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JBL vs Standard Audio

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by aznbo187, Apr 17, 2013.

  1. aznbo187

    aznbo187 New Member

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    I've heard the standard audio setup on the Prius, and it wasn't too horrible. Although I'm used to aftermarket audio systems, the factory Prius setup wasn't that bad and definitely do-able for a daily setup.

    How much better, or worse is the JBL system? I really want to keep this car stock for the most part, but it needs to have a decent audio system. If I'm okay with the standard system, can I expect nothing but improvement going with the JBL factory setup?

    Does the JBL setup have a dedicated subwoofer?
     
    EdyJun likes this.
  2. tach18k

    tach18k Member

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    I have heard not many like the JBL system, its more name than sound I think, You can add an amp and new door speakers in the mdl II Prius and have better sound for less then the cost of upgrading to the JBL system.
     
  3. Sfcyclist

    Sfcyclist Senior Member

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    JBL isn't that much better. Did you try using the usb inputs? I found the sources make the system sound a lot better than FM.
     
  4. Sfcyclist

    Sfcyclist Senior Member

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    forgot to add, I stream Pandora and it's very good IMHO. Also SAT, bluetooth or mp3's through usb is much better than HD FM.
     
  5. aznbo187

    aznbo187 New Member

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    I don't plan on using radio much. I mean, is there even any good music left on the radio nowadays??

    I do plan on using CD's, Aux/USB and streaming via BT like spotify and pandora.

    Reading some more reviews, I think the JBL will do fine. Especially with some additional sound deadening.
     
  6. Sfcyclist

    Sfcyclist Senior Member

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    your question isn't "If I'm okay with the standard system, can I expect nothing but improvement going with the JBL factory setup?"

    so my response was it's not much better and to be more specific, I would be unhappy if I actually paid for JBL.
     
  7. aznbo187

    aznbo187 New Member

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    Thanks for the input. I'm looking for a used Prius, so it will be more of a "if it comes with it, great" but I won't pass up a good deal on a Prius if it doesn't.
     
    Sfcyclist likes this.
  8. JDBreaux

    JDBreaux Junior Member

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    JBL has 7x10 speakers in the front doors.
     
  9. mgb4tim

    mgb4tim Noob

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    my 2010 JBL is fine. I might end up adding an amp and a sub in time. But it thumps one down the road in it's stock configuration, streaming from my iPhone or with SAT. The Nav gets me where I'm going when I need help. Never got me lost. Much easier than trying to watch my phone nav.
     
  10. Jimi1976

    Jimi1976 Active Member

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    Just picked up a 2010 III, w/ nav and JBL.
    Dealer gave me a loaner couple days later to repair some paint chips, and it had the standard radio. It is sounds like crap compared to the JBL system.

    Granted, the JBL is not the best, but for this car class, the JBL system is well worth the upgrade
     
  11. cycledrum

    cycledrum PSOCSOASP

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    I like the JBL audio system well enough in my 2011. What I don't like on the freeway is the road / tire noise on anything but the smoothest asphalt. The noise really brings down the sound system. Maybe I'll add sound insualtion.

    Base audio system, like most of them .... makes lots of midrange / treble sound, but there is no bass or power. Quite unsatisfying to me.
     
  12. Sfcyclist

    Sfcyclist Senior Member

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    I'm wondering if Persona speakers are different as I find my bass pretty good.
     
  13. MikeDee

    MikeDee Senior Member

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    For 2013, you need to get the Prius IV to get the JBL audio system. Lots of $ to spend for what is supposed to be an economy car.

    Galaxy Nexus ? 2
     
  14. TowDawg

    TowDawg New Member

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    I just bought a 2010 III last night, and it has the JBL system with NAV. While the JBL system was not something I was "looking" for, it sounds surprisingly good. Doesn't distort, good balance, and a good bit more bass than I expected.
    To be honest, I've never listened to the base system, so I don't have a good comparison. I plan on leaving the Prius as-is bc it sounds fine (and it's mainly just a commuter car). And this is coming from a guy with custom stereos in all my other cars.
     
  15. ilovemymac

    ilovemymac Member

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    i have a 2010 V and the JBL can thump good. It shakes my mirror. And i dont listen to music i would consider heavy bass. I like if i am rocking out to some 80s metal i can hear the guitar shreds and the bass drum and the cymbal as well.
    I say the JBL is one awesome system. Sure there are after market but i like the JBL just fine
     
    mgb4tim likes this.
  16. calvin mcgill

    calvin mcgill Junior Member

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    JBL system really rocks my car. I'm going to keep it stock as I use the stero everyday. Keep the JBL.
     
  17. jgilliam1955

    jgilliam1955 Sometime your just gotta cry! 2013 Prius 4.

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    I love the JBL with a USB stick. Look on this forum for the settings. I used them & improved the sound some.
     
  18. ilovemymac

    ilovemymac Member

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    By the way at least on the JBL with the nav unit there is an option when setting the sound front to back and the equalizer there is a option for dsp sound and i have it on and it seems to really bump up the treble and bass.
     
  19. mgb4tim

    mgb4tim Noob

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    it's finally nice to hear positive words about the JBL system
     
  20. ilovemymac

    ilovemymac Member

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    I can't see what anyone could complain about. I have no doubt if you spend enough cash you can buy a superior sound system but this one works great. Unless your in your car all day why do it. Spend the money on something else