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Upgrading JBL sound system - can I use factory wiring?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by Ryan Gallo, Nov 25, 2023.

  1. Ryan Gallo

    Ryan Gallo Junior Member

    Joined:
    Aug 12, 2016
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    Location:
    Seattle
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Five
    I'm resigned to keeping my 2012 Prius for another 150K miles, but have decided I absolutely need to get rid of the JBL "Premium" sound system. Rather than trying to connect to the existing JBL amp and 2-ohm speakers throughout, my plan is to replace it with an Alpine iLX-507 head unit (utilizing iDatalink adapters to retain factory controls through the Alpine display) and Alpine KTP-445A head unit power pack located in the same area as the existing amp. That also means the speakers must go, and my plan is to replace the fronts with a component set (6x9s and 1" tweeters), and the backs with a 6.5 2-way speaker (with the tweeters in the back disabled).

    I can certainly run new speaker wires and amp power back to the battery in the trunk, but I was wondering if it would be possible to re-use the factory wiring? My understanding is I would want at least 18-20awg wire or thicker. This amp outputs 45x4 watts
     
    #1 Ryan Gallo, Nov 25, 2023
  2. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 10, 2013
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    Location:
    Los Angeles, CA
    Vehicle:
    2008 Prius
    Model:
    II
    There is a bypass wiring set (by Metra I believe) you can buy, you don't have to run new wiring. Disconnect the wiring from the amp and connect the bypass wire set, then run it back to the new head unit and install whatever you want. I think there are videos on youtube you can watch for this.

    That being said, I'm in search of that amp under your seat. If you do go the route and by pass the amp, please sell me your old one as mine has gone out from my 2012 with JBL audio. I would be interested in your speakers too.

    Thank you
    [email protected]
     
    #2 JC91006, Nov 26, 2023
  3. prius2010II

    prius2010II Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2010
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    Location:
    us
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Are you sure? I have a 2010 Prius Gen 3.
    Crutchfield doesn't show such a part. METRA doesn't show a bypass cable when I enter my vehicle info.

    Amazon shows a Metra JBL bypass cable but for some Toyota 2000 to 2004.
    Amazon says the item is frequently returned.

    AFAIK you need to rewire.
     
    #3 prius2010II, Dec 22, 2023
  4. prius2010II

    prius2010II Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2010
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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    I can't edit my post.
    I had JBL unit without navigation. I replaced my HU with a unit from Aliexpress. I purchased the canbus adapter with cable. My memory is I had to set the volume on my factory radio up over half before uninstalling it.

    The sound improvement was dramatic. The JBL amp isn't the real issue, JMO
     
    #4 prius2010II, Dec 24, 2023
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