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05/30/2007 06:54:50 PM · #1 |
My factory radio didn't come with an option for plugging in mp3 players; and I think it lacks an aux option all together. I've looked at several options for connecting aux devices, including this nifty thing, but none will work. :(
So I've decided to purchase a new radio unit. :D Before I do that, I'd just like to see if anyone can suggest an alternative for my particular vehicle. Please do not mention FM transmitters or stuff like that; I've had it with those.
I took the dash apart and snapped a few pics. Any and all suggestions are welcomed!
The dash after the cover was removed. The oval radio interface portion comes right off.
What the inside of the radio unit looks like. The red box is the boundaries of the unit. After a few screws are taken care of, the whole thing can be pulled out.
The rear of the unit after it has been pulled out.

Message edited by author 2007-05-30 19:01:43. |
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05/30/2007 06:59:14 PM · #2 |
Wow, those are some huge images. Could you please post thumbnails for our friends who suffer with dial-up? |
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05/30/2007 07:37:18 PM · #3 |
Really any kind of unit will do these days. All you'll need to get is a vehicle adaptor (to fit in that oval hole that will be in your car) and 2 wiring harnesses (one to mate to the car and one to mate to the deck). I would recommend Pioneer since that's all I've ever had and I love it. You can get decks that just have an AUX jack on the front or you can get one that plugs into the back (this is what I have). Aftermarket decks also give you the capability of upgrading the rest of your car's audio system if you want to. If that's something you're interested in, I can probably point you in the right direction. How much are you willing to spend? Once I have that I might be able to advise you on a specific model.
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05/30/2007 08:35:46 PM · #4 |
Originally posted by SamDoe1: Really any kind of unit will do these days. All you'll need to get is a vehicle adaptor (to fit in that oval hole that will be in your car) and 2 wiring harnesses (one to mate to the car and one to mate to the deck). I would recommend Pioneer since that's all I've ever had and I love it. You can get decks that just have an AUX jack on the front or you can get one that plugs into the back (this is what I have). Aftermarket decks also give you the capability of upgrading the rest of your car's audio system if you want to. If that's something you're interested in, I can probably point you in the right direction. How much are you willing to spend? Once I have that I might be able to advise you on a specific model. |
Hay Sam thanks for the info. My current speakers sound great so I'm not gonna try to fix what ain't broke. All I want at this point is a new head capable of playing radio, CD, and of course AUX input. Of course the cheaper the better, but I'm willing to spend up to $200. Is this something I can install myself? |
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05/30/2007 09:34:07 PM · #5 |
Originally posted by peterish: Hay Sam thanks for the info. My current speakers sound great so I'm not gonna try to fix what ain't broke. All I want at this point is a new head capable of playing radio, CD, and of course AUX input. Of course the cheaper the better, but I'm willing to spend up to $200. Is this something I can install myself? |
Well you can install it yourself, but most places offer free installation so you might as well let the pros do it. Since you're in NYC, I'm going to assume that you have a best buy or something similar close by so this is my suggestion:
This is a great deck for about $180. There is a $140 version of it but does not have a flip down face (which I highly reccommend getting since it helps prevent dust and gunk from getting into the player. It also has a removable faceplate (important) and the all powerful AUX input. There are 3 RCA jacks on the back for potential future expansion (front amp, rear amp, and sub amp) so there is room to grow. And as for what ain't broke...you'll notice the difference between stock speakers and aftermarket immediately, it's almost night and day. If you spend enough time in your car like I do, I would highly reccommend looking into it if you can afford it. It's also nice to have since aftermarket decks pump out more power than stock ones making it easier to blow the stock speakers.
If you'd prefer to run the MP3 cable in a concealed way, you can get a wire that plugs into the back of the deck and can be wired to anywhere in your car.
Edit to add: You should go to the store and see what looks good to you and specifically has the plug on the front or back (whichever you prefer). Any deck will fit in your car with the right adaptor kit. I just prefer the Pioneers since that's all I've ever had and it has worked flawlessly for the past 5 years. The free installs are just free labor but that's not bad seeing as though you'd have to buy the parts to do it yourself anyway.
If you need any more help feel free to PM me!
Message edited by author 2007-05-30 21:36:56.
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05/30/2007 10:08:29 PM · #6 |
Check out these guys. Quoted from their site 'With any car stereo over $129, we give you free instructions for your specific vehicle, along with the mounting kit and harness you'll need to install it.'
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