a7v7

CL,

I have a 1999 GS400. I attempted to add a GROM Bluetooth module to my stock Lexus Nakamichi stereo. After discovering that the CD changer used digital audio, I gave up. There's just no interface that's going to work with that wiring harness.

Now, I'm thinking of replacing the head and leaving the amps / speakers in place. I found a dash kit and a few double DIN LCD screen stereos that look really nice. Before I dive in, I wanted to check with the guys who have already done this...

• I found a Metra dash kit (Metra Electronics 99-8152). Has anyone used this kit successfully?
• I found a Sony double DIN receiver. It has 4V outputs. Is this compatible with the Nakamichi amplifier?
• Has anyone installed an after-market head with the Nakamichi amplifier and gotten it to all work?

I'm pretty sure there are a few people that have done this. I wanted to see where the pitfalls are...

Thanks in advance for your assistance,

A7V7

kdick91

I have no experience with Nak amplifiers, but I have a lot of experience with factory amplifiers. I have done radios in 2 SC300s and 1 GS400 (non-Nak). IIRC, both have factory amplifiers regardless. It is always a rule-of-thumb that if you're installing a radio in ANY car with factory amp, you need to bypass it. Very easily really. There a tons of guides on the forum to help you! Also, I can vouch for the fitment of the Metra kits! Good stuff! Hope this helps!

Kyle Harty

iTrader: (17)

If you want the finish to match the climate controls spend the extra cash for the JDM Double DIN dash kit, its a perfect match, looks like it belongs there since its an oem part. Can't speak to the rest of it since I went full aftermarket amps and speakers but if you care about looking at a mismatched trim piece every time you get in the car just get the JDM dash kit the first time!

Kyle Harty

iTrader: (17)

Also, I'd stay away from a Sony head unit, they have been making junk for a while, there's better deals to be had if you look around. Is take a lower level pioneer or Kenwood over the stuff Sony is putting out now.

a7v7

I'll definitely pony up for the JDM. I really wanted to leave the dash "stock".

I'll also cruise for the guides for information on bypassing the stock amps.

Thanks again.

LexiBlue

iTrader: (2)

u gotta go after market with the amp the factory amp wont work with after market radio