380 Dancer Stereo Upgrade

[Erik R]

I want to upgrade the Clarion stereo to a decent stereo with Bluetooth, aux input etc. I was wondering about the wiring because of the remote in the cockpit, it's a Clarion. Can I use those wires for a new stereo if I go with another brand? I don't wanna spend a bunch of money, just upgrade to a modern stereo but I'm unsure of the wiring of the remote.

 

[Erik R]

 

[NotHerDecision]

You will need to run a new remote cable. I changed to a rockford PMx-5 and am very happy.


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[Erik R]

Was it hard to run the cable?

 

[Wylie_Tunes]

If you change brands, yes, you will have to install a new cable. If you stick with Clarion, their new offerings are 8-pin, your old one is 6-pin. So a new cable is needed in order to have all functions operate.

 

[NotHerDecision]

That's a loaded question. Hard.? Not really but it just depends, tie a string to the old one and pull it through then tie on the new cable and pull it back. It can. E difficult but it can also be easy, just depends on how many zip ties and corners yours makes.


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[rondds]

I believe there's an adapter that will allow your old dash pad to work with a newer clarion, but it has to be another clarion. Check on this. This would saves you fishing a wire, which isn't that hard to do.

 

[Wylie_Tunes]

The adapter would require 2 and you lose the LCD display and maybe one or two other functions.

 

[bracketracer]

I'm currently doing an upgrade on mine. I've got some pictures also. I'll try to put together some info when I get home.

 

[NorCal Boater]

I would look at the Fusion units. With their apps you can use you smart phone or iPad as a wireless remote anywhere on the boat and they work great. Best part....no additional wiring.

 

[Wylie_Tunes]

The Clarion MF2 is a wi-fi gateway with smartphone app remote control and is Compatible with : CMD8, CMV1, CMD6, CMD7, CMS2, CMS1, M505, M502, M309, M303, M606

http://www.clarion.com/us/en/products-personal/marine/MF2/index.html

It really comes down to personal preference. Both a hard wired and wireless/app remote have their pros.

 

[Erik R]

I'd like to see the pictures please?

 

[In Two Deep]

I just removed the old Clarion and added a Fusion It interfaces with my new Raymarine MFD and I can control everything from there. But, the app is fantastic. The head unit is in a cabinet in the cabin, but the bluetooth seems to have great range. So far, I am very pleased and did not have to spend several more hundred dollars for a remote head.