That big worthless screen, need some opinions here...

I think most of us will agree that the center screen on our console, takes up a lot of space and does very little. At least the screen in my 2019 LE was a bit easier to clean, since it did not have the 4 buttons down each side like my 2022 XLE.
But I digress, as it turns out, I think I'm fixing to do something I said I wouldn't, and I know its a bit crazy. But I kind of feel like I don't have much choice, as I had already bought the rest of the gear (speakers, and amp, plus built a super nice little enclosure for my sub) but because my car is so new (apparently, too new ) I could not find a DSP which was a simple plug and play, to keep from splicing wires and such.

SO, I purchased an aftermarket HU (but haven't even opened it, so I could return it). I'm confident it will work well, and sound really nice. But here's my concern; It is a double din, but the screen is only 6.75". Plenty big enough to see, and operate, but its going to have a LOT of adapter plate all the way around it. Which I'm afraid might look kind of dumb.

Option 2: I could purchase a unit with a MUCH larger 10" or 11" screen, which of course would take up all the area on the both sides that right now have the 4 buttons... However, this would cost me like $400 to $1000 more..... just to take up some boring, unused space, with screen.

Option 3: So I was checking out those 10" and 11" floating screen models, and Wow ! those look pretty great ! But 1) also about $600 to $1000 more than I've already spent, and 2) Most definitely stand out as something aftermarket / of value, which makes a smash and grab thief MUCH more likely !

What would you guys do ? ....if you care about SQ, and had already purchased everything ?

Oh, here's the HU I already got... https://www.crutchfield.com/p_130DM1770/Pioneer-DMH-1770NEX.html
Pretty basic. Similar to the HU I have in my truck. A few less bells and whistles, but 3 yrs newer, so I do not know. Maybe somewhat comparable. LOVE the HU in my truck.

 

I hear you... But I'm kind of thinking about rent and food too lol

Honestly, but I don't think I'm going to know how OK I am with the current HU, until its installed ?
I was just looking at the adapter plate, and it didn't look as wide as I thought it would have to be (take up as much real-estate)

Still, I think the bigger screen would look better.... But I don't think I'm going to spend $1000+ more for it.

And really, I think those Flagship 11" floating screen models look best of all..... However, not only the $1000+ part, but then also, it might as well have a big sign above it > smash window and steal now ! Keep in mind, I just had my whole darn Prius stolen and destroyed 2 months ago

 

Actually, I think once again, I was just overthinking this. After looking at the adapter plate and the "actual screen size" of my factory screen, I think the aftermarket HU will have a screen that is very close to the same size. The only thing the adapter plate will do, is cover the area which now, has those ugly, worthless buttons... And the funky knobs. As long as the steering wheel controls still work (and I got a plug in adapter that supposedly will make this happen) I'll rarely need to touch the screen for anything, anyway.
I Bluetooth almost all of my music from Amazon music. I have about 1000 songs saved for offline use as well, in case I have no reception.

So we are are going to try again Tuesday. Damn I'm anxious toake this a done deal !

 

Your totally right about blocking the vents with those larger floating screens... AND as much as I love my Prius, the AC fan is really weak ! On hot Sacramento days, it's common for me to use it at full blast ! My GF's Ford Maverick Hybrid is the opposite ! That thing will blow your hat off ! And she doesn't like it on anything above like 2 out of 7. Wish we could trade AC fans...