Alpine HDS-990 Status Series high-resolution digital media audio source (does not play discs)

Not your run-of-the-mill receiver

Alpine's HDS-990 digital media player doesn't do a lot of things you expect from a traditional head unit, and that's okay. What it does do is deliver impeccable playback of high-resolution (up to 24-bit sampling depth/192kHz frequency response) digital music files, turning your car's cockpit into something like a recording studio — just without those pesky hourly rates. Alpine utilizes some of the same technology found in their legendary F#1 Status system in the HDS-990 — you can hear for yourself just how well it reproduces sound, thanks to its high-quality materials and fine craftsmanship. The HDS-990 includes a dash-mounted commander unit, so you can use it in tandem with an existing radio in your car or as a replacement. 

Alpine Status high-resolution audio system

Alpine designed its Status System components for high-resolution audio playback. Their Status Series digital receiver, amp with digital signal processing, speakers, and subs were designed to work together and play your 24-bit/192kHz digital music streaming files with high-quality, studio-level purity and sonic fidelity.

Two-piece system

The HDS-990 consists of two parts: the "black box" source unit which contains the inputs and outputs, and a "commander unit" with built-in display which lets you control the action. The source unit's designed primarily to plug into your existing radio using RCA connections or 4-channel high-level inputs and mount in an out-of-the way location.

The dash-mounted commander unit offers a high-definition screen, six of Alpine's classic control buttons, and a rotary dial for making volume adjustments. The commander unit includes a case mount for a permanent installation on your dash.

The HDS-990's commander unit offers a clear view of what's playing; you can select your music with the blue buttons and use the knob to adjust the volume.

Great sound for a wealth of sources

The HDS-990 will play a vast array of digital file types, including the following when connected directly to a digital source:

It'll handle high-resolution files up to 24-bit/192kHz — a hi-res indicator light on the commander unit lets you know when its playing files above 16-bit/44.1kHz. For Bluetooth® streaming audio, you're covered with AAC, aptX/aptX HD, LDAC, and SRC formats, so you can get that ear-pleasing sound without messing with wires, often in quality that's better than CD.

Built-in amplifer

The HDS-990's built-in 4-channel amplifier offers 25 watts RMS per channel to power your speakers, so you can power your factory speaker system without adding an outboard amp. If you want to add more juice, the HDS-990's ready for expansion.

Plenty of connections

Looking for a hookup? The HDS-990 offers a 2-channel 3.5mm auxiliary input for connecting a wired audio source, plus a 4-channel high-level input for connecting to your car's factory radio. It also boasts three USB 2.0 inputs (one up front, a pair in the rear) for connecting thumb drives or mobile external hard drives loaded with your high-res music files. You also get a 4-channel high-level output and 6-channel RCA outputs (three pairs of 4-volt connections), along with both digital coaxial and digital optical outputs for keeping the signals clean when connecting to an amp or digital signal processor (DSP).

Bluetooth® for streaming audio

The HDS-990's built-in Bluetooth connectivity is a great way for you to stream music from your phone or other mobile device. Unfortunately, the HDS-990 won't support hands-free calling, so you'll have to depend on your existing radio (if you have one) for that functionality.

Bluetooth note: Use of this receiver's Bluetooth features will depend upon your phone's Bluetooth capabilities. Once again: there is no hands-free calling capability built into the HDS-990.