The Chinese stuff is not really bad. I am using Motevo installed by Toyota and its performance is perfect except for the audio quality. For normal users it is okay, but since I am building an SQ system, it needs better quality of output from the headunit.
I think these sets are good value for money. We don't find comparable features in branded sets. Even the top of the line branded systems do not have as many features as these chinese sets.
Just take a look at this top of the line Alpine INA-W900 Alpine Electronics, Inc.alpine.com | Product Info > GPS Navigation Receiver INA-W900 (North America model)
It does not have all the features that you see in the chinese DVD/ navigation sets. It costs 1000 dollars. over and above, you will still need to buy maps.
Of course Alpine gives excellent sound quality, but at some point you have to make compromises. As I said in an earlier post, there is no perfect headunit in the market so far.
Pioneer generally enjoys good reputation .. but it has considerable lag in playing DVDs .. I am talking about 4250DVD and 6050 models ..