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Beginner - Custom Stereo on package II questions

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by mizzaxer, May 16, 2011.

  1. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    Sorry to be repetitive and please feel free to direct me to other threads -

    I will be receiving my 2010 Prius Gen III package II in a couple weeks.

    I have subwoofers, head unit, amplifier and etc from my old car (Pontiac G5) and I really am looking forward to updating my Prius' stereo after I get it - word is that the package II is pretty lame :(

    I am a TOTAL beginner and had Best Buy install everything on my previous car.

    Basic questions are -

    1) Is there a step-by-step (for dummies) guide on everything I need and maybe how to install?

    2) Will an amplifer or any subwoofers, etc. have any effect on MPG or the electrical system of my Prius?

    3) For dash kit, nav/ipod/usb, and MAYBE back up camera + installation, what/where will I need to buy these, and can I do this at a store like Best Buy if I choose to? (not sure if they handle back up cameras, etc.

    4) THANK YOU!
     
  2. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    Welcome aboard. Follow and A/V upgrade link in my signature to get an idea of what can be done.

    On point 2, you will likely see little to no impact on FE.

    On point 3, follow my Rev cam link in signature.

    There are many threads on upgrades... use the search function in the upper right corner to get all the information you will ever need.
     
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  3. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    Thank you - Looks like you did a great job! and your' instructions are very clear! Does your screen kit "pop up" like the Prius V and show the CD slot? Also..where on the II is the aux input??
     
  4. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    Thanks. My screen slides down and tilts out to reveal the CD/DVD slot.

    The II has a mini-plug in the center console, bottom in the rear. I think later 2010s and 2011s also have a iPod jack, but not sure. Mine does not.
     
  5. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    Great Thanks again! I might just have to copy your' installation! I do like the volume and button options on the other dash kits vs. your' all-touch screen one..but looks very nice! and considerably less expensive
     
  6. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    There are also third party HUs the have the OEM look and fit... like Rosen.
     
  7. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    Also - During your' installation you lost the AUX function and stuck with USB strickly? Did you find that annoying?
     
  8. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    I did loose that mini-plug but I have a 4-gig USB stick with all my music on which I like fine and dandy (no Ipod). I have the USB cable running down in the lower storage area.
     
  9. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    Hmm..see thats a pity for me I rely on my AUX :(...So where or what type of head unit could I use for an AUX cable..or am I screwed out of one (I saw on your' installation that plug was left hanging). That Rosen one is FREAKING expensive! haha
     
  10. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    How about a mini-jack to USB adapter like:
    Philips LFH9034 USB Audio Adapter
     
  11. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    "Hmm..see thats a pity for me I rely on my AUX [​IMG]...So where or what type of head unit could I use for an AUX cable..or am I screwed out of one (I saw on your' installation that plug was left hanging). That Rosen one is FREAKING expensive! haha"

    Metra Online Contact them to verify.
     
  12. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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  13. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    I believe it is used "with" the ASWC. Give it a read and call them. Ask for Tech Support and tell them your vehicle and equipment to see if this will help you.
     
  14. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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  15. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    What is the difference between AWSC and SWC? like what do they mean? Im sorry I am so clueless I really appreciate your' help
     
  16. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    "SWC" - Steering Wheel Control.
    The "ASWC" is Metra's P/N and is universal. Pac-Audio has about 5 P/N's for 2010 Prii based on the brand head unit you use. Enter your vehicle at both sites given for the options and call them. They are wholesalers, but have Tech Support and will also tell you where to buy locally. I found Metra friendlier with regular folks (not a business). It might help more if you tell us what equipment you plan to put in. Brands, Model #'s, ect...

    If I forgot to mention it, Thank You Spiderman and the many other members here, that helped to provide their knowledge and encouragement for some of us to consider such an upgrade.:cool:
     
  17. xs650

    xs650 Senior Member

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    You didn't mention door and dashboard speakers. The stock ones are absolute khrap and should be replaced with something decent or better. The doors could use some sound dampening while you are at it. They will work even better with your good head unit and amplifier.

    There have been some door speaker threads here on PC. Here's mine
    http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii...ics/93817-gen-3-non-jbl-spearker-upgrade.html
    in which I also link to YADST (yet another door speaker thread).
     
  18. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    My pleasure, thanks.
     
  19. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    Thank you all - Went to Best Buy today and Not sure what Head Unit I'm going for..somekind of DVD/touch screen capability with AUX hopefully (USB seems annoying to me while driving - except for charging my Ipod)

    xs650 That looks great...and cheap! The installation looks scary and hard :( again. I am a car-moron and had Best Buy install everything on my old car...expensive but I wasnt going to attempt risking destruction on my car haha.
     
  20. mizzaxer

    mizzaxer New Member

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    What are some good recommendations for cheap-ish, touch-screen AUX/USB head units?