What do I need so I can use the headunit like it is supposed to so I can get XM? I do not want to pay Toyota their outrageous price for the XM stuff ($500!!!)if I can piece it together so my headunit works as the receiver. I know I need an antenna, but what else and what kind of antenna...any suggestions?

The other component you need is a converter. Which is like a receiver for the antenna.

The costly part of the install is the IP-BUS which is the connection between the converter and the head unit. I believe Toyota is using a custom plug and that's why they are charging out the ___. Sounds like a way to make a few extra bucks (can't really knock the idea everybody does it).

I think someone said they read some company is working on making a plug you can use that's much cheaper.

The other component you need is a converter. Which is like a receiver for the antenna.

The costly part of the install is the IP-BUS which is the connection between the converter and the head unit. I believe Toyota is using a custom plug and that's why they are charging out the ___. Sounds like a way to make a few extra bucks (can't really knock the idea everybody does it).

I think someone said they read some company is working on making a plug you can use that's much cheaper.

Where can I get this stuff? Might I be better to just get an XM system like the roady?

From the way everybody is talking, if you want XM right now you would be better off getting the Roady system.

Personally I don't need another electronic gadget in my life so I'm waiting (if I even get it) for the cheaper connection.

By the way, the aftermarket plug isn't out yet, I haven't heard anything about it lately either...

I struggled with this for a long time. Didn't wanna pay the ridiculous amount Toyota wanted. What I ended up doing instead was replaced the headunit all together out of spite for toyota. I ended getting a Pioneer DEH 7600 for 200 or so and another 110 for the XM reciever (which are becoming scarce from demand). Installed everything myself. I didn't want to get a roady because I didn't want any sort of modulation, and I wanted to be able to have an integrated system.

Let me tell you the output on the aftermarket system is MUCH MUCH better than the factory one. I used to think that it was good, but even with factory speakers, the deck gives the speakers much more juice. Save your money and get rid of the factory system, if TOYOTA wants people to go XM they need to make it affordable. 699 installed for a tuner ALONE is more than double the price of a superior aftermarket deck AND an xm tuner. How about making money without stiffing your customers? I'm sure they would make up the lower prices in increased sales.

Well, I ended up getting the Roady 2 and I LOVE IT. It isn't quite as crisp as my g-friend's '04 Accord XM because it is modulated, but as I see it, when I gte the chance, I'll just jack the Roady directly into the back of the stock unit (it is sat. ready right?) and I should have the sound that the car deserves. The roady sounds really nice though and it would be tough for anyone to really hear a difference. I have yet to listen to a CD. What a nice addition to my car! :D