Alpine CDA-9813: a compact 2000s car CD receiver - updated notes

The Alpine CDA-9813 was a mid-2000s car CD receiver offering MP3 playback, FM/AM tuner, detachable anti-theft faceplate and an internal four-channel amplifier. It worked well as a self-contained unit for driving speakers without an external amp, but lacks modern connectivity like Bluetooth or CarPlay. The model is discontinued and is now mainly of interest for restorations or basic CD/MP3 use.

Overview

The Alpine CDA-9813 was a mid-2000s in-dash car CD receiver that offered features aimed at buyers who wanted a self-contained system without an external amplifier. It combined an FM/AM tuner, CD/MP3 playback, a detachable anti-theft face and a built-in power amplifier. The unit remains a useful reference point for how head unit design looked before Bluetooth, CarPlay and Android Auto became standard.

Key features

• CD player with MP3 playback.

• FM/AM tuner with presets and what reviewers of the era called good reception.

• Detachable anti-theft faceplate.

• Built-in four-channel power amplifier (advertised peak and RMS outputs at the time are reported as 4 x 60 W peak and 4 x 27 W RMS ).

• Random (shuffle) playback options and front-panel volume knobs.

• Small cooling fan reportedly included to help with heat from the internal amplifier ¹.

Installation and operation

Like many older head units, the CDA-9813 requires both an ignition-switched (ACC) and a constant 12 V memory feed so settings and clock are retained. Early owners frequently routed a dedicated constant power line from the car battery or used the vehicle's existing constant feed.

The unit's controls are straightforward, but the range of features (equalization, speaker time-delay) could be confusing to users unfamiliar with tuning car audio. A handheld remote was sometimes supplied; contemporary commentary on the remote's usefulness was mixed ².

Sound and competition

For its time the built-in amplifier gave the CDA-9813 enough drive to run factory or modest aftermarket speakers without a separate amp. Users described Alpine's voicing as relatively accurate or bright compared with some competitors that emphasized a warmer tone. Contemporary competitors included Pioneer models from similar lines (e.g., the 8600-series). The unit also supported speaker time-delay adjustments to fine-tune staging.

Where it fits today

The CDA-9813 is largely superseded by modern receivers that add Bluetooth streaming, hands-free calling, and smartphone integrations such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you find a working unit, it suits a restoration or a basic CD/MP3 retrofit, but buyers seeking modern convenience and wireless connectivity should look to current Alpine and competitor models.

Final note

At the time of release the CDA-9813 was priced in the mid-range for aftermarket head units (often cited at $279.95 ³). The model is discontinued; check compatibility, wiring, and condition if purchasing a used unit.

1. Confirm original advertised RMS and peak power ratings for Alpine CDA-9813 (sources vary) - reported as 4 x 27 W RMS and 4 x 60 W peak.
2. Verify whether the original retail MSRP was $279.95 and note the region/date of that price.
3. Confirm whether the CDA-9813 included a dedicated cooling fan and whether a remote control was routinely supplied.