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2011 Prius Two Aftermarket Stereo/Bluetooth Questions

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by Shinino, Dec 11, 2013.

  1. Shinino

    Shinino Junior Member

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    So, I just got a 2011 Prius Two with the base stereo unit. After renting a 2013 Prius Two for a while, I got to where I really liked the dashboard display and the Bluetooth capabilities.

    I'm wondering if there's any limitations as far as what aftermarket radio I can buy to put into this (well, have someone else put it in, really), and also if there's any suggestions to a solid mid-range (price-wise) one? I searched and couldn't find much detail other than some info on an expensive ($1000-1500) Alpine unit, and even then it wasn't mentioned if they were modifying a Two or a three.
     
    #1 Shinino, Dec 11, 2013
  2. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    #2 frodoz737, Dec 11, 2013
  3. Shinino

    Shinino Junior Member

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    Yeah, that's a bit more than I'm looking to spend, given that a Kenwood DNX9960 is $800 at Best Buy. But if I'm understanding you right, you didn't have a display in the car before doing the upgrade?
     
    #3 Shinino, Dec 11, 2013
  4. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    No display. I ordered the 2010 Prius Base with no add-ons. Still have the old radio and speakers on a shelf behind me as we speak.
     
    #4 frodoz737, Dec 11, 2013
  5. Shinino

    Shinino Junior Member

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    Thanks, that gives me some definite hope. :)
     
    #5 Shinino, Dec 11, 2013
  6. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    If I may suggest stay with one of the Kenwoods. Better NAV (Garmin), higher pre-outs and no BT issues like the Pioneers. Alpines are next tier down.
     
    #6 frodoz737, Dec 11, 2013
  7. Shinino

    Shinino Junior Member

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    Yeah, need to look at install prices. I can get a decent Kenwood for $300-400, it seems.
     
    #7 Shinino, Dec 11, 2013
  8. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    Be advised that the factory "paper" speakers still suck. You do not have to go all out like I did, but speaker upgrade matching the HU outputs will greatly improve things. The HU and speaker installs are not complicated. Any competent Hack Shack can do it. Be sure if you change the speakers that you use coax in the back and 2-piece components with active cross-overs in the front. Do not just leave or bypass the factory dash speaker.

    All the other stuff I did with the Sub, replacement wiring and amp is where things really start adding up.
     
    #8 frodoz737, Dec 11, 2013
  9. Shinino

    Shinino Junior Member

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    Right, I was thinking about speakers as well.
     
    #9 Shinino, Dec 11, 2013
  10. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    Also stay away from the Metra and Scosche HU surround pieces (trim). They are painted (peels and wears) and do not match the grain of the dash. I believe I listed the part number for the European Toyota Piece in my album.
     
    #10 frodoz737, Dec 11, 2013
  11. Shinino

    Shinino Junior Member

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    So do you suggest buying the parts myself, or finding a good shop and letting them buy everything?
     
    #11 Shinino, Dec 11, 2013
  12. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    I told all shops what I wanted installed specifically and how I wanted it done. Took months to plan. A bit much for some, but I had estimates from more than 12 shops before picking one. Yours will be easier but still shop, negotiate and check their refs and work.
     
    #12 frodoz737, Dec 11, 2013
  13. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    How much did it cost if I may ask? Looks like I need something like this for my wife. But for android phone rather than iphone.
     
    #13 Former Member 68813, Jun 18, 2014
  14. frodoz737

    frodoz737 Top Wrench

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    The only difference between Model Two and Model Three that year was Three had the JBL system upgrade at $1,000 more list, or $3,000 more if you wanted the Nav as well...both inferior and worthless for the money. I bought a Model II and had MY system installed for $4,500, so $1,500 more. Absolutely no comparison. ;)
     
    #14 frodoz737, Jun 18, 2014
  15. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    $4500? That includes all upgraded speakers, right?
    Never mind, I saw the last picture with specifications, impressive mod.
     
    #15 Former Member 68813, Jun 18, 2014
  16. PriusTed

    PriusTed Junior Member

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    How can the standard 2010 Prius II audio be modified to accept Bluetooth for phone use through the speakers? I don't really care about upgrading the stereo.
     
    #16 PriusTed, Jun 30, 2014
  17. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    By using any cheap car Bluetooth speakers. They have an option to tune in to FM.
    I just purchased Motorola Roadster and it works OK for it's cheap price.
     
    #17 Former Member 68813, Jul 18, 2014
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