I was told it was impossible to install XM in an a new ES300 with NAV/ML package. Anyone have any solutions. How much would it cost and who can do it?

 

Not the best connection & quality, but at a minimum you could use an FM Modulator connection. I know Kenwood makes one for Sirius (I have one on my boat because it also controls a music keg) and assume there is a similar one for XM.

Cons:
Sound quality won't be the best since it comes over the radio
Separate controller (doesn't show up on nav screen)

Pro:
XM hooked up

Good luck, hopefully one of the audio gurus here have some other alternatives.

 

I can do an xm install in any lexus with a direct connection into the stock audio system (it is not cheap).

Scott @ lajollaaudio

 

How much would a direct connection cost?

 

It is not my business to just sell direct connection it is done along with a complete sale of product etc normally. By itself it would be between 5 and 6 hundred dollars pts and labor.

Scott

 

I've got a 1996 ES (Pioneer, not Levinson, unfortunately ) I've been interested in going satellite, however, with some of the recent promo deals on FM modulator hardwire. I assume to do this, I need the tuner/modulator box, an antenna, and a remote control/display for the cabin. A few dumb questions (I've tried finding the answers via search):

1. Is the tuner/modulator placed in the trunk? If so, from where does it draw power?

2. If the tuner is in the trunk, could the antenna be placed on the package shelf (rear window has the standard light smoke tint, which I don't believe is metallic)? I'd like to place it inside to avoid drilling, keep a clean exterior look, and avoid advertising a satellite setup to would-be thieves.

 

I recently had a Pioneer XM unit installed in my SC430. I'm using the FM modulator but if you have a Pioneer unit you may be able to wire directly. The display is mounted in place of the ashtray (with modification), the tuner/modulator was installed under the rear seat, and the antenna is on the rear parcel shelf. This all works relatively well. I do get occasional drop-outs (with top up) in dense overhead tree areas, but nothing unacceptable. The Pioneer display isn't my favorite interface, but it was the only unit that seemed to fit for my installation. Pictures below...

 

antenna...

 

Just installed a Delphi in my ES300 . Used the tape interface behind the nav screen , put two lighter sockets under the console ( one for the radio and one for a cell phone charger) , hid the antenna behind the back seat and routed the wiring under the ash tray . Mounted the radio on the console by the shifter. Maybe not quite CD quality yet but will do for now. I drilled no holes and looks good to me and now have XM in all three cars :-)

 

Sweet install in the SC. I did pretty much the same for my LS400. Did not like the FM modulator, so I went with the tape thingy. It's not as good as direct, but i can live with it...for now.
There is a company, Vais Technology, that specializes in this. They have a few applications for XM, but nothing for Sirius yet. From what i understand, the gizmo plugs in line with the cd changer and makes the head think there is a 7th cd out there. It still won't be digital (analog out from satellite) but probably sounds better than tape or FM.