Database Users

Erisin ES3015V or Eonon GA5153F?

Hello there
Last weekend I received my first Android HU, an Erisin ES3015V. I drive a 2013 Skoda Fabia RS, and the installation was very straight forward. Can bus built in to the unit meant it was just a matter of connecting the big "VW" type connector, the antennas and usb, and everything just worked. I was very impressed. After playing with it all evening, installing apps, tweaking the launcher (and killing my battery), I went to bed.
The next day I started having problems with boot loops (looping even before any logo appeared on screen). This kept getting worse until I had to spend like ten minutes trying to press and hold the power and / or reset buttons to get lucky and make it boot. Once it booted, everything seemed great until the next cold start. I also installed the MTCD malaysk rom, but it didn't help. I contacted the dealer and he asked me to send it back for replacement, as he reckons it's a hardware problem.
Now, he also sells the Eonon in the topic, so if I want to, I can get that instead. I understand that this is an older unit (MTCB I think?) and that it has a can bus box instead of built in can bus. The resolution is also lower, but it has the same amount of ram and same cpu. Eonon info page says Android 4.4.4 but the reseller says 5.1. With this unit I suppose I would be able to run a more matured rom. I'm also curious as to sound quality differences. I'd ideally like a unit that doesn't sound worse than the original Skoda Swing / VW RCD310 in the car. Would also need a dab+ usb thingy.
Please help me make up my mind!

I'd tell you to stick with any android head unit that has KitKat (4.4.4). Android 5.1, while nice and it does add a few new features, tends to be slower and the ROM is larger. Consider this video:
Android Lollipop 5.1 vs KitKat 4.4.4 - Performance Comparison (Nexus 5)
On the same hardware, things slow down with android 5.1, and you're not really going to be using a lot of the features of that OS on a car radio. If this was a cellphone, I'd say yes, go for android 5.1.
That said, I'd lean towards the Eonon. Both have the same RK3188 CPU and same resolution screen, which leads me to believe that they are the same exact unit with a different brand name on them.
As an example, here 's some stereos: http://www.autopumpkin.com/car-dvd-players/vw-car-dvd-player/vw-skoda-dvd-player
This is also for VW / Skoda. Notice how some look exactly the same as the other two. Simply stay away from any that offer Dual-core CPU's and you ought to be fine, but I simply show you for purposes of demonstration.
Having said that, here's one that is about the same price as your other two but slightly better specs: http://www.autopumpkin.com/car-dvd-...ii-3g-wifi-usb-sd-steering-wheel-control.html
This has a faster quad-core CPU plus higher resolution, so you may get equivalent performance to what you have selected above. It is Android 5.1, but with a faster CPU the performance will be about the same.
The choice is yours. Enjoy!

Thanks for your in-depth reply CaptShaft
CaptShaft said:
On the same hardware, things slow down with android 5.1, and you're not really going to be using a lot of the features of that OS on a car radio. If this was a cellphone, I'd say yes, go for android 5.1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My thoughts as well. After getting the Erisin I noticed that there's a lot more stuff going on for the MTCB unilts. I'm worried about the dab+ usb stick though. Seems they aren't fully supported? What about the 3g/4g stick?
CaptShaft said:
That said, I'd lean towards the Eonon. Both have the same RK3188 CPU and same resolution screen, which leads me to believe that they are the same exact unit with a different brand name on them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, the Erisin is 1024 while the Eonon is 800-something, however the rest looks to be more or less identical. The Erisin has can bus built in to the unit itself though, while the Eonon has a more traditional external can bus converter.
CaptShaft said:
The choice is yours. Enjoy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I hope I will

My thoughts as well. After getting the Erisin I noticed that there's a lot more stuff going on for the MTCB units.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Consider these threads where people discuss MTCB vs. MTCD:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...nt/mtcd-unit-preferred-mtcb-purchase-t3399173
http://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/android-auto-general/units-to-buy-mtcb-mtcd-t3389108
The most popular hardware gets the most development and most attention of the developers. If we use a smartphone analogy, that would be something like a Samsung phone vs. a off-brand Chinese knockoff. Everybody climbs into the biggest boat, and that is MTCB right now. That is currently the RK3188 processor (I believe) and maybe some of the CPU’s after that, like the PX3 CPU that was on the one pumpkin I showed you above. I can’t say for sure. This should bear some further investigation on your part before you make a final decision.
If you are looking for the ability to tinker with an aftermarket ROM like the Malaysk ROM’s, you probably don’t want to be on the bleeding edge of the latest hardware. That’s your call, however. There are custom ROMs for both MTCB and MTCD and both will allow you to tinker.
I'm worried about the dab+ usb stick though. Seems they aren't fully supported? What about the 3g/4g stick?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To answer both at once, I will say it like this : I can’t comment on the DAB+ stick personally because I don’t use much in the way of radio. The Malaysk ROM’s come with an android PCRadio app built-in, which works a lot like Sirius satellite radio but does not require any subscription. It streams the “radio” music data over the Internet, and there are multiple Internet radio stations that are worldwide. My experience with the classical ones is that they are almost entirely free of commercials. This works well for my purpose, and since I personally don’t tolerate advertising of any variety, I’m happy with this. I also pack a lot of my own music and audiobooks onto a USB drive or SD card.
In my case I use my smart phone hotspot to feed the Internet to the stereo. I’m already paying for Internet connection through my smart phone, I felt I didn’t need to buy another mobile service line just for a car radio. I’ve heard a lot of consternation about the Internet USB sticks. At least over here in the US, people complain about poor reception and loss of signal. Reviews over at Amazon seem to bear this out. Your experience may vary.
Actually, the Erisin is 1024 while the Eonon is 800-something, however the rest looks to be more or less identical. The Erisin has can bus built in to the unit itself though, while the Eonon has a more traditional external can bus converter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At least both have the functionality, which is good. Again, however, I can’t comment on this too much because I don’t tinker with this, however it has piqued my curiosity. It seems like it is a one way functionality, namely the car sends information to the android radio only. This is good, and this allows the radio to receive certain information from the vehicle for diagnostic purposes. For security purposes, what you do not want is the radio to be sending signals back to the car. You really don’t want a virus to disable your brakes, or shut off your motor while on the highway, for example.
Again, look at that pumpkin unit that I had suggested earlier. Double check the specs on that, and see if that might not be more towards your liking, and maybe will meet your needs. Pumpkin does a fairly decent job, at least this is been my experience.

Best Android Units

so who are the best units out there.
something that works with minimum work to make it "nice" or functional.
I do not mind some tinkering with software, but do not want to root, or do any sort of hardware mods.
lets start with money no object. as it needs to be
responsive to the touch, and fast to react
quick to boot,
reliable future proof,
sat nav (happy with google maps, or here maps)
DAB
High Res Screen
nice to have
TV built in? not a must but why not.
USB, or Aux input (could do with audio streaming alone?)
reverse camera
Wifi, or means to transfer without using data from my phone
btw, I have VW touran 2005, in case it makes a difference in fitting etc

I'm trying to decide myself which to get. I like the Joying stuff but their new model for my car had no disc drive. If you find anything out as to which is best let me know and I'll do the same

I've bought a XRROSS unit. I haven't plugged it in as I need to find a working interface to retain wheel control buttons and able to start the amp.
I have an outlander 2007 with Rockford Fosgate system.

I have been using an Erisin Android 4.2 model for the last few years in my BMW X5, and found it decent but not great. Underneath the Erisin is one of the many, many Hui Fei units that get sold under a bunch of different badges and used one of the Rockchip CPUs that are found in the majority of these units. In my case it was the RK3066.
Overall impressions - I loved the convenience of having a full android tablet instead of the stupid stereo interface originally on my car, but as time went on I found I used it less and less and tended to just use my phone. The interface on the unit was not great as there were a number of apps (particularly their settings) where the controls were outside the edges of the screen and therefore unreachable. This seemed to be in large part a problem with the low-res (800x480) screen and the fact that it is always in landscape mode (obviously). I've recently tried out some of the 3rd party roms found here on XDA which are noticeably better than the stock rom that came with it.
The unit started having problems after about 3 years as the bottom half and the top half inch (1cm) of the touchscreen no longer respond to touch. This has rendered the unit basically useless.
I'm now in the market for a replacement and I would be interested to hear impressions and complaints from anyone that has an Android 5 or 6 unit.

right so my turn to provide information I collected...
I had a chat with a friend who owns car head units \ bluetooth etc fitting company, circa about 6 cars and more private contractors to fit through out the UK, his opinion is
"chinese head units are rabbish, stay away from them and buy decent manufacturer units like ken wood pioneer etc.
for each 10 units of those cheaper ones, (he admits that it have much more functionality for the price). about 6 have issue.
its not well thought of, and different problems comes up, starting with many software issues, to hardware combination as those cheaper companies hardware is whatever cheapest, and very little thought about segmenting
thier own producs, which causes issues with firmware updates later. and make it hardware to control quality.
provided an example, of heating up units, or battery just dies, or the unit just bricks"
so as you see from earlier he is totally against it, however I would presume if you are reading this, then you are willing to open your own dash and debugging issues yourself, and will to throw away hardware if it bricks etc.
long life time is not something you always expect, its a luck of the draw.
he goes further and says:
"even good company, if you want navigation, then you need to go top of the range £1000+, as cheaper units are not great at that"
but then he is used to all the top stuff, so he might say that.
however the think I agree with him most on:
"get something that mirror your phone, this way you can get cheaper units, and you rely on your phone which is smart and feature rich to start with, even the £200 ones that mirror your phone is good enough"
now, my thoughts are, there are other things (I forgot to ask him) about viewing angle, what sort of resolution will look good enough etc. (I agree with the guy above about the resolution)

Oh, mmmalas comment does remind me: If you are driving a BMW X5, 5 series, or any other model of car where the stereo panel curves upward into the dashboard, the Chinese Android units are going to be a problem. Even though the units I've looked at fit beautifully into the panel space, and have perfectly fitted curved fascia, the screen ends up pointing at an angle that makes it unreadable in sunlight. The units that have the screen standing up at a tangent from the curve of the case might be better, although I do think they look somewhat awkward.
Like this unit for example: http://www.ebay.ca/itm/9-BMW-X5-E39...ash=item360f37eb54:g:jF4AAOSwol5Y2hSi&vxp=mtr

the pioneer or maybe the kenwood ones, allow you to adjust the angle on the unit (motorised).
I presume those android units are mainly TN panels, rather than IPS. which makes the viewing angles worse.
it would be nice if my son in the middle of back seat can watch a movie. but I am unsure if the screens are that good. will be nice to know

I have an xtrons unit, the Andriod 6 with 8 core. I really like it, there is virtually no boot time, its instant. Backup camera is great, I run spotify which is great, and a few other apps like google maps and here maps, and gmail. So far everything looks great, had it about a month now. Only thing I have yet to do is get a reliable alternative to hotspotting my phone every time i get in the car.

semaj4712 said:
I have an xtrons unit, the Andriod 6 with 8 core. I really like it, there is virtually no boot time, its instant. Backup camera is great, I run spotify which is great, and a few other apps like google maps and here maps, and gmail. So far everything looks great, had it about a month now. Only thing I have yet to do is get a reliable alternative to hotspotting my phone every time i get in the car.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can connect it via NFC.

georgebest said:
You can connect it via NFC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I meant was I am trying to find a dongle solution here in the US for it. So I dont have to use my phone.

I have an ownice c500 unit. I think it is the best unit available. It is not perfect and some people have some problems like with DAB+ etc. but for me, it works perfectly.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/Ownice_C500

is the screen view-able from sides perfectly, or does it suffer from viewing angles, or sun reflection in your face.
and does the screen color look good, or its one of those things that either look crap in daylight, or night

Hello
Could you please give me a short rationg from https://liamscar.com/best-android-auto-head-unit/
Is it possibe to find best of the android unit
Sure, if it was with low budget.
I used Pumpkin, but I want to replace it

Hello, total newb here after a little advice ??

Ok so have tried to trawl the web, you tube and xda but am still struggling to work out my best options.
Totally android newbie, have one for work, don’t really use it much.
Been testing car launchers on it and like the experience.
The Handsfree BT on my Mercedes Vitos radio is fubar, so considering a Chinese Android HU.
Currently considering a Merc oem style Xtrons (4 core 2gb ram) this one is 7.1 or the xtrons 10.1” Octaore 2gb ram, oddly this one is only 6?
Want to mainly use it for amazon prime music, blue tooth streaming (iPhone 7/Apple Music) satnav, and DVDs/films for the kids via HDMI to rear screens (vans for camping and trips to France etc).
Ideally dont want to have to update it straight away but equally am up for it if it’s a big boost.
But my main question is, are xtrons ok out of the box or is there a better make I should look at, or rather the same unit but from a re seller with better support or software?.
Also given the octacore units are the latest, why are the running 6?, and is that even a problem?
Really need the blue tooth for making calls to work well as that the reason I need to replace. Seen mixed reviews we mics wired up to cause echoes etc?
Like the oem style but the 10.1” screen is appealing as it will work well if I manage to upgrade to the new shape Vito next year.
Other wise I am considering a Sony Apple car play. But I think I’ll be bored with that and it will be limited and have a small screen whilst not being oem.
Thanks android folk

Anyone? ?
No one?,
I do understand it may seem silly to ask some of these questions but we all have to start someplace?.
I have no idea what a PX3/px5, mctd or mtcu is?.
But I’d like to understand, sadly trying to search this forum is a nightmare as it either pops up an advert with a guy walking about I think changing bank?. Or I get an offer of a free iPhone off virgin media (scam) or it simply crashes and reloads.
If I could get a few pointers it would be cool so I can make an informed decision.
My current thinking is that Basically the entire android HU production is from a few firms. And pretty much the head units have a ton of promise but are pretty much thrown together. So I’m keen to understand which models are less likely to be rubbish.
And also that as standard most have poor software, but this I don’t get as every android phone I’ve had off work is simply running android. I’ve never noticed much difference?. Why do people have to update the Rom when it’s already running Android?.
What’s a PX5?, from what the be seen that’s the 8 core job, generally with 2gb of ram and a 32gb rom.
Some of what I’ve found seems to indicate these should be better? And that the Bluetooth calling mic issue is better.
Best deal on that is with xtrons as all the others (with a 10.1” screen are only quad core for the same cash.
But what’s the most reliable and useable?. The PX3 (quad core mtcu?) or the Px5 ?
Why can’t the PX5 run Android 6?
And due to this should I just get the Merc style quad core running android 7.1?. Will that be more reliable and useable.
And again Xtrons seem the best all round proposition as seller.
Is the software on the Xtrons useable for basic use out the box?, ie reasonable audio, useable hands free?, gps and able to run amazon prime music and other apps foR the kids in the back?.
200-300 isn’t a small chunk of cash when you have a family of 6 so I’m keen to understand what’s the safest entry to Android HU’s and then what’s the deal and how can I learn more about booting etc.
Thanks anymone who can spend a few minutes getting me on the right path for it’d be much appreciated.
Cheers.

Lots of questions, but i'll try and sum up:
1. 200-300 that you'll spend is a gamble. I.e. hardware failures/bricks, lack of or no updates to your ROM.
2. Chinese Android HU's aren't refined. They are built/designed with good intentions, however, the software to go with is sucks.
3. The things that you expect i.e. good AM/FM quality, RDS, BT Calling etc, do work, but probably not the same quality as you'd expect (probably from mainstream headunits)
4. There are a few "good" companies that XDA tends to use more than others i.e. Joying, Pumpkin, HotAudio/Seicane/Daistao. When I put "good" in quotations, that means this is relative. These companies come out with software updates, are some what reasonable with end user support.
5. The gamble is, if you get a ****ty unit, and its hardware related, or if you decide to mod it (in most cases you will need to make the most of the HU), and you brick it.. than you have to ship the devices to China.
6. In terms of running the latest android, there really isn't a big advantage to running 7. If you can, get a unit with 6 on it. Updating has limitless possibilities of screwing up.
7. Since you're an android newb.. troubleshooting is going to be a nightmare for you, if you're not satisfied.
Hope this helps.

Cheers, much appreciated.
coolest35 said:
Lots of questions, but i'll try and sum up:
1. 200-300 that you'll spend is a gamble. I.e. hardware failures/bricks, lack of or no updates to your ROM.
2. Chinese Android HU's aren't refined. They are built/designed with good intentions, however, the software to go with is sucks.
3. The things that you expect i.e. good AM/FM quality, RDS, BT Calling etc, do work, but probably not the same quality as you'd expect (probably from mainstream headunits)
4. There are a few "good" companies that XDA tends to use more than others i.e. Joying, Pumpkin, HotAudio/Seicane/Daistao. When I put "good" in quotations, that means this is relative. These companies come out with software updates, are some what reasonable with end user support.
5. The gamble is, if you get a ****ty unit, and its hardware related, or if you decide to mod it (in most cases you will need to make the most of the HU), and you brick it.. than you have to ship the devices to China.
6. In terms of running the latest android, there really isn't a big advantage to running 7. If you can, get a unit with 6 on it. Updating has limitless possibilities of screwing up.
7. Since you're an android newb.. troubleshooting is going to be a nightmare for you, if you're not satisfied.
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

If / when you do get one could you leave some feedback? I'm looking at exactly the same options as you for a Merc B class as I want the stock look. Thanks

So I’m going to focus on units from Joying and Pumpkin.
Next question is why if they all run android is there software issues?, is there additional software needed to integrate with the car interfaces?.
And do I need an octacore unit (is this px5?) or will a quad core with 2gb ram do?.
Is Xtrons considered to be a bad bet if you don’t want to fiddle too much?. I ask because the same price mark with Joying and Pumpkin is for lower spec hardware or older OS.
And given that they are kind of best of the worst are they worth a premium?.
Was planning on the xtrons with either the octacore as the 10.1” screen or the merc style in the quad core as assumed it was the same inside as the more expensive joying or pumpkin but have noted the rear case can differ and on another thread here the manufacturer is noted as different to the Pumpkin units?

Itchigo53 said:
If / when you do get one could you leave some feedback? I'm looking at exactly the same options as you for a Merc B class as I want the stock look. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will do, I think I’m going to go for the oem look and go for an 8 core as you get 32gb ram built in so I can store amazon music and movies on it for the kids and listening.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Still tempted on the Xtrons as they’ve got pretty good feedback on trust pilot and at the moment they have 15% off bio first order code so can get it under £300 all in inc an OBDII dongle and a wireless reverse camera (£15 off eBay)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Or found uk firm selling the same (similar) type for the same money looking like it has an Apple type ui and icons and I’ve seen a Seicane reviewed that had the same look. Apparently they are pretty good. I know the reviewer of the video was pleased.
I’ve mailed them to ask about software support etc.
They have 98.5% on eBay and the negative reviews are not on head units though they have lots of positive.
Oh it’s audio tech direct.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Danno1975 said:
So I’m going to focus on units from Joying and Pumpkin.
Next question is why if they all run android is there software issues?, is there additional software needed to integrate with the car interfaces?.
And do I need an octacore unit (is this px5?) or will a quad core with 2gb ram do?.
Is Xtrons considered to be a bad bet if you don’t want to fiddle too much?. I ask because the same price mark with Joying and Pumpkin is for lower spec hardware or older OS.
And given that they are kind of best of the worst are they worth a premium?.
Was planning on the xtrons with either the octacore as the 10.1” screen or the merc style in the quad core as assumed it was the same inside as the more expensive joying or pumpkin but have noted the rear case can differ and on another thread here the manufacturer is noted as different to the Pumpkin units?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They all have software issues since they have no "real" world testing, their application is so varied across so many car models, that they really can't get it right. The pumpkins/joying/seicane have some what better support, and since they're the most "popular" units out here.. you'll get much better XDA support too (which, did I mention is probably better than manufacturer support? lol).
They're worth a premium if you want something different, to test and fidget with.. there is a ton more functionality than standard HU's, but that comes at a price of course.
Just a word of advice.. don't trust reviews on random sale websites, they're of course selling something!

Got a positive email off Audio Tech Direct this morning that explained all the questions I had Re the two units I liked. I did some research and of the two merc units I like one was 99.9% Seicane and the other was 99.9% a Erisn.
They noted they will give firmware support where needed on an if it ain’t broke basis. Suits me as I don’t plan on fiddling beyond maybe a new car style launcher.
Doing an extension at the moment so need to convince the wife later of the need for a potentially disappointing £300 radio [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
Itchigo53 said:
If / when you do get one could you leave some feedback? I'm looking at exactly the same options as you for a Merc B class as I want the stock look. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Got it yesterday. Really nice, few set up issues to iron out as I was tired last night. But for the 2012 Vito it plugged in and worked straight away.
Happy so far with the unit and the UK seller, it’s a good fit, sound is great, works well looks great. Plugged and played no issues even dash display works on radio channels RDS works, the supplied aerial seems better than stock, didn’t come with the Merc boot screen but that’s in settings and was easy to change (pin code 126 I think).
Love the equaliser and speaker adjust app really good and works well, handsfree is fine via the built in mic (my car one is somewhere in the quad lock so guess it’s not used)
Screens is good, not as sharp as my iPhone but it’s not a £700 Apple product. I had hoped it would be more vibrant but this may be as it was in night mode and I can play with settings. Not used to android so will get my head around it.
Torque app looks good but couldn’t connect to dongle.
Had a few issues getting this onto iPhone WiFi but I think this is the iPhone as it the same with iPad too. WiFi seems good. Was a fair way from house and WiFi from house was connected even though the phone wouldn’t and it’s a newish iPhone 7 so + 1 to the head unit.
Can’t figure out how to change the dash widgets, don’t like the car launchers on android play store so want to get this set for me. Would like weather. Didn’t install till 9:30 last night so was tired.
Only problem really with install was I took the glove box lamp out to help fit a flush mount Usb for the rear usbs on the head units did a bang up job. It the back of the lamp hots it so not have a horror hole. Luckily I can’t see it and will glue some black plastic over it and do it Saturday when I got the parking camera. A class needs a separate power lead which is supplied so still plug and play really.
Starting up isn’t super slow or super fast. By the time I was off the drive it was working, Rev Can mutes radio. Anyway and works ( black screen for now as no camera)
These are the issues and I’m awaiting a response. Till now Audio tech direct have been great with support pre order and on delivery via Sainsburys.
Issues
On the buttons the green phone answer key does not light up green at all, the red does.
On the built in sat navs there’s no post code search that I could find. Will only use it when remote and can’t get in google maps and anyway. Or camping.
Also in the supplied Navigation I have the volume set at max but when using it this morning with the radio although the radio level dips the audio on the Nav is too low to be heard.
Strangely the radio is only on 1 but at one it’s the same as half way on a normal radio, may be a default system volume I need to change? on the drive last night you could hear it outside the van on 1.
Also on the GPs occasionally it (very quietly) says gps lost, though a check shows at least 10 channels and good fix. This is on my drive with clear sky above and driving in open environment. Still navs though.
Gps aerial is currently on dash of van with clear sky view and as noted the sat navs still seeing satellite.
Blue tooth won’t see my BT elm327 dongle?. Might be the dongle not used it before.
Tried mirror link and it connected to my iPhone but just made a horrible screaching and displayed a grey screen.
Can’t get the radio to come on without key in, not a problem in itself though the previous unit did, main problem is as soon as the key is inserted to get it to turn on it assumes you are driving so can’t show video or dvd even if the engine is off and ignition not even on. And if you take key out it powers down.
So you can’t watch video.
Made three BT calls one clear two a bit crackling but the wife was in her car in the sticks on her handsfree and the Sony BT crackles on my iPhone ad2p connection so might be her. Last night to her m bike was fine. So happy ish.
Main thing is how well the seller supports the little issues I have.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Danno1975 said:
Got it yesterday. Really nice, few set up issues to iron out as I was tired last night. But for the 2012 Vito it plugged in and worked straight away.
Happy so far with the unit and the UK seller, it’s a good fit, sound is great, works well looks great. Plugged and played no issues even dash display works on radio channels RDS works, the supplied aerial seems better than stock, didn’t come with the Merc boot screen but that’s in settings and was easy to change (pin code 126 I think).
Love the equaliser and speaker adjust app really good and works well, handsfree is fine via the built in mic (my car one is somewhere in the quad lock so guess it’s not used)
Screens is good, not as sharp as my iPhone but it’s not a £700 Apple product. I had hoped it would be more vibrant but this may be as it was in night mode and I can play with settings. Not used to android so will get my head around it.
Torque app looks good but couldn’t connect to dongle.
Had a few issues getting this onto iPhone WiFi but I think this is the iPhone as it the same with iPad too. WiFi seems good. Was a fair way from house and WiFi from house was connected even though the phone wouldn’t and it’s a newish iPhone 7 so + 1 to the head unit.
Can’t figure out how to change the dash widgets, don’t like the car launchers on android play store so want to get this set for me. Would like weather. Didn’t install till 9:30 last night so was tired.
Only problem really with install was I took the glove box lamp out to help fit a flush mount Usb for the rear usbs on the head units did a bang up job. It the back of the lamp hots it so not have a horror hole. Luckily I can’t see it and will glue some black plastic over it and do it Saturday when I got the parking camera. A class needs a separate power lead which is supplied so still plug and play really.
Starting up isn’t super slow or super fast. By the time I was off the drive it was working, Rev Can mutes radio. Anyway and works ( black screen for now as no camera)
These are the issues and I’m awaiting a response. Till now Audio tech direct have been great with support pre order and on delivery via Sainsburys.
Issues
On the buttons the green phone answer key does not light up green at all, the red does.
On the built in sat navs there’s no post code search that I could find. Will only use it when remote and can’t get in google maps and anyway. Or camping.
Also in the supplied Navigation I have the volume set at max but when using it this morning with the radio although the radio level dips the audio on the Nav is too low to be heard.
Strangely the radio is only on 1 but at one it’s the same as half way on a normal radio, may be a default system volume I need to change? on the drive last night you could hear it outside the van on 1.
Also on the GPs occasionally it (very quietly) says gps lost, though a check shows at least 10 channels and good fix. This is on my drive with clear sky above and driving in open environment. Still navs though.
Gps aerial is currently on dash of van with clear sky view and as noted the sat navs still seeing satellite.
Blue tooth won’t see my BT elm327 dongle?. Might be the dongle not used it before.
Tried mirror link and it connected to my iPhone but just made a horrible screaching and displayed a grey screen.
Can’t get the radio to come on without key in, not a problem in itself though the previous unit did, main problem is as soon as the key is inserted to get it to turn on it assumes you are driving so can’t show video or dvd even if the engine is off and ignition not even on. And if you take key out it powers down.
So you can’t watch video.
Made three BT calls one clear two a bit crackling but the wife was in her car in the sticks on her handsfree and the Sony BT crackles on my iPhone ad2p connection so might be her. Last night to her m bike was fine. So happy ish.
Main thing is how well the seller supports the little issues I have. View attachment 4320987View attachment 4320986View attachment 4320989
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Issues sorted great support
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Which unit is actually problem free?

Hi forum,
I'm looking for a head unit to replace the stock unit in my Mazda 6 2008. There's plenty of choice when it comes to Android head units, and they're usually very complete and affordable. Reading around the forums here though, it looks like pretty much all these units have issues.
My intended use is quite simple: Use Android Auto to control Spotify and Waze, and maaaaybe connect a reversing camera. I don't want to use my phone as a hotspot, to avoid unnecessary data usage (I often download my Spotify playlists on WiFi to use in the car).
My question is this: Am I better off with an Android head unit, or with a JVC/Pioneer/Kenwood/Sony unit that supports Android Auto?

Every time I visit this forum I see a question like this. Why the mods haven't stickied it god only knows.
Answer is NO. They're all jinxed. My Atoto S8 Standard had software glitches (can't swipe status bar down until reset) bluetooth doesn't connect on hot days, and it draws too much power when in standby killing my battery and replacing it wasn't cheap.
I'm down the cost of the head unit and a new vehicle battery + fitting.

invertgoat said:
Every time I visit this forum I see a question like this. Why the mods haven't stickied it god only knows.
Answer is NO. They're all jinxed. My Atoto S8 Standard had software glitches (can't swipe status bar down until reset) bluetooth doesn't connect on hot days, and it draws too much power when in standby killing my battery and replacing it wasn't cheap.
I'm down the cost of the head unit and a new vehicle battery + fitting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your reply, I think I'll pass on an Android head unit for now . It's overkill for my requirements anyway.

invertgoat said:
Answer is NO. They're all jinxed. My Atoto S8 Standard had software glitches (can't swipe status bar down until reset) bluetooth doesn't connect on hot days, and it draws too much power when in standby killing my battery and replacing it wasn't cheap.
I'm down the cost of the head unit and a new vehicle battery + fitting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And you came to that conclusion with a sample size of 1 by the sounds of it. Is it a modern unit or is it a relic running cheaper low end chipsets for bluetooth/wifi with minimal ram?
I'm in 30+ degree days with massive humidity and have had no issue with bluetooth connection for albeit a short period of time.
The drain is real and if wired correctly is based on two settings about whether to put the unit to sleep and if there is a delay before shut off.
These units aren't plug and play as some expect and take a bit to understand but to collectively assume they are all buggy seems like an unfair assessment.
I will reserve judgement especially on the newer 720 screen Android 10 versions until there is a fair bit more feedback.

ludditefornow said:
These units aren't plug and play as some expect and take a bit to understand but to collectively assume they are all buggy seems like an unfair assessment.
I will reserve judgement especially on the newer 720 screen Android 10 versions until there is a fair bit more feedback.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. They are ALL buggy, and that includes the 720/android 10 which I have. I just keep buying them because they do have certain advantages over the traditional head units. If those advantages aren't a concern then you are much better off with a kenwood/pioneer/alpine.....

Care to define these bugs?.
I'm yet to find an OS that is bug free. When I referred to "all buggy" I was relating to bugs that make things unusable as was suggested by the poster I quoted.
There can be bugs and still the OS can be thoroughly useable and offer a great day to day experience.
I went down this route because mainstream units simply lacked functions. The deal breaker for me was that the only Android phone brand that they would would confirm to work with their units was Samsung.
When my android head unit has the settings working correctly, the parasitic draw on the car's battery is well within tolerance. So for people to use battery drain as a blanket example of bugs is clearly misleading.

Bang for the buck the Xtrons PX6 units. I have bought at least 3 different variations and installed HAL9K's software on them. The software they came with seemed solid when I used it and I had no issues outside of it wiping my Google contacts which was an easy fix. I have purchased Joying, Dasaita, Xtrons, Atoto, Eonon and a whole host of other off brands etc. The Xtrons PX6 10.1 seems to be the leader for price/performance and what it offers. They have a version with DSP as well. I currently am using the latest 10.1 Joying single din but haven't used it long enough to see if there are any inherent problems. The name brands, Kenwood, Pioneer etc I have used over the years all have bugs and quirks as well. Just my 2 cents YMMV.

Newbie Is it worth getting a Android head unit? I been debating if it's better to go pioneer or try android

I been wanting to update my old head unit and tried looking in here for info but I can't find anything for my questions but my main question is the android units pretty mature that it's smooth and you don't have to really worry about it it just works ? I have no clue on what brands are pretty good I seen joy alot and are people here modding the head units and making them run better?

I am also interested in the feedback from the more experienced Here.
I want to install a large screen Android in our motorhome, but don’t want something that doesn’t work well.
Paul

I recently purchased Topway TS10 unit. My first Android HU, actually my first Android device also.
If I had to do it again I would look for a unit that can be rooted fully - otherwise you are at total mercy of Chinese vendor who may ignore you, give you wrong information or will simply not understand your question.
Based on my, rather limited, knowledge, 3GB RAM CC2 Plus from Alibaba would be on top of my list.

firstbob said:
I recently purchased Topway TS10 unit. My first Android HU, actually my first Android device also.
If I had to do it again I would look for a unit that can be rooted fully - otherwise you are at total mercy of Chinese vendor who may ignore you, give you wrong information or will simply not understand your question.
Based on my, rather limited, knowledge, 3GB RAM CC2 Plus from Alibaba would be on top of my list.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yah that's my main worry's is being at the mercy of a Chinese vendor and having to deal with a buggy OS with no updates and noone on xda having there own version that's better

Neogx said:
Yah that's my main worry's is being at the mercy of a Chinese vendor and having to deal with a buggy OS with no updates and noone on xda having there own version that's better
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quite right.

marchnz said:
Quite right.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had some personal experience with both options. Last year I purchased a top-of-the-line Pioneer HU (AVIC W8500NEX) and installed it in my Toyota Highlander. I had nothing but trouble with it. Random reboots and freeze-ups. Replaced the HU once and the CanBus adapter once but problems persisted. I finally gave up and recently purchased a Sygav PX6 android HU. The first HU died after one day. The second HU has been working well other than a few quirks that are well documented in this forum.
So, I don't think there is a clear answer here. I completely understand the concerns about purchasing an off-brand HU, but name brand HU's are not without problems as well.

I've been in this game quite a long time. Heck., I was in this game years ago when it was WinCE.
Functionality wise, the top brands have been playing catch up for years. In the case of some of them, they even went down the WinCE route, so as to provide a pathway to all the great software that was available (iGo Primo, for example).
Where the Chinese head units are playing catch-up, has always been the sound quality. Historically, Chinese Head Units have used very low quality amplifier IC's which give a very mediocre sound.
Then we got the generic Android Head Units and again, the big brand manufacturers were playing catch up, except it's not a level playing field. I doubt big brands would be allowed to ship an almost stock Android Head Unit as they are not 'actually safe' for cars. They are the kind of thing which would have to be sold with a 'Not Road Legal' label attached.
So you've got the CarPlay and Android Auto options coming out of the big brands and you've got the generic Android kit coming out of the Chinese brands. Except, the Chinese brands have now caught up with the sound quality. The PX5 units I had in my BMW and Audi had exceptional sound quality.
As for the quality and reliability. I've always had good luck with Chinese units until recently. My WinCE badgers never failed me. Two PX5's didn't fail either (6 months and 2 years).
So, I got a PX6 for my Jetta as a treat to myself. I was mezmerized by the speed but the first thing I noticed on day 1 is that it ran hot. The PX5 ran comparatively cool and the issue with electronics when they get hot is the lifespan shorten and as this thing ran hot seemingly all the time, it unfortunately didn't last a month, and was returned with an amp defect.
I'm now on a Xtrons MA series, which is basically a Junsun V1 Pro. Performance wise, it pales in comparison to the PX6 and tbh, it even feels a bit sluggish compared to the PX5. However.... it has an extremely good DSP which means the sound quality utterly blows away the PX6, which was already decent btw. It also has some other nice features like Android Assistant that is actually able to dial via your phone properly (it never worked on the PX5), CarPlay for your iPhone, Android Auto if you want it....
So the gap between what Pioneer are knocking out and these Chinese head units is actually massive at this point and it's in favour of the Chinese stuff. You can literally buy a Chinese head unit that offers the same functionality as the Pioneer (CarPlay etc), and more (Android 10) and similar sound quality.
Big manufacturers are on borrowed time. In-built stuff with new cars + these units for old cars are literally the death knell.

You are not comparing apples with apples - genuine units are Android Auto, Chinese origin greyboxes are a hacked Android and are NOT Android Auto. They have two very different use cases.
The problem with Chinese origin knock off Android head units is the lack of recourse, support and consumer protection.
The resellers stop communicating when bugs and problems get hard for them, leaving buyer stuck or out of pocket.

marchnz said:
You are not comparing apples with apples - genuine units are Android Auto, Chinese origin greyboxes are a hacked Android and are NOT Android Auto. They have two very different use cases.
The problem with Chinese origin knock off Android head units is the lack of recourse, support and consumer protection.
The resellers stop communicating when bugs and problems get hard for them, leaving buyer stuck or out of pocket.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Chinese unit also offers Android Auto and CarPlay via USB, hence my point that I am able to access numerous ecosystems here. Android, Android-Auto, CarPlay.
I think there is some truth to your statement with regards to lacking resource and consumer protection but your best bet is buying from one of the more legitimate UK based resellers. I've bought my last three from Xtrons and the one which failed, they took back in an instant and refunded the money. It's a gamble but it's hardly a risky gamble, we're talking a few hundred pounds here, and if you're sensible and buy through a protected platform like Amazon, you'll be fine.
In my experience, quality control issues usually manifest themselves within a very short period of time. In my case, it was less than a month. If your unit is still going strong after 3-4 then I'd say you're onto a winner. The bugs are usually bitty I find. My PX5 and PX6's were really smooth and powerful, but had irritating little 'misses' like Google Now couldn't make a call via Bluetooth, which is more like a missing feature than an actual bug. This new unit doesn't feel particularly buggy UI wise, but it's definitely not as powerful.... However, it offers some really clever features that the PX5 and PX6 didn't, such as calling via Google Now right out of the box and separated volume channels for different things. Higher clock speeds aren't everything. I've not made up my mind on it currently, but as it costs £260 inc delivery and brought a whole load of surprisingly useful extras the PX5/6 don't, I think I am OK with it.
One thing I would point out here:
Any aftermarket radio that offers apps or 'AppRadio-esque' functionality is at the mercy of manufacturer. The ecosystem they selling against is essentially a moving target. I think the big brands get let off so easily here.
AppRadio – Apps on Google Play
Turn your car into a connected car with Pioneer AppRadio
play.google.com
The Pioneer AppRadio app above has a wonderful 2 star rating on Google Play. Is it any wonder? A number of the early App Radios (1-4 definitely) are now dead if used with official software. The only alternative is AppRadio Unchained which is effectively a screen mirroring app and a right mess to get working. Let's not pretend that you're good for life if you get yourself a Pioneer or Sony. You are merely on a countdown and eventually they'll pull the plug.
In the case of a Chinese radio, it's usually however long it takes for the hardware to become obsolete and unusable, if the hardware itself doesn't fail. My PX5's were running the latest apps and my oldest was bought in 2018. I expect this current unit will keep going for a similar amount of time, albeit not as quick as I'd like. Tl:dr, I think it's naive to think we buy radios (including big brand) to last 5-10 years. At the price point they exist, we should be happy with 3 years. Not many people keep their cars much longer than that anyway.