New System Help....PLEASE!!!

[Jeep to Yota]

I recently purchased a 2003 4Runner SE with the basic 6 speaker CD/Tape stereo and needless to say I love it except the stereo leaves me wanting more. I have been researching, reading and debating on how to upgrade the sound in my 4Runner.

Here is what I am wanting:
- Be able to use my iPod and control via the headunit
- Maintain my steering wheels controls
- Improve the sound by replacing the speakers, adding an amp and adding a sub

My thoughts and questions:
- I was thinking about the Scion upgrade, but have couple of questions? 1) Can I easily add and integrate my iPod, will I be able to view and control via the headunit? 2) Is it possible to add an amp easily to a Scion headunit/system?

- Since it appeared that the Scion unit might not work, I have been looking at the Alpine 9856. It looks like with the iPod cable and steering control adapter, I would be all set. I guess the key thing I would be losing here is the stock look.

- I have been looking at JL 300/4 to power some component speakers (in the front, probably Infinity Kappa's) and then bridge it to power a sub (hopefully a Stealthbox or a 10" box). That will work won't it. Any other brand recommendations on either a 4-channel or the speakers?

Sorry for the long e-mail, just looking for some opinions on how to make a solid, good sounding stereo. I am not looking to win any competitions or blow out my windows, just a nice all-around good system.

Thanks,
Todd

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[jdub24]

To me, it looks like you're on the right path. Check out my sig to see what I did for my iPod....

I know nothing about the Scion upgrade, so I'm speaking from pure opinion here. I would never purchase an OEM dealer equipped stereo upgrade. I feel that they charge ridiculous numbers for products that are easily matched and exceeded for a fraction of the price in the aftermarket world. I would go Alpine if I were you.

From my experience, the Alpine iPod interface is awesome! I believe most of the manufacturers offer adapters that directly control/charge the iPod and are plug-and-play for the iPod though.

I would definitely suggest the JL amp, I've been in car stereo for 16 years now, and I feel that without a doubt, the JL amps are the best for the average consumer not wanting to put a second mortgage on the house to purchase an amp. The same goes for their subs. For components, I've used all the following 6.5" components in either my 4R, my old Evo, or my old IS300: Diamond Audio, Boston Acoustics, Infiniti Kappa, and Focals. I think that the Focals are hands down the best sounding components I've ever had. I didn't even get their top of the line models either, I just got their polyglass V2 components.

I think you're thinking the right things right now though, it's about quality first, then volume.

 

[tarheeltp17]

The JL 300/4 is an amazing amp, but it won't be enough power for a stealthbox for your 4runner. Those come with a 10w3... which handle around 250-300 watts RMS. You would literally need to put the entire 300/4 power on this sub to do any good. 150 watts on a 10w3 is a waste. Try finding a 250/1 or 500/1 for that woofer. Even an JL a1400 would be plenty and you'll save $$. JL 300/4 = a4300 without RIPs and the resistance actually matters... and they just changed from e series to a series... so you might could still find an e4300 and e1400 for cheaper than an a4300 and a1400. The a/e 1400 is 400 watts at 2 ohms...

I'm not a big fan of anything infinity. I like memphis, focal, boston, and jl mid-range speakers. Other than that I'm not a big fan but there is a few less expensive models I could swing for like kenwood and alpine. Memphis isn't all that expensive but they aren't very common in big shops. Memphis only sells to the single shop retailers.