Aftermarket Head Unit for 2005

[kcopen]

Hi everyone, just bought a used 2005 base Prius and the first thing I'd like to do is replace the stereo system. The speakers will probably be fine, I don't blast my music, but I would like to put in a headunit with more features.

Is there a head unit out there that will integrate with the MFD and the steering wheel controls and has iPod integration, bluetooth and satellite radio? Are there any things I should be concerned about with an aftermarket unit?

I don't want to go all crazy with amps and subwoofers and everything, just want more features basically. Thanks for any feedback.

[scotk]

I'm no audiophile, but I do like high-quality sound in my car. I've got an '05 Prius and I'm having the factory sound system replaced next week. I chose the Alpine iDA x100 for my new head unit. It does everything you are interested in, but it does not have a CD player. I don't really have CDs anymore - it's all on my iPod. You can view the specs at crutchfield.com, but it's Bluetooth and sat. rad ready, and it will integrate with your steering wheel controls (it costs extra for all this, though).

As far as your speakers, I would highly recommend replacing your factory speakers. Even low budget, low cost speakers will sound way better than your factory speakers.

I'm having a local car stereo store do all my work here in Denver - they knew the Prius and were quick to let me know what would work well (and what wouldn't work) with the 2005. GL.

[kcopen]

Thanks for your feedback, that looks like a nice unit. Maybe I will do the speakers as well. Which ones did you decide to go for?

[scotk]

I decided to go with the following:

- Focal 165KF 2-way component speakers for the front
- Focal 165cvx coaxial speakers for the back
- Alpine iDA-X100 head unit (with Sirius)
- Alpine PDX 5 digital amp.
- JL Audio 8W3v3-4 8-inch sub

I'm using the 2 rear nooks (not sure what else to call them) to house the amp. and the sub. The car stereo guy I'm using is going to build custom enclosures that take up all the space in the 2 rear nooks, but still allow me access to the cargo storage area/spare tire under the rear mat.

Because of the custom work involved, it's a bit more expensive that what I initially planned to spend, but I spend a great deal of time in the car (I drive from Denver to Detroit frequently), and I'm really excited for the work to be done.

I'm not scheduled for the install 'til next week, so I'm crossing my fingers that it all works out as planned. Once complete, I'll post some pix and let you all know how it sounds.

BTW - I went with the Apline x100 head unit (as opposed to the less expensive x300) because the x300 was not compatible with the steering wheel controls. I believe that the x200 is compatible, but for a few bucks more, you get the better, full-color display.

[kcopen]

cool, I'd love to see some pics of how the new head unit looks installed. I'm sure your setup will be pretty sweet.

[racerbob]

I don't think any aftermarket head unit will integrate with the MFD. Some can retain most of the steering wheel functions. Most people leave the stock head unit and add amps, speakers, etc by using a signal processor that cleans up the over equalized original equipment signals. JL audio Cleansweep was designed for this purpose.
JL Audio: Products

[F8L]

Originally Posted by kcopen

cool, I'd love to see some pics of how the new head unit looks installed. I'm sure your setup will be pretty sweet.

Like this? Couple other pics located HERE



There are no units I know of that will allow you to display on the MDF AND utilize the touch screen aspect. You can however retain steering wheel controls through the use of one of the Peripheral Electronics "PESWIX" devices. They are not cheap though.

[scotk]

Originally Posted by racerbob

I don't think any aftermarket head unit will integrate with the MFD. Some can retain most of the steering wheel functions...

Thanks for clarifying. I forgot to mention that in my earlier post. It's my understanding that the Alpine head unit that I'm getting will work with the steering wheel controls, but will not integrate with the MFD. I'll let you know how well it ends up working with the steering wheel after the install.

[smittylube]

Dont forget the dynamat or equivalent. it makes a HUGE difference as well.

Steve