IS 250C Stereo Question

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Jul 23, 2012 | 09:10 AM

kenne74

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From: AZ

IS 250C Stereo Question

Hello,

I have searched the IS boards and found a lot of information, but nothing that summizes what i'm looking for exactly. I'm hoping you guys can help me out.

My wife is looking to lease an IS 250C her 450h lease is almost up, however, they can only get the 250C with the standard audio system, which sounds horrible to me...I'm not willing to spend the extra $4k on the 350C for just the stereo. Not being able to upgrade the stereo is a huge deal breaker for her.

I need to know if anyone has successfully upgraded there stereo in the convertible and what you did. I would love pics if you have them too. I'm thinking just a subwoofer and amp should do the trick, since everything i read is the speaks are matched to the lexus stereo quite well.

My concern is room for the amp and subwoofer. Will everything fit in the corner to allow the top to open?

Thanks,

Ken
2008 IS-F

Jul 24, 2012 | 10:31 PM

fknISC808

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From: Las Vegas

I have not seen or heard of anyone slightly modifying their sound system like you speak of. I know this might sound corny but bazooka tube with an amp? Anything else would have to be custom.

Jul 25, 2012 | 12:14 AM

ISCjonny

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From: California - Bay Area

upgrade to an aftermarket 8" sub in the factory location and run the amp under the side panels should work.

Jul 25, 2012 | 06:06 PM

Sffd103

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From: NorCal

Quote:

Originally Posted by ISCjonny

upgrade to an aftermarket 8" sub in the factory location and run the amp under the side panels should work.

Show them the pics of your system Johnny!! It's clean.

Jul 28, 2012 | 11:26 AM

kenne74

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From: AZ

Thanks for the suggestion. I didn't even think about using the factory space for a sub. Has anyone done this before does it sound ok compared to the 12 speaker Mark Lev?

Thanks.

Aug 5, 2012 | 04:08 PM

flyguyscot

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From: Ontario

I upgraded the entire audo system in my IS350C. I agree, the way the stock system is tuned and lack of sub is terrible.

I installed JL C5 3-ways in the front and put JL C3s in the rear. I also used a JL Amp and a JL "microsub" that is already in an enclosure which is small enough to sit in the little bit of free space while the trunk cover is set. It's easily removed if I need the space.

A JBL MS-8 audio processor which took the outputs from the factory amp and then allowed the entire car to be re-tuned to my liking.

The installer mounted the amp and signal processor in the spare tire well and then created a little box so I could put some other stuff under there. I lost the use of my spare tire so I purchased the tire inflator kit that comes with the sealant they ship with the IS-Fs since an IS-F doesn't come with a spare tire.

All this set me back a bit over $3K. If you're not looking to spend that much, the JBL MS-8, a small amp and sub would still make a huge difference.

I'll see if I can get some pics a little later for you.

Aug 5, 2012 | 04:26 PM

flyguyscot

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From: Ontario

Here's a few pics of my install. Actually the JBL MS-8 has a built-in amp which is sufficient to power the speakers, may not be quite enough for a sub though.

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