Gen 3 - fresh ideas needed guys!

[makakio]

OK, so I've read through a TON of posts here (which has been really helpul), but haven't found your best recommendations for the following scenario:

With the growing rattles of my wife's 2001 4R SR5 and no permanent fixes, I've finally decided that the stock stereo setup has to go and needs to be replaced with something we will want to listen to. Curently, it's all OEM setup w/ no sub, the door speakers suuuuuuuck and the head unit CD is now starting to get weird on CDs I've burned (like not being able to locate tracks). SO, I would really appreciate some advice given the following requirements:

* need a single in-dash CD, casette not required
* don't care about double-DIN size (an extra pocket might be good for holding the iPod), but not opposed to the D-DIN either...
* oh yeah - need a jack for the iPod
* would really really really (and finally) like a sub. Not that I listen to anyting bass-derived, but I do like to hear it along with mids and highs
* I'm not an audiophile and this truck will last in my driveway for another 5 years max, so I don't see the point in buying thousands of dollars of really expensive stereo as this stuff will sell with the truck.
* I use the full cargo space a lot and both seats need to fold down, so recommendations on where to put a small sub and amp would be appreciated.
* we don't want Nav

Advice needed: what head, speakers, amp and sub setup/brands would you pick to put in to create something better than stock but more affordable than true stereo/electronic nirvana?

Thank you all for replies - I do need the guidance.

- makakio

 

[mike1305]

I need the same exact thing. I have been wondering where I can put a sub without losing cargo space, and it looks like it isn;t really possible unless you put into the side areas and build them off the walls i guess. there is that little cubbyhole on the right in the back, I don't know if it is deep enough to fit a sub but it could always stick out a little. As for stereo and head unit, take a trip to your local audio express/best buy/fry's/circuit city/etc. and they will give you all the information you need, since you will be buying the product there anyways.

 

[4RNR4BB]

Most of the major name companies have cd players with ipod plug ins now. So go with what you like as far as looks and ease of use. I would personally look for a deck with a dedicated sub out so it's easier to adjust the sub amp with the deck. For speakers you can't go worng with Infinity Refernece series speakers. Sound good and won't break the bank. If you use your cargo area and fold your seats down then the box the mounts to the side of the cargo area and goes over the tire hump would be your only bet. Or get a small box that is easy to disconnect. Like so...

Good luck!
Matt

 

[PioneerMeta4]

Do you have a budget?

I'd get some 3-way speakers with a Pioneer/Sony/Alpine headunit. Ipod connection are great with those headunits too. Many of their models will fit the 4runner's dash.
Its not necessary to get a sub.

 

[4RNR4BB]

Its not necessary to get a sub.

Funny coming from the guy with 2 15" woofers in the back of his 4R.

Matt

 

[PioneerMeta4]

Funny coming from the guy with 2 15" woofers in the back of his 4R.

Matt

Ironic huh...I got them installed as soon as i got my ride. That was like my senior year in HS. Y'know back then it was all about showing off and having the loudest system. I'm tired of all that R!CE! I don't even bump my subs anymore. I've been considering selling one of my 15s BTW.