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Bluetooth speaker as car stereo suggestions

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by Dummy, Aug 28, 2022.

  1. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    I didn’t see a recent thread on this subject so I’m starting a new one.

    I have a 2005 and I’m super disappointed that it doesn’t have Bluetooth for stereo. I’ve been using an FM transmitter for several years but it’s useless in the city where there are no open frequencies to use.

    I’ve decided to get a Bluetooth speaker and just bypass the factory stereo. I’m not interested in using it for phone calls but I want it to have great sound for music. Have you done this? Any suggestions on which ones would work for me and which ones won’t?
     
  2. Another

    Another Senior Member

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    Does your 2005 have an AUX in audio port and USB power port in the center console?
     
  3. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    No it doesn’t. That’s why I’m looking for a Bluetooth solution.
     
  4. Another

    Another Senior Member

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    Bluetooth speakers are cheap. Many options of those with rechargeable batteries too. May work if you can locate it for acceptable acoustics.

    Also you could also just try a different Bluetooth to FM modulator with better discrimination. Many on Amazon.
    this one is $20 currently after coupon
     
  5. Another

    Another Senior Member

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  6. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    The FM transmitter is useless in the Denver metro area.

    I’ve been trying a Bluetooth speaker and it’s acceptable but not ideal. I’m gonna try a larger one and see how it sounds.
     
  7. Another

    Another Senior Member

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    Have you tried disconnecting the external FM antenna by unscrewing it and seeing if the FM modulator being quite a bit closer will overwhelm the now more RF distant higher power stations even on 88.3MHz or 91.9MHz?
    see list ... Vacant Channel Search Results
     
  8. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    I have not
     
  9. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    I ran across that website a few weeks ago. It’s focused on devices that offer hands free, microphone, and other features that do nothing for music lovers. I looked up reviews on all of them and the audio quality was lacking. The car actually has hands free for phone calls that works well. I’m just looking for a good choice for music.
     
  10. Another

    Another Senior Member

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  11. Another

    Another Senior Member

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    If you look at the compatibility for the above adapter, it lists 2005 Prius.
    Also once you have aux in port, you can get this device which works exceptionally well.
     
  12. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    I bought a similar device a few years ago and it doesn’t work in my car. It isn’t Bluetooth but it adds an aux input. I don’t know if the problem is that the head unit CD changer port is bad or if the device doesn’t work.
     
  13. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    The 2005 Prius doesn’t have an aux port
     
  14. Dummy

    Dummy Member

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    I’m considering removing the head unit and installing a Bluetooth amplifier. Anyone here done that?
     
  15. Another

    Another Senior Member

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    Similar ain’t same
    Probably some work, some don’t
    Search PC and you’ll see what people have done.