Originally Posted By: DBMaster
In the end, it's easier to just replace the unit with one that has an AUX jack or Bluetooth capability. Since mechanical parts (CD player) are no longer needed you can go "mechless" and not even have to spend much money.
In this case, that would be a serious mistake.
The SC-901 CD-changer/Tape/Am/Fm is no ordinary, cheap OEM unit. They were custom built by Alpine in Japan specifically for the high-end audio system Volvo designed along with Alpine, Dolby, and Dynaudio. The unit is custom EQ'd for each vehicle (wagon, sedan, convertible & coupe) it was featured in. So it's not just a collection of parts, thrown together but rather a system, specifically designed for each vehicle, the interior cabin space carefully measured for acoustic response, then a custom EQ ckt designed to achieve the smoothest sound possible for each body configuration.
It was the first car manufacturer in the world, to feature Dolby certified surround sound. Many others had tried, but Dolby wouldn't allow their name to be used. Dolby even designed a center channel surround sound controller due to Volvo's committment to get it right. Unlike in a home, in a car the designers know exactly where passengers will sit, exactly how much volume is available, decide exactly where the drivers will be placed and the materials used inside. Low freq gain lift is phenomenal in such an environment. Thus it was used to its best advantage.
Finally, Dynaudio drivers are right up there near the top with SEAS, VIFA, FOCAL and Scan-Speak. All top European manufacturers. No foam surrounds in their drivers! Furthermore, their voice coils are 4" in diameter! Many drivers used in cars don't even have cones that large, much less VC's. No cheap, stamped baskets that ring like a bell either. It's a shame they have to be hidden.
This series of cars was very rare to have such a system specifically designed for them. After the design & manufacturing work was completed and the necessary bugs worked out, they first appeared in ....... 1998! Who'd of thought stodgy old Swedish Volvo would go to such lengths to design an audio system?
The same one who put a blower in a station wagon!
Great audio and boost, on board!