While I have never been particularly partial to Alpine, I couldn't agree with you more in that there's no best manufacturer. Car stereo/audio is purely a matter personal preference based on a number of factors: sound quality (which can be different throughout a given group of people), durability, features, ease of use, etc. What's important to me may be trivial to someone else, and vice-versa.

I've always loved the cutting-edge features by Kenwood. From the "six cube 2001" to the pull-out equalizer of the 939 (models from back in the 80's), everything between and beyond, to my current DNX-8120 which comes with just about every possible feature.

But as far as sound... I've never had a better sounding radio since I abandoned my (very) old Clarion many years ago.

With respect to durability and sheer ruggedness, I had a Pioneer with a 12-disc changer that lasted 10+ years in two vehicles without so much as a flicker.

So it boils down to a matter of taste and features. In my opinion, anyway.