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Feedback please for Costal Tech XM tuners...

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by GreyHairedBandit, Sep 30, 2008.

  1. GreyHairedBandit

    GreyHairedBandit New Member

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    Can anyone give me any feedback regarding the installation / experience of the Costal Tech XM tuner?

    I recently purchased a 2008 Prius w/ package #3. I have an XM mobile tuner, but when it's plugged into a power source (necessary) I get a lot of feeback in the sound. So I've started looking into other options and ran across the Costal Tech deal. Just wondering how hard it was to install, and if anyone is happy / unhappy with theirs.

    Thanks a ton in advance for any feedback!
     
    #1 GreyHairedBandit, Sep 30, 2008
  2. KK6PD

    KK6PD _ . _ . / _ _ . _

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    Well the first assumption is your using something like a "Roadie" and plugging into the AUX in jack in the center console box.

    As far as the feebback goes, don't know what to tell ya.

    As far as the Coastal tech XM, its a factory XM unit. I bought one. Installation was EASY, well for me!!

    If you buy it at the PriusChat shop its only $165.00!!!

    Save a couple of bucks!! Heres the install info!! Good Luck!

    https://www.metrotpn.com/documents/PDF%20Files/Prius/Eddie%27s%20XMRadio%20Install/PriusXMradio3.2.pdf

    73 de Pat KK6PD
     
    #2 KK6PD, Sep 30, 2008
  3. GreyHairedBandit

    GreyHairedBandit New Member

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    Thanks a ton for the feedback. Much appreciated.

    And your assumption is correct, I'm using a plug-n-play 'Roadie' type unit for XM reception. It has no battery power, and needs to be powered during use. I have no other issues with using the AUX jack and any other piece of equipment (i.e. my iPod), so I'm assuming the feedback is a result of the unit being powered while playing.
     
    #3 GreyHairedBandit, Sep 30, 2008
  4. efusco

    efusco Moderator Emeritus
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    I would not call the installation "easy". The instructions given to you are very good and very clear, but some disassembly of the dash is required, the rear seat is partly removed, several panels are removed in the rear end to run the cables. It took me around 2 hours IIRC to do the job. You'll probably have a few cuts on your hand from reaching through tight spaces with sharp edges. Depending upon where and how you want the antenna installed it could take longer and be more or less difficult.

    It is not a project for someone hesitant about taking panels off the dash. That said, even if you are afraid to do that it should only cost you ~$50-75 to have a professional installer do it for you.
     
    #4 efusco, Sep 30, 2008
  5. KK6PD

    KK6PD _ . _ . / _ _ . _

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    Yeah, sorry about that. I keep forgetting, that my day job is to be given MILLIONS of dollars of Hardware, Wire, Connectors, and Blueprints and assemble a Digital Master Control system for one of the "Big 3" networks, as well as Fiber Optic installs, and other fun construction projects!

    On the XM project I gave a 1.75 on a scale of 1 - 10!!

    Sorry for the confusion, but if you follow the plans in the link I provided, and you have a degree of comfort, go for it!!

    I always try to provide positive potential attitudes to others who want to try something new!

    And like Efusco said, you can have some one install it for you. Should cost about $100, 3 hours worth of work!!

    Good Luck de Pat KK6PD
     
    #5 KK6PD, Sep 30, 2008
  6. fernelius

    fernelius Junior Member

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    If the Roady-type device meets your needs, you might want to look first into a ground loop isolator. Due to the long wires through the car, the potential at your Roady is different than that at the audio system, and ground loop currents can develop when you connect the device through both the DC power and the device audio output. If your car is still under warranty, Toyota should install a free ground loop isolator based on technical service bulletin T-SB-0067-08 for years 2006-2008. I've read it takes about 2 hours for the installation, and the dealer will likely have to order the parts in advance. Someone else posted information on this within another forum post.

    Alternatively, you could buy your own ground loop isolator. Crutchfield sells one as does Radio Shack. Most Radio Shacks around here seem to carry it -- part number 270-054 -- for about $17.

    Can't guarrantee this will fix the problem, but it might be worth a try.
     
    #6 fernelius, Sep 30, 2008
  7. mclauda

    mclauda New Member

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    I got all excited thinking I could buy the tuner for $165.00 from the Prius Chat shop. The price shown is actually $265.00.

    Does anybody have any feedback on the Factory Interactive XM tuner?

    BTW, I've had my Blk Pkg 2 since mid July and love the car.
     
    #7 mclauda, Sep 30, 2008
  8. passnthru

    passnthru Average Member

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    I purchased XM units from both the PC Shop and Factory Interactive (long story). They were basically identical, with two exceptions; the PC Shop version included two metal mounting brackets for the receiver - the FI unit used industrial adhesive backed hook n' loop for the same purpose (very quick and secure install). FI also offers a DVD showing step by step installation which was a wonderful asset to me. I'm a real fumbler when it comes to projects like this, but I did it all myself with no problems.

    Nick
     
    #8 passnthru, Sep 30, 2008
  9. efusco

    efusco Moderator Emeritus
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    The Coastal, priuschat shop, and Factory Interactive are all the same...the only difference will be the instructions included and they're all a little different. Factory interactive has you totally take apart the dash to access the back of the head unit. Coastal (and Priuschat shop I think) have you just remove the vent and the glove box...but then you have to contort and sweat a bit to reach the back.

    Buying from the Priuschat shop supports this site, Coastal is notorious for poor customer service, Factory Interactive is a solo shop that doesn't support the site....let your dollars and conscience guide you.
     
    #9 efusco, Sep 30, 2008
  10. GreyHairedBandit

    GreyHairedBandit New Member

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    It does meet my needs, so I'm going to call my local dealer's service department and discuss this bulletin with them. My car's still under warranty, so I might as well. Thanks a ton for the head's up on this. And thanks to everyone's that posted with advice / feedback!
     
    #10 GreyHairedBandit, Oct 1, 2008
  11. eurosteve

    eurosteve Member

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    Regarding the Coastal Tech and PriusChat kits (I'm interested in as little dash disassembly as possible) is all of the rear seat and rear work for the antenna install?

    I have a SkiFi2 and I have my antenna (which is very small) sitting pretty inobtrusively on the very front of the dashboard. If I'm content to leave it there, can I avoid doing anything other than remove the glove box and vent?

    Thanks
     
    #11 eurosteve, Nov 16, 2008
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