Hey Rick,
I unfortunately don't have an IPOD (yet), which according to the instructions for the cdx-630ui is connected through the USB port. I can't answer on how much control you have with the handlebar controls, but through the head unit itself, according to it's instructions, you press
mode to select play mode and that mode changes as follows resuming---album---track---podcast---genre---playlist---artist so I am guessing you have full control through the head unit. The extent of control through the handlebar controls is probably a question for Biketronics - their website is
www.biketronics.com. Regarding the addition of an AMP, I'd say my set-up IMHO is
plenty loud for my tastes
but if you are going the amp route, I think I'd look at the Titan speaker upgrade. There is actually a complete package listed on EBAY -
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180328207746&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&viewitem= for $899.00
Also, here are a couple of sites listed on the box of the cdx-630ui for additional info regarding the IPOD nano, IPOD 5th generation, classic, touch and Iphone with that particular head unit:
http://esupport.sony.comhttp://www.sony.com/xplodGood luck with your installation Rick - let us know how it goes (and sounds). Remember to keep an eye on that issue I mentioned regarding the tilt of the radio, unless you are 6'8" or more, like me for instance at 6'2", you are likely to see that the display is noticably dimmer than if you stand up slightly on your pegs/footboards. I am still thinking about the best way to address that myself...
Cheers,
Randy (Blue)