Well, here is my stance on Eclipse products.
As one of Eclipse's largest dealers they have, I might be considered somewhat of an expert on them.
I too had an Eclipse 5504 in my Supra with a 5962 in dash 6 disc changer. Well one day about 6 months ago, I decided that video is the hot new thing for car audio and I wanted in on it. Everyone seemed to be all hot and heavy for video/multimedia in car and frankly, Eclipse really didn't offer the high tech stuff that Alpine did. I pulled out my 5504 and 5962 and installed an Alpine IVAC-800 with an Alpine DVA-5205 DVD player.
Sure, I now had video in my Supra but let me tell you.... My sound quality is nowhere as good as what it was with the Eclipse source units.
If you want the absolute best sounding CD player that you can get for your money, buy an Eclipse.
Sure, they are a little behind in the multimedia department but, for music playback, they are what most others are judged on.
I know, many manufacturers make "statement" pieces that are of good quality. BUT!! Eclipse's entire line "sounds" good, from the cheapest to the top end. They are easy to use, have the best warranty, and are hard to beat for the price if you are after quality of music playback in a car.
There... just my .02
Tom Kenyon
Custom Sounds
San Antonio, Texas
210-340-4000