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Decent Deal on Alpine5 - CD Changer

Hi Digest Readers,

A few weeks ago I posted a WTB for a used or new CD changer that
would function with the "Alpine 5" head unit in my E36, and not suck 
my bank account dry. Unfortunately, I didn't get many leads, but I did 
get a lot of mail from other "Alpine 5" owners asking for any info that 
might make it to me. Apparently, I'm not the only one that's CD changer 
deprived. Well, I finally did what I should have done in the first place - I 
checked the August Roundel.

There are two ads that I followed up on and here's the results:

Global Imports BMW in Atlanta GA (800-235-7868)
CD changer - $480
Mounting hardware - $20

Ask for Harold

The BMW Store in Cincinnati OH (800-543-1649)
CD changer - $499.99
Mounting hardware - $13

These are by no means cheap prices, but when the local dealer is asking 
$900 for the changer and almost $100 for the mounting hardware, well,
they_seem_cheap. I suppose you could buy the changer from Global 
and the bracket from the BMW Store to get an out-the-door price of around
$493 plus shipping.

Also, am told that not all 95's of the same model use the same head unit.
For example, my 8/95 build M3 uses the Alpine 5, but supposedly, early 
95 build M3's use something else. Do your homework and know which head-
unit you have before laying out the cash. Press "-" and "PROG"
simultaneously to find out what model it is. It may be the case that you can
fit an after-market Pioneer changer instead at considerable savings.

I haven't yet bought from either of the two dealers mentioned. I just found
out the prices today and thought I would share it with the digest. All standard
disclaimers apply.

Good luck,

Michael
[email protected]