Bash4

Thinking of saving some $ and just getting a base model and maybe upgrading the speakers later. What do you think?

I should have mentioned I have a 2010 Prius with the JBL system. I think it is very good for a small car and I am thinking of trading it in or selling it out right for the CT.

flipside909

You can opt for the base stereo for now. The base stereo system doesn't sound horrible. But if you're planning to upgrade the speakers, having the Premium Audio option isn't a bad deal when you'll have all the speaker locations wired up. The Premium Audio in the CT is a pretty good value imho.

mm767cap

Wish I could help you more, Bash, but I haven't actually heard the base stereo. The premium audio sounds good to me, and I didn't notice an appreciable difference from my Mark Levinson system on the IS-F.

My one curiosity is when playing Bluetooth audio, the volume is substantially lower than in other modes like Sat Radio and AM/FM. I'm not sure if that is a function of Bluetooth, the stereo, or software, but I have noticed it.

dgstan

Make sure you check with your audio expert regarding upgrade options. With the CT's special amp, there might be limitations on what you can do. Speakers probably wouldn't be too much of a problem, but head unit would most likely be a nightmare.

I'm assuming the low-power amp is used on the standard audio and not just the premium.

fasthuh

iTrader: (1)

I had tried both Base and Premium Audio package. I would have to say the Base audio package is bad in comparison to the Premium. I am not opposed to aftermarket upgrades, but the Premium audio sounds awesome. If you can afford it, get it, it was one of the selling points for me, after listening to both, it was an easy choice.

Try it out, you will understand.

dochusar

Tested both, but the premium system is so much better - IMHO

ftw

The premium audio system comes with a 6 disc cd changer, while the base is only a single unit.

KLF

Really? Who uses CDs anymore? I took my changer out.

dgstan

6 CDs full of MP3s is over 4GB. That's nothing to sneeze at.

DJTIMMYD

That's what an ipod is for.

jimmyc13

Very good point you have there.

flipside909

That's actually false. There are ways to upgrade into aftermarket audio equipment using the existing OE components. Or you can completely bypass the factory amp and using an upgraded one and a specific harness kit.

flipside909

Exactly, or even a high capacity USB thumb drive.

greggy23

Don't forget that the premium audio also comes with the homelink system. I hate having to bust out a remote or have it hang from my visor.

KLF

Seriously? You have to pay for the Premium sound upgrade just to get Homelink? That's sooo lame. Even our 7 year old Highlander has the Homelink buttons.