Yes, I'm sure with the right equipment I could keep the stock head unit. I almost want to for the following reason:

...and I like that look, it blends in so nicely. That's why I held off buying a nice new HU, 4-ch. amp, etc. in the first place: to see if the stock HU would meet my needs. Initially I didn't have a problem but over time the distortion really has gotten to me and I have to keep the volume down for some songs so I won't kill my speakers.

What I really want is iPod integration in my car (not just the AUX in). I wish I had the money to buy the iPod-ready Scion-Pioneer set, a 3Sixty or other EQ eliminator, amp, etc... but I might as well just get a better head unit for a cheaper price and forgo the extra EQ box.

I'm sure I could eliminate the distortion problems by simply adding an amp to my current setup but then I'm not all that 100% satisfied with any of the SSP settings and how they sound in my car either. My last car had my BA speaker set driven by an Eclipse unit alone and they sounded much better.

I'll be heading off to my local friendly independent ICE installer to see what my options are keeping cost and ultimately SQ in mind.

Thanks for the information, it's all very helpful!

 

If you want to keep it stealthy then the Cleansweep is my suggestion. It has an auxillary input for your iPod and IIRC JL also makes an adaptor for multiple auxillary sources. I also like the idea of keeping it stealthy. To me that sounds like the best bet for your needs at this point. Scour, ebay and I bet you find one for a reasonable price. Mark

 

Okay, I was listening to some music at a lower volume (level in the 20s) and I noticed the same distortion even at these lower volumes. Does this change anything?

 

^^^ hey!!! I didn't realize you were from Carbondale...

I suggest upgrading your HU first to get rid of the DSP that's built into the factory deck... then if you feel the need, add an amplifier to the aftermarket speakers...

 

AMEN! As was stated before, the stock HU is designed as a package with the stock speakers, which are not the best in the world. When you change the speakers, you are modifying the setup and eliminating the balance/efficiency of the stock system. Replacing the HU is the easiest/best alternative when upgrading the stereo system in the xB. It not only resolves the DSP issues you are experiencing, but also opens up other avenues for options, such as iPod interfaces, adjustable fading and non-fading pre-outs, etc.. Spend the money and replace the stock HU with an aftermarket unit that better suits your needs. You'll be glad you did.

 

Okay, the problem is definately with the HU even though the disortion is also heard even at low volumes... I assume this is true.

I will definately be replacing the HU very soon. I'd really like to get the Alpine double-DIN (DVD playback, touchscreen, iPod & BT ready) but that depends on how cheap I can manage to get it. Otherwise, the CDA-9857 looks good for audio-only.

If the new HU still doesn't provide enough power then I'll consider buying a 4ch amp.

Hey cool, someone who actually lives nearby! :D

 

IMHO, an aftermarket HU w/iPod integration is the best value.

I have the Scion iPod HU and am considering replacing it with an Alpine or Eclipse. The cost of an additional processor just to keep the stock HU seems excessive. The stock xB system is not that integrated nor aftermarket prohibitive.

Also, iPod integration is not just an "aux in" plug or connector IMO. Can you access and control your pod from the HU? Does it charge it? Is track info available on the HU display?

An aux in only solution does not measure up in this day and age. Perhaps when the 3G pods just came out. We had to fabricate dock connector to RCA cables back then. Those are some of the smallest wires I have ever worked with!

 

I agree, buying a processor for the stock HU does seem... excessive. Waiting for Christmas to come around to get a new Alpine HU! :D

Yes, I really want iPod integration as well. My xB has a "aux in" plug, but it sucks. You have to have the volume maxed out on the iPod, it's hard to see what songs are playing (it sits in a cupholder) and it can't be charged while playing or you get a nasty ground loop buzz.

 

My distortion problems are finally solved.

Today I replaced my OEM HU with a Alpine CDA-9857, and added a JL Audio e4300 4 channel amplifier to power my Boston speakers.

OH. MY. GAWD.

I couldn't believe my ears. This setup sounds amazing. I honestly could not ask for much more in sound quality as far as my ears are concerned. The only problem now is rattle/vibration caused by the lack of sound deadener when the system is cranked up VERY LOUD, but even that is not a big issue for me because I'll never run it that loud normally. I'll eventually put in some RAAMmat when I have lots of money to burn (thanks TerribleTed for your suggestion).

The Alpine HU has iPod integration built-in. After spending about 10 minutes learning the buttons the interface isn't too bad, but I learned that even with Direct (Percentage) Search, navigating hundreds of albums, artists or songs is difficult. The solution is to use small playlists to eliminate the 90% of music I don't listen to very often and sync up my iPod when I make changes. Not a big deal. The iPod fits great in the left side of the glove box.

I've ordered a steering wheel control interface which I will install next week when it arrives. I miss the remote volume buttons already, unfortunately... but the benefit outweighs this minor inconvenience.

Before, I assumed my speakers were bad because they were old and sounded so terrible. Now, the speakers sound better than they did in my old car powered off their own amp.

Thanks everyone for your input (especially tanakasan and SCI_TC_GUY). You guys rock!

 

Pictures of latest additions to my audio setup:

( ^ See last post for info... ^ )



Underneath the JL amp is my Alpine mono amp for my sub.