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Alpine CDE-102 is pretty good for entry level

The Alpine CDE-102 is an excellent OEM replacement stereo, but serious audiophiles and system builders should look further up the product lineup.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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Antuan Goodwin

Check out our full Alpine CDE-102 review. Corinne Schulze/CNET

These days, even the most entry level car stereos need to have a few tricks up their sleeves to even be worth considering. The Alpine CDE-102 is no exception.

In addition to spinning basic audio CDs and receiving AM/FM radio transmissions, the CDE-102 also features MP3, AAC, and WMA playback from data CDs or its front-facing USB port.

However, the CDE-102's best features require additional purchases. For example, Bluetooth hands free and audio streaming can be added with Considering the "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone" badges slapped all over the box, we were disappointed to find that iPod/iPhone playback required an additional cable, but users who aren't loyal to Apple probably won't mind.

Check out the full review of the Alpine CDE-102 CD/MP3 receiver.