New Stereo Questions

DNytAftr · #1 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008, 05:02 AM

I got a 2002 Toyota highlander (got the v6 with a few options added) and i wanted to put in a new stereo, so far i have a Sony MEX-BT2600 cd deck and im going to get that installed in a few days. I wanted to change out the speakers as well so would it be better to get two sets with or with out a sub? (i wanted it to look pretty much factory so i dont really want to have a box sitting in the trunk) or just have a set of speakers with decent bass? if so what kind of speakers would be recommended and do i need an amp?

Thanks ahead of time for your responces!

bepperb · #2 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008, 08:37 AM

Ehhhh. My advice would be to ditch that particular deck and get a double-din (or same with, double the height) deck. If not, at least get a look at what they'll fill the extra space with before they put it in. If you're looking at adding a sub, you have the money for a different head unit.

Then comes the question of what stereo came factory. If it's the standard (non jbl) system, the head unit really was the weakness and you should see if you're satisfied with the sound after the upgrade. If it is the JBL unit, there is an amp located elsewhere you'll need to bypass or figure out how to use. I don't have that, so I'm not much help there.

High quality speakers will add bass, but they are separate component speakers up front, and that will get expensive (for parts and install). If you get those, you might as well hit the rears right away.

If, in the end you do need a sub, there really isn't a great place to put one in the first gens. I think Pioneer made one to fit in the spare tire, I'm sure it's not that great but probably also cheap.

DNytAftr · #3 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008, 04:59 PM

Thanks for clearing up some things for me!

mmm well the place that was going to install it was going to put a storage place under it with a little door to cover it so it looks more flush. hmmm when i went down to the stores around my area they didnt sell double dims and if they did they where the ones that we're the nav and touch screen and such . But is sony not such a good maker for car audio? ive read around about this stuff and get mixed reviews.

hmm well my hl isent the jbl one so thats one less thing to worry about finding.

I was reading on pioneers website last night and they mentioned different types of speakers (type A, Type G , Type D) and then they had differnet amp types (type A, Type AB , Type D) If i got new speakers would i really need an amp? If i understand how car audio works that the head unit is connected to an amp that controls two speakers or controls a sub .. although a sub might not be such a good idea by the sounds of it.

LifeTech · #4 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008, 07:40 PM

I believ JVC makes a Double din that will fit right in. It is inexpensive compared to a T screen type head unit. Yu can find inexpensive NON Nav T screen heads that will fit. $300-$400. Some even play DVD's for the most part.

bepperb · #5 (**permalink**) 05-08-2008, 09:05 AM

If you get a good head unit, you won't need an amp between it and your speakers. Compare them by the watts rms (lower wattage number).

DNytAftr · #6 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 07:09 AM

Thanks for the help guys!

I finishing up putting in all the new equipment. i ended up keeping the deck because im going to put something else into the second din. Ended up just making a custom sub box that somewhat molds into the trunk against the wall and putting in a 10'' alpine sub and a 200watt amp. for the front speakers i put in a set of pioneer ts-a1302c. but im still debating what to put in for the rear seats, i know that everything i got is not quite the best but its alot better then what i had before so its cool.