stereo upgrade

[peter salas]

looking to upgrade to stereo with MP3 - see alot of stereos with "front plug" for MP3 but alos noticed a "docking station" for MP3 player - which is the better of the two ?

what are the "pros" and "cons" between both applications ?

also how is the MP3 player controlled in both applications - does stereo itself control MP3 or not ?

which is more durable ?

which offers better "weather proofing"

have alot of questions before i invest $$$ in either system - can you help ?

thanks - stereo novice

[bdaugherty]

There's an article on the site that might be able to answer a few of your questions.

http://www.boatingmag.com/gear/electronics/rockin-and-rollin

Regarding plug-in vs docks this is what it says: Auxiliary jacks require you to maintain access to the MP3 player. Your iPod is safest inside of a stereo with a watertight docking port.

[Kevin Falvey]

Peter

If you have a console, cabin or electronics box, you can mount the stereo there and then install a waterproof remote at the helm. With your MP3 Player plugged in "under cover" this is your most secure install--also the most expensive.

There's a wide variety between that scenario and simply bungee cording a boombox to a seat. Get out to a store and see what suits your budget and situation best,

G'Luck

Kevin