Audio Systems: 2005 Nissan altima, 2005 nissan altima, high output alternator

Question
i have a 2005 nissan altima with an after market JVC cd player and was thinking about getting a new cd player. i dont know much about this subject.  i know the JVC is a single DIN system and the Insignia system i am considering is also a single DIN system and was wondering how hard it would be to switch them out myself. im not tool illiterate but i have never messed with a cd player install before.  should i even attempt this or should i spend the 50 bucks to have a professional install it?  thank you

Answer
If you have never done this kind of thing before I whole heartedly recommend you go with a professional.  They make it easy because they are trained and have the experience.

If you wanted to get started with this kind of experience I recommend you go to www.crutchfield.com and go through their "outfit my car" sequence and choose according to what fits.  If you were to decide on purchasing the new head unit from Crutcfield they will send you the wiring harness and installation instructions free of charge.

If you are going to put in a custom fit - which requires cutting and homemade brackets and such - I turn you to the professionals, again, who know how to do the complicated ones.

Hope this helps.

C

PS:  The things you should watch for are wiring up the system; it is never just a plug and play as it involves matching the various wiring of the new head unit with the wiring system of the car.  A proper wiring harness is necessary OR you must make your own.  Getting the power wires to the right places and proper grounding of the chassis and ground wires become critical since most new head units and amps pull a lot of current.  When you upgrade you often need to replace the speakers systems in the car because the stock units do not have enough sound quality or power handling to accommodate an upgrade sometimes.  
And if you go to BIG power you may have to add a high output alternator and battery - so let me know if you need further advice.