Overhead DVD Player/Monitor

[famcar]

Hello TN,

This is my first post as I've been scouring through this forum the last several days absorbing as much info. I could from previous posts.

I am currently awaiting a 2011 Sienna XLE FWD and will be installing an aftermarket overhead DVD player/monitor. I am opting to go with the overhead as I like the idea that everyone in the 2nd and 3rd rows will have viewing ability. In all honesty, I'll probably reap the benefits of the entertainment system just as much as my kids ; )

In any case, I am contemplating the following two systems:

Alpine PKG-RSE2 - DVD player with LCD monitor (10.2in screen)
Clarion VT1510B (15.4in screen)

I'm trying to get feedback from those that have an overhead mount to get a feeling of:

- Any vibration or rattling due to the overhead mount?
- Any comments/thoughts around the above listed products (pros/cons)?
- Any quirky things I should be aware of around overhead dvd players that are undesirable?
- What the typical cost is to install by professionals as well as anything to be aware of when installing?
- Drawbacks to a 15.4 in screen aside from limited visibility through the rear view mirror?
- etc.

Thanks you in advance for you input.

[famcar]

Two more questions:

- Is anyone knowledgeable in whether installing an aftermarket DVD player will void the warranty?
- Does anyone know of quality 15in DVD players/monitors?

Cost is a factor but is not the primary driver, I'm really looking for a quality system that provides excellent picture and will last.

Any input/feedback is much appreciated!

[ACS Rob]

of the 2 in the first post, i'd choose alpine for it's size. it'll be hard to see through the rear view mirror with a 15" screen hanging from the ceiling.

but if it was me, i'd go with headrest monitors. i actually just installed 9" monitors last night. install is easily reversable with no damage to the headliner. the ESS headrest crutchfield sells provide excelent image quality. this is the 1st headrest manufacturer to use LED backlit LCD displays.

[ACS Rob]

here's a sienna with a 15" drop down screen to give you an idea...
New Alpine In-Dash Kit for Sienna 2011

[famcar]

Thank you, Rob, for your comments. Excellent point about rear view visibility -- I'll have to consider that. At this point I've decided that I want an overhead unit the only question is what size and brand. I'll ping the person w/ the 15in to get a feel for his experiences.

[kingnba6]

in my rav4 i used to have headrest monitors because it is a small car. but in my 09 highlander i want to install an overhead unit because it has 3 rows and its a big car so everybody can have some joy while being in the car

[artofwar]

Does anyone with overhead DVD/monitors with smaller screen (ie. 8-10" screen) have rear view visibility hampered or not? If not, which model Sienna do you have and which brand/model overhead DVD player do you have?