With new CDA-9857 CD/MP3/WMA player and full speed connection for iPod. Exclusive Promotional Offer Makes It Easy to Take iPod on the Road.

TORRANCE, Calif., March 14, 2006 – When it comes to on-the-road digital entertainment options, don’t get stuck in the slow lane.  Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance mobile electronics, is now shipping the CDA-9857 CD/MP3/WMA car stereo player, an in-dash head unit that offers connectivity solutions and intuitive control over an extensive array of media formats and sources.  The CDA-9857 also offers iPod® owners faster data transmission and easy file navigation, thanks to the use of Alpine’s third-generation KCE-422i Full Speed Connection™ for iPod cable (sold separately) and the head unit’s new built-in Percentage Search function.

From April through June, consumers who purchase a CDA-9857 head unit will receive a free Full Speed Connection for iPod cable, while supplies last, at participating U.S. Alpine dealers.

The Full Speed Connection for iPod cable connects an iPod to many 2006 Alpine head units, including the CDA-9857, without a bulky hideaway box.  It lets users control the iPod directly through the head unit.  Enhanced features include faster library navigation; full-tag artist, album, song and playlist information displayed directly on the head unit; and concurrent iPod battery charging.  (For more information, visit www.alpinefullspeed.com.)

The CDA-9857’s Percentage Search feature takes the iPod’s entire music library and divides it into six percentage groupings.  Then, using the head unit’s six preset buttons, users can browse by pushing one of the presets to quickly jump to the desired section of the playlist, album, artist or song list, instead of scrolling through hundreds of files one by one.

“Today’s consumers love their digital content and expect to bring it with them wherever they go,” said Stephen Witt, vice president, Marketing, Alpine Electronics.  “With the CDA-9857 and our promotional offer, we are making it easier for them to take their entire iPod library on the road.” The CDA-9857 features a dot matrix BioLite™ display for wider viewing angles and outstanding visibility even in harsh daylight.  The detachable faceplate flips down for access to the CD loading slot.

Pricing and Availability

The CDA-9857 CD/MP3/WMA receiver is available now from authorized Alpine dealers at a suggested retail index of $400.

The Full Speed Connection for iPod also is available now from authorized Alpine dealers at a suggested retail index of $30.  It is compatible with any updated iPod with a dock connector, as well as an iPod video, iPod nano, iPod photo or iPod mini.  Apple iPods, sold separately, are available in the U.S. through the Apple Store (www.apple.com), Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers.

About Alpine Electronics

Alpine Electronics is an automotive electronics system supplier and an ISO certified global corporation.  Alpine specializes in engineering and manufacturing products for mobile media systems that include audio, video, satellite-linked navigation and connectivity solutions.  With research and development facilities in Asia, Europe and the U.S., Alpine is the automotive specialist for premium sound systems and vehicle navigation for both aftermarket and OEM factory installations.  Alpine Electronics is a consolidated subsidiary of Alps Electric Co., Ltd., one of the world’s premier manufacturers of electronic components for computer, communications and car electronics equipment.  Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more about Alpine products or to find an authorized retailer.