Ranking in Stereo Test: Second

System Score: 6.5

Components: This Infinity system begins with a nicely appointed head unit with a very user-friendly feel. Special features include a three-band graphic equalizer with a "mid" tone control, pop-out balance and fade buttons, and a meaty round volume knob. It also offers a cassette player and a single-play CD (where's the changer?). The preset buttons along the bottom of the faceplate are slightly bunched together, but Chrysler has given them a finger-friendly contour that makes them handy and easy to use. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the radio's presetting procedure, a two-stage process that we continue to complain about in hopes that DCX will change it someday. Instead of the simple "press and hold" procedure that is the industry standard, the Dakota radio makes things unnecessarily complex. Is anyone out there listening?

Speakers in this system include a pair of 6.5-inch full-range drivers in the rear doors, plus a pair of 6.5-inch mid-bass drivers in the forward doors. One of the nicest features in this system is a pair of Infinity tweeters, tucked inside the side mirrors in the front doors. They really sing, adding much to the quality of this system.

Performance: The best thing you can say about this system is it's loud. Really loud. In many ways, it sounds like the system in the Chevy S-10, only better and louder. The Infinity tweeters positioned by the side mirrors really singe your eyebrows. Other than that, the system lacks refinement (but who wants Grey Poupon in a mini-truck anyway, right?). As with the Chevy, highs are artificially trumped up, giving a nasally and strident sound, particularly at lower volumes. Bass, on the other hand, is flabby and loose (and this is no doubt by design, since such a setup is more efficient and — you guessed it — louder than systems with tighter bass.) But it is a great party system, fun for bumping down the road and gettin' crazy with your friends.

Best Feature: Did I say it was loud?

Worst Feature: Irksome radio presetting procedure.

Conclusion: Every time I see a Chrysler sound system, I'm forced to deduct points for the screwy presetting procedure. Which is a shame, since this is a great little truck system with a lot going for it. I'm not alone in disliking this feature; several other editors have commented upon it, as well.

— Scott Memmer