I checked on the Crutchfield site where you can check for compatibility of the new XMDirect aftermarket integrated XM radio system. Though they're made for pioneer head units the Crutchfield site lists both the '04 Prius and '04 Camry Solara as "Not Checked for Compatibility". At this point we need a guinea pig (I think Bossman's already declared his intent for that roll) to test a unit out on the Prius. It sounds like there's a decent chance it will work and at $50 it'll be one hell of a bargain. I made this seperate thread so that others can post and share their experience with this particular system and we can give installation advice for those whole need it since I'm sure none will come with these XMDirect units.
The tuner is $50 but you also need a adaptor interface that will be another $50-100 but I have not seen any yet for the prius.This unit just came out so there will be alot of interface cables for different cars in the next few months.
Not available yet Spoke with tech support at Terk this morning. They say that the Panasonic adapter will not work with the 2004 Prius. They have plans to have an adapter around Christmas time or a little after.
Yes, I am having the same problem (no adapter) Does any one think that the Toyota cable will work? That is my next option. Alan
I"m almost positive that it will not work. The adapters for the XMDirect contain circuitry specific to the head-unit being connected to. It allows the head unit and XMDirect 'black box' to 'talk' to each other. It essentially acts as a translator. There are different brands of head units, each speaking their own 'language'. The 'black box' of XMDirect speaks it's own language. The adapter cable translates so they can work together to provide you satelite radio. The cable for the Solara/Prius is basicly just wires. The head unit and the 'black box' already speak the same language. It doesn't contain any of the circuitry that you'd need for the XMDirect. Still...looks like folks here will have something good to add to their X-mas list! :lol:
If this is any indiciation, it doesn't looks like the XMDirect units are going to provide any real cost savings for Prius owners: http://www.xmfanstore.com/showproduct.php?id=xmdirect $299 for GM models for the total package. With the Toyota XM unit on sale for $265 at metropn.com, factory looks like the way to go. Unless of course that Pioneer cable actually works for the Toyota Pioneer system... has anyone tested that yet?
