5 Options for Connecting Music in Your Lexus

1 - Auxiliary Input Cable

If you own an iPod or mp3 player and aren't excited by the prospect of outfitting your Lexus with a car audio kit (we'll get to those later), your easiest and cheapest bet will be to stream your music using an auxiliary input cable. Available at auto body shops, as well as big box retailers, for $10 to $20, this plug-and-play option makes it easy for you to stream your favorite tunes without needing to deal with a difficult install. The biggest downside to using an auxiliary input cable is you will need to manually connect and disconnect your device whenever you wish to remove it from your vehicle. As well, the cable can show signs of wear and tear over time.

2- Bluetooth

This 'short and sweet' slide was created for folks who want to keep focused on the road ahead while enjoying their favorite tunes. Using Lexus Bluetooth audio technology, you can stream your compatible device's music library (saved files) plus any music that is currently streaming through your device via a music streaming service or YouTube channel. Access pairing instructions via Lexus mobile link. 

Features include:

• Play, pause and stop music
• Display the current song title
• Experience the clear sound of music streaming from websites, including news, interviews, and podcasts

3 - Car Kit

Most car kits on the market today retail for approximately $100; although cheaper and discounted varieties can also be easily found, especially online. Car kits for the Lexus (across model years) allow you to quickly and conveniently integrate your devices (e.g., smartphone, tablet, mp3 player) with your stock car stereo system using a specially designed Bluetooth extension port or AUX. Installation is required, as is some wiring. 

4 - iPod Integration Kit

An iPod integration kit is as the name suggests for when you want to integrate an iPhone with the stock car stereo system in a Lexus. Most kits charge your device while you stream music to preserve your battery. You can even control the iPod using the radio controls and in-dash radio CD changers. The install on these types of car kits is usually considered pretty easy. And once the kit is installed, you will be able to direct audio from your iPhone directly to your stock car stereo system. And in the Lexus, you can expect sharp, clear sound.

5 - Upgraded Car Stereo System

One thing to keep in mind when considering your options here is you can always upgrade your stock car stereo system to a more advanced one. Improving on your factory radio will allow you to experience richer, bolder, sharper sounds—both through streaming music as well as through playing music on audio CDs. Add a new aftermarket car stereo system alone, or install new speakers and a subwoofer or amplifier for a totally immersive listening experience. If your budget is a little more flexible, you might want to spring for a head unit that comes with built-in navigation, satellite radio and mp3 playback for added listening/viewing options.