Putting an auxiliary audio input into a new Prius

I'm looking into buying a new Prius. A must for me is an auxiliary audio input for an mp3 player (I can't stand FM transmitters). It looks like the stereo is very integrated into the Prius dashboard, so putting in a basic aftermarket HU w/imput would be kind of messy and ugly.

So, I'm looking for ways to add one otherwise. I came across this solution online. Has anyone tried this, and does it work with the newer Priuses? Does anyone have photos? Are there other workable solutions out there?

Also, is there any chance that the upcoming 06 model would have an aux input option from the factory? GM just added this to their 06 vehicles and I'm hoping others will follow suit. It would seem the Prius demographic would be one most likely to have mp3 players...

Thanks.

 

I understand there's that new A/V input system on backorder, but I was referring to the simpler solution referenced on this page.

(Sorry, I screwed up the link last time).

This seems different than the newer, more expensive A/V input box. Do you have any information on what is mentioned below? Will it work on newer Priuses? I have no use for video inputs.

The text follows:

Radio Auxiliary Input

Many Prius owners have struggled to hook up aftermarket DVD, MD and CD players, satellite radios, MP3 players, etc. because the factory radio system does not accommodate sound input from any of these devices.

Well now it can!

CoastalEtech now has two additional systems which allow you to bring sound into your Prius either with or without a factory CD player installed!

If you do not have a factory CD player, you can plug in the adapter and connect it to any type of player you would like. The adapter has standard RCA jacks for left and right inputs and is an easy plug-in installation to the radio. To operate the unit, you simply press the CD button already on your dash and the sound from your accessory will play throughout the car. This device will eliminate the poor sound quality and need for FM modulators, which prior to this, was the only way to add components.

If you already have a factory single or 6 disk CD player, we have a kit for that as well! This adapter replaces the cable to the CD player, with one that allows left and right inputs from any of your accessories. A dash mounted switch is included which allows you to easily select either the sound from your CD player, or the sound from your desired accessory. The switch mounts perfectly using cutouts already present in your dash, thus maintaining a clean factory look.

Both of these kits allow your sound to be heard as it was meant to be! Without the reduced quality of an FM modulator. Installation instructions are included and provide step-by-step guidance with color photos.

With CD Player $110.00 Purchase
Without CD Player $125.00 Purchase

 

There's no answer or voicemail at coastal; I shot them an email.

Are you saying that on 04/05 models it might only work with the changer, or that there are issues with the changer, and it might work only on the basic system?

 

I found this PDF that explains how to hook up an AUX-BOX type system in an 04 Prius. As far as I can tell you can buy the device from places such as this.

It seems to state that you can do this with the basic stereo (i.e., the changer input is present even in factory single-disc models).

Has anyone had luck with this? How much might a car stereo specialist charge to install this?

The part I don't get is why the old Coastal system woudn't work on new Priuses. As I understood it it simply split the speaker wire to have it run from both the Aux in and the existing factory stereo, with a switch on the dash to go between the two. It had nothing to do with the changer port or controls, it was a simple A/B switch like you might find at Radio Shack to add 2 things to your TV. Why would that not work on new models?