Related
GrowlAudio have a model specific version for my car (growlaudio.com/nissan-navara) but finding real specs on it seems to be next to impossible.
All the suppliers have been able to tell me:
The units are not upgradable as in OS updates. OS 4.4 is the most stable of the OS available. Yes you can see other units with OS 5 and 6 available from china at a cheaper price but there is a known fault with them that they are unstable and crash a lot.
Price includes Growl unit with built in fascia, all cables and adapters needed for install, GPS antenna and free reverse camera.
Android Head Unit:
OS: Android 4.4
CPU: Quad Core Processor
RAM: DDR3 1Gb
ROM: 8G EMMC
SD: Built - In 16GB
Capable of reading 1TB external Drive
Mobile Connectivity : iOS and Android Devices
VIDEO: RMVB,MKV,MOV,WMV,AVI,MPG
AUDIO: MP3,WMA,WAV,OGG,FLAC
GPS MODULE: Support
GPS Navigation software: Sygic, Waze and other android compatible maps. Capable on connecting to WiFi via Mobile Hotspot or wifi connectivity
Bluetooth Audio and Handsfree Calls: Supported
Steering Wheel controls: Supported
Rear view video: Automatic Backup Camera turn on when reversing
Other users that have purchased and installed the unit seem to think it's the best thing ever, but every video I can find of it is slow to startup (30-40 sec), reverse camera not coming on till full boot. And no one I talk to is able to provide any details on audio quality.
What I am looking for in a HeadUnit:
Required:
* Reverse camera capable of being used within a few seconds of ignition
* Bluetooth hands free with iPhone compatibility
* Music streaming from either iPhone or USB / Flash storage
* Google Maps / GPS compatible
* 3G/4G sim/USB Dongle compatible
* Steering Wheel Control support (CANBUS)
* Audio quality at least equal to or better than stock
* Responsive screen / controls
Optional / Extras
* Multiple camera support
* Side-by-side picture
* Able to connect to iPhone Bluetooth, Internet, OBD Reader/Torque, TPMS at the same time, or at least without having to go into settings and change connected device
Does anyone have any suggestions of a suitable HU?
I've been digging for info on these, reading Amazon reviews, reading threads here, reading marketing on the mfr/reseller websites and was contemplating starting a thread for this. In lieu of starting another thread I figure to just contribute on yours. It all started not long ago when I finally installed a 2-year-sitting-in-closet Pioneer Appradio 3... what a piece of junk!!! (but it does sound good)
Is anyone comparing the pros/cons of these things? It's pretty difficult to compile information on them when there are a ton of brands nobody has heard of combined with new hardware/software coming out all the time. From what I've read there are a few major dealbreakers that make me want to wait, after all who wants to swap their head unit out on any regular basis?
I head not heard about sticking to 4.4, why are 5.1 and 6.0 not good? I read somewhere they aren't as snappy but in any video I've seen they look fine.
I'll put my lists here and maybe others can chime in with what they want/like/dislike so we can paint a bigger picture for these head units.
Here are all the things that make me hesitant to buy one of these right now:
Dealbreakers for me:
No hands-free voice control for things like Android Auto, Google Now, Google Maps, Calling... "OK Google"
Boot times any more than 5 seconds.
Lack of external microphone - I know I can add one but geez is it too much to ask for a jack?
(some may have) independent volume for media/nav/phone/etc
Cons:
No ability to USB tether to use phone's internet connection (someone's probably done this here)
Seemingly weak future update support
Problems that can be handled with apps and mods:
No light sensor for auto dimming
speed dependent master volume change
Here's what I would put on a wishlist:
Must haves:
fast boot time (<5-10 seconds)
voice control
external microphone (or jack so can add)
option resume playing last thing on startup (car start)
Independant volume for Media/nav/phone/etc
Good audio quality
Like to have:
permanent button for Nav app
headlight or auto dimming
speed dependent volume
DVR support for dashcam AND reverse camera input
USB tethering option for data connection
ability to work with aftermarket bluetooth steering wheel remote
full Android Auto support with voice commands
ability to update in the future
Bluetooth 5 with internet connection sharing would be nice (IPSP)
The Newsmy Carpad 4 has some things I love: 4G SIM card capable, 2 camera DVR with ability to act as a car security system and send alerts to your phone, but it costs way too much and will surely come down like every tech does in the near future.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71220653&postcount=24
https://de.aliexpress.com/store/pro...32789646411.html?spm=2114.12010608.0.0.Qi1q42
Also looks like the Onwice C500 has 4G SIM card slot
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/android-head-units/ownice-c500-released-t3478747
http://www.gearbest.com/car-dvd-player/pp_597322.html
Joying has nice stuff and I've seen reviews that describe their low-power "dormant" mode that keeps the unit ready for a zero-delay startup even after the car is parked for a day (some units seem to only have a short dormant period before they shut down)... dormant time would of course be all dependent on how much power they draw whilst dormant.
ATOTO claim they can handle voice commands: http://www.myatoto.com/index.php?m=content&c=index&a=show&catid=15&id=5
This is just the tip of the iceberg, I know. I can never seem to find one that does everything I/we all want, and that means time to wait. Anyone compiled up-to-date info so we can make an informed decision?
RedbeardPete said:
Dealbreakers for me:
Boot times any more than 5 seconds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I've been able to read, you will not get this in any pure Android head unit. Its simply not possible. Do you know Android phone/tablet that is capable of powering on in less than 5 sec?
Sure they can all 'wake' in that time frame, but that's because they are running from a battery. Yes the car has a battery, but the constant drain from the head unit being in sleep mode will likely flatten the battery if the car is not started in 3-5 days.
Your demands list is something more inline with an Alpine/Kenwood/Non-PureAndroid head unit.
The fairly new Joying Intel Sofia Head Units do go into a deep sleep and only draw about 10 mAh once the vehicle has been shut off for five minutes or so. To clarify, my JY-UL134N2 unit only takes a second or two to start up after being off for days, and it begins playing music from the Sandisk 200GB micro sdxc card in a few seconds. It will also display the reverse camera instantly like the older rk3066 and rk3188 units. Please note that this HU is in a spare vehicle that only gets used every few days or on weekends, and the battery drain has not been an issue at all. Please also note that if the system is shut down completely (not in dormancy mode), the boot time is 15 seconds to a minute depending on how loaded up the system is with apps etc...
Anyway, regardless of the start up time, I doubt you will find any Chinese Android Head Units that will check all or even most of the boxes on your wish list out of the box. To date, they all appear to need software and or hardware mods in order to work half way decent and even then they are far from perfect. For sound quality, Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, or Sony would be far better out of box. The bottom line is that for the cost, the Chinese Android Head Units can be fun to tinker with and decent with work, but you get what you pay for when it comes to sound quality (IMHO).
Best of luck,
R
rhacy said:
The fairly new Joying Intel Sofia Head Units do go into a deep sleep and only draw about 10 mAh once the vehicle has been shut off for five minutes or so. To clarify, my JY-UL134N2 unit only takes a second or two to start up after being off for days, and it begins playing music from the Sandisk 200GB micro sdxc card in a few seconds. It will also display the reverse camera instantly like the older rk3066 and rk3188 units. Please note that this HU is in a spare vehicle that only gets used every few days or on weekends, and the battery drain has not been an issue at all. Please also note that if the system is shut down completely (not in dormancy mode), the boot time is 15 seconds to a minute depending on how loaded up the system is with apps etc...
Anyway, regardless of the start up time, I doubt you will find any Chinese Android Head Units that will check all or even most of the boxes on your wish list out of the box. To date, they all appear to need software and or hardware mods in order to work half way decent and even then they are far from perfect. For sound quality, Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, or Sony would be far better out of box. The bottom line is that for the cost, the Chinese Android Head Units can be fun to tinker with and decent with work, but you get what you pay for when it comes to sound quality (IMHO).
Best of luck,
R
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I'm looking for! How do you find the HU? Would you recommend it to aynone?
Google for Joying, they have a fairly decent website. I definitely noticed that feature mentioned and demonstrated in some YouTube videos of newer Joying units and seems like a winner... Boot time is my biggest gripe (without having ever owned one of these). I'm not sure of the downsides for Joying units although I think they don't have external mic jack, will look into that and report back.
I should have been more specific, a usable dormant fast-boot mode that can do 24 hours before shutdown/draining top much battery would be totally usable... That way the daily driver fires up the head unit right away.
So what head unit do you guys think checks off the most boxes for you?
I want to get a Android head unit for my 2011 VW Polo.
Both looks good, Ownice has a build in 4G modem. both are Android 6 with Quad core, 2GB of ram and 32GB of rom.
I've seen this thread but with no real answer..
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...s/ownice-c500-2gb-16gb-cortex-a53-vs-t3524129
Any thoughts?
Ownice:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Own...VD-GPS-Radio-for-VW-Golf-5-6/32654961721.html
Joying:
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...32221744453.html?spm=2114.12010612.0.0.1ou0ky
Thanks!
The ownice has a dvd slot
Verstuurd vanaf mijn Z2 Pro met Tapatalk
IpDo said:
I want to get a Android head unit for my 2011 VW Polo.
Both looks good, Ownice has a build in 4G modem. both are Android 6 with Quad core, 2GB of ram and 32GB of rom.
I've seen this thread but with no real answer..
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...s/ownice-c500-2gb-16gb-cortex-a53-vs-t3524129
Any thoughts?
Ownice:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Own...VD-GPS-Radio-for-VW-Golf-5-6/32654961721.html
Joying:
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...32221744453.html?spm=2114.12010612.0.0.1ou0ky
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you don't tell us what you expectations are, what features do you need or how are you are gonna use the unit we could never be able to guess so we could make a proper recommendation.
Ok,
what I need in both:
* good radio (my main source for music while driving)
* good BT connectivity (so calls and contact view while call is made)
* decent sound output (using my 2 original speakers and 2 extra mid range for the rear)
* I will connect the unit using 4G - but I have a usb modem that works with android so the Joying is working option aswell.
* good GPS
* no need for a DVD
I believe that both units qualify my needs - so in all other areas - which one is a better choice?
IpDo said:
I want to get a Android head unit for my 2011 VW Polo.
Both looks good, Ownice has a build in 4G modem. both are Android 6 with Quad core, 2GB of ram and 32GB of rom.
I've seen this thread but with no real answer..
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...s/ownice-c500-2gb-16gb-cortex-a53-vs-t3524129
Any thoughts?
Ownice:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Own...VD-GPS-Radio-for-VW-Golf-5-6/32654961721.html
Joying:
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...32221744453.html?spm=2114.12010612.0.0.1ou0ky
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your main interest is listening radio DONT BUY the ownice. Radio reception is very poor and does not support RDS.
All other features works well (BT, GPS, sound quality is adecuate, etc.) But in my unit the microSD slot does not work and the radio is useless. I nned to use internet radio using 4G built in.
IpDo said:
Ok,
what I need in both:
* good radio (my main source for music while driving)
* good BT connectivity (so calls and contact view while call is made)
* decent sound output (using my 2 original speakers and 2 extra mid range for the rear)
* I will connect the unit using 4G - but I have a usb modem that works with android so the Joying is working option aswell.
* good GPS
* no need for a DVD
I believe that both units qualify my needs - so in all other areas - which one is a better choice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whatever you do, do not buy a unit where there is no alternative ROM like Malaysk available. The Firmware in Ownice is absolute crap and they are not delivering any updates to fix the myriad of problems. The Firmware in Joying seems to be a bit better but still very few updates available.
Regards
Kurt Lund
IpDo said:
Ok,
what I need in both:
* good radio (my main source for music while driving)
* good BT connectivity (so calls and contact view while call is made)
* decent sound output (using my 2 original speakers and 2 extra mid range for the rear)
* I will connect the unit using 4G - but I have a usb modem that works with android so the Joying is working option aswell.
* good GPS
* no need for a DVD
I believe that both units qualify my needs - so in all other areas - which one is a better choice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using an Joying with Intel Sofia so
- the radio reception is decent (to good) but I have a pretty long antenna on the roof so I can't comment for short ones . For music is not adequate, the dynamic range is bad (poor bass and highs), for news and talk shows is good enough. The RDS implementation in software is bad. My previous unit an Witson with an RK3066 CPU and 1Gb of RAM had an even worse FM radio hardware so I might call it an upgrade on the Joying. I haven;t used it in the last unit and I still don't use it in this one I rather stream the FM channels from the internet.
- the BT connectivity is good, with some modding you can use tether via BT something that is rarely seen on the chinese units (if ever). The app on the other hand has that annoying behavior (that I have encountered on many other Chinese units no matter the maker, or hardware configuration), once you get a call the app gets stuck on the screen, covering half the screen, you can't switch to any other app if you need to.... When you make a call the app covers all the screen and you can't get out of it if for instance you need to have a look at the map while driving... so you can't hear directions or view the map.
- it has poor sound quality for my taste but so all the chinese units have out of the box, no surprise here, but once you root the unit and install Viper4Android it gets a lot better...
- can't comment on the modems... I tether via BT and works great
- it has GLONASS with very good signal quality... I always have AT LEAST 12-15 satellites locked
Have a look at my Q&A thread, I am sure it will answer a lot of your questions and help you taking the right decision.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...ts/intel-sofia-to-micro-tutorials-qa-t3616074
owince
hi
y have owice C500 8core 2go y enjoy it!
bu-buell said:
hi
y have owice C500 8core 2go y enjoy it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That kind of answer does not help him at all.
Don't forget customs taxes/VAT depending on what country you live in. The same priced multimedia device might become much more expensive. I myself was thinking between ownice, dasaita and Joying. Decided to go with Joying mostly because there was an option to get it from Germany. Also I have already ordered small heatsinks with Joying cooling in mind.
edit said:
I am using an Joying with Intel Sofia so
- the radio reception is decent (to good) but I have a pretty long antenna on the roof so I can't comment for short ones . For music is not adequate, the dynamic range is bad (poor bass and highs), for news and talk shows is good enough. The RDS implementation in software is bad. My previous unit an Witson with an RK3066 CPU and 1Gb of RAM had an even worse FM radio hardware so I might call it an upgrade on the Joying. I haven;t used it in the last unit and I still don't use it in this one I rather stream the FM channels from the internet.
- the BT connectivity is good, with some modding you can use tether via BT something that is rarely seen on the chinese units (if ever). The app on the other hand has that annoying behavior (that I have encountered on many other Chinese units no matter the maker, or hardware configuration), once you get a call the app gets stuck on the screen, covering half the screen, you can't switch to any other app if you need to.... When you make a call the app covers all the screen and you can't get out of it if for instance you need to have a look at the map while driving... so you can't hear directions or view the map.
- it has poor sound quality for my taste but so all the chinese units have out of the box, no surprise here, but once you root the unit and install Viper4Android it gets a lot better...
- can't comment on the modems... I tether via BT and works great
- it has GLONASS with very good signal quality... I always have AT LEAST 12-15 satellites locked
Have a look at my Q&A thread, I am sure it will answer a lot of your questions and help you taking the right decision.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...ts/intel-sofia-to-micro-tutorials-qa-t3616074
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can live with the radio problems.. but the BT sounds like a mess.
do anyone know about a unit that don't have this problems (calls that make the gps navi unavailable)?
Anyone?
And with Joying still the best option,
does anyone knows if those 2 are the same product? one is 5.1 and the other is android 6 (looks like the same hardware to me):
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...Tiguan-Golf-5-6-Bora/1463369_32385256614.html
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...-GOLF-6-new-polo-New/1463369_32221744453.html
IpDo said:
Anyone?
And with Joying still the best option,
does anyone knows if those 2 are the same product? one is 5.1 and the other is android 6 (looks like the same hardware to me):
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...Tiguan-Golf-5-6-Bora/1463369_32385256614.html
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/pr...-GOLF-6-new-polo-New/1463369_32221744453.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you would have looked better at the model name you would have seen they are the same.
Need some help anyone that has tested any of the units ,need some advice on purchasing one.
Stability
Reliability
Features
Easy of use
Can't speak for the Pumpkin, but the ATOTO A6 series, for me, has been stable and reliable, has some good features (dual Bluetooth, real 2s boot, decent audio quality with a Toshiba pre-amp, bright, vibrant IPS screen, 2Gb RAM, decent internal/external mic, external WiFi antenna, strong GPS performance, 2 amp USB charging, 3 USB connections, 256GB microSD card support, works well with just about any ELM Bluetooth OBD2 reader, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX.). The resolution on the Atoto is higher, 1024x600, compared to 800x480 on the Pumpkin. That right there is a deal-breaker for me on the Pumpkin.
The Pumpkin does have a volume dial, nice to have, and it also has a DVD drive and can do video-out to rear seat monitors, something the Atoto can't do. But that volume dial and DVD drive mean a smaller screen than the Atoto.
Ease of use, well, that's mostly down to the launcher you go with, really, and none of the Chinese head units have a good launcher, you'll want something from the Play store like FCC or CWG. Pumpkin's FM tuner app is much better looking, but Atoto's app works well enough.
The gesture control on the Atoto is a nice feature, but it's really best suited to cars that have head units that are higher (like, say, a Focus or BRZ) so your normal hand movements from the center console/shifter up to the wheel don't set it off. I'd recommend getting the non-gesture A6 Pro unit if your head unit is low-mounted, save a little money and get a front panel USB port in the process. And go with the Pro, not the Premium, because on the Pro versions get the superior IPS display and BT 5.0.
Biggest downside of the Atoto units is that there's no custom ROM support for MediaTek head units, while the Pumpkin units have good ROM support here on XDA. On the upside, Atoto is pretty good about updating firmware and their customer service really seems to be responsive.
Croak said:
Can't speak for the Pumpkin, but the ATOTO A6 series, for me, has been stable and reliable, has some good features (dual Bluetooth, real 2s boot, decent audio quality with a Toshiba pre-amp, bright, vibrant IPS screen, 2Gb RAM, decent internal/external mic, external WiFi antenna, strong GPS performance, 2 amp USB charging, 3 USB connections, 256GB microSD card support, works well with just about any ELM Bluetooth OBD2 reader, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX.). The resolution on the Atoto is higher, 1024x600, compared to 800x480 on the Pumpkin. That right there is a deal-breaker for me on the Pumpkin.
The Pumpkin does have a volume dial, nice to have, and it also has a DVD drive and can do video-out to rear seat monitors, something the Atoto can't do. But that volume dial and DVD drive mean a smaller screen than the Atoto.
Ease of use, well, that's mostly down to the launcher you go with, really, and none of the Chinese head units have a good launcher, you'll want something from the Play store like FCC or CWG. Pumpkin's FM tuner app is much better looking, but Atoto's app works well enough.
The gesture control on the Atoto is a nice feature, but it's really best suited to cars that have head units that are higher (like, say, a Focus or BRZ) so your normal hand movements from the center console/shifter up to the wheel don't set it off. I'd recommend getting the non-gesture A6 Pro unit if your head unit is low-mounted, save a little money and get a front panel USB port in the process. And go with the Pro, not the Premium, because on the Pro versions get the superior IPS display and BT 5.0.
Biggest downside of the Atoto units is that there's no custom ROM support for MediaTek head units, while the Pumpkin units have good ROM support here on XDA. On the upside, Atoto is pretty good about updating firmware and their customer service really seems to be responsive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you say the Pro version is actually worth the extra $50 just for the IPS display and 5.0 BT? I'm debating on getting the A6 Premium or the XTron TE706PL. Also, if you change launchers on the A6, will it remove or change the bottom nav bar that has home/back/dropdown/etc or the status bar at all? I find it kind of redundant having the home button on touch screen when there's also a physical button for it.
Lmfaoown said:
Would you say the Pro version is actually worth the extra $50 just for the IPS display and 5.0 BT? I'm debating on getting the A6 Premium or the XTron TE706PL. Also, if you change launchers on the A6, will it remove or change the bottom nav bar that has home/back/dropdown/etc or the status bar at all? I find it kind of redundant having the home button on touch screen when there's also a physical button for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, as an owner of last year's A6 model, which had the same TFT display as the A6Y Premium, the IPS display on my new Pro is well worth the extra money IMO. Just much nicer looking. Also, the Pro gets the much better Toshiba preamp, also worth some extra money IMO. Bluetooth 5.0, not so much, for me, as I don't stream anything from my phone, all music is coming from the head unit.
The bottom nav bar never goes away, it's part of the firmware (and some Atoto units, like my old one, don't have a home button anywhere else). But trust me, you'll come to appreciate having it there all the time, if for no other reason than the quick access of the notification tray/quick settings is easier, faster, and safer than trying to swipe down, and in my case I use that feature quite often. It is also the only place with a back button.
Apps can get rid of the top status bar, as can some launchers.
Here's a video I shot of my A6Y Pro yesterday, in the car:
https://youtu.be/s5XWAJzk93s
And here's one of my old A6, same car, same parking spot, same lighting/time of day, shot using the same camera. That should give you an idea on the difference in screen quality between the Premium screen and the Pro IPS screen.
https://youtu.be/HFz_Epqj1D8
Croak said:
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just bought this and am setting everything up in my home now, it's really sweet. One question though, have you got any tips or tricks to get OK Google to call/text? I've tried and it says it isn't possible to. I've seen people using MTCDialer, and without trying it myself, I've read it won't work with our A6 because it doesn't use the correct CPU. Going to install this on my 07 G6 this Sunday, hoping everything works out.
Lmfaoown said:
Just bought this and am setting everything up in my home now, it's really sweet. One question though, have you got any tips or tricks to get OK Google to call/text? I've tried and it says it isn't possible to. I've seen people using MTCDialer, and without trying it myself, I've read it won't work with our A6 because it doesn't use the correct CPU. Going to install this on my 07 G6 this Sunday, hoping everything works out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could try using the Hound app, give it all the permissions, and use keyword "OK Hound" instead. That's what ATOTO recommends for now. I never faffed around with it, because my phone will dial out on "OK Google" voice commands and still run the call through the ATOTO unit's mic and display, even in my pocket most times (Essential PH-1 on 8.1). Only thing I can't do and still see/control on the ATOTO unit is sending text via voice.
What CANBUS adapter are you going to use in your G6? I like the PAC GM11 with built-in chimes/turn signal clicks, but if you still have the stock 07 gauge cluster, you will still get chimes through the cluster and can use a cheaper Metra/Axxess unit. But since I retrofitted the 09 gauge cluster (with DIC in the dash display) which doesn't have a chime module built in, I wanted the chimes. I also prefer PAC's steering wheel control module, and the GM11 has an output wire to make install easier with the SW1-RC.
Another pro-tip if using PAC steering wheel controls, use the blue/white "Kenwood" wire on the PAC box to the ORANGE key + wire on the ATOTO harness, and follow the PAC programming instructions for Pioneer head units and it will work like a charm.
And like I mentioned elsewhere, the best looking, best fitting dash kit for a G6 is (IMO) the Schoshe GM kit, and Walmart stocks it. The texture on the Metra kits is kinda ugly and doesn't blend in as well with the HVAC controls in the console.
Yup I did some digging on their website trying to see the latest update (which I still haven't found...?) and saw they made that post about Hound. Seems to work relatively well honestly and that's more than okay for me. I purchased the C2R-GM11B instead of the C2R-GM11, and I sadly did get the metra dash kit. Looking at your video and mounting the kit in the front of my radio I ordered the Scosche immediately... The metra's bezel is huge...! Haven't even unpacked the thing until you brought it up. Good save.
Lmfaoown said:
Yup I did some digging on their website trying to see the latest update (which I still haven't found...?) and saw they made that post about Hound. Seems to work relatively well honestly and that's more than okay for me. I purchased the C2R-GM11B instead of the C2R-GM11, and I sadly did get the metra dash kit. Looking at your video and mounting the kit in the front of my radio I ordered the Scosche immediately... The metra's bezel is huge...! Haven't even unpacked the thing until you brought it up. Good save.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll be cooking with gas soon! And you're using the right PAC unit, 11B has a harness that fits '05-09, while the non-B fits the 09.5 and '10 G6.
As for the latest update, according to my support girl at ATOTO, all the Pro units sold through Amazon have the latest firmware already installed. Might be a few months before we see an update, depending on how many bugs they get out of us folks actually using them in the real world. But for the most part it's a mature firmware, since the SoC and OS is the same as the 2017 A6, which has been out in the wild for over a year now, and there's a reason they stick with Marshmallow. For that matter, the same 9.4.1 firmware file is meant to be flashed on both the old and new units, but there is a different MCU flash for the Pro models (because new aptX Bluetooth 5.0 stack and gesture control module).
Forgot to ask, do you have the Monsoon system? If so, and you're using the line-level outputs on the A6, you might get a little "computer noise" from the unit, especially when it heavily accesses WiFi. It's not loud, and doesn't increase with system volume, only notice it in quiet passages or when not playing audio at all, but it was there. But that's based on my old 2017 unit that was hooked up to my Monsoon amp, might be a non-issue on the new unit since its a totally different chassis and preamp. Good news is that when I went full-aftermarket on the amp and used RCA cables that noise went away.
Oh, one other pro-tip. Go to Settings/About, tap on the Model Number(A6 Pro) four times, and when it asks for a password, enter 1238 to access the microphone gain controls and turn that up to at least 6 (default is 4). Do the same thing again but use password 1617 and you'll get a menu with some other hidden settings, like touch calibration, parking guidelines for your reverse camera, etc.
Lmfaoown said:
Would you say the Pro version is actually worth the extra $50 just for the IPS display and 5.0 BT? I'm debating on getting the A6 Premium or the XTron TE706PL. Also, if you change launchers on the A6, will it remove or change the bottom nav bar that has home/back/dropdown/etc or the status bar at all? I find it kind of redundant having the home button on touch screen when there's also a physical button for it.
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I am blown away by ATOTO A6 Pro and quality. It worth the extra $50 just for the IPS display and the inclusion of AptX
XTron TE706PL
Lmfaoown said:
Would you say the Pro version is actually worth the extra $50 just for the IPS display and 5.0 BT? I'm debating on getting the A6 Premium or the XTron TE706PL. Also, if you change launchers on the A6, will it remove or change the bottom nav bar that has home/back/dropdown/etc or the status bar at all? I find it kind of redundant having the home button on touch screen when there's also a physical button for it.
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Has anyone gotten a chance to test the Atoto vs the XTron TE706PL?
SubZeroZim said:
XTron TE706PL
Has anyone gotten a chance to test the Atoto vs the XTron TE706PL?
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I'm curious about this too. I have the te706pl running hal9k, but I'm intrigued about the higher rms in the atoto and the ips display, and if someone has tried both devices and could speak on the differences.
bluemind497 said:
I am blown away by ATOTO A6 Pro and quality. It worth the extra $50 just for the IPS display and the inclusion of AptX
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Wouldn't you want a comparison of the gen2 atoto? Have you read the xda wiki on atoto.
Hello guys!
So, I have a 2005 Audi A4 B7 and I'm thinking about buying an android head unit for my car. So far I have found 2 head units that look somewhat like the factory one, or that I like. They both have Android 8.0 / 8.1, Quad-Core with 2GB of RAM. Now, are these chinese head units generally worth it? I'm really concerned about sound quality (I have an aftermarket amplifier and subwoofer installed). Now I have a Kenwood head unit and the sound output is decent, can't really complain (better than factory radio).
And I have a few questions.
One of the units is made by Mekede (the factory look-alike) and the other one is made by Wondefoo. Has anyone had any previous experience with these 2 makers?
Also, I do not see an AUX IN on these chinese head units. Do the have one? Is it possible to have one? I'd much rather play music over BT, but is generally the connection stable?
Seeing as they are Android, am I able to install 3rd party apps, such as Vanced YouTube ? Or Waze (or any other app that does not come preinstalled) ?
Generally speaking, how is the boot up time on these units?
They both cost around $210. Are they too cheap? Should I try and save up more? Look for other makers? Most of the times I'm going to be listening to music (either via USB, BT - or any way it can be connected to my phone; or YT) while, sometimes, using Google Maps / Waze. Are these cheap android head units generally laggy when multi-tasking? Does it really matter which one I buy, as they're all "cheap chinese products"?
Here are the links to the units:
1. Mekede
2.Wondefoo
Or if you guys could recommend me another one which really is worth the money, it'd be appreciated. I'd like it to have volume knobs, and the factory look-alike is a plus.
I am sorry if these questios have been asked before!
Thank you!
One thing to keep in mind - RAM amount. 1GB of RAM is not enough for these units. I'd recommend 4GB of RAM, but make sure you get at least 2GB of RAM for sure (and even that may not be enough).
Try to find a unit with PX5 (octa-core) or PX6 processor and 4GB of RAM, if possible. Android 8.0 or 8.1.
In terms of sound quality, I too was concerned. I ended up rooting and installing Viper4Android and the sound quality is great. I'm using an extenral amp, but the internal amp sounded good with V4A as well. Viper4Android gives you a LOT of flexibility in customizing the sound to your liking.
jtrosky said:
One thing to keep in mind - RAM amount. 1GB of RAM is not enough for these units. I'd recommend 4GB of RAM, but make sure you get at least 2GB of RAM for sure (and even that may not be enough).
Try to find a unit with PX5 (octa-core) or PX6 processor and 4GB of RAM, if possible. Android 8.0 or 8.1.
In terms of sound quality, I too was concerned. I ended up rooting and installing Viper4Android and the sound quality is great. I'm using an extenral amp, but the internal amp sounded good with V4A as well. Viper4Android gives you a LOT of flexibility in customizing the sound to your liking.
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Click to collapse
Must be a PX5 or PX6 ? Most of the sellers don't list their processor model, just listing it as "octa-core". I'm aware that V4A can give you a lot of flexibility in sound customization (I've used it on my phone for a while)
Do these head units integrate well with the CAN ?
Here are the more technical names (may help identify them):
PX3: Cortex A9 (Quad-core) - 32-bit ARMv7 architecture.
PX5: Cortex A53*(Octacore) - 64-bit*ARMv8 architecture.
PX6: Cortex A72 (I'm not sure of the details - brand new platform)
From what I've seen, most Android 8.0 units are PX5 and most Android 8.1 units are PX6 (brand new). Units with older versions of Android are probably PX3, I'm assuming. Most of these units do not get "official" major Android version updates - the manufactureres just release new models instead of upgrading existing models (but some can be upgraded via custom ROM's).
Personally, I would probably look for a PX5 MTCE octa-core unit with 4GB of RAM. I wouldn't consider anything older than a PX5/Android 8.0 unit - and like I said, I'd recommend 4GB of RAM if you can find it. The PX6 units are brand new - there are no custom ROM's or anything for them yet or anything. They also seem to come with less RAM and storage from what I've seen?!?!
Only way to be 100% sure what you are getting is to ask the seller - they should be able to tell you the processor type and "MCU" type (MTCE-XXX),where XXX is the MCU type. The MCU is like the "go between" between the Andorid OS and the radio hardware (MCU type can be seen under the Android settings menu) - you may even ask them to send a screenshot of the hardware info from the Android settings to confirm what it actually is.
Just a "general" overview of some of the basics - I hope that helps.
Oh - and if you have a CANBUS car, you need a CANBUS adapter. If the seller is selling a unit specifically for your car, they usually include the CANBUS adapter. That will allow your steering wheel controls to keep working and other items.
Yes. That actually helped. These with 4 GB RAM and at least a PX5 cost more, about $350 so I'm going to wait, save up a bit more, because I also need to convert my car from 1 DIN to 2DIN and that will cost me at least an extra $70.
I also want one that looks like the factory equipped one, so, yeah, I'll just wait another month or so.
Thank you for your answers, guys!
Sent from my SM-G935FD using Tapatalk
I have a mekede unit supposed to be android 8.1..... It's not it's actually 6.0
This was from mekede official store on aliexpress
They are now not answering my messages and unfortunately I didn't figure this out until after the buyer protection time limit had ended.
Just to post an update to my original post... At first, I thought that the sound quality was great. But the more and more I used the head-unit, I found that sound quality was NOT up to par with my previous WinCE head-units. And I also ran into noise-related issues. I did everything in my power to try and resolve these issues (including using external amps for better sound quality), but in the end, I gave up and re-installed my WinCE head-unit.
Unfortunately, from my experience, these Android head-units just aren't up to par in terms of sound-quality and noise-rejection. I had noise-related issues from the LED backlighting, USB devices, wifi and bluetooth wasn't very good either. Hopefully, they continue to improve upon these units, because having the head-unit run a full version of Android is great - but sound quality is also important - and even more important to some (like me). Would be great if the big audio companies starting building full Android head-units (Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, JVC, etc).
Since my WinCE unit supports Easy Connect, I can still get the advantages of Andoid for certain things while also having fantastic sound-quality and no noise issues. Best of both worlds. Granted, the WinCE unit is significantly more expensive ($699 vs $350), but just like anything else - in most cases, "you get what you pay for". The WinCE unit that I'm talking about specifically is the Dynavin N7 - and they use high-qaulity sound components. But I also had Rosen WinCE head-units and they sounded great as well (but again, significantly more expensive).
All depends on what is most important to you - software flexibility or sound quality.
My new 2021 PX6 from Phoenix Automotive Vertical Fast Boot OEM fiber option. Had this for about 2 months. I use it with an external OEM AMP. Used in a Lexus.
AMP is not fiber. The unit is a PX6 MCU RL78c (2014 Chip-set) NCHHWY V332-0 , Framework px6-userdebug 9 PQ2A 190305.002. OS 9.
Audio is very good! I love the sound. Speakers: OEM Mark Levnson in the front, 6.5inch JBL GX600C + Sound Ordnance M2-10DVC 10inch in the back.
Tested only with stock HU.
What works on the stock PX6:
(With correct wiring harness)
1. Fast-Boot. After first 2 setup boot-ups, on is instant for 24 hours of nonusage.
2. AC controls work (Cooling).
3. Searing Wheel controls work out of the box on Lexus w/canbus included.
4. Audio player works but not a good GUI.
5. Phone works with Bluetooth.
6. Android Auto is installed and works.
7. DSP Sound works with an EQ and many settings, GUI is good.
8. Most User Settings seem to work. Wheel mapping may stop after Fast-Boot for 5 minutes (bug).
9. Navigation (Google Maps) works, GPS works.
9.5. Maps works Off-Line in Google Maps.
10. Radio with about 16 memory storage.
What is not working in a Lexus / Toyota :
1. Factory Settings. All-access is denied. Locked out! Big Issue for me.
2. GAS monitor/usage. This should work out of the box. Phoenix says it is not working and is disabled in Lexus. BUT is advertised to work on the Phoenix site.
3. Sound MAX loud setting will NOT save after reboots. After boot, the sound is all the way up, loud. After talking with Phoenix tech, no fix. However, if FastBoot is on, the audio may save to a lower setting for about 24hours. If you don't use HU for 24 hours settings are lost again..
4. Screen will reflect windshield in GS Gen3 Lexus. May be an issue in sunlight.
5. If you wear Sunglasses or have glasses that do auto shade to dark, you may not like the screen because it can be hard to see.
6. Radio- Local / Distance not working. Can't find a fix. However Local radio is working fine. I get most local stations clear.
7. Temp display worked for 2 days now showing -40 at all times. (No fix).
8. Fast-Boot image changing. The stock app that changes the BOOT-Image will not work. It is out of date and will not work with Android 9+. It needs an update from Manufacture. A Phoenix Auto add-on app (download), also will not work, out of date. App complains of an Error with the Android version.
Add-On that work:
1. Musicolet from Play Store. The Stock Audio player sucks big time.
2. Bluedriver OBD2 reader.
3. Torque Lite or Pro OBD2 reader.
4. Function Generator, from Play Store.
That's about it.
Roger Out
Hey guys,
Hoping to hear your thoughts and opinions, the good/bad/ugly.
I'm about to buy my first Android Head Unit but have been trying to get something like this going for a long time.
Here's the "Wish List" I've made to weed out the unit I want.
Unit:
Universal
Double/2 Din
PX6
4GB RAM
64GB ROM
Screen:
10"+ HD IPS (unless there's an OLED out there)
Lowest Profile available (distance been back of screen and dash)
No need to pan, but adjusting up and down and tilt are a plus
No branding
Preferably little or no buttons
No visible ports
OS:
Android 9.0, hopefully, upgradable to 10
Extensions:
Bluetooth -> Support for 2x Paired Phones at once able to receive calls or stream music would be great!
Wireless Apple Car Play
Android Auto
MicroSD card support of 256GB or higher
DPS
Dual-Band WiFi
1+ Video Input NOT back up cam (Plan on attaching a Nintendo Switch as an input device. I haven't seen anything higher resolution on input than just CVBS, but if one existed that would help? Or the support of USB 3 Video Dongle (USB to HDMI)
Right now, this has led me to this one
Dasaita HA2156A-MAX6
There's so much "noise" in this space with the hundreds of resellers/OEMs and scammers that I think I'm just going to pull the trigger on this and see what happens.
But before I do, if anyone has any better options, or thoughts/words of wisdom, please pass them along!
Thanks in advance!
I also really like the ATOTO A6Y1021PR but it's spec'd so low compared to the others and is running Kitkat (what the hell???)
I also really like some of the Xtrons, but couldn't get the specs. If I go wth a PX5 then they have tons of options, but couldn't find a 10+ screen with PX6
I'm interested in this too, I've been looking for a while at Android head units and while my wallet says go a basic double din 6-7" screen, the rest of me says go for that PX6 with the 10" screen.
I'm looking at getting the single DIN so that I can keep the little storage place below it, the only storage in my entire car (75 Series Land Cruiser Ute). If anyone knows of any reason not to, feel free to chime in, but otherwise I'm going to go the same route as you '82. The Maxx6 looks like the only PX6 with a massive screen from a reputable brand
My experience is that some of the specs are best described as "rubbery". Some of the good value units include marketing graphics which are copy-pasted to assist sales and are not wholly accurate.
Ideally one would like to see a pic the summary screen.
Casual research indicates ATOTO delivers the goods!-IMHO
There is not one single (cheap) Chinese brand supporting to pair 2 phones at once.
Only a few of the latest PX6 models support dual-band wifi. Most only support 2.4GHz.
Support for Apple Car Play and Android Auto can be tricky. Especially if your phone is on android 9. Support for android 10 (released today on 3 September 2019!) might take quite some time.
1+ Video Input: Haven't seen that yet.
Dasaita is a very good choice but does not support the above mentioned wishes either.
and what is DPS? or do you mean DSP?
You can get lower profile by "burying" the double din instead of flushmounting it to dash/adapter bracket
I've been enjoying my admittedly under-powered ATOTO A6 Pro for months now, and while I don't have experience with other Android Head Units, I've gained some perspective. Mainly, we're not really talking about buying an Android tablet here!
Android tablets are obsolete after a year or three, but my lexus is 20 years old and (with certain updates) I still love it. I've realized that although I wish I didn't have to put up with quite so much lag while interacting with certain android apps running on the ATOTO (Google Maps responsiveness is painfully slow), I'm really glad about the ways that the A6 Pro behaves like a car stereo head unit should: It has a great display that's easy to see in all lighting; It's on instantly after the car's ignition (with minimal battery drain while the car is parked); great bluetooth aptX audio streaming and call handling; the backup camera view is instantaneous after shifting to reverse (with optional volume reduction while in reverse), it can drive 4 speakers (6 if you count the component tweeters surprisingly well at 29W RMS each without an external amp (while supplying my powered subwoofer with a clean line output), etc, etc.
So with the A6 Pro one learns to keep most apps on the adjacent SmartPhone (even if you're not choosing to use Android Auto or CarPlay which mostly run apps on the phone), and mostly run media apps that are easily handled on the head unit. I've never been bothered that my car stereo is running marshmallow or whatever instead of Android 10.
My phone is running Android 10 and is distracting enough as a responsive/powerful android device. And while it would be cool if it were faster, my car's head unit is more about good music and phone integration while driving (or while parked and listening to/watching media .