I'm working on an 04 LS430 that has a bad amplifier. It blows the fuse in the trunk so it needs to be replaced. I know they're out there for around $900 and it isn't too tough of a job to do.

I've also seen mentions that you can use the Pioneer amp instead, saving $3-400. My question is: Has anybody here actually done that substitution, and if so, what is different? I assume features like the surround processing and perhaps speed-dependent volume wouldn't work anymore. Anything else?

This particular car will likely be traded in on something new soon (it already has a LS460 stablemate) so if the Pioneer swap isn't too limiting we might go with that option.

 

I would hunt around on CL, eBay, and even salvage yards. See if you can comes across a deal. The other option is maybe just have the amp repaired. Might be much cheaper to have an electronic shop fix it. Could be something simple.

 

Any amp can work usually 500 watts to 800 is all you need! Just need the right person to wire it up.

 

Where did you get this info? The ML amp is also involved in navigation control, bluetooth, steering wheel controls, etc.

 

You'll have a hard time selling the car with an amplifier kludge that rewires the way the center console works.
I would vote for looking for a repair shop experienced in fixing these amps.
I can't help but think it will cost less than $900. Either way, I think you have to do it right and use the ML amp. Sorry. Good luck.

 

Didn't read you had the ml system at first! Sorry that's exactly why I purchased a base model!

 

Check out:
http://www.marklevinsonfix.com

Or

http://www.marklevinson.com/Info/Story/89

 

Sent you a PM. Let me know if you need a amp I got one laying around.

 

Michaeldc Do you still have the amp?