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Best Aftermarket Radio Head Units for Prius?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by SAJPRIUS, Mar 23, 2022.

  1. SAJPRIUS

    SAJPRIUS Junior Member

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    I own a 2010 Toyota Prius IV Premium. The radio head unit needs to be replaced. What brand head units are the best for this Toyota Prius? What model head units are best? Priorities: First, a backup camera. Second, android auto. Third: Multimedia. Fourth: Navigation.

    I found Pioneer, Sony, Alpine, Boss, JBL, and JVC, which of these will work with my car and what models?

    Thanks,
    SAJPRIUS
     
    Dan0 likes this.
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Sure would like to know the answer to this question! As for back up camera, I've been looking at a replacement rearview mirror with back up cam and dash cam type recording function. Ideally I'd like to have the rear view mirror fully integrated with new stereo, or preferably have it be the new stereo. Also would like an Android deck that would allow running Dr. Prius app in it.

    Any suggestions?
     
  3. SAJPRIUS

    SAJPRIUS Junior Member

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    I recently found Pioneer, Kenwood and Sony models that I like, but am unsure as to which model I should get.
     
  4. Bob Brandon

    Bob Brandon Junior Member

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    I actually just upgraded my 2012 Prius with a Kenwood DMX957XR last Sunday. Still playing around with it, but it’s been amazing so far. A bit expensive (got a new one on eBay for about $800), but great screen, wireless Android Auto and CarPlay. Not sure if it comes with navigation built in, as I just use CarPlay’s navigation system. If it doesn’t, Kenwood has a similar radio unit with navigation.

    I also got Kenwood’s CMOS-740HD backup camera. Works and looks great, but will need to install it a bit off-center. Also, in the camera setting on the radio, you have to manually set it to use HD or else you’ll get no image. I took my Prius to a Best Buy to have it all installed, and the installer didn’t know that. Then again, it’s one of the few HD backup cameras, so not too surprising that he didn’t know about that. But it looks SOOO much better than my old backup camera. Plus, it also shows the guide lines, which also respond to how much you turn the wheel.

    I also suggest an iDatalink Maestro RR2 so that you can keep steering wheel controls. Plus, it lets you see various gauges like RPM, air intake, etc. Plus, it shows tire pressure on each specific tire, which door is open, etc.
     
  5. SAJPRIUS

    SAJPRIUS Junior Member

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    Okay, great, but, did you have to by-pass the amplifier or keep it? If you by-passed it, then the 2ohm speaks will not be adequate enough for the new system, and you may have to install 4ohm speaks. Am I right or wrong?

    What about cost? How much overall did it cost?

    I got a quote from Best Buy for a $550 Kenwood plus rearview camera, minus SWC, for $950+/-. Way out of my budget.

    I may just have to buy an aftermarket back-up camera until I can save up for a new system. Money would not have been an issue if it weren't for this Pandemic.
     
  6. Bob Brandon

    Bob Brandon Junior Member

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    I don't know too much about sound systems/cars that much, but my Kenwood DMX957XR is on the higher end with 4v outputs. So probably way out of your budget.

    For amps and steering wheel controls, you might want to check out iDatalink Maestro. They sell adaptors for SWC, as well as amp adaptors. Also, check out Crutchfield. Pretty much everyone I know who's into cars suggests Crutchfield.
     
    WesleyRiccipio likes this.
  7. WesleyRiccipio

    WesleyRiccipio Junior Member

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    Do you think the maestro would help to recognize aftermarket electric seats so you could turn heated and vented seats on?