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Upgrade to JBL or not?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by Harmlessharman, Aug 30, 2009.

  1. Harmlessharman

    Harmlessharman New Member

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    We are in the UK and thinking of buying a new Prius. Can anyone advise if the JBL upgrade is worth the money please?
     
    #1 Harmlessharman, Aug 30, 2009
  2. wfolta

    wfolta Active Member

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    I think it's worth it: better stereo plus bluetooth. I love the bluetooth.

    Haven't been able to compare the stereo to the base stereo, but the JBL sounds good and
     
    #2 wfolta, Aug 30, 2009
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  3. Harmlessharman

    Harmlessharman New Member

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    and what? You have got me on the edge of my seat!
     
    #3 Harmlessharman, Aug 30, 2009
  4. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    I would also say go for the JBL. Some complain about the stereo but it gets the job done. Yes, I have heard better systems and would like it to be a bit more 'rounded' but it does sound better than my 2006 did. Having the bluetooth is a huge benefit as well. If it's not a hige increase in price over there go for it, I think you'll be happy you did.
     
    #4 Paradox, Aug 30, 2009
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  5. zenMachine

    zenMachine Just another Onionhead

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    Depends on how much the upgrade costs.

    I like the Bluetooth feature a LOT but totally despise the JBL sound system. If I could do it over again, I probably would go with the basic set up and find an aftermarket Bluetooth solution, even though having BT built-in is much nicer.
     
    #5 zenMachine, Aug 31, 2009
  6. jestoy7

    jestoy7 New Member

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    I'm happy that I got the JBL with BT. I agree that it could be nicer, but its good for a stock system.
     
    #6 jestoy7, Aug 31, 2009
  7. zenMachine

    zenMachine Just another Onionhead

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    The problem I have is that Toyota doesn't call it the "stock" system but actually peddles it as the "Premium" system, which it definite isn't (and shouldn't cost so much!)

    I'd gladly pay for a real premium system if it actually sounded like one.
     
    #7 zenMachine, Aug 31, 2009
  8. jestoy7

    jestoy7 New Member

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    The extra $1,000 for the JBL and Bluetooth can be justified if you list out the components individually.

    I figure I paid about $700 for the JBL upgrade. $700 in the aftermarket world can get you a good headunit and some speakers, but the peace of mind to have that installed from the factory makes it worth it. (to me)

    Should the cost be greater than that, I could justify not purchasing it.
     
    #8 jestoy7, Aug 31, 2009
  9. uclabruins

    uclabruins Member

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    I've listened to the stock stereo from a 2005 Prius and it didn't sound very good. You have to turn the volume up very high to get any volume. When we were on the freeway, we had the volume up around 40 whereas I normally have the volume around 21 in my 2006 with the JBL sound system.

    The JBL does lack solid deep bass, but overall a decent system and integrated into all the electronics.
     
    #9 uclabruins, Sep 2, 2009
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