On Sun, 25 Sep 2016 11:10:18 -0500, Mark Lloyd wrote:

On 09/24/2016 09:25 PM, wrote:

[snip]

Din standard connectors are generally round multi-pin connectors like
the old keyboard plugs


I remember a stereo tape deck that had a 5-pin DIN connector for all the
audio connections (2 input, 2 output).

I remember seeing "DIN" used on old microphone jacks/plugs many years
ago, but never knew what it meant. I just accepted it as the name for
that plug type. I think the old round keyboard plugs were of a similar
size (and even appearance). But I never knew the face plate size of car
radios was also using "DIN" for it's size.

But now, I'm left with one huge question. What are the actual sizes of a
FULL DIN (ONE DIN), one and a half DIN, Two DIN, and so on?????

Without running out to the car with a tape measure, I will make a guess
that the face of my factory radio is 'about' 2 inches in height, and 6
inches wide..... And since I had it out of the dash recently, I know
that the depth is important, bcause there is no spare room in back.

This is where it all gets confusing. How to know what will fit and what
wont. This pretty much eliminates buying a stereo on Ebay or Amazon or
Craigslist, since I will need to touch it, measure it, and so on. Then,
once I buy it, I'll have to go to a store or go online to order the
faceplate adaptor and wiring adaptor.

I have not shopped around much, but I see Walmart has some car stereos,
and they are pricy. Add in the cost of the faceplates and wiring
adaptors and this might end up costing $200 or more.... I dont really
think I want to spend that kind of money on a 20 year old vehicle, just
for a radio/stereo. I do plan to keep this car for awhile, and it's in
very good condition for its age, but plans change as things break,
and/or accidents occur, etc.... I know the stereo can be moved to
another vehicle, but that means buying another wiring aadaptor.
faceplate, etc.... The last time I saw those wiring adptors, they were
upward around $50.

In the past, I'd toss a Boombox on my seat, toss in a cassette and have
music that was also portable. Although those batteries did get costly. I
wonder what portable devices they have now, and I do have an auto 12vdc
to 120Vac inverter. I'm sure they make something like that which costs
much less than $200.