
    Seek/Scan
    Loading...
    Seek
    Radio Data System
    Loading...
    No

    Product Research

    Product Research
    What's in the box?

    Download owner's manual

    • CD/MP3/WMA receiver with attached DC/DC converter on 11" pigtail
    • Wiring harness
    • Sleeve
    • Trim ring
    • Face
    • Hard plastic face case
    • Wireless remote control (RUE-4202)
    • 2 "AAA" batteries
    • 4 Countersunk ISO-DIN screws (M5 x 8mm)
    • Face fixing screw
    • 2 Radio removal tools
    • Owner's Manual
    • Manual correction sheet
    • Manual "Notes" sheet
    • Customer Care Registration card

    Our Product Research Team

    At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team — they open the box, verify contents, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices.

    Features
    CD Changer Controls

    Features

    CEA-2006 Compliant: The specifications given by Alpine for the built-in amplifier comply with the CEA-2006 mobile amplifier power testing and measurement standards from the CEA (Consumer Electronics Association). All manufacturers who comply with the standard can display the CEA-2006 logo on their product.

    Satellite Radio Ready: There are several options for connecting an optional XM or Sirius Satellite Radio receiver to the CDA-9855. To receive XM Satellite Radio, you can connect the optional Terk XMD1000 Universal tuner (209XMD1000) and the Terk XM Direct Smart Digital Adapter for Alpine (209XMDALP1). To receive Sirius Satellite Radio, you can connect the optional Sirius tuner for Alpine (item # 607SIRALP1) directly to the head unit. A portable satellite radio receiver, such as the Delphi SkyFi or Sirius Sportster, can be connected to the head unit via an auxiliary input adapter. A compatible antenna and a subscription are also required to receive satellite radio programming from Sirius or XM.

    SwingFace Mechanism: The CDA-9855's SwingFace mechanism provides an extra large multi-colored display area for ease of viewing. The motorized faceplate not only slides down to let you insert or eject CDs, but gives you a choice of three viewing angles or fully closed.

    BioLite Display: The high-quality display uses biochemical luminescence technology that provides outstanding visibility even in daylight. In addition, it has a much wider viewing angle than conventional displays.

    Motion Displays and Fonts: You can choose between three types of animation displays: Type 1 (expanding water droplets), Type 2 (speeding automobile), or Type 3 (moving line patterns). You can also turn off the animation display if desired. You can also select between two types of fonts for the text displays.

    Blackout Display Mode: When the Blackout mode is activated, the display turns off to reduce power consumption. The additional power made available by turning off the display helps enhance sound quality. If a button is pressed during the Blackout mode, the display will illuminate for 5 seconds before blacking out again.

    Variable Button Color: The illumination of the 4 square buttons can be adjusted to any of 512 colors. The following color presets are stored in memory: Blue, Green, Amber, and Red. In addition, you can store custom colors under the 6 User's preset. The custom color can be selected by turning the rotary encoder and cycling though all 512 colors. In addition, you can choose green or amber as the color of the remaining buttons.

    GlideTouch Bar: The receiver features the easy-to-use GlideTouch interface for scanning through and selecting menu options, radio frequencies, and track/file titles. The GlideTouch bar has six positions, and the items or lists in the display change as you slide your finger up or down the bar. When the desired option is highlighted, a press of the bar makes the selection. You can also hold your finger on one end or the other for at least 3 seconds to scroll through the selections in either direction.

    Dimmer: This unit is equipped with an illumination dimmer lead. When the unit's dimmer mode has been set to "Auto" and the illumination lead has been connected to your vehicle's headlight circuit, the display and button illumination will dim to a fixed, preset level whenever the headlights are turned on. If preferred, you may choose the "Manual" dimmer mode setting, so the display and button illumination is dim at all times.

    Bass Engine Pro: Bass Engine Pro functions provide control over your system, so you can tailor the sound to your personal tastes. Bass Engine Pro includes the following functions:

    • 6-Channel Digital Time Correction: The time correction feature allows you to create virtual speaker positions by delaying the signals being sent to the speakers closest to you. When the correct delay times have been entered for the front right, front left, rear right, rear left, subwoofer left, and subwoofer right speakers, all sounds reach your ears at the same time, providing optimized imaging and frequency response. You can set and recall up to 6 crossover settings in memory.
    • 6-Position Digital Crossover with Adjustable Slope: The digital crossover allows you to choose from the following modes:
      • 2-way Mode: A continuously variable 20-200Hz low-pass filter is available for the subwoofer outputs, and a continuously variable 20-200Hz high-pass filter is available for the front and rear preamp outputs. The slope for each filter can be set to 6, 12, 18, or 24dB/octave, or Flat. The level for each filter can be adjusted from 0 to -12dB.
      • 3-way Mode: A continuously variable 20-200Hz low-pass filter is available for the subwoofer outputs, and a continuously variable 1-20kHz high-pass filter is available for the high-range speakers. The midrange speakers have a continuously variable 20Hz-20kHz low-pass filter and a continuously variable 20-200Hz high-pass filter. The slope for each filter can be set to 6, 12, 18, or 24dB/octave, or Flat. The level for each filter can be adjusted from 0 to -12dB.
    • EQ: You can choose between a 5-band digital parametric EQ or a 7-band graphic EQ:
      • 5-band Digital Parametric EQ: The 5-band parametric EQ lets you select a center frequency, then adjust its output level and even the "width" of the boost or cut for precise system tuning. You can select a frequency for each of the following bands in 1/3-octave increments: Band 1 (20Hz-160Hz), Band 2 (50Hz-400Hz), Band 3 (125Hz-1kHz), Band 4 (315Hz-8kHz), and Band 5 (800Hz-20kHz). Once a frequency is selected, you can adjust its level from -6dB to +6dB in 1dB increments. The Q for each frequency can be set to 1, 1.5, or 3. In addition to the user-adjustable EQ (User's 1-6), tone presets are stored into memory, allowing you to recall the best setting for different types of music. You may choose from the following tone presets: Rock, Pops, Jazz, Electric/Dance, Hip Hop, or Flat.
      • 7-band Graphic EQ: You can adjust each of 7 audio bands from -6dB to +6dB. You can set up to six user memories.
    • Subwoofer Level Control: The level of the subwoofer preamp outputs can be adjusted from 00 to 15 to balance the output of your subwoofer with that of your other speakers.
    • Subwoofer Phase Selector: The phase of the subwoofer outputs may be set to normal (0 degrees) or reverse (180 degrees); this function allows you to minimize phase cancellation of bass frequencies, for stronger bass response.
    • MX (MediaXpander): The MediaXpander function makes vocals or instruments sound distinct by restoring sound quality typically lost during recording or transmission; this function helps restore audio information that becomes obscured when audio is compressed. The MX function can be applied to all sources, except AM radio. There are three expansion modes for each internal source (CD, FM, Compression sources), and each source can have its own setting. There are only one or two expansion modes available for external sources.

    i-Personalize: i-Personalize is an innovative way to customize select Alpine receivers to fit your specific listening needs. You log on to Alpine's website and download user preferences (based on vehicle and system type) for time correction, crossover, Parametric or Graphic EQ, opening display profile and a calendar message. After selecting your settings, you can burn them onto a CD-R, and upload them to the head unit.

    Subwoofer Output: In addition to front and rear preamp outputs, the CDA-9855 features a dedicated subwoofer preamp output. The subwoofer output has an independent volume control and phase control, and can be turned on or off.

    Interrupt Feature: When a device having the interrupt feature (such as a cellular telephone) is connected to the receiver, the audio signal will be automatically muted whenever the interrupt signal is received from the device. The supplied wiring harness contains a pink Interrupt lead that needs to be connected to the device's interrupt signal connection.

    MP3/WMA Playback: This unit can play CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW discs containing MP3/WMA files recorded using the ISO 9660 Level 1 or Level 2 formats. MP3 files with constant and variable bit rates from 8 kbps to 320 kbps and WMA files with constant and variable bit rates from 48 kbps to 192 kbps are supported. The unit is compatible with discs containing up to 510 files/folders, with a maximum of 255 folders. ID3 tags v1 and v2, and WMA tags are supported; track title, artist name and album name ID3 tag data can be displayed.

    Disc and Station Titling: Titles of up to 8 characters in length may be entered for up to 18 radio stations and 18 CDs.

    Text/File/Folder Search: When you're playing a disc with CD Text, or MP3 tags, you can easily search for a track or file by its title. Once you have activated the search mode, you can slide your finger up/down the GlideTouch bar to quickly scan through the titles to locate the desired track, and select it by pressing the GuideTouch bar.

    Frequency Search: In the tuner mode, you can easily and quickly tune to a desired station by performing a frequency search. When Frequency Search is activated, you can locate the desired frequency using the GlideTouch bar.

    Power IC Off: When an external amplifier is connected and the built-in amplifier is not used, removing power from the built-in amplifier will improve the sound quality.

    Remote Control: The receiver comes with the RUE-4202 wireless remote control. The remote can control volume, source selection, tuner and disc functions, as well as CD changer controls.

    Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The CDA-9855 has a "steering remote control" input on the back panel. When used with the optional SWI-ALP interface (item #127SWIALP), you can retain the use of your factory steering wheel and/or rear seat radio controls when replacing the factory head unit in select vehicles. The SWI-ALP is compatible with over 95% of the vehicles made from 1986 to the present. Compatible vehicles include many Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Suzuki, Toyota, and Volkswagen vehicles and Harley Davidson motorcycles. Please consult "What Fits My Car" to see if your vehicle is compatible.

    Amplifier Link: The CDA-9855 has a connection for the optional Alpine Amplifier Link, which allows you to adjust settings for up to 8 compatible Alpine amplifiers from the head unit. With the KCE-511M Amplifier Link adapter, you can also display on the head unit the amplifier's voltage, operating temperature, fan status, input level, and crossover settings.

    CD Changer Controls

    Ai-NET Compatible: An optional Ai-NET-compatible 6- or 12-disc CD changer (including MP3 Changers) may be connected to, and controlled by, the CDA-9855. With the KCA-410c Versatile Link Terminal (item # 500KCA410C), you can control multiple changers with this unit.

    iPod-Ready: An iPod or iPod Mini can be controlled from this unit when connected via the KCA-420i Alpine Interface Adapter for iPod (item # 500KCA420i). While connected to the head unit, the iPod's battery is charged, and the artist/song title information is displayed on the face of the head unit. The unit's Quick Search feature allows you to search by playlist, album name, artist name, or song title. Random and repeat play functions are also available.

    Optional Auxiliary Input: With the optional KCA-121B Ai-NET/RCA interface cable or KCA-410C Versatile Link Terminal, you can input audio from an auxiliary source unit, such as a TV, VCR or portable unit.

     

    Product Reviews

    Review this product
    Great Gear Giveaway rewards card

    Submit a review and you will be entered to win a $150 gift card

    Crutchfield Great Gear Giveaway Official Sweepstakes Rules

    Reviews for the Alpine CDA-9855

    Average Customer Review:

    40 people say:

    Review this product:

    Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences about this product. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product itself. Read our Review Guidelines for more information.

    Your email won't be visible. Please use the email address that is associated with your order.
    (e.g., JohnD) Your review will be signed using the display name and location
    (e.g., Charlottesville, VA)

    Click on a star to rate the overall product on a scale of 1-5
    Rate the following specific attributes
      Value
     Sound Quality
     Ease of Use
     "Coolness Factor"
     Build Quality
    1500 characters left
    Attach a YouTube Review
    Crutchfield Video Review Guidelines
    • Only submit videos that you made or are authorized to use.
    • Do not submit videos that contain music, video or visuals that are copyrighted and belong to someone else.
    • Please see our Review Guidelines for more information.
    500 characters left
    500 characters left
    Filter by rating:
    Sort by:
    Showing: 1-20 of 40
    View page: 12 »
    1 out of 5

    Love-Hate, hate, hate.

    Written By pall, Houston, TX on Monday, June 30, 2008
    Installed in a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500
    Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
     
    I love the sound of this unit.
    I hate hate hate the slide controls and the over all user interface.
    My new girlfriend hates it as well.
    3 out of 12 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    An expert's joy and a novice's nightmare

    Written By John, Falls Church, Va on Monday, May 08, 2006
     
    Just picked up this unit and had it installed in my Trailblazer. Looks great and I appreciate being able to match the colors to be a perfect fit with my dash. I have some understanding of how complex stereo equipment works so for me it was easy to learn how to manipulate the unit's many adjustable features. With my old head unit(kenwood) I thought i was gonna have to add an equalizer but not with this one. The unit has an effective eq built in. One can even choose whether they want parametric or graphic eq. I will be selling my non-alpine amp and purchasing an alpine 4 channel/sub amp combo and take advantage of being able to control the amp settings from the dash!

    For those who don't like this unit-one must take their reviews with a grain of salt. More control over your sound is alwasy better than less. Anyone who has this unit ought to be using separate amps to get the best out of the unit. This head unit is not for the beginner-with features like time correction, adjustable crossover, 2 different types of eq's, 3 preamp outputs, and glidestrip control this unit will frustrate newbys but reward those who are comfortable with its depth(complexity?)

    This is my first-but not last-alpine purchase.
    10 out of 12 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Better Then You Think

    Written By Nick, Sutherlin, OR on Wednesday, February 15, 2006
     
    I picked up this head unit about a month ago through a local installer, but i wish i would have got it from these guys. Alot cheaper here.

    The system itself looks cool on the internet but it is far better in person. the bio-lite screen is the best, but the glide touch strip was a little hard to get used to but now its so easy to go through the menus.

    If your looking at putting in a full system this is the way to go. I'm slowly putting in a full system and this was "the best" says ALL of the stereo places i went to.
    1 out of 1 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Great Unit!

    Written By Jason, Milwaukee, WI on Sunday, February 05, 2006
    Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
     
    This CD player is phenomenal! I love the GlideTouch strip although it will take a little getting used to (trying not to press too hard while driving is difficult at first). The tilt feature is nice too during daylight sun, it really helps to make the great display even more visible. Install was easy and setup is a breeze using the iPersonalize feature and Alpine's website.

    My one nitpicky thing isn't with the radio itself. Crutchfield's advisor told me there would be a depth issue with the 9855 for my 2000 Mazda 626. The radio fit perfectly with lots of spare room!
    3 out of 3 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Crutchfiled kick butt aand SAVED me a ton of $$$

    Written By George Poulos, Santa Monica CA on Tuesday, January 17, 2006
    Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
     
    Crutchfield Experience
    Ok you guys ROCK!!!!

    I saved like 40% by ordering from Crutchfield.
    Yeah the decks are expensive but what you don't know until you check out is that they give you EVERYTHING you need to install the stereo your self. With the exception of tools.
    They included all the correct wiring harnesses. Which saved me at least $100 bucks or more. I also saved money on the installation too. And it was fun!!!! I took my time. I did it on a rainy Saturday in the garage.

    The system is AWESOME!!!!!!!!! So much better than stock. What else can I cay??

    So I bought a Alpine 9855, 2 pieces for a XM hookup to the deck and Ipod adpter and a PAC2 interface with my radio all for approx $550 including overnight shipping.
    They gave me everything else, so the new Alpine would hook up right into my new car. And it works perfectly!!!!

    I was quoted upwards of $1000 dollars for the SAME system by local installers.

    The 9855 is a AWESOME deck it's the exact one I wanted to get from the start and locally it was going to cost a grand to do what I wanted.

    Crutchfield helped me get what I wanted.
    5 out of 9 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    4 out of 5

    Alpine CDA-9855

    Written By Jarred, Ashland, MA on Monday, January 16, 2006
    Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
     
    This radio is great. The sound quality is very good. It has so many options. The glide touch takes a little getting used to, buy but once you learn how to use it it is great. The Ipod interface adapter is cool. I controll the ipod through the radio. so many Sound options.
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Alpine CDA-9855

    Written By Adam, Overland Park, KS on Wednesday, January 11, 2006
    Installed in a 2002 Ford Escape
    Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
     
    Before you buy this head unit, make sure youve had a chance to mess with one in person. The glide bar is pretty cool, but its not for everybody, as you can see in all the other reviews. It works well for its purpose, though using it while driving is a little challenging. The controls of this HU are a bit complex, so take your time reading the manual and make sure you understand how to use its features and navigation.

    The thing that really separates this HU from others, in addition to its many wonderful features, is the display. While its not color, its higher resolution than most other HUs. Its inexplicable to me why radio manufacturers try to create pictures with the whole 18 pixels they have available to them on regular head units. This one does a very nice job of display text like an LCD and not an alarm clock. If youre going to use the satellite or ipod interfaces, this is a nice perk, since both of those make heavy use of text information.

    Ive got it up and running with the iPod box and XM, and both work great. No more goofy things hanging off the dash. You lose a lot of XM functionality that the PnP units have, but the tight integration is nice. if youre curious about the interface, its basically like a radio. You set your favorite stations and navigate through them and thats about it. No artist alerts or memory or anything like that. Its a shame the advanced XM features arent available in this HU, but thats the price we pay for elegance I suppose.

    iPod navigation is disappointing, but thats to be expected. Its a slow serial interface on the iPod, which is no fault of Alpine. Future iPods will make this easier. Get it, it works
    2 out of 2 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Alpine CDA-9855

    Written By Brendan, Bellevue, WA on Monday, January 09, 2006
     
    Excellent receiver. immediately after i installed it i noticed a huge difference in my radio quality and the quality of my speakers. everything is much more crisp and clear. i have 6 x 9 infinity kappas, and 6 1/2" infinity referance speakers and it sounds really good. i also hooked up the ipod interface which is easy to install and works great. the only downside of that is trying to scroll through artists on the receiver if you have a lot because the glidetouch isn't that sensative. it can be hard to use while driving but overall it is an amazing receiver. highly reccommended.
    1 out of 1 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Alpine CDA-9855

    Written By dp1234, St. Paul, Mn on Wednesday, January 04, 2006
     
    This is an unbelievable deck with great customizing options I have had this deck for about a week now and i am amazed by the clarity of the sound! I had a JVC before and this completely blows it away! I have my xm tuner hooked up to it and the reception and display are wonderful. The glide strip takes some time to get used to, but it works okay could be more sensitive though.

    Pros: 1st and foremost Sound quality, customizing options.

    Cons: glide strip, b/w display-? This deck is not for people who have no knowledge of basic audio principles

    1 out of 1 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    great for tuners, not for the weak of heart

    Written By loserjeff, memphis, tn on Thursday, December 29, 2005
     
    i just recently bought myself the cda-9855. if you are seriously considering buying this deck and want to see some really helpful reviews, then the negative reviews on this deck are misleading. i read all these reviews and seriously reconsidered buying this deck, but he good reviews kept me stuck on buying this deck and i am happy i stuck with them. some helpful hints on why i say this:

    1. "MX being crappy or hogwash". wrong. media xpander is best left to songs that dont have enough bass or high tones, or lost good bass or high tones somewhere in the recording process. you honestly do not need to leave mx on for every song because for one it can make the mid range sounds weak. even if you leave mx on for every song, maybe cause you like its lows, then you are seriously compromising you speakers life because pretty much exponentiates every bass signal it reads.

    2. "the controls lock up" or "mp3 wont come out". this wont happen if you read the manual. keep your deck in the carrying case provided and carry it with you, and do make sure your mp3s are of good quality and none of this will occur.

    3. "glidetouch is garbage". wrong. while annoying at first you really can get use to it. i like its 6 point quick touch for when im in my eq menu. simply put your finger roughly where your desired eq is and press. done and no rotary command knob needed to carefully twist into place.

    for the sound quality and tuning capability, the positive lengthy reviews nail it. its truly is an amazing deck. word of warning, do not buy this deck if you are not into tuning cause this deck will simply stump you and drive you nuts.
    2 out of 2 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    4 out of 5

    Getting used to it...

    Written By Dennis, San Diego, CA on Saturday, December 03, 2005
     
    You'll get used to it, and possibly even fall in love with it!

    First of all this baby sounds killer! I use the CDA-9855 to control my iPod, and it does that easily enough. I use it for Sirius-radio, too, and the cool animated display-screen shows me all of the info I need. I also like being able to customize the button color to match my vehicle's dash lights exactly. It has a seven-band graphic equalizer with six presets, and several factory preset sound-fields, too. There are crossover-controls for front/rear speakers,(& subwoofer, too). The tilt feature is perfect for my truck; because it puts the faceplate at the exact angle of my dash console. I have read a few negative reviews about the glide-strip, but I love the way it works. I have very little trouble navigating through the many menus in this stereo.

    But...

    This deck is really designed for audiophiles & folks who want to spend lots of time fine tuning the CDA-9855's sound. It has so many ways to customize the sound that I can spend hours tweeking the crossovers & equalizer. This unit does not have simple bass/treble controls. The user must get into a sub-menu to adjust the different frequencies, and It may be a bit complex for the average car-stereo-listener. My buddy has an Alpine deck two steps down from this one, and it's much simpler to operate...then again, I think my stereo sounds a lot better. Remember: sound is subjective to the listener, and the CDA-9855 puts you in total control of that sound.

    Good luck, and have fun!
    3 out of 3 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    Great HU, no problems here

    Written By Chase, Holdrege, NE on Tuesday, November 08, 2005
     
    I'm not sure what all these other guys are complaining about, this head unit is great.

    First of, I have no problems with the Glide Strip. Others have complained that it's too hard to use while your driving, and it may be, but there's not much need to use it when driving other than fine tuning the audio settings which I had no troubles doing. You can use the remote and buttons on the unit to navigate the folder & songs on a cd, so ignore the complaints about using the glide strip to find songs. If you can remotely put together a decently organized mp3/wma cd, you'll be fine. A few other people also said that there were no bass & treble controls, and that just shows how little they know about car audio, so ignore those complaints.

    I've had no problems with the unit, and it has phenomenal control of xovers, equalizer boost & frequencies, and time correction. The only issue I have is that it doesn't seem to store what you set the tilt at, but the default setting should be fine for most people. I give it an A.
    6 out of 7 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    3 out of 5

    With iPod interface...probably the worst useability I've seen...

    Written By Chris, San Francisco, CA on Wednesday, November 02, 2005
    Installed in a 2002 Volkswagen Golf
    Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)
     
    Ive had this unit for a couple weeks now, and I can say that it has the worst navigation ever. GlideTouch was obviously developed in a lab and never tested by a driver, let alone a passenger. Alpine... two words for you... Cognitive Engineering.

    I went with this unit is because of Alpines iPod interface, so this review is from that perspective. The GlideTouch is probably fine with a single CD, but with the number tracks on an MP3 CD or iPod, it completely falls apart. Scrolling with the GlideTouch never gives you the same results...sometimes you move 1, sometimes you jump 2, sometimes 10. You have to keep eyes on the display to know where you are, which while driving is a feat. Find an artist you want to listen to and click, it starts playing the first album. Clicked into the wrong artist? You start back at the beginning of artists...each time. Want to play something else? It doesnt remember that you navigated by artist previously.

    The easy way to fix all of this would be to allow the user to use the knob, to quickly and easily scroll through items. You spin it one click, it moves one item, you spin it fast, it jumps through the list. Push down selects an item. The GlideTouch is much better suited for a soft-button application, rather than scrolling.

    The interface could be a bit better too: no track# for iPod albums/playlists, elapsed time instead of remaining time, the only way to see the track name is w/o the artist/album...etc.

    This unit is great in a lot of ways...audio quality & appearance are good. Im sure its great as a stand-alone unit playing audio CDs. If youre wanting to use this with the iPod interface...consider yourself warned.
    3 out of 5 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    2 out of 5

    Think before you buy

    Written By sean, Greenbay, Wis on Monday, October 31, 2005
     
    i am giving this unit 2 stars because of its poor design and lack of GUI. The guid strip is useless while driving, thats when the remote comes handly plus I-personal option is also a waste of time. like others said, this unit break down too easy. i bought the unit from bestbuy and a month later, it fails me because it wont eject my cd and the tilt function doesnt work. Luckly i brought a 4-year extended warrenty on it and went back to exchange for a new one.

    i now have the 2nd unit for about 3 monthy now and its still fail me. When i turn on my car, the unit start playing my song on cd for about 3 sec then suddenly stop for 4 sec until it start playing again. I now thinking about bringing it back for a new one.

    another thing that i should mention, the MX is also useless and the sound is not as loud as i thought it should be. The MX only incress the bass and not the volume. Once you pass 20, the volume stay the same all the way to 35. i wish it has the loud option like most other decks (pioneer).

    If you are a fan of Apline then this the unit for u otherwise choose a different brand.

    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    4 out of 5

    Fantastic Sound

    Written By Keith, Ithaca, Michigan on Saturday, September 17, 2005
     
    I've got a 2005 Colorado Xtreme that I put my 9855 w/XM in and I can't believe the sound I'm getting out of the stock speakers, I can't wait to hear how it sounds when I finally get the speakers all changed out.

    The glidebar takes a little time to get used to but most of the things I need to do I can do with the remote and I don't need to lean forward and look at the display.

    I've had a few times when the sun was just right that I had a glare on the display, I wish Alpine had kept the tilt function on the remote like last years models.

    My only real complaint with the 9855 is the lack of an Auxiliary In. I had to purchase a KCA-410c box for $150 to add 2 Auxiliary In's & 2 AI-Net's in order to plug in my Zen Xtra mp3 player. $450 head units should have front and rear Auxiliary In.
    2 out of 3 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    5 out of 5

    For true audiophiles

    Written By Joe, Tucson, AZ on Sunday, July 24, 2005
     
    I have owned this deck for about 3 weeks now and this thing just continues to amaze me. I was in the market for a new head unit after my older Kenwood Excelon died from an electrical problem (my own fault). After 3 months of researching different units, this one won out.

    This is my first Alpine purchase, and I couldnt be more pleased. (I had been a loyal Kenwood user for over 10 years!) The sound shaping features are amazing, and the menus are easy to use. And the D/A converters on this are flat out superior. If youre a true audiophile then you will love this unit. But if you dont understand audio principles, I wont say dont buy this deck - just dont use the Pro Menu. It has many preset EQs and other easy options for the average consumer.

    Someone earlier was complaining about the display not having color. Honestly, I watch the road - not my stereo. Even though it is a b/w display, it is very clear, accurate and well..."cool" (for lack of a better word). The background animations are a bit much, but you can turn them off. The bottom line is the sound quality and features on this thing are what sold me. Cosmetics are secondary.

    Glidetouch is not a problem. Its just different. Once you get used to it, its excellent. As with any other unit out there, dont go surfing through menus while driving.

    The one and only downfall Ive discovered is that the Volume knob and Track Forward/Backward buttons are unavailable if you are in any sort of menu screen. This is disappointing because when setting the EQ, I like to be able to switch to different CD tracks while I adjust the settings. But other than that, I have no problems with this unit.
    16 out of 17 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    4 out of 5

    Great Sound... faulty design

    Written By Mike, West Tennessee on Sunday, July 24, 2005
     
    High Points:
    Great Sound Quality - The 7-band graphic eq/5-band parametric and crossover make this a great headunit and give it plenty of flexibility. I actually like the MX feature after proper EQ adjustment. With my 2-way Polk db speakers this unit is amazing even w/o an amp.

    MP3 CDs - I can fit 8 albums on one disk with great sound quality, and display album/song/artist info.

    Display is clear and the 3-way tilt allows for maximum visibility.

    Low Points:
    Design - my headunit sometimes wont eject, so Ill probably have to replace the unit. The Glidestrip seems to be less sensitive after a month of use. Buy an extended warranty!

    Satellite radio - They should design this so you can see whats playing on many stations at once, also they should include a Song Seek option. I wish I had bought a portable unit instead.

    Moot Points
    Menus - I personally think the menus are intuitive, unlike other reviewers.

    Glidestrip - I dont mind it, as long as it doesnt fail me!

    Parametric EQ - Theres only a few Q-settings, that could be improved I think.

    I-Personalize - This online feature is a waste of effort imo. They should allow you to download background movies for the unit.

    User Manual - This manual only gets you started, it's well written, but there's lots of other features on the unit that aren't covered. They're easy to find in the menus though.

    MX (Media Expander) - You can have different settings for each type of media, that's a nice touch. Seems like they could allow for more adjustment on the settings though, something like the rack units offered by BBE.
    9 out of 9 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    2 out of 5

    If You Like To Loose Your CD's...read on....

    Written By Kevo, Lincoln, RI on Sunday, July 10, 2005
     
    This deck is great in every way accept, you dont get to change the CD's in the deck due to the faceplate not opening anymore. I have read that lot's of people are having this same problem. Cant open the faceplate to change the CD and cant tilt the faceplate anymore either. Alpine needs to step up to the plate and recall these units to fix this problem. This deck costs too much to be giving problems like this. My CD has been in the deck for 3 weeks now. I try to open it every day and no luck. I even tried cooling off the faceplate in the refrigerator because I read that it worked for some people, not me. I will not go with Alpine again, unless I see that they make right on this issue.
    2 out of 4 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    4 out of 5

    Great deck

    Written By George, Santa Clarita, CA on Wednesday, June 29, 2005
     
    This deck is great. I have owned three Alpine decks so far and this one is the best. My previous CDA-9833 was a great deck but had some minor problems. When I upgraded to the CDA-9855, I noticed a definite increase in sound quality...even with stock speakers. I cannot wait to see how great it sounds with a 4 channel amp and upgraded speakers. This deck along with XM defintitely makes my 1 hour commute more enjoyable.

    There are tons of features and adjustments on this deck that take some time getting to know. Once set-up correctly, you will not be disappointed. Granted, the slide bar is wierd and takes some time getting use to...but is a cool gadget to play with (pull over though when trying to make adjustments). I do wish that Alpine kept the tilt option a button and not a function hidden deep in the many menus that you must navigate to set up the radio.

    The display is ok...color would be nice...but it's a radio, not a DLP tv. If you want to watch your radio...I would suggest not buying this one. If you want to listen to it...this is the deck for you.
    7 out of 7 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    1 out of 5

    please bring back the quality of the old alpines:(

    Written By Roger, richmond, in. usa on Tuesday, June 28, 2005
     
    i have owned numerous alpines since 1984. i usually upgrade every year or so. my last being the iva-d900. i sold the iva-d900, because i was paranoid with having such an expensive unit in my car, plus i hardly ever used the dvd. soooo, i bought a new cda-9855 last month (5/18). for the last week or so the display just locks up. usually after it has been on for 15 minutes or longer. you try to adjust the volume, etc. nothing happens. this to say the least is very annoying.
    the glide touch needs to be thrown away. it is impossible to drive and use it. i usually just use the up and down buttons to find my xm station. i do like the ability to change the buttons, wish it was for ALL the buttons not just the 4 big ones. the biolite screen is better than i thought. very nice at night, but not in the day time. my last few have had this problem as well (9833,7894,9815).
    i call alpine to see what can be done. after being on hold for 45 minutes i am told that i would have to send it out to one of the repair places. now it looks like i will not have any tunes for at least 3 weeks or so. they should just replace it with a new one, since it under warranty.
    the sound quality on the 9855 is not as great as i thought it would be. seems like each alpine i buy has worse sound quality (except the iva-d900), more gizmos (glide touch, biolite, etc.) poorer quality. i noticed this unit is made in china:( bring back the made in japan head units.
    why cant they make a preamp head unit that is am/fm/cd/mp3/xm that is awesome on sound quality. skip the geewhiz stuff!
    8 out of 13 people found this helpful
    Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
     
    1-20 of 40 >>

    Accessories

    Add accessories for the Alpine CDA-9855

    Plug your favorite portable device directly to your receiver's aux input. See all categories & accessories

    Peripheral Stereo Miniplug Cable 3-foot cable: male miniplug to male miniplug (Model iSVE913)
    2 people say 
    Your Price: $9.99
    Add to Cart
    Monster MusicConnect™ Stereo mini-to-RCA adapter cable
    20 people say 
    Your Price: $19.95
    Add to Cart
    Arista Stereo Mini-to-RCA Adapter 6-foot cable with mini and dual RCA plugs
    11 people say 
    Your Price: $4.99
    Add to Cart
    Alpine KCA-121B Auxiliary Input Adapter Converts the changer port on Alpine stereos to an aux input
    32 people say 
    Your Price: $15.99
    Add to Cart
    Alpine RUE-4202 Wireless remote control
    20 people say 
    Your Price: $19.99
    Add to Cart
    InstallCard: In-dash Stereo Prepaid professional in-dash receiver installation
    72 people say 
    Your Price: $59.99
    Add to Cart
    Skewdriver Pro SPK4042 Ratcheting straight and offset screwdriver set with 40 bits (Skewdriver Pro with ratchet handle, pictured)
    6 people say 
    Your Price: $49.99
    Add to Cart
    Metra Crimp Tool and Connectors Package contains crimp tool and over 150 pieces
    5 people say 
    Your Price: $19.99
    Add to Cart
    Metra Crimp Tool Set Package contains light-duty crimp tool and 20 crimp caps
    13 people say 
    Your Price: $9.99
    Add to Cart
    S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool Cuts and strips 12- to 22-gauge wire
    5 people say 
    Your Price: $19.99
    Add to Cart
    PAC SWI-RC Steering wheel control interface — connects your car's steering wheel audio controls to an aftermarket stereo
    27 people say 
    Your Price: $69.99
    Add to Cart
     
    Your Price: $69.95
    Add to Cart
    Autosound 2000 Disc Five System Demonstration — Test CD
     
    Your Price: $9.99
    Add to Cart
    Autosound 2000 Disc Two Image/Placement Test CD
     
    Your Price: $19.99
    Add to Cart
    Autosound 2000 Disc Four Amplifier Optimizer Test CD
    3 people say 
    Your Price: $9.99
    Add to Cart
    Autosound 2000 Disc One Low Frequency Test CD (Disc One)
    1 person says 
    Your Price: $19.99
    Add to Cart
    Autosound 2000 Disc Three System/Environmental Test CD
     
    Your Price: $19.99
    Add to Cart

    Smart people protect with SquareTrade- The best warranty at the best price

    SquareTrade Warranty
    SquareTrade Warranty 3 Year Warranty
    Your Price: $49.99
    Add to Cart

    In business since 1999, SquareTrade is the largest independent warranty provider in the U.S.

    100% parts and labor - no deductibles

    All mechanical and electrical failures covered, includes normal wear and tear.

    Your item's repaired or the full item price returned withing 5 days

    Runs concurrent with manufacturer's warranty

    Rated 5-stars by consumers

    For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Alpine CDA-9855, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/S-7D4hfHnYpiD/p_500CDA9855/Alpine-CDA-9855.html ).

    Sorry, the Alpine CDA-9855 is no longer available for purchase.

    • Front

      Alpine CDA-9855
    • Front Left

      Alpine CDA-9855
    • Remote

      Alpine CDA-9855