Higher Quality Backup Camera

Has anyone here replaced their backup camera for something that has a higher quality image?

 

the alpine hdr camera looks like it might be one of the only options.

but there's a number of restrictions, especially if you're on the oem sound system.

1. the oem camera is 6v. any aftermarket camera is likely going to be 12v input. you'll need to adapt the 6v to 12v, but then also maintain that the 12v doesn't get into the 6v system anywhere-- likely using relays to allow the 6v system to trigger a supplemental 12v system.

2. the oem camera setup is analogue NTSC format. it's format-restricted to 720x480. no screen that accepts an NTSC signal will even accept a higher resolution image than that specification. there's a couple custom screens/camera's that work over 2 wires that will use their own video protocols that will allow for higher resolution, but they're brand specific, and not always a well-known brand with a support number.

with that alpine HDR camera, it is going to have the same resolution to comply with NTSC video specs, but should offer better day/night contrast due to the camera's HDR processing that allows for a more complete view of contrasting lighting situations.

that said, i don't consider the oem camera's contrast to be so much of an issue as the video resolution is...

 

You’ll need a better aftermarket head unit.

I did this by using a

$207 Kenwood CMOS 740HD High Definition Rear backup Camera for use with Select KENWOOD Receivers

Kenwood CMOS 740HD and it looks fantastic but I’m not satisfied with the mount so I’m back to stock for now.

 

Good points. I didn't even think about that. I guess I'll wait till I change my head unit and look into a better camera system.

 

What other options for mounts are you looking at?