Question about DVD/NAV units?

[tets]

Ive wanted to get a double din DVD player and navigation unit for awhile now.
I found the Pioneer AVIC-D3 on ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...akeTrack=true&ssPageName=VIP:watchlink:top:ca
I am wondering if this is a good deal and a good product compared to others.
I did a search and read some threads about it.
I see that it only has one slot and you need to have the NAV disc in for it to work?? Im not really clear on how this works, can someone help explain it to me? So i can't play movies or cds when im using nav?? can i use the radio??
Ive always done my own car audio before but ive never dealt with a DVD/NAV unit.
What are the differences between this and a CD/MP3 player as far as install goes? Do I need and special harnesses or anything?

Just want to know what im getting into before i buy.
Thanks for any advise in advance!!

 

[NaplesBill]

The D3 is a great unit and an excellent value. You can use nav while watching movies or playing music CDs. You just need to enter your route before you removed the map dvd. It will automatically switch to memory mode. You would need to reinsert the map dvd if you want to change routes.

I have a 60gig iPod and the D3 has great iPod controls built in. You will have to buy the connecter cable though. It's only like $20.

I don't know what it will take to install in the LS. I have factory NAV in my LS but I have the D3 in my '06 Mustang.

 

[paddy O]

just be aware that the d3 doesnt have a moveable screen and the screen is not 7" like most other double dins (that fold down). Check out avic411.com there is a lot of info over there about the pioneer units.

There really is nothing else at that price point though that has navigation. Plus the d3 has a really good ipod interface

 

[tets]

Ok thanks for the info.
I was also looking at the Kenwood DNX7100, I can get that one for $1200 CDN and it has the nav built in so you dont need the discs. Anyone have the Kenwood??

 

[paddy O]

i have heard great things about that unit. That is actually what i am planning on putting in my LS and my wifes expedition. I have played with it a couple of times. The supposed negatives about the pioneers is that the navigation isnt all that great. The nav on kenwoods is Garmin, easy to use, very accurate. Also the 7100 has a usb connection for ipods so it is as fast and easy to use as the d3 (unlike the z1/2).