Mobile Reciever - Sony or Alpine

[Larry Weil <kc1ih@yahoo.com>]

I know this might be a bit off subject for this
list, since I'm asking about radio equipment rather
than radio stations.  But, I felt the group of
people here would be able to give me a good
perspective on the topic, so I'm gonna go with it.

I'm considering replacing the stock (Clarion C-116)
radio in my 2001 Subaru Impreza with an after market
radio, with the main purpose being to improve radio
reception.  Most of the stores I've visited have
sent me in the direction of Alpine saying that they
have the best radio reception.

However, when looking at several web sites, it
appears that the Alpine radios have an FM mono
sensitivity of 9.3 dbf, whereas the Sony units are
listed at 8.0 dbf, with the lower number being
better.  No figures for AM reception were given.  It
seems that the numbers are the same across each
company's product line, apparently they use the same
tuner in all of their models.

I realize that these figures come from the
manufacturers, and may be exagerated.  I'm wondering
if anyone on the list has any real world experience
with these radios, and can give me some advice based
on your own experience.

If you refer to specific models, keep in mind that I
am looking for a unit with a cassette player rather
than a CD player, and looking to spend $250 or less.

Thanks for your help.

=====
Larry Weil
Lake Wobegone, NH

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Calendar - Get organized for the holidays!
http://calendar.yahoo.com/