[IAmLegend]

And i can pick technically any aftermarket HU that i want? are they all universal sizes?

yes. its either DIN or double DIN. most are DIN, which means you need an install kit for a honda/acura. all it does is have a DIN sized opening for your DIN sized aftermarket radio. it will also have a nice pocket for cd's or whatever else because of the gap. the tabs on the sides of the kit are designed to fit in your stock radio spot.

you can choose ANY aftermarket radio. the aftermarket radio will have 10 or so bare wires coming from the back. all you do is get a wire harness for a honda/acura. this wire harness will have 10 or so wires on one end, all the same color as the wires coming from your aftermarket radio. you connect red to red, green to green, and so on. on the other end of this harness will be the plug that plugs directly into the harness coming out of your dash board (that used to plug into your stock radio).

choose whatever radio you like. its about you. its about what features you like and what looks good to you. pioneer, sony, eclipse, kenwood, and alpine are reputable brands that come to mind.

however, bypassing the amp will require some more work. i havent done it before or else i would help you out with that.

 

[TonyTheBullet]

Stereo upgrades are one of the easiest things you can do to your car. Infact it was the first thing I learnt to do when I got my own car. All you need is a screw driver, plier and electrical tape to get started.

Adding to what others have said, you should either have a full factory system or a whole new aftermarket system. I find that aftermarket/factory hybrids don't sound as good as the other two options. If something is broken is on your factory system, then you can just fix/replace it for a reasonable cost. I find that the 200W Bose System(which I assume you have) is pretty potent and can be easily and cheaply updated by adding an ipod adapter (if you have an ipod) or an MP3 cd changer if you have a bit more money to spend. If you want to go the aftermarket route, then I suggest that you bypass the amp and replace the speakers. If you are looking for an audio only headunit, I recommend the Kenwood DPX301 or DPX501; cost under $150 and look pretty nice. You can scour eBay or Craigslist for speakers - I found a barely used set of Pioneer speakers on CL for $20. Replacing the rear speakers is a breeze. Bypassing the amp is easy too, you just need patience to cut and reconnect a few wires and you're done. Legendtuner.com has a very good DIY on replacing the headunit. I think $200-300 is more than enough for a system that sounds as good as stock or better.

 

[raginpyro]

thank you very much to all of those who helped me with all of this. I believe all my questions are now answered and i can finally start getting some work done.. Maybe after some final exams in school XD.