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Adding iPod through Kenwood KOS-A300

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by pinky, Sep 8, 2009.

  1. pinky

    pinky New Member

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    I just heard of the Kenwood KOS-A300 stereo upgrade unit that adds a USB port to any system with an AUX input.

    Has anyone heard of or installed that unit yet? Any experiences with it or anyone know if Toyota is coming out with a factory add-on for the iPod for the 2010 CD changer audio head unit?

    Thanks!

    It comes with a funky looking knob controller and its own display too.

    Link: Kenwood KOS-A300 Factory Radio Upgrade System Add Kenwood gear to your factory stereo at Crutchfield.com
     
    #1 pinky, Sep 8, 2009
  2. pinky

    pinky New Member

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    No comments? Is Kenwood a good company? Does this seem like a good product? I'm trying to figure out how to hide the box...
     
    #2 pinky, Sep 9, 2009
  3. rrolff

    rrolff Prius Surgeon

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    If you are looking for an aftermarket upgrade, there are a few threads here - read them.

    Bottom line, there is *no* proven clean install right now because there is no plastic dash piece. Most aftermarket companies are quoting 2-3 months before something *may* be available. Frenchie got the closest - I'm working on something - not Kenwood.

    Most brands will be good - you just need to research the options you'll want.......
     
    #3 rrolff, Sep 9, 2009
  4. pinky

    pinky New Member

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    I'm trying to figure out if replacing the stereo with something else would be doable. Well, and worth doing. Are there any modifications that would potentially void any warranties?

    I thought that the Kenwood kit looked reasonable. I'll look around some and see if I can find the other threads.

    Is there a FAQ for this site that might list some starter articles, etc?

    Thanks
     
    #4 pinky, Sep 10, 2009
  5. rrolff

    rrolff Prius Surgeon

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    What do you have now in your Prius? JBL?
     
    #5 rrolff, Sep 10, 2009
  6. sundevil

    sundevil New Member

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    I am in the process of installing the A300 now. I want to replace the head unit but haven't found anything I like yet. I mainly got this to display the Ipod and XM info.

    I don't have the XM module yet, so I only have hooked up the Ipod.

    Installation is pretty easy. The hardest part is where to put the display and the funky controller. The box will easily fit in the center console or under the seat.

    I have had a number of Kenwood products and have been very satisfied.


     
    #6 sundevil, Oct 2, 2009
  7. pinky

    pinky New Member

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    So Sundevil, how has it worked for you? The economy got in my way of getting it last year and perhaps I'll be able to swing it soon... Just curious. I ned to check if it's still available too...
     
    #7 pinky, Feb 19, 2010
  8. sundevil

    sundevil New Member

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    It worked great. Took a little bit to get used to the menu settings. I took it out recently though, because I replaced the factory unit with a Kenwood that I use for my Ipod, XM and plays dvds/cds.
     
    #8 sundevil, Feb 20, 2010
  9. spiff72

    spiff72 Member

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    Apologies for resurrecting an old thread, but I am looking to put this Kenwood ipod adapter in my car (2010 Prius IV).

    Just a couple of questions...

    Where did you mount the display and the controller?

    I see in the manual you need to connect 3 power wires (ground, ignition, and battery). It looks like I could tap the ignition wire into one of the aux power connectors (since they turn off when the car is shut down), but where did you find a power wire that was always "on" regardless of the ignition switch setting? I am assuming that this is what is meant by the "battery" wire...

    Thanks!
     
    #9 spiff72, Feb 3, 2011
  10. sundevil

    sundevil New Member

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    I mounted the display on the dash to the left of the steering wheel. For the controller, I got a gps mount which used the cup holder. I ran the wires into the center console from the bottom to the controller. You may find better locations.

    It has been a long time but I believe I went through the manual and checked out the fuse box and used one of the ones for lights. I am pretty sure, but not positive on this.
     
    #10 sundevil, Feb 5, 2011
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