Best/easiest way to update tech in 98 LS400?
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 45
Likes: 1
From: NC
Best/easiest way to update tech in 98 LS400?
After almost 12 years with my 98 LS400 my only complaint is the level of tech. I want full Bluetooth and iPod integration. I'd settle for Bluetooth phone and an aux jack if that's the difference between major and minor work. Except for the lack of Bluetooth or aux I'm perfectly happy with the sound system, which I don't think is the Nakamichi (doesn't say Nakamichi on the faceplate).
Don't need nav as my phone has it.
Any suggestions or opinions? Am I going to just have to suck it up and get a new head unit, or is there a less extreme way to get what I want? If it helps I can definitely sacrifice the CD changer...ideally something that swaps out the CD changer for aux or iPod input would rock, though I don't think such a thing exists.
Don't need nav as my phone has it.
Any suggestions or opinions? Am I going to just have to suck it up and get a new head unit, or is there a less extreme way to get what I want? If it helps I can definitely sacrifice the CD changer...ideally something that swaps out the CD changer for aux or iPod input would rock, though I don't think such a thing exists.
Lexus Champion
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4,078
Likes: 87
From: Birmingham, AL
new head unit and you will likely have to also get that scam-priced mystery box called the beatsonic for an extra $300, but at least you will have all of the tech you want and also get to keep your existing amp, sub and speakers, so install work will be minimal
oh cool - a DIY method.... hmmmmm 
This AUX input thread:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...em-stereo.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...em-stereo.html
Lead Lap
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 3,595
Likes: 271
From: Kansas
The following three threads describe the "tech" solution I installed in my similar 2000 LS400.
1. Garmin 2595 portable GPS on a modified Pro.Fit Legend bracket and a Samsung Galaxy SIII phone used in a $17.50 Samsung Infuse charging cradle mounted on a Kuda leather phone console: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...lan-nokia.html
2. 3.5 mm aux-in port on the back of the head unit with an on/off switch on the front of the head unit installed by Factory Radio Service - $85 not including shipping of the head unit: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...000-ls400.html
3. Toyota Entune / Lexus Enform emulation using iBOLT Dock n Drive for Android: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...k-n-drive.html
Pressing the Music Player button I configured on the main Dock n Drive screen invokes the Music Player application - see attached photos. These days I mainly listen to music from the Internet which is why I put buttons for Pandora, Slacker and Tunein Radio on the main Dock n Drive screen.
The Garmin GPS provides excellent hands-free with voice control for phone calls and allows navigation without using my phone's data plan allocation and in rural areas where using a phone navigation app which relies on continuous updates is not possible..
My solution is not going to help with integrating an iPod but it is low cost and allowed me to keep my wonderful Nakamichi intact.
1. Garmin 2595 portable GPS on a modified Pro.Fit Legend bracket and a Samsung Galaxy SIII phone used in a $17.50 Samsung Infuse charging cradle mounted on a Kuda leather phone console: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...lan-nokia.html
2. 3.5 mm aux-in port on the back of the head unit with an on/off switch on the front of the head unit installed by Factory Radio Service - $85 not including shipping of the head unit: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...000-ls400.html
3. Toyota Entune / Lexus Enform emulation using iBOLT Dock n Drive for Android: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...k-n-drive.html
Pressing the Music Player button I configured on the main Dock n Drive screen invokes the Music Player application - see attached photos. These days I mainly listen to music from the Internet which is why I put buttons for Pandora, Slacker and Tunein Radio on the main Dock n Drive screen.
The Garmin GPS provides excellent hands-free with voice control for phone calls and allows navigation without using my phone's data plan allocation and in rural areas where using a phone navigation app which relies on continuous updates is not possible..
My solution is not going to help with integrating an iPod but it is low cost and allowed me to keep my wonderful Nakamichi intact.
new head unit and you will likely have to also get that scam-priced mystery box called the beatsonic for an extra $300, but at least you will have all of the tech you want and also get to keep your existing amp, sub and speakers, so install work will be minimal
oh cool - a DIY method.... hmmmmm
oh cool - a DIY method.... hmmmmm
The following three threads describe the "tech" solution I installed in my similar 2000 LS400.
1. Garmin 2595 portable GPS on a modified Pro.Fit Legend bracket and a Samsung Galaxy SIII phone used in a $17.50 Samsung Infuse charging cradle mounted on a Kuda leather phone console: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...lan-nokia.html
2. 3.5 mm aux-in port on the back of the head unit with an on/off switch on the front of the head unit installed by Factory Radio Service - $85 not including shipping of the head unit: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...000-ls400.html
3. Toyota Entune / Lexus Enform emulation using iBOLT Dock n Drive for Android: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...k-n-drive.html
Pressing the Music Player button I configured on the main Dock n Drive screen invokes the Music Player application - see attached photos. These days I mainly listen to music from the Internet which is why I put buttons for Pandora, Slacker and Tunein Radio on the main Dock n Drive screen.
The Garmin GPS provides excellent hands-free with voice control for phone calls and allows navigation without using my phone's data plan allocation and in rural areas where using a phone navigation app which relies on continuous updates is not possible..
My solution is not going to help with integrating an iPod but it is low cost and allowed me to keep my wonderful Nakamichi intact.
1. Garmin 2595 portable GPS on a modified Pro.Fit Legend bracket and a Samsung Galaxy SIII phone used in a $17.50 Samsung Infuse charging cradle mounted on a Kuda leather phone console: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...lan-nokia.html
2. 3.5 mm aux-in port on the back of the head unit with an on/off switch on the front of the head unit installed by Factory Radio Service - $85 not including shipping of the head unit: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...000-ls400.html
3. Toyota Entune / Lexus Enform emulation using iBOLT Dock n Drive for Android: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...k-n-drive.html
Pressing the Music Player button I configured on the main Dock n Drive screen invokes the Music Player application - see attached photos. These days I mainly listen to music from the Internet which is why I put buttons for Pandora, Slacker and Tunein Radio on the main Dock n Drive screen.
The Garmin GPS provides excellent hands-free with voice control for phone calls and allows navigation without using my phone's data plan allocation and in rural areas where using a phone navigation app which relies on continuous updates is not possible..
My solution is not going to help with integrating an iPod but it is low cost and allowed me to keep my wonderful Nakamichi intact.
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 45
Likes: 1
From: NC
I decided to take the plunge and try to do a HU swap over the fourth of July week, when I'll be on vacation.
I've ordered:
- JVC KD-X250BT Digital Media Receiver HU
- Beatsonic SLA-220D $280 mystery box
- Dash mount kit from: http://www.ebay.com/itm/221094888255...S:3160&vxp=mtr
- non-scuffing trim removal tool
I found the attached instructions elsewhere on clublexus for getting the old HU out.
Anything else I need?
Yes the HU is cheaper than the Beatsonic adapter! I figure I can start with this one since it's pretty inexpensive, has great reviews, and seems to meet my needs, and I can upgrade later if I feel the need.
I've ordered:
- JVC KD-X250BT Digital Media Receiver HU
- Beatsonic SLA-220D $280 mystery box
- Dash mount kit from: http://www.ebay.com/itm/221094888255...S:3160&vxp=mtr
- non-scuffing trim removal tool
I found the attached instructions elsewhere on clublexus for getting the old HU out.
Anything else I need?
Yes the HU is cheaper than the Beatsonic adapter! I figure I can start with this one since it's pretty inexpensive, has great reviews, and seems to meet my needs, and I can upgrade later if I feel the need.
Last edited by xyzzy_dude; Jun 25, 2013 at 11:29 AM.
Trending Topics
Rookie
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 63
Likes: 0
From: IL
Following to see results! Would love to see pics when you finish the install.
Upgrading my headunit is the next thing on my list of mods. I considered adding an Aux but have decided I really want a touch screen and the ability to use my phones GPS apps. I am probably going to go the beatsonic route just so I can keep the OEM wiring harness intact.
Upgrading my headunit is the next thing on my list of mods. I considered adding an Aux but have decided I really want a touch screen and the ability to use my phones GPS apps. I am probably going to go the beatsonic route just so I can keep the OEM wiring harness intact.
ClubLexus Stories
Celebrating Lexus & Toyota from Around the Globe
Top 10 Most Confusing Things Lexus Has Ever Done!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Lexus ES Review: Lexus Re-Embraces Founding Principles
Michael S. Palmer
10 Lexus Bargains That are Cheaper Than a New Toyota RAV4
Joe Kucinski
8 Weirdest Things Lexus Has Ever Built
Verdad Gallardo
10 Lexus Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
8 Tips for Improving Your Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid's Efficiency!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Best Lexus Models No One Remembers
Joe Kucinski
TRD Off-Road Premium: Best 2026 4Runner, Except This One Thing
Michael S. Palmer
Top 10 Lexus & Toyotas to Drive Before You Die!
Joe Kucinski
I decided to take the plunge and try to do a HU swap over the fourth of July week, when I'll be on vacation.
I've ordered:
- JVC KD-X250BT Digital Media Receiver HU
- Beatsonic SLA-220D $280 mystery box
- Dash mount kit from: http://www.ebay.com/itm/221094888255...S:3160&vxp=mtr
- non-scuffing trim removal tool
I found the attached instructions elsewhere on clublexus for getting the old HU out.
Anything else I need?
Yes the HU is cheaper than the Beatsonic adapter! I figure I can start with this one since it's pretty inexpensive, has great reviews, and seems to meet my needs, and I can upgrade later if I feel the need.
I've ordered:
- JVC KD-X250BT Digital Media Receiver HU
- Beatsonic SLA-220D $280 mystery box
- Dash mount kit from: http://www.ebay.com/itm/221094888255...S:3160&vxp=mtr
- non-scuffing trim removal tool
I found the attached instructions elsewhere on clublexus for getting the old HU out.
Anything else I need?
Yes the HU is cheaper than the Beatsonic adapter! I figure I can start with this one since it's pretty inexpensive, has great reviews, and seems to meet my needs, and I can upgrade later if I feel the need.
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 45
Likes: 1
From: NC
Upgrading my headunit is the next thing on my list of mods. I considered adding an Aux but have decided I really want a touch screen and the ability to use my phones GPS apps. .
Plus with the single DIN unit I'll get a cubby under the HU where maybe I can stick the phone. Currently I keep it in the ashtray.
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 45
Likes: 1
From: NC
I finished my HU install and documented the whole thing here: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...ml#post8023279
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Rotcod
ES - 1st to 6th Gen (1990-2018)
5
Jan 4, 2018 06:29 PM
rnemling
Lexus Audio, Video, Security & Electronics
2
May 4, 2010 03:06 AM
nthach
Lexus Audio, Video, Security & Electronics
2
Jun 27, 2005 08:28 AM
