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Options for replacing stock stereo?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by jwilson2000, Feb 19, 2007.

  1. jwilson2000

    jwilson2000 New Member

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2007
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    Hi all,

    Just bought a new 2007 w/Package 2. Love the car but not the standard sound system (forgot to really check out this important component during my test drive).

    Was regretting not moving up to Package 3 to get the JBL but after reading some threads here, maybe it's sound quality is not worth the $1000 price difference.

    So what are my options? I can have the JBL installed through the dealer for about $635, but I don't know if this includes additional speakers or not (and bluetooth)?

    Are there other aftermarket radios that are compatible? Any other options? Can I improve the standard system with better speakers and/or amplifiers?

    Here's what's important to me:

    Good sound
    Compatible w/Steering wheel controls
    CD/MP3 player
    Compatible with external MP3 and Sirius players

    Here's what's less important:

    Multi-CD
    Bluetooth (although I'll probably wish I had it later..)


    Thanks for your advice,

    Wilburn
     
  2. akmurdog

    akmurdog New Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2005
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    I took my 2005 to a local stereo shop and had them install a very nice 400 watt Pioneer amplifyer, and new speakers in the front doors and the front tweeters by the triangle window. I left the stock speakers in the rear doors as I had reached my budget limit (about $600). Difference was night and day and I'm very happy with the sound quality. Naturally I retained all my Stearing controls. Stage 2 will be to put better speakers in the rear doors, and a Subwoofer somewhere. But what I have now sounds a whole lot better than that overpriced weenie factory JBL Package.

    Murdog Out.
     
  3. jwilson2000

    jwilson2000 New Member

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2007
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    Thanks for the suggestion. Stopped by the chain electronics store today and they informed me that no aftermarket amp can be attached to a Prius because, being a hybrid, it has wildly fluctuating voltages and a constant 12v source is not available.

    I didn't feel like pointing out that there's a 12 volt plug in the console. I think I'll try somewhere a little more on the ball.

    Is there a preamp output on the back of the radio unit? Is any other equipment required besides an amp and replacement speakers? I'd like to go into the stereo store knowing what I need instead of hoping to get the right answers.

    Also, does anyone know what the wattage is on the stock stereo?

    Thanks

    Wilburn