Review of Dice i-Honda R3/R4

I have had the Dice i-Honda installed for a few days now so a review is due. Here's a quick overview:

Likes:

• Easy install
• Many features/functionalities
• Easy to use
• Hybridizes iPod control and stereo control
• Amazing sound

Dislikes:

• Price
• Heavy dock cable

Now, let's elaborate. If you read my install how-to, it is clear why I enjoyed the easy install. Immediately after installation, the device worked exactly as expected. You simply change the stereo function to CD changer (or XM depending on how you set it up) and press Disc1. The music begins playing and you can use the controls on the steering wheel or stereo to change track, volume, and sound settings. This is awesome for shuffling because you don't have to physically skip songs using the iPod controls. Of course, in this setting you retain full iPod control which is far more intuitive than navigating your iPod using the stereo controls, which this device also supports. Lastly, I couldn't believe how incredible the iPod sounds. Even comparing to CDs, there is no discernible difference in quality. Anybody still using FM transmitters needs to get updated ASAP.

The list of dislikes is rather short, which was expected after reading reviews before purchasing. First, the price tag on this device may be a bit high. If you buy directly from Dice, the R4 kit will run you $190. Of course, you can find retailers on Ebay who offer this kit for around $150. I feel like this is high because you are basically paying for the vehicle specific wire harness to attach it to your specific application. The actual device is rather generic so its manufacturing/development costs should be relatively low. Similarly, if you wish to retain XM and/or Navi, you need the R4 harness which has a female side to allow for device bypass. This costs an additional $20 over the R3. Again, what seems like a low-cost variation to the original harness gets packaged as a premium feature or must-have for those with XM and/or Navi. The other thing that I personally don't like is how heavy the iPod cable is. It is relatively thick and can be bothersome to maneuver, especially when the iPod is not attached. If Dice had used a cable that was more similar to the Apple dock cable, I feel like maneuvering would become a non-issue. I had an AUX input on my last Accord and the 3.5mm cable was so easy to maneuver I never thought twice about it. This may not be a problem if I didn't want to use the iPod controls however. In that case, you plug your iPod in and put it away in your glove box or storage compartment. If you are like me, you enjoy changing albums frequently while driving. Thus, a smaller, more maneuverable cable, would benefit this product.

Overall, this is a must-have product for music/car lovers. I am not sure how it compares to the cheaper integration kits from other manufacturers though. But in my experience with electronics, you get what you pay for. Cheers.