Aftermarket head unit recommendation for 4th Gen/JBL 10 Speaker

[SnydersWeb]

Forgive my cross-post for those of you who saw my original post in the 4th Gen forums...

I have an '04 4Runner Sport Edition with the 10 speaker JBL Synthesis system and ran into a bit of a problem with my CD player - the CD load/unload mechanism seems to be having big problems. It doesn't load them nor does it eject them.

Doing a bit of digging around, it would seem that the factory head unit really can't be repaired or simply more trouble than it's worth. So I'm on to plan B - replace the head unit.. *joy*

Does anyone have any recommendations on head units that marry well with the 10 speaker system? I'm not looking for Navigation, but if I could get Bluetooth, MP3 CD support, and AUX in that would be a huge plus. I've seen also where some have aftermarket adapters (like this one) that allow most aftermarket head units to integrate with the JBL sound system in there (a must). In general I would like to stick with a double-stack but a single stack could be doable.

Thanks in advance,

David

 

[VinnyM]

Don't know much about this stuff so I'm not sure about the 10 speaker thing, but I got this single din for my 3rd gen. I won't install it until next week so I can't say how well it actually works, but it has every connection option you could ever want. A usb that comes from the back, but can be mounted anywhere in the car (going to mount mine in the center console so I can charge my phone while it's stashed in there and stream the audio on bluetooth), AUX in on the back, and of course the bluetooth. You can also save $40 and get the cheaper model with no voice dialing and less options for customizing settings.

Kenwood Excelon KDC-X994 CD receiver at Crutchfield Signature

I figured to get a good double din that wouldn't be slow and glitchy you need to spend at least double that so I went with the single din to save money.

Crutchfield is a great site and has a lot of information, and I'm sure if you called them and told them exactly what you wanted they could point you in the right direction. Their prices are usually slightly higher, but they include all the little bits you need for installation and really good tech support.

 

[RevoRunner]

I was in your boat not too long ago. I had the same system as you have. My first suggestion is to check ebay and try to find a used unit identical to what you have now. Would be easy to swap all your stuff. I've had 2 JBL units in my truck (one was a 2004 and one was a 2007). I sold both for about $75-115.

If you can't find anything there I'd say just about any brand would work fine for you... just find one that has an interface that you like. If you're not looking for specific navigation or iPhone integration, etc. Then all the major brands should deliver what you're looking for. Since you're looking to use your JBL Amp then that feature isn't really critical in your H/U. With an aftermarket H/U you will need those extra parts that you listed plus possibly one other if you want steering wheel integration. Happy hunting.