Perhaps not the right solution for you, but for me...

I knew I would replace the HU but wanted to have a working stereo at all times, so I bought a Kenwood HU and plug the Empeg into its line-in (installed in the 2nd DIN space). I'm happy with the setup; I get to keep my Monsoon amp and can leave my Empeg at home (or office) if I like. Tradeoff: I lose Empeg's parametric EQ and I can't connect a subwoofer (Monsoon doesn't have a connector) -- but I'm quite happy with the sound quality, and the install was painless.

Oh yeah, and 2-HU lighting is fantabulous at night...

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Empeg Mk. 2 #626, 18Gb blue | Kenwood KMD-X92. 2000 VW Passat wagon.