Just wondering what the main differences are. I know the Z2 has a HDD, but if I already have an iPod, it seems kind of pointless to me. Are there any other stand out features that should convince one to choose the Z2 over the D3??

 

Do you mean the N3?

 

how bout the fact that you dont have to keep putting your map cd's in and out and that the Z2 comes with built in bluetooth

 

I'm having the same issue...deciding which of these two to buy.

Aesthetically, the Z2 looks nicer IMHO since it doesn't have the CD slot on the front face like the D3 has.

The Z2 has a quicker mapping function (because it's HDD-based) and more points of interest. And like buddha said, on the D3 you have to take the mapping disc out to listen to CD's. That severely limits the D3's navigation capabilities. Once you take the disc out, it can't remap your route if you go off course. You have to stop, put the disc back in and then it will remap. Kind of a pain in the **** if you ask me. But, if you won't use it all that often, might not be that big of a deal. This seems to be the biggest difference between the two.

Both are iPod and Bluetooth ready (need to buy adaptors for both functions for either model).

From a sound quality standpoint, I believe they use the same D/A convertors and are both rated at 2.2V pre-out. So, I'm not sure if there will be any negligable sound quality gain on the Z2. Could be totally wrong on that.

One thing that concerns me on the D3 is the rotary volume knob. I have a hard enough time with the stock stereo's volume knob (our cars ride rough and makes it hard to crank to volume to the exact level you want without over cranking it). I prefer push button volume. But, that's just me.

Pioneer's website has a comparison function. Try it out to see if it points out any differences that are important to you. Hope this helps. Let us know if you discover anything else.

 

Okay, after doing some looking and searching, I have determined that the Z2 is deff. the better unit. The navigation features are much more robust! However, in my situation the D3 would be adequate. I would only use the navi 2 or 3 times a month and with an iPod, I wouldn't need the CD player that often. Even if I do, you can still put in the navi disc, then take it out and throw the cd in. I think that for half the price I will be going with the D3. It suits all of my needs, so why spend more money on a feature that I won't be using that often? Maybe some day I'll upgrade to the Z2 but for now D3 is good.

 

you can also speak directly to the z2 by voice....you can control alot of functions for audio source, volume, presets, and navigation entirely by voice..these parts are also included with the unit.

 

It amazes me how Pioneer's sound quality has remained the same all of these years. The Z2 has a 24 bit d/a converter, and the D3 has something less than that. But they both sound pretty much the same. Pioneer had one Premier head unit that was ok but other than that, they all sucked in comparison to earlier Alpine, Clarion, Eclipse, Nakamichi and Sony ES. Why is it that I can't get top dog sound quality from the Z2 when it retails at 2200 bucks. If it were my choice, I would buy the D3 based on that alone and the fact its less than half the price for 85% of the functionality. I chose a different manufacturer because of Pioneers lack of sound quality.

 

NoTec...what brand did you go with? Just curious.

 

eclipse makes units with excellen sound quality....some of the best out there.....below .008% HARMONIC DISTORTION

 

Yeah, but they are also very expensive aren't they? I can get the D3 for around $750 shipped. I would go with alpine, but they don't make a double din navi unit for the orbital kit. Any other double din navi units that can be had for under $1000 that are better than the D3??? I'm all open to suggestions lol

 

I don't think you'll find anything with the D3's features for under $1000. Maybe something from Jensen or Dual, but I don't think you want to go there. If that's your budget and you're not looking for competition quality sound, then the D3 is a good buy for you.

ccevoIX makes a good suggestion with Eclipse. Eclipse units have a very musical sound on par with good Nakamichi and Clarion head units...but less expensive. There are a couple Eclipse models you can buy for less than the Z2. Something to consider.

Most Kenwood and Alpine decks are a step below Pioneer. Alpine used to be very good, but lost their way the past several years.

In my opinion, Clarion makes the best sounding head units (other than Nakamichi who don't make a double-din). They have a double din (MAX675VD) unit for less than $1000. But, you have to buy the Navi HDD separate and that's just under $1000 as well. So, it's roughly just a bit more than the Z2. But, the Clarion's navigation isn't as good as the Z2. The Clarion's iPod integration is outstanding though. So, if that's important it's something to consider.

Who knows!?! Too many damn choices! I can't make up my mind! I just need to pick something...

 

Yeah, thanks for the help. See I'm going to be buying my evo sometime within the next 2 weeks as a reward for getting a 30 on my ACT. My parents are going to pay for half of the car, and I'll pay for the other half. I don't care if you don't think I deserve one or not, fact is I'm very responsible and have had a job saving money since I was 14 years old, currently work 30-40 hrs per week, and am in school! Anyways, I just need to decide wether or not I want a GG or TB, leaning more towards TB, and also if I want the 6 speed MR, or the nice seats of an SE? After I determine that, I will be selling my car, using part of the money towards a down payment, and will have about $3-4k left to spend on other parts if all goes according to plan. So far what I want to do is 10% tint all around, an orbital kit, avic d3 some nice type r comp. speakers and maybe some type x subs, or I might get a DD sub, haven't decided yet. Then I want to black out tails and headlights, set up some nice DEFI gauges, a Viper alarm (or clifford/python). Maybe throw some nice rotas on it for the black on black look, and add in a valentine 1 for good luck! After that I will use any left over money on a tune/exhaust and then any addtl money I make in the future can be applied towards speed mods!

Sorry for the long post! but to make a long story short, I would rather spend 1k on a navi and use leftover money for other things as opposed to throwing 2k into a navi which will only be used a few times per month.

 

Go for TB Nothing looks better than a clean black car...just a pain in the @$$ keeping it clean

If you haven't already placed an order for the Orbital kit, I suggest placing your order NOW. I placed my order two months ago and it hasn't come yet. In fact, many placed their order before me and haven't gotten their kit yet. Production is supposedly very backed up on that kit. So, good luck getting one.

And don't worry about what people think about you getting an Evo. Doesn't matter about age, who's paying, whatever. Just don't wreck the damn thing

 

Thanks for the advice! Who did you order yours from. I'm probably going to contact 201 motorsports for mine!

 

I ordered mine from 201...Phil is a great guy over there.