xyzzy_dude

After almost 12 years with my 98 LS400 my only complaint is the level of tech. I want full Bluetooth and iPod integration. I'd settle for Bluetooth phone and an aux jack if that's the difference between major and minor work. Except for the lack of Bluetooth or aux I'm perfectly happy with the sound system, which I don't think is the Nakamichi (doesn't say Nakamichi on the faceplate).

Don't need nav as my phone has it.

Any suggestions or opinions? Am I going to just have to suck it up and get a new head unit, or is there a less extreme way to get what I want? If it helps I can definitely sacrifice the CD changer...ideally something that swaps out the CD changer for aux or iPod input would rock, though I don't think such a thing exists.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

This AUX input thread:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...em-stereo.html

LScowboyLS

new head unit and you will likely have to also get that scam-priced mystery box called the beatsonic for an extra $300, but at least you will have all of the tech you want and also get to keep your existing amp, sub and speakers, so install work will be minimal

oh cool - a DIY method.... hmmmmm

Kansas

The following three threads describe the "tech" solution I installed in my similar 2000 LS400.

1. Garmin 2595 portable GPS on a modified Pro.Fit Legend bracket and a Samsung Galaxy SIII phone used in a $17.50 Samsung Infuse charging cradle mounted on a Kuda leather phone console: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...lan-nokia.html

2. 3.5 mm aux-in port on the back of the head unit with an on/off switch on the front of the head unit installed by Factory Radio Service - $85 not including shipping of the head unit: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...000-ls400.html

3. Toyota Entune / Lexus Enform emulation using iBOLT Dock n Drive for Android: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...k-n-drive.html

Pressing the Music Player button I configured on the main Dock n Drive screen invokes the Music Player application - see attached photos. These days I mainly listen to music from the Internet which is why I put buttons for Pandora, Slacker and Tunein Radio on the main Dock n Drive screen.

The Garmin GPS provides excellent hands-free with voice control for phone calls and allows navigation without using my phone's data plan allocation and in rural areas where using a phone navigation app which relies on continuous updates is not possible..

My solution is not going to help with integrating an iPod but it is low cost and allowed me to keep my wonderful Nakamichi intact.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

More options now though for he ones who wanted an option this worked well. Personally, at the car's current age, cobbling up a modest system would yield more efficient results sonically. At the time Lexkost's system sounded pretty nice. Haven't heard any of our forum members recently so perhaps with the upcoming Pursuit meet meet will get to hear what others have done. For that matter, I haven't heard PD's car.

SynicalVip

iTrader: (2)

Loved your mounts/bracket!!!

xyzzy_dude

I decided to take the plunge and try to do a HU swap over the fourth of July week, when I'll be on vacation.

I've ordered:

- JVC KD-X250BT Digital Media Receiver HU
- Beatsonic SLA-220D $280 mystery box
- Dash mount kit from: http://www.ebay.com/itm/221094888255...S:3160&vxp=mtr
- non-scuffing trim removal tool

I found the attached instructions elsewhere on clublexus for getting the old HU out.

Anything else I need?

Yes the HU is cheaper than the Beatsonic adapter! I figure I can start with this one since it's pretty inexpensive, has great reviews, and seems to meet my needs, and I can upgrade later if I feel the need.

door331

Following to see results! Would love to see pics when you finish the install.

Upgrading my headunit is the next thing on my list of mods. I considered adding an Aux but have decided I really want a touch screen and the ability to use my phones GPS apps. I am probably going to go the beatsonic route just so I can keep the OEM wiring harness intact.

Sc0pe

iTrader: (1)

THANK YOU SO MUCH for the detailed head unit removal PDF. I'm doing the same as you mid-August, though I'm using a Double DIN and I'm taking a more custom route as opposed to Beatsonic. I'm going to keep an eye on this thread due to interest lol

xyzzy_dude

My plan is to take pictures and document it... we'll see if I get that done.

I thought about that and considered a Parrot Asteroid Smart. But the HU is down low enough that I don't think a touch screen would be useful. Plus like you I'll be running nav on my phone so I figure as long as the turn by turn directions are coming through the speakers I'm good. Having to look down at my phone when I want to see the nav screen doesn't seem much worse than looking down at the touch screen.

Plus with the single DIN unit I'll get a cubby under the HU where maybe I can stick the phone. Currently I keep it in the ashtray.

Twista4004

phone in the cup holder for the win!!!!

xyzzy_dude

I finished my HU install and documented the whole thing here: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...ml#post8023279