memasterac

This installation procedure is specifically for the Vaistech VML (w/o HDD) to be installed in the space between the navigation and the tape/CD player (Thanks to IronCobra’s inspiration). These pictures are off my 2007 GS350 with navigation but without ML. I have the 30GB ipod video.

Please follow the navigation screen removal threads to remove the combination unit (there are three write-ups in the “GS – Third Generation” to do this)


Figure 1: The overall rear view of my navigation system and audio head unit. To separate the navigation unit and audio unit just remove the three screws on both sides. The two small screws on both sides holding the horizontal metal piece were also removed for easier access.



Figure 2: Use a file to remove the two reinforced support then bend the “L-shape” plate. This “L-shape” plate, unfortunately, is in the way of the USB access. This space is tight but perfect for mounting the VML. Test fit the VML and marks the VML edges on top of the Lexus audio unit.



Figure 3: Attach the VML onto the Lexus audio unit, I used Velcro.



Figure 4: Side view of the navigation unit. Note the “L-shape” plate is bent slightly inward (I guess bend it outward will also work).



Figure 5: Connect the cables for VML & re-attach the audio unit/VML back to the bracket (side view). I also laid a piece of soft pad in between the navigation unit and the VML to prevent vibration & rattles.


Go to Post #2

memasterac

Figure 6: Direct rearview



Now just follow the Vais Install “3rd Gen GS Edition” thread by kuch123 to run the USB cable or you can do your own imagination. Perform the emulation setting and test the unit with both USB and ipod. Put back the mess and you are done.

The VML unit should not cause any heat problem since the navigation unit above it has many vents to dissipate heat (“L-shape opening and vents on the sides) The VML dissipates heat to its sides and there are plenty clearance to the brackets. I think it’s a better (ventilated) place than putting it on the passenger firewall behind carpet.

passnu2

iTrader: (33)

nice write up

so what are the benefits of this VML??

edit: added to the 3gs FAQ DIY section.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

vml is fully digital audio, compared to sl2i-up which is analog. vml can do hdd obviously if you choose to, and you can also use usb stick. basically the vml is like a mini computer getting "files" and then decode / play

*Batman*

In your pic you have only the USB cable connected. Do you know if the iPod cable uses the same interface as the one for the sl2i up?

BinaryJay

It's like the GROM USB unit that I have, except 3 times more expensive, 3 times larger, and maybe 3 times less buggy. :P

rominl

iTrader: (4)

you just use that usb connection and connect to an ipod usb cable

AndyUK

Nice install and write-up.
Anyone know for sure if these are OK on UK GS430 2005 (2006 model) with ML? I saw a post somewhere a while back saying there were problems, but hope that was a one-off.

Also I have a big Ipod with thousands of songs. How usable are these with a large number of folders?

rominl

iTrader: (4)

i have seen people outside of the US with these, don't see problem. sl2i-up / vml should have no problem. if anything, sl2vi is more "risky"

with the unit you can play by artist, album, playlist, genre, podcast, and something else i forget, so personally i think it's pretty flexible. i mostly just stay with albums myself

BROOKLINE

nicely done.

memasterac

During my 4 months ownership of the Vaistech VML, I have a couple of gripes hopefully Vaistech can address in the near future, through a firmware update of course, rather than a new model purchase.

1. My $135 Sony receiver installed on my 92 Dakota comes with BT phone/audio streaming, iPod control, USB memory playback, AUX input, RCA input, HD & satellite radio ready. The most important feature is it can play internet radio/Pandora through either iPod USB cable or BT audio streaming. The VML cost me twice as much but no such feature…

2. The ability to shuffle music on the entire playlists, not just the current playlist. Or gives up a “passenger mode” to allow direct control on the iPhone/iPod so all audio can pass through VML to the Lexus stereo.

How difficult can this be? Oh well, hopefully Santa Claus is coming soon.

BinaryJay

Just be glad it has never frozen requiring you to physically disconnect the harness in order to make it come back to life.

*Batman*

I worry about this too. Would physically disconnecting the battery for an hour enable you to achieve the same thing?

BinaryJay

Disconnecting the battery for a second would achieve the same thing but leave you with all of the annoying reinitialization tasks, the most annoying being the parking sensor procedure requiring to drive in a straight line for some time or something along those lines to calibrate the wheel center.