Originally Posted by KP Texan

Now that I think I've collected the information I need to complete my project, I've created this thread as a repository for details on the stereo build for my 2012 Limited. The modification subsection may be more fitting for this thread, but it's specific to 5th gen and there is much more traffic here - whenever I search the forum for particular answers to questions, I always start in 5th gen. My biggest wish is that the information posted here will be able to help form members in the future.

Base details:
The non-JBL nav system in my current 4Runner is quite dated and I've become accustomed to CarPlay and other more modern features in our other vehicles. I also wanted a bump in sound quality without going too crazy.

Base requirements for the project I outlined:

- Keep the look relatively stock- In my opinion, sticking a double din unit in place of the stock unit looks a bit off, but I got some ideas from the forum to help compensate. I also specifically picked a headunit that could match stock dash colors. Additionally, there will be no flashy wiring/lighting and all installed components will be hidden with no loss of cargo space. This means no large sub enclosures since, at this point in my life, I've begun to value vehicle functionality over outright audio performance.
- Add modern features - as mentioned above, I really like CarPlay and other features of more modern headunits, so this is a must.
- Keep the cost low - I would've liked to have kept this under $600 but it's just not doable for what I'm looking for. I'm probably at about the $900 mark on this.
- Improve sound quality - given the constraints I've listed above, this obviously won't be a world-class competition system, but I anticipate that I'll be able to improve the sound over the stock system quite a bit. I think the stock system really limits equalization, and this is quite evident by the change in tuning when the "Party Mode" button is selected. Also the stock speakers, while very efficient, aren't very good for SQ. If I feel it's needed, I'll also add a slim powered sub under the passenger seat at a later date.

Components I've already purchased or had on hand:
- Kenwood Excelon DMX-905S (Last years model, but for $350 I think it's a good selection given that it accomplishes everything I want)
- Kenwood Excelon X301-4 - Adding an amp will increase complexity, but I think it will be worth it. This amp is extremely compact and fits completely hidden under the driver's seat. Given the price ($100) and the dyno test/internal inspection on YouTube by Williston Audio of an amp from the same class, I think this will actually be a sweet little budget amp.
- iDataLink Maestro and TO1 harness
- Scosche TA2106B Stereo Installation Kit
- Infinity REF-3022CFX for Dash Speakers
- Infinity REF-9632IX for Front Door Speakers
- Infinity REF-6522IX for Rear Door Speakers (I will leave the hatch speakers stock since they are so far back there)
- Various other cabling, adapters, and install materials (8AWG OFC wire for amp w/ maxi fuse holder, shielded RCAs, adapter for stock USB plug, adapter for stock amplified antenna, speaker adapters, USB cables, etc.)

Stay tuned as the installation progresses and feel free to ask questions! With two young kids and a full time job, it's probably going to be sloooooow.