"Sonoman" wrote in news:Nb88c.2175$gZ3.992
@bignews3.bellsouth.net:

Hi all:
I have two systems setup almost the same way in an Acura Integra and a
Toyota 4runner. Both have Boston Pros for the front, and cheap Bostons
for rear fill. Each has a Boston Pro 12" sub in a sealed enclosure and
both are driven by an Xtant 603X each. There are two main differences
between the systems. One has an older Alpine 7840 (Integra) HU and the
other has a newer Alpine 9815 (4runner) HU. Taking into consideration
the size difference between the cars it seems that the older Alpine
performs a lot better than the newer one quality wise. The highs are
crisper and the bass has more definition. The 9815 sounds a bit dull.
I have even tried to change the settings with that file you configure
and download from the Alpine site. Has anyone experienced this? Why
could be the reason for the difference?

I am asking this because I am getting ready to buy a new car and I am
really in love with the 7998. But I rather have good sound quality
instead of good looks. I am going to keep everything from my old
system except for the HU, which I was thinking to exchange the 7840
for the newer 7998. The car that I am selling is the Acura and I am
going to put the system on a G35. I wanted to get some thoughts from
people that have experience with older and newer Apine units. Please
advise.

All I can offer is that I've been running a 7998 for about 9 months and
the SQ is excellent. But it's the first Alpine HU I've owned so no
comparison from me. I was initially hesitant about the Fantom Face
mechanism eventually wearing out, but so far so good.