Alpine IDA-X200
Drive Used: Sandisk Cruzer Micro 4GB Flash (3.2GB used)
Content: 543 Files , 41 Folders
Initial Scan Time: 4 secs + Up to 2 mins to buffer additional tags in background
Play Resume After Source Select?: Yes
Play Resume After Iginition Off?: No
Rescan After Drive Removed?: No, Play Resume if unit still powered up
Scan on USB Select or background?: Scan on USB Select
Display ID3, Track, Folder Info?: 16 Chars (2x8),Choice of Folder/Album/Artist/Track/Genre/Composer
Browse genre etc?: Yes - Genre/Composer/Playlist
Folder/File Qty Limitations? None Found
Playlist Compatible?: Yes (Not tested)
EQ Enhancements Available?: No
Display Full tags or scroll?: 8 Chars, 2 lines, Scroll
Folders in Alphabetical or as written?: Alpha
Gaps in mix tracks?: Yes (less than 1 sec)
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Drive Used: Lacie Porsche 40GB (16.6GB Used)
Content: 3986 Files, 267 Folders
Powered Drive from USB?: Yes
Initial Scan Time: Timed Out
All Folders Available?: Unknown
Quick to Browse?: Extended scans for extra tags (genre etc) makes a large drive unsuitable
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Conclusion
Identical to the X300 in USB terms with a slightly nicer illumination and the option to hook-up the iPod via Direct USB. The iPod would be the source of choice as these IDA-X decks shine when the Apple is connected but struggle with larger generic USB drives.
The X300 also has the option to add a processor for IMPRINT tuning - very worthwhile if you are looking for future audio performance improvements.