So I'm thinking of sticking a new CD Player in my 4Runner so that I can get some AUX outputs and built-in iPod controls. I have never purchased a double DIN aftermarket unit because I like the sleek look of the smaller CD players. When I was shopping around I noticed units from Clarion, Kenwood, and JVC that were double DIN. I started thinking and the larger screen that usually accompanies a double DIN unit would probably be nice when sorting through the iPod menus.

Anyone have experience with a double DIN unit + iPod to know if it's better or worse? Any specific recommendations on what to buy? I'm not planning to put in an award winning stereo here. It's just a stock Limited model with the factory premium sound and I plan to keep it that way aside from the head unit and one 10" sub. It looks like I can do that for a couple hundred bucks (already have a spare amp and sub) which doesn't sound too bad.

[Edited on January 13, 2009 at 5:37 PM. Reason : l]

1/13/2009 5:24:25 PM

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/Products/CarAudioVideo/Source/CD-Players/Pioneer/FH-P8000BT

I put this unit in my 2003 jetta. iPod/iPhone plugs right in, sounds excellent and the built in EQs/loudness settings make it sound 1000% better than the stock Monsoon unit I had before.

Also has built-in bluetooth audio and speakerphone capability.

1/13/2009 7:24:58 PM

if you're gonna spend that much, get a pioneer avic gps headunit and the ipod cable

1/13/2009 9:04:53 PM

What year 4Runner? You may want to look at factory Scion head units if you aren't looking to spend a lot. I had one in my Tacoma and you can find them with mp3/ipod/aux features. Plus it uses the factory Toyota harnesses and mounting tabs.

1/13/2009 9:13:27 PM

^^^ Does the bluetooth work pretty well?

^ 2000

1/13/2009 10:52:47 PM

^ Works amazingly well. It has an mic on a cable that comes with it that I mounted in my dash. No echo, and as loud as your stereo.

I got the unit for ~$220 on JR.com.
Works with my iphone or any flash drive

1/17/2009 10:44:58 PM

the only choices here are alpine and pioneer

1/18/2009 3:19:04 AM

Alpine's got a new iPod-only unit dropping in April

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-alpine-keeps-in-touch-with-ipod-users/


may be ok if you are alright with giving up CDs

1/18/2009 12:03:22 PM

Nah...Gotta have some CD capability. I'll probably go with that Pioneer unit that Avon posted. The bluetooth function should be pretty nice. I never carry my BT headset outside of the house because I don't want to be one of those douches walking around with a thing on his ear.

I'm planning to run the iPod interface cable to the center console and leave the iPod in there. Does it charge the iPod when hooked up? How do you like the iPod controls? Are they pretty easy to use while driving?

[Edited on January 18, 2009 at 8:21 PM. Reason : l]

1/18/2009 8:19:36 PM

Yeah, it charges it. You either use the radio's navigation buttons/remote control -- operates fairly similar to an ipod with the scroll wheel or use the ipod it's self.

1/18/2009 8:29:51 PM

I'm also interested in a 2-din HU with cd/DVD/ipod/usb/aux.

Got an '04 Colorado. Not sure what I need though. I have a GPS and the Harmon Kardon Drive+Play for iPods, but I figured a HU with this would work just as well and be less cluttered. I'm weary on the gps though - I don't want a HU with gps and have to pay a bunch of extras/monthly/yearly fees (traffic/maps/etc) since my gps came with all of that for free.

I've got 2 front door tweeters, 2 front door main speakers, 2 rear door main speakers, and 2 6x9's running off of a 400 watt/4-ch amp (currently spliced off of the rear channels to a line-level converter).

[Edited on January 18, 2009 at 8:47 PM. Reason : .]

[Edited on January 18, 2009 at 8:54 PM. Reason : .]

1/18/2009 8:44:51 PM

ttt

1/21/2009 9:17:42 PM

I know pioneer has them, but too rich for my blood. Although, I think the double DIN full LCD touchscreen units are far superior than the motorized fold out ones. Just look better. I wouldn't I'd keep the GPS where it is though -- on the window.

I like the GPS in my line of sight. Wouldn't want it at radio level.

1/21/2009 9:27:49 PM