Sound Quality of 8 speaker Entune system vs. 15 Speaker Nav/JBL system

[Crit Rat]

Can anyone comment on the above?

The Entune system seemingly has some positives but with a smart phone they are somewhat redundant other than putting those apps in an easy to see and use position in the vehicle. The only apps I see myself using are Pandora and traffic. Traffic is available on the Nav only system though and Pandora can stream through my mobile device regardless.

Sound quality is important to me though and one of the few things that can make crappy traffic conditions livable. I went to the local dealer to audition the Entune system but there weren't any 4Runners on the lot with Entune.

I'm considering just looking for a 2011 TE with Nav and KDSS (of course!) instead of getting a '12 TE with Entune. They are similarly priced, since the '12 TE had a price hike.

Anyone with a discerning ear and some experience with both systems?

 

[DizzyV6P]

I've heard both and much preferred the 15 speaker Nav/JBL. There is a noticable difference IMHO. That being said, the 2012's do have the power running board option which would be nice if you're not going "off-road" If you intend to really go "off-road" then you probably won't care for the power running boards and opt for some rock sliders instead.

You will also have a better chance of getting below invoice pricing on the available 2011's left in dealer stock. XM Nav traffic is next to useless, my local news/traffic radio station does a better job. Nav is nice due to the big back-up camera picture

I noticed no big difference in bluetooth streaming my playlist from my iPhone4 vs. plugging it in via the aux ipod plug or the 3.5mm jack. Despite my previous profession as a club dj, I'm not driving around blasting my music. I'm sure I could look for a difference in quality of the sound if I turned up the music really loud, but for everyday driving and carting around two toddlers, I don't notice a difference. I just leave it on bluetooth streaming for the convenience.

In the end, what sold me were the 15 speakers vs. the 8 speakers given a choice between the two. My local dealer didn't have any w/ the power running board option while the 2011 I got had the regular running boards. I got below dealer invoice on mine, so I'm pretty happy.

You'll just have to decide what your priorities are. 2011 w/ nav/JBL 15 speakers = better sound and lower price. 2012 w/ Entune = less sound and higher price.

 

[Crit Rat]

Thanks for the reply.

Your sentiments echo the way I've been leaning. To me and for my preferences the JBL system and hopefully lower price sounds like a good fit.

Now I need to act!

Looking for a silver TE in CO with KDSS and Nav.

 

[DannyLlama]

I've heard both and much preferred the 15 speaker Nav/JBL. There is a noticable difference IMHO. That being said, the 2012's do have the power running board option which would be nice if you're not going "off-road" If you intend to really go "off-road" then you probably won't care for the power running boards and opt for some rock sliders instead.

You will also have a better chance of getting below invoice pricing on the available 2011's left in dealer stock. XM Nav traffic is next to useless, my local news/traffic radio station does a better job. Nav is nice due to the big back-up camera picture

I noticed no big difference in bluetooth streaming my playlist from my iPhone4 vs. plugging it in via the aux ipod plug or the 3.5mm jack. Despite my previous profession as a club dj, I'm not driving around blasting my music. I'm sure I could look for a difference in quality of the sound if I turned up the music really loud, but for everyday driving and carting around two toddlers, I don't notice a difference. I just leave it on bluetooth streaming for the convenience.

In the end, what sold me were the 15 speakers vs. the 8 speakers given a choice between the two. My local dealer didn't have any w/ the power running board option while the 2011 I got had the regular running boards. I got below dealer invoice on mine, so I'm pretty happy.

You'll just have to decide what your priorities are. 2011 w/ nav/JBL 15 speakers = better sound and lower price. 2012 w/ Entune = less sound and higher price.

Did you get a limited? and how much did they give it to you for total?

 

[DizzyV6P]

My 2011 LE with running boards, nav, and 15 speaker JBL was about $39.6 which was below their invoice price. I added the dual headrest DVD players, extended remote start, bug deflector and all weather mats and cargo tray as dealer installed assesories to get their warranty coverage. For dc metro region it was a very good price and during their Black Friday sales event.

 

[DannyLlama]

My 2011 LE with running boards, nav, and 15 speaker JBL was about $39.6 which was below their invoice price. I added the dual headrest DVD players, extended remote start, bug deflector and all weather mats and cargo tray as dealer installed assesories to get their warranty coverage. For dc metro region it was a very good price and during their Black Friday sales event.

You get a heck of a deal my friend! I bought mine certified pre owned, 15k miles for 37, everything but running boards, remote start & DVD. So pat your self on the back once a morning for the next 20 years or so you own your car lol