Pioneer makes a good H/U. I use the 7300 in my car, and it sounds nice, and has the features I need. The Premier line is overpriced. Kenwood Excelon is high priced relatively speaking as well, but actually has an improvement over the "normal" stuff. Just stay away from Sony, and you'll be OK.
In regards to your specific choice...looks nice. I would actually look at the 'x869, as it seems to offer most of the same features, just a different control panel. Actually, the only thing the 'X869 won't do that the 'X969 will is WMA files. If those are THAT important, then that's fine, but I know I'd save the $120, and use the MP3 format.
Kenwood Excelon KDC-869:
Kenwood Excelon KDC-969:
I just got the new Crutchfield catalog tonight, and was looking through it. I'm not a big fan of Alpine, but their CDA-9815 look sharp, and has a strong built-in amp.
Aline CDA-9815:
I used this model, as it fits the price point of the Kenwood you mentioned. There is a really nice step up, but at $800, it may be out of your price range. Clarion Pro Audio is good stuff as well. They don't have anything at the $480 price point, it's either $400, or $550. Neither one strike my fancy in appearance, but the $550 unit does have Dolby Pro-Logic II.
Clarion Pro-Audio DXZ935:
Car stereo stuff can be fun...and addicting. How far do you plan to take the system? You gonna add amps and subs later, or what's the plan there? Good luck, and have fun.