t119

Today i took my car to a local mobile audio "specialist" to see about possibly replacing my Mark Levinson head unit with an in-dash touch screen head unit. Long story short, he said that there is no possible way to install the in dash unit (because no companies make kits to install?) and that even if I found a way, my navigation wouldn't work anymore. The wiring in any sc prior to '05 is also different, apparently. This is why i can't buy a cord to attach the iPod directly to the current head unit (I had this in my prior car).

The reason i want to do this to my '03 sc is mainly to have the option of an iPod integration, but also to possibly play dvd's and have bluetooth.

I know that what this "specialist" said is not 100% true. If seen videos and pictures of in-dash units in sc's. I was wondering how many of you guys have replaced your head unit, even regular units, and can point me in the right direction?

I know iPod integration has probably been beat to death on this forum, but I am a new owner and haven't been around this forum too long. If there are links, please post them!

Thank you guys so much.

Tyler
'03 sc430 Black / Saddle

tromly

I've personnally never considered such a mod , but good luck with your search

VVTiBob

Tromly's correct just use the "Search" feature...I just did "ipod integration" and came up with ton of stuff. You can refine your search further by using advance search.

Good luck.

socal3

iTrader: (2)

Anyone in socal do stereo work on SC's. I personaly an not good a wiring and would love to have someone wire in a double din.

aquanuke

If thats all you want seems overkill changing out the stereo. Of course its pretty cool to have a top end system in so if you want to spend lots and lots. If your keeping the car forever then makes sense but otherwise you will end up having to rip it out to sell the car.

Just getting a line in lets you do anything you want without much cost and can be put back to stock in an hour or two.

I have a WII wired in at the moment, TV tuner, MP3 and DVD. But as mine is I could put anything in depending what I fancy. Ipod, PC, Playstation, Iphone.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uU-Y3KgVXDE

t119

What do you mean by putting in a line? That sounds like something worth looking in to.

aquanuke

Line in would be two audio inputs and a video input ie red,white and yellow RCA connections then you can plug any aux equipment in.

Search for Navtool which is little box that connects to your OEM stereo that gives you an AV line in.

KaiserSea1

Just watched your video. You made the glass of milk I was drinking come out my nose.

petasheep

iTrader: (8)

I actually installed the Alpine Hub in my car and used the factory screen as a display. Factory navigation still works with a flip of a switch. I have ipod integration, HD radio, and Video input so i can hook up a DVD or PS3.

See thread:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/4690989-post1.html

I kind of gave up on the whole bluetooth thing.

If i had to do it again, I'd go with the Kenwood KOS-V500 because it works with a wireless remote and is bluetooth ready.

t119

Thanks for the help guys! I'm going to look into all of this over the weekend. I will post what I am going to end up doing.

Habious

Quick point of correction...

The NavTool ONLY gives you aux video inputs (2 inputs - one dedicated to a backup camera, the other for whatever use you'd like).

If you want audio as well, you need to look at one of the VaisTech interfaces. If you have a 2002-2004, your only option is the SLU unit, which just gives you 2 dry aux audio inputs. No steering wheel controls or anything...just audio in.

Yes

personally, i don't think it makes sense to change out your receiver unless you're going to go all out and replace the speakers and amps. i've been tempted to do just that. but space restrictions have always stopped me. it's my only car, so i need what little cargo space i have. also, if you were to do this, you're easily looking at a couple thousand dollars to do it right.

if all you want is ipod integration, i'd go with a vais unit. the only drawback is you can't change songs with your stereo controls. you can only change the volume. so you either have to mount your ipod within easy reach or install a remote and display. mounting the ipod seemed simpler to me. i went with a kuda mount. it more or less looks OEM. if you go this route, i'd recommend buying the apple A/V cable. it will charge your ipod. the cable that comes with the vais unit will not. including installation, i spent a little under $300. here's what it looks like.

daryltrinh

iTrader: (1)

Try these guys & let Steve know that I sent you.
http://californiacarsounds.com/

Yes

if you do change out your system or if you need a vais installed, i'd highly recommend a guy named tommy at MusicBox. i don't have his number handy, but i know a few socal members can tell you how to get in touch.

i had him install my coilovers. he knows lexus cars inside and out. great work. very honest and reasonable rates.

Harold57

If you do a search on "aftermarket radio", here are a few links you will run across:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...r-a-sc430.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...placement.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...eo-system.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...placement.html
Hope that helps.